ODC OUTLOOK OPEN DOOR CENTER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 A Symbiotic Relationship Fifty Years ago in Valley City there were no services for individuals who had an intellectual disability. The schools offered nothing for children with cognitive limitations and there were no federal laws such 94-142 or the Olmstead Act. Many with physical disabilities or behavioral needs were not given assistance needed to progress in academia. Brain Injury was not even on the radar screen until the 1990’s. Because of this lack of services, a group of forward-looking parents and concerned citizens started the first “Special Education” classroom. But the requirements of the educational system were restrictive, eliminating many children and young adults from services, thus the Open Door Center was founded. For twenty-five years, the Open Door Center was an activity center for young adults with disabilities who were beyond school age. The purpose of the Center was to assist these individuals to become as self-sufficient as possible through worthwhile activities that encouraged learning by doing. Because some academic endeavors were beyond the mastery of participants most of the day was spent on handicrafts. Each individual was assigned three or four projects and moved from one to the other as needed. The Center continued relying on the generosity of the residents of Barnes County and the surrounding areas. In the late seventies and early eighties the philosophy and services that would benefit those at the center began a meta- morphous. New laws were passed that increased services to people of all ages who had a disability. These laws provided some federal funding for programs. The funds coupled with the generosity of citizens of this area allowed the Center to pursue new work and training opportunities with competitive employment. These precipitated the Center becoming a shelter workshop. Almost simultaneously, the State of North Dakota came under scrutiny for the institutional care it was providing residents with special needs. The federal court ordered the deinstitutionalization of 1200 residents. Because the Center was one of the forerunners of service provision it was asked to become heavily involved in the process of changing and increasing services for individuals with cognitive disabilities. This was the instrument that would create the Open Door Center of today. …….Continued on Page 3
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ODC OUTLOOK OPEN DOOR CENTER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018
A Symbiotic Relationship
Fifty Years ago in Valley City there were no services for individuals who had an intellectual disability. The schools offered nothing for children with cognitive limitations and there were no federal laws such 94-142 or the Olmstead Act. Many with physical disabilities or behavioral needs were not given assistance needed to progress in academia. Brain Injury was not even on the radar screen until the 1990’s. Because of this lack of services, a group of forward-looking parents and concerned citizens started the first “Special Education” classroom. But the requirements of the educational system were restrictive, eliminating many children and young adults from services, thus the Open Door Center was founded. For twenty-five years, the Open Door Center was an activity center for young adults with disabilities who were beyond school age. The purpose of the Center was to assist these individuals to become as self-sufficient as possible through worthwhile activities that encouraged learning by doing. Because some academic endeavors were beyond the mastery of participants most of the day was spent on handicrafts. Each individual was assigned three or four projects and moved from one to the other as needed. The Center continued relying on the generosity of the residents of Barnes County and the surrounding areas. In the late seventies and early eighties the philosophy and services that would benefit those at the center began a meta-morphous. New laws were passed that increased services to people of all ages who had a disability. These laws provided some federal funding for programs. The funds coupled with the generosity of citizens of this area allowed the Center to pursue new work and training opportunities with competitive employment. These precipitated the Center becoming a shelter workshop. Almost simultaneously, the State of North Dakota came under scrutiny for the institutional care it was providing residents with special needs. The federal court ordered the deinstitutionalization of 1200 residents. Because the Center
was one of the forerunners of service provision it was asked to become heavily involved in the process of changing and increasing services for individuals with cognitive disabilities. This was the instrument that would create the Open Door Center of today.
…….Continued on Page 3
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WE WANT YOUR CANS Open Door Center is look-ing for donations of pop cans for our individuals to crush. Once crushed they are turned in to be recycled. Our folks get paid to crush cans and look forward to the paychecks they receive. Cans can be dropped off at the Day Activity Center (north of Pizza Corner).
OR
If you live in the Fargo area, you can take your cans to the MinnKota Recycling center and tell them you want to donate them to Open Door Center in Valley City. They send us a check quarterly.
Please help us, won’t you?
Excellence in serving people with disabilities by: *Respecting dignity and rights
*Providing opportunities for growth
*Fostering independence
Open Door Center is an equal opportunity
provider, and employer.
Open Door Center is a non-profit corporation
serving people with disabilities.
Board of Directors Bill Cook, President
Mark Diede Grant Goven
John Hill Deb Kohler
Steve Myers - Vice President Carol Nelson, Sec./Treas.
