The Workplace - June 2023

Meet Peggy

Peggy radiates warmth and cheerfulness. She has gone through many challenges in her life and has pushed through with determination to get to where she is today.

Peggy had lived independently until joining Black Hills Works in 2014 when she needed more support due to serious and ongoing health issues. In her mid-fifties, Peggy decided to earn her GED! She’s worked diligently on this for the last year, starting by learning how to read, and has made great progress. It makes her happy that the staff at the Career Learning Center treat her like anyone else. She also works part-time at Servall, loves making diamond art, sings karaoke, and has started learning to cook so she can help out in her group home.

Peggy is close to her staff, noting, “They are like family to me.” Tears come to her eyes, and to those of her staff, when asked where she’d be without Black Hills Works. “I don’t know,” she says. Her staff, and all of us, are so proud of the life Peggy has built and how far she has come.

To learn more about Peggy, visit Black Hills Works Facebook page at facebook.com/blackhillsworks.

Meet Hubert

There’s no mistaking that Hubert is a cowboy. He proudly wears his red, white, and blue cowboy boots every day and his bright blue eyes twinkle underneath a big Western hat. His large black toy pistol is always holstered on his hip and he has an impressive collection of belt buckles to choose from! Photos of John Wayne, his hero, decorate his room.

When he was only 14, Hubert moved to live at the Redfield State Hospital. Happily, he joined Black Hills Works in 1982 at age 30, where he could be closer to his family and live in a community-based setting with more independence and activities. Now retired, Hubert continues to live in one of our group homes. He enjoys karaoke (especially Johnny Cash!) and time with Circle of Friends at Open Heart Church.

Hubert’s life lesson for others is a quote from John Wayne: “A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do.” We are thankful for Hubert’s persistence in moving forward to create a good life in the face of many challenges. He is as tough (and as tenderhearted) as any good cowboy!

To learn more about Hubert, visit Black Hills Works Facebook page at facebook.com/blackhillsworks.

Kristin Jenson (DSP at W.Omaha), Michael S. and Chloe B. explored the Air and Space Museum in Box Elder.

Meet Derek

Derek joined Black Hills Works in 2013. Quiet and thoughtful, his kind blue-green eyes and big smile reflect his caring personality. A native of Rapid City, Derek attended area schools and graduated from Stevens. Like many young men, Derek enjoys hip hop, classic rock, and Adam Sandler movies, along with hamburgers and Mexican food. He also enjoys spending time with his girlfriend.

A few years ago, he moved into an apartment owned by Black Hills Works, which he shares with a roommate. Derek beams when he talks about what

he’s proudest of. “Having a job,” he says. “Moving out of my parents’ house and pushing through to finish high school.” Derek completed a training program at Goodwill and works several afternoons a week. He arranges his transportation through Dial-aRide and likes that his coworkers are nice and friendly.

Derek encourages people to “Never give up.” He knows firsthand the power of persistence. We are thankful to be part of his journey.

Everyone had a great time at the Offutt company picnic on June 4.It was a wonderful day of warm weather, great food, and smiling faces!

Meet Susan

Susan joined Black Hills Works in 1993. When she was just 14 years old, Susan was in a car accident that broke almost every bone in her face, caused brain damage and total vision loss. Now, almost 40 years later, she is very proud of all she has accomplished. As she says, it’s important to “finish what you start,” and she has done that.

Kind and talkative, she has a fantastic sense of humor, joking that she is the fastest Brailler in the West. Susan lives in an apartment owned by Black Hills Works and uses Dial-a-Ride to travel to work, where she wraps and prepares surgical towels and baby blankets for Monument Health. Her supervisor notes that she is “very, very good at her job.”

Susan’s faith and her church family are very important to her. She’s close with her mom, dad, brothers, and their families and is always open to making new friends! With our support, Susan is thriving.

To learn more about Susan, visit Black Hills Works Facebook page at facebook.com/blackhillsworks.

Safety Class

The Safety Class from the Learning Institute at Range Road headed out into Rapid City to learn about pedestrian skills!

Staff Dee taught students how to use a crosswalk safely, then they practiced their skills. If you are interested in learning more safety skills, the Safety class is held on Tuesday’s at 9:00 a.m. and you can sign up through Setmore!

