Hope for Tomorrow Personal Touch

Transcription

For those supporting the mission of the Anne Carlsen Center
New logo design inspired by Dr. Anne’s life and work
page 4
Hope for Tomorrow
Teen with autism gains
new independence
page 12
Personal Touch
Center addressing more needs
than ever with outreach program
page 6
Summer 2008
www.annecenter.org
Amber Roerick, a Prom
Queen candidate, and
Joseph Fuchs invite
others to join them on
the dance floor.
Gary Olson, a Prom King
candidate, danced the
night away with Megan
Roaldson.
Prom Queen Nikki
Blackler and her date,
Erik Dirk, impressed
everyone with their
dance moves!
Matthew Simpson and his
date, Emily Bollinger, wasted
no time hitting the dance
floor, as they joined others in
“Twistin’ the Night Away.”
Twenty couples experienced a night to
remember in late April as the Anne Carlsen
Center hosted “Twistin’ the Night Away.”
The fun, 1950s-themed prom featured a
formal dinner, grand march, coronation
and dance. ACC students and their dates
enjoyed every minute of the special
evening, as they lit up the dance floor
and made memories to last a lifetime.
Jimmy Brown and his
date, Kaisa Lundgren,
pose for pictures in
front of the 1950s
inspired backdrop.
Katy Reis and Tyler
DeMaine had a blast
twistin’ to the rock and
roll at Prom 2008!
Ty Glass and Janelle
Berg smile for the
cameras, as they take
their places center
stage during the
Grand March.
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
Touching More Lives
Center unveils fresh look, expanded services,
and vision for the future
Milestones are celebrated at the Center every single day,
as our amazing students learn and grow. A child with autism, for
years living in silence, speaks his first word. A youth in a wheelchair takes her
first swim in a pool. A teenager uses a computer for the first time, with the help of assistive technology.
Dr. Anne Carlsen understood the significance of all those accomplishments. Born without fully developed arms
or legs, she was determined to lead a self-sufficient, productive life. As a teacher, administrator and mentor at
the Center, she touched countless lives with her great courage, unwavering determination, and keen intellect.
Because Dr. Anne’s impact was so great, the Center was named in her honor. This summer, Anne Carlsen
Center for Children became the Anne Carlsen Center. This change reflects the many lives we touch on a daily
basis, as we carry on Dr. Anne’s legacy of hope. In addition to caring for children, we offer expertise, guidance
and compassion to young adults, families, caregivers and professionals.
While we continue our tradition of excellence on our campus in Jamestown, we are expanding our outreach
services to other parts of the state (see page 6). In June, we opened an outreach office in the city of Grand
Forks. In that community, families of high-needs children don’t have to travel far to access our resources,
expertise and caring staff. We can help keep families together by providing support and training in their homes
and communities. By answering the tough questions and providing practical solutions, we give them the tools
they need to build healthy, meaningful lives. We also serve young adults with developmental disabilities, giving
each the opportunity to grow, learn, and become vital participants in community life. In the coming years, we
will open outreach offices in the state’s other larger communities.
Dr. Anne would be proud to see how we’ve grown, as we work to help more individuals with disabilities
achieve the independence she so greatly cherished. She once said, “Empowerment is going from dependence
to independence.” In this issue of The Ambassador (see page 7), you’ll see how we’ve empowered a young
family, as the parents work to meet the needs of their 18-month-old twins.
While we provide hope for the future, we also offer a visual reminder of our foundation of love and determination.
Our new logo—a beautiful, inspiring design—helps us share Dr. Anne’s courageous life story (see page 4). This
rich heritage defines us, as we work to focus on the abilities of each person in our care. We are confident that
this logo will serve us well for years to come, as we strive to support and encourage individuals on their path
to independence.
Thank you for your role in shaping the lives of these remarkable individuals. Your heartfelt generosity helps us
nurture abilities, change lives, and fulfill Dr. Anne’s vision for the future.
Sincerely,
Dan Howell
Chief Executive Officer
2
THE AMBASSADOR
G R A D U AT I O N
2008
our Anne Carlen Center
(ACC) students marked
the beginning of a new
chapter of their lives in
May. Dale Bachman, Jr.,
Zachary Hofmann, Gary Olson and
Mark Poppenhagen were honored in
a graduation ceremony in the Center
auditorium, surrounded by proud family
members, friends and ACC staff.
“We will all meet new friends, caregivers
and find new jobs,” said Dr. Sue Offutt,
an ACC Board member and UND
assistant professor. “But when you
four go out, I know you will teach those
you meet the love and compassion that
you learned here.”
Graduate Mark Poppenhagen
and teacher Patrick Kellam tell
stories and laugh at the reception
following the graduation ceremony.
“Don’t get your fingers near DJ’s mouth
when he is eating those,” said Kenna.
“You may lose a finger.”
Mark, who first came to the ACC in 1998,
is moving to Harvey following graduation.
Patrick Kellam, who was also new
to the staff when Mark first arrived,
joined the youth by the pool on a hot
July day.
Graduate Gary Olson, joined on
stage by ACC Education Director
Michele Well, accepts his diploma
from Dr. Sue Offutt.
Gary’s diploma means he is returning
to Bismarck where he can live near
his mother, LaDonna.
“We will miss you very much,” she added.
“I’ve never met anyone who can spin in
a circle while pushing a cart and not
miss a beat,” said Kellam. “Staff tried it
and they either fell or crashed the cart.”
Graduate Dale Bachman, Jr., (DJ)
is congratulated by ACC staff Kristy
Bruner and Tom Kenna during the
graduation ceremony.
For DJ, his journey following
graduation takes him to Valley City.
Remembered for his practical jokes
by Tom Kenna, a teacher at the
Center, many of DJ’s high jinks
came in the pool.
“DJ was always a fan of activities like
swimming,” said Kenna. “But he didn’t
like to swim. Instead he liked to sit
at the bottom of the pool, laughing, as
(physical education instructor) Troy
Duven went running across the water
after him.”
“Since Mark was having so much fun
we decided to have supper by the pool,”
Kellam said. “But Mark decided it was
more fun to have supper in the pool.
From then on, I was a pretty big fan
of Mark.”
Kellam would later become a teacher at
the Center, having Mark in his classroom.
Michele Well, the ACC education
director, worked with Gary throughout
his 13 years in Jamestown.
“Students always looked up to you,
literally and figuratively,” said Well.
“One because you are 6'4", but they
knew you caught on with tasks right
away. You always kept us on our
toes, and you taught students how
to stay on task.”
He was also remembered for his ravenous
appetite, especially for Little Smokies.
Zachary’s graduation marks a new
chapter for the Center. Zachary is the
first student to remain on the ACC
campus following his graduation.
“You have a number of roles,” said Home
Life Services Director Gloria Jones to
Zachary. “You are a son, an older brother,
a grandson, nephew, cousin, friend,
member of a community, and now you
are a graduate.”
Jones also recognized Zachary for being
a good role model for his peers. “We could
always count on you to be a leader,”
she said.
Graduate Zach Hofmann and his mom,
Patty, smile for pictures following
the graduation ceremony. Zach is
the first student to stay with the
Center following his graduation.
ACC thanks all of the graduates for
providing us with so many wonderful
memories. You touched our lives in a
special way, and we are very proud of
all of your accomplishments.
THE AMBASSADOR
3
ACC’s new logo celebrates Anne Carlsen’s legacy
he life story of Dr. Anne
Carlsen is inspiring to
people of all ages and
all abilities. Born in 1915 in
Grantsburg, Wis., without forearms
or lower legs, she triumphed over
her physical disabilities, doing
everything that her peers did. She
learned to swim and play baseball.
