tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76480503589279126162024-03-05T22:31:22.395-08:00Serving with excellence and compassionHeritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-20489829371090872322017-05-04T10:21:00.000-07:002017-05-04T10:21:19.952-07:00A stronger community requires repairing relationships<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUt_qo6THP70ILP-I7kDlkmRhvOBjvdtbG_rIxKo2bXozyU88rv7wJRk1YOOdgRH_gefI2cBQjRtcXkDq8SaAGJNfjLPebSoMx57X1Dia7q6OcWDvqBMvSEeSc0tlY8s45V5yhpnzPUBr/s1600/M_Geitner_217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUt_qo6THP70ILP-I7kDlkmRhvOBjvdtbG_rIxKo2bXozyU88rv7wJRk1YOOdgRH_gefI2cBQjRtcXkDq8SaAGJNfjLPebSoMx57X1Dia7q6OcWDvqBMvSEeSc0tlY8s45V5yhpnzPUBr/s400/M_Geitner_217.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">By Marisa Geitner</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">President and C.E.O.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Recently,
while studying about relational justice I came upon a quote by Jonathan
Burnside: "Seeking justice means seeking wisdom,
seeking community and seeking right relationships." I
found it a thoughtful statement as we continue exploring the deeper ways
in which we can support one another through the ups and downs that come along
with our lives and the lives of those we share time with. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
this age of acceleration the world doesn't slow down for
anything, let alone when bad things happen. It is often that we find ourselves,
despite our best intentions, experiencing an outcome that is less than we'd
hoped. Maybe that's as simple as squeezing in a few too many errands while
someone waits a bit too long for a ride after baseball practice. Maybe that's
having a moment of frustration where someone's behavior pushes someone they
care about away -- missteps that can usually be corrected with a bit of time
and a heartfelt apology. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
what happens when the outcome comes with an even greater pain? What
happens when it is an outcome that causes emotional heartache, spiritual
confusion, financial burden or even physical pain? <b>Usually it wasn't the
person's intention to cause hurt to another, but most often in today's society
when bad things happen, our first response is to attend to the one that was
hurt.</b> We want to stop the hurting and ensure healing. We focus on restoration
of that person -- their health, their dignity, their well being. In doing so,
we might also find a bit of relief ourselves, believing that restoration for
the victim is a part of the justice we seek even as a bystander. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
we typically turn our sights to the one whose actions led to a less than
favorable outcome and we start the second part of our justice -- the punishment,
the reprimand or the directive to never do that again. Then we, as bystanders
move on, hoping or maybe believing that we have made the world a better
place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
seeking justice through wisdom, community and relationship we are called to
provide a bit more than that. <b>We need to extend ourselves in offering
opportunity for healing and restoration to the second victim -- the ones
whose actions might have led to a poor outcome.</b> We have to repair the
relationship between each victim, offering them the opportunity to talk about
what happened, look to rebuild trust and again share a relationship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is often that individuals who require the support of others for their most
personal care are asked to simply forgive and forget when the innocent actions of
another lead to an unintended, but poor outcome to them. But without relational
justice, the burden on both is too great. The relationship just severs and
leaves both still hurting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
believe we are a society that seeks wisdom, values community and honors right
relationship. Let's put it to practice in a way that challenges who we are and
advances who we'd like to be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-71656568568379916182017-04-05T11:05:00.001-07:002017-04-05T11:05:51.278-07:00Appreciative Inquiry<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--> By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.<br />
<br />
Appreciative Inquiry, while not a new concept, certainly has a very important place in today’s world. Broadly summarized, it’s a way of developing a discipline for positive change. It's the act of transformation anchored in positivism that seeks to explore the best in people, their organizations and the world around them. It breathes life into a being, process or movement and activates the deep study of a moment when things are working and fully alive. Approaching advancement through an appreciative and curious way is not only spirit lifting, it also ensures we build on opportunities and assets.<br />
<br />I have experienced how quickly this approach can turn negativism on its head. Some may wonder if this is just a superficial strategy to "weed out the complainers." It certainly could disorient the person who rehashes everything that has not worked or who prefers to list reasons why it won't work. After all, the further we push potential solutions from our point of influence, the less responsibility we take for unmet outcomes. It's a classic leadership trap of the modern age.<br />
<br />Dare to be different. Confront the tough stuff. Ask about exceptionally positive moments and share stories that give life to a cause. Allow others to dream with you about the future then innovate and improvise in a way that shapes that future. Learning and inviting others to take part in appreciative inquiry is a discipline. In a world that bends toward negativism, it is counterculture. Critics suggest it ignores reality, and to them I say it isn't about ignoring reality, it’s about surrounding it, embracing it and shaping it!<br />
<br />We all need help day-to-day to stay in a positive frame of mind. I appreciate having a team that supports and influences my thoughts more positively. A team that can remind me that growing from what's working well is more productive than belaboring what's not. <br />Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-19849294377951004112017-03-07T13:52:00.000-08:002017-03-07T13:56:52.489-08:00The true meaning of accountability<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1eBmtq_EsfWSrvByoTQc6OfXS2LrAT9tnjT4qmvDddb1BFDMBHXIbVTm_yQeCnz8VgzKnZd-wsHvbjJrkl5e1QLH8KqFbfCIbu6ob0M-mFzgt1GrXDnsCQ2mkYs0maecDYktuYDoPxqs/s1600/Untitled+design+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1eBmtq_EsfWSrvByoTQc6OfXS2LrAT9tnjT4qmvDddb1BFDMBHXIbVTm_yQeCnz8VgzKnZd-wsHvbjJrkl5e1QLH8KqFbfCIbu6ob0M-mFzgt1GrXDnsCQ2mkYs0maecDYktuYDoPxqs/s400/Untitled+design+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.<br />
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<span style="color: #010101;">I find myself having a keen
awareness of the number of times I hear someone placing blame in the name of
accountability. Not only are they two very different things, placing
blame is actually counterproductive to strengthening accountability and improving
results -- and blaming often diminishes motivation and performance.
This misguided strategy is pervasive in our personal and professional
lives and can creep in at a very young age. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010101;">Recently, while watching a
basketball game, I couldn’t help but notice the coach yelling at the players on
the court and throughout each time out. The coach rehashed all they
hadn’t done or had done “wrong” with clear frustration. I have sadly become used to the sight of coaches
yelling but when I heard another proudly proclaim that “he’s good at holding
them accountable,” it made me think. Accountable to what I wondered? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010101;">Accountable by definition is
“subject to the obligation to report, explain, justify.” Simply stated,
others should be encouraged to provide account or explanation for the
outcome. When we are too busy blaming, judging or rehashing the result,
we don’t even ask questions, let alone offer others the opportunity to explain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010101;">Now let’s take this a bit deeper.
Besides listening for an explanation, are we willing to learn in order to
influence future opportunity? Let’s keep going with the basketball
experience. What is usually the first thing you hear a coach or crowd
yell once someone misses a rebound? "Get that rebound!” Or maybe “Box
out!” Well rest assured that’ll do it. Next time they’ll surely remember
your directive and get the rebound. I’m being sarcastic of course. We say
those things and react that way because in that moment it feels good to us. It
likely has no positive impact on shaping the next event. The players know
they are supposed to rebound the basketball and they are highly motivated to
successfully grab the basketball, so why don’t they? Ask them! What
pulls their attention in the heat of a game? Knowing how to rebound is
only the first step. Knowing how to execute the rebound in every complex
scenario that you face in a competitive game is another. What interferes
with each player's ability to call on that knowledge and execute the
rebound? Timing of the jump, balance on one foot versus the other,
position of their other teammates? Lastly, what other competing
priorities are they managing in the thick of trying to secure that
rebound? Are they avoiding a push or over the back penalty, ensuring
their feet aren’t swept out from under them while they're in the air,
positioning themselves down court for the pass following the rebound? You
never know until you ask but I guarantee a better outcome the next time if you
coach them proactively from the perspective of their game time
reality. Helping them learn from their own perspective of the game will
help them build strategies they can use to navigate the next experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010101;">Accountability isn’t about
placing blame, it’s about supporting one another in delivering on a commitment
along with the outcome and the tasks necessary to achieve it.
