The Hangout: One Happy Place

     As of October 2022, there are almost 32,000 special needs students in New York. Ms. Lucas has founded the One Happy Place down at the South Baldwin Jewish Center. She has worked in the Baldwin Educational system for 16 years, and has also worked independent support services. Ms. Lucas founded the hangout from experience. Going to different programs, she didn’t find herself liking what she saw. This enabled her to create a place for young adults with special needs to have their own voice and develop friendships. “It turned into the happiest place in the world. They get to make choices, no one’s ever asked them what they want to do,” stated Ms. Lucas. Having volunteered there myself, One Happy Place is truly very welcoming. They’re able to express themselves openly and participate in their hobbies. One of the kids played the piano beautifully, while the others played video or board games. Not only was there a chance of expression through music and dance, but they really got to sit down and enjoy themselves just like everyone else would have the opportunity to. Special needs individuals are often seen as different, and while it is true that they are, they are also people with talents, wants, and amazing personalities. One Happy Place Hangout definitely reminds them and everyone else within the community of this aspect.