Reaching Goals

Nine year-old Oscar Morales flashes a big smile to firefighters from Los Angeles County Fire Station No. 3 as he arrives for a visit. Oscar, along with other children from the AbilityFirst East Los Angeles Center visit the station regularly. But Oscar wasn’t always expressive and outgoing.

When Oscar came to the AbilityFirst East Los Angeles Center he was shy and did not communicate his needs well. With input from Oscar’s mother, AbilityFirst staff developed a plan and established goals in order to build Oscar’s socialization and verbal skills using programs and activities at the center and in the community.

Consistence and determination have paid off. Oscar uses simple words now like “yes,” “no,” “water,” “ball,” and “play,” and learns new words as he develops new interests like “computer.” Oscar’s mother is pleased with his progress and that he is learning to do and say more things.

Oscar’s new found confidence helps him achieve more. With staff assistance, Oscar can now get out of his wheelchair and participate in more activities, including kicking a soccer ball with professional soccer players!

Today, to the delight of Oscar’s family and AbilityFirst staff, Oscar meets new goals with a positive attitude and his familiar bright smile.

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