During times of uncertainty when our world is shaken, it is important to hold onto some things we have control over until the tough times subside. We must step beyond ourselves and make contributions whenever possible to humanity. David Lieberman did just that on Friday, March 27, 2020 when he and his father, Aaron went to the New York Blood Center in the Long Island area to donate a pint.
As a program, we are always looking for ways to enhance the independence of our amazing students! On that note, a brand new course that is being offered is Driver’s Permit Prep Class taught by Dominick Brown who serves as our Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).
Even during times of uncertainty, the show must go on as reasonable precautions are taken by our entire agency to help individuals enjoy life while avoiding large crowds. On that note, Jessica and Bill enjoyed an intimate and friendly crowd at the German American Club this past Friday, March 13, 2020. Dinner consisted of a Saint Patrick’s Day dish with corned beef and steamed cabbage with three dessert samples.
The College Experience and the Transitions Program would like to offer our most sincere appreciation to the Special Olympics branch located on 94 New Karner Road, for being so supportive of Sam Nam during his first year as an alumnus.
The Alumni Activities Club had ventured out into New York City once again to take in some culture, talent, and new friends. Nick Williams, Mia Carr, and Bill Fitzpatrick were escorted by staff to a small theatre where they saw a play titled, “beth.”
The College Experience and Living Resources, Inc. would like to emphasize how impressed we are by the ambition and leadership abilities of Danielle Passariello! Danielle has chosen to spearhead an upcoming fundraiser to raise money so her entire 2018-2020 class may go on an exciting senior trip by the end of the year. The event will be on Friday, March 27, 2020 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Saint Andrew’s Church.
The Alumni Activities Club traveled on a two day, one night trip to Atlantic City this past weekend on Sunday, February 23rd to Monday, February 24, 2020. Everybody had a wonderful time, and the weather was beautiful especially considering it was the middle of winter.
One of our Cooking Classes led by staff member, Edith “Plummy” Chase was recently hard at work learning how to make BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwiches in one of the house kitchens. New skills such as cooking and learning how to navigate internships may be intimidating for our students, although staff is always at hand to help everyone surmount the “fear factor.”
A recent cooking class led by our instructor, Edith “Plummy” Chase, guided the students to learn how to make french fries – a very nice treat when balanced out with the nutritious meals the student also learn how to whip up in their kitchen full of useful tools.
The Alumni Activities Club packed themselves in a vehicle to go to the swimming pool at the Guilderland YMCA. I am sure we would all agree there is no better way to rage against winter than go into a heated swimming pool and hot tub. This is definitely one of the most popular locations for the Alumni Activities Club and our first time visiting since the beginning of 2020.
Since 2005, students enrolled in The College Experience have been a welcomed part of a coeducational college community located in Albany, New York. We partner with Russell Sage College, and our students are welcomed members of both Russell Sage’s Albany and Troy campus communities.
Students are offered a practical core curriculum and a wide variety of electives.
Our dorms are beautifully remodeled city residences located just a few blocks from Russell Sage’s Albany campus. Students live together in groups of 3 – 9. Each student has his or her own bedroom and share common living areas. Seniors serve as mentors to freshmen and assist them in many meaningful ways.
What comes after graduation? Many College Experience students, in fact most, choose to remain in Albany. They maintain friendships with their fellow and former graduates, form romantic partnerships, and some get married.
Through our C2L Program, the College Experience support staff offers dedicated transition support and guidance, helping students in the year after graduation with apartment leases and job placements, and then literally forever after as members of the Living Resources community.