Our Stories

This month our story is a little different because we wanted to talk about the work we have been doing through our Public Health Workforce Grant.
Atlantic CIL is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities to fulfill their greatest potential by providing a series of Life Skills Workshops created to educate our community, specifically our workforce. These Social Support Life Skills Workshops are provided in both English and Spanish languages, allowing for a greater reach within Atlantic County. Our workshops include topics on Nutrition & Healthy Cooking, Organization, Time Management, and Financial Management, to name a few. So far, ACIL has presented workshops at the Galloway Senior Center in Galloway NJ, the Oceanside II in Atlantic City NJ, and St Peter's Village in Pleasantville NJ.
As part of our outreach through this grant, you will see biweekly social media posts highlighting tips and information from our different available workshops. We hope you will find these tips helpful and share them with your family and friends.



For more information about these workshops please email Ana Then at athen@atlanticcil.org

Sean McDonald is one of Atlantic CIL's most active consumers. There is rarely an activity or support group meeting where you won't meet Sean. The last time we wrote a story about Sean was in November of 2021 so we wanted to provide an update.

Sean lives with cerebral palsy, autism, and anxiety. The social aspect of participating in peer support groups hasn't always been easy for Sean. He is very open about his goal to respect other's boundaries and has made great progress in becoming an effective communicator. He admits, "At first I looked for special treatment and expected people to make concessions for me, I would take the group off topic." But now he has gained the communications skills that help him stay focused and participate in a more respectful way. We recently spoke with Coach Tardis Parker, who provides Atlantic CIL's bi-monthly Health Connection Calls of which Sean participates regularly. He explained, "What I appreciate about Sean, is that he always shows up for himself and others. Sean adds a lot of flavor to our Health Connection Calls with his thoughtful and encouraging expressions. I feel like Sean is willing to learn and apply things learned. I appreciate Sean in our community."

The friends Sean has met in the support groups along with working with his Independent Living Specialist, Donald Campbell, has encouraged Sean to keep working on his goal, even when it's difficult. Some advice Sean would give to anyone with the same goal is to, "Do your best to respect other's boundaries even when you aren't perfect, but keep going to the groups, the practice helps."

When looking for a consumer to spotlight this month, ACIL's Independent Living Specialist, Dawn Padick described this consumer as," A kind, good person who has been lovely to work with." Together they have worked on a number of things including applying for affordable internet connectivity and advocating for accessible transportation to inaccessible areas of Atlantic County.

This very humble consumer wishes to remain nameless but none-the-less is an inspiration to many. She was born in England and as a teenager moved to Germany where she worked showing, breeding, and boarding Dogs. By the age of 19 she moved to the United States. She worked in the Atlantic City Casinos for 35 years while raising her two children. Her position in the casino was physical and required constant walking and lifting. This took a toll on her body, and she developed arthritis. As a result, she has had two hip surgeries and a knee replacement. She also lives with a voice tremor of which there is no direct cause. Her physical disabilities have not kept her from staying active. She lives in a 55+ community that allows her to remain independent in a supportive social environment. Her love of Dogs carried through her life, and she enjoys walking her Puggle Penelope three times a day. She met Dawn during the pandemic, "I appreciate Dawn's calls, she keeps me in the loop, and if I have questions or a problem, I can confide in her," Atlantic CIL has been a great resource.

Marcilena Link and her partner Tim Daly both live with Multiple Sclerosis. The odds of a couple both living with the same disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord may seem unlikely, in fact they are considered the MS Society's first MS couple. Tim and Marci grew up in the same circles and were an instant love connection when they crossed paths years later. Tim had been diagnosed with MS before dating Marci and wanted to make sure she understood what his diagnosis could mean for their future together. Marci was not phased and would become his advocate, best friend, and life partner.
At that time, Marci was dealing with her own health issues related to a devastating car accident and subsequent neck surgery. Tim was supportive on many levels including becoming a caring figure in her daughter's life. "My Daughter taught me what love was, and I wanted to find someone who would love her as much as I do," Marci explained Tim was that person. They would continue to support each other through years of unexplained symptoms that Marci would experience. Doctors assumed they were related to her car accident.
Marci experienced numbness in her legs, feet and face. She would be working and when the tingling would begin, she would work through it. The symptoms would come and go until one night in 2016 she went to the emergency room mentally prepared to be told she needed spinal surgery. Testing would reveal she too, had Multiple Sclerosis.