She walked or ran with the help
of her kiddie car. Passionate about
education, she graduated from high
school at the age of 16, went on to
college, and later earned her masters
and doctorate degrees.
During her 60-year career at the
Anne Carlsen Center (ACC), she
embraced the roles of teacher,
principal, superintendent and
mentor. Along the way, she became
a world-renowned disabilities
advocate, receiving countless
awards and honors. In 1958 Anne
received the President’s Trophy
as the Handicapped American of
the Year from then vice-president
Richard Nixon. She received
North Dakota’s highest honor,
the Theodore Roosevelt Roughrider
Award, in 1966.
Her greatest joy, though, came
from helping students become as
successful and independent as they
could be. Dr. Anne greatly valued
independence and, using her arm
stubs, managed a wide variety of
tasks including eating, dressing
herself, and driving a car.
Determined to Write
When she was six years old, Anne’s
family gave her writing lessons,
starting with her name. Using a
tablet and a pencil, she traced her
name over and over, until she was
eventually able to write her name
on her own. That very day, she
went to the Grantsburg bank and
proudly wrote “Anne Helen Carlsen”
on the back of a check for five dollars—a gift for her sixth birthday.
Anne worked hard at creating a
beautiful and extremely legible signature. “It may take a little longer
and it may be more difficult, but
you can do almost anything if you
work at it,” she said, urging others
with disabilities to never give up.
Our new logo design is inspired by
Anne’s marvelous signature. Her
elegant penmanship reminds us
of her unwavering determination,
courage, and refusal to let her
physical impairments limit her in
any way. She learned how to write
without hands, and throughout her
career at the Anne Carlsen Center,
urged others to not let disabilities
prevent them from living life to its
fullest.
“In our new logo, we really wanted
to capture our proud heritage,”
says CEO Dan Howell. “Dr. Anne’s
beautiful signature offers a visual
and constant reminder of her
legacy. This rich history provides
the building blocks for a promising
future.”
Anne passed away Dec. 22, 2002
at the age of 87, but her spirit
lives on. ACC staff members have
continued her labor of love by
helping children and young adults
achieve the greatest independence
possible. We respect, encourage
and empower individuals as they
build full, meaningful lives.
The Wind Beneath Our Wings
Anne Carlsen is truly the wind
beneath the wings of the Center.
In our new logo, we combined her
beautiful signature with the wings
of a butterfly. The butterfly represents hope, transformations and
new beginnings. It also symbolizes
the independence that Dr. Anne so
greatly valued and helped many
achieve.
The image of the butterfly has
been associated with the Center
since 2003. Our new, softer butterfly
design creates a powerful and
engaging visual experience. The
viewer is actively involved in the
picture and understanding what
it is and what it means to them
individually. It is first and foremost
a butterfly, with the viewer “discovering” the silhouette. The silhouette
could be that of a child or an adult.
We touch so many lives, and our
new logo illustrates the reach and
the impact of our services.
Nurturing abilities. Changing lives.
Our new tagline, the phrase that
defines us, is “Nurturing abilities.
Changing lives.” Building on our
previous tagline, “Changing Lives
Forever,” it offers a defined purpose.
Rather than dwelling on the disabilities, ACC looks beyond any
limitations and focuses on the
abilities of each person. We nurture
those abilities through compassion
and steady progress. “It is the kind
of positive thinking and acting that
Dr. Anne Carlsen demonstrated
throughout her entire life,” says
Howell.
By nurturing abilities, we change
many lives. The Anne Carlsen
Center has grown into a comprehensive resource center, providing
information, support, and training,
as well as compassion and hope.
As we work to improve the lives
of children and young adults with
disabilities, we have a lasting
impact on parents, siblings,
extended family, caregivers
and professionals.
A Promising Future
Anne Carlsen touched countless
lives with her courage, compassion,
determination and faith. Her
vision guides our efforts at the
Center today.
In an interview she once said,
“I lead an ordinary life doing
ordinary things.” We know how
hard she worked to do those
“ordinary” things, like writing
and walking. But in the process,
Dr. Anne became extraordinary.
Determined to lead a self-sufficient
and productive life, she proved
where there’s a will, there’s a way.
She inspired many with disabilities
to use their talents and abilities to
achieve the greatest independence
possible.
“Anne Carlsen was a tiny woman
with a big presence…she really
embodied that whole spirit of
independence,” says Pastor JoAnne
Moeller, the chaplain at ACC. “She
helped others to be as independent
as possible and to enjoy life as
much as anyone else. She urged
others to explore and to be aware
of their gifts.”
Dr. Anne worked tirelessly to
increase awareness of the needs
and abilities of those with physical
and developmental impairments.
She built the Center into a
nationally-recognized provider
for people with disabilities.
“Independence is the greatest
reward a person can have,” she
said. “This has been, is, and will
always be the mission of this
great place.”
Dr. Anne believed that anything
is possible if you try hard enough.
This courage and determination
still guide us, as we work to carry
on her inspiring legacy of hope.
ACC brings expertise, compassion to communities across ND
nne Carlsen Center (ACC) has a rich legacy of nurturing children and young adults with
a wide array of disabilities. Since 1941 the Center has demonstrated the expertise and the
passion for helping others enjoy the best possible quality of life.
While meeting diverse and important needs on our Jamestown campus, we have become
increasingly aware of significant needs outside of the ACC campus.
Research conducted by North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities (NDCPD) concluded
that there is a shortage of services, personnel and training in the state for those dealing with
medical and behavioral challenges. We believe that ACC is uniquely qualified to fill this gap
and drive the quality of disability services in North Dakota higher.
Providing Easy Access
The Anne Carlsen Center opened
an outreach office in Grand Forks in
June and has already begun serving
families in that community. Over
the next three years, the Center will
establish a presence in other major
communities in the state.
“We want our resources and professionals to be within easy reach for
families of individuals with high
degrees of autism, severe behavioral
challenges, or medical fragility,”
says CEO Dan Howell. “Families
will travel shorter distances to
receive the help they need.”
These outreach locations will not
offer residential services. They
will, however, offer a variety of
supports and services that will
make it possible for more children
to continue living in their natural
family environment.
Keeping Families Together
“Many families who want to keep
their child in their home have
a difficult time doing so,” says
Rhonda Epplesheimer, ACC’s
Family Resource Director. “They
are asking for support and training.
6
THE AMBASSADOR
We can help keep these families
together by bringing our expertise
to individuals where they are.”
By offering support in the areas of
daily living, self-care and behavior
management, ACC makes it easier
to build a home life of dignity and
well-being. In both urban and rural
settings, the Center is meeting
multiple needs of families and
providing practical help.
Providing Meaningful Activities
“As children grow, their needs
will change, and we are equipped
to meet those needs,” explains
Howell. “We believe young adults
should have more opportunities
to live a full life as an integral
member within a community.”
The Anne Carlsen Center provides
meaningful and individualized
activities, helping those with
disabilities develop the skills and
connections needed to become vital
participants in their communities.
We offer training and support in
areas such as: money management,
shopping, appointments, transportation, spirituality, recreation, job
options and volunteer opportunities.
Exceptional Medical Care
There are not a lot of residential
options for some of our students
once they graduate from the
Center. In the past, many of
those with complex medical
needs have moved from ACC
to a nursing home.
As part of our expansion, the
Anne Carlsen Center is now
allowing students who are considered medically fragile to continue
living on our Jamestown campus
after they graduate. This year, one
of our 2008 graduates is remaining
on campus and will continue to
benefit from our exceptional
medical care and comfortable,
home-like atmosphere.
