BE THE GOOD BULLETIN BE THE GOOD BULLETIN
The Cheers Gala
OnDecember6th,wesaidcheerstoCelebrating InnovationatourannualCheersGala!Theeventtook laceatthebeautifulM1ConcourseEventCenterwhere ewelcomedroughly350guestsandvolunteers.Thank thegenerosityofourwonderfuldonors,sponsors,and rtners,weexceededourfundraisinggoalandraised er$263,000forprograms,services,andsupportsfor individualswithdisabilitiesandtheirfamilies!
Guestsenjoyedawonderfulsilentauction,a deliciousstrollingdinneranddessertsprepared byKristina'sCatering,struckaposeinthephoto booth,playedcasinostylegamesforprizes,and oohedandaahedatadroneshow!
Duringtheevening,wepresentedtheLifetime AchievementAwardtothefamilyofNancy Sinelli,formerSelf-DirectionAdministrator,for herlifetimeofservice,dedication,and commitmenttoindividualswithdisabilities.
Weheldamomentofgivingtoraisefundsfor ournew,stateoftheartAutismComprehensive CareCenterthatwearebuildinginWaterford. ThisnewCenterwillofferaone-stopshopof services,whileutilizingagroundbreakingcare modelthatwillnotonlyaddresstheneedsof individualswithautism,buttheirfamily membersaswell.Duringthemomentofgiving, weraisedover$50,000forthisnewCenter!
Specialthankyoutoouramazingsponsorsandpartnerswho helpedtomakethisyear'sCheersGalaaremarkableevening!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SELF CARE ACTIVITY?
As we enter the colder, darker winter months, it’s not uncommon that some of us experience the winter blues. To help lift spirits, we asked our team members to share their favorite self-care activity. Below are some of the responses!
“If I’m feeling down or dreary I try to find a silly Pixar movie or two to stream. It always cheers me up to be a kid for a bit.”
For more tips on how to combat the longer and colder days, scan the QR code below to check out this year’s edition of our Winter Blues and SAD Resources!
“Oral journaling - speaking aloud privately for at least 5 minutes Helps get things off my chest for those of us that have trouble sitting down to write!”
“My husband and I are a part of a winter bowling league. It's weekly bowling, games and lots of fun! It certainly helps with the winter blues ”
“Listening to music.”
“Coloring.”
“I have really become interested in collecting and building Lego sets. It helps me practice mindfulness and is very calming!”
“Taking a nap.”
“Diamond
Painting.”
“Prayers and devotions.”
“Iput on some music anddance aroundthe room. Inot only start to feel better, but alsoget agreat workout!”
“I prioritize getting lots of natural light, whether that's bundling up and going for a winter walk or just pulling open the curtains throughout my house.”
“Getting my nails done.”
“Taking a bath ”
“Yoga.”
“Embroidery.”
“Bundling up, and taking my dog across the street to the golf course, for a nice, long walk!”
Training Team Updates
Did you know that your EM Training Department offers continuing education opportunities for FREE as a benefit of working at Easterseals MORC?
Werecentlydiscoveredoneofoursocialworkerspaidforclinical trainingoutsideofEMnotrealizingthatitwouldhavebeenforthemas anEMemployeethroughourEducationalCenter.Inanefforttomake surethisdoesn’thappentoanyoneelse,wewouldliketotakethis opportunitytoremindyouandsharewithothers.Asareminder,Social WorkCEscanbefoundinourEducationalCenter.Youcanalsofind MCBAPCreditandCDTS/Children’sCredits.
807supplemental coursestakenbyEM teamsofferedthrough ourEducationalCenter
Clinicianswhotook advantageofsupplemental CEtrainingsavedover $23,000intotal!
$65,780inrevenue generatedfrompurchases oflive,live/virtual,and OnDemandtrainingoffered throughEastersealsMORC Training.
Quality Corner
CARFvisitedninelocationsatEastersealsMORConNovember6,7,&8,2024 Here arethelocationsthatthethreesurveyorsvisited:
AuburnHills
WalledLake
Southfield–CrescentCenter
Southfield–9Mile GrandRapids
Flint Pontiac ClintonTownship CenterLine
Afterinterviewingstaffandpeopleserved,reviewingtonsofinformation,and touringoursites,herearesomeamazingcommentsweheardatourexit conferenceformthesurveyorsaboutourorganization:
Thereislongevityinleadershipandsatisfactionwiththeworkcultureand work-lifebalance.
