Caring for those with disabilities can be a challenging task — but with the right help, guidance, and empowerment, disabled adults have the potential to live thriving, independent lives. Sentry Living Solutions is an organization transforming the lives of disabled adults in the San Francisco Bay Area through exceptional one-on-one services. From its humble beginnings to its exponential growth, the non-profit organization has become an admirable example of how businesses with a heart can make a significant impact in the community.
As the founder of Sentry Living Solutions, Carlos D. Cienfuegos is no stranger to helping others. With a background in psychology, Cienfuegos began his career as a Program Coordinator at an organization serving adults with developmental disabilities. During this time, he realized the immense potential to make a difference in the lives of these individuals, empowering them to achieve their dreams and lead fulfilling lives.
“Since I can remember, my heart has always been mission-driven,” says Cienfuegos. “I’m Christian and I’ve always been committed to helping others and doing missionary work. So the heart of helping people has always been there.”
His desire to start his own business, combined with his lifelong passion for helping others, sparked the inception of Sentry Living Solutions. Cienfuegos saw the opportunity to streamline processes, embrace modern practices, and provide the best possible care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities.
From being hands-on with client interactions to strategically expanding the organization’s services, Cienfuegos takes on many roles. The company offers Independent Living Services (ILS) and Supported Living Services (SLS) to help individuals achieve varying levels of independence while providing 24/7 care and support to those who need it.
“ILS (Independent Living Services) is all about providing educational services and teaching life skills, helping individuals become more independent from their family and support system,” Cienfuegos explains. “On the other hand, SLS (Supported Living Services) caters to those who require more extensive support, and they live in their own homes with personal caregivers.”
Sentry Living Solutions’ holistic approach has been instrumental in transforming lives and empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to lead self-sufficient lives. However, Cienfuegos acknowledges the challenges faced by Sentry Living Solutions when it comes to classification within the industry. As a unique intersection of human services and healthcare, defining the organization’s role can be complex.
“Our industry is challenging for people to categorize or define clearly. The state representatives sometimes consider us part of the healthcare sector, while others seem unsure, and some even view us as educational services,” Cienfuegos elaborated. “I believe we should be classified as human services.”
He also emphasizes the need to place the spotlight on individuals with developmental disabilities and avoid misconceptions. Each client deserves recognition for their unique abilities and challenges.
“When I explain what we do, some people assume it’s related to mental health, which is a significant issue in itself,” he explains. “However, we can’t simply categorize someone with Down Syndrome as having mental health problems. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety are separate and distinct from the conditions our clients have.”
In addition to passionately advocating for his clients, Carlos Cienfuegos continues to lead Sentry Living Solutions on its remarkable journey of transforming lives, empowering individuals with developmental disabilities, and creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. In a world that often overlooks the potential of those with disabilities, Cienfuegos’ vision and dedication give us hope and remind us there are no limits to the positive change we can achieve.
