Michael’s journey highlights the importance and power of thoughtful planning, family support and community collaboration. Michael, born in 1979, has built a life of independence with the help of his parents and a dedicated support team.
Finding a House
In 2005, Michael’s parents purchased a split-level home in Stratford for their son and a roommate who had access to funding. Michael moved out at the age of 26, which was earlier than his parents had anticipated. However, Michael’s parents seized the opportunity because they recognized that another one like it may take awhile to come around again.
Alice and her husband searched for a suitable residence for Michael and his roommate, but they could not find a place that would allow both young men to have their privacy, as well as the space for a supportive neighbour to occupy. The house they eventually purchased allows Michael and his roommate to live upstairs, while the supportive neighbour occupies the downstair’s unit.
Michael’s Supports
Michael is supported from 8:30am to 10:30pm by Community Living St. Mary’s, and at 10:30pm the supportive neighbour takes over. Michael’s supportive neighbour benefits from reduced rent and free internet in exchange for helping with yard maintenance, and providing overnight support to Michael and his roommate via a connected monitor system.
Michael’s Family Unit
Michael spends some weekends with his parents and they have maintained a close family bond. Reflecting on this journey, Alice feels incredibly fortunate to have been able to purchase a home for Michael to live in. She says if she had to do it all over again she wouldn’t change a thing, appreciating the independence and security it brings to Michael’s life.
Thinking Long-Term
To ensure Michael’s long-term security, the family has established a microboard. This board, which meets at least once a year, consists of a property manager, a financial specialist, a social worker, and an events coordinator. This support structure has been set up with succession planning in mind, relieving pressure on Michael’s older brother. Alice recognizes the importance of the microboard as this can be a lot of work, time, responsibility and stress for one person to handle.
This incredible family highlights for us the power of family dedication, community collaboration and innovative planning. By combining family, friends, and community support, the Maitland’s have created a sustainable and caring environment in which Michael can live a life filled with independence and connection.
If you would like to learn more about Microboards, visit the Micoboard’s Ontario website.
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Thank you for telling Michael’s story so well. If anyone has questions, I am more than willing to talk to them or respond via email.
Thank you for sharing your family’s story Alice and for your offer.