Meet the great people behind the great programs and services offered at Ometz! Our colleague Deborah Groper discusses the Small Steps program, and the support and benefits it provides to parents and children.

What is your position and how long have you been working at Ometz?

My name is Deborah Groper and I am a Program Manager for School Services at Ometz. For the past 14 years, I have been working closely with the Jewish day schools, providing Occupational and Speech Therapy services and Psycho-educational assessments to their students.

Could you describe the Small Steps program?

Small Steps grew out of an innovative relationship with McGill University, specifically within the departments of OT, Speech and Communication Disorders, and the Ben Weider JCC facility. This partnership allows McGill interns to get training in their respective professional fields, under Ometz supervision, and with campers from the Friendly Faces day camp who are in need of specialized supports. Registered campers receive quality, intensive therapy in a warm and welcoming social summer environment, at no additional cost. In addition, Master’s students learn in a real life setting. Ometz has even hired some of these students after graduation. Ultimately, this is a win/win situation for everyone! The Ben Weider Friendly Faces day camp benefits from having programs that attract and speak to needs from within.

What is new about the Small Steps program in 2016?

In the summer of 2015, we provided therapy to 18 children, ages 4-10 with mild to moderate developmental delays from all parts of the city. Small Steps is now in its 5th year. We are hoping that in the coming year, we will be able to expand this number to 25.

What inspires you most in your work?

I love being part of an initiative that is helping parents and their children in such a special model of partnership, professional learning and especially growth for kids.

To find out more about the Small Steps program,click here.