Meet Our New Friend Jeff

I would like to tell you about one of GiGi’s finest: Jeff K. He is a 39 year old man with Down Syndrome.  He lives with his Mom, and attends a local sheltered workshop facility.  He is friendly, out-going, and hard-working.  He has one major life goal:  To be gainfully employed at a local restaurant or factory. Jeff’s sister, Adriane, attended a GiGi’s volunteer orientation in early 2016.  She had no idea of the various programs and opportunities available to her brother.  She and her mother contacted me and were interested in possibly setting up literacy sessions for Jeff.  After several conversations, it was evident that Jeff needed special skills taught to him – skills not normally covered in a typical reading session.  So, Laurel Kasang (my Co-Literacy Coordinator) and I set to work developing a program tailor-made to help Jeff achieve his goal. It includes name recognition, knowing/reciting  his home address and phone number, money skills, telling time on both digital and analog clocks, and basic reading skills.

We found a wonderful tutor, Polly, who was willing to implement this unusual program.  Since early April, the two have worked diligently every Saturday morning.  Jeff is such a hard-working individual that he often informs us of other skills he would like to learn!  His focus on the task at hand is exemplary.  We have sent work home so he can practice his skills frequently.  Jeff now also comes to our Fantastic Friends adult program where he has made many new friends. Stay tuned…We are sure Jeff will fulfill his dream of one day working at a job in the community! (Written by Barb Luby, Literacy Coordinator)