Deepwood Foundation Celebrates Dedication of Tribute Garden

About 150 guests gathered for a heartwarming event at Broadmoor School last Tuesday to celebrate the Deepwood Foundation's newest project- a tribute garden featuring custom bricks and benches. The custom brick installation was created to honor individuals who have generously given their time, resources, and compassion to both the Deepwood Foundation and the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Located in the northern corner of the Clark Family Adaptive Activity and Learning Center, the Deepwood Foundation Tribute Garden features over 250 bricks and pavers, many of which bear personalized messages from sponsors, donors, and families connected to the Foundation and Lake County BDD. Each brick serves as a symbol of the strong community support that continues to uplift those with developmental disabilities.

Attendees of the event enjoyed a performance by the Deepwood Dancers along with pizza, ice cream, and face painting. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as Deepwood Foundation President Andrea Poklar-Byrne dedicated the Tribute Garden with a heartfelt speech.

“We know that disabilities can touch any family,” Poklar-Byrne shared. “It’s because of your heartfelt support that we are able to empower these families and provide essential resources to individuals with special needs. Your contributions help us continue our mission—one filled with hope and opportunity.”

Elfie Roman, Superintendent of the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities-Deepwood, also expressed her gratitude to the community. “We cannot thank you enough for your benevolence,” she said. “We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you.”

Deepwood Foundation's Executive Director added that the Tribute Garden is a lasting reminder of the profound impact supporters have made. "Each brick tells a story of dedication, compassion, and community spirit," she said.

Currently, about half of the bricks in the garden have been sponsored and customized, but the Foundation is continuing to sell bricks until the installation is complete. For more information or to donate a custom brick, please visit DeepwoodFoundation.org.

Deepwood Foundation Welcomes Dr. Katie Davis, Ph.D, to Its Board of Directors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Painesville, OH - [September 3, 2024] — Deepwood Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Katie Davis, Ph.D., to its Board of Directors. With over 20 years of experience in special education, Dr. Davis brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and passion to the Foundation as it continues its mission to provide access to essential activities, adaptive equipment, and life-enriching experiences for individuals with developmental disabilities in Lake County.

Dr. Davis is a distinguished Professor of Special Education at Lake Erie College and a Senior Adjunct Professor at Gallaudet University. She has been instrumental in developing curriculums, supervising student educators, and collaborating with educators, families, and community members to enhance the quality of education for individuals with special needs. She is a well-respected advocate and expert in the field, having received multiple awards, including the Milestones Autism Resources Parent Tribute Award and Gallaudet University’s Graduate School's Outstanding Collaboration Award.

"I am deeply honored to join the Board of the Deepwood Foundation," said Dr. Davis. "I look forward to working with my fellow board members to advance the Foundation’s important mission of empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and creating inclusive opportunities within our community."

Deepwood Foundation has proudly served Lake County residents and their families for over 30 years. The Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives by providing access to a range of services and programs that they may not otherwise be able to access. The addition of Dr. Davis to the Board aligns with the Foundation's commitment to leveraging the expertise of leaders in the field to drive meaningful change.

"Dr. Davis’s extensive background in special education and her dedication to this community make her a perfect fit for our board," said Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikke Coach. "Her insights and experience will be invaluable as we continue to expand our programs and initiatives to better serve those with developmental disabilities in Lake County."

For more information about the Deepwood Foundation and its programs, please visit deepwoodfoundation.org.

About Deepwood Foundation

Deepwood Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities in Lake County for over 30 years. The Foundation provides grants and funding for adaptive equipment, activities, and experiences that promote independence, inclusion, and enhanced quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Contact Information:

LeeAnn Mullen
Marketing Associate, Deepwood Foundation
(440) 350-5209
leeann.mullen@lakebdd.org

NFL Jaguars Tight End Luke Farrell Visits Deepwood Foundation, Brings Smiles

On Monday, July 15th, Deepwood Foundation and Broadmoor School received a special visit from NFL tight end Luke Farrell. Known for his athletic prowess on the field, Farrell took time out of his busy schedule to make a meaningful contribution to the community that holds a special place in his heart.

Farrell made a generous donation to the Deepwood Foundation for the Broadmoor Family Network and spent time autographing memorabilia, including a pair of custom Broadmoor School-themed cleats he wore during a game last season. He was accompanied by two close friends who are special needs teachers at local school districts.

"I love to help here where I can," Farrell expressed during his visit. "This place is really special. It means a lot to me, and I'm happy to help."

The Jaguars tight end spent over an hour at the school, taking time to greet staff members and attendees of the New Avenues for Independence summer camp as well. He stopped into classrooms and took the time to say hello to each child—giving many high-fives along the way.

Farrell's connection to Deepwood and Broadmoor School dates back to his high school days at nearby Perry High School. As a varsity basketball player, Farrell often played against the Broadmoor Bobcats on Friday evenings, fostering a bond that continues to inspire his philanthropic efforts today.

With his visit and contributions, Farrell has once again demonstrated his commitment to giving back and supporting a community that has significantly impacted his life. Thanks, Luke!

Deepwood Foundation Receives Generous Donation from Knights of Columbus - St. Bede the Venerable Council in Mentor

July 16, 2024

Mentor, OH – Deepwood Foundation is proud to announce the receipt of a generous donation of over $2,700 from the Knights of Columbus - St. Bede the Venerable Council this July.

