Real Relationships
A relationship is so personal in nature. It is a bond between two people that involves not only a fondness for one another, but a level of trust and respect that grows with time and a sense of familiarity that strengthens our very foundation as a person. The result of a healthy relationship is peace of mind on all levels…mentally, physically, and spiritually. There are many forms of relationships: parent-child, siblings, mentor-student, classmates, best friends. We all want companionship on some level and continuously strive for healthy relationships in our lives.
This is why helping the individuals we serve to form real relationships is such an integral part of Alternatives' model of community inclusion. It is the difference between sharing joys and dividing burdens… or going it alone, which is what often times has happened to our clients. It is unfathomable to most to think of being abandoned by family, or left behind in a place for others to take care of you, or to be isolated from the local community, not to have companionship, a sense of home or anything that lends comfort and familiarity. Most cannot imagine what this must feel like or what it does to a human being. We strive every day to change the way people think, to divert the course of the past, to open minds and hearts, to educate, to define the real meaning of "community", to help our most vulnerable, and to just make the world a better place.
So, how do we help form real relationships? Alternatives prides itself on being a good, responsible community member and neighbor. We create opportunities for the individuals we serve to meet other people in their local communities; we do this through collaborations with other local organizations, such as being a host site for a Farmer's Market or a community concert, as well as hosting neighborhood gatherings in our respective communities. The goal is bring people of all abilities together to enjoy common interests.
Over the years, we have witnessed a multitude of real relationships form. Friendships have been forged between individuals and community members, volunteers at our programs, Board members, and others. It is perhaps the most rewarding of all the work we do as an organization. Securing a real home and a real job is so important and cannot be understated, but real relationships are what sustain us as human beings. Our job is to create the opportunities… so much can blossom if just the first seed is planted.
Consider yourself cordially invited to get to know us better.
View Examples of "Real Relationships" in Our Community
Donald Roy
"Donald faces life's challenges with both enthusiasm and a sense of humor that we can all learn from."
| Margaret Caron
"They have taught me to believe in myself and, most importantly, to know who Margaret is and to accept who I am."
| Mike Burt
"I like the person I've become, and I'd like to help other people do that for themselves."
| Raymond Jean
"It was wonderful to see Ray in the play. We're so glad that he is involved in so many things and not just being a spectator."
| Scott Gates
With the help of Alternatives, Scott Gates is pursuing his artistic dreams.
| Rachel King
"Alternatives taught me to value myself. Am I excited about the future? Absolutely!"
| Michael Bingham
"I never ask him to do anything. He just volunteers."
| Kelly Hancock
"...Kelly quickly became much more than simply another riding trainee."
| Lenny Mills
"If I can turn my life around, so can you."
| Betty Ann Walsh
"Betty Ann has blossomed, she's happier now, and that's all we've ever wanted for her.'"
| Peg George
"I hope that I can rise above the stigma of having a mental illness so that others may not feel oppressed, and we can all have a sense of hope."
| Gail Hisoire
Auntie Gail. That's Gail Hisoire's new title in the Rutz household, and it makes her feel all the more like a true member of the family.
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View Examples of Alternatives Volunteers' "Real Relationships"
Mallory Kenney
"This experience has gone above and beyond my expectations for an internship requirement and has shown me that with a little bit of hard work and a lot of passion, it's possible to make a lasting difference in the world."
| Dennis Cabral
"I never thought of myself as a volunteer, only as someone who is spending time with a good friend, doing things we both enjoy."
| Willard Banning
"I'm glad I have had a small part in its success. We've all had a great time."
| Maria Thomas
"It is a perfect fit because I get to volunteer through doing something I love to do"
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