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Independence, Inc. Newsletter, Vol. 4

April 2014
Website     About Us     In Home Care     Center Services  

Welcome!
We count on people like you to fulfill our mission of providing advocacy, services, and education for people with disabilities. We couldn't do it without you. This newsletter will keep you updated on our events and programs. Learn how to continue your support of Independence, Inc. here.

Year of Giving Continues!

Enjoy a gourmet five course special menu and guided beer pairing education!  Buy your tickets today!
 
And check out our brand new, limited edition 2013 New Belgium Brewing Fat Tire bike up for auction! Support us and place your bid today!
 
 
 
 
The Moment Everything Changed
Randy's life was great.  He had a rewarding career, a family he loved, and hobbies he enjoyed, like bike riding and coaching soccer.  But one fateful day, as Randy drove to his daughter's soccer game, everything changed.

 

A car ran a red light and smashed into Randy's car, leaving Randy a wheelchair user.

 

In the aftermath of the accident, Randy felt lost.  He struggled with how he would fulfill his roles as an employee, a father, and a husband.

 

But at Independence, Inc. Randy found people who understood his situation because many of them had overcome challenges with their own disabilities.  They offered him practical resources and encouragement.

 

Randy was shown how to make modifications to his home to accommodate his wheelchair.  He was taught how to rearrange his kitchen so he could cook for his family.  Randy and his employer received guidance and technical assistance on accommodation strategies in the workplace.  Randy utilized Independence, Inc.'s accessible transportation services to travel within the community until he could get his car outfitted with hand controls.  Randy even learned of an unexpected place to get new tires for his wheelchair: the bike shop where he had shopped for years.

 

With the resources he needs to succeed, Randy has a new outlook on life.

 

As most of our services are not fee-based, your generous contributions help more stories like Randy's happen every day at Independence, Inc.  We are grateful for your support and donations.  It's easy and secure to make a tax deductible donation online.  

 

 

 

 

Marla Quilts
Quilter, historian, and teacher, Marla Jackson, and her her students are now part of our building, and we are thrilled! Marla has many exciting things in the works.  Please be sure to check our her recent articles in the Lawrence Journal World, if you have not yet read them.  Here is a photo of Marla in our office with the Nelson Mandela quilt on it's way to South Africa.  Stay tuned to learn more about the natural art garden coming soon to our grounds that will provide beautiful dyes for upcoming projects!   
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In This Issue
We want to hear from YOU!
Please share your stories about how Independence, Inc. has positively influenced your life or the life of someone you know, by using our new website feature.  You have the option to remain anonymous if you wish. We look forward to hearing from you!
Mark Your Calendars!
April 18 - Egg Hunt (RSVP with Ranita)

April 21- Cooking Club (RSVP with Ranita)

April 24 - Sci Fi & Fantasy Club (RSVP with Ranita)

April 25 - Accessible Gardening Group (RSVP with Ranita)



June 17 - Eat at 23rd St. Brewery and present newsletter or flyer to server, and 10% will be donated to us.


July 16 - Eat at Jefferson's between 5-9pm and 10% will be donated to us.
Are you on the list?
If you are a person with a disability and unable to perform daily living activities, you may be on the Physically Disabled Waiting List for in home services.  The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services needs you to send new information.  To remain on the waiting list, you must submit the Physically Disabled Waiver Wait List Verification form.
A Crash Course
by Susan Miller
Susan Miller, a licensed counselor and trauma specialist, whose office is located at the Center for Healing and Recovery in our building at 2001 Haskell Ave., invites you to email your questions about counseling, trauma recovery, relationships, or emotion management.  You may email Susan at
[email protected].  Then watch for Susan's reply to your letter in future Independence, Inc. newsletters.
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Independence, Inc.
2001 Haskell Avenue
Lawrence, KS 66046
Map


In Home Care
TEL: 785-841-1067
Hours:
Monday-Friday,
8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Center for Independent Living
TEL: 785-841-0333
FAX: 785-841-1094


� 2013 Independence, Inc.