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“A community is the
mental and spiritual
condition of knowing
that the place is shared,
and that the people who
share the place define
and limit the possibilities
of each other’s lives.
It is the knowledge that
people have of each
other, their concern for
each other, their trust in
each other, the freedom
with which they come
and go among
themselves.”
-Wendell Berry
FLATHEAD INDUSTRIESNEWSLETTER
December 2015
Creating a Better SocietyEmpowering through community Living,
Work And RecreationFlathead Industries has made notable progress
over the past forty years because of our community. Our combined
efforts have made it possible to provide supports to hundreds of
individuals with disablities. We support our community to make it a
better place to live, thus creating a better society. Flathead
Industries currently provides supported employment services,
residential living, job training and entrepreneurship
opportunities. We offer recreational activities, transportation
services and individualized care. It is your support of this
community that makes community inclusion possible. We believe that
all individuals have the right to live, work and participate in
recreations in their own community. In this newsletter you will
clearly see how you empower individuals towards self-sufficiency in
home life, career goals and recreational pursuits.
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Thank You to the community and these local businesses for your
support:
Coca Cola Culligan
Fun Beverage Park Side Credit Union
The WAVE
Community LivingCommunity EmploymentCommunity RecreationsContact
Us
Contents
RESIDENTIALSupported Community LivingCommunity Home
EMPLOYMENTCommunity EmploymentEmployment Services
PG3 PG4-6
PG8 PG7
CONTACT USFlathead IndustriesAdministrationDepartments &
Facilities
RECREATIONSSpecial OlympicsSummer CampCommunity Recreations
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Flathead Industries Newsletter
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No Place Like HomeIn 1991, Flathead Industries was the first
non-profit provider in the Flathead Valley to build and open a
fully accessible group home for individuals with disabilities.
Today, Flathead Industries operates six fully accessible group
homes in Kalispell, Montana. The goal of community home services is
to provide support to our residents in order to assist them to
achieve more through independence, integration and participation
in
their community. Ownership & Independence
Most people dream of having their
own place to call home. People with disabilities are no
different. Flathead Industries provides
individualized support to assist
adults who have disabilities to live
on their own or with roommates in their community.
Every effort is made to accomidate each resident’s needs with
minimal intrustion.
The concern and commitment to full inclusion for all its
residents is one of the components that makes the Flathead Valley a
wonderful place to live. Flathead Industries ensures fair, honest,
respectful treatment to everyone we encounter by listening with an
open mind. We use these values to build our visibility and respect
in the community as we strive to develop new facilities and
programs designed to enhance the lives of those we serve.
Art From the Heart
Community Home LivingFunding Life-Safety Projects
Round Up For SafetyCooperative members that participate in the
Roundup
program at Flathead Electric, allow their monthly bill to be
rounded up to the next dollar.
The money raised by participants is then carefully reviewed and
granted to non-profit groups in the area.
Safety-related projects are then funded, making our valley safer
and overall, a better place to live.
This year Flathead Industries was awarded $3,000 to fund 3
AED’s. Thank You for making this possible!
Stumptown Art Studio
Joe relaxing at home
What is happening at home?On Central avenue in Whitefish you
will find a community art studio where all ages and groups create a
range of multi-media projects. Stumptown Art Studio is a non-profit
organization that reaches into our community.
“Art from the Heart” is one community outreach Stumptown offers
outside of their studio. Charity (pictured) has been traveling to
Kalispell to facilitate an art class at one of Flathead
Industries’
community homes. “All the residents are amazing, they all come
from different community homes to join in crafts, socialization and
enjoy treats.” When Charity first took over the outreach program
three years ago, she was unsure about the dynamics. After teaching
a few classes she learned it is now her favorite thing to do!
Everyone has their different styles and they love to showcase their
art at the studio, give as gifts and enter their artwork in the
county fair contests. Stumptown seeks to grow their outreach
program. “We love volunteers and appreciate donations to cover
materials for kids and adults that can not afford them” says
Charity. Thank you Stumptown Art Studio for the joy you bring to
our community.
“It really is from the heart, its pure. The way art should
be.”
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“Taking Care Of Our People”When Barry (pictured) first began
working at Home Depot, he met Jim Winegar (pictured). After several
interactions between them, Barry realized that Jim was completely
deaf. Instantly, Barry’s intuitions switched on. Due to his
father’s loss of hearing, Barry was accustomed to the environmental
hazards of being hearing impaired. Jim and Barry developed a
natural brotherly relationship, both at work and in the community.
Barry explains “In this world we are all different... I watch out
for him like a big brother.” Jim has a great smile and infectious
kindness. He also has an unbelievable attendance record at Home
Depot.
Community Employment
Our local businesses continue to provide more than jobs. They
provide a culture of friendship, growth and equality. Jim was
referred through Department of Health and Human Services to receive
direction for employment. He was then partnered with an employment
specialist through Career Connections, at Flathead Industries, to
set out to find the perfect job. Calls were made to several local
businesses and Jim was aided towards a remarkable career at Home
Depot.
