Lizzie....
There’s no question about it: Lizzie Diehr is a young woman constantly on the go—to bowling, book club, mini golf or sports. She loves karaoke and takes in Muny shows and movies. Lizzie also volunteers in the community and balances her busy schedule with her work in the lunchroom of a local elementary school.
Through it all, there’s been a constant for Lizzie and her parents, George and Mary Ann; During times of transition, they’ve turned to St. Louis Arc.
The Diehrs started using the Arc’s Respite services when Lizzie was a young girl. It gave them peace of mind, knowing that a qualified and caring person could stay with Lizzie while they enjoyed a much-needed break from time to time. But the Diehrs quickly realized there was much more to the St. Louis Arc than respite assistance.
"There are so many different activities, so many things the St. Louis Arc offers to families," says George. "It’s so diverse. Every single one Lizzie’s tried, she’s enjoyed."
Lizzie takes part in a half-dozen Arc programs, but her parents agree the one that’s made the biggest difference is Supported Employment. St. Louis Arc staff consulted with Lizzie, assessed her interests and skills, the found a good job fit for her. Once she started going to work, Arc staff provided support for as long as Lizzie needed it. It’s an approach that’s worked. "The St. Louis Arc has always been for us like a bridge to get to where you want to go," says Mary Ann. "It’s very important that there’s a resource out there for families… every step of the way."
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