As a recognized leader in promoting and developing creative employment and community options, ODC continued transformation toward community with a focus on individual employment and community life goals. Additional staff resources were allocated to make job matches and to work with employers to identify positions and duties that would benefit from a talented and motivated work force. The number of individuals in Supported Employment grew from 121 year end in 2013 to 133 in 2014. ODC was awarded several grant opportunities including the Wisconsin Fast Forward Grant promoting employment options for individuals with disabilities; a DOT grant to provide a wheelchair accessible vehicle was awarded; a grant providing an opportunity to promote self-directed supports in employment will target individuals with employment challenges requiring creative approaches. In addition, ODC was selected to start an additional Project SEARCH site in 2015 in the Wisconsin Rapids community as part of the statewide expansion of Project SEARCH. Community Based training and career exploration gave 26 individuals the opportunity to tour area businesses of interest, meet the owners or managers and learn what is needed to work at those

businesses. Individuals had opportunities to experience jobs and try them out to determine if community employment was a desirable outcome for them. Sixty-seven individuals took part in center based training that included mock job interviews and curriculum to develop community employment and job seeking skills. Of the 105 NEW referrals to ODC programs, 68% or 71 individuals went directly into community employment programs. Twenty individuals who had been exclusively in center based training programs added community employment services and started the process toward community employment. The ODC Employment Resource Team worked with 160 employers in the Marshfield and Wisconsin Rapids communities and communities in Portage, Marathon, Lincoln and other surrounding counties.

What makes a meaningful day? For most adults, it’s work, daily duties and responsibilities, family and friends, recreation and social activities, clubs, or just watching a favorite show on TV. CommunityConnect rounds out a meaningful day for individuals who didn’t know how to access regular, integrated activities in the community… who didn’t have the freedom or opportunity to access integrated activities in the community… or only had the opportunity to participate in group activities in the past. It makes sense doesn’t it? That a person should belong to a bowling league that meets after work, not a group that goes to the alley when it is empty. For Kelly, whose passions are nature, wildlife, and the environment, “hooking up” with A Green Community group was the answer. “We're a local grassroots group dedicated to creating a sustainable community through education, recycling and conservation efforts in greater south Wood County. We meet every month on the first Wednesday at 4 p.m. - McMillan Library in Wisconsin Rapids. It’s a very rewarding group. I hope I can get my driver’s license so that I can participate in more of their activities”—Kelly For Jon, connecting to community started with a little help from ODC and ended in Jon independently sustaining his connection. Jon is volunteering at the Clark County Humane Society and bow hunting were the two CommunityConnections that he needed to supplement his employment career at Marshfield Scrap. Jon is a young man that has always struggled with meeting new people and trying to fit in. With the help of his ODC Connector, options in the community opened for him. Jon had expressed that he was interested in archery and learning how to shoot a bow. He did not have a bow or any idea where he could go to shoot one. With the help of the Connector it was discovered that Jon’s boss was a hunter and member of the local sportsman’s club. Discussion took place around how Jon could join. As a token of his appreciation for all the extra hours Jon was working, he bought Jon and new bow. He even took Jon to the local sports store to have the bow accessorized and fitted for him. The store owner proceeded to show Jon the area he could come to try out his bow and target practice. Jon also expressed an interest in animals and he had adopted his cat from the Clark County Humane Society. Jon and the Connector researched this and discovered that they were in need of volunteers. They committed to working a Saturday morning. Jon helped clean the kennels and feed the dogs. They worked closely with staff from the Humane Society to get things done. After one time of going with Jon, he said he really liked it and would like to go again. He is now planning to volunteer once per month and is going on his own. “He just needed to know what is available; how to access it; make that initial introduction; facilitate initial involvement….Let him enjoy his community.”—Sara Schueller, ODC Services Manager

A Tribute to ODC Staff

ODC isn’t just a place to work like so many other jobs. ODC doesn’t have employees that come to work each day for the sole purpose of a paycheck. The staff at ODC come to work to become an integral part of many individual lives. To take responsibility for finding the best ways to make their lives more fulfilling, more inclusive, more connected to life and their communities…. Better. It isn’t the buildings. It isn’t the management that make ODC services what they are. It is the heart and soul of the most incredible, caring, dedicated people that make ODC services what they are. I am so proud, so privileged, so honored to have been able to be a part of such an awe inspiring team of exceptional people. Most Sincerely, Carol Ulrich, Vice President Vocational Services

For Brett, knowing how to find and cultivate a friendship outside of his community jobs was a goal. Brett works at the City of Marshfield and at AB Processing. When ODC staff first started working with Brett they did an interest inventory with him to identify areas of interest. Even though Brett had lived in Marshfield his entire life he was not aware of the different recreational opportunities and service organizations the city had to offer. Brett was also very clear that he wanted to make new friends. People closest to Brett felt he would do more things if he had someone to do them with. So the Connector arranged opportunities for Brett to meet new people— one was a social at the food court at the mall and the other at the bowling alley. From both meet and greets, Brett exchanged phone numbers with people and established two new friendships. Now what to do? Discovering that both guys really liked music, Brett was given a tour and calendar of events at the Chestnut Center for the Arts and information about the local Vox Concert Series. Brett and his friend Matt have now attended concerts at both venues. Brett would like to give back to his community through some type of volunteer opportunity. He is just not sure yet where and when. He tried home delivered meals but knew that wasn’t for him, he wants something a little more social where he can interact with people more. Brett and his connector continue to work on this providing him with the information and experiences he needs to make a good match. CommunityConnecting is just that… making a connection to interests and activities that we all have the ability to participate in, interact in and enjoy in our communities...

