Imagine growing up with
a sister with a developmental disability and then finding out as a new mom that your son
has a developmental disability. That is the situation that Linda Conlin finds
herself in. She credits Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara with providing
opportunities for her sister and son that have changed not only their lives, but have
positively influenced the lives of the other family members as well.
In a letter sent to members and friends of the agency, Linda Conlin, chair of the 2008 Membership Campaign wrote, “Growing up with a sister having a developmental disability seemed quite natural to me at the time, mostly because of how my parents accepted Marilyn’s disability and included me in her care.” She adds, “I am grateful for the uniqueness of programs offered at Opportunities Unlimited. There are many interesting programs for consumers to experience, like horticulture therapy at the Niagara Floral Center and Greenhouse, art classes taught by professional artists, and recreation programs for those living at home.”
Please consider becoming
a member today. You begin helping families like the Conlins and the Regers as soon as you
click here to read Linda’s story and return the membership form to Opportunities
Unlimited of Niagara!
Your membership
investment enhances the lives of the more than 800 individuals with intellectual and other
developmental disabilities (consumers) and their families served by Opportunities
Unlimited of Niagara across Niagara County. At the same time, your generosity
supports the activities of this agency, a grassroots not-for-profit organization, as we
work to develop a better-informed public, who are aware of the achievements and
capabilities of our consumers.
Membership also helps
keep families "in the know," bringing them the latest information on research,
trends, education and treatment. Because every membership includes state and
national representation (through NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc), we are transformed into a
unified and powerful voice on issues pertaining to individuals with developmental
disabilities. When we lobby elected representatives we are the most significant
voice heard in the field.
More good news—your
membership provides benefits, including a $5 coupon good toward a $25 purchase at the
Niagara Floral Center & Greenhouse. It also brings a complimentary ticket to the
agency’s annual meeting planned for June 26 and the first annual Evening of Arts
& Entertainment in September. Of special note for those who join at the
Opportunities for Choice level, you will receive one complimentary admission to the agency’s
Awards Dinner & Gala scheduled for Friday, April 25 at the Niagara Falls Conference
Center.
Membership is available
to individuals 18 years of age and older, and we welcome family members, community friends
and leaders, agency employees and consumers as members.
Successes occur every
day at Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara – join as a member now to help us grow
opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities!