"No one is useless in this world who lightens
the burdens of another."
- Charles Dickens
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Our featured Value Word of the month is:
Integrity—a firm belief in our values
Aurora makes decisions based on whether the decision fits our core values and is part of our drive to do the right thing for consumers in all circumstances.
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Owners Corner
— by Stephanie Ischer —
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This month’s featured owner of Aurora is Lisa Bechel.
Lisa Bechel, formerly Schumacher, came to Aurora in the summer of 2019. She had some experience working direct care in her home state of Nebraska and knew that she wanted to continue working in the field when she and her then fiancé moved to Wisconsin. After doing some job searching, she found Aurora. According to Lisa, “During my interview with Kris Carlsrud, I instantly knew that this is where I wanted to work. I had never felt more comfortable during an interview, so I was very happy when I was offered a position and gladly accepted.”
Lisa’s journey within the company began as a direct support staff at 010 in Menomonie, and she became the PM shortly after that. In the spring of 2021, she took an admin position in the Menomonie office for Aurora Community Health and later took on tasks for Aurora Residential, supporting the Central and Northwest Regions. She can be seen at sites meeting with new Program Managers to train them. She also assists when there is a new consumer by getting their information into RTasks and to the pharmacy so that consumers have their medications the day they move in. She assists with transports, taking consumers to appointments, and goes to the site to help when consumers are having a tough time. These are just a few of the things Lisa does. She is a big help with any need the operations or office may have!
When asked what she enjoys about her job, Lisa said, “In my current role, I enjoy the versatility and flexibility. Each day is very different. I enjoy being busy, but I also enjoy having the ability to be in the sites and spending time with consumers.” When she isn’t at work, newly-wed Lisa says she enjoys spending time with family and friends, camping, fishing, sightseeing, and reading a good book.
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Featured Service
— by Jesseca Erb —
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This month, we feature the services provided by the IT Department, made up of Dustin Doornink, Director of IT; Juan Gordillo, Assistant IT Director; and Kevin Crowell, IT Specialist.
The Information Technology Department, also known as IT, is a critical component of Aurora’s success. Not only does this department oversee the installation and maintenance of our computer network systems, it also makes it possible for us to communicate, collaborate, and automate routine tasks. Without this important service, we would not be able to perform countless duties or responsibilities as efficiently as we currently do.
This department’s main goal is to provide technology resources that improve each employee’s efficiency and performance. In order to keep the technology services running smoothly, the IT Department focuses a great deal of energy and effort on installing, updating, upgrading, and maintaining all technology-related equipment. This includes servers, backup storage, network/security devices, laptops, copiers, printers, scanners, faxes, cell phones and phone systems.
IT manages email communications, the Aurora website, our Citrix network, Residex, UKG/Workforce Dimensions, and Procentive. More specifically, every time an email is sent, a timestamp is made, Residential documents services, or services are billed through Procentive, IT is at the helm to ensure that all of these systems are operating optimally. To ensure compliance with security standards, IT also administers employees’ login credentials and permissions for all of the different systems.
When technical issues come up, IT helps anyone using an Aurora technology system to find solutions to any question or issue through the IT Help Desk service. This might entail installing new software or hardware, repairing hardware that has become faulty, training employees in the use of new software or security practices, or updating old systems and software. No matter what, IT does everything they can to get us back on track when any technical issues arise.
Thanks for everything you do, Dustin, Juan, and Kevin!
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Financial Coaching Available
to All Employees
— by Gina Krueger —
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Financial preparation is critical to achieving financial success, and REALiving offers financial coaching services designed to help employees with a variety of financial matters, such as:
- Budgeting assistance
- Financial preparation for college
- Financial crisis and hardship assistance
- Credit counseling
- Debt management and consolidation
- Identity theft support
For assistance with financial concerns, each employee is eligible for a 30-minute telephone consultation, per issue, with a trained financial counselor from our affiliate provider CLC, Inc. Additionally, employees can utilize their 4 professional coaching sessions to work with a financial coach for more detailed and individual needs. Either type of financial services can be accessed by calling our EAP Call Center at 877.256.9302.
Employees also have access to an array of web-based information and tools to help with all their financial needs. Our web-based financial information is practical and includes various planning tools. These resources can be accessed by visiting www.REALiving.com.
Password: Auroraemployee)
You may also be interested in tuning in to a new Netflix production, "Get Smart with Money," where financial advisers share simple tips on spending less and saving more.
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Featured Budget Item
Vehicle Expenses
— by Marni Waznik —
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Aurora currently owns 74 vehicles. They are an important part of the services we provide since it’s critical that those we serve have the opportunity to get into their communities and engage in the activities any of the rest of us do. Some organizations ask employees to use their own vehicle for such purposes, but Aurora has never expected employees to take on that cost or liability.
