For more than a decade, Santa Clara Unified School District’s Independence Network has marked Thanksgiving with a holiday luncheon that celebrates community, and especially the tight-knit community at Independence Network. On Nov. 22, about 50 people — students and their families, teachers and friends — enjoyed this year’s Thanksgiving celebration.
Eleven years ago, Daljit Chahal, a volunteer at Wilson preschool, discovered that the adult students at Independence Network* didn’t have any special events to celebrate the holiday together. There was a holiday lunch in the past, but it stopped when its volunteers could no longer undertake the project.
Daljit proposed to her husband, Santa Clara city council member Raj Chahal, and the rest of the family that they restart the Independence Network lunch. But, Daljit says, “This isn’t about us, it’s about the students being able to give something to those who support them.”
The Chahals buy the food, and their son, Amar, roasts the turkeys. The day of the luncheon, work starts at 9 a.m. when the volunteer crew arrives, and students help in the kitchen and with the setup. By 11:30 a.m., the tables are set, and everyone is sitting down to eat.
Holiday meals aren’t only about food. They’re also a strong symbol of belonging.
“Our students are truly a family,” said Yvonne Jassi, a longtime teacher at Independence Network. “They’re thankful for each other, they’re thankful for their families, they’re thankful for the Chahals. They truly celebrate one another.”
The entire Chahal family is engaged in the effort.
“Seeing the smiles on the students’ faces is heartwarming,” said Ajaipal Chahal.
“The students with disabilities face difficult challenges every day and have unique lives that are different from the ones most of us live,” said Ajaipal. “We want them to know that they are part of our community and are appreciated.
“Everyone should feel a sense of belonging,” he continued, “especially on Thanksgiving. I’m so glad my parents have been giving back to the community in this way.”
The Independence Network is part of Santa Clara Adult Education, a program run by the Santa Clara Unified School District that serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with an individual program for each student.
Independence Network teaches students how to manage daily living activities and healthy living, as well as academics, job training, and introduces them to leisure interests like dance and painting. The program also offers social activities and opportunities for community service. For example, Independence Network students help serve lunch at the Santa Clara senior center.
*The two schools are at the Wilson school site.
Carolyn Schuk can be reached at carolyn@santaclaraweekly.com.
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Giving Thanks for 10 Years at Independence Network
Independence Network Receives Surprise Visit at Annual Holiday Party
Council Member Raj Chahal and His Family Help Keep a Holiday Tradition Alive