It comes through clear expectations, measurement against expectation, timely
communication and a review of results. When done right, it
also makes for a better leader, coach and teammate!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-43904107288398753182017-02-06T06:44:00.000-08:002017-02-06T06:44:28.353-08:00Recommending 'The Four Elements of Success'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkogp1rL4EAH33TXtUUl71wys7tU3DNwhaPiVYYQ07LdO7Sfee5OREyp-3ZQ5SgwaN-gNhBH7muZYIpGgTqDZKt_V0hfyB_RLxJE43o0gRxJfnKfBQQgs7PTliIOLXyZlc_IOWm5cGG5u_/s1600/Four+Elements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkogp1rL4EAH33TXtUUl71wys7tU3DNwhaPiVYYQ07LdO7Sfee5OREyp-3ZQ5SgwaN-gNhBH7muZYIpGgTqDZKt_V0hfyB_RLxJE43o0gRxJfnKfBQQgs7PTliIOLXyZlc_IOWm5cGG5u_/s320/Four+Elements.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">By Marisa Geitner, President and C.E.O.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Leadership
development is important for all of us as we grow within our work and gain
alignment with what fuels us. One of my favorite leadership reads is <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Four-Elements-Success-Personality-Transform/dp/0785288104/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1486392047&sr=8-1&keywords=four+elements+of+success" target="_blank">The Four Elements of Success</a></u> written in 2005 by Laurie Beth Jones. Despite its
age, it remains a relevant resource. It is grounded in the realization
that throughout our worldly existence we have an innate need to form teams and
bond with others, while acknowledging the good, bad and ugly that
comes through the human dynamic of relationships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
book groups behavioral tendencies into understandable terms we can
remember by using the elements of nature: Earth, Wind, Water and Fire. The
definitions, matched with the elements as we know them, makes
the tendencies more understandable and easy to discuss. For example, we
can easily think of the qualities of fire -- hot, unpredictable, smoldering,
fast moving, brilliant, colorful, mesmerizing, forging, etc. Perhaps we can
also easily draw association to those whose behavioral tendencies lean toward
that element. We can then draw correlations related to the interaction
between elements -- fire is fed by wind, cooled by water, etc. We can
understand the strengths and challenges among elements just as we see the
dynamics among human tendencies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
team at Heritage Christian studied this book in early 2006. It allowed us
a safe and comfortable way to discuss our dynamics as a team. We learned so
much about one another and how to better work alongside each other. I even
remember some of my colleagues who lean toward predictability, stability and
planning (Earth) would post signs on their doors during busier times of the
month that said "No Wind Zone." It was a fun and safe way to suggest
to their somewhat relentless, unpredictable, more impulsive coworkers that this
wasn't a good time to pop in and brainstorm. Our experience was so
successful through the book study that we welcomed Laurie Beth Jones in for a
deeper dive into the concepts. To this day many of us still identify with the
elements when digesting team dynamic and working to appreciate the needs of
those around us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is a quick, enjoyable read for teams, and it's just over 250 pages. If you give
it a try, I don't think that you'll be disappointed. This leadership resource
stands the test of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-26928099488169796172017-01-12T06:34:00.000-08:002017-01-12T11:02:38.363-08:00Son of HCS founding family remembered<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<i style="text-align: center;">"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." </i></div>
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<i style="text-align: center;">-- 2 Timothy 4:7</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtEuB1-tvhmwq4MrqO0K2vu-3qz2qbYbonedhwtd2cqy-mEnYYtWImxCbfKj0llNrgFDM-W0iKj7A_cmpbg-0KwCIKNtAmijdBQWqBbUl-x7UuVVzBlrJzfZqz2VOHdNJWhHTp6xedW3m/s1600/Bob2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtEuB1-tvhmwq4MrqO0K2vu-3qz2qbYbonedhwtd2cqy-mEnYYtWImxCbfKj0llNrgFDM-W0iKj7A_cmpbg-0KwCIKNtAmijdBQWqBbUl-x7UuVVzBlrJzfZqz2VOHdNJWhHTp6xedW3m/s1600/Bob2.JPG" /></a></div>
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Robert "Bob" Pieters -- a man who influenced
thousands of lives by inspiring his parents to help create one of the largest
nonprofits in Rochester -- died Tuesday. He was 54.</div>
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Bob and his sister Karen were born with developmental
disabilities and medical challenges that prompted their parents, Robert and
Marie Pieters, to join two other families in founding what is now known as
Heritage Christian Services. Today, the agency serves people with disabilities,
children and older adults in 13 counties. Its state-of-the-art health and
wellness center, the Pieters Family Life Center, is also named in honor of the
family's contributions to HCS.</div>
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Throughout his life, Bob loved traveling and being near the
water. He went twice to Disney World and
once to Dollywood, the theme park of his favorite country singer. He also enjoyed simply being outside, fishing
and cooking s'mores on the fire pit outside his home. He never turned down the
chance to have a hotdog or garbage plate, especially on his birthday -- which
he shared with his dad. He loved being an uncle, riding around and exploring
the Rochester community and hosting driveway parties for the neighborhood, family
and friends. </div>
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"Bob leaves behind an incredible legacy and his life
serves as a powerful reminder that we all have a purpose, that we all
matter," said Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O. of Heritage Christian
Services. "We are thankful for the
important role he played in our founding and for the honor of having known
him."</div>
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Bob is survived by his parents, former president and C.E.O.
