HeartShare has 38 supervised group homes and 42 independent living apartments in Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. HeartShare’s staff ultimately hopes to see an individual become as independent as possible and live more inclusively in the New York community. Eric formerly lived at the Short Residence, a HeartShare group home with 12 other men in downtown Brooklyn. Eric demonstrated his potential to live more independently. As a part of HeartShare’s Community Living Program at the East 102nd Street Residence in Canarsie, Brooklyn. On a typical day, Eric works as a part of a Supportive Employment Program, makes his meals, budgets his expenses, and travels independently throughout the community. Eric’s love of music, particularly hip hop and gospel, is the foundation of his dream to work as a ticket sales associate at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn’s premier sports and entertainment arena. Assisted by HeartShare staff, Eric is currently working to explore new employment opportunities. “Eric is always looking for a challenge and once he finds that challenge, he remains very focused,” recognized Melissa Pierre, Brooklyn Coordinator for HeartShare’s Community Living Program.