Staff Writer
HOULTON — All the ingredients for a perfect Christmas party were there: friends, homemade food, gifts to exchange and, of course, Santa.
The Houlton Peer Group held its first-ever Christmas party last week at CLA’s Career Enhancement Center. The peer group, facilitated by Alpha One and Speaking Up for Us, is designed to provide support to self-advocates with disabilities.
Kelly Baston, a chairperson for the group, said they focus on skills for independent living, sharing information with each other rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, education on civic duties like voting and more.
“We learn about all kinds of things,” said Baston. “And it (being a part of the group) helps us learn how to speak up for our rights and that its OK to ask other people for help.”
Robbie Garland is also one of the group’s leaders.
“I’m proud of myself for being part this group,” he said. “I hope we keep growing.”
The Houlton Peer Group meets the first Thursday of every month at 2:30 p.m. usually at CLA’s Career Enhancement Center near TD Banknorth. All are welcome. For more information, call Karen Crouser at (800) 974-6466 or e-mail her at oranges428@yahoo.com.
