Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Sanchez.
Hi Ashley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 1992, our daughter Cristina was born with Down syndrome. She has been spunky since Day 1, and over the years she made it clear that she wants to have the same sort of opportunities that her 2 sisters have. She walked to school in middle and high school, played sports, participated in active family vacations (even though her idea of vacation would be more relaxing, less hustling), and served as the cheer manager for the high school cheerleading squad.
As her sisters started planning to fly the nest, Cristina did, too. When we learned about a community in Kansas City that offered a remarkable level of independence coupled with practical guardrails, we realized that was the ideal sort of community for Cristina…and our family. After all, all 3 of our daughters need to have a life they love– without any of them being put in a caregiver role for one another. So giving wings to Cristina was a gift to her…and her sisters.
It has also been a gift to my husband and me, because the connections we have formed with the others who helped create this community, as well as those who have joined the effort along the way, have enriched the lives of all us parents while also allowing our adult children who have disabilities, such as autism and Down syndrome, to thrive.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a remarkably joyful experience, but naturally there have been plenty of challenges along the way. The people– the parents, siblings, employees, and those with disabilities (who we call AIMers) are incredible. They bring humor, dedication, generosity, and an incredible work ethic coupled with a desire to serve the larger community that makes it a pleasure to be sharing this journey with them.
With that said, it is no small task to build a small business. Challenges we have faced include the Covid pandemic, the high cost of living in Central Texas, and the ongoing need to fundraise since we don’t charge a fee for our services.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
It has been my biggest privilege to be a part of Adults Independent and Motivated (AIM). I helped found it, and I served as its board president for its first 10 years. AIMers are living remarkably ordinary lives, but given their disabilities, that is really quite extraordinary.
Of course, none of us would have allowed our young adults to experience such independence if we didn’t think they were up to the challenge, but what has been especially fulfilling is to witness how much growth they experience AFTER joining our community.
For example, several years ago, we told Cristina that she was required to join our family for Shakespeare in the Park. A couple of hours beforehand, she texted me, “If the Shakespeare still on. Or is it canceled for the tonight I am watching the weather right now on the weather on the ones Just let y’all know that if you’re watching it.” I replied, “Shakespeare is still on.” To which she answered, “Uhh it’s because it’s raining over here.” About 20 minutes after that text exchange, Shakespeare in the Park announced they were canceling that evening’s performance.
In a million years I would not have dreamed about having a text exchange with my daughter, who has significant intellectual disabilities, about Shakespeare, the weather, and her accurate prediction that it would have to be canceled. After she moved out of our house, her communication skills blossomed, and continue to do so to this day.
Most AIM parents similarly report that their young adults amaze them with their continuing maturation after they move into apartments of their own.
Any big plans?
We are excited to be hiring our first Executive Director this summer, and I am looking forward to having new AIMers join our community as we continue to grow.
Pricing:
- AIMers incur normal costs of adult life such as rent and groceries. Given that they have those expenses, AIM does not charge a fee for our services, which include transportation to work and AIM activities, social and educational opportunities, and sustainability so this can be their lifelong home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aimtx.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aim_adultsindependent
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIMATX/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adults-independent-and-motivated-aim
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aim-adultsindependentandmo2676
Image Credits
Sanchez family
AIM families
