Our House is a secular program that utilizes the social areas at St. Edward's Church for socialization and meetings. The mission of the program is to have a space for young adults ages 18 and older with developmental disabilities to be able to socialize where they can meet without fear of physical, verbal or emotional harassment and to just be themselves and form friendships in a relaxed fun atmosphere. Any person with special needs is given the opportunity to socialize through group recreation.
Since the formation of this program we have observed that outdoor activities attract more participants where they can enjoy greater physical interaction. In order to emphasize that component of the program and be able to accommodate additional people we are seeking funding to build a large covered outdoor pavilion. The pavilion would be fitted with tables and the area adjacent to the site would have even paths to make them wheel chair accessible. A nature trail will also be created. The pavilion will become a hub for any activity that can be held outdoors, such as cards, bingo and board games, dancing, karaoke, alfresco dining, art classes, etc.
Currently we have installed a pizza oven and bocce courts on a portion of the site and a community garden that Our House participant's have a plot in which they grow their own vegetables. Everything that Our House visualizes and incorporates into all its activities is that there are no limitations on what anyone can do as long as the opportunity is presented. Funding for this project would allow us to install additional outdoor appropriate equipment that would create long lasting positive effects for people with a disability, especially a significant decrease in loneliness and isolation. The increased amount of space that this project will offer enables the group to grow and to meet more frequently, thus growing their mission.
