July 2025 Newsletter
- Mansi Swaminathan
- Jul 1
- 10 min read
Welcome to this month’s edition of the WeEMBRACE newsletter. We’re excited to share meaningful stories and updates that highlight the strength and spirit of our community. This issue features a spotlight on Walter Bright, a dedicated volunteer whose love for music and commitment to service continue to inspire those around him. Thank you for being a part of WeEMBRACE and for supporting our mission to create an inclusive, joyful space for all.
WeEMBRACE - INCLUSIVE 5K WALK/RUN
LOCATION - ECONOME COMMUNITY PARK, 1900 PKWY Dr N, FOLSOM, CA 95630
DATE - AUGUST 24, 2025 SUNDAY
JOIN US TO RAISE FUNDS IN PERSON OR BY DONATING VIRTUALLY
An event to promote inclusiveness in the community!
An event to raise funds for WeEMBRACE Causes and Programs .
TICKETS
T- shirts Guaranteed for thise who register by JULY 24th
Ages 3 and under - FREE
Afes 4 and above - $15.00
Volunteers - FREE
To Volunteer, Contact Surya for more details. - surya.bondu@gmail.com
VENDORS - Please contact Meena for more info in Vendor Booth admin@weembrace.org
Non Profit based - $25.00
Profit based - $50.00
SPONSORS & DONORS - Please contact Meena admin@weembrace.org and kindly fill this Sponsorship Form by JULY 15, 2025 - https://forms.gle/tryM6EeK7meS33Ur5
All sponsors and donors who contribute $250.00 or more and submit their logo by J 20th will be mentioned on the back of our T shirt. Other donors and sponsors will have special mention on social media and on our website.
Energy bars and water bottles will be available for sale
All Ticket holders and Volunteers will receive a T shirt, please mention the size in the ticket form.
· Tshirts can be picked up at Folsom and Rancho Cordova. Details will be shared with all ticket holders after July 25th.
Agenda
7:00 AM - Volunteers report
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM - Walker/Runners report, Collect t-shirts, bibs
9:00 AM - 5K Walk/Run begins
10:45 AM – Awards and Certificates distribution.
For any questions contact us via
Meena - admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842
Uma - uma.rathikrinda@gmail.com or call 916-2967295
Volunteer Spotlight of the Month: Walter Bright
Walter Bright is a dedicated volunteer, a father of two, a husband, and a singer-songwriter. He has brought his passion for music and his background in special needs services into his role at WeEMBRACE, where he has been consistently involved in supporting the organization through music education.
Walter previously worked at North Valley as a job developer, where he supported individuals with various levels of disabilities in finding and maintaining employment. His introduction to WeEMBRACE came through one of his clients who lived nearby, so to him WeEMBRACE felt like an extension of the work he had already been doing. Given his professional background, joining the organization as a volunteer aligned naturally with his interests and values.
Since joining, Walter has offered drum classes to children and youth in the community. He has found great fulfillment in working with kids over extended periods, helping them learn drumming routines and develop musical confidence. One of the most meaningful parts of his volunteer experience has been seeing students perform these routines after months of effort. Watching them apply what they’ve learned in a public setting has been a source of pride for him.
When reflecting on his journey with WeEMBRACE, Walter sees it not as separate pieces, but as a continuous flow of goodwill. He encourages others to consider volunteering as well, noting that the rewards are not only in the impact made on others but also in the personal growth and joy that come with being part of something larger.
WeEMBRACE thanks Walter Bright for his ongoing dedication and for enriching the community through music, patience, and his commitment to inclusive service.
WeEMBRACE ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
JUNE - AUGUST 2025
CALENDAR OF ALL OUR ACTIVITIES - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1PBnKpk1b1E76PKouRA5zyUS3uz9wP71TDqGaavlW3Ms/edit?usp=sharing
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BUDDY MATCH PROGRAM
AUGUST 2025 – DECEMBER 2025
APPLY BY JUNE 15. 2025
This is a program where an individualized 1:1 program offered for children/adults (buddies) with different abilities to meet people and make new friends. This program is designed to provide opportunities to neurodiverse individuals to interact with peers outside school. Buddies will meet with their paired volunteer once a week, 30 minutes to an hour, and build social/communication skills through conversation. Both in-person and virtual options are available. Volunteer buddies are trained and guided on an ongoing basis.
Sacramento region Families only - https://forms.gle/P96otSUhrjZ5vLHH7
Other than Sacramento Families ( World wide) VIRTUAL ONLY - https://forms.gle/TD8UhS21ncbnNKXh7
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JUNE VIRTUAL SEMINARS
JUNE 3 - MEDI CAL BASICS
JUNE 17 - MEDI - CAL WAIVERS
JUNE 24 - REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE
Check them out and register at https://www.weembracefamilies.org/seminars-trainings-workshops
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SUMMER VIRTUAL CLASSES
20 FREE VIRTUAL CLASSES in various categories - Arts & Crafts, Music, Academics, Vocational and Social Interaction.
· STARTING JUNE 9, MONDAY THROUGH AUGUST 3, SUNDAY
· (Offered exclusively for individuals who are neuro-diverse )
· SCHEDULE - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yxChk9c-ZUGBgxz3KN3X0VjcjJv2XAG3J9WllFJm-1M/edit?usp=sharing
· Check the above schedule for class details such as time, day, age criteria, materials, class category and class title.
· Registration begins on FRIDAY JUNE 6, 2025
· Register at https://www.weembracefamilies.org/virtual-classes
· Once registered, you will receive by email, the ZOOM LINKS from admin@weembrace.org
· Check all your email folders and save the zoom link.
· DON'T REGISTER multiple times.
· Ple read and follow the VIRTUAL NETIQUETTE - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DCrGhFV7cLfQNUNdx6urcga5uHJYgJReccOWXX4BmUc/edit?usp=sharing
· TIMINGS LISTED IN CALIFORNIA TIME ZONE.
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IN PERSON MONTHLY ACTIVITIES
BOWLING SOCIAL
JUNE 7, , JULY 12, AUGUST 9
LOCATION - THE ALLEY, 3443 Laguna Blvd, Suite #150, Elk Grove, CA 95758
AGES 4 AND ABOVE WHO ARE NEURO-DIVERSE ONLY.
LIMITED SPOTS - 20 ONLY
COST - $8.00 PER BOWLER
Participant parents or caregivers need to always be present for supervision.
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
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OPEN GYMNASTICS
LOCATION - Elevate Gymnastics Academy, 3132 Dwight Rd #100, Elk Grove, CA 95758
DATES - JUNE 8, JULY 27, AUGUST 17
SUNDAYS (ONCE A MONTH)
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM111
AGES 4 AND ABOVE WHO ARE NEURO- DIVERSE ONLY
LIMITED SPOTS - 20 ONLY
COST - $15.00 PER STUDENT
Participant parents or caregivers need to always be present for supervision.
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
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ZUMBA & CREATIVE DANCE
“Zumba and Creative Dance” using scarves, rhythm sticks, bean bags and more…. Zumba is focused on “fitness dance”, but the Creative part includes dance with props and also group activities (meaning it engages participants to work with each other in subtle ways).
SATURDAYS (ONCE A MONTH)
DATE - AUGUST 2, SEPTEMBER 13, OCTOBER 4
TIME - 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
COST -FREE
LOCATION - WeHAVEN, 3140 GOLD CAMP DR, SUITE 80, RANCHO CORDOVA, CA 95670
Parent/Caregiver presence and supervision is always required.
NO WALK - INS.
Registration is a mus,
Have a question ?. Emailadmin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
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IN PERSON WEEKLY CLASSES
PAINTING CLASS
Inspire and nurture your young artist with a variety of engaging and educational art classes! From learning the basic strokes of a paintbrush, we will learn to mix colors and paint scenarios, fruits etc
June 22, 29 , July 13, 20 and August 3
Sundays 2 pm to 3 pm
Max - 10 Students
Ages 8 and above who are neuro diverse
Cost - $5.00 per class
Total -$25.00
Art Supplies - Students need to bring their own art supplies
We will let the registered students know by email.
Parent/caregiver supervision is a must snd their assistance if needed
Address - 3140 Gold Camp Drive, Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Please contact admin@weembrace.org or Text 510-386-6842 for any Questions
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AAC CHAT - WEEKLY HANGOUT
Our once a week meetup in Summer, exclusively for AAC users. Our goal is to get our participants to be more comfortable & independent on their device. We work on asking questions, commenting , telling jokes & sharing about their interests.
We work with Parents & caregivers to get comfortable with the medium and practice modeling communication with the device.
Students need to bring their own AAC Communication DEvice.
Parent/Caregiver presence and supervision is a MUST !
