With a smile as bright and infectious as Jace’s, it is nearly impossible not to have a good time and a great day whenever he is around! This summer, the Yorkton Branch was delighted to include Jace’s big personality and fun-loving energy in the recreational program, Summer Fun. Despite being his first time attending recreational programming outside of school and fun adventures with his family, Jace was ALL IN right away!
Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as an infant, Jace uses alternative communication and has limited mobility, none of which prevented him from engaging and communicating with fellow Summer Fun peers or staff members during the many activities and community outings. His vibrant personality speaks in ways that words fall short. “He is a ball of positive energy. He has always been a happy child. Our family is extremely blessed to have his happy, funny, and big personality around – anyone who interacts with Jace knows that he just radiates joy,” laughs Tracy, Jace’s mom, as she describes her 13-year-old son, the “social butterfly.”
You know you’re going to have a great day at work when you walk in and see Jace’s bright smile.
The decision to send Jace to Summer Fun was made with thoughtful consideration as Tracy and her husband, Don, wanted to ensure it was a good fit for their son and his needs. Both familiar with SaskAbilities – the two have volunteered their time on Yorkton Branch’s Snowarama Committee – they felt comfortable reaching out to Brandi McManus, Quality of Life Coordinator at the Yorkton Branch who oversees the Summer Fun program. “Our goal this summer was to get Jace into some sort of programming because he does need that stimulus and social interaction. Based on Jace’s abilities and some of his challenges, he requires one-on-one support, which can be a difficult fit with other programs in the community. So, we really just wanted to make sure it was a good fit – and it was! Every day, picking him up, he had this huge smile on his face,” exclaims Tracy of Jace having the time of his life!
It wasn’t just Jace who benefited from his time and presence at Summer Fun. “You know you’re going to have a great day at work when you walk in and see Jace’s bright smile and happy face looking back at you,” laughs Brandi. “All of the kids just took to him right away. Everyone wanted to be around him – his energy is unbelievable!” Summer Fun created an opportunity for Jace and his new friends to experience a sense of belonging and acceptance.
From spending time in the community, to selling lemonade, to handing out kindness rocks or having quiet moments indoors reading books, Jace’s summer was spent doing what he loves the most – connecting with others. A successful experience for both Jace and his family, Brandi is looking forward to seeing his bright smile at SaskAbilities again next summer!
