Michelle Kneipper

Smiles and acceptance were evident throughout the evening!

I had a great time!

This program is wonderful!! It clearly meets its objective of providing respite for caregivers of persons with developmental disabilities, while providing interactive activities for the consumers. The consumers are enveloped in an atmosphere of acceptance, allowing each participant a choice of activities, board games, bowling, frisbee golf, karaoke, and more. It is endearing to watch the participants’ faces light up when they engage with the staff, and the other participants.

I look forward to this event! People are so positive, and helpful!

I was assigned to a young man who reportedly was nonverbal, and initially he was. He enjoyed swinging in a swing in the “Quiet room.” He chose to go there first. He sat in the swing and was very quiet with very little facial expression. I attempted to engage him verbally, but he didn’t respond. I decided to sing to him, which totally changed his demeanor. He moved from the swing to the other room with his peers. He ran around the room. Periodically, I would stop him and I would ask him for a handshake. He would briefly present a finger for me to touch. At the end of the evening he was comfortable enough for me to shake his hand! And he gave me the biggest smile! I was overjoyed!