State-of-the-Art Training
ACC has become aware of a
pressing need for more training
in Autism Spectrum Disorders,
severe behavioral challenges,
and the needs of the medically
fragile. The Center is committed
to providing a variety of in-depth
training opportunities for families
and professionals.
Hope at Last
ACC’s new outreach
programs help family
through troubled times
We are hosting a series of major
conferences focusing on Autism
Spectrum Disorders. Renowned
autism experts from across the
country have been invited by ACC
to share the latest research and
treatment strategies.
Our Jamestown Campus
While the Anne Carlsen Center
expands, we recognize the importance of our campus in Jamestown.
Over the years, many children with
disabilities have lived life to its
fullest here, benefitting from our
exceptional residential, therapeutic
and educational services. For some
students, this will continue to be
the best fit for their needs and
abilities.
“We look forward to seeing many
more children blossom in the safe,
secure and loving atmosphere the
campus provides,” says Marcia
Gums, ACC’s Chief Operating
Officer.
The Journey Ahead
This expansion of ACC services
will provide families across North
Dakota with more choices. They
will have additional resources
available to them, as they search
for help and hope.
“We recognize that each person has
different needs and dreams for the
future,” says Howell. “The Anne
Carlsen Center has the depth of
expertise and compassion to be
a partner in life for so many. It
is an honor to continue Dr. Anne
Carlsen’s work, as we remain
dedicated to nurturing abilities
and changing lives.”
When it comes to play time, Jaxon
and Jaleigh both go for books and
puzzles. Here Jennifer helps Jaleigh
with reading, while Dusty and Jaxon
talk about how to put a puzzle together.
axon and Jaleigh Schneider could be any other set of twins.
They laugh, they cry, they scramble for toys, and capture your
heart with their soft blue eyes.
But they are also miracles in their own way. Seeing them smile, move
around their house, climb on their parents—all those everyday activities
are hope fulfilled.
You see, 18 months ago, Jaxon and Jaleigh began their lives nine and a
half weeks earlier than expected.
With the early start on life, came a series of medical emergencies. For a
family excited for pregnancy and birth, there was also a fear that one or
both of the children would not live past their original due date.
“You find out you are pregnant and you are so excited,” recalled Jennifer.
“You bring home a perfect baby and life goes on.”
No one could have expected what the next year would bring.
Early Troubles
Confined to incubators and fed oxygen through respirators from birth,
both babies suffered brain bleeds
when they were one week old.
Premature babies are at an increased
risk for brain bleeds, and the earlier
a baby is born can often determine
the severity of that bleed. Normally,
premature babies have a grade I
or II. Jaxon and Jaleigh suffered
Grade III bleeds, identified by
ventricles becoming enlarged by
blood and often leaving a child
with long-term brain injuries.
The babies were born at a hospital
in Fargo, forcing the Jamestown
couple to relocate temporarily with
family in order to stay close to their
children.
Dusty, who works in Valley City, made
the 60-mile drive each morning and
evening exhausted, but knowing the
family depended on his income.
Often fighting the temptation of
sleep while on Interstate, Dusty felt
guilty that he was abandoning his
wife with the family’s problems. Both
parents were finding hope to be, at
times, a fleeting emotion. But the
family found strength in each other.
“I’m not going to say it’s been easy
on anybody,” said Jennifer. “It is
exhausting. But you really learn
to rely on each other, too.”
The medical emergencies continued
to pile up. In September, Jaleigh
needed surgery when the skull
plates in her head had closed
too soon. In October, Jaxon was
(continued)
THE AMBASSADOR
7
(continued from page 7)
suffering from what appeared to
be a respiratory infection.
Unexpected Role Reversal
But after an ear, nose and throat
doctor examined him, Jaxon was
rushed into surgery. Not even a
year old, his life was threatened
again. Jaxon’s airway was being
restricted as scar tissue had formed
around his trachea. The after-effect
from the ventilator that had previously kept him alive was now
threatening his life.
“The doctor told us on the outside
Jaxon looks healthy,” said Jennifer.
“Until you listen to his lungs. He is
a fragile little boy.”
It was a dramatic role reversal for
Jaxon and Jaleigh. Sister had been
the fragile child, while brother was
the stronger one, the tough one.
Suddenly Jaxon wasn’t the hearty
one. After receiving the tracheotomy,
Jaxon had to be admitted back into
the hospital in November due to a
respiratory infection.
“I thought we were past all the
problems and ready to be a family,”
said Jennifer, adding that the respiratory issues explained some of
the crying fits Jaxon had early on.
“Last summer he was a cranky
little boy. When we were thinking
back, it made sense because he
was having trouble breathing on
his own and was compensating.”
Jaleigh was accepted into the Head
Start program, but with Jaxon’s
trach, he could not follow his sister.
It was then the family was put in
contact with the Anne Carlsen
Center for services for Jaxon.
The red hair and the baby blues are pretty difficult
to resist. That is what the Center staff discovered
when providing 18-month-old Jaxon with his care.
Initially, the family was reluctant
to involve Jaxon with ACC, thinking he was not the type of child
they helped.
“I said that more than once,” said
Jennifer. “He doesn’t have to go to
the Anne Carlsen Center. He’s not
that bad.”
Jaxon plays with bubbles as part his speech therapy learning curriculum. Ann Albrecht, a therapist
with the ACC, travels to see Jaxon and his sister,
Jaleigh, each week.
“Between the four of us, someone
is always sick,” said Dusty with
a laugh. “I’m on light duty for six
months.”
8
THE AMBASSADOR
Most of Jaxon’s care revolved
around prevention and not treatment, as he was sporting the trach
in the middle of winter. Undaunted
by the new surroundings, Jaxon’s
outgoing personality and captivating smile turned him into a bit of
celebrity at the Center.
“The staff just loved him being
there,” said Jennifer. “He was
in a stroller and would wave at
everyone when we went down
the hall. They loved it.”
With Jaxon at the Center and
Jaleigh with Head Start, Jennifer
was able to return to her job and
finish the school year. In April the
family received the in-home nursing
care they had been waiting for.
Hope For the Future
Jaxon, now without the trach, is
spending all of his days at home,
but that wasn’t the end of the relationship between the Center and
the family. A therapist visits the
Schneider’s house twice a week
to help Jaxon and Jaleigh with
speech and feeding development.
All of the health problems haven’t
gone away, but they aren’t as life
threatening as they had been.
Jaleigh has had ear infections on
and off since the start of the year,
but after what the family has
endured, everyone is ready for a
dose of what every kid goes through.
Time Running Out
Christmas marked one year since
Jennifer took a leave from her
teaching job. After 12 months, the
family was starting to run out of
time. Jennifer was in danger of
losing her job, and the in-home
nursing care they were counting
on had been approved, but there
was a gap between the hiring and
training phases. Worse yet, Dusty
had broken bones in both feet that
were making it difficult to get
through the workday and care for
children who love to play in and
outside of the house.
“Everyone was so nice. They’d take
pictures of what they were doing in
the class and send them home. You
could just see he was so happy,”
said Jennifer. “I learned a lot.”
“That is normal stuff,” said
Jennifer. “We can handle that.”
Enter the Center
While Jaxon received in-home
nursing care and some therapy, the
family’s proximity to the Jamestown
campus made it easier to bring him
into the Center throughout the
week. This also gave Jaxon the
chance to learn and play with the
Center’s youngest residents.
“I think back to 12 or 13 months
ago,” said Dusty. “I never thought
we’d be at this point.”
