What is moderate intellectual disability like?

What are possible avenues of work/life after high school for special needs individuals with a moderate intellectual disability?

• My younger brother (21) recently graduated from high school in northwest Indiana (Chicagoland).  He was born with a moderate intellectual disability without a defined disorder or syndrome.  He loves talking about the Chicago Cubs and the Bulls, volunteers weekly at the local YMCA setting up parties, and spends a lot of time with his dog.  Unfortunately, he is becoming increasingly frustrated with all aspects of his life right now.  The way I have always described him: he is in between two worlds.  In one world, he is a special needs individual with a 10 year old reading level that requires attention to ensure that his decisions and actions are safely made.  On the other hand, he is a smart and driven kid who has a deep love for technology, learning, and being independent.  He wants so badly to live on his own, to have a job, and have friends that have shared similar experiences in his life.  Unfortunately his current situation keeps him spending 80% of his life in his parents basement, entertaining himself anyway he can with video games throughout the day, and having frustrating interactions with other special needs peers that are too severe for him to gain a deep connection with. My parents have focused on securing his financial future, but have found it hard to send him to special needs workshops and boarding homes due to the moderate nature of his disability.  He qualifies for Medicaid but will not qualify for the state grants usually reserved for special needs individuals with a more defined condition like CP or DS. I was wondering if anybody on here has possible options that we can pursue for my brother to have a more fulfilling and engaging life than he is currently living.

• Answer:

  Have you tried your regional ARC? They can help with (or at least provide resources for) job training and independent or group living, and provide opportunities for socialization.