The parents of children with special needs often worry about what will happen to their child when they're gone. That's where a local organization can help.
Melanie Bash's son, Matthew, has special needs. "He has autism and asperger's. He actually didn't speak until he was 10."
She says having her son join New Vista seven years ago - was like an answered prayer.
"He has learned skills on how to cook with staff. He's learned how to do his laundry. He's learned how to take care of himself. How to take more responsibility," says Bash.
New Vista is a nonprofit organization that provides homes and support to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
It also provides services to those who are still living at home with their families.
Executive Director, Archie McArthur, says, "Pretty much every area of their life we're responsible for. we ensure that we support them with their budgeting and financial aspects. everything pertaining to their medical care."
New Vista has 22 homes across the valley - with almost 130 residents with special needs.
"Just because I have a disability doesn't mean I can do anything," says Roy Ransom. He has cerebral palsy. Roy lives in one of the homes provided by the organization.
"As soon as I got into the system, I felt more safe that I would feel if I was living with my friends or anything like that."
Here, residents do not age out of the system.
"Many of our individuals have come to us at very young ages and have been with us up until they ultimately do pass" says McArthur.
Melanie Bash says knowing this puts her mind at ease. "Now I have peace of mind that he now can be there for the rest of his life and be taken care of and be okay."
Click heremore information on New Vista and its services.
