The Communicator - Winter 2009

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Developing Potential, Inc. 1 The Communicator Happy Holidays! from your friends at Supporting Wellness: Enabling Fulfilling Lives Inside This Issue: Staff Spotlight 3 Leading Healthier Lives 3 A New Way to Document 3 Consumer Spotlight 4 Gentle Teaching 4 H1N1 Update 5 DPI Receives Award 5 Access to Therapy 6 Keeping Active at DPI 7 Watco Manufacturing gives to DPI 7 Easy Ways to Support DPI 7 Volunteer Awards 8 Survey Results 8 A Word from our Director 9 Spring Gala 10 Friends of DPI 14 2009 Highlights 15 INDEPENDENCE 120 West Walnut Independence, MO 64050 (816) 252-0086 Fax (816) 252-3552 KANSAS CITY 1608A Prospect Kansas City, MO 64127 (816) 252-0086 The holidays always remind me of how grateful I am for the many blessings in my life. Every morning (at least during the week) I get to wake up knowing that someone WILL seek me out to give me a hug, I WILL make someone laugh, someone WILL make me laugh and I WILL truly be somewhere I want to be. OK, so I guess I’m lucky enough to have the same thoughts on Saturday and Sunday, too—my kids are hilarious little guys, and their arms are an outstretched source of continual love. Over the past 10 years, I have been fortunate to see my friends at Developing Potential go through many changes. Whereas the goal of my fellow co-workers and me is to provide an environment where people are safe, happy and truly cared about, and the overall wellness of each person encompasses all of the important aspects of having a quality program. DPI strives to provide additional support systems beyond those required by the state. We realize that people deserve every possible chance to Continued on page 2 From the Desk of Kari Wiss, Director of Operations Developing Potential Read about DPI’s Spring Gala with Keynote Speaker, Brad Moore, President of Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions - page 10

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Developing Potential, Inc. Newsletter

Transcript of The Communicator - Winter 2009

Page 1: The Communicator - Winter 2009

Developing Potential, Inc. ■ 1

The Communicator

Happy H

olidays

!

from you

r friend

s at

Supporting Wellness: Enabling Fulfilling Lives

Inside This Issue:

Staff Spotlight 3Leading Healthier Lives

3

A New Way to Document

3

Consumer Spotlight 4Gentle Teaching 4H1N1 Update 5DPI Receives Award 5Access to Therapy 6Keeping Active at DPI

7

Watco Manufacturing gives to DPI

7

Easy Ways to Support DPI

7

Volunteer Awards 8Survey Results 8A Word from our Director

9

Spring Gala 10Friends of DPI 142009 Highlights 15

INDEPENDENCE120 West Walnut Independence, MO 64050(816) 252-0086Fax (816) 252-3552

KANSAS CITY1608A ProspectKansas City, MO 64127(816) 252-0086

The holidays always remind me of how grateful I am for the many

blessings in my life. Every morning (at least during the week) I get to wake up knowing that someone WILL seek me out to give me a hug, I WILL make someone laugh, someone WILL make me laugh and I WILL truly be somewhere I want to be. OK, so I guess I’m lucky enough to have the same thoughts on Saturday and Sunday, too—my kids are hilarious little guys, and their arms are an outstretched source of continual love.

Over the past 10 years, I have been fortunate to see my friends at Developing Potential go through many changes. Whereas the goal of my fellow co-workers and me is to provide an environment where people are safe, happy and truly cared about, and the overall wellness of each person encompasses all of the important aspects of having a quality program. DPI strives to provide additional support systems beyond those required by the state. We realize that people deserve every possible chance to

Continued on page 2

From the Desk ofKari Wiss, Director of Operations

Developing

Potential

Read about DPI’s Spring Gala with Keynote Speaker, Brad Moore, President of Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions - page 10

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Thank You !

Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County - Eitas for your support. You make our

mission to serve people with developmental disabilities possible.

