When Alex Prautzch inquired about Best Buddies Living in Washington, D.C., he was disappointed to find out that there was a waitlist both at the Union Market and Georgetown locations. However, he did not let that discourage him from getting involved.

Alex, born and raised in Arlington, Virginia heard of Best Buddies Living after his mom was researching housing options in the area for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In December of 2023, Alex joined the Best Buddies Living waitlist in D.C. and also joined the Membership program at Union Market. The Membership program, developed in 2021, is designed to engage other community members who do not live on-site at Best Buddies Living. Members are invited to weekly group dinners and events, opting into a tight-knit, inclusive community.

“I thought the membership program at Union Market was nice. I liked meeting new people and I liked the Best Buddies Living activities,” Prautzch said.

In summer of 2024, Best Buddies grew exponentially opening five new locations, bringing them to ten sites total across the country. They opened in Clemson, SC, Nashville, TN, Gainesville, FL, State College, PA and New Brunswick, NJ.

Alex knew this was his chance to get off the waitlist and move into a Best Buddies Living location. “When I heard the word ‘new’ in New Brunswick, I took the opportunity to jump on the wagon to join the program!”

Since moving to Best Buddies Living in New Brunswick this past summer, everyone in Alex’s life has noticed his immense growth. Sean Heaney, the full-time Best Buddies Residential Manager who lives on site shared about Alex’s progress.

“He has learned how to keep track of his budget, keep his environment clean, and cook new dishes. Alex has made great social strides as well – he came into our program knowing no one in New Jersey and has since made friends not just in our program, but in the greater New Brunswick community as well,” Heaney said.

According to a report published by The First Place Global Leadership Institute, 62% of adults with IDD dream of one day living in their own home or apartment. But that dream often feels out of reach.

Alex’s mom, Linda Prautzch knows first-hand what it is like to navigate the housing system for adults with IDD. But her aspirations for her son are not unlike those of neurotypical children.

“My biggest hopes and dreams for Alex is for him to be independent, to be able to cook for himself, hold a part-time job that he’s happy in and belong to a nice community of friends. Most people take that stuff for granted, but for people with disabilities, that’s big.” said Linda.

Alex’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusive communities. His story highlights not only the growth that comes from living independently but also the power of connection, friendship, and opportunity. As Best Buddies Living continues to expand, we are excited to see more individuals like Alex experience the joys of independence, personal growth, and belonging.