Celebrating Riley: Community, Joy, and the Power of Belonging

Riley is 22 years old. He’s the oldest of three siblings, a devoted train enthusiast, and someone whose energy lights up when he’s around his family and friends. For nearly a decade, he’s also been a key participant in many of St. David’s Therapeutic Recreation programs, finding connection, joy, and meaningful experiences that help him thrive. 

Riley was born with a chromosomal difference and later received an autism diagnosis. Like many families navigating developmental differences, Riley’s parents have long known that what matters most is ensuring Riley has the same opportunities for connection, fun, and growth as any other young adult. That’s where St. David’s comes in. 

Through programs like Destination Anywhere and Venture Forward, Riley has formed friendships, enjoyed new experiences, and continued to grow as a young adult. Whether he’s at the movies with friends, exploring a llama farm, dining out, or spending the night in a hotel on a supported trip–Riley’s calendar is full. 

These experiences matter deeply. In fact, nearly half of adults with developmental disabilities experience chronic loneliness—a rate significantly higher than that of the general population. For someone like Riley, who is energized by being out in the world and with his people, finding social opportunities that were right for him? That’s not a luxury. It’s a necessity. 

And it’s not just the big outings that count. Now that Riley has aged out of his school district’s transition program, St. David’s afternoon programming helps make it possible for both his parents to continue their full workdays—while knowing that Riley is not only safe, but happy, learning, thriving, and growing. 

Throughout his young adult life, St. David’s programs have honored who Riley is: someone with unique passions, deep relationships, and the same fundamental need for belonging that we all share. His love of trains isn’t just a hobby—it’s a thread woven into how he connects with the world. At St. David’s, Riley is supported in pursuing those passions and building a life filled with friendship, movement, and purpose. 

This Autism Appreciation Month, we celebrate Riley—and all the young people in our community—who remind us that belonging, joy, and connection are not extras. They’re essential. We’re proud to share the journeys of families like Riley’s, and to make that possible.