EMispraisedforbeingbothinnovativeandcreativeinmeetingtheneedsof personsserved.
Oneexampleistheadditionofparentnavigatorsandmentalhealth consultantsinschool-basedservices.
EMinvestsininternsandhasadedicatedinternsupervisor,aresidency programforpsychiatrists,andutilizespeersupporttohelpmeetthecomplex needsofpersonsservedandtheirfamilies.
Staffmembersarededicatedtoprovidingthehighestqualityofcareand attainmentofpositiveoutcomesforthepersonsserved.Theydemonstrate obviousprideintheprogramsandinthesuccessesofpersonsserved. Thebreadthofservicesstrengthenstheirpurposetoleadthewayto100% equity,inclusion,andaccessforpeoplewithdisabilities,families,and communities.
TheQualityAssuranceteamwouldliketothankeveryonewho participatedfortheincredibleeffort,teamwork,andcommitmenteachof youdemonstratedduringourCARFSurvey.Yourhardworkanddedication trulymadeadifferenceinensuringthesuccessofthisimportantprocess! Our‘final’resultsshouldbecomingsoon,andwewillbesuretoupdate youwhenwereceivethem!
New Hires
10/21/24 - 12/13/24
Kevin Oliver
Tracy Moss
Ben Quigley
Monica Dorn
Erin Oleszczak
Nicole Fenner
Sohan Jadhav
Megan Maciag
Daisy Cutting
Kristina Myers
Serenity Johnson
Lynn Sims
Adam Stricker
Myah McClain
Lisa Redfield
Brittany Noland
Lyz Darden
Valerie Bahos
Aaliyah Gonzalez
Josh Ristau
Brianna Yoho
Emily Turskey
Alexis John
Ava DesRocher
Nikia White
Alex Lindsay
Britt Fenech
Brittany James
Clay Loomis
Erin Searles
Megan McGugan
Michelle Mathew
Tonya King
10/21/24 - 12/13/24
Christopher Merchant: Behavioral Health Clinician - COP Limited License
Vicky Vargas: Development Coordinator
Jackie Lopez: Case Management Coordinator
Angela Gudzinski: Manager Admin Support
Joshua White: Case Management Coordinator - Assertive Community Treatment
Julie Magaluk: IDD Care Coordinator
Stacey Kaplan: Intake Supervisor
Riley Max: Behavioral Health Clinician - Therapy
Retirement
Ronald Scott Hocking, MBA
After decades of outstanding service, Ron Hocking will be retiring on February 28, 2025 With a distinguished career in strategic financial leadership and operational excellence, Ron has made a significant impact in both the public and nonprofit sectors
Ron earned his MBA from Lawrence Technological University in 1993, specializing in Strategic and Operational Business Management, and his BBA from Michigan State University in 1979 with a focus on Accounting and Finance
From his most recent roles as CFO & Senior Director of Financial Planning & Analysis at Easterseals MORC, where he provided financial leadership, to his tenure as COO and Deputy CFO at the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority, Ron has been a guiding force in managing multimillion-dollar budgets, spearheading transformative initiatives, and fostering data-driven strategies. His leadership has extended across roles at Oakland County Community Mental Health Authority, the City of Westland, and the City of Fort Lauderdale, among others.
Ron’s dedication extends beyond his professional achievements he is a proud father, community volunteer, and advocate for those in need. His unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassion leaves an enduring legacy. We celebrate Ron’s remarkable journey and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement!
