messenger december 2016
a publication of Mosaic in Denver | www.mosaicindenver.org
Caring Community JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT by Melissa Durkop, Direct Support Manager
Halloween is a favorite among most everyone at Mosaic in Denver; the candy, the costumes and the parties. This year we were especially excited because we were taking a stab at hosting our own celebration. Typically we attend another source provider’s Halloween dance, and many of our clients still went and enjoyed it immensely. This year we wanted to offer our person’s served the opportunity to spend time together and reconnect with those they hadn’t seen in a while.
Joe and Sally
The management and staff turned our office into a spooky scene, complete with a mad scientist laboratory, photo booth and dance floor so all the ghouls could Monster Mash and do the Thriller. There were witches, super heroes, furry creatures and even Harry Potter there to celebrate with pizza, costume contests and of course candy!
volunteers see how great it is to connect with Mosaic’s mission in a new way. We will definitely be planning another celebration next year!
The Halloween party was a great opportunity for parents and siblings to visit, old housemates to reconnect, and gave a chance to let new staff and
Mosaic team Halloween
Melissa Durkop, DSM and Kandra
Joannie
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Giving a Voice THREE YEARS DOWN. by Miranda Mickelson, Independent Contract Program Manager Three years ago, Grace and Bennie received a call late at night from a Mosaic manager asking them for help. The manager was in need of emergency respite for a woman who had just been released from a nursing home. Grace and Bennie, without hesitation, agreed to help. It was not until 10:30 p.m. that Renee rolled in to their home. Little did they know, emergency respite was going to turn in to a forever placement.
asked her what it was that she wanted. Renee was a new woman by the time she woke up that next morning. It was the first time in a long time Renee had felt loved and cared for.
When Renee moved in with Bennie and Grace, she was not in tip-top shape. Renee had dirt in the folds of her hands and behind her ears, her skin was red and peeling, and her hair was matted and greasy. That night, Bennie and Grace took to cleaning her up. They made sure to she was comfortable, and
Three years later, and Renee still feels that way about Grace and Bennie. She is a part of the family, and there is not a doubt in her mind when she says that. She loves to spend time with both of her host home providers, and reminds me every time I see her how long she has lived with them. She remembers down to the exact date in October. Renee has had a new sense of what it means to be in a host home, and in that has gained a self confidence that is above and beyond. She feels comfortable communicating her needs, and knows that they will be met. Bennie and Grace changed Renee’s life. They showed her that she was worth it, and helped her to realize that she is loved.
Grace and Bennie with Renee
Giving a Voice LEARNING ABOUT A NEW HOME by Marshal Watson Within my first month of working at Mosaic, I had the opportunity to go to Omaha for a summit about “Mosaic at Home.” Coming from Pittsburgh, Penn. host homes (known as Life Sharing there) was not a popular service as group homes were still a go to. I knew very little about the concept of someone opening up their home. While I was there, I learned a lot about the tiny details of managing host home providers and the individuals we serve. I also heard all of the stories of a person moving in and becoming part of the family. To me, this warmed my heart. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, the simple definition of home include three points, “the place (such as house or apartment where a person lives, a family living together in one building, a place where something
normally or naturally lives or is located.” I can’t speak for everyone out there, but I’m sure that most people have lived somewhere that is not a home. It was just a place that you go back after a day of work or classes to eat and sleep. To many individuals, this was a group home for them, including multiple staff that would rotate in and out of the building. A reflection statement was given while I was at the summit, “Why we serve has not changed but who we serve and how we serve them is changing.” Omaha gave me information, connections, and a new drive as I work in the “Mosaic at Home” program. Most importantly, It opened up my mind for the new possibilities that a person can have to live a life like anyone else.
