Friends since the first day they met in middle school, Trevor and Casey are best buddies! Both have Down syndrome, but also many other things in common which have kept them close over the years. They do just about everything together! They enjoy being a part of the Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) Integrated Work program, as well as enjoying fun activities outside of their group time, including attending The Music Therapy Center of California Jam Sessions, family vacations, watching their favorite shows on Netflix and trips to the movies.
TMI also keeps these guys very busy! Supported by their wonderful Job Coach Greg Rickards since they joined TMI in 2010, they enjoy weekday visits to the YMCA where they love to spend time on the treadmill and swimming. Trevor is an avid swimmer and has even won medals from the Special Olympics. The group also volunteers at New Hope Church, the Pacific Safety Center and the Poway Senior Center, where they enjoy soup from the cook! Greg likes to say that the grass doesn't grow under their feet, but they do find time for some laughs! They love going to the TMI picnics and the camaraderie the group has.
(Trevor and Casey with their TMI Job Coach Greg Rickards)
“I have been to Casey's work sites and really appreciate the people he works with. Everyone is so welcoming and appreciative of the group. It warms my heart,” said Casey’s mom Debbie.
Casey sure loves spending his days with Greg and Trevor and their other group mate Logan, who often times joins them for fun outside of their group time. It makes Casey’s parents very happy that he gets on the treadmill and walks a mile! Greg is always sure to send photos. Casey stopped speaking a few years ago, but Trevor always has his back! If Casey doesn't get what is going on or what is required of him, Trevor will help by speaking to him or for him. He is the kind of friend anyone would be lucky to have.
(Casey and Trevor)
Greg had this to say, “Being in TMI’s program has given Trevor and Casey the opportunity to participate in a number of activities in the community and given me the opportunity to work alongside these outstanding young men. I always joke around with my occasional subs, who tell me how wonderful it was to work with them, to get in line. They are waiting for my departure, which isn’t happening anytime soon thanks to these guys!"
(Trevor and Casey with Greg and friends at the TMI picnic)
TMI is honored to provide services to Trevor and Casey and other individuals with Down syndrome. October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a chance to spread awareness. It's not about celebrating disabilities, it's about celebrating abilities.
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and those who are deaf and hard of hearing since 2000. Like all of us, our clients are born with hopes, dreams and the drive to contribute to society. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties.