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Aurora Value Words

• Resilient • Integrity • Courageous

• Compassion • Loyal • Passionate • Responsive

OCTOBER



“The reward of a thing well done is having done it." 



- Ralph Waldo Emerson



Updates


Our Summer Advance was a smashing success! Thank you to everyone who joined us both in person and virtually for what turned out to be the best Summer Advance ever! A special shout-out to Julie, Linda, Nikki, and Juan for all of their thoughtful planning and preparation. From the location to the agenda, the food (yes, those Holy Donuts really were that good!), the ice cream, the prizes, and the games, every detail made the day something special.


The smiles said it all, with plenty of laughter and team-building throughout the day. And just before the storm rolled in, we wrapped things up with our first annual Cornhole Tournament, where Abbey and Nathan claimed the championship

at 4:30 pm sharp, congratulations!


It was a day full of connection, fun, and community spirit.

Thank you for making it so memorable!!


Check out more photos from the event here: Summer Advance Photos


Here’s to carrying that energy forward... let’s make it a great month!


Victim or Victor?


One of the themes that came out of our Wellness in the Workplace survey was concern over staffing shortages, having too much on our plates, and a general feeling of overwhelm. It’s easy to feel like someone should stop the merry-go-round and let us off for a bit. But who is that person? 


There is no question, when serving people, there is ALWAYS plenty to do. There will continue to be a labor market crisis – it’s not expected to get better any time soon. Changes in laws and regulations have never decreased the work required of us.


So why doesn’t someone do something? Can’t they see we need help? If we wait for someone else to take care of us, we’ll be waiting for a long time. No one can take better care of ourselves than we can – so it’s up to each of us to decide….will I be the victor or the victim in my own self-care story?


Establish Healthy Boundaries:

·        Set clear boundaries between work and personal life

·        Learn to say no when necessary

·        Avoid taking on too many responsibilities


Practice Self-Care:

·        Get enough sleep

·        Eat a healthy diet

·        Exercise regularly

·        Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy

·        Take breaks throughout the day


Manage Stress:

·        Identify your stressors and develop coping mechanisms

·        Use mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises

·        Seek professional help if needed


Set Realistic Goals:

·        Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable ones

·        Celebrate small wins along the way

·        Focus on progress rather than perfection


Take Time Off:

·        Schedule regular vacations or time off work

·        Disconnect from technology during breaks

·        Spend time with loved ones


Build a Support Network:

·        Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings

·        Join support groups or connect with others who understand what you're going through

·        Seek guidance from mentors or colleagues


Additional Tips:

·        Get enough sunlight

·        Spend time in nature

·        Learn to delegate tasks

·        Take care of your physical health

·        Seek feedback from others on your workload


Remember, burnout is a gradual process, and prevention is key. By implementing these tips, you can reduce your risk of burnout and improve your overall well-being. Help is available! Developing strategies for setting boundaries and coping skills are perfect examples of how REALiving can help!


How to Access Your EAP Benefits

Visit www.REALiving.com and click on “EAP Login.”

Username: Aurora@REALiving.com

Password: Auroraemployee

Or call our 24/7 Call Center to get set up for professional coaching or counseling: 1.877.256.9302


October Shines a Light on Ability!


October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the incredible contributions of workers with disabilities and to remind all of us how important inclusive employment truly is. Led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy, the campaign encourages fair opportunities for everyone, no matter their ability.


We don’t just celebrate this in October, we see it in action every single day. Our Aurora Vocational Services team is out there helping people find meaningful work, building skills, and cheering them on as they discover purpose and independence through employment!


So here’s a big shout-out to our Vocational Services friends, you live this mission every day, and we are so grateful for the way you open doors and create opportunities for those we serve. You’re the reason NDEAM isn’t just a campaign, but a reality right here at Aurora.


We’d also love to hear from you! If you have success stories, testimonials, or photos of the amazing work being done in Vocational Services, please send it to lifeofaurora@auroraservices.com so we can celebrate it on social!


Owners Corner

— featuring Hannah Goss, Employee Development Coordinator


Before joining Aurora, Hannah Goss worked as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, working in hospitals and schools to support people with disabilities. Much of her focus was on stroke patients and those in intensive care. That work taught her patience, compassion, and the value of helping people regain independence. When Sacred Heart hospital closed in Eau Claire, it opened the door to a new chapter, leading Hannah straight to Aurora!


Today, Hannah serves as Aurora’s Employee Development Coordinator, where she manages training, yearly continuing education requirements, and CBRF training. But what she values most isn’t just the curriculum, it’s the people. “I look forward to interacting with new hires and supporting our staff. It’s the people aspect of this job that makes it so rewarding,” she says.


For Hannah, Aurora stands apart because of its culture.

She describes the environment as easier, lighter, and more positive compared to other places she has worked. Even tough conversations, she explains, carry kindness and respect. “Everyone is genuine here, it’s always a happy conversation, no matter what the topic is.” That spirit of support also creates the work-life balance Hannah appreciates, allowing her to show up fully for both her role and her life outside of work.

One of her favorite memories at Aurora reflects just how thoughtful her coworkers are. Known in the office for her love of turtles, Hannah walked into work one day to find a crocheted turtle waiting in her office. Later, she discovered it had been made especially for her by Narda’s niece. “It was such a small thing, but it really showed me the heart of this team,” Hannah recalls.


Her advice for anyone considering a career at Aurora is simple, “come in with an open mind. “Aurora is so big, and there’s so much to learn. If you’re open to new experiences and growth, you’ll thrive here.”


