Each visit to Montgomery Community Living Skills (MCLS), Monarch’s day program in Biscoe, N.C., begins with a greeting from a vibrant origami tree out front. Enter the facility and more await, as animals, plants and fictional characters made of paper line the halls and recreational rooms.
It’s the work of Austin and other members of the day program, as the craft has become a weekly occurrence at the center. Each Thursday, Austin leads the day program’s origami class, an activity not only participated in by each person, but one he suggested himself.
“He was the one that came to me with the idea that he would like to teach a class,” said Community Engagement Team Leader Andrew Sheppard. “I never expected that from Austin, because he’s kind of a shy person, but with the help of the staff, he got up there and started teaching.”
For Austin, merely suggesting the idea of an origami class took confidence. It’s a step in his growth that reflects the encouraged creativity inside the day program.
“We prioritize independence, and we do that through person-centered problem solving and kind of playing into people’s interests and passions,” said Andrew.
For the last three years, Austin, who has been diagnosed with autism and ADHD, has been a member at MCLS. He often kept to himself, more comfortable with books and video games than presenting in front of a large group.
The relaxed environment inside MCLS increased his comfort with others and helped him open up and become more social. Conversations inside the day program became customary and he began vocalizing his needs.
In 2023, as he was scrolling YouTube, Austin came across a video discussing origami and showcasing a step-by-step tutorial on how to create various objects.
He found the hobby interesting and wanted to give it a try. Austin proved to be a natural, as it took just a month for him to go from learning basic folds to becoming a master of the craft.
As Austin continued practicing, he wanted to give back and help others learn about origami. With growing confidence in his craft, teaching was a realistic next step.
“I love helping people,” said Austin. “I’m a really, really sweet person, and I thought it would be fun for everybody to make it, to make some origami.”
While Austin’s teaching helped his peers learn about origami, it also helped him explore and express his creativity, adding to the list of changes since joining MCLS.
Austin has seen an improvement in his public speaking ability and is willing to try new things, as his confidence has extended beyond the classroom. He now has a part-time job with the day program and has even made plans to pursue higher education.
“He really has become more social and really blossomed. He also just started working as the janitor here [at MCLS],” said Andrew. “He has a part time job too now, and he eventually wants to go to the community college and take some classes.”
Austin credits his growth in part to the staff at MCLS, who provide him with the support necessary to bring his passions to others. To show his appreciation, Austin has created a flowerpot out of origami for each of the day program’s staff members, making it his favorite creation to date.
At MCLS, individuality and creativity are encouraged, as the relaxed environment allows for members to be themselves and pursue their own interests. It’s a characteristic Andrew hopes to maintain as MCLS continues to provide support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Discover how Monarch’s day programs help people turn their interests into opportunities for growth and connection by clicking below for more information.