Meet Gary Wagner.
Q: Please tell us about you do in what do you do in Sedona or the Verde Valley.
A: Well, for 26 years I was the President of Rainbow Acres, which is an assisted living facility for adults with developmental differences. Many young adults between the ages of 18-30, who are neurodivergent or autistic, tend to require some assistance when making important life transitions as they age. I am currently working to establish a program to help that demographic with those transitions.
Q: So, transitions into the workforce?
A: Transitions into the workforce, yes, but also the preparation leading up to that transition. This could look like learning executive and functioning skills, practicing in social environments, and gaining pragmatic skills that might not come easily to them. Also for the workplace specifically, the programs teach them about common workplace ethics, expectations, as well as appropriate behavior amongst coworkers. We also focus heavily on equipping them with strong wellness skills, such as developing a good sense of mental health. Because these adults experience the world differently, many of them have been bullied or isolated, so we help to build their self-confidence and self-esteem that translates to their success in the workplace.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
A: For 27 years.
Q: Is there a new facility?
A: Yes. Our new campus is called Sedona Lago Gardens and it’s on Dry Creek Road. While we don’t provide the exact address of our campus for safety reasons, we are proud of our new campus that consists of four wonderful residences. The goal is for the residents to share the home and find community. We have coaches on-site that work with them, and the young adults focus on developing independent skills, such as cooking, while establishing solid routines to care for themselves.
Q: Who came up with the idea?
A: It was a shared effort, on behalf of my colleague and I. We sourced exceptional and highly qualified professionals to help those that we care for grow and nurture their strengths.
Q: Who’s the most interesting person you’ve met while you’ve lived in the area?
A: Chuck and Elaine Gunderson, who were residents of Sedona for nearly 20 years. They now reside in Scottsdale, but Chuck shares an interest in caring for individuals with disabilities as well, and he has been a friend of mine for a long time.
Q: What one piece of advice has changed your life?
A: I have a dear friend who got me to stop saying “We’ve never done it that way before”. That opened my eyes, to watch for the limitations we place on ourselves.
Q: How would your best friend describe you?
A: Of the good words? Passionate, energetic, and tireless.
Q: What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
A: That I love to cook authentic Chinese cuisine. I learned by observing several families during my time in China.
Q: What three words come to your mind when you think of the word home?
A: Acceptance, Encouragement, and Love.
Q: Anything I haven’t asked you that you’d like someone to know about you?
A: That I’m passionate about this new campus, Sedona Lago Gardens. I am passionate about being alive, being active, and making contributions to our community.
