ACCESS Consumer Talent Show

ACCESS Consumer Shows Off his Fanning Skills

On a beautiful Monday afternoon, May 10, consumers, family, and staff gathered for the first ever ACCESS barbecue and Talent Show. Consumers initiated the idea during a discussion about using their own personal hobbies and interests to strengthen their own arsenal of coping skills. Under the assistance and guidance of staff, with communication with family and friends, what began as a spur of the moment idea blossomed into a two-hour event in less than a week.

With a hot grill and cold drinks, family members, friends, case managers, and staff gathered as consumers recited poetry, performed music raps and R&B singing, demonstrated a choreographed movement routine using a fan, and discussed the importance of symbolism and focus in the practice of Kung Fu.

Program Director Gwen Brooks took the time to remind those gathered about the accomplishments of the consumers during their stay at ACCESS, with an explanation of the program Ms. Brooks presented certificates of participation to each guest, praising each in turn and rewarding each with awards relating to increasing coping skills, learning about mental and physical wellness during their stay, and learning about the importance of a support structure. She stressed that the accomplishments of each guest were numerous, and wanted to focus on all aspects of growth. She reminded those gathered, "Other skills that have been strengthened while at ACCESS include, but are not limited to: learning how to interact with others without defensiveness or anger, increasing goal-directed behaviors, focusing thoughts on reality, accepting losses and developing positive self-esteem that is based on personal strengths, and developing increased involvement in personal interests."

Smile with Me

You may say I'm with the Lord's grace

Living life is not a race

We all make mistakes but it's right

To laugh with a smile on your face.

All we have to do is be at peace

With what nature creates

And that is ancient Ebonic

A language we must save

And place it on a pad from Staples.

Smile with me, Smile with me

Microphone check one two one two

When we're here it's not just me and you

We've got the boys from my own crew

And the Nikes on my own shoe .

This is your boy in my own way

Rapping in front of my family

Welcome all y'all that're here today

To hear my rap on the 10th of May.

Smile with me, Smile with me

This guy likes to rap with art

He sees life from the very start

And just like us, he has heart

The secret ingredient is love.

Thanks to the cook for the food for thought.

It’s healthy food just like we ought.

Yes we favor that good flavor,

We keep leftovers for us to savor.

Smile with me, Smile with me

Thanks ACCESS for the times we shared

And everyone who showed they cared

Your help means so much to me

To help me live a life that's free.

Smile with me, Smile with me

Editors Note: This rap was written and performed by a consumer at the ACCESS talent show. During his stay, this consumer was proud to demonstrate new coping mechanisms and conflict resolution techniques, and was excited about sharing his work with you.