Dynamic Dino!

Like many young adults, Dino is deep into gaming, taking college courses and meets up with friends. Dino was diagnosed at age seven with a progressive disorder, however his many health challenges are not stopping him from living life to the fullest.

Dino brings the determination, and his mom credits ECLC affiliate Community Personnel Services (CPS), based in Chatham, for providing the supports needed to ensure his success.

“Our CPS Support Coordinators, first Sara and then Marjorie, have diligently taken the time to get to know our family and our needs. They have guided us through hard times, including COVID-19,” said his mom. “They have become part of our family.”

Support Coordinators have helped Dino to use his state Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) budget. Dino has been able to self-direct, using his budget to create a well-rounded life and schedule that meets his needs and ambitions. He receives physical, occupational and speech therapy. Dino was able to hire a Self Direct Employee, ensuring that he is supported, safe and receiving the care that he needs.

Dino successfully graduated from high school and attended the Enrichment Center at Raritan Valley Community College, afterward taking classes there. So far, he has completed 30 credits toward a Game Development major, while also taking classes in English Literature, Psychology and Computer Science.

Besides college, Dino takes online classes through Game U in game development. His current project is a 2D game on Construct called Wolverine. In his leisure time, he attends a social group at his local YMCA for young adults. Dino has the additional supports of an academic tutor and takes private art lessons.

“He continues to do what he loves,” said his mom. “Community Personnel Services has been a blessing to our family!"

About CPS

ECLC founded CPS in 1995 to help students find appropriate options for life after graduation and to help alumni successfully enter the workforce. In addition to students, CPS provides services to adults referred by state agencies.

CPS eliminates the anxiety -- almost like falling off a cliff -- that can occur at schools lacking adult services. CPS arranges tours of adult programs, including the option of entering PRIDE, and exploring both work and educational opportunities.

CPS staff partner with students and their families to create a road map for young adulthood. They help navigate through the complex maze of government agencies to access available aid and services, including transportation.

CPS also offers Support Coordination services and is one of the few agencies in the state allowed to approve individual plans without state Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) oversight.

Learn more about Support Coordination Services.