It’s been in the planning for a while, but the big day finally came for the official opening of Connecting Point of Park Cities within Central Christian Church on Sunday, September 14. Two of the people on hand were 2015 Connecting Point of Park Cities Luncheon Co-Chairs Hollee and Rick Mills. Here’s a report from the field:
“On Sunday, September 14, 2014, Connecting Point of Park Cities (CPPC) celebrated the grand opening of its new facility, located in Central Christian Church. CPPC is an all-inclusive day program for adults with disabilities, and the new location offers a wide range of educational, social and recreational services for adults with special needs.
“During the event, guests had the opportunity to meet CPPC staff members, who were on-hand to explain CPPC’s programs and mission and give tours of the facility. The facility includes a large classroom, yard and community garden. Attendees also had the chance to enter a raffle and view projects created by CPPC teammates. The Schorr Law Firm graciously donated light appetizers and refreshments from Central Market.
“A PARO Therapeutic Robot, which resembles a real baby seal, was also in attendance for the individuals with special needs. PARO is an advanced interactive robot that allows the documented benefits of animal therapy to be administered to patients in environments such as hospitals and extended care facilities where live animals present treatment or logistical difficulties. PARO has been found to reduce stress, stimulate interaction and improve socialization between patients and their caregivers.
“The grand opening also kicked-off Connecting Point of Park Cities’ participation in the September 18th North Texas Giving Day. The proceeds raised through North Texas Giving Day will assist with general operations and a bus. The bus will be a vital addition and help connect CPPC members to off-site recreational activities, educational classes, museum trips and a lunch outing every Thursday.
“Connecting Point of Park Cities (CPPC) is an organization committed to integrating individuals with disabilities into the Park Cities and surrounding communities. CPPC was created to provide an all-inclusive safe, nurturing and stimulating day program and to fulfill the demand for a community-based program that offers quality service programs. CPPC plans to partner with local education agencies, businesses and recreational centers to encourage substantial community volunteerism. For more information, please contact CPPC President Sarah Oliai at [email protected] or visit http://mycppc.org/.”
* Photo credit: Jan Osborn