Resident Finds 'Spark Within' at Alternative Learning Center

One would never know it now, but 35-year-old Daniel Miller, an artist who attends the (JSDD) used to be introverted and anti-social.

Miller said it is likely his previous environment had something to do with it.

"New York City was very noisy and crowded, and I couldn't get my art supplies. I was on my own. They don't have places for people who — I won't say are handicap — but have issues. I did artwork, but I was much less connected to the art world. I lived in a place that wasn't totally pleasant. You had much less time with other people and projects."  

Miller brought this experience with him when he relocated to West Orange and joined the WAE center in 2007. The WAE center is an that works with the developmentally disabled since 2004.

"I had issues. I didn't want to be stereotyped as a person with a handicap, which I don't think I am — not in my eyes or my mind," says Miller. "I refused to have a label put on me, and I knew that I could do whatever came in to fruition in my mind," Miller said.

Proving that environment can make all the difference, now, four years later, Miller has become assertive, garrulous and ambitious. He credits the center for his personal achievements.

"They don't want you to be hurt, they don't want you to be taken advantage of or be cheated. The fact that the people here are very good, that there's a lot of artwork to do and that's very important to me as an artist. The fact that people here have good minds and hearts."

Founder and director of the WAE Center Marilynn Schneider has witnessed Miller's transformation first hand.

"He came in with his arms crossed and said he didn't want to be here and he didn't belong here, but he would give it a chance," she said. Miller would come in just two days a week but over time started coming almost every day. "He generally loves being here. And the reason he loves being here is because we listen to him. We hear what he has to say."

On any given morning, the WAE center is decorated with homegrown art created by its members. And that's just the beginning.

The center also boasts yoga and circus therapy sessions, where attendants practice circus techniques, which all work together to improve eye and hand coordination. The center also hosts poetry, art, music and film classes and is planning to build a greenhouse as its next endeavor.

"[The center is based on] the belief and mission that everybody has potential, that there is nobody who does not have potential. That we simply have to be the ones who are observers who see where the spark is. Through the programs, they become renewed. The center is a place for people to find themselves and the environment is one of unconditional acceptance."

Miller recently moved out of his parent's home and is now living on his own — a major life development.

"I've moved on. I enjoy living on my own and think I'm self-reliant and can do things. No one has to hold my hand. I can get things done. I'm resourceful. I'm tough. I lock the door. I clean it. I make food. I do what I have to do," Miller said.

Along with the daily satisfaction he experiences at the center, Miller is also optimistic about his future, "I'm a budding artist and I think I have a future at it, God willing." And indeed he does, Miller's work is already being shown at local art houses.  

Offering advice to others who may also have trouble finding their way, Miller said, "You have to make something of your life while you're here. Look for the right opportunity. Do something with your life. Work every day. Follow the rules of society, and be pleasant and polite. Don't let bad or arrogant or insulting people get you down. They can't do anything to you; you can be strong enough."

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