Jackie Owen Gail Pederson Leo Schmidt
Reuben Viland
Mary Simonson, Executive Director
Allison Swenson, Director of Rehabilitation Marcy Svenningsen, Director of Finance
Sherri Horsager, Human Resource Manager ICF/MR Program Directors Tana Plecity Chris Mogensen, Children’s Program Sue Dyck, Staff Trainer Audrey Bredeson, ISLA Marshall Hopp, Prairie Inn & ISLA ISLA Cindy Schopper, Work Activity Elaine Almberg Jennifer Humphrey, Lisbon, LSW Erin Halland Ben Simonson
REDUCE ~ REUSE ~ RECYCLE
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. . . .continued from Page 1
Currently Open Door Center is one of the larg-est if not the largest employer in Valley City. The Center provides an economic stimulus for the com-munity and surrounding area not only through its employees but also with buying power. All con-struction is provided by local companies. Needed provisions and services are always sought from local vendors unless the Center is forced to go out-side the area to meet the needs of those it serves. Residents shop for consumables including furni-ture, clothing, food, and other personal needs in Valley City. They rent from private property own-ers, use community amenities and attend local churches. Not only do our 300 plus employees pro-vide an economic stimulus for the community but also so do individuals who receive services. However, beyond the economic benefit, the Center is striving for a symbiotic relationship with Valley City and the area by giving back to the Community. Many of our employees and residents support local organizations through membership and volunteerism. Many residents ring the red-kettle bell. Others produce hundreds of Christmas in the Valley buttons annually for the Chamber. They also collate the local Chamber and Eagle newsletters. Individuals harvest for The Great Plains Food Bank, deliver Meals on Wheels weekly and distribute flyers for the Chamber. They “pick up streets” and recycle matter at various schools and libraries. The Children’s program helps at the public golf course and waters the downtown flow-ers during the summer. Additionally they partici-pate in local parades, collaborate with VCSU classes to educate students on diversity and inclu-sion and the public regarding “Spread the Word to End the Word”. Many deliver papers, work at local businesses, help with church activities and attend community events. The Open Door Center could not exist without the many contributions of local, area and statewide
citizens. We are extremely grateful for the many who support us. However, we also want others to
know that giving back to the community is one of
our methods of saying thank you!
Mary Simonson, Executive Director
Open Door Center is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
(Mary’s columns are written monthly for the VC Times Record)
MEMORIALS DONATED:
In Memory of Don Elston:
Carol Elston
In Memory of Lavonne Juliuson: Carol Elston
In Memory of David Peterson:
Karen Pullen
In Memory of Vicki Lykken-Hill: Karen Pullen
In Memory of Rodney Speidel: Jim, Josie & Randy Prescott
In Memory of Diane Hill:
Roger & Cindy Weisenburger Deb Kohler
Mark & Ruth Diede Carol Knutson
James & Lou Vay White
Donation from: Waldheim W.E.L.C.A.
The Open Door Center would like to sincerely THANK YOU for your
donations.
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JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES
30 Years Cindy Schopper-WAC Supervisor/Program Director
29 Years
Janie Johnson-ISLA
23 Years Michelle Grebel-ISLA
18 Years
Jessica Peterson-ISLA
13 Years Randy Reiser-P.I., Eric Hoffert-Y.A.P.
12 Years
Chelsea Johnson-WAC/ISLA
11 Years Sherri Horsager-Human Resources
10 Years
Cara Sorensen-ISLA
7 Years Jacob Rueckert-DAC/GH 2
6 Years
Marshall Hopp-Program Director
5 Years Mychal Vaughan-Lisbon
3 Years
Sarah Wangrud-GH 4 Lindsy Simms-ISLA, Billie Jo Toso-Lisbon
2 Years
Erin Roswick-GH 5, Samantha Coit-GH 1
1 Year Denine Duffy-Y.A.P., Kelsey Kriewald-GH 3
Halle Shereck-GH 1
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
1-Alex Lanenga 1-Tanner Hovland 3-JoEllen Nathan 3-Randy Dimmett 4-Terry Lee 7-Mara Heinze 7-Ashley Sather 7-Jonathon Henderson 9-Melanie Lindgren 10-Angie Horsager 11-Amanda Valenta 11-Jamie Ronning 12-Kari Shape 14-Heidi Kellogg 17-Tim Jordan 19-Vanessa Wilson 19-Derek Murach 19-Becky Nelson 19-Elijah Luna 21-Seth Yates 23-Jayne Undem 24-Nicole Willprecht 25-Kent Syverson 26-Taylor Keys 27-Brittney Torbenson 29-Helen Olson 31-Nicole Anderson
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FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
2-Dan Pullen 2-Samantha Sayler 2-Lynne Lang 4-Jon Breckenridge 6-Geneva Espinoza 8-Veronica Miller 8-Kathy Volk 9-Megan Markuson 9-Carissa Thompson 12-Demi Peltier 14-Wilbert Korinta 15-Arlene Andrus 16-Larry Duffy 17-Todd Clark 18-Linda Johnson 21-Dinah Heinze 24-Carly Larson 27-Lee Hoff 28-Becky Geisen
