Charlie’s Story: Advocacy That Started at Home

Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Charlie is a father and community advocate. His journey into advocacy began with his son Andy, who was born with Down syndrome nearly 50 years ago. Like many parents, Charlie and his wife were learning along the way. They focused on helping Andy grow, learn, and be part of everyday life.

“We didn’t really know what we were doing when Andy was born,” Charlie has shared. “We just said we were going to try to make life as normal as possible and help him be part of everything.”

As Andy grew up, Charlie and his wife helped him build independence through simple daily routines. The goal was always to help him build confidence and stay connected to the world around him.

Andy’s Life Today

Today, Andy lives an active life in the community. He has worked at a local Publix grocery store for more than 20 years. Many customers know him and look forward to seeing him at work. His job gives him purpose and keeps him connected to people in his community.

Andy lives at home but has his own space upstairs where he relaxes, talks with friends, and enjoys his routines. Charlie jokes that one of his main jobs in retirement is driving Andy to and from work. It is a daily routine that keeps Andy active and involved.

Finding the Power of Community Programs

A key part of Charlie’s work began with a small recreation program in Homewood, Alabama. It began as an after-school activity where people with developmental disabilities could play sports and spend time together. Families quickly saw how important it was.

As the program grew, it became clear that more space and support were needed. Charlie stepped in to help raise funds and build something that would last. What began as a small effort eventually became the Exceptional Foundation.

“What started as a small program kept growing because families needed it,” Charlie says. “Now it’s a place where people can come every day, stay active, and be part of a community.”

Today, the Exceptional Foundation serves more than 100 participants each day in a 36,000-square-foot facility. It offers a full-day adult program four days a week, along with recreation programs, after-school activities, and summer programs that help people stay active and connected.

As the organization expanded, leaders focused on keeping programs safe and sustainable. The foundation serves individuals who can take part in group activities with some independence, allowing staff to support many participants at once.

Stepping Into Advocacy

Charlie’s involvement with the Exceptional Foundation eventually led him to serve on the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities. In that role, he contributed to conversations about services, programs, and policies that support individuals and families across the state.

He never set out to become an advocate. He simply responded when there was a need.

“If someone asks for help building something that helps people, you step up and do what you can,” Charlie says.

Charlie has seen many changes over the years. When Andy was born, there were fewer programs and fewer supports for families. Today, there are stronger networks and more opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to be active members of their communities.

Andy’s life reflects that progress. He works, stays connected with friends, and takes part in community events. 

Charlie’s story shows what advocacy can look like over time. It begins with family, it grows through community, and it can continue across generations.