ACT News

A Day in the Life of a Community Living DSP

February 19th, 2020

The direct support workforce is and has been in crisis. People with disabilities have individual and unique needs and abilities just like everyone else. To live a healthy and meaningful life, they depend on the services carried out by Direct Support Professionals. Although many people have a good idea of what a DSP is and

Day Services has Team Leaders!

February 5th, 2020

One of our largest programs is Day Services. Divided into 4 color-coded teams, consisting of about 25 individuals and approximately 5-6 support staff on each team, it was deemed necessary to promote Team Leaders! Due to the workload of our amazing Program Supervisors, they can’t always be in the room at all times. This is

ACT Expands Services into Northern Boone County

October 16th, 2018

ACT has been developing and expanding the Day Program services into northern Boone County over the last several months. This is the first time ACT will have an offsite location. We sat down with Adam Hays, Program Supervisor for Day Program, to talk about the developments in Centralia. What’s the vision for Centralia? We want

Crystal Completes Memorial Trip to Graceland

October 16th, 2018

Her family members are huge Elvis Presley fans. Naturally, Crystal has always wanted to visit Graceland. Recent family losses intensified the draw Crystal felt to make her pilgrimage. During a three-month period last year, Crystal lost both her grandmother and younger brother, Jeremy. They would have loved to visit Memphis. When she started receiving services

Sweet, Juicy Watermelon, Fragrant Herbs, and Fuzzy Plants – The Experiences of Veronica’s Sensory Garden

October 10th, 2018

When Elizabeth started working in Veronica’s home, she wanted to find an activity that would be fun for everyone, including herself. Veronica is deaf and blind. That makes fully participating in some activities challenging. During her research, Elizabeth found several ideas, some of which made her chuckle. Skiing, for example, did not make it to

After Many Years, Heath Visits Family in Clinton, MO

October 10th, 2018

Like many adults, Heath lives in a different region from his family. While he continues to create lasting friendships with his roommates, staff, and peers; Heath was ready to catch up with his relatives again. Heath’s parents passed away in 2002. Since then, Heath has wanted to have a birthday celebration with his aunt and

Barbi Welcomes an Old Friend

October 10th, 2018

Vicki Schulte, Program Manager for Community Living, got a call from her sister. She’d found an apparently healthy lost dog that didn’t seem to have an owner. “Do you want to adopt?” she asked. Barbi was very excited to get a “doggie” when Vicki discussed it with her. They waited five days without any response

DSP Spotlight – Zina Horn

September 15th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Zina Horn, DSP for Day Program.  How long have

DSP Spotlight – Pam Adams

September 14th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Pam Adams, DSP for Community Living. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Marshay Baker

September 14th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Marshay Baker. She’s a DSP for our Community Living

DSP Spotlight – Creshawna Nunnelly

September 14th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Creshawna Nunnelly, a Direct Support Professional in our In-Home

DSP Spotlight – Rena Robinson

September 14th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Rena Robinson, DSP for Day Program. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Justina Olisah

September 13th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Justina Olisah, DSP in Community Living. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Forrest Neal

September 13th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Forrest Neal. He is a Career Specialist in our

DSP Spotlight – Kerensa Briseno

September 13th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Kerensa Briseno, DSP for Day Program. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Cortney Thompson

September 12th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Cortney Thompson, DSP for Day Program. She has also

DSP Spotlight – Erik Ellwood

September 12th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri.  Today, we talked to Erik Ellwood, Career Specialist in our Career Services program.

DSP Spotlight – Dustin Murray

September 11th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Dustin Murray, Career Specialist for Career Services. How long

DSP Spotlight – Lindsey McGee

September 11th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Lindsey McGee. She’s a Direct Support Professional in our

DSP Spotlight – Thomas Alexander

September 11th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Thomas Alexander. He works as a DSP for Day

DSP Spotlight – Melecia Stapleton

September 10th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Melecia Stapleton, DSP for In-Home Services. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Taylor Widdison

September 10th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Taylor Widdison, DSP in Day Program. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Danica Reynolds

September 10th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Danica Reynolds, DSP for Community Living. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Casey Winemiller

September 9th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Casey Winemiller, DSP for Day Program. How long have

DSP Spotlight – Barb Wright

September 9th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today, we talked with Barb Wright. She’s a Career Specialist in our Career

DSP Spotlight – Amanda Kofman

September 9th, 2018

We’re celebrating DSP Week by spotlighting some of our compassionate and hard-working Direct Support Professionals and Career Specialists. They’re the heart of our industry. Because of their dedication, we’re able to help hundreds of individuals with disabilities live fulfilling lives in central Missouri. Today we talked with Amanda Kofman, DSP for Community Living. How long have

ACT Accounting Department Visits Everyone in Community Living

August 7th, 2018

    Recently, our accounting department spent an afternoon personally visiting everyone in our Community Living program.    Melody Troesser, Director of Financial Operations, recounts her experience:   The reason we went on the tour was to meet the individuals that receive our services–that was the high point as we don’t always get to know

Unexpected Benefits of New Vehicle Monitoring Technology

July 19th, 2018

ACT is participating in a new safety program. ROVR, Real-time Onboard Vehicle Reporting, is a vehicle monitoring system that improves driving by tracking and reporting vehicle activity. ROVR is part of a pilot program from Missouri Employers Mutual. Ben Tilley, Director of Human Resources coordinated ACT’s involvement in the program. “We needed a system to

Introducing Nathan — New Resident in Community Living

July 18th, 2018

“This is a fun one,” Nathan says as he holds up a VHS tape—Encino Man. “Son-In-Law, Bio-Dome, Encino Man…I’ve seen them all,” says Nathan as the tour of his home comes to an end right in front of his expansive VHS tape collection. The tapes are in excellent shape and well-organized. There are even some

ACT Career Services Achievements Highlighted at Conference; Sharon Has the Job of Her Dreams

July 18th, 2018

Recently, Jessica Mahon, Director of Career Services, presented at the Missouri Rehabilitation Association Conference. Along with Judy Grainger, their session was titled, “Explore Every Avenue:  Journey to Employment.” During her presentation, Jessica invited a person who received services from ACT to speak about her experience. For her privacy, her real name is not used here.