Side notes Don’t forget if you or a friend is seeking your dream home, to contact Sean Cleary, 303.875.0311, at Keller Williams Realty Park Meadows office. At the close of your home, they will donate $300 to Mosaic in Denver. Just mention that Mosaic sent you and you, too, can making a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
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Caring Community TRADITIONS by Ramon Muniz, Independent Contract Program Manager Fireworks on the 4th of July, Stocking stuffers and giving thanks, a heart shaped box of sweets and a midnight kiss on New Years Eve. What do all of these things have in common? They are traditions that me, my loved ones and many I know enjoy and hold true. The passing on of customs from year to year and generation to generation is a deep rooted foundation that is found in almost every culture throughout history. Traditions are not only important to leading a meaningful life, but also creating a caring community. I share one of my favorite traditions with Danny Turner, a person Mosaic supports. The tradition has been one of Danny’s favorites for many years but for me it started 5 years ago when I first attended a Halloween dance. I marveled in all the excellent costumes,
pizza, sugary treats and awesome dance moves as Danny said hi to everyone dressed head to toe as “The evil unchained” aka the grim reaper. I watched Danny compete in the costume contest in the, “scariest” category and comforted him when he lost to a clown dawning sharp teeth and said, “We’ll get em next year!” Since then, every September, Danny and I go costume shopping early to make sure we are afforded as many options as possible. Danny tries on many outfits and typically walks away with at least two different choices for the big day. Each year he tends to pick a scarier form of the grim reaper than the year before and as his second option a colorful fun character. Danny has dressed as Thor, The Riddler, A classic vampire with Edward Cullen
hair, and even won best costume in 2014 as The Mad Hatter! Seeing how happy this event makes Danny every year is what makes the tradition most special to me. I chuckle softly watching him explain his costume to everyone he sees while complimenting theirs. I root for him when the dance competition starts and join him for “the Cupid Shuffle.” Sitting in the car on the ride home as Danny laughs and talks about all the crazy, fun and creative costumes is a highlight of my time here at Mosaic. Traditions are heart warming, traditions are fun and silly, but most importantly traditions are personal. This is a tradition that I will cherish and help keep alive.
Upcoming Events BIRTHDAYS Come one! Come all! Mosaic is buying the treats! December 20 5–7 p.m. Cold Stone Creamery, 6300 E. Hampden Ave, Denver F.A.C.E.S. Jan. 9 6–7:30 p.m. Our Father Lutheran Church | 6335 S. Holly Street, Centennial
Ramon and Danny
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Meaningful Life MAKING A DIFFERENCE EVERYDAY by Kate Chambers, Volunteer It’s been an honor to spend time connecting with the people of Mosaic. In the midst of the holidays, Mosaic in Denver has partnered with people in the field of occupational therapy to establish a pilot program to support persons in service and their path to a Meaningful Life. I am one of 5 occupational therapy students who had the privilege to work alongside the Mosaic team and get to know the diverse and wonderful group that benefits from Mosaic’s services. As occupational therapists and therapy
meaningful connection. It is our profession’s goal to support a person’s pursuit of participation and satisfaction in life. As occupational therapists, we hope to foster community connection for persons of all abilities. Mosaic mirrors occupational therapy’s goals and is passionate about creating opportunities that “create meaningful lives, caring communities, and giving a voice to the needs of people” they serve. I have participated in these moments of meaning, care and giving voice. In the past few weeks, Mosaic partici-
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” –Maya Angelou describing their art and passions to the larger community of Denver. In addition, I have had the honor to work alongside the leadership team and glean insight into their culture of compassion, care and acceptance. Over the past few weeks, I have been working in tandem with Brandi and Kandra. As Kandra describes areas of interest, it is my role to create daily routines and develop skills that help her make concrete progress towards her goals. With help from Mosaic staff and leadership team, we hope to support Kandra along with others in realizing their dreams! This opportunity to collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, other students and the Mosaic community has been invaluable. I am thrilled to be a part of the amazing work and pathways that are continuously growing and evolving with creative ideas and support from advocates like you! The experiences offered by this community have left me feeling hopeful, joyous and keen to connect.
Kandra and Kate
assistants, we are trained in supporting persons or groups with expertise in accessing social engagements, job satisfaction, leisure pursuits, roles and activities. There is one common thread in the work of occupational therapy:
pants collaborated with the Colorado Women’s Chambers of Commerce for an Art Reveal. This experience provided the opportunity for people in service to showcase not only their unique work, but offered a place for
Here’s wishing you and yours a lovely holiday season! And hopes for a meaningful time that connects community and brings compassion to each and every life!
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Anniversaries Connect with Mosaic in Denver! mosaicindenver.org mosaicinfo.org/blog facebook.com/mosaicindenver twitter.com/mosaicpossible donate.mosaicinfo.org/denver
Ramon Muniz, Direct Support Coordinator, 7 years, December
Mary Stiny, Family Caregiver, 2 years, January
Have you included Mosaic in your estate planning?
Melissa Durkop, Direct Support Manager, 6 years, December
Sally Lienberger, Family Caregiver, 2 years, January
Host Home Providers Needed We are seeking compassionate caring people with big hearts and homes to share their lives and homes with the people supported by Mosaic in Denver. If you are interested in learning more about the opportunity to become a part of our Mosaic at Home program, please contact Ramon Muniz at Ramon. Muniz@Mosaicinfo.org or at 303.369.9711 x15.
