Newsletter for November 2005 Volume 2 - Issue 11 - Page 1

General Operations
Ladeska (Decky) Makings, Chief Operations Officer
As you will see throughout this newsletter, October was a very busy month. November is shaping up much the same with numerous activities and the holidays.

Want to thank members of both our boards and their guests for attending the informational dinner at the Plant on the 25th. As all who know me can attest, I love an opportunity to show off the accomplishments of our hard-working staff and the folks we serve. We truly appreciate your interest, support, and good company. Thanks to Carol and Duncan for the lovely meal and service.

Management staff will be attending our annual strategic planning day on November 11. We’ll be reviewing the many changes and improvements we have accomplished this past year as well as identifying and prioritizing goals for the next year. If there are suggestions or comments you feel would be helpful in this process please call me at the Plant.

This month we received high praise for a couple of our case managers from the families of children on their caseloads. A good case manager can be invaluable to families struggling with benefits, school programs, medical issues, and numerous other obstacles that must be overcome to provide the best for a child with disabilities. We would like to include DL Shane and Pattie McGurk in our monthly staff recognition. Congratulations for a job well done!

Installation of our new phone system should be completed this month. We received a grant to update our very old, inefficient system with new equipment and greatly increased system capabilities. A receptionist will still answer your calls during weekday business hours with voicemail available at all times.



Advocacy/Training
Amanda Urban
The S.A.C.K. conference went well and I am extremely proud of the way everyone carried themselves. This trip was very informative for everyone involved. I learned about some new fundraising activities we might be able to participate in to help pay for the trip next year.

The Venture Crew #188 participated in the annual Scouting for Food Drive. The crew worked at the food bank sorting and storing the food as individual units brought it in. While we worked hard sorting the 4000+ units donated, we had a good time and it was a wonderful feeling to be helping those in need.

Our Aktion club charter has been approved and we are waiting for the official paperwork. Tentative plans are to have the charter dinner in early November. The Aktion club is going to help with the annual Halloween parade. Our job will be getting the children across the street safely. Decky is also involved by helping to judge the costumes and handing out goodies from one of two Sunflower booths.