need. During free time on the computer, Don loves to research most anything in the encyclopedia programs and the internet, while Joyce works on her math skills using a Millikin math program. These computers offer the choice for each student to work independently when there are no group lessons or activities.
During group activities, students are always eager to participate. Sessions are educational and encourage participation by every student. One session may be learning about banking skills, while the next may be simply brain storming as a class to write a short story, and sometimes even acting out their story. On special occasions, students attend class at the Elizabeth City campus of the college and “travel.” Popular “destinations” have been Hawaii, Sequoia, Bahamas, and Ukraine. Through creative thinking and activities, along with open discussions, PowerPoint, and physical props, each student must prepare for their trip by deciding what clothing will be needed, their means of transportation, and reviewing their state maps. Once they have arrived, the PowerPoint presentation will take them on an extensive tour of the region, studying geography, social and cultural differences, and “visiting” the popular tourist sites and activities.
On an average day, twenty-two students attend class, and on “Fun Lady” days, as many as fifty attend. Don and Joyce are just two students that benefit from Computers and More at College of The Albemarle in Northeastern North Carolina. The daily routine and responsibility of attending class is very important, as
their confidence level continues to grow, and their lives become even more fulfilled.
If you know someone who may benefit from this program, please contact Faye Oliver at 252-335-0821 ext. 2350. For more details on other Compensatory Education programs within NC, call your local community college. At the Team Daniel Foundation, we recognize the enormous strain that is felt by parents and caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities. Day-to-day tasks and responsibilities can become overwhelming at times, even though it is all done out of love. With this in mind, the Team Daniel Foundation offers respite hours for caregivers to give them the opportunity to have some much needed rest and moments of calm.
In this issue, we are delighted to feature a recent respite recipient, David C. David was diagnosed with autism as well as anxiety disorder. Five years ago, he moved to North Carolina with his parents, Josie and Rich. While the move has been a happy time for their family, there are no other family members in North Carolina to offer support and assistance. As devoted parents, Josie and Rich are always looking for new and exciting ways to keep David stimulated, both in their community and at home.
David is an athletic young man and an avid sportsman with the Special Olympics. In order to be with their son, and to help him navigate events and advocate for himself, Josie and Rich volunteer their time with the Special Olympics as well. Athletics seem to be a family affair!
Despite their love and dedication to their son, Josie and Rich were finding it difficult to have time to just be a couple – something that they missed. Through the Team Daniel Foundation and its respite fund, Josie and Rich have had the opportunity to reconnect with each other, making them even stronger advocates and champions for their son.
To learn more about Team Daniel’s Respite Fund, please see the inside back cover.
www.teamdanielfoundation.org 15
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