The Tangible Friendship

Building connections through shared experiences is the building block of meaningful relationships (aka a Pause program value 👀). Think about it, the more you share experiences with your friends and family, the deeper the connections you make with them. 

Kids who have disabilities can find it difficult to make friends and have deep connections for a host of reasons - most of them surrounding communication challenges or overwhelm in social situations. In fact, when we ask caregivers for the one wish they have for their children, the top answer is for their kids to make friends. That's where Pause steps in, bridging the gap by fostering organized opportunities for organic relationships to grow because having fun and building connections is sort of our jam. 

Through a variety of engaging events, both in-house and within the wider community, Pause creates fun experiences to give kids the opportunity to connect with each other. We've seen beautiful things happen in this space because it’s low pressure, it utilizes fun at the catalyst and does it all in a non-judgemental community of people.

Pause has partnered with Niederman Farm for 5 years to provide an annual event we call Fun at the Farm. At Niederman Farm, the joy is tangible: laughter fills the air, hugs are shared freely, and squeals of delight accompany the arrival of a friend. From bouncing on the jumping pillow to imaginative play on the playground, every moment is simply a reminder that, when given the tools, kids with disabilities are great at friendships! In fact, kids are building friendships at Pause that extend beyond our events leading to increases in their self esteem, self-worth and confidence.

One of our favorite things post-event is looking at pictures of the incredible moments we were able to capture on camera. We think it’s such a gift and we are overjoyed to share these photos with you as a reminder that your support changes things - one of them is the ability to have a friend.

Niederman farm - thank you so much for your partnership. It’s more than family fun. It’s acceptance. It’s inclusion. It’s friendship. It’s compassion. It’s love.

This is CAN DO. This is COMMUNITY. This is YOUR SUPPORT.