Derrell has overcome significant challenges to be the person he is today. He is on the autism spectrum and has significant language processing issues (was unable to communicate, either to understand language or speak), so essentially was non-verbal until the age of 8 at which time he was first enrolled in school and started receiving therapeutic services. After 7 years of intensive therapies and interventions in both a home and special needs class setting, Derrell could understand and communicate verbally, can read and type, and knows basic math. He enjoys gaming with his friends online, practicing his rap and hip-hop skills, and playing sports and recreational outings with peers. Most importantly, he is a kind, funny, inquisitive, and social young man. Over the years the Hanai program has helped him immensely, improving his social skills and providing him a sense of camaraderie and community with its group of caring volunteers.