Heidi

December 2009

I was referred to You’ve Gotta Have Friends a couple of years ago by Julie Murakami, WJS Group, as a place to meet new people.  When I came to Y.G.H.F., I was hoping to build a friendship network.  I have a learning disability and I was trying to find someone who would understand my situation.  I want to be accepted for who and what I am.  I need a listening ear when I get depressed.

I have met a lot of people in the office and I’ve experienced friendships with people I’ve met here that go beyond the planned events and activities.  I go swimming with a group of people a couple of times a week and I enjoy going for coffee with others.  I like to be needed and involved.  I feel closer to these people and what happens in the office and feel I have grown with Y.G.H.F.  I feel connected.

What I enjoy most is the friendly people here.  There are many different opinions and ideas from people.  I like the variety that happens in the office, different people and situations.  The atmosphere is diverse with a whole range of emotions, it’s never boring. 

If I could change anything at You’ve Gotta Have Friends it would be to expand on activities like getting everyone out of the office in good weather to go for a walk or to do some low or no cost activities like volunteering.

I like the structure, enthusiasm, sharing of ideas and understanding I have experienced with Y.G.H.F.  I feel encouraged, energized and inspired.  It is a challenge to keep my depression under control and I receive different feedback and support from different people.  Acceptance is most important to me, getting to know and interact with others gives me a sense of belonging and to be involved and included in everything that’s happening.  I like giving.  Hands-on activities like helping at the dances gives me a sense that I can contribute.