|
| PHOTO BY PETE GRAHAM
Crossroads of Western Iowa, Inc., based in Missouri Valley, held an open house at CWI headquarters last week to introduce the public to the firm’s new program for consumers, LINKS, a new model of service for those seeking a day habilitation program. LINKS is an acronym for L-Living Skills, I-Integration, N-Networking, K-Kinship, and S-Self-Advocacy. It utilizes technology to add dimension and depth to programs already offered at Crossroads. A new computer lab, shown above, “adds Internet capability to the daily lives of participating consumers, allowing CWI clients to access and explore their world, their region, and their community, all at the click of a button,” said CEO Brent Dillinger. “This is a double-edged sword,” Dillinger said. “It allows us to integrate employment services with a good daycare program for consumers who really need both services, but in the past could not access computers or other recreational services.” LINKS also includes a game room, complete with a Nintendo Wii game for exercise and mental challenge. The program is also being offered in Council Bluffs and is expected to be installed at the Onawa location in the near future. Shown during the open house, from left: Brent Dillinger, Crossroads CEO; Linda Thomas, visitor; Joanna Barnard, visitor; Lary Gaver, visitor; Jack Yutesler, consumer; Luanne Straight, consumer; Heidi Brenden, staff member; and Cherie Harrod, consumer.
|
|
These LINKS are exciting for Crossroads of Western Iowa consumers
|
