SPOTLIGHTS

SPECIAL NEIGHBORS, INC.
SPOTLIGHTS
May August 2014
Connecting lives through Relationships and Community
Inside this Issue:
THE MILE STARTS HERE
Cultural Competency
2
Strategic Plan
2
Volunteers
3
Neighborhood News
3
Fundraiser
4
Volunteers
4
Heartland CFC
5
United Way Giving
5
Donations/Wish List
6
Donations/Wish List
7
MeraVic
8
White Oaks is participating in “The Mile Starts
Here” 2014 walking program that is sponsored
by the Independence Health Department. A mile
route that takes place every Wednesday from May
7th to October 29th at 9 a.m., rotating between six
Independence parks and
trails. During the weekly
walks they have had the
Mile Starts Here Participants
opportunity to share with
many community leaders about Special Neighbors.
Along with White Oaks staff and several of the
individuals we support, Betty Hartwig and Sandi
Wilhelmsen, SNI Board Members, have joined
Penny & Robin
in on the weekly walks in the park. It is open to
the public and free. What a great way to partner with the Independence Health
Department and promote health at Special Neighbors!
PICNIC IN THE PARK
Special Neighbors had a great day in the park on June 7th. We had our doubts
if the picnic would go on as scheduled, but we got a break in the rain and the
picnic went on as planned. We had a wonderful turnout, with almost 100
people in attendance. Picnic in the Park is a free event for participants and their
family members. We were able to host the picnic thanks to the generous support
of our local community; including, HyVee, Apple Market, Price Chopper,
Wal-Mart, Target and Roma Bakery. Thank you to everyone who came out to
enjoy the picnic in the park with friends, family members and staff.
Mary & Amy
Pam & her staff
Duane, Mary & Lexi
WHAT IS CULTURAL COMPETENCY?
What is Cultural Competency? Cultural competence refers to an ability to
interact effectively with people of different cultures and socio-economic backgrounds, particularly in the context of human resources, non-profit
organizations, and government agencies whose employees work with persons
from different cultural/ethnic backgrounds. Cultural competence comprises four
components: Awareness of one’s own cultural, attitude towards cultural
differences, knowledge of different cultural practices and cross-cultural skills.
In August, Special Neighbors conducted their first training on Cultural
Competency for all staff to attend. We learned that developing cultural
competence results in an ability to understand, communicate with and
effectively interact with people across different cultures. We did several
exercises in the training that made us evaluate the way we view different
cultures, whether it be race, age, gender or religion.
STRATEGIC PLAN ~
FOCUSED ON OUR FUTURE
In May, the Special Neighbors Board met for their annual strategic planning
meeting in an effort to produce fundamental decisions and actions that shape
and guide what Special Neighbors is, what it does, and why it does it, with a
focus on the future. Annually, the Board of Special Neighbors meets to develop
a plan that will guide our direction for the future. The following strategies were
developed and will be implemented according to the time frames designated:
• Aging in place needs are being met.
• Increase awareness of Special Neighbors ~ by increasing funding, volunteers
and other resources.
• Strategies to support SNI as an “umbrella” organization.
• Attract, recruit, and retain staff who have enthusiasm for direct care work.
• Make our facilities the best possible homes for the individuals we support.
We appreciate the board’s commitment to Special Neighbors and their drive to
provide the best quality supports to the individuals we support!
SPECIAL NEIGHBORS
is a 501(c)3 organization
established in 1978
to provide residential
services to persons with
developmental disabilities
living in eastern Jackson
County.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Special
Neighbors is to empower
and assist persons with
developmental disabilities
to live and participate
in the community
with dignity.
OUR VISION
Our vision is that all
people are accepted as
they are and have the
opportunity to lead a life
that is meaningful to them.
BOARD MEMBERS
Rick Norton, President
Betty Hartwig, VP
Valerie Fortel, Secretary
Justin Iske, Treasurer
Becky Barbieri
Mary Siegfried
Chuck Dale
Sandi Wilhelmsen
Nancy Martin
Miriam Bailey
Amanda Brown
ADMINISTRATIVE
STAFF
Amy Berry, Interim Ex. Dir.