S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

achieve their fullest potential and can only fulfill those desires with the proper support. With hard work and perseverance, DPI has been fortunate over the past several years to receive additional grant support from funders like the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City for such needed enhancements as physical/occupational/speech therapy training for our staff as well as nursing support. These supports provide the icing on the cake to an already outstanding support system for the people we serve at DPI. I don’t just say that because I work here. I say this because I truly believe in the mission of what we do, and know in my heart that I am a better person for it.

Here’s to a bright, cheery and healthy holiday season! ■

Developing Potential, Inc.MISSION STATEMENT

Providing day habilitation services to adults having developmental disabilities; supporting them to

reach their fullest potential while maintaining an adult

dignified lifestyle.

INDEPENDENCE SITE120 West Walnut

Independence, MO 64050(816) 252-0086

Fax (816) 252-3552

DOWNTOWN SITE1608A Prospect

Kansas City, MO 64127(816) 252-0086

BOARD OF DIRECTORSSheryl Malloy

Chair

Kenneth P. Eitel Jr.Vice Chair

Stuart ShawSecretary

James MitchumCustomer Representative

Bill GibbsTreasurer

George PickeringMember

DPI is a designated 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization by the Internal Revenue Service and is proud to be a

CARF accredited agency.

Supporting Wellness - Continued from page 1

Weather Closings

Remember to check KCTV 5 or KMBC 9 for DPI program

closing information

Mark Your Calendar!

December 21-23, 2009 Staff In-service

December 24-25, 2009 Holiday break

January 1, 2010 New Year’s Day

January 18, 2010 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

April 2, 2010 Good Friday

May 31, 2010 Memorial Day

Developing Potential will be closed:

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STAFF SPOTLIGHTKansas City

Rosetta Brigham joins a number of staff who has gone above and beyond what is expected of them on a daily basis.

Ms. Rosetta, as everyone calls her, has seen Developing Potential through many changes and exciting times in her 16 years on staff. She’s become a part of many people’s lives.

Ms. Rosetta shows a high level of respect for everyone and helps out anyone she can, with a smile on her face. As Ms. Rosetta prepares for retirement in 2010, DPI salutes this kind woman and all she has done. We wish Ms. Rosetta the best of luck in her new life; she will always hold a special place in our hearts. ■

Independence

Recognized at this year’s gala as the Independence site’s Employee of the Year, Elizabeth Bohnert goes above and beyond to support the individuals who attend DPI with the upmost respect and dignity.

Working in Independence since May 2006, Liz has been a team leader and 1:1 staff. Liz is a team player who is always ready to step in to help out where needed with her bubbly personality and positive attitude.

Liz holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Avila University and is currently working on her master’s degree. Recently engaged, we wish Liz and her fiancé the very best! ■

Thanks to the generous support of the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City, Developing Potential currently has a nurse on staff. Catherine Pirotte travels between DPI’s program sites to provide medical assistance such as oversight of tube feeding and medication administration. She also conducts medical assessments and provides training for DPI staff on specific client medical issues. In addition, Catherine teaches medical advocacy classes for program participants educating them to become active in their own health care. ■

Leading Healthier Lives with the Support of DPI’s Nurse

Throughout this past year Developing Potential has been using an electronic documentation system for the majority of our customer records. The system, Therap Services, provides a web-based solution to the documentation needs in the developmental and physical disability fields. Therap is the national leader in electronic documentation for the field and presently partners with over 350 agencies in 40 states across the country. Therap was designed to dramatically reduce the cost of paper, stamps, mailing, faxing, copying, phone bills, staff travel time and fuel. Therap saves time communicating across diverse teams, creating reports and analyzing data while increasing the efficiency and accuracy of our internal processes.