16 Years of Independence is Something to Celebrate

July 16th, 2018

” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″] 16 years ago ACT recycled VHS tapes and other media. The website, actservices.org, had just launched and everyone was excited about finally being online. ACT had just hired a new employee, Michael. He started as a production worker in the

Staci’s Opening Remarks Summer 2018

June 29th, 2018

Dear Friends of ACT, I would like to take the time to let you know a little more about me. I was born and raised in Missouri and have deep roots in Columbia, having lived here for 18 years. I have a teenage daughter who will be starting high school this year and I volunteer

ACT Offers More Services and Supports with the New After School Youth Program

March 30th, 2018

” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″] The After School Youth Program (ASYP), a new program, is now underway at ACT. It was created to provide young people with more opportunities to develop socialization and adaptive skills they need to participate in their communities. Finding the right

From 1987 to 2018: Developmental Disabilities Awareness

March 30th, 2018

If you follow ACT on social media, you know March was Developmental Disabilities Awareness month. On February 26, 1987, President Ronald Reagan started this month of observation with the following proclamation: “Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the month of March 1987 as National Developmental Disabilities

National Caregivers Day with Andrea Hulver

March 30th, 2018

We wouldn’t be where we are today without our professional, compassionate staff. February 16th was National Caregivers Day so we talked with Andrea Hulver about her experience at ACT. How long have you worked at ACT? What is your role here? If you count my internship, I have been at ACT for a little more

Help ACT Win $500 through MasterTech

March 30th, 2018

During the month of May, ACT will participate in the MasterTech Answers the Call donation campaign. MasterTech will give away $500 to the charity that receives the most votes. It’s their way of doing more to answer the call for help, in every way they can. Want to help ACT win $500? It’s simple. During

Light It Up Blue in Downtown Columbia

March 30th, 2018

April is World Autism Month. To spread awareness, ACT will again be partnering with local agencies and organizations to host our local Light It Up Blue event. Light It Up Blue is global initiative to raise awareness for autism on World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness month. Iconic buildings and landmarks like the Empire

ACT’s Construction Progress

March 30th, 2018

” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″] ACT facilities have been under construction since fall 2017. Since then, we’ve made major progress. The big renovations are behind us. The training center is complete. Every wall received a new coat of paint. The Day Program areas are nearly

Craig Valone Teaches at Columbia College

March 30th, 2018

  Since the start of the spring semester, Craig Valone, Director of Day Program, has been teaching a course at Columbia College. The junior level class, Disabilities, is aimed at students majoring in Human Services. Topics such as mobility, cognitive, developmental, and psychological disabilities are covered. “Teaching this class has been a great learning opportunity. The

Bingo Night at ACT Was a Win!

March 30th, 2018

“I need an O!” “I need a B” “I need a miracle!” People were praying and doing every lucky thing they could do. Tammy sat down and said she was ready. “I’m going to win all the prizes!”  Carrie Griffith, Assistant Program Director of Community Living, was looking for a fun, free activity where everyone

Mark’s Opening Remarks Spring 2018

March 30th, 2018

Dear Friends of ACT, When I wrote here last, I mentioned we’d have some exciting new changes to announce soon. But I offered few clues about what was going to happen. Now it’s time to pull back the curtain on two new developments. I expect more to follow. First, ACT has established a new after-school

Mark’s Opening Remarks January 2018

December 27th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT, The New Year is upon us. We look back on 2017 with pride in many accomplishments. But now we’re looking forward to 2018 with great anticipation. As you look forward, we sincerely wish each of you a happy and successful new year. As I have said here before, I am gratified

Holidays Are in Full Swing in the Day Program

December 21st, 2017

There is never a shortage of fun in the Day Program and this certainly holds true during the holidays. For Thanksgiving, everyone feasts on a delicious meal – Turkey and all the trimmings. ACT’s building is packed with hungry people eager to dig in. A special play was also performed called Terry and Tom the

Elizabeth Takes Her Dream to California

December 21st, 2017

It’s pretty amazing when you have a dream and it comes to fruition. For a long time Elizabeth has wanted to go to California to see where her favorite show is taped. Working hard at Walmart in Columbia, she saved for several months for her travels. Getting promoted along with a pay raise only helped

Michael Named Arby’s Employee of the Month

December 21st, 2017

Michael was recently honored by being named Employee of the Month for Arby’s midwest region. Michael received support from ACT Career Services leading up to being hired at Arby’s in 2015. His work performance was so strong ACS was phased out. Throughout the year, Arby’s Managers can submit nominations for Employee of the Month. Michael

2017 Work Anniversaries

November 29th, 2017

Many people in our ACT family celebrated impressive work anniversaries this year!   40 Years  Mark Hassemer 25 Years Don Lafferty   Terri Kruger 15 Years Marsha Schafer Carl Daleen 10 Years Lois Marston Chanele Malveaux Jamesetta Jackson  Tara Shade A. Taylor Derritt Adam Hays 5 Years Cindy Keefe  Alexandrea Collins Linda Marquez Rebecca Stock Vicky

ACT Employees Are Part of the Construction Team Updating ACT’s Building

November 28th, 2017

We told you in October about our building’s facelift. But we didn’t tell you that ACT employees have done a great deal of that work. Darrell Derritt, Dennis Collier, and Patrick Miller and have been working diligently to update the building. They installed additional wiring for new offices and workstations, wired and installed Smart TVs

STEP’s Sixth Class is Underway

November 28th, 2017

With seven students (all of whom are male) this year’s STEP (Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership) class at Boone Hospital Center is the biggest ever. Maurice, Aimable, Demetrius, LaTavious, Evan, Nick, and Justin have nearly completed their first semester in the program at Boone Hospital with great success. “This is a great group of students,”

Mark’s Opening Remarks: Wishing You a Very Happy Holiday Season

November 28th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: It was Monday morning after Thanksgiving. Into my office came Minna, who to my surprise was bearing a gift for me: a box of sweets she helped make over the Thanksgiving holiday. Believe me, they are great. But not as great as the feelings of delight we both experienced. She was

Meaningful Day Breaks Down Boundaries and Expands Opportunities

October 30th, 2017

Before 2017, our programs operated separately and independently. They were even separated by the space they occupied in our building. Typically, people seeking services picked one program over another, rather than picking and choosing the particular program features they wanted ala carte. But that didn’t work for some people. Some needed and wanted more than

ACT Welcomes Two New Board Members

October 26th, 2017

Brooke Orscheln and Jennifer Eng recently joined ACT’s Board of Directors. Brooke is originally from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She attended Stephens College and earned her B.S. in International Business at Columbia College.   Brooke started her career in real estate development of medical offices buildings and rural hospitals. Her projects took her to more than 20