Jennifer Seidel, Dev. Dir.
Melissa Acton, PR Director
Darlene Polina, HR Manager
Tina Young, Accountant
Robin Cayton, Adm. Assist.
News Around the Neighborhood
• Amy C. accomplished a dream by seeing the
Titanic and touring the Titanic Museum in
Branson.
• Deborah J. has a new niece in her family.
• Duane got new bedroom furniture and Randy
got a new desk.
• Several individuals had a safe and wonderful
time in Branson. Everyone was able to
participate in activities that they enjoyed
with the help of Tennison Travel Agency who
helped them get the best deals!
• John W. has started a second part-time job at
Olive Garden and is a proud uncle to Macie
Alison who was born on July 7th.
• Gene celebrated his 61st birthday at the
casino with his Mom.
• All the individuals at White Oaks are
enjoying taking part in their new day
program!
• Congratulations to Melanie Logan on
expecting a baby in January.
• The following individuals placed in the State
Special Olympics: Pam S. Amy C., Suzie,
Leslie and Sandy.
• Edward enjoyed celebrating his birthday at a
Royals game.
• Mary S. was asked to participate in an Aging
and the End of Life conference. Mary got
to talk about things that she wanted in place
for her future. This was a great honor for
Mary to be selected to participate in this
conference.
• Congratulations to Norman on being selected
as employee of the month at JobOne.
Robin working on her pet
project during the
Day Program
Carriage House enjoying
the Ducks in Branson
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
Yale Acton
Miriam Bailey
Becky Barbieri
Elayna Bostwick
Amanda Brown
Karen Cook
Chuck Dale
First United Methodist Church
Albert Gilder
Betty Hartwig
Terry Hartwig
Clayton Hayes
Megan Hayes
Valerie Fortel
Angie Hope-Martin
Justin Iske
Norman Keeney
Nancy Martin
Rick Norton
Lazaro Rivera
Darrell Roberson
Mary Siegfried
Susan Stanton
John Ungerer
David Valkus
Sandi Wilhelmsen
Jane Zou
NEIGHBORS 4 NEIGHBORS
September 20, 2014 was a night to go down in the Special Neighbors history
books. Together, we were able to raise an unprecedented $20,000 to support
Special Neighbors programs. The doors opened early at 5:30 p.m. to allow guests
extra time to tour the museum. First time patrons were amazed by the incredible
collection of automobiles and memorabilia, and returning guests were treated to
some new additions to the museum this year. Entertainment, provided by The
Nace Brothers, kicked off the evening, but everyone stayed busy checking out
the silent auction items. We were thrilled to see so many
generous bids this year, and are grateful to the businesses,
Auction Winners
board members and individuals who contributed to make this the most successful
auction to date.
Before the evening concluded, a video was shared that featured Suzie, Mary and
Eric’s neighborhoods. After the video, Mary was joined by board member, Justin
Iske, for a live auction. People generously donated over $6,000 to be used to
convert tubs to walk-in showers at Special Neighbors Apartments. With everyone’s
support, we are looking forward to converting two additional bathrooms.
Mary S. & Justin Iske
As always, our thanks to Peterson Manufacturing for the generous use of this one of a kind venue and to our
event sponsors.
Platinum Level
Fike
O’Halloran Sherman Associates, LLC.
Silver Level
Genoa, South City Furniture, Christopher & Ann Spohn and Harriet Fortel
Bronze Level
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust, Red Carpet Services, Topper’s Food Mart,
EBE Office Solutions and Adams Farm
WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTEERS
With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits
of volunteering can be enormous to you, your family, and your community. We
were blessed to host a wonderful group of volunteers from First United Methodist
Church in Blue Springs. Brooke Roskop, the Missions Director, coordinated
the group’s efforts. Together, they spent a Saturday morning at Carriage House,
painting and doing yard work, but the highlight of the
day was getting the opportunity to visit with the ladies
Painting at Carriage House
when they returned home. They were thrilled to see the
improvements to their home and yard. Thank you to Betty Hartwig, SNI Board
Member, for recommending Special Neighbors to be a recipient of this wonderful
opportunity. We are looking forward to having them out for future projects! To
learn more about volunteering at Special Neighbors contact Jennifer Seidel at
Painting at Carriage House
816-836-3462.
