Osterfeld was reviewing the first "Instrumental Initiative" that was created by Miami University Regionals student Josh Trumbull and held last week in the city. He felt the Initiative was something that was well-received by those in attendance.
“It was so great to see people walking in the door being greeted by folks who welcomed them with enthusiasm and smiles. Something almost magical happens when people spend time together just hanging out and having fun,” Osterfeld said.
Trumbull, who is serving as a service learning student, organized the event to bring people from all walks of life together through music and social interaction. He was pleased with how the event turned out.
“I was worried about what would go well and what wouldn’t work. The entire night, as I either played music or stood back and observed, I was in shock,” Trumbull said. “Scott Osterfeld said it was serendipitous and I would agree. I was just left in awe of how well things went, how much everyone enjoyed themselves and how much of a success it was.”
Osterfeld, community connections coordinator for the BCBDD, said Trumbull, as part of his coursework, was required to choose a non-profit organization to do a service learning project.
He added that, “I hope we are on to something that can be easily replicated and spread out to other organizations. The first event was a splash in a pond, and I am excited to see where the waves will take us and this program.”
Bri Combs of the BCBDD said the event helped drive home the organization’s mission to bring community members with and without disabilities together to create opportunities for a connection.
“We call this ‘Systematic Serendipity,’” Combs said. “We never know what will come of these types of events, but this one was absolutely amazing. Josh’s band opened up the night, pizza got people up and talking to one another, and the drum circle brought us all together as one.”
Students like Trumbull and Miami University’s Office of Community Engagement assist the BCBDD in meeting needs of individuals with disabilities.
A second “Instrumental Initiative” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the Park Avenue Methodist Church, 801 Park Ave. in Hamilton.
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