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Aurora Value Words
• Resilient • Integrity • Courageous
• Compassion • Loyal • Passionate • Responsive
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"You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights."
–Maya Angelou
We know our employee-owners can handle all those things with poise and compassion! During this holiday season, we celebrate the dedication and commitment of one another! Thank you for your contributions to the services we provide to our consumers, clients, and communities!
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Dec. 3: International Persons with Disabilities Day. | |
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Did you know?
An estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability. This represents 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 of us.
Some persons with disabilities die up to 20 years earlier than those without disabilities.
Persons with disabilities have twice the risk of developing conditions such as depression, asthma, diabetes, stroke, obesity or poor oral health.
Health inequities arise from unfair conditions faced by persons with disabilities, including stigma, discrimination, poverty, exclusion from education and employment, and barriers faced in the health system itself. (Source: WHO Factsheet)
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Check out 5 additional ways to get involved with promoting full access, equal opportunities, and participation for all! | |
- Learn some basic American Sign Language (ASL) signs.
- Donate your unused eyeglasses.
- Like, Share and Follow disability advocates on your social media networks.
- Become a disability advocate in your local community.
- Buy from disability-owned businesses.
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Eau Claire Program Manager Janell Card's journey at Aurora Community Services began through her sister-in-law's positive experiences, leading her to apply for a position. Initially offered a Job Coach role, she chose to work directly with individuals in care settings, drawing from her 14 years of nursing home experience. Now marking 24 years at Aurora, she enjoys her semi-retirement role, working four days a week.
Janell's experience at Aurora Community Services is marked by several key highlights. She cherishes the family-like atmosphere, where colleagues celebrate special occasions together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Her diverse skill set, which includes cooking, personal care, and advocacy, has been instrumental in her work. Janell offers valuable advice to aspiring caregivers, encouraging them to maintain a positive attitude and approach tasks willingly. She also emphasizes the importance of work/life balance, advising others to leave personal issues at the door to better focus on their caregiving responsibilities
Outside of work, Janell enjoys outdoor activities and values family time, being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her commitment exemplifies the positive impact of dedicated caregivers on those they support.
Thank you Janell for sharing your passion, leadership, and talent with us!
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Our BEST Employees for the month of November are Katie Andresen from Direct Support and Abbey Dieckman from management!
Each winning employee will receive $150! Congratulations and thanks for bringing your BEST!
Nominees from Oct 22nd – Nov 21st:
Linda Aton • Nancy Campbell-Kelz • Abbey Dieckman • Ted East
• Narda Gordillo • Jocelyn Holder • Melody Jorgensen • Heidi Lang • Melanie Lepak • Jessica Lyberg • Angie Mandera • Jill Mattson • Tess McConville • Carli Stevens • Marni Waznik • Angenide Acquissa • Jazmine Daniels • Kristen Dusek • Kassidy Earhart • Noah Faught • Denise Garret • Jessica Helland • Yareliz Holmstrom • Cassie Johnson • Ashton Mack • Gina Martell • Philip Schlosser • Jami Sonnenberg • Joyce Swenson • Jamie Weidler
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Recognize someone for being their best! | |
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Names were drawn from the pool of nominees who spoke with us about their employment experience at Aurora. Thanks to each of our nominees for the above and beyond work you do to support our consumers and clients! You are the BEST!
Remember to send your nominations to BESTEmployees@AuroraServices.com.
Once nominated, employees will remain eligible for the bonus drawing throughout the year.
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We have Safety Winners for the month of October!
Congratulations to Katelyn Lenk – 041 (Eau Claire), and Shaina Gagas – 059 (Stevens Point)!
AND, we also have Safety Winners for the month of November!
Congratulations to Anna Johnson -- 093 (Wisconsin Rapids), and Cora Schaefer - 106 (La Crosse)!
These team members have demonstrated their commitment to safety and have won a $100 bonus for having done so.
Keep working safely to be entered in next month’s drawing!
S.A.F.E. = Stop And Focus Entirely!!
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Safety Tips
Footwear—Wear substantial winter outdoor footwear. Boots should have a heavy tread. Use ice cleats when necessary.
