Monday, Feb. 27
Today we had a great first day working with the residents of Duvall. When we arrived at the Duvall Home, we were warmly welcomed with that famous southern hospitality by our host, Dixie. After a quick orientation; which entailed reminders on how to properly interact with peoples with disabilities, a briefing on our schedule for the week, and a guided tour of the grounds and facilities; we were off to officially begin our Alternative Break.
Some students went to assist in the Day Program, an education program for the higher level residents that works to actively engage their minds through numerous activities; others visited with some of the lower level residents; while the remaining students worked on landscaping the butterfly garden. Before we knew it, our first day of service was coming to a close. We can't wait for tomorrow and the rest of the week because we had such a great start to our break!
**During our orientation our host Dixie gave us some insight into the history of our site: the Duvall Home. It began when 'Papa Duvall', as Dixie lovingly called him, and his wife refused to put their son in a mental institution and instead, took care of him themselves where "he flourished." Soon other people sent their children with disabilities as well, along with the funds to handle their expenses. Now it has grown into an approximate 285 acre facility with 10 group homes and a staff with hearts as big as the Duvall family themselves. The scenery is wonderful with murals of manitees and sea turtles, a small orange orchard, and a butterfly garden.
The best part though is the the manner with which the residents are treated. Depending of what level of disability they have they are give a relative amount of freedom to do what they would like and always the respect they deserve. The have educational programs such as the African American exhibit we were able to visit, chapel services with lots of singing, which they love, arts and crafts, a pool, television room, and, of course, various field trips.
We actually get to partake in one on Tues to Blue Springs (hopefully) to view manitees and bowling on Friday. All in all, it's a very easy place to become acclimated to and after our first day it's easy to see that his week will be great for the residents and our group as well.
Posted: Thu, March 2nd, 2006 at 2:12PM
