A NEW VAN

Overview:

SUNRISE YOUTH GROUP is a non-profit organization that was started 20 years ago by a group of local high school students who wanted to see their friends with special needs involved in the same activities they were. Sunrise members and their families come from all parts of Durham Region to participate in programs and share their time. Our volunteers come from Durham Region and beyond.

At Sunrise we offer Recreational Programs as well as a Day Program. Some of our recreational programs include camping, dances, day trips, dinner & movie nights, club nights, New Years Party and our most popular; a one-week camp in Northern Ontario. Our Day Program is a continuing life skills program that strives to create a sense of independence and mutual understanding through programs that are adapted to meet each individual's needs.

We have amazing staff and volunteers who are extremely committed to this organization and the values Sunrise promotes.

Our van is an integral part of programs at Sunrise. Without it we wouldn't be able to -

1. Assist our members give back to the community while doing their volunteer activities like helping with Meals on Wheels or volunteering at the Humane Society.

2. Grocery shop for our Life Skills programs.

3. Drive members to work placements in the community.

4. Participate in our Recycling program.

5. Attend our camping weekends or our one-week camp.

6. Visit the library, malls and many other day-to-day activities that assist and support us in becoming contributing members of the community.

Our current van is over 14 years old and is a constant concern for us with repairs and the costs of those repairs. We need to replace it with a new van in order to continue with our programs.

Who benefits from Sunrise Youth Group programs?

Young people with special needs - get an opportunity to participate in activities and share friendships most young people take for granted.

Peer Volunteers - learn that there are more similarities than differences between themselves and people with disabilities, and develop a strong sense of community.

Families - of both volunteers and members are comforted knowing that their family member is in a safe, welcoming environment where fun and friendships are inevitable.

Community - benefits when people of all abilities participate in and contribute to their communities.

www.sunriseyouthgroup.ca

905 - 438 - 9910