Buena Park, Calif. (July 25, 2024)
Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors and community partners, Speech and Language Development Center raised over $20,000 during our end-of-year supply and equipment campaign.
We want to thank all of our amazing donors who purchased wish list items identified by our teachers and staff. In total, we have now delivered over 150 items and we still have additional boxes on the way.
We are constantly in awe of the unwavering dedication and creativity of our teachers and therapists and our goal with this campaign was to fill gaps where resources are needed to help our students fully engage in their education. The conversations that we’ve had throughout this campaign have been important, and we’ve been consistently reminded that having the necessary resources in and out of the classroom makes a world of difference in cultivating effective spaces for teaching and learning.
Among the many useful school supplies, teachers received noise canceling headphones, a new padded gym mat for in-class breaks, EXPO markers, personal white boards, pens and pencils, calculators, timers, and functional learning tools like a vacuum, recycling bins, a paper shredder, and more. To foster more dynamic learning sessions, speech therapists received switch adapted Bluetooth speakers, personal whiteboards, and learning games.
Contributions to the Kinesiology Services department span various facets of cognitive and physical development, making a significant impact on students as they improve their everyday skills, including:
- a NutriBullet and Swiffer to aid in functional skill building;
- weighted blankets for physical and emotional regulation;
- fidget toys and learning games to provide sensory stimulation and calmness;
- bulk pinto beans for sensory bins;
- markers, crayons, glue, watercolor paper, and more creative items;
- sports balls, kettle bells, weighted balls, a gym rope, full size cones, a mini trampoline, and more!
Recognizing the need for new bikes, several teachers and therapists advocated for the inclusion of various-sized bikes in our campaign. The response has been incredible, resulting in the donation of five new bikes. These include a 26″ adult tricycle, a 26″ beach cruiser, a 24″ adult tricycle, an 18″ bicycle with training wheels, and a 16″ youth tricycle.
“We were blessed with bikes and trikes that our students can use to increase their motor skills, improve their balance and coordination, and have fun riding. Students will no longer have to wait and take turns,” said Dr. Baena.
SLDC’s Adult Day Program received durable dishware to practice independent living skills, as well as sunscreen and large umbrellas for enjoyable community outings, fidget toys, developmental games, and magna tiles. These and other contributions will aid greatly in the development and enjoyment of our adult clients.
Each donation made during SLDC’s supply and equipment campaign supports SLDC’s mission to foster an inclusive, enriching, and empowering learning environment for all students. Your generosity empowers our dedicated teachers and therapists by providing them with the resources to teach effectively and creatively, enhancing their ability to engage and inspire every student. In Dr. Baena’s words, “Your act of giving expands each student’s access to experiences and activities that enhance their lives. Your selflessness creates a long and lasting impact that improves the quality of education here at SLDC.“
Thank you to each and every one of you for your generosity, you are paving the way for even greater student outcomes!
To learn more about the Speech & Language Development Center and its programs, please visit www.sldc.net.
About Speech and Language Development Center:
Founded in 1955, Speech and Language Development Center is a non-public school and therapy center serving children and adults, ages 1 through 40 years, in an environment that nurtures growth, inspires achievement, and maximizes their potential. With campuses in Buena Park and Temecula, SLDC supports individuals with special needs in language, learning and/or behavior across more than 50 school districts in Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. The center is certified by the California State Department of Education and licensed by the California State Department of Social Services. For more information about SLDC, visit www.sldc.net.
