You will often hear us say that our communities mean the world to us when we speak of community and our supporters. This group includes our neighbors, friends, families, and members. Taking a moment to put them in the spotlight is a small way to express our gratitude and to introduce you to some amazing people who make a difference in our mission to support people to live personally fulfilled lives. There is hardly a more shining example than the Petersen family.
In 2018 we jumped on a bus heading to Albany with our neighbors, The Arc of Otsego County to advocate for Be Fair to Direct Care, and the Petersen’s were right there with us, packing in a crowded room at the state’s capitol to advocate for fair wages for the people who make our mission possible, direct support professionals.
Margo and Paul Petersen are the epitome of kindness and support that you can hear reflected in these kind words they shared with us recently.
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Our son Zen started attending THRIVE about 4 years ago. He moved into an apartment with 1 roommate a little over 3 years ago. It is a dream come true for Zen.
His caregivers strive to make the most of their time with him. They are sensitive to what might help him grow and learn to act independently and do their best to support him. They are heroes to me. Thank you, caregivers!!!
One example is his use of Facebook. It is a good source of connection for him. His life coaches have been VERY helpful, and in the process of learning about appropriate Facebook friends, he has begun to shine as a compassionate friend who is supportive, caring, and responsive.
Knowing his love of animals, staff members have taken him (along with others) to the Animal Adventure Park, several aquariums in the area, and even drive by to a place that has some camels. He has really enjoyed those visits.Truly, you all are my heroes.
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Margo and Paul, the feeling is mutual. You make our world a better place and inspire our mission to continue to grow, adapt and welcome the future! We thank YOU from the bottom of our hearts!
We want to send our condolences and say God Speed to Dulcy, pictured above with Zen and Margo. Dulcy was a very significant and important relationship in Zen’s life.
