6 Questions with the Petersen Family
Our families put the heart in giving so for #GivingTuesday this year we are shining a light on a few of the families who make up our extended Search family tree. They are truly near and dear!
Meet the Petersen family. Laura Petersen lives at Search’s Gross Point house, and her brother, Pete has been board member with Search for many years. Pete and Katie, his wife, are actively involved as fierce advocates for everyone Search supports, including Laura. Abby and Georgia, Pete’s daughters and Laura’s beloved nieces, are very close with their aunt as well.
We got in touch with Abby to hear more about their story and the impact Search has had on their family.
Can you tell us a bit about your current and/or past involvement with Search? What makes Search special in your eyes?
“My Aunt Laura has lived in a Search home for several years and our family has many fond memories of spending time together there. For me, Search is special because the impact goes way beyond housing- immediately upon stepping into my aunt's home you can feel the safety, comfort, and unconditional love.”
Describe your relationship with your aunt, Laura. Would you like to share a fun family memory?
“During the pandemic, we were not able to see each other in person, but one of my favorite memories during that difficult time was when we went to visit her outside her window. We made signs to tape on the window and even then she was smiling that smile of hers that lights up a room!”
What do you all enjoy doing together?
“Some of my most favorite memories are being with my Aunt Laura on Christmas day. I love spending time with her and her housemates- there is always a lot of laughter and we always make sure to bring some kind of dessert to enjoy together. She loves chocolate more than anyone I know!”
What would it mean to you and your family/how would it make you feel for people to donate to Search this Giving Tuesday?
“Any donation to Search would help to continue making a positive impact in the life of my Aunt Laura and many others. It would make me feel so thankful and would mean so much to my family! Thank you in advance for anything you are able to contribute.”
On behalf of Laura, her longtime Supported Living Coordinator, Adrienne East, shared a few thoughts with us as well.
How does Laura act when she’s around her family? What are some of her favorite things to do with her family?
Laura laughs when she sees her family and is genuinely happy. She likes to be around family and loves watching her nieces and nephews!
Throughout her time at Search and as her case manager, how have you seen Laura grow? What are some of the favorite activities at Gross Point house?
“Laura loves to work with sensory objects and enjoys getting staff attention through vocalizations and being mischievous. Laura is extremely unassuming until you get to know her. Once you get to know her, you will see how playful she is. Overall, I believe Laura has flourished at Search as a member of Gross Point.”
Many thanks to the Petersen family and Adrienne for sharing their story. You can learn more about our 2021 Giving Tuesday Family Ambassadors here.
Don’t forget: All donations of $200 or more will be matched with a $200 gift from the Coleman Foundation until November 30! Donate here.