Fall 2023 Newsletter

Three Simple Words

Three words – fun, friendship and service - capture the spirit of Bustin’ Barriers. Kids participating in Bustin’ Barriers programs are diverse in terms of their disabilities and their ages. Some “newbies” to Bustin’ Barriers are five years old, enjoying camp and respite programs for the first time. Others have been with Bustin’ Barriers since we were the “newbies” on the scene in 2012. Those kids are now seniors in high school, in transition programs or are even recent transition graduates.

Fun, in a supportive environment, draw kids to BB summer camp year after year. This past summer registration was robust with 108 camp slots filled over four weeks of camp. Whether it was gym or playground activities, shooting baskets, dancing or art projects, campers were engaged. New friends were made and friendships rekindled. The relationships developed between campers and coaches encouraged participation and laughter, lent an understanding ear and cheered accomplishment. Three former campers joined the coaching team in 2023 – developing their leadership skills and serving as role models to younger campers. Our summer teen coaching team provided 1150 volunteer hours of service to BB. Lead coaches provided an additional 1059 hours of service. Thank you!

Coming Together to Party!

In late October, Bustin’ Barriers held a Fall/Halloween-themed dance. As costumed tweens, teens and young adults arrived, they were welcomed by popular summer-camp coaches who were very cool chaperones. There was music, games to play, a soul-train dance line, a balloon-dazzled photo area to “capture the moment” as well as refreshments. Socializing in a safe, comfortable environment is important to so many BB participants, especially as they grow into young adulthood. Being able to socially mingle and interact in a supportive environment means a lot … with music, games and refreshments making it an all the more fun experience.

Service

Bustin’ Barriers benefits from the service of many – teen volunteers, staff coaches, a dedicated Board of Directors and a new Operations Director. Through a grant from the Oregon Community Foundation, BB was able to hire an 0.5 FTE Operations Director – Sarah Roberts. In addition to having the skills to direct Bustin’ Barriers’ operations, Sarah is the parent of children who experience disability. Through her lived experience she knows the challenges both kids and their families often experience in navigating the educational and social service systems as well as the joys in seeing children bust barriers and achieve personal goals.

Meet Our Newest Board Member - Rachel Rischiotto

Born with Arthrogryosis, Rachel is a Business Management student who exemplifies a spirit of determination. Describing Arthrogryosis as a muscle and joint weakness, she says of herself, “I am mobile using my power chair and write using a pen or pencil along with typing on a computer. In other words, my disability never slows me down.” We have seen Rachel move in the gym in her power chair to take pictures and interact with campers and coaches. Her experience working with a caregiver, taking classes, navigating transportation and the SSI systems make for a young woman moving forward. Welcome Rachel.

We conclude this newsletter with both heartfelt gratitude and excitement. After 6 years, Barb Ferre is stepping down as Chair of Bustin’ Barriers Board of Directors but is remaining on the Board. As a retired pediatrician, she has been instrumental in guiding the health and safety protocols of our organization and embodies a commitment to the equity of youth experiencing disability. Our new Board Chair is Allyn Smith, a long-term volunteer and Board member who brings business and financial expertise, advocacy on behalf of disabled youth and their families and wonderful auction enthusiasm. We’re excited to have her at the helm!

Thank you for your support of Bustin' Barriers

Andrew Yoshihara
Executive Director