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.