To learn more about Derek, visit Black Hills Works Facebook page at facebook.com/blackhillsworks.

https://bhwlearninginstitute.setmore.com

(ALL Classes are on ONE link)

Plant Street Classes

Coffee Chat--Enjoy current events, conversation and coffee. M, T, W, TH & F @ 8:30 Library

Project Board--Review our Project Board and select an activity of your choice. Projects will include, but not be limited to, cards/care packages to the troops, placemats for donation to a variety of organizations, cards/care packages for senior centers, cards/care packages for first responders, dog toys for donation, #605 rocks, etc. Projects will be stored onsite for future distribution. M, W @ 9:30/T, TH @ 1/ Fri 12 Art Center

Book Share--Hear a short, engaging and read-aloud story. M, T @ 1:30 / TH @ 12 Sensory

Quick Cooking--Learn life skills and easy to make recipes. M, T, TH, F @ 9 Kitchen

Fitness Center--Exercising at the Range Road Fitness Center. You can meet us there or enjoy a van ride to the facility. M @ 1 Meet in Art Center

On the Road--Join staff in celebrating the Black Hills community. Community based activities will vary weekly, and are subject to change. Events will include but are not limited to: public library, museums, Mt. Rushmore, Reptile Gardens, Canyon Lake, Pactola Reservoir, ghost town, etc. Share your event ideas. The opportunities are plentiful! M @ 9 meet in PS Library

Swing Time--Enjoy the various swings in the sensory room. M @ 9 Sensory

Marvelous, Meticulous Manicures--Rough hands? In need of a trim? We will even splash some color on your nails, if you so desire. M @ 12 Sensory Room

UNO--Join your friends for UNO. M @ 12:15

Beading--Explore your creativity with beadwork and beading projects. Donate your projects to community care packages. M @ 2

Karaoke--Do you enjoy music and singing? T @ 1 & TH @ 9 Music room

Pop Culture--Catch up on the pop culture headlines and events shaping the world. T @ 12:00 Library

Sioux Park Fitness/Food Pantry visit--Accompany staff to the Sioux Park track for fitness and cardiovascular development. On the return trip, the food pantry at Range Road will be visited. T @ 9:30 meet in Library

Snoezelin Time Visit our room specially designed to deliver stimuli to various senses, using lighting effects, color, sounds, music, scents, etc. T & TH @ 10 Sensory

Backyard Games--Join staff in visiting the various parks around Rapid City for “backyard games.” Activities will include, but are not limited to disk golf, ring toss, outdoor bowling, outdoor checkers, tossing the football, etc. W @ 10 meet in Library

Cardio Development (Community Based)--Join the staff of Plant Street for varying activities such as mall walking, trips to the park, hiking, picnics, and the like. Please bring a support person. W @ 12:15 meet in Library

Sound Bath--Meditation music for soothing the mind. W @ 9 Sensory

Paper Bags--Create arts/crafts utilizing paper bags. W @ 2 Art Center

Shopping for Cooking--Accompany staff to Family Fare grocery store and/or food pantry, as supplies are gathered for cooking classes. W @ 9 meet in Library

Dog Companionship--Come visit our furry friend from the Pet Partners program. W @ 1 & F @ 9 Sensory

Swimming--Join us at the Rec Center with your support person for a dip in the pool. Must have your own swimsuit and towel. TH @ 9 & F @ 12:00 Rec Swim Center

Bingo--Feeling lucky? Come join us for a variety of Bingo games and win a prize! TH @ 1 Library

Dexterity and Strength Development for Sensory--Join Plant Street staff in the Sensory Area Swing Room for chair based low impact exercises focused on increasing dexterity and developing strength. F @ 9 Sensory

Community Volunteering--Assist the staff of Plant Street in the community! Distribute items from our Projects Board class, visit schools and retirement centers, visit and assist charitable organizations, deliver donations to Echoworks, participate in video game and book drives, etc. Opportunities are limitless and will vary in nature. Meet at Plant Street. F @ 9:30 meet in Library

Virtual Tours/World Exploration--Explore the world through virtual tours of sites of interest from around the globe. Experience geography, history, music, art, and culture. Help develop future presentations by sharing your ideas and areas of interest with the class instructor. F @ 10 Music Room

Movie Classics and Popcorn with Friends--Enjoy a classic movie and movie theater style popcorn with your friends. F @ 12:30

Range Road Classes

Quick Cooking--The group will learn the following: safety in the kitchen, proper hygiene when cooking, reading recipes, microwave/oven and stove cooking, measuring, creating and tasting. M, W & F @ 10 & T, TH @ 1 Kitchen

Dog Companionship--Come visit with Raina, our furry friend from the Pet Partners program. M @ 1 & F at 10 Learning Center

Rec Center Games -Join us in playing rec center games!