Allan Has a New Home in Community Living

October 26th, 2017

On August 1st, Community Living got a new family member and Ae’Shionne got a new roommate, Allan. Allan is from Mexico, MO. He already knew his housemate, Ae’Shionne. They met playing softball in Special Olympics. They both love sports and are thrilled to be living together. Allan says sports, vacations, and playing in the Special

Mark’s Opening Remarks: A Meaningful Day

October 26th, 2017

I’m going fishing next week. So it’s hard to concentrate as I write this. Expect this to be brief and to the point. In my December letter last year I talked about Community Life Engagement (CLE). CLE is about supporting people with Intellectual and other Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in non-work involvement in the community as

Construction at ACT Nearly Complete

September 29th, 2017

For the past several months the ACT building at 2200 Burlington Street has been under construction. When the work is done we’ll have new and improved program areas for Day Program, more office space, and a new training center. Space that was used for the recycling program was converted into a program room and a

Norma, She Gave Her Entire Life to Others

September 28th, 2017

We said goodbye to a friend and longtime ACT employee recently. Norma Jean Henson worked at ACT for 35 years, the second longest tenure of anyone in the company. Norma loved her work. She always smiled. She will certainly be remembered for her lifetime of dedication to persons with developmental disabilities. (Norma also worked at

STEP Reaches Sixth Year, Emerges as Model for Other Communities

September 28th, 2017

Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership (STEP) turned six years old this year. In the first five years, program has worked with 30 students and seen many successes. It is now a model for other school districts. STEP is a multi-agency collaboration designed to provide intensive work skills training and development to Columbia Public School Seniors

Mark’s Opening Remarks: Businesses That Embrace Inclusion Excel

September 28th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: Every October, NDEAM celebrates individuals with disabilities and their contributions to the workforce. We’ll be doing the same right here in Central Missouri. “Inclusion Drives Innovation” is the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme this year. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta said, “Smart employers know that including different perspectives in problem-solving

Mark’s Opening Remarks September 2017

September 19th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: In January, the Missouri Medicaid Audit and Compliance (MMAC) Unit paid ACT a visit. They arrived with little advanced notice and asked for an enormous amount of documentation related to being a provider under a Medicaid Home and Community Based Services Waiver. This audit, and the others I describe below, are

Four High School Seniors Participate Summer Work Program

September 19th, 2017

For six weeks this summer four high school seniors participated in a Summer Work Program sponsored by ACT and hosted by the Country Club of Missouri (CCMO. The teenagers worked in various positions at Country Club of Missouri (CCMO). Compensation for their work was made available through funds provided by Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). The program

Ben Tilley Joins Act as HR Training Specialist

September 19th, 2017

We are happy to have Ben Tilley on board at ACT as our new Human Resources Training Specialist. He started August 21st. Ben moved to Columbia in 1979 and worked for the Nowell’s company. Almost 20 years later he started working at Fairview Elementary to follow his true passion of being a teacher. He worked

Allan Has a New Home in Community Living

September 19th, 2017

On August 1st, Community Living got a new family member and Ae’Shionne got a new roommate, Allan. Allan is from Mexico, MO. He already knew his housemate, Ae’Shionne. They met playing softball in Special Olympics. They both love sports and are thrilled to be living together. Allan says sports, vacations, and playing in the Special

Mark’s Opening Remarks August 2017

August 2nd, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: Earlier in my career I’ll admit I had some big goals. And I was ready to work to achieve them. I thought then if I accomplished those goals (like CARF accreditation) I could just sit back and manage ACT at a comfortable pace. That’s laughable to me now. In fact, the

ACT Will Participate in the 2017 CoMoGives Campaign in December

July 31st, 2017

During the last three years ACT has raised over $50,000 through CoMoGives for people with disabilities. Medical needs were met, lifelong memories were created, and first time experiences were made possible through this campaign. CoMoGives is an online fundraising campaign that runs the month of December ONLY. 100% of the donations made to ACT through

Lucky’s Welcomes Day Program Tour Group

July 31st, 2017

Individuals attending ACT’s Day Program want to eat more healthfully. So they requested a visit to Lucky’s grocery store to learn what they could about better eating. The store provided an extensive tour during which they learned about Lucky’s produce, deli, sushi, and what makes Lucky’s stand out from other grocery stores. Direct Support Professional

ACT Shares Experiences of Change at APSE-MO Conference

July 31st, 2017

ACT Executive Director Mark Hassemer, Directors Jessica Mahon and Craig Valone and Assistant Director Michelle Bell presented at the 2017 APSE-MO Summit, “Focusing on Transformation.” Their session on Day Two of the conference, “The Road to Change: A Transformation Story in Missouri,” aligns perfectly with the conference theme. It featured the changes the programs have

STEP Graduate, Valuable Employee on MU Campus

July 5th, 2017

Plaza 900 is the largest all-you-care-to-eat dining hall on MU campus. That’s something to brag about. They also have an amazing staff. Roman is proud to be among them. Roman is a Columbia Rock Bridge High School graduate. He was also a STEP intern (read more about STEP here). Shortly after graduation he interviewed for

Mark’s Opening Remarks July ’17

July 5th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT, I have a positive feeling lately of change, energy, and anticipation at ACT. I hope it’s just not me! I know it’s not. Certainly the construction in our building contributes to the feeling. A couple weeks ago we started renovations to our building at 2200 Burlington Street. We’ve been in this

Household Items in High Demand in ACT’s Community Living Program

July 5th, 2017

It is a harsh reality many of the individuals supported in ACT’s Community Living (CL) face, living month to month financially. Quality, affordable housing is the biggest ticket item people in the program need. The cost of living continues to rise but incoming funds do not follow this trend. Many times, CL Managers are scrambling

Working in Various Programs is Meaningful for Employees and Individuals Served

July 5th, 2017

In an effort to offer a Meaningful Day for the individuals served at ACT, Career Services and Day Program began last fall sharing an employee, Danica Duensing. “It’s been fun to mix up the day with a new location and I always love getting to know new individuals,” Duensing says. She has become a valuable

STEP Graduates Fifth Class

May 30th, 2017

“This is absolutely the best partnership we have,” Boone Hospital Center President Jim Sinek said of Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership (STEP) while addressing the graduation crowd. “We get some of the best people through this program.” The collaboration involving ACT, Boone County Family Resources, Boone Hospital Center, Central Missouri Regional Office, Columbia Public schools

Mark’s Opening Remarks June 2017

May 30th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: Okay everyone. We can all breathe a collective sigh of relief. CARF was here last week, and now they’re gone. CARF International (www.CARF.org) is an independent, nonprofit accreditation organization focused on advancing the quality of services ACT and other agencies provide to meet the needs of persons served. Three surveyors visited

