Nearly 20 years ago, Brian and Jane O’Friel wanted their youngest child, born with Down syndrome, to have the same school experience as his older siblings at Sacred Heart School in Groton.

The only problem was that Sacred Heart, like most Catholic schools, did not have a special needs program. Undaunted, they worked with the school to create one, along with the support of other parents, friends, the Superintendent of Catholic Schools and the principal of Sacred Heart.

Because of their efforts, the RISEN program was born (standing for Responding to Inclusive Special Education Needs). The program, which is the only one in the diocese of Norwich, has been going strong ever since.

“Being able to provide resources to students with special needs is a mission that allows these students to learn in a nurturing and inclusive environment,” Jane O’Friel said in a release. “This type of learning reaps benefits for all students into the future through their relationships with others and the communities they serve.”

Each year the school holds a golf tournament to raise awareness and benefit the special learning needs program. When Brian O’Friel passed away in 2011, the school renamed the tournament in his honor, and this year the event is scheduled June 15 at Winnapaug Country Club in Westerly. It features a $10,000 hole in one prize, sponsored by Bob Valenti Automall.

For information or to register, contact Jeanette Lang at 860-445-0611 or email admin@sacredheartgroton.org.

Kindness in Real Life is a regular feature in the Times. To contribute, email times@theday.com.