Employers have business needs that may be seasonal or periodic throughout the week or month.

ODC has enthusiastic, capable workers who may want to tryout working in the community before committing to job search or they may be in between jobs or they may enjoy working at different jobs. FORTY valued ODC work team members working in integrated settings in groups of 4 or less. helped pack variety packs at the Stevens Point Brewery packaged cranberries at Mariani Packing Company cleaned the grounds for the Rafters baseball team picked and packed orders at Manilla Gorilla helped with set up and take down for events for Incourage Community

Foundation

performed bindery work at Fey Printing

ODC’s Community Based Prevocational services provided community employment training and exploration opportunities for 26 individuals in the Marshfield and Wisconsin Rapids communities.

Tours of area businesses of interest, meetings with owners, employers and employees gave individuals insight into the types of job opportunities those businesses offer and the types of expectations the job and employers have for their work force. Participation in Job Club provided 67 individuals interactive learning opportunities to explore questions about community employment and to learn how to apply for jobs, how to interview well, what makes a valued employee for a business, what it takes to obtain and retain a job. All of the curriculum is geared to move people forward in their career path to the community.

How can we educate adults with disabilities with the functional skills they need to add value to a workplace? How can we adapt our advanced educational opportunities to reflect the needs of a talented work force that is eager to contribute to a job, eager to work and gain skills? How can we add an academic component that includes curriculum, education, on-the –job relevance training and a Certificate of Competency at the end? To accomplish this, post high school education for individuals with cognitive disabilities needs to adapt to instruct specific skills and competencies necessary for adults with disabilities to obtain and perform jobs for employers in need of dependable, capable workers. Yes, soft skills are necessary for everyone and help everyone fit in to employer environments more positively… BUT the actual skills needed to perform the work need to be broken down to a learning and comprehension level specific to the task and to individuals with cognitive work barriers. Entry level jobs have not been the focus of higher education. It is often assumed that those basic, transferrable skills are what we all leave high school with. This is not always true for individuals with cognitive disabilities. Relating academics to a job task has to be the NEW level of educating today’s worker with a disability to fill valued positions for employers needing and wanting motivated workers capable of performing essential jobs within their businesses. Jobs in the service industry are often seen as temporary by employees that fill them. They are not seen as a career or end goal. For some individuals with disabilities that present employment challenges, this is not the case. These jobs or portions of these jobs are valued, desired successes providing opportunity for inclusion and self-worth. Employers need efficiencies in their staff and hiring practices. It has been believed that all hires need the skills to fill all of the positions within their business from stocking to cashiering. With a little bit of analytical coaching however, it has been shown that hiring a capable, determined individual to perform specific tasks allows other workers to avoid interruptions, to not be distracted from customers and customer service thereby increasing efficiencies and productivity. Our initiative combines academic confirmation and hands-on application, a proven successful job training approach. We envision an employment model that starts with this one initiative and grows into application with other employment scenarios, transferrable to other communities and service providers.

Project SEARCH Graduate Success Story Logan had completed rotations while in Project SEARCH in the departments of security, food and nutrition, and education. He determined what worked best for him and decided that he really wanted to do light clerical work such as data entry, scanning, filing etc. in a quiet office setting. Logan wanted to wait for a really good job match instead of taking “just any job” and his mother agreed. ODC Employment Resource Manager, Mary Blanchard, was able to develop a scanning position with Prevention Genetics and in October Logan was hired. He is working 16 hours per week at a high profile facility….he loves it, they really “get” Logan and he and his mother are very happy and satisfied with his work situation! —Mary Blanchard, ODC Employment Resource Manager

ODC applied for and was granted the license to start a Project SEARCH site in the Wisconsin Rapids community starting in the Fall of 2015. Our partners include Project Search, Riverview Hospital Association,

DVR, CCCW, Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools, Nekoosa School District and ODC.

Now in our FOURTH year of partnership with Project SEARCH, Marshfield Senior High, Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital, DVR, and CCCW, the impact on young people’s lives continues to be an inspiration and sense of pride for participants and all of the partners that make this happen. The program continues to grow with eight students utilizing their last year of high school to gain invaluable work experienc-es and hands on practical training during rotations through three departments at the hospital.

Highlights from Marshfield’s CommunityConnect Day Services We continue our strong relationship with St. Joseph’s Hospital with our monthly tray favor we

make for every person receiving a meal as well as kids in the Children’s Hospital, we also continue our weekly Home Delivered Meals route. Clients have learned to do this inde-pendently with minimal assistance from staff. For clients unable to read the names on the trays we have easily adapted this by numbering each tray.

