June Family Caregiver of the Month!

Support, Inc. has had the pleasure of working with Family Caregiver, Karina Desantiago, and her son Victor for a few years now. Recently Victor graduated from high school and is now starting a new job due to the amazing support that Karina offers. Not only is she kindhearted and sweet with her son, but she is also caring for everyone on Victor’s team. She is a strong advocate for his needs and safety and ensures that doors and opportunities stay open for him. It’s been wonderful working with both Karina and Victor, and we look forward to seeing what adventures lay ahead for them.

Karina, you have been working through a lot of changes these past few months with Victor graduating from LS-ACE, aging out of some services, his birthday coming up, and his new job on top of day-to-day life. Victor couldn’t be happier to start working at King Scoopers and Happy Day Plant. He is working to make his own money and try new things after graduation. Karina, you have worked so hard to help all of this become a reality and have always encouraged him in all that he wants to do in life. Congratulations to you both and a happy early birthday to Victor! Thank you so much, Karina, for all that you do and congratulations on being nominated as our June Family Caregiver of the Month!!!

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Residential Team News & Updates

☀️ Summer is Here – A Note from the Residential Team!

We hope you and your families are finding fun and creative ways to stay cool this season!

We’re excited to invite you to our Annual Summer BBQ—a day full of food, fun, and fantastic prizes! Come enjoy lawn games, two delicious food trucks, a refreshing ice cream vendor, a raffle, and more.

📅 Date: July 24th
📍 Location: Phillip S. Miller Park – 1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock, CO

📱 New Way to Stay in Touch!
We know that sometimes a quick text is the easiest way to connect. Earlier this year, we upgraded our phone system, and now team members can send and receive SMS messages directly from their work numbers! This is in addition to phone calls and Microsoft Teams meetings.
If texting is your preferred method of communication, feel free to ask a team member for their direct line 😊.

🏢 Program Expansion Update
We’re thrilled to announce the Grand Opening of our Greeley Day Program on July 9th! This is part of our ongoing effort to bring services closer to the communities where you live.
We’re actively exploring new locations in Colorado Springs, Jefferson County, and Boulder County. As new offices open, and in an effort to regionalize, your case may have already been transferred or may transfer to a new team—especially within the Denver Metro Region.
We truly appreciate your patience and flexibility as we work to better connect our employees with the people they serve. We’ll be sure to communicate these changes with you every step of the way.

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QA Corner- June is National Safety Month

Ways to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses

  1. Prevent workplace injuries by having good lifting posture.
  2. Before lifting
    • Be aware of the object’s weight
    • Make sure the work environment is flat, dry, and debris-free
    • Check that the lift direction is straight
    • Take care of any tripping risks or debris
    • Look for any muddy or slippery areas
    • Make multiple trips, don’t try to do it all at one time
  3. During lifting
    • Never twist your torso while lifting
    • Stay “nose between your toes”
    • Never lift a heavy item above shoulder level
    • Never carry a load that obstructs your vision
    • Never hold your breath while lifting, moving, and setting the load down
    • Keep the load close to your waist for as long as possible
    • Adopt a stable position
    • Don’t flex your back any further while lifting
    • Avoid twisting your back or leaning sideways especially while your back is bent
    • Keep your head up when handling
    • Get a good handhold and do not twist while lifting

 

  1. Always follow standard precautions.
    • Standard precautions apply to the care of all people and are applied when there is a risk of exposure to (1) blood; (2) bodily fluids/secretions/excretions; (3) non-intact skin, and (4) mucous membranes.
    • Standard precautions include:
      1. Hand hygiene: wash hands frequently for at least 40-60 seconds.
      2. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to serve as a barrier to protect skin, mucous membrane, airway, and clothing. This includes gloves, masks and gowns.
      3. Follow respiratory hygiene/ cough etiquette.
      4. Properly handle, clean and disinfect care equipment.
      5. Routinely clean and disinfect the environment.
      6. Follow safe injection practices.

