Having a place to call one's own is crucial for personal development, especially for members of the DES Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) who are able to live independently or with their family members. To make this goal more obtainable, the DDD Affordable Housing Unit partners with Public Housing Authorities to provide eligible members with housing vouchers. More than 80 DDD members have found a new home through various programs.
Ryan is among the latest to move into his own apartment with the help of DDD, and the first member to utilize the Division's new partnership with the City of Tucson.
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For a year, Ryan lived in a group home, but desired to live on his own. He discussed his living situation with his DDD support coordinator, Kristina MacMurdo and she helped Ryan explore other housing options and referred him to the voucher program. He then moved into his own Tucson apartment in December 2021.
Moving out of the group home and living alone affords him the privacy he enjoys. "It's nice to be in a space with no demands [from others]," said Ryan. He likes to watch TV and explore the internet at times that suit him without interruptions. Previously on his must-watch list was the Game of Thrones series. Another pastime that Ryan enjoys is writing "fantasy, [inspired] by Dungeon & Dragons."
Ryan has mastered cooking for himself, and he loves to cook. His favorite homemade soup includes red wine, rice, roasted tomatoes and chunky beef chili. Another favorite soup consists of a 20-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, chicken broth and "a bunch of vegetables."
In addition to managing all housekeeping tasks, Ryan has been able to build a busy social life as well. Zach, a staff member of Mountain Springs Community Services (MSCS) (a DDD contracted home and community-based services provider) has been a friend and attendant care provider of Ryan's for the past three and a half years. Zach takes Ryan on outings including social events, bowling, walks, visits to the Desert Museum and attending the theater.
Zach also accompanies Ryan on grocery shopping trips. Zach prefers to shop using a list; Ryan does not, unless he needs to follow a specific list of ingredients for a new recipe. Together, the two men have cooked various Italian dishes, soups, crab legs, and steaks.
Zach has noticed "rapid, positive changes" in Ryan since he's been living independently. Living on his own allows Ryan to enjoy peace, privacy, and personal progress.