Jaxon has started walking and was
up to nine steps by the end of May.
Jaleigh was right behind, figuring
out the standing part, but not quite
ready for those first unassisted steps.
“We didn’t get the perfect dream,
the perfect situation,” Jennifer
said. “But we wouldn’t trade it
for anything.”
Given in Memory of …
Each and every donation we receive at the Anne
Carlsen Center helps us continue our mission of
supporting individuals and their families, as
they pursue growth and fulfillment.
In this edition and all future editions of The
Ambassador, we will share those instances in
which gifts have been given in memory of someone
special.
As these donors remember and celebrate the lives
of those they have loved, they pour their love into
the lives of all the students at ACC.
Memorials gifted between Jan. 1, 2008 – March 31,’08
Given By
In Memory Of
Given By
In Memory Of
Given By
In Memory Of
Mrs. Irene Reidman
Mrs. Bernice Aanderud
Ms. Mavis Benson
Ms. Mavis Benson
Bernard and Marilyn Anderson
David and Karen Kenner
Orville and Lilly Bratvold
Mrs. Mary Ellen Kulla
Roger and Connie Anderson
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Chad and Ninnette Anderson
Ms. Bernice E. Anderson
Mrs. Arlene Olson
Mrs. Lillian Stromme
Ms. Anne M. Wheeler
Waldo and Marion Platte
Oliver and Joyce Anderson
Raymond and Marilyn Myers
Marvin and Helen Johnson
Karter and Vernis Krogh
Karter and Vernis Krogh
Bernyl and Nancy Nelson
Alvin and Marie Storbakken
Gordon and Loretta Domier
C. William and Patricia Dennert
Lowell and Amy Anderson
Mrs. Marilyn Garrelts
Senster and Janet Vangsness
Mrs. Lucille E. Blomquist
Rod and Karen Backman
Gene and Kathleen Wiese
Mrs. Muriel Hoplin
Ms. Marcia Hoplin
Ms. Harriet E. Olson
Mrs. Helen McCormack
Gerald and Elenore Borstad
Mrs. Edna L. Bott
Mr. Robert W. Martinson
Morris and Edna Mae Erickson
Allan and Ardis Kuhlman
Myron and Gertrude Pryor
Ms. Mavis Benson
Gordon and Ida Mae Smith
Margaret and Julie Verplancke
Mrs. Adeline M. Schaubert
Lynn and Jeanette Kieper
St. Luke’s Regional
Medical Center
Robert and Sharon Bolinder
Hal and Mary Kay Bunderson
Mrs. Janice M. Carlsen
Dr. and Mrs. Donald B. Carlsen
Neil and Diane Evans
Irene E. Aadland
Randell Aanderud
Vernon Abel
Florence Abel
Mary A. Abrahamson
Mary A. Abrahamson
Dr. Theodore A. Amundson
Greg S. Andersen
Brooks H. Anderson
Elmer L. Anderson
George H. F. Anderson
Anne Anderson
Helen Askelson
Charles B. Askew
Robert H. Asplund
Grace L. Barry
Grace L. Barry
Carol Bauer
Leo J. C. Benda
Grace N. Berglie
Steven C. Berndt
Lena M. Bertsch
Randy Billings
Nicole A. Blilie
Maurice R. Blomquist
Saige Blotske
Arlan Boehm
Romona I. Bohlin
Romona I. Bohlin
Romona I. Bohlin
Sanford Borlaug
Bill M. Borstad
Bill M. Borstad
Bill M. Borstad
Charles W. Borstad
Charles W. Borstad
Charles W. Borstad
Edna L. Bott
James L. Brooks
Gene D. Bryans
Dorothy J. Bryn
Gene Bucklin
Louis Bukowski
Jean D. Butterfield
Frances Buxbaum
Mabel Carignan
Carla
Albert Carlsen
Armstead and Mary Evans
Robert and Chris Horine
Ms. Marianne N. Huss
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Steve and Katherine Laney
Joe and Becky Parkinson
Ward and Cathy Parkinson
Dr. Theodore and Linda Renna
Rev. and Mrs. Conrad P. Sauer
Richard and Rose Ann Splitter
Mrs. Loretta M. Brown
Mrs. Olivia A. Johnson
Louis and Gladys Larson
Mrs. Linette Korman
Mr. and Mrs. Leslie P. Sorenson
Eldon and Clara Jo Conant
Robb and Deone Kulla
Gerald and Aileen Behm
Arthur and Lillian Moscatelli
Mrs. Agnes R. Stewart
Tex and Lynn Kraig
Ms. Shirley Jensvold
Mrs. Dorothy B. Crandall
Martell and Luella Stenberg
Ray and Peggy Wicklander
Al and Judy Dosch
Clarence and Fern Rau
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Mrs. Elsie Weber
Mr. Bert J. Dunn
Mrs. Evanell Taylor
George and Debbie Greshik
Ms. Adele M. Harrington
Robert and Joan Kime
Clarence and Irene Carlson
Cleo and Claire Berdahl
Mr. Kenneth D. Fandrey
Dean and Sylvia Fatland
Clarence and Irene Carlson
Mr. Sam A. Kleinsasser
Mrs. Lorraine Kirschenmann
Mrs. Lorraine J. Boehler
Wayne and Nadine Cole
Mrs. Phyllis A. Berntson
Charles and Eileen Erickson
Gaye Ketelsen
Shirley Lindgren
Donald and Elizabeth Shaw
Pizza Ranch of Harvey
Ms. Mary Beth Riesen
Lowell and Amy Anderson
Byron and Ardyce Ellingson
Albert and Betty Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Dr. Anne Carlsen
Dr. Anne Carlsen
Dora Carlsen
Paul Carr
Paul Carr
Harlan L. Carter
Sam Cebula
Roger G. Cederstrom
Selma O. Chivers
Opal Christianson
Mae R. Colby
Jovan Conn
Marjorie A. Cossette
LaVonne Crandall
Lawrence G. Crandall
Kathryn E. Dahlen
Barry Davis
Ernie Dierks
Dora Dobias
Karen Jane Dosch
Marlys Driggers
Ernie Duff
Ernie Duff
Dorothy L. Dunn
Tom L. Dwyer
Philip A. Eckroth
Eugene Edlund
Vernon Espeseth
Martin Evenrud
Evalyn C. Evenson
Lurline D. Fandrey
Jan M. Fatland
Raymond Fegley
Walter J. Fehr
Walter J. Fehr
Ralph L. Fiechtner
Ida Fischer
Verona Flickinger
Ludwig J. Foertsch
Elsie Franz
Floyd L. Frederick
Floyd L. Frederick
Floyd L. Frederick
Nicolle J. Funk
Sharon K. Galt
Gloria Geiszler
Josie M. Georgeson
Josie M. Georgeson
Ms. Mary K. Baumann
Ms. Irene Reinhardt
Mrs. Ruby M. DeLair
George and Debbie Greshik
Mrs. Mavis A. Wold
Mrs. Joan Lindvall
Lorraine Hakanson
Mrs. Elsie Weber
Martin and Rhoda Huber
Mr. Ivan J. Hansen
Mrs. Clara A. Hanson
Glen and Nathlie Miller
Mrs. Rae Bloom
Mrs. Elizabeth Hatter
Ms. Harriet E. Olson
Joel and Karen Nelson
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Mrs. Isla E. Herdahl
P Simmental Ranch
Drs. J. M. and Mary Meland
Mr. Bill Hoffer
Ms. Irene Reinhardt
Reuben and Shirley Smith
Mrs. Norma J. Swanson
Ms. Carol Hoovestol
Mrs. MarJean Schauer
Mrs. Juanita J. Dura
Mrs. MarJean Schauer
Mrs. Vivian E. Irmscher
Loren and Marian Richards
Gordon and Ida Mae Smith
Mrs. Olivia A. Johnson
Jim and Mary Jondahl
Mrs. Sophie Loftsgard
Mrs. Helena K. Just
Mr. Noel M. Nesheim
Ervin and Orlene Henke
Mrs. Evelyn Delmore
Ronald and Sherry Krenz
Mrs. Virginia L. Homan
Lloyd and Gloria Peterson
Wilbert and Muriel Smith
Glenn and Connie
Schwinkendorf
Anna V. Goehring
Marilyn Graf
John Gray
Joseph S. Greshik
oan M. Groettum
Lillian J. Gronaas
Inga Grondahl
Patricia Grueneich
Leona V. Gutman
Odell A. Hakanson
Malayna R. Hamm
Audber J. Hansen
Helen M. Hansen
Harry Hanson
Lester J. Hanson
Donald Harmer
Paula Hartze
Russell Hatter
Oliver P. Haugen
Oliver P. Haugen
Malinda Heaney
Lois M. Heesch
Gladys Hegdahl
Hazelle W. Helgeson
Hazelle W. Helgeson
Merrill J. Hemen
Erwin Herdahl
Patricia Hess
Lenore Hobbs
Rosella Hoffer
Rosella Hoffer
Carl B. Holtz
Carl B. Holtz
Richard Hoovestol
Peter Hopfauf
Dorothy I. Hunsberger
Edwin Hust
Helen H. Igoe
Helen H. Igoe
Theodore F. Irmscher
Stanley Jacobson
Oscar G. Janz
Dave Johnson
Owen O. Jondahl
Nicholaas Jonk
Helena K. Just
Doris E. A. Kabanuk
Edna Kaelberer
Lonnie J. Kahl
Genevieve Kammerer
Ervin Kautzman
Joyce Kerns
Joyce Kessel
Clarence W. Klein
Magne J. Kleppen
Esther M. Klusmann
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
Albert Carlsen
(continued on page 15)
THE AMBASSADOR
9
How donating retirement funds benefits you & ACC
id you know you may
have set aside money that
can be directed to your
favorite charity?
