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Katharine Pritchard is one of the dedicated volunteers at YAI. A simple Google search led her to YAI six years ago and she’s since become an integral part of the You & I program.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, Pritchard has helped Connie Senior, Assistant Director of Training and Mental Health Clinician, to lead the group of 20-25 over Zoom. They meet twice a month on Fridays for two hours and participate in “Getting To Know You” socials that provide a safe and supportive environment for socialization, making new friends, and exploring the potential for dating and relationships.
“The group just wants what everyone else does – love,” Pritchard said. “I look forward to these Friday nights as much as they do, they have become my friends and it’s really amazing to see them interact and enjoy the time together with each other.”
Pritchard helps lead discussions and role play every meeting. “We pretend we are in different social settings like at a bar during happy hour. And one of my favorite activities is the speed dating – it’s wonderful and they all love it.”
In addition to the You & I program, Pritchard was also teaching cooking classes pre-pandemic to residents interested in taking up the hobby. She hopes to resume the cooking classes virtually in the near future.
“I’ve always been drawn to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD),” said Pritchard. “Volunteering is a big part of my life and I have no plans of stopping any time soon.”