We're not having Pizza?

Congratulations are in order for Robbie!! Robbie has secured an job in the Community, so it's time to PARTY. On September 8th, EDS will be going out to celebrate his success instead of ordering pizza. We will be going to the Culver's in McHenry. We have distributed copies of the menu so that clients have an idea of how much money they would like to bring.

"I'm working hard. I'm going to try my best. It's a little complicated some times, but I have co-workers that can help me out." - Robbie

Card Design Contest

The weather is changing and we're making our way into fall. Some people are sad to see the hot temperatures disappear, while many people are excited for the cool weather. Those winter people have already started thinking of the holiday season. I would usually argue and say that it's too early to think like that, however I do have one exception...

Holiday Cards!

Last year, Pioneer artists made cards for not only the agency, but our state Senator Pam Althoff. This year, we would like to make more cards, but we need creative ideas. Any medium is acceptable so start sketching and painting. Computer designs are acceptable as well! You have until September 24th to submit your artwork. All of the art will be put to an EDS client panel and a piece will be chosen. If you have any questions, see Rachel. GET CREATIVE!

Daily Planners

As you know, EDS concentrates on the skill of self-management. This is not only an important workplace skill, but also a life skill. One of the key ways to manage yourself is to learn how to manage your time. To do this, a daily planner is a very useful tool.

Most of the EDS clients have a daily planner, but not everyone. This message is to encourage those who do not have a planner to pick one up when they are out and about. The student planners that are out right now are ideal because they track an academic year.

With the back to school sales out there, there are a variety of planners for sale at all price points. If for some reason, a client does not have the time nor funds to get a planner on your own, please see Britt or Rachel to make arrangements. We would like to see all EDS clients using planners this fall. Thanks.

Getting Paid to Self-Advocate

Attention EDS Self-Advocates!
Do you have strong communication skills? Do you have a good understanding of self-advocacy?
If you answered yes, then there is an opportunity for you to teach others about self-advocacy and get paid for it.

In October, Pioneer is hosting an Illinois Voices workshop titled, "Dare to Dream". This Dare to Dream workshop is full of fun activities to encourage people with developmental disabilities to dream bigger and to identify people who can help support their dreams and make them come true.

Outcomes:
· Identify at least one dream in your life and a small step toward making it happen.
· Identify people who will support your dreams.
· Share ideas about how to change the current service system so it can better support your dreams.

We are looking for 1 EDS client to co-facilitate this event. If this is something you are interested in, you must contact Rachel, Britt or Jan T. right away. There is material to practice and meetings to attend! Don't wait or someone else will earn the $50 bucks!!

NISRA- Fall 2008

Watch your mailbox! The New NISRA program book is out. There are several programs that are of interest that you may want to note. Registration ends September 18th, so act quickly.

Special Events

Hoe Down Dance- October 3rd

Halloween Dance- October 24th

Holiday Dance- December 12th

Pizza and Bingo- December 23rd

Glowing Golfing- December 29th

Trips

Discover the Wisconsin Dells- December 5-7th

winter Adventure- January 16-18th

And there is lots more! When you have a chance check it out! We have an extra copy of the program book if needed.

Labor Day Weekend

Pioneer Center is closed on Monday, September 1st for Labor Day. Enjoy the holiday weekend and we'll see everyone back on Tuesday the 2nd.

Rachel loved the Olympics

You might have noticed that Rachel looked tired all week.

WHY?'

She was up late watching the Olympics.

Rob's Job

Robbie got a job at EcoTech in Wisconsin

We are going to celebrate with picking up food at Culver's!!

On September 8th we will be going out

BRING MONEY!!!!

Blog written by Anna

NEW Room at MCC!

Attention all EDS participants:

This fall we will be in a new class room.

On Tuesdays and Fridays we will be in room

E121

The clients like this room because they don't have to go up the elevator, the desks are closer to the screen, and there are two HUGE windows for natural light.

Remember EDS can always be reached at MCC by calling the cell phone.

Thanks, Rachel and Britt

August 14:Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance for Change

Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance for Change
Partnership Drive
Come join our team!

Let’s lock our arms and speak as one to:
Change the service system
Live the life you want in
the community

Have the supports you need

PIZZA & DOOR PRIZES

Thursday, August 14, 2008, 6:00-8:30 p.m.
McHenry County College
Cafeteria--then Room A-242
8900 U.S. Highway 14
Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Cathy Christensen AdvisorSelf Advocacy Council of Northern Illinois815-382-1530

clchristensen100@aol.com www.sacni.org

Class Schedule to Be Changing this Fall

In the workplace skills class, we have been focusing on how to be flexible on the job. Now it's time to put those lessons to practice. Starting September 2nd, EDS will have a new class schedule. EDS clients will continue with MCC on Tuesdays and Fridays, but all the rest is subject to change. The new schedule will be posted once it is finalize.

Get ready to "go with the flow."

Rodeo is coming to town!

It’s that time of year, the Rodeo is coming to town! Once again the Tebala Shriners are offering us FREE Tickets to the Rodeo for our clients. The Rodeo will be held on September 13th at the Boone County Fair grounds. There will be two shows, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Please contact me if you are interested. I will need to know how many tickets you will need and which of the two shows you wish to attend.

Please note that I must know no later than August 18th if you wish to have tickets.

Lisa Mitchell
H.R. Secretary
(815) 759-7129

Celebrate Volunteering

Many of you already know that we have some great folks in EDS. While they are all reaching for their dream of obtaining a community job, many have been working on sharpening their workplace skills at a volunteer site.

Each Individual will be presented a party ball in their honor!

Anna volunteers for the Crystal Lake Library
Bret volunteers for the Animal Control
Deserea volunteering for the Sparrow's Nest
Krissan volunteers at the Animal Control
Terrie T. volunteers for the Heavenly Attic
Chris volunteers for Give Kids the World


We all know how imporatnt it is to give back to the community, so of course we're celebrating with PIZZA!

Those attending the celebratin should bring in $5.00 and your own drink!

Last Min Schedule Change!!

Last Min Change for Friday 8-8-08

EDS will be leaving MCC early due to the Melissa Bean Visit at Pioneer Center.

EDS will be leaving at 12:30.

If you get picked up from MCC, please make arrangements.

Thanks
EDS