Residential Supports - Stories 

Responsive to individual needs for more than 35 years

Mary Jane Cleveland's Story

The Association helps individuals define their own goals and, then, work toward those goals.

Mary Jane Cleveland lived in the old Belchertown State School from age three to age 20 when she left, later joining others in a lawsuit which closed the school and forced historic statewide reforms. For over 25 years, The Association has been helping Ms. Cleveland reach her goals and realize her dreams. Today she lives in her own apartment, shops, pays bills, and goes on about her daily life.  She’s a member of a community.

“I like being independent.  The Association helped me be more independent.  Now I pay my own bills, like my rent, my cable, and my telephone.”

Bryan Cobb's Story

Bryan Cobb lived at home with his family until he turned 22. He and his family chose The Association’s Residential Supports because of the availability of 24-hour comprehensive supports including residential, vocational, and clinical services. He currently lives in Gill with three other men. He makes his own decisions, works at his new job in Greenfield, and loves his new home.

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