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Expand Special Needs Program

Human Resources

Time Status:

Budget Status:

Percent Complete: 100%

Start Date: 10/01/2024

End Date: 06/30/2025

To establish a central point of contact within the City who will support the internal/external accessibility needs and manage requests for support through the appropriate city departments. This position will research the possibilities of expanding Special needs programming and activities.

As part of this initiative:

Identified and introduced Coordinator in HR.
Established an Accessibility & Inclusion and Advisory Group made up of public education personnel, businesses, and advocates for individuals with accessibility needs. Up to 30 members voted by the City Commission. First meeting to take place in September.
Additional Saturday Social Club programs have been initiated.
The department hosted five themed Boogie Down Dances.
Staff collaborated with the Community Development Department to plan, host, and execute a field day experience for special needs students from Atlantic Vocational College
Staff coordinated the preparation and distribution of Sensory Kits in observance of Autism Awareness Month.
Staff coordinated and executed Sensory Walk at Cypress Park in observance of Autism Awareness Month
Hosted the Exceptional Voices Together Forum for caregivers and persons with special needs
Instituted the Special Populations Youth Advisory Series, offering quarterly activities for families of children ages 5-12 with special needs