Every time part of your paycheck is
put into your Investment Retirement
Account (IRA), 401(k), or other
qualified retirement plan, it can
eventually be used to improve the
lives of individuals with disabilities.
“If you have an IRA retirement
fund, this is an option or avenue
that you can use to help your
favorite charity and yourself at
the same time,” says Shelley
Nannenga, the Anne Carlsen Center
Foundation Planned Giving
Specialist. “Donations are what
help us on a day-to-day basis.”
Although Retirement Gift Plans
(RGP) are sometimes given to
heirs, it’s becoming a more common
asset to be used for charitable giving. A charitable-based RGP is one
way to take money out of an IRA
without it being taxed. If you were
to gift that same IRA to a spouse,
son, or daughter it may be taxed
heavily.
“Many other assets will be distributed to family or other heirs free of
income, capital gains or estate tax,
but with the IRA frequently comes
a very large income tax bill,” says
10
THE AMBASSADOR
Heartland Trust Company Vice
President Neil Jordheim. “All
distributions from an IRA to an
individual are taxable income.”
Those taxes can be quite significant.
Fortunately, in recent years, some
of the hassle has been taken out of
the process of donating an RGP to
a charity.
“We had a number of our clients
take advantage of this gifting
opportunity,” says Jordheim, who
is a current member and past
chairman of the Anne Carlsen
Center Board of Trustees. “It
allowed them to get the money out
of the IRA without paying taxes to
the IRS. It also saved them a small
percentage of money because they
didn’t have to withdraw the funds
from the IRA, report the income,
possibly lose some of the standard
exemptions, and then write a check
to the charity.”
While an IRA rollover is one of the
most common RGPs, other examples
include gift annuities, bequest
annuities, unitrusts, gifts of
property or insurance, and stocks.
The Future of RGPs
Permitted in 2006 and 2007 with
some limitations, RGPs may be
authorized again in the final quarter(s) of 2008. Congress adjourned
for 2007 without passing an
extension to the Pension Protection
Act incentive, creating a stalemate.
House and Senate leaders now
hope that an extension of the
IRA charitable rollover will
pass this year.
“We hope by the end of the year
we know if this is a tool that
individuals and charities can
use,” says Nannenga.
If new legislation passes, all
charities would be eligible to
receive donations and, under the
proposed legislation, donors could
begin planned giving at age 591/2
instead of 701/2.
Potential Advantages
from an RGP
You and the Anne Carlsen Center
benefit from an RGP. When
deciding to gift assets, factoring
tax liabilities could lead to
significant savings.
“Retirement plan assets are subject
to ordinary income taxation at both
the federal and state levels,” says
Jordheim. “For those in the highest
tax bracket, that could total over
40 percent. In addition, if someone
passes away with a taxable estate
(greater than $2 million 2008) the
retirement plan assets could also
be subject to estate taxes up to 45
Bob Herman and his
daughter, December,
are recognized in May for
becoming members of the
Tree of Life, ACC’s symbolic
thank you to its many
supportive donors.
percent. If an IRA owner names
a charity as the full or partial
beneficiary of the IRA, 100 percent
of the money designated goes to
the charity and no taxes are paid
at the federal, state or estate
tax levels.”
Before establishing donations,
please consult your tax or financial
advisor to review information
specific to your life. Discover the
efficient way to help yourself,
as well as others. When you are
ready to donate, contact Shelley
Nannenga at 701-952-5109 or
toll-free at 1-800-568-5175.
She can be reached by e-mail at
shelley.nannenga@annecenter.org.
“By rolling over your required
distribution, it not only lowers your
taxes, but it definitely benefits all
of the children at the Anne Carlsen
Center,” says Nannenga. “Your
generous donations are helping
provide services that give our
students skills and hope for the
future.”
What you give to the Anne Carlsen
Center will ensure amazing and
unique opportunities, along with
individualized attention from
a nurturing staff. Their smiles
say it all…your thoughtfulness
ensures that students at ACC
enjoy full, meaningful lives.
You can get more information about making a
retirement plan gift to the Anne Carlsen Center
by completing the request form on the inside
of the back cover and sending it to us in the
enclosed envelope.
You’ll find additional information about donating
IRA rollovers and other retirement plan funds to
ACC by going to ww.annecenter.org, and then
clicking on the Foundation link. Select “Ways
to Give” on the left column of the Foundation page.
Determined to Make a Difference
Williston man uses IRA rollover gift to help ACC children live life to its fullest
ob Herman of Williston, N.D., knows how important it is
to give back.
Herman first started donating to the Anne Carlsen Center (ACC)
in 2004. He made the decision to give after hearing about the many
ways the Center improves the lives of children and young adults
with disabilities.
“I’m not a rich man,” he says, “but I’ve worked seven days a week
for most of my life, and I’m fortunate that I can do this.”
Most recently, Herman chose to make an IRA rollover gift to the
Center. The IRA, he says, was an ideal asset for charitable giving.
“It’s income I would have had to pay taxes on otherwise,” he
explains. He encourages others to consider this giving option.
Herman and his wife, Becky, and daughter, December, toured the
Center in May. “The more I see of it, the more impressed I am,”
he said during that visit. “The staff does a very good job. I think
it’s wonderful that the Center exists.”
Herman hopes that by making charitable giving a priority, he’s
setting a good example for his three children—December, Shane
and ConiLe.