We participated in a Diversity Week program at Bright Horizons. This is the daycare for staff

working at the St. Joseph’s and Marshfield Clinic. We brought clients there for a morning to work with approximately 70 children where we taught them square dancing and sign language.

We have several Community Integration Planning Groups in Day Services. Besides planning

recreational activities of their choice, we encourage them to take on volunteer opportuni-ties. Several clients helped plan and implement a supply drive for the Transitional Shelter. Another group has just started volunteering at Wells Nature View (CBRF for the elderly) and the clients plan what type of project (craft or activity) to bring to the residents.

We have a wonderful relationship established with the DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources)

where we clean 3 different trail heads for McMillan Marsh. We were even highlighted in the DNR newsletter. They continually remind us how much our volunteer work is appreci-ated. As well, we continue our Adopt a Park program at Columbia Park, which we have been cleaning for 5 years now.

I belong to the Marshfield Kiwanis Club. We have landed a couple volunteer opportunities as a

result of this connection. We have a group who delivers flowers and birthday cards out at Bethel Living Center each month. Kiwanis pays for the flowers and we deliver them. Cli-ents are working on social skills as well as etiquette in a nursing home setting. We also took on a project for Kiwanis this summer. Their biggest event is K.E.E.P. where kids can try out big equipment. We were asked to refurbish a large model bulldozer for this event.

We have a group of individuals who enjoy building. We decided to start a group called Building

for Kids. We are building toy barns which we donate to an organization serving kids. Our first barn went to the Transitional Shelter. We had a very nice article in the Marshfield News Herald about this project.

We continue to ring bells for the Salvation Army each Christmas season. This year, because

the new cab system has accommodated us so well, we were able to bring several clients in w/c’s to help us.

We also continue our volunteering for the NOW program (Nutrition on Weekends). We pick up

bins of food and deliver is to Grant School each month so the food can go home with kids on the weekend.

Stacey Schultz, CTRS Community Life Day Services Manager Opportunity Development Centers

ODC’s CommunityConnect Day Service program in Wisconsin Rapids has continued to grow and change in the past year. We have expanded our community integration opportunities as well as our internal groups.

Community Integration Our driving force is to see WHAT OUR COMMUNITY has to offer. Some of our experiences include touring local businesses such as: the local new station River Cities Access, radio station, Water Treatment Center, Schierl Tire, TLC Travel, Bowlmore Lanes, Pearl Engineering, and the Fire Department. Community integration outings also took us to a variety of different areas in Wisconsin Rapids and the surrounding areas to include: High Grounds Memorial, picnicking at Red Sands, watching a Water Ski Show, hiking the Lake Wazeecha Hiking Trails, berry picking for making our own jam, fishing on the Wisconsin River and at the Wisconsin Rapids Lions Club Bass Pond, Sandhill Wildlife Refuge exploration, YMCA for fitness, McMillan Library, Museums: Natural History, Paper making, & Wood County and the Effigy Mounds.

Volunteering The Neighborhood Table laundry is a weekly volunteering opportunity that allows all

clients to experience the joy of helping others. Not only are they helping others they are also learning valuable skills that can be translated into their everyday lives.

We volunteer weekly at the South Wood County Humane Society walking dogs, playing with cats and donating needed items.

A new and exciting volunteer opportunity that was started this year is Meals on Wheels. We deliver meals daily to residents of a nearby apartment complex.

Barb’s Farm is a local farm where clients were able to see what a farm consist of, what aspects it takes to maintain a farm life style, also we continue to be able to visit and learn more about the animals. With 2015 we will be participating in our own community garden at the farm.

We participated in Biron Boat Landing Clean up, Mead School Summer Packet Distribution, & Holiday Gift Wrapping.

Groups Cooking groups learn how to create meals from start to finish including research of

recipes, shopping for ingredients, and kitchen appliance usage. Science Group & Gadgets and Gizmos are two groups that due experiments involving

all aspects of science and math. Travel Club and World Cultures explores post cards from around the country and

world, they look up places of interest and learn about different cultures and traditions. Gardening Group learns about plant and nature and how gardening benefits us, also

will be a leader of the small garden on Barb’s Farm. We recently received a Promethean Board (smart board) that we are using to learn

computer skills, keep up on Current Events, learn about nature & practice Independent

Living Skills.

