The primary purpose of the FILS program is to provide opportunities to challenge, encourage and effect the integration of individuals with disabilities into the community. We provide a dynamic, creative environment and believe strongly in the concept of person-centered planning. We give our consumers numerous opportunities to tailor the program to their own needs. Our areas of focus include; community access, volunteer opportunities, domestic skills, socialization and an educational and art curriculum.
On May 8, 2012, Easter Seals ACE IT III came from Yuba City to give us a power point presentation to help empower our People First of California Self Advocacy Group. They brought information on the Lanterman Act and how to advocate with our elected government officials. The Lanterman Act was passed into law in 1969 giving people with developmental disabilities and their families the right to receive services and the support they need.
Clients at ACE IT I have already met Representative Steinberg and are looking forward to our meeting with Representative Pan. We are working on a letter that lets our representatives know our needs regarding supported employment.
July 19th - Easter Seals will be represented at the State Fair
FILS was recently awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for being an Outstanding ReStore Volunteer Partner!
This was awarded to the program for all of the volunteering and community service our FILS consumers have been doing in the Habitat ReStore...KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
During the Month of June we visited the State Fair. The people we support visited different vendors, looked at pets and indulged in icecream. A great time was had by all that attended!
Red Cross Pillowcase Project
Throughout the month of June we worked with the local Red Cross on a “Pillowcase Project”. The project benefited local Veterans and Seniors in the community. The people we support were able to decorate and pack bags in order for donation. We look forward to continuing our volunteer work with the Red Cross in the upcoming months.
Red Cross Warehouse
After the success of the “Pillowcase Project” the people we support were asked to head up the re-vamping of the Red Cross’s Warehouse. This is an ongoing volunteer project and offers the people we support the opportunity to not only give back to the community, but to learn work skills and team work as well.
Check out the recent performance by the Rhythm & Shoes Sacramento Senior Tappers at FILS!
Easter Seals helped celebrate America's birthday the right way this year...with BBQ and fun!
A group participated in the local Earth Day celebration in Sacramento. The people we support enjoyed the day in the sun while learning about recycling and eco-friendly products.
FILS and the SPCA!
FILS is currently volunteering at the local SPCA on Thursdays. While volunteering the people we support participate in prepping cages and visiting with the animals.
In picture to the left - Joe visits with a mini horse, after his volunteer duties. He states “I feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment with my work here, plus the animals are sure cute to visit with”.
Saint John’s Women’s Shelter: The FILS Program began volunteering this week in the kitchen at the local women’s shelter. The people we support assisted with setting up and handing out lunches. A good time was had by all and everybody is eager to return next week!
Recently, consumers from the FILS program got to take a tour of our local firehouse. They got to see what happens at the station, meet the firefighter and had a great time!
Thank you Sacramento Fire Dept!!!
Thank you to all of the teachers from St. Francis High School who volunteered at FILS. Everyone had a blast and we can't wait to see you again!
FILS helps out at the Salvation Army Food Packing Program!
Recently, consumers from the Easter Seals FILS Program helped package food for people in need.
The entire group at the end of the food packing day. The overall outcome was 80 boxes packed!!
Shawn W. assisting at the food packing program. After the day’s event Shawn stated “it sure was nice helping people out today, it made me feel really good”.
Tomas, Esmeralda and LeeAnn volunteering at the Salvation Army’s food packing program.
Mike and Tomas assisted at the Salvation Army food packing drive at Cal Expo. Together, the team proudly packed 180 boxes for donation.
FILS would like to say "Thank You" to our Senior Companions volunteers!
The Senior Companions Program Visits consumers in our adult day care centers and provide socialization/companionship and respite care. These visits provide social experiences that foster feelings of well being, self-acceptance and positive self-image for both the consumers and volunteers. To learn more about Senior Companions in Sacramento, please click here!
FILS visits Sunrise Assisted Living Home
FILS visited the local Sunrise assisted living home over the holidays. The people we support were able to visit and hand out handmade greeting cards to the residents. While visiting carols were sung, spirits were lifted and a good time was had by all.
So often we think of challenges and obsticles in our lives as a negative thing, when in fact, the most innovative and important ideas arise from them. If one looks back at the things that have tested them, they will often finf that they have become stronger and more empowered because of these perceived "problems". Click here to read a short article entitled "A Wonderful Life" by Kathie Snow, and see how you are changing lives everyday!