As we move forward into 2010, DPI will continue the process of moving toward more efficient, paperless documentation through the use of Therap. It is our belief that this solution will allow us to communicate more comprehensively, provide greater quality assurance and fulfill our mission to assist our consumers in reaching their full potential. ■

A New Way to Document

Evon gets a blood pressure check

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CONSUMER SPOTLIGHT

Independence

Kim Lockwood, who many know as “Kimmy,” is a very special young woman indeed! Kimmy began receiving services at Developing Potential in September 2004, making great strides in improving her socialization skills. When she first started at DPI, Kimmy often appeared disinterested in activities in the team rooms. She struggled with participating in group activities with her peers. As Kimmy approached her fifth-year anniversary at DPI, she started participating in activities throughout the building, assisting with feeding the fish and birds, and she’s found a new love - painting. According to Kimmy’s mother, before her work at DPI Kimmy would take things off her bedroom wall at home; now, Kimmy proudly displays her artwork on those same walls. Way to go Kimmy! ■

When entering the doors of Developing Potential you should feel “safe” and “loved”. DPI staff is excited to embrace the methods of Gentle Teaching, which is based on a psychology of human interdependence. The principles of Gentle Teaching and the closeness it promotes are a natural

compliment to DPI’s existing culture and we are excited to incorporate it into our program. This technique starts with ourselves, our warmth toward others, and our

willingness to give without any expectation of receiving anything in return. It asks caregivers to look at themselves and their spirit of gentleness to find ways to express warmth and unconditional love toward those we serve. It views our role as critical and requires a deep commitment to personal and social change. DPI staff is grateful to Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County-Eitas for bringing the Gentle Teaching movement to Jackson County by providing free training to area organizations. To learn more about Gentle Teaching, please visit www.gentleteaching.com. ■

Gentle Teaching at DPI

Melissa and Meredith at training

Kansas City

Those who know Marcella Cornelious know personally that she is a wonderful woman. Marcella has been participating in Developing Potential’s program since July 1995. Throughout her years with DPI, Marcella has helped out in numerous ways. Whether it’s running errands or volunteering to help other customers when they are having a rough time, Marcella lends a hand. She’s always the life of the party when celebrations occur! Marcella is a member of DPI’s performing group traveling to showcase her talents at nursing homes and schools in the area. Marcella also assists with all safety checks in the building through her participation on the Safety Committee. Marcella - we couldn’t do it without you! ■

Kari shares about Gentle Teaching at a staff in-service

Did You Know?March is

Developmental Disability Awareness Month!

Please look for information from DPI on our upcoming

March awareness activities.

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H1N1 Update: What DPI is doing to support overall wellness this cold and flu seasonAs the flu season is upon us, we must all work together to ensure the health of everyone affiliated with DPI. DPI takes the health and safety of all our consumers, staff and families in highest regard.

We are taking steps to ensure wellness of all at DPI:• DPI spent more than $2,000 to purchase new foaming hand sanitizers to be placed in various locations throughout each building. • We ask that each person entering the building ‘Squirt and Be Alert’; Squirt your hands with sanitizer, and then Be Alert of flu-like symptoms you may have. • DPI will maintain a clean environment by sanitizing tables and equipment throughout the day, as well as a thorough cleaning with a disinfectant each evening. • DPI has purchased hospital grade disinfecting ‘foggers’, which when set off, will disinfect everything within 6,000 cubic feet. We will utilize these in the team rooms, cafeteria, restrooms, etc. as needed.• DPI’s nurse provided a training for all staff on signs, symptoms and response to H1N1 flu. DPI’s nurse is funded through a grant from the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City.• DPI has a Customer Illness Policy. Please note that individuals must obtain a doctor’s release prior to returning to the program if the individual has been absent due to a communicable disease, or if the individual has been absent for three or more days.• DPI Management will continue to keep abreast of Center for Disease Control’s information regarding H1N1 and other health related issues.

Together, we must do the following:• Know the signs and symptoms of the flu. Symptoms of the flu include fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit, 37.8 degrees Celsius or greater), cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache and feeling very tired. Some people may also vomit or have diarrhea.• Keep sick consumers at home for at least 24 hours after they no longer have fever or do not have signs of fever, without using fever-reducing drugs. Keeping consumers with a fever at home will reduce the number of people who may get infected.• Do not send consumers to DPI if they are sick. DPI will notify individual’s residences to pick up anyone who becomes ill while at DPI.