Here’s some information important to Aurora owners about our vehicles:
In 2020, we had 11 vehicle incidents; in 2021, there were 12 incidents. So far in 2022, we have had 8 incidents—4 of them when employees were backing/parking a vehicle, and 4 when the vehicle was struck by something (rock, other vehicle, gazebo!). We spend $14,000/month on vehicle payments and allowances and our insurance costs us $83,672/year.
Like our personal insurance and Workers’ Compensation insurance, our use of it drives the premium. Backing and parking incidents are entirely avoidable, so please be aware of your surroundings. When you are about to use a vehicle, Get Out And Look (GOAL) to heighten your awareness. Use back-up cameras and a spotter if one is available.
Be safe and cautious!
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RAIN Pay App now available to ALL Employees!
Many of our hourly employees have been utilizing the Rain Instant Pay app to access their pay before payday, and now ALL employees are able to do so!
Beginning Sept. 7, employees who are paid on a salary basis can also access their pay prior to payday. An email went out to you on the 7th with instructions. Should you need additional assistance, please contact MarniWaznik@AuroraServices.com.
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Op 023 recently took a trip to Como Zoo for a day
of fun in the sun! Theresa, Jeremy, Linda, Jill, and Lauretta are always on some kind of an adventure!
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Our BEST Employees for the month of August are ... Debra Huggins from direct support and Joan Parsons from management! Congratulations!
Nominees for the month of August were:
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Carrie Bultman
Maggie Czaikowski
Anthony Giovanoni
Holly Love
Jim Showalter
Connie Smith
Judy Koxlien
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!
Once nominated, employees will remain eligible for the bonus drawing throughout the year.
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Congratulations to Shawna Feist from 053 in Plover and Anna Johnson from 093 in Wisconsin Rapids!
These team members have demonstrated their commitment to safety and have won a $100 bonus for having done so!
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September is National Self Care Month
You’ve heard it…put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. We are in the assisting business which means we need to care for ourselves. There have been alarming increases in mental health problems over the past couple of years, so let’s focus on how to care for our mental health.
Some tips from the National Institute of Mental Health:
- Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
- Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee.
- Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
- Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy such as journaling.
- Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
- Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind.
- Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
- Stay connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
The better you care for yourself, the better you care for your family, friends, and consumers! Take good care!
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National Suicide Prevention Month |
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Help is ALWAYS available.
September is also National Suicide Prevention Month.
We ALL can be the one to help others.
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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now:
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This dialing code is available to everyone across the United States. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a United States-based suicide prevention network of over 160 crisis centers that provides 24/7 service via a toll-free hotline with the number 9-8-8. It is available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. For more information, visit 988lifeline.org.
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As a motorist, safety on the roadways is your responsibility—here are a few reminders to keep in mind as the school year kicks off and buses are back on the road:
- It's illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
- Flashing yellow lights alert motorists that buses are preparing to stop.
- Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate that traffic moving in both directions of an undivided roadway must come to a stop, and may not pass the bus for any reason until the stop sign is retracted.
- When warning flashers are blinking in a school zone, vehicles must stop for pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections.
- Bus stops are typically dark in the morning, particularly during winter months. Therefore, keeping speeds down and watching for pedestrians is critical.
- Buses make frequent stops—take extra caution when following a bus.
Safe driving habits will protect you, your passengers and other motorists, and pedestrians sharing the road. Always avoid distractions, keep your speed down and be patient.
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Welcome Aboard!
Please give our new hires a warm welcome!
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Carter Baures
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, La Crosse
Why I applied for the job: Gain experience and help provide clients with a positive quality of life.
What I will bring to the job: Hard work, cooperation, teamwork, positive attitude.
My background: Worked at an assisted living home as a cook, which led me to choose therapeutic recreation as my major at UW-La Crosse.
Family: Mom, Amanda; dad, Tom; siblings Christopher, Kamryn, and Kalleigh.
Hobbies/interests: Biking, hammocking, listening to my music.
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Darrian King
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Stevens Point/Plover
Why I applied for the job: Worked here before and missed my boys. Plus, I enjoyed it.
What I will bring to the job: 5 years of experience and an awesome personality.
Hobbies/interests: Reading, reptiles, plants, true crime.
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Matt Keig
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Eau Claire
Why I applied for the job: Tried another company and I liked the job. Applied here for a better position and hours.
What I will bring to the job: A good attitude and attendance. I'm trying to make the people comfortable.
My background: I like camping and going on walks. Watching animals and listening to music.
Family: Brothers, sister, parents are in Minnesota.
Hobbies/interests: Playing the guitar.
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Sue Walters
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Eau Claire
Why I applied for the job: Because I enjoy helping others, and I've heard this is a good company to work for.
What I will bring to the job: My skills and abilities from former caregiver positions.
My background: I have 20+ years experience assisting individuals with physical or mental challenges.
Family: I am married and have 2 grown sons.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy working on diamond dots, traveling, spending time with family.
