Thank you. Two simple words that can convey a lot of meaning. These words have the power to ground us, build us up, and develop deep, meaningful connections. It is essential to thank the people who give their support, time, talent, and in some cases their testimony. Fairfield DD is grateful for volunteers, staff, and our community. Because of you, we are able to continue to move our mission forward of bringing about a vibrant community where people lead lives of greater independence and make meaningful contributions.
We are deeply grateful to our board members for their dedicated guidance, support, and their behind-the-scenes work. We are thankful to our stakeholders who partner with us. We are grateful for staff members who support our mission through the work they do each day.
A show of gratitude is offered by saying thank you often and sincerely. The power of gratitude comes when it is shared with those for whom you are thankful. I want to express my thanks to each one of you. We at Fairfield DD have so many reasons to be thankful.
I urge you to take a moment during this season of Thanksgiving to make a deliberate effort to examine who you are grateful for and the value they have brought into your life.
May you and yours have a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Gratefully,
David
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Vibrant Community Connection |
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Confidence To Be Yourself |
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Speaking up about your feelings and views is an important skill that helps ensure you are treated with respect and decency. We have all been in a situation where we didn’t advocate for our needs to others and ended up in an uncomfortable situation. Peggy Philbrick is an example of someone who is firm in who she is and has the confidence to speak up. She is outgoing, loves to talk, and is not afraid to express her preferences or ask for assistance. This is true both in her personal and professional life.
Peggy is a part-time employee at a nearby restaurant. Shortly after starting, Peggy began to want more responsibility and spoke with her manager. Peggy’s manager appreciates that she is an excellent worker. After Thanksgiving, Peggy’s employer plans to train her on additional tasks, as she has requested to take on more responsibilities. Peggy’s manager is pleased with how quickly she grasps new concepts and notes that she is highly dependable. Peggy tries to work extra shifts whenever she can and is an asset to the establishment.
When Peggy isn’t working, she spends time doing other things she enjoys. She spends time with her grandmother, goes to Fairfield Center for Independence, and is constantly thinking of ways to lend a helping hand. Peggy has always had a passion for assisting animals, particularly dogs and cats. Peggy just finished her volunteer training at the Fairfield Area Humane Society. She is eager to work with the cats and dogs and help them become more adoptable animals. Peggy has gained confidence and is moving toward living a more independent life as a result of practicing self-advocacy in her daily life.
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During this season of thanksgiving, we would like to express our gratitude for technology that benefits our lives and allows us to have greater independence. Technology can help one feel more secure in their home, provide a recipe to make dinner, or help access public transportation more easily.
Follow our social media as we share examples.
Hi! My name is ______. I live in _____, Ohio and I am ____ years old. My favorite piece of technology is ______ and I use it for ______. It makes my life easier because _________.
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Community Partnership Corner |
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Fairfield Medical Center Residents Visit |
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Collaboration is important at Fairfield DD. Every year, Fairfield DD partners with Fairfield Medical Center by meeting with the current rotation of medical residents to help provide education on connections and resources within communities.
The current group of residents spent time discussing a variety of topics with various staff to gain a better understanding of the mission of Fairfield DD and the services Fairfield DD coordinates to connect people in our community.
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Connecting in the Community |
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The vision of Fairfield DD is to build a community that recognizes the value of every person. Anne Mikan, Director of Communications and Outreach at Fairfield DD, recently presented at a meeting of the local Seton Parish Knights of Columbus to share how Fairfield is moving the mission forward toward this vision.
Seton Parish Knights of Columbus made a gracious donation to Fairfield DD in to support these efforts in our vibrant community.
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Using Water for Wellness and Independence |
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Aquatic therapy is the use of water to support muscles and teach skills. An example could be learning to have better balance when walking or climbing stairs. The water supports a person's body to allow them to focus on the new skill without as many mechanical supports. It also reduces the pain of moving joints if that is an issue for the person. The goal is to improve independence to complete tasks in everyday life.
Forest Rose School recently received a donation from the Kiwanis Club of Lancaster to purchase specialized floats, for student use, in the therapy pool. These floats give the students more freedom from constraint but ensure safety and improve the effectiveness of activities in the water. They also offer students the opportunity to experience a wide range of motion which may not happen when they are out of water or “on land." Staff and students appreciate the donation which helps the students gain greater independence!
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Fairfield DD Feature Department |
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Forest Rose School provides educational services for students in partnership with their home district. The preschool program is designed for students ages 3-6 who have been identified with disabilities to be served alongside their peer role models. The inclusive experience provides students with the opportunity to gain pre-academic and social-emotional skills while developing a sense of community with a diverse population. The school program serves eligible students from 6-22 years of age who meet the criteria for having a developmental disability and are referred by their district of residence. While at Forest Rose, students learn grade-level curriculum, and work towards unique learning goals, while also receiving therapies and medical care tailored to their unique needs. The program focuses on developing skills that will lead students to live lives of greater independence and the transition back to their home school district!
Under the leadership of the new Educational Programs Supervisor, Lindsey Hanes, there has been a renewed focus on collaborating with all school districts within Fairfield County. Her goal is to strengthen the relationships with districts served, by providing resources and methods of support. Districts have been invited to tour the building and collaborate with the teachers and therapists who are experts in their fields to share their practices. This partnership is important in building relationships for the students. One example happened just a few weeks ago at the school’s “Monster Mash.” School district representatives joined Forest Rose and Fairfield DD staff, students, and families in celebrating the holiday! Click here to see some of the pictures.
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Good board members have a strong sense of purpose and a passion for their work. Board members should be involved in your organization and the projects and programs you’re working on. Derek Upp loves being on the Fairfield DD Board to provide input, but also to continue learning about the services and partnerships that are being created in our community.
Serving on a board is a great way to learn and share experiences. Derek appreciates being able to provide input from the perspective of an individual with a disability. He also enjoys being able to contribute to a mission that focuses on people living more independent lives.
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Free Parenting Workshop!
Join this supportive small group to connect with other parents about raising young children.
These classes are held in person at Connexion West.
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Designed for families with children, this day will have photos with Santa, crafts for the family, and more!
The event will take place at Lancaster High School.
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Winter Lights at Alley Park |
Lancaster Parks and Recreation Present: Winter Lights at Alley Park.
Alley Park is sparkling with thousands of lights for four nights. You will be able to see Santa busy in his workshop as you look through the glass of our Nature Center "Snowglobe." Food and hot chocolate will be available outside to keep you warm by the bonfires as you enjoy the evening.
This event is held totally outdoors; please dress for the weather.
This event is only offered December 7th through December 10th.
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Depression: You're Not Alone |
Fairfield County Educational Service Center is partnering with ParentGuidance.org to deliver presentations developed by licensed therapists.
This series will be virtual, interactive, and is designed to help parents and caregivers support students.
Registration, attendance and interactions are kept totally anonymous from other viewers.
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