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Leon Owens and Matthew Roselli, both residents of a YAI residence in Port Chester, have been best friends for 10 years. The special bond between the roommates has deepened throughout the years and has even flourished through the pandemic.
“It’s so awesome to be around them because they are fun to work with. Matty moved into the residence and helped Leon to thrive and advocate for himself and step out of his comfort zone,” said Behavioral Intervention Specialist Jaclyn Degidio.
The duo met a decade ago at Westchester Coffee House, a social group for people with I/DD in the region. The friends, along with a group of 20 others, go on various outings throughout the year including visiting parks and going to baseball games, all while learning social skills.
Owens and Roselli do everything together and rarely are seen apart. From learning to cook to traveling on the train independently, the best buds also wear matching outfits on special occasions.
"Leon is a nice guy and he is fun to talk to and easy to get along with," said Roselli. "I love matching outfits with him! My favorite thing about him is he is neat and respectful."
The friends hope to move to YAI supportive apartments in the next year or two.
“They have a wonderful dynamic and are positive people who just want to be social and learn things for one another,” said Degidio.