(Yahtzee, Pool, Uno, etc.) M, T, W, F @ 2pm Rec Center

Bible Study--This class is designed to educate people about the bible. Participants will study scriptures and have conversations about what they have read/listened to. They will talk about what the scriptures mean to them and how they can utilize them in their life. M @ 9 Learning Center

Bingo--Join us for an old-fashioned game of Bingo. W @ 9 Learning Center

Gym Walking--Those shoes are made for walkin’. Join us for laps in the gym. W @ 12:30 & M, T, F @ 2 Gym

Geography Class--In each class we will learn about a different US state or country! We will learn information about various locations, such as symbols, flags, maps, state capitals, songs, birds, flowers, trees, tourist activities, the economy and much, much more. W @ 1 Learning Center

Current Events and Social Skills--Come learn about local, state and national news! Read the paper and watch the news-open discussions M-F @ 8:30 Learning Center

DYI Projects--Enjoy making DIY Projects? Come join us for a variety of experiences using your hands and mind to create! TH @ 10 Learning Center

Chair Yoga--Great low impact class that can be done in a sitting position! Class will be adapted for all levels! T @ 9 Fitness Center

Music Appreciation--Join us in learning about music of the previous decades! Each class will focus on a different era and specific artists! TH @ 2 Rec Center

Book Club--Participants will get together to read or listen to a specific book being read! After each reading, a group discussion will follow! M @ 1 Learning Center

Film Festival Friday--Join us for various films being shown each Friday! F @ 12:30pm Learning Center

Cave and Cavern Research--Join us in learning about caves and caverns in the Black Hills! Where are they, what are they and what makes them unique! M @ 11 Learning Center (Last Class June 5th)

Photography--Join us in learning about famous photographers! We will also spend some time taking pictures in the hills. M @ 11 Learning Center (First Class June 12th)

Step By Step Drawings--Join us in a step by step guided drawing class. T @ 11 Learning Center

Hiking Club--Enjoy the outdoors and nature? Enjoy hiking? We will be doing various Black Hills Hikes! Be prepared with proper shoes, water bottle, attire and sunscreen. TH @ 9 / Meet in Fitness Center (Weather permitting-in inclement weather, we will be researching various hikes around the world.

Hygiene/Self Care--Join us in learning about good hygiene and self-care! M @ 10 Learning Center

Recycle Volunteering--Join us in picking up recycles from Black Hills Works locations and taking to the recycling center. T @ 10 Learning Center

Pool/Foosball--Join us in a fun competition of pool and foosball. W @ 11 Rec Center & T @ 9

Strider/Bike Course--Come on over and try riding a strider or bike through a course set up in the gym, at your own speed and pace. TH @ 11 Gym

DIY Volunteer Projects--Join in on making cards for military troops or elderly centers! Design a bookmark that will be donated to the library, various churches, or bookstores. Work at your leisure-items will be provided with a done box in the room.

T @ 1pm and F @ 9am

Safety Class--What does safety mean? Where and what do we need to be safe? Each week this class will focus on a different safety topic-including Weather Safety & Pedestrian Safety. T @ 10 Learning Center

Black Hills Scavenger Hunt--Find various ‘hidden’ items in the town of Rapid City and the Black Hills. W @ 10 Learning Center

Money Skills--Learn the difference between different dollar bills and coins, how to count money and give change! TH @ 1 Learning Center

Board Games--Join us for a variety of board games! UNO, Yahtzee, Connect 4, Life and many others! Games will be played in individual small groups! F @ 11 Rec Center

Gardening--Do you have a green thumb? Like to visit greenhouses? Or do you just enjoy being around plants and learning what makes them grow? M @ 11 Learning Center

Get Up and Get Movin’-- Let’s get our bodies movin’. Join us for a physical fitness class involving many different ways to get active and have fun! F @ 9 Gym

Technology--June 13th @ 9am Making Paper Clay-Sensory and stem project! Using paper to make a moldable product that can be used as a sculpture medium!

Technology--June 27th @ 9am Hover Craft-Stem Project! Using a CD and a balloon to crate a fun item that shows use of air for levitation!

Spring has finally shown up in the Black Hills so it was the perfect opportunity for Adam and Sy to head to Pactola for some fresh air and sunshine!

Meet Kevin

Kevin wants you to know that he is a nice guy and likes other people. These traits are obvious when first meeting him! He is thoughtful and calm, using American Sign Language to communicate. His mother often serves as his interpreter. Kevin likes the Twins and the Vikings and eating at Robbinsdale Lounge.

Kevin states, “Black Hills Works is important. It makes a big difference in my life.” He enjoys our day education programs and bocce ball and bowling with Special Olympics. Kevin comes from a family of performers and has carried this tradition forward into his roles in Flutter Productions! He played Grandfather in Peter and the Wolf and the Moss King in Roots.

Kevin’s advice to others is to be giving. He’s proud of himself and is so thankful for the beautiful world we live in. With the support of Black Hills Works, Kevin has drawn up a roadmap for a thriving, meaningful life.

To learn more about Kevin, visit Black Hills Works Facebook page at facebook. com/blackhillsworks

Storm Forecast

Support Staff and Volunteers of Rapid City Storm, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable contributions and selfless dedication to the Rapid City Storm athletes. Your unwavering commitment have made a significant impact on the lives of those we support, and I am incredibly grateful for your time and effort.