Offered only in Summer
Registration is for all the 8 sessions.
8 Weeks
DATES - June 12, 19, 26 July 3, 10, 17,24, 31
THURSDAYS 5 PM - 6 PM
Cost - FREE
Limited Spots - 12
Please contact admin@weembrace.org or Text 510-386-6842 for any Questions
BOLLYWOOD DANCE
Students who are neuro-diverse will learn to dance for a choreography of medley of Indian popular movie songs. They also get opportunities to perform on stages in the community events.
8 weeks
JUNE, 14, 21, 28
JULY 12, 19, 26 and Aug 2 and AUG 9
SATURDAYS 10 AM - 11 AM
Ages 5 and above who are neuro-diverse can attend.
Location - Yaal Studio, 302 A S. Lexington Drive Folsom, CA 95630
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
REGISTERATION - 3 SPOTS LEFT
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DRUM CIRCLE
Students who are neuro-diverse will learn to beat on African drums for popular hits. This is fun social circle.
MAY 3, 10 ,17, 31, JUNE 14
SATURDAYS 3:30 PM
Ages 5 and above who are neuro-diverse can attend.
Location - WeHaven, 3140 Gold Camp Drive, Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Bring your own drum. Please contact admin@weembrace.org or Text 510-386-6842 for amazon link.
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
REGISTRATION - CLOSED
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YOGA SESSIONS
Start your wellness journey with our beginner yoga class! Perfect for all fitness levels! Focusing on flexibility, balancing and relaxation
June 28 , July 12, 19,26 , Aug 2 and 9
Saturdays
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Ages - 4 and above who are neuro diverse
Cost - $5.00 per class Total of $30.00
Maximum - 10 Students
Parent/caregiver supervision is a must snd their assistance if needed
Address - 3140 Gold Camp Drive, Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Please contact admin@weembrace.org or Text 510-386-6842 for amazon link.
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ROBOTICS AND STEAM CAMP
June 28, July 12, 19,26 and Aug 2
5 Weeks - Saturdays 5 PM - 6 PM
Coat - Free
Max -10 Students only
Ages 9 through 19 only WHO ARE NEURO- DIVERSE
ADDRESS
3140 Gold Camp Drive, Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Ready for an exciting dive into Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math? Our weekly Robotics and STEAM Summer Camp, led by Elk Grove's FRC Team 2073 EagleForce, offers hands-on adventures for students aged 9-19 Experience captivating robotics demonstrations, explore core robotics concepts, build simple circuits, and unravel physics mysteries through interactive experiments covering motion, energy, and more. Including different activities each week that all teach Robotics and STEAM concepts. Spark your curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, and explore STEAM and robotics! Join us for a summer of discovery
Questions?. Contact adminn@weembrace.org or call/Text – 510-386-6842
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BOCCE BALL GAMES
Come have a blast at WeEMBRACE's Bocce ball games!We will be providing an adaptive experience to individuals who are neuro-diverse, as they play BOCCE along with other peers!. Please note that this program will not be a respite service, and a parent's presence and supervision is mandatory at all times
DATES - JUNE 15,22, 29 JULY 13 and 20
Time: 9:30 AM–10:30 AM
FREE - NO COST
5 Weeks
Limited Spots
Heron Landing Community Park,
11750 Justinian Dr,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742
Questions ?. Call 510-386-6842 or email admin@weembrace.org
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ADAPTIVE SOCCER
We will be providing an adaptive experience to individuals who are neuro - diverse , ages 5 and above. as they play soccer along with other peers!. Please note that this program will not be a respite service, and a parent's presence and supervision is mandatory at all times.
Dates - Aug 3, 10 Sept 7, 14 Oct 5, 12
6 Weeks
SUNDAYS 10 AM to 11 AM
Cost - $10.00 per class Total - $60.00
Registration is a must and for all sessions.