Jessica and Dwayne, WR CommunityConnect Day Service Coordinators

Marshfield

A & B Process Systems

AmericInn

Arby’s Roast Beef Restaurant

Associated Sales & Leasing

Baltus Oil Company

Bear’s Taxidermy

Berryland Farms

Blue Heron Brew Pub

Brickner’s Motors Merrill

Britten’s Greenhouse

Burger King of Marshfield

Cabinet Shop

Central City Credit Union

Central Wis Fair Association

Chestnut Center for the Arts

Child Care Centers of Mfld

Chips Restaurant

Church Mutual

City of Marshfield—Finance Dept

City of Marshfield—IT Dept

City of Marshfield—Police Dept

Colonial Center

Courtside Furniture

Dragt Chiropractic

Golden Dawn Dairy

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Goodwill Industries of NC Wis

Gruett’s Appliance

Hancock Fabrics

Hardee’s of Colby

Hardee’s of Merrill

Heartland Coop Dorchester

Hiller’s True Value Hardware

Hotel Marshfield

Hurtz Service Center

Janet’s Yarn and Crafts

Kwik Trip—Marshfield

Kwik Trip—Merrill

Kwik Trip—Wausau

Kuyoth Custom Auto

Lang Furniture

Laundry Room

Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Marshfield Area United Way

Marshfield Public Library

Marshfield Scrap

Marshfield Senior Community Center

McDonald’s of Marathon City

McDonald’s of Marshfield

McMillan Electric

Melody Garden Ice Cream Parlor

Menzner Lumber

Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital—

Environmental Services

Ministry St. Joseph’s Food & Nutrition

Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital—PACU

Mueller Publishing

Nasonville Dairy

Northside Elder Estates

Northwoods Evergreen

Pick’n Save

Piggly Wiggly

Pinecrest Nursing Home

Pizza Hut

Pomp’s Tire

Prevention Genetics

Quality Roofing

Riverside Athletic Club

Rod’s Towing Service

Rose Bowl Lanes

Scotty’s Pizza

Security Health Plan of Wisconsin Inc.

Staab Construction

Stark Automotive

Stoney River Assisted Living

Stratford Sport and Spine

Subway

Taco Bell

Target

Three’s Company

Walgreens—Marshfield

Walgreens—Merrill

Walmart

Weiler Convenience Stores

Weber’s Farm

Wendorf Bus

Wood County Transportation

Wooden Creations

Woodfield Inn and Suites

Younkers

Wisconsin Rapids

Accurate Auto

Adlee Construction

Advanced Disposal

Air Communications

Anytime Fitness

Anointing Oil Faith Church

Arby’s

Arborview Court

Arborwood Lodge

Atomic Joe’s Coffee Co.

Bank A Count.

Bev’s Floral

Bob Gleason Insurance Services

Bowlmor

Boys and Girls Club

Building Blocks Childcare Center

Bull’s Eye Country Club

Bull’s Eye Credit Union

Burger King

C & S Sales

Central Wis Counseling

Central Wis Home Builders Assoc.

Central Wisconsin Janitorial

Chips of Wisconsin Rapids

City of Wisconsin Rapids

Community Care of Central Wisconsin

Copps

Country Tots Child Dev Ctr.

Culver’s

Department of Transportation

Express Recycling Solutions Inc

Family Furniture

Fey Printing

FRP Composites

Goodwill Industries of NCW

Hardees

HJ Aviation

Incourage Community Foundation

Kwik Trip—8th St S

Kwik Trip—Hwy 54

Kwik Trip West Grand

Central Wisconsin Literacy Council

Manilla Gorilla

Mariani Packing Company

Paper City Savings

Pomp’s Tire Service

Quality Feed and Seed

Quality Foods IGA – Baker Dr

Quality Foods IGA – West Grand

Quality Plus Printing

Rapids Sign

Renaissance Distribution Center

Renaissance Learning

Schierl Tire & Service

Sleep Inn

South Wood County Humane Society

Stevens Point Brewery

Strawberry Lane

Taco Johns

The Dental Suite

The Gathering Place

The UPS Store

Tractor Supply Company

Unifirst Corporation

V.I.P Kennels

Walgreen’s

Walmart

Wisconsin Rapids Housing Authority

Wisconsin Rapids Rafter’s

WoodTrust Bank

WOW Logistics

YMCA – Wellness Center

160 BUSINESSES EMPLOYED INDIVIDUALS THROUGH ODC EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES (NEW Employers in BOLD)

Try to look at someone that you don’t know very well or at all. Imagine, if you had a pair of glasses that… when you put them on, you were able to see their hardships, their losses, the loneliness, the illness, the struggles, the abuse… that person may have in their lives. There isn’t one person that doesn’t have a life challenge of some nature going on right now. Now, imagine if you could do something life changing for that person … with a kind word, with an action, with some type of gesture…. When our staff work with people, we are trusted with those glasses…. To see into people’s lives, to know not only what their dreams are but what their struggles and hardships are. We work with the person to keep their eye on the goal, the job, the independence… that will be life changing and move through the past, the present struggles toward that goal. For each person we are privileged to meet and work with, we acknowledge that their accomplishments weren’t easy, that their journey to suc-

cess took heart, soul, and perseverance. We are so humbled to introduce these amazing people to you….

Sometimes the greatest barrier an individual has to overcome is fear. Fear can be a larger obstacle to overcome than even a physical or cognitive disability. This was the case for Tina. Smaller steps were taken for Tina to slowly build confidence. The transformation has been empower-ing for Tina and resulted in a job at Stoney River Assisted Living. Tina has had to become less reliant on ODC and family and has gained belief in herself. Without concern for her own difficulties and struggles, Tina is kind and helpful to the elderly residents on her job at Stoney River. They appreciate her warm smile and the assistance she provides. Tina learned the importance of giving back to her community through volunteering. Tina volunteers to make tray favors for home delivered meals, she was a bell ringer for the Salvation Army, she worked at a United Way fundraiser (brat fry) and delivered donated items to Mary’s Place Boarding House and area animal shelters.

