By Amy Groshell
•
15 Feb, 2023
Keeping Our Crown’s On At POHC we aim for the heart of the individuals we serve. Designed by our co-founder, Howard Groshell; our logo clearly represents our community (blue) and sustainability (green) pillars upholding the “heart” of the individuals with autism. We put a premium on elevating individuals with autism by helping them reach their dreams. Far from the modular buildings at the very outskirts of any public school’s self-constrained classrooms or the churches who aren’t sure how to include those with added challenges, we desire to give those with autism a real chance at living life alongside their neighbors. Shifting paradigms takes time and patience, especially when opposing the long held narratives of the societal, medical and educational establishments. Even so, change is a worthy and likely goal when we turn life’s steering wheel by even one degree. While it is one thing to value an individual, it is quite another to empower them. Seeing a person’s worth is imperative. In the disability community, the most clear example of this is the recently held special needs prom: Night to Shine. One glorious evening, individuals with disabilities are crowned the Kings and Queens they are. While this lasts a night, our mission is to keep those crowns on year-round. Why is this so challenging? Often in our competitive society we fail to see groups of “non-productive” persons as worthy. Perhaps the needy consciously or subconsciously are placed in a separate category than us producers. We like to keep them in this category so, when we help them, we feel good about ourselves. This is a one-way directional relationship and, while it has value, it would be wrong to make this the ultimate goal. Instead we propose a 2-way mutual exchange relationship fueled by inclusion which allows us to walk side by side and support these valuable individuals through life’s ups and downs. At Peace of Heart Community, we have the chance to change lives 24 hours a day by embracing and facilitating those with autism so they can lead lives with meaning. Yes, we serve; however, we strive to empower. In essence, we give those we embrace permission to be part of our world. This entitles them to live the life they desire. When we empower others we give them the ability to shine brightly in the communities they live in. We allow their inner beauty to be seen by all. Whether it is Farmer Josh giving a farm tour, buying organic produce grown by our Enrichment Program participants, learning about trees from Carter, sampling Lara’ baked goods, or purchasing Gentry’s art; with your support we can ensure a life of meaning for all. This Valentine’s Day and everyday we thank you for all you do to help us uphold the HEART of autism by keeping those crowns on!