Getting to Know John

4.10.2025

We recently connected with one of our ANEWAY participants, John, and are excited to share our conversation below. John talks about his experiences living with a disability and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

A man with glasses and a bald head sitting on a counter in front of a shelf filled with various colorful candies in packages. He is wearing an orange shirt with

Hi John, we’re so glad you could join us today, and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our neurodiverse community and readers. To start, can you share a personal experience where you felt included or excluded because of your disability?

[A time] when I felt included [was] when I was walking around in Media. I used to go over to Tap 24 and watch the Eagles game, or [go to] different places to hang out with old neighbors. I like hanging out with them- it’s good.

What would you say is the most important thing people can do to be more inclusive and supportive of those with disabilities?

I get along with a lot of people. I'm nice to people. I’m a good listener and [a good] talker. I love dogs and walking dogs. I just like hanging around and being included- that’s good.

I like getting visitors. Sometimes I have a person who will come see me at the library. Like, if I’m out in public, I go to the library and everything.

What resources from ANEWAY have been most helpful to you in your personal and/or professional journey?

 I got a Walk On State t-shirt, and for autism [awareness month], we got to paint in [the word] autism and print out the t-shirts. I really liked that- that was fun!

A woman in a black textured dress and red heels stands next to a man in a black vest, white shirt, yellow leopard-print bow tie, and black pants, on a red carpet at an event with a backdrop featuring logos for "Game On State" and "Aneway for Purpose."

Lastly, as the parent company of Game on State, a retro arcade and candy store, we’d love to know some of your favorites!

Favorite candy?

Mike and Ikes. I like the blue ones- they’re pretty good.

Favorite Arcade Game?

I like playing the Fast and Furious game. You can drive and go fast, put the turbo on, and everything like that.

Favorite Program/Event?

I like playing video games [at Game On State], and I like coming here on Thursdays or Fridays to sing karaoke. I like doing that- it’s fun!

Three young people and an older man standing together holding colorful craft kits in a decorated indoor setting, with a mural featuring trees, buildings, and a board game-inspired background behind them.