Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love by showing appreciation, strengthening connection and expressing affection in many forms. For some, this involves showering the ones they love with gifts such as flowers of chocolate, while others share kind words and express their feelings through actions. At Monarch, it is no different, as members of our day programs take the special day to recognize and show admiration for their significant other.
Matthew and Rose Cooper
Matthew and Rose Cooper’s story begins in 1987, when the now-couple met in Edenton, North Carolina through the city’s Adapt Center. Thanks to the kindness of mentor, their first date followed shortly after, enjoying the delectable cuisine at the local Golden Corral.
It was the start of an unwavering love story for the couple from Chowan County.
After a decade and a half together, Matthew and Rose made their already strong love official on November 16, 2001, as they tied the knot in Elizabeth City. Twenty-five years later, and the couple’s love is still ever-present. Matthew loves that Rose is always happy and smiling, bringing a constant ray of light into his life. For Rose, it is Matthew’s ability to bring forth that smile and make her laugh that brings her joy. As the two enter another year together, they celebrated Valentine’s Day by attending Camden Enrichment Center’s dance on Feb. 6.
Stanly Industrial Services in Albemarle
At Stanly Industrial Services (SIS) in Albemarle, love is in the air, as couples are ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day and their love for one another.
Mary Thompson and Dillion Paquette have been together for over two years, spending many days together at the day program. Mary finds Dillion’s looks and his caring personality endearing, while Dillion finds her loveable and enjoys how protective she is of him. The two enjoy spending time together, which often includes dancing and always having fun.
Danielle DiCola and Jay Macon also found love at SIS, first meeting in 2023 and making their relationship official in July 2024. For Jay, Danielle is sweet and kind and he can turn to her for anything. Danielle also loves Jay’s sweetness and kindness and that he loves everything about her. He is her go-to when something is wrong and he always encourages her to do better.
You can find the two eating lunch together at SIS and taking walks throughout the day. On the weekends, they attend church together, one of their favorite activities. The couple has been on a weight loss journey together, pushing each other to exercise and do what they can to burn calories.
Danielle feels alive when she is with Jay and he says it makes him feel great and wonderful to be with her because she herself is wonderful.
To learn more about our Day Programs Services and how you can get involved, click here.