Sustaining the Mission

Anthony’s story (name changed) harkens back to his arrival in our infant room. A few flags were raised but things were still within developmental realms. Our Special Needs Coordinator began consultations with him, occasionally observing, as Anthony moved into the toddler classroom. Just as Anthony was commencing speech therapies, insurance terminated coverage. Nonetheless, we continued to give him extra supports, including with sensory activities and fine motor skills.

When Anthony progressed to the 3-year-old room, he exhibited challenging behaviors. It took him time to bond with his teachers. He still struggled with sensory experiences, but persevered, along with his teachers, and eventually made great strides critical to his future growth and success. His speech remained almost nonexistent—he grunted his wants and needs and grew easily frustrated. We assigned him a therapist and progress was incremental, but definite. Today, Anthony exhibits intelligible speech, speaking mostly in full sentences, will participate in art exercises, write letters, give hugs to those he has bonded with, and so much more!

Anthony embodies the Good Shepherd mission. Good Shepherd continues to provide specialized, value-added services and supports for children like Anthony, even though the cost of doing so is significantly higher than what insurance reimburses, and despite the fact that there is no reimbursement for many children awaiting a diagnosis, or who fall just short of qualifying. Good Shepherd provides these services but relies upon generosity from supporters like you to be able to do so. With your help, we can continue to provide these transformative supports without passing exorbitant extra costs on to families.

EVERYONE benefits from inclusion. Good Shepherd is the only childcare center in the area with the expressed mission of serving children with special needs in an inclusive setting. Your generosity will help us sustain this life-changing mission.