Who We Serve
Stories from the real people that we work to serve and make better!
A Story of Increased Independence
James has faced many challenges in his life, but never once has he let them define him. He’s a kind-hearted man, living in the same home he’s cherished for years. But as time went on, the narrow doorways of his house became a growing obstacle for him as he navigated life in his wheelchair.
Day-to-day tasks, like moving from one room to another, started to feel like major hurdles. Without the proper modifications, James found himself unable to fully enjoy his own space or maintain the level of independence he had always valued. The cost of widening the doors to accommodate his wheelchair seemed like an overwhelming financial barrier. He had some resources but reached out for more assistance. James, like many others in similar situations, didn’t have the resources to pay for such modifications on his own.
This is where the Cerebral Palsy Association of Chester County stepped in. Our Social Workers generally help James with locating disability related resources , finding personal care attendants and being a supportive link. This time, we did more; through the generous donations from our community and our organization’s charitable funding, we were able to make the changes that James needed. We organized multiple accessibility contract bids and with James help him choose. With doors now widened, James can move freely, safely, and independently throughout his home. This was accomplished through the kindness and care of our community, that support our organization and made this possible. Your support has given James—and so many others—a chance at a more independent and fulfilling life.
Together, we can build a world of access, dignity, and independence for all.
A Journey of Growth
Anna was born with cerebral palsy, and from a young age, she knew that her path would be different from many other children. But with the support of the Cerebral Palsy Association, her journey was one filled with growth, confidence, and community.
Anna loved the days when her speech therapist would come to her home. She had a natural curiosity, and once she started talking, she was unstoppable. Speech therapy opened the door for her to express herself fully, and soon enough, Anna was known for her chattiness—especially her playful knack for gossip. She seemed to know everything that was going on in her classroom, from which teacher had a new hairstyle to which student might be getting in trouble. Her speech sessions became a space where she thrived and even began to lead.
The early support from the Cerebral Palsy Association meant more than just fun conversations. It gave Anna the tools she needed to keep up with her classmates. Soon, she wasn’t just learning—she was teaching. She would practice her speech techniques and learned prompts on her older brother and dad.
As she grew, Anna continued to stay connected with the Cerebral Palsy Association. When she experienced that her neighborhood kids were riding their bikes and she was unable, she requested from the organization which provided her with a grant for an adapted bike. The joy of riding through her neighborhood, feeling the wind in her hair, made her feel like any other kid on the block. It was a small but powerful step toward independence. Later, she received an adapted chair, giving her even more comfort and mobility as she grew into her older years.
The Cerebral Palsy Association had been a constant presence throughout Anna’s childhood, and she always felt a special connection to them. As she entered adulthood, life presented new challenges. Anna began navigating the complex world of adult services, filled with questions and uncertainty. Mom was still a follower of Cerebral Palsy Association’s facebook page. She decided to send a message, asking about support for adults with disabilities and how she could best pursue her dream of going to college.
The response was swift and reassuring, reminding Anna that the Cerebral Palsy Association was still there for her. With their guidance, she began exploring options for higher education, continuing her journey toward greater independence.
Now, as a young adult, Anna looks back at her relationship with the Cerebral Palsy Association with immense gratitude. They had been there for her through every stage of her life, from a chatty little girl eager to learn, to a confident woman determined to make her mark on the world. Though her challenges have evolved, she knows she can count on the agency that has been by her side since childhood.
Her story is a testament to the power of early intervention, continued support, and the lifelong impact of organizations like the Cerebral Palsy Association.
Today, Anna is navigating new challenges with the same resilience and spirit she’s always had—and she’s never far from the people who’ve helped her every step of the way.
Lydia’s Journey Back to Family and the Community
We had the privilege of working with Lydia on her nursing home transition during the last two years through her successful discharge.
From the beginning, Lydia was open-minded and optimistic. Although she had never lived in Schuylkill County before, she expressed a strong interest in moving closer to her son, who lives in Pottsville with his family. Lydia was willing to explore new surroundings if it meant being near her loved ones.
Fortunately, we quickly located an available efficiency apartment on the very same street as her son. Lydia was thrilled at the idea. She wasn’t concerned about the size of the unit—she simply wanted a space of her own. With the full support of her family, we worked together to secure the apartment, and Lydia was officially approved.
She moved into her new home in January, welcomed by her family with hugs and tears of joy. After more than two years apart, they were finally reunited—not just in the same town, but on the same street. It was a beautiful and emotional moment for everyone.
Since moving in, Lydia has embraced her new life with energy and enthusiasm. She’s already made friends in her building and regularly plays Bingo with her neighbors. While she cherishes time with her grandchildren, she also recognized the importance of connecting with peers her own age. She now participates in activities at the local Senior Center and visits the public library weekly.
Lydia has even begun giving back to her community. She recently signed up as a volunteer at a church-run soup kitchen and continues to receive supportive services to help her stay active and independent.
Looking ahead, Lydia is excited for the adventures to come. Her family is taking her on a cruise this spring, and she plans to visit her sister in Connecticut this summer—their first reunion in over thirteen years.
Lydia often shares how much she loves her apartment and how grateful she is to be living on her own again. Being close to family, having the freedom to travel, and staying active in her community has given her a renewed sense of independence.
She has expressed deep appreciation for the Nursing Home Transition program Social Workers at CPA and the opportunity it provided to reclaim her life in the community.
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