There are ways to increase your income now or in the future and save money on taxes. With a planned gift, you can also ensure that Mosaic’s mission of providing a life of possibilities for people with intellectual disabilities continues long into the future. Contact Jaime Corsar at 877.366.7242 or jaime.corsar@mosaicinfo.org to discuss how planned giving can help you.
Miranda Mickelson, Independent Contract Program Manager, 3 years, January Denver 5 Mosaic Messenger
Nurses Knowledge NORMALCY BIAS AND REACHING GOALS by Sarah Henrich, RN The way I practiced Nursing 10 years ago is very different than how I practice today. As a healthcare professional, it is my responsibility to stay educated, informed, and to change the way I do things as the world of Healthcare changes and improves. Twice a year I attend the Colorado Association of Nurses for the Developmentally Disabled (CANDD) conference. This is an opportunity for me to meet with other nurses in my field. We learn about developments in healthcare, changes to national and local policies and legislation, and how to improve the way we provide care to the individuals we serve. We share ideas and learn from one another. One presentation I really want to share was about normalcy bias. Normalcy bias keeps most of us from listening to flight attendants point out exits and explain how to use floatation devices. The plane has a 0.0000008% chance of crashing. The chance of needing to know what to do in the unlikely event of a water landing is so low, we create a bias toward believing it won’t happen and turn the page in the SkyMall catalog. When faced with disaster, our brains tell us everything is
fine; everything will return to normal. Earthquake, flood, fire, tornado? We run drills to practice the correct response to these situations but, when they do happen, 70% of people freeze. They stay in denial about the situation, underestimate the danger, and continue with normal, everyday activities. This isn’t limited to disasters. Meet Olaf. Let’s talk about Olaf, the loveable snowman from “Frozen”. Olaf dreams of relaxing in the summer fun. He signs an entire song about it. Olaf’s dream has a couple barriers. One is Olaf lives in a world trapped in eternal winter. Summer is pretty unlikely. Second, Olaf is made of snow. Olaf will melt. We see normalcy bias at the end of Olaf’s song when Kristoff says, “I’m going to tell him” Anna responds, “Don’t you dare!” Don’t you dare. Everything is fine. Olaf’s goal will end in disaster, so we pretend his goal doesn’t exist. Olaf could be any of the individuals we serve. When we are familiar with someone, their needs, their behaviors, their likes and dislikes, it is easy to establish a feeling of normalcy. When normalcy is threatened, it is easy to ignore the threat, especially when the
Mosaic Messenger is published by Mosaic in Denver | 10651 E. Bethany Dr., Ste. 100 Aurora, CO 80014-2601 | 303.369.9711 | www.mosaicindenver.org Executive Director Community Relations Manager
stephen.shaughnessy@mosaicinfo.org stephanie.webb@mosaicinfo.org
Mission Embracing God’s call to serve in the world, Mosaic advocates for people with intellectual disabilities and provides opportunities for them to enjoy a full life. Integrity at Mosaic If you have a concern, call our national Confidential Reporting Hotline at 800.443.4899, or email integrity@mosaicinfo.org
chances of the threat happening are low. Summer is an unlikely event so it’s easy to ignore Olaf’s goal instead of helping him reach it. An individual’s dream is to live in an apartment, or go to college, or get married, or ride horses everyday, but we feel the chances of them reaching their goals are so low, we don’t even bother taking the steps to help them. Olaf likes warm hugs, making friends, talking, and singing. When Olaf does these things, he’s happy. Ignore his summer goal. Keep letting him sing and talk. He is happy enough. Everything is fine. Eventually summer does happen and Olaf starts to melt. Luckily, Elsa saves Olaf and creates a magic snow cloud to protect him and keep him from melting. Olaf gets to frolic through the village and enjoy the summer sun. We need to recognize our own normalcy biases in order to provide truly person-centered support. If living alone is important to someone, but is a serious health and safety risk, what do they need for their own snow cloud? Maybe we can make a cloud with enough protection. Maybe it takes years. Maybe we can’t finish the cloud no matter how hard we try. But trying and falling short is better than completely dismissing what someone wants and redirecting them back to what makes us comfortable.
