SPOTLIGHTS

SPECIAL NEIGHBORS, INC.
SPOTLIGHTS
January April 2015
Connecting lives through Relationships and Community
Inside this Issue:
CARF
2
Fundraiser
3
Neighborhood News
3
Leslie, Nancy & Jenna
4
Donations
5
Volunteers
5
Donations
6
Amazon
6
Donations
7
Save the Date
8
Truman Heartland Foundation
Grant Opens New Doors
Communicating with friends and family members is
something many of us take for granted, but for some
individuals having a conversation with your mom or dad, isn’t
as easy as picking up your cell phone. Thanks to a $2,000
grant from Truman Heartland Community Foundation, the
individuals living at White Oaks now have some new tools
to help them do just that. With the grant money, Special
Neighbors was able to purchase three iPads as well as other
supplies for the new day program. One of the greatest
benefits we have seen is that each person now has their own
Skype account and is able to use Skype to connect with
their family members. This has been beneficial for all of the individuals, but
it has been an incredible opportunity for two of the ladies living at White Oaks
since both of their parents live in other states. Using Skype has allowed them to
visit whenever they want to and that means so much to them and their parents.
It provides parents with the chance to “see” their children even when they are
many miles away. Even for the family members who live close by, it has been
a blessing. When we have the individuals on Skype talking
with family members their faces express total wonderment of
how they can be seeing and hearing their voices. It has been
an awesome experience for them and fun to watch. They have
also used the iPads to provide cause and effect therapy. Most
of the individuals that we are working
with are tactile defensive and do not want
to reach out and touch objects. For them
their safe zone is keeping their hands
and arms close to their body. We are
encouraging them to reach out and touch
the screen. Many times it is challenging
to spark their attention, but since using the iPad, almost all
of them are interested in looking at what is happening on the
screen. This may seem small, but it has been exciting to see
new doors opened to each person thanks to technology.
Special Neighbors Awarded
Three-Year CARF
Accreditation
We are proud to announce that Special Neighbors has been accredited for
a period of three years for its Community Housing and Supported Living
programs. During our accreditation survey, here are a few of the organization
strengths that were highlighted by the survey team:
• A person-centered philosophy is evident across the leadership, personnel,
services and polices. Gentle teaching has become part of the organization’s
culture, which reflects the person’s dignity and well-being are given top
priority.
• Persons served by Special Neighbors have many opportunities to enjoy
vacations with their housemates and staff members. Family members
are generally pleased with Special Neighbors. They indicated that the
organization is responsive to the changing needs of persons served and
commented that, “staff really care” and “my sister is not just a person in the
system.”
• The enthusiastic and compassionate staff members carry out their work
with professionalism and commitment. They provided a positive work
environment with strong support from the new leadership, and the staff
members appreciate the organization’s family-first atmosphere, which has
led to their loyalty and longevity.
• The organization recognizes that, as persons served age, its services must
adapt to address issues such as Alzheimer’s, decreased mobility and other
age-related factors. The leadership is proactive in providing training,
advocating for adequate funding and seeking more accessible housing to
ensure that it has the capacity to care for persons served as they age.
• The supported living program provides individualized services through
responsible staff members who are patient and skilled. The neat and clean
residences are safe, and persons served have choices about where they live,
with whom they live and their daily activities. They appear to be happy,
to enjoy full lives that include participation in community activities and to
have formed close family bonds with their housemates and staff members.
Thank you to everyone that worked hard preparing for our CARF survey.
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
Etta Mitchell, Executive Dir.
Amy Berry, Program Dir.
Jennifer Seidel, Dev Specialist
Melissa Acton, QA Specialist
Darlene Polina, HR Manager
Tina Young, Dir. of Operations
Robin Cayton, Adm. Assist.
Mary Tentori, Staffing Coor.
Jordan Peters, IT
News Around the Neighborhood
• Welcome to Angela D., Catherin Stipp,
Catherine Stipp and Danta Hall who are now
receiving supports through Special Neighbors!
• Tobie Renfro received a Special Olympic
medal in basketball and will be going to the
state tournament.
• Amby Z. is now doing janitorial work at
JobOne in Blue Springs.
• Kevin B. celebrated his 50th birthday this
month. He had a Big Birthday party at White
Oaks. His sister Donna invited his brothers
and sisters from out of town and most of them
made it to the party.
• Congratulations to Suzie, Andra, Kathy L. and
Jeannette B. on their new home.
• Meredith celebrated her 35th birthday.
• Congratulations to ShyAnn Mann on the
birth of her son, Ronald Gus Talen, Jr. on
February 9th.
• Congratulations to Monica Koffi on her
recent marriage.
• Rebecca won the personal success award
from Eitas.
• Pam B., Pam S., Amy, and Sandy for winning
honorable mention for the Gentle Teaching
award from Eitas.
• Jeannette T. celebrated her 24th birthday!
• Gene and Edward vacationed in West
Virginia. They enjoyed the train trip and
seeing the Indianapolis Speedway.
Capture the Moment ~ Hollywood Style
What a great night to celebrate and raise money for the individuals we support at Special Neighbors!
Capture the Moment ~ Hollywood Style was a night of excitement, as we had numerous celebrities walk
the red carpet! Laverne and Shirley, Mr. Incredible, Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe were among a
few of the stars to attend the event. Highlights of the evening included a live and silent auction, Hollywood
trivia contest, a heads or tails game and our Fund a Need. Our Fund a Need portion of the evening raised
$5,825 to help fund some specific program expenses. A special thank you to our event sponsors for the
evening: O’Halloran Sherman Associates, LLC, Allen Lefko - Bank of Grain Valley, CorporateCare,
Morgan Stanley/Joe Bauer, SonRise Lawn Care, Corporate Copy Print, Delta Dental, Dick Smith Ford, Mike
Martin Financial Group, Toppers Food Mart, Inc., Greg Schneider Enterprises and Ryan George. Thank you
to everyone who supported Special Neighbors by volunteering, attending the event or through a monetary
donation!
Jessica Berry, Jerry Kaylor,
Lily Mix and Amy McLeod
Grace Shaver as
Audrey Hepburn
The winning team for the
Hollywood Trivia contest
Remembering Leslie, Nancy and Jenna
Leslie Fortel
Leslie was a “young at heart” individual who embraced life’s challenges and joys. She
was a part of the Special Neighbors family for 25 years. During that time, she lived at
Carriage House, a group home for six ladies. The ladies who have lived together over
the years are more than just acquaintances, they are in many ways like a family. While
living at Carriage House, Leslie was able to pursue many of her passions, including skiing,
swimming, basketball, ceramics, and even taking a helicopter ride.
Leslie was typically ahead of the group, she rarely wanted to wait
on others, always anxious to get to the next place. Leslie had many
relationships, but her family, her boyfriend, her housemates and her
support staff were her strongest bonds. Leslie was able to spend her
final days at home surrounded by those who loved and cared about
her. She was visited by many during that time, and countless memories were shared, but
some of the most precious were when her family was able to see Leslie’s housemates
interact with her and her family. They expressed concern, said prayers, and sang to Leslie
before heading off to work. It was a difficult time for everyone, but we learned that we
all should be given the opportunity to grieve our losses and together we truly support each
other.
Nancy Taylor
Nancy Taylor was a sweet, spunky, and fun individual. She came to Special Neighbors
in 1980. She had lived at almost all of the different homes, including the old Carriage
House, SNA, Main Street, and apartment in the community and Nolen Manor. She
had friends everywhere she went. Friends were very important to Nancy. She always
enjoyed her girl’s night out. She was also very fond of the gentleman and loved going
on dates. Another of her favorite things to do was to go to Sonic to get a soda. Nancy
burned up the lanes bowling, and shopping was always a delight. She adored the
Chiefs and the Royals. Going to their games was always on her list of favorite activities.
Some of the other things that Nancy enjoyed were Las Vegas, Elvis, motorcycles and
construction workers. She frequently asked if she could have a pet skunk, however, her
fish made her happy. Nancy was fearless. Going to Worlds of Fun, she would ride all
the rides, but her favorites were the ones that spun. Nancy always had a kind word for everyone. She made
sure her friends and housemates were well cared for, and she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. One of her
favorite sayings was, “You behave!” She will be missed.
Jenna Wilkerson
Jenna became a member of the Special Neighbors family in August 2009. She lived in
the White Oaks group home for six years. She will always be remembered as a sweet,
fun loving, smiling and inquisitive young woman. Jenna loved being around her friends
and being a part of all the activities. She never wanted to be left out. Jenna loved to
listen to gossip and girl talk. She loved excitement and being a part of it. Jenna had
a flare for style. She loved bright fashionable clothes and looking gorgeous! Even her
wheelchair that she rolled around in was stylish with its black and white zebra stripes
that glowed in the dark. Jenna was warm and caring. You couldn’t help wanting to be
around her. She had such courage and strength. Jenna loved the people that took care
of her. She would look up at you with loving eyes and a smile on her face. Jenna will
be greatly missed by her friends and family. She was such a treasure and an inspiration to all of us!
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
Special Neighbor - $5,000 and up
Eitas
Benevolent Neighbor - $500 - $999
John and Becky Barbieri
Valerie Fortel and Roscoe Righter
Terry and Betty Hartwig
Heartland Combined Federal Campaign
Dr. S D Iske, Jr.
Bob and Marilyn O’Halloran
Joe and Nancy Petersen
Jim and Susie Shearer
Good Neighbor - $100 - $499
John and Miriam Bailey
Allen Lefko - Bank of Grain Valley
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.
