This year’s Blarney Breakfast benefits Rainbows’ Family Support Services programs and Camp Woodchuck. Camp is a summer recreational and leisure day program for school-aged youth with special needs. Camp Woodchuck is filled with hands-on activities, special events, structured activities, and an amazing social experience as Rainbows’ youth interact with their peers and the community.
Please enjoy Lauryn’s story below and know that when you support Rainbows, you’re making a difference in the lives of the many children like Lauryn who receive Rainbows’ services.
Lauryn
A sweet, loving young lady who is shy until she gets to know you, 16-year-old Lauryn loves sports, movies on her tablet and animals.
She attends Maize South High School where she enjoys learning alongside friends and caring teachers. “Lauryn likes school,” said her mother, Janel. “It’s a place where she can be herself and thrive.” She participates in soccer, basketball, and bowling. At home she enjoys karaoke and has her own microphone!
Lauryn receives Targeted Case Management Services through Rainbows and attended Camp Woodchuck for the first time in 2023. “Our Case Manager Kerri Dixon is so helpful,” said Janel. “She is a good listener and suggested we try Camp Woodchuck last summer. It was a great experience, and she’s looking forward to attending again this summer.”
Kerri says, “Lauryn was able to work on her social skills and peer relationships at Camp and benefited from the structured summer experience.”
Rainbows’ Camp Woodchuck is a day program for school-aged children and youth with intellectual/developmental disabilities during the summer. Camp includes crafts, socializing, games, and activities in a safe, nurturing environment. Family Support Services Coordinator Tiffany Graf said, “Lauryn came to Camp and was very shy. By the time Camp came to an end, she came out of her shell and was able to enjoy hanging out with the friends she made there. We look forward to having her back.”
Shortly after Lauryn was born, her aunt suggested she be tested for developmental delays; she qualified for early intervention services. When she started school, she was diagnosed with Autism. “Lauryn takes her challenges in stride and makes the most of every situation,” said Janel. “I’m proud of all she has been able to do and achieve. She’s a wonderful person.”
Lauryn and Janel have good friends that help them out. Their friend Kathy takes Lauryn once a week for a special time of one-on-one attention. The family has 3 cats, which Lauryn loves to play with.