Robert and Marie Pieters; brothers Dan (Raynae) Pieters and John (Gaye)
Pieters; sisters Karen Pieters and Kim (Tim) Clark; and nieces and nephews.</div>
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<b>Calling hours will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at Anthony
Funeral Chapels, 2305 Monroe Ave. in Brighton. A celebration of life service
will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Pieters Family Life Center, 1025
Commons Way in Henrietta. A reception will follow. </b></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-68236853218401078912017-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:002017-01-09T13:16:41.853-08:00Listening for the truth<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3yx2ZXQ9YCEa54hORtHTOaYF35yGomJ0p14P4CnXIkBGP8HPV3kaGHsmj7VgZx793gzgF-m2TJGuJgpSEZgVBvPX9jsE75z5ES_Ar-Bj1vK1_o74Qk4w2l-BKWHhVKuY9lrwk8_YPp2D/s1600/Truth+Jan%252C+2016+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3yx2ZXQ9YCEa54hORtHTOaYF35yGomJ0p14P4CnXIkBGP8HPV3kaGHsmj7VgZx793gzgF-m2TJGuJgpSEZgVBvPX9jsE75z5ES_Ar-Bj1vK1_o74Qk4w2l-BKWHhVKuY9lrwk8_YPp2D/s400/Truth+Jan%252C+2016+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Written by Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.</div>
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<i style="text-align: center;">"But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light..." John 3:21</i><br />
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Sometimes the truth is hard to find -- and hard to hear --
but it is always worth seeking. Anything less means narrow perspective and
guaranteed misalignment. You're building
on an unstable foundation, one that will crumble when changes and difficult
times come.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_srSLDpBmLxMVto_4_-BmUqaf_0u846VGJ9-tH-7qPVSd0tuunIFlhwLrYCjjGKKDzc2yquHPWJEZDvRVw3cdbzqKDbpbpEmuHpJPZ314q2smnhFoZCwECpmytykhwreiio2xgSV7AReU/s1600/M_Geitner_847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_srSLDpBmLxMVto_4_-BmUqaf_0u846VGJ9-tH-7qPVSd0tuunIFlhwLrYCjjGKKDzc2yquHPWJEZDvRVw3cdbzqKDbpbpEmuHpJPZ314q2smnhFoZCwECpmytykhwreiio2xgSV7AReU/s320/M_Geitner_847.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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Right now we are facing steep challenges as an agency and as
an industry and the only way to succeed is to listen to one another share our
truth and that means listening with an active ear, seeking to understand all
perspectives. Some of our truths are pleasant. They are things that we
celebrate, like reaching more people in need of support through our community
support programs and the opening of a new Expressive Beginnings Child Care. We
celebrate those we have been able to welcome into our residential and day
programs and all those we are supporting in seeking employment. How blessed we are to partner with over 100
different employers! We are also sharing
education and best practices across the country through the Center for Human
Service Education. Certainly much to be
thankful for, but some of our truths are tough because they threaten our
ability to serve, like securing the resources to pay our support professionals
a higher wage. In addition, the demand
for our support continues to grow and the funding necessary to offer equal
access for those with more complex needs, remains insufficient.</div>
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If we listen, we can work together to figure out how to live
out our mission. Some of the key places we're starting:</div>
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<ul>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We are</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
advocating for a liveable wage for support staff</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> so we can attract and
retain high quality employees. New York state is increasing the minimum wage in
the Rochester and Buffalo areas to $12.50 an hour by 2021 with the goal of
reaching $15 an hour shortly thereafter. Today, if we were to pay people a
minimum wage of $15 an hour, it would impact almost 80 percent of our current
employees. We project it would cost our organization – including our child care
and </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">community services businesses – $8.3
million a year.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We are</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
expanding our emerging services </b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">such as community habilitation,
brokerage, employment and fiscal intermediary services in both the
Rochester</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">and Buffalo areas.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We will also </span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">continue to work toward
offering a variety of housing options </b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">including certified settings,
customized settings and other affordable housing options.</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We will continue to differentiate our
employee</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">recruitment and engagement
strategies in order to introduce dedicated, diverse support professionals</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">to those who choose our supports.</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We are</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
working to offer the people closest to us the chance to recognize support staff
with a note of thanks or encouragement electronically</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">, and we are again </span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">offering educational opportunities for
managers and directors</b><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">. For example, we'll use a</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> $100,000 award from
the New York State Department of Labor for managers and emerging leaders to
participate in leadership training during 2017.</span></li>
</ul>
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Truth be told, we need your help. We need your commitment of
time and talent and treasure. We need to listen to one another so that together
we can be guided by the Truth and prioritize our efforts and ensure a powerful
impact -- to ensure that the service experience people expect can be met.</div>
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We move forward into 2017 with grateful hearts for the richness of our blessings while working
together to fulfill our mission.</div>
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May you have a blessed 2017.<span style="font-family: "edmondsans bold" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-54229672770322082212016-10-19T13:48:00.000-07:002016-10-19T13:48:04.084-07:00How to learn from each other<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNRNnKxJztdyZ01LmHCfzrPDQssLt5sa4Xe2Vd_VbIoyrCUbJngfRbFb4rNR97cDQ8fhRqPJvmHISjbtHUHZBZHJRmdaa0NG7iUZRZx1XFaAPQW0GlGg1v98VwCn6DMOTlFZdlspz22-VL/s1600/ToreyRichardson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNRNnKxJztdyZ01LmHCfzrPDQssLt5sa4Xe2Vd_VbIoyrCUbJngfRbFb4rNR97cDQ8fhRqPJvmHISjbtHUHZBZHJRmdaa0NG7iUZRZx1XFaAPQW0GlGg1v98VwCn6DMOTlFZdlspz22-VL/s400/ToreyRichardson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">By:
Torey Richardson, Health Support Professional<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Working at HCS has put numerous things into
perspective, but most importantly made me realize how blessed I truly am. Often
times we take the simplest things for granted without giving it much thought.
Imagine not being able to verbally communicate your wants and needs -- and
imagine the communication barrier that can create. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">While
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>many people are fortunate to have friends or family call
and visit or even go home for the holidays, others for various reasons are not
as fortunate. This is why forming relationships with the people who choose our
services, and also helping foster relationships is crucial. By making these
connections we are able to better support individuals by not only learning how
they communicate, but also teaching others how to communicate with them. <b>This results in limitless possibilities.</b>
Individuals are able to join groups within their communities, socialize with their
neighbors, and much more. I believe it is our responsibility to change the
stigma that ignorantly implies that if a person cannot verbally communicate,
then they cannot communicate at all. <b>There
is so much that we can learn from each other, if we know how and if we are
willing to try.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
people recently hired and for people interested in getting to know someone who
communicates differently, there are many options to help you be successful: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Find
out what the person likes. It is always easy to engage someone in a
conversation about common interests. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Learn
American Sign Language or other ways of communicating. (Heritage Christian offers
classes that teach staff how to use sign language.) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ask
senior staff. They were once in the position that you may be in, finding it
difficult to communicate with someone. They may have useful tips that can help.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">AND
GIVE IT TIME! A lot of the individuals that we support see many different staff
members come and go. The person may just be shy so give it time and eventually
they may come around.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-83569181120437033632016-10-04T14:34:00.000-07:002016-10-04T14:34:29.194-07:00How to find direction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcdzFrqu4DQD2Khf_uA14DyCec3GNPOqNxnSesbuMpKwrVzEJbudhRdfZFJX59-IZn3jdvfhY31iFdwDaoqNJe1kwJ7hMlWPaDMVqc3rE9fsod2pw8g0q7IsNJCoie2BCoy17pvxH8mmS/s1600/P1370762+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcdzFrqu4DQD2Khf_uA14DyCec3GNPOqNxnSesbuMpKwrVzEJbudhRdfZFJX59-IZn3jdvfhY31iFdwDaoqNJe1kwJ7hMlWPaDMVqc3rE9fsod2pw8g0q7IsNJCoie2BCoy17pvxH8mmS/s400/P1370762+%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #010101; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By Marisa Geitner, President and C.E.O.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><span style="color: #010101; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We might say that the first step to
citizenship is to have control over our own life, but the second is to give
that life direction. - Simon Duffy</span></i><i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Control
without direction can be a risky combination. We have all found ourselves
there from time to time as we work hard to gain authority over our own
decisions and life, only to find we aren't quite certain what
direction we'd like to head. We are just certain that we don't want others
deciding for us. That's when we take a breath and remind ourselves that
understanding our goals and purpose is a journey not a destination. It’s the
discovery along the way that makes life so interesting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
it comes to contemplating purpose or direction, I find perspective
means everything. A healthy balance of <i>what
was</i> and <i>what will be</i> should be
considered. Sounds simple enough. Although you know, it's likely we spend too
much time looking backward -- consuming so much of our energy on what was,
retrospectively turning over our experiences time and time again in order to
shape our direction, our next step. While that is an essential ingredient in
healthy self-awareness it doesn't alone get us where we need to go. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
shift to a prospective view we need to ask questions. Where have we been? What
have we learned? What would we do differently? What outcome do we hope to see?
What is the next step? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Purpose
is like any other innovative process, it doesn't follow a straight line and
it's rarely predictable. It ebbs and flows with the twists and turns
of the dynamic world we live in. And yes, I know where those twist and turns
take us can be very disorienting. We all get lost from time to time. That's
where perspective again saves the day, just ask the questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
our purpose and direction take shape, we need to exercise our leadership skills
as well. Why? Because we don't succeed alone. We need to encourage others,
those close to us, to come along with us. We need to take hold and lead others
in the direction that nurtures and respects our unique purpose and
contribution, while also being thoughtful of theirs. We need the support of our
natural networks to enhance our discovery along the way. Those we share time
with are influential on our journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Balance
experience of the past with hope for the future. Welcome others into your
direction and aspirations. Enjoy the journey as your purpose is revealed!