Melissa Gardiner, 1/1
Dr. Roba Elkhalil, 1/1
Tracy Elliot-Guschewski, 1/1
Angela Tzelepis, 1/2
Taylor Gilliam, 1/2
Rosalie Moceri, 1/2
Algeonay Jackson, 1/3
Tiffany Davis, 1/4
Nabrina Coomer, 1/4
Terrance Johnson, 1/4
Lizzie Brendle, 1/4
JaQuitta McFadden, 1/5
Lisa Defillippo, 1/6
Tamar Butler, 1/7
Deborah Hammond, 1/7
Jennifer Parises, 1/7
Terrence Cooper, 1/7
Sandy Arnold, 1/9
Vivian Lozon, 1/9
Piper Schick, 1/9
Kristin Parker, 1/9
Angela Boulware, 1/9
Mary Heron, 1/9
Victor Garcia, 1/10
Clay Loomis, 1/10
LaToya Tillerson, 1/10
Dante Jones, 1/10
Juliana Harper, 1/11
Chanelle Reeves, 1/12
Marcus Wells, 1/12
Crystal Parks, 1/12
Jennifer Gifford, 1/13
Briana O'Neal, 1/14
Mikki Danow, 1/14
Mary Oneal, 1/14
India Davis, 1/14
La Tanya Matthews, 1/15
Rheana Allen, 1/16
Richard Armstrong, 1/16
Jan St. Germain, 1/17
Birthdays
James Casolari, 1/18
Kari Kildow, 1/19
Kim Walker, 1/19
Holly Lawson, 1/19
Aviance Rodgers, 1/19
Deshawnda Sherman, 1/20
Christy Knight, 1/20
Anna Baiardi, 1/20
Kristen Barbernitz, 1/20
Michelle Michael, 1/20
Sarah Rickard, 1/21
Gloria Person, 1/21
Jeffrey Bellairs, 1/21
Eric Lafferty, 1/21
James Evans, 1/21
Carly Kowalsky, 1/22
Melissa Kramer, 1/22
Jane Tozer, 1/22
Carolynne Vanderveen, 1/22
Julie White, 1/23
Courtney Bender, 1/23
Stefan Radke, 1/23
Jamie Page, 1/24
Janis McGuffie, 1/24
Julia Magaluk, 1/24
Kyle Bastion, 1/24
Melissa McQueen, 1/24
Laurie Gell, 1/25
Rachel Finley, 1/25
Melissa Woodard, 1/25
Liz Blomquist, 1/26
Dyamond James, 1/26
Megan McGugan, 1/26
Sierra Galui, 1/27
Jenny Hoggatt, 1/27
Kyle Smith, 1/27
Loretta Nesti, 1/28
Eddie Stewart, 1/29
Erika Posey, 1/29
Sahara Gorman, 1/30
Hannan Mao, 1/30
Anna Brede, 1/31
Emily Turskey, 1/31
Heather Gillespie, 1/31
April-Rose Flynn, 2/1
Emily Wiese, 2/1
Nicholas Iacovino, 2/1
Michael Henning, 2/1
Michael Anstine, 2/2
Jasmine Burns, 2/3
Brianna Yoho, 2/3
Eryn Carter, 2/3
Melissa Giambruno, 2/3
Lisa Redfield, 2/3
Sydney Earle, 2/4
Tina Hill-McCants, 2/4
Gregory Kustak, 2/4
Claudine Perry, 2/4
Hayden Duff, 2/5
Amayrany Mora, 2/5
DeAndre Flowers, 2/6
Chiara Parker-Humphries, 2/6
Laysha Cooks, 2/6
Kerri Leckrone, 2/6
Amanda Lesnick, 2/7
Beth Ann Tincher, 2/7
Kelly Bouie, 2/7
Junetta Broxton, 2/8
Megan Dean, 2/8
Kimberly Fornwall, 2/8
Nicole Vojta, 2/8
Ebonee Paisley, 2/9
Jason Rydzewski, 2/9
Virginia McKinnon, 2/9
Breanna Corrigan, 2/9
Max Denny, 2/9
Leah Allen, 2/10
Tim Hylka, 2/10
Kimm Buckley, 2/10
Sally Reuter-Hurley, 2/10
Sadie Riedel, 2/10
Jenna Nance, 2/10
Brittany James, 2/14
Kristina Sutherby, 2/14
Brianna Walker, 2/15
Tina Mowat, 2/15
Christian Perry, 2/15
Aila Hammarlund-Baker, 2/16
Kaitlyn Oliver, 2/16
Cathy Alvis, 2/17
Delisa Johnson, 2/18
Krista Byrd, 2/18
Tracy Topij, 2/18
Kirsten Tanui, 2/18
Sade King, 2/20
Jen DeBrincat, 2/20
Anni Garlak, 2/21
Dana Young, 2/21
Kevin Kulhanek, 2/21
Hnub Lor, 2/22
Sean Taylor, 2/22
Jackie Hooper, 2/23
Jordyn Gardner, 2/23
Catherine Accica, 2/23
Dee Lantto, 2/23
Helena Kelly, 2/24
Simone Douglas-Anthony, 2/24
Emily Langell, 2/25
Fatoumata Marenah, 2/25
Terrence Taylor, 2/26
Elizabeth Bendure, 2/26
Pamela Siebigteroth, 2/26
Riley Max, 2/27
Helen Paige, 2/27
