The Fresno Discovery Center opened its doors to Trinity Development Center , and what an adventure it turned out to be! Over 50 of us were welcomed with big smiles and even bigger discoveries. From science exhibits and motion experiments to gardens and animals, the day was packed with excitement and learning. The moment we arrived, the friendly staff greeted us warmly, and our tour guide, Adolfo Flores , stole the show. His energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge made the visit unforgettable. He brought the exhibits to life, and you could see the excitement on everyone’s faces as we explored together. Motion Room Magic One of our favorite stops was the Motion Room, also known as the STEAM Center ( Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) . This space is filled with hands-on experiments, colorful visuals, and brain-teasing activities that spark creativity and curiosity. We touched, explored, and played our way through science—learning while having fun! A Park in Progress Next, we stepped outside to the Discovery Center’s park, which is currently under construction. Even though it was still dirt under our feet, we could already imagine the beauty that will soon cover the 5½-acre area. With picnic tables, restrooms, a cactus garden, and plenty of space to roam, it’s going to be a perfect spot for families to relax and explore. We were especially excited to see two large tortoise exhibits, giving visitors the chance to get up close with these incredible animals. The Deutsch Cactus Garden A highlight of the trip was the Deutsch Cactus Garden, home to more than 250 varieties of cacti and succulents. Some were tall, some were small, and all of them were fascinating! Walking the garden trail felt like stepping into a desert wonderland, and it was amazing to learn that this garden has been a part of the Fresno Discovery Center since 1995. Families of all ages can enjoy its beauty, and we loved every moment of it. The Garden of the Sun We also visited the Garden of the Sun, created and cared for by the Master Gardeners of Fresno . This space is filled with vibrant plants, seasonal crops, and educational displays that show how gardens can flourish right here in the Central Valley. It was inspiring to see the dedication and love the Master Gardeners put into making this a beautiful and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Animal Show Highlights One of the most exciting parts of our visit was the Animal Show ! The Discovery Center staff introduced us to a friendly bearded dragon, a small tortoise, and the star of the show—the mother tortoise, who was absolutely huge. Seeing the animals up close was a thrill, and everyone lit up with smiles and laughter as we learned fun facts about each creature. It was both educational and unforgettable! A Day to Remember From the motion room experiments to the cactus garden stroll, our day at the Fresno Discovery Center was full of wonder, learning, and laughter. We left with new knowledge, great memories, and a deep appreciation for this local gem in our Fresno community. So here’s a big who-rah-rah from all of us at Trinity Development Center—thank you Fresno Discovery Center for an incredible experience! By Marci Gatrell and Katie Barcellos

From Grumpy Burger Lady to Happy: Adults with Disabilities Visit Take 3, Leaving the Owner with a Smile

TDC Launches New Driver's License Program for Adults with Disabilities, when they say you can't, TDC says you CAN!

Founded in 2013, TDC Cafe is a unique and innovative cafe that focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for adults with developmental disabilities. Our mission is to provide these individuals with the opportunity to learn valuable life skills through the preparation and cooking of delicious food. At TDC, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to learn and grow, regardless of their abilities. That's why our cafe is run by a team of dedicated individuals with developmental disabilities, who are passionate about cooking and sharing their skills with others. Through our daily operations, we aim to empower our employees and give them a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Our menu features a variety of dishes that are carefully selected and prepared by our team. Each dish is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and is crafted with love and attention to detail. From classic breakfast items and sandwiches to hearty soups and salads, we have something for everyone to enjoy. Aside from our delicious food, what truly sets TDC Cafe apart is our commitment to teaching. Our employees receive hands-on training in all aspects of running a cafe, from food preparation and cooking techniques to customer service and cash handling. This not only equips them with valuable skills but also boosts their confidence and self-esteem. As a socially responsible business, TDC Cafe is dedicated to giving back to the community. We strive to create partnerships with other organizations and businesses that share our values and support individuals with developmental disabilities. Thank you for taking the time to learn about TDC Cafe. We are proud to be a part of a movement that promotes inclusivity and empowers individuals with developmental disabilities. Visit us today and be a part of our mission to change the perception of disabilities, one meal at a tim