Meet Andy and Dee

Dee Prong, Residence Manager of two Ontario ARC homes, has known Andy M. for nearly 12 years. As a residence manager, you’re afforded the opportunity and space to build relationships with participants – getting to know them as you help them transition to full independence.    

They were introduced in 2007, at an intake meeting, as Andy was moving into an Ontario ARC residence. From fun and hilarious shared memories, including a weekend-long camp experience that Ontario ARC holds every couple of years for residential programs, to more intimate moments such as sharing the news of the passing of a grandparent, Dee and Andy have developed a trusting and respectful relationship over the years. 

Dee’s role as a residence manager includes working with Andy on his goals to become more independent. After a few years living in the Mulberry House, Andy was able to move into the High Street home in the heart of town with nearby amenities such as banks, restaurants, barbershops, gas stations, a pharmacy, a library, and more. In just a few short years, Andy has increased his independence and is now handling his own money, shopping, and taking care of himself.

Though Andy has been able to gain independence and become self-sufficient, it didn’t come without challenges. Dee says that one of the biggest challenges faced is a concept labeled as Dignity of Risk. This concept teaches individuals the risks and consequences of overspending, sleeping in, not going to work, being late to work, and more. Andy now works at North Star Coffee in Canandaigua, a social enterprise owned and operated by Ontario ARC, and has been very successful in his role as a café attendant.    

When asked how life has changed since moving, Andy says that he loves going for walks, bike rides and bowling (Andy holds a high score of 202). Andy enjoys what his community has to offer, just like you and I.

Dee has been working with Ontario ARC for 20 years and is incredibly passionate about her role and working with individuals with disabilities or other challenges.

She adds, “I’m doing something different every day, and my days are never boring.”