Spring. It’s a time of promise, new beginnings and new life. It’s a season that defines the impact of Pine Tree Society. We wanted to share two stories with you that illustrate this perfectly. 
“I already feel great confidence.”
That’s what Annique (pictured) said days after she started a short-term supported work experience at Pine Tree Society last year. Annique went through a typical hiring process (complete with an application and interview), was matched with a job coach and earned a market wage. Annique uncovered skills and built tremendous confidence. The experience transformed her life. And she made a tremendous difference at Pine Tree Society, so much so that she is now employed on a part-time basis taking on clerical tasks.
“No offense, but I don’t need you anymore.”
These wor
ds were music to the ears of Lillian Scenna, manager of Pine Tree Society’s Career Development Services. After just a few days, her client Kim had settled into her new job as Assistant Swim Instructor at the YMCA and was ready to go it alone. When Lillian first met Kim just a few months before, she could see right away that she had a higher skill set than she was able to use in the types of jobs she had done in the past. Lillian worked closely with Kim to uncover her interests and skills. Together they learned that swimming was one of Kim’s priority areas. And she had more than 36 Special Olympics swimming medals to prove it. Lillian arranged for Kim to job shadow with a children’s swim instructor at the Portland YMCA. Right away, the YMCA Director could see Kim was a fit. They were looking for an assistant swim instructor and asked Kim to apply. Today she is thriving as the assistant swim instructor and, in turn, she is transforming the lives of the children she is teaching to swim.
Last year we were able to launch our Career Development Services, thanks to your support. Look at the impact you have made. These are two of hundreds of stories – and we have just begun. Amazingly, these stories are not unique. From Pine Tree Camp and case management to the Early Learning Center and speech services, the life stories of our clients are altered thanks to Pine Tree Society’s innovative, individualized commitment to our clients. And we have you to thank. Your help continues to be critical as we work to expand our impact. We cannot do it without you, our donor. Your gift will immediately be put to work to help people with disabilities live fuller more social connected lives. Your support will transform the lives of thousands of individuals like Annique and Kim. Thank you for your generosity.
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