Faces of Midland: Dominic Altmeier
Faces of Midland is a collaborative storytelling project celebrating the vibrant lives of those who live, work, and thrive in Midland.
Dominic Altmeier found meaning through community connections.
By Trisha Fenby
Photo by Renee’ Deckrow, Captured Studio
Dominic Altmeier’s love of music and singing began in high school, when he found a pamphlet promoting the Meister Singers. Now an adult, autistic adult, Dominic finds that singing is a calming activity that promotes confidence and provides social connection. Today, you will find this old-school crooner singing bass in the Midland Center for the Arts Chorale.
Growing up, Dominic experienced the biases and misunderstandings autistic people often face. Autism is a spectrum disorder and affects each person differently. Dominic has high social anxiety and some challenges learning certain academic subjects. Professionals once assumed Dominic wouldn’t finish high school. They even predicted he would require a group home placement. They clearly underestimated his potential. Not only did he graduate high school, but he attended college, found competitive employment, and became an active and valued member of our community.
Dominic’s mother, Wendy, is a key to his success. Seeking the diagnosis and services early and advocating for his education, she set the foundation for his future. She continues to provide daily, practical support and encouragement, and assists with managing his healthcare and finances. His grandfather was also a central, positive force in his life. As a father figure, he provided Dominic with mentorship, discipline, and love that Dominic needed. His grandfather’s death was a major loss and contributed to his anxiety. To help him through his grief, Wendy took him to The Children’s Grief Center. The healing that Dominic experienced led him to volunteer there as a way to give back, supporting other grieving families.
The Children’s Grief Center is just one of the ways Dominic has found purpose in our community. Dominic is a member of the Unitarian Universalist fellowship, where he volunteers as a greeter and helps with the coffee and cleanup. The community he found through church has provided a path to service and healing. Church members provided emotional support while he was grieving the death of his grandparents, and continue to offer ongoing connection and care. As a volunteer, Dominic found a way to connect with others, form friendships and reduce his isolation. He feels a sense of purpose there.
Beyond singing, volunteering, and attending church activities, Dominic is a huge advocate for autism acceptance. He participates in local disability focused events and posts regularly on social media to dispel any misconceptions about autism.
One misconception that Dominic personally overcame was the early assumptions by professionals. Not only did he graduate from high school, but Dominic also attended college, and is currently working. He has never formally disclosed his diagnosis to his primary employer, so Dominic is working with no accommodation. While the hours are long, and the guidelines are strict, Dominic feels supported by his team. He has demonstrated that he is reliable and has a strong work ethic.
While Dominic has faced many challenges and stereotypes, his journey shows that resilience, community, and self-acceptance can shape a meaningful life.