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THE NASLUND & NASLUND FOUNDATION
HELPING US TO CHANGE LIVES
NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER
LIGHT OF HOPE / ISSUE 29 / NOVEMBER - 2025
Focusing on Community Integration for Adults with Diverse Abilities
Nature Prepares To Sleep
oh how lovely is the WORLD WE SEE!
IN FOCUS
Jennifer L. has experienced remarkable personal growth, development, and social interaction through the Light of Hope program. The staff and her peers have become her friends, and she looks forward to connecting with everyone daily. Jennifer genuinely enjoys participating in all the activities, which brings her great happiness! It's wonderful to witness her progress!
GOLDEN HEART RANCH HALLOWEEN
LOH's Hannah F., Josefine R. /staff, and Katy S. were among the many attendees at the carnival.
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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ZAHAMIT K. ALEXANDRA B.
LIA P. WYATT. J.
ELIZABETH C. EVANGELINA L.
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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
LIFE FLOWS LIKE A RIVER
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
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.
LIFE IS SO AMAZING!
WHAT NOVEMBER BRINGS
Thanksgiving is a special time for family and friends to come together, celebrating the joy of shared experiences, expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It's a moment to focus on the positive changes we've encountered and the cherished memories we've created along the way. Let's take this opportunity to appreciate each other and the moments that have shaped us. Happy Thanksgiving!
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
This month is the time when we celebrate the history, culture and art of Native Americans, and their achievements and contributions to our society.
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Some contributions by Native Americans:
Corn, beans, and squash;
Their system of democracy that influenced the U.S. Constitutuion;
Herbal medicines and natural remedies;
Canoe craftsmanship;
Practices that influenced society's approach to ecology and conservation.
A GREAT TIME TO READ
Savor the serenity of a cool autumn day, where the crisp air invites you to sit outside with a steaming cup of coffee or tea in hand. There’s nothing quite like the joy of getting lost in a good book as the leaves rustle gently around you. Embrace the moment and let your cares drift away, if only for a little while.
S.U.R.F.
​​​​​​​​​​​S.U.R.F. Service - Unity - Responsibility - Faith) Mondays has started! It is a Christian- based activity day that is free for Light of Hope. It is not too late to sign up. Click on the icon below if you want to join us!
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CAROLINE'S BIG ADVENTURE
Caroline B. enjoyed the serenity of the boat ride at Ventura Harbor. With her radiant smile lighting up the scene, she stepped aboard and gazed out at the shimmering water, inhaling deeply. The beauty around her was captivating. Though the sky was slightly overcast, the temperature was just right for a day on the water. Wearing her life vest, she settled in and embraced the tranquility of the moment.
Sailing can be a beautiful experience!
VETERAN'S DAY - NOVEMBER 11, 2025
(For the Love of Country)
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May we all take the time on this day to honor the many United States military veterans for their patriotism and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the good of all.
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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