Happy travels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-47712056784606341182016-09-02T10:08:00.005-07:002016-09-02T10:14:56.724-07:00A focus on friendships<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By Ma<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">risa Geitner, President & C.<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">E.O.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A recent study published in the Psychology Bulletin suggests that the older we get the fewer and fewer friends we have. They go on to explain that while our social circles generally expand into adulthood, friendships actually peak and begin to decrease as early as our 20s! In addition, sociologist Gerald Mollenhorst found that we tend to lose half of our closest friends every seven years and replace them with new relationships. <br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">I guess it stands to reason with life changes in adulthood like heading off to college, changing jobs, moving, beginning a family, etc. that our friendships frequently drift apart, even when we work hard to make them a priority. <br /><br />Despite this somewhat grim realization, friendships and allies remain an essential ingredient in successfully navigating the adult world, so how do adults make new friends? How do we build professional networks of allies? Well, adult lives can get a bit routine, so first we need to hop out of the proverbial box. We need to step out of our day-to-day routine and places of comfort and put ourselves in a position to cross paths with new and different people from time to time. If we do this we will have plenty of choice and likely connect with others who are the best match for us. <br /><br />Next, we have to adjust our time. Notice I didn't say make time. Without being able to add another minute to the day, often where we need to focus is in adjusting how we are spending our time in order to better include others. I have begun inviting a friend along as I run errands; company and conversation certainly make that trip much more fun. I also exchange help with tasks that are daunting alone; asking a colleague to help me finish up a big project by its due date, knowing that I will make myself available to assist them with their next big task. It never hurts to invite others. Don't be afraid to ask and don't assume they are too busy! Just ask.<br /><br />So why am I taking your time and attention to speak of friendship? It’s essential in our personal lives and in our business success. Our friends help us navigate adult decisions. Allies, when welcomed into our conversation, help us achieve the collective impact we are hoping to have. We are serving in transformative times alongside a very transformative organization- Heritage Christian Services. It is our relationships and the experiences we have together as a result of those relationships that make this organization different. We welcome others to help us achieve great results! </span></span>Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-70614086561318884092016-08-18T13:43:00.000-07:002016-08-18T13:43:40.118-07:00Citizenship: The opportunity to serve a greater purpose<div class="MsoPlainText">
<i>For the last few years, Heritage Christian has focused on the idea of citizenship -- the idea of honoring and respecting the rights and responsibilities that we all have. We've invited Anna Skinner, associate director of day
programs in the Buffalo area, to share her thoughts. Anna...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStNwVsmmGRcyeygq7Z0yWvfGRqesuAXiIZN9dU_oeAfS3qxrQjhPrWo5svG0QBEsQfWKKpb8gAq3u09snuzI8-7mpwlJar0wcgN5XBp2vuQVNsysisROfeaqrpATQMHh_3dCFrOBilOi3/s1600/Anna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhStNwVsmmGRcyeygq7Z0yWvfGRqesuAXiIZN9dU_oeAfS3qxrQjhPrWo5svG0QBEsQfWKKpb8gAq3u09snuzI8-7mpwlJar0wcgN5XBp2vuQVNsysisROfeaqrpATQMHh_3dCFrOBilOi3/s200/Anna.jpg" width="139" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I continue
to try and wrap my head around the definition of citizenship and how it applies
to our everyday life. I’ve also stepped outside of looking at it from a
personal perspective and have tried applying it to a person who may have an
intellectual disability. My outcome...there is no difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Citizenship
applies to all people: In my eyes the definition is very complex but at the
same time can be looked at as very simple. This involves building connections
with people who have a common purpose and interest. It's a give-and-take
relationship and for most people being an engaged citizen provides a strong
sense of self worth, belonging and contribution. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A big
question is, "How do we welcome people as equals?" This too can be
very complex or looked at with a very simple answer: <b>Be the person that welcomes people with open arms. Provide your time,
talent and treasures and allow people to share theirs as well.</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Think back
to when you were finally able to get a job. The thought of earning your own
money and having the freedom to spend it on whatever you wanted was awesome!
The scary part of this journey was not having the experience, which is what we
face in every step that we take in life. Experience helps you gain knowledge
and skills. When people have the opportunity to gain experience and are exposed
to new things this will ultimately build up our community and provide others
with the opportunity to serve a greater purpose in life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-8253508519434073702016-08-01T12:03:00.003-07:002016-08-01T12:03:49.795-07:00Relationships: Our most important work<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: #383838; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>"The
ultimate success of a service system depends upon its ability to help people
maintain and develop positive, enduring, freely chosen relationships."-
John O'Brien</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
someone who is not familiar with companionship, loneliness can be the norm -- permanent
and inevitable. Loneliness and a disconnectedness of relationship with others
creates proven changes within our chemical make up as a human being, literally
depriving our brain of the hormone that stimulates happiness. This isn't just
an extreme phenomenon noted in those who live in isolation. Many who exist
within the presence of others can still be absent connectedness and
relationship. They can still be deprived of the happiness and fulfillment that
comes only through meaningful interaction with others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Loneliness
hampers our day-to-day ability no matter our starting point. Think of a time
when you faced a challenge and didn't have others around you whom you trusted
for council, people of your choosing, not people chosen for you. Our world
becomes even more disorienting when we can't seek direction through the support
or challenge of others we trust. We might even find that faced with loneliness
day in and day out we become anxious and depressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Within
the human support industry we must be cautious, loneliness can still lurk in
the halls of busy programs full of activity. As a matter of fact, loneliness
could even be more prevalent in busy environments. Now consider those
you may support: If they are shy or quiet, if they communicate in ways less
traditional, if a physical limitation makes them a bit more dependent on others
to initiate a social exchange, chances are they could be easily overlooked. We
might zip around busying ourselves with other day-to-day supports but
completely miss supporting the foundational need for connectedness and personal
relationships. I know looking back, I have made that mistake time and time
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
most important work must be to offer and nurture personal relationships.
