Every individual with special needs requires a unique constellation of services. In our community, we have many organizations who shine at providing these activities and services. Our mission at See Us Shine is to provide a dynamic online resource that simplifies access and serves as a guiding star, giving hope and inspiration to these special individuals and all who support them. Our dream is to help the stars align most perfectly for you and your loved ones.
Our Mission
See Us Shine's Beginnings
About 10 years ago, I created a nonprofit that included the expressed purpose of being used for community benefit and to help my son, Noah, who has Down Syndrome. I named it “See Us Shine,” and I was able to obtain seeusshine.org. Although I was much too busy to do anything with it at the time, my original idea was to create a website that would showcase individuals with Down Syndrome and other disabilities that were doing amazing things, and to include information as to how families helped build these capabilities. When I came across resources that gave evidence that it was possible for individuals with Down Syndrome to learn, grow, and have a full life, it gave me renewed energy and encouragement. I wanted to gather these all up, so that I could find them in one place and others could, too.
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I had about given up on the idea of actually enacting these dreams, until recently, when a friend reached out for a list of community resources for special needs family members. I could easily call up 3 or 4, but then found myself at a loss. I started searching through emails and texts for other leads I had on various organizations. It seemed ridiculously arduous, and I already knew that having the website information alone was not enough, as many sites are difficult to navigate without a guide. So I created a beautiful color-coded spreadsheet that I felt could help our friend, us, and others. When I proudly showed it to my husband Wayne, (retired software engineer), he immediately said it needed to be a website.
And then it was clear that this is the non-profit! This is See Us Shine!
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The focus organically shifted to showcase organizations that support our special needs community, with the plan to soon have a section that will highlight individuals with disabilities, as well. We have been surprised and gratified with the enthusiasm and support we have found as we have shared our purpose with others. We are excited to help light the way for the special needs community of Northern Nevada. We hope our work can provide a model for other communities, as well!
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​Mona Melton Lund
Founder & CEO​
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