Since the founding of United Services over 36 years ago, the agency has provided early intervention services to thousands of preschoolers in our region. The financial savings realized by the community at large by providing programs and therapies prior to the student entering kindergarten has been astounding. Part of the savings is realized in a dramatic reduction in the number of students who attend the Boonslick State School, The cost to the state per student at Boonslick ($8,587) versus the cost to educate the same child at United Services ($6,856) is notable. It is evident that United Services is consistently lower in overall cost.
In addition to the financial benefits seen by providing these programs at United Services, the social outcomes have left an even more important benefit. The programs at United Services are provided in an inclusive environment, meaning children with special needs are included in the same classroom as their typically developing peers. Both learn from the other, the child with special needs learns to imitate the social behaviors of their typically developing peers who in turn learn to accept their friends who may act, look or learn differently. The acceptance and compassion that is part and parcel of the agency's core will mean that generations of students will be more accepting and will have a greater understanding of those who are different than themselves... and THAT may be the best lesson we can teach anyone!
To learn more about the REAL impact the agency has had for the families we've served, read below to hear from the parents of those who have benefited from our programs over the years...
Testimonial By Brad Smith, dad of Quinn, Mason & Ella
Each of our three children have/are attending United Services. My wife and I have always felt that our children are safe with the United Services staff. When you leave your child with someone else, there is always that lingering doubt in your mind...is my child safe? Will everything be OK when I return?
The staff at United Services made this transition much easier for my wife and me because it is readily evident that all of the children at the school are thought of as being special. Each child is known by name. Each child is talked to, not talked at. Each child is treated with dignity and respect. Children who attend United Services are remembered. They are not a forgotten handprint on the wall. They become part of the living memory of the agency.
I am thankful that my children are happy and healthy, and do not have to face some of the challenges that many of the children who attend United Services must face, but as a result of attending United Services they each know that all people are special and that all people should be treated with dignity and respect. And that is a gift that will serve them for a lifetime.
