About Us 
November 8, 2009
Dear Sue,
I really want to thank you again for agreeing to attend Higher Ground’s annual retreat and introduce our members to Laughter Yoga. When you first came to the retreat and saw that the group was all guys, you were really scared that it wasn’t going to be a good session because men just don’t let loose and enjoy. What turned out to be a hesitant moment on your part, turned out to be one of the best moments for all of us.
A lot of our members are dealing with difficult real-life situations like job loss, relationship issues and health matters as well as living with HIV/AIDS and all that comes with that condition. The purpose of the retreat is for our members to get away from their issues for a weekend, to relax and feel good about themselves. Our programs are designed to help attendees reach beyond themselves and explore their boundaries in a safe environment and experience healing on a personal level. I believe that this retreat was our best ever and I’m glad you were a part of it.
Our laughter yoga session was such a riot. Everyone was a little nervous at the beginning because they were not sure what to expect. Even though we all knew each other pretty well, everyone was a little guarded. However, by the middle of the session people really got into their roles and were rolling on the floor with laughter. I saw people take on completely different personalities and let down their shields to let in the joy and freedom that laughter can give. Some of the most reserved members actually let loose the most. It was truly one of the most therapeutic releases that I have ever experienced in my life. Afterwards, many of us expressed that we felt a sense of healing from the experience and had a closer bond to each other than we did before.
As Director of Programs for Higher Ground, it was very important to me to offer a Laughter Yoga session to our members and I am so happy that I found YOU to facilitate the session. It took me a long time to actually find a Laughter Yoga class in Michigan. I know that this experience will never be forgotten by our members. It was the highlight of our weekend. I look forward to working with you in the future.
Sincerely,
David J. Donovan
HIGHER GROUND
Healing the Body, Mind, and Spirit.
www.hghiv.org