"There is always something that can happen to change your life. MS changed my life," she explained. "Diet and exercise are important in managing our MS, how you treat your body, MS treats you back." Additionally, finding a specialist who treats many MS patients is important. Marci's road to finding her current doctor was long and full of confusion.
She would find most "specialists" have limited experience with actual MS patients. She suggests interviewing Doctors and asking specific questions, like how many MS patients they have worked with. "Get the numbers, don't let them be vague."

Marci believes having support can make you feel invincible, no matter what you are up against. She works with Atlantic CIL's Transition Specialist, Ana Then. "Ana lit our tunnel; I don't feel lost anymore. She has been amazing and made me feel comfortable to be upset." Together they are working on a number of things including making sure Marci has the insurance she needs to manage her MS. "MS is hard, but somehow we are making it work." Marci is planning to write a book about her story and has a long-term goal of starting a MS advocacy center for NJ.

Tammy White lives with depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria. "Growing up we didn't know about gender dysphoria, I was told I was crazy, and that led to depression, anxiety, and confusion," Tammy explained. In the late 80's and early 90's things started shifting and now Tammy is being more open to engaging with things she identifies with. "It isn't easy, but support groups where I can talk with peers to get my feelings out, helps," she added.
The Cares Act led Tammy to connecting with Atlantic CIL. "So many agencies turned me away and said they couldn't help during that time, but Atlantic CIL interested me. They are very open and have been a big help." Receiving a laptop during the pandemic helped Tammy stay connected. She loves to cook and entertain friends and family, so it was an isolating time. She is happy to be hosting "Chat and Chews" again and attending LGBTQ+ mixers.
Recently, Tammy was in need of a new bedframe and through effort working with ACIL Independent Living Specialists, Ana Then and Dawn Padick, Tammy now sleeps better. She appreciates the follow up and support she receives from Ana on a monthly basis. "Ana is pleasant, attentive and listens to my needs," she explained, "Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart."

Karen Aydelotte has been a consumer of ACIL for a number of years. "People have disabilities, sometimes you see them, sometimes you can't - mine you can't see," Karen explained. She grew up in a military family where it was important to show strength outwardly. Talking about her disability doesn't come naturally so it has been beneficial to have a supportive, understanding, and patient person to confide in. Dawn Padick, Karen's Independent Living Specialist, is that person. Dawn calls regularly and provides her with peer support that has been helpful especially through the pandemic. Feeling isolated and not having the technology communicate virtually led Karen to apply for Cares Act Assistance for a laptop. Having a laptop opened a whole new world for Karen to connect with others. She recently attended ACIL's Computer Basics activity is excited to be learning new skills.

​Karen loves nature and photography of our surrounding area. Fall is her favorite season, and she is excited for fall festivals like Octoberfest.

NJ Register Ready was created to help people with disabilities in times of emergency.

The information provided through the registry is shared with emergency response agencies so that responders will be better equipped to serve registrants in the event of an emergency or evacuation in their area.

Kelly Boyd has been a supporter of Register Ready since its inception and now oversees the registry in her position as Access and Functional Needs Planner for the State of New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. To keep this registry current, emergency managers make calls to those who are registered and update information. However, in recent years, another layer of outreach has been utilized.

Centers For Independent Living have become crucial in keeping the registry updated. Kelly was connected with CIL directors through the NJ Statewide Independent Living Council. ACIL Director, Donald Campbell was instrumental in supporting this effort and was asked to share ACIL's best practices with other CIL's who are willing to help. "I am so grateful for the ACIL staff who have been trained to make these important calls and thrilled that it has been a beneficial partnership to connect people with additional resources," Kelly explained.

