“How yew doin’ ??”
Well, it is Mentor Monday again, peeps! I know I keep yipping about how these post-secondary educational programs for people with Intellectual Disabilities are changing the lives of not only the participants, but also the lives of the people they are surrounded by. It affects the entire community in such a beautiful way.
Kailin Kelderman is one of our 2015 Rockin’ Recipients at the University of Nevada Reno Path to Independence Program. One of her goals is to live on her own and find a job that she loves. She was really wanting to explore and learn more about photography, so it was no surprise that was one of the classes she took her first semester. Danielle Smith is her mentor in her photography class and says it has been an honor to work with “KK”.
“She is so incredibly smart and kind. Not only does she work hard to be successful in school but she constantly keeps up with the people in her life too. I get texts everyday from her and I honestly look forward to them because I always know KK has my back just like I have hers. She is such a warm person who is truly thoughtful and concerned with everyone in her life. KK has one of the biggest hearts in a person that I have ever met.
KK is a fast learner too. After the first or second time of showing her Photoshop and how to work her camera manually, she knew exactly how to do it. I was amazed at how quickly she got the skills down to create amazing photographs. Usually, it takes people a little bit to get into the photography groove but she has a natural eye and is able to capture the world in amazing ways. I have been so lucky to meet KK and I am glad that I get to be a part of the large support system in her life and her friend.”
Bianca Libbon is her educational coach and had this to say:
“She has already taught me not to underestimate anyone, to reach out to anyone who may need assistance and/or just a friend — no matter their presence of or lack of a disability — and to appreciate all of the wonderful people that I have in my own life. She inspires everyone that meets her, and she has more than proven that she is well equipped to succeed here at Nevada. Kailin is one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and hardworking people that I have ever met, and I am glad to be able to call her my friend.”
There are so many more stories like these. Keep on rockin’ it Kailin and showing the world just how cool and capable peeps with Down syndrome are! We are so proud of you!