Alyssa Rideout shared an update at our Art of Giving event in Fredericton, New Brunswick. To learn more about Alyssa, you can find part 1 of her story here: ‘Dream big, never give up’.
“Good evening, everyone. I am Alyssa Rideout, and I have been given the honor of sharing an update of my story with you all this evening. Last year, I was asked to tell my story for the first time, and I jumped at that opportunity. I have worked with Inclusion NB for over 6 years now, and I am so grateful. In high school, I met my first transition facilitator, Alicia Wilson. During that time, she provided me with the support I needed, along with my family and friends, to help me create bigger dreams and goals for myself. From there, my network grew, and I dreamed of being an educational assistant. This provided me with the possibility of going to NBCC and taking the Early Childhood Education program. During my time working with Inclusion NB, I have met some amazing people who have all played a key role in where I am today. I just wanted to say thank you and let them know that their support and kindness have meant the world to me.
Last year, when I spoke at the luncheon, I touched on the importance of the transition to work program and case management program, and how they provided me and still provide me with the support, guidance, and skills I need to keep growing and striving on my journey to adulthood. Additionally, I touched on the goals I was striving to accomplish. For example, getting my license, living on my own for the first time, going to a new school, learning the transit system, and winning two achievement awards.
Today I stand before you with some updates. First, I finally got my driver’s license, and I am getting used to driving my own car, which I bought with my own money, in Fredericton now. I was baptized over the summer, and I have started attending a youth group.
I became connected to the social inclusion program, which has helped me move into a new apartment. For the last two year,s I rented a one-room basement apartment (without much natural light) during the school year, and was on the phone with my mom a lot at night because I was really lonely. I’ve now moved in with Annie, my new roommate, who is helping here this evening. We live in a beautiful main-floor apartment with lots of windows and a balcony. We share the household responsibilities, we play board games together, we go shopping together (in my car!), and we’ve been out to eat at Subway to celebrate Annie’s birthday. Everything is falling into place, and I am not as stressed as I used to be.
I am much better at navigating the transit system in case I need to use it again. I am now in my third year at NBCC. I am within walking distance of my new placement, and it is going well. I have made some new relationships in the last year!!! I have been able to secure a casual job at an early learning facility back at home. Finally, I have been able to change all my payments and assets into my own name, which has provided me with possibilities to build my credit.
The support from Inclusion NB has lessened the stress and helped me expand my knowledge on how independent I can be. And has given me the confidence to keep going. The team at Inclusion NB has been there for me on this journey, and I know that I’m not alone. Being a part of their programs has made me realize how strong I am.
Inclusion NB has made me feel seen, heard, and cared for. I know that I will never have to be alone on this journey throughout my life. I feel that I will have lifetime connections. Inclusion NB has become a second family to me.
Last year, I said, “Dream Big and never give up.” This year, I’d like to leave you with, “Reach for the stars because you never know what is actually out there for you.”