For questions regarding DPI’s policy, please contact Kari Wiss, Director of Operations, at 816-252-0086 ext. 101 or [email protected]. For more information about the flu, visit www.flu.gov , or call 1-800-CDC-INFO for the most current information about the flu. We will notify you of any changes to DPI’s strategy to prevent the spread of flu. ■

Squirt and Be

Alert!

Developing Potential Receives Award This past April, DPI was honored to receive the Innovation/Excellence in Services and Supports Award from Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County- Eitas. The Award is given to an agency that demonstrates exemplary service to people with developmental disabilities and whose services and supports reflect national trends and leadership in the field of developmental disabilities. Barbara Winkler, Eitas Board Member,

poses with Rebecca Case, Kari Wiss, Lori Oxborough and Mary Theis of DPI

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Many people with developmental disabilities lose access to the valuable services of occupational, physical and speech therapies when they graduate from high school. As a result, many people, including many who attend Developing Potential, lose essential skills and range of motion decreasing the independence they spent their youth working to gain. DPI began the Increase Access to Services Project in August 2006 to address these issues. With the support of the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City, DPI contracted with registered therapists to provide therapy assessments, goal development and assistive equipment for the people we serve as well as ongoing training and support to DPI staff.

Stacy is only one of the many customers who have benefited from the Increase Access to Services Project. Stacy has cerebral palsy. Her range of motion was limited; she was unable to do the things most people do for themselves everyday like washing her face, feeding herself and turning the pages of a book. Stacy’s muscles were tight and uncomfortable. Her arms remained extended from her side. A DPI staff member would have to assist Stacy to move her arms in enough to allow her wheelchair to

go through doorways. Stacy relied on others to do almost everything for her.

Through the Increase Access to Services Project, Stacy has been assessed by a registered therapist who designed specific occupational and physical therapy activity goals for her. Through hard work, Stacy can now pull her arms in to enter the doorway without staff assistance. Stacy’s therapist recommended assistive devices that were purchased through the project which, coupled with her new flexibility, have dramatically increased her independence. Stacy uses a communication device that allows her to introduce herself, greet her friends and ask for things she needs. Stacy’s

increased range of motion allows her to use an extender device to feed herself, brush her teeth and cook with minimal help from staff.

As a result of participating in this project, the most evident change in Stacy’s life is how she feels about her new-found independence. Many times before Stacy takes a bite of food or turns a page in a book by herself, she looks around to make sure people are watching. Stacy still needs support from staff, but the fact that she can complete some parts of each activity independently has increased her self-confidence. Stacy and all those who care about her are enormously grateful for the amazing difference the Increase Access to Services Project has made in her life.

The project, which started with only 11 participants, has now grown to serve more than 70. The Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City has granted DPI the necessary funding to continue this important project through 2010. DPI is grateful to the foundation for its support and commitment to the people DPI serves and the confidence its leadership has shown in our program. DPI appreciates the foundation’s dedication to eliminating barriers to quality health for uninsured and underserved members of our community. ■

S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

Therapy Access Changes Lives at Developing Potential

Paulette uses a wedge-shaped cushion and a ball to perform exercises to strengthen her

neck and back muscles

Stacy uses an extender and communication device to ask for things she needs

Funding for the Increase Access to Services Project, which provides nursing and therapy

services to DPI consumers, is provided in large part by the Health Care Foundation

of Greater Kansas City. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

For more information on the foundation please visit www.HealthCare4KC.org

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Keeping Active at DPI

Developing Potential staff and consumers enjoyed practicing a healthy lifestyle in a number of fun and exciting ways this year. DPI Exercise Club members met each week to participate in some form of exercise, whether it was playing the Wii or

Sweatin’ to the Oldies with Richard Simmons. What a joy it is to see the consumers’ faces light up when they win a dance-off competition or bowl a 190 on the Wii!

