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Meet frank denney - Back to stories

By Rick Patterson
Individual Support Coordinator

F rank Denney is a charismatic, wiry and energetic 23-year-old guy with an ever present smile. You instantly feel comfortable around Frank. I’ve had the privilege as his Individual Support Coordinator to get to know him and help him with housing and getting his job.

In the last couple of years, Frank finished high school and moved from the country to a group home in Lancaster. With the help of the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation and Community Employment Services Frank is employed by the local affiliate of the U-Haul Company, where he cleans storage units and trucks. This is Frank’s first real job, and he loves working with the U-Haul staff and earning a paycheck. He is well respected by the management of U-Haul, and they’ve been very good to Frank.

He also works part-time at Fairfield Industries when he’s not scheduled at U-Haul.

With two part-time jobs, Frank is able to purchase clothing, go out to eat, go to the mall and purchase items to decorate his room. Part of the income he earns goes toward his room and board at the group home. Frank also pays for the taxi services back and forth to his job.

During the summer, Frank saved money to go on a short vacation to the Carolina’s. He was very excited to see the ocean and walk on the beach for the first time in his life. He told me how much he enjoyed the roar of the waves and the fresh seafood. It has always astonished me how such a small-framed guy could eat the way Frank does! I think he burns off all the calories by always keeping so busy.

Frank is the first to jump in and volunteer when there is a job to be done. He enjoys working with tools and helping with construction or remodeling, as well as gardening. Last summer he planted a garden of vegetables, perennials and annuals in the back yard, dividing the sections by rocks and bricks. The plants were carefully tended, and there wasn’t a weed to be seen!

Frank is interested in taking courses in horticulture. We’re looking into different kinds of classes for him.

When Frank lived in the country, it was difficult for him to get involved in community events. Now he walks or rides the bike he purchased on his own to get a haircut or a cup of coffee. He visits his brother on a routine basis, and he’s glad to have a family member nearby. He enjoyed the Lancaster Festival and plans to become involved in the Fairfield Industries basketball team and Special Olympics.

The group home also provides Frank with options and choices for community involvement. There is a new puppy in the house, and Frank has been very involved in its training.

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