Life Mower County:
​Our Place Recreation Center

"NM is new to the program. NM is 25 years old and lives in Sargent, MN. He has been out of school for about 5 years. Due to his cognitive issues, it is hard for him socially to relate to others. He became a homebody and was regressing, not wanting to go anywhere or talk to anyone.

His parents wanted him to make new friends, and be a part of something. His mom had heard about Our Place Recreation Center from a friend and brought him in to find out what we do here. He would not look you in the eye. His mom did all the talking. His parents finally talked him into coming to Bingo one night. He won money and was super excited about that. All he kept saying was "I won money, I won money!"
His dad brought him to several more activities. One night his dad told him he was going to sit in the lounge, and that he would be close by if he needed him. NM never went into the lounge for support. Others invited him to play Wii Bowling. He loved the game because he and his dad played it all the time.

Well, that was the turning point for him. His mom or dad would drop him off and come back and pick him up. He would say “I don’t need you here right now”. He has also gone on some outings with the group. Recently his dad passed away from cancer. It was devastating to him and we didn’t see him for a while. About a week ago he and his mom came in to check out what was going on and to register for some activities. He was excited to be back here where he knew he had friends to be with. As I tell everyone,” We are all friends here, and no one is left out.” "
- LIFE Mower County

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