This program was established in 2001 in loving memory of Tina Carhart, whom at age seven lost the challenging battle to control the seizure disorder she was faced with. This effort brings the two populations together through monthly visits from the Elementary school students October through March, with a large-scale culmination project occurring in April. During each two-hour visit curricular projects are based around the multiple intelligences integrating real-life experiences through reading, writing, technology, art, and music. Students learn respect, awareness and understanding of various medical, physical and mental challenges that children some face on a daily basis. Additionally, the students serve as peer models and a major focus is on the differentiation of curriculum to meet the student’s individual needs for himself or herself, and then apply it to the curriculum planned for their "buddies."
Building the awareness, and establishing relationships between typical and non-typical children within our communities.
Since its beginning in the spring of 2001 Hart of the Matter has touch the lives of hundreds of children, and has altered the course of many lives and very positive ways.
"Hart's" growing popularity and positive impact within the community has made us realize it is time to look beyond our community.