McKenzie House
Overcoming every day obstacles.
If you ask many people what the one work to describe McKenzie house is. The majority of them would say HOPE. Hope for changes and new improved life. The following stories are about the residents and the obstacles they have overcome.
DR works at Pearl Buck Center; he currently counts out screws and has assistance to bag them up. He really enjoys going to work as he sees a lot of his old time friends. He is also a member of the Springfield Moose Lodge. HE enjoys drinking margaritas and racing his wheelchair against another Moose member.
RH enjoys his time at the ATE program through Alvord Taylor. One of the most important events that happen during his day is working on street safety and riding the LTD bus, he really enjoys people watching and seeing the town.
MC enjoys relaxing at home during the day due to her choice of being retired. MC has overcome many obstacles as she was fearful of going out into the community. Due to her fears she wasn’t able to participate in overnight outings. However, that has changed. She has gone and stayed at the coast for the weekend and even walked the pier. For someone who is agoraphobic she has been challenging herself and being very successful.
BRM recently moved to McKenzie. She enjoys going to LEAP program during the week at Pearl Buck Center. When she first moved over she was refusing to go to work, not participating in group activities and was being very standoffish. Since then she has been attending PBC, being active in group activities and has been exploring new activities. From having a sad look upon her face to smiling, laughing and dancing to Michael Jackson, BRM has been turning around and being very successful at seeing the brighter side of life.
KP is a young gentleman that has joined the McKenzie house. He has been a very good addition as he has become fast friends with another housemate and helps him whenever he is able to. He is very verbal and has gotten other residents to communicate more. KP has to use a wheelchair for his mobility however doesn’t allow it to overrun his life. He currently is on a bowling team and enjoys meeting new people. KP’s goal in life is to become self sufficient, and one day be able to live on his own. He also wants to be able to drive a car, as he has been studying to get his permit.
The Alvord Taylor mission statement is very important at McKenzie house. We are always looking for new and better ways to fulfill the highest quality of life for each of our residents. Being a part of this house is an honor and the rewards they give are amazing. The love that shines from their faces brightens up a whole house. They are each other’s family.