When Len and Robin, from Avon, CT., sought a supportive living experience for their son, Matthew, LIFE stood out as a practical and attractive solution.

Matthew, who is 25, on the autism spectrum and high functioning, joined LIFE’s Plymouth community when it was formed in 2016. The Plymouth model is designed to maximize the supported independent living experience with the majority of participants fully integrated in the community, working and living on their own or with a roommate. “We were searching for both a social network and a path to independence, which he couldn’t really develop living with us in Connecticut,” said Len, who also serves on LIFE’s board of directors. “Finding the right fit for him was critically important.”

Matthew has taken advantage of social activities, job counseling, personal finance management and transportation services, all supported by the LIFE Plymouth team. He lives with a housemate in a two-bedroom apartment and works at Moe’s Southwest Grill. He also takes classes at Cape Cod Community College, plays the drums, and enjoys golf, basketball and soccer with other LIFE participants through the Special Olympics program. “He’s learned and is now well practiced at managing his time and maintaining his own space,” said Len.

Read more LIFE stories or explore our services.