LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A daytime program in Central Florida is providing a “Friendship Place” space for adults with special abilities to interact with others like them.
“One of our hopes is to find that perfect landing spot for her,” said Steven Bold, Sarah’s father, who attends Friendship Place.
The Volds are from Arkansas and moved to Central Florida so their daughter, Sarah, who has Down syndrome, could participate in the program.
“There’s culinary training, art studies, vocational training,” Vold said.
Read: Creating a community where people with disabilities can achieve their dreams
Friendship Place is located in the Clermont area of the Central Florida Dreamplex.
Our free daytime programs provide adults 22 and older with a place to participate, engage, and connect with others just like them.
Demand for the service is high, with 30-40 people participating in the program each week.
“Learning and growing doesn’t end when you graduate from high school,” Vold said. “It really is just beginning, and I think a place like this will help her reach her full potential.”
Read: Daytona Beach cat cafe helps people with special needs and homeless pets
Participants can take part in activities such as yoga and learn life skills such as how to make coffee and employability skills such as how to run a cafe.
Sarah said she enjoys cooking, singing and dancing.
“To see someone who’s never left their home come and sit in a classroom, the joy and the smiles, the pure joy, it’s something you can’t put a price on,” said Pedro Rodriguez, director of Friendship Place.
Read: Resources available in Central Florida ensure no child goes hungry this summer
It also provides caregivers like Sarah’s father with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is in trustworthy care.
“It’s nice to be able to provide a place for her father to relax while he’s at work and for her daughter to be in a safe environment,” Rodriguez said.
Friendship Place is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants can attend two to five days a week, depending on program space and availability.
Due to a current lack of funding and staffing, there is a waiting list of participants. To make a donation or inquire about employment opportunities, please visit their website here.
Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV app and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.