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THE BEACON
THE LITTLE LIGHT HOUSE NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 2014
“K ADENCE’S STORY” BY KRISTEN LONG
October of 2009 changed our lives and
our story forever. My mom came with me to
the 20 week ultrasound for a sneak peek at
her first grandchild. Kadence played with
her lips through the entire scan and was
absolutely the most amazing thing I’d ever
seen! Mom and I noticed the tech focusing
on Kadence’s back, head and kidneys. She
took several pictures of those areas placing
them in that “other” pile, separate from the
ones we would take home. Despite all of our
questions, she assured us everything was
ok. We were so excited! Mom and I were sent
to the waiting room and laughed out loud at
an overhead announcement apologizing for
the delay, as the “ultrasound machine was
broken.”
Hindsight is everything. I now know
that in the midst of my waiting, they were
reviewing Kadence’s ultrasound.
Kadence was diagnosed with Spina
Bifida and Hydrocephalus, defects of the
spine and brain. We participated in a NIH
study that landed us in San Francisco for 3
months. At 25 weeks pregnant, I underwent
this soon to be, world-renown, prenatal
surgery. With the help of a microscope,
specialized tools and more doctors than
you could count, Kadence’s defect was
closed in-utero.
It wasn’t much longer before Kadence
made her arrival into this world. We were
clinging to prayers as our premature baby,
born two months ahead of schedule, fought
desperately for her life.
As Kadences’ health began to progress,
we made the transition into our new
lives; mother and daughter. During that
transition, a good family friend told me
about the Little Light House, suggesting I
quickly get Kadence on the waiting list. At
the time, his son was on the waiting list as
well, so I looked into it more, and Kadence
was put on the list. After two and a half
years of waiting, we received the phone
call that would change our lives, and heard
that there was an open spot at the LLH for
Kadence.
When I think about the progress that
she’s made since starting school at the LLH,
I’m blown away. When she started school,
her vocabulary was limited to three words.
Tasks that may seem so easy for us seemed
far away for my little girl. Things like sitting
up independently, albeit far-fetched, were
huge goals for Kadence. But, Kadence
was surrounded by a team of teachers
and therapists that knew her potential,
encouraged her daily, and slowly but surely
helped her to accomplish milestone after
milestone.
This Christmas season, Kadence will turn
five years old; her growth in these five years
takes my breath away. If you ask any of the
staff at the LLH to describe my Kadence, I’m
quite certain they’d begin to do so with the
biggest smile on their face. In the couple
of years that Kadence has been at the LLH,
she’s developed quite the little personality.
She’s an observer, a relationship builder,
and the resident social butterfly. She loves
to talk, ask questions, and is always wanting
to learn the underlying reason behind
everything anyone says or does. She’s
quite spunky, full of joy and knows exactly
what she wants. Kadence also has a loving
heart for her friends, and is always rooting
them on. Perhaps one of the most beautiful
things about Kadence is seeing how she’s
learned to believe in herself too, always
working to reach every goal we set for her.
Currently, Kadence is working on her
mobility. Over the past two years we’ve
seen her make tremendous progress in this
area, even taking multiple steps with her
walker, which is quite the miracle! Thanks
to the help of her teachers and therapists,
Kadence is well on her way to being
prepared for the next major step in life, her
journey to kindergarten. Though it’s sad to
think of Kadence leaving the LLH, we know
she’s got a bright future ahead of her. This
school has blessed our family beyond my
understanding, as their desire for Kadence’s
success shows in everything they do. My
daughter’s diagnosis has taught me how
to embrace the unexpected, but the Little
Light House has taught me to hope in the
unexpected.
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
It’s hard to believe that during this very month in 1976, thirty eight years
ago, my journey at the Little Light House began. Looking back now, I never
could have imagined that a simple invitation from a friend to attend a brief
luncheon and tour would change the direction of my life forever. That day, God
planted a seed into my heart that has continued to grow over all of these years.
After my initial tour of the LLH, I made an appointment the very next week to
return to the center and volunteer my time. Thirty eight years later, I can’t help
but to think of what a blessing that decision has been. Over the years I have
met hundreds of amazing individuals who have impacted my life for eternity.
So many of those individuals have become good friends; others, far more than
simple acquaintances. If you are not yet aware, around the LLH we refer to
you as “part of the LLH family,”because we are so proud to have you in our lives.
For many of us, the very heart of Christmas can be best found in spending time with family. For me, family has always been one of the most important
things in my life. Over the years, I’ve often been asked to describe my hobbies,
to which, for as long as I can remember, I’ve replied “my family.” Being the mother to five children, and grandmother to
eight grandchildren, brings quite the joy to my life. This joy spreads through the love of my extended family; 21 nephews
and nieces, great nephews and nieces, three great grand-nieces and one recently added great grand-nephew. And then of
course, there are all of you.
