ADS Newsletter May 2016

​May 2016                                                                         
Hello to all of our members and families and friends! Everyone here at ADS have had some amazing experiences the last few months! Summer is already fast approaching and we have many exciting outings planned.
Recently we have enjoyed picking vegetables at the Peach Blossom Festival at Schnepf Farms, soaking in the sun at a Spring Training baseball game, and enjoying a picnic at Fountain Hills Park before admiring the art and music at their local fair. Shelbey’s grandma, Dolly, has been kind enough to join us the last Monday of each month for an interactive story time! Trips to the Harkins theater have been a welcome way to unwind at the end of a hard working month.
Members continue to enjoy weekly outings of volunteering at the Toolbank Tuesday’s, pumping iron at Spofit Wednesday’s, bowling at Glenfair lanes Thursday’s, and relaxing with an in house movie on Friday’s. A daily focus on money management and vocabulary have everyone increasing their individual skills! The ADS culinary program continues to advance our members’ recipe knowledge and cooking abilities, as well as integrating teamwork and time management skills. We have recently started a morning yoga class that the members really enjoy! “The purpose of yoga is to create strength, awareness and harmony in both the mind and body”. We’re feeling the benefits!
To get through the hot summer months we’ll be visiting Lorraine’s house for a pool party and participating in the Harkin’s Summer Movie Program. Harkin’s plays a different movie every week June-August in a theater with increased lighting, lower volume levels and more flexibility. A 4th of July celebration will include craft making, themed snacks, and games!
ADS is currently arranging a Participant’s Council where members will assist in planning upcoming events and putting together a monthly newsletter for families. Members will engage in a bi-monthly meeting with staff to research outing options, design the newsletter, and gather feedback from members. We look forward to sharing their creativity with you!
ADS is proud to be a Qualifying Charitable Organization! Persons can donate to ADS and receive a tax credit up to $400. All donations go directly to the program and benefit members by furthering program development, increasing member outings, and supplying program materials. Donations are greatly appreciated and vital to the progress and quality of our program!
We are always looking for new ideas and suggestions! Please take a moment to fill out the attached feedback form and return to ADS. You can be part of the growth of a program unlike any other! Thank you so much for your continued support!