“I remember how my parents instilled those values in me,”
he says. He says his experiences in life, such as a battle with
leukemia, have made him even more determined to do as much
good in this world as he can.
“We’re on this earth to help each other,” he insists. Herman
encourages others to explore the benefits of giving to ACC.
THE AMBASSADOR
11
Teen with autism making remarkable transformation at ACC
“The time was right for us, and it
was right for him. It wasn’t that we
gave up. It was all about hope and
opportunity. We looked at the Center
as if it was college for Chris.”
Arlene LaCroix
Chris’ mother
This is the second in a series of
articles in The Ambassador about
16-year-old Chris LaCroix and
his experiences with autism. While
Chris has faced some painful
struggles, he has also enjoyed
some meaningful victories. His
parents and the Anne Carlsen
Center (ACC) staff tell readers
about this remarkable teenager.
hris LaCroix faced
a frightening threat
to his health in
February of 2006.
What started out as
a sore the size of a
pencil eraser quickly
turned into something painful and
potentially deadly. The streptococcal
infection in the fourteen year
old’s ankle required three
operations and a ten-day
hospital stay.
Early on, one of the biggest frustrations
for Chris was not being able to share his
thoughts and feelings. Now, he easily
communicates with staff by pointing to
pictures in his communication book.
12
THE AMBASSADOR
Even after the danger had passed,
the Bottineau, N.D., teenager was
still suffering. For nine months,
while he healed, he was unable to
enjoy many of the activities he
once loved, like swimming.
“We had neurological testing
done, and they said that he was
depressed,” says Chris’ mom,
Arlene LaCroix. “After his hospital
stay, we couldn’t get him outside
to the swings and the sandbox.”
Concerns about Communication
While the LaCroixs were excited
for Chris, they realized their son
had a lot of obstacles to overcome.
His classroom teacher, Michele
Well, says there were some struggles
early on.
Chris faced a life-threatening infection in his ankle
when he was fourteen years old. His parents grew
concerned when, even after his recovery, Chris
seemed unhappy.
For Arlene and Jerry LaCroix,
it was heartbreaking to see their
son endure so much. The strep
infection was not the first major
challenge Chris had faced.
Chris was diagnosed with autism,
a complex developmental disability
that currently affects one in 150
children born, when he was five
years old. Like others with the
disorder, he experienced difficulties
with verbal communication and
social interaction. Other struggles
included sensory problems,
anxiety issues, tantrums and selfabusive behavior. The behaviors
took a toll on Chris’ family. But
what hurt the most was seeing
that Chris was unhappy.
“The time was right for us and it
was right for him,” Arlene explains.
“It wasn’t that we gave up. It was
all about hope and opportunity. We
looked at the Center as if it was
college for Chris.”
The staff found visual support to
be the most effective way to help
their new student communicate.
By pointing to pictures, Chris could
tell staff what he was hungry
for, when he was finished eating,
and when he was ready for
dessert. Pictures of objects,
places, activities and feelings
were laminated and placed in a
binder for Chris to take with him
throughout the Center.
Social stories, groups of pictures
paired with words, informed
Chris of the kind of activities he
would be involved with, as well as
the type of behavior expected in
each situation. These visual aids
greatly helped facilitate learning
in the classroom, in the living
areas, and in therapy sessions.
“We’ve gotten to know Chris,”
says Ron Bendewald, an ACC
occupational therapist. “And
Chris has gotten to know us. The
communication is easier now. He’s
more trusting. That’s a means of
introducing more activities.”
“Life is too short not to be
happy,” the LaCroixs said.
They had heard about the Anne
Carlsen Center and decided to
visit in July of 2006.
They were impressed by the
Center’s experience with autism,
individualized education, excellent
medical care, and nurturing
atmosphere. The LaCroixs knew
they had found a partner to help
Chris build a more independent,
meaningful life—a life filled with
happiness. Chris began as a student
in December 2006.
classroom,” Michele remembers.
“Early on, we thought he didn’t like
the food on his plate to touch, so we
would spread his meal out on five
different plates. But he still wasn’t
eating very much.”
By taking field trips with ACC staff and classmates,
Chris has become more at ease with social
situations. A trip to teacher Michele Well’s farm
sparked an interest in horses.
“When he first came, he had very
few communication skills,” she
says. “If he couldn’t communicate
with others, his first line of defense
was to bite his hand or his shoulder.
He would hit his head on the side
of the door frame or the side of the
table if we didn’t understand him.”
That frustration also became apparent in the student lunchroom. “The
first time he ate lunch at the Center,
he took his whole plate, threw it into
the garbage, and ran back to the
“His behaviors have gone way
down,” says Rachel Coppin, a
speech/language pathologist at
ACC. “He has a greater tolerance
of the things that happen to him.
His ability to cope has improved.”
Steps to Success
One of the biggest adjustments
Chris made in his first few weeks
at the Anne Carlsen Center was
learning how to handle events in
large, open areas, such as physical
education class. At first, he would
get to the gym door, look in, and
run back to his classroom. Later,
he would beat his head on the gym
floor or water fountain and then
run back to class.
(continued)
THE AMBASSADOR
13
Gradually, staff increased the
amount of time Chris was spending
in the gym. They started with five
minutes, then 10 minutes, and
worked their way up. Eventually,
Chris was not only willing to spend
the entire class period in the gym,
he was even having fun.
As Chris became less anxious and
disruptive, he blossomed as a student.
He enjoyed last year’s Cinco de Mayo
celebration in his classroom.
Chris also became more at ease in
public places. Before, his parents
had a difficult time taking him out
into the community because Chris
would throw tantrums or try to run
away. “We were a ‘split family’ for
many years,” Arlene remembers.
The LaCroixs were not able to go to
church or sporting events together,
because someone always had to
stay home with Chris.
Arlene and Jerry are thankful
for the high level of caring,
dedication and training that
the ACC staff has.
“They really care for the children
and respect their rights,” Jerry
says.
“The staff is exceptional,” adds
Arlene. “They are there for the
kids. They treat Chris as an
individual. They give him what
he is deserving of.”
On field trips with ACC staff
and classmates, Chris learned
how to act appropriately at the
mall and how to enjoy a meal
at a restaurant. He began to
understand social situations and
develop appropriate responses.
And the boy who once would not
even set foot in the ACC gym,
impressed everyone when, last
year, he served a very important
role in the annual Christmas
program—an event held in the
same auditorium as gym class.
Chris was chosen to run the
PowerPoint presentation for the
hour-long program. The urge to
run away was gone. It its place
was calmness and confidence.
More Independence for Chris
As Chris has become less disruptive and more independent, Chris’
parents have become more hopeful
for his future.
“We aren’t young parents,” Jerry
admits. “I turned 54 in April. We
won’t be around forever. There
are things that need to happen
now for Chris.”
As Chris continues to flourish
at the Anne Carlsen Center,
the LaCroixs look to the future
with hope.
“Before, Chris was so structured
into our world that he wasn’t able
to blossom in his own world,”
Arlene admits. “Now he’s really
blossoming.”
And what has happened since
Chris first arrived at the Anne
Carlsen Center in December 2006
is what his parents call a remarkable transformation. “He’s happy!”
Arlene says. “He’s much calmer.
He’s into a routine.”
And the nurturing, highly-structured setting at the Center has
helped Chris’ true personality
shine. An extremely creative and
artistic student, he enjoys drawing
and painting. But what has made
the biggest impact is the way he
treats others.
14
THE AMBASSADOR
“Chris is a caring, young man and
a good role model,” Michele says.
