In February, Ädelbrook Behavioral & Developmental Services celebrated Black History Month with Keith McGilvery on Fox61 News. During the segment, Jackie Peck, Adelbrook’s Director of Education, alongside Taiya, a student at the Ädelbrook Transitional Academy, shared the incredible impact of a new used bookstore, Ädelbooks & More in Middletown, CT. In addition to providing a space for individuals with autism, developmental, and intellectual disabilities to learn and practice employment skills, the storefront also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and DEI&B, celebrating the unique strengths and abilities of all individuals.

 

Keith shared, “There is a new used bookstore in Middletown that’s providing meaningful opportunities to people of all abilities.” He followed up with a question to Taiya, “Taiya, what do you love about working in this brand-new bookstore?” She replied enthusiastically, “To help kids read and learn the knowledge for the future, and I love reading books.”

 

Jackie provided some insight into the grand opening and impact of the mission, “Our students have been working super hard. We had a fantastic Grand Opening on the 17th where we had lots of people come through. The students were able to tell them about the bookstore, share with the local vendors, and practice all of their cash register skills.” When Taiya is in the bookstore, she “likes to read sometimes, and do the cash register.” To elaborate on the essential employment skills that are learned and practiced by students like Taiya, Jackie mentioned,

 

“At Ädelbrook, we work with people with any and all abilities, including individuals with intellectual challenges and autism spectrum. It’s truly an opportunity to go to work every day. We provide educational and behavioral services for a variety of students, ranging in abilities and disabilities. Ultimately, Ädelbooks & More is an opportunity for them to practice all of those vocational and real-life skills. They have to interact with customers, they have to take inventory, to keep the store clean. It’s a real-life practice of all those vocational skills they need to be as independent as possible.”

 

In celebration of Black History Month, Taiya selected a few of her favorite books that demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. One of her featured books includes “Joy Takes Root” by Gwendolyn Wallace, a local author who shares a story about her grandmother. In response to Taiya’s favorite books, Jackie responded,

 

“It is incredibly important that we have books that reflect our community. It gives our students an opportunity to relate to other people while giving them the experience of learning something new.”

 

Keith asked Taiya, “Why should kids and families visit our store?” Taiya replied, “ So kids can learn about Black History Month and learn how to read and write.”
And there are plenty of opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate DEI&B in this incredible bookstore. In addition to book signings and other events, Ädelbooks & More is located at 100 Riverview Center, Suite 135, Middletown, CT and is open Monday-Thursday, 10am-2pm, Fridays, 10am-6pm and Saturdays from 10am-3pm. We hope to see you there!

 

Ädelbrook is a 124-year-old nonprofit multi-service agency specializing in behavioral and developmental services. Ädelbrook is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of families and individuals of all ages and abilities, with expertise in supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders. From individualized education services to residential and therapeutic supports, Ädelbrook provides a high-quality continuum of care to meet the ever-changing needs of the amazing children and individuals it supports. Through collaboration, both internally and externally, Ädelbrook provides expert, comprehensive, data-driven, person-centered services with compassion. By building trust in a safe and nurturing environment Ädelbrook helps those it serves find a future filled with achievement, dignity, happiness, and hope.