Give A H.O.O.T Gives

April 27th, 2017

ACT employees joined together to raise funds for people supported in ACT’s Community Living (CL) Program. (Read more here: https://actservices.org/give-a-h-o-o-t-provides-growing-support-beyond-the-basics) Give A H.O.O.T. (Helping Our Own Together) was very successful, raising just under $1,000 in a brief time. CL Manager Lynette Austin took the lead organizing the Give A H.O.O.T. effort. Austin created and sold

Businesses Partnering With ACS Benefit Themselves and Job Seekers

April 26th, 2017

ACT’s Career Services (ACS) helps people with disabilities accomplish their vocational goals, while helping Boone County businesses fill their recruitment needs. To do this, the program must establish and maintain relationships with local businesses. The businesses provide many opportunities job candidates need to progress in their careers. Businesses assist job seekers by providing informational interviews,

ACT Individuals Make Centerpieces for Gamma Phi Beta Scholarship Dinner

April 25th, 2017

Continuing their ongoing community relationship with Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, individuals from ACT’s Day Program crafted centerpieces for the Gamma Phi Beta Scholarship Dinner, honoring members of the Alpha Delta Chapter at Mizzou who have maintained a GPA of 3.7 or higher. The dinner was held at The Club at Old Hawthorne on April 12th.

Columbia Parks and Recreation Department’s Financial Assistance Program Makes ARC More Affordable

April 25th, 2017

Individuals served in ACT’s Day Program love going to the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) in Columbia. The facility offers a swimming pool, basketball gym, weight lifting equipment, walking track, and more. But using the facility is not free. If a group of five or 10 people from the Day Program go to ARC all

CL Learns and Changes as the People They Serve Age

April 22nd, 2017

Community Living (CL) has been affected by the several trends we see as the large baby boomer population ages. As a result, CL is shifting the way it provides services to some of the individuals in the program. As this group ages, health concerns increase and mobility may decline. But the focus for ACT remains

Day Program Shares Schedule With Other Programs and Agencies

April 21st, 2017

The Day Program is on a mission to see more people with disabilities get out into the community. In addition to offering weekend, evening, and Medical Exception services, the program started sharing its activity calendar with other ACT programs and smaller provider agencies. The Program hopes other people who aren’t regular participants in the program

Mark’s Opening Remarks May 2017

April 21st, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: Here’s a link to a video I think you’ll enjoy. http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=11914982 It’s about 11 year old Owen Howkins and his rescued Anatolian shepherd dog, Haatchi. They’re best friends. Together, they won the Friends for Life category at the biggest dog show in the U.K., Crufts. When I played it for staff

Mark’s Opening Remarks April 2017

March 29th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT, Sometimes you take two steps forward, then one step back. That may be what’s happening with funding for providers like ACT. About a year ago we were celebrating an unprecedented funding increase resulting from action taken by the Missouri legislature. ACT and other agencies like us received a cost of living

Day Program Offers New Service and New Support

March 28th, 2017

Imagine for a moment that you can’t leave your home for fear that a medical complication might arise while you are out. This is a reality for many local people with disabilities. It limits their participation in the community. Now, thanks to a new service funded by the State called Medical Exception Exceptional, the Day

DOL Overtime Rule Blocked, Community Living Continues with Shift in Management

March 23rd, 2017

Last year the Department of Labor (DOL) rolled out new pay requirements for how businesses must pay salaried full-time employees. ACT’s Community Living (CL) program responded accordingly. Ten Supervisors were promoted to Manager, and two Managers were promoted to Assistant Program Directors. Even though the Labor regulation was halted, CL decided the changes they made

Myles Hinkel, Passionate About Inclusion and Independence

March 20th, 2017

Myles Hinkel has served on the ACT Board of Directors since August, 2015. Hinkel, a University of Louisville graduate, has served on numerous boards and committees of local non-profits whose missions included changing lives for the better. That is what drew him to serve at ACT. “I’m all about inclusion and independence,” Hinkel states. “As

ACT Career Services, Nominated for APSE Award

March 20th, 2017

Director of ACT Career Services, Jessica Mahon, opened her email recently to a very happy surprise. ACT has been nominated for APSE’s Best Practices Award. The Association for Persons Supporting Employment First (APSE) is an organization dedicated to inclusive hiring practices (see www.apse.org). Every year at its annual conference, APSE recognizes an agency for outstanding

Crushed Red Restaurant, ACT’s Newest Community Partner

February 27th, 2017

As Crushed Red, the “Artisan Fast” restaurant, was preparing to open, Career Specialist Amber Sartain swooped in to introduce them to ACT Career Services (ACS). “I heard about how Crushed Red was having walk-in interviews. So I called and asked if I could come in for a different kind of interview. I briefly explained ACS

Upcoming Trainings, Conferences, and Webinars

February 25th, 2017

A Night to Shine Lives Up to Its Name

February 23rd, 2017

A Night to Shine was just that for many people here in Columbia. On February 10th, the Tim Tebow Foundation provided the ultimate prom experience for 75,000 people with disabilities at more than 375 churches around the world, including Columbia’s Compass Evangelical Free Church. (learn more here) This wasn’t just any ole party. It was

Day Program Expands Its Hours

February 23rd, 2017

Since day one the Day Program has operated from 9 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. Now the program will be available starting at 8 am and run until 4pm for everyone in the program. Evening and weekend services will also be offered to people that attend Day Program and reside in their natural

Mark’s Opening Remarks March 2017

February 22nd, 2017

Dear Readers: CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, is an independent nonprofit organization focused on advancing the quality of services we provide at ACT. CARF’s mission: The mission of CARF is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on

Disability Rights Legislative Day

February 3rd, 2017

Light It Up Blue

January 31st, 2017

        On April 2nd local organizations will once again partner to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day.  This family friendly event will be held at Faurot Field from 1p-3pm. Area businesses will also commemorate this day by Lighting It Up Blue.  On April 2nd, look for buildings, store fronts and structures around Columbia

STEP Program Helps Javion Land a Job

January 30th, 2017

  Javion participated in the Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership (STEP) program at Boone Hospital during the 2015-2016 school year. Weeks after completing his internship, he was offered a job as an orderly in the same department he interned in, Patient Care Support Services. Javion held other jobs before his STEP experience. He worked at

Therapy Dog Smokey is Day Program’s Best Friend

January 27th, 2017

Day Program Manager Michelle Bell met one of the program’s favorite volunteers at an unlikely place, Sam’s Club in Columbia. While promoting ACT through the Tigers on the Prowl campaign, Bell was introduced to Katelyn Sanders, Shelter Advocate/Youth Specialist at Rainbow House, also involved in Tigers on the Prowl, and her canine companion, Smokey. Katelyn

Mark’s Opening Remarks February 2017

January 27th, 2017

Dear Friends of ACT: The inaugurations are over. It seems like a moment doesn’t pass now without new news of some major change in Washington, DC or Jefferson City. I’ll pile on with two observations about what I see happening and not happening in the State Capitol. First, HB 626 has been introduced by Rep.

