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December 1, 2008
Dear Friends;
Aging in the general population is an ever-increasing challenge to most of us. As our parents age, we find ourselves thrown into the roles of caregiver, parent and wage earner. This challenge is even more magnified for persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). For the persons we serve, the mental and physical changes begin to occur in their 40’s with sometimes drastic changes in a very short time span.
Since most of our clients in Welcome House are over 40 years of age, the agency has made a significant effort in the past 5 years to address the long term care needs of persons who are aging and have IDD. In the past year we have opened our newest and brightest example of addressing this need; The opening of the Michael T. George home in North Olmsted, Ohio, coupled with the renovation of two other homes has provided the agency the option of caring for persons with very advanced aging and intellectual disabilities.
What makes the difference at Welcome House for all of our clients is that the staff sees themselves as not just caregivers but as persons responsible to enrich the lives of the persons we serve. Our staff is extensively trained, beyond the requirements of the State. Not only are they trained when they become employees, but we continue education throughout their employment experience. Our selection process screens candidates that are consistent with our philosophy of care: to provide the kind of care that is like home. It is one thing to build a home; it is another to find the right people to work in that home.
Our life enrichment activities include art and music therapy, as well as social opportunities. Art therapy is offered to our clients several times a month. Besides being self-expressive, it builds confidence and allows residents to share their thoughts about their art pieces. Music therapy brings groups together to sing and to enjoy the creation of song and friendship. Both of these therapeutic programs are now considered an essential part of the care offered at Welcome House.
Social activities include bowling, movies, and going out to dinner. All of these activities require staff supervision and participation. The residents enjoy these outings and look forward to opportunities that take them out of their environment and offer a change of pace. As funding gets more limited, these programs become an important source of support and enrichment for the people we serve.
However, none of these activities are reimbursed through traditional funding sources. Therefore, the donations we receive from our supporters continue the “extras” that Welcome House has traditionally provided to residents. The pride and pleasure derived from art and music therapy by our residents enhances their quality of life.
We realize that these are economically challenging times; however, we hope that you will remember Welcome House and the people we serve on a day-to-day basis in your year-end giving. Your gift will support activities that provide enormous satisfaction for our residents, as well as training and personal growth for our staff.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Ryan Hooper
President, Board of Trustees
Welcome House, Inc.
Tony Thomas
Executive Director
Welcome House, Inc.