MOHR impact
April 2022
Staff shortage hits family
The story isn't uncommon. COVID-19 dramatically cut access to Minnesota disability day support programs, many staff have not returned, and and a hiring crisis has ensued as wages are not enough to attract new talent.

This is leaving people with few opportunities to connect with friends, community, and other essential day-to-day activities that make for a rich life. The impact for Caleb George-Guidry, 30, from Brooklyn Park, who lives with multiple disabilities, is a clear illustration of the unmet need.

“It’s tough with all he’s been through,” said his father, Matt Guidry. Caleb attended MSS in the same city for nine years before the pandemic hit. He had much recreation and leisure, which gave him a higher quality of life, he said.

There were many activities, small group gathering spaces, and a larger common area. Caleb enjoyed the variety and would wander from room to room, checking in on everybody, his father said.

He especially enjoyed the energy of events happening in MSS's community room and connected well with resident artists working on projects. MSS has one of the top art programs in the state for people with disabilities.
DSP, 'Tip of the Spear' Award entries needed by April 13
MOHR members, please take time to recognize exceptional Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who work for your organization and nominate them today. Would you also consider nominating a MOHR "Tip of the Spear" individual for their outstanding advocacy at the local, state, and national levels? -more-
Life Enrichment Awards: community, virtual, arts
"Active and Better Lives" is the theme of the Fifth Annual MOHR Life Enrichment Awards.

This year's winners hail from St. Cloud, Park Rapids, Northfield and the Twin Cities. These exceptional examples focus on community engagement, the arts, virtual enrichment and volunteerism.

  • Epic Enterprise
  • Hubbard County DAC
  • ProAct
  • WACOSA
  • WorkAbilities

Read on to discover what makes these efforts exceptional. -more-
Spring Training Conference May 19-20 in Duluth
Set for the Holiday Inn in Duluth on May 19 and 20, MOHR's Spring Training Conference offers instruction on multiple topics, including:
  • Branding and Fund Development
  • Star Services Rights and Person-Centered Summary
  • Healthy Sexuality
  • DSP Panel
  • Designing Day Services for the Future
  • Positive Spin on Redirecting
  • Accepting Change
  • Mentorship Panel
  • Basics of Health, Wellness
  • Five Secrets of Living your Best Life

Autism Awareness Month in April is a good time to learn the signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and become familiar with typical developmental milestones. Symptoms of ASD typically appear during the first three years of a person’s life. Some may first notice developmental delays or a loss of skills when the child is 18 to 24 months old. Continued on the Minnesota Autism Resource Portal.
Thanked your legislators? Here's how
Elected officials appreciate hearing from you and your input does impact decision makers. Check out MOHR's thank you letter ideas and please add details to make them your own.

Haven't reached out yet? Check out MOHR's Legislative Agenda and suggested messages to share.
In the NEWS
Staffing shortages continue to affect those with disabilities in Rochester; legislators work to increase wages - KIMT 3 News

Long time leader of human services announces retirement

Minnesota bill aims to help disability services amid staff shortages - KTTC 10 News

PossAbilities pushes for reimbursement based on current economic data

Letter from CHOICE: Disability staff shortages reach crisis level

Disability service providers rally for legislative support - Press & News

Student-run business raising money, awareness ahead of Autism Awareness Month

RCO joins state lobby efforts for better pay - Rock County Star Herald

Disability Pride Night at Minnesota Twins July 13 vs. Brewers (accessible seating extremely limited) - Twins Baseball

Established disability service provider makes Minnetonka move - Patch

Rise, Inc. looks to community to ‘Lyft’ residents with disabilities - Forest Lake Times

Rallying for disability services - Fergus Falls Daily Journal

MN grants to improve access to care for older adults and adults with disabilities

Disability support services are feeling the impact of staff shortages throughout Minnesota

ProAct gets creative in providing services to people with disabilities

$1,000 retention bonuses on the table as Minn. lawmakers consider plan to hang on to caregivers - Duluth News Tribune

Operators blame pandemic staff shortages for group home closures - MPR News

Nonprofit group home makes sacrifices to address staff shortages: 'I've never seen staffing difficulties like this' - WCCO News

A Minnesota mom shares the secret world of autism - how it transformed her life

So Minnesota: MSP Airport takes part in Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Stillwater's Polar Plunge: students, staff brave cold water for Special Olympics

St. Louis Park company pitches hybrid at-home care system - TC Business
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The Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation - To Advocate and support members in providing meaningful services to persons with disabilities and communities served.