A New Program Designed Around Possibility
Tony is thriving through a new program built for growth and independence.
March 24, 2026
Tony’s story has been one of remarkable transformation – marked by newfound confidence, friendships, and a growing sense of independence.
When Tony joined Little City’s new Life in Motion program in May 2025, he was stepping into a flexible, person-centered day program designed to help people explore interests, build community connections, and strengthen everyday life skills.
For Tony, it quickly became a place where he could try new things, meet new people, and grow in ways that felt meaningful to him.
Emily Griffin, Life in Motion Coordinator, said watching Tony open up and discover what he enjoys has been one of the highlights of the year.
Tony embraced the spirit right away. He bonded with other participants and staff almost immediately and began saying “yes” to a wide range of experiences – swimming on campus, movie outings, bowling, museums, and more. Each new activity helped him grow more confident in community settings, while building skills that support greater independence.
That growing confidence has carried over into his goals for the future. Tony is now participating in job training and has begun exploring job development opportunities with Little City. With his strong social skills and can-do attitude, he hopes to move toward community-based employment.
“A lot of our participants regressed during COVID and lost some of those skills and habits that come with being out in the community,” Emily said. “Now we have people going home and asking their parents to take them places and they can stop in grocery stores and help with that – it’s been great to see.”
Tony’s journey last year shows what’s possible when someone is supported, encouraged, and given the chance to grow – one new experience at a time.
The recreation program offers a wide range of activities that promote social, emotional, and physical wellbeing – from swimming and basketball to cooking classes and choir. In 2025, a new partnership with Harper College gave participants access to additional gym space, creating even more opportunities to engage with the community.
Karen says she loves all the activities she’s exploring and is even giving basketball a try, despite occasional nerves.
“She’s grown so much this year,” Katlyn said. She’s even beginning to tackle some of the tasks that aren’t as enjoyable – like strength training and conditioning – and it’s had an enormous impact on her. She tells me she is feeling better and has more energy. I’m so proud of her.”
This is the power of your support – helping friends like Karen overcome their challenges and experience an amazing transformation.
Because the ASE program serves participants with the highest support needs, donors like you play a critical role in providing spaces and experiences like this expansion onsite that helps each individual grow, practice independence, and discover new interests.