“We have three great kids. Our youngest son, Cory, has Down Syndrome, O.C.D, and mood disorder. During his high school years he was pretty active and motivated but as time progresses, and he gets older, his motivation, energy, focus, and everyday situations become more challenging. When we first moved to Arizona in 2000, I began searching for suitable programs and activities to keep Cory involved and interested. We knew that if he was not challenged in positive ways that he would vegetate and do nothing.

We were lucky enough to have the owner as our support coordinator when we first arrived here and when we found out she was developing this wonderful DTA program, we knew we wanted to be part of it. We went to the opening day “open house” and Cory said, “Mom, I want to come to Dawn’s store.” I believe he was their first client and has been there ever since.

Cory needs to be kept busy and focused. He gets that and more from On Angel’s Wings. He enjoys interacting with all the clients and loves his staff. The many activities that they do have been both entertaining as well as educational. It’s so great to have him come home from an outing and see him excited about what he saw or did. He loves the special events that they do and the involvement in the Special Olympic programs that On Angel’s Wings participates in. The yearly Luau is one of his favorites. He always dresses up for the theme dance parties and special holiday events. He plans for days what he wants to wear or what he should bring on any given day.

They do a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner that can’t be beat and all the families are invited. I think that is one of Cory’s favorite times there too.

The environment is always positive, the rooms are light and airy and always kept clean. There is always something going on for the clients to involve themselves in if they chose to or sometimes like Cory does, just kick back and look at a book or rest.

When anyone asks me what Cory does, I am proud to tell them that he attends a special Day Program that keeps him stimulated and productive. They usually say ‘Oh, what’s that?’ and I always say, ‘On Angel’s Wings. Here’s their card.'”