Testimonies
I would like to thank you, not only for the trophy and the money, but for giving me and others with learning differences the ability to show our talent on that lovely stage. Everyone’s performance was beautiful, unique, and fun to watch. To be honest, I did not expect to win so I would like to thank your generosity, truly. You gave me the ability to shine, and for that, I would also like to thank you. I loved every minute of it. Your staff are very kin, you were kind, and the other guests were as well. I am honored to be able to appear next year. For this, I will be donating a portion of my prize money to you. I want you to be able to help kids like me be recognized!
- Tyler Ashley Goldstein
For my own personal experience, this event really took me by surprise. Admittedly, I thought I would be going to a somewhat uninteresting show and to be a good audience for these special needs individuals. But from what I saw and heard from the stage blew me away. These performances were unbelievable. I had no idea that people with different disabilities could perform at such a high level. The public stereotypes and labels these people as "useless, dumb, and have no talent," but what I saw that night completely threw away all these notions. These people with special needs are just like any human, and they all have talents they cannot wait to share with the world. It made me realize that each of us, instead of excluding, must include and cherish these people into our society. We have to help these individuals find their own special talent, display to the world what their talent is.
- Jerry Xu, Youth Volunteer
We want to thank you so much for hosting such an amazing event. It was so wonderful to experience such supportive and inclusive organization that allows our kids to shine. The talent and passion each of the performers exhibited is absolute evidence that our kids don't simply have disabilities - they have different and phenomenal abilities! Tyler wanted to donate some of his winnings back to your organization, and in honor of his giving spirit, we decided to match it. It's not much, but hope it helps a deserving individual next year ... or whatever else you decide.
- Lisa & Elie
Being a judge for the Special Needs Talent Show is the one activity that I look forward to every year. I have had the honor of being a judge since the beginning and have been witness to the many talents, from singing, to dancing, to instruments. The often-hidden talents are allowed to be showcased at this event and the smiles from the performers are truly magical. Often we tell people not to judge a book by its cover and in much the same we should not judge people by our predisposed assumptions. I am honored to be part of this event and to help uncover amazing talents.
- Javier Zaldivar, Executive Director of San Andreas Regional Center