We are so happy to have found Main Street as it will fill a big gap in what we can currently provide for our son Eric, 25, who is on the Autism Spectrum. We are a three-generation household. Eric’s grandfather, now 101 years old, moved into our home in Takoma Park in 2011 and our schedules revolve around his needs. Eric now shares an apartment near Rockville Town Center and is working hard to learn independent living skills, but he wishes for more social interaction. We imagine that Main Street will help Eric as he transitions to becoming more and more independent.
Two of Eric’s biggest accomplishments to date are earning the rank of Eagle Scout at age 15 and acting in more than 25 plays with Lumina Studio Theater and Blair High School productions. Currently, Eric is in the ArtStream Company and he is an Adult Leader in a local Boy Scout Troop. He plays basketball and soccer with Special Olympics. Fortunately, Eric can travel to these activities by public transportation or Uber on his own. These structured activities are wonderful, but he craves casual, social interaction with peers.
As a member of Main Street, Eric will be able to spend time in the common space at Main Street and participate in the inclusive programming that will be offered. We believe that Eric will be able to find spontaneous friendships in this way. Main Street will provide Eric with a place to “hang out”, make friends, and learn new skills such as cooking and healthy eating. The location is perfect because Eric will be able to stop in after his GED classes at Montgomery College and before his weekend shifts at ArcLight in Montgomery Mall. Please say “hi” to him if you see him at the movie theater!
