Kenneth’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of Humanim’s programs. After three years in Humanim’s Day Program, he took a significant step toward financial independence by moving into iHomes housing.
Founded in 2009 by Humanim, iHomes is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing reliable housing for individuals with disabilities. By partnering with local organizations, iHomes goes above and beyond, showing that they are more than just a housing provider. The program offers tailored support that fulfills the individual needs of each resident so that they can live an independent life.
Residents of iHomes, like Kenneth, benefit from a wide range of services designed to foster personal growth, enhance life skills, and pave the way for greater financial independence. These services include mental health support, daily living skills training, job readiness programs, job development assistance, job placement services, and job coaching.
Kenneth takes great pride in the work he does. “I love work. I have been working since I was 14. One of my first jobs was at a car wash, where I made $50 a day working seven days a week.”
Kenneth’s strong work ethic, coupled with iHomes’ resources, enabled him to achieve a long-held goal: purchasing his own car. “I bought a car from a dealership. I had no credit—what I had was my own money and the help of my father.”
Now employed as a sanitation worker at a truck stop, Kenneth continues to pursue his passions. He enjoys playing and watching sports, especially baseball, basketball, and football, and cheering on his favorite teams the Los Angeles Lakers and the Baltimore Ravens.
Kenneth also enjoys listening to music, especially rhythm and blues from the 1980s and 90s and soul music from the 1970s. His favorite artist? R&B group New Edition “I loved their music, and I still listen to it.”
Kenneth credits Humanim’s Day Program for teaching him valuable skills like time management, which helped him succeed at work. “The Day Program had me coming here every day on time, and that helped me get used to following a schedule.”
Through both programs, Kenneth not only gained essential life skills but also achieved a sense of financial independence and self-reliance.
“Working many jobs has helped me a lot in becoming independent. I get to do what I want on my own time. I can have my own food, drinks, and snacks without having to ask anyone for them.”
Looking back, Kenneth expresses his gratitude for the support he received: “Humanim helped me find my apartment and get on my feet. They supported me in doing the right thing, and I was able to meet a lot of people.”
Kenneth’s journey reflects Humanim’s mission to empower individuals to achieve their goals and thrive in their communities. By developing his skills and pursuing his dreams, Kenneth is living proof of the life-changing impact of Humanim and iHomes.