Relationships Mosaic is an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of Lutheran Services in America. Non-discrimination Mosaic will not discriminate in matters of employment or service delivery on the basis of race, creed, age, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status or veteran status. To be added or removed from the mailing list or to receive information via email, please contact Mosaic at the address given. ©2016 Mosaic. All rights reserved. Mosaic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
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Introductions
Caring Community
HAVE YOU BEEN INTRODUCED by Stephen Shaughnessy, Executive Director
STRING ART by Melissa Durkop, DSM
One of the newest faces you will see around the agency is Tara Wheeler. Tara joined our team as Receptionist back in June. Tara came to Mosaic through a personal family connection. Her sister is our very own Miranda Mickelson. She says, “I didn’t know that a place like Mosaic existed and it’s cool to have a sister that is so passionate about the work that she does and she spread that joy and passion to me and throughout our family.” As Receptionist for the agency, Tara
Mosaic in Denver was excited to welcome Ashley Palm, owner of The Colorful Bear to host a string art class for our persons served. Ashley, a former service coordinator with RMHS, was excited to reconnect with managers and others she use to work with in a different way. “Being reunited with many of my old friends and clients was awesome! But to be able to create a piece of art with them was even cooler. I’ve always had a strong passion for creating and I am so fortunate to be able to have the ability to share that with others. Being able to teach new techniques and allowing individuals to empower themselves to create something on their own is extremely rewarding! Catching up on the latest gossip was also pretty fun. I can’t wait to teach another class.”
Tara Wheeler
performs a variety of clerical and program support duties and offers key support in the area of agency and client finance functions. Tara has already proven herself to be a valuable asset to the team by filling in gaps when we find them and to help keep things running smoothly at our agency. When not at Mosaic, Tara is at home with her husband, Steve, and her son, Clark. Tara and Steve have been married for 2 years and together for 8 years. They met in high school but didn’t start dating until college. Clark was born in May of 2015 and he will be a big brother in February. In her free time Tara enjoys reading and
playing with Clark as well as anything softball related, whether it be playing, coaching or watching. Speaking of softball, Tara received a scholarship to play Division 1 softball and attended college in Indiana for 2 years and then came back to Colorado and attended Metro State. Tara loves softball so much that she was a volunteer assistant coach at Metro State for two years. Tara shared that her favorite thing about working at Mosaic is, “It is something that really takes me outside of my comfort zone and broadens my view on things. It is great to interact with the individuals in service and see how their days are made up with the support of the managers and other staff who work here.”
Join us for a Discover the Possibilities and learn more about our mission and services. Join us for this one-hour virtual tour and learn how you can make a difference too. Monday, December 12 11:30 a.m. Augustana Lutheran Church 5000 E. Alameda Ave | Denver Tuesday, January 24 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Augustana Lutheran Church 5000 E. Alameda Ave | Denver
String art, a popular new way to create pictures using colorful string and nails. Everyone had many design options and colors to choose from and plenty of support from Ashley, Mosaic staff and OT student volunteers. All persons served did a great job of independently completing a majority of their projects and were so proud of their finished products! We can’t wait to try this again, huge thanks to Ashley and The Colorful Bear. If you would like to attend string art class please visit www.thecolorfulbear.com
Tuesday, February 21 5:30–6:30 p.m. Mosaic Office 10651 E. Bethany Dr. Suite 100 | Aurora Please RSVP to stephanie.webb@ mosaicinfo.org or at 303.369.9711 x16 String Art group
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10651 E. Bethany Dr., Ste. 100 Aurora, CO 80014-2601
Return Service Requested
A life of possibilities for people with intellectual disabilities.
Caring Community PARTNERS IN POSSIBILITIES by Stephanie Webb, Community Relations Manager Mosaic in Denver hosted their Fourth Annual Partners in Possibilities fund-raising luncheon at Our Father Lutheran Church on Oct. 18. We were once again honored and blessed with more than 140 volunteers, friends, community members, and guest who were excited to learn more about the mission of Mosaic. With LAZ Parking as our Caring Community Sponsor, and PDC Pharmacy as our Meaningful Life Sponsor, and MPIX as our Giving a Voice Sponsor, we were set to share our mission and ask our community to be “bold� and support the work of Mosaic in Denver. Our goal was to share our stories and vision with as many people as possible, as well as to ask for donations and
pledges to assist in the overhead cost of supporting the people supported by Mosaic. We had hoped for 4 new Mosaic Partners in Possibilities Giving Society Members, (a pledge of a $83 a month for 5 years, equaling $5000)! We were so close. We would like to thank our many guests, all our table captains, and of course our volunteers. Partners in Possibilities Giving Society Members Rob & Nancy Livingston
Leadership Donors Rob & Nancy Livingston Gary & Virginia Flack St Philip Lutheran Church Stephen & Cherri Gottula Steven Mcclymont Chris & Kathleen Harrison Thanks to our Caring Community Sponsor
Stephen & Cherri Gottula Carole Lively Jerry & Patricia Davis
www.lazparking.com
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