We asked Local Community Connector (LCC) Amanda Neely to reach out to some people who have been going to recent activities with Out and About Waterloo Region (OAAWR) and get the inside scoop on the OAAWR program!
How did you hear about this program?
“Amy, my previous worker before Amanda, told me about it.” –Sandra
“I think, Stacey Mitchell (your staff at KW Habilitation) did told me something about this thing to meeting date. I didn’t know it until I meet you (Amanda) 1st day in-person along with Jenn Delhorbe… Plus, I hear it on your KW Hab website all about “Out & About WR” before I meet you for 1st day,” –Simon
“We heard about it when you (Amanda) called us about Mackenzie for OAAWR.” [Mackenzie is Michael’s sister who is also in OAAWR] –Michael and his mom, Lois
“From LCC when she called you (Amanda).” –Jessica
Why did you want to join this program?
“To get back out into the community and volunteer.” –Sandra
“To do more activities, give my parents a break, meet new people, and practice for a future paying job.” –Felipe
“My simple answer is, I really want to hang out (and do the) activities with people and old friends. Without this program, then I will have hard time making hang out with people or they don’t really invite me at all. Plus, I’m the only child in my own family that other reason. No brother and siblings to hang out with me, just my parents only.” –Simon
“We wanted to join to get Michael and Kenzie back into the community.” –Michael and his mom, Lois
“It is nice for me to make new friends.” –Jessica
What is your favourite thing to do in this program?
“My volunteer job at KW Hab front desk.” –Sandra
“Cutting grass at my volunteer job and making friends. I also like when my staff (Amanda) talks to others about me volunteering.” –Felipe
“Again, reconnect with people that want to hangout (and d0) activities. And maybe keep in touch with them as soon as possible.” –Simon
“Michael’s favourite thing is going to the library with you (Amanda)! 🙂” –Michael and his mom, Lois
“I like when my LCC tells me about the LEG Up programs and I sign up.” –Jessica
In what ways has this program helped you get out of your comfort zone and take risks trying something new?
“I feel good that I am back out doing some things and not sitting in my apartment worrying.” –Sandra
“It helped me find a new volunteer job at HOF, working independently and gaining experience for a future job.” –Felipe
“Interesting question and tough question, I say to myself! I may think something to do (on) my own independently. ” –Simon
“Starting to get out into the community, and hopefully learning how to ride the LRT will help Michael gain independence.” –Michael and his mom, Lois
“Since joining this program, I have joined Outspoken, which is something I would have never thought of. I am excited to be able to join the dance committee.” –Jessica
What is Out and About Waterloo Region?
Out and About Waterloo Region (OAAWR) connects people with developmental disabilities to their own local neighbourhood and the things that are important to them in their community. KW Habilitation does this by pairing people with Local Community Connectors who work hand in hand to help people achieve their goals, create their own schedule and find activities in their community they want to participate in. Referrals to Out and About Waterloo Region are accessed through Developmental Services Ontario.
