“They are great, intelligent survivors but we have to work hard to build trust.” Those were the words that came from Mary Ellen Graham, the founder of My Place Germantown.
My Place Germantown, located at 209 East Price St., was founded in 2007. However, the facility did not open until November 2010 when it became the home for 12 disabled men. Some of these men may have come from the street, shelter or simply lived a rough life. Others may have had a disability such as a mental issue or substance abuse problem. “We opened a new world for these men,” Graham said.
The supportive staff that tends to these men is available 24/7. They have started groups such as Tuesday movie night, Wednesday cooking night and Sunday morning coffee and chatting, which all have played a vital role in the development and relationships built throughout the community that they call home.
Along with their weekly events, they also came together to celebrate holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Sandra Jones, a resident adviser at My Place Germantown, had nothing but uplifting words to describe the Thanksgiving feast. “We had so much food. It was wonderful, best Thanksgiving that I have been to in years,” Jones said.
My Place Germantown has become home to men of all race and background, but they all share one common trait that has developed unity and brotherhood. That trait is hope.
Be the first to comment