Relationships that endure beyond shift change, weekends and staff
turnover. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-18065991485004169552016-07-11T07:42:00.000-07:002016-07-11T07:42:26.984-07:00Making social media about social inclusion<div class="MsoNormal">
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By Debbie Hall, direct support professional</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITbv_AM7Y908SBuT0LgHjyimL3_JorzBG0z_EXBfE_nZ0dsoG-jZkSCsveWv8r4fECQ-g-8pvexxLSR49SZjEs5ydKNF83QuPVYJD0YbhvqDTuPadS9jHlydwqiiCdfmp4YRucaN3sCbq/s1600/icons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITbv_AM7Y908SBuT0LgHjyimL3_JorzBG0z_EXBfE_nZ0dsoG-jZkSCsveWv8r4fECQ-g-8pvexxLSR49SZjEs5ydKNF83QuPVYJD0YbhvqDTuPadS9jHlydwqiiCdfmp4YRucaN3sCbq/s200/icons.jpg" width="200" /></a>Which of these sites do you have an account for or have at
least used recently? Now what about the individuals you support? </div>
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My guess is,
on average, that there is a difference. Why is that?<br />
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Whether you like it or not, social media is how we stay
connected. We all use it on a daily basis in some shape or form. We keep
updated on our friends and family by scrolling through pictures and status
messages on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. We “talk” to others via text on Google+,
Messenger, or Yahoo. We discover new things we would like to try by searching
Pinterest, YouTube or Vimeo. Communication, connection, and discovering new
things that we like are how we stay and become included with others. We choose
to use social media as one of the mediums to do this. So, why are we not
utilizing this world with those we support?</div>
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But, what would this look like? Here are some ideas on what
you can do to help those you support utilize social media platforms:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Help create a list of people that are important and help to
keep in contact via email or messenger.</li>
<li>Help post
pictures and status updates about what is going on in their lives to share
while having important conversations about what might not be appropriate to let
others know.</li>
<li>Make a list of
hobbies and interests and help/show how to scroll through sites like YouTube
and Pinterest to find ways to learn new skills or improve on them.</li>
<li>Most of all, be
creative and individual! Don’t be afraid to use these tools!</li>
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<i>“In
Social Media the “squeaky wheel” gets the oil. You have to put yourself out
there, to find people who will relate or even debate with you, depending on
what you are looking for.” - Jessica Northey<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-21958308127924701482016-07-07T08:27:00.000-07:002016-07-07T08:27:19.878-07:00The importance of sharing ordinary places<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.85pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWUIcFZgzYKdXpse0qU_4jtlRXoCbej0L_pStiGm48ECfk2zL9BwfJtGTYq09_ydkEZCYoreWfbH7Y0Xi9ciKqdl7RyZAKMJyR-8b7gqXskbOagwohAtKQOAV8H0ukoeRq43mUQi8o850/s1600/TherapyPool_019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWUIcFZgzYKdXpse0qU_4jtlRXoCbej0L_pStiGm48ECfk2zL9BwfJtGTYq09_ydkEZCYoreWfbH7Y0Xi9ciKqdl7RyZAKMJyR-8b7gqXskbOagwohAtKQOAV8H0ukoeRq43mUQi8o850/s400/TherapyPool_019.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: normal;">By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><i>"Without intentional activity people
with disabilities are more likely to belong to a smaller world, engage in a
smaller world, and be in devalued roles, more likely to have fewer
choices."- John O'Brien</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Great things come when we share ordinary
places.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;">As disability support services have
evolved, models have been created in a manner that separates individuals from
the general community, making it necessary for support providers to
consistently be seeking ways that help one gain experience "in the
community." This has also created an unintended consequence of
members of the general community assuming that since individuals have paid
support, they themselves need not be concerned about how to welcome those with
disabilities into their community circles. They might also assume that those
with support needs require separation from community in order to
be successful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Having a home within a community or attending
a program within a community has been a wonderful step toward full inclusion. Our
next step is simply to share ordinary places. That may mean establishing some
patterns that are frequent enough it might allow for new relationships to
develop. Some may join others at the town diner for the Friday night fish
fry or volunteer consistently for events offered through their church or
local fire department. How about connecting with a local walking club and
developing relationships as you enjoy exercise and fresh air? Do
you enjoy coffee while people watching every Monday at the local
coffee shop? Ever thought about ushering at a local theater? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Seek experiences you'll enjoy. And remember,
predictability and frequency increase the likelihood that new relationships
will develop by sharing time in ordinary places.<b> It is true
and lasting relationships that combat isolation and exclusion.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #383838; font-family: "gotham"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Find some time to extend yourself to enjoy
the community that you are a part of today. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-32310791923732792472016-06-06T12:16:00.003-07:002016-06-06T12:16:54.233-07:00Offering a personal invitation to community<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarxz4JtYzUBOT_PWWjCBjFBQwWDT48eBPZ2nAYH9ZJagOHgiOB0kVx1d7Xrhoz5bFgPkvVxBJxZdXEYW_tGXHbxEt1cw5VVNskh3miwu9Da2KZM_L7nNds0AFg4jKARaD7HPxI6WgP3LL/s1600/13344618_10156975428500293_6780605775168519819_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarxz4JtYzUBOT_PWWjCBjFBQwWDT48eBPZ2nAYH9ZJagOHgiOB0kVx1d7Xrhoz5bFgPkvVxBJxZdXEYW_tGXHbxEt1cw5VVNskh3miwu9Da2KZM_L7nNds0AFg4jKARaD7HPxI6WgP3LL/s400/13344618_10156975428500293_6780605775168519819_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Relationships
don't expand without first sharing common places. Whether those places are
physical spaces, common interests or mutual conversations, they are necessary
for connection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I'm
sure we've all put ourselves in situations where we attended an event out of
obligation but discovered we really enjoyed ourselves. You can see the growth and
enjoyment that came from participating. I hope we all have many stories of
successful relationships that develop when we take a step and enter into a new
experiences. Yeah us! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
what about the experiences we shy away from? Have we examined
the lost opportunity in order to challenge ourselves to move forward?
Let's consider what it might have taken to step into a new experience
when we were uncertain. Let's consider the difference between an
opportunity that welcomed us versus an opportunity where we were invited,
personally, to participate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Recently,
while attending the Summer Institute on Theology and Disability, I had the
opportunity to hear Eric Carter share the results of some research he and his
team had recently conducted at the Kennedy Center at Vanderbilt University.
This research found that 52% of adults impacted by intellectual and developmental
disabilities do not belong to a faith community. Perhaps this is
explained by the fact that 56% of parents state that faith communities lack the
necessary support to include their child. When the researchers turned their
attention to the faith communities, they found only 18% of churches offered any
kind of intentional focus to invite those with disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-pHs2Ns9iGcnSspiEEtq6cBp7HvV7k45wtE7dAVzwlmmRqQpcUB3nYgzlPhx2Hb9Vk7kVRaKaO3nQhwOctfhXlR29YNJecAV9YqVkV0QDARtvJlX0N29ZDcFNHCkGEs3_oIGO0V7f9Zb/s1600/13336086_10156975428480293_4133528585314132524_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-pHs2Ns9iGcnSspiEEtq6cBp7HvV7k45wtE7dAVzwlmmRqQpcUB3nYgzlPhx2Hb9Vk7kVRaKaO3nQhwOctfhXlR29YNJecAV9YqVkV0QDARtvJlX0N29ZDcFNHCkGEs3_oIGO0V7f9Zb/s320/13336086_10156975428480293_4133528585314132524_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Certainly
our faith communities intend to be welcoming, but maybe this is where we begin
to see that offering a welcoming environment just simply isn't
enough. You see, uncertainty is a barrier for us all. In order to take
that step and be included when welcomed we might need an intentional,
thoughtful invitation. <b><i>Invitations are personal while welcomes are
general.</i></b> Particularly for those who have had past
experiences that have not been positive, they might need an extended hand
in order to take that next step.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">While
I believe our communities of worship should be positioned to best model a
personal, meaningful invitation, it doesn't stop there. If we're to take
the next steps toward full community inclusion, truly creating experiences for
us all to share common places, we must challenge ourselves beyond general
welcoming. It's time for us to extend thoughtful, personal invitations.
Who will you be inviting today to join you in a new experience?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-86633547228566938382016-05-06T12:57:00.000-07:002016-05-06T12:57:50.920-07:00Follow directions -- or drive change<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
I continue to study and experience the Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy as it
is lived out through our Expressive Beginnings Child Care, I am amazed at how
in step it is with our community-wide conversation on full citizenship. With
interactions structured to provoke questions, learning becomes individualized
and self directed, even in shared learning environments. This allows children,
as they develop their sense of self, to also understand their contribution and
belonging within any new experience. A Reggio-inspired teacher might challenge
others by ensuring that the children spend much more time asking questions than
they do following directions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
do we begin to enrich our adult conversations in the same way Reggio-inspired
teachers enrich the conversation with youth? By showing an interest in
others we are in conversation with and asking another question, opening them up
to their unique story and their unique contribution. As we improve our ability
to truly listen, it allows us the opportunity to engage in conversation
differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is in these enriched conversations that we'll advance by:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Seeking
to listen, understand and respect the perspective of others.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Trusting
one another to set aside the judgment that can limit our ability as
human beings to dig into the tough stuff.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BTDKzPLIRC84DMHj4f3fsU2m1A8_jAHe9RUMRFpTOQCVziGrdLCPI36Xr0nD_oSo03GSWfs2pshtVQ_T2pG6ols9_BzECeVxKcTGimcdfHQxGYBV995bzwOA5hyd6KO1777sGWiU378t/s1600/1605WheelofChange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BTDKzPLIRC84DMHj4f3fsU2m1A8_jAHe9RUMRFpTOQCVziGrdLCPI36Xr0nD_oSo03GSWfs2pshtVQ_T2pG6ols9_BzECeVxKcTGimcdfHQxGYBV995bzwOA5hyd6KO1777sGWiU378t/s400/1605WheelofChange.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let's
work hard to have the kind of conversations that welcome others into the
struggle that limits justice, freedom and the rights of others. <b>Superficial conversations lead to
superficial solutions, enriched conversations lead to true and just social
change.</b> It can't be achieved alone. It takes the work of a full community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Where
do you see the need for social change? How are you welcoming others into
conversations that lead change? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-31930655966304097462016-04-15T13:50:00.000-07:002016-04-15T13:50:30.659-07:00Advocacy at the right time, not all the time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Edq7lNfwPDCxSAzTwAFV0Rs-pgd9FqNiW-HB53EcAM6sr-66rkx-YxQ_KyZGhAS-9VjbikRQgwwy8bLj_VNPYaAiaapeiiSzgKXshwoqtV8NZj9oB8XEUOQmTajnSQEbN2aeo2cUDbEc/s1600/Drey+Khabursky.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Edq7lNfwPDCxSAzTwAFV0Rs-pgd9FqNiW-HB53EcAM6sr-66rkx-YxQ_KyZGhAS-9VjbikRQgwwy8bLj_VNPYaAiaapeiiSzgKXshwoqtV8NZj9oB8XEUOQmTajnSQEbN2aeo2cUDbEc/s320/Drey+Khabursky.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">By Andrey
Khabursky, residence manager<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Advocacy.
