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By Kendyl Galbraith Public Relations/Communications Intern
On Wednesday, Dec. 16, volunteers gathered at what is referred to as the “Cardinal” house. Vista purchased the house to allow adults with autism to live as independently as possible after high school.
Throughout the day, volunteers helped clean, paint, and rip carpets out. Those volunteering included a Vista student, two Vista parents, a volunteer from Pepsi Beverages Company, a community volunteer, two Hershey High School students, and several Vista employees.
Carolyn Devine is a community volunteer who heard of the event through the Derry Township newsletter. She said, “It was nice to help out a great organization and neat to be a part of the community. The timing was perfect with it being Christmas season.”
Another volunteer, Mike Landis, came to help from Pepsi, because he felt his skills could be useful in the preparation of the house. With adults eventually being able to move into this house, or one of Vista’s future houses, Landis said the individuals will, “feel a sense of normalcy with a place to call their own.”
About an hour after the project got started, Matthew Klein, a student at The Vista School, arrived. Matthew intends to live in a Vista home once he is finished with high school. Another volunteer, his mother Lori Klein, said, “Matthew is so excited. He already has a box packed to move into one of the Vista homes.”
Matthew’s excitement was apparent as he entered the Cardinal house. As soon as he walked in, the volunteers gave him a tour and he walked quickly from room to room. He then began to get to work right away, painting the walls with his “M’s and W’s,” as his mother would say.
Matthew was one of the first students who came to the school when it opened in 2002. Lori Klein said that as parents, she and her husband always hoped Vista would grow. They hoped for it, but they did not count on it. Now, 13 years later, homes for adults are becoming a reality.
Jennifer Leidy, director of residential services for Vista Adult Services, said that for parents to allow their child to move into a Vista home is a “very tough decision.” She said, however, that “families will take comfort in that the staff is trained,” and Vista has an excellent reputation.
With its well-trained staff and reputation, Vista looks to continuing to exceed expectations.
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