August 2025 Newsletter

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it.  ~Steve Jobs

Editorial

by Emily Pope

Dear Dawn to Dusk Community,

When I was 17 years old I was signed up by my mother to volunteer at the Somerset County Special Olympics, which was being hosted at my high school football field. I can accurately say, looking back now, that this day in May of 2012 changed the trajectory of my life and sparked a deep desire within me to be of service to the population of people with special needs- thanks, Mom! 

When I was 22 years old I wrote in one of my (many) journals that I was going to create a day program for people with special needs that I would want for my sisters, parents, nieces, nephews, and friends to go to if, one day, for whatever reason, any of them would need to access a day program. My dream was to create something that did not yet exist, which is a great way to get labeled as an idealist, for anyone wondering.

That dream felt a million miles, and at least twice as many dollars, away. But I kept dreaming. I kept planning; I continued to write proposals and make suggestions and pitch ideas to my supervisors, and I began to plan on my own. During this time, I reflected often on a quote from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe; Whatever you dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin now. I figured that the rest would work itself out eventually, as life tends to do. 

When I was 26 years old, I interviewed at Dawn to Dusk Wellbeing Center, meeting Sesh and Anandi for the very first time. Walking into Dawn to Dusk for the first time felt like coming home, and not just because the walls were painted a sunny, pale yellow which just so happened to be my favorite color. I was inspired by their story and intention behind Dawn to Dusk. I felt so welcomed by the participants and staff, and I knew that I had found a place where I could do the good work I had been dreaming of doing, while learning from the incredible team of people already here. 

Now, four years later and at 30 years old, I can say definitively that creating the Dawn to Dusk day program has been everything that I dreamt it could be and so (so) much more. It is due to the opportunity afforded to me by Sesh and Anandi four years ago, as well as by each of you when you enrolled your loved ones at Dawn to Dusk, that I have another opportunity for growth. As of the publishing of this newsletter, I will be stepping away from Dawn to Dusk Wellbeing Center and will be relocating to New England, specifically in Massachusetts. This opportunity will allow me to help create and develop day programs within the eastern half of the state of Massachusetts, be closer to my little sister and family scattered across New England, be near the mountains for my favorite outdoor adventure activities, and to continue to grow as a professional and as a person. 

It has been my privilege to be a part of the Dawn to Dusk community for the last four years. It has been my honor to contribute to the growth and development not only of the program itself, but of each of your loved ones through the program design and offerings. I am proud to have been able to help grow our team of DSPs, the most vital members of our team, from 5 people to 36 of the most incredible, selfless, and dedicated people that I have had the joy of working with and overseeing on a daily basis. I am constantly humbled by the success that has become Dawn to Dusk, though never surprised. Anthropologist Margaret Mead once warned to “...Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has,” and that description perfectly describes the Dawn to Dusk community. 

I have no doubt that your loved ones and the Dawn to Dusk day program will continue to grow and flourish in my absence. I have nothing but gratitude for the kindness, trust, and support that this community has shown me over the past four years and I truly wish each and every one of you nothing but the best in the future. As someone much wiser than I has said, the best is yet to come!

Yours in perpetual gratitude,

Emily Pope

P.S.: This is not a goodbye, this is a promise to see you later! 

Life Skills and Growing Independence

While traditional household chores weren’t the primary focus this month, participants engaged daily in meaningful routines that nurtured independence. Morning Meeting provided one such opportunity, inviting participants to listen actively, raise their hands to contribute, and engage in shared discussions. Whether answering questions about the day’s schedule, solving the Riddle of the Day, or recalling Dawn to Dusk guidelines, this space fostered responsibility, focus, and respectful communication. Independence was also evident during hands-on activities—setting up beach volleyball, selecting materials for Sensory Sculpting, and making thoughtful choices during lunch outings. From carrying their own bags to navigating social interactions, participants continued to grow in confidence, voice, and agency as valued members of our community.

Self Expression Through Creativity

In July, participants dove into Sensory Sculpting with a playful, ocean-themed twist! During this hands-on art session, they explored a variety of sea creature templates—from starfish to sharks to sea turtles—selecting their own color palettes and shaping each design with soft, pliable playdough. This creative activity offered more than just artistic fun; it was a rich sensory experience that supported fine motor development, encouraged choice-making, and celebrated individual expression. Watching each participant bring their ocean creature to life was a true delight—and no two designs were alike! This project beautifully showcased how creativity and sensory exploration can come together in engaging, meaningful ways.

Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing

We’re thrilled to share that APEX Swim Club sessions are officially back in motion after a short pause in June! Swimming offers far more than fun—it builds essential life skills, strengthens motor coordination, supports physical health, and boosts confidence in the water. Our swimmers have expressed how much they enjoy their time at APEX, and it’s been heartwarming to see their excitement return as they dive back in. We’re deeply grateful for our ongoing partnership with APEX Swim Club, whose dedicated instructors continue to support our participants and mission in meaningful ways. Most of our swimmers will be returning to the pool next week, and we can’t wait to see the growth and joy that follow. If you're interested in learning more or enrolling in swim sessions, please reach out to Melanie@dawntoduskwellbeing.com.

The Dawn to Dusk Nature and Gardening Club has also been in full swing this summer! Participants have been actively tending to the garden—watering plants, pulling weeds, and carefully harvesting herbs and vegetables. It’s been a hands-on experience that nurtures responsibility, patience, and a deep appreciation for nature’s rhythms.

Leisure and Recreation

This month, we introduced a new favorite to our recreation lineup—beach volleyball (minus the beach, of course)! Set up in our auditorium, the volleyball net quickly became a hub of laughter, movement, and shared fun. Participants enjoyed rallying the ball in a supportive space that encouraged teamwork, communication, and hand-eye coordination. While we traded sand for clean floors, some playful suggestions hinted that a little beachy flair might be fun in the future! With no diving required and plenty of room to move, this accessible and active pastime brought the spirit of summer indoors. We’re excited to keep the volley going all season long! Our Recreation Hub also continues to be a space for leisure, play, and relaxation - it is certainly one of the favorite places our participant love to hang out in.

Community Corner

Community Outings: 

 In July, our participants continued to enjoy a vibrant variety of community outings across Middlesex County and beyond. With the summer sun shining (and occasionally hiding behind a raincloud), our teams made the most of their time together—exploring the great outdoors and taking refreshing indoor breaks when needed. Outings included visits to Helmetta Park, Thompson Park, North Brunswick Community Park, and Regal Cinemas, where we wrapped up our annual summer movie series with joy and excitement. What a wonderful tradition this has become! On particularly hot or rainy days, some teams opted for window shopping at East Brunswick Square Mall. Whether watching butterflies in the wild or fan favorites on the big screen, it’s always inspiring to see our participants engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Lunch Outings:

July’s lunch outings served up both flavor and life skills, offering participants the chance to explore new cuisines, navigate community dining, and enjoy quality time with their peers. Teams visited El Rincon, Burrito Bowl, Panera Bread, Nanami Sushi, and Burger King—satisfying cravings for everything from fresh rolls to burritos. For Team Choice outings, some groups selected fun favorites like Popeyes and Chick-fil-A. These outings help participants practice independence by reading menus, making budget-friendly choices, waiting in line, and engaging in mealtime conversations. Each experience is a step toward greater confidence and community connection.

Special Events:

 One of the most heartfelt highlights of the summer was our July Variety Show, which brought the entire Dawn to Dusk community together for an afternoon filled with creativity, courage, and connection. Each team performed a unique routine that reflected their personalities—from a lively group dance to “Do the Twist,” to a rhythmic cup routine set to Katy Perry’s “Firework,” and a cheerful shaker performance to “Jump in the Line (Shake Señora)” using red apple-shaped maracas. One group supported staff in a playful balancing act (testing how many items could be stacked on one head!), while another paid tribute to Michael Jackson with a confident rendition of “You Rock My World,” complete with handmade sequined gloves. The GAP program closed the show on a gentle and moving note with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” using colorful scarves to bring smiles—and even a few misty eyes—to everyone in the room. It was a beautiful celebration of self-expression, teamwork, and the joy of being exactly who you are.

Another memorable moment came with a visit from Kaye-Lynn Dance Studio, who led an engaging dance and movement session with guest instructor Robin. Using upbeat music, drumsticks, and creative choreography, Robin had participants stretching, walking, drumming, and smiling from start to finish. The session was an energetic blend of fitness, rhythm, and fun that brought the whole auditorium to life. We’re so thankful to Kaye-Lynn Dance Studio for sharing such a lively and inclusive experience with our community!

If you have any questions or suggestions about the Day Program, please contact maureen@dawntoduskwellbeing.com  

Photo Gallery

Enjoy some special moments and smiles in our photo gallery here.