Options for Community Living, Inc. recently received a beautiful painting from a program participant and artist named Francisco. A former U.S. Embassy in Columbia employee, Francisco left his family and came to the United States in the 1990s to learn English. Not long after arriving, he “fell in with the wrong crowd” and developed a substance abuse problem. With no real support system, Francisco became depressed and attempted suicide. As a result, he was placed in Pilgrim State Psychiatric Center where he received treatment and began on his road to recovery
Francisco was determined to start over after leaving Pilgrim and subsequently discovered Options for Community Living. Francisco believes that Options helped change his life, providing him a home and support when he needed it the most. Options helped empower Francisco to rebuild his life and to mend the family relationships that were severed by his substance abuse. “I feel so lucky because there is no better place for me than Options,” Francisco said. His painting was Francisco’s way of showing his gratitude to an organization that he loves very much.
“I was honored when I looked up and saw Francisco proudly walking in our door with his painting; not just because it’s a beautiful piece of art – which it is – but because of the happiness and hope that I saw in his eyes when he presented us with this special gift,” said Yolanda Robano-Gross, Options’ executive director.
Find out what's happening in Smithtownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Francisco’s painting depicts a serene view of a mountain sunset overlooking the water. The painting is proudly displayed in the entry way of the Options’ administrative office for all to admire and also as a reminder of the difference that Options strives to make every day in the lives of the individuals and families that they serve.
About Options for Community Living, Inc. Established in 1982, Options for Community Living, Inc. operates residential programs for adults recovering from mental illness and affordable supported housing and care coordination services for individuals and families with chronic health conditions. Options’ mission to assist people to live independently and with dignity in the community has grown through the years to serve more than 1,500 adults and children annually. The agency also runs the Options Thrift Shop, which is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Thrift Shop’s phone number is 631.676.4579. For more information about Options for Community Living, Inc., please visit the website at www.optionscl.org or call 631.361.9020.
