Thriving in Special Programs

Emily Little, a young woman with Down Syndrome, was very active in high school participating in numerous activities. She continued to be involved in the 18-21 program, but once she officially graduated at age 21, she found herself home full-time with nothing to do and no friends from school. Her parents struggled to juggle work and watching her, as Emily couldn’t stay home alone. They heard about the YMCA Special Programs through Zachariah’s Acres and put her name on the waiting list.

Over the next couple of years, Emily struggled with anxiety and some medical issues, becoming increasingly withdrawn and insisting on being only with her parents. In the summer of 2023, they received news that a small YMCA program would start in Watertown. Emily panicked when she heard about it, stressed out, and said, “NO WAY”. With encouragement from her parents and assurance from the Special Programs staff, Emily reluctantly agreed to try it.

Emily now loves attending the program, and her parents are thrilled she is keeping active and has productive activities to keep her busy. “We so appreciate the consistent staff, who have gotten to know Emily and all of her little idiosyncrasies,” her mom Jodi shares. Emily constantly tells her sisters and other family members about how she gets to go swimming, rock climbing, to the zoo, do yoga, and go out to lunch. The small class size allows for personal attention, which has been a significant benefit for Emily.

Jodi is grateful, saying, “The program has allowed my husband and I to continue with our jobs, knowing she is in a great environment”. Recently, Emily joined an extra outing, hiking at Devil’s Lake with the Y program in Oconomowoc. Initially upset and resistant, Emily ended up having a great time, stepping outside her comfort zone with hiking and climbing. The staff shared a delightful picture of Emily with her short legs straddling a fallen tree on the path (pictured right.)
Jodi says “Emily has come out of her shell and we’re seeing her old personality come back. She is showing her funny sense of humor, becoming more independent, and getting active again.” Jodi can’t speak highly enough of the YMCA Special Programs, which have made a tremendous difference in their lives.