Among its residents is Rachel, a fiery young woman with a quirky sense of humor. Rachel’s apartment is a direct reflection of her spirited personality. The walls are adorned with photographs of family and pets, her original paintings, and movie posters from her teenage years. Each piece tells a story, from the doll her mother made for her as a child to the favorite chair she brought from her childhood home. These treasures serve as daily reminders of the people and memories she holds dear.
Previously living in Stamford, Rachel saw the opportunity to reside in Oneonta as an exciting new adventure. She grew up near Oneonta and was excited to experience living downtown. Now, everything she needs to live independently is within walking distance. Rachel walks down Main Street for doctor’s appointments, a quick lunch, and regular nail visits, where she chooses bright colors and long nails for her manicures.
Rachel’s move to Oneonta also brought her the support she had been seeking. Within a month of living at The Ford, Rachel connected with Ruth Lawson, a Direct Support Professional for Springbrook, who quickly became a mentor and friend. This summer, Rachel plans to join Ruth and her family for their annual camping trip at a local park. Ever the planner, Rachel has been purchasing camping gear “If I’m going to go camping, I’m going to do it right,” she said, her excitement evident.
The Ford on Main is more than just an apartment building; it’s a community hub and a cornerstone of Oneonta’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative. Its shared living spaces foster a sense of connection among residents, and Rachel thrives in this environment. She recently worked with Ruth to bake cookies, which she delivered to her neighbors, and Rob, the maintenance manager for The Ford on Main apartments. “It’s fun to share with everyone,” Rachel said. “I even met some new people while handing out cookies.” When Rachel’s neighbor was sick, she brought her soup and helped to take her dog out, showcasing her caring and community-oriented nature.
One of Rachel’s proudest memories since moving into her new home was hosting her family to celebrate her adoption, a cherished annual tradition akin to a birthday in her family. Her mom, sister, and brother joined her for a joyous day, complete with takeout from a local restaurant. She is already planning future gatherings with her friends and family!
Now that she’s settled, Rachel is pursuing the next step in her journey: finding employment. As a regular at Tino’s and Latte Lounge, she has been inspired to work at a local business. Latte Lounge is located within The Ford’s storefront space and serves as an extension of the residential community onto Main Street. Rachel’s determination and vibrant personality make her a natural fit for the Oneonta community, and she is excited to contribute to the downtown she enjoys so much.
Rachel’s story is one of independence, connection, and possibility. The Ford On Main project has been instrumental in fostering independence for people like Rachel, providing the opportunity and environment necessary to thrive. With her fiery spirit, quirky charm, and strong support system, she has built a solid foundation for a fulfilling life in Oneonta. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Rachel!