Center of Hope to be a vaccination site

The Center of Hope will be providing vaccinations on site Wednesday, June 2, for our participants, caregivers and staff. This will allow the opportunity for families to get vaccinated at a place that is easily accessible for them.

This has been an area of advocacy for months due to hearing from families that they were having difficulties in gaining appointments or receiving accommodations that were needed for their son or daughter.  In recent days appointments have become more available, however, some individuals still need accommodations that have not been able to be met in the broader community.

If you still need to be vaccinated or have questions, please contact the Center at 815.964.9275, by May 24. We do have a minimum number that need to be registered.

Center of Hope receives grant from Helen Brach Foundation

Barbara Olson Center of Hope is proud to announce it has received a $10,000 grant from the Helen Brach Foundation to purchase two interactive display systems in order to engage our participants and offer alternative ways for them to enhance the quality of their lives.

Often for individuals with severe disabilities, accomplishing tasks such as communicating with others or participating in daily living activities can be a challenge. The interactive displays are tools to overcome these challenges and enable people living with autism and related disabilities a means to heighten their ability to learn information, express themselves, and demonstrate understanding.

The interactive displays give our staff the tools to present learning not only visually, allowing more flexibility to teach people with different levels of abilities, but virtually for those who cannot physically attend the Center due to restrictions.

Meet Barb Mosny

Barb Mosny, administrative assistant in the Human Resources Department, has been at the Center of Hope for 26 years. We asked Barb about her time at the Center.

What is the biggest change you’ve seen over the years? There have been a lot of changes over the years, but I would have to say it’s the number of opportunities that are offered to our participants. It’s amazing how many choices they have – a variety of classes, technology, rec leisure activities, sensory programs, art therapy, work and volunteer opportunities. The staff are always coming up with new and creative ways to help them grow their interests. I love that they get to choose for themselves what they want to do and what makes them happy!

What keeps you at the Center?  Definitely the participants and the staff and, of course, the mission of the Center. It’s a great place to work.

CALENDAR

Monday, May 31 – Memorial Day (COH Closed)
Friday, June 11 – Staff Development Day (COH Closed)