| Program: Learning and Leisure Center |
A June 2006 graduate of Coventry High School, Greg became involved in the Gateways’ day program immediately thereafter. In his short time here, he has won the respect and affection of all. Greg is from a family of nine brothers, several of whom also participate at Gateways. He has a strong sense of family loyalty and really looks after his brothers both at home and in their day programs.
Greg’s impressive resume includes a position stocking shelves at a local hardware store, supportive roles in several Black Box Theatre productions, multiple Special Olympics competition and weekly crafts and clay modeling classes at Rolfe Square. Some additional interests of Greg’s are swimming, music, and computer and video games.
Greg has a true sense of responsibility to any group of which he is a member. Whether part of a sports team, theatre group, or a self – advocacy meeting, he is often the most reliable and gently motivates his friends towards the same high standards. As a real gentleman and treasured friend, Greg is the one who listens with compassion, thinks “Outside the Box” and offers sound advice that encourages good choices and outcomes. For instance, with regards to the Special Olympics, not everyone in his group of friends received gold medals in all of their events. Greg offered that you always strive to be the best, but “You can’t always be on top. That’s just a part of life and besides it was so cool to party in the dorms that weekend.” What a typical Greg “pep talk” always making the best of a situation.
The staff at the Learning and Leisure Center describe Greg as “sweet, polite, helpful, outgoing, affectionate, independent and very smart”. He is certainly all of those things. He takes great care to see that his brothers are okay and often helps to serve food and drinks to some friends who need help. He seems quite blind to disabilities and is able to promote his own strengths despite some real personal challenges. Several of his friends refer to him as “Our Hero”, a fitting reflection of his concern for and loyalty toward them.
For Greg’s part, he said he is very happy to be a part of Gateways because he has lots of friends here who treat him as their “Best Buddy”. He has a chance to enjoy many different activities and experience his life in a new way.
Greg is truly an extraordinary young man with tremendous promise and good will. His selfless concern for others as well as his ability to be genuinely happy for them is a gift worth embracing. It is a privilege and an inspiration to be in his company.
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