Crystal and Lindsay Get a New Accessible Van

January 27th, 2017

You may remember Crystal. We introduced her to readers when she first moved to Columbia and in to an ACT supported home. After settling in at her new house, Crystal had big plans, places to go, people to see. But one piece of the equation was missing. She had limited means of transportation. Every residence

Charlie Burge Retires After 27 Years of Service to ACT

January 26th, 2017

After 27 years working for ACT, Charlie Burge retired at the end of December. Burge worked in many programs including the Day Program and Community Employment Services. During the last 9 years he has been a Supervisor in Community Living. Burge grew up in Ohio where he was a star athlete. His athleticism earned him

January 2017 Tip from Tara: It’s Okay to Like What You Like

December 21st, 2016

I first met my friend Seth when he was a teenager about to graduate from Hickman High School. We didn’t start as friends. I was requested to assist in him in transitioning out of high school and later into his home, an ISL, supported by ACT. Seth’s transition wasn’t easy, like many young adults, his

Day Program Celebrates the Holidays with a Month of Giving

December 21st, 2016

Christmas comes but once a year, as the saying goes, so Day Program is making the most of the season…and keeping busy in the process. In the monthly team meetings, individuals served in the program were asked how they wanted to celebrate the holidays; there were so many great and thoughtful suggestions, it was decided

Mark’s Opening Remarks January 2017

December 19th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: A couple of weeks ago, one of ACT’s Direct Support Professionals (DSP) came to my office and asked how many employees we have. This remarkably generous person had received a financial benefit as a result of a life event that would surely sadden each of us had it happened to us.

Annual Community Living Halloween Costume Party Turns 15

December 19th, 2016

There are three things you can be sure of in this life: death, taxes, and the Community Living Halloween Party! Assistant Director Carrie Griffith first organized the event 15 years ago (read more about the history here). A decade and a half has passed and it keeps getting bigger and better. This year people even

Holiday Traditions Make This Time of Year Special for Community Living Ladies

December 19th, 2016

Traditions make holidays special. Many are passed down through generations, while some are born from a mishap and then carried on. The latter is true for Barbi, Minna, and Tammy and their annual tree search. Three years ago their artificial tree went kaput. Since then, they’ve been heading out to Lowe’s the first weekend in

STEP’s 5th Year is Underway with Many Successes

December 19th, 2016

The 2016-17 school year kicked off STEPS’s (Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership) fifth year at Boone Hospital. Students spend the first six weeks in the Transition Center at BHC learning interview skills and participating in team building and problem-solving activities. During this time, each of the students in the program job shadows in each department

Two CoMoGives Events to Benefit ACT

November 22nd, 2016

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events! CoMoGives is an online fundraising campaign that runs from December 1st – 31st. We raised over $16,000 last year for the people with disabilities ACT supports, help us get past $20,000 this year! If you can’t make it to either event, you can still support ACT by going

Gamma Phi Beta Make Day Program Halloween Party a Success

November 22nd, 2016

Each year, the Day Program throws a Halloween party. This year they got help, which the made the occasion bigger and better! Women from the University of Missouri Gamma Phi Beta sorority came to ACT in two shifts to lend a hand in all the activities. The Activities Coordinator, staff, and mentors are usually scrambling

Mark’s Opening Remarks December 2016

November 21st, 2016

Dear friends of ACT: The Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) categorizes some services for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) into four quadrants: Facility based work, Facility based non-work, Community based work, and Community based non-work. National disability policy makers have been shifting greater emphasis to community based employment, away from facility based work.

Photo Albums Inspire Dreams to Come True

November 21st, 2016

In 2014, we told you about special photo albums Community Living (CL) Assistant Director Carrie Griffith creates for each house in the program. These books capture and highlight the year’s accomplishments in each house by portraying their trips, firsts, and celebrations. They have now spurred a little competition; each house wants their book to be

ACT Career Services Welcomes Amber Sartain

November 21st, 2016

ACT Career Services (ACS) has a new employee. Amber Sartain joined the team as a Career Specialist in July. She loves her new gig. Sartain is a student at Central Methodist University in Fayette. She recently changed her major from nursing to psychology. She is also working toward a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis. She

Tip From Tara: 90%? What?

October 28th, 2016

Over six months ago, my supervisor handed me a postcard he knew I would be interested in, and he was right. It was a save the date reminder for an upcoming workshop presented by Professor Tony Attwood. For those of you who haven’t heard of Dr. Attwood, he is an internationally-known speaker and author. He’s

Jan Retires After 28 Years With Red Lobster

October 27th, 2016

Jan is hanging up her apron after 28 years of making those delicious Cheddar Bay Biscuits, everyones favorite Red Lobster treat. Her tenure came to a close with a retirement party at the seafood restaurant.  Friends, family, and coworkers were there to celebrate. When Jan started with Red Lobster, she was responsible for cleaning the

Jodie, One of Nineteen Accepted into Partners in Policymaking Program

October 27th, 2016

Earlier this year, Jodie, an individual supported in ACT’s Community Living (CL) program, applied for and was accepted to a leadership training program called Partners in Policymaking. Jodie was one of 19 selected. She was thrilled about the opportunity. Partners is an intense eight-month program for families with young children who have a disability and

Mark’s Opening Remarks November 2016

October 27th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT, Last November, I wrote here what one reader called a “zinger” about my frustration with an unjust rate setting methodology for services ACT and other agencies provide. It rewarded recent entries to Individualized Supported Living with higher rates. Earlier this year, in March, I wrote again about rate rebasing and how

Shelter Insurance Game Day Establishes Real Connections With Day Program

October 25th, 2016

An intense game of cornhole, a friendly UNO rivalry, and laughter filling the air…an unusual scene for employees of the Shelter Insurance Claims Department. But on Friday, October 7, this was the case. Activities Supervisor Kristin Cummins has been working on partnering with different companies and organizations to help build community engagement and inclusion. Across

Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and The Department of Mental Health Division of Developmental Disabilities Improve Employment Outcomes in Missouri

October 25th, 2016

With the passing of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and the recent release of the corresponding regulations, we are seeing a greater emphasis on employment for individuals with disabilities in the general workforce than we’ve ever seen before. ACT Career Services is proud and privileged to provide supports and services to persons with

Super 8, Gerbes, and MU HR Recognized for Inclusive Hiring

October 25th, 2016

Each year, Columbia Employment Consortium recognizes three local employers for inclusive hiring. This year’s award winners are Super 8, Gerbes on Broadway, and the University of Missouri Human Resources Department. Philip Goldsmith, Manager of Super 8, stands out as a model employer. Philip and his management staff have that special knack for bringing out the

A Trip to the St. Louis Zoo Satisfies Many in the Day Program

October 6th, 2016

ACT’s Day Program Activities Supervisor has been planning a trip to the St. Louis Zoo all summer long. Scheduled toward the end of September in hopes of cooler weather, Cummins was excited to finally fulfill the longstanding requests of many animal-loving individuals in the program. “It ended up being 90 degrees the day we went.

Candidate Forum: Columbia Disabilities Issues

October 6th, 2016

The Show-Me-Careers Grant’s Four-Year Run Sees Much Success

October 5th, 2016

Columbia organizations (Alternative Community Training (ACT), Boone County Family Resources (BCFR), Central Missouri Regional Office, Columbia Public Schools, Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Moresource, Inc., Services for Independent Living) interested in improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities joined forces in 2012 and sought and received a Show-Me-Careers grant. The four-year grant allowed the Columbia

Mark’s Opening Remarks October 2016

October 4th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is observed every year in October. Governor Nixon recently proclaimed October as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Missouri. This month-long observation was created to: acknowledge the value and accomplishments of workers with disabilities, and raising focused awareness on increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Volunteers Help Prepare for New Madrid Seismic Event

October 3rd, 2016

This summer Jodi and Jesica, individuals served in the Community Living (CL) program, and Brenda Wilson, CL Supervisor, volunteered at the Show-Me Exercise: New Madrid Seismic Event on August 24 in Independence, Missouri. As the title suggests, the trio helped emergency personnel practice and prepare for a massive New Madrid earthquake experts predict may take

Mara Roberts Welcomed to the ACT Board of Directors

October 3rd, 2016

In August, ACT welcomed Mara Roberts to the ACT Board of Directors. Roberts brings a high energy level and a “get it done” attitude the Board. “Empowering people motivates me. And that is what ACT is all about,” Roberts says. Roberts has worked at Columbia College for the last nine years in various positions. Currently,

Mark’s Opening Remarks September 2016

September 1st, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: My eyes were opened last week to an issue I’d never considered before: the potential harms of guardianship. Here’s what I didn’t know: Guardianship is almost always plenary or total (But it doesn’t need to be.) The number of adults in guardianship today has tripled from 500,000 in 1995. Studies show

September 11-17 2016, Direct Support Professional (DSP) Week

August 31st, 2016

The week of September 11-17, 2016, has been declared National Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week to recognize the work of community providers who provide supports to our friends, family and neighbors with intellectual, developmental, physical, and other disabilities. Much of the work completed by Columbia’s Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) goes unseen, but that does not

Dawn’s New Home in ISL Keeps Her Close to Mom

August 31st, 2016

Within the first week of moving in to town, Dawn visited her mom in Moberly for the first time in three years! “This was huge for Dawn. She was very excited to have that opportunity,” Community Living (CL) Supervisor Hannah Prince says. Dawn, who was living in Kansas City, first visited ACT’s Individualized Supported Living

Mariah is Growing Professionally in her Position at Children’s Place

August 31st, 2016

In April, a former ACT Career Services (ACS) Career Specialist approached Children’s Place in the Columbia Mall about diversifying their workforce. Mariah was hired at the children’s clothing store the next month. She’s doing a great job. Since then, a new store manager, Shannon Bowman, has come on board. He is thrilled with the relationship

APSE-MO Holds its Annual Summit Here in Columbia

August 1st, 2016

Missouri State Chapter of Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst (APSE-MO) held its annual Employment Summit: Advancing Employment, Expanding Our Skills the last week of July. “It was great!” Director of ACT Career Services (ACS) Jessica Mahon exclaimed. “Abilities for Business, ACT and Columbia Employment Consortium all served as Gold Sponsors and were represented at the summit.”

Mark’s Opening Remarks August 2016

July 31st, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT, What does it take to make change? Really. How do you implement change at a place like ACT? We’re all too familiar with the why of change. A new law gets passed. A court ruling is handed down. A vendor discontinues its service or product. A new administration takes a new

Tip from Tara August 2016: Kylee’s Poem

July 27th, 2016

When I sat down to write my tip this month I could not get my amazing niece Kylee out of my head. We had been sending messages back and forth all morning. I recently sent her an article written by a young woman named Taylor Raines. You can find the article posted on The Mighty,

ACT’s Day Program is Taking Summer by Storm

July 27th, 2016

Things are heating up in ACT’s Day Program. And it’s not the temperature. Activities Supervisor, Kristin Cummins, has the schedule buzzing with fun-filled activities. “There were a lot of requests in our monthly meetings to do all-day trips. We wanted to fulfill them. We started scheduling these extended trips once a month,” Cummins says. First

Community Support for Family Affected by Childhood Cancer

July 27th, 2016

Two months ago Karla Bevell received heartbreaking news. Her son Jayden, 5, has inoperable brain cancer, an optic pathway brain tumor located in the optic chiasm. Jayden, who has participated in ACT’s Behavior Development Services, has been traveling to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis every week since the diagnosis. He receives two different

Direct Support Professional Recognition Week September 11-17, 2016

July 27th, 2016

              DSP Week Reception-2

Conference Delivers New Insights to Columbia Transition Team and ACT Career Services

July 27th, 2016

Preparing for the big leap out of high school is a major endeavor, especially if you have a disability. The Columbia Transition Team (CTT) is a partnership of area agencies (including ACT) serving people with disabilities. Its aim is to ease the path through this stage in life. The team meets monthly to discuss strategies

June Work Anniversaries

June 28th, 2016

Jamesetta Jackson, 9 Years with ACT Jamesetta Jackson started working at ACT on the advice of her husband Steve Jackson, who also works at ACT, and cousin Angel Lawson. They both thought the job would be a perfect fit for her. Jackson started in 2007 working the overnight shift in three different houses in Community

