What is Sunshine Industries? |
Sunshine Industries Unlimited has taken a holistic approach to working with the developmentally disabled. It provides a microcosm of the outside world so that it may prepare clients for the mainstream modern world in a safe and nurturing environment.
We as individuals evolve and grow through our experiences interacting with the outside world and each other. For decades, the developmentally disabled were isolated and stunted by short-sighted experts doing what they thought was best. This practice was detrimental to their evolution as human beings, and the low expectations did nothing to help them realize their potential. In fact, people often become only what others expect of them. Disabled adults were usually placed under institutional care when they were very young and treated much like children. Thankfully some disabled citizens were raised by loving families who gave them all the opportunities that anyone else would be given. The difference in their development was so drastically different it is surprising that the academic community was so slow in changing their philosophy regarding the care and standards of these individuals. Now we understand that if anyone is denied the experiences that give us all a common reference of understanding, they are being denied the opportunity to grow to their fullest potential. This means giving them a chance to do for themselves until their individual limitations are realized. Then working with them as adults to expand those boundaries. We are all, since birth, driven to become free and independent. But the old saying goes, no man is an island. None of us do well without help from our peers. We all have limitations and strive to exceed them. This is how we mature as individuals and become whole. It doesn't matter if we are mastering a new task or learning how to navigate a wheelchair. This is the stuff that expands us and leads us into new levels of perception. With this understanding, we at SIU strive to help each client grow into becoming as independent as they can be in spite of their disabilities. Because each has their own unique set of personal challenges and gifts, SIU staff tailors their training to suit the individual's needs. Through various environments and situations, our clients are evaluated by our team of caring staff to learn how best we may help them reach whatever goals they need to in order to grow. Through joy, discovery, laughter, love, and friendship our guidance allows our clients become happy, healthy, and productive members of the mainstream community. Simply put, we help individuals with disabilities become more independent through assessment and practical instruction. This is our life! For more information about the services Sunshine Industries Unlimited offers the Sweet Home community, please visit: www.sunshineindustriesunlimited.com |