We find that our participants thrive when they are provided with experiences that align with their interests and goals. Independence and confidence are increased when there are opportunities for meaningful participation and interactions in our community.
Meet the Sears Family Richard is a participant in Easterseals Hawaii’s Adult Day Health program, and his parents, Dick and Carol, have enjoyed connecting with their son around the dinner table about his experiences – especially following the Covid-19 pandemic. “Returning to the community has been big,” says Dick. “The community outings and executing safety practices out in the community, knowing how to navigate, living life, continuing money skills, continuing social interactions – that’s important. And then continuing communication skill development, so being able to share conversations at the dinner table, be able to talk about the day, talk about what Richard has experienced… Those moments are important.”
“We have always said that Easterseals is like Richard’s second family,” says Carol. “He spends a good part of his days, and his life, with Easterseals – with all the participants and the staff.”
The results have made a big impact on Dick, who finds tremendous joy in his interactions with his son. “Every day, Richard looks forward to Easterseals,” Dick continued. “He tells me what he’s going to do every day, who he’s going to see. And so, we interact with him a lot on what his life is like. And we gain a lot – probably not as much as him – but pretty close to it. We get to hear about it and enjoy it with him.” Easterseals Hawaii and the staff who work with Richard have made a lasting impact on the whole family.