The Combined Federal Campaign is the most philanthropic workplace giving campaign in the entire nation.
Locally, they have raised millions of dollars each year to support thousands of charities. This year’s slogan is
“Serving our Country, Supporting our Community.” Supporting the Heartland Combined Federal Campaign
gives you a chance to make a difference. Each Fall, the Combined Federal Campaign gives the opportunity
to donate your time, talents and dollars. Please know that no dollar amount or time volunteered is too small,
and what you give is appreciated. Special Neighbors is one of many charities that receives funds through this
campaign and our CFC number is 76317. We appreciate the support of the federal employees in the Kansas
City area.
Thank you to Rochelle Payne and Sandra Jones for donating through the Heartland Combined Federal
Campaign donors program last year.
The United Way of Greater Kansas City launched its annual campaign at the kickoff luncheon on September
10th to help the community’s needy, hoping to increase the number of donors and raise more money than last
year. Although, the United Way isn’t setting a monetary goal they are hoping to surpass last year’s campaign
that brought in more than $37 million.
Special Neighbors receives contributions through the United Way Donor Choice Program. Donor Choice allows you to designate your United Way contribution to an agency of your choice. If you work for a business
that holds a campaign, we would like to encourage you to designate your pledge to Special Neighbors.Ask
your United Way representative how you can designate your pledge to Special Neighbors or call Jennifer or
Melissa at 816-836-3462 for more information about the program. Thank you to our contributors from last
year’s campaign: Becky Barbieri, William Arnold, Jr., Valerie Fortel, Cindy Keeney, Lisa Beel,
Christy Blaney, Christine Falk, Tara Grauberger, Valerie Halas, Renee Marshall, Karla Neff, Marlene Norton,
Teri Whilhite-Holstrom, April Lombardo, Damon Perkins, Sr., Felicia Perkins, Gina Weatherman and
Barbara Winkler.
DONATIONS
May 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014
DONATIONS
May 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014
Good Neighbor - $100 - $499
Deborah Schmidt
Bob & Jana Schmitt
Tom & Dottie Spreitzer
Truist
Kathy Williams
Special Neighbor - $5,000 and up
Morgan Family Foundation
Exceptional Neighbor - $1,000 - $4,999
Autozone
Independence Young Matrons
United Way of Greater Kansas City
Benevolent Neighbor - $500 - $999
Bob & Marilyn O’Halloran
O’Halloran Sherman Associates, LLC
Good Neighbor - $100 - $499
Mr. & Mrs. Allan Bagshaw
John & Miriam Bailey
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust
Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Case
Chuck Dale
Mr. & Mrs. Ken Dauer
Robert Fordemwalt
Deborah Fortel & David Sawyer
Harriet Fortel
Genoa Healthcare
Terry & Betty Hartwig
Hays Companies Employees
Heartland Combined Federal Campaign
Nancy Martin
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Quint
Betty Snapp
South City Furniture
Topper’s Food Mart, Inc.
YourCause, LLC Trustee for HP/
Jerome Bartels
United Way of Wyandotte County
Curt & Sandi Wilhelmsen
Friendly Neighbor - $1 - $99
AT&T United Way
Fran Baker
Terri Bonner
Jane Dahem
Mr. & Mrs. Walter French
Angeline Hope-Martin & Harry Martin
Larry & Sandy Kauffman
Mr. & Mrs. Carl Misner
Mr. & Mrs. James Newland
CARRIAGE HOUSE
Pots and Pans
Gas Grill
Cake Pans
Bakeware
Serving Dishes
Upright Freezer
Cooking Utensils/Knives
WHITE OAKS
Perennial Flowers
Voyager Lift
Slings
Wheelchair Ramp
SNA
Floor/Table Lamps
Digital Camera
Picture Frames
Pots/Pans/Dishes
Microwave for Downstairs
MAIN STREET HOUSE
Deep Freeze
Gas Grill
SNI OFFICE
Colander
Paring Knives
Microwave Cart
In-Kind Donations
Ameristar Casino
Apple Market
Backyard Burger
Beauty Brands
Centerpoint Community Ice
Mr. & Mrs. Howard Cook
Cool Crest
Corner Cafe
Crown Center
Dairy Queen
Fred Arbanas Golf Course
Gateway Arch
Hilton Garden Inn
Home Sweet Home Bakery & Coffeehouse
HyVee
Jade Alarm
Kansas City Steak Company
Kaw Valley Greenhouses
Liberty Memorial - World War I Museum
Larry & Dee Ann Matthews
Musical Theater Heritage
National Cristina Foundation
Outerwall
Price Chopper
QuickTrip Corporation
Target - Independence
Walmart Supercenter - Independence
Roma Bakery
Salty Iguana
Shedd Aquarium
Shop Beautiful
Starbucks
Tree of Life
Mike Trouba
V’s Italiano Ristorante
Vivilore
Curt & Sandi Wilhelmsen
DONATIONS
May 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014
In Memory of Doug Mathis
Yale & Melissa Acton
Robert & Robin Brockman
Certified Safety Mfg., Inc.