NJ Register Ready was created to help people with disabilities in times of emergency.

The information provided through the registry is shared with emergency response agencies so that responders will be better equipped to serve registrants in the event of an emergency or evacuation in their area.

Learn more about this program and register online here.
Need help registering? Dial 2-1-1

Julio and Jorge Madrid are brothers and consumers of Atlantic CIL. Jorge was looking for help to support Julio in his job search.

Together with their Independent Living Specialist, Marisa Douglas, they have been able to connect Julio with DVRS services.

DVRS stands for the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Any individual with a physical, mental, cognitive, or other form of disability who has a substantial impediment to employment may qualify for the following services through DVRS. Their mission is to enable eligible individuals with disabilities to achieve an employment outcome consistent with their strengths, priorities, needs, abilities, and capabilities.

Jorge explained, ``It feels good to have the support and knowledge about the steps we need to take to reach our goals." Julio has work experience in the casino industry working as a Porter for many years. His disability led him to take a break for

some time but he misses earning a living and is dedicated to getting back to work. In his spare time, Julio likes to watch movies, especially comedies and musicals. He also loves to sing and dance.

Dear Atlantic CIL,

On behalf of our son Matthew, we want to thank you for all of your efforts regarding Matthew's Cares Act grant application. Your guidance, encouragement, and support were crucial to the successful outcome of our request of his adult stroller being approved.

We do not have adequate words to describe how much this stroller is going to change Matthew's life for the better. Having access to the outside world will open up so much more of life for him. Please accept our heartfelt gratitude.

​Sincerely, Gina & William D'Annunzio

​​While it is not possible to meet Matthew in person, five years ago, Gina, Matt's Mom, wrote an article for a contest called, "All About Love," and the story is of Matt's birth and subsequent years. If you would like to virtually meet Mathew here is the link to his story: GH Article

Bryan Madriaga​ lives with high functioning autism. When he began school, it was clear that Bryan excelled. He had wonderful grades, could read from an early age, and enjoyed participating in the school spelling bee. Although learning came naturally, the social environment was difficult to navigate.

Bryan was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome and began working with his school's child study team and speech therapist. This was a good support system and his socialization skills improved. He went on to graduate from Holy Spirit High School and achieved his Associate Degree in Business Management from Atlantic Cape Community College.

As Bryan transitioned from school into adulthood, he needed to find a way to socialize and make friends. He joined a bowling league and developed his love for the game and camaraderie with his bowling teammates. He also found a job and enjoyed working.

​When the Covid-19 pandemic hit many things changed for Bryan. He was no longer working, and bowling was on hold. They found their connection with Atlantic CIL to be a great resource through the pandemic. "Dawn has been great, she checks in on us, informs us about ACIL's activities and even helped us get our vaccinations," Bryan's mom, Raylyn, explained. Bryan is currently working on a plan to find a new job and return to school to earn his bachelor's degree. He is looking forward to getting back to bowling too!

Ricky Luke and his husband David were referred to ACIL through Veterans Services. They were connected with Dawn Padick when they were in need of assistance getting handicap parking where they live. Navigating a system to break down a barrier challenge is never easy. Having an advocate like Dawn gave them the support they needed to make sure they secured their handicap parking.

Since then, Ricky and Dawn have worked together on numerus goals Ricky can rely on Dawn for advice, a listening ear, or even help composing a letter. Most recently, Dawn helped Ricky get his vaccine appointment made. "Dawn is the best!" Ricky exclaimed, "throughout the years ACIL has been a wonderful safety net."

Regina Brown was looking for resources for her daughter Jasmine when she was connected with Atlantic CIL through the Mental Health Association in Atlantic County. "Dawn is a wonderful person, she always reaches out to both of us. Jasmine has Autism and doesn't typically want to talk on the phone but she knows Dawn and always wants to talk to Dawn. She makes us feel relaxed and gives us the support we need."

