I just wanted to take the time to send a heartfelt "thank you" to all those who had something to do with Camp Horizons in South OC this summer (Laguna Niguel). My daughter Larisa attended all four weeks of camp. If you recall, I called and talked to several of you about the camp's ability to handle her needs. As a parent of a child with Angelman Syndrome, you get very used to hearing "sorry, NO, we can't". So forgive me for being initially a bit surprised/doubtful. Larisa had a great time. Although she is non-verbal, Larisa has very clear ways of communicating what she does not want to do, and getting out of the car each morning at George White Elementary was never a problem. She loved Michelle, Morgan, Angelique and Denise-all involved with her at some point or another during four weeks. It was sweet that they all got "bonded" as she was the only camper that returned all four weeks, it was rewarding to see the schedule and know that she was enjoying so many things a typical teen would enjoy: swimming, beach, baseball games, theme parks, zoos, and aquariums. In addition of her standby favorites: swings at the local park and water play of any kind. Again, thank you for making it happen. I know I speck for many of the parents when I say that the YMCA Camp Horizons was a highlight of our special kids/teens summer.

Denise Godreau
YMCA Community Services - NEW HORIZONS

My daughter, Gillian Palumbo, has been an active participant in the New Horizons program since she was 16 years old. For these past 15 years, we have New Horizons to thank for broadening her social opportunities and providing her with years of memories she shares with people she knows as friends. New Horizons filled a void for a young teenage girl with special needs who was eager to meet new people and have fun. Over the years, Gillian has traveled to San Francisco and all points in between New York, Washington DC, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Disney World in Florida, and has taken a Caribbean and Mexican cruise, gone river rafting and other exciting events too numerous to list. She has made many friends of both participants and staff. We feel so lucky to have this program available to us. Though we have seen many changes over the years, one thing remains constant, the YMCA consistently hires caring staff who take treat my daughter with respect and are committed to providing FUN!! Thanks for everything!

Gail Palumbo
YMCA Community Services - NEW HORIZONS

How The YMCA Has Helped My Son

The YMCA has helped my family in so many different waysÖ Ironically, I probably would have never ended up adopting three years ago if the Y did not have a mentoring program. I started mentoring foster children over 15 years ago through the YMCA's mentoring program and was so struck by the number of children in foster care in our community that I started thinking about becoming a foster parent. I made that leap about 6 years ago and decided to adopt 3 years later.

As a mentor, I saw firsthand how mentoring can help foster children. Last weekend I had dinner with a former mentee who is very close to becoming a law enforcement officer in our community. He recently returned from serving our country in Iraq. I never would have thought that was possible when I first met him as a 14 year old, but a little kindness and guidance can make a huge difference in the life of a young person.

My son has socialization issues that are not uncommon among abused children. The YMCA Fun Days allow my son to gather and socialize with kids who've had similar experiences. The Y's volunteers and staff are incredible and always make Tyler feel welcome.

The substitute teacher or babysitter might think of my son as "that behavior-challenged kid", but to me he is the greatest gift I could ever hope for, and I am extremely thankful that there are organizations like the YMCA Community Services to help children like my son.

Anonymous
YMCA Community Services - MENTORING

The Y Inclusion program has been a vital asset to my child's development, facilitating his inclusion in a regular after school care and summer camp program. The staff has shown a great ability to accommodate his needs and help him progress. His participation has resulted in significant improvements in behavior, social development and independence.

Suzanne Stephen
YMCA Community Services - INCLUSION

Another school year was coming to an end and that sinking feeling began to fill me up as I tried to envision what the summer would look like. What programs would be willing to take an adult sized child with autism? I turned to the Regional Center of Orange County and was introduced to Y Inclusion. Wow, what an experience! From the moment I walked through the Y Inclusion's doors and met with Theresa Dirden, I knew I was in good hands. She had all of my son's information (provided by the Regional Center) and was already wrapping her brain around goals for Chris in his summer program. Goals? My only expectation was to have enough support to keep my son safe and out of trouble. We got so much more! Radna, an instructional aide, was assigned to support Chris. What a great summer it has turned out to be! Chris is happy and is learning skills in an environment that would not be possible without the support of a skilled aide. He is afforded the same social opportunities as typical children rather than being sheltered behind closed doors, away from the world. Thank you Y Inclusion for caring about our children and for making a difference in our lives. We are forever grateful for the support and guidance you have provided us!

Bonnie Smith
Y INCLUSION & AFTERSCHOOL CARE

Shawndi,

Tracy and I wanted to take a moment and thank you, Chris, and the Y-Inclusion staff for all you have done for our son Jake. Jake has been able to fully participate in the TLC after school program because of your committed and supportive staff. He is able to socialize with his peers, play games and do arts/crafts. He was even able to earn the ability to go on field trips during the Summer with the help and accompaniment of Chris.

We cannot say enough about Chris. On a daily basis, Chris keeps us informed about Jake's progress. We have excellent communication. It's great to see her involvement with his socialization. Tracy and I can go to work with peace of mind and not have to worry about Jake. We thank all of you for everything that you do for our kids (and parents!) each and every day!

Sincerely,
Jeff and Tracy Persic
YMCA Community Services - INCLUSION

Adults with developmental disabilities typically go through life feeling isolated and alone. There are not a lot of programs available that offer the types of experiences and events that New Horizons offers. Joseph has been able to participate in many activities that he may not have had the opportunity to take part in if it were not for this program. He has had many fond memories over the years and has made some great friends along the way. It's not easy for him to always reach out or open up to new environments and situations, but New Horizons has given him the bridge to do that. The new events, such as the formal dance, were a great addition to the calendar. He enjoyed that very much. (He doesn't get to dress up too often and not wear his sweatshirt!) The annual events such as the upcoming pumpkin patch are always looked forward to as well.

Overall, this program has given, not only Joseph, but all the participants a way to socialize and interact in a positive and safe environment.

Alexis Camarillo
YMCA Community Services - NEW HORIZONS

Our son has been working with his Y Inclusion aide for about a year now, and we couldn't be happier with our aide and the program. We know he is really able to participate in all the Y activities in a way he would not be able to without her. She really helps him get the most out of his time at the Y. From socializing to doing homework, we know he is safe, happy and well-cared for while he is there.

Steffany Lohn
YMCA Community Services - INCLUSION

Chris played with the children in the neighborhood. One day, Chris was watching the children play across the street in the school yard. He asked, "Mommy where are my friends?" His neighborhood friends grew up and left Chris behind; as they should. Chris was ten years old and is now thirty-four. Chris no longer looks out of our window; alone. He has his friends and is a participant in the world!

Thank you New Horizons for enriching our son's life, for strengthening the relationships between the members of our family by offering us time together.

Most Sincerely,
Brenda Okubo
YMCA Community Services - NEW HORIZONS

I have always been pleased with the educational background and credentials of the providers at YMCA. Most of them come from educational facilities. My son, who has a disability, has progressed a lot with the help from the Y Inclusion staff, especially socially and emotionally. Best part is going to the day care works as a motivating factor for my son. Y Inclusion always has a trained staff available at all the times at my request. Y Inclusion has always evaluated my child as and when his needs change and the management is pretty open for implementing changes I request and I appreciate them for that. I highly recommend Y Inclusion for any of your day care needs.

Chirag Patel (Parent)
YMCA Community Services - INCLUSION