ALS fall 11 news.qxd - Adult Learning Systems

FUTURE FOCUS NEWSLETTER
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Issue 2
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Fall 2011
FUNWALK
On July 31, ALS-LM celebrated our annual
Funwalk, Kensington and Metropolitan Beach
Metro Parks. As always, we had a great time while
fundraising! There were raffles, hotdogs and games
for everyone to enjoy.
A big THANK YOU to our donors:
Mobility Transportation,
Memphis Pharmacy
Anonymous Washtenaw
Farmington Insurance
RX Specialties Pharmacy
Mary Howrey
Helmet and Irene Boehm
Laurie Lutomski and Janet Wollet
Barbara Zaccagni
LaSalle Homes of Macomb
Inside
This Issue
Alice Tocino
• Funwalk ..........................................
• Retreats..........................................
• Awards ............................................
• Mission Statement............................
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• DCW of the Quarter ......................
• Staff Empowerment ......................
• What’s Been Happening ..............
• Fundraising ....................................
8170 Jackson Road, Suite F, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 • 734-408-0112
Editor: Phyllis Wagner, Executive Regional Director
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RETREATS & AWARDS
On July 7th, the Adult Learning Systems-LM Board of Directors held a planning retreat at the Detroit
Institute of Arts. The day was spent on visions, strategizing and planning the future for the company. This
is an event that occurs every two years, and is essential for development and keeping things up-to date.
Some staff members were invited as well, as their input is important to the board when determining where
ALS-LM is going. After several hours of exhaustive work, everyone went on a guided tour of the museum
giving them an opportunity to enjoy the fine art we are so fortunate to have here.
On August 18th, we had the pleasure of returning to the DIA, for a management retreat, which also ended
with a tour of the lovely museum. This day was set aside for all coordinators and caseworkers, with a
theme of health and wellness. Presentations were made by Blaise Winter, former Green Bay Packer, and
Mary Jane Mapes, communication specialist. They gave practical ideas for staying healthy, mentally and
physically! A nutritious lunch was served, along with some awards for years of service with ALS-LM.
Years of Service 5-9 Years
Years of Service 10-14 Years
Years of Service 15-19 Years
Years of Service 20-25 Years
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Mission Statement
Each organization has one. What is a mission statement??? It is a brief statement of the purpose of a company and organization. The statement guides the actions of the organization, spells out an overall goal, provides a path and guides decision making. It provides a framework or context within which the company’s
strategies are formulated. Simply, the mission is the organization’s reason for existence.
Does each stakeholder know the mission statement of our organization? Let’s discuss the mission of ALSLM; Every person has the right to quality life and to be fully integrated into their community.
What does this mean?? Think about what it means to you as an employee, as a participant, as a guardian.
One sentence is very powerful and says so much- our mission statement. As an organization, we believe all
adults have the right to live their life in the most fulfilling manner possible. To pursue interests and dreams,
to live in safe housing, have friends, opportunities- whether or not they require residential services.
Everybody involved with ALS-LM should be living this…………………..
Awards: Direct Care Workers of the Quarter
Gerrie Ward (Monroe County)
Gerrie always does her job with excellence. She
comes in early for medical appointments and
never calls in. She picks up extra shifts, interacts
and advocates for participants, and they all enjoy
spending time with her. Gerri is a great asset to
Grove Home!
Bryan Juresich (Macomb County)
Bryan has proven to be a punctual, dependable and
reliable staff person. His documentation is accurate
and submitted in a timely fashion. He works well
with all participants and is a positive influence in
their lives. He recently received recognition from a
participant’s family, for being supportive during a
medical crisis. Bryan’s helpful ways make Macomb
Whole Life a good place to be!!person centered plans
and corporate policies.
Lashelle Taylor (Macomb County)
LaShelle is dependable and does everything she is asked to do, all while maintaining a positive attitude. She is
willing to work all shifts and picks up extra shifts as well. She recently assisted management with a Medicaid
audit. We are glad to have her at Sugarbush Home!
Staff Empowerment
After a review of 2011 employee surveys, it was determined that front line staff need a way to voice ideas,
concerns, and share what they know. To meet this need, ALS-LM is forming a Staff Empowerment
Committee. All non-management employees are invited to participate, with one or two person per site.
The meetings will be held 2-3 times per year and will be rotated to different locations. The group will be
facilitated by Phyllis Wagner, Regional Director and Penny Hader, ALS-LM Board Member.
Email [email protected] to join!
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What’s Been Happening???
Cherrywood Staff, Theodore Blackwell spent some time at home while on
leave from the military this summer. (Pic 1)
Grove Home participants have been
enjoying the nice weather. Pictured here
are the guys at a wrestling match. (Pic 2)
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Bayridge Home participants headed to the
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Fundraising
Detroit Zoo for a wonderful day of looking at
the animals. Pictured here are the ladies taking a ride on the train. (Pics 3 & 4)
Norton Home
participants enjoyed
the Fall Festival at
Kensington Metro
Park. They had a wonderful sunny fall day
5 full of great fun!
(Pics 5 & 6)
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ALS-LM continues to participate in the Kroger fundraising program. Remember to register your Kroger
cards!!! Contact Vickie Green for more information at [email protected]
Adult Learning System
Lower Michigan Inc.
8170 Jackson Road, Suite F
Ann Arbor, MI 48103