HOME LIFE

Submitted by Barb Larsen Shannon and his provider, Carey McBride, are part of the shared living program. Through this process Shannon has made many friends and is very connected to his community. He was recently hired at Scooter's Coffee Shop through these connections. It was a great way to use his natural supports and find the right fit. He and his shared living family are a perfect match. What a great success story that shows the impact shared living can make!

No Beauty Shines Brighter Than That of a Good Heart

Submitted by Gina Spears Indiana and Hampton were blessed by the kindness of strangers when all received Scentsy Buddies from people in the community. Josette Verzani-Schuz asked her customers to step up and help with a Buddy Drive and they did! Josette collected 25 to ensure all the people supported at both homes each got one. Santa and Mrs. Claus delivered these gifts and created a special night for the people who live at Indiana and Hampton. Twillia had so much fun with Santa and loves the Buddy she received that night. Hubert was shaking with excitement when he opened his own cow Buddy. Everyone in the two homes shined a little bit brighter this night. Santa and Mrs. Claus also stopped by Minnesota and delivered gifts, creating a special and fun moment for with lots of smiling, clapping, and joy that night. When we wish good for others, good things come back and this night at Minnesota so many warm and happy memories were made for everyone, including staff. Daniel Whitley has started to work a couple days a week at RSC and has been enjoying himself and having the ability to get out into the community and to do things that make him very happy. Indiana has been focusing on gratitude since 2021. The abundance of goodness that continues to come from this new habit and way of life has been humbling. Hampton too is now having this mind set brought to the house. Jeff has started a new job and is extremely proud of himself. Mary hopes to find a job in food service. I see lots of craft time taking place thanks to the Assistive Technology department’s great ideas! Hampton has a lot of people who like to do things but also like to stay home. We will be creating a rock garden at Hampton this summer, and perhaps at the other homes, placing special stones along the sidewalk into their home. A beautiful greenhouse will be started at Hampton in a few months where flowers and food can be grown with the care of the people supported and staff working together. Every time I get to see the people we support or staff take a chance or try something new, I am reminded that when we make positive changes they align with who we are becoming and that is awesome to be a part of. Never give up on your goals and dreams – when they come true it’s complete magic.