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Congressman Patrick Kennedy visits Re-Focus, Inc

Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy brightened the Re-Focus Community Center on 45 Greeley Street, Providence, RI on Monday January 25, 2010 despite howling winds and an intense continuous downpour outside.

While inside the Center, Patrick visited with about 40 individuals with developmental disabilities and their staff, and learned what some of the folks were doing in sculpture class, computer programming, and menu planning. He also spent time in the Kennedy Welcome Center, a lounge area on the first floor named to recognize the many contributions to persons with disabilities made over the years by the extended Kennedy family.

The Center provides support five days a week to approximately 75 adults, with the newest enrollees coming from high schools around the state. Congressman Kennedy listened attentively to the stories of the participants at the Center, and recognized the value of the alternative programs now being offered by Re-Focus. Pictures include the Congressman with Christopher Crawford, a recent graduate of East Greenwich High School, who investigated and visited several agencies for adults with disabilities before deciding on Re-Focus, and Stephanie Shelhamer with staff and management.

Re-Focus Inc. Moves into Brand New Headquarters

On June 15, 2009 the new Re-Focus Community Center welcomed over 180 interested clients, staff and family members to a blessing and tour of the new building. Msgr. Gerry Sabourin, long-time advocate for persons with developmental disabilities, presided at the blessing and later enjoyed lunch with many of the clients.

On the following day, 27 clients arrived with anticipation for their first full day of classes in literacy, art, computer, pottery or yoga. Teachers, support staff and activity leaders were ready and up to the challenge of rolling out the new programs. At the end of the day, and for the rest of the week, tired but happy clients headed out to vans, cars and busses for the return trip home with wide smiles on their faces. One young client, who often resists leaving her group home for activities, had such a good experience, she asked: “Can’t I come here every day now?” “Yes, you can, Rita; that’s what the Community Center is all about!”

New Video Clip Introduces Re-Focus!

Re-Focus, Inc. has released a short video clip to introduce the agency and many of the folks we support! » See More...