b'BLOSSOM IRELANDTaking the bus and train without mom and dad. Buying a coffee andHoward began the Blossom program when he was nine years old and moved snack with friends at the local caf. These are steps to confidenceinto the PEP program when he was fourteen. Soon he was learning skills and and independence that most young people take for granted. But fortasks that once seemed daunting. He [Howard] couldnt order something in young people like Howard, these are milestones to be especiallythe caf when he started with us, says Imelda Fitzpatrick, Program Director, proud of.Blossom Ireland. I remember him just sitting on his chair watching everyone else go up to order and not move. Now he is the employee of the month and Howard has a global developmental delay, explains his mom, Laura. As ateaching others. result, we found it difficult to get Howard into various clubs around the lo- Today at age 19, Howard is one of three paid teen mentors with cal area because he wasnt Down syndrome. He wasnt autistic. Blossom wasBlossoms PEP program. Along with Blossom staff he now helps inclusive and welcomed Howard first into the summer camp program and nowconduct the program but brings a unique perspective having gone into PEP. The program is always pushing and stretching our children and theirthrough the program himself. Being a teen mentor is good for me goals. Howard has evolved every step of the way. because I help people, says Howard. I show them how to take the bus.We have to help and train people. They may be nervous, but they are ready for it! Howard and his mom, LauraHoward has come through the Blossom Summer Camp Howardand Personal Empowerment Program. He now serves as a peer mentor.A Personal Empowerment Program Success Storyconnect 202024'