Years ago, I began to realize how much each one of you has become a part of my extended family. I have also realized
how impossible it has become to keep up with all of the wonderful things happening in each of your lives. As the LLH has
grown, I have certainly not been able to get to know all of the thousands of people who come through our doors each year.
Oh, how I wish I could spend time with each of you, hug your neck, and personally thank you for all that you do. What a
dream it would be to learn the ins-and-outs of how you each became a part of this amazing LLH family; now thousands and
thousands of constituents, volunteers, alumni families, current families, waiting-list families, and staff members strong.
I wanted to take time this Christmas season and let you know what a valuable part you play in my life. It is a treasure
to know that my family is thousands and thousands of members strong. That is a gift that speaks more than volumes, and
you are the greatest examples of what a family should look like; love. Though I may not know each of you personally by
name, please know that each of you have a very special place in my heart. So this Christmas, I want to take time to personally thank you for loving the LLH and giving so generously of your selves. It is because of your giving, through your time,
your finances, your support and your prayers, that so many beautiful children are able to be served. You are a tremendous
blessing to our ministry and to my life. I pray each of you experience the fullness of joy this Christmas season. It is an honor
to celebrate Christmas with you, my family, as we join together to celebrate the precious, never ending love of our dear
Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
“And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one
another and to all, just as we do to you.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12
In Him,
Jean Winfrey,
Executive Director
JULY 2014 Ground on
s
LLH BreakExpansion!
Building
OCTO
LLH Compl BER 2014
etes
Laps for Litt36th Annual
le Ones!
F THE O
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APRIL 2014
LLH Launches Online
Training Center, “The Little
Anchor.”
AH
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JAN. 2014
LLH “Ready or Not” music
video hits 20,000 views!
E
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MARCH 2014
LLH Completes Year as the
“Number 1 Nonprofit in Oklahoma.”
MAY 2014
21 LLH Students Graduate and
become LLH Alumni
AUGUST 2014
LLH Welcomes Students for the
2014-2015 School Year!
HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS
In Honor of Eli Ramirez
Frieda Crandall
In Honor of Ella Fleming
Delbert and Cheryl Bair
In Honor of Elliot Bennett
John S. and Paulette P. Bennett
In Honor of Kimberley Carter
Michael and Pamela Leslie
In Honor of Lane Peterson
Gene and Joan Kellenberger
Howard L. and Delois Lundin
In Honor of Michael Brady
Metlife Insurance, Service Center
In Honor of Morgan Smejkal
Mary Frances Leming
In Honor of Phil and Liz Burch
Michael and Susan Rodebush
In Memory of Barbara Beach
F. Gary and Kathleen L. Varner
In Memory of Bernita McCain
LaVern Bailey
Peter and Carla McCauley
Robert R. and Linda L. Nichols
Tulsa Bible Church
Beattle Family
Neighbors on Garfield
Damon and Miriam Savage
Brenda Savage
Mara Gee and the University of
Missouri Kansas City Office of
Administration
In Memory of Charles and Omagene
Martin
Julie Wilson
In Memory of Cheyenne Collins
Kenneth D. and Debbie Collins
In Memory of Clarice Winfrey
Tonya Ann Miller
Dorothy Webber
Dee Ann Quarles
In Memory of Danny Bartlett
Bonni Bunting
Will Rogers Methodist/Crusaders SSC
In Memory of Ellen Enlow
Denise A Fholer
Jessica Stern
In Memory of Gerald Bergadine
Anonymous
Howard Zimmerman
James and Mary Jones
John and Clara Pasko
Judith Francis
Lee Borycz
Lynn and Nichola Walker
Margaret Innis
Marilyn Konchel
Martha A Bergadine
Mary Barnett
Mary Ellen Hood
Mary Pohlod
Mike and Sue Jackson
Paula A. Guy
Eric and Regina Beaupre
Denny and Diane Roos
Sarah Kathryn Roos
Stan Harris
Thomas E and Barbara J Munson
William A Howard
William and Donna Hacker
James W Stack and Susan F Priller
In Memory of Hudson Lamb
Abby Schneider
Emily Schneider
Jason Brown Mackenzie
In Memory of Jack Garrison
Bridget Hynes
In Memory of James Curzon
James E. and Vera R. Curzon
In Memory of James R. Morella
Karen Frank
Katheigh and John Degen
In Memory of Dr. Jerry Hopkins
Stephen Hopkins
In Memory of Joan Allen
Jon and Judy Eshelman
In Memory of Katelyn Chambers
Virginia Shaw
In Memory of Linda Colvard
Pat and Julie Sanford
In Memory of Meg Hughes
Norm and Julia K. Leighty
In Memory of Nicholas Cuebas
Josefa Cuebas
In Memory of Nicole Ann Rust
Richard and Hilda Woolridge
In Memory of Randolph Wassmann
Hanna H. Beskange
In Memory of Reed James Ledbetter
Miss Shelly’s School of Dance
In Memory of Richard Studenny
Coral Swimming Pool Supply Co
Dawn Duca
Dr. David and Carol James
Elizabeth S Hager
Jay and Jan Weinheimer
Jennifer Moore
Jodie Nida
John and Sally Neas
Kathleen Shroff
Kelly Welbes
Kip and Amy Dorsey
Lacie Troxell
Larry and Gordova Heiliger
Lori Pumphrey
Mary Ormsby
Mary S Warlick
Matt Henderson
Mildred Burns
Nancy Zimini and the ACI-NA Legal
Committee Steering Group
P. Thomas and Jean Thornbrugh
Raymond and Bobbie Sturm
Stan and Carole Hazel
The Moller Family
Tom and Cyndi Tener
Whitney Hicks and friends at Steven L
Wilson & Associates
Tony Bacher
In Memory of Robert Burch
Bruce and Sharon Bohnsack
Milan and Marlys Olson
Helen Rice
Lorna Cunningham
Vikki Burch
In Memory of Samuel Stephens
Troy and Susan Stephens
CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR EARLY!
