My cousin works at a place here in Las Vegas called Opportunity Village. Here is how they describe their program:

"Opportunity Village is a not-for-profit organization that serves people in our community with intellectual disabilities, to enhance their lives and the lives of the families who love them. Opportunity Village is dedicated to helping people with severe intellectual and related disabilities become the very best they can be. Through vocational training, community employment, day services, advocacy, arts and social recreation, people with severe disabilities are able to find new friends, realize future career paths, seek independence and community integration and unleash creative passions."

She's employed in their workshop that does small piecework such as assembling packets of condiments for the coffee service at the Las Vegas casino hotels. Betsy's manual dexterity isn't the best, but they always find something she is good at, and she takes great pride in her daily output and every night when she calls me she tells me how many units she completed that day.

One of the biggest fund raisers for Opportunity Village is their annual Magical Forest around Christmas time. Out come the Christmas lights and there are a few carnival rides, including a train. It really is magical. The official opening this year is on Friday, but last night was a special VIP party for the clients - my cousin and the other 3000 folks helped by the various programs. It's also a time for the families to enjoy themselves and become acquainted with the programs available and socialize with other families.

I had trouble getting my photos to come out so nothing to show. Betsy was thrilled to have family come with her, and she introduced us to her friends and staff. I think her favorite part was getting her picture taken with Santa Claus.

Tomorrow she's coming over for dinner and bowling on the Wii, after she watches The Price is Right at her apartment.



Have a great holiday.