No Walk-ins
Location - Le Five Indoor Soccer, 1115 Folsom Blvd, Ste 200 , Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
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WeEMBRACE VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES- - April through November 2025
BEFORE YOU CHECK THE OPPORTUNITIES, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE READ OUR VOLUNTEERING GUIDELINES- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-yPQlwY_Svj6uLQYzDsfyxVzOXeuLSJa_eFn_rIy5IQ/edit?usp=sharing
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INCLUSIVE 5 K WALK event
August 24, 2025 - Econome Park, FOLSOM, CA 95630
Contact UMA RETHIKRINDA and SURYA BONDU at 916-296-7295 or
EMAIL US at admin@weembrace.org and uma.rathikrinda@gmail.com
___________________________________________________________________
SPORTS DAY
Ages 10 and above ONLU
MAximum Spots - 50
REgister by July 15, 2025
DATES SEPTEMBER 6, 7, 21 or 28 , 2025 ( tO BE DECIDED )
TIMES - 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM (2 Shifts available)
Contact Meena at 510-386-6842 or email admin@weembrace.org for questions
______________________________________________________________________
IN PERSON CLASS LEAD INSTRUCTOR for September to November 2025
Register by July 1st , 2025
Ages 16 and above ONLY
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BOLLYWOOD DANCE VOLUNTEERS
Register by June 12
Limited Spots - 5
Ages 12 and above Only
JUNE, 14, 21, 28
JULY 12, 19, 26 and Aug 2 and AUG 9
SATURDAYS 10 AM - 11 AM
Location - Yaal Studio, 302 A S. Lexington Drive Folsom, CA 95630
Have a question ?. Email admin@weembrace.org or call 510-386-6842.
______________________________________________________________________
AAC CHAT - WEEKLY HANGOUT
Our once a week meetup in Summer, exclusively for AAC users. Our goal is to get our participants to be more comfortable & independent on their device. We work on asking questions, commenting , telling jokes & sharing about their interests.
We work with Parents & caregivers to get comfortable with the medium and practice modeling communication with the device.
Students will bring their own AAC Communication Device.
Parent/Caregiver presence and supervision is a MUST !
Offered only in Summer
8 Weeks
DATES - June 12, 19, 26 July 3, 10, 17,245, 31
THURSDAYS 5 PM - 6 PM
Limited Spots - 5
Please contact admin@weembrace.org or Text 510-386-6842 for any Questions
______________________________________________________________________
PAINTING CLASS VOLUNTEERS
Register by June 10
Limited Spots - 5
Ages 12 and above Only
Dates - June 22, 29, July 13, 20, 27 and August 3
Times - 2 PM - 3 PM
Location - WeHaven, 3140 Gold Camp drive, Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Ig interested and any questions, contact Meena admin@weembrace.org
_____________________________________________________________________
BOCCE Ball games
Register by June 10
Limited Spots - 4
Ages 14 and above Only
Dates - June 15, 22, 29, July 13 and 20
Times - 10 AM - 11 AM
Location - Heron Landing Community Park, Rancho Cordova, CA
Ig interested and any questions, contact Meena admin@weembrace.org
______________________________________________________________________
SOCCER
Register by July 1,2025
Limited Spots - 20
Ages 12 and above Only
Dates - Aug 3, 10 Sept 7, 14 Oct 5, 12
6 Weeks
SUNDAYS 10 AM to 11 AM
Location - Le Five Indoor Soccer, 1115 Folsom Blvd, Ste 200 , Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
If interested and any questions, contact Meena admin@weembrace.org
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BOWLING Once a month in Elkgrove
As a lead Coordinator
Ages 16 and above ONLY
Limited Spots - 2 ONLY
DATES - JUNE 7, JULY 12, AUGUST 9
Times - 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Location - The Alley, ELk GROVE, CA
Contact Meena admin@weembrace.org
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BUDDYMATCH VOLUNTEERS _ IN PERSON SACRAMENTO REGION
ONLY
APPLY BY JULY 1st 2025
Ages 12 and above only
Location - IN PERSON mutually agreed or VIRTUAL
Frequency - ONCE a week
Duration - 30 MINS to 1 hour ONLY
Register at - https://forms.gle/LjRWeAd3eYBdB36M6
ANy questions - Contact Meena admin@weembrace.org
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BUDDYMATCH VOLUNTEERS - VIRTUAL APPLICANTS ONLY
APPLY BY JULY 1, 2025
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ADMIN ASSISTANT ( Remotely )
Contact Meena by email admin@weembrace.org
______________________________________________________________________
SOCIAL MEDiA ASSISTANT ( Remotely)
Contact Meena by email admin@weembrace.org
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WEBSITE ( WIX ) HELPER ( Remotely )
Contact Meena by email admin@weembrace.org
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Center help - ( In person in Rancho cordova for 4-5 hours a month )
ADDRESS 3140 Gold Camp Dribbvem Suite 80, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Contact Meena by email admin@weembrace.org
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