My Story: Meri Tannehill

Ask Meri Tannehill what makes her happy and she’ll tell you, “Being a STAR!” and she means that in more ways than one!
After Meri’s family moved to North Texas, they soon found that options and opportunities for the disabled population in Northeast Tarrant County were very limited. Meri was born with Noonan Syndrome which came with its own challenges, but she and her family had worked out the “kinks”. Having lived in an interactive group home in Houston for 15 years prior to the move, unfortunately, Meri found herself sitting at home with her parents and not much to do.
“She was lonely, not communicating with us and obviously depressed”, said Meri’s mom Cindy. Soon, Meri’s family discovered Goodwill S.T.A.R.S. (Skills Training Achieves Results), a one of a kind day habilitation program for disabled adults. At S.T.A.R.S., Meri had a chance to learn real life skills while having fun and interacting with other staff and participants at the same time. The program uses a curriculum designed to help participants overcome their disadvantages and achieve maximum independence in the long run.
“Since being in the S.T.A.R.S. program Meri has changed dramatically! I’ve seen her mature, become more open and happy…. She even has a boyfriend!” said Cindy. One of the many highlights of Meri’s time at Goodwill was when she was selected to star in the play the S.T.A.R.S. put on for the company talent show. At Goodwill, Meri shines bright like the star she is!

NOTE: As originally posted on Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth, Inc.