Mary Ann

Single mom and professional Hawaiian dancer Mary Ann worked with The Arc Minnesota for a deposit for her apartment. Now that Mary Ann is in her own home, she is able to give back to her community. “Housing [advocacy] has always been very huge to me,” says Mary Ann. When people have secure housing, they are able to lead lives that are meaningful to them. Often for people with disabilities, barriers can come in the form of trouble with leases, interacting with landlords, discrimination, and more. By creating inclusive and welcoming communities, we support more people into lives they love. Now, Mary Ann is helping people into homes of their own. She connects with people at the local community center and online to tell them about The Arc Minnesota and the different housing programs available. “I’m just so glad I have a different way of helping them.” Finding housing also helped Mary Ann create plans for her future to help her thrive, making sure she has access to the things that bring her joy and the supports she needs.