Your willingness to give your time and energy to support our athletes is truly commendable. Whether you assisted at the practices, covered residential homes so others could assist the athletes, or joined us at the Area or State Track meets, your enthusiasm and passion is truly inspiring.

Your support and kindness have not gone unnoticed. Please know that your efforts are deeply appreciated. Your willingness to go above and beyond for the Rapid City Storm athletes is a testament to your compassionate nature. It is because of volunteers and support staff that we can continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of our athletes.

On behalf of the Rapid City Storm, I extend my heartfelt thanks. Your commitment to our athletes is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have you as part of our volunteer and support staff team. We hope that you will continue to support our athletes!

With sincere gratitude, Tina Sorenson-Stevens, Head of Delegation

That’s a Wrap!

We came, we ran, we conquered (and sweated A LOT)!

We could not have asked for a better two days for the State Summer Games!

On May 19th, we loaded up the vans and headed to the State Volleyball Tournament in Spearfish. The athletes participated in a skills competition in the morning and the afternoon was packed with matches for both Rapid City Storm Volleyball teams!

Congratulations to RC Storm Team B for bringing home the Gold in their division and Team A for the Silver in their division.

Team A Members Team B Members

Chris Bultena Tommy Brought Plenty

Todd Molitor Kimberly Flowers

Josh Walker Ben Hill

David Tanner Sierra Neff

Troy Wright William Pumpkin Seed

Chris Rivett Jackie Schofeld

Mike Turner

On May 20th, we competed alongside many state delegations and brought home a lot of medals! Rapid City Storm had athletes participating in walking, running, jumping, throwing and team relay events. The stands were packed with family and friends who came to cheer on the athletes.

The athletes were coached by Amy Pipke, Bull Smith and Jackie Smith this season and the many volunteers and support staff. Amy, Jackie and Bull - thank you again for an amazing volleyball and track season!

We have the results for the Area and State games! Congratulations all the athletes for a job well done!

See you next Spring and let’s do it all over again!

Softball and Bocce is Right Around the Corner

Front Line Leaders and ISCs, please watch your emails for a registration form. All athletes wanting to participate in bocce or softball with Special Olympics will need to complete the registration form and turn it into Tina Sorenson-Stevens. Also, make sure they have a current Special Olympics physical on file.

Jenny L 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; Scratch 1st; 1st; 1st

Results for the Area and State Games

Jessica W 50M Relay; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump 3rd; 2nd; 3rd 2nd; 7th; 3rd

Jill H 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

John K 50M Run; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump Scratch; 1st; 1st 2nd; 3rd; 3rd

200M run; 4x100 Relay; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump 1st; 4th; 2nd; 1st 3rd; 7th; Scratch; 1st

Joleen P 50M Run; 50M Walk; Tennis Ball Throw 3rd; 1st; 1st 3rd; 3rd; 1st

Andy S 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

Josh W 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Mini Javelin Throw; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 4th; 1st; 2nd; N/A; N/A 6th; 3rd; 1st; 2nd; 1st

Angel S 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st Scratch all 3

Josh B 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; Scratch

Ann S 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

Kimberly F Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills N/A; N/A 1st; 3rd

Bart W 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; Scratch 1st; 1st; 1st

Linda P 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

Becky L 10M Race; 25 M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

Manika B 50M Walk; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump; 1st; 1st; 2nd 3rd; 2nd; 4th

Ben H Volleyball Team; Volley Ball Skills N/A; 1st N/A; 1st

Mark M 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Shot Put Throw; 2nd 2nd; 3rd; 2nd; 1st Scratch all 4

Buck L 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; 50M Run; Mini Javelin Throw Scratch; 5th; 2nd; 2nd 6th; 8th; 2nd; 2nd

Mathew B 100M Run; 50M Run; Mini Javelin Throw 6th; 1st; Scratch 3rd; 2nd; 4th

Cammie K 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st 1st; 1st; 1st

Carmen L 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 3rd; 5th 7th; 1st; 2nd

Michael L 50M Relay; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump 1st; 3rd; 2nd 4th; 4th; 3rd

Chris B 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Mini Javelin Throw; Running Long Jum; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 1st; 1st; 1st; 1st; N/A; N/A 2nd; 3rd; 1st; 5th; 2nd; 3rd

Michael W 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Shot Put Throw; Running Long Jump 5th; 3rd; 2nd; 2nd 4th; 7th; 4th; 3rd

Chris R 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Shot Put Throw; Standing Long Jump; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 2nd; 1st; 1st; 1st; N/A; N/A 7th; 3rd; 2nd; 1st; 2nd; 2nd

Mike T 50M Walk; Mini Javelin Throw; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 1st; 3rd; N/A; N/A 3rd; 6th; 1st; 5th

Mike A 100M Run; 50M Run; Softball Throw Scratch; Scratch; 2nd Scratch; 5th; 5th

Codie G 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Softball Throw 1st; 3rd; 1st Scratch; 1st; 2nd