When I first met William, he reported difficulty multi-tasking and keeping everything straight. Despite these barriers, William demonstrated that he is hardworking, motivated, reliable, detail oriented and experienced in providing excellent customer service. Tractor Supply provided William a work environment where he could flourish with the skill set developed from his past work experiences. From the onset, the store management team involved him in numerous assembly projects without the pressure of time restraints. Their insight and understanding allowed William to demonstrate his talent to comprehend blueprints and follow instructions and the ability to assemble a variety of inventory items from lawn furniture and chicken coops to lawn mowers and snow blowers. With continuous mentoring and support, William realized his potential and developed into a dynamic store team member . This past summer William, who had been receiving Social Security benefits, was offered and accepted full time hours. He is now eligible for Tractor Supply benefits and is independent of benefits. William achieved his personal goal to be independent. He is proud to be a member of the working community and part of a team who respects and values him for the knowledge and skill that he contributes to their store. Jan Villeneuve—ODC Employment Specialist.

Nicole was still in high school and living with her grandparents when we first met Nicole. She had lost her mother when she was 17 years old and was trying to find her way moving forward in her life. Her mother also had a disability and Nicole admired the independence she had and wanted to live her life as independently as she could. Nicole started working with ODC in 2010 with a school assessment followed with a DVR assessment. It was determined it would benefit Nicole to develop work skills at ODC while pursuing employment. After a period of time, Nicole determined that the center based pro-gram at ODC was not meeting her desired outcomes, and she ex-pressed that she wanted to work in the community. Nicole made the decision to discontinue her center based training at ODC and focus on the DVR services of looking for a job. During this time Nicole was also looking to make her home life more independent. She had many conversations with her grandmother, her guardian, on wanting to be independent and didn’t understand why she wasn’t allowed to do certain things. This would affect her whole attitude, making her be much more vocal about her wishes. As Nicole matured and learned more from the groups she is in she became more of an advocate for herself instead of appearing as someone just demanding things and getting angry and upset. A major concern for Nicole was her in home help. She was working with several agencies and did not like or trust some of the people who came to assist her. Her grandmother was hesitant to make changes and this caused Nicole to bring her frustrations to work. After many discussions, Nicole was finally able to take over her personal care by hiring self-directed supports that she interviewed and hired. This allowed her to surround herself with people she felt comfortable with and trusted. Nicole’s first interest was daycare and she tried this in a 4 week tem-porary employment where she learned she would not be able to pro-vide all the cares a child may need. Her second interest was clerical types of work. Nicole started working with Dragon Naturally Speaking which allows her to speak into a microphone and it will type what she says. This allows her to ‘type’ faster and spells words she may be unsure of the spelling of. Nicole knew she needed to keep working with it to make it work well and she persisted and it is something she is able to use when she has to type a lot of words. Nicole wanted a job that had flexibility. The job at Arborwood offered this to her. She worked one on one with job coaches for months be-fore she was able to do this independently. Nicole had a good working knowledge of computers and programs but had never worked with a calendar document. Once she learned the calendar, the activity direc-tor changed and she had to learn a new calendar style. Throughout this she remained positive. When she wanted to work more hours, we worked with her to figure out what she might like to do. We tried sev-eral activities until she found the ones where she was able to help the most. She needs only occasional support from ODC at this time and is able to work independently. Nicole has moved into her own apartment and finished high school.

She found a job that gives her the flexibility she wanted. She is her own supervisor of her personal cares. She is active in self-advocacy groups and shares this with others who have disabilities. She is engaged and looking forward to a life with her fiancé. She continues to improve her life each day by maintaining a positive attitude. She states “it just takes a lot of courage” when speak-ing about how far she has come in the past 4 years. Nicole is a member of both People First Wisconsin and ADAPT. People First Wisconsin is a statewide grassroots nonprofit self-advocacy organization run by and for people with disabilities, espe-cially intellectual disabilities. They work to empower people to speak up for themselves, to have their voices heard and to effect personal and societal change. Nicole has been charged with or-ganizing a group in the Wisconsin Rapids area. She currently has 15 members in the group. While they are starting slow, Nicole at-tends meetings in Stevens Point and Wausau where she learns how to assist people with self-advocacy on home and community concerns. ADAPT is a national grass-roots community that organ-izes disability rights activists to engage in nonviolent direct action, including civil disobedience, to assure the civil and human rights of people with disabilities. Nicole goes to monthly meetings where she helps with coordination of duties and activities. Nicole has gone with the group to rallies in Washington DC in 2012 and Little Rock AK in 2014. Nicole attends self-determination conferences where she learns to advocate for herself. Joan Korger—ODC Employment Agent

