Little Girl, Big Heart

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday!

We are feeling so fabulous this Friday at Easter Seals Florida because of a little girl with a big heart! Five-year-old Mya’s mother, Lisa, wanted to involve her in community volunteering.  Lisa arranged for Mya to help literacy specialist Mayra Alvarado with the new mobile library at Easter Seals' Murray Child Development Center.  For months, Mya read a book to the kids in each classroom at the center and helped them check out books from the mobile library, a small library on wheels that she brought from classroom to classroom.  She even created library cards for each child in the center.

Mya:

Mya went home from her volunteer experience determined to collect more children's books for the children of Easter Seals. She made a flyer that she sent out to friends and family, and soon books were coming in from all over the country...over 500 books were collected in all! But that wasn't enough for Mya. She wanted to be sure that Easter Seals' Murray Child Development Center had its very own library. After many volunteers sorted through and organized books, painted walls and murals, and put the final touches of decorations to the place, it was ready for our children!  The grand opening of the Murray Child Development Center library was held in July of 2011. 

But that’s not all!  Starting last summer, Mya got the itch to create another library at Easter Seals’ Igoe-Amar Child Development Center, the Murray Center’s sister program in West Palm Beach.  She collected once again over 500 more books, and on January 23, 2013 the new Children’s Library and Literacy Center was opened!  Check out pictures from the dedication here: grand opening of their library.

Today we want to thank Mya for her warm heart and drive to make a difference. No matter our location, age or circumstance, Mya’s story is a lesson that we can make a difference when we put our hearts and minds to it.

The Murray Center Library:

The Amar Center Library:

The Amar Center Library Grand Opening:

See even more photos in the grand opening album on our Facebook page.

Mother’s Day is on the way

We are Feeling Fabulous this Friday!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, so our post today is all about honoring mothers. Thank you to all mothers who give so much. Every mother is unique and wonderful.

"The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness."

-Honore de Balzac

Guiding Light Mom

Mom, from the time I was really young,
I realized I had someone...you,
who always cared,
who always protected me,
who was always there for me no matter what.

You taught me right from wrong,
and pushed me to do the right thing,
even when it was hard to do.
You took care of me when I was sick,
and your love helped make me well.

You had rules,
and I learned that when I obeyed them,
my life was simpler, better, richer.
You were and are
the guiding light of my life.

My heart is filled with love for you,
my teacher, my friend, my mother.

By Karl and Joanna Fuchs

Honor your mother and thank her for everything. If you’re looking for gift ideas, feel good about giving back when you send your mother ProFlowers. Easter Seals receives ten dollars when you place an order. Everyone have a fabulous Friday and do something very special for your mother.

A Pair to Remember 2013 Recap!

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday

Easter Seals Florida is truly feeling fabulous this Friday as we reflect on our annual “A Pair to Remember” signature fundraising event. Across the state “A Pair to Remember,” a ladies’ luncheon and designer shoe auction, was held in Orlando, Tampa and Palm Beach Gardens.

At each of these three events, the glam was delish and the energy infectious, but the spirit of giving was the most striking feature. We had some of the highest bids this year and an increase in turn out. What is most exciting about that is what that means for the lives of Easter Seals Florida clients. Over $208,000 net was collectively raised through these “A Pair to Remember” events and the funds raised go directly toward enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities. From providing relief for caregivers to patient therapy and so much more, the success of the “A Pair to Remember” events means support for so many people who need it.

So join us this Friday as we reflect on the images from each event. Be sure to check out the video where you can learn more about the Hayes family and how Easter Seals Florida programs have changed their lives.

A Pair to Remember Snapshots:

Orlando

Friday, March 1, 2013
11:00 am - 2:00 pm

The Mall at Millenia
Photos by: Sandra Johnson Photography

West Palm Beach

Friday, March 8, 2013
11:00 am - 2:00 pm

The Gardens Mall
Photos by: Tom Rollo, Grace Photography

We reflecting on this event has made Friday fabulous for you as well.

More “A Pair to Remember” Mentions:

“A Pair to Remember” Orange Appeal

Mark Your Calendars For “A Pair To Remember” The Park Press

Easter Seals’ “A Pair to Remember” with Midfielder Jamie Watson Orlando City Soccer

A Pair to Remember Charity Event CultureClimax

“Soft and in my heart”

Today is Feeling Fabulous Friday and we want to share a first-hand testament to the benefits of having a pet for special needs individuals!

Recently there have been news reports about Twinkie the pig and her pal Kason. Kason, a young boy with special needs, and Twinkie are true friends. The family almost lost Twinkie due to city threats that the family couldn’t keep Twinkie because a pig is considered livestock. They explained why they fought hard to keep Twinkie; why Twinkie is such an important member of the family.

