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THE NASLUND & NASLUND FOUNDATION
HELPING US TO CHANGE LIVES
MAY NEWSLETTER
LIGHT OF HOPE / ISSUE 35 / MAY - 2026
Focusing on Community Integration for Adults with Diverse Abilities
THE MUSIC OF MAY
WHEN FLOWERS SING!
IN FOCUS
Hillary S.
Hillary truly enjoys her time in the LOH day program, especially participating in activities like visiting Shemesh Farms and attending art classes. She values the friendships she has built, sharing that support guide, Michelle, is her best friend, and she appreciates the support of Field Manager Josefina and Program Director, Kimberly, who make her feel comfortable and encouraged.
One of her favorite field trips has been visiting the Griffith Park Observatory, and she also loves going out to eat with the program with Maria's Kitchen being top choice.
Overall, Hillary enjoys a variety of activities, but what she loves most about the program is being integrated into the community and having opportunities to volunteer, which makes her feel connected, engaged, and proud.
Hillary S. spending a day at Universal CityWalk with her peers. (from left to right: Hannah, Hillary, Joseph, and Sharona.
FUN AT THE GETTY!
Curious minds and lovers of artistic displays are drawn to the Getty Art Museum where collections of various art pieces are on exhibit.
Dennis B. and Mo H. discussing the exhibits at the Getty.
Photos by Jovan/Staff
The Getty Museum offers a fountain of information to Hannah, Glenn, and Mo.
ENJOY THE FLOWERS TODAY
Whispers In Bloom
In wildflowers patches, dreams take flight,
Fleeting as shadows in the soft twilight.
Petals like whispers dance on the breeze,
Carrying secrets from blossoms tos trees.
Each vibrant hue a forgotten scheme,
A tapestry woven from nature's dream.
Yet, just like the wind, they fade away,
Leaving behind a memory's sway.
In colors that brighten the dullest days,
Wild dreams interweave in their fragile ways.
So pause for a moment, let time stand still,
In wildflower whispers, find heart's sweet thrill.
(Tiny Poetry)
TEACHABLE MOMENTS
At LOH, any activity can create teachable moments but there are many teachable moments in the life that surrounds us.
On April 1, 2026,the Artemis II crew were launched out into space to the moon on the Orion spacecraft.This was a nine day mission with them splashing down to earth on April 10, 2026.
The crew members were: Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission specialists Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen.
To learn more about this fantastic journey to the moon and back, clink on the link provided below.
https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii/
Here are just a few shots from the Mission:
Left: Photo of the launch off, Right: Photo of the Orion Spacecraft
Photo of the Artemis II crew inside the spacecraft
A view of the earth from inside the spacecraft
A closeup of the moon, showing the many craters
What A Wonderful World We live In!
NORTH LA COUNTY REGIONAL CENTER VENDOR FAIR
LOH employees, Josephine/Support Guide, Juan/Supervisor, and Josefina/Manager, represented the company at NLACRC's Vendor Fair. This event was designed to connect vendors with NLACRC partners and the community.
FLIGHT OF THE PEACOCK
"Peacocks are relatively large birds, so it's easy to dismiss them as flightless. However, they may fly for brief periods. The majority of the time, peacocks are either walking or running. Since they spend so much time socializing and feeding on the ground, they do not prioritize flight as a necessary skill. When they do take flight, it is a sight to behold.
They begin with a running start, then spread their wings. Their broad, rounded wings help with lift-off but are not suited for long-distance flight. Once airborne, they flap their wings rapidly to stay aloft. Because of the size of their wings, this can be quite loud. They may fly to avoid danger or to reach a high roosting point. If you ever see a peacock fly, you have witnessed an amazing behavior.
You might be wondering: with such a large tail, don't they get weighed down? While it may seem that way, the tail does not actually interfere much with their short flights. The feathers do add some weight and drag, which would typically make flying harder. However, the tail feathers are light and flexible. This lightness and flexibility mean that the tail does not prevent the peacock from flying and may actually be beneficial. The tail can act as a stabilizer during flight, contrary to the popular belief that it is a hindrance."
a-z-animals.com
A peacock showing off its beautiful feathers!
LIVING IN THE PEACE OF SPRING!
Support Guide, Josephine R. with LOH participant, Wendy B., caught in a peaceful moment
One can't help but be filled with peace when outdoors looking at the world surrounding you. The fluffy clouds, the blue sky, the birds singing as they perch on a limb, the sun shining, colorful butterflies among the purple flowers, it's all a magnificent wonder!
Light of Hope loves this time of year when our participants can enjoy the beauty before us. Taking nature hikes and enjoying outdoor activities, or maybe just settling down for a relaxing moment. Let us embrace life with love.
