Last Spring, thinking about her daughter’s graduation filled Shirley Liu with anxiety. “We used to always worry about what would happen after high school,” she said. “Now, those worries are gone. Brooke has a more diversified life than high school!”
Brooke keeps an active schedule, even busier than in high school. She enjoys dance classes at the Y, attends a day program, works one day a week, and takes music therapy at home!
This fulfilling lifestyle was planned with Sara Payne, a Support Coordinator from Community Personnel Services (CPS). Payne joined CPS in 2018, first as a job coach. She earned a Master of Arts degree in Social Work from Rutgers University and has a strong, unwavering compassion for individuals with differing abilities.
Her work with Brooke speaks to that dedication.
Before graduation in May 2024, the Liu family connected with Payne. And, Shirley said, “It was a huge relief.”
“She’s very responsive to all of my questions and super fast,” said Liu. “In our first meeting, she brought all the materials for services in Union County and the Y membership, tutoring at home, transportation. It made me so comfortable about Brooke’s future.”
Brooke is also a Special Olympics athlete in swimming, tennis and bowling. And, this summer, she will develop her tennis skills at a summer camp in a nearby town. Payne also helped make that happen by explaining the required extra documentation. “I am so glad that Brooke is super busy,” said her mom. “
With so many activities, from leisure to work, Brooke is thriving.
Earlier in her life, there were more significant challenges that seem a distant but still difficult memory. When Brooke was very young, her working mom had to juggle office hours with finding day care providers and after-school care programs. “Those were tough times,” said Liu.
Fast forward to last year, and by the time Brooke graduated, everything was planned for her! “Sara has been a big blessing for my family. We really appreciate her!”said Liu.