A mother's mission finds a home in Kentwood

Tanya Hardy started Lonia's World Center because her son did not have a place to belong. Now the nonprofit has opened its first permanent facility in Kentwood, giving adults with disabilities a dedicated space for community and connection.

The grand opening ribbon cutting took place on June 11 at 3305 East Paris Ave SE in Kentwood, according to event listings and local reporting.

Why the center exists

Hardy founded the organization nearly five years ago after watching her son, Michael, struggle to make friends. Michael has Cornelia de Lange syndrome, a disability that limits his ability to navigate the world independently.

"Especially when they're out of school. They're not intellectual enough to have a cell phone or to walk out the house and go to the store themselves, or go meet somebody, or go to the mall. He's (Michael) not able to do that, along with a lot of others. So, this is my way of bringing it to him," Hardy said, according to FOX 17.

Hardy said the center provides the social outlets that many adults with intellectual disabilities lack once they leave the school system.

Programs and impact

The center offers free events including summer camps and culinary classes. Programs are designed to build autonomy and self-esteem for participants, according to the organization's website.

Annie Paganelli with Enriched Living Adult Foster Care Homes said the center has helped individuals like Devin, who has autism and OCD. Paganelli said Devin was nervous about joining a cooking class but grew more confident through the program.

"Some may not feel comfortable in, you know, a center that you or I may feel, because some, let's face it, may be a little self-conscious, so it does help to boost autonomy, self-esteem. It gives them a sense of belonging," Paganelli said, according to FOX 17.

Hardy said watching Michael build friendships through the center has been rewarding.

"There's lots of friends, he has lots of friends, everyone wants to hang out with him. And that's why we do them," Hardy said.

Expanding the mission

Lonia's World Center is now expanding its outreach beyond adults with disabilities. The organization's website states it serves seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals through its programs.

The center operates as a nonprofit with tax ID 83-4576793, according to its website. It previously operated without a permanent building before securing its Kentwood location.

Hardy issued an open invitation to families struggling to find resources for their children with disabilities.

"If you you're struggling in your life with your child and you don't know what to do, come see us. We can help," Hardy said.

The center holds office hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to its website. A summer bins sale fundraiser was also scheduled for June 4 at the Kentwood location, according to event listings.