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THE NASLUND & NASLUND FOUNDATION
HELPING US TO CHANGE LIVES
APRIL NEWSLETTER
LIGHT OF HOPE / ISSUE 34/ APRIL - 2026
Focusing on Community Integration for Adults with Diverse Abilities
APRIL IN SPRING
LIVE LIFE IN FULL BLOOM!!!
IN FOCUS
Juan Santos
Juan is employed with the Light of Hope program as a Field Supervisor. These are his words:
"I joined Light of Hope in August of 2024, and it has been both an honor and a priviledge to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate program. Since then, I have had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both clients and staff, which has made my experience truly rewarding.
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I take great pride in the work I do, particularly in supporting our clients within the community. Being able to learn aboout their interests, understand their individual needs, and contribute to their personal development is incredibly fulfilling. I value the opportunity to play a positive role in their daily lives-whether by introducing new skills, encouraging independence, or helping them navigate challenges and achieve theri goals.
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I look forward to continuing my journey with Light of Hope, expanding my skills, and contributing to the program's mission while creating many more meaningful and lasting memories with both clients and colleagues."
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(Juan in an end of day meeting with Director, Kimberly Naslund and LOH participants, Hannah, Ben, and Dennis (gray cap).
I LIKE THE SUN
Spring is in the air, flowers and trees are in full bloom, and the sun shines brightly! What a beautiful world we live in! Click on the link below and hear Kimberly Naslund along with some of the staff and participants of the Light of Hope program sing about the nature that surrounds us!
https://youtu.be/x2wWk4aiK1o?si=8DYKbIgIlueOq95K
THIS MONTH IN APRIL
Autism Awareness
Autism Awareness highlights the need for awareness and understanfing of autism spectrum disorder. It is also a time to celebrate individuals with autism and their uniqueness and talents.
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April Fools' Day
The origin of April's Fools' Day is not known, but it is a day designated to jokes and pranks. Will you be caught as a victim or a prankster on April 1st?
Easter
Easter falls on April 5th this year. It is a Christian festival that is celebrated worldwide. Easter is also a time for families and friends to gather together and enjoy the beauty and value of life and love.
Arbor Day
Arbor Day is recognized on April 24th. It is a time set aside to encourage people to plant trees and celebrate nature. Some people plant trees to honor loved ones
Earth Day
April 22nd is when we will celebrate Earth Day. It is important that we concern ourselves with living in a clean environment and consider the condition of the world we wish to pass on to our descendants.
BUSINESS STORIES MAGAZINE
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Click the link below to read the article on LOH's Director, Kimberly Naslund:
THE BEAUTY OF APRIL
Renewal and Growth: April symbolizes the awakening of nature, representing personal growth and the opportunity to seek new goals after winter's dormancy.
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New Beginnings: The month encourages fresh starts across various aspects of life, from personal ambitions to career changes and relationships.
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Hope and Optimism: With longer days and warmer weather, April fosters feelings of hope and inspires individuals to envision a brighter future.
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Playfulness and Celebration: Events like April Fools' Day bring lightheartedness and joy, reminding us to embrace laughter in daily life.
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Cultural Significance: April is marked by important holidays like Easter amd Earth Day, emphasizing themes of renewal, community and environmental stewardship.
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Psychological Connections: The month invites introspection and self-evaluation, motivating people to embrace change and adaptability in their lives.
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(brainwisemind.com) ​​​
April, April! Are You Here?
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April! April! are you here?
Oh, how fresh the wind is blowing!
See! the sky is bright and clear,
Oh, how green the grass is growing!
April! April! are you here?
​ Dora Read Goodale
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Special Recognition
Light of Hope's very own employee, Josephine Riley, will be performing in the production of "Footloose!" Let us support her in this endeavor. Click on the link below to purchase your tickets!
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https://highstreetartscenter.csstix.com/event-details.php?e=340
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CONGRATULATIONS, JOSEPHINE!
THINGS WE DO!
Griffith Observatory
In the above photo, Mo (left), and Glenn along with other LOH participants toured the Griffith Observatory where they explored the Water is Life and other exhibits.
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The observatory is one of Los Angeles' most popular attractions and it opens up a world of knowledge concerning the space we live in and beyond!
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In the above photo, Ben is quite curious about the alignment of planets.
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(Photos by Jovan/employee)
IN THE COMMUNITY!
