Community: BCR holiday program lights up the season

This wintry weather might inspire one to grab a hot cocoa before settling down to read my column today, which is filled with holiday happenings.

Clients of BCR “a place to grow” succeeded in making spirits bright during a talent showcase held recently at St. Francis Xavier Holy Cross Hall. Especially endearing was the Tone Chime Choir. Its members never missed a note on their bells.

The center, at 230 E. Amherst St., provides day and extended-day activities for children and adults with developmental disabilities. They receive instruction in basic academic skills, meal planning along with marketing and cooking, arts and crafts, physical fitness and other life skills that help them to reach their potential, said Executive Director Julie Larsen.

This annual holiday program gives the clients a chance to show what they’ve got — they sing, they dance and absolutely love being on stage.

“They adore the applause and the families get such joy out of watching them,” Larsen said.

It is also an opportunity to raise funds. Guests have the chance to participate in a raffle, boutique and bake sale. There is also a silent auction, which is overseen by the Foothill Civitan Club, led by Shirley Witt, the organization’s president.

“The proceeds go to enrich the quality of our programs — transportation, field trips, classroom supplies — all sorts of things that make sure we are completing our mission to provide the best programs and assist them in reaching their potential, so they can be citizens not only of their family but also their schools, programs and community,” Larsen said.

Clients learn how to volunteer in the community and just recently competed in bowling and tennis in the Special Olympics.

The center has been producing the holiday program for at least 30 years. Clients start rehearsing in early October.

“We think the clients receive a sense of empowerment being on stage and being able to be in front of a crowd, which is a huge accomplishment for them,” Larsen said. “We have a client who is watching this year, who is not so comfortable coming up on stage. We had another client who came to watch for four years and now she’s up there dancing and having a great time.”

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JOYCE RUDOLPH can be contacted at rudolphjoyce10@gmail.com.