When Alex first walked through our doors, his world looked a little different. He spent much of his time alone, often isolated, and unsure of where he fit in. One year later, Alex is thriving, creating art, connecting with his community, and working a job he loves.
This is the power of possibility. This is what happens when the right supports meet the right moment.
From Isolation to Connection
Over the past year, we had the privilege of following Alex’s journey as part of our very first case study series. Alex and his family participated across multiple areas of Living and Learning, including Job Development, Social Programming, and the Arts, giving us a window into the kind of wraparound support that helps our members flourish.
The transformation has been remarkable. Within just a few months, Alex went from frequently isolating to initiating plans with his parents and actively seeking out ways to engage with his community. That shift didn’t happen by accident. It happened because Alex found spaces where he felt safe, supported, and celebrated for exactly who he is.
Finding His Voice Through Art
One of the most exciting chapters in Alex’s story began at Baseline Studio, where he discovered ceramics. What started as a new creative outlet quickly became something much more meaningful, a way for Alex to express himself when words weren’t enough.
“Ceramics helps me communicate emotions when words are hard.” — Alex
That breakthrough led Alex to enroll in our Empowered Artist Workshop Series, generously funded by a grant from the Partnership for the Arts & Humanities, where he continued to grow as an artist and a person. At the final showcase in October, Alex’s work spoke for itself, and the community responded. He sold over $1,000 worth of his ceramics, a testament to both his talent and his dedication
A Job That Changed Everything
With support from our Job Development team, Alex secured meaningful, inclusive employment at Bee’s Knees in downtown Northville. This wasn’t just a job—it was a milestone that opened the door to greater independence for Alex and brought peace of mind to his parents.
For Alex’s mom, Dawn, the impact has been life-changing.
“We go to bed proud instead of anxious,” she shared. “Living and Learning provides hope—and hope changes lives.”
Be Part of the Story
Alex’s journey is just one example of the transformation that’s possible when individuals and families are surrounded by a community that believes in them. Stories like his help new families see what’s possible, and remind all of us why this work matters.
We’re now looking for 1–3 new families to participate in our 2026 case study series. If you’d like to share your journey and help other families discover the impact of Living and Learning, we’d love to hear from you.
Participation includes periodic interviews and survey completion throughout the year. Interested? Reach out to our Data & Grants Specialist, Nicolette, at ngranata@llecmi.org.
Your story could be the one that inspires someone else to take the first step.
Thank you to Alex and his family for opening your hearts and sharing your journey with us. We’re so proud of everything you’ve accomplished, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.