Friendships Lasting a Lifetime: Wantagh CRP Graduates Look to the Next Chapter in Their Lives
Few experiences in life compare to long-lasting friendships. Eileen Williams, Erica Sang, Gabby Marcial, and Megan Schuster grew up living together at Johnson Place, a residential home for children with autism managed by BCCS. Together, these young women will now will share the excitement in planning for the next stage of their lives–a move to a new home in Bayshore that will support their young adulthood and beyond.
This move is about embracing newfound independence, friendship, and support, all of which will accompany them as they enter this exciting chapter of their lives. The caring staff at both Johnson Place and Bayshore have left no stone unturned to ensure that these young women have the best possible start on the new path they are embarking on. 
Change is often met with resistance; however, staff members were thoughtful in how they would prepare the young women for their future. Shopping was a sure favorite. Together, staff members and the girls went on many, many shopping trips–carefully picking out items to decorate their respective rooms. Many short visits to the new home were also scheduled for meet and greets with two new roommates with whom they will share the home. The move will also include long-time staff member, Dapheney Henry, who will be transitioning alongside the ladies and taking on a new role as the Bayshore Assistant House Manager.
This move is about embracing newfound independence, friendship, and support, all of which will accompany them as they enter this exciting chapter of their lives. The caring staff at both Johnson Place and Bayshore have left no stone unturned to ensure that these young women have the best possible start on the new path they are embarking on.
Together, the six young women are getting to know each other and getting along well. They’ve shared dinners, and planned movie nights prior to the big move. For staff, these early positive interactions set a positive foundation for the future.
“The girls have been waiting for this for a long time and we’re all very happy that they get to take this step together,” said Casandra Bradshaw, Johnson Place House Manager.