It is with heavy heart that we close one of our programs, the Local/Sonora Program. It provided children/adults with special needs, educational and vocational training for more than 40 years. In Sonora, services for people with disabilities were scarce and over the years have been developed and can accommodate these special people in creative vocational programs.

Funding for this program came through the help of a grant designated for Ambos Nogales non-profit organizations, a yearly dinner/dance and individual scholarships provided by caring people in the Nogales area, SCTP was able to offset the monthly tuition for each Sonora resident. Due to the economic crisis that has affected Ambos Nogales, these funding means were drastically reduced.

These students completed elementary through secondary special-education training in the areas of self-help skills, life and safety skills, art and natural sciences. Later, during their secondary years, socialization and vocational skills such as gardening, cooking, baking, recycling, piñatas, arts and crafts and the sale of these items, were accomplished.

Many wonderful teachers with big hearts taught and mentored the students along the way.

On Friday, Aug. 28, a “Recognition Ceremony” was held to acknowledge both students and their mentors. Their families, board members, staff and peers, enjoyed a sunny afternoon under tents, eating hamburgers and fries prepared by staff. They danced with the music provided by a parent’s disco-m�“bil, and enjoyed the songs of Charro cantor Rafael Escobar, who was a surprise for all!

Everyone at Santa Cruz Training Programs will miss them dearly and we hope that they have a great future in their new program in Sonora.

Marina Galhouse

Santa Cruz Training

Programs

Nogales