ALL-STARS CLUB - VOLUNTEER BUDDY REGISTRATION

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!

It was a gratifying evening when so many of the attendees were involved and having a great time interacting with their volunteer buddies and enjoying themselves.