Homeward Bound is a partnership between spirited individuals with disabilities and the caring people committed to providing individualized and life-affirming growth experiences.

Homeward Bound provides support which values the competence, strengths and desires of each individual. Each person is encouraged and empowered to develop skills and capabilities needed to increase self-reliance and enhance quality of life.

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Here is just one of the many stories shared by a family member of an individual who lives at Homeward Bound.

-- Laurie Bot --

In 1980 Laurie Bot’s family was facing a difficult choice. When Laurie was six years old, Mary Bot, Laurie’s mother, and her family had made the heart-breaking decision to leave their first born child at a foster home. Laurie was residing in this foster home located a far distance from her family when they were informed the home was no longer able to remain open. Mary wondered how they could move Laurie again.

The Bot’s came across information about a new organization call Homeward Bound. The plan was to open a home in New Hope for children with disabilities. Their dream was realized in late 1980 when Laurie was selected to move into Homeward Bound’s New Hope home.

“It was the best thing our family ever did,” says Mary, “Laurie was so close to home, we were able to see her so often.” As Laurie blossomed into a beautiful young woman, the family continued to be deeply involved with her life and visit her often. Laurie learned how to walk and communicate in new and exciting ways. “The things she can do today are because of Homeward Bound and the caregivers there,” adds Mary.

In 1997, Homeward Bound opened Fountain Lane home in Plymouth and Laurie moved into her new four-bedroom home. “We could go to see Laurie at her home. It’s her bedroom, her deck, her yard…it’s her home,” Mary says, adding, “To know that she has a home when we are gone makes me so happy.”

Laurie’s parents, siblings and nieces and nephews visit often and always enjoy their stay at Laurie’s house. They have connected with the staff members and other residences. “You can just tell that Laurie loves the caregivers and that they care deeply for her,” Mary says.

The staff even let Mary wash Laurie’s laundry (sometimes). “I still do Laurie’s laundry because, I guess it just makes me feel like a mom,” Mary says.

In Mary’s words, “Homeward Bound means the world to us. If Laurie had not come to Homeward Bound she would not be who she is today. I am always learning new things she can do, and it’s because of the caregivers at Homeward Bound, it just blows my mind. They have taught her so much!”

Laurie still lives at Fountain Lane home. She continues to gain new skills and surprise the staff and her family. “It makes me so happy to visit Laurie,” Mary says, “I can’t imagine something better for her.”