"The biggest gift" by Gabrielle Thomson

We first met our Facilitator when Calvin was still in High School at Ross McDonald School for the Blind. He had been living there during the week in residence since he was in grade 9. We did not have any connections in our community since he had been at The Ross McDonald School since grade one. 

I had gone to many meetings organized through the DSO regarding group homes and programs, but I was left feeling overwhelmed and was not sure where Calvin fit in all this or how to even start. I was left sifting through a lot of information that was not relevant.

Our Facilitator met with us in our home. She took the time to get to know Calvin and I and to understand what Calvin's hopes, dreams and needs were. She asked questions like what makes you happy? What keeps you safe? What puts a fire under your butt? Our main goal always is for Calvin to be safe and happy. 

Our Facilitator walked with us through the transition from high school to adult life. She shared programs and ideas specific to Calvin and introduced personally to the people and places.

I am pleased to tell you that Calvin has been out of school now for almost 2 years and he has rich and fulfilling life that is centred on what makes Calvin happy and keeps him safe. The biggest gift that the opportunity of facilitation gave to us the strong friendships that Calvin has developed. Without the one on one help of a Facilitator none of this would have been possible.

​We have many more dreams and goals for Calvin and know that a Facilitator will walk with us and without facilitation we don't know how we will take our next steps.