Peer Services Extends Helping Hand in Time of Need

Peer Services maintains connections during COVID-19 restrictions by

supplying a tablet

Draven, an energetic

11-year-old who deals with behavioral issues and outbursts that are a result of his prenatal exposure to drugs, was having a difficult time adjusting to Covid-19 restrictions. He was frustrated by not being able to engage in the face-to-face interactions that keep him balanced.

The people who support him through the Momentum Program found a way to help Draven, who lives in southern Colorado.

Draven relies on his teachers, therapists and peer bridger to keep him balanced throughout his week. Those relationships help steady him in his day-to-day life.

Before spring break ended, Draven and his peer bridger Mandy Chapman often visited the trampoline park together. He enjoyed visiting places with Mandy outside of his usual environment to interact with others and explore the world. Draven lives with his adoptive mother and father in a rural area of Colorado Springs that is not close to many businesses and stores so opportunities for new experiences aren’t always readily available.

Draven was excited to go back to school and see all his friends and teachers, but the his school closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. This was the start of a shift in Draven’s routine – and his frustration level.

“He didn’t understand why he couldn’t see people or go back to school after spring break,” said Mandy Chapman.

Draven attends Peak Education, a program through Falcon School District 49 that is designed for children with disabilities and more severe behavioral escalations. It has a therapy session every day after school. Draven did not have a laptop to take classes online or video chat with his therapist and teacher which made the adjustment even more difficult.

The first week they tried to communicate through the phone, but it just made him angry. Draven’s frustrations increased because he had to stay at home and was unable to have face-to-face interactions with the people that help guide him through life according to his mother Candi Kane.

Mandy wanted to ease the transition for Draven by purchasing him supplies at home when she realized he did not own the technology to support him virtually.

Mandy and Draven’s family worked together to find a solution. They decided a tablet would best suit Draven so he can see people’s faces while communicating from a distance. Mandy was able to provide one through RMHS Peer Bridger Services.

“The tablet has been a big help,” Candi said after noticing the change in behavior of Draven. He became calmer and a little more able to cope being at home. The tablet has been essential for Draven to do his schoolwork and attend classes.

Candi believes the tablet supported him beyond enjoyment. He can use it to function in everyday life and keep some balance in his routine.

To find out more about the program please visit www.rmhumanservices.org/bh.