New Beginnings: Kiwani’s Dream for a Brighter Future

Kiwani’s journey with Aspire began amid a swirl of unexpected challenges and the pressing need for a new living situation. An emergency placement with Aspire pulled her away from the chaotic comfort of her family home, and more painfully, the familiarity of her past.  

She felt the absence of her younger brother, who she helped care for, and the comfort of his easy companionship. She missed her evenings cozying up to the family dog on the couch for some selfies. Most of all, she longed for the warmth of the kitchen that held treasured memories spent learning to cook with her grandmother. 

Though Kiwani knew the change was necessary to receive the care she needed, it felt like her world was crumbling beneath her. Early on, she had the constant feeling of grief for losing not just the only home she had known, but the sense of belonging that came with it.

Moving into an Aspire Community Home meant adjusting to group living with new rules and structure—a stark contrast to the independent lifestyle she was used to. She had always been the one offering support at home, not the one receiving it.

But as time passed, something within Kiwani began to shift.

Despite her sorrow, the support and safety she found with Aspire gave her the space to realize her own strength and put her on the path toward her destiny.

Kiwani is incredibly thoughtful and spirited, but at her core she is a dreamer. She has survived the trauma of her past and looks toward the future inspired by the possibility of being the best version of herself.  

Guided by her growing trusted relationships, Kiwani has learned that it is okay to lean on others. “If I need help, it’s okay to ask for help,” she proudly says. This simple yet profound realization marked a turning point.

With time and access to resources and tools provided by Aspire, Kiwani has found her rhythm. She has developed a routine that allows her to feel grounded, finding joy in the comfort of cooking for her roommates. Kiwani comes to life when cooking, a skill she learned from her grandmother and mother that continues to connect her to her family in a profound way.  

When life becomes overwhelming, Kiwani works alongside her Aspire Behavioral Consultant to develop coping strategies that allow her to decompress. On tough days, she enjoys taking quiet walks or finds solace in the backyard—her favorite spot at home. In these moments she reminds herself “I have my days I get frustrated, but I am only human.”

“I am getting stronger each day. I feel good where I am at.”

Through your generosity, Kiwani is discovering all that Aspire has to offer. She recently visited the Lincoln Park Zoo, engaging in a life-long learning experience that is fueling her passion and pushing her forward. She now envisions a future where she gets to work with animals and is receiving support to make that dream a reality.  

Kiwani’s story is one about learning to trust in the support of others and opening yourself up to new experiences that bring you joy and purpose. With you by our side, we can help Kiwani reach the bright future of her dreams. 

Reflecting on her progress, Kiwani proudly shares, “I am getting stronger each day. I feel good where I am at.” It’s a simple statement, but it carries the weight of all she has overcome and all she continues to strive for. 

Interested in supporting more people like Kiwani?

Through your generosity, Kiwani is one of the many incredible people with disabilities fulfilling their destinies.    

To donate today, please visit https://aspirechicago.com/donate. Your commitment will help even more individuals with disabilities be inspired to discover their dreams.