Options, Inc. client profile
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Heidi Kolles wanted something different after working for 25 years in building services for the Sherburne County Government Center. She told Options, Inc. Employment Specialist Mahria Berry-Wellman she wanted to work with children just like her mom used to.
Mahria began with career exploration to help Heidi better understand the job expectations of working with children. Heidi volunteered at the local YMCA childcare and found she really enjoyed it!
With Mahria’s support, she began the job search process and was thrilled to be offered a childcare aide position at Big Adventures Academy in Ramsey. She began working with children of all ages, supported by Mahria, in learning new skills and gaining valuable experience.
Heidi now primarily works with children ages 6 months to 2 years old. Each week, Heidi’s core duties continue to evolve as she seeks additional skills to learn. She assists the children with play time, going on walks, music, dancing, and art projects. When comfort is needed, Heidi is a favorite person the children seek out.
Recently Heidi has asked to learn how to cook and is helping make the lunches for children throughout the center. To those who know Heidi well, her career change has brought a brightness to her life. She connects with her family and Mahria every day to share how happy she is working with the children.
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CREATING AWARENESS: Election Day coming up
Election Day is coming up in less than 3 months on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Minnesotans will vote for U.S. Congress, Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Senate and State Representative.
All 201 seats in the Minnesota House and Senate are up for election.
Through the summer and fall, candidates are door knocking, engaging in debates, marching in parades, attending local community events, and more. They are in pursuit of support in the form of votes to be elected to public office.
This is one of the best times for self-advocates, families and community partners to create awareness with candidates.
The A-Team Minnesota put together this list of ways you can be an influencer and create awareness of key issues:
- Talk to candidates
- Tell your story
- Invite them to visit your disabled loved one where they work or live
- Ask them to support a full array of disability service options
- Ask them to oppose elimination of special minimum wage options
- Ask them to honor home, work, and life choices of people with disabilities
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Get involved and make sure people running for office stand with our community!
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Acheiver(s) of the Month!
Jarod Schreifels was April's Achiever of the month. Jarod has worked at Options since July 2018. He was nominated by his coworkers for being caring & compassionate with the clients, flexible in his work routine and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Kathy Kiel was May’s Achiever of the month. Kathy has been with Options since May 2011, and was nominated by her peers for her outstanding communication, her passion for teaching clients, ability to multitask and willingness to always be there to help others learn.
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Tips for visiting the Minnesota State Fair
Are you craving some Sweet Martha's Cookies and pronto pups?
If there is one event most Minnesotans agree on, it’s the annual State Fair. From the amazing food and rides to the animals and product booths, it is a whirlwind time – that can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Here are planning 5 tips to make the day more fun.
- Know what your priorities are to see and do. Lines can be long and can make anxiety worse. Choose the things that mean the most to you and focus on those. Know where the medical and police help is located.
- Look up where your favorite things are and plan a route through the fair. Knowing the locations can minimize wandering and back tracking. While it is great to get extra steps, it can lead to anxiety, exhaustion and frustration. It also keeps you from missing out on something you wanted to do.
- Bring water bottles and drink frequently! In such a busy and hot environment, it is easy to get dehydrated. Dehydration is a huge cause for medical visits.
- Bring medications. Missing daily meds can increase anxiety in an already stressful environment. Bringing any “as needed” medications may be helpful to enjoy the day.
- Plan breaks. Look for quiet spaces to sit down and rest. Allow your senses to have a break and be able to process all of the stimuli. Pay attention to your triggers and rest when needed. Drink that water you brought!
Hopefully with some planning it should be a great day. Come back and share all of your amazing stories with your friends at Options!
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