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Three residents and two staff members from YAI's Sprucewood residence enjoyed a memorable getaway to Rhode Island as they closed out 2024. Staying in a luxurious Airbnb in Narragansett, Andrew Sarver, David West, and Stewart Wittorff enjoyed a weeklong vacation in November filled with great food, sightseeing, and adventures, all made possible by their dedicated staff.
“Everyone deserves a change of scenery and the opportunity to be out,” said Britney Jones, Assistant Director at Sprucewood. “Having these small group trips is a great thing because each person gets that individual care and attention.”
To ensure the residents felt at ease, staff members Joseph Reid and Julio Cardona took steps to accommodate the needs of the group. Familiar sensory toys were brought along to provide extra comfort, and, at their request, the Airbnb host removed glassware and vases to create a safer environment. Additionally, special attention was given to West, who is legally blind and deaf. On the first day, Reid and Cardona guided him through the house, helping him acclimate to his surroundings.
“We did what we needed to do to make sure the trip was a success and that the residents had everything they needed to feel safe,” said Reid.
The week’s activities were a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Mornings often began with hearty breakfasts at Denny’s, while afternoons were spent exploring local food trucks, and a clam bar for lunch. Highlights of the trip included visiting the World War II Museum and shopping sprees at local stores.
Other fun moments included their visit to Foxwoods Resort in nearby Connecticut, just a 20-minute drive from their Airbnb. Back at the Airbnb, West particularly enjoyed the comfortable sofas, finding moments of peace and relaxation amidst the trip’s busy schedule. To close out the vacation, Reid and Cardona made a special steak dinner for the residents on the last day.
This trip was not only a milestone for the residents but also for the staff. Reid, who has been with YAI for 18 years, and Cardona, a 23-year veteran, shared their pride in advocating for getaways like this for the people they support. For years, the Sprucewood residents never had the opportunity to travel. They are hoping to implement annual trips for the residents going forward.
"We are here to help our residents lead fulfilling lives by encouraging them to explore the community and embrace the enriching experiences that travel offers,” said Reid.