Regina is a dog lover and when she sadly lost her German Shepard T-Bone in 2019 she wasn't sure if she was ready to find another. During the pandemic many people have felt isolated and lonely, Regina confided in Dawn and talked through the idea of getting a new dog.

​Regina and Jasmine welcomed Lo-Jack into their family in March of 2020. Jasmine had an instant connection with Lo-Jack and he provides them both with emotional support, friendship, and protection.

Kathleen Metskus became a consumer of Atlantic CIL when she needed help figuring out a discrepancy over her rental assistance payments with her Landlord. Rental payments were being made automatically and unknown to her, the payments were short by a small amount each month. Late fees were adding up.
By the time her landlord brought the issue to her attention the fees were more than she was prepared to handle. Kathleen had questions, How could this happen? Was there a mistake made? Should she be responsible for late fees? Working with Atlantic CIL on this issue, she was able to answer these questions and get the issue resolved. "I was impressed with Donald's knowledge, he listened and advocated for me," Kathleen explained. Currently they are working on finding Kathleen a part time job and getting her cats Garfield, Patches, Sweet Pea and Onyx certified as emotional support animals.

Edwin Fisher grew up in a close-knit supportive family. They took family trips, were active in their church. Edwin loved playing basketball; his Dad was even his coach. As he got older and changed schools, he started meeting new friends and was exposed to a different lifestyle. "I started hanging with people who experimented with drugs, and this was not their fault, but before I knew it, I got caught up in it," Edwin explained.



Edwin would go on to live with substance use issues, mental, and emotional disabilities. His experience would be exacerbated by post-traumatic stress related to witnessing his Dad's passing. He had trouble staying in school, would experience homelessness and the revolving door of the justice system. Five years ago, Edwin decided to get clean. With the support of his Mom, he had a place to stay and together they were connected with Independent Living Specialist, Dawn Padick at Atlantic CIL.



"Meeting Dawn was a blessing, '' Edwin explained. She would provide much needed peer support, keep him accountable for making it to therapy and other appointments. One of their biggest revelations was finding out that Edwin was supposed to have received social security benefits after his dad's passing. The work it took, not only to uncover this mistake, and then correct it, required consistent pressure, and follow up. Eventually, Edwin received 13 years back pay. This was huge for Edwin and his Mom because they were able to buy a house.



Today Edwin is thriving. He describes, "Everything has changed for the better, life is hard enough without drugs and the trouble that comes along with that. I am back in contact with family who disowned me, I have their support and that means so much to me."

Arthur English-Ward was born and raised in South Jersey. He lives with a developmental disability but that has not held him back from achieving his goals. He had a positive experience growing up with a good support system throughout elementary, middle, and high school.

Arthur graduated from Absegami High School and went on to study culinary arts at Johnson and Wales University, College of Culinary Arts. He began working as a cook at Chickee and Pete's in Egg Harbor Township. His next goal was to transition into living independently. His mom came across a flyer about Atlantic CIL. He began participating in group activities and worked one on one with his Independent Living Specialist, Dawn. Together they began the search for housing. Arthur remembers the day he stood in line on a special application day to get into his apartment complex. "The line wrapped around the building, Ms. Dawn was most helpful making sure I had my documents ready, I got accepted and have been living on my own for 3 years now," he explained.

In his free time Arthur loves to spend time with his Nephew Jeff. They both like to play video games. He is also a proud member of Mainland Baptist Church and would like to give a shout out to them for being a second family throughout the years.

Becky McGill, PT, is the Spinal Cord Injury Program Coordinator at

Bacharach Institute for Rehabilitation in Galloway. She specializes in Spinal Cord Injury and runs a Spinal Cord Injury Support Group that meets Monthly. This group is based in South Jersey but is open to anyone. They are a trusted source for support, receiving referrals from the Christopher Reeves Foundation and United Spinal Association.

Atlantic CIL is proud know a dedicated and compassionate professional like Becky. For more information about the South Jersey

Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, you can email Becky at rmcgill@bacharach.org.