DANI’s basic philosophy is the tag line, “We Believe that All People Can Achieve.”
The program components at DANI are formed with a person-centered approach that develops and nurtures each individual participant towards independence.
Friday December 3rd is officially the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and in this light, we publicly celebrate the daily achievements of our adults.
A few specific accomplishments? Morning prayers that include an animated and sensitive grateful circle. Paid employment at Stalco offers a salary ‘like mom or dad,’ and generates incredible pride and fulfillment. Ability to zip up a jacket after years of practicing the fine skills. Improved literacy skills; reading more words, formulating stronger sentences or creating fresh narratives for the biweekly production of the DANI Day Newsletter. Cutting an apple with newly taught knife skills. Crafting quality art with joy for the annual art show and selling each precious piece. Financial awareness when shopping and understanding food choices when considering healthy meals. Learning dance steps with great excitement for the annual play performed at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. Respectfully studying and appreciating the environment while hiking, canoeing, tree-top trekking or camping overnight.
The adults with disabilities at DANI are slowly tearing down barriers on all fronts. They are strengthening their voices of self-advocacy while empowering their rightful position in the community to a meaningful and valuable life.
