2 minute read
What's Happening At Janus, Inc.!
MEET JEFF QUALIZZA
Jeff Qualizza started working at the Capabilities Café in February of 2023. The Capabilities Café is operated by Janus Developmental Services, Inc. and is located in the Hamilton County Judicial Center. But you might even recognize Jeff from 44 years ago, when he was the model for Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinners back in 1979. He was the little boy in the yellow raincoat. So even at a young age he was doing amazing things.
Jeff is a 50-year-old man with autism. He and his parents, Michael and Linda, moved to Carmel in October of 2022 from northwest Indiana so they could be closer to his sister Jodi, who lives in Fishers with her husband and children. Jodi will serve as Jeff’s legal guardian when their parents are no longer here to look after him. As mom and dad entered their 70s they felt that it was time to downsize and prepare for the next chapter in Jeff’s life.
The move to Hamilton County was daunting in that it required three moves, one to a temporary home while awaiting the completion of their permanent home. Then there was Jeff’s move to North End Apartments when Jeff “won” one of the
40 slots in the new complex which were reserved for adults with disabilities. The Village of Merici was the sponsoring agency for this new apartment complex.
Jeff loves his new job at Capabilities Café and his new apartment. There were some growing pains and Michael and Linda had some adjusting to do also. But Jeff is very happy that his parents made the move. He enjoys the welcoming community and friendly people where he works and lives.
Michael and Linda truly feel that their move was “meant to be” and look to the future with confidence and optimism. They are truly grateful to the folks at Janus and Village of Merici for their dedication and service.
