Family is integral to Indian Creek Foundation’s history as an organization. Our mission began when one family knew they needed to plan ahead for their son’s special needs. Nearly 50 years later, we are still serving this same mission to be a vital resource for families who need to plan for a loved one’s long-term well-being.
We recently talked to a brother and sister, Lee and Judy, who have been part of the Indian Creek Foundation family for over 20 years. Lee lives in one of our residential homes in Souderton, and his sister Judy lives locally and visits him often.
Opportunities for Independence
Lee is the youngest of four and has three older sisters. Though he was born with disabilities, his parents were very intent on giving him as similar a childhood and independent life as his sisters were able to enjoy. Lee went to school like his sisters did, and his parents felt that he should experience freedom in adulthood as well.
After Lee’s sisters moved out to start their own families, his parents took their own health into consideration and decided it was time to plan for his future. They felt that the best option for the family as a whole would be to help Lee move into a residential program that could care for all of his lifestyle needs. They joined a Montgomery County waiting list for housing during the 1990s. When Lee was accepted into Indian Creek Foundation, it was the best thing for him and for his family.
Judy shared that having Lee move into a residence with full-time care staff was the best thing that ever happened. She noticed that Lee was very happy and that his caregivers care for much more than his physical needs. They know who he is as a person, and they offer him maximum independence while ensuring his safety.
Freedom to Enjoy Social and Family Time
Lee moved into his current house in order to enjoy more time with his best friend, Sean. Lee and Sean are avid Philadelphia sports fans. As housemates, they are able to watch games together and discuss sports as often as they want. He gets along with all of his housemates and the Direct Support Professionals who help him with his activities of daily living.
Because Lee’s family is local, he leaves home to visit with them fairly often. Judy picks him up to go out to eat, or even to bring him to stay at her house for holidays and family get togethers. She finds the staff to be very accommodating with helping Lee get in and out of the house, helping him take phone calls, and coordinating the schedule.
Lee also takes day trips and vacations with his housemates and support staff. He and his friends especially enjoy trips to the beach and shopping trips for Philadelphia sports swag.
Being Part of the Indian Creek Family
Most residents in Indian Creek Foundation homes participate in the Day Services Program at the main campus on Cowpath Road. At the Day Program, Lee maintains relationships with former housemates and other friends. Together they watch movies, play games, chat, and enjoy lunch.
At home, besides watching sports, Lee likes to play puzzles and games with his support staff and housemates. He enjoys having a peaceful life in a quiet neighborhood. In his home, he likes that he has the privacy of his room as well as plenty of communal spaces, including a nice sunroom, to socialize. Since Lee is over 60, this could be considered his retirement lifestyle, and both he and Judy agree that it is a very nice life.
Individuals like Lee are able to enjoy a fulfilling and healthy life with the support of caring Direct Support Professionals. If you have a passion for working with people and would like to learn more about working in an organization that values a positive work culture and career growth opportunities, check out our Careers page to view our current openings.