What is it? What's it look like, feel like, and what makes it so significant
and powerful?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Advocacy is
the power to change the life of a person, a culture, a people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Advocacy,
whether spoken or unspoken is the driving force that brings us alongside our
best intentions, and many times brings them to reality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A few weeks
ago "advocacy" became a redefined term for me. One of the gentlemen who
live in a home supported by Heritage Christian staff had gone into the
hospital, and after 5 days and 4 nights, he was ready to come home. The team at
large stood on the fence, not comfortable to make a decision either way. I
struggled through the channels of communication, hierarchy, and positional
authority in order to take on the critical role of being an advocate in a new,
very defined role. Much of the team looked at his past history, which is
important, but they didn’t look at his current condition and honor what he
wanted. We call this the “what ifs.” These what ifs could keep all of us from
living a fulfilled and meaningful life, and moreover, keep us from offering the
opportunity for others to do the same. As his housemates welcomed him home, he
just "lit up" and a sense of refreshment washed over him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So whether
we're "thinking outside the box," or standing our ground on behalf of
those we serve and support, we should always take their best interest into
account when we become "their voice" for that moment. Like for you
and I, there have been moments when we had someone come alongside us, and speak
up for us, and make things happen. <b>It's OK
to be their voice, but may it be just for a moment... long enough to bring
about change, build confidence and leave a lasting impact.</b> <i>Many times we
want to be the voice of advocacy, not only at the right times, but all the
time.</i> We need to constantly reevaluate to see if we’ve taken their voice away
or if we are being that push to get them going. Let’s think of their voice as a
bobsled… many times, those we support only need that push to really get moving
and the rest is driven by them. Often for our comfort, we long to hold on to
that bobsled as it flies through the course at 70mph, and continue to be an
advocate, not realizing, our advocacy was accomplished long ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Advocacy may
be just the simple act of standing with another; unity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Advocacy
done right is empowering.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-2698370629941957932016-04-05T10:00:00.000-07:002016-04-05T10:00:04.482-07:00Listening for social change<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPY8vEEoMutXqPwD61X9EbgUSRJqQ-eZnNqcoxcxtxT4u0gUMDBsFdUEeNC7hYXd2rwPWp4zT-BkH7ZPNgPbY1oJQr84HxGCFD64d8oWFte8_jBjMo_3sHvYrm6oGSl6-hCUljW4GAouCf/s1600/Listening+is+an+important+skill+for+social+development+and+for+social+change.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPY8vEEoMutXqPwD61X9EbgUSRJqQ-eZnNqcoxcxtxT4u0gUMDBsFdUEeNC7hYXd2rwPWp4zT-BkH7ZPNgPbY1oJQr84HxGCFD64d8oWFte8_jBjMo_3sHvYrm6oGSl6-hCUljW4GAouCf/s400/Listening+is+an+important+skill+for+social+development+and+for+social+change.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Listening
is an art, and if we aren't careful it might become a lost art. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
believe most people want to be better listeners, so how do we improve? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Daily
discipline. Conversation by conversation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">First,
slow down. Take a breath. Look at the person (see his eyes and mouth). Focus.
Next really pay attention, don't allow yourself to be distracted by the
people or activity that surrounds you. When it is your turn to speak (there is
never a good reason to interrupt) ask clarifying questions. This is not your
chance to persuade or convince – you are the listener. Finally,
validate what you've heard and validate the person who has shared it. Thank her
for sharing her time and thinking with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">We know
listening is an important skill for our personal development but it is also
essential for social change.</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> You see, social change requires
congruent vision, collaboration and civility. Like any
strong relationship it requires respect and mutual contribution and
concession. A stunning percentage of people when asked "When do you
most feel respected?" will answer in some form or fashion "when I am
heard."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
are hardwired as social beings so that belonging and contributing are important
to us all. That's why most people prefer to talk to great listeners, not great
speakers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Collective
impact will stall and social change will lag when we don't listen and hear one
another, when we don't demonstrate value and respect to all as
contributors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-79452958785593986602016-03-23T13:02:00.000-07:002016-03-23T13:02:26.880-07:00Grilling and growing independence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33G94iMkzrVh60mGKwuMd4woan7VRnkJpFfgdR9mP3FADwR7cfC9lfn0UK1G0cGludujYhckft5PIx9_fxtk0WBfDIQXj7-eJ7u5c-MFGLcT6f7rRFbZWFtFTkXkfY0G2TGeBTJuppPzk/s1600/Lewie+Hopkins.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi33G94iMkzrVh60mGKwuMd4woan7VRnkJpFfgdR9mP3FADwR7cfC9lfn0UK1G0cGludujYhckft5PIx9_fxtk0WBfDIQXj7-eJ7u5c-MFGLcT6f7rRFbZWFtFTkXkfY0G2TGeBTJuppPzk/s320/Lewie+Hopkins.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i>Lewis Hopkins is an
associate director of program development - residential. Today he shares with
us some things he noticed as he drove past a home where he knew staff supported
people – and how one small change influenced bigger change.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Sometimes it is easier to see things that may need to
change, from the outside, and I had the opportunity to look into the window. I
noticed that when I drove by, it was always staff members who were outside
grilling, not the people who lived there. It seemed like an easy fix toward
giving ownership back to the folks who lived there. I have to be honest. I
did not know that it was going to lead to everything that came after that. </div>
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It took a year or so and a lot of work from everyone
involved – including nurses, the quality assistance department, support from my
supervisors, dietitians, staff, families and the individuals. In the
beginning there was a lot of push back maybe due to fear or just change, or
maybe both, but with each hurdle we got over, the confidence grew with all
involved and it began to open more doors for everyone. Before you knew it
people where doing more and more on their own and it became a challenge among
each other. The families saw the happiness that independence could
bring to someone and they started looking at things differently. </div>
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It was great to be part of a movement like this and to see
the hard work and dedication pay off. But, at the end of the day, the
most important thing that came out of this was to see voices being heard and people
taking ownership of their own lives. And to think it all came from a grill.