Karen Nichols, 2/27
Matthew Maclellan, 2/27
Kenlisha Wade, 2/28
Regan Goldberg, 2/28
Jennifer Lee-Schroeder, 2/28
Ivory Mamo, 2/29
23 YEARS
Jennifer Kymla, 2/25
21 YEARS
Eddie Stewart, 1/1
20 YEARS
Deborah Miller, 1/3
Denise Jackson, 1/10
18 YEARS
Lisa James, 1/29
16 YEARS
Helena Kelly, 1/5
15 YEARS
Joanna Tohme, 1/25
14 YEARS
Linda Mountz, 1/3
13 YEARS
Gina Hufferd, 1/9
Jon Richey, 1/30
Karen Koenigbauer, 2/27
Lauren Harrison, 2/27
12 YEARS
Kari Kildow, 1/7
Donna Partlo, 1/14
11 YEARS
Amanda Luteran, 1/8
Shayla Glass, 2/3
10 YEARS
Marci McMahan, 1/2
Kristina Huerta, 1/2
Stephany Trujillo, 1/8
Vanessa Jurewicz, 2/16
Matthew Maclellan, 2/16
Julie Doyle, 2/16
9 YEARS
Jenny Hoggatt, 1/4
Erin Walker, 1/25
8 YEARS
Kelly Harrison, 1/3
Carolyn Bleibtrey, 2/6
Anniversaries
Joanny Marin, 2/6
Sheree Brandow, 2/22
7 YEARS
Christine Cass, 1/8
Kristi Shovlin, 1/8
Cynthia Disbrow, 1/22
Justin Rinke, 1/22
Andrew Bradley, 2/7
Amber Brock, 2/12
Amy Snyder, 2/19
6
YEARS
Sierra Logan, 1/7
Cheryl Jennings, 1/18
Paul Witri, 1/21
Mary Beth Cinader, 2/4
Elizabeth Kosal, 2/6
Natalie Nieves, 2/11
Amy McMillan, 2/18
Crystal Ponce De Leon, 2/18
Robert Schmidt, 2/18
Jeffrey Bellairs, 2/19
5 YEARS
Sadie Riedel, 1/6
Kenya Chappell, 1/27
Michael Anstine, 1/29
Mary Oneal, 2/17
Vicky Vargas, 2/24
4 YEARS
Becca Smith, 1/11
Aubrie Kew, 1/11
Kelly Plater, 2/8
Gabby Gonzales, 2/15
Kim Rivera, 2/22
3 YEARS
Courtney Jackson, 1/4
Heidi Contreras, 1/17
Sydney Baranski, 1/17
Juliana Pepaj, 1/17
Beth Ann Tincher, 1/17
Noah Ward, 1/18
Briana O'Neal, 1/27
Dr. Richard Linsk, 1/28
Heidi Vanderbeek, 1/31
Deborah Varner, 1/31
Dee Mulligan, 1/31
Chenika Rogers, 1/31
Preston Elliott, 1/31
Rachel Kampsen, 1/31
Julia Magaluk, 1/31
Nabrina Coomer, 2/1
Tiffani Allen, 2/7
Caleb Stephens, 2/14
Crystal Szczepanski, 2/14
Lula Taylor, 2/14
Shanna Allen, 2/21
Krystal Bennetts, 2/28
Brittany Abbott, 2/28
Sammi Doles, 2/28
2 YEARS
Elizabeth Leonhard, 1/3
Jes Short-Slack, 1/3
Alyssa Essary, 1/3
Amita Madan, 1/9
Amina McClendon, 1/9
Quinn Ousley, 1/9
Shantinque Payton, 1/10
Alicia O'Connor, 1/10
Lorraine Lucas-Guster, 1/17
Ashley Biggs, 1/17
Lalah Dunham, 1/17
Hallie Horning, 1/23
Tracy Hubbard, 1/30
Eboni Ross, 1/30
Crystal Parks, 1/30
Kristen Carlson, 1/30
Amy Konja, 1/30
Renee Noteboom, 1/30
Kristen Pfeifer, 2/6
Samantha Fell, 2/6
Andrew King, 2/6
Estefani Ovalle, 2/20
Grace Gottman, 2/20
Ashlyn Wethy, 2/27
Sean Taylor, 2/27
Mya Howard, 2/27
1 YEAR
Ashley Warren, 1/3
Lauren Pietryga, 1/3
Chanel Newton, 1/3
Paul Lyons, 1/3
Erin Ritsema, 1/3
Vivian Lozon, 1/3
Shayna Irvine, 1/8
Dr. Parth Patel, 1/8
Kelly Soley, 1/8
Dr Roba Elkhalil, 1/8
Molly Murphy, 1/8
Lindsay Kastelan, 1/8
Talia Pruiett, 1/8
Kristen Barbernitz, 1/16
Talia Azir, 1/16
Kaeli Golembiewski, 1/16
Hayden Duff, 1/16
Cynthia Williams-Hurt, 1/16
Amanda Murdock, 1/22
April Scott, 1/29
Damon Thomas, 1/29
Shari Crocker, 1/29
Brittany Ahmad, 2/5
Deanna Iverson, 2/5
Madeline Prusinowski, 2/12
Emma Chandonais, 2/12
Dr. Rajendra Kanneganti, 2/12
Kimberly Adams, 2/12
Miranda Morreale, 2/12
Ilma Fazlagic, 2/12
Kourtney Laird, 2/12
Angel English, 2/19
Heather Schubbe, 2/19
Erin Schaaf, 2/19
