About the Artists
Hannah is a 21 year old autistic young lady who just graduated from a High School for Special Needs children. She loves music, watching movies, reading, and creating her art.
Connor is a 15 year old autistic teen who attends the same school as his sister. He loves watching movies, reading, building Legos, and most of all creating his art.
They both have been involved with Hand in Hand for almost 10 years and it’s been so helpful and wonderful. The volunteers over the years have evolved into lasting friendships, which Hannah and Connor never would have had. They both are so thankful for all Hand in Hand continues to give them such as the friendships, holiday celebrations, and Sunday circle fun with other special needs kids of all ages.
Both Hannah and Connor face daily challenges in their lives as individuals with special needs and their art is a great source of comfort, joy and creativity.
About Hand in Hand
Hand in Hand extends a helping hand to special needs children and their families. Its twofold purpose is to involve the children in a full range of Jewish and social experiences while providing an exciting growth opportunity for its teenage volunteers. By training them to become effective friends and mentors to these children, Hand in Hand imparts a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the members of its special team of volunteers.
The experience is rewarding for all involved. The special needs children get to have what every child needs: friends, role models and love. The volunteers enjoy the priceless experience of contributing to someone’s life in a fun and playful way.
At the heart of all Hand in Hand’s programming is the belief that each and every individual can be a productive member of the community. Whether one is on the giving or receiving end of this effort, everyone benefits. By giving special needs children the experience of friendship, acceptance, and participation in socially bonding activities, the volunteers give them the opportunity to be part of their community in a more enlivening and inclusive way.