Living a Self-Directed Life: Angel Vasquez
Angel Vasquez has many interests and hobbies that help him learn, grow, and build independence every day.
“I like to write stories, play video games, exercise, and just go out into the community,” Angel said. “My ultimate goal is becoming fully independent: getting a driver’s license, getting a job, and just being more independent.”
One of Angel’s most important tools for achieving greater independence is Self-Direction, a disability support service he enrolled in after the pandemic.
“I heard about the services they provided, and I figured it could get me to the next level if I looked into it,” Angel said.
Through Self-Direction, Citizens provides Fiscal Intermediary support, managing billing, staff hiring, and budget monitoring, as well as support broker services that guide budgeting, establish a circle of support, and create a community habilitation (Comm Hab) plan. With this support, Angel and his mom, Ivette George, coordinate services that help Angel build new skills, explore the community, and develop healthy habits.
“I think all of the programs he’s been offered have helped him gain more independence,” Ivette said.
During the week, Angel’s Comm Hab staff supports him in personal training, money management, exploring the community, taking driving lessons, creating community connections, and strengthening everyday independence.
“I recently became a published writer,” Angel said, regarding his contributions to the Self-Initiated Living Options, Inc. (SILO) Newsletter. “I’ve had about four articles published for their newsletter, from the June issue to the December issue.”
His articles focus on topics such as nutrition and exercise, balancing work and fun, and socializing.
Angel, who independently graduated with a degree in Creative Writing from Empire State University, likes writing historical fiction, short stories, plays, and poems.
Angel has found Self-Direction so helpful that he now shares his experience with fellow community members. At a recent library networking event, Angel met a mom and her 19-year-old son, who wanted to learn more about Self-Direction. Angel followed up and later met over lunch to answer any questions they had.
“He’s extending that experience to someone else and trying to let others know that there are services out there—good services,” Ivette said. “Self-Direction has facilitated his learning about himself, exploring more options, having more empowerment for himself, and it continues.”