Goodness Weekly 6.9.25
“Aerodynamically the bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn’t know that so it goes on flying anyway.”
– Mary Kay Ash
WHAT’S GOOD
SA Life Academy (SALA) is a year-round continuing learning program designed to meet the holistic needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Their curriculum is centered around relationship building, expressive creativity, achieving independence, community integration, and health and wellness. Through participation in the program, students advance their daily living, social, and vocational skills while leading a meaningful and purposeful life in the community.
This Saturday, you will find SA Life Academy set up at Sunset Ridge Farmers Market. We encourage you to stop by and meet these amazing neighbors.
Introducing SA Life Academy
Samantha Pety, Executive Director/Head of School, SA Life Academy
Today’s guest writer is the Executive Director and Head of School, Samantha Pety. We wanted to introduce this Community Partner as they prepare for their first pop up market, Thursday, June 12th.
In 2017, SALA opened its doors serving 12 adults daily and 22 adults weekly. From the beginning, our students were doing more than just attending a program—they were truly living life together, discovering talents, and building friendships.
Seven and a half years later, we are currently serving 72 adults daily and 143 adults weekly. But SA Life Academy's impact extends far beyond our growing enrollment numbers. We're addressing a critical gap in San Antonio, where an estimated 21,600 adults live with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities, yet only 10% receive formal support services. More than 80% live at home with family caregivers, often at risk of losing hard-earned skills without continued engagement and meaningful opportunities.
What makes SA Life Academy special isn't just what we do—it's how we do it and our dedicated teaching staff. Our students don't simply attend classes; they participate in a vibrant community where every person's unique abilities are celebrated and developed. In our culinary program, students don't just learn to cook—they discover the joy of creating something delicious and healthy to share with friends. Through our career development program, they don't just practice job skills—they build confidence and independence that transforms how they see themselves and their possibilities.
The heart of SA Life Academy lies in our foundational belief that all adults deserve opportunities for lifelong learning, meaningful relationships, and purposeful engagement with their community.
Our campus buzzes with activity that reflects real life—art classes, cooking, community service, social events, and skill-building that translates directly to increased independence. Students form genuine friendships that extend beyond our walls, participate in community activities throughout San Antonio, and develop skills that enhance their daily lives and future opportunities.
The families of SA Life Academy often tell us they've found more than a program—they've found a community that truly understands their adult child's potential. They see their loved ones excited to start each day, proud of their accomplishments, and building long-lasting friendships.
Because everyone deserves a life worth living, surrounded by people who understand we're all better when we do life together.
Learn more about SA Life Academy on our website, www.salifeacademy.org and follow us on social media!
Calendar
We’re slowing things way down this summer.
Our core programming will remain the same, and we hope to see you around campus.
This Week
June 12th, Good Acres Summer Soirée
June 14th, Second Saturday, Charis Park
8 AM - 1 PM, One Another Coffee
8 AM - 1 PM, Sunset Ridge Farmers Market
9 AM, Parent & Me Yoga with NYX Wellness
9:30 AM, Storytime with Miss Anastasia
10:30 AM - Pedal Pals
Coming Up…
June 19th, Office and One Another Coffee Closed, in Observance of Juneteenth
Every Saturday, Sunset Ridge Farmers Market, Charis Park
* Summer Hours 8 AM - 1 PM
Every Sunday, Worship at 9 AM and 11 AM
Event Rentals - Interested in hosting your event at Charis Park or in our facilities? We are currently booking for 2025–please email rentals@sunset-ridge.org
Community Partners: For updated schedules and events please follow One Another Coffee, Sunset Ridge Farmers Market, NYX Wellness, Scott’s Pizza, Mission Compost, Sprouts School, Good Acres, and Community First Food Pantry.
Inhale: Thank you for community
Exhale: Thank you for Independence