Thank you Hannah for being your BEST everyday!

Garden Magic at 037!



During September’s safety visit, Linda and Hannah toured 037 and were amazed by the beauty of the garden. Every corner reflected care and creativity.

Olga’s smile and pride shined as she posed with her lush and colorful oasis, and we couldn't be more envious!


Thank you for sharing your passions with us!


Keep us in The Loop! We’d love to highlight more stories in future newsletters!

Send them to lifeofaurora@auroraservices.com



Best Employees

Our BEST Employees for the month of September are Emily Lambert from Direct Support and Julie Lifto from management!


Each winning employee will receive $150! Congratulations and thanks for bringing your BEST!


Nominees from August 21st – September 20th:



Ian Rajek • Emily Lambert • Paige Tucker • Sue Hertz • Juan Gordillo • Rebeca Flawd


Safety Tip

Fire Safety Starts With Everyone


When it comes to fire safety, every second counts. Knowing your alarms is very important!


Learn their sounds:

  • Three loud beeps = smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
  • Four loud beeps = carbon monoxide. Go outside, call 9-1-1, and stay out.
  • Single chirp = low battery. Change it.
  • If chirping continues after changing the battery, it means the alarm has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced. (Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.)


Have a Plan

Make sure everyone in your home or program knows the escape routes and has a designated meeting spot outside. Practice makes all the difference, so keep up with regular fire drills and at least one nighttime simulated drill each year.


Stay Aware

Simple steps like keeping hallways clear, never blocking exits, and paying attention to kitchen safety can prevent a small hazard from becoming a big emergency.


Bottom line: Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility so let’s stay alert, prepared, and keep our homes and programs safe for the people we support and for one another.



We have Safety Winners for the month of September!


Congratulations to Rebecca Belanger – 041 and Katherine Mozer - 129!



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!!

Welcome Aboard!

Please give our new hires a warm welcome!

Noah Stephenson

Aurora Vocational Services

Vocational Coordinator, Eau Claire and Chippewa


My background: I am from Wisconsin Rapids. I moved to Eau Claire in 2018, and I just finished graduate school.

Family: A new kitty that we found outside! His name is Melman.

Hobbies/interests: I like reading, writing, swimming, and biking.

Sean Nelson

Aurora Vocational Services

Employment Specialist II, Eau Claire and Chippewa


Why I applied for the job: I am returning to this job to help others.

What I will bring to the job: Outside perspective for consumer growth.

My background: Graduate of UW-Stout in Human Development & Family Studies.

Hobbies: I like to go for a swim to clear my head.

Maya Topolovich

Aurora Vocational Services

Employment Specialist I, Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls


Why I applied for the job: I wanted to be more involved in the community and I love helping people. I am a freshman at UW–Eau Claire majoring in Elementary and Special Ed and though this job would help me a lot!

What I will bring to the job: I love helping others and have a passion for making everyone feel included, no matter the area.

My background: At home, I worked at an indoor playground and provided Respite care to families.

Family: I have one dog named Rocky and a younger brother who just started 8th grade this year.

Hobbies/interests: I love reading, exploring the outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

Jean Beldon

Aurora Residential Alternatives

Community Living Assistant, Altoona


What I will bring to the job: A sense of humor.

Hobbies: Trail running with my dog.

Brianna Kaeder

Aurora Residential Alternatives

Community Living Assistant, Menomonie


Why I applied for the job: I needed a job to pay for stuff.

What I will bring to the job: Leadership experience and I'm a hard worker.

My background: I worked at Pizza Ranch, Woodman's, Fleet Farm, and Wal-Mart.

Family: I have 1 sister 2 brothers, and my mom and dad--6 total live with me. I also have 2 cats of my own.

Hobbies/interests: Animals and working with children, helping people, and church.

Chase Fagan

Aurora Residential Alternatives

Mental Health Technician, Chippewa Falls


Why I applied for the job: I love working in a career that I get to help someone and no 2 days are the same.

What I will bring to the job: I will bring a passion for helping others and 8+ years working in the behavioral field.

My background: My experience is mostly working with individuals on the spectrum and other mental disabilities. I have worked as a caregiver and a behavioral tech.

Family: I have been married for 8.5 years and have a 2 year old daughter and just recently welcomed my son to the world in July.

Hobbies/interests: Spending time with my family, video games, camping, and exploring new places.

We Have the BEST Staff


During the month of October, we are celebrating these anniversaries!


Aurora Management

Kelly Johnson – 1 year

Jennifer Thomas – 4 years

Abbey Dieckman – 6 years

Cynthia Smith – 31 years

Courtney Campbell – 6 years

Jill Mattson – 21 years

Wendy Jagoditsh – 21 years

Gina Krueger – 22 years


Aurora Direct Care Staff

Andrew Seever – 2 years

Selena Moten – 1 year

Lindsey Keller – 1 year

Victoria McAllister – 1 year

Jessica Baltzell – 12 years

Michelle Baljo – 15 years

Austin Niedere – 1 year

Mason Rose – 1 year

Robin O’Connor – 5 years

Yareliz Holmstrom – 1 year

Jamie Weidler – 12 years

Trisha Hanson – 10 years

Donna Como – 9 years

Seth Yun – 7 years

Rocio Seise – 9 years

Jerome Taylor – 1 year

Julie Bahr – 8 years

Christina Strom – 5 years

Evan Pretzer – 1 year


When we combine all of these years of service,

we get 214 YEARS!


Thank you for sharing your time, talents and wisdom with us!

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