They Came, They Saw, They Learned: Benedictine’s Open House

 On Tuesday, July 14^th, Benedictine’s staff hosted the first ever Open House event for the general public. Many residents of our local area may not be aware that an internationally known and highly regarded organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs is right in their midst. The staff, under the leadership of Educational Director Nancy McCloy, put a lot of work into preparing a warm and informative welcome to the community, including many displays showing what is going on here. The afternoon’s program included: campus tours; talking to the staff; meeting the students; and visiting classrooms to see us at work. Motivated in part by marking our 50^th Anniversary, we also wanted to use this opportunity to raise public awareness of the gifts, challenges, and contributions of people with developmental disabilities.

            Sister Jeannette explained the purpose of the Open House. “We not only want our neighbors to know what we’re doing down that long lane they see from the highway,” she said, “we want everyone to see what a wonderful part of our community our kids and adults are, and the love and skill that goes into helping that to happen.”

            Nancy McCloy was pleased with the turnout. “We had about 50 people,” she said, “including neighbors, educators, referral agencies and prospective parents. It was a very worthwhile effort.” In preparing for and hosting the event, our staff gained an even greater appreciation of what is special about Benedictine, and it was pleasing to see how impressed our visitors were with what they saw.

About Benedictine Programs and Services

Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Benedictine Programs and Services is a nationally recognized, accredited and cost-effective educational living and learning environment for children and adults with special needs.  The Benedictine School, established in 1959 and managed by the Sisters of St. Benedict, is a fully approved, non-sectarian school for 92 children, ages 5 through 21, with intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities and autism.  The Benedictine Open Community Program serves adults ages 22 - 60+, offering community-based group-home living and vocational training. The Benedictine Foundation secures the financial resources needed to ensure the future of Benedictine’s programs, services and other activities.

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