James & Kathleen Chrisman
Marilee Ciardullo
Kenneth & Kristie Drummond
Jimmy and Charlotte Frey
Ron and Linda Hargrave
Jene & Betty Hayes
Claire Heriford
Virginia Hilton
Robert & Betty Jenkins
Karen Landers
Frank Long
Doug & Diana Mesa
Midland Loan Services
Kevin Munsterman
Jimmy & Kaye Nickell
Claudette Purtle
Don & Ann Quint
Jeffrey & Jennifer Quint
Mark & Elizabeth Quint
Rob & Jennifer Seidel
David Strauch
Carolyn Wilson
NOLEN MANOR
Large rugs for basement
1/2 sheet cake pan
Portable Boom Box
Step Ladder
Steamer Pot
Dolly/Hand Truck
MANOR HOUSE
Cooler
Outdoor Grill
Small Dinner Plates
Cutting Boards
ISL
In Memory of Steve Varns
Mr. & Mrs. Allan Bagshaw
In Honor of Tobie Renfro
Ted’s Trash
Non-stick skillets
George Foreman Grill
Small Apartment
Size Freezer
Coffee Table (no glass)
Pots & Pans
Bath Towels
Wash cloths
Dish Towels
Non-stick skillets
New Kitchen Utensils
Small Plates
Special Neighbors is excited about
a new opportunity and if you shop
on Amazon, you will be too! Now
when you shop, simply go to www.
smile.amazon.com and select
Special Neighbors as your charity
of choice. Each time you make a
purchase on www.smile.amazon.
com, they will donate .5% of your
purchase back to Special Neighbors.
INDEPENDENCE
YOUNG
MATRONS AWARD
GRANT MONEY
In January, Special Neighbors
requested a $1,000 grant from the
Independence Young Matron’s to be
used towards the purchase of new
living room furniture at Manor
House. In May, we became the
recipient of this money, to be used
towards purchasing furniture that is
comfortable and easily accessible
for the men at Manor House. We
would like to thank the members of
the Independence Young Matrons
for their continued support of
Special Neighbors.
Jim enjoying his new furniture
SPECIAL NEIGHBORS, INC.
Nonprofit
U.S. Postage Paid
KCMO
Permit No. 321
3675 S. Noland Road, Suite 110
Independence, MO 64055
Phone: 816-836-3462
Fax: 816-836-5158
Development/Public Relations
Contacts:
jennifer@specialneighbors.org
melissa@specialneighbors.org
Website:
www.specialneighbors.org
Our Mission: To empower and assist persons with developmental disabilities
to live and participate in the community with dignity.
Fall/Christmas Sale
November 4-8, 2014
Tue/Wed 7-7
Thur/Fri 8-5 Sat 9-1
Mark your Calendar!
50-70% OFF
WHOLESALE PRICES!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Containers, Arrangements, Christmas Decor, Ornaments, Feathers, Wreaths,
Garlands and much more!
Be sure to tell them you’re with Special Neighbors Inc. #4012 and
MeraVic will donate 10% of your net purchase price back to us.
MeraVic
1780 S. Buckner Tarsney Road
Grain Valley, Missouri 64029