Rebecca L 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st Scratch all 3

Colby A 10M Race; 25M Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; Scratch 1st; 1st; 1st

Renae M 50M Run; Tennis Ball Throw; Standing Long Jump 2nd; 2nd; 3rd 2nd; 2nd; 4th

Colton T 50M Run; 50M Walk; Mini Javelin Throw 4th; 2nd; 2nd 1st; 2nd; 3rd

Rick T 50M Walk; Mini Javelin Throw; Standing Long Jump Scratch; 3rd; 2nd 1st; 4th; 1st

Courtney S 100M Run; 4x10 Relay; 50M Run; Softball Throw 1st; 3rd; 2nd; 6th 5th; 7th; 3rd; 4th

Robert N 50M Run; Mini Javelin Throw; Standing Long Jump 1st; 1st; 1st 2nd; 3rd; 6th

Shannon H 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump 5th; 3rd; 2nd; 4th 1st; 1st; 2nd; 2nd

Sierra N 4X100 Relay; 50M Run; Mini Javelin Throw; Standing Long Jump; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 6th; 1st; 2nd; 2nd; N/A; N/ A 1st; 8th; 1st; 2nd 1st; 4th

Tim L 50M Run; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump Scratch; 3rd; 7th 5th; 3rd; 6th

Tim K 200M Run; 4x100 Relay; Shot Put Throw; Standing Long Jump 3rd; 5th; 1st; 4th 2nd; 8th; 4th; 2nd

Tina W 10M NM Wheelchair Race; 25M NM Wheelchair Race; Tennis Ball Throw 1st; 1st; 1st; 1st; 1st; 2nd

Todd M 100M Run; 4x100 Relay; Mini Javelin Throw; Running Long Jump; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 3rd; 6th; 1st; 1st; N/A; N/A 8th; 1st; 5th; 4th; 2nd; 3rd

Tom B 4X100 Relay; 50M Run; Softball Throw; Standing Long Jump; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 3rd; 3rd; 3rd; 3rd; N/A; N/A 1st; 7th; 6th; 6th; 1st; 1st

Tracy H 50M Run; 50M Walk; Softball Throw; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 2nd; 1st; 1st; N/A; N/A Scratch all 5

Troy W 50M Run; 50M Walk; Mini Javelin Throw; Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills 4th; 2nd; 1st; N/A; N/A 3rd; 3rd; 1st; 2nd; 3rd

William P Volleyball Team; Volleyball Skills N/A; N/A 1st; 5th

Black Hills Works Night at Post 22

Several people supported enjoyed the Black Hills Works night at Post 22! Ed Kopp and Clinton Tidon got to throw the first pitches and did an awesome job!

Thank you to Post 22 for hosting Black Hills Works night again this year! We love coming to cheer on the Hard Hats! And thank you for the donated passes so we can enjoy the games all summer long!!

Spring Fling!

Suzie Cappa Art Center thanks those of you who made it to our Spring Fling! The night was a huge success filled with great live music by Mike Lemay and his daughter, refreshments from BB’s Natural, and a newly unveiled collection of art that the artists have been working on for the past few months. Attendance far exceeded expectations and almost everyone went home with a new piece of unique and original artwork. Your support of the art center and the artists who work here is much appreciated. If you missed this event, make sure to keep an eye out for our upcoming open house in autumn!

Downtown Art Walks

Suzie Cappa Art Center will be participating in the Downtown Art Walks, presented by the Rapid City Arts Council. Stop by on June 2, July 7, August 4, or September 1 from 5 to 8PM to participate in a self-guided art experience of downtown galleries, cultural venues, and businesses. Come on down and check it out!

Alice’sAdventuresCast

Featuring 17 individuals served by Black Hills Works!

CONGRATULATIONS one and all!

Louise/Hatter:  Henry Olivier

Alice (Big): Megan Jones

Alice (sm): Erabella Fitzgerald

Alice (Big) Understudy: Lucy Pangares

Alice (Small) Understudy: Magdalena Mutchler

White Rabbit: Tyler Brink

Roots in the Rabbit Hole: Dena Frantz, Eliana Rose DeLeon, Katie Hoeke, Abbey Pangares

Table: Maeve Ewing

Doors/Water: Brooklyn Ewing, Katie Hoeke, Gabriella Pike

Tastes: Ever Croteau, Tricia Hoeke, Adriana Linn, Magdalena Mutchler, Dabian Spotted Elk

