Donor Profile: Heather and Eric Schreur Family
The Schreur family, from left: Gerrit, Grace, Ellie, Mitchell, Heather, and Eric“It is because of All Belong that my kids can look forward to school every day,” shares Heather Schreur. “The friendship of students with disabilities like Annah provides that extra dose of happiness and purpose to their day.”
Heather and Eric Schreur have four children, and for some of them “school becomes this monumental chore. Knowing that other students see and look forward to their arrival gives that extra jolt that keeps them doing well.
Our family has benefitted so much from inclusion.”
Last winter, Ellie Schreur, a senior at All Belong partner Unity Christian High (Hudsonville, MI), and Annah Huisman, a Unity Christian High sophomore, spoke about the Connections Celebration during All Belong’s Auction. Together, they raised a record amount for this event!
Through their speech at the 2017 All Belong Auction, Annah and Ellie helped raise a record amount for the annual Connections Celebration!As Ellie and Annah wrote their speech together, it was brought to their attention that by writing it in smaller chunks, Annah would be able to deliver more of it. This small change made a big difference, and helped both students learn something new.
“We can always try to be more understanding of each other, and inclusion teaches us to learn and be patient throughout our journeys. Inclusion makes us better people,” explains Heather.
“The need is great for All Belong. You gather up not only inclusion students in our schools, but all those students who may be wandering through their education,” Heather reflects. “The benefits of this mission are way beyond what we could have hoped for.”
Over the years, the Schreurs have come to know All Belong’s director of evaluation services, Doug Bouman, through his work with Hudsonville Christian School and Unity Christian High School. “Our son felt welcomed and at ease after meeting with Mr. Doug,” remembers Heather. “It was like a big hug to him, and he wanted Mr. Doug to be his teacher. That evaluation was so important to his growth as a student.”
In March, Ellie and her friends enjoyed time together at the Connections Celebration. “It drew people together in such a great way, I hope it continues to grow,” shares Ellie. “I would love to see even more students get involved!” The Schreurs have also become more involved at school, hosting students for a tour at their farm in Hudsonville, and helping to build community.
The Schreurs have not always been aware of the depth of CLC Network’s mission and impact and were thrilled to access the resources through their schools. “I didn’t always realize that CLC Network was a great place for our contributions,” recalls Heather.
“Knowing what I do now, I hope all those who benefit from inclusion in their schools will join us in supporting this awesome mission.”
Passionate about inclusive education? Make a contribution to All Belong to help us create inclusive communities for persons of all abilities.
Elizabeth Lucas Dombrowski is the executive director of All Belong.