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The Neel Parent Support Group, was formed in 1998 by
parents of youths and young adults with mild to moderate learning,
emotionally and physically disabilities. The objectives of the Parent Support Group is help economic disadvantage families,
to become better advocates for there children. Insuring they have the best quality of life possible.
The group also addresses the isolation and loneliness that some
parents and caregivers undergo when caring for a disabled child or love one. Our goal is to provide parents, caregivers and
family members with access to information, resources and support for building happy, healthy families.
In 1999 we started The Goodwill V.I.N.T.A Youth Ambassadors,
providing regularly scheduled art, community service projects, educational and
social activities. For both youths and young adults with and without disabilities to accomplish together.
Giving the opportunity to recognize and appreciate each other's talents and abilities.
Young people with disabilities should have the same opportunities
as children without disabilities, when it comes to education, social opportunities,
and the ability to reach their fullest potential. Young people with varies disabilities have
the same dreams, wants and desires as another person. Some will achieve them and others will enjoy the pursuit.
Goodwill V.I.N.T.A Youth Ambassadors
Accomplishments
1998 - 2000 We arranged free and affordable transportation for 28 children from economically
disadvantaged families for testing and treatment at Loma Linda Medical Children’s Hospital, Arrowhead Regional Medical
Center, Los Angeles Children’s Hospital, UCLA and USC Medical Center.
1998 - 2008 On-going campaign against Hyperthermia Deaths Of Children (Please don’t leave me in the car). Every year
they pass out flyers and car window decals to the public reminding everyone never to leave children in a hot car during the
summer.
1999 We gave out backpacks of school supplies to 100 children in Apple Valley Mountain Vista Area, along with helpful tips
on doing Homework. We provided a pizza dinner for twenty families.
2000 The day before Halloween we gave out candy and 100 comic
books in Apple Valley Mountain Vista Area along with information on how to be safe on Halloween.
2000 - 2009 The youths
host an annual Children and Celebrity Art Show
2002, 2006 Beary Good Friday - (Random Acts Of Kindness) - We distributed 153 teddy bears to Loma Linda
Children’s Hospital, 169 stuffed animals to the Victor Valley Prenatal Unit in Victorville, California,178 stuffed animals
to the Soldiers of 1st. BN 185th Armor 40th INF Div. (Mech.) (Charles Company) to give to their families while they were servicing
in Iraq. 274 stuffed animals were given out to children going into the hospital and sitting in hospital waiting rooms. In
2007, on Good Friday, we distributed a total of 50 stuffed bears scented with lavender to children sitting in hospital waiting
rooms in the hope of encouraging their emotional and physical healing.
2002 - 2009 The Angel In My Pocket Project - (Random Act Of Kindness) Is a project to promote
hope and love around the world. The children send or give out Angel Medallions that have been blessed every other month to
individuals around the world, from all walks of life rich, young and old. They also send out Angel Medallions to Soldiers
servicing in state side and overseas, Services Men and Women recovering at Walter Reed Army Hospitals in Washington DC. Too
carry in their pocket to remind them that someone cares. As of March 2009 the kids will have sent out 1775 angel cards and
guardian angel medallions.
2005 - 2007 - 2009 The parents hosted three conferences on violence in our
schools and communities. In 2005 one of our guest panelists was Richard Riordan, former Los Angeles Mayor and California Secretary
for Education.
1999 - 2008 The Walls of Encouragement and Inspiration started
out as a simple writing project. The goal of this project was to encourage positive communication. After six years “The
Wall ” has grown into the world’s largest collection of autographed photos, messages, notes and letters from celebrities
and notable individuals from around the world. Addressed to a group of children on the significance of staying in school,
getting their education and going for their dreams.
2003 - 2005 Letters of recognition from Senator Barbara Boxer, former President George
Bush Sr., former President Bill Clinton, former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani
and Nelson Mandela.
2002 - Received Commendation from the California Governor for The Wall of Inspiration.
2003 - Received Commendation from the California Governor Office for The Angel In
My Pocket Project
2003 - 2007 Received Commendation from the California Governor Office for The VINTA
Project (Violence Is Not The Answer)
2004 - 2009 Hello Rally
2006 - 2009 Earth Day Project - Recycle Man reminds citizens to THINK GREEN EVERY
DAY and offering “Tips That Can Make A Difference.” The Reuser Fairy gives new life to old objects and Trash Can
Boy, Disposes items that could harm the plant earth and it inhabitants
2008 We created At A Glance Playing Cards the 52 playing cards reminds players it
is wrong to Bullying and what to do if you are being bullied. The cards also
as the question, Are you a bully?
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