See the artwork of the Fellowship Place artists at City Wide Open Studios Saturday October 10 and Sunday October 11 from 12-6PM at the New Haven Armory. They will be among 350 artists from all over Connecticut who will be displaying their artwork.
For each new toy donated by the tenants, Fellowship Place donated a matching toy. Every quarter 9 tenants collectively perform a service project in the community, giving back to others the kindness that has been given to them.
From the CT Department of Mental Health & Addiction (DMHAS) Website:
I decided to go to school because I wanted a chance to do work that would challenge my mind and give something back to the community. I received my first certificate in Early Childhood Education but could not find any work that I liked to do. I wanted better opportunities for myself. While I was volunteering at a nursing home, I met a young woman who worked in Therapeutic Recreation and she told me about the program at Gateway Community College. I really enjoyed working with the elderly. They are more understanding and less critical. They have been through it and know the deal. I decided to go back to school for an Associate’s Degree in Human Services and certificates in both Gerontology and Therapeutic Recreation. The journey to getting my degree was not easy. I had to deal with old fears of the past as well as pressures from classmates and teachers. I’ve had classes that were interesting and some that weren’t that great. But I don’t give up. You can’t. If you want something you have to fight for it. School showed me my ability and that I could do it. I could reach a major goal. I’m not stupid because I have a mental illness. I can be a supervisor. I can do it. I graduated in May 2015! It was a major accomplishment. Many people don’t do it. I not only graduated but I did it with honors. There were many others who did it as well. We worked hard and earned it. I felt very proud of myself. Now that I am finished with school, I hope to start an entry level job in my field and advance in the ranks a bit. I am torn about what specific job I would like. I want to work in an assisted living program or as a job coach. I want to help people find work and have fun. Whatever I may choose, I look forward to having a job! Post script: Yolanda is in the process of being admitted to Fellowship Place’s Supported Employment Program to find a job that matches her interest and where she can utilize her newly earned skills learned through her education program.
The Fellowship Place Meet-Ups Social Program for Adults who have Autism held its first open house for parents, individuals with autism, and service providers to learn more about this exciting new program scheduled to start Thursday, October 8. The program will focus on building relationships, exploring the community, learning new social and life skills, discovering new talents, and using what is learned in day-to-day life.
For registration and information, please contact: Charlotte Sabovic, Director of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services, (203) 401-4227 x1207 or Stephanie Simone, Intake & Clinical Services Coordinator, (203) 401 -4227 x1206
Click here for a copy of the program syllabus