“Our students teach us more than
we teach them. We have learned
that we need to step back and
figure out their needs and focus
less on our own needs. They teach
us about what’s important.”
Staff helped Chris grow more
comfortable with large, open spaces—
like the ACC gymnasium. He smiles
during a ceremony in the gym, as
Coach Troy Duven presents him
with his track and field awards.
In the next edition of The
Ambassador, see how Chris has
continued to blossom at the Anne
Carlsen Center, participating in
a wide array of activities that
allow his strengths to shine.
Given By
In Memory Of
Given By
In Memory Of
Given By
In Memory Of
Mrs. Delfena Ballweber
Neal and Phyllis Folstad
Mrs. DiAnn Loll
Mrs. Winnifred L. Syverson
Oswald and Cathryn Graff
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Mr. Charles D. Stromsodt
Dave and Kay Krueger
Randy and Linda Myhra
Ms. Mavis Benson
Mrs. Mary L. Johnson
Gary and Phyllis Torske
Phillip and Mildred Hart
Ms. Mavis Benson
Mrs. Ivy E.
Ramser-Johannesen
Mrs. Helen F. Nordling
Ms. Joy R. Kundert
Don and Charleen
Schermerhorn
Pizza Ranch of Harvey
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Kenneth and Anne Dalsted
Mrs. Shirley D. Hintz
Mr. Clarence J. Martin
Mr. Clarence J. Martin
Bosard, McCutcheon
& Rau, Ltd.
Bosard, McCutcheon
& Rau, Ltd.
Bosard, McCutcheon
& Rau, Ltd.
Monafay Anderson
Dwight and Marilyn
Bassingthwaite
Robb and Deone Kulla
Ms. Mavis Benson
Mrs. Evelyn Delmore
Mrs. Elizabeth Kalhagen
William and Lorraine Baasch
Glen and Nathlie Miller
Mrs. Jenny Moch
Mrs. L. Elvira Lokken
Mrs. Dolores Landblom
Mr. and Mrs. Lynn D. Thompson
Mr. Alden P. Nelson
Gary and Arlys Mathis
Mrs. Lois Lundgren
Ms. Irene Reinhardt
Wayne and Denise Carlson
Kenneth and Anne Dalsted
Viola L. Knecht
Selma M. Knutson
Myron Koppang
Myron Koppang
Esther K. W. Koppelman
Jean G. Korsmo
Ludvik C. Kotrba
Aurene Kragness
Bernard K. Kramer
Bernard K. Kramer
Virgil Kreie
Marvin Krein
Terry K. Kruschwitz
Annabelle Kukla
Polly Kuznia
Julia E Laqua
Julia E Laqua
Lars and Anna Larson
Russell G. Larson
Marie M. Lay
Roger and Grace Buelow
Mrs. Amy C. Nelson
Ms. Alice E. Thompson
Mrs. Iris Bighley
Raydon and Betty Workin
Herbert and Isabel Groninger
Glenn and Connie
Schwinkendorf
George and Muriel Vigesaa
Oscar and Arlette Peterson
James and Judy Engstrom
Mrs. Doris M. Burdick
Duane and Alvena Hoffman
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Hon. Lyle A. Podoll
Mrs. Mavis A. Wold
Mrs. Betty L. Anderson
Mrs. Alma A. Johnson
Robert and Bette Johnson
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Larry and Kimberle
Selby-Pounds
Lyman and Marilyn Strietzel
Heartland Trust Company
Mrs. Joan Lindvall
Mrs. Irene Reidman
Rev. and Mrs. Gordon N.
Berntson
Daris and Mabel Bittner
Ms. Darlene A. Reeg
J. Gene and Betty Dura
Mr. Le Roy Anderson
Mrs. Evelyn M. Boschee
Robert and Norma Richardson
James and Margaret Sanders
B. Martin and Betty Jo Gray
Esther and Janice Larson
Mrs. Lillian Rost
Mrs. Irene Balsley
Robert and Gloria Larson
Mrs. Hazel Sabby
Ms. Mary K. Baumann
Berntson
Myron and Gertrude Pryor
Ms. Joan Y. Redmann
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Robert and Donna Lagein
Richard and Nancy Shermoen
Manny Oberlander
Oscar S. Olson
Oscar S. Olson
Loved Ones
Loved Ones
Amil S. Osadchy
Waeland T. Ostafin
Eldon and Clara Jo Conant
American Legion Post #116
Clyde and Judith Routledge
Mrs. Judy Goettle
Hon. Lyle A. Podoll
Hon. Lyle A. Podoll
Mrs. DiAnn Loll
Rev. Henry G. Stolz
Kenneth and Betty Erickson
Mrs. Mary L. Poppen
Jon and Kathleen Schultz
Bruce and Susan Carlson
Mrs. Alma Swenson
Mrs. Alma Swenson
Mrs. Bunny Du Champ
R. L. and Connie Bolson
Senster and Janet Vangsness
Richard and Linda Mc Bride
Mr. Thomas E. Litzinger
Ms. Mavis Benson
Ms. Mavis Benson
Mrs. Hazell E. DeGroot
Vernal and Doris Kensrud
Al and Alice Jochim
Berntson
Joseph and Eileen Larson
Gary and Carol Vigen
Mary L. Grinde
Clifford and Velma Martin
Ms. Irene Reinhardt
Raydon and Betty Workin
Winfred and Karen
Duttenhefer
Larry and Sarah Frei
Steven and Rachel Horning
Mrs. Theresa Wasem
Ms. Judy L. Kulla
Mrs. Hilda Sackmann
Mr. Barrett J. Williams
Mrs. Carolgene Wolf
Ms. Irene Reinhardt
Mrs. Aletha I. Vossler
Bernyl and Nancy Nelson
Mrs. Della J. Hoff
Mrs. Evelyn Delmore
Mrs. Phyllis R. Lura
Mrs. Phyllis R. Lura
Erling Skaufel
Darrell T. Smith
Ivan H. Smith
Jeppe Sorensen
Bonnie E. Spriggs
Jeffrey N. Stangeland
Geneva E. Stevens
Ruth A. Stewart
Thomas Stoia
Viorel G. Stoia
Gilbert R. Stoltenow
Amelia M. Stolz
Leonard J. Stoutland
Donna Mae Sturgess
Donna Mae Sturgess
Hazel Stutrud
Colleen F. Sullivan
Clarence W. Sundstrom
Arne Svendsen
Paul D. Swenson
Robert O. Swenson
Madrenne Theisen
Margaret Thorgramson
David C. Tjostem
Ida I. Tobin
Isabel J. Topness
Duane L. Traynor
Wade A. Unterseher
John A. Vagle
John A. Vagle
Charlotte Van Brero
Luetta Vatsaas
Terry Vik
Marguerite K. Vik
Evelyn S. Lebsock
Jerome Lillestol
Julie R. Lind
Jewel E. Linderman
Catherine Linson
Agnes T. Liudahl
Steve L. Lundy
Magnus P. Lutness
Magnus P. Lutness
Jubert O. Malme
Mike Mariner
Duane Marohl
Kathy Marshall
Anna Martin
Angeline Martin
Edwin Mattheis
E. Hugh Mc Cutcheon
E. Hugh Mc Cutcheon
E. Hugh Mc Cutcheon
Sandra M. Mc Evers
Hilda Mc Lean
Ron Mc Leod
Ron Mc Leod
Adrian V. McCormack
Val & Mary McCormack
Matthew A. Mechtel
Donald Merdink
Hulda Miller
Ralph A. Miller
Carol Miller
Charles H. Minge
Jacqueline J. Moch
Ida G. Moe
Eric Monson
Harold L. Morrison
Devey Namock
David O. Nelson
Elva L. Nelson
Katherine R. Nelson
Katherine R. Nelson
Obert Nelson
Florence Neumann
Janet M. Noack
Wenzel Norby
Wayne B. Ostby
Marlene Overland
Arlyne D. Paulson
Irwina E. Peckham
Hilda Person
Ruby H. Pewe
Betty L. Pfarr
Leland W. Podoll
Alvin Poppinga
Janet A. Porter
Robert Potts
Margaret E. Powers
Margaret E. Powers
Margaret E. Powers
Margaret E. Powers
Margaret E. Powers
Clara Price
Vardon M. Quanbeck
Vardon M. Quanbeck
Edmund Quick
Corinne L. Ramsey
Dorothy M. Rebsom
Freda P. Reddig
Ida Reed
Robert J. Reeg
Beryl A. Renier
Elmo Ressler
Elmo Ressler
Elmo Ressler
Aaron K. Richardson
Alfred Riskedahl
Andrew J. Riskedahl
Gladyce Riskedahl
August Ritter
Clara Rix
Myrtle H. Roberts
Lyle Robinson
Jewel Roningen
Ethel Rosenius
Esther Ross
Arthur J. Rost
