Good support can change the direction of a person’s life. But finding it often requires persistence, informed advocacy and people willing to look beyond easy answers.

In this episode of the On Target Podcast, Dr. Matthew Ramsey speaks with Darlene Richeson about her son Tory, an adult with Down syndrome, and the support that has helped him pursue a healthy, active and meaningful life.

Darlene shares Tory’s experience with weight-related health concerns following the pandemic. After receiving little practical guidance, she sought specialized medical care and worked with a larger support team to create an individualized plan. Through appropriate medical treatment, nutrition, exercise and consistent support, Tory lost 44 pounds and improved his overall health.

Their conversation also explores a larger problem: People with disabilities are not always included in medical research or given equitable access to emerging treatments. Darlene explains why families must sometimes challenge assumptions, ask better questions and find professionals who understand the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Tory’s life extends far beyond his health journey. He works, lives in his own home with support, attends Montgomery College, participates in inclusive theater and continues pursuing his interest in acting. Darlene also discusses the need for more evening educational programs so working adults with disabilities can access the same opportunities as other nontraditional students.

This episode is about more than one family’s experience. It is a conversation about health equity, lifelong opportunity and what becomes possible when people receive the right support.

Please consult a qualified medical professional before making decisions about medication, nutrition or treatment.

Learn more about Target Community at TargetCommunity.org.

Every life deserves to be remembered.

In this special episode of the On Target Podcast, Dr. Matthew Ramsey and Adam Stultz honor the life of William “Bill” Keene III, a longtime participant at Target Community who died unexpectedly at age 66.

Dr. Ramsey reads the eulogy he delivered at Bill’s celebration of life and reflects on the privilege of helping preserve his story.

Born with autism during a time when institutionalization was common, Bill spent part of his early life at Maryland’s Rosewood Center. His sister, Lou Ann, visited him every day to make sure he received care, clean clothing and the love of another person.

Bill joined Target Community in the mid-1980s and remained part of the organization for approximately 40 years. With consistent support, meaningful relationships and a home in the community, he had the opportunity to become the person he was meant to be.

Bill loved music, including ABBA, Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. He enjoyed watching the Twilight films, taking vacations and spending time with his friends. In the final years of his life, he became more comfortable attending public events and participating in the community. He attended a Janet Jackson concert, accepted recognition for his 40 years with Target Community and celebrated his final birthday surrounded by people who cared about him.

This episode also considers a larger question: How do we remember people with disabilities, particularly when their lives may not be documented through traditional obituaries or public recognition?

Bill’s life mattered. He was a brother, friend, roommate and valued member of the Target Community family. His story demonstrates what becomes possible when a person receives dignity, belonging and the support needed to live a full, productive life.

May his memory be a blessing.

What makes a day meaningful?

For Morgan Nickoles, Meaningful Day Director for Target Community & Educational Services in Carroll County, it starts with giving adults with disabilities real choices, opportunities to learn and ways to participate fully in their community.

In this episode of the On Target Podcast, Morgan shares how the Target–McDaniel Graduate Program introduced her to Target Community and helped launch a career that has now spanned 13 years.

Morgan explains what happens inside Target Community’s Meaningful Day Program. Participants choose classes based on their interests while building practical skills through activities such as cooking, theater, American Sign Language and reading. Beyond the classroom, they volunteer, work, explore new interests and build relationships throughout Carroll County.

The conversation also examines what genuine inclusion looks like. It is not simply inviting adults with disabilities into community spaces. It means recognizing them as coworkers, volunteers, customers, neighbors and friends. It means focusing on what each person can contribute rather than allowing a diagnosis to define them.

Morgan also reflects on what participants have taught her about gratitude, patience and celebrating achievements that others might overlook. She discusses the importance of community partnerships and how businesses, volunteers and local organizations can help create new opportunities—often by simply being willing to give someone a chance.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful support is not about filling time. It is about helping adults with disabilities pursue their goals, develop their abilities and live full, productive lives.

Learn more about Target Community and ways to get involved at TargetCommunity.org.