Like all things 2020, Thanksgiving is going to look a bit different this year. Some of us won't see our families or friends. Some of us may be breaking years-long traditions. But what better time than now to reflect on all of the things for which we ARE grateful?
DSAW’s Let’s Get Connected virtual course
Here at DSAW, we are thankful for our DSAW Connects virtual education series. Over 8 months ago, we had big (in-person) plans for 2020. But like everyone else, we had to adapt and rise above the circumstances. We transitioned many of our programs and services into a virtual format, and since March, DSAW Connects has been so successful that we plan to continue our virtual programming even after the pandemic has passed!
By the end of this year, DSAW staff will have provided 2,000+ hours of virtual services!! In 2020, we've reached more people across Wisconsin with our programs than EVER before. We held 28 different classes for over 275 participants, averaging 10 classes per day. Wow!! Thank you all for making this possible. If you would like to get involved with DSAW Connects in 2021, click here.
DSAW's Program Manager Lilly notes that our virtual education series "is a powerful tool that we have to help reduce any regression that this pandemic could ultimately cause, and, in fact, it has been instrumental in creating new learning opportunities for my clients and has helped to cultivate improvements in learning, interacting, and in overall well-being."
Maddy participates in a Halloween party through DSAW Connects
Maddy's mom Marita agrees with Lilly's observations: "Maddy is transitioning from a child to a tween and she is relatively shy with her peers. With the onset of COVID-19 and all the shutdowns, I was very concerned that this would become a bigger issue. We signed Maddy up for DSAW Connects and she has absolutely blossomed over the last few months! She went from not speaking in any of the classes to now freely sharing things about her life and joining her peers in all the fun these classes offer! She has made so many new friends throughout Wisconsin!"
When you support DSAW on Giving Tuesday, you support the well-being of those 275 people like Maddy who are isolated at home and craving social interaction. You help our friends rise above the current circumstances and work on achieving their dreams.
Will you consider making a gift to DSAW next Tuesday? You can even designate your donation toward a specific chapter!
