When Ben moved into his group home more than four years ago, a friend suggested we plan a tailgate party for the residents. Since then, we've hosted therapy dogs, yoga, live music, gardening days, crafting events, trivia games, bingo and much more. Friends, neighbors and family members serve as the volunteers. Staff jump in to help. The residents go along with most of the activities we plan. Their favorites are definitely music trivia and bingo. And we must bring snacks; they never ask but I wouldn't show up empty handed. Unintended Results of Volunteering 1. Opens communication between our family and the staff at the group home. 2. Introduces others who volunteer to group home living. They develop friendships with Ben and the other residents. 3. Forms partnerships with local schools and businesses. The Beta Club at the local Montessori high school volunteers each year. Several businesses and foundations continue to donate every year. 4. Connects us to Ben in another way. If...
These stories describe our journey with Ben, our oldest son. Ben is a sweet and energetic redhead, born with POLR2A, a rare genetic change. My husband, Ryan, and I try to keep up with Ben and his two younger brothers. I intend to shed insight into raising a child with disabilities and pass on the wisdom we’ve earned over the past two decades.