I was exposed to ATOU at Greenhills Elementary School~ its very beginnings!! I was then a Room Mom volunteer of a second grader who was in AWE of the "Parts" on the table (the artificial arms and legs) as he called them. He kept looking at them, then looking at me as if to ask, "Is it REALLY all right to touch um, Mom?" That son, now 19 and a U.S. Marine continues to be in awe of the parts and is so grateful that he was introduced to disability awareness when he was young. He returned home from combat training his earlier this year and was able to attend a presentation. The same important message was made clear.

A few words can't possibly explain what ATOU has meant to me:  Have you ever wanted to belong to a group where you are always Welcomed Warmly with Huge Hugs and Super Smiles? A place where Life lessons and laughter are endless?  For me it has been a haven of Forever Friends who love you when you can come and help, and love you anyway if you can't...This program is a reflection of that graciousness.

As a child I had a neighbor who was blind. I was terrified as he walked with his white cane up and down the sidewalk of our street. I would stop playing immediately and stand silently as he passed by.  Although he knew I was there, I wouldn't answer when he would speak. I felt awkward and was scared ...I didn't Understand!!!

The BEST feeling in the world as a volunteer of ATOU is to KNOW that you have made a connection with a child to help them Understand and to BE understanding of those with disabilities. I have always felt that a difference has been made for everyone involved as we pack up our equipment and leave.

Over the years, ATOU and its members have made a HUGE IMPACT on my life ~ Forever Friends imprinted on my heart~ I pray that many, many more volunteers will come into and be a part of this terrific group! You will forever be touched.

YOU WILL GET MORE THAN YOU COULD EVER GIVE!