Apr 1, 2019, 1:28 PMSophia Nicholls (SEC Disability and Diversity Director)

ASNA Helps Restore the Joy

The 19th annual Adventist Special Needs Association (ASNA) respite and training weekend 2019 took place at the Wokefield Park De Vere Hotel in Reading. The theme for the weekend 'Restoring the Joy' provided an inspiring backdrop to the programme leaving attendees with a greater understanding of James 1:2-3 in relation to the experiences of living with a disability or caring for someone with a disability.

Attendees expressed how much they enjoyed the weekend. 50% of the attendees who were non-Adventists, came for the first time this year. One of the new attendees said, "I am really glad to be here this weekend. I have enjoyed the singing, making new friends and having new experiences." A parent carer said "I am really glad I was able to make it to the weekend. I have had such a great time and look forward to the next one."

The ASNA family weekend provides a place where people living with disabilities and special needs and those without, meet and make friendships and spiritual connections. 'Disability Champions' within the Church leadership also attend to meet families and receive training to support their work on a local level. Disability Champions also give their services as volunteers to support the weekend.

Trevor and Joan Johnson, provided resources through the Stanborough Press and further described the weekend as "the highlight of my year." We would like to thank the Press for providing resources to support the theme and for Adewale and Uche Ademuyiwa for their excellent workshops on Emotional Intelligence, an important skill to develop towards the development of healthy joyous relationships.

ASNA would like to thank all the volunteers, workshop leaders, praise team and musicians for making the weekend a blessed one.

For further information about the work of ASNA or to become a member please email Info@asna.info or telephone 01491 821104.