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE!
presented by
Thousand Oaks Arts
April 25, 2026 - 3:00 PM
Bank of America Performing Arts Center
Fred Kavli Theatre
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This performance will surely impress the most enthusiastic dinosaur lover. Click the link to purchase your tickets! Have Fun!
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https://bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/dinosaur-world-live0
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Evangelina Lopez
At the Light of Hope Program, we prioritize hiring dedicated support staff for our participants. We recognize the crucial role these employees play in improving our company and enriching the experiences of our clients. The spotlight for the month of April shines on....... Evangelina Lopez, who is every employer's dream.
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Eva, is a great employee who consistently shows dedication and reliability. She is always on time and dependable. Eva has built stong, positive relationships with both clients and staff, helping to create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
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She is willing to step in and help, even when she's not directly assigned, which really shows her teamwork and commitment. Eva has a natural way of making people feel safe, comfortable, and valued.
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Eva's positive attitude and strong work ethic make her very deserving of Employee of the Month!
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THE AUTHOR'S NEST
APRIL - NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
This month also highlights the importance of tree preservation, making it the perfect time to grab your favorite collection of poems and relax under a beautiful shade tree. Let the imagery of the poetic words transport you to a serene escape and enjoy a peaceful moment in nature!
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I think I shall return to Homer's "Odyssey" for my book of choice. This famous epic poem is filled with great adventures and the author's skillful writing creates profound images in one's mind. The characters come alive with great energy, pulling you into the drama of the tale!
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Good Reading - For All!
(LOH participants, Hannah and Owen with manager, Josefina (right)
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The Light of Hope program fosters a close-knit community where every participant feels a genuine sense of belonging. This unity brings joy and happiness to everyone involved including our staff. We are committed to nurturing strong bonds that withstand the test of time, providing stability within our program.
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(Photo by Jovan/employee)
The Joy of Togetherness!
Historical April
April 2, 1513​
Spanish explorer, Ponce De Leon, sighted Florida and claimed it for the Spanish Crown after landing at the sight of present day St. Augustine, now the oldest city in the continental U.S.
April 3, 1860​
In the American West, the Pony Express service began as the first riders departed St. Joseph, Missouri. For $5 an ounce, letters were delivered 2,000 miles to California within ten days. The Famed Pony Express riders each rode from 75 to 100 miles before handing the letters off to the next rider. A total of 190 way stations were located about 15 miles apart. The service lasted less than two years, ending upon the completion of the overland telegraph.
April 6, 1896
First modern Olympic Games began.
The ancient Greeks invented the first Olympic games around776 BC and the event continued until 393 AD. Then1,500 years passed before the games were revived as the modern Olympics, an event we continue to celebrate every four years.
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CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH!
​ MICHELLE L. SARA MARIN S. JASPER V.
FRESH FACTS FOR APRIL
A polished seasonal spotlight with a few surprising details
behind one of spring's most refreshing months.
(Provided by Angela Anderson)
Fact references: Britannica, NASA, Academy of American Poets, Library of Congress, The Old Farmer's Almanac, and timeanddate.
April may be known for showers and flowers, but it also carries a fascinating backstory. From ancient calendar history to meteor trails and literary traditions, these lesser-known details make a great fit for a newsletter.​
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APRIL AT A GLANCE
BIRTHSTONE:
Diamond - a symbol of strength and clarity
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BIRTH FLOWERS:
Daisy and sweet pea, both tied to cheeerful beginnings
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CALENDAR QUIRK:
4/4, 6/6, 10/10, and 12/12 always share a weekday.
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April once stood closer to the front of the calendar.
In the earliest Roman calendar, the year began in March, so April originally appeared near the start of the year ratherr than in the fourth slot we know today.
Its name may trace back to a word meaning "to open."
Many historians connect April to the Latin asperire, meaning "to open" - a natural match for buds, blooms, and spring growth.
April hosts one of the oldest recorded meteor showers.
The Lyrids arrive in late April and have been observed for roughly 2,700 years, making them one of the oldest known meteor showers on record.
Poetry gets a national spotlight every April.
National Poetry Month began in 1996 and turned April into an annual celebration of creative language, reading, and literary culture across the United States.
The Pink Moon is more floral than colorful.
April's full moon is called the Pink Moon, but the moon itself does not turn pink. The name points instead to early spring wildflowers such as moss pink phlox.
NEW LIFE BLOOMING!
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THE NASLUND & NASLUND FOUNDATION
LIGHT OF HOPE COMMUNITY INTEGRATION PROGRAM
28030 DOROTHY DRIVE, SUITE 206, AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301
(818) 879-4673