Teardrops: Catherine Mutchler, Katelinn Ohrtman, Abbey Pangares

Mouse: Jill Holien

Dodo:  Andrew Jones

Owl:  Kevin Carpenter

Duck:  Linda Carpenter

Rose: Rachel Grant

Lily:  Lucy Pangares

Daisy:  Jackie Schofield

Elephant Bees:  Magdalena Mutchler, Alice Painter, Cady King Trump

Bread & Butterfly:  Ella Swanson

Bubbles: Maeve Ewing, Catherine Mutchler, Katelinn Ohrtman, Abbey Pangares

Caterpillar:  Shad Bebout

Tweedle Dee: Tyler Engel

Tweedle Dum: David Tanner

Signs: Bob Lew, Clarence Leach, Dabian Spotted Elk

Rocking Horse Flies: Justin Bruns with Katelinn Ohrtman, Jorgia Steenberg with Amanda Todd

Borogove Birds Flock: Katie Hoeke, Eliana Rose DeLeon, Gabrielle Pike

Mama Borogove: Tricia Hoeke

Cheshire Cat:  Emmalyn Brant

March Hare:  Lucy Pangares

Dormouse: Brooklyn Ewing

Cardiners:  David Drolc, Dena Frantz, Katie Hoeke, Derek Nieland

Royal Trumpeter:  Joshua Boll

Guards:  Tyler Engel, Autumn Ohrtman, David Tanner

Game Keeper: Adriana Linn

Hedgehogs:  Ever Croteau and Magdalena Mutchler

Queen of Hearts: Devorah Phelps

King of Hearts:  Michael Leithauser

Executioner:  Dean Baker

Foundation Focus

Keep an eye out for these faces on billboards and their stories on our social media feeds.

• Kathy Reed – with BHW since 1989

• Ruth Reed – with BHW since 1998

• Shawn Stratton – with BHW since 2001

• Justin Bruns – with BHW since 2012

• Rachel Grant – with BHW since 2014

Connect with us!

Check us out on our social media platforms: facebook.com/blackhillsworks

BHW Employees: facebook.com/groups/288621272394017

instagram.com/blackhillsworks

linkedin.com/company/black-hills-works

youtube.com/user/BlackHillsWorks

twitter.com/blackhillsworks

JUNE SPONSOR

Ruth

Kathy

Shawn

Rachel

Justin

Celebrating 65 years…Our Journey. Our Story

With 2023 being Black Hills Works’ 65th anniversary, we decided to take a new and exciting approach with the Annual Recognition Gala this year. We are celebrating the 65 people that we are highlighting throughout the year. The Gala will be on Friday, October 13, 2023 (please note the change in date) at LaCroix Hall at the Monument.

A heartfelt thank you to the six Red Carpet Sponsors! These sponsors will be hosting informal meets and greets over the summer to meet the people they are sponsoring and look forward to getting to know these awesome people!

BLUEPEAK: Rachel Grant, Jeff McGlade, Alyssa Flannery, Tim Ley, Susan Utter, Gloria Kehn, Ruth Reed, Jeffrey Fuller, Barbara Brings Plenty, Cammi Kellogg, and Aimee Johns.

SCULL CONSTRUCTION: Tracy Witte, Paige Severson, Tracy Augustine, Kenny Kirkpatrick, Mike Schenegge, Jackie Schofield, Dylan Thomason, Jessica Weedon, Steven Castonguay, Conrad Kranzler, and Deb Frederickson.

WEST RIVER ELECTRIC: Kathy Reed, Maureen Conley, Carmen Lester, Dan Raba, Blaze Johnson, Derek Nieland, Shawn Namanny, Bonnie Barnhart, Kama Coyle, Zachary Brink, and Rosalee Zephier.

TRUSTAGE: DJ Davis, Josh Dvorak, Peggy Steensgaard, Shawn Stratton, Tim Kopp, Tom Brought Plenty, Meghan Hobbs, Alex Linsman, Jay Birkeland, Diania Oliver, and Dan Whitley.

BLACK HILLS ENERGY: Sierra Neff, Heather Kickery, Ordean Stevenson, Jeanne Peck, Ricky Torgerson, Dean Baker, Robert Luxton, Scott Keiser, Waylon Howard, Jackie Wald, and Kathryn O’Keefe.

SECURITY FIRST: Justin Bruns, Hubert Zimmerman, Tyler Engel, Rodney Keffeler, Colleen Roman, Cindy Gretsch, Mindy Elliott, Amanda Yoder, Kevin Carpenter, and Harry Arneson.

Donor Story: Korb Family’s Gift Helps Bring “Alice’s Adventures” to the Big Stage!

Flutter Productions is entirely possible thanks to the generosity of our community – people like Dennyce and Carroll Korb!

The Korbs recently gave a generous donation in support of Flutter Production’s summer program, “Alice’s Adventures.”

Dennyce, in particular, has a love for theater. She’s been on stage herself with Flutter Productions and the Black Hills Community Theater, and sees theater as a way for people of all ages to use creativity to make the world a better place. For Dennyce, the fact that Flutter also includes people of all abilities is just icing on the cake.

