In addition to offering amenities and unique programming to residents of the community, Rancho Sahuarita is dedicated to continuously going above and beyond and to finding new and inventive ways to ensure that all residents are able to experience the quality lifestyle it provides.
For over the last 7 years, the team at Rancho Sahuarita has partnered with organizations to offer events designed especially for children with special needs and their families. The biggest partner in this effort by far has been the Sahuarita-Green Valley Family Support Network (run by resident and community member, Jamie Comeau). What first began as a conversation between residents and the small non-profit group, is now at the crux of the community’s extensive Special Needs Program.
The desire started from a place of wanting to find opportunities for these families to be an active part of Sahuarita, and to be able to connect with each other in safe and inviting environments and situations. The partnership now allows for the occurrence of many special events throughout the year. The smaller monthly events can attract anywhere from 60 to 70 people (25-40 families), while the bigger events can draw a much bigger crowd. For example, the Autism Awareness Day celebration on April 2nd, 2018, had over 200 participants. Other events include an annual Prom for Families of Children with Special Needs, a Holiday Party, an Easter Egg Hunt, and a Water Park Day at the Splash Park at Club Rancho Sahuarita. These events allow the families to enjoy the spaces and event activities, without the typical crowds and noise that come with them.
These events are made possible through the continued partnership with the Sahuarita-Green Valley Family Support Network. Jamie Comeau commented on the partnership saying, “There are always a lot of new families in town and the community, and we want to be able to reach them and let them know that they are not alone in their journey. The families in our group all have different diagnoses, and have found amazing doctors and specialists and therapists and are very open about sharing their experiences. It has been a huge stepping stone for parents who otherwise would never have known where to go.”
She continued: “We just want to let people know they have local support and families like them. Thanks to the support from Rancho [Sahuarita] and their staff, we have been able to provide a judgement-free, safe, kid friendly and fun environment for our families to come together and get to know each other and feel included and make connections we may otherwise not have. It means so much to all of us that they do this for us and our families. It means everything to us to have them open their doors for our families!”
Rancho Sahuarita is also taking this dedication to its amenities. On May 21st, a new swing will be installed at Club Rancho Sahuarita. The swing is manufactured by Safe and Sound Playgrounds, and is handicap accessible.
Michelle Moreno, Community Director of Rancho Sahuarita, commented on the ability to be able to offer the program through the partnership saying, “When you are ‘Creating a Better Life’ for families, it is important to remember ALL families. Some of the families with these special children chose Rancho Sahuarita because of our program, and because of the opportunity we offer these families to feel included [and experience the lifestyle in a way that works for them].”