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CONTACT Nicole Y. Woods Communications Director 317.439.8972 nicolew@damar.org Construction begins today on Indiana’s largest known therapeutic multi-sensory garden for children with autism at Damar Services, Inc. INDIANAPOLIS - More than 50 employees from Duke Energy and JFNew are trading in their PDAs and hard hats for hand shovels and wheelbarrows today and tomorrow (May 1-2) to begin construction of a new 12,000 sq. ft. multi-sensory stimulation garden for children and adults with autism at Damar Services, Inc., 6324 Kentucky Avenue in Indianapolis. The news media is invited May 1-2 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to interview Damar, Duke Energy and JFNew representatives about their motivations for developing this unique outdoor landmark, which will represent Indiana’s largest known therapeutic multi-sensory garden. The sensory garden project is made possible by a generous $18,700 gift from Duke Energy. JFNew, an Indiana-based ecological consulting firm, and its Foundation is providing native plants and flowers worth more than $1,000, and the makers of Gatorade(r) are providing the sports drink to the volunteers. Damar’s multi-sensory garden utilizes techniques deliberately intended to make floral and vegetable gardening fun and accessible for the 700 children and adults served by Damar, and provides an environmentally authentic, hands-on teaching center for horticultural therapy initiatives. “Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties with communication, social interaction and learning through conventional teaching methods, which can make everyday life confusing, distressing and scary,” said Dr. Jim Dalton, a licensed child psychologist, and Damar’s senior vice president and chief operating officer. “This landmark development, with its pleasant smells, vibrant colors and calming sounds, serves not only as a peaceful safe haven but also provides an opportunity for them to communicate through their senses and develop basic academic and social interaction skills in a relaxing environment.” Once complete, this peaceful outdoor retreat will boast hundreds of botanicals, many featuring brilliantly contrasting colors, distinct plant formations, textures, scents and tastes that maximize stimulation of the five senses. The multi-sensory flora will be uniquely showcased in traditional in-ground beds, raised wooden flower boxes and hanging baskets set among a dynamic backdrop of birdhouses; garden benches and picnic tables; a pergola trellis; water fountain and a wooden stepping pinwheel, a sensory tool that builds a child’s confidence with jumping, judging distances, coordination and balance. “It’s wonderful to work with a team of folks who are making a difference daily in the lives of youths,” said Jim Stanley, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “It is my hope that the sensory garden will be a source of great comfort to the residents with autism; for me personally it has been a rewarding experience.” Duke Energy’s support of the project underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and tradition of corporate philanthropy and volunteerism. Throughout April and May, thousands of Duke Energy employees and retirees are participating in hundreds of community projects during the company’s annual Global Service Event, which will benefit nonprofit organizations in 153 communities nationwide. Duke Energy, its Foundation and employees have provided much-needed financial and volunteer support to Damar for several years, including a 2006 renovation of a Damar group home during which company employees purchased and installed a new dishwasher, sealed doors, windows and electrical outlets, and insulated the attic to increase energy efficiency. The company has also sponsored the Damar View quarterly community newsletter. Corporate supporters of Damar’s mission know the organization’s vital human services are essential to society as a whole and recognize that improving quality of life for individuals in the community benefits everyone, including businesses. “Duke Energy and JFNew’s support of Damar is a solid investment in our community, one that makes a visible and positive difference in the lives of the children and adults we proudly serve,” said Greg Johnson, Damar president & CEO. “We are humbled by their commitment to our mission and sincerely appreciate their generosity.” Founded in 1967, Damar Services, Inc. is an industry-leading provider of dynamic and innovative residential and community-based treatment, educational and vocational support, and other services to 700 children and adults facing the intellectual, developmental and behavioral challenges associated with mental retardation and autism. Today, 96 percent of the individuals served at Damar are living more independently. With more than 700 employees across the state of Indiana, Damar’s continuum of services include the Residential Campus Treatment Program, Transitional Living Services, Group Home Services, Community Living and Support Services; Outpatient Clinical Services, Prevention and Support Services; and the state-accredited Damar Academy school. Damar’s excellence is further evidenced by national distinction and acclaim earned through the success of Damar Best, a best practices research, development, and training initiative. We hope you can stop by today! http://www.damar.org/111/