“Differences should be celebrated and Flutter is a great avenue that for,” said Dennyce and Carroll. “To see people of all abilities performing in such beautiful productions really does change the hearts and minds of performers and audience members alike. We’re grateful to be able to help in this way and support something so special.”

Thank you, Dennyce and Carroll, for the inspiring difference you make!

Carrie Moser will reach out to staff to help organize the meet and greet opportunities. Keep an eye out for additional details as October 13 gets closer!

Heather Presents to New Staff

Submitted by Robin DeBoer

In May, Heather Therkildsen achieved a personal goal by presenting to new staff! Heather did a wonderful job presenting her L.U.C.K. of Advocacy! I would like to thank Heather’s mom who is her biggest fan; Lesli Pond who help Heather put her power point together; Dan Kindall who met with us several times to get her presentation just the way she wanted; Darrell and Brookley who did an amazing job getting the timing on the power point and the room needed for Heather, and Heather’s Conflict-Free Case Manager Karri Saathoff, who is an inspiration to Heather.

Volunteer Spotlight

Marco Technologies supports Black Hills Works in a variety of ways. Not only have theybeenafinancial sponsor since 2015, but they also volunteer their time. Cortney Ficken is a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, and has volunteered to help plan both the Putt-N-Pub and Annual Recognition Gala events. Cortney and Jeremy have both volunteered at the Putt-N-Pub event as hole sponsors and thoroughly enjoy getting to know Don and Mitch while working at Woodland Republic.

This year Marco wanted to do a group volunteer project and, right away, thought of Black Hills Works. The Marco team transported garden kits to several of our residential facilities, including seeds, seedlings, tools, and gloves in May. Thank you to Mark, Cortney, Mark, Carolyn, and Jeremy for delivering these kits, and for ALL your support!

Could your program or a person you support benefit from a volunteer donating their time? If so, contact Carrie Moser at x6207 or cmoser@bhws.com to share your needs!

Meet June’s Spotlight Award Winner…Nicodemus Roebuck!

Nicodemus (Nic) has been with Black Hills Works since 2018 and currently lives in one of our Community Homes. One of his goals was to volunteer and eventually begin working. In the fall of 2022, Nic started volunteering a couple of days a week at Fork Real Café.

Nic was doing such a great job volunteering, that he eventually started working there a couple of days a week. Now Nic volunteers two days and works two days at Fork Real. He really enjoys being there and seeing all the people.

Joined by his grandma and staff at Anaconda, Nic was excited to receive his award. “It’s pretty cool!” he shared, with a grin. Congratulations Nic, on a job well done!!

Meet June’s Spotlight Award Winner…Melissa Carger!

If you have not met Melissa, you can often find her working hard at Culver’s! Since starting at Black Hills Works in 2022, employment has been very important to Melissa. She worked for a few years at Mt. Rushmore, but wanted something more year-round. And Culver’s was just the right fit!

Melissa’s strong work ethic and dependability have made her successful in her employment goals. When asked how she likes her job, Melissa shared, “I like it a lot!” Congratulations Melissa, on your hard work and determination! You are a rock star!

Safe Driver Program

Submitted by Kevin Bybee Safe

Advocacy Corner

Submitted by Dan Kindall

Legislative Team Testifies Before D.C. Lawmakers

The DSP Legislative Team from Black Hills Works represented South Dakota during the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals Virtual Symposium May 3-4. Team members Rhadonda Quandt, Haley Friedt and Skylar Smith, went through training on the first day.

Special emphasis was given to Senate Bill #1332, which is entitled “Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act”. This legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget to establish a Standard Occupational Classification (or SOC) for the role of Direct Support Professional. If passed, the bill would require that data be gathered in order to set standards of national accreditation along with the establishment of pay rates. This would bring the DSP role out from under the classification of Home Health Aide.

On May 4th, the team gave testimony in front of representatives from the offices of Senator John Thune and Mike Rounds defining the job of a DSP and asking for support of S.#1332. Our Legislative Team was the only group in the State participating in NADSP’s concerted national advocacy. Since January of this year, team members

have testified at both the State and National levels.

The Advocacy Leadership Board added four new members which include Janelle Kelly, Tracy Witte, Gene Mason and Pastor Quaya Ackerman. The purpose of the expansion is to ensure an even representation between persons supported and parents/guardians. Also, three Board members are exploring with Black Hills Works how they may assist in the On-Boarding process for new hires. The focus is on the reality of stigmas experienced by persons supported. These individuals include Jeff Vermundson, Janelle Kelly and Heather Kickery.

Thank you to the Advocacy Leadership Board for all your hard work! And thank you to Rhadonda, Haley, and Skyler for advocating on behalf of all Direct Support Professionals!

Focus on Safety

Submitted by Kevin Bybee

Don’t forget to submit your nomination for the Safety Star in your work environment!