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If someone had asked me what I was going to focus on, and
the answer had been the grill, some people may have looked at me like I was
crazy. So the next time someone asks you what your plan is, it does not have to
be this huge mind-blowing idea, it can be something small that turns out to be
much more than just a grill.</div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-65864823093813679272016-03-01T10:43:00.001-08:002016-03-01T10:46:49.406-08:00Share Gratitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR1PmGLEGJQqjVEnl23jqzMpLH727TX_dXBGXXQXlEmj3Isad4sk9NsmCY1PPVaCc2egMc9hhXckuUJDerlUbulCpfQFRk_wnGOoD16aeVGswsNTkSeaoQofcZV0Aim8LZHr7jWs9brZym/s1600/blog+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR1PmGLEGJQqjVEnl23jqzMpLH727TX_dXBGXXQXlEmj3Isad4sk9NsmCY1PPVaCc2egMc9hhXckuUJDerlUbulCpfQFRk_wnGOoD16aeVGswsNTkSeaoQofcZV0Aim8LZHr7jWs9brZym/s320/blog+pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>"In daily life we must see that it is not happiness the makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy."</i>- Brother David Steindl-Rast<br />
<br />
One of the daily disciplines we have at Heritage Christian Services is to say "Thank You" with sincere gratitude. It spreads happiness and provides encouragement to ourselves and others. It shapes the way we see our day. <br />
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Far too often our attention is drawn to what didn't go as planned. What fell short and why? Why didn't others respond in the way in which we'd hoped. Exercising a grateful heart has a way of bringing everything into perspective, we see the good along with the bad and that makes it easier to move through disappointment.<br />
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Gratitude also helps us appreciate what is right in front of us instead of focusing on what we want in the future. Tackling our goals with graciousness allows us to focus on experiences that provide a strong foothold for the climb ahead.<br />
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Most importantly, gratitude strengthens relationships. Not only does that improve our ability to thrive with others but it also makes us healthier. Grateful people have been shown to carry less stress and benefit more from the release of chemicals within our body that help us feel better and stay healthier.<br />
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Spend time today seeking the things that you are grateful for in each experience. Rest your head on your pillow tonight and remind yourself of how you shared gratitude with others. As we develop our sense of gratitude it becomes natural for us to share it with others in diverse and sincere ways. <br />
<br />
What are you most grateful for today?Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-79468080479573005002016-02-22T16:12:00.002-08:002016-02-22T16:12:50.684-08:00The path to more positive supports<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Today we are happy to introduce you to Vicki Reina, director of behavior services at Heritage Christian. Enjoy as she shares a bit of her journey...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQOxh3ouSm8n9QxRt8n90GAdHrtMd6tn4tQ27l5_7cs95j6wiJwWWj-6w5OHOYCkLJFnN_yyWlfrhW2v2uuHFbKqSVycsObML-ELFEAHVTk-61Abqwz3OPqizwT8wQ9eJ1t_3hOTzzPLo/s1600/Vicki+Reina+_USE+THIS+ONE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQOxh3ouSm8n9QxRt8n90GAdHrtMd6tn4tQ27l5_7cs95j6wiJwWWj-6w5OHOYCkLJFnN_yyWlfrhW2v2uuHFbKqSVycsObML-ELFEAHVTk-61Abqwz3OPqizwT8wQ9eJ1t_3hOTzzPLo/s320/Vicki+Reina+_USE+THIS+ONE.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I was approached over a year ago to consider supporting
behavioral challenges differently, specifically: How can we support people
without the use of restraint? This was such a foreign concept that I shelved it,
believing the supports we had were great and that we were mindful of why and
when those supports were used. Later, I
spoke with someone I knew who worked at an agency that had successfully
implemented restraint-free behavior support. He said doing so was “the greatest
accomplishment of his career.” I respected him, I knew his career was long and
successful, and it was at that moment I believed maybe we could, too.</div>
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The idea took hold and with two amazing colleagues we began
to explore the idea, focusing first on education. We knew we needed to give
people more tools to avoid using restraint.
We modified our curriculum and increased guidance on how to change
people’s lives with love, respect, meaningfulness, and relationships. </div>
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The next step was changing our language: words matter and the
words we use to describe negative behavior end up defining people. The words we use tell people what to think. First,
the behavior team shifted from using “negative behavior” to “challenges.” We all have challenges. We all have things we
want to do less of, or improve on. This one word shift eliminates otherness and
connects us. Other words became highlighted: noncompliance, refusals and
inappropriate. Ultimately, these words are used to say someone isn’t doing what
you want them to do. What they really mean is the person has made a choice. This
choice may not be healthy, or the one you would like them to make, but people make
decisions in their lives. </div>
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Maya Angelo said, “Do the best you can until you know
better. Then when you know better, do better.” This articulates the evolution
of positive supports. We continue on this journey, exploring new ways to
provide safe, meaningful supports. </div>
Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-50940701697227310972016-02-03T12:21:00.000-08:002016-02-03T12:21:24.728-08:00Working to unite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKloGDrfIqIXt1gCsy3TtCeeiu5KjDsK4wEOj-2CCPUq4PNGw1F-z3WMm936M2Mww7lqz2jBIvCL0bS91vX7FXoH4yDh76F9pUvk9bA2vfcwsep4LxAKLOrIp23XBC-DaTSAjKdp6IB0X/s1600/blog+feb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKloGDrfIqIXt1gCsy3TtCeeiu5KjDsK4wEOj-2CCPUq4PNGw1F-z3WMm936M2Mww7lqz2jBIvCL0bS91vX7FXoH4yDh76F9pUvk9bA2vfcwsep4LxAKLOrIp23XBC-DaTSAjKdp6IB0X/s400/blog+feb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<br />
By Marisa Geitner, president and C.E.O.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Humans are complex – and that means not everything is an
easy fix.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For more than 30 years we’ve supported people with
developmental disabilities by providing support that encourages people to learn
and grow and give back to their community. And still, when we look at the
statistics, we see that the unemployment rate for people with a disability is <b>more
than double</b> the rate for those without.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We see that only 5 percent of Americans know what it is like
to have a coworker who has an intellectual disability and that <b>Rochester
ranks No. 1 in the nation for the percentage of people who live in poverty and
have a disability</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, if we truly mean to partner with people who have
disabilities so they can accomplish what matters most in their lives, we must
also commit to joining other people and agencies in fighting poverty and other
inequalities. And one way we do that is by working one-on-one with people to
find a right-fit job because when people share their strengths in the
workplace, they are valued by their co-workers. They form relationships.
