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A Joyful Start to Summer at Astonished!We’ve jumped into summer with energy, sunshine, and a whole lot of connection at Astonished! Our programs are in full swing. From afternoons filled with reading and learning, to adventures under open skies, and hands deep in the garden soil, our Core Members are embracing every moment of the season.
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Our Summer Literacy program is buzzing, with 16 participants gathering twice a week at the University of Regina. Split between two classrooms, Core Members are delving into the thought-provoking book "Interabled" during a book club that sparks rich conversation and builds comprehension through fun, interactive activities. The second half of each session explores other important forms of literacy, such as technology and financial literacy, offering a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.
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Sean & Slyder at Red Sox game
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Jayda & Megan at Pizza in the Park
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The Big Sky Outdoor Adventure program has made the most of the beautiful weather in June and July! Each week brings a new opportunity to explore and connect. So far, Core Members have enjoyed an outdoor movie night, a nature-themed scavenger hunt and trek, and a thrilling evening at a Regina Red Sox baseball game. These outings are not just about fun—they’re about friendship, confidence, and making lasting summer memories.
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Scavenger Hunt at Wascana
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Avery & Amanda at movie night
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Every Monday, Core Members come together in community and creativity through the Garden of Wellness. Nestled in a vibrant community garden, this program blends leisure, nature, and hands-on experiences. Participants have been busy planting and tending to vegetables and flowers—and adding their own personal touch to the garden by creating wooden plant labels, painting rocks, tie-dyeing bucket hats, building birdhouses, crafting stepping stones, and making colourful sun catchers.
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With so much already behind us, we’re filled with excitement for the rest of what summer has in store. We’re so proud of the energy, creativity, and community that each Core Member brings to these programs. Here’s to a season of connection, growth, and fun!
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Growing GratitudeGrowing Gratitude - Rooted in Strength raises money to fund the innovative and vital work of Astonished! and shares stories of gratitude. Almost 60% of our annual budget is supported by generous donors like you. We invite you to support Astonished! and share your story with us. We are better together!
Young adults with complex physical disAbilities are leading the way as they pursue their dreams and create a vibrant, inclusive community. With your support, together we are building something truly meaningful! All donations of $15 or more receive a charitable tax receipt.
The 2025 Growing Gratitude - Rooted in Strength campaign runs from June 1 to August 30.
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Jayda Lees
Hello! My name is Jayda, and I am currently in my last semester at the University of Regina, pursuing a Bachelor of Kinesiology with a major in Health Studies.
Last semester, I was fortunate enough to do my fieldwork placement with Astonished! and I am so excited to be continuing as a summer staff. I had an amazing time as a fieldwork student, and I am so grateful that I get to continue developing meaningful relationships with the core members.
This summer, I have been working on developing our Summer Literacy Program, as well as helping facilitate our Garden of Wellness Program and The Big Sky Summer Adventure Program. I am having a great time so far and can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer brings!
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Maggie-Kate FitzpatrickHi! My name is Maggie Kate (she/her), and I’m a second-year Education student at the University of Regina. I’m also proud to be a player on the University of Regina Cougars hockey team. Sports and teamwork have shaped who I am, and I love bringing that same energy and connection into everything I do.
This summer, I’m working as a Summer Literacy Leader, helping create fun, accessible learning opportunities for people of all abilities. I have really enjoyed Astonished! and the community brings me joy, whether we’re playing games, having great conversations, or just hanging out. I’ve learned so much from the Core Members and feel grateful to be part of something so meaningful.
Looking ahead, I plan to continue my journey in education, always striving to build inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to grow.
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Hannah MooneyHi! My name is Hannah, and I am currently entering my second year of the Kinesiology program at the University of Regina.
I have a strong interest in health and communication sciences and am hoping to pursue a career in speech and language pathology.
I was introduced to Astonished! through one of my university courses and have had the opportunity to support the organization as a support staff member over the past few months.
It has been a truly rewarding experience — I’ve loved getting to know everyone and building meaningful connections. I’m excited to continue learning and growing in this role and look forward to what the future holds!
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Gladys Ofili
Hi! My name is Gladys Ofili, and I’m currently a fieldwork student with Astonished! I’m in my final year of Health Studies at the University of Regina.
Being part of Astonished! has been a significant experience—it has given me the chance to learn in a hands-on, inclusive environment while connecting with an amazing community.
I’m passionate about health promotion, accessibility, and supporting programs that are strengths-based and person-centred. I’ve enjoyed getting to contribute to workshops and creative activities this summer, and I’m so grateful to be part of the A! team!
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Thank You
We are thankful for our collaboration with the City of Regina. Astonished! receives funding from the City of Regina Social Development Grant - to partially fund the Social Club.
In the letter accompanying the grant, the city wrote “Your program provides supportive, meaningful, and accessible social, recreational, and cultural activities to young adults with complex physical disabilities. The committee acknowledged that your program responds to a great need in community and aligns strongly to the City’s social development priorities.”
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Thank You
Thank you, Fidelity Investments, for supporting the work of Astonished through a generous donation to support our overall programs.
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Thank You
Thank you to our summer volunteers. You have gone above and beyond during the summer programs. Special thanks to Mikaylia Davis, Vanna Hung, Amanda LaRose, and Elisa Wong Huraira.
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University of Regina
3737 Wascana Parkway
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Regina, SK | S4S 0A2 CA |
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