Origin of Supported EmploymentA job strategy for people with
disabilities known as supported employment was developed in the
1980’s to create competitive work in integrated settings. Formally
it was limited to individuals with developmental disabilities. Over
time supported employment changed to include individuals with
mental illness, physical or developmental disabilities. Local
advocates in the Flathead Valley are an essential key to addressing
equality amongst all of us. We all have the ability to create a
better society and a better future. Career Connections If you are
considering hiring someone with a
disability, there are many support services we are able to
provide to make the process successful. Addressing barriers in the
work place is not as complicated as some organizations may assume.
It is important to work together to identify and overcome
obstacles. Workplace training in disability equality will help
bring awareness in relation to language, etiquette and
communication. Successful Employment Seth and Barry (pictured) are
among many employers and employees who have identified such
barriers in the work place. Both gentlemen are thoughtful, patient
and respectful mentors to their coworkers. These are their
stories...
Live, Work, Play
Jim Special Olympics 2015
Barry Employee at Home Depot
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Flathead Industries Newsletter
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Seth Bostick, executive chef at the Kalispell Regional Medical
Center shares his genuine concern and care for individuals with
disabilities. His interest in others is bold and admirable; he
began to explain his first involvements of supporting people with
disabilities. Seth’s mother was the State Director of Special
Education for Idaho. Seth volunteered by taking individuals and
groups into the community and essentially being an advocate for
them. These stepping stones were an opening to the future endeavors
at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Years later Seth moved to
Kalispell, where he met with Martin Fisher. He learned about
Flathead Industries’ employment services and skill building
programs. Career Connections, a division of Flathead Industries, is
an employment support program that seeks employers that are fit for
several people with varying abilities. Seth works with Career
Connections to assess possible jobs and the skills of employees, to
offer stable and supportive employment at KRMC’s cuisine team.
Today, Seth gleams at the success of employing four individuals
with disabilities. “It was a simple fit; it is a good environment
here.” Seth
pinpoints the reality “there is nothing wrong with a disability.
They need an advocate for them, other than a mom and dad, sister or
brother. They need someone they can trust and believe in.” The
first year was a learning curve and “one employee made quite an
impression on me.” Seth realizes that there will be challenges to
overcome and he focuses on each individual’s needs while leading
his current staff. Seth takes pride in his team of hard working
employees and their patience in working together. The cross culture
of working with people with disabilities is a dynamic yet very
important part of our lives. The environment “is not just plug and
go” Seth explains, “it requires nurture and care…If you are in a
business, it should be something to enjoy, not fear. These are
living beings that need someone there.” Seth is more than an
administrator, he is a mentor. Though it may not be a job
description to invest his time and personal influences in the lives
of his employees, but perhaps that is why his teams moral stays
strong. Seth easily sets a good example of work ethic while
encouraging personal progress and growth.
There are many support services provided if you are considering
hiring through Career Connections. Each individual’s skills are
assessed, as well as the employer’s job duties to determine a
suitable match. To find out more information about community
employment or how to receive services, contact Claudette Vance at
755-7656 ext 225 Kalispell Regional Medical Center
“I am already a big winner,
I have great employees with great
work ethics”
A Simple Fit
Seth Bostick, Executive Chef
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Employment Services
Life Skills CenterDaniel is one of 38 people that is employed at
a supported setting in which he thrives, known as the Life Skills
Center. The Life Skills Centers provides on going services that are
individualized to each person to reach their maximum level of
independence. For some, day services might be long term or short
term, as skills and abilities develop. The Life Skills Center
creates products for the community such as rags, buttons and paint
stakes. There is also a recycling program and production of
home-made fire starters. The goal of all employment support is to
focus on each individual’s goals and objectives. Everyone works
diligently on improving their independence through life skills and
sensory.
Employment for Everyone Flathead Industries provides
opportunities for hundreds of people with disabilities in our
valley. Integration into the community work force is vital for
growth, personal achievement and independence. We offer on the job
training as needed, as well as a dependable and enthusiastic work
force for local businesses. Thrift Stores and More Flathead
Industries Thrift Stores employs nearly 40 individuals with
disabilities. This environment serves as job preperation and a
stepping stone for community employment. Our Thrift Stores are
located in Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls. Flathead
Industries Work Crew Another avenue of community work is known as
the Work Crew. A dynamic team of hard working individuals. Flathead
Industries established the Work Crew in 2012, to provide services
and products to the community. The focus is to expand consumer’s
work skills in the community. Each employee is trained to operate
various tools and machines. The Work Crew offers services as well
as high quality products to the community.
Providing Opportunities The community and local businesses, have
supported Flathead Industries for the past forty years. You make it
possible for us to offer new opportunities for individuals living
with disabilities. These individuals have proven dedication,
progressive work ethics and personal growth from employment in the
community.
Refer Us Flathead Industries Work Crew is one of the trusted
referral agencies from Flathead Home Services (FHS) that provides
many home services from landscaping, moving, lawn mowing, snow
removal and so much more. Flathead Home Services is a local
referral based business located right here in the Flathead Valley.