The Arc of Barnes County recently donated $70,000 to the Open Door Center. The gift will be used to renovate the Work Activity Center to make room for manufacturing of Colorado Jack Popcorn. The Arc and the Center are excited
for this new project and the employment oppor-tunities that it will provide for people with disa-bilities and the community of Valley City. Colo-rado Jack Popcorn is currently produced in Leeds, ND but will move to Valley City early 2018. The company offers five flavors of delicious popcorn including, Caramel, Colorado Mix, Sea Salt and Butter, White Cheddar Jalapeno and White
Cheddar. The popcorn is currently available at the Eagle’s Nest Bookstore in Valley City and
several area stores. Picture L to R: Jodi Elliott, Barb Cook, Diane Kracht, Ken Merkes, Mary Simonson, Bill Cook,
Renee Schelkoph, Dallas Gruebele
NDSU BISON
November brought Adam, Betty and Shane to one of the NDSU Bison Football games in Fargo. They got to
witness another great win for the Bison. This year is again a wonderful year for this team as they will be heading to Frisco,
Texas in January 2018. It is a great feeling to be a part of this crowd of Bison Nation fans
during one of their home games. No doubt we will all be watching them in Frisco from the comfort
of our homes, cheering on, hopefully, another Championship game for the BISON.
GO BISON ! ! !
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS
FROM SOME OF THE
INDIVIDUALS AND
STAFF AT OPEN
DOOR CENTER
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Merry and Bright Stars
The Open Door Merry and Bright Singers Christmas choir was a huge success. The dedicated members of the choir are Amanda Hanlon, Chris Feigert, Clifford Peterson,
Colleen Hehr, Deb Borg, Faith Hanson, Jennifer Bennett, Jeremy Williams, Jessie Stack, Kandice Novak, Lee Hoff, Louie Jungling, Lynn Kensok, Marshall Pederson, Megan Banderet, Richard Roorda, Rita Grant, Shane Kay, Tara Janke, Todd Clark
and Trenton Laducer. The choir consists of individuals whom have a great desire to sing and love Christmas songs. The idea of a Christmas Choir was presented by Cindy Schopper in the begin-
ning of October. With Nancy Knutson and Dustin Sortland agreeing to direct the choir, they began practicing the middle of October. Faith Lutheran Church was
generous in hosting the practices twice weekly. Individuals were also required to be at all practices. It was learned very quickly how to transport everyone efficiently and
with the help of many dedicated staff, this wonderful task was accomplished. Staff drove vans, did hair and makeup and handed out props for songs and many other things. The community was also very supportive. Many supported the Choir by
coming to the concerts, and bringing cookies and bars to the final concert. The BEST part of the whole experience, was seeing the individuals after the concerts, shake
hands with everyone and wishing them a Merry Christmas. The choir performed at the VCSU Exceptional Student Class, The Legacy Place,
Bridgeview Estates, Sheyenne Care Center, Epworth Women’s Christmas Dinner, Barnes County Court House, Barnes County Senior Center, St. Catherine’s School,
Open Door Day Activity Center and their final concert and celebration at Faith Lutheran Church.
We can’t wait to see what next year brings!!
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DONATIONS Talk about a heart of gold!! Kent Syverson has
done it again! Kent contacted the Barnes County Sheriff’s Department and was given a child from
the Secret Santa tree. He spent a day in Fargo finding all sorts of delightful things for a young person. Deputy Fiebiger from BCSO stopped by last Friday morning to pick up the gifts. They
were so touched by Kent’s kindness, they brought him a little treat! Kent also purchased several
stuffed animals for other agencies in the community to give to children in need. Kent
really has the Christmas Spirit!!
Bells will be ringing! DAC gave back to the community that gives so very much to us! Every Thursday from 2-3 we went to SHOPKO to ring the bells for the Salvation Army Red Kettle program. A few of our ringers are: Kaitlin, Wally, Gary, Travis, Randy and
Steph! We also volunteered for the VC Chamber of Commerce making over 800 buttons for the Christmas in the Valley campaign. Several people helped greet for
the Open House at Thunderbird and Amberland. Wally, Kent, Kaitlin and Randy welcomed many people coming to the building. Bekah was also a great help
making gift baskets for them this holiday season. Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a very Happy
New Year!
Above are the servers for the Thunderbird and
Amberland Open House. Megan, Randy, Mira
and Lynn.
