About
Special Connections
Special Connections offers a quality day program for special needs adults in the greater New Orleans area. The Program provides numerous activities and services to promote positive attitudes regarding one’s abilities.
Contact us if you are interested in learning more about Special Connections.
Our Mission Statement
Special Connections aims to create a safe and stimulating environment that addresses the unique challenges of our Members. The Program fosters peer social interaction, skill growth, recreational activities, and appropriate community engagement. It also provides respite for Parents/Guardians of adult children living at home.
Our Founding Principles
Each Member:
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Is to be treated equally, as an adult with respect, consideration and dignity regardless of race, color, gender or creed. The privacy and confidentiality for each Member is respected.
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Is offered the opportunity to participate in a program of services and activities to promote positive attitudes regarding one’s usefulness and capabilities.
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Is afforded the opportunity to participate in a program of services designed to encourage learning, growth, and awareness of constructive ways to develop interests and talents.
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Is encouraged and supported to maintain independence to the extent that conditions and circumstances permit, and to be involved in activities designed to promote personal growth and an appropriate level of independence.
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Is to be cared for in an atmosphere of sincere interest and concern in which needed support and services are provided.
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Is allowed the opportunity to decide whether or not to participate in any given activity and to be involved in the selection and development of program activities.
April 21, 2004 - Special Connections Founders Day
With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children with special needs and their families, a group of visionary mothers - our founders - came together. They recognized the gap in community services for children with special needs beyond their school years. Together in 2004, they established Special Connections as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The founders envisioned a supportive social hub where these children, becoming adults, could interact with peers, explore new learning opportunities, and engage with the community, while at the same time offering families a welcome respite from caregiving. The Program has operated for more than 20 years and is governed by a Board of Directors.