7 Questions With
Minnie
Hartley
How long have you been opening your home to adults with developmental disabilities or living with someone with a developmental disability?
2020
What advice do you wish you received when you first started providing services?
I had been approved for about two years because it took that long for me to get the right person. I attended different classes that gave the information like different situations. I don’t see anything that they could have told me differently.
What is the hardest part about the work you do?
I don’t think it’s hard. I think it’s just remembering that the person you care for is still their own person. You have to allow them to still maintain who they are and consider what they like and what they don’t like.
What is the best part about the work you do?
That you are making a difference in the life of someone who needs a little bit more help and to feel safe. Tony has told me several times he feels safer with me.
What is a dream that you have for yourself?
To continue traveling, spending time with my grandchildren; well all my family.
What is the dream you have for the person(s) you are supporting?
Tony loves to travel and trying different eating experiences at
different restaurants. To keep this going for him. Tony is working and using his money towards travel, eating out, and video games. He manages his money well. Tony has been to Gatlinburg, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Chicago. He knows the specials to eat out like Buffalo Wild Wings on Tuesday.
Who do you consider a hero and why?
It goes back to the basics. As far as my mother, being the influence that she had in my life, the kindness, consideration that taught me to do the same. She’s my hero.