The Adult Enrichment Center for persons with developmental disabilities used a $5,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Fulton to provide services, equipment and a bit of fun for participants.
Part of Callaway County Special Services (CCSS), the Adult Enrichment Center aims to integrate persons with developmental disabilities into the community through programs, services, information and collaboration. Fulton Rotary raised the money for AEC in 2017 through its annual Mouse Races, matching a grant received from Rotary District 6080.
"The generosity of the Fulton Rotary Club has helped people to enjoy and thrive in their own community and explore unique opportunities, including ways to express their creativity," Erica Evans, director of professional services, said. "The equipment CCSS was able to buy helped with physical, sensory and communication needs. We are grateful to the members of Rotary and the citizens who enjoyed the fundraising events. Thanks to all for supporting an inclusive-rich community."
Among the items on AEC's wish list purchased with Rotary funds were increased clinical services, a geri- chair, recumbent exercise bike, transport chair, communication device for the hard of hearing, weights, barbells, resistance bands, Karaoke machine and music, and Polaroid camera and film.
AEC also used the money to take participants to such places as Fulton Art House, Warm Springs Ranch in Boonville, Where Pigs Fly petting zoo in Linn, the movie theater and bowling alley.
According to Evans, participants need specialized clinical consultation for occupational therapy, speech therapy, electronic communication devices and nursing. The Rotary donation allowed "AEC participants to have greater access to these services when there was no other funding available," she said.
The recumbent exercise bike and the transport chair support the health and wellness objectives of AEC. Individuals enjoy exercising in the bike, especially in the winter months, but the bike they had needed to be replaced because it had been worn out by daily use. The transport chair, Evans said, allows participants with mobility issues to have access to the community in a safe manner that supports independence.
Visits to the Art House, Warm Springs, the movie theater and bowling alley provided a way for participants to more regularly join in community-based activities. Evans described an Art House session as especially successful. Individuals worked on making independent choices about their art work, as well as utilizing fine motor skills, communication and socialization skills as they met other members of the community.
Last year was the third year racing mice helped the Rotary Club of Fulton raise money to support service projects in Callaway County. This year, the Callaway Public Library was the beneficiary.