Brought To You By Evergreen Life Services; Written By Meagan Henry
On the morning of April 3, 2026, an ordinary day at Evergreen Life Services’ Bouef Trace Community Home in Alexandria became an extraordinary example of community-based care, quick thinking, and the life-changing impact of supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) in inclusive, person-centered environments.
Staff member Charlene arrived for her 6:00 a.m. shift as scheduled, beginning her day as usual. By 7:00 a.m., she began feeling unwell and immediately notified her supervisor, Vicki. In keeping with Evergreen Life Services’ commitment to responsive support, the supervisor quickly headed to the home. However, before Vicki could arrive, Charlene’s condition worsened.
At that critical moment, Christopher, an individual with I/DD, who resides at Bouef Trace Community Home, noticed something was wrong and took immediate action. He called 911, then calmly stayed with his housemates to reassure them as they waited for emergency responders. As fire and EMS arrived, Christopher went outside to guide them directly to the home, helping ensure Charlene received medical attention as quickly as possible.
Thanks to his fast response and steady presence, Charlene, who was experiencing stroke-like symptoms, received timely treatment and has since recovered, returning to work and continuing to serve others.
Christopher’s actions highlight not only courage in a moment of crisis but also serve as a powerful reminder of what inclusive community living makes possible. In a setting built on support, respect, and empowerment, a resident became a hero, and a team came together to protect and care for one another in a moment that mattered most.
