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THE NASLUND & NASLUND FOUNDATION
HELPING US TO CHANGE LIVES
FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER
LIGHT OF HOPE / ISSUE 32 / FEBRUARY - 2026
Focusing on Community Integration for Adults with Diverse Abilities
LOVE FILLS THE AIR
IT MAKES EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL!
IN FOCUS
Wyatt J.
WINTER'S BRIGHT MOMENTS
(Poet: Catherine Pulsifer)
Winter may be cold and gray,
But special times warm up each day.
New Year's bring a hopeful start,
With fresh resolve in every heart.
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Groundhog Day adds a little fun,
Will winter linger, or spring soon come?
Valentine's Day spreads love around,
In every corner, joy is found.
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These moments make the season bright,
Filling our hearts with pure delight.
Though winter's long, these days remind,
There's warmth and cheer for us to find!
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POSITIVE CHANGE S
Life presents us with countless opportunities to create positive and impactful changes, not just for ourselves but also for those around us. Embracing these moments enables us to grow, inspire, and uplift others. Together, we can make a difference that resonates far beyond our individual lives. Let's seize these opportunities and transform our world for the better.
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Brynn, Melissa/staff, Michelle/staff, and Katie.
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LOH staff always take the time to make sure participants are knowledgeable about the exhibits they attend.
AVILA ADOBE MUSEUM
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
RIVER SYMBOLISM
"Rivers symbolize resilience as they carve their paths through rugged landscapes, shaping the earth with their persistent flow. Poems about rivers become more than geographical features; they embody the ebb and flow of human experience."
poetryispretentious.com
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RIVERS AS SYMBOLS OF CHANGE
"Rivers are constantly changing, and they are often used as symbols of change and transformation. They represent the flow of life and the inevitability of change. Rivers can also represent the journey of life, with its ups and downs, twists and turns."
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RIVERS AS SYMBOLS OF TIME
"Rivers are also associated with the passage of time. They are often used as symbols of the cyclical nature of life and the eternal flow of time. Rivers can represent the past, present, and future, and they are often used to symbolize the continuity of life."
symbolismguide.com
FUN FACTS
ALL ABOUT THE PUMPKIN!
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1. Scientists believe that pumpkins originated in North America about 9000 years ago. The oldest pumpkin seeds have been bound in Mexico and date back to somewhere between 7000 -5550 B.C..
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2. Every single part of the pumpkin is edible: the skin, leaves, flowers, pulp, seeds, and stems.
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3. The word "pumpkin" originates from "peopon," which means "large melon" in Greek. It then evolved to "pompon" in French and "pumpion" in Britain. The americans later changed it to "pumpkin," the name we still use today.
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4. Every year, the US produces 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkin.
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5. The practice of craving Jack-O'-Laterns was brought to America by Irish immigrants. In their homeland, the Irish used to carve Jack-O'-Lanterns out of potatoes or turnips, but upon arrival in America, they began to use pumpkins instead because they were far easier to carve. The tradition of the "Jack-O'-Lantern" stems from an Irish legend about a man named Stingy Jack who was a somewhat unpleasant character famous for playing tricks on people.
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Rosane Oliveira
UC Davis
November's Chill
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"""November's chill is in the air,
A time of change, a season rare.
As leaves fall gently to the ground,
New growth waits to soon be found.
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With each day comes new opportunity,
And gratitude fills our hearts with unity.
Let's cherish this month and all it brings,
For November truly is a time of beautiful things."
Catherine Pulsifer
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THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Cady T. appreciating the sound of the xylophone.
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Music appreciation is a part of Light of Hope's Creative and Performing Arts Program. Music stimulates the mind, enhances creativity, improves your mood, and is also stress reducing. These are just a few benefits of music.
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Music is medicine for the soul!
Wyatt J., LOH participant, is proving to have a good understanding when it comes to playing the piano! Keep going, Wyatt!
CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH!
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Nicholas R. Dennis B. Mimi N.
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Melissa L. Jahkai P.
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WE LISTEN
At Light of Hope, we believe that bonding with peers is essential for personal growth. We encourage an environment where one can elevate their social skills while building lasting friendships. With the support of our dedicated staff, individuals experience a nurturing atmosphere that enhances their self-confidence, self-worth, and sense of freedom. Join us in creating meaningful connections that empower everyone to thrive!
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"If he who listens listens fully, then he who listens becomes he who understands."
Ptahhotep
COMING SOON!
Universal City Walk
Christmas Program - December 13th​
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THE THINGS WE DO!
Join us each month as we carefully curate meaningful experiences designed to connect, inspire, and support our community. From local outings to exciting trips, every adventure embodies our mission to foster joy, learning, and a genuine sense of belonging. We invite you to be a part of these enriching moments that bring us closer together.
LA DODGERS / BASEBALL!
Take me out to the ball game! Thanks to Sharhonda and Shawn Stockman, (Boyz II Men artist), some Light of Hope participants were surprised with tickets to attend a LA Dodgers baseball game! Thank you also to "Micah's Voice."
Accompanied by his brother, Scott, Bobby K. (Dogers' cap), LOH participant, is a die hard Dodgers' fan! It was a thrilling event watching his team play a victorious game!
VARIOUS ACTIVITIES
Micah S. searching for the perfect pumpkim at Underwood Farms.
BEACH DAY!
Participants and staff from Light of Hope enjoyed a sunny day at Sycamore Cove Beach, filled with yoga on the sand, playing ball, and savoring a delicious barbecue. The highlight of the day was a surprise performance featuring Brazilian music by Baila Baila (Isabel and Victor).
Michael S. was fascinated by the jellyfish at The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
WHAT FEBRUARY BRINGS
GROUNDHOG DAY - 2ND
So, will spring come early or will we experience six more weeks of winter weather? Let's turn to the groundhog and see what he has to say about it!
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February 2nd is considered National Groundhog Day. The spotlight will be on Punxsutawney Phil as ventures out from his burrow to see what is going on in the world. If he sees his shadow, he will scoot back into his burrow to escape six more weeks of winter or he will stay outside and romp about for winter has ended!
VALENTINE'S DAY - 14TH
Valentine's Day has been celebrated
PRESIDENT'S DAY - 16th
President's Day has been
A GREAT TIME TO READ
THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH
by
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
Grab your tea or coffee cups and your favorite reading spot! Now, settle in and enjoy this fantastic tale with me!
Love Makes The World Go Around
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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