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2017 ARC Christmas Party
December 17th the Arc held their
annual Christmas party at the Eagles club in Valley City. Party was started off with dancing, music and popcorn. Pizza Supper at 4:00 along with visits from Santa and his elf. Everyone had
a great time dancing, visiting and enjoying the holiday season.
THANK YOU Arc for the great time we all had at the annual Christmas
Party!!
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SEASONS GREETINGS EVERYONE!!
I hope everyone was ready for Christmas! I know a
few of you folks who put things off for the last
minute, but I’m not going to mention names—but
they know who they are!! I want to take the time to
tell everyone happy belated Christmas. I hope you
all enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
I went to my sister’s for Christmas and got to see
my nieces and nephews. I love seeing those people
that I don’t get to see all the time. I loved visiting
with everyone.
Please remember to stay safe this winter. Watch for
cars when crossing the street, and driving on icy roads. Other people
driving don’t always look and even if they do see you, they may be
unable to stop. So stay alert and aware of what is going on. Also
remember to wear your cleats on the ice.
That’s all I have for now. I will see you all in the funny papers. Have a
Happy New Year Everyone!!
Your Friend—Katie
As I see it from
where I sit!
By Katie Sand
Corner K
ati
e’s
CONGRATULATIONS
To
Direct Support Professionals for completing their modules!
Full Time:
Larissa Musgrave, Fallon Rufsvold
Brittney Stenvik, Jasmine Rueckert
Roxanne Gabel
Part Time:
Alexis Rath, Jacee Lunde
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WAC HAPPENINGS
November and December have been busy
months at WAC. We developed a Thankful Tree to show co-workers at Work Activity when
they are appreciated for going above and beyond! The Merry and Bright Stars began prac-ticing in October but debuted in December with 10 concerts throughout our community. They are already talking about next year’s music and
shows! The gals had a lot of fun getting ready at WAC, getting their hair and makeup done.
On the 22nd, WAC held a Potluck and enjoyed
a lot of fun with the Santa Beard contest, with the
winner Lee Hoff.
The Ho Ho Ho contest had many more participants this year and was a close competition, but Katie Sand took home the win!! We also had some participate in the festive sock competition
and all were winners!!
Lastly we did the gingerbread house contest. As you can see we have very creative groups. Season’s Greetings won the award of quickest restoration after a Hurricane tore the original apart. The Ship won popularity vote
by unanimous vote and the Cottage won most festive! We hope everyone enjoyed a Merry Christmas and hope you have a Happy New Year!!!
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Have news???
Let Nancy know. Your news is our
news!
COMING EVENTS DECEMBER 31-New Years Eve JANUARY 1-New Year’s Day-CENTER CLOSED 15-Martin Luther King Jr. Day-CENTER CLOSED FEBRUARY 2-Groundhog’s Day 14-Valentine’s Day 19-President’s Day-CENTER CLOSED
All Staff
Door Prize Winners:
November Winners: Sandra Ley, Cara Sorensen
Teri Ronning
December Winners: Alexis Rath, Allison Swenson
Christina Bojkic, Roslyn Johnson Missy Leroux
CONGRATULATIONS
A BIG
TO NEW STAFF WHO HAVE JOINED US RECENTLY:
Amanda Andren, Jesse Arganbright, Chelsea Benedict, Gene Bjerke, Christina Bojkic,
Kelly Cahoy, Tanner Clark, Miranda Erickson, Justyn Galloway, Richard Gruman,
Jesse Hawkes, Carlos Jacobo, Elijah Luna, Mira McLain, Tricia Mikkelsen, Mariah Olson,
Eva Schempp, April Schneider, Kurtis Walls & Pamela Walsh
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Address Label Here
O P E N D O O R C E N T E R
129 3rd Ave. NE
Valley City, ND 58072
701-845-1124
Celebrating 57 Years WE’RE ON THE WEB!
ODCVC.COM
Charitable Donation
Please consider us when making your charitable donation. Open Door Center is a non-profit organization which receives support from the North Dakota Department of Human Services. Although it is our main funding source, it is not enough to cover all the costs of our corporation. The money received will help provide continued support and assistance to those supported by Open Door Center. We are very appreciative for the support we do already receive. If you would please consider a financial contribution to help meet the extra needs of our children and adults with disabilities, please fill out this form and return it to Open Door Center, 129 3rd Ave. NE, Valley City, ND 58072. ENCLOSED IS MY TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION: I would like my contribution: _____ $ 50 _____ $250 _____ $100 _____ $500 _____ $150 _____ $Other _____ In memory of:________________________________________________________ _____ In honor of:__________________________________________________________ _____ Other:______________________________________________________________ May we publish your name? _____Yes _____No Your thoughtful gift will be acknowledged to the family indicated: Name:_____________________________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________City:____________________________State: _____________Zip:__________
