4 Ways Events & Celebrations Support People with Disabilities
This past month, RISE Services, Inc. Oregon celebrated our annual camping trip at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park near Florence. Our team, participants, and their guests had a great time hiking, playing games, and enjoying time outdoors. Fun events that unite people can significantly impact those who attend as they create positive opportunities, improve self-worth, foster supportive friendships, and promote a sense of community. Learn four ways this camping trip and other events create growth opportunities for individuals living with developmental disabilities.
1. Validate Self-Worth
Spending time with friends in similar situations can play a significant part in building self-esteem. Friends support each other as they face challenges and celebrate with one another when they’ve reached their goals. Loyal and caring friends can positively impact one’s self-value and offer reassurance that they are worthy of love and compassion.
2. Foster Unique Friendships
Attending summer camps, out-of-town events, or special celebrations with peers can result in unlikely yet surprising friendships. Sharing these experiences provides a special connection between them and other group members. These connections can foster unique friendships simply because they share several unique life experiences.
3. Promote a Sense of Community
Bringing people together who share common life experiences promotes a strong sense of community. Individuals don’t like feeling alone and are validated when someone else understands their situation. Everyone wants to belong, and what greater way to be in community with others than to share extraordinary adventures together
4. Influence Attitudes
Individuals who spend much time together can significantly influence one another. Being with people who are kind, good-humored, and optimistic can uplift the entire group, fostering positive attitudes and behaviors. By surrounding themselves with positive influences, people’s attitudes and outlooks will improve, creating a supportive and joyful environment for everyone.
Supporting Individuals with Highly Diverse Needs
At RISE Oregon, we have a lot of fun spending time together in the community, on exciting field trips, and through the services we provide for individuals with developmental disabilities. We offer caring host homes, around-the-clock residential services, and custom-tailored supported living for the individuals we support. Contact RISE Oregon today to learn more about our wide array of services.
Arlin Cuncic, “6 Benefits of Friendship and Why It’s So Important to Stay Close,” Verywell Mind (blog), Dotdash Meredith, April 24, 2024, https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-friendship-3024371