Ashley Reasonover, 2/19
Keith Thomas, 2/19
Teresa Nelson, 2/26
Nicklaus Kaiser, 2/26
Steph Moore, 2/26
Kristin Parker, 2/26
Yan Yan Wang, 2/26
Tina Leggs, 2/26
Kaylee Allen, 2/26
As we continue to strive for excellence and foster a supportive environment, we want to take a moment to highlight our ongoing retention and team engagement initiatives. These are designed to enhance your experience with us, promote well-being, and support professional growth. Here are some key initiatives to look out for:
We believe in the power of teamwork, and our recommended quarterly team-building activities are designed to bring us closer together.
Calm App: To help reduce stress, the Calm App is available for all team members (Calm Health Enhancement Coming Soon!).
$125 Wellness: Take advantage of this benefit for your health and well-being by taking 5consecutive days of PTO
Wellness Opportunities: Monthly Wellness articles and activities shared out via email.
EAP: Our Employee Assistance Program through HMSA continues to be a valuable resource. http://www.my-life-resource.com Username: hmsa Password: myresource.
Tuition Reimbursement: Continue to take advantage of educational opportunities.
Training & Development / CEUs and CMEs: Professional growth is vital, and we’re here to support your learning. Visit our Educational Center and Viva Community.
Leadership Academy: Designed to support and offer professional development for team members in leadership roles.
Mentoring Program: We believe in the power of mentorship to help you succeed.
We continually evaluate our compensation and benefits packages to ensure they are competitive in the market.
Employee of the Month / Employee of the Year: Recognizing your hard work and commitment.
Monthly Supervision: A reflection on your performance, growth, and well-being.
Good Gossip Boards: Share positive stories and accomplishments within the team.
Spirit Days, Potlucks, & Cookout Events: Join us in the many social gatherings coordinated throughout the year to foster connection.
Sugarwish: Recognizes team members during their anniversary month with sweet treats.
IDEA Council: Fostering inclusion and connectedness.
Sofi - Get Your Money Right: Offering financial resources to help you manage your finances.
Lovasco Financial Advisors: Personalized financial planning available for all team members.
HRSA, PLSF, & Loan Forgiveness Programs: Take advantage of loan forgiveness options if you qualify.
UKG Wallet (Payactiv): Access earned wages anytime with this benefit.
PTO Exchange: Allows team members to exchange a portion of their unused Paid Time Off for other benefits, providing for greater flexibility.
401K with Matching Contributions: Secure your financial future with our retirement plan that includes a 3% Safe Harbor contribution with 100% matching up to the first 4% of team member contributions.
Denison and other Pulse Surveys: Your feedback is vital. These surveys guide us in creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
Transparent Communication: We’re committed to sharing updates and progress on initiatives you’ve told us are important.