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Angela Hendrickson
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Employment Specialist I, Menomonie
Why I applied for the job: I am finishing my master's degree in rehabilitation counseling and chose Aurora to complete my practicum experience.
What I will bring to the job: Motivation, inspiration, and innovation.
Family: I am married with 3 children—1 dog and 2 cats.
Hobbies/interests: Helping others, spending time with my family and friends.
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Maya Alexakis
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Supportive Home Care Specialist, Altoona
Why I applied for the job: For the opportunity to help others grow.
Family: I live with my mother and sister currently. I have 2 cats, Smokey and Dave, and two family dogs, Dory and Lani.
Hobbies/interests: Art, music, socializing, rock hunting, TV/film.
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Bethany Grace Cerutti
Aurora Vocational Services
Program Manager II, Eleva
Why I applied for the job: I like helping people be their best.
What I will bring to the job: Ideas, support, detail.
My background: ARA, Burger King. I enjoy customer service and helping people.
Family: Married for 24 years, two adult children.
Hobbies/interests: Walking, backpacking/hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing.
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Madalyn Poff
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Program Manager, Menomonie
Why I applied for the job: I have a passion for helping others and providing them with experiences they will never forget.
What I will bring to the job: A smile and a positive attitude.
My background: I have worked at a variety of places, such as Wisconsin Early Autism Project, She-Nannigans, Florian Gardens, a day service, and more.
Family: I was born in Rockford, Illinois, and relocated to Wisconsin in 2012. My parents and brother now reside in Green Bay!
Hobbies/interests: I love being outdoors, specifically in the mountains! Hiking with my two dogs is always fun.
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Annie Lupo-Gondwe
Aurora Community Counseling
Mental Health Therapist, Siren/Spooner
Why I applied for the job: Mental and physical health are important aspects of life, and I want to bring my passion for health, wellness, and relationships to people who are looking for support.
What I will bring to the job: Passion for helping people find their strengths and excitement for learning and growing with people.
My background: I have been working with families and children for 12 years. I enjoy meeting new people and building trust in order to support families and individuals.
Family: I live in the area with my family and think healthy families and communities are important.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, biking, camping, and gardening. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family.
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Hershelle Rockett
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Community Living Assistant, Menomonie
Why I applied for the job: I have compassion for helping others who can't help themselves.
What I will bring to the job: Happiness, great listener, and love.
My background: I've been in this field for 25 years.
Hobbies/interests: Watching TV, helping others.
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Christine Neumeyer
Aurora Vocational Services
Employment Specialist I, Eau Claire
Why I applied for the job: To get more experience and help people.
What I will bring to the job: ABA perspective while working with consumers.
My background: Live in Wisconsin.
Hobbies/interests: Reading, painting, gym.
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Athena Kayler
Aurora Residential Alternatives
Day Center Program Assistant, Wausau
Why I applied for the job: I have a desire to make a difference in people's lives by helping them day to day.
What I will bring to the job: I will bring a passion and drive for my job. I will constantly strive to be the best that I can be for the consumers and my coworkers.
My background: I have worked at: Azura Memory Care, cargiver; McDonald's; Walmart, deli/bakery; and Olive Garden, server.
Family: 2-year-old daughter, Emma Peppey, and husband, Cody Peppey.
Hobbies/interests: Enjoy being creative, anything artistic; helping others; anything fun that I get to do with my daughter.
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Lauren London
Aurora Community Services
Call Center, Charlotte, NC
Why I applied for the job: To be able to help people.
What I will bring to the job: Positive attitude, good vibes, open mind and heart.
My background: Health care, sports.
Family: 1 daughter.
Hobbies/interests: Basketball, cosmetics, mental health.
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We Have the BEST Staff
During the month of September, we are celebrating these anniversaries!
Aurora Management
Kelly Johnson (1 year), Ted East (4 years), Kristen Shaw (19 years),
Susan Buckley (12 years), Lorene Dahl (2 years), Richard Jaramillo (1 year), Margaret Czaikowski (1 year), Jennifer Scherff (4 years), Anthony Nayes (1 year), Nichole Hartung (1 year), Ian McAlister (1 year),
Betty Dueholm (1 year), and Ian Rajek (11 years).
Aurora Direct Care Staff
Sarah Sheb (2years), Katelyn Lenk (1 year), Deanna Jeffers (13 years), Brian St. Arnauld (5 years), Tatum Sweeney (2 years), Becky Zelenka (9 years), Dillon Brummund (1 year), Trayton Pankratz (3 years), Paul Okoroji (21 years), Oppong Kyeremeh (8 years), Noah Zeleznik (6 years), Laura Holstein (4 years), Melinda Ziesman (2 years), Anthony Giovanoni (2 years), Jennica Guy (5 years), and Ali Fenton (3 years).
That's a combined 146 YEARS of experience at Aurora!
Thank you for sharing your time and talents with us!
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