08/11/2026
Miriam's story: From host home to independent living
At Support, Inc., we love to help our constituents navigate independent living. Adults on the Developmental Disabilities waiver have the opportunity to be on their own instead of living with family or a host home provider. There’s dignity in risk and we want to walk alongside those that enjoy a quiet space of their own, while maintaining health and safety.
Miriam is no exception. After joining Support, Inc. in September 2025 for residential services, Miriam was eager to live by herself. Her prior agency expressed hesitations regarding the move from a host home to independent living. But Miriam’s Intake Rep with Support, Inc. thought she could do it and was willing to take the risk.
When Cathy met Miriam, she was briefly homeless, living in a hotel with her dog, Serenity. Cathy expedited this need for permanent housing and found an apartment near Miriam’s job in Loveland. She helped with establishing utilities, shopping for groceries and furniture and moving Miriam’s belongings. Before they knew it, the day had arrived and Miriam was moving into her new place.
Miriam played an active role in selecting her apartment complex (and unit) and immediately took ownership of her space. She beamed upon move in with pride and the team was so proud to see Miriam and Serenity land a place of their own.
As with most new situations, occasional hiccups are bound to occur. When Miriam befriended a neighbor and he kept asking for money for various items (including rent), Miriam felt totally comfortable discussing the situation with her coordinator, Jamie. Miriam tends to make friends wherever she goes and sometimes a bad egg is drawn to her generous nature. Luckily, Miriam has a team of support including Jamie, April and Vince. Miriam is clearly able to live on her own, while also consulting her team as needed.
Initially they agreed to cut ties with the neighbor. Although Miriam briefly entertained the idea of being friends again, she ultimately decided to sever all ties for good. Property Management is aware and Miriam has made concerted efforts to ensure this person cannot contact her anymore.
Miriam is an excellent decision maker and very self-aware. If she struggles with a situation, she knows how to contact her team. Jamie recently explained why Miriam shouldn’t have a roommate when the subject arose between the two. Rather than keep these details to herself, Miriam turned to Jamie and Jamie put the decision back on Miriam, with some guidance and coaching. Miriam made the decision herself that she wanted to continue living independently, rather than having a friend with kids move in. We couldn’t be prouder of Miriam and the strides she has made in the past 11 months.
Miriam relayed, “I have learned when to give and take and learning to be a leader in my life, not a follower." She lives a fulfilling life as an active community member, engaged worker at her job and ultimately having fun on the weekends. We’re also excited to relay that Miriam recently adopted a new kitten, Freya, as well!
Miriam’s story is not a unique one. We have served dozens of individuals seeking to maintain their autonomy. Through the excellent support of our residential teams, along with clinical, day program and nurse team supports, we continue to improve the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Big enough to support you. Local enough to know you. That's the Support, Inc. difference.
Want to learn more? Contact our Intake Team at [email protected]