EM Hub & Viva Engage: Stay connected and informed through our internal platforms.
Coffee with the CEO and Weekly CEO Communications: To build trust, morale, and a sense of community essential for a positive organizational culture.
Equipment & Tools to Do Your Job: We ensure you have the right equipment and tools to succeed.
Share Your Ideas: Have suggestions? Share them through participation in Denison Listening/Action Planning Sessions and via email to jhooper@eastersealsmorc.org
Engage in Opportunities: Take advantage of the training, mentorship, and team events available. Connect with Your Leaders: Don’t hesitate to discuss your goals and how we can support them.
you
Weareoneyearintoouractionplan,andwethank youforyourparticipationoverthelastyear!
We have had so many team members engage in the process so far… 30+membersnowonourcommittee
4subcommitteescreated 1unifiedactionplancreated(herearesomeexamplesoftheareas weareworkingonthisyearbasedoneachareaidentifiedfromour organizationwidetraumaassessment).
Area#1:CulturalResponsiveness
Assess our current lobbies in all locations for diversity and update. Explore current interpreter services and processes to assess how it is going /if it works well for staff and people served
Area#2:Parent&CaregiverTraumaGroup
Expand ITTM outside of Oakland County (ITTM = Intergenerational Trauma Treatment Model for Children) and Evolve ITTM to provide to adults in services. Increase collaboration between children and adult services when worksites are not the same. Determine who our PSP (Parent Support Partners) and Peers are and if they need training/within their scope. Create a 1-pager/infographic to explain trauma and why we assess our caregivers with script for staff. Create a 3-5 min trauma video for lobbies. Resource sharing with programs (quarterly meeting with program managers).
Area#3:PartneringwithYouth&Families
Increase understanding of the input from those we serve. Develop support group for parents who have children with disabilities.
Area#4:OtherAreasIdentified(notviatheTraumaSelf-Assessment)
Zero Suicide/ STS Follow Up (Zero Suicide to oversee this). Update STS Trauma Toolkit.
The38thAnnualForWomenOnly(FWO)eventwilltakeplace February28-March2,2025,atTreetopsResortinGaylord!
For Women Only is all about women with giving hearts, celebrating successes and raising funds and awareness for Easterseals MORC and the amazing services provided. Over the past 37 years, these very special women have raised over $2.7 million dollars!
Participants must raise a minimum of $500 to attend. For more information or to donate to a participant, please visit: https://bit.ly/FWO2025, or email Denise Durkee at: ddurkee@eastersealsmorc.org.
EASTERSEALS MORC RECEIVES GRANT TO BRING TECHNOLOGY FIRST TO MICHIGAN
We are pleased to announce that we received a $352,692 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund to bring Technology First to Michigan and provide a blueprint for integrating it into the State’s system of support.
Technology First is a “systems change” approach to the care of people with disabilities that has been adopted in some form in 22 states. The grant funding will introduce the program to Michigan, which previously was only one of 13 states without public funding for enabling technology for individuals with disabilities.
The two-year project will create a task force of key stakeholders from across the State to develop a road map for implementing Technology First in Michigan. Some of the key outcomes the project seeks is to change the language of the Medicaid Waivers in Michigan to cover enabling technology for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Also, the project will introduce new types of innovative support options like smart homes and remote support that can be incorporated into individual plans of service to help increase independence among those with intellectual disabilities.
Long-term, the implementation of Technology First will enable individuals with intellectual disabilities to live more self-directed lives while reducing healthcare costs. It will also help alleviate the state’s caregiver crisis by freeing up direct care personnel for individuals with higher needs.
We are very excited to be leading this state-wide initiative and will provide more updates as the project progresses.