2014 Personal Achievement Award Nominees

“Ed’s work ethic is nothing short of amazing; he is a great inspiration to myself and our Kwik Trip team. It has been wonderful to watch him develop and it makes me proud to be a part of his growth.” Linda Liebe, Kwik Trip, Nominator “Arie has grown from a young adult who was unsure of his life to a successful shop assistant working five days per week. He has become an integral part of the Schierl Tire team.” Jen Pelot, ODC, Nominator “Lucas is always at work with a pleasant, helpful, positive attitude. He has grown to become a confident, independent employee at Hidden Creek Kitchen.” Nicole Trickle, ODC, Nominator “According to one of his coworkers at Tractor Supply, ‘William is capable of doing anything in the store. He is awesome … we just love him!’ All of his coworkers describe him as someone they can count on.” Jan Villeneuve, ODC, Nominator “With personal drive and ambition, Allan has taken every opportunity provided to him and used them to overcome his barriers and work toward his goals.” Courtney Grimm, ODC, Nominator “Nicole continues to improve her life each day by maintaining a positive attitude. When speaking about how far she has come, she states: ‘It just takes a lot of courage!’” Joan Korger, ODC, Nominator “With a strong work ethic and tenacious attitude, a desire to improve himself and the strength to carry on, Eric is reaching his goals one small step at a time.” Kristin Harvey, ODC, Nominator “Wayne is a valuable member of both the Marshfield community and the ODC family. He is a great example of how, given the right chance at the right time with the right support, everyone can achieve.” Chris Nemitz, ODC, Nominator “When Tina overcame her biggest barrier – fear – she couldn’t wait to go to work every day. This transformation has been empowering for Tina and inspiring to us all.” Sara Schueller and Lynn Haefer, ODC, Nominators “Amy is now taking pride in and enjoying her work, and most importantly, is feeling the positive benefits of contributing to society. Stacey Schultz, ODC, Nominator

Dennis Winch - ODC WISCONSIN RAPIDS PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT

AWARD RECIPIENT Dennis is a kind hearted man with a warm soul who truly cares for everyone around him - Raquel Syzmanski, ODC Transition Coordinator Dennis began working at ODC in 2002. He has had several job placements throughout the community and is currently employed as a seasonal grounds keeper at Fey Printing, Air Communications, and as of this summer, Adlee Construction. Dennis takes pride in his work. The owner of Air Communications thought so highly of Dennis that he referred him to the owner of Adlee Construction. Dennis also performs grounds keeping duties throughout the seasons at ODC. Dennis has found his calling and does an exceptional job. Dennis is an outstanding citizen. Dennis is married and is the primary caregiver for his wife Susan. Dennis also provides support for his elderly father, as well as, the primary support person for his sister who deals with mental illness. Dennis struggles with his own personal health issues but regardless of his hardships he always cares for his family members by putting everyone before himself. Although life is not always easy, Dennis makes every good faith effort in coming to work and leaving personal issues at home to focus on his work. Dennis would never let the quality of his work be effected by daily life personal hardships. Dennis is the true definition of a good, honest, hardworking person. Dennis deals with symptoms of depression and seasonal effective disorder. At times, especially during winter months, it is very difficult for Dennis to remain motivated and the side effects of his illness can take over. For those reasons, summer seasonal employment is ideal.

Dennis has proven to employers that he is an asset to their business and regardless of what Dennis may be going through he continues to excel and grow in these positions. It is a joy and complete inspiration being able to see Dennis get through hardships and continue to keep moving forward to better himself.

Jim Gosh - ODC MARSHFIELD PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT When I first met Jim, it was the summer of 2006 and he had just graduated from Pittsville High School. He had little competitive work experience and wasn’t sure what he wanted to do or if he wanted to get a “real job”. Jim was young… inexperienced, and lacked an understanding of realistic work expectations. By the fall of 2006, Jim was ready to try a part time cleaning job at McMillan Electric. Jim required 100 % job coaching to help keep him on track. But, with each new experience, Jim continued to prove to himself that he could be successful with new challenges. Jim continued his work at McMillan Electric, but by the spring of 2010, he accepted a job detailing cars at Associated Sales and Leasing. Jim worked hard to be a good team player and pull his share of the work load. This was a huge turning point in Jim’s maturity and development. He increased his hours at this job and was able to build his physical stamina and endurance. By the spring of 2014, Jim was open to another new challenge and accepted a part time position with Lang Furniture. When faced with scheduling conflicts, Jim decided to resign from his position at McMillan Electric and continue with the “perfect” work schedule of Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at Lang Furniture and Tuesday and Thursday at ASL. Jim successfully moved from struggling to work 4 hours a week… to handling two jobs and working 32 hours per week. His dependency on ODC drastically reduced. This summer, Jim moved out of his parent’s home into his own home where he takes care of his dog, his yard, and all that goes with adult independence. Jim’s personal life has also continued to develop. This summer Jim got engaged to his girlfriend and plans to marry in July 2015! Jim is always willing to include his friends on weekend activities and provides transportation so they can participate. He’s inclusive and tolerant of those less capable when he’s participated in Special Olympics activities. He’s the first one to offer encouragement and assistance when needed. In September, Jim was aware that one of his friends had been struggling with some depression. When he got to his friend’s apartment, he found that he needed help. Jim called for assistance and was able to get his friend the help he needed. Jim showed incredible judgment, strength and maturity in that very difficult situation, and because of his actions, his friend’s his life may have been saved that night. Since the summer of 2006, Jim has grown from an immature, unconfident young man, to the dependable, responsible, hard-working man he is today.” Mary Blanchard, ODC Employment Resource Manager

