Senior Emotional Wellness Support

Our Easterseals LCSW, Lorraine Willias, is also making connections in the community with Seniors. Lorraine led a community event at Delamare Woods Retirement Community on March 9th, focused on emotional wellness. She discussed practical strategies for managing stress and sleep hygiene and led participants through mindfulness and chair yoga exercises. 

The Activity Coordnator shared afterwards that the residents enjoyed the presentation, and they are excited about potential future programs.

Tips to be an effective Mentor

• Lead by example - Demonstrate the values and behaviors you want your team to embody. 
• Practice active listening - Understand your team members' aspirations and challenges and help create pathways for their progress and development.  
• Provide feedback - Offer constructive feedback that is specific, actionable and growth-orientated.  
• Offer guidance - Encourage critical thinking by asking questions that guide the individual to the appropriate solution.  
• Celebrate success - Recognize milestones and progress and celebrate achievements to boost morale.

If you’re interested in general workplace skills, self-care including responsible consumption tips or service/hospitality training, access this Leadership Module and others HERE

The Sandwich Club: Tools for Caregivers

Caregiving can feel overwhelming—especially when you're supporting both aging parents and children. That’s why Easterseals is sharing The Sandwich Club, a digital membership built to support caregivers with empathy, tools, and community.

Get immediate answers from an AI trained to respond to caregiving questions, plus insights and encouragement from a community of fellow caregivers. From curated guides to real-life advice, The Sandwich Club helps you navigate challenges with clarity, confidence, and connection. Check it out HERE

VRP Broadcasting Students Honor WWII Veteran, Paul Boyer

Veterans Rally Point Broadcasting students, led by “Mary on the Mic,” recently produced a powerful podcast tribute honoring the life and legacy of Paul E. Boyer (1923–2026), a World War II Veteran who exemplified “The Greatest Generation.”

The interview captures heartfelt reflections, stories, and one final visit shared among Paul’s closest friends, preserving the voice and spirit of a man whose life was defined by service, friendship, and resilience. Paul served as a Flight Chief in the 417 Bomb Group during WWII, spending two years in the Pacific Theater.

We are proud of our Broadcasting students for helping preserve and share the stories of our Veterans through meaningful storytelling and media production.

See the full tribute HERE

Ron Funches on Austism and Meeting Yourself Where You Are

Hosted by Easterseals National, the 'Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong' podcast was joined by Ron Funches, a stand-up comedian, actor, and recent cast member on The Traitors.

Ron shares his perspective as both an autistic adult and a parent of an autistic son, reflecting on how his recent diagnosis has deepened his understanding of himself, his family, and the power of self-acceptance.

See the full episode HERE

Seeds that Grew Into Something More

At Veterans Rally Point, growth is something we talk about often—personally, professionally, and as a community. This spring, that idea took on new meaning through a growing partnerships with Baltic Nursery.

Through their support, our participants and members have rolled up their sleeves and gotten their hands in the soil—planting flowers, tending raised garden beds, and bringing life to our outdoor space. For some, it’s a chance to reconnect with a familiar skill. For others, it’s something entirely new. For everyone, it’s become a shared experience. 

Accessible raised beds ensure that everyone can participate. Whether planting, watering, or simply spending time outdoors, members are engaging in ways that support both physical and emotional well-being. What began as a few trays of flowers and vegetables is already transforming the space—and more importantly, the people within it. Confidence grows. Conversations start. Community strengthens. 

That’s the thing about planting seeds. You never fully know what will come from them. 

If you are interested in participating in our Therapeutic Gardening Program, email tcranfill@escrec.org for more info on how you can get involved.

Peer Meetup is a weekly opportunity to connect and share personal stories and experiences with the Easterseals VRP community or listen to invited guest speakers on various topics.

No registration required. Hot meal served starting at 4:00pm every Wednesday night. Speaker begins at 4:30pm.

If you’d like to bring a dessert or drink to share with the group, you are welcome to! Please come, listen and learn, and meet some new friends.

Would you like to share your story? Email Thena Cranfill at tcranfill@escrec.org