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Dear Friend,

Dennis was born in 1960 — a time when raising a child with disabilities presented tremendous challenges. One of my most vivid memories of Dennis’ childhood is of his first days in kindergarten. At the time, schools were not ready to accommodate children with disabilities in the classroom. We learned that Dennis would not be allowed to attend all day like the rest of the children. He was only welcome for story time. So, I took him each day, stayed with him for the story, and when it was over, the others stayed and we left.

Over the next 20 years, Dennis attended several schools and was placed in various classroom settings. We were very proud when he graduated, and happy that he began to attend Skills’ Adult Training Service where he pursues his interests and further develops his skills.

As parents, however, perhaps the most difficult thing we have had to do is to come to terms with the idea that our son will always require support. According to all the professionals we consulted, Dennis needed to establish a home away from home and to make the transition to adult life with support services. Encouraging Dennis to move into a community home was one of the most difficult decisions we have ever made.

When you have a child with disabilities, you worry. You worry about the future. You want to protect your child indefinitely, but know you must help your child gain a level of independence. And one day, you will have to entrust his or her care to others. For us, and many other families like ours, peace of mind comes from knowing our child is in good hands.

Dennis loves his home with Skills and has developed close relationships with his roommates and staff — he truly cares about them and his home. Over the years, the staff has helped Dennis learn to communicate his needs and desires more clearly. They also encourage and support his interests which include cars, shopping, singing, being read to and arts and crafts. In fact, the staff makes sure he always has a supply of modeling clay on hand to make miniature sculptures — a hobby of his for many years.

We love spending time with Dennis on weekends and attending church together. Dennis loves his Sunday school class and knows all of the songs by heart. He is a joy and has an infectious love of life. We are grateful to Skills for enriching his life in so many ways and hope you will join us in supporting their work through this annual appeal.

Sincerely,

Mr. and Mrs. Harlin Wall