Spend a few moments with Michelle, a warm-hearted and gregarious member of our Day Program, and you might not believe that she felt shy, uncertain, and even a little scared when she first came to Ability Beyond. 

“She used to be a lot quieter,” said Sharon Luchsinger, our Day Program Manager. “She wasn’t as confident about trying new activities. Now, she’s the one who welcomes newcomers, introducing herself and helping them feel comfortable.”

Over the course of a decade, Michelle, has grown into a community leader while participating in our Day and Work programs, as well as the Special Olympics. Whether she is bowling, enjoying a dinner out with staff, going to the movies, or singing and dancing in music class, Michelle—once anxious about joining the group—is not only having fun. She is developing a deeper set of life skills that promote her cognitive and physical well-being. 

“Everyone knows her and loves her,” Sharon said. “Michelle has really become a cheerleader for Ability Beyond.” 

Michelle added, with a laugh: “I wish there was a program for that.” 

A Family of Friends

Michelle’s journey began when she was preparing to graduate from high school; and her mother, Viviane, was searching for a high-quality adult program. Graduation is a crucial transition for any young adult. For people with disabilities, the stakes can feel especially high as they leave behind the familiar supports of special education. 

Viviane said that Ability Beyond made the right first impression. 

“Once we visited and spoke with everyone, it just clicked,” she said. “This is where I want her to be. When she heads out for the day, it feels like I’m sending her to her aunt’s house. They are truly her family. From the bus driver to the direct care staff, I’ve never been concerned about her safety. Everyone knows Michelle and is invested in her well-being.”

Michelle uses the same language to describe the staff—and the “lots and lots of friends” she has made.

“They’re my family,” she said. “That’s why I love it here.”

Her advice for anyone who is new to the family?

“Don’t be afraid,” she said. “Just be yourself—like someone told me.”

Taking Things On Together

As with family, Michelle has faced the ups and downs of life with Ability Beyond. 

The ups are many—including new adventures and perennial joys. In 2024, for instance, Michelle attended our Gala fundraiser for the first time, and sang in the choir for an audience of esteemed guests. Every spring, she and her friends look forward to another special event, called Night to Shine. They dance the night away at this prom for people with disabilities, organized by football player Tim Tebow. Michelle already has her outfit picked out for this year:  a pink floor-length dress, shimmering with sequins. 

At Ability Beyond, Michelle has also processed grief.

“We lost our buddy Tim,” Michelle said. “That was hard.” 

In 2024, Tim, a beloved member of the Day program, passed away suddenly. During this devastating time, Michelle and her peers had each other to lean on, and they converted their pain into a special, healing project:  hand-making condolence cards for Tim’s mother. 

For Michelle, the loss remains deeply emotional. She is, after all, a person who loves people. Sharon, our Day Program manager, said that Michelle is turning these emotions into a superpower as she strengthens her coping skills at Ability Beyond. Now she’s more comfortable advocating for herself and helping others who are experiencing tough times. 

“Whenever she’s feeling down, Michelle will speak up and ask for some space or time to walk it off,” Sharon said. “If someone else is upset, she’s right there, offering a comforting word or asking how they’re doing.”

Michelle nodded along, adding:  “And they do the same for me.”

Right at Home

When the Day Program ends, Michelle brings her growing confidence home to Monroe, where she lives with her cheerleader—her mother, Viviane. 

“She has really come into her own,” Viviane said. “Michelle has always been outgoing—people call her ‘the Mayor of Monroe.’ But she has matured. Even in the past couple of months, I’ve noticed a difference.” 

Michelle is now accomplishing more daily tasks for herself, like cooking meals in the air-fryer or microwave, and emptying the dishwasher. She has her own place, too:  the in-law apartment in her family home, where she’s “finding her independence,” Viviane said. 

Michelle says, “I have my own room; I have my own apartment. I’m doing things more on my own than I used to—and it feels good!”

Take Action

Michelle is just one of the more than 3,000 people with disabilities who receive services through Ability Beyond each year. Do what you can to help people like Michelle lead meaningful lives today.