REACH Program Details
(Religious Ed. Apostalate For Christian Handicapped)
The purpose of this program is to integrate into St. Raphael Faith Community anyone with special needs. These special needs may be physical, mental, or emotional - or simply a child who needs more attention than can be offered in a group setting.
Students are taught on a one-on-one basis with a "Helper" assigned to each person.
Also included is sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation. The program strives to develop concepts of Christian living, which our physically and developmentally disabled students can utilize in their daily living at home, at school, and in the work place.
Classes are held twice a month Saturday mornings. Sessions are from 10:30 AM to noon and are divided into three parts. First is a settling down time, doing a craft that relates to the lesson. Then students work on puzzles, stencils, coloring, and the like, which quietly prepares them for the second segment. Catechists take over in part two, conducting the formal lessons. The group is divided by age: the children's group is for 6 to 14 year olds and the older group is for 15 year olds and up. In the third part, the entire group reunites for a snack, singing, and socializing.
REACH students are encouraged to take part in all the activities sponsored by the RE community: liturgies, WINGS events, and the like.
One volunteer "Helper" is needed to assist each person in the program.