SMILE Pearland is a youth-led inclusive program dedicated to supporting individuals with special needs and their families through engaging, skill-building activities in a welcoming and supportive environment. It is part of the Youth SMILE 4 Special Needs initiative, organized by Hummingbird Community Outreach, PROMIS/AYLUS Pearland, and valued community partners.
Our April session, themed around Earth Day, focused on “Recycle and Create.” The event began with an engaging presentation by volunteers on how to care for our planet, followed by an interactive recycling quiz, “Which Bin Should I Go?” Participants were shown pictures of everyday items and encouraged to choose the correct color-coded recycling bins for each item, promoting environmental awareness and decision-making skills.
Participants then took part in a hands-on craft activity, transforming donated T-shirts into creative tote bags. Through cutting and knotting, participants practiced fine motor skills while expressing creativity. With the support of volunteers, each participant successfully completed their own unique recycled tote bag.
The session concluded with a lively bucket drumming activity using simple sticks. Volunteers guided participants and their families through rhythm and beat exercises, creating an energetic and joyful musical experience.
These thoughtfully designed activities promote hand-eye coordination, focus, and physical movement while enhancing cognitive development, life skills, environmental awareness, and fine motor skills—all within a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment.
We were pleased to have six families with special needs participate in this event.
Volunteers (2 hrs): Junxi Zhang, Emma A Lu, Grace Zhu, Miles Jin
Volunteer (3 hrs): Alissa Shi
Volunteer (5 hrs): Jiarui Cui
Parents on duty (2 hrs): Ariel Han (Jiarui), Yiwen Zhang (Miles)
