Newsletter for Sept/Oct 2007 Volume 4 - Issue 6 - Page 1

General Operations
Ladeska (Decky) Makings, Chief Operations Officer
As I reviewed last quarters CS department summaries I was pleased to see so many signs of continuing growth in our agency and in the lives of the people we serve.  People are working more hours for higher average wages, more people are employed in the community, more materials are coming in for recycling, participation in area events and projects have increased - signs of increasing independence, productivity, inclusion in the community and increased self-advocacy skills are everywhere.  What a great career that provides the privilege of being a part of so many lives.

One of the women we have served for over a decade has realized her dream of being closer to family by moving to Medicine Lodge.  Her progress over the years has created opportunities to become independent enough to have her own apartment and a job in the community.  We will miss her and wish her well but as she leaves we welcome a young woman recently graduated from high school into our residential supports and look forward to assisting her in realizing her hopes and dreams.

Leon Ostrander has graduated from the state DD Council's Partners in Policymaking class in Topeka.  Completion requires several months of class attendance, homework assignments, and hard work in supporting and developing self-advocacy skills on local, state, and federal levels.  Watching and listening to Leon and his classmates as they talked about their experiences at the graduation ceremony reminded me of just how far people with disabilities have come in taking their rightful places as fully contributing members of society with the same rights, responsibilities and opportunities as all citizens.  There is still much work to be done but with the determination of people like Leon the future looks bright. 

You can hardly pick up a paper or see a news broadcast recently without being reminded of the shortage in our labor markets - locally and on a state and national level.  Sunflower is affected by the same staffing difficulties as other local businesses.  Residential management staff recently asked if we could sponsor an event to let potential employees know what a great place this is to work stating that they believed we could attract good, dedicated people if we could just let them know about the benefits and satisfaction of supporting the people we serve.  The result (in addition to their comments making me feel pretty good about our agency) will be our first Employment Opportunity Event held at our facility at 1521 K-96 Highway on November 16th.  From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM we will be providing information and opportunities to apply along with a live radio remote, door prizes, snacks, and a chance at winning the grand prize flat screen TV.  If you have an interest in a career in the Developmental Disabilities field we hope you will stop by.



Residential Supports
Brenda Uselton/Angel Morgan
Several people participated in the Hoisington Labor Day Parade and enjoyed handing out balloons and taking in all the events offered in Hoisington.  This is a popular opportunity for people to participate in area community events.

With autumn upon us the individuals here at SDS are excited about some of the activities that are offered.  Everyone looks forward to the Halloween dance and to see all the clients excited about picking out their costumes is so gratifying to see. 

Another activity that was offered was the Harlem Rockets Comedy Basketball game at Great Bend High School was a big hit.  This year's SACK conference has been enjoyed by a growing group of people for the past 4 years and this years record number of attendees came back with wonderful experiences and stories to share.  Our staff deserves a big thanks for the extra effort in providing transportation and support at these events.