Eagan facilities reopen for limited service

At the ProAct-West building in Eagan, expansive space has made way for people to enjoy services and practice social distancing as the nonprofit reopened in early July for classes.

It was the first volley in a COVID-19-era return of day training and habilitation participants, where staff members are thrilled to connect once again, and the people they serve engage in conversations and learning.

"Just pick one of them and then you're going to do your design," said classroom instructor Kim Davis to a participant at a table. Her group was making rain sticks for a music class. -more-

Above, classroom instructor Kim Davis hands out materials for a music class at ProAct-West. At left, participant Christopher Reynolds is taking classes, and he misses the work skills training area next door.

Watch 5 Eyewitness News series

KSTP Channel 5 television has been running an extensive series covering the COVID-19 disability service closure impacts on families and providers across the state. The reports are well worth your time. Watch them here:

Last in line: Minnesota disability services on life support with no safety net from state

Minnesota lawmakers push for aid package to save disability service providers

Gov. Walz responds to disability service provider requests for emergency funding

As special session nears, calls to fund Minnesota disability service providers intensify

DHS commissioner maintains department could not help disability service providers financially

Stay connected on social media

Virtual enrichment services continue to grow at ProAct, as classes keep people connected, and sometimes, even caffeinated. Share your ProAct experience on Facebook.

From the president

June 1 was my beginning at ProAct and to say that our participants are dearly missed is an understatement. For many who rely on our services, the feeling is mutual. From the calls and e-mails we are getting, I know there is great anticipation to come back. Relationships are at the heart of human services, and I’m learning that ProAct is exemplary in this regard.

There are pre-COVID stories of participants stopping by CEO Steve Ditschler’s office to say hello. Many eyed the candy dish and he would welcome them to partake. It’s hard to resist candy. But Steve, as many of you know, exhibits a kind of genuine compassion that we can all learn from. We are delighted that he will continue to be a part of the organization as he transitions to his retirement.

The ways in which we connect are changing. We have virtual enrichment services that are going strong, I would say even leading the way in our industry – and we have a return of some participants to our facilities, with lots of precautions and limitations. -more-

Savoring Scott County outdoors

ProAct Shakopee participants took in the summer. From the top, Curt put on the grins for a new swing. Terry and Doug also get comfortable and Sam's miniature garden is making progress.