Unicorn Children’s Foundation Helps Prevent Isolation for Individuals with Special Needs and Seniors

Boca Raton FL – October 22, 2020 – The Unicorn Children’s Foundation offers a weekly virtual Connection Club for individuals with special needs. Connection Club is for teens and adults looking for fun and interactive ways to connect with friends. The group created their own greeting cards and became Pen Pals with senior residents at The Brennity of Vero Beach.  Because many of the club participants expressed interest in meeting their Pen Pals, the organizations hosted a virtual meet and greet BINGO game on Thursday, October 8, 2020.
 
During COVID, isolation has had a dramatic effect on mental health in both Special Needs and Elderly populations.  Friendships are one of the most important factors influencing a person’s quality of life and influence both mental and physical health; however, research has shown that for many people with disabilities, significant interpersonal relationships are rare or non-existent, which contributes significantly to rates of depression, anxiety, and challenging behavior. 
 
Connection Club member, Victoria De La Garza states, “I liked seeing the seniors and telling them hello. I enjoy meeting new people.” She added that she enjoyed meeting one of the residents who shared her story about being a nurse. “[Her] story was interesting and I thought it was neat that one person collected stamps.  I collect snow globes so we both have something in common we collect items.”
 
The two organizations had so much fun, and are looking forward to their next game. For more information about Connection Club or other virtual classes, please visit https://www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org/fallclasses.html or contact Kerri Morse at kerri@unicornchildrensfoundation.org.
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About the Unicorn Children’s Foundation
Unicorn Children's Foundation is a 25 year old non-profit organization that is dedicated to building communities of acceptance, support, and opportunity for kids and young adults who are challenged by special needs and neurodiversity by supporting or developing its cradle to career pathways.  Our initiatives connect families to community resources, advocate for inclusive opportunities, respect differences, empower individuals, and support success.  With 1 in 6 children being diagnosed with a developmental or learning disorder, we believe it is our responsibility to create a world where all children’s potential can flourish.  To learn more about the Unicorn Children's Foundation visit http://www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org. Also available on Facebook and Twitter.