Diana
Diana was a true pioneer when in 1994, at 22 years of age, she became one of the first people to choose her own supports. A Consumer-Directed Request For Proposals was issued and a reception held to allow Diana to meet prospective providers. Diana and her family chose CSI to help her find a job and other meaningful activities. At the time Diana lived with her family and was on a waiting list for a group home.
Diana met a number of CSI staff and chose Shari to work with her. Shari’s high energy and zest for life encouraged Diana to try new activities. Diana started working at TJ Maxx, joined both the health club and Weight Watchers, and began volunteering. Over the years, she 
changed jobs a few times until she found her niche. Now, she has been employed as an office assistant for 12 years. Shari is a co- worker in the CSI office and a friend in Diana’s life.
While Diana wanted to move out of her family home, she was doubtful about group home living. Instead, she sought an apartment which, with CSI’s informal help, she found. Through CSI’s Individual Support Program, Diana was supported to engage Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) to help her live independently. PCAs help Diana keep her apartment clean, take care of herself, and eat healthy food. In turn, CSI staff help Diana be active in her community, manage her money, coordinate her health needs and supervise her PCAs.
Over time, Diana’s interests have broadened, and she loves living on her own. Most of all Diana loves great vacations! She chooses with whom she vacations and has enjoyed Fort Lauderdale Beach, cruises to the Carribean, Foxwoods Casino, New York City and more! Shari and Diana share a friendship no longer tied to paid supports – sharing pizza, a walk or shopping. Now they are working on Diana’s new dream to buy a condominium. She has a buyer’s agent. Diana and Shari are out searching!