Patsy Boos
Nathan and Amanda Brown
Josephine Cabezas
Cliff and Beverly Case
Corporate Copy Print
CorporateCare
Chuck Dale
Mary Jane Dauer
Delta Dental
Dick Smith Ford
Deborah Fortel and David Sawyer
Harriet Fortel
Ryan George
Ron and Carolyn Gordanier
GKCCF - Fendler Family Fund
Judy Green
Greg Schneider Enterprises
Clayton and Megan Hayes
Carol Jo Hensen
Jessica Housman
HP Foundation - Jerome Bartels
Trisha Kennedy
Laura Lynn Healthcare
Connie Lee
Bruce and Carole Lindgren
Nancy Martin
Missy McCoy
Mike Martin Financial Group
Lisa Milburn
George and Etta Mitchell
Morgan Stanley - Joe Bauer
Amy Berry
Jessica Berry
Ellie Burgess
Karen Cook
Crossroads Church
Tayanna Daliese
Valerie Fortel
Judy Green
Donnie Groff
Clayton Hayes
Megan Hayes
Betty Hartwig
Justin Iske
Ashley Johnson
Jerry Kaylor
Howard Martin
Nancy Martin
Amy Mcleod
Kristie Meyer
Lily Mix
Lisa Patrick
Jordon Peters
Roscoe Righter
Darrell Roberson
Mary Siegfried
Mary Tentori
Mandilu Tramonte
Sanjay Vallal
Sandi Wilhelmsen
Leslie Winkler
Tina Young
Jane Zou
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
Good Neighbor - $100 - $499
James and Gayle Newland
John and Susan Newsam
Rick and Marlene Norton
Rochelle Payne
Gary and Debbie Quint
Lyle and Grace Shaver
SonRise Lawn Care
Dorris Stanley
Jerry Starr
Toppers Food Mart, Inc.
Christopher and Laura Wade
Curt and Sandi Wilhelmsen
Aaron and Chandra Woods
Friendly Neighbor - $1 - $99
Yale and Melissa Acton
AmazonSmile Foundation
AT&T United Way - Cindy Keeney
Allan and Jeanne Bagshaw
Fran Baker
Amy Berry
Billy and Marilyn Bethune
Kristen Bilyeu
Robert and Kay Blaine
Jeff and Amanda Chrisman
Mark LeCluyse
JoRita Crockett
Teai Culton
James and Marti Dietrich
Lois Douglas
Dr. Alan Fashion
Rai and Nancy Gatapia
Greater Horizons - Darrell Leven
Greater Horizons - Justin Iske
Julie and Donald Groff
Jeff and Deb Hall
Matthew and Kylie Holt
Marcia Humphrey
Independence Chamber of Commerce
Larry and Sandy Kauffman
Bob and Adella Lunsford
Mr. and Mrs. John Mader
William and Sharon Martin
Michael McQuinty
Carl and Pat Misner
Sheryl Monteil
Carolyn Moore
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
Friendly Neighbor - $1 - $99
Julius and Jill Oswald
Deb Parsons
Bill and Nancy Peterkort
Penn Phaikham
Tobin and Kellie Powley
Rita Pyle
Paul and Fayan Rochowiak
Jeff and Cindi Rogers
Rob and Jennifer Seidel
Michael and Heidi Skinner
Marlin and Jeannette Thomas
Truist
Steve and Connie Willman
Braden Young and Donna Barrett
Casey and Angela Vanbiber
In-Kind Donations
Yale and Melissa Acton
Adam’s Pointe Golf Club
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Albonee Country Inn & Vineyard
Allied - THA
American Family Insurance - Jim Evans
Aztech Graphics
B & B Theatres
Baldknobbers Jamboree Show
BankLiberty
be Unique
Better Cheddar
Big Biscuit
Blue Springs Elks Lodge
Blue Springs Marine
Brass Armadillo Antique Mall
Casey’s General Store
Chick-fil-A - Independence
Chiefs in the Community
Chili’s
Community America Ballpark
Coterie Theatre
Cracker Barrel Old County Store
Custard’s Last Stand
Tayanna Daliese
Harriet Fortel
Valerie Fortel and Roscoe Righter
Sue Freeman
Frontier Justice
Gates Bar-B-Q
DO YOU SHOP
ON AMAZON?
Now when you shop
on Amazon, simply
go to www.smile.
amazon.com and select
Special Neighbors as
your charity of choice.
Each time you make
a purchase they will
donate .5% of your
purchase back to
Special Neighbors.
We’re making it easier
for you to give in-kind
donations by shopping
from our amazon wish
list. We know that it is
sometimes difficult to
know what kind of
skillet or camera is
needed, so we’ve created
a wish list with specific
items for each program.
