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Thill receives scholarship and is accepted into Thrive program at UCM
Dakota Thill, of Nevada, Mo., recently received a $1,000 scholarship from On My Own, Inc. A 2021 graduate of El Dorado Springs, Thill has overcome obstacles and adversity to achieve this accomplishment. Diagnosed with Autism, dyslexia, and ADHD, Thill has participated regularly in the mental health program (DMH) offered at On My Own, Inc. Part of the program is helping individuals with disabilities strengthen their job and life skills.
Thill noted that the program has helped him grow and accept his disabilities and not let them define who he is. "It helps me keep going forward and helps me be successful, like how my mom has taught me," stated Thill. "My mom has always taught me not to let my disability get in the way of who I am. Do what you can to get where you want to — every day."
Thill has been accepted to participate in the THRIVE Program at the University of Central Missouri (UCM). The program expands opportunities for students with disabilities so they can live a more independent life.
Through the THRIVE Program, UCM prepares students with disabilities to transition to independent living and find employment that fits their individual goals and abilities. During the two-year program, students are required to live on the UCM campus. They work on improving their academic abilities and peer interactions while learning computer and job skills. They also participate in career-focused internships. Some students go on to earn a degree at UCM with the proper student support services in place for their success.
The $1,000 scholarship from On My Own, Inc. will go towards Thill's participation in the THRIVE program. He noted that he would be interested in going into a job or career field similar to those who work at On My Own, Inc. or in social work. He also added that photography may be another avenue that he pursues.
Vicki Embrey, with On My Own, Inc., gave some insight on Thill's progress with the DMH program. "On the first day, Dakota did not want to meet with us," Embrey stated. "He was like literally hiding behind the corner. Five minutes later, he came in and we started talking. He's really come out of his shell." Embrey noted that On My Own, Inc. would maybe even employ Thill in a Peer Specialist type of role once he finished school.
"I have a voice to speak up and I want to help others speak up for themselves," noted Thill in closing. "That way people can listen and understand what they're going through."