SPECIAL NEEDS projects
Ark to the Nations has been feeding and caring for children in Africa for the last ten years. This was Adam Reed Kerby's (ARK) heart. He longed to care for orphans in Africa and because we gave our word to him this will always be a part of ARK.
However, we want to honor his life by making a difference here in the United States as well. We have always felt that special needs children are a gift to society and that they are truly gifted children. We know first hand that caring for and meeting the needs of these children as a parent, family member or teacher is costly and can be burdensome. We want to alleviate the financial burden to the caregivers so that these children can have the needs met and also develop to be all that they can be by providing opportunities in education and extra curricular activities. For this reason, we have launched projects in the special needs community.
Liberty Middle school Sensory room
ARK has proudly provided a place for wheelchair bound students to get out of their chairs during the school day to move around, stretch, relax and also be stimulated by sensory activities. This room has been very necessary and useful to keep the students engaged in learning. Prior to ARK’s contributions, Liberty Middle School did not have a place like this available for students in need due to budget limitations. This room includes therapeutic chairs, an interactive TV, iPads and several hands-on activities. ARK has raised over $10,000 to make this project a reality!
WAFF 48 Highlighted ARK’s contribution to Liberty Middle School.
Jeff and Teri addressing Liberty Middle School’s special needs students and staff.
Visually impaired rowing program
In 2017, ARK raised $2,500 to provided scholarships for 12 visually impaired students. Allowing them to receive private and group lessons. They learned the in’s and out’s of the sport of rowing! From using indoor rowing machines to sculling and sweeping, they learned how to be successful rowers and turn their aim towards competition at local rowing competitions.