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.