This past July, DPI’s Program Planning Committee dedicated an

entire month to health and wellness. Activities for the month included a focus on healthy eating, exercising and developing self-advocacy skills like how to get the most from a doctor’s visit. DPI staff and consumers are looking forward to finding new ways to keep active and healthy in the New Year! ■

S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

Marie gets active with Wii Rock Band

Watco ManufacturingDeveloping Potential would like to give a big Thank You to Watco Manufacturing and their employees in Independence, MO. As a result of its employee match program, which boasts one hundred percent employee participation, Watco has donated over $9,000 to DPI toward program services and supplies since January 2008. Even in these difficult times Watco and its employees continue to give to others and we are grateful for their support.

Thank you Watco Manufacturing We Appreciate You!

Easy Ways to Support DPI

When you use your computer...

Just use GoodSearch.com to search the Internet. Every time you do, money will go to DPI. The site is powered by Yahoo!, so you will get the same quality search results that you are used to. Just choose Developing Potential on the GoodSearch homepage and you are ready to surf the web! The more people who use this site, the more money DPI will receive. Please spread the word to your friends and family.

When you talk to others...

Remember to tell your friends, family and employer about these easy ways to support DPI. Whether they shop for holiday gifts, buy office supplies, search the internet, or do all three, DPI and the people we support will greatly benefit.

When you have a few extra items...

DPI is always in need of in-kind donations. Below is a partial list of items we need. Please contact us at (816) 252-0086 for specifications or to inquire about additional in-kind contribution needs:

Winter Hats Relaxation CD’s Wet wipes

Mittens Non-latex gloves Markers, Colored pencils

Scarves Personal hygiene items Paper goods (napkins, plates)

Coats Towels/washcloths Construction paper

Gift Certificates to restaurants, bowling alleys, etc. for off-site activities

Visit us on the web at www.developingpotential.org

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S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

OUTCOME: PEOPLE ARE SUPPORTED TO ATTAIN PHYSICAL WELLNESS

DPI program participants who choose to participate in exercise classes - 55%OUTCOME: PEOPLE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO ADVOCATE FOR THEMSELVES, FOR OTHERS AND FOR CAUSES THEY BELIEVE IN

DPI program participants who participate on boards and committees - 56%

OUTCOME: PEOPLE BELONG TO THEIR COMMUNITYDPI consumers participating in off-site goals - 98%

VOLUNTEER AWARDS

Kansas City

Anita Grigsby has been a long-time volunteer for both locations of Developing Potential. Since she started volunteering nine years ago, Anita has provided assistance with all our holiday music and gatherings. Anita dresses up in her holiday best, often including a festive hat, and plays the piano at holiday parties taking consumer requests. Anita often sings along adjusting the tempo ensuring everyone has a good time. Thanks for making such beautiful music, Anita! ■

IndependenceAnita McAfee volunteers her time to help our DPI Puppets and Players perform at our location as well as at area nursing homes. Anita brings her electric piano with her on these outings and, together with DPI staff, selects music to fit the theme of each gathering. During her time as a volunteer, Anita has gotten to know many individuals at DPI, both staff and consumers – caring about both in more ways than one. Thanks to Anita for sharing her talents with us! ■

SURVEY RESULTSThis past August, DPI completed a needs assessment/satisfaction survey with consumers, family members and other stakeholders. Here are some of the results.

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

No

Yes

Are you satisfied with the services DPI provides?

Do you have positive outcomes from DPI services?

Do you feel safe at DPI?

Are you treated with dignity and respect at DPI?

Quality Service Indicators

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

MedicalSupport

VocationalTraining

AdditionalDay Programming Hours

Aging Services

Transportation

Residential

What services will you need in the future?

“DPI offers quality services to my daughter in a safe, clean and pleasant environment. I could not

picture her in any other program. The staff treat her with respect and are attentive to her needs and the choices she makes. I have always been treated with

respect and feel that my involvement and input is welcomed and encouraged.”

