October 2024 Newsletter

“There is something so special in the early leaves drifting from the trees – as if we are all to be allowed a chance to peel, to refresh, to start again.” – Ruth Ahmed

Editorial 

Dear Dawn to Dusk Community,

In September, we successfully launched our Graduate Adjustment Period (GAP) program and 14 participants started attending the program with almost perfect attendance. It won’t be an exaggeration for me to say that we are taking longer to adjust, especially with our transportation services and schedule, than these wonderful participants. The group have followed their schedules and been adjusting better than we had expected. The participants also started participating in community outings every Friday visiting local parks and enjoyed the beautiful weather that we had the past few weeks. 

In September, the group also participated in recycling stretchable plastics for NexTrex® Plastic Bag & Film Recycling. We collected around 32.5 lbs of stretchable plastics which will be dropped off at the Monroe Township Department of Public Works (DPW) when the participants go there for a field trip in October. 

The group also participated in a special outing to the local Florist Sweet William and Thyme. The participants made  beautiful fall-themed floral arrangements and had the option to take their beautiful work home. It has been an absolute pleasure having these young adults in our program and based on how they have been doing so far, I won’t be surprised if they transition to our larger program soon.

On September 27th, the Dawn to Dusk team participated in our 3rd Quarter staff training day. The day started with  a review and reminder of our CARE philosophy (Compassion Action Respect Empowerment) and a discussion of our purpose, mission, vision and why we are here. Next, we were joined over Zoom by Delia Sequeria from DDD with a presentation on Development Positive Interactions with our participants.  This was followed by company policy updates, changes, reminders, activity and community outing protocols and why staff engagement and involvement is important for our participants and in order to support their growth. This session also included team building activities. We then shifted to Harassment Awareness and Abuse prevention training and ended with a discussion on Performance Evaluation Criteria and growth with Dawn to Dusk as we enter the 4th Quarter. I feel fortunate that we are able to take this time once a quarter to step back, reflect, learn and build a stronger team.

Wishing you good health and wellbeing always!

~Sesh Subramanian

Life Skills and Growing Independence

Building Independence

In September, we focused on Life Skills Safety/Community Signs BINGO—a crucial activity that builds independence by helping participants recognize and understand the signs they encounter in the community. Together, we went through over 20 different signs, from common ones like “Stop” and “Exit” to trickier ones like “Poison” and “Handicap Accessible.” Some participants were familiar with many signs, quickly identifying them, while others found certain signs a bit more challenging. This exercise was key in developing their confidence and awareness, ensuring they’ll be able to navigate the world more safely and independently. Understanding these signs is essential not just for safety, but for fostering a sense of empowerment when out in the community.

Self Expression Through Creativity

Creative Self-Expression

This September, our creative writing crew learned about September 11th, 2001, and its impact on society. We explored the idea that heroes can come from unexpected places, and sometimes they’re just everyday people stepping up in the face of tragedy. The participants were given a writing assignment to imagine themselves being there on that day and how they would help others. Their responses were both thoughtful and brave, with many talking about how they would save the babies, check if anyone needed help, provide water to those in need, and even help people drive to safety. Through their writing, we saw an outpouring of empathy and a true understanding of the strength it takes to support others in times of crisis. This exercise allowed the participants to explore heroism in a very real and personal way, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, there’s always light in the actions of those who choose to help. Writing has given our participants a powerful outlet to connect with history and express their feelings, and it's been amazing to see them put themselves in the shoes of everyday heroes.

Physical and Mental Health and Wellbeing

As we enter the colder months ahead, it’s so important to focus on our well-being and nurture a positive mentality. Just as we’ve embraced nature through activities like Nature Club, the Walking Club, and our community outings, we’ve come to understand how vital it is to stay connected to the outdoors. Being in the fresh air and soaking up sunlight isn’t just good for our bodies—it’s a true balm for our minds as well. Embracing the warmth of the sun can remind us that, no matter how chilly or overcast it gets, there’s always a sense of calm and peace to be found. Even on days when the sun hides behind clouds, there’s always a bright side to life if we choose to look for it. As we move deeper into fall, let’s remember to carry that light with us, even as the days grow shorter.

