Dan’s Story: A Life Rooted in Loyalty, Family, and Community

If you’ve ever visited St. Stephen’s Baptist Church on a Sunday morning, chances are you’ve been greeted by Dan — a friendly face with a firm handshake, a warm smile, and a genuine joy for welcoming others. For more than two years, Dan has proudly served as a church greeter, earning recognition for his dedication and heart. Earlier this year, he was honored with a plaque — a small but meaningful token for someone who brings such big light to his community. (Essie’s niece, Kalve’, helped train Dan as a greeter —  a family effort that made his role even more meaningful.)

Dan has been part of the Community Living Alternatives (CLA) family since 1989. For the past 15 years, he’s lived with Essie, his devoted host home provider. More than just housemates, they are family. At 81, Essie still has Dan by her side, helping with yard work, house maintenance, and sharing in family celebrations. He’s even helping plan her daughter’s birthday party. “Essie’s my girl,” Dan says with pride. “We take care of each other.” (Dan’s goal is to repay Essie for all the years she and her family have cared for him, by being there to support her when she needs a little help.)

Community runs deep for Dan. Each week, he works at a local pottery shop, assisting with both pottery making and studio cleanup. He also participates in a “guys only” day program — a close-knit group that enjoys activities and outings together. It’s one more way Dan stays connected and engaged.

Fridays are reserved for family. Dan visits his siblings — four brothers and one sister — to catch up, laugh, and reconnect with his roots. Whether it’s lending a hand around the house, spending time with loved ones, or showing up faithfully at church, Dan lives a life built on loyalty and strong relationships.

He’s also a man of goals. Dan is saving up for an electric bike and actively exploring ways to fund it. Even after his previous art class closed, Dan is on the lookout for a new one — a small but powerful reminder of his drive to keep learning, creating, and moving forward. And, in classic Dan fashion, he has his sights set on something big: becoming a traveling greeter across the U.S. “I want to go state to state — meet people, shake hands, say ‘God bless you.’ That’s what I do.”

A longtime Hulk Hogan’s fan, Dan’s love of entertainment, art, and connection reflects a life well-lived and deeply valued. He’s even thinking about love again, hoping to find a partner who shares his heart for commitment and community.

Dan reminds us what it means to be part of something larger than yourself — to show up for your people, your community, and your purpose. At CLA, we’re proud to support individuals like Dan who inspire us every day through their loyalty, service, and love.