What One Sky has done for Michael and our family By Donna Dedicated Mom January 5, 2009

Introduction: 8 years ago One Sky sent Lenore and she completed the intake process for us. One Sky became a quasi-partner in our journey toward raising Michael. How did I learn about One sky? Through Richie McFarland Children Center (another invaluable source).

What happened from there? Our family has had access to: the support of the One Sky staff. the support of the One Sky staff. parent information. parent information. the support of other parents with special needs the support of other parents with special needs children. children. other resources. other resources. financial assistance. financial assistance. HOPE and a FUTURE! HOPE and a FUTURE! help with the cost of RESPITE CARE for Michael! help with the cost of RESPITE CARE for Michael! (Invaluable for families with special need children.) (Invaluable for families with special need children.) We would be UTTERLY lost without One Sky’s help.

How have Michael and our family benefited from One Sky’s Programs? Funds were allotted for or donations were received for: Michael’s enlarged keyboard. Michael’s enlarged keyboard. some of Michael’s recreational activities. some of Michael’s recreational activities. some of Michael’s summer programming some of Michael’s summer programming (Vital to his physical and social development!) (Vital to his physical and social development!) the Thanksgiving turkeys that have been provided for our table.the Thanksgiving turkeys that have been provided for our table. the Christmas food baskets that were provided for us and Christmas presents for Michael.the Christmas food baskets that were provided for us and Christmas presents for Michael. a One Sky’s staff member to accompany me to an I.E.P. meeting. (A very intimidating affair!)a One Sky’s staff member to accompany me to an I.E.P. meeting. (A very intimidating affair!)

What is the most important thing about One Sky? It has helped us put some of the mixed up puzzle pieces into order.It has helped us put some of the mixed up puzzle pieces into order. For Example:For Example: –Michael is learning with peers. –Michael has recreational opportunities with peers. –Michael has access to One Sky’s and outside resources. –Michael has financial support for necessities and some extras. –Michael has time away from parents, giving him RESPITE from us. –Michael has the opportunity to “catch up” to his peers.

Because of One Sky’s Support… This is Michael now- empowered!