Leisure and Recreation

In our Hobbies, Recreation, and Leisure activities this month, we had a fantastic time engaging in team games that helped participants practice socialization and build teamwork skills. One of the highlights was a fun and laid-back game of Volleyball in the auditorium, where everyone enjoyed leisurely bouncing the ball back and forth. The participants made sure to include everyone, paying attention to each teammate and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. Another favorite was Balloon Badminton in the life skills space, where participants raced against the clock to see how many times they could bounce a balloon with a badminton racket. The challenge brought out everyone's competitive spirit in the best way, with plenty of smiles and cheers all around. We also took some time to relax in the Garden, appreciating its beauty as the season winds down. Participants picked the last of the cherry tomatoes and blossoming flowers, making sure the garden was cared for while enjoying this calming hobby. To add to the experience, they blew bubbles and drew colorful chalk pictures on the garden pathway, showcasing their artistic talents for all to admire. These activities not only brought joy and relaxation but also encouraged creativity and connection within the group.

Community Corner

Community Outings: 

As September rolled in and the summer heat began to ease, our community outings continued with excitement as we embraced the cooler weather. Our participants enjoyed a peaceful day at Helmetta Park, where we could feel the first hints of fall in the crisp air, especially towards the end of the month. Who knew we could walk outside and not automatically start sweating? 

We also took a new outing to Freehold Mall, exploring the shops and enjoying the change of pace. A visit to the South Brunswick Public Library offered a quiet escape for those who love a good book.  Our time at Knob Hill Country Lanes was filled with laughter and some impressive bowling skills. These September outings allowed us to enjoy both the outdoors and cozy indoor spaces as we transition into the fall season, making the most of the cooler days ahead.

Lunch Outings: 

Lunch outings with friends are always a highlight for the participants at Dawn to Dusk, and September brought some new favorites to the table. We visited Subway, Red Robin, Jersey Mike’s, and Wendy’s this month, offering a fun mix of casual dining options that everyone enjoyed. Participants also revisited some of their hot spot team lunch spots like Panera Bread, Chipotle, and a new Japanese spot, Kumo 27, where the hibachi and sushi experience never fails to impress. These outings continue to offer the perfect opportunity for participants to explore new flavors while practicing menu planning and managing their budgets, fostering greater independence in a relaxed, social setting. We’re excited to see what new dining adventures the fall will bring!

Sweet William & Thyme: 

The September outing to Sweet William & Thyme flower shop was enjoyed by the participants in our transitionary GAP (Graduate Adjustment Period) Program who joined us at Dawn to Dusk this past month! These individuals enjoyed the special outing to visit the local florist, explore different varieties of flowers and greenery, and get more familiar with our community friends. The participants and staff were excited to make beautiful fall-themed floral arrangements inside of an apple vase, using greenery, flowers with orange, red, and purple petals, and even some colorful leaves for more variety and interest within their arrangements. These outings are always such a treat for the Dawn to Dusk participants and staff and we were so glad to have been able to share this special outing with our new friends in the GAP Program!

Special Events: 

For our monthly end-of-the-month movie, we decided to hit the oldies and bring back Honey, I’ve Shrunk the Kids on the big screen, aka the Dawn to Dusk Movie Theater in the auditorium. Most of our participants love a good movie, and boy, were their eyes GLUED to the screen this time! They laughed and cheered as the kids navigated their giant backyard adventure, from dodging oversized insects to riding on a friendly ant. The excitement in the room was contagious as everyone got caught up in the humor and heartwarming moments of the film. By the time the credits rolled, the participants erupted in applause, clearly thrilled with the movie choice. It was the perfect way to wrap up the month, leaving everyone in high spirits as they left the theater, already talking about if there is a sequel!

Key of Awesome: 

“Da-dum-da-dum” echoed through our center as the talented Jim Gavin treated us to a spectacular percussion concert. With instruments like pan drums, cabasas, and tambourines, our auditorium was alive with booming cheer, leaving our participants smiling from ear to ear. 

If you have any questions or suggestions about the Day Program, please contact Emily at: emily@dawntoduskwellbeing.com          

Photo Gallery

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