Parent comment from our survey:

People Matter - Outcome Indicators January-July 2009

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‘Tis the season to celebrate the Season of Giving A Word from our Executive Director Rebecca Case

In reflecting upon the past year, it is clear the country is facing times like never before. The mortgage industry fallout, the stock market issues, the financial system bailout, conflicts abroad and rising unemployment rates weigh heavily upon the hearts and minds of many Americans. Families have been forced to give

up their homes, fight for employment and sacrifice their lifestyles. Amid these uncertain economic times, one certainty remains; the Season of Giving. All around us are reminders that we are in the season of giving. The Salvation Army bells ring in the season as they greet me on my walk into the grocery store. It is the sound of a bell that calls out for people to give so that the many different services offered in our community may continue into the next year. When they hear the sound, my children quickly get their coins to drop into the bucket. I am thankful for their enthusiasm to help and I am thankful for the Kansas City community. The people of Kansas City are generous and provide for those whose needs are unmet.

The bell is just one of many reminders this time of year. It is these reminders that prompt me to reflect on the many people who give of themselves to support our mission at Developing Potential. I am always encouraged by the many volunteers, staff and donors who support DPI so that we may continue to serve people with developmental disabilities in living to their fullest potential.

This year found us planning our Spring Gala community awareness event with keynote speaker,

Brad Moore, president of Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions. We concluded the year with wonderful news of multiple grant awards for our Increase Access to Services Project. DPI is privileged to have received grant support through foundations such as the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City (see articles on pages 3 and 6), Truman Heartland Foundation, Griswold Foundation, and H&R Block Foundation. (see page 7).

Annually, DPI also seeks grant support from Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County –Eitas to help fund the cost of service. The Eitas staff and board work diligently to support and empower people with disabilities in areas such as transportation, case management, day habilitation and residential services. We are grateful for their ongoing support of Developing Potential. These foundations and service delivery systems exist in an ongoing spirit of giving... supporting each person to reach their potential.

There is no way DPI could effectively serve our program participants without the many expressions of generosity and sacrifice that are offered by all who have contributed and volunteered this past year. Each and every gesture has been instrumental in accomplishing our mission. If this year has taught us anything it is that nothing should be taken for granted.

I hope each and every one of you who supported DPI this past year will know how truly grateful we are for your help! From our DPI family- consumers, staff and board - we wish you a very blessed season of giving. May the spirit always be alive in your heart and remain throughout the year.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! ■

S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

In MemoryMichael HaseltineIt is with great sadness that we share the passing of Michael Haseltine, Deputy Director of Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County – Eitas on Nov. 5, 2009. Michael was a tireless advocate for people with developmental disabilities and a valuable support to the organizations who provide services to them. He will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Michael P. Haseltine Scholarship Fund, in care of Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County, 8508 Hillcrest Road, Kansas City, MO, 64138. The scholarship is intended for college students studying in the field of developmental disabilities. Matching contributions will be made by Eitas.

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Developing Potential held a Spring Gala this May at John Knox Pavilion. Our keynote speaker was Brad Moore, president of Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions. Brad is responsible for the development and production of the Hallmark Hall of Fame, the most honored series in U.S. television history. It was a privilege to have Brad as our keynote speaker. Brad and Hallmark Productions have made an enormous impact on disability awareness through the respectful and ability-focused portrayal of people with developmental disabilities in numerous movies and TV commercials over the years.

The evening was a wonderful celebration of Developing Potential’s 16 years of service in Jackson County. The Gala theme was also our company motto for the last two years: Focusing on strengths, fostering independence, changing lives… Developing Potential. DPI presented employee, consumer and volunteer awards for each program site and shared a year-in-review photo montage highlighting exciting consumer activities and all-around great times. DPI also showed “ A Credo for Support”, a powerful video made in memory of Tracy Latimer by Norman Kunc & Emma Van der Klift. DPI was pleased to share the updated marketing video of DPI services and supports with the crowd. It received rave reviews!

The silent auction was a success with donated items including ballet and symphony tickets, spa days, and several family event packages. The live auction also boasted several exciting items to bid on from a hot air balloon ride to a week’s stay at a Bella Vista, AR timeshare, generously donated by a DPI parent. Bonaterra Catering provided a wonderful selection of food for the event. Kari Wiss and her mother, Anita Grigsby, who was the volunteer of the year for our Kansas City location, entertained attendees with their beautiful piano and flute pieces. DPI received excellent feedback from the enthusiastic crowd of parents, consumers, staff and community members who attended.

