Expressions Summer 2023

sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners

special edition • summer 2023

The Impact of Opportunities Story by Alison Wickline-Burns

Lewis loves his days at DePaul’s OPTIONS day support center in Madison Heights. For him, the program has provided an opportunity to engage with others, explore his community, and expand his world. Lewis’ mom Delphine said the program’s positive impact on him is hard to describe, but easy to see.

where he was just a year ago when he rarely left the center. “Recently, he has shown a curiosity and excitement for community engagement,” said Connie, day support case manager. “If a vehicle is leaving day support for an outing, Lewis is often on it and smiling.” Lewis volunteers with Meals on

“It’s something good for him to do each day,” said Delphine. “He’s getting out in the world and meeting people.” DePaul’s OPTIONS centers, in Madison Heights and Fishersville, provide programs, activities, and projects that are tailored to the abilities and interests of each participant. For Lewis, that individualized support has been essential. Sometimes, Lewis struggles with noises and crowds. When he needs his space, OPTIONS staff members make sure he has a quiet room and time to relax. But these days, Lewis is more likely to be out and about, a big change from

Wheels. He visits local museums and parks with other program participants. He goes bowling every week. And he spends a lot of time in the center’s game room. His days at OPTIONS are busy. Now, the world around him is more open, more inclusive, and less overwhelming. “Watching Lewis blossom and thrive has been a huge success for our day support program this past year,” said Connie. When you donate to DePaul, you ensure individuals with disabilities like Lewis have the life-changing opportunities they deserve.

Watching Lewis blossom and thrive has been a huge success for our day support program this past year.

CONNIE

depaulcr.org/donate

Your 2022 Impact… ❤ Foster Care: 153 children and teens experienced safety and healing in a family home ❤ Adoption: 173 children and teens received support during their adoption process, including 85 who were officially welcomed into their forever homes. 288 families received post-adoption services for enhanced stability and connection. ❤ Day Support: 34 individuals with disabilities were provided opportunities for social inclusion, skill-building, and community engagement ❤ Sponsored Residential Care: 148 individuals with disabilities living in a family home instead of an institution ❤ Counseling Services: 256 family relationships strengthened ❤ Independent Living: 21 young adults transitioned into college, employment, and stable housing What Needs To Be Done… ❤ 1 , 555 children in foster care are waiting to be adopted Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, July 2023 ❤ 66 adults still reside in training centers Source: The Arc of Virginia, July 2023 ❤ 550 children are living in group homes and 116 children are living in institutions Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, July 2023 ❤ 15 , 167 Virginians with intellectual and developmental disabilities are on waiting lists for waivers Source: The Arc of Virginia, July 2023 ❤ 389 youth aged out of foster care without a permanent placement during fiscal year 2022 Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, January 2023 Impact and Need

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Hope and belonging changes lives. Open to read about the power of hope and belonging, the impact of your generosity, and the work that still needs to be done.