Olga Rostad
Max Roth
LeVerne A. Sabby
LeVerne A. Sabby
LeVerne A. Sabby
Alvina Sackman
Betty Sakariassen
Tom Sather
Tony Schaffner
Steve Schlicker
Frances M. Schmidt
Myrtle Schroeder
Myrtle Schroeder
Charles G. Schultz
Charles G. Schultz
Larry L. Schwanz
Clarence and Margaret Shermoen
Erling Skaufel
Steve Viseth
Steve Viseth
Merlin A. Volla
Earl M. Vosberg
Marlene D. Wagner
John Wallace
Lucille E. Ward
Elizabeth Wardner
William Wasem
William Wasem
William Wasem
William Wasem
Beverly Wateland
Julius J. Wedman
Jeff Weekes
Harold Wells
Viola P. Wiedmann
Mary Williams
Robert Wohlwend
Howard A. Wolf
Agnes Wolt
Agnes Wolt
Margerie G. Wood
Janet Youlden & Grandson
Donald B. Ysteboe
Lloyd Zaun
Leo Ziegler
David M. Zielinski
Daphanie L. Zimmerli
Bonita
THE AMBASSADOR
15
Dear Friends,
The offices of the Foundation at the Anne Carlsen Center are in
the far west end of the campus. It is a long walk to the front of
the building where the administrative offices are located and
many meetings are held. The distance doesn’t bother me at all.
This walk is often the highlight of my day. I wish that every
supporter of the ACC could make that trip with me.
You would pass Jonas in the hall and try not to fall for his fake
handshake gag. He “got” me several times in the first few weeks
that I was here.
You’d see Jimmy on his way to class. He is the student body
president and appreciates being addressed as Mr. President.
You might see Matt pedaling his bike down the hall with his therapist
following closely behind. Matt is working hard and is very proud of his abilities!
If you wander by the therapy area, you just may see Ty learning to pilot his motorized chair through
doors and up to tables.
You would be blessed to see Arianna’s beautiful smile when she arrives to class in the morning.
I wish you could see all of the students as they learn, grow and succeed here at ACC. As each thrives, with the
help of the loving and dedicated staff, they are proof that Dr. Anne Carlsen’s spirit guides our efforts today.
Our supporters help ensure that Dr. Anne’s important work continues, as we empower those with disabilities
and their families. Thank you for being a friend to these remarkable individuals!
Sincerely,
Dan Kunzman
Foundation Executive Director
ACC raises 30k for summer camp at annual benefit golf tournament
Helped by 34, four-person teams and a
host of time donated by volunteers, the
Anne Carlsen Center raised just over
$30,000 through its 26th Annual Benefit
Golf Tournament on June 7 at Jamestown
Country Club.
Proceeds from the event will help send
children with disabilities to summer camp.
At Camp Grassick, near Dawson, ND,
teens with a wide array of disabilities
are given the chance to enjoy a variety
of new adventures such as their first swim
in a lake, hayrides, bonfires, talent shows,
and of course, making new friends.
16
THE AMBASSADOR
ACC resident Natasha Esch
lines up a drive at the
Jamestown Country Club.
Throughout the day, Natasha
got instructions on how to
sharpen her game.
ACC resident Jacob Williams gets
behind the wheel of a golf cart
and takes a couple of tournament
participants for a ride. Earlier in the
day, Jacob handed out appreciation
gifts to team captains.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Sue Offutt, Ph.D.
Chairperson
Grafton, N.D.
Thomas Rohleder
Vice Chairperson
Fargo, N.D.
Bryon Dockter
Prior Lake, Minn.
Tim Flakoll
Fargo, N.D.
Eric Monson
Fargo, N.D.
Robert
Montgomery, M.D.
Fargo, N.D.
Janet Seaworth
Bismarck, N.D.
Pat Traynor
Anne Carlsen Center is partnering with Jamestown
businesses in 2008, as we raise support for, and
awareness of, our high-quality programs and services.
Fargo, N.D.
Seven businesses are participating in the special program,
Kevin Wallevand
Joel Fremstad
Moorhead, Minn.
Fargo, N.D.
as we strengthen community ties and work together to
Reesa Webb
Harvey Huber
Denver, Colo.
improve the lives of others. Thank you, Community
Jamestown, N.D.
Robert Weiss
Bruce Iserman
Shorewood, Minn.
Neil Jordheim
Myra Quanrud, M.D.
Ex Officio
Fargo, N.D.
Fargo, N.D.
Pat McCullough
Edina, Minn.
Partners, for helping ACC continue our rich tradition of
encouraging and empowering individuals of all abilities.
Jamestown, N.D.
Rev. Gordon Berntson
Emeritus
Fargo, N.D.
A Division of Forum Communications Company
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Dan Howell
Chief Executive
Officer
Marcia Gums
Chief Operating
Officer
Judy Kulla
Chief Financial Officer
Margie Johnson
Human Resource
Director
Dan Kunzman
Executive Director—
Foundation
THE AMBASSADOR
Published by:
Anne Carlsen Center
701 3rd St. N.W.
Jamestown, ND 58401
1-800-568-5175
www.annecenter.org
Brenda Scholten, Editor
brenda.scholten@annecenter.org
Kalen Ost, Assistant Editor
kalen.ost@annecenter.org
Paul Johnson, Designer
paul@pauljohnsondesign.com
The Ambassador is mailed, free of charge,
to those supporting the mission of the
Anne Carlsen Center.
Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy:
Make a Lasting Impact
Your generosity helps provide hope and loving support
for individuals with disabilities.
I would like to visit with an Anne Carlsen Center
representative about:
_____ Making a retirement plan gift.
_____ Establishing a Charitable Gift Annuity.
Name _____________________________________________________________________
Anne Carlsen Center does not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national origin,
age or disability in employment or services.
Address ___________________________________________________________________
If you would like to be removed from our
mailing list, please call 1-800-568-5175, ext. 167.
Phone __________________________________________________
______________
______
City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________________
E-mail _____________________________________________________________________
Please return completed request form in the enclosed envelope.
Pastor JoAnne Moeller provides
spiritual nurturing to students and
staff at the Anne Carlsen Center.
Here she spends some precious
time ministering to Taylor.
Wolff Images.
TM
701 3rd St. N.W.
Jamestown, ND 58401-2971

Hope for Tomorrow Personal Touch

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