This story is one of people and programs working together, in a synergistic way, to make a difference in one extraordinary individual's life – a life that now is making a positive difference in her community.

Kathy Young, living with a developmental disability, led a very isolated life in her home town of Manchester. She worked hard on her family farm, but had little opportunity to get out of the house, meet people, or become involved in her community. 

When Kathy connected with Washtenaw County’s Community Support and Treatment Services' (CSTS) Counselor Karma Mohring about three years ago, it was clear that Kathy’s sheltered life had resulted in very low self-esteem. “But it was also easy to see that Kathy was a very insightful individual, with a lot going for her - capable of much more," notes Karma.

Through her involvement with CSTS, Kathy was able to connect to a number of vocational services including a PACE group - People Accessing Community Experience/Employment. She worked with job coach Deb Slocum.  Little by little her confidence blossomed. Today Kathy is a very busy woman – with an itinerary that starts and ends with service to people in her community.

Four days a week Kathy is picked up by Deb and taken to her job for the day: On Mondays and Thursdays she can be found in Manchester working in her paid position at the grocery, bagging groceries, checking prices and running errands.  Wednesdays she is on-site in United Methodist Retirement Communities in Chelsea, working in the resale shop and bringing smiles to the residents as they share stories and conversation.  Tuesdays find her at Faith in Action, stuffing Teddy Bears that are part of a program to help abused children.  And then there is her monthly work with Food Gatherers, where she’s happy to say how proud she is to assist in the distribution of food. 

"The really neat impact that CSTS PACE groups offer is the ability to educate the community and get involvement,” says Health Services Supervisor Lydia Sattler.  “Partnerships blossom as each piece of the puzzle fits together, resulting in a win-win situation for all - enriching the lives of the CSTS consumers and the community."

When asked what she likes most about being involved in her community, Kathy cheerfully replies, "I enjoy working - period.  That, and everybody knows my name!"