The New Horizons Life Skills team came together this past month to put together a great Winter Wonderland float for the annual Nashville Christmas Parade this past Saturday, December, 7. With penguin costumes and snow-machines in tow, everyone had so much fun!
Spotlight on Individual Supported: Stephen Sells
Stephen pictured above with co-worker and friend Michael M.
Whatever quality gives performers like Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley the ability to electrify crowds and come alive on stage, Stephen Sells was given a double dose. Stephen’s sister, Tammy Bruza, remembers how Stephen would play with his toy guitar for hours as a young child, as if he was performing in front of thousands. A quick look at the hundreds of CDs and various instruments in his room are proof that this passion never faded.
Along with his love of music, Stephen was born with Down syndrome, bringing unique challenges to his life. These challenges make it difficult for Stephen to live alone, so after school he moved in with Tammy and her husband. At home, Stephen was quickly becoming restless, so when Tammy heard of New Horizons’ employment program, she helped him sign up right away. With his contagious smile and cheerful spirit, Stephen immediately became a beloved member of New Horizons.
Stephen pictured above holding his guitar, alongside his roommates Michael and Chris, and house manager Sherrie
Stephen currently works at Air National Guard with a few other New Horizons individuals, doing janitorial work and various other tasks around the campus. Jamece Copeland, Stephen’s direct supervisor, says that, though a jokester, he is a dedicated and hard working employee.
Stephen has also moved out of his sister’s house and into a residential house he shares with roommates Michael and Chris. All three men are supported individuals at New Horizons with access to 24/7 care from our staff, including house manager Sherrie Anderson. Sherrie describes how most nights at the house are filled with dinner, movies, laughter, WWE, and of course—music.
When asked why he thought New Horizons was important, a smile spread across Stephen’s face as he started describing his job, holiday parties, karaoke Fridays, and listing dozens of the friends he has made at New Horizons. Ultimately, Stephen finished by simply saying family.
Spotlight on Employment: Gerald at United Records
Gerald pictured above with his coworkers at United Records
Sales, cash flow, profit margin—companies are judged by numbers. When it comes to numbers, United Records has been a Nashville staple since 1949, has created thousands of jobs, and is the largest manufacturer of vinyl records in North America. These staggering statistics show the strength and dedication of United Records, but we would offer an even more compelling example of the company’s commitment to this community.
For the past two years, United Records has partnered with New Horizons to employ individuals with disabilities. Gerald Orr is one of the new employees at United Records, and will proudly show you his paycheck and wears his United Records t-shirt to prove it.
Gerald’s day starts around 10 am and consists of different tasks, including assembling vinyl sleeves with information sheets. Angela Shaw, Gerald’s direct supervisor, describes how he will dance with coworkers during breaks, always makes sure that everyone has a smile on their face, and has become the “ladies man” of the office. In addition to being a warm, friendly presence, Ms. Shaw says Gerald is also one of her most diligent and respectful employees.
Companies often have understandable hesitation when hiring individuals with disabilities, so to alleviate any actual or perceived barriers, New Horizons provides transportation, training, and job coaches to assist individuals as they secure and maintain competitive employment.
In the midst of their success, we want to thank United Records for investing in men and women with disabilities and helping lead the way for Middle Tennessee.
Board Spotlight: Bill Manley
Bill Manley, pictured with his daughter Amy at New Horizons
As a member of several nonprofit boards, service to one’s community has always been an important part of my life. I firmly believe we all are called to do whatever we can to improve the lives of those around us, so I was excited when given the opportunity to join the board of directors at New Horizons in 2002.
Since its founding, New Horizons has constantly grown and evolved to better provide quality care, challenge expectations, and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities. It is humbling to remember all of the lives changed and friendships formed in just the 17 years I have been a member of the board. Serving in this role has been incredibly rewarding, but New Horizons is also deeply personal.
My daughter, Amy, was born in January 16, 1977, and diagnosed with Down syndrome. Like many parents facing these unexpected challenges, we were scared and in shock. We knew Amy needed her parents though, so we got to work planning for her education, care, and life with disabilities.
When we first heard about New Horizons, we were simply thrilled to find a place where Amy could go to work, make friends, and not feel isolated at home. We had no idea all of the ways that this organization would be a saving grace. As Amy has aged and developed addition health issues, the New Horizons staff and community has met these new challenges in ways for which we will forever be grateful.
Most importantly, New Horizons has helped give Amy a sense of purpose. In face, when we pick her up for dinner on Friday nights, the first thing she asks is if she can go back to work on Monday. I think that says it all.
Amy has a family that loves and is able to provide proper care at home, but many individuals with disabilities do not have the same support system. I am thankful and humbled for the impact New Horizons has had on my family, and I look forward to serving alongside my fellow bard members, staff, and supporters throughout the community as we strive to remove barriers and honor the dignity of individuals with disabilities.
