Mentor man gets to ‘Live the Dream’ as guest pilot of airplane

Event in Willoughby held to celebrate RJ Serger’s recent achievement

Mentor resident RJ Serger prepares to fulfill his dream as a guest pilot during a recent visit to Lake County Executive Airport in Willoughby. Serger sat in a seat directly behind pilot Bill Martin, who taxied the small plane on some of the airport’s taxiways. This experience, and a follow-up celebration on March 23 titled “Living the Dream with RJ,” was organized by the Deepwood Foundation. (Courtesy of the Deepwood Foundation)

By Bill DeBus | wdebus@news-herald.com | The News-Herald

Living the dream — as in achieving a strongly desired goal — is a great personal experience.

But sometimes that accomplishment can become even more satisfying when the individual fulfilling the dream shares his or her joy with family, friends and other supporters.

An event was held on March 23 in Willoughby during which people helped RJ Serger celebrate his dream come true as a guest airplane pilot.

The program, sponsored by the Deepwood Foundation, was titled “Living the Dream with RJ.”

Serger, 36, is a Mentor resident with developmental disabilities. He receives services through the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood.

An audience gathered in the Club Lounge at Lost Nation Sports Park to watch a video of Serger serving as a guest pilot recently at Lake County Executive Airport in Willoughby.

That video showed Serger sitting on a seat inside a small plane, directly behind pilot Bill Martin. The pilot kept his Bonanza G-36 plane on the ground, as he taxied the aircraft on the airport’s taxiways.

Before getting into Martin’s plane, Serger also tried out a flight simulator at Vector Aviation, a flight school located at Lake County Executive Airport. Serger received some expert advice on using the simulator from Paul Mannion, who is the chief flight instructor and co-owner of Vector Aviation.

Mannion also let Serger check out some of Vector’s training planes.

Serger’s opportunity to serve as a guest pilot was arranged by the Deepwood Foundation. The organization carried out similar “Living the Dream” events for two other men with developmental disabilities.

In 2020, Charlie Schultz was featured as a guest bartender. Last year, Michael Iacobucci served as a guest DJ at an area bar.

Serger was selected for a guest pilot adventure after Deepwood Foundation Program Administrator Tana Habat spoke with the director of the Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood’s Adult Services Willoughby Branch.

Habat asked the director if any workers at the branch had mentioned any jobs they have ever dreamed of doing.

“(The Willoughby branch director) said, ‘I have someone who would like to fly a plane,’ ” Habat said.

That aspiring pilot was Serger, who also works at the county Board of DD/Deepwood Willoughby Adult Services Branch.

Habat then pinpointed a couple of people whom she thought could make Serger’s dream come true.

“We are fortunate enough that one of our board members and her husband own a plane and have it in a hangar at Lost Nation Airport,” she said.

Habat was referring to Pam Martin, who serves on the boards of the Deepwood Foundation and Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood.

Pam’s husband, Bill Martin, has owned his Bonanza G-36 plane for eight years.

Bill said he enjoyed playing a big part in helping RJ’s dream come true.

“To me it was a privilege to show him what being a pilot is really like and getting up close to an airplane,” Bill said, during the “Living the Dream with RJ” celebration. “Anytime we can show somebody what we do (as a pilot), we don’t want to pass that up.”

Serger arrived at the March 23 event in a limousine. Many of the people who attended the celebration stood outside near the club’s parking lot and applauded Serger when he stepped out of the vehicle.

Sergerdian said getting the chance to be Martin’s co-pilot is something he’ll always remember.

“I had a good time,” he said.

RJ’s mother, Diane Kobetitsch, said the special opportunity provided for her son recently at Lake County Executive Airport was “an awesome thing.”

“He was so happy, ready to do it and definitely lived his dream,” she said.

In addition to featuring the video of Serger’s adventure as a guest pilot, the “Living the Dream with RJ” event also featured other aviation-related activities.

Audience members were invited to use flight simulators which were set up on a pair of laptop computers. People also got the chance to make and design paper airplanes, and enter a contest to see whose creation would fly the farthest.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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