January Month Observances February Month Observances
January February
In 2025, Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be celebrated on Monday, January 20th This day serves as an important opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the fight for racial equality, as well as the work that still lies ahead Dr King dedicated his life to the civil rights movement and the
pursuit of justice and equality for African Americans. His message of nonviolence, unity, and love continues to inspire efforts toward creating a more just and equitable society By recognizing this day, we acknowledge the sacrifices made by Dr King as well as the countless others who have fought for civil rights and social change
Black History Month, celebrated throughout the entire month of February, provides us all an important opportunity to recognize and honor the rich contributions of Black individuals throughout history It highlights the achievements of Black leaders, artists, scientists, educators, and activists, reminding us of the lasting and meaningful impact they have had on shaping society. Black History Month encourages a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles for equality and justice faced by Black communities. It is Easterseals MORC’s mission to lead the way to 100% equity, inclusion and access for people with disabilities, families, and communities. Together, these observances not only celebrate the progress made but also reaffirm our commitment as an organization to continue the work of building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Click HERE to learn more about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
LILA’S MORNING ADVENTURE
By: Ivory Mamo, Easterseals MORC ABA Technician
Ivory Mamo has been working at Easterseals MORC for a little over two years. Recently, she wrote and published, Lila’s Morning Adventure. Ivory says she hopes that this book will inspire children to embrace their unique qualities and celebrate the joy of everyday moments.
“The inspiration for Lila’s Morning Adventure came from my work with children,” Ivory said. “I wanted to create a story that celebrates their strengths and unique ways of experiencing the world. As an ABA technician and someone passionate about spreading awareness and pride about autism, I wanted to craft a book that resonates with both kids and adults.”
In this heartwarming story, Lila starts her day facing the challenges of waking up, getting ready, and heading to school. With the help of her family and some clever routines, Lila overcomes her morning obstacles with a smile. To learn more, click HERE!
Easterseals MORC In the Community! Easterseals MORC In the Community!
Check out these safety tips about how to ensure safe winter driving behaviors!
Easterseals MORC Team Members
Sarah Kube, Mary Heron, Hannah Pefley, and Jessica Benedict recently visited the ARC of Oakland County to explore the resources available for the families they support. The ARC warmly welcomed the group, provided a tour of their office, and encouraged them to direct families to their new Advocacy Resource Center. Thank you to The ARC of Oakland County for welcoming some of our team!
Thebrand-newSharePointhasbeen officiallynamed“EMHub”!
Ifyouhaveanideaforanewsitem youwouldliketosharewiththe organizationonEMHub,youcansend itto:EMHub@eastersealsmorc.org.
SpeakerStarSeries
On November 2nd, Jenny Hoggatt spoke at the Oxford Schools Parent Education Fair. She spoke on the topic Restoring Strength: A Workshop on Caregiver Trauma and Resilience.
“Its impact was unmistakable,” Jenny shared, “The parents in attendance appeared to resonate deeply with the material, with one parent becoming emotional as we spoke about how significant strong support systems are in their journey. Moments like these reinforce how meaningful it is for us as an organization to help foster these connections where we can.”
We are so grateful to our speakers for their dedication and commitment to the Easterseals MORC mission! If you are interested in being a part of the Speaker’s Bureau, please reach out to Maddi White at mwhite@eastersealsmorc.org. Be Your Own Identity Be Your Own Identity
By Kimberly Powers By Kimberly Powers
Don’t be someone else.
Be yourself, think for yourself. Establish who you truly are. You will find your true self.
Love yourself for who you are and keep your own identity. No one else is like you. You have a unique identity.
Save the date!
February 28 - Mar 2, 2025: For Women Only (FWO)
For Women Only is celebrating its 38th year February 28th - March 2nd! FWO is all about women with giving hearts, celebrating successes, and raising funds and awareness for Easterseals MORC programs, services, and supports provided throughout the state of Michigan. Over the past 37 years, these special women have raised over $2.7 million dollars! If you'd like to join them at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, MI, click HERE to create your own fundraising page. Participants need to commit to raising $500!
March 1: Winner’s Choice and $50,000 Cash Raffle
Win a new car of your choice and $50,000 cash! Tickets are $50 and only 5,500 will be sold. The winning ticket will be drawn on March 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM (EST) at the Easterseals MORC Auburn Hills location. The winner will receive a $55,000 voucher from Fox Motors where they can select from 49 brands! Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 1.800.999.5655 or click HERE.
March 10: Hockey, Hops, and Hope
Easterseals MORC and the Grand Rapids Griffins hope you will join us on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 6:309:00 PM at Fox Subaru for our annual Hockey, Hops & Hope fundraising event. Join us as we sample some wonderful wines and craft beers served by the players of the Grand Rapids Griffins. Guests can also look forward to awesome food and an amazing auction, all while raising funds for Easterseals MORC programs and services. Learn more and get your tickets at: https://bit.ly/HHH2025
