By Tammy Ritchie and Cheryl Steenerson

Our friend Eric discovered his love of art several years ago and he has progressed his talent so much that he now teaches others!

Eric is a shy young man with a very caring heart. He started learning about art from his DSP, who was a former teacher. He never knew how much he could do, and the beauty he could create, until then.

His painting skills have progressed so much that with some positive encouragement he offered to share his skills with a few others. The wonders of Zoom have enabled him to connect with new friends and their staff. Some friends are still quarantining at home and this was a wonderful opportunity for them to interact safely!

Eric recently started teaching very young students, with parental approval, how to paint pictures and learn about the wonderful world of colors. He has also been meeting new adult consumers who also have artistic talents to share. This new endeavor has truly expanded Eric’s socialization and communication skills.

By: Pamela R. McDaniel

Work gives individuals a sense of purpose and self-worth. For many, it defines who we are, and how we fit into society.  Work helps improve individual and family finances, and it helps us connect socially. All individuals, regardless of disability, deserve the opportunity to be full members of their community where they can live, learn, work and play at every stage of life their life.

We are so proud of the people we support!  Our supported employment specialist serve to help individuals find and maintain gainful employment in the community to create more fulfilling lives for themselves.

Larry – A Natural Born Worker

Day one of working at Moon Dumpsters, Larry’s supervisor was so impressed with his work, that he contacted the head owner.  Larry’s supervisor reported to the owner, that Larry not only did his job, but he took the initiative to complete other task without being told.  The owner askes to speak with Larry, and gave him the highest compliment telling him, “Larry, I’ve heard nothing but good news about you.  You are the best worker we have hired in a long time.  Keep up the good work!”  Having this job makes Larry feel more independent, and responsible.  “I am working to build my finances, and put my life back together so that I can get a place of my own.  I feel blessed to have a job”, Larry stated.  Regardless of what his background looks like, Larry decides to seek help, and move forward to better himself, and become a productive member of society.

Austin – Gaining Confidence and Building Skills

Austin has been employed at his first job at Goodwill for two months. Austin is diagnosed with Autism and suffers from anxiety, especially in unfamiliar places. Supported employment orientation/training helped him to have a good start with his job assignments.  Austin’s supervisor is pleased with him and his work. Recently, she stated, “Austin is wonderful and a pleasure to have. Everyone loves him and he keeps all of us laughing. He is phenomenal!" Austin enjoys his job and is happy that it is a great fit for him.  Working has improved Austin’s ability to socialize with co-workers, and build relationships that he would not have otherwise had.

Lana – First Job to Independence

Stuffing from a traumatic brain injury, Lana was total hands on when she came to the supported employment program.  She started her first job at Marshall’s about six months ago, requiring prompts, redirecting, and constant supervision.  After working with the employment specialist, we are happy to report that Lana is completing her task without being told.  She has taken on more job task at work, allowing her to realize how much she can learn and do on her own.

Supported employment is about helping people with significant disabilities enter or re-enter the labor force.  Individuals who participate in our supported employment program are encouraged, equipped, and empowered in the gifts, and talents God has placed in them.  We pride ourselves on seeing ability, and not disability!

By Cheryl Steenerson, PFK Bluegrass Region Coordinator

As 2019 rolled in, I began to realize just how few opportunities existed for our adult consumers to socialize and make new friends, after they left school. That’s when the 3^rd Thursday Social Club was born.

Though PFK started it, we only organize and execute it, because we wanted to open it up to all adult IDD folks in the Bluegrass area. Any adult on the Waiver can attend, along with their staff.

Though 2020 got hijacked from us, 2019 saw lots of fun activities and attendees. On the 3^rd Thursday of each month we would gather for a meal and a fun afternoon activity like visiting the Bluegrass Airport Museum, touring Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory, The Movie Tavern, 3D printing, pizza and bowling, crafting and painting. Each event is kept low cost and each participant pays their own way, if there is a fee.

Now that 2021 has arrived, we already have one done! On Thursday, May 20^th, the group met at the Josephine Sculpture Park in Frankfort for an outdoor picnic and tour of the grounds.

It was a perfect day with plenty of sunshine and even a light breeze! Participants brought their own lunch and then followed the map to see numerous astounding works, complete with information signs explaining the work and the artist. Everyone had a blast!

Several of the pieces were interactive and invited the participants to touch, climb and even sing within them. The park is a nonprofit that runs on donations. A golf cart is available for use for those with mobility issues. They also have classes and events, both day and night, to introduce visitors to a variety of art and even understanding the night sky!

Many events for 2021 are in the works including Shaker Village (Harrodsburg), The Living Arts & Science Center (Lexington), lake fishing (Richmond) and the River Cruise (Frankfort). Suggestions for events are encouraged from the participants.