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On September 30, 2017, the Maine Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program hosted its second annual educational outreach and support picnic at UNE. Designed for individuals and families affected by neurodevelopmental disabilities, the event presented an opportunity for LEND trainees and facilitators to meet with those who could benefit from the program.

The picnic marks the first step of family-led experiences for LEND Trainees. Families interested in participating in the program are matched with a LEND trainee, who spends time participating in the child's appointments, assisting with school planning and taking part in wide range of activities. In turn, the host families teach trainees about everyday life with children who have neurodevelopmental disabilities.

“As a LEND trainee, I hope to enhance my ability to support families in ways most meaningful to them,” said Taylor Cahill (M.S.O.T., ‘18). “Every family is unique and care should be tailored to their individual goals and needs.”

“During our first year, the trainees described their learning about family-centered practice as transformational,” said Kathryn Loukas, O.T.D., M.S., OTR/L, clinical professor of Occupational Therapy and Maine LEND Training Director. “We hope for an even deeper transformation for this year’s trainees as they experience the joys and challenges of life with a child or young adult living with neurodevelopmental disabilities.” 

To learn more about the Maine LEND program, visit www.une.edu/LEND

To apply, visit www.une.edu/admissions