Hand in Hand is a recreation club for youth with developmental disabilities. Participants get a well-needed break in an understanding community – a precious relief from the challenges of living with a disability. We are thankful for the incredible value the event has for its students, their families, and the San Diego Korean-American community at large.

TYP members regularly participate in Hand in Hand. On April 22nd, TYP members Gene Chang and John Lee volunteered as activity instructors. They designed and led many physically developing activities: taekwondo practice to support general fitness, beanbag tosses and hoop tosses for hand-eye and motor coordination, and stretches to improve flexibility. Gene finds his service very rewarding: “It was an enlightening experience and a novel way to interact with the community, getting out of my comfort zone with people I’ve never had the pleasure to meet before Hand in Hand. It was fun, and the time went by quickly.”

TYP offered a helping hand again on May 6th. John Lee and Kate Lee from TYP led a variety of recreational activities, all themed around cupcakes. Students folded origami cupcakes and decorated their own real cupcakes from frosting to toppings. John reflects on Hand in Hand with a newfound sense of self development: “Putting myself in front of a group of people and giving them my assistance in person for the first time was a heartwarming experience, as I got the chance to help kids make cupcakes and see their faces glow. Volunteering in these kinds of organizations will give me experience for my future and I would love to continue to participate in these events.”

As a result of how great Hand in Hand is, the San Diego branch has attracted a high enrollment demand that has overtaken the proportion of volunteer instructors. Hand in Hand aims to be fun for everyone, volunteers included, and all who are interested should be welcomed into engaging accomplishments. Yet the volunteer instructor staff shortage strains the depth and breath of the activities Hand in Hand can offer. TYP’s participation has revitalized Hand in Hand by creating new project-based learning activities. But Hand in Hand still always appreciate more helping hands!  Please consider volunteering in this very impactful and rewarding organization!