Opportunity Enterprises is beginning a new initiative entitled, Family and Consumer Supports as
the organization prepares for the increasing number of individuals seeking services with Opportunity Enterprises. The objective of this program is to better serve current and potential consumer families by sharing resources, information and volunteer opportunities. Family and Consumer Supports will provide support and an outlet venue to be actively engaged with loved ones for parents, siblings, guardians and friends of consumers.

Currently staff and volunteers are conducting focus group sessions with consumer families regarding their needs and how OE can help support them. A speakers bureau will be available to speak to consumer support groups in NW Indiana to introduce Opportunity Enterprises programs and
services for all ages. An extension of the initiative is the new OE Parent and Friends Ambassador Council facilitated by OE Ambassador Shirley Remijan.

The council will promote parent mentoring, volunteerism, advocacy and resource leadership. This group now hosts a monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. on the 3rd Monday of the month at Opportunity Enterprises. The meetings are open to anyone interested in consumer advocacy and family resources.

Interested families and caregivers may contact John Seibert, Vice President, at (219) 464-9621, ext.
297, for more information regarding Family and Consumer Supports plans for future initiatives.

Mission of Family and Friends Together
To support current and future parents, siblings and guardians with relevant resources and connect them into active volunteerism and investment into the OE mission and strategies.

Upcoming Family and Friends Together Seminars

Monday, May 19, 2008, 6:30 p.m.
Trusts for Special Needs Individuals
Presented by Melissa Justice, ARC Trust and Bill Trowbridge, OE Planned Giving Advisor

Monday, June 16, 6:30 p.m.
Ask OE!
Key staff will be available in a roundtable format to answer question and give updates on Enrichment, Day Services, Transportation, Supported Living and Supported Employment.

Monday, July 21, 6:30 p.m.
Sibshop
Presented by Doreen Witte

Saturday, August 9 –TBA
OE Family Affair at Lakeside Picnic

Monday, September 15, 6:30 p.m.
Behaviors and Applying Positive Discipline
Presented by Bridget Harrison

Monday, October 20, 6:30 p.m.
Meet your legislators
Presented by Ed Charbonneau, Greg Simms and Ed Soliday

Monday, November 17, 6:30 p.m.
Guardianship and Advocacy – Indiana Protection and Advocacy Services

December – No meeting

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