Floor Mats—Place floor mats both inside and outside entry points. Indoor mats should have a floor gripping backer. Outdoor mats should have a rough surface to help scrape snow from boots.
Porch Steps and Handrails—Repair damaged stair treads and loose hand rails. Keep steps and pathways clear from ice and snow as frequently as possible. Never climb or descend icy steps!!
Outdoor Lighting—Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and walkways are well lit at night.
Walk Slowly and Deliberately—Take slow, small, deliberate steps keeping feet shoulder-width apart.
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Precipitation—Stay informed about the potential for black ice, sleet and other winter precipitation.
Snow Removal with a Shovel -Store snow shovel in a convenient location. Look for a snow shovel with an ergonomic design. Remember proper body posture when shoveling: lift with your legs, keep feet shoulder width apart and remember to lift and place snow—do not twist and throw. Don’t forget to rest.
Salt/Sand—Place a bucket of salt/sand with a scoop or container near the doorway. Sand bags can be heavy—do not lift sand bags yourself. Move smaller container close to sand bag and fill.
Remember to Walk Like a Penguin!
- Arms at sides for balance
- Knees loose and toes pointed out
- Take short strides
And Stay Safe and Warm!
As winter approaches, be aware that office temperatures may vary. Aurora prohibits space heaters, candles, and wax warmers due to safety and sensitivity concerns. For questions, contact HR.
Happy fall…almost winter!
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The Art of Thoughtful Pause:
Reflecting on Japanese Cultural Etiquette
By Jenny Thomas
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As December brings its cozy vibes, heated blankets, and the joyous spirit of Christmas, it's a great time to think about the principles that guide how we interact with each other. One principle that's deeply embedded in Japanese culture is the idea of taking a moment—or even a day—to reflect before speaking. In Japanese culture, silence is not merely the absence of words but is a powerful form of communication. The pause allows individuals to thoughtfully consider their responses, thus demonstrating respect for the person speaking. This approach is mindful and encourages deeper understanding and more meaningful dialogue. In Japanese conversation, longer pauses are often considered normal. This obviously contrasts with the quicker pace of dialogue commonly seen in Western cultures, where silence is often perceived as awkward or uncomfortable ... or even neglectful.
On the flip side, rushing to reply can come across as careless or dismissive. Quick results might suggest that the person hasn't fully engaged with the topic, which can make interactions feel like they're lacking. This cultural nuance inspires us to think critically and respond thoughtfully, making sure that every engagement counts.
So as we gather with family and friends this Christmas, these customs can inspire us to embrace the art of thoughtful reflection. Whether during awkward chats with Uncle Larry or in a quiet moment somewhere amidst the holiday chaos, thoughtfully choosing our words can enrich our bonds and lead to more satisfying conversations.
Our world often feels like it's moving at whiplash speed, and this Japanese practice of mindful reflection is a gentle reminder to slow down, listen carefully, respond sincerely, and give others the gift of pause. The beauty of meaningful communication is not only that it connects us, it's also a wonderful gift to give and receive this December. In other words, it's okay if you don't respond to a text right away; it's okay to reflect on a task before rendering immediate results; it's okay to say "I need time to gather my thoughts on this" before offering feedback. This commitment to reflection not only enriches our interactions but can also empower us to grow.
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Welcome Aboard!
Please give our new hires a warm welcome!
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Mary Wood
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Specialist, Stevens Point
Why I applied for the job: I applied because I love to put a smile on others' faces. I love being able to help someone have a better day/life.
What I will bring to the job: Caring, honesty, someone that is dependable.
My background: Factory, caregiving, and housekeeper.
Family: Boyfriend Leonard, daughter (7), and stepson (14).
Hobbies/interests: Reading, traveling, cooking, and painting.
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Joey Foley
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, La Crosse
Why I applied for the job: I wanted to try something new and always enjoy helping anyone in need. Also to feel more accomplished.
What I will bring to the job: Positive attitude, laughs, hard work, and accountability.
My background: I've worked many different jobs such as owning a business in Winona to managing a doggy daycare.
