In this issue: 25-year work partnership . . . From the CEO . . . Leisure Center

Manufacturing associate Dustin Eckhoff found valuable work experience in assembly and packaging at ProAct in Red Wing five years ago, quickly moving to work crews in the community and an independent job at Koozie Group this past summer.

“He has learned to problem solve on his own and how to ask for help more,” said Case Coordinator Lynn Sutherland, who visits Eckhoff at work at least twice a month. The two talk about any issues, such as schedule changes or hours, and he calls her with questions, such as when he needs help with human resources.

“They keep me motivated, compliment me about my work and make me feel good about my accomplishments and jobs,” said Eckhoff. Prior to being hired, he worked on a ProAct crew at the business. -more-

Nott Company has been contracting in-center work with ProAct in Shakopee and its predecessor, New Options of Scott County, for more than 25 years.

After a friendly conversation with a New Options employee in the late 1990s, work soon started flowing into the center for its participants. ProAct’s individuals know this work as “gaskets,” and the tasks have been providing on-the-job skills for many.

From following directions to filling out a time card, almost two dozen participants light up and ask what gaskets they are working on for the day. Nearly as many people are engaged as when the work first began. -more-

The maintaining skills group at ProAct in Eagan partnered with DARTS this summer in the “Adopt a Yard” program to mow the lawn of an elderly couple in need.

It was much appreciated, and as a thank you for the hard work the crew put in, DARTS Volunteer Manager Lindy Engelken stopped by ProAct for a pizza and ice cream party, said Employment Coordination Manager Jessica Gruber. -more-

It’s nice to see you and nice to meet you are common courtesy phrases in our culture. Social or human services often go much deeper, picking up on a person’s tone, nonverbal cues, body language, and even mannerisms to form an impression of how “someone is doing.”

Our post-mask environment at ProAct has brought out the smiles, which can be contagious and were missed for too long. Whether one is a participant, staff, family member or friend, face-to-face interaction improves learning and innovation, helps people overcome limitations and can be a calming factor to many.

We all need positive relationships and to feel a sense of accomplishment. It just makes for a more satisfying day, and many such days put together can bring about a more fulfilling life. -more-

Make your move today to a new career with ProAct. Check out our job listings, which include Direct Service Professionals, Employment Specialists and Individualized Home Support Coordinators. -more-

"Thank you to you and all the wonderful ProAct people on Zoom today. It's difficult to put into words just how much you folks mean to John and family. You are all shining beacons in this world, caring for those who need that something extra in their lives. We have been navigating this world of John's for so many years and if it were not for all of you at ProAct . . . I'm not sure we would have made it without losing some, if not all, of our sanity."

-Jerry, Father of participant

Click to learn more and watch for more announcements soon!

ProAct participants in Shakopee celebrated National Teddy Bear Day. A Harry Potter Book Club is growing here and the "Hocus Pocus" movie was shown with popcorn. Gratitude Day inspired thankfulness and a "Loop Walk" competition marked the United Kingdom's National Fitness Day. In other activities, "Painting with Lotta" engaged participant artists from multiple levels and cooking classes created homemade applesauce, tasty gluten-free items and upside-down pineapple cake. -more-

Relaxing over a cup of joe at Caribou, Shakopee participants are out and about, also taking in Huber Park locally, Centennial Lakes Park in Edina and many apple orchards around the area, as well as fairy gardens created by a supportive family. -more-