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Teens Lend a Helping Hand During Carnival
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: The teens help Melissa add her handprint to the mural.
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On Wednesday, January 30, 2008 the youth on MercyFirst’s Syosset Campus hosted some special visitors from AHRC, developmentally-disabled adults. This is the second year that the Campus boys have been reaching out to their friends at AHRC, inviting them to join them for a mid-winter carnival in the gymnasium.
AHRC is a Nassau County based organization that provides opportunities and support for children and adults with developmental disabilities, helping them to realize their potential and achieve their goals. During MercyFirst’s carnival residents from AHRC’s adult group homes joined the Campus residents for volleyball, hand-painting, and other activities. The morning provided the participants with more than just recreation – it provided them with the opportunity to make new friends and gain new insights. “I always felt like things were really hard for me,” explains one young man, “now I see how lucky I am to be able to do the things I love each day, like play basketball.”
“I’m proud of each and every one of these young men. Our partnership with AHRC has brought about a tremendous sense of pride and accomplishment in them,” explains MercyFirst Senior VP of Campus Programs, Cathy Menzies. “They have enjoyed reaching out, making new friends, lending a helping hand and learning from their friends at AHRC.”
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