Resources

The Heart of Sailing

The Heart of Sailing Foundation is a non-profit charitable 501(c)(3) international organization which introduces sailing to children with developmental disabilities as a form of education and recreational therapy. Teaching sailing to our special needs children has proven to be an exhilarating experience, yet calming, tranquil and highly rewarding for the children, their parent(s)/caregiver(s) as well as those of us who serve them. We do not charge for this service but, instead, rely upon and are most appreciative of donations.

The foundation is providing this free service in 36 locations within the United States and expects to serve approximately 3,000 children in 2008. In the Houston area, we already have served more than 300 children in 2008. To learn more about the Heart of Sailing Foundation, please go to our web site: www.heartofsailing.org

While at our Homepage, be sure to check out two things: (1) our latest PowerPoint presentation and (2) the special feature produced by FOX News.

New Online Support for Special Needs - Biblical Parenting

Parents of kids with special needs are often looking for help from people who truly understand their situation. All kids are unique, but adding physical and social delays and deficits to the picture can make parenting an even more difficult challenge. Whether your child has ADD/ADHD, bipolar issues, autism, or other neurological disorders, physical, or social challenges, you'll learn what other parents have found helpful and even more importantly, get the support and encouragement you so desperately need. This is our newest online support group for parents. Click here to learn more.

UCP - United Cerebral Palsy

Saturday day-camp for children ages 3 - 16 with disabilities and their siblings. Each child is matched with a volunteer who assists them throughout the day. An on-site nurse is available to assist with children's medical needs.

2009/2010 Dates:

October 3rd
November 7th
December 5th
February 6th
March 6th
April 3rd
October 2nd
November 6th
December 4th

If you are interested in these services, please contact Kristie Carlsile at kcarlisle@ucphouston.org

COMMUNITY EVENTS/RESOURCES

ORWALL Challenger Baseball
Special needs Baseball program for all ages. For more information go to www.orwallchallenger.com.

TOPS Soccer
Soccer program for special needs children of all ages sponsored through the Texas Rush Soccer Club. Their website is www.texasrush.com

CONROE YMCA
Adaptive programs available. Contact Krista Ripley at krista.ripley@ymcahouston.org

SPECIAL OLYMPICS
Provides year-round sports training & athletic competition in a variety of Olympic type sports for children & adults with intellectual disability. Contact Patrician Jones at pjones@sotx.org