 

  1. Prevent slips, trips, and falls.
    • Falls can happen anywhere. Whether it’s working at heights or tripping on the same level, you always need to keep your eyes out for hazards.
      • Keep walkways and staircases clear.
      • Practice good cord management! Secure cords and when needed, tape down power cords and cables to prevent tripping.
      • Clean up spills and messes promptly.
      • Ensure there is proper lighting.
      • Keep floors clean and dry.
  1. Be prepared for an emergency.
    • The 1st week of June is national CPR & AED awareness week. Delivering first aid quickly and effectively can be lifesaving as every second counts when someone has lost consciousness. CPR/FA training must be renewed every 2 years, to find a class near you- American Heart Association CPR and First Aid
    • Have basic supplies: water, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, radio, etc.
    • Be prepared for natural disasters, listen to EAS, NOAA weather radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
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May Family Caregiver of the Month

🌟 Provider of the Month: Kristi Martinez

A Foundation of Love, Dedication, and Unbreakable Commitment

We are proud to celebrate Kristi Martinez as PCR’s Provider of the Month — a recognition that reflects not just her extraordinary efforts, but the deep and enduring relationships she has built through years of love and unwavering service.

Kristi is more than a provider; she is the heart and backbone of her household. She recently stepped fully into the role of primary support for the home, and she has done so with remarkable grace and resilience. Whether coordinating critical agency needs, managing complex schedules, or performing the demanding tasks of her personal life, Kristi meets every challenge head-on — and always with heart.

In a time of transition, Kristi has ensured that both Cathy and Kelly continue to receive every opportunity to thrive in their community. She advocates fiercely for their needs, supports their goals, and remains steadfast in making sure their lives remain rich with dignity, connection, and purpose. Her commitment ensures that their options are never limited, and that every day includes access to joy, growth, and community inclusion.

Her collaboration with PCR staff is a shining example of partnership. Kristi communicates with clarity, responds with urgency, and always prioritizes thoughtful planning. Her proactive approach and genuine care make our jobs easier, and more fulfilling.

Having served as the RPC for this household, I had the privilege of experiencing Kristi’s warmth and sincerity firsthand. She welcomed me not only into the home, but into family traditions, celebrations, and the fabric of their daily lives. That openness extends to every new staff member — Kristi meets each person with kindness, trust, and an unwavering willingness to do whatever it takes to support her family’s wellbeing.

Kristi’s story is one of strength, sacrifice, and unshakable love. She is the kind of provider who reminds us of the power of compassion in action — and we are so lucky to have her as part of the PCR family.

Congratulations, Kristi — thank you for being the glue, the heart, and the example of what true support looks like.

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Support Inc. Network Spotlight- Chase

Chase joined the Pueblo Community Resources and Support Inc. Network family upon turning 18, as he transitioned into adult services. His journey has been supported every step of the way by his dedicated mother, Autumn, who has worked tirelessly to ensure that Chase receives access to all the services and opportunities available to him.

Over the past year, Chase has demonstrated remarkable personal growth and has become an integral part of our community. He is a valued member of our karaoke group, often taking the lead as DJ and helping to create a fun, inclusive environment for his peers.

Chase has also excelled athletically, earning notable achievements in both wrestling and unified swimming, where he proudly qualified for the state competition. This year, he celebrates another significant milestone—graduating from Pueblo West High School!!

In addition to graduating, Chase received a very special award at his graduation ceremony, bringing the whole room to their feet and most everyone to tears. This award is given to one special needs student every year in the city of Pueblo who embodies the “Team Taneisha” spirit. Chase was awarded this beautiful honor for his helpfulness with his peers, regardless of their abilities. For his amazing positive attitude, his excellent participation in all his classes and activities, his energetic school spirit, kindness, and sportsmanship in all he participated in. Chase was celebrated for seeing the needs of others even while he navigates life with his own needs. He has been passionate about seeing everyone succeed around him and carries on the spirit of Ms. Taneisha’s legacy.

Chase looks toward the future with enthusiasm and optimism. We are incredibly proud of all that he has accomplished and are excited to see where his path will take him next. Congratulations, Chase, and thank you for letting us share the journey with you!