The end of the year is special. It is the season of tradition and spending time with loved ones. It offers moments
of reflection and looking ahead to the New Year. Perhaps because of these sentiments, many people choose to make
gifts to their favorite causes in this season.
In the final weeks of the year you can better assess your year-end financial picture and estimate the year ahead.
Your gift can still give you an income tax deduction this year and help us continue our work right now. Gifts of cash
are always helpful. Whether by cash or check we can help you complete your gift by year’s end. Savvy donors almost
always donate appreciated assets, like stock, by transferring them to their favorite causes. By giving this year, you
can receive an income tax deduction and avoid paying capital gains that might otherwise be due if the asset were
sold.
Join with other friends of our organization who find this season a perfect time to give back. If you would like
assistance on how to take advantage of current tax laws, please let us know. The service and financial advice are
FREE of charge for you. We would be more than happy to speak with you. Please contact Molly Smith at 918-6646746.
IN THE CLASSROOM
CREATION
“God is the God of Wisdom”
JESUS OUR TEACHER
This month, we’re excited to give you a little sneak peek into the
foundation of how our Little Light House classrooms run! Forty two years
ago the LLH opened its doors with just one teacher and five volunteers.
Today, the LLH employs more than 35 highly trained and educated special
education professionals. Throughout the years, these special education
teachers, therapists and specialists have gathered an abundance of great
knowledge and skill in the Special Ed field, all of which they pour into the
classrooms at the LLH. These skills have been used to develop the LLH’s
unique Bible-based curriculum, “Head to Toe, Heart & Soul.” Each month,
this curriculum is used to teach the students at the Little Light House
various stories in the Bible, all while helping the students to reach their
individualized goals. The stories are incorporated into fun, interactive
classroom activities that help our students develop communication skills,
life-skills, motor development, an abundance of other things.
We’re thrilled to announce that the “Head to Toe, Heart & Soul”
curriculum, classroom adaptation, and curriculum activity books will soon
be available for purchase and use in classrooms and churches throughout
the world!
“God is the God of Truth”
ZACCHAEUS
“God is the God of New”
JOSEPH
“God is the God of Sharing”
SNEAK PEAK: Here’s a first look at the twelve stories
included in the “Head to Toe, Heart & Soul” curriculum!
CHRISTMAS
“God is the God of Giving”
ABRAHAM
“God is the God of Promises”
DAVID & JONATHAN
“God is the God of Love”
DANIEL
“God is the God of Trust”
EASTER
“God is the God of Life”
MOSES
“God is the God of Knowledge”
JONAH
“God is the God of Obedience”
JESUS & HIS DISCIPLES
PICTURED ABOVE: Heather Pionke, teacher of
the Yellow Class, teaches the curriculum using
sign language.
“God is the God of Caring”
DID YOU KNOW?
Last Spring, the Little Light House launched an online training and development center free for use all
over the world! You can find fun classroom activities, interactive teaching tips, inspirational stories,
and stay up to date with the latest happenings at the LLH by checking it out today at
www.thelittleanchor.org!
GIVE THE GIFT OF
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There is no greater happiness one can
experience at Christmas than the joy received
through giving. At the Little Light House, we
think the greatest gift is one that offers lasting
value and positively impacts the lives of others.
It was with this in mind that we established a
Christmas tradition several years ago, the LLH
“Give the Gift of Hope” campaign.
