Especially Kidz receives donation

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. (Oct. 2, 2020) – For the second straight year, Indiana Grand Racing & Casino has reached a helping hand out to Especially Kidz Health and Rehabilitation, located in Shelbyville, Ind. A donation of $20,000 was provided to the organization during a special presentation Tuesday, September 29 in the garden area of the facility.

Especially Kidz provides long term care for children and young adults with special mental and physical needs. In operation since 1974, the facility has a staff of approximately 170, including respiratory and therapy activities. The location is currently at full capacity with 130 residents.

“We are so happy we can continue our support of an organization that has really touched our hearts at Indiana Grand,” said Lindsay Fish, director of sales and business development. “Seeing the dedication of the staff and the needs they are facing has resonated with our company. We have already seen such a transformation from last year and hope this donation will allow them to get closer to some of their goals for the residents.”

Last year, a team from Indiana Grand’s backstretch maintenance crew came into the atrium of Especially Kidz and totally revamped the outdoor space, providing new landscaping, paint, fencing, and even outdoor seating areas for residents and their families. Also, a donation was made to assist with some projects inside, and this year’s donation will be placed directly into an upgraded sensory area utilized by all residents.

“We are converting a couple of rooms into more organized feeding areas,” said Kathy Berger, business office manager. “We are taking the sensory room and blending it together with this space, which will be so great for the residents and keep their minds active through all of their senses.”

Both Berger and Dawn Wendel, administrator, noted the increased use of the atrium by residents and their families. Although COVID-19 restrictions have not allowed use of the facility in recent months, they know the area will be well used once restrictions are lifted.

“The outside renovations have been outstanding,” noted Wendel. “The seating areas have been a big boost and families using this area when visiting, often eating lunch with the residents in this area. I can’t explain how touched we are for the involvement from Indiana Grand. We have had numerous team members (from Indiana Grand) stop in to assist or drop off items. The Christmas décor last year was amazing. The commitment has been so consistent and it’s very heartfelt.”

Photo Caption: Lindsay Fish, director of sales and business development (second from left) and Indiana Grand Team Members Marcie Litteral and Crystal Ledford, far right, made a $20,000 check presentation to Especially Kidz staff Tuesday, Sept. 29 to assist with ongoing projects at the Shelbyville facility.