James Pond
Day Services Participant
James Pond worked for the USDA as a mail clerk for 27 years. He was a valued employee and productive member of his community, and like most people, the time came when he wanted to slow down and retire. Retirement options for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities are limited, and often mean going to a program in a building segregated from the community.
In 2006, The Arc Montgomery County’s Vocational and Day Services began the innovative Seniors Steppin’ Out program. James was delighted to be one of its first participants. James and his fellow seniors do all the things their retired peers without disabilities do—go to local senior centers, take classes or just socialize with other seniors. They also enjoy taking short day trips to places like the C&O Canal, going to movies and even spending a day at one of their homes watching DVDs.
At a recent Thanksgiving dinner, James’s family members each took turns sharing something for which they were thankful. When it was his turn, James said he was thankful for his retirement program and the activity coach who picks him up each day. Thanks to The Arc Montgomery County, James is still a valued and productive member of his community.
