Everyone deserves the chance to bloom, Easter Seals camps and programs make it possible!
He’s 24 years old, has Down syndrome and has been using Easter Seals programs since he was 11. He is one of the most amazing young men you will ever meet. From the second he says ‘hi’ to you, you’re drawn into his world… and it’s something to experience.
Daniel lives on Bowen Island with his parents, Karen and Doug. He’s genuine and funny and loves to sing and dance. His counselors love him, and they’ll tell you their favourite thing is his pride in his achievements over the years.
Living on the Island sometimes creates a sense of isolation for Daniel because some of his friends moved away. He began to look forward with excitement to camp each year. He would catch up with his friends and revel in a sense of belonging and community that makes a huge dierence in his life. “Easter Seals has given Daniel a sense of purpose and it has helped him mature,” says Karen. “He can now talk to people a lot easier, and his ability to socialize has helped him overcome his sense of isolation.”
Last year, Daniel joined us for his first year of the Leadership in Training Program, which helps our campers gain confidence in making decisions and gives them a strong sense of independence. Daniel thrived in the program, and he’ll be back again next year with the goal of becoming a camp counselor.
As a direct result of his time at camp, Daniel was able to get a job at a local restaurant. His boss raves about his personality and ability to make everyone feel welcome and at home. He sums up Daniel’s outlook and approach to life perfectly with the following, “…it doesn’t matter what a person’s disability is, it’s what their abilities are.”
Karen says his time with Easter Seals has been a wonderfully fulfilling experience for their whole family. “The Easter Seals programs allow us to participate and are magical experiences every time, not just for Daniel, but for us. And we always feel completely reassured and confident in the care and attention we know he receives when attending programs, which puts our anxious minds at rest.
We would highly recommend the Easter Seals programs to anyone who is thinking about participating. They teach and practice inclusion—that is the name of the game. Along the way, we all make new friends, gain experience, and come away with memories that will last a lifetime!”
As a donor, you help make experiences like Daniel’s possible. Your support has made a real dierence in his life and we want to thank you for giving Karen, Doug, and Daniel the uplifting experiences they deserve.
Easter Seals has given Daniel a sense of purpose and it has helped him mature. He can now talk to people a lot easier, and his ability to socialize has helped him overcome his sense of isolation.
As a legacy donor you would ensure that many more individuals like Daniel get the support they need—the support they deserve. A gift made through your Will is an easy way to do this, while also making a lasting impact on the cause closest to your heart. A charitable gift in your Will can reduce the taxes owed, and in some cases even eliminate them, while leaving the same amount of money to your heirs.