posted
by Katie Slade on Saturday, December 14, 2024
As we reflect on the last year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the strides we have made to raise the bar connecting people, creating opportunities, and nurturing growth. Here’s just a few exciting highlights from the past year.
Connecting People (Families) to Child Care
We were thrilled to be awarded the contract, again, for Child Care Resource & Referral services of Northeast Iowa. This very important work increases the supply and quality of child care for families. We have been providing this service long before it became a statewide program, dating back to 1976. New this year as of July 1, 2024, we are providing statewide parent referral services. Now, when families need that personalized touch finding child care, they’ll be working with the talented staff here at EPI.
Creating Opportunities for Greater Community Inclusion
It’s our great pleasure and responsibility to connect people to their community. Seeing that sense of belonging and inclusion for all individuals within our community is so rewarding. We have seen firsthand the power of unity and the positive impact it has on individuals’ lives. We’re seeing neighbors connecting with neighbors, co-workers hanging out after a work shift to catch a game together, fellow parishioners including us in the carpool to church, and the list goes on. Our My Life, My Way approach continued to flourish, creating a stronger, more connected community. Persons participated in volunteering and taking part in service projects; wellness activities like hiking, support groups, and exercise classes; taking part in entertainment such as sporting events, races, concerts, movies, and more!
Nurturing Growth Fostering Greater Independence
Empowering individuals to achieve greater independence is at the heart of our mission. Our person-centered approach listening to hopes and desires, putting a skill-building plan together where each person works with a talented team of direct support professionals and managers has created some amazing stories and achievements. Last year we added tech-enabled supports to the resources available to each person and wow, what an amazing difference we’ve seen. We are so proud to see the people we serve taking self-directed services to the next level.
None of these achievements would be possible without the dedication and hard work of our staff and community partners. Your unwavering support and belief in our mission have been instrumental in our success. I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you.
As we move forward, I am confident our collective efforts will continue to make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Thank you for your continued support.