We can think of no better way to celebrate
the birth of Christ than by giving a Christmas
gift in honor of or in memory of a loved one.
As you honor someone through the Gift of
Hope this Christmas, you’re investing into the
lives of so many beautiful students. Your gift is
helping them to receive quality education and
top-notch services that they need to thrive.
It’s because of LLH supporters just like you
that so many miracles take place every day at
the LLH. Thank you for you gift, big or small.
This Christmas, your light is shining brightly
for
kids with special needs everywhere!
May God bless you greatly this Christmas!
L
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HOPE
THIS CHRISTMAS
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THE VALUE OF YOUR DONATION
$15 - 30 minutes of Assistive Technology training for a child
$35 - 1 hour of Trans-Disciplinary services for a child
$120 - 1 day of classroom services for a child
$280 - 1 week of Low Vision therapy for a child
$480 - 1 week of classroom services for a child
$560 - 1 week of Speech Therapy and Physical Therapy for a child
$1000 - 1 month of Occupational Therapy for a child
$1,200 - 1 year of therapy equipment for a child
$2,000 - 1 month of classroom services for a child
$5,000 - 1 year of Physical Therapy for a child
$25,000 - 1 year of Trans-Disciplinary Therapy Services for a child
$31,000 - Comprehensive services for 1 child for 1 year
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
TO OUR LAPS & MINI-LAPS SPONSORS
MINI-LAPS 2014
Barnabus Foundation
Burnett Windows and Siding
Camperland of Oklahoma
Capital Advisors, Inc.
CareFirst Pharmacy INC.
C. G. Martin Co., Inc.
Commercial Metals
D & E Tool and Machine, Inc.
EP Supply
Evangelina’s Check Cashing
First Choice Hospice
H. A. & Mary K. Chapman Charitable
Trust
Homeowners Insurance Agency, Inc.
IBE
Jenni Burkitt, D.D.S.
John and Denise Redmond Charitable
Trust
Military Parts Plus, Inc.
Modern Plating
M & M Lumber Company
North Star Security
RL Hudson
Sams Alignments & Brake
Tulsa Gold & Silver
West Tulsa United Methodist Church
LAPS 2014
AG Equipment
Apache Corporation
Burnett Windows and Siding
Direct Energy
FinishMaster
Floyd and Sons Body Shop
H.A. and Mary K. Chapman
Foundation
Hercules Tire
Integrity Customs Inc.
Keystone Automotive
LKQ Management Company
Matrix Service Companies
MRW Technologies Inc.
M&M Lumber
Pacific Medical
Preus Landscape
RL Hudson
Southeast Tulsa Rotary Foundation
Thermal Windows Inc.
Victory Christian Center
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The Little Light House
5120 E. 36th St.
Tulsa, OK 74135
www.littlelighthouse.org
Non-Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Permit #1309
Tulsa, OK 74135
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This is the day that the LORD has made; let us
rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24
Non-discriminatory Policy
The Little Light House, Inc is a non-profit Christian Developmental Center for children with disabilities, age birth to six years of age. The Little Light House does not
discriminate on the basis of religion, sex, color, race, national or ethnic origin, or medical diagnosis (unless the diagnosis affects the child’s ability to attend school on a
regular basis) in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies and other school administered programs. Some behavioral conditions may be evaluated
on an individual basis. The Little Light House assures that all children’s records will be maintained as confidential.
GREEN CLASS SPOTLIGHT
If you’re looking to find a group of little ones who are motivated to learn,
then stop by and visit the Green Class at the Little Light House. These students do
not let any obstacle get in the way of their success. Each week the Green Class is
engaging in activities that are tailored specifically to their learning style. On any
given day you can find these students working on developing communication
skills, positive behavioural choices, and learning the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of reading
and writing. They do this all through structured learning and play. “I see the
potential that each of our students has to really thrive,” said Julie Harrelson,
Green Class teacher. “We set high expectations for our class, because we know
they are brilliant, and capable of excelling at everything we throw their way.”
Harrelson has been teaching special
education at the LLH for more than
seven years and knows how to
make learning fun and engaging
for her students. “Our lessons are
all hands-on and often sensory
oriented,” she said. “Our students
are learning words, sounds and
concepts by experiencing them in
innovative ways.” The teaching
style of hands-on learning also
plays a major role in the Green
Class students discovering more
independence. “It’s always so
fun to watch their faces as they
accomplish something on their
own,” Amy Reeves, the Green Class
Associate Teacher said. “As our
students make the connection that
they are capable, it opens doors in
their lives that allow them to really
soar. It’s beautiful to see them
find joy in all that God has made
them to be; brilliant, creative,
beautiful children.” The Green
Class welcomes you to stop by and
pay them a visit at the LLH anytime.
Call our front desk to set up a tour
today at (918) 664- 6746!