SIGN LANGUAGE, GARY’S GIFT OF SHARING
Being deaf has not been something to hold Gary back in his desire to interact with others. Quite the opposite; for the past 4 years, he has used his involvement in the Reader Exchange Program at Friendship House as an opportunity to teach others about his world.
Gary became involved in the Reader Exchange Program soon after moving to Friendship House a few years ago. This program was initiated to provide an avenue of interaction, communication and acceptance between grade school children and
people with disabilities. On a weekly basis, readers from Friendship House visit grade school classes in the area to read stories, and participate in joint activities arranged by the teachers and Friendship House.
After Gary became involved with the program, it took on a new dimension. Instead of just reading stories, the groups also participated in signing exercises, where Gary guided the students in the signing of songs, and
basic sign language. This aspect of the program became so popular with students, that some included the projects in other school activities, including talent shows and assemblies.
To date, several hundred grade school students have been touched by Gary’s desire to share his knowledge of sign language. Many former students, as well as parents have commented on how the students have enjoyed the program.
The signing group, with Gary’s guidance, has also performed songs for meetings and banquets in the community. “I was reluctant at first”, said Gary about the program, “but now I am proud to be teaching sign language to the grade school children”.
For more information on the Reader Exchange
Program, contact Carolyn Mills at 815-434-0737