North Haven Native Graduates From Vista Life Innovations

OLD SAYBROOK, CT – Christopher Fasano of North Haven, CT, was among seven students who graduated from Vista Life Innovations (Vista)—a nationally accredited post-secondary program that supports the personal success of individuals with disabilities—in a ceremony held August 22.

When Christopher started at Vista in the Discover Program, he was eager to gain the skills necessary to live independently. “At the beginning, I was learning self-care, doing chores, and building a morning routine,” Christopher shared. “I enjoyed the camaraderie and the constant activity—there was never a dull moment in Discover.”

One of his favorite experiences was visiting the Air Museum grounds. He also landed his ideal job placement during Vista’s career exploration opportunities—working at Syd’s Book Shack & Boutique in Madison, CT. “It’s the perfect job for me,” he said. “It’s right in my wheelhouse and helps me ‘upgrade my brain.”

Christopher is looking forward to moving into his own apartment and being part of the community. “Everybody at Vista has been so wonderful to me over the years,” he said. “A special shout-out to my parents and big brothers—they kept encouraging me and supporting me, and their pride in me never wavered.”

Graduation is a significant milestone that acknowledges the independence and success students have worked hard to achieve while in the Discover Program. Many graduates join Vista’s community-based Engage Program, where they live successfully and independently along the Connecticut shoreline while continuing to receive individualized services and supports from Vista.

With campuses in Madison and Westbrook, Conn., Vista has been providing services and resources to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving personal success for over 35 years.