Spring wonderfully presented: Butterflies & Purple Flowers!
WHAT ELSE HAS HAPPENED?
Each month, we invite you to partake in thoughtfully curated experiences that aim to connect and inspire our community. Whether it's local outings or thrilling trips, every adventure is our commitment to cultivating joy, learning, and a true sense of belonging. Join us in these enriching moments that strengthen our bonds and create memories as we share our stories.
SANTA MONICA PIER
Light of Hope participants had their sights set on an amusement park atmosphere, so they jumped in the vehicles and hit the pier, Santa Monica Pier!
Mo H. feeling happy on the pier.
LOH participant, Hannah F. enjoying the sights of Santa Monica Pier with support guide, Michelle.
The games kept Michael S. engaged.
Photos by Jovan/Staff
FUN FACTS FOR MAY
The name May originated from the Latin word Maius, named after the Greek goddess of growth and fertility, Maia.
The Anglo Saxon word for May was Tri-Milchi meaning 3 milks because the grass had become so lush and green that you could milk the cows three times a day!
Flower: Lily of the Valley
Birthstone: Emerald
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH!
Eric Muhl
Here at Light of Hope, we take great concern with employing staff that uphold our standards of care and support which is vital to the success of our program. Support Guide, Eric Muhl, has been consistant in the quality of his work ethics.
Eric consistently demonstrates reliability and dedication by always being punctual and present. He approaches his work with kindness and compassion, always putting forth his best efforts in everthing he does.
Eric builds positive relationships with both clients and staff, creating a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone. He is not only approachable, but also proactive, regularly asking thoughtful and important questions that reflect his genuine care and commitment to the program.
His strong communication skills, exceptional integrity, and willingness to step in and help wherever needed make him an invaluable member of the team. Eric truly exemplifies what it means to be Employee of the Month.
THIS MONTH IN MAY
1st of MAY
I do not see much of this anymore, but May Day use to be an eventful day for all! We would dance around the pole wrapping it with colorful ribbons, pass out flowers to friends and family, have bonfires, and enjoy plenty of singing and music. It was all about welcoming Spring!
INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS' DAY
May 4th marks International Firefighters' Day! It's a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable contributions firefighters make to our society. Much like soldiers, they make significant sacrifices to ensure our safety and protect the structures of our communities. The challenges they face in fighting fires are immense, even dangerous, and the dedicated men and women in these roles truly deserve support. Let’s take a moment to express our gratitude for their service. Do something nice for firefighters today.
CINCO de MAYO - MAY 5TH
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the heroic Battle of Puebla, a victorious win of the Mexican army over the French army. It is a day that represents pride, courage and unity.
MOTHERS' DAY - MAY 10TH
A Mother Gives
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
A mother gives with heart so wide,
She puts her own needs all aside.
Through sleepless nights and endless care,
Her love remains beyond compare.
We owe her more than words can say,
For all she’s done in every way.
So thank you, Mom, both near and far,
Your love will always be our star.
MEMORIAL DAY - MAY 25TH
The words captioned above: Sacrifice, Courage, and Honor are the perfect descriptions to use when speaking of those who served to protect our Nation!
Sacrifices - made are great! Sacrifice of life, family, friends, and future.
Courage - Facing fierce obstacles yet still, marching on forward to accomplish the goals.
Honor - Selfless service, loyal to one's country, a sense of respect and duty.
The first person I remember who lost their life while serving our nation was when I was in junior high school. It was a traumatic realization as to the high cost of war. To this day, I can still feel the impact of how that news pierced my heart.
On this Memorial Day, may we all remember and be thankful that we have men and women willing to serve this nation.
(gwendolyn trudo)
CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS THIS MONTH!
Michael S. Ben D. Angela A.
Once Upon a Time When We Were Kids
One day, Katy was sitting on the steps in front of her home when she saw Hannah walking down the street. "Hi Hannah. Where are you going? Hannah replied, "I am going to my friend's house. Her mom just bought a lollipop tree." "A lollipop tree!" Katie exclaimed. "Can I go with you? I love lollipops." "Sure," replied Hannah. When they arrived at Hannah's friend's house, she show them the picture hanging on her wall of a lollipop tree. "Oh," Hannah replied. "I thought you had a tree that grew lollipops." Her friend's mother laughed. "You must feel disappointed. I am so sorry about that. However, how would you girls like to take a drive with me to the candy store? They have plenty of lollipops there." Hannah, Katy, and their friend were very excited when they arrive at the candy store. They bought enough lollipops to share with the entire Light of Hope Program.
NOTE: (Charcters named after LOH participants - Fictional Stories for fun)
Life Is A Beautiful Song!
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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