Respite and Rep Payee Program Manager
What do you believe sets Broadscope apart?
Our commitment to the people we serve. Our commitment to provide that service in a timely and individualized manner. Our staff work extremely hard to support our clientele, always going the extra mile to help.
How long have you worked for Broadscope and what made you choose to work with individuals with disabilities?
I celebrated my 31st anniversary this past fall. My start date was 11/13/1989, I very clearly remember that day and my early years as part of the Independent Living Team of United Cerebral Palsy of Southeastern WI (company name prior to Broadscope) My interest in working with individuals with disabilities started in High School. I worked with students with special needs as part of a partnership program between my high school and a local elementary school.
What is your favorite memory from working at Broadscope?
I don’t have just one, but I am proud of being part of the Respite Care Program which has provided over a decade’s worth of supportive services to families caring for children with special needs. These activities fell outside the parameter of what we were contracted to do but we worked as a team to offer free sporting event tickets, recreational programing, overnight break-away stays at a local hotel and a monthly newsletter.
What was your first job?
Outside of babysitting my first job was working at West Allis Memorial Hospital in the Dietary Dept. Bright yellow synthetic uniforms and hair nets, the uniform every young 16 year old wants to wear. I don’t regret it though, at that time that job actually paid a decent wage for a 16 year old.
How do you like spending your free time?
I love to putter around my yard and my gardens. As I get older I am doing less and less but still being surrounded by beautiful flowers and greenery is my happy place. My family also owns property up north on a lake. My kids and I enjoy spending time together there and recreating. Of course you will also usually find me gardening up there too!
What is one positive thing that is come from quarantine?
Strengthening of relationships with my family. My relationship with my 15-year-old son and 23-year-old daughter have become closer. I Zoom with my 3 siblings every Sunday night. We all make/take more time to check in with each other than before COVID. I hope that stays once we all return to a new normal.