Marshfield Employer of the Year - Scotty’s Pizza “I feel that Scotty and his business are a great example of the kind of em-ployer that ODC wants to work with. Scotty is one of the nicest people that I have ever met. He does not look at the disability but at the abilities of each of the people he employees. Scotty understands the challenges that each person has to deal with . He never once sees them as "different" or "challenging". Scotty has established himself and his business as a strong support of ODC and our mission in our community,” Eric Gudmunsen, ODC Employment Agent.

WoodTrust-Bell Foundation, - ODC’s Partnership Award The WoodTrust-Bell Foundation has been a strong supporter of new ideas to start, improve or expand opportunities to people in program-ming. Their support for numerous projects over the years has provided training, equipment, and services that have benefitted countless num-bers. At Christmas, there is always a heartfelt gift that is given to “make Christmas better” for countless individuals who benefit from their generosity. Their gifts are from the heart and truly reflect the kindness and caring of the Bell Family.

John P. Melsen Volunteer Service Award Recipient - Julie Lang The definition of a volunteer is someone who gives of their time and talents without expectation of monetary payment or compensation. This year’s ODC awarded the Volunteer Service Award to Julie Lang. Julie has grown to be a strong supporter of ODC services and puts the time, work and passion into action. She developed and implemented a “friend raising event”, originally in Marshfield and now at both locations that raises awareness of the impact of services ODC provides on the individuals we serve. Julie does this with enthusiasm, and belief in our mission and the people we serve.

Walmart - Wisconsin Rapids Employer of the Year Without all of the businesses that employ through ODC, the organization’s mission could never be fulfilled. This year, Ann Lepak, ODC’s Director of Em-ployment Services, stated, “Wal-Mart has allowed individuals to try out jobs of interest, provided them with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, given feedback to workers and ODC staff to allow them to evaluate individual skills. They have hired several individuals as permanent employees.”

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT EFFECTIVENESS MEASURES

Long Term Support—Supported Employment 2013 2014 GOAL (Min/Opt) 2014 Actual Maximize # of hours worked per week 11.2 12-18 12.3 Maximize % working at Goal # of hours per week 93% 90-100% 94% Maximize earnings $7.80 >=$7.25 $8.20 Maximize % of employees receiving benefits 17% 25-40% 17% Maximize % of employees receiving wage increase 9% 45-65% 10% Maximize % of employees receiving a promotion 6% 5-15% 3% Maximize % of employees receiving more hours 6% 5-15% 5% Maximize # of successful closures 2 2-6 1 Maximize % on the job end of year 98% 75%-98% 97% DVR Supported Employment Maximize % of DVR Supported hires 24 or 100% 80-100% 24 or 100% Maximize % of DVR Supported maintaining jobs 100% 65-85% 87% Community Based Employment Maximize the % of DVR Placements 9 of 29 or 31% 50%/55%/60% 14 of 25 or 56% Maximize the # of hours worked per week 19 20-40 23 Maximize earnings $8.57 >=$7.50 $8.55 Maximize % receiving benefits 22% 35-55% 57% Maximize % of employees receiving a wage increase 11% 65-85% 0% Maximize % placements retaining jobs at 6 month review 91% 50% 92%

30 DAY Follow-Up Results - # of Surveys—59 Contact is made with individuals 30 days following discharge from programming to track the outcomes of services.

Did ODC assist you in achieving personal goals? 100% of those responding said — Yes Were you satisfied with the help that ODC gave you? 100% of those responding said — Yes Status 30 Days Post Discharge Program at Discharge 30 Employed 19 Community Based Employment 3 Further services not needed 12 DVR Supported Employment 4 Receiving Recommended Services 13 Prevocational Training Program 10 No Response 4 Other 1 On Waiting List 10 Other 1 Refused Recommended Services

Funding Sources for ODC Programs

The major agencies contracting with ODC to provide services for people with disabilities include: CCCW, DVR, Wood County Human Services, and additional family care units outside of our surrounding communities including individuals from WWC (Clark County). Additional funding for services is derived from area schools, individuals funded through IRIS, and private pay individuals.

The demographics of ODC for 2014 indicate that 55% of individuals weree served in the Wisconsin Rapids area and 45% in Marshfield & North.

The percentage of people with a primary diagnosis of developmental disability at 697 represents the largest disability group that ODC serves.

The percentage of people with multiple disabilities was 57%.

24.9% between 16-25 The largest percentages of people served were in the age groups 16 - 25 and 26—35, totaling 50%.

24.9% between 26-35 Male clients account for 60% of people served.

14.6% between 36-45 The largest percentage (94%) of people served were Caucasian.

