Spotlight Individuals

Christy Rich

 

   Christy Rich is a young woman who represents achievement for people with disabilities.  The past year has been a special time for Christy, during which she has accomplished goals in many areas of her life.  Christy moved into a house with four other women and worked at accomplishing personal goals to be able to  participate in senior activities at Lee High School this past spring.

   Not only did she walk in graduation with the Lee High School class of 2006, but she also received a scholarship in memory of April Willey.  The scholarship will to be used to further her education.

   In addition to her educational program Christy participated in a vocational evaluation this school year where she tried to determine what areas of employment she will be best at and most enjoy in the near future.     Christy worked very hard over the past year to improve her life and the entire time did it with a smile. 

   Congratulations on all of your achievements Christy! 

Marc Dunn

 

   AEN Spotlight Individual Marc Dunn recently received a Focus in Youth Award at the Berkshire United Way Annual Meeting on June 7, 2006 for outstanding work he performed in an internship with the United Way.  In addition to this internship Mark found the time to be involved in many school, community and volunteer activities. 

   Marc is a student in the Adams/ Cheshire School District and has been receiving vocational services from the Advantage Employee Network for the past two years.  AEN is assisting Marc in making a smooth transition from school to work.  Marc is also now working in the gardens at Hancock Shaker Village.  His wonderful personality and hard work have made him an integral part of the United Way and Hancock Shaker Village staff.

   Congratulations Marc on your Berkshire United Way award and being named as an AEN Spotlight Individual! 

 

  The past summer has been a productive and exciting one for children participating in BCARC’s Sensory Integration Program.  The program, which began in the spring of 2006, is the result of a grant BCARC received from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation to help children with autism in Berkshire County.  The program is individually based on the needs of each child and focuses on topics like movement and deep pressure that help the children have an easier time both accessing and responding to the stimuli of their environments.

   BCARC would like to continue the program into the fall but will need to secure more funding before this is possible.

Michael Fazio, with staff person Ashley Armstrong, playing a game of “Blow Lotto”. 

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