Anne and Jim Quaranta met as students at Santa Clara University and shortly after graduating, they got married and began building a life together in the very community they called their home away from home. 

In 1994, they welcomed their first child, Michael, and three years later, their daughter Maddie. As Michael grew, Anne and Jim noticed he wasn’t reaching typical developmental milestones. Eventually, he was diagnosed with autism—a moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Thrown into the world of special needs parenting, Anne and Jim devoted themselves to finding the best support for Michael. They explored therapies, special education programs, and every resource available to help him reach his full potential. Through it all, Michael has remained a bright, joyful presence in their lives—curious, kind-hearted, and deeply loved.

As Michael approached adulthood, Anne and Jim began to worry about the future. They wondered how they would ensure his care and happiness as they all grew older. At a local presentation, Jim met Dana Hooper and learned about Life Services Alternatives (LSA). LSA’s thoughtful, inclusive philosophy struck a chord with the Quaranta family, and the name continued to come up in conversations over the years.

When Michael entered his twenties, Anne and Jim gently asked if he’d ever consider living in a group home. He responded with a prompt and definite “No.” Respecting his wishes, they held off—yet the question lingered in their hearts. Eventually, they added Michael to LSA’s interest list, wanting to keep doors open for the future.

Michael has many passions, including racing RC boats—an activity he shares with Jim, who builds them. Still, as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the Quarantas re-evaluated their plans. They reached out to LSA again and learned there was an opening at Hatikvah House—just two miles from their home.

The team at LSA, led by Susan LeRitz, welcomed Michael with warmth and intention. After a thoughtful interview process and a second meeting with the housemates, everything seemed to fall into place.

Though they were warned that the transition could be tough, by the second night, Michael was waving goodbye with a cheerful “Bye, Mom. Bye, Dad.” Now, Anne and Jim visit regularly, sharing weekends and hobbies with Michael while also giving him the independence to grow in his own space.

“He’s thriving,” they say. Michael loves his LSA family—interacting with staff, running errands, and feeling like a valued member of a larger community. For Anne and Jim, this journey has brought deep peace of mind and a new sense of belonging.

“We have a new family here—our LSA family,” Anne shares. “With no extended family in the area, this truly feels like a community where we can celebrate our little victories together.”