They gain confidence, and they bring home a paycheck.<o:p></o:p></div>
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They make progress for themselves and for others.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In fact, the United
Nations Economic and Social Council “recognizes that poverty eradication and
employment in decent jobs are crucial to achieving social integration and a
society for all.”<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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That’s why we started the Employment Alliance to help match
employers with talented people who have disabilities and that’s why we
participated in the <i>Rochester Democrat and Chronicle</i>’s Unite
Rochester Challenge – because we want to offer career services to others who
are marginalized, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We recognize that uniting Rochester across racial and
economic lines is complex, but paychecks help more than our bank accounts. They
help in creating a more equal society.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-1265027460003640022016-01-20T08:34:00.001-08:002016-01-20T08:34:54.280-08:00Honoring the voices of children<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Friends, it is my pleasure
to open up this space and introduce you to Kelly Giudice. Kelly is the director
of operations at <a href="http://www.toddlersworkshop.com/" target="_blank">Expressive Beginnings at Toddler’s Workshop</a> in Webster, and
she has some very insightful words to share with us today. – Marisa Geitner,
president and C.E.O., Heritage Christian Services<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAtvgiD3Yr_SjSE2ASiQRB235nceLPaSdHrxbpsE25zANrngJzir1cuC0KNSxubMtQo6DVYj-rsMBZQR0MpuNIkoE26qKtEMQ6e6asXev9059H7zKwkZiGMtThnDL9-T5infdoxRcVlZ4/s1600/Kelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAtvgiD3Yr_SjSE2ASiQRB235nceLPaSdHrxbpsE25zANrngJzir1cuC0KNSxubMtQo6DVYj-rsMBZQR0MpuNIkoE26qKtEMQ6e6asXev9059H7zKwkZiGMtThnDL9-T5infdoxRcVlZ4/s320/Kelly.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly Giudice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">One
of the things that matters most to me, and to many of my colleagues, is the
need for children to fully experience their right to empowerment and engagement
in the educational process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">We
have been working very hard through our classroom work, documentation,
newsletters and more to show our families examples of honoring the children's
innate approach to knowledge acquisition. We are striving every day to create a
culture that values the self-directed learning of children. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Our
belief in their ability to create and construct their own knowledge and to
formulate and express their ideas in new and creative ways is the cornerstone
of our program. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Their world is so often
dominated by the voices of others, let us focus together on their voices.</span></b><span style="color: #3a352a; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"> Through our listening,
observing, and trusting we are demonstrating our belief in their value, their
capabilities </span><span style="color: #3a352a;">and potentials, and supporting the idea that each of them </span><span style="color: #3a352a;">is a
unique and amazing gift to the world!</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #3a352a;"> </span></div>
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<!--[endif]--></span>Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-49059085588569024782016-01-12T07:07:00.001-08:002016-01-12T07:07:18.223-08:00Extending the welcome<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NwLKbtRPkvZKeB17QQaX_CNsPN5WZjXu3EC4oF0QSr4Rf423k7m_LMpjlcLQvOnUAjUJJZy1UDRVM_rX_Rr-joO0sU6boq0fg2X7m6niF2hBN0ooekREc2fbLNXsgUpFtc11VjZVXXN7/s1600/Supporting+inclusive+communities+isn%2527t+just+essential+for+promoting+diversity%252C+it+is+essential+for+supporting+belonging..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NwLKbtRPkvZKeB17QQaX_CNsPN5WZjXu3EC4oF0QSr4Rf423k7m_LMpjlcLQvOnUAjUJJZy1UDRVM_rX_Rr-joO0sU6boq0fg2X7m6niF2hBN0ooekREc2fbLNXsgUpFtc11VjZVXXN7/s400/Supporting+inclusive+communities+isn%2527t+just+essential+for+promoting+diversity%252C+it+is+essential+for+supporting+belonging..jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">By: Marisa Geitner, President and C.E.O.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Belonging
is such a significant part of our natural fiber. Not specifically
belonging as a possession, we are all autonomous, but connected as a naturally
part of something bigger. We all need to feel relevant within our
relationships with others. It is well established that this sense of
connectedness is important to our overall health, happiness and ability to
adjust within this ever-changing world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you have strong and broad relationships perhaps that sense of belonging is
something you might take for granted and only appreciating it when you find
yourself in a moment of disconnect. You know the feeling, perhaps you're
the first to meet friends at a local restaurant and find yourself standing
alone amidst strangers awkwardly while you wait. It's silly how fast
you can become uncomfortable when you find yourself not connected to those
around you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you aren't as fortunate to have relationships and experiences that consistently
feed your sense of belonging, the sting of disconnect can be much more
pervasive and destructive than a few awkward moments waiting alone. The
right to belong, a recognized basic human need, is the cornerstone of the
drive for inclusion for those who might otherwise be excluded, perhaps due to
age, race, intellectual ability, religion or other reasons. Supporting
inclusive communities isn't just essential for promoting diversity, it is
essential for supporting belonging. Affording all the opportunity to feel
value and respect through the give and take of relationships with others.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Belonging
can be fed in many ways, often times more through meaningful daily exchanges
than through grand gestures or events. Perhaps just a thoughtful message from a
friend that lets you know they're thinking about you or a call from a family
member you haven't seen in a while. Perhaps you are reaching out to connect to
others, offering a kind greeting to someone passing by or offering to take the
grocery cart back to the store after someone else has just loaded his groceries
into his car. Maybe you feel a sense of belonging with a faith community,
or common group of sports fans. The librarian at your neighborhood
library, or the attendant where you most often fill up your car. Whether
others are reaching out to us or whether we are reaching out to others, these
exchanges feed our sense of belonging. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our work at Heritage Christian we often find ourselves centering on one very
specific question for each and every one of us. Where is the one place
that if you weren't there you would be missed? And how can we extend the
welcome so that all those who choose our services find places to belong as
well?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-76672121546442651392015-12-07T12:43:00.000-08:002015-12-07T12:43:57.840-08:00A holiday wish for peace and mercy<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMc3aejjvNGESL3gMsLLMF5shnijFOgiYFJtlSYABHjSU7aGnSKezTEyg82BwijPiDusdrbG4H9c49ATRpl_Y4I6mJMbJ4PrvJmGp8Lj5ke-FsMP4Du9_lPNhPAmQClgkDzh8Bw6Mz43XA/s1600/Peace+begins+with+me+and+how+I+treat+people..jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMc3aejjvNGESL3gMsLLMF5shnijFOgiYFJtlSYABHjSU7aGnSKezTEyg82BwijPiDusdrbG4H9c49ATRpl_Y4I6mJMbJ4PrvJmGp8Lj5ke-FsMP4Du9_lPNhPAmQClgkDzh8Bw6Mz43XA/s400/Peace+begins+with+me+and+how+I+treat+people..jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">By: Marisa Geitner, President and C.E.O.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fear
and conflict have such a significant way of overshadowing the values that
should define us. In the wake of the attacks in Paris, San Bernardino and
elsewhere I found myself wanting to abandon all logic and act out by attacking
those who threaten us. In those moments, acting on fear alone, I lost my
bearings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thankfully,
it was my faith community that swiftly brought me back into focus and
reminded me that peace begins with me and how I treat people. I heard the
reminder loud and clear – that I chose a faith defined by peace and
mercy. Peace was the gift given to me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peace
does not mean passive. My heart hurts from all of the violence, and I need to
do something. Seeking peace is very active, a vision, a choice, a way to
approach each interaction, each day. In the weeks since the attacks I have
kept peace and mercy my vision. No matter the conflict that arises, large or small,
I center myself on the vision of peaceful resolution. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
has helped me to be thoughtful and honest with my words and to seek to
understand others’ perspectives in order to find common ground in our
solutions. Most importantly it has helped me identify when fear and anxiety
rises in me and clouds my vision and threatens my values.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we continue through this season of thanksgiving, celebration and renewal, I
wish you a vision for peace and a passion for demonstrating mercy to all. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7648050358927912616.post-71756916624894537862015-11-03T12:48:00.000-08:002015-11-03T12:48:10.962-08:00How are you building community?<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJvCz8C6-TfISQXpK4k-rfZemE3AxgGyFOnCbBDrAhnUT6dLIk347n6eu2ilvGBq8X8kqQsb36wb03STy5B1yNaE4ntHySM4x-zlBL0m8lI-igf12GmcR6qI6BEzDRu5irUmrcudDtNij/s1600/Sculpture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJvCz8C6-TfISQXpK4k-rfZemE3AxgGyFOnCbBDrAhnUT6dLIk347n6eu2ilvGBq8X8kqQsb36wb03STy5B1yNaE4ntHySM4x-zlBL0m8lI-igf12GmcR6qI6BEzDRu5irUmrcudDtNij/s400/Sculpture.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Shawn Dowd, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">By: Marisa Geitner,
President and C.E.O.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The work of Heritage Christian is about community,
community as a place and community as a relationship. It is about
empowerment, acceptance, personal growth and responsibility to one another.
It is about the reciprocity that comes through relationships and
shared experiences. This commitment to one another defines us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">This commitment was illustrated symbolically when
we unveiled <u>Stronger Together</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>on June 24, 2009 in front of the
Pieters Family Life Center. As the artist’s statement illustrates,
<b><i>"The columns do not stand alone but rather exist symbiotically – in
a relationship where the two depend upon
and receive reinforcement from each other."</i></b> The artist Juan
Carlos Caballero- Perez then goes on to reference the importance of his very
own citizenship and relationships.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It is our passion for community that drives us to
ensure that everyone – including children, older adults and people with
developmental disabilities – feels valued and respected and has opportunities
to do what matters most in life.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">What are you doing to help build community?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Heritage Christian Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18292621073336852903noreply@blogger.com0