Family: I am the middle child in my family; 3 brothers and 1 sister, and I have an 8-year old daughter named Lucy.
Hobbies/interests: Making people feel safe and happy.
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Karli M. Close
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Onalaska
Why I applied for the job: I worked as a caregiver in Eau Claire and found it to be a very rewarding position. I enjoy meeting people and getting to know their stories.
What I will bring to the job: A friendly and dedicated energy and excitement to learn.
My background: I used to work retail but since starting college I have tried to enter the medical field. I am studying genetics with the hopes of researching cancer.
Family: I have two older siblings, Teresa (37) and Kyle (28). Kyle has a daughter, Emilea, and I am her favorite aunt.
Hobbies/interests: I have always loved music and singing. I was in a show choir as well as an a cappella group. I also played softball for 15 years.
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Cassidy Carlson
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Baldwin
Why I applied for the job: I want to help others.
What I will bring to the job: I will bring a kind and caring personality to others around me.
Family: My family is from Northern MN, my parents and brother live up there with my dog.
Hobbies/interests: I am a photographer I have done weddings and grad photos but my specialty is landscape.
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Aminata Ndiaye
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Mental Health Technician, Chippewa Falls
Why I applied for the job: I'm looking at a future career in mental health services and thought this job would be a great opportunity to get some experience.
My background: I've been working at Walgreens and have also worked for a few summer camps.
Hobbies/interests: In my free time I like to draw, paint, and read. I also play a few instruments--mainly alto sax!
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Rob Metzenbauer
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Eau Claire
Why I applied for the job: I wanted a change from what I normally do for work. My son has disabilities so I am familiar with the life style.
What I will bring to the job: A positive attitude.
My background: Welding, fabricator.
Family: 3 girls and 1 boy with downs.
Hobbies/interests: Musician.
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Jerry Thompson
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Spooner
Why I applied for the job: I wanted to have experience.
What I will bring to the job: Caring and kindness.
Hobbies/interests: Hunting and fishing.
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Ashlie Tisland
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Vocational Coordinator, Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire
Why I applied for the job: The position is a fantastic blend of my passion for community services and my skills as a recruiter and former special education assistant teacher.
Family: I have 2 dogs, 2 cats ad my partner Kelsey!
Hobbies/interests: Hiking, camping, baking, cooking from cookbooks, and creating art.
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Serenity Perkins
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Program Assistant, Wausau Day Center
Why I applied for the job: To help be a positive part of someone's day.
What I will bring to the job: I will always be adaptive, engaging and eager to learn/try something new.
My background: I have worked as a teacher for a year before I started behavioral health within the healthcare setting.
Family: I have 9 siblings total. I am the sixth and the youngest sibling is 8.
Hobbies/interests: Hiking, travel, and always trying something new.
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Welcome to Aurora!
(Top) Serenity Perkins
(Bottom left to right) Adriana Campos, Andrea Eul
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We Have the BEST Staff
During the month of December, we are celebrating these anniversaries!
Aurora Management
Donald Andresen (32 years), Anna Holloway (3 years),
Adam Huber (1 year), Grace Zimmer (1 year), Candace Kapperman-Wolf (22 years, Nicolette Coss (22 years), LuAnn Esko (7 years), Marisa Lammer (12 years) and Erik Olson (8 years).
Aurora Direct Care Staff
Austin Walls (7 years), Brooke Knutson (3 years),
Abigail Potter (1 year), Janet Baker (6 years), Jessica Vidal (1 year), Devin Lehman (2 years), Sherri Pierce (28 years), Joel Bosse (16 years), Deborah Gentz (10 years), Amanda Lunde (2 years), Demetrius Banks (6 years), Robert Neary (3 years), Francis Okonmah (1 years), Kassidy Earhart (2 years), Kendra Forseth (1 year), Mirayra Rau (5 years), Allyssa Fulkerson (2 years), Jennifer Snow-Best (2 years), Samantha King (8 years), Scott Jakel (1 year) and Sherry Hagen (2 years).
When we combine all of these years of service,
we get 213 YEARS of experience at Aurora!
Thank you for sharing your time, talents and wisdom with us!
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