Life has had twists and turns for Jacob. But these days, he’s in the driver’s seat—steering toward a future he’s building with patience, independence, and purpose. A lifelong fan of cars and racing games, Jacob knows the thrill of speed and the importance of control. The road he’s traveled hasn’t been easy, but he’s learned what it means to navigate rough terrain and come out stronger on the other side.
Growing up, Jacob faced challenges many of us couldn’t imagine. As a teenager, after a heated moment at home led to a police visit, he found himself leaving his family and moving into a special needs school in Pennsylvania. He lived there with six other young people, trying to find his footing.
After graduating, he made his way to Queens, New York—a change that brought both hardship and growth. He learned to “stay out of danger,” as he puts it, and began the slow process of building a more stable, supported life.
Now 26, Jacob lives at CFS’ Bellerose Residence with four other individuals. He has his own room and a sense of responsibility for the house. “I’m in charge of the whole house,” he says proudly. “I wash the dishes, I do breakfast. I’m like the boss.” He’s taken on a leadership role, stepping up for his housemates and offering advice and support when needed. “If I see something not right, I make sure to stop it. I’m like a counselor,” he says.
Jacob stays active and engaged—playing basketball and soccer, exploring Long Beach, going on outings to Wendy’s and McDonald’s, and navigating the city with growing independence. He knows exactly which buses and trains to take, from the Q1 to the E and F trains. “I’ve got it memorized,” he says, a hint of pride in his voice. He used to rely heavily on others to get around, but now, with the help of his Direct Support Professional (DSP), Steevens, he’s learned how to travel on his own.
Steevens and Jacob have been working together for over a year. They play basketball at the park, attend Day Hab programs at CFS, and cook together—Jacob’s favorite breakfast being a big plate of fried eggs, mayo on toast, and oatmeal. Steevens is also helping Jacob get the paperwork he needs for a driver’s license and a job. Jacob already has his diploma, and getting his ID is the next step toward employment.
There have been hard lessons along the way. Jacob has struggled with anger in the past. But he’s working on it. “I used to be more impatient,” he admits. “But, I’m learning to be more patient, to stay in control. Advocating for yourself takes time.” These days, he expresses himself more deliberately, a reflection of that growth.
Throughout his journey, Jacob has been supported by people who see his potential. Among them is Ms. Burnette, the Residence Manager, who he affectionately calls “my mom.” Bernette has played a huge role in Jacob’s life, giving him love, guidance, and even his first phone. “She calls me her baby,” he says with a smile. “She tells me not to escape.” Her daughter, her husband—her whole family—are like a second family to him.
Jacob has also learned the value of kindness and care from those around him. He recalls a time when he flipped over while riding his three-wheeled bike and cut himself badly. His supervisor, Dave, helped him through it, not just physically but emotionally too. “He helped me,” Jacob says. “And now I know how important it is to help people.”
When he’s not outside or exploring the city, Jacob loves to draw and collect toy cars—especially Audis, McLarens, and Lamborghinis. He knows all the specs and treats his model cars with great care. He dreams of driving one someday—an electric hybrid Audi R8, perhaps. And even when he’s just going to Macy’s, he’s always got his eye on the toy cars aisle or the cologne counter, where they let him sample the newest scents.
Jacob believes in telling the truth. “I never lie,” he says. For him, honesty is a core value—one he holds tightly as he continues to grow into the person he’s becoming. After a journey of bumps on the road of life, Jacob’s found a lane that works for him. He’s not just riding along anymore—he’s driving.