FHS has created a large network of trusted home service
professionals. You can find more information at
flatheadhomeservices.com
“Being disabled should not mean being diqualified from having
access to every aspect of life” -Emma Thompson
Daniel Life Skills Center
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Flathead Industries Newsletter
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Adult Recreation ProgramNothing can compare to the
spectacular natural beauty of the Flathead Valley. With our four
season recreational
opportunities Flathead Industries is committed
to providing people with disabilities the opportunity to
participate in safe pleasurable
activities that are a part of everyday community life.
Recreation and Leisure
Promoting Inclusive RecreationLeisure activities and recreations
can be a critical vehicle for developing new skills, making
friends, improving health and enjoy life! Contact us to find out
how you can sponsor programs and recreations such as Flathead
Industries yearly summer camp.
Summer Camp 2015
How You Can Get Involved There are many rewarding
opportunities at Flathead Industries. If you are interested
in becoming a volunteer please contact Sue Bonin at
755-7656 Ext 230
Empowerment Is KeyThank you to many of you whom set aside
reservations for individuals with disabilities. Whether it is a
donation, free tickets to a concert or sponsoring new team uniforms
for athletes; your generosity fosters opportunities for new
experiences, advocacy for equality and inclusion into the
community.
Community Support Thank you Glacier Symphony & Chorale and
Flathead County Sheriff ’s Association for donating event tickets
this year. This year our seniors enjoyed a Christmas Luncheon by
the Kalispell Rotary Club. Several individuals would not have been
able to attend these special events without your assistance and
contributions.
Eddie at the Holiday Bowl
First Place
Maria and Joe
Santa visits bringing gifts to the Special Olympics ‘Holiday
Bowl’ December 2015
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Vocational and Employment Services To apply for services an
application must be made through a referring agency: Department of
Public Health and Human Services: • Vocational Rehabilitation
Services Division 751-5940 • Developmental Services Division
755-6344 • Department of Veteran's Affairs 721-0628
Contact Us • Main office 755-7656 • Vickie Poynter, Chief
Executive Officer 755-7656 ext 231 • Carmen Noffsinger, Chief
Financial Officer 755-7656 ext 226 • Patrick Maddison, Chief
Operations Officer 755-7656 ext 245 • Susan Bonin, Special Services
Director 755-7656, ext 230 • Mike Allen, Employment Services
Director 270-7316 • Shannon Malmin, Group Homes Manager 755-7656
ext 224 • Jen Harmon, Manager of Supported Living Services 890-2686
• Kathy Schenck, Human Resources 406-755-7656 ext 234 • Deb Lee,
Systems Management Coordinator 755-3842 ext 240 • Tim Bartholomew,
Staff Development Coordinator 755-7656 ext 238 • Sam Dennison, IT
Specialist 212-2314 • Sarah Mathiason, Marketing Coordinator
755-7656 ext 229
Products & Services WORK CREW SERVICES Becca Balla 261-0506
• Fire Wood sales and delivery • Mowing, gardening & lawn care
• Snow and debris removal • Janitorial services & misc services
• Construction clean up & disposal PRODUCTION SERVICES Michelle
Pellet 755-7656 ext 236 • Painting stakes • Custom Badges and
Buttons • Fire starters • Confidential Document Shredding • 100%
Recycled Quality Rags • Pick up & delivery available
Job Opportunities Applications and Job Listings: Main Office: 66
4th Ave WN • Kathy Schenck, Human Resources 406-755-7656 ext 234 •
www.flatheadindustries.org
Thrift Store LocationsKalispell Thrift 40 East Idaho Kalispell,
MT
(406) 755-3842
Glacier Thrift 412 Nucleus Ave
C.Falls, MT (406) 892-4849
Whitefish Thrift 223 Baker Ave Whitefish, MT (406) 862-5221
Keep In Touch
Connect Online
Flathead Industries | P.O. Box 1916 | 66 4th Ave West North
Kalispell MT 59903
flatheadindustries.org Sign up for Sales & Info. smathiason@
flatheadindustries.org facebook.com/ flatheadindustries
linkedin.com/in/ flatheadindustries @Findustries1973
Thrift Stores • Mitch McKinley, Retail Operations Director
314-8321 • Suzanne Schmertz, Kalispell Thrift Store Manager
755-3842 • Cindy Chopper, Columbia Falls Thrift Store Manager
982-4849 • Heidi Dennison Whitefish Thrift Store Manager
862-5521
All donations are 100% Tax deductible, please ask for receipt
Please make donations to Thrift Stores during store hours
Need to schedule a pick up? Call Kalispell Thrift at
755-3842
Vocational & Employment Services • Claudette Vance,
Vocational Rehabilitation Director 755-7656 ext 225 • Dick Ramos,
Employment Specialist 752-1204 ext 223 • Penny Bump, Employment
Specialist 752-1204 ext 242 • Tom Murphy, Employment Specialist
755-3842 ext 109
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