21.6% between 46-55

11.3% between 56-65

2.7% over 65

PROGRAM STATISTICS AND COMPARISONS DVR 2014 2013 2012 2011 Family Care/County 2014 2013 2012 2011 # served 161 137 122 116 # served 425 429 409 377 # of new served 88 78 62 64 # of new served 48 56 64 49 # closed 76 64 63 56 # closed 39 52 36 32 #Job Placements 15 12 10 10 # work crew/enclave 40 42 39 37 # Supported 19 18 21 11 # in supported year end 133 119 110 80 # retaining jobs year end 126 117 107 79 % supported job retention 97% 98% 97% 98% Other Funding IRIS, Schools, Private Pay # served 25 28 38 32 # of new served 10 14 22 17 # closed 11 13 24 87

2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008

WORK SERVICES 134 152 142 156 154 155 159

WORKSKILLS 123 122 135 118 120 105 100

8 7 5 5 5 7 5

17 19 14 14 9

143 129 113 85 74 64 63

TOTALS 425 429 409 378 362 331 328

M IN U S D U A L 0 0 0 1 3 1 3

425 429 409 377 359 330 325

11 11 4 14 15 0 0

0 0 14 10 8 16 21

0 0 3 11 3 3 7

42 35 31 30 51 46 36

0 0 0 0 1 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 1 1

0 0 0 0 0 1 1

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 2 1

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

48 48 34 24 60 79 96

60 49 49 53 17 11 17

TOTALS 161 143 135 143 145 159 180

M IN U S D U A L 0 6 13 27 18 29 21

Total DVR 161 137 122 116 127 130 159

OTHER

W2 0 0 1 2 67 76 104

1 1 2 2 3 5 3

16 14 17 13 6 6 0

8 13 18 15 26 32 30

Total Other 25 28 38 32 102 119 137

School Work Program

SUPPORTED FUNCTIONAL

ASSESSMENTS

DM INTERVIEW/SKILL

DETERMINATION

DM WORK EVALUATION

DM CREDENTIAL PROGRAM or

WORK EXPERIENCE

MATERIAL HANDLING

ASSESSMENT

MATERIAL HANDLING

CERTIFICATION

MATERIAL HANDLING WORK

EXPERIENCE

JOB DEVELOPMENT

DVR SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT

Private Pay

IRIS

Total Family Care &

County

DVR PROGRAMS

EMPLOYMENT READINESS

ASSESSMENT

WORK ADJUSTMENT

BEGINNINGS

DAY SERVICES ONLY

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT

2014 #’s Served Report

FAMILY CARE/COUNTY

PROGRAM PARTICIPATION STATISTICS

*CARF accredited in Community Employment Services-Employment Support, Community Employment Services-Job Development, Employment Planning Services and Organizational Employment Services.

2014 EFFICIENCY MEASURES 2013 2014 Goal 2014 Actual

DVR Job Development Min—Opt · To minimize the # of days from entering 77 80/70/60 45 Ave.

Job Development to job experience or hire · Minimize # of days from referral to intake 10.5 90/60/30 14 Ave. DVR Supported Employment Program · To minimize the number of days from 199 100/90/80 130.5 Ave.

entering SEP to hire · Minimize the # of days from referral to entrance 1.6 90/60/30 10 Ave. Long Term Supported Employment Program · To minimize the # of days between 119 90/80/70 118 Ave.

losing a job & acquiring a new job · To maximize the # of Supported Employment to 0 2/4/6 1

independently maintain employment (Closures) · Minimize # of days from referral to intake 1 90/60/30 .5 Ave. Long Term Prevocational Services · Minimize # of days from referral to intake 9.5 90/60/30 14.3 Ave. Long Term Funded Workskills/BlendedVoc Day Services · Minimize # of days from referral to intake 13 90/60/30 7.4 Ave. REBALANCING GOALS FOR 2014 · Maximize # adding or transferring to community

employment services 16 10/15/20 20 · Maximize # of new referrals who go directly into

community employment services or a combination of community and prevocational services 64/101 or 63% 50% 71 of 105 or 68%

· Maximize # of agency based individuals who obtain at least p/t integrated employment 14 10/15/20 9

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

Are you satisfied with the job performance of the employees?

Are you satisfied with ODC’s support services?

Would you be a reference for ODC’s Employment Program? Yes/No

Are you satisfied with the follow-up from ODC staff?

Are you satisfied with the working relationship with ODC? Was it a good job match with your business?

100% 99%

94%

99% 100% 100%

OPPORTUNITY DEVELOPMENT CENTERS, INC. 1191 Huntington Avenue Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 2406 East 21st Street Marshfield, WI 54449 715-424-2712 WR 715-387-1161 MFLD M-F 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM COMMUNITY AND DONOR RELATIONS 715-818-6451 ELECTRONICS RECYCLING 715-424-2712 WR 715-387-1161 MFLD EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 715-818-6443 WR 715-996-1701 MFLD HIDDEN CREEK KITCHEN 715-818-6481 WR 715-996-1708 MFLD MAILING / PRINT SERVICES 715-818-6467

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