September 2022

Meet the Project SEARCH Class of 2022-2023

"We look forward to working with the nine students participating in the Project SEARCH program this year. This is our 10th year hosting this high school transition program that provides job training and education. Students began with classroom work in early September. Next week they start onsite internships at Avera Marshall. The program is staffed by a teacher with SW/WC Service Cooperative and a skills trainer via partnership with Advance Opportunities. Through a combination of classroom work and hands-on experience, these students from communities across southwest Minnesota will explore career options and develop transferable job skills. We're excited to welcome them!" (Source/Photo Credit: Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center Facebook Page, accessed 9/30/22, https://www.facebook.com/AveraMarshall1, 9/15/22 entry)

Let's Learn Something New Every Day

Advance staff have been working hard to incorporate learning into daily activities, both essential life skills and personal interests. Here are a few topics that individuals served have been learning about through videos, outings, hands-on activities, games and worksheets in our September Day Services program:

Swim safety
Animals
Fire Safety
Food Hygiene
Gratitude
Art Projects: thank you and birthday cards, water painting, pinecone art (see below)

Thank you to our DSPs!

The week of September 11-17, 2022 was proclaimed as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week in the State of Minnesota. DSPs are the heart and soul of Advance and during this week they received small tokens of appreciation to thank them for the work they do to support individuals served. They are difference makers and a vital and essential part of our team. Thanks to those who took the time to recognize all the work they do; we hope they felt appreciated! Click here to view the proclamation.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING A DSP (from our staff):

"Clients. And helping them succeed in life."

"...the smiles on the faces when I do check-ins. I love hearing clients say, 'thank you for all your help, I couldn’t have done it without you'"

"Helping an individual reach their goals and

seeing the pride in the work/activity they're doing."

MOHR Legislative Conference 2022

The annual MOHR Legislative Conference was held in Alexandria MN August 31 and September 1, 2022. Each year MOHR members gather to learn from DHS, DEED, and other experts about the current issues impacting the services we provide. From this conference, MOHR develops a list of priorities for the next legislative session. Look for more information in future newsletters.

Highlight: Laundry Service in Worthington Provides Work Experience

In collaboration with Laundry on 10th and Essential Senior Services, Advance is working with Worthington students who are learning all about the laundry business. This extension of Advance services helps to support future Project SEARCH graduates. Advance employs an Employment Coordinator and Job Coach in the area who network with area businesses and provide job placement and coaching services.

Reminder: Mattress & Styrofoam Recycling

FALL/WINTER HOURS

Starts in October

8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Be Prepared this Winter with Text Weather Alerts!

2 Ways to Sign Up:

Call Lisa: 507-537-7018 ext. 101
Email your name and cell number to: lisa.king@advanceopp.org

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. Learn more at: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam

Can you help?

If you or someone you know has an abundance of craft/art items you are wanting to part with, Advance is looking for some specific items! To view items needed, click on our current Amazon wish list below to support projects chosen by individuals served. Items can be purchased locally or on Amazon.

Thank you to our generous supports who have already donated items!

Click here to view list on Amazon

Have a success story or idea you'd like to share in our newsletter?

Please email it to: elizabeth.schear@advanceopp.org

Advance

1401 Peterson Street, Marshall MN 56258

phone: 507-537-7018 | fax: 507-537-7025

Visit us online at: advanceopp.org

Advance is an equal opportunity provider and employer.