Kason even expressed his feelings about Twinkie:

Kason’s Mother: What do you like about Twinkie?"

Kason: "To pet her."

Kason’s Mother: "You like to pet her. Is she soft?"

Kason: "Soft and in my heart."

Reporter: "She's in your heart?"

Kason: "Yup!"

Photo Credit: WSVN.com

This report is so touching. It is a testament to recent research about the impact of animal exposure on children with special needs. We've gathered some lists of potential benefits for special needs children for families to consider.

Benefits of Pet Interaction for Special Needs Individuals:

·         Pets provide love and unconditional acceptance

·         They create calm rather than create stress

·         Pets provide an opportunity for children to develop social skills

·         When allowed to be involved in animal care, kids develop responsibility

·         Caring for their pet boosts confidence because they are relied on

·         Animals have been known to improve the results of physical therapy

Of course, it is always important to be mindful about the safety of both children and pets. We recommend parents always monitor children playing with pets.

Kason and Twinkie’s heartwarming story has left us feeling fabulous today. Easter Seals Florida is so encouraged by stories like this and hope the information above is helpful.

NAO Robots for schools with special needs

It is Feeling Fabulous Friday here at Easter Seals Florida and we've got robots on our radar.

Technology advancements are infiltrating society by the second. From smart phones to evolving computer capabilities, so many innovations on are on the rise. Perhaps the most exciting technological advancements though, are assistive technologies that are helping with everything from cognitive to physical impairment.

Most recently, NAO Robots are a break through worth noting. These robots appeal to the masses as the next step in computer technology. Though acting as an improved and sociable computer catches general consumer attention, their potential impact for special needs could be groundbreaking.  

Photo Credit Aldebaran Robotics

Researchers are expecting that NAO robots will become extremely useful in special needs schools. A common difficulty for individuals with autism is that they become overwhelmed by social interaction due to interpreting body language, voice tone, words and many more human traits. That is where the NAO Robots bridges a gap. These robots are programmed to perform the same actions as humans, but not nearly as many actions. They are also programmed to speak softer and in a slower, more concise way than people. Not only are the robots expected to be able to connect with and therefore teach children with disabilities, but they are expected to also improve their social abilities.

The NAO Robots are bringing joy to Easter Seals Florida this fabulous Friday and hopefully to you as well!

Where you find peace of mind

Feeling Fabulous Friday!

We want to share this story today because it makes us feel fabulous to see Tony and Ruth happy!  They have shared their story with us and we want to pass it on to you. We hope this makes you feel fabulous too.

My name is Ruth and I am 83 years old.  I live with my husband, daughter and grandson.  I am the caregiver for all.  My husband Tony suffers from a variety of health issues, my daughter has diabetes and has had it since birth and my grandson is delayed from a premature birth.  Seems I am the only one that is healthy.  I was afraid to go out shopping or to socialize with friends and family because I didn’t want to leave my husband alone.  I didn’t even think about going out of town because of fear for my daughter.  I needed some help.  I had heard about the personal emergency response service through TV ads, newspaper ads and even in magazines.  It was time.  I called Easter Seals SafetyNet.  It was the best call I had ever made.  Their technician was out to install within one day.  He explained the service and how to use the equipment.  It was so easy and I didn’t feel intimidated to use it.  My husband wears it around his neck and my daughter (who has her own button) wears hers as a bracelet.  I now have the peace of mind in knowing I could leave and either one of them can reach someone at the touch of a button.  We have used this service on many occasions, it was quick and each time the paramedics were at the house within minutes, and I believe saved the lives of my family.  I am so grateful for the services Easter Seals provides and for their wonderful customer service.  We are here because of them.

Visit Easter Seals SafetyNet website or call 407-629-1757 in Central Florida, or toll free at 1-877-347-3257 for if you or someone you know needs this kind of service.

Have a Fabulous Friday everyone!

DenDanto’s journey

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday!

Easter Seals Florida is extremely excited to share a story that truly hits home with our mission. It is an unfortunate truth that in the past and sometimes still today, there are stigmas associated with autism. People have questioned what they don’t understand. Fortunately though, autism awareness is on the rise. In fact, Tuesday was Autism Awareness Day and April is Autism Awareness Month. Society is slowly learning not to define individuals by their autism.

We are sending a shout out to Chad DenDanto on MTV’s “World of Jenks.” Chad is one of three individuals to be followed by Andrew Jenks in the second season of MTV’s “World of Jenks.” The show will follow Chad during his transition into adulthood. From dating to finding work after high school, Jenks will be living with Chad and witnessing his journey. And there is something else about Chad, he has autism.

Worldof Jenks
MTV
Mondays 11/10c

What is so great about this project is the show’s aim to bring autism in front of society and show people there is no need for social stigma. “One in 88 American children have autism now. It’s something prevalent that could use more mainstream media attention,” Jenks said “We realized (at MTV) that we had an opportunity to humanize and ‘destigmatize’ what it’s like to have autism.”

