“Silvertonians are very good about looking around and finding a need and getting behind it,” Ortega said. That is important because programs like this one – which attempts to keep its costs low in order to keep participation free – are always in need of both funding and volunteers. “Like if people… have a specific activity they could bring… or if they have a specific skill,” Ortega said of the need for more volunteers to head up projects.
Participants and their supporters painted rocks one afternoon at Coolidge McClaine Park Pavilion. MELISSA WAGONER
The majority of any afternoon’s activities are only loosely mapped out, affording participants plenty of time to socialize and observe. But there is always at least one structured activity.
Pavilion every Tuesday and Thursday between 1 and 4 p.m. and culminating, when the weather cools, in the provision of an indoor space at the YMCA building on Water Street.
That community includes not only the participants but family members and support persons as well.
Timothy L Yount
Financial Advisor 313 N. Water St. Silverton, OR 97381 503-873-2454
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Financial Advisor 108 N. First St., Suite 1 Silverton, OR 97381 503-874-6162
“But it’s not about ability,” Norris stressed. “It’s about community.”
“It’s Kait,” Ayers said, referring to the influence Silver Falls YMCA Director Kait Andrews had on the organization’s direction. “She has a brother with autism and she’s getting a degree in clinical psychology.”
“That piece… it’s kind of like Indoor Park but the flip side,” Ayers said. She pointed out that for Ortega and Norris, a 19-year journey has, in many ways, come full-circle.
It’s connectionss like these that have influenced so many community members and organizations to get involved.
“This is a long-term vision from now until forever,” Ortega said. And that, at least, is some peace of mind.
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