In an era where the rights of many in our society have come into question, Emerald Doyle’s story exemplifies that with advocacy and strategic perseverance, it is possible to overcome roadblocks to your dreams and goals.
Attending School for the First Time at Age 11
Adopted from China at the age of 11 and attending school for the first time upon arriving to the US, Emerald had many learning disabilities to navigate. When Emerald’s adoptive mom, Cass, learned that The Arc Pikes Peak Region’s educational advocacy could assist with ensuring that Emerald received what she needed from her education, she exhaled a sigh of relief.
The Arc Provided services to my daughter that I did not know existed and provided a peace of mind and respite in my daughter’s care,” Cass explained. “I’m grateful to have The Arc and Connie McKenzie (advocacy specialist at The Arc PPR) reach out to assist us when I didn’t know where to turn.
A Passion to Give Back
After just seven years in school, Emerald graduated in the top third of her high school class. While still in school, Emerald was inspired by a news article depicting the great need of those living on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Moved by compassion and empathy, Emerald partnered with local nonprofit One Nation Walking Together to collect much-needed food and supplies for the reservation – approximately 33 percent of homes there do not have access to necessities such as water or heat. Emerald’s first food drive raised 1200 pounds of food.
The momentum continued, and Emerald collected another 4200 pounds of food and 400 pounds of feminine hygiene products for her Girls Scouts Gold Award.
When I learned that the girls on the reservation miss a week of school each month (due to lack of feminine hygiene products) and fall so behind they simply drop out – this is not acceptable for me. It reminded me of when I was in China,” Emerald described. “I had never gone to school, until I came here (to the US), when I was age 11… it was hard to not go to school. It is very important to get an education.
Will You Help Students Like Emerald Achieve Their Goals?
We invite you to partner with us to help create a community that is inclusive of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, by making a donation to The Arc through Indy Give!, a year-end giving campaign that runs through 12/31.
All proceeds will benefit Building for Change, The Arc PPR’s inclusive personal development center for people with I/DD, their families, caregivers, professionals, and the community. Through Building for Change, The Arc PPR will expand its advocacy, education, and life skills offerings to equip those with I/DD to flourish in their homes and communities.
You can make a donation to The Arc PPR through Indy Give!, until 12/31/20, here.
The post Emerald’s Story: Overcoming Learning Disability & a Passion to Give Back appeared first on The Arc Pikes Peak Region.