True Community Connection

posted on Tuesday, October 15, 2024

As Preston sat at a picnic table outside of the Sunrise Petting Zoo, he smiled, looking over at the goats he feeds each week, and said, "I love my community."

Accompanied by his support staff, Rachael, he looked at her and shared with a laugh, "I enjoy volunteering with Rachel and I like telling our jokes."

Rachael, also laughing, nodded and agreed, "I enjoy volunteering and telling jokes with you too, Preston!"

Later, we were all lucky enough to hear a few of his jokes. They were read by Preston from a notepad he carries with him - full of jokes he and Rachael jot down of the best ones he doesn't want to forget.

Preston has taken part in many of EPI's various programs and services over the past 15 years, and now, he spends his time volunteering at many different local nonprofit organizations, as well as attending various community activities and events.

All people wish to feel connected to their community, and My Life, My Way was implemented by EPI as a way to help persons feel even more connected through many different volunteer opportunities and community activities and events. EPI focuses on giving each individual the freedom to choose what they do with their day while offering opportunities to take part in all that this community has to offer.

Some common places that persons can choose to volunteer include the Salvation Army, the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, House of Hope, and Preston's personal favorite, the Sunrise Petting Zoo. Other community activities and events most often chosen include wellness classes, sporting events, rodeos, bowling, festivals, or simply spending time with friends. The opportunities are endless.

Preston spends most of his days volunteering, with one of his favorite tasks being taking care of and feeding the goats. He also enjoys attending rodeos and football games, going out to eat with friends, and attending church every Sunday. When asked about Preston's growth over the time she has known him, staff member Rachael stated, "Preston has really come out of his shell. He used to be really shy, and now he introduces himself to others and makes conversation with anyone - like asking if someone wants to hear a joke."

Why is My Life, My Way important to the people we serve? With over 1,000 activities a month offered through My Life, My Way, donations and grants from our community and its members help EPI connect persons served with their community, empowering them to choose how they want to spend their day, and hopefully helping them to gain confidence and come out of their shells, just like Preston.

His story is just one example of how we deliver life-changing services to those who need them most in our community.

We believe every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life with support to gain greater independence.

We remain in awe of you and our community's continued support for the people we serve, the mission of EPI, and our dedicated staff.