In-Home Services Helps Abraham with Pool Access and Critical Services

June 28th, 2016

Since Abraham was 18 months old he has loved to swim. He’s good at it. His mom, Ashley Williams, says he taught himself. “He started with the doggie paddle. Then in a short amount of time, he progressed to swimming the distance of the pool,” Williams said. “It is like therapy for him. The pressure

Cunningham Nationally Recognized for Contributions in Inclusive Employment

June 27th, 2016

Recently, the Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst (APSE) held its 27th Annual Conference in Cincinnati: Soaring to Employment First. There, organizations, employers, and individuals were honored for their single-handed and collective contributions to Employment First. This year, Moresource President Kat Cunningham, a local pioneer in Columbia’s business community, was recognized with the Small Employer Award. This honor goes

Thank You Walmart for Being a Valued Partner

June 27th, 2016

In Columbia, Walmart consistently utilizes ACT Career Services (ACS) to find dedicated employees. They understand the value in using ACS as their hiring base. ACS works with a variety of job seekers to achieve their employment goals, while assisting a large array of local employers with their recruitment and retention needs. The personalized services job

Mark’s Opening Remarks July 2016

June 27th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: July 1st marks the beginning of a new fiscal year for us. This is a good time to look back and give you a Year in Review for our company. (I thought of this the other day when our City Manager provided the State of the City address for Columbia). I

Shaw Lands a New Role Beyond Community Living to Community Theater in The Music Man

June 27th, 2016

Larry Shaw, Direct Support Professional (DSP) in Community Living (CL), has been bitten by the acting bug. Shaw, 44, auditioned for a small part in The Music Man at Columbia Entertainment Company after playfully singing with a coworker. “She told me I had a good voice and convinced me to try out for a musical.

June ’16 Tip from Tara: “The Talk”

June 2nd, 2016

I think it is safe to say that most parents thinking about having “the talk” with their children who our entering puberty meet this task feeling excited or completely confident. Most parents I know feel a great deal of anxiety just thinking about it. When is the right time?  Is my child ready?  Will they be embarrassed? Can

Three Men in Community Living Take First Vacation

June 2nd, 2016

Roommates Kelly, Gary and Derrick headed north in April with Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Shelly Gardner and Jason Due to Chicago. Without a doubt, they had the time of their lives. A long list of first time experiences was checked off: first vacation, first time in Chicago, and first time in a hotel, just to

Marks Opening Remarks June 2016

June 1st, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: Unfortunately, high employment turnover and low pay are hallmarks of our business. Most of our funding as a service provider comes from Medicaid. Therefore, we have no ability to negotiate the rates at which we recover costs for the services we provide. They’re dictated. The result: there isn’t enough money to

2016 Tigers on the Prowl

May 27th, 2016

ACT is one of ten charities picked to be involved in 2016 Tigers on the Prowl!  We are thrilled about this opportunity. We have partnered with Moresource and local artist Gabe Fennel, making our Tiger Team! Look for Our Tiger! The ten charities will have their tigers on display throughout the summer leading up to the

ACT Sells Twenty Six-Year-Old Business to AMVAC

May 27th, 2016

Twenty-six years in the recycling business recently came to an end with great hope and a few tears. In early May, American Military Veterans Assistance Corporation (AMVAC) took possession of ACT’s recycling program, formerly called ACT Works. “We are thrilled to pass the business along to another agency whose mission aligns with ours,” Director of

Clarissa Collier Promoted to Day Program Supervisor

May 27th, 2016

The decision to promote Clarissa Collier to the Day Program’s Purple Team Supervisor was an easy one. “She was selected because of her experience, knowledge of the Department, enthusiasm, and work ethic,” says Day Program Manager Michelle Bell. Collier recently celebrated her six year anniversary of working in the Day Program. She started as a

STEP Graduates Its Fifth Class

May 27th, 2016

Each year in August we welcome another group of career-driven high school students into Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnership (STEP). In May, we celebrate their graduation from the Program. On May 12, five seniors from Columbia high schools gathered with family, friends, partnering agencies, and supporters to receive their STEP diplomas. Mis’hael, Kylie, Brandon, Roman,

Gov. Nixon Signs Budget Making Historic Investments in Mental Health Services

May 6th, 2016

FY2017 budget answers the Governor’s call to increase funding for providers, keep waiting list for in-home services at zero. Jackson County, MO – Gov. Jay Nixon joined advocates and caregivers at Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County – eitas (empowering individuals through advocacy and support) today to sign House Bill 2010, the Fiscal Year 2017 budget for

Mark’s Opening Remarks May 2016

April 29th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT, If you read this newsletter with any regularity, you know that change is a common theme. Here we go again. Anticipating a special visit to our ACT offices this week, a few of my colleagues and I started taking a closer look at the Day Program and ACT Career Services, in

Cash Saver Hires Through ACS and Looking For Another Perfect Fit

April 28th, 2016

Not long after the Cash Saver grocery store chain opened in Columbia, ACT Career Services (ACS) Career Specialist Dustin Murray knew James would be a perfect fit for the business. He approached David Ratliff, Cash Saver’s District Supervisor about working with ACS to hire individuals served. Ratliff never hesitated. “I was in need of a

Meet ACT’s New Financial Director, Melody Troesser

April 28th, 2016

Melody Troesser is ACT’s new Director of Financial Operations (DFO). She’s originally from the small town of Benton City (just outside of Mexico, MO) and currently lives just east of Fulton with her husband Mark, two daughters, Breanna and Lanelle, and a Great Dane named Angus. She has a strong background in business and finance.

Sandra Thompson Joins ACT as New Account Clerk

April 28th, 2016

The ACT community welcomes our new Account Clerk, Sandra Thompson! She now handles accounts payable, payroll, “and anything else they ask me to do…,” Thompson says. Sandra has lived in Columbia most of her life with her “awesome” husband. “He spoils me rotten and has made me believe I deserve it,” Thompson jokes. Her family

Say Hello to Bethany Rawlings, ACT’s New Administrative Coordinator

April 28th, 2016

If you call or visit ACT, Bethany Rawlings, ACT’s new Administrative Coordinator, will greet you. “I’m a people person,” Rawlings says. “I love helping people and taking care of business. Everyone at ACT is great and has been so welcoming!” Rawlings is from Camdenton and has lived in Columbia for five years with her “wonderful”

Crystal Leaves Boonville for Community Living in Columbia

April 27th, 2016

Crystal had been considering moving out of her grandma’s house in Boonville for years. But nothing ever fell into place. A month ago she met with Community Living Manager Carrie Griffith and decided to she was ready. “This time it just felt right,” Crystal says. “I wanted to move because I knew ACT would allow