This recent contribution brings the lifetime donations from the Knights of Columbus – St. Bede to over $62,000.

“These funds have been instrumental in helping Deepwood Foundation provide essential equipment, opportunities, and activities that promote the integration of individuals with developmental disabilities into society and foster a culture of inclusivity,” said Deepwood Foundation Executive Director Rikke Coach.

"We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Knights of Columbus - St. Bede the Venerable Council,” she added. “Their generous contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of those we serve, helping us to enhance our programs and services."

Deepwood Foundation remains committed to its mission of promoting inclusivity and providing vital resources for individuals with developmental disabilities. With the ongoing support of community partners like the Knights of Columbus, the foundation continues to make a difference in the lives of many throughout Lake County.

Deepwood Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Lake County. These grants are part of our ongoing efforts to support programs and initiatives that promote inclusion, independence, and quality of life.

For more information about Deepwood Foundation and our grant programs, please visit www.deepwoodfoundation.org.

Contact: LeeAnn Mullen
Marketing Associate
Deepwood Foundation
Phone: (440) 350-5209
Email: leeann.mullen@lakebdd.org

Deepwood Foundation Awards More Than $63,000 in Grants for Q2 to Support Individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Lake County

Deepwood Foundation is pleased to announce the awarding of over $63,000 in grants for the second quarter of 2024. These grants will provide crucial support for various programs and resources that enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities in our Lake County community.

Some of this quarter’s grants include:

·         22 summer camp grants: Deepwood Foundation partnered with the Marcus’ Lantern Fund to provide financial assistance to support children with developmental disabilities in attending summer camps, ensuring they have access to enriching and inclusive recreational activities.

·         8 iPads with speech software: iPads were donated to Deepwood Foundation by the Willoughby Rotary WRAP program and are equipped with speech software to aid nonverbal or limited verbal children and adults in communicating effectively with others.

·         5 adaptive equipment grants: Provision of adaptive strollers, tricycles, and other necessary equipment to improve mobility and independence for individuals with developmental disabilities.

·         Support for Deepwood Recreation: Funds to facilitate outings for 200 individuals to attend Lake County Captains baseball games this summer, promoting social interaction and community involvement.

·         Chardon Polka Band Event: Support for the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood Willoughby Branch to host a performance by the Chardon Polka Band, bringing joy and entertainment to attendees.

·         ARC Summer Event: Funding for an ice cream truck and pizza oven to visit the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ Adult Residence Center, providing a special treat and fostering a sense of community and celebration.

Deepwood Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Lake County. These grants are part of our ongoing efforts to support programs and initiatives that promote inclusion, independence, and quality of life.

Our Q3 grant application is currently open through August 1, 2024. To apply for a Q3 grant, please visit https://www.deepwoodfoundation.org/foundation-programs.

For more information about Deepwood Foundation and our grant programs, please visit www.deepwoodfoundation.org.

Contact: LeeAnn Mullen
Marketing Associate
Deepwood Foundation
Phone: (440) 350-5209
Email: leeann.mullen@lakebdd.org

Willoughby Rotary Donates 24 iPad Devices to Deepwood Foundation to Support Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

[Willoughby, Lake County, May 6, 2024] – Deepwood Foundation proudly announces the generous donation of 24 new iPad devices from the Willoughby Rotary Club. These iPads were provided through the Willoughby Rotary Autism Project (WRAP) program and will be allocated to deserving individuals within Lake County, offering crucial communication support where it is needed most.

“The Willoughby Rotary has a longstanding commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals in our community, and this donation marks another significant step in fulfilling their mission,” said Deepwood Foundation executive director Rikke Coach.

"These iPad devices represent more than just technology; they are tools for empowerment and communication," she added. "We are thrilled to partner with the Willoughby Rotary to ensure that nonverbal individuals in our community have access to the resources they need to express themselves and engage with the world around them."

Deepwood Foundation, known for its dedication to serving the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, will oversee the distribution of the iPads to those who will benefit most from them. By collaborating with local organizations such as the Willoughby Rotary Club, Deepwood Foundation continues to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families throughout Lake County.

"We are immensely grateful to the Willoughby Rotary for their generous donation," said Deepwood Foundation program administrator Tana Habat. "These iPad devices will open up new avenues of communication and support for nonverbal individuals, helping them to connect with others and participate more fully in their communities."

Habat added that Deepwood Foundation has received a record number of grant requests for iPads for such use this year- and the year is not even half over.  

The donation of 24 iPad devices from the Willoughby Rotary underscores the power of community partnerships in creating meaningful change. By working together, organizations like the Willoughby Rotary and Deepwood Foundation are breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity for individuals with developmental disabilities.

For more information about the Willoughby Rotary, visit WilloughbyRotary.org. To learn more about the Deepwood Foundation and its services, visit DeepwoodFoundation.org.

Media Contact: LeeAnn Mullen, Marketing Representative | Deepwood Foundation
Email: leeann.mullen@lakebdd.org

About Deepwood Foundation: Deepwood Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to providing support and services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Through advocacy, education, and community partnerships, Deepwood strives to enhance the quality of life for those it serves.

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