We’re truly excited for the show and support this message all the way! Have an awesome Friday everyone.

  

The court is yours, take it

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday

Today at Easter Seals Florida we've got basketball on the mind, but we aren't think of March Madness. We are remembering a great story that comes from Germantown High School outside Memphis, Tennessee. You may be wondering what is so important about Germantown High School, but the question to ask is “who is so important?”

David Andrews’ of the Germantown High School basketball team has an inspiring story that is spreading across the country. David is a young man with Down Syndrome that loves to play basketball. Though he began last season on the bench, it wasn't long before he struck up attention. When his team was safely headed to victory one night, his coach gave him a chance on the court. Crowds cheered him on as he made shot after shot. With a three-pointer shooting statistic better than LeBron James, David has been wowing fans ever since.

Image Credit: ABC

We are so inspired by David here at Easter Seals Florida that we had to share his story. His coach’s actions are a reminder of the very mission of Easter Seals. Empowering others leads to great things. Above all, we are reminded by David’s success that everyone can dream big and go the distance. To anyone out there that is overwhelmed by a situation or struggling with some kind of set-back, remember to take the court and give it all you have. Set your eyes on the hoop, because you have the power to make any shot, as long as you believe in yourself.

PHOTO BY MIKE BROWN

The extended family at Easter Seals Florida

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday!

Learning to navigate life when some close to you is diagnosed with a disability is not ever easy. That is why Easter Seals Florida makes it our priority to help anyone in that situation. We are feeling fabulous this Friday morning as our hearts are warmed by a letter from Sablouna. She has written us with such kind words about our staff and program. Thank you so much Sablouna for taking the time to let us know what Easter Seals Florida has done in your life.

Sablouna has given us permission to share her letter below:

Good afternoon,

I wanted to take the time out and write this letter thanking your organization for your support, guidance, follow-up and for the superior level of service I received while utilizing your services. Kalyn my family service coordinator answered all my calls, responded to my emails within 24 hours and believe it or not she was my helping hand when my husband was too busy to help me research autism facts, services and more. At that time, my family members were unaware that my son Devin (pictured to the right) has autism. I was able to keep his diagnosis private because I found an extended family within the Early Steps organization. 

I was unaware of the various services made available by government agencies in the West Palm area until Kalyn and Thea pointed me in the right direction. I received weekly emails, updates, info about support groups. These ladies made my son's autism their problem.  Kalyn would email me with deadline reminders, appointment reminders and even on the morning of a meeting. She would routinely follow-up with me to see how support coach, Dani, was doing with Devin.

Thea, another angel sent from above, not only would send me contact info for parent support groups, she would answer my personal questions pertaining to having a child with a disability. She would send me booklets, websites, pamphlets and would give me pointers on how to manage my son's autism and how to cope with his disability emotionally. Thea not only introduced me to the various school options for children with autism outside of Child Find but she actually accompanied me on a tour at the Palm Beach school of autism. We scheduled the tour, she assisted me with creating a list of questions I'd want to ask and she stayed there on site waiting for me for over 45 minutes because I got lost, Talk about commitment, talk about superior service, talk about two model employees. I thank the Lord every day for sending these two women into mine and Devin's life. I hope they can impact the next family as positively as they have impacted my life.

Both ladies would call to check in on me to see if I had all of the requested documents. They are truly an asset to the organization. if the organizations reputation depended solely on a few individuals, I would name Kalyn and Thea as stellar employees and warm loving people who go above and beyond their job duties to make sure the children of child find can successfully complete the program, get the treatment they need and transition. I'm indebted, thank you for sharing all of your knowledge, your time, for coordinating the child find meetings, for assigning Dani to my son and for being there to answer my questions, for going on the school tour with me when my husband could not.

Sincerely,
Sablouna

For more information about the Treasure Coast Early Steps program, visit www.fl.easterseals.com/TreasureCoastEarlyStepsProgram or contact us.

Sablouna has made our day and we hope yours as well. Thank you so much for visiting us this Friday.

A story of inspiration

Feeling Fabulous Friday!

Sometimes stories can truly inspire our hearts and minds. The inspiring words of others can remind us what life is all about. Today, we want to share Jamie Watson's story with you. Jamie is an Orlando City Lion soccer player who believes in helping others. That’s why he and Orlando City Soccer have committed to raise five thousand dollars for Easter Seals Florida, and we couldn't be more grateful. 

