MAUMEE – If you’ve ever sought out resources for a family member with developmental disabilities, you’ve likely heard about Sunshine Communities, a longtime community presence. The organization is now trying to meet a fundraising goal to address badly needed updates to their therapeutic pool.
The nonprofit is known for building community among people with developmental disabilities and their families, friends and staff through residential, vocational, therapeutic and recreational services on their Maumee campus and in community homes.
They also offer supported employment opportunities through Georgette’s Grounds & Gifts, a coffee shop and restaurant, and Sunshine Studios, an art studio and creative space in Uptown Maumee.
Sunshine was founded in 1950 by Roy and Georgette Engler. The two had five children with developmental disabilities. While taking care of their children at home, the couple visited state institutions to see what care options were available. Since they found other institutions appalling, they founded Sunshine Children’s next to their home with the help of a nearby Mennonite congregation.
At the core of the offered services is a commitment to the progression, inclusion and integration of individuals with developmental disabilities within our community. They empower the people they serve by promoting independence and growing confidence to improve the quality of life.
Aquatic therapy and recreation
One service Sunshine Communities offers is its aquatic program, which utilizes an indoor swimming pool that became part of Sunshine in 1991.
The pool can be used for both therapy and recreation. It has a raised floor and chair lift to allow individuals of all abilities to enter the water safely. The pool is kept at a temperature of 92 degrees Fahrenheit to support neurological engagement. The pool is utilized for arthritis exercise classes, swim lessons, local school classrooms, birthday parties and practice space for basketball and cheerleading teams and more.
“Therapy in the pool helps patients with pain relief, improves mobility, strengthens muscles,
reduces inflammation and enhances balance and coordination,” said Lori Ciacelli, director of clinical services.
Sunshine must make significant upgrades to the pool to continue offering its benefits to their residents and community. To improve the pool, they will replace and relocate the aging natatorium HVAC unit. New mechanics will improve ventilation, and corrosion exterior plumbing costs will be reduced.
Sunshine needs to secure funds to finish the upgrades. Ciacelli explained how people can help, how much they need to raise, and what the money goes to.
“People can donate to this cause, and every dollar helps us get closer to the $400,000 needed for the specialized equipment,” she said. “Pools are expensive, and this includes essential features, like the raise-and-lower floor, temperature control, and other factors that ensure safety and accessibility for individuals at Sunshine.”
Shannon Bova, chief philanthropy officer at Sunshine Communities, added that “Sunshine’s pool is a unique year-round therapy outlet that we are proud to offer.
Individuals love it, and our staff enjoys incorporating it into their therapy plans. The community is eager for public use and classes to return.”
Although no fundraising events are scheduled for the pool, Sunshine is in need of financial support to reach their goal of $400,000. If you would like to contribute to the vital improvements of the swimming pool and the aquatic program, you can donate to the fund here.
