When Anthesis was forced to shut down in-person programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition to distance learning was difficult for everyone, but especially for the program participants who rely on the supports and services provided by the Anthesis staff. Through the struggles and challenges of the pandemic, Sabrina Y. was able to be a shining light in the middle of all the chaos due to her positivity and bright personality. Because of her ability to continue to inspire those around to remain positive during the pandemic, Sabrina has been chosen to be the 2021 Virtual Annual Dinner Honoree.
Sabrina Y., who has been a part of Anthesis’ Adult Development Center (ADC) Program since 2014, was able to quickly adapt to the changes of continuing her program virtually. Anthesis’ ADC Program focuses on enhancing the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through community integration and offering opportunities of social activities. The staff at the ADC, and all the programs have worked diligently to provide individuals with the services they rely on virtually.
Prior to the pandemic, Sabrina was always an active participant at all activities and events. During a Community Fair at an ADC Booth Sabrina enjoyed performing a karaoke song with her peers. Sabrina was able to participant in her favorite activities, which included going to her Zumba classes and drawing. The staff at ADC supports Sabrina in her goal of being involved in her community through encouraging her to participate in events and activities that are of interest to her. From attending the annual Power of the Flower events to selling her art pieces at the ADC art fairs, Sabrina was always involved.
During the pandemic, Sabrina continues to meet with her instructor Reylene Valenzuela and her peers in Zoom group activities. Although Sabrina has only been able to meet with her peers via Zoom, she continues to share her positivity with everyone through sharing her talents. Although she has had a change in environment, Sabrina continues to put her heart into everything she does. Because Anthesis focuses on using person-centered planning to create individualized schedules for each individual, Sabrina can fill her time with activities she enjoys such as: being crafty, singing, dancing, cooking, and continuing her participation in the Special Olympics.
As restrictions are beginning to lift, Sabrina expressed to her program specialist that she would like to have face-to-face visits at her home with her instructor to do crafts and cooking activities. While still maintaining social distancing best practices, Sabrina’s instructor has been able to drop off supplies at her home that would be needed to complete their monthly activities. During these group activities done over Zoom, Sabrina is often heard encouraging her peers to not to give up so that they will complete their projects. Sabrina has been able to discover many new hobbies during the Stay-at-Home Order and has discovered her love for cooking and drawing. She hopes to publish a children’s book someday.
Sabrina has been an inspiration to everyone at the ADC program. All those who encounter her are filled with positivity and hope. Her awesome attitude during this tough time is why Anthesis has chosen to honor her during the 2021 Virtual Annual Dinner. Sabrina’s ability to remain positive during these challenging times is an inspiration to everyone at Anthesis, and for those reasons, Sabrina has been chosen to be the 2021 Virtual Annual Dinner Honoree. Sabrina has been able to make the best out of the situation and continues to be involved with her community. Her ability to quickly adapt to virtual services and remain positive demonstrate that Sabrina is truly one of a kind! During the Annual Dinner, Anthesis will recognize Sabrina for her ability to share her kindness and compassion towards everyone around her. Sabrina’s story is an inspiration to all as she has been able to see the silver lining throughout these tough times. All of us at Anthesis celebrate her contagious optimism.
Congratulations, Sabrina! You truly deserve this award, the staff at Anthesis look forward to honoring you at the 2021 Virtual Annual Dinner.
To learn more about Anthesis’ Adult Development Center, click here.
Be a part of 2021 Virtual Annual Dinner and help honor Sabrina by registering here.