Q: Welcome to another episode of Light Up the D. Today, we have Rachelle Vartanian, the founder and president of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. Can you tell us a bit about what the Living and Learning Enrichment Center is and what services you provide?
A: Sure. We work mostly with adults who have special needs. Initially, our focus was on autism, but now we serve individuals with a variety of special needs. We focus on adults because there’s very little available for them once they finish school. I was a special education teacher for twenty years and saw this gap, which led me to start the center.
Q: I appreciate that. Many people with special needs face limited options as they enter adulthood. Can you elaborate on your journey and what inspired you to start Living and Learning?
A: As a special education teacher for twenty years, I saw the limited opportunities for young people after graduation. My own son was diagnosed with autism, which pushed me to learn everything I could to advocate for him. I got a second master’s degree in autism and eventually decided to create a solution. I quit my job, sold my home, and opened Living and Learning in 2015.
Q: How has the organization evolved since you founded it?
A: It has been quite a journey. I had no business background, so I focused on understanding and meeting the needs of our members. We started with social skill groups and hangouts to combat isolation. Over time, we expanded to include vocational programs. Now, we have a vocational program with 175 people and a waiting list of 100 more. We partner with over 100 businesses to provide job training and employment opportunities.
Q: Can you tell us more about your vocational programs and how they make a difference?
A: Our vocational program is our biggest, with participants coming from 11 different counties. They come in Monday through Friday and work with job coaches at various businesses. The goal is to transition them into paid employment. We’ve placed over 100 individuals in paying jobs, which has been life-changing for them and their families. It gives them a sense of purpose and routine, and they become valuable members of their communities.
Q: What makes your organization stand out from others?
A: We deliberately created a non-clinical environment. Our programs are ongoing and consistent, unlike many that are short-term. We individualize everything to meet the specific needs of our members. For example, we offer clubs based on interests like cooking, Dungeons and Dragons, and gaming. This helps combat isolation and build friendships.
Q: Why is it important for people with special needs to have access to these types of programs and resources?
A: Everyone needs support in some form. Our programs provide the necessary support to help individuals with special needs live more independently and confidently. It’s about making small adjustments to help them thrive. Our supportive environment ensures they can make mistakes without judgment and learn from them.
Q: Can you share some success stories from your programs?
A: One young man, a talented artist, started showcasing his art at our store, Mod Market. His work is now a key feature, and he earns a commission like any other artist. Another success is a participant who now works at the zoo doing chalk drawings of animals. Each story is unique, but all highlight the incredible potential of our members when given the right opportunities.
Q: How do your programs impact families?
A: They provide peace of mind and hope. Families know their loved ones have meaningful activities and job opportunities. It alleviates the burden and stress of wondering what will happen when they are no longer around to support their children.
Q: What support services do you offer for families?
A: We have a parent support group that meets on the first Wednesday of every month. It’s free and open to all. We bring in guest speakers to discuss various topics, from financial planning to advocacy. It’s a space for parents to connect, share experiences, and support each other.
Q: How can people find out more about your organization or get involved?
A: The best way is through our website, LivingandLearningCenter.org. We are also active on social media. There’s a section for volunteers, and we welcome anyone interested in helping or learning more.
Q: What is the Mod Market, and how does it integrate with your programs?
A: Mod Market is our store where local artists, including those with special needs, can sell their work. It’s a real-world environment where our members can gain job skills. The store features a mix of artists to create an inclusive setting.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve received about growing your organization?
A: One piece of advice that stood out was that people come into your life for a reason, even if only for a short time. It’s about appreciating the help and guidance you receive and knowing when to move forward.
Q: What are your future goals for Living and Learning?
A: I dream of buying the apartments across the street from our center to provide inclusive housing. It would be a community where our members and others, like senior citizens, can live independently with support. It’s a big dream, but I believe it can happen.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about what you do?
A: The families. Seeing the joy and relief on their faces when they drop off their loved ones is priceless. Knowing we provide a welcoming, supportive environment makes all the hard work worth it.