Annual “Celebrating Success” Awards

QCP RECOGNIZED AT QUEENS COUNCIL

Queens Centers for Progress was recognized at its annual “Celebrating Success” awards meeting which was held on March 1, 2010 at QCP. Individuals were honored who have made progress and achieved goals since March 2009. One of the honorees included Gavaska Facey from QCP.

Kevin, as Gavaska likes to be called, is a 25 year old man who is the perfect example of why everyone deserves a second chance. He has become a volunteer in his community, made friends and has been getting along with his mother. Kevin no longer wants to live in a residence and wants to continue living with his natural family for as long as he can and his mother respects his decision.

Kevin had a history of leaving his home for days at a time and not informing his mother of his whereabouts. He was in constant conflict with his mother and she felt that he would be better served in a residential setting where there was 24 hour supervision. During this time Kevin was referred to the QCP Article 16 Clinic to address these problems with his mother and his lack of commitment to a program. His MSC, Carolyn Clarey, also worked closely with Kevin to secure Day Habilitation Services. He was ready and willing to commit to a program and to put forth the effort needed.

It was reported that he was traveled trained within 2 days and has been making it to program on time every day. Also, it was explained that most attendees of the program do not go out in the community during the first week in order for staff to evaluate their behavior. Kevin was so well-behaved and assimilated that he went out into the community on his second day in program. This program focuses on pre-vocational skills and the consumers spend the day volunteering at sites like a senior center and parks to clean and also to help with lunches at a preschool. Kevin earns a dollar a day for his pre-vocational efforts and enjoys spending the money on things like going out to eat. He has participated in two concerts during the program where he break-danced to music. He also enjoys playing pool and basketball with his peers and feels that he has made many friends.

Kevin was the perfect candidate to get this “Day Time Success Award” in Celebrating Success from the Queens Council. QCP was honored to be there with him during his special day. Congratulations Kevin!