Log into your own
amazon account, click on
“your wish list” and then
type “Special Neighbors,
Inc.” in the search bar
that says find someone’s
wish list. The Special
Neighbor’s Office Wish
list will display and
individual program wish
lists will be available on
the left hand side
of the page.
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
In-Kind Donations
Genevieves Home and Handmade
Genoa Healthcare
Golden Corral
Jeff and Deb Hall
Happy Hour
Terry and Betty Hartwig
Clayton and Megan Hayes
Hooters of America
HyVee/Noland Road
Independence Parks and Rec.
Intimate Designs
Jennifer Nail Salon
Kansas City Royals
Kansas City Zoo
Kaw Valley Greenhouses
Kansas City Chiefs - Brian Johnston
Jerry Kaylor
Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers
Kelly Kruse
Longhorn Steakhouse
Lunar Bowl
Nancy Martin
Etta and George Mitchell
Mick Mithelavage
Ken Morgens
Natural Grocers
Colby Norton
Rick and Marlene Norton
On the Border Mexican Restaurant
Panera Bread Bakery Cafe
Paper Source
Paradise Park
PBI Industries
Joe and Nancy Petersen
Red Carpet Service
Ryan Lawn and Tree
Scandinavia Place
Rob and Jennifer Seidel
Sinclair’s Restaurant
Sterling Bowl
Strikerz
The Cheesecake Factory
The Wade Team
Ticket Boat
TLC Grooming
Union Station
United Consumer’s Credit Union
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
In-Kind Donation
United Way of Greater Kansas City
Susan Dunlap-Valkus
Julie and Phil Vigliaturo
Waldo Pizza
Curt and Sandi Wilhelmsen
ZMC Hotels
In Memory of Gene Stowell
Jay and Vicki Robinson
In Memory of Leslie Fortel
Yale and Melissa Acton
Nancy Baker
Becky Barbieri
Bill and Darleen Barnes
Paula Barry
Janice Bauch
Nancy Beagle
Rev. & Mrs. Jack Belton
Robert and Kay Blaine
Fred Burns & Kay Richter
Pamela Bussell
Marylou Cramsey
Harry and Aline Eilert, Jr.
Galen and Evelyn Ericson
Teresa and Brand Eskew
Valerie Fortel and Roscoe Righter
Ron and Carolyn Gordanier
Jeff and Deb Hall
Terry and Betty Hartwig
Patricia and Larry Hillyard
Rev. and Mrs. Elroy Hines
George and Kathleen Jones
Graham and Donna Jones
Dr. and Mrs. Paul Kerber
Sharon McMullin
Karen Meschede
Etta and George Mitchell
Darlene and Allen Mobley
Rick and Marlene Norton
Karen Olgren
Jon and Donna Rickman
Martha Ripple
Virginia and Max Robbins
Rob and Jennifer Seidel
Lyle and Grace Shaver
Jim and Susie Shearer
Special Neighbors
has resident
openings in our
ISL Program and
White Oaks
Program. If you or
someone you know
is interested in
more information
about our agency,
please contact our
Main Office at
816-836-3462.
DONATIONS
January 1, 2015 - April 30, 2015
In Memory of Leslie Fortel
Lloyd and Joan Slaght
Audrey Sprouse
Lovice Sprugel
Stew and Jeanne Stewart
Robert and Mary Scott Sturm
Mary Jo Tentori
Robert and Marlena Turner
Susan Dunlap-Valkus
Cheryl Watson
Keith and Gweneth Wheeler
Jean White
Murray and Sandra Whitehead
Curt and Sandra Wilhelmsen
Steve and Connie Willman
Leanne and Richard Wilson
Aaron and Chandra Woods
In Memory of Marion Kilgore
Jay and Vicki Robinson
In Memory of Nancy Taylor
Yale and Melissa Acton
Anonymous
Allan and Jeanne Bagshaw
Fred Burns & Kay Richter
Angeline Hope-Martin
Rob and Jennifer Seidel
Dennis and DeAun Young
In Memory of Roger Schwope
Alan & Lou Ann Saighman
In Honor of Tobie Renfro
Sharri Adams
Carol Bowers
Jane Dahem
Hays Companies Employees
Sharon Jennings
Bruce Lyon
Deborah Schmidt
Valerie Storm
Kathy Williams
In Honor of Pam Steinzeig
Marilyn Steinzeig
SPECIAL NEIGHBORS, INC.
3675 S. Noland Road, Suite 110
Independence, MO 64055
Nonprofit
U.S. Postage Paid
KCMO
Permit No. 321
Phone: 816-836-3462
Fax: 816-836-5158
Contacts:
[email protected]
[email protected]
Website:
www.specialneighbors.org
Our Mission: To empower and assist persons with developmental disabilities
to live and participate in the community with dignity.
Special neighbors fall fundraiser
Armacost Museum
Saturday, September 19, 2015
6:00 pm