Jamie Watson

You know that feeling when you feel so connected to something from the moment you’re first introduced to it? That's the feeling I had when I first learned what Easter Seals was all about. Growing up the youngest of 3 boys, I didn't have a 'normal' childhood like most. My 'normal' was helping my mom Janet, my dad West, and my brother Kevin take care of my oldest brother Brett. Brett was born with cerebral palsy and is mentally and physically handicapped. Always has been, always will be. As Brett has grown up through life and throughout school in particular, I have met hundreds of amazing children like my brother. Being involved in the lives of such amazing young boys and girls just like my brother has had the biggest impact in my life. The pure happiness and genuine love from a special needs child is the realist emotion in this world in my eyes. These kids are truly a gift to this world and, to me, there is no greater feeling than helping put a smile on one of God's beautiful children!

So when I first learned that I could possibly become involved with Easter Seals of Florida, I jumped at the chance. Being a professional soccer player for Orlando City Soccer Club, I know my life has been extremely blessed. I'm so lucky to play the game that I love. With every blessing placed in your life, I feel a strong need to 'pay my blessing forward.' My 'paying it forward' moment is now. By becoming a spokesperson for Easter Seals, I am dedicating myself to spend time with these amazing children, and to help however I can. I ask each one of you reading this now to take a moment and look at the many blessings in your lives. Then take a second to imagine a world where you're not as fortunate, or sometimes, physically or mentally able to enjoy those blessings. There are a lot of children right here in your hometown that would love to have your help-emotionally, time wise, donation wise, anything you can think of that might bring a bit of joy to them! I challenge you to ask yourself, 'how can I help?' I promise to do the same and do everything I can to help as many special needs children in whatever way possible. Together, we can improve the lives of so many young men and women, and make this world a better place. Thank you for joining me on this journey with Easter Seals!

Jamie

Thank you Jamie and Orlando City Soccer for all you do. Go out and support them at their first game on March 9^th! Order tickets today and have a fabulous Friday!!!

Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park Shout-Out!

We are feeling fabulous this Friday. So many wonderful individuals and organizations contribute to the work we do here at Easter Seals Florida. Today we want to thank Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park for donating 10% of their profits on January 16^th to benefit children and adults with disabilities and special needs. Your support is so important.

Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park makes delicious, European style chocolates and gelato (creamy, Italian ice cream). Their gourmet chocolates are made fresh daily by skilled chocolatiers. They are located on Park Avenue in beautiful downtown Winter Park, Florida. The company is locally owned and operated by husband and wife team, Kevin and Jami Wray. We are supported by a strong team of talented,　knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful chocolatiers.

We also want to thank everyone that came out to participate!

We hope you have a fabulous Friday!

Valentine’s at Ruby Tuesday

Feeling Fabulous Friday!

This valentine’s weekend, we’re feeling warm, fuzzy and fabulous about Ruby Tuesday! Not only do we love their delicious food, but we are grateful for their support. Valentine’s weekend, participating locations in Central Florida will be giving 20% of their proceeds to Easter Seals Florida when customers bring in the flyer below. (Click here to view a printable version of the flyer)

Thank you Ruby Tuesday! We also want to thank anyone heading into Ruby Tuesday this weekend. Your support means the world.

Have a great weekend!

 Participating locations:

UCF • 11401 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD • 407-249-5497  

KISSIMMEE • 5295 IRLO BRONSON MEMORIAL HWY• 407-397-1222

KIRKMAN CORNERS • 3875 KIRKMAN RD • 407-578-8442

65th year and going strong

It’s Feeling Fabulous Friday!

In today’s data-driven world we can analyze, measure and count the number of people we serve and the impacts we have on their lives.  Sixty-five years ago, in 1948 when Easter Seals Florida was first formed, there were no computers, no fancy data systems and it wasn't a priority to keep track.  But imagine if we did have data going back that far! Hundreds of thousands of people have been served or supported by Easter Seals Florida.  If you consider the advocacy nationwide, Easter Seals has impacted millions of people with disabilities with our instrumental work on the Americans with Disabilities Act, The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Affordability Health Care Act.

Closer to home, today children like Leonardo, Taliyah and Jacob are learning to walk, talk and read in our child development, Early Intervention and therapy programs.  Adults like Joseph, Andrea and Jermane are employed, gaining independence in their life skills, in our employment programs, and seniors and veterans like Frank, Millie and Hattie are staying alert, engaged and safe in our adult day health care programs. 

A major accomplishment this year was raising the money to replace our pool at Camp Challenge.  Swimming is a central component of summer time and camp!  Our original pool built was built in 1960 and has been continually upgraded to maintain all health and safety standards.  The newest of safety standards for 2013 made it essential to modernize and start fresh with a whole new pool. In the spring of 2013 we will host our grand opening of our pool and celebrate the many donors and volunteers who helped us make this happen. We look forward to an extraordinary summer with record numbers of swimmers and campers!

In our 65^th year of service, we are grateful for your support of our mission and the work we do each and every day!