- On October 12, 2009, IDDI turned its Executive Director’s 60th Birthday into a very special fundraiser for the school. The Birthday Roast of Susan Young attracted family and friends alike to make donations to the school in lieu of buying gifts for the birthday girl in honor of her milestone birthday. The evening was filled with good-natured ribbing and hilarious antics; and was capped off by Sue not only delivering some jabs of her own, but also thanking everyone for their ‘gifts’ as she spoke passionately about what the ‘kids’ and IDDI mean to her. Because of the generosity of so many, including Independence Harbor, where the event was held, we were able to raise over $10,000 for IDDI’s programs and services through this one event.
- On Sunday September 13th, IDDI held its annual Family Day festivities. This year’s theme was “Take a Look at a Book”; and our houses went all out decorating for the event. There were, as always, games with prizes, a BBQ lunch, a DJ, cotton candy, snow cones, and, of course, much, much more. Family Day is always a great time for staff, families and friends to spend time with one another and the ‘kids’, as well as to experience the warmth of the IDDI community.
- On August 11, 2009, a group of young children from the New Bedford Head Start Program visited the IDDI campus to not only enjoy the Treehouse and Hee-Haw Playground, but to also spend time with some of our ‘kids’ as well. We had a great time getting to know our special visitors while running around and playing with them; and they absolutely loved the chance to get out of the city and enjoy a safe and beautiful environment like the IDDI campus.
- The summer of 2009 saw the Horse & Wagon Program come to IDDI in full swing. These rides provide all of our ‘kids’ with the opportunity to enjoy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage – regardless of ability or physical challenges; and they absolutely love it! It is truly amazing how quickly even the most active child or adult will relax when on the ride, especially when our music therapist provides sessions on the carriage. Come and join us for a ride next time you’re on campus!
- In July 2009, the Special Olympics’ Motor Activities Training Program came to IDDI for the third consecutive year. The day was filled with adults and children making their way through the gym and participating in up to six different athletic events. Medals were awarded to participants and the day culminated in a fantastic BBQ lunch. Thank you to all those who volunteer every year to ensure that our ‘kids’ have a stellar day.
- Special Olympic athletes are encouraged to reach their fullest potential with assistance from coaches, volunteers, and families. The Special Olympics are seasonal events. Athletes from both the Children's and Adult Programs train for eight weeks prior to the assessment round, a time which helps to assess an athlete’s ability level. Our Community Support and Recreation staff are responsible for coordinating Special Olympics and work closely with residential supervisors so that the needs and wants of the individuals are always met. In previous Special Olympics, we have participated in bowling, track and field, and fishing events. Athletes receive recognition, as well as a ribbon for participation. Special Olympics promotes dedication and sportsmanship through competition, while enhancing athletes' self esteem.
- At IDDI, our Employee Appreciation Programs are important ways to recognize our staff for their hard work and dedication to the children and adults at IDDI. Our Employee of the Month Program recognizes employees who go above and beyond their regular duties. Nominations for this award are submitted to the Management Team by the 20th of each month, and each nominee is presented with a gift catalog, from which s/he can choose an item. Each winner of the Employee of the Month Award receives $100, plus an Employee of the Month certificate.
- Thanks to the kindness and generosity of Mr. And Mrs. Donald Carleton (parents of a former resident, Willie, who passed away unexpectedly in August, 1998), IDDI implemented an Employee of the Year program. This award, beginning in 2006, was designated for a direct-care staff member. Because of the many outstanding nominations received in 2006, IDDI established a second Employee of the Year award, designated for a professional staff member. The recipients of both Employee of the Year Awards must have been employed at IDDI for at least three months in either a full- or part-time position. Any staff person may be nominated by any employee after which time all nominations are presented to the Management Team. All nominees are recognized at our annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon, and the winners are announced at that time. The recipients of both Employee of the Year awards each receive an award certificate, and can choose a vacation in the continental United States, including $500 in spending money, valued at $1,500. In addition to these awards, IDDI , began in 2006, to recognize all staff members whose dedication and services exceeded 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years. Each was applauded and presented with a gift that reflected those years spent in support of the residents at IDDI.
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IDDI’s Open Forum is held each spring as an opportunity for parents, guardians and other family members to meet with key members of clinical, health care and rehabilitation staff, to get answers to questions regarding licensing; fundraising initiatives; promising new practices on therapies; and to attend short, informative seminars on topics of general interest.
Check back on our site for more information in the upcoming months.