Best Practices – Provider

Practice
Each year, the provider focuses on a particular theme to address throughout the year (i.e. Environment, Education, Service delivery, Community Inclusion, Family Involvement, etc.). The theme for 2008′ was Family Involvement and the Agency focused on family visits, family interactions, family oriented activities, staff assisting family and friends in any way to ensure more frequent visits for everyone, etc. This dedication is not only for people and their families, but also includes staff and their families, as well. In addition, the provider has worked with people on the Special Olympics Ski Team since 2005′, to prepare for the Ski Competitions in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. They have practices several days per week at local beaches, parks, and at the residences. Families and the local community will attend practice at the beaches and parks, to cheer on the group. Practice occurs from November to January of each year. The team raises money for the trip throughout the year by doing car washes, bake sales, parties, etc. They also take donations. The Ski Team is known as Cool Runnings, after the film which inspired them to become involved with this Winter sport, since they reside in South Florida. This past year they came home with all gold medals with the exception of one silver medal.

Who Benefits? How?
Everyone benefits from both activities occurring within this Agency (i.e. People, families, the community, provider and staff, etc.). These activities benefit everyone by bringing communities together and promoting inter-connectedness.