Scan the QR code for the form.

Get started with your free online therapy benefit

Tava is a free, confidential mental health benefit available to all full-time employees and their dependents (age 13-26). The benefit provides up to 6 free sessions annually with licensed clinicians through Tava’s secure, web-based technology platform. All you need for a live, video-based session is reliable internet access and a connected device with a camera (smartphone, computer, or tablet).

Free to Use

No claims, no co-pays, no deductibles. You and your dependents will have 6 sessions (per person per year) completely covered.

Convenient

Self-scheduled online video sessions means you get care whenever works best for you: days, nights, or weekends.

Confidential

We don’t tell your employer who used the service.

Your identity and anything you discuss is confidential.

Top Quality

Quality care from quality therapists. Tava’s clinicians are licensed, vetted, and use evidencebased treatments.

Whether you’re feeling stressed, stuck, or burdened with something else, Tava can help. Support is available for a range of issues such as:

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Eating disorders

Family issues

Grief and loss

LGBTQ+ issues

Life changes

Postpartum issues

PTSD

Trauma

Relationship issues

Work pressure

Stress

and more…

Get back to feeling like you! Your psychological well-being can affect your physical health, relationships, and work performance. Tava’s network of vetted therapists helps you step out of the fog and get back to a happier, more fulfilled you.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this service really free?

Yes! The costs of the first 6 sessions annually for you and each of your eligible dependents will be completely covered by your employer.

What if I would like more more sessions?

Once an individual has used their covered sessions, they can continue therapy by paying for it out of pocket at a rate of $125 per session (this rate is valid for eligible members through 12/31/24).

Do I need to file a claim with my insurance?

No. Payment has been taken care of by your employer, so you don’t have to do anything. No claims, no copays, and no deductibles. In other words, no hassle.

Does this count toward my insurance plan’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum?

No. Use of and payment for Tava sessions do not impact your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.

Who is eligible to use this service?

The Tava Health benefit is available to all fulltime employees and their dependents, including spouses and children ages 13-26. Employees are encouraged to ensure all household members are aware of their ability to use this service. When one household member is struggling, others often are as well.

Is this service confidential?

Yes. Written records of all services are kept private and are unavailable to employers or others without the written consent of the identified patient (or legal guardian) unless disclosure of information is required by law or court order.

Can my employer see who is using Tava?

No. Tava does not allow employers to view individual usage data. Any usage data that Tava shares with your employer is always de-identified and aggregated, protecting confidentiality and the identities of our individual clients.

Will my personal information be kept safely?

Yes. All personally identifiable information is stored in a secure, HIPAA-compliant database and will never be sold, shared, or transmitted for any reason.

Is this service available after business hours?

Yes. Tava’s therapists have availability that extends beyond normal business hours. For current appointment availability, please visit care.tavahealth.com

What if I need help immediately?

If you have an emergency or urgent matter, call or text the suicide hotline at 988, go to www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org, visit your nearest emergency room, or call 911.

How will I talk with my therapist?

Therapy sessions are delivered via video chat through Tava’s online portal. All you need is a connected device with a camera (e.g., computer, smartphone, tablet). This means your sessions can take place wherever is most convenient and comfortable for you. We recommend choosing a quiet, private location with reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi for your visits.

What are the qualifications of my therapist? Therapy sessions are provided by licensed masters-level or doctoral-level mental health professionals. Licensure requirements and specific titles vary by state. We verify each clinician’s credentials and require their licensure be maintained in good standing.

What kind of therapy does Tava provide?

Tava’s therapists provide talk therapy (i.e. psychotherapy) to help you identify ways to understand, manage, and resolve problems, including unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors. Therapists cannot prescribe medications.

What issues does Tava help resolve?

Tava has therapists who understand and treat many types of issues. See a comprehensive list of issues our therapists often address on the previous page of this document. If you are wondering whether Tava can help you, schedule a free, initial consultation at care.tavahealth.com

Will my therapist and I be a good match? Before your first visit, you will fill out a questionnaire that will help Tava suggest therapists for you. If at any time you feel your therapist is not a great fit, it’s easy to change therapists. This relationship is a key determinant to the success of therapy.

Is online, video-based therapy effective?

Yes. Research has shown that online, videobased therapy is equivalent to in-person care in diagnostic accuracy, treatment effectiveness, quality of care, and patient satisfaction. In 2018, the American Psychiatric Association issued the following statement in support of telemental health: “Telemedicine in psychiatry, using video conferencing, is a validated and effective practice of medicine that increases access to care. The American Psychiatric Association supports the use of telemedicine as a legitimate component of a mental health delivery system to the extent that its use is for the benefit of the patient, protects patient autonomy, confidentiality, and privacy; and when used consistent with APA policies on medical ethics and applicable governing law.”