Thank You to the many supporters and volunteers who made the event a success. We could not have done it without you. Plans are underway for a future event with comedian Dave Henderson.

If you would like to help with our 2011 event, please contact Rebecca Case at 816-252-0086, ext. 155. ■

Spring Gala ‘09

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DPI would like to thank these generous sponsors of our Spring Gala...

Developing Potential Spring Gala 200928

ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW

The Englewood Court Building 401 NW Englewood Road Suite 100Kansas City, MO

816-842-1922

Wills, Trusts and Probate Law•

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Over 22 years of legal experience

Our Sponsors

Front of the ClassAmazing, inspirational story of overcoming Tourette Syndrome.

PromiseStory of a man who cares for his brother with schizophrenia after their mother’s death.

Love is Never SilentA young woman struggles with her own need for independence and the obligation she feels for her deaf parents.

The Boys Next DoorThe story of men with developmental disabilities and their lives together in a group home.

Watch these Hallmark Hall of Fame classics:

AUCTION DONATIONSBob and Charlene AdamsAllee and CompanyAMF Strike and Spare LanesBatteries PlusBolero SpaBonterra CateringBott Radio NetworkBraata RestaurantCanoe Club RestaurantJeff and Rebecca CaseChristian Youth TheaterChristine’s Salon on SterlingComfort Suites IndependenceCrowley FurnitureDave and Buster’sDesign and Capture StudioEl Sombrero Mexican RestaurantFlowers by BernieFriends of DPIFun Services of KCNorm and Sharon GuettermannEd and Jean HaggertyHappy Hour, Inc.

Harrah’sHeritage AntiquesHighway 7 ChiropracticHoliday Inn Express IndependenceJazz Louisiana KitchenKansas City BalletKansas City RoyalsKansas City SymphonyKansas City ZooKennedy’s Bar and GrillKimak Pest ControlLa Bodega RestaurantLee’s Summit JazzerciseDiane MackMagic EntertainmentMaya YogaMirror Image Express Car WashNazarene Publishing CompanyNew Theatre RestaurantOlive Branch InnRita Ortiz and FamilyParadise ParkDeb ParsonsPaul Mesner Puppets

Phoenix Theaters – Legends 14Photography by TeresaPierpont’s RestaurantPoppin Joe’s KettlePowell GardensWade RichardsonRiekhof’s Atlanta Bread Rejuvenate Chiropractic CenterChris RoundsRustici and Associates ChiropracticSage Garden StyleSarah Rimel PhotographyRichard and Kathy SaxtonStanford’s Comedy ClubSurgical SpectrumSylvan Learning CenterTopsy’sTotal Body and MoreT-Rex UMKC Conservatory of Music and DanceWaldo PizzaWines by JenniferWyldewood Winery and Cellars

Wynco Properties, Inc. and Terri WynneYMCA Independence

DONATIONSAndrea ArroyoAnita GrigsbyArt Glass ProductionsBonterra Catering Boulevard BrewingCarolina, Miguel and Jenny Martell Carolyn TittleJeff and Rebecca CaseDan Griessel, auctioneerHallmark Cards, Inc.Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions and Brad MooreHyVee CateringJohn Knox Pavilion Karen LopezMary TheisMaywood PrintingNellie’s Sweets and Kaci MoranPam & Richard SmithPhotography by Teresa and Teresa

FeagansSonicTargetWalmartKari WissWynco Properties, Inc. Steve & Terri Wynne

SPONSORSHIPDr. & Mrs. Edward HaggertyDuane Charles Hallmark Cards, Inc.Joan SlaghtKansas City Life InsuranceKenneth P. Eitel Jr Norm and Sharon GuettermannSharp-Long 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & HeatingStuart Shaw, Attorney at LawSummit Strength and Physical TherapyTechnology SolutionsTherap ServicesWinco Properties, Inc. Steve & Terri Wynne ■

Hallmark Cards, Inc.