ACT Welcomes Craig Valone, New Director of Day Program

April 27th, 2016

On April 18th Craig Valone greeted Day Program individuals and employees as the new Director. ACT’s Day Program’s provides daily activities to address individual goals in various areas such as socialization, safety, communication, etc. and to provide increased access to the community through on-site, facility-based activities and off-site, community outings. “ACT’s reputation in the community is what

Overtime Rule Message from ANCOR

April 19th, 2016

The clock has been ticking for the Department of Labor (DOL) Overtime Rule ever since it moved to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for final review! Make sure your Members of Congress take action before the rule is finalized by joining us for a day of calls to their Washington, D.C. offices on April

April is Autism Awareness Month

April 6th, 2016

Partnering agencies put on a great event on World Autism Awareness Day, April 2nd at Faurot Field here in Columbia, MO.  If you missed this, its not too late to get involved in Autism Awareness Month. Autism awareness events occurring across Missouri include: April 6th – The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will hold

Brianne is Gaining Valuable Professional Experience Working as a Direct Support Professional at ACT

March 29th, 2016

Brianne Bond is sure she’s got an advantage over fellow college students studying in her field, thanks to her time working for the In-Home Services program for the past three years here at ACT. “I’ve learned so much, and have been so fortunate for the opportunity here. A lot of college students my age haven’t

ACT’s Accessibility Committee is Eager to Address Barriers

March 28th, 2016

In January we talked about accessibility and how it impacts peoples’ lives, allowing for inclusion and integration. But how? Accessibility allows people to have an appropriate level of access to their communities. ACT’s Accessibility Committee has been revamped and is eager to address barriers here at ACT. The committee urges ACT employees and individuals served

Mark’s Opening Remarks April 2016

March 28th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT, I want to say thank you and give special recognition to ACT’s Board of Directors. We don’t say it enough. The work they do matters. Believe me, they are not a rubber stamp Board that blesses every idea I come up with. They are engaged in the hard work of guiding

The University of Missouri’s Office of Asian Affairs Offers Cultural Education to Day Program

March 28th, 2016

Once each semester, students from the University of Missouri’s (MU) Office of Asian Affairs visit ACT’s Day Program. The Office of Asian Affairs offers programs of varying lengths for Asian college students. They take classes in business, leadership and English. All of the programs are taught by Office of Asian Affairs staff. Students are immersed

Abilities for Business, Great Resource for the Business Community

March 28th, 2016

In September we told you about www.abilitiesforbusiness.com, a website that matches job candidates with businesses (read the article here). “Abilities for Business is designed to bridge the gap between business owners and Human Resource professionals by providing a diverse portfolio of candidates with different abilities to fill their teams’ vacancies via one web portal,” says

Mark’s Opening Remarks March 2016

February 24th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: In my November 2015 letter to you, I wrote with great emotion. I vented my frustrations about the injustices I felt were perpetrated by our State authorities. I think you’ll agree that someone must own this problem. I talked about rebasing. I want to address it in this letter, too. This

Day Program Offers Lots of Fun Favorites

February 23rd, 2016

Going to the State Fair, a Cardinals baseball game, or an all day trip to a historic town is always a hit in the Day Program. But the activities offered on a regular basis are just as popular. Those include science experiments, board games, and crafts on-site. Volunteering at the Food Pantry, recycling, and going

Lawrence Lile, an Affordable Accessible Housing Champion

February 23rd, 2016

After seeing his father-in-law move into a Independent Supported Living (ISL) home in Arizona in the early 2000’s, Lawrence Lile, an engineer, decided he wanted to be a part of the solution here in Columbia. “My father-in-law had a great set-up at his new house. It suited all of his physical needs and the relationship

Eli Excels in his Job at Mizzou Athletics Training Complex

February 23rd, 2016

When you walk around the Mizzou Athletics Training Complex (MATC) with Eli, you know he belongs there. He shows you around as if he runs the place. He knows everyone’s office. He knows where the players are in the building at all times. He knows exactly where his favorite players are honored on the walls. And

March 2016 Tip from Tara: Let’s all make some new paths!

February 19th, 2016

Today I’m having one of those days when you are forced to think about something extremely difficult, stressful and hard simply because your time is up in delaying thinking about it. I have to admit I hesitated in sharing what I am about to share, but I do so knowing that by sharing it maybe

February 2015 Tip from Tara: Coping with Loss and Moving Forward

January 29th, 2016

The only thing harder than losing a loved one may be explaining that loss to your children; it can be particularly challenging explaining the death to an individual who is differently abled. Oftentimes individuals who are differently abled are identified by others as overly emotional or even “robotic” and emotionless as compared to many of

Volunteers Through ACT Career Services Honored by The Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri

January 28th, 2016

The Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri honored several individuals that receive Job Preparation services through ACT Career Services (ACS). Each month the Food Bank celebrates dedicated volunteers by adding them to the “Volunteer Hall of Fame” plaque. The ACS individuals recently recognized have been working on job skills while providing volunteer services to

Schnucks, a Valuable Community Partner for Over 20 Years

January 28th, 2016

Schnucks is known for many things – great produce, great selection of often hard-to-find ingredients, and friendly staff. What they may not be known for is a diverse workforce, a characteristic that makes the company an extremely valuable asset to the community. ACT Career Services (ACS) developed a relationship with Schnuck’s in the 1990’s. ACS

Mark’s letter – February 2016

January 27th, 2016

Dear Friends of ACT: Nearly two years ago in March, Medicaid Waiver definitions changed. That changed ACT, too. Under the new definitions, ACT Works could no longer be a work destination. Now an individual can receive job preparation services for no longer than 24 months. First, there was confusion. And upset, too. The same State

Twenty Years of Dedicated Service Marked by a Custom Jacket and a Fine Steak Dinner

January 27th, 2016

How many people in today’s economy can boast that they’ve worked 20 years with the same employer? How do you celebrate 20 years of solid employment? Jodie thought treating herself to a steak dinner would be a wonderful way to mark the occasion. Jodie started working at Otscon in 1995. She works full-time assembling brake

Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Abound, and Fulfill

January 24th, 2016

Volunteer options were numerous (almost unlimited) for people receiving services in ACT’s Community Integration (CI) program this holiday season. A caroling group from CI delighted listeners at Columbia Healthcare Center, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, and Lenoir Woods. Caroling was a big hit for both the CI volunteers and the residents of these facilities.