On a pleasantly warm afternoon gathered in a grassy clearing, an audience erupts in applause. A group of people with disabilities, having just completed their performance, take a bow, and a young man steps forward. “Thank-you, everyone,” he says directly to the crowd. He turns back to his group, and they leave the stage together. A seemingly small moment. But to Blake, the confident young man from the stage, it was a big one.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
To meet Blake now is to meet a person filled with imagination and character. He is interested in others and finds excuses to laugh easily. But these wonderful personality traits were hidden when CASPA first met him. Instead, he showed anger and fear, overwhelm and loneliness.
Just a few years ago, Blake was unable to communicate verbally and relied solely on assistive technology. He had not been given the tools to work with his disability. Instead, it overwhelmed him. His emotions were unbalanced, and he would become agitated quickly in everyday situations.
Blake didn’t trust in his own ability and relied on services for all day-to-day tasks. His confidence was low and he found most forms of social interaction unbearable. He didn’t initiate contact and isolated himself.
No wonder he felt insecure and alone.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
The world is a hard place to navigate without an informed support system, regardless of your ability. CASPA believes that when we provide wrap-around supports, we nurture healing, safety and protection. This leads to stronger, more resilient individuals and communities, which results in sustainable change for the future.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
When CASPA started working with Blake, we explored ways to help him achieve his goals, his way. The first step was services to support emotional regulation and behaviour, giving Blake the tools to find his calm and build confidence. A sensory room and visual tools were set up in his living space to help Blake process and articulate his emotions.
As his confidence grew, he was able to attend supported social outings. When it came time to choose activities, Blake was included in the process to make sure they matched his interests.
The journey was not without its challenges. All of us can find change and growth uncomfortable – like stretching an unused muscle, it’s hard. But it gets easier the more we practise. And working with a support system to reach your goals means celebrating together.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
When you meet Blake now you may assume he is shy at first. But soon, a half-smile will creep across his face, and he will draw you into conversation, no assistive technology needed. If you’re not careful, he will brew a potion and turn you into your favourite animal!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Blake now has a thriving social life and is known for his Halloween parties. He hosts these in his home and encourages his guests to dress up in the spooky spirit. A far cry from when a visitor was intolerable.
CASPA may have provided support and handed Blake tools. But he did the work, finding confidence in his own ability and ease with others. Everyone deserves to thrive, and Blake’s story shows us that together, we can.
