My Own

Before On My Own, Inc. was founded in Columbus in 1984, little support existed for young adults with mild developmental disabilities once they graduated from high school special education programs. In most cases, these new graduates were unable to locate community-based support systems to help them reach the goal of independent living. When establi... shed, On My Own offered social and recreational activities to 12 teenagers and young adults with moderate to borderline developmental disabilities. The agency operated out of space donated by The Ohio State University's Nisonger Center , under the umbrella of the Metropolitan Area Church Board. As the years progressed and the client population increased, the program began to focus on young adults with mild to borderline disabilities. Services expanded to include independent living classes, supervised apartment living, Special Olympics, and a robust social and recreational activities program. On My Own has matured into an organization that provides a vital support system for adults, 18 and older, with mild to borderline disabilities. Through customized services, persons with mild developmental disabilities learn and develop skills enabling them to integrate into the community, live in apartments, find meaningful employment and develop social skills. Currently serving nearly 80 individuals, 44% reside in their own apartments and 86% maintain full-time or part-time employment with On My Own support. Programs are continually evolving in order to invigorate existing services and meet changing needs.Read More