A Warm and Welcoming Ambassador
– Jennifer Hargrove –
Maura’s Intro:
When TAP Unlimited required, like most other service organizations, a shift in programing, many were struck by a new opportunity. An opportunity for a client to become a part of the larger TAP family. Let me explain. TAP Unlimited has a unique model in the aphasia-center world. Being one of the first half-dozen programs in the country to serve individuals with aphasia, their families, and the community… we chose a paradigm different than the norm. Instead of one center in one location, TAP opted to develop and institute a hub-and-spoke-model. An administrative hub would serve as a main location, centralized for training services, meetings, etc. but as only ONE of a network of programs offered by the organization. The “spokes” would (and did…pre-Covid) provide groups and programming within a person’s own community,…their geographical preference. This model has many benefits: 1) increased awareness of aphasia; 2) collaboration and sharing of resources with community partners; 3) ease in introduction and transition of aphasia services and so much more! But COVID changed all of that … at least temporarily.
TAP’s boundaries with were lifted. Issues of transportation, accessibility to locations, etc. were all lifted and TAP clients could attend as many (or as few) groups as they wanted to during the week. Clients are able to check out book club, try their hand (or green thumb, as it may be) at TAPRoots / Garden group, join the TAPTastics history by getting involved in Music Mania and so much more. This opening up of group possibilities also provides a widening of the TAP social circle. TAP clients meet new friends, care partners connect with those traveling a similar journey and newcomers are introduced and transitioned into a warm and supportive environment.
You can already feel the welcoming culture that TAP has enjoyed as it learns the ZOOM programming ropes…but let me introduce you to one of the ambassadors of this effort: Jennifer! This beautiful, smart, kind and faithful woman has taken full advantage of the broadening of group options and joins multiple groups every day of our 6 day week. She instantly projects the inviting nature we strive for in our program and everyone knows that when Jennifer is in the group…there will be laughter, smiles and no chance at getting away with less than your best effort. I’d like to nominate Jennifer to be the group hospitality coordinator, but not sure she’d have the time with her dedication to improving her language with reading, writing and every opportunity to practice speaking! Jennifer was the first person every group leader recommended for a TAP story and we are so blessed that she (and her daughter, Serenity) decided to share it with us. Check it out!
Jennifer (JoAnn, Client):
A TAP Unlimited was year on 2020. I was scripted Samantha teaching in doctor, visions (20/20) and prescription CVS. Sevenna teach synonyms was target. Candace and Lynne was read books.
Love💕 was Maura!
Serenity (Jennifer’s Daughter):
TAP came into our lives at the perfect time. My mom had just had a stroke and neither my brother nor I knew how to help her come to terms with her aphasia. I’m so glad we discovered TAP and enrolled her in their classes! They have helped my mom in numerous ways-from reading to speaking to socializing with those around her. She is continuously making progress, which is so amazing to see! She has a confidence and excitement about her future that I’m certain she wouldn’t have if not for TAP.
TAP also equipped me with the tools I needed to care for my mother. I felt so lost and scared when my mom first had her stroke, but Maura and those at TAP provided family training for those caring for individuals with aphasia. Leaving the class, I knew I wasn’t alone and could lean on TAP as I cared for my mom. I am incredibly grateful for the kindness that continues to be bestowed upon my mom as she rebuilds her life. Thank you so much, TAP!
From the TAP Home Office:
TAP Unlimited’s End of Year Campaign provides TAP Stakeholders an opportunity to embrace the reason for our efforts and hear from those who have been impacted by aphasia. Aphasia, as you know, can be a devastating impairment resulting in social isolation, depression and disengagement from the passions and purpose of an individual’s life. It can interrupt a career, destroy plans for retirement and threaten relationships. TAP Unlimited is embarking on its 18th year of service to those effected by aphasia across the Triangle and beyond.
Our ability to pivot and create a virtual world of connection possibilities, to stay afloat and to even thrive, has been, in no small way, a result of the generosity of our donor base. Today, we ask that you continue to support TAP by doing the following:
- Share this story. Share it on your social media, in emails to your family/friends and to those you work with…it will increase awareness of Aphasia and provide hope to those who feel alone in this journey.
- Consider an end-of-year gift to TAP. You can donate online and make it a gift by honoring someone on the aphasia journey.
- Donations can also be mailed in the form of a check or a donation of stock. Email us for more information.
Thank you for your faith in our organization and for supporting the 12 Days of TAP!