Smiling As We Go the Extra Mile

DIRECTOR’S CORNER
Sunshine Along the Extra Mile

Going the extra mile isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about the small, thoughtful moments that add joy to someone’s day. Suggesting a fun activity or finding ways to encourage social interaction are great examples of little efforts that spark happiness and connection.

This month, we celebrate those everyday actions that strengthen relationships. DSPs and case managers, your creativity and care mean the world to the people you serve.

Let’s embrace new ideas for fun and connection, reminding each other that the extra mile is not far…it’s right here, in the smiles we help create.

Travis Toedtemeier
Founder/Director

OCTOBER’S QUOTE
Theme: Go the Extra Mile

VALUES IN ACTION
Let’s Go the Extra Mile Every Day

Boosting Emotional Well-being with Everyday Activities

Emotional well-being is super important for adults with intellectual disabilities because it greatly influences their quality of life and ability to enjoy meaningful activities. As a case manager or caregiver, you can make a big difference by weaving simple, everyday routines into their lives to support mental health. Here are some friendly strategies to help your customers feel their best emotionally.

1. Get Moving
Physical activity is a fantastic mood booster and anxiety buster. Adding regular movement to a customer’s daily routine can really uplift their emotional well-being. Think about easy activities like walking, stretching, dancing, or even gardening. For those with limited mobility, chair exercises or gentle yoga can also work wonders for relaxation and mental clarity.

Tip: Team up with the customer’s care team to set realistic physical activity goals that suit their abilities and interests. Encourage activities they love to keep them engaged and reduce any resistance.

2. Stay Connected
Social isolation can really take a toll on mental health. Helping customers maintain social interactions, whether through face-to-face visits or virtual chats, is key to their emotional well-being. Even small interactions, like a chat with a neighbor or joining a group activity, can provide a much-needed sense of connection.

Tip: Work with family, friends, or community groups to ensure your customer has regular chances to socialize. Virtual platforms are a great option for those with mobility challenges.

3. Get Creative
Artistic activities like drawing, painting, music, or crafting offer a wonderful outlet for self-expression and can be therapeutic. Creative activities not only help with emotional regulation but also boost confidence and give customers a sense of achievement.

Tip: Customize creative activities to match each customer’s interests and skill level. Introduce them to various art forms until they find something they love. Keep it consistent by scheduling regular art sessions.

4. Enjoy Nature
Spending time outdoors can be incredibly calming and beneficial for mental health. Nature helps reduce stress and anxiety, lifts mood, and brings a sense of peace. Even a short time outside—like a walk in the park or sitting on a porch—can positively impact emotional well-being.

Tip: Encourage customers to spend at least 15–30 minutes outside each day. If mobility is a challenge, sitting by a window with a view of greenery or natural light can also be helpful.

5. Create Predictable Routines
For many adults with intellectual disabilities, uncertainty can cause anxiety. Establishing predictable daily routines provides a sense of security and control, helping to ease stress. A structured day with regular meals, activities, and rest times creates stability and reduces emotional distress.

Tip: Collaborate with caregivers to develop a clear daily schedule that balances productive activities and relaxation. Communicate any changes in routine ahead of time to help customers adjust smoothly.

By incorporating these simple yet effective activities into daily routines, case managers and caregivers can greatly enhance their customer’s emotional well-being. Whether it’s encouraging movement, fostering social connections, or providing creative outlets, these small steps can lead to big improvements in mental health, contributing to happier, more fulfilled lives for adults with intellectual disabilities.

SUNSHINE AWARD
Gratitude that Warms the Soul

Though this month’s Sunshine Award Winner preferred not to be named, they did share a few heart-warming words with us:

What I like about my DSPs:
“Working with my two great DSPs and the staff at Connections has helped me live a more independent life. I am thankful for everyone on my team.”

A Quote that I like: 
“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” - Socrates

A grateful heart like that never fails to spread cheer. These heartfelt words remind us of the impact genuine care can have. We are grateful for the trust they place in our team and the positivity they bring to the lives around them. Let’s all continue spreading sunshine with every act of kindness!

DSP OF THE MONTH
Jasmine

What a sunny smile Jasmine has. 🙂 Here are a few fun questions we asked:

What I like about working as a DSP:
"I like being a DSP because I like watching my client reach their goals and be excited to try new things."

What is your favorite dessert:
"Donuts."

Would you rather be a wizard or a mad scientist? 
“A wizard.”

FEATURED NEW HIRE
Laci - Scheduling Specialist

What are you looking forward to about working with us?
"Building connections with my team and customers. I am looking forward to helping our customers enjoy the experiences that life has to offer!"

If you could only eat one type of food for a month, what would it be?
"Thai food!"

If your pet could talk, what would they say?
"Dad is my favorite but Mom's okay if he's not around" 

Welcome, Laci! We’re happy you joined us.

QUARTERLY CONTEST
We Want Your Funny Hat Pics

Think you have what it takes to beat this cute little guy in a contest?

Email your favorite picture of yourself, your DSP, a family member, or even your pet…just make sure you have a funny hat on! Halloween hats are amazing, but Christmas or Thanksgiving hats are fantastic as well.

Email your pictures to: [email protected] by December 27th.

Katie, our Referral Specialist, loves crocheting or listening to audiobooks with her dog curled up on her lap. She’s going to have so much fun looking at your pics and choosing her favorite.

The winner will get a $50 Visa gift card prize, and the winning pic will be featured in our January newsletter!

^{*No purchase necessary to win.}

WHAT DO YOU THINK?
We Want to Hear From You

GET PAID TO CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONE
We Are Hiring!

Get Paid to Care For Your Loved One
At Connections NW, we believe the best care comes from those who know and love your loved one best—family members or trusted friends who truly understand their needs and routines.

With our Bring Your Own Caregiver program, family members or trusted friends can be paid to provide care. Our DSPs (caregivers) start at $24 per hour, with annual raises up to $26, plus full benefits and overtime.

Join the Bring Your Own Caregiver program and start now!

Become a DSP Today
If you have a passion for serving your community, Connections NW is looking for Direct Support Professionals. All our DSPs start at $24 per hour with raises each year up to $26.

Go to: https://connections-nw.org/careers to apply.