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Developing Potential, Inc. ■ 13

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

2150 NW South Outer Road Suite 100Blue Springs, MO [email protected]

816-524-4308w w w . s h a r p l o n g . c o m

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14 ■ Developing Potential, Inc.

S U P P O R T I N G W E L L N E S S : E n a b l i n g F u l f i l l i n g L i v e s

PLATINUM PACESETTERS ($10,000+)● Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County - Eitas

● Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City

● The John C. Griswold Foundation

GOLDEN GUARDIANS ($5,000-$9,999)● City of Independence

● Watco Charities

● Morgan Family Foundation

SILVER SUPPORTERS ($1,000-$4,999)● Dr. & Mrs. Edward Haggerty

● Truman Heartland Foundation

● Mr. & Mrs. Norm Guettermann

● Mr. & Mrs. Steve Wynne

● JC Crossley and 72 Degrees

● Mr. Kenneth P. Eitel, Jr.

BRONZE BOOSTERS ($500-$999)● Knights of Columbus

● The Winans Group

● Ms. Rita Ortiz

● Hallmark Cards, Inc.

● Mr. Dave Cook and Technology Solutions

● Mr. & Mrs. Robert Adams

● Mr. Rabiya Suleman

HELPING HANDS ($100-$499)● Ms. Rosemary Polk

● Ms. Nora Roberts Memorial

● Ms. Paula Panarisi

● Ms. Jennifer Hart Memorial

● Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd Slaght/Ms. Jodee Thomas

● Mr. & Mrs. Zalmer Nichols

● Erin’s Pub

● Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Nill

● Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Gann

● Mr. & Mrs. Richard Smith

● Ms. Carolyn Tittle/Ms. Kelly Tittle

● Ms. Joan Henges

Without the support of foundations, businesses and people like you, the mission of DPI would not be possible. DPI would like to thank the community for their support of people with disabilities.

Together we can make a difference!

FRIENDS OF DPI

● Mr. & Mrs. John Kimak Donor Advised Fund

● Mr. Duane Charles

● Ms. Diane Mack

● Ms. Judy Green

● Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Lower

● Ms. Sally Lockwood

● Ms. Karen Baker

● Mr. Stuart Shaw

● Ms. Kari Wiss

● Ms. Lori Oxborough

● Mr. & Mrs. Richard Saxton

● Ms. Chris Rounds

● Ms. Deb Parsons

● Douglas Dental

● Mr. Bruce Shouce

● Kansas City Life Insurance

● Mr. & Mrs. Bill Gibbs

● Ms. Kristina Leibold

● Ms. Rita Bair

● Mr. & Mrs. Jim Claney

● Mr. & Mrs. George Pickering

● Ms. Victoria Menninger

● Ms. Amy Cox

● Mr. & Mrs. Robert Valdivia

● Summit Strength & Physical Therapy

FRIENDS OF DPI (up to $99)● Mr. & Mrs. James Haggerty

● Ms. Hila Newman

● Ms. Kim Johnson

● Ms. Margie Bodine

● Ms. Barbara Conaghan

● Ms. Patty Waddle

● Mr. & Mrs. Mike Bellman

● Ms. Tammy J. Irvin

● Mr. & Mrs. Jim Planey

● First Federal BankThank You !

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Developing Potential, Inc. ■ 15

D P I H I G H L I G H T S

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1. Jim and Suzanne enjoy themselves at Water Day.2. Stephen smiles for the camera.3. Ronald and Jon have fun at the DPI carnival.

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4. Tami and Stacy make a snack. 5. Adam and Chris pose for the camera.6. Ricci gets up close and personal with a canine friend.

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7. Jennifer has a splash at McCoy Park. 8. Nick plays a tune for Rebecca.

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9. Emily, Mary, and Lori have a chat. 10. Ardella shows off her face painting at the DPI Carnival.

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Developing Potential, Inc.120 West Walnut

Independence, MO 64050RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

SAVE THE DATE! Kansas City Hot Air Balloon Invitational 2010 | May 28 – 31, 2010 Celebration Park Gardner, KSCome watch the balloon bearing our name!