The Connector
Speaking Up For Us of Maine
In This Issue:
  • Winter Self-Care
  • Jon's Corner
  • Upcoming Training
  • Statewide Meetings
  • Employment Opportunity

Winter Self-Care

At a recent statewide meeting our topic was Winter Self-Care. We know that winter can be difficult. Whether it is the lack of sunlight, repeated storms, sickness or something else winter can be a difficult time of year for many of us. We took time to practice some mindfulness and breathing as a way to take care of ourselves. Click here for the video that we participated in.
We encourage you all to take time this winter to take care of you!
Jon's Corner

On Friday January 26th we traveled to Augusta Maine. It was snowing, but Monique Stairs, Stacy Giberson, myself, Marco Orlando, Brian Harnish, Cindy Thielen and Laurie Coldwell all arrived safely to represent SUFU at the CCSM 2024 Annual Lunch and Meeting.  CCSM stands for the Consumer Council System of Maine. We got to meet people we have not met before and see some familiar faces.  It was good to connect with Cathy, Kevin, and others.
 
Simonne Maline was the emcee of the event. She introduced the Keynote Speaker Charlotte Warren.  She shared what goes on at the statehouse, and how important people’s voices are at the statehouse.  It was encouraging to hear from Charlotte as we go into legislative season. 
Speaking Up For Us was given an award at the event.  It is called the Circle of Support Award. “Through teamwork and contributions of everyone we advance our purposes and improve the world around us. Together we are stronger.  Together we can make a difference.” 
Marco, Brian, Cindy and I accepted the award on behalf of SUFU.  I was able to speak at the podium and thank them for the award.  We know that it takes the members of SUFU to work together and get the work done.  
Upcoming Training!

Speaking Up For Us, along with the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council and Mad Hatter Wellness are excited to announce Empowered Together: Class Series on Healthy Relationships & Sexual Health For People of All Abilities. Register today at https://rb.gy/6qfl7d

Statewide Meetings Are Back



Our Statewide Meetings have restarted at 1:00 pm on Zoom. https://us04web.zoom.us/j/911978966


February Calendar
February 6 - Legislative Advocacy
February 13th - Heart Health
February 20 Legislative Advocacy
February 27 - Black History Month
We're Growing!
Speaking Up For Us is hiring a Chapter Advisor. This position has been updated to Full-Time for 35 hours. For more information about the position please see the job posting. Questions about this position can be sent to Monique Stairs at mstairs@sufumaine.org
Finally

We invite you to check out our website . Read our most recent blog post and subscribe to future blogs. You can also find the list of our chapter meetings, or follow us on Facebook. If you are a SUFU member we want you to join our members only Facebook Group. To do that please email Laurie Coldwell or Jon McGovern. We don't want you to miss anything.
Have an Idea for Something to be in The Connector?
Contact: Laurie Coldwell
Program Manager (207) 956-1004 / Ext. 1
lcoldwell@sufumaine.org
SUFU CONNECTOR
Speaking Up For Us of Maine
207-956-1004

www.sufumaine.org