Rockwall, TX (February 7, 2024) – Cooking is therapeutic. It offers the ability to express creativity, nurture others, and brings feelings of satisfaction. Sandie Wood and her 24-year-old son, Chase, agree.
Chase, who has Down’s Syndrome, was very active while attending Rockwall High School, which offered a variety of activities and organizations in which to participate. Chase played football in high school amongst other activities, having many of the same experiences that other young people have. However, as special needs children age out of school, too often they find few adult programs available, if any.
Seeking more opportunities for adults like Chase, Sandie approached Rockwall Parks and Recreation with an idea.
Now, every other Wednesday a group of 9-10 adults with special needs take over the kitchen at Harry Myers Park Community Center! Baking, cooking, and making friends over shared experiences.
What makes this group even more unique is that the attendee’s ability to communicate ranges widely. With some unable to read, those who can assist those who cannot. In fact, at its core the group serves as a support group in many ways! For the attendees, and their family members, the benefits are wide ranging. Some are challenged, others nurture, and all experience opportunities to create, interact, serve others, and be a part of a great program that is larger than themselves.
The cooking group models the values Sandie taught her three boys – work hard, serve others, and treat everyone the way they want to be treated.
With service on their minds, this past December the group decided amongst themselves to do something special for the holidays. Daniel, with Rockwall Parks and Recreation who helped Sandie get the class kicked off, was once again a great resource! He connected them with Lakeshore Assisted Living to plan a “Cookie Run”. After much planning and even more baking, they made their delivery.
Their enthusiasm overflowed, going over and beyond! With over 400 home baked cookies in hand, they didn’t stop there. They also baked, decorated, boxed, and delivered over 80 jars of spice cake, 5 sheet cakes and 24 small chocolate cakes!
Thinking towards the future, the group is likely to plan another special project in the community, especially for those who may have needs themselves.
For Sandie, she is thinking larger and looking for the right opportunity to open doors, and opportunities for this very special group of caring and talented individuals. Having experienced excellent programming through Rockwall ISD, she believes partnering with the culinary program to provide guidance, safe cooking tips, and community service opportunities might be a great fit!
By Melanie Mayfield, Blue Ribbon News staff writer
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