Community Center accepts grant to support life skills students
Apr. 30—DANVILLE — The Danville Area Community Center will continue its All Are Welcome mission after receiving a $500 grant from the Harry C. Mathias Sr. Charitable Foundation to support life skills and autistic support students.
Specifically, the fund will be used to offset costs associated with visits by Warrior Run School District life skill and autistic support students, according to a press release.
The students visiting the community center participate in activities including swimming, recreational games and shared meals.
Rebecca Perruquet, Warrior Run School District community schools coordinator, submitted the grant request.
"Studies tell us that building self-esteem is crucial. According to Speedo, every session in the pool provides valuable evidence for building self-esteem through getting fitter and stronger," Perruquet said. "In a world of mental wellness, when you are in the water, your mind is occupied, and the rest of the world stops for a while — you are anxiety-free.
"Visits to the DACC are a positive experience, away from the school environment, giving the students time together just simply playing."
The community center offers similar opportunities to students in the Danville Area School District Life Skills Program.
"The goal is promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and opportunity for all," community center Chief Operating Officer Heather Laubach said.
— Anna Wiest
