Read a Story, Spark an Imagination
Increasing literacy positively impacts society by enabling individuals to access educational opportunities and actively contribute to their communities. Hearing stories provides exposure to new information and knowledge, supporting lifelong learning for individuals with special needs.
About the Program
Special Needs In My City, in partnership with United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus County, presents Read Aloud, Spark Your Imagination—a reading and social club designed to offer adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities an opportunity to hear stories and engage in meaningful social interactions.
Through this program, participants join small group sessions over Zoom, where storytellers read engaging stories on topics of interest. These interactive sessions help develop social and communication skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Why This Program Matters
Our goal is to foster social connections while increasing participants' understanding of the world around them. Many adults with special needs have a strong desire to read, learn, and explore new ideas but face barriers due to reading and visual impairments.
Incredible Progress & Impact
Since launching this program two years ago, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in our participants. They have grown to trust this space, sharing their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on the world they live in. Their commitment to the program is evident in their consistent attendance.
We see their confidence and excitement flourish as they eagerly participate in discussions, sharing their interests and life experiences. Communication happens in many forms—via chat, voice, visual cues, or sign language. No matter how they choose to express themselves, they return each week with enthusiasm.
Our participants are humorous, genuine, insightful, and incredibly engaged.
2025 Read Aloud Sessions
- Session 1: January 5 – March 30, 2025
- Session 2: April 6 – June 22, 2025
- July Break
- Session 3: August 3 – September 21, 2025
- Session 4: October 5 – December 21, 2025
Time: Sundays, 4:00 – 5:00 PM (Pacific Time) (Excluding holidays and holiday weekends)
Where: Zoom (Session link sent after registration)
Who Can Join: Adults (18+) with special needs
Try a Session for Free! Want to see if this program is the right fit? Email angelinav@snimc.org to try a session at no cost!
How the Sessions Work
Each one-hour session is led by dedicated storytellers who read engaging stories tailored to participants' interests. The sessions encourage peer interaction, help improve social skills, and foster new friendships.
Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ideas, and preferences in whatever way they feel most comfortable. Our inclusive approach ensures that everyone has a chance to participate in a way that suits them best.
Over the past year, we have seen remarkable growth in our participants' social engagement. Many have initiated conversations, formed friendships, and even continued connecting outside of the sessions! While progress happens at different paces, the consistent sense of belonging and camaraderie keeps them coming back.
If you know someone who would love to be part of this experience, please spread the word!
Volunteer Opportunities
Interested in volunteering as a storyteller? We're always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to read aloud and engage with participants. If you're interested, or if you have any questions, please contact Angelina at angelinav@snimc.org.
Support the Program
If you can't volunteer but would like to contribute, consider making a financial donation to support this vital program. Your generosity helps us continue providing a safe and engaging space for adults with special needs to learn and connect.
Donate NowEvery gift makes a difference—help us ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be a lifelong learner.
Register for Read Aloud Sessions – 2025
To complete registration, please submit payment. If registering multiple participants, register and pay separately for each.
Zoom links will be emailed before each session. If you don’t receive the email, check your spam folder or email Angelina at angelina@snimc.org.