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Finance Team News & Updates

The Finance Department: 

Greetings from the Finance Department! We have some team updates and an update on Family Caregiver Independent Contractor Provider pay. 

Team Update: 

We have a bittersweet announcement that Noelle Slocum, our Staff Accountant, is no longer with Support, Inc. Her last day was April 18th. She has moved to Germany to start a new adventure. She will be greatly missed but we are so excited for her next chapter. As we are working to fill this position, please direct any questions to accountspayable@supportinc.com 

We are also working to find an Accounts Payable Coordinator to manage our vendor payments and assist with billing. 

Update on Moving Family Caregiver Independent Contractor (FCG-IC) Provider Payments to ADP: 

The transition to ADP for FCG-IC payments is in process and on track to begin in May.  With this transition, FCG-ICs can access their personnel files, pay stubs, see and update their contact information or direct deposit information through a secure online portal. The HR team held two Q&A sessions on April 15 and 17 to help familiarize FCG-ICs with ADP.    

We are also changing the pay period from monthly to bi-weekly pay. FCG-ICs will be paid more often on a predictable schedule. Family Caregivers will be paid based on actual attendance, eliminating any prior period adjustments.  Here is the new 2025 payment schedule: 

 

Please reach out to your Residential Team or HR hradmin@supportinc.com with any questions or concerns.  We on the finance team want to give a huge thank you to HR and the Residential team who have been instrumental in making this transition a successful and smooth one. 

Common Question Topics for Finance and Where to Direct:   

Host Home Provider Payments – hradmin@supportinc.com 

FCG-IC Payments –accountspayable@supportinc.com and hradmin@supportinc.com 

FCG, Employee, and HHP Pay History – Can be found in your ADP Portal under “Myself”- “Pay”- “Pay & Tax Statements” 

Bill.com Questions/ Payee Account Set up – accountspayable@supportinc.com 

Verification of Income/Employment Requests for FCG-ICs – accountspayable@supportinc.com 

Verification of Income/Employment Requests for HHP – hradmin@supportinc.com 

Verification of Income/ Employment Requests for Employees or FCGs – hradmin@supportinc.com 

Medicaid Redetermination Questions – Lily.kirkman@supportinc.com 

Social Security Benefits & Paperwork Requests – Lily.kirkman@supportinc.com 

Cigna and Other Insurance Benefits Questions – hradmin@supportinc.com 

How do I update my direct deposit information? 

  • If you are set up with an ADP account, Log into ADP, under “Myself” – “Pay” – “Payment Options” from there you can add or edit the bank information we have on file. 
  • If you are not set up with an ADP account, e-mail accountspayable@supportinc.com. Please include your support team in case we need to contact you with any further questions. 
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Lucy Road Trips to San Diego!

Support Inc. person receiving services, Lucy Casias, recently went on a road trip to San Diego for her birthday! She was accompanied by her Host Home Provider (HHP) on the trip. While in San Diego they had lunch at Chicken BBQ and took photos at the garden in Sea World. Lucy visited Korheim Korean Beauty where she bought make up and cute masks. Lucy and her HHP also went to Universal Studios theme park and visited Little Tokyo. Lucy said she really felt like she was in Japan and took many photos with characters throughout the park! We’re so happy that Lucy got to enjoy her birthday in San Diego!! We’re also appreciative of her Host Home Provider for assisting with this amazing trip! Check out pictures from the trip below.

 

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April Family Caregiver of the Month!

We would like to nominate and congratulate Amy Vandermeer for our April Family Caregiver of the month! Amy like all our caregivers has an extremely hard job but always approaches everything with such patience and willingness. Recently Amy went on the trip of a lifetime to London to be present for her eldest son, David’s gradation from college. Prior to leaving she took so much extra time to ensure that her youngest son John’s care was planned and covered; So that he could be with natural supports and continue to feel truly cared about and loved as if mom had never left. It was amazing to witness. While Amy was gone for this extended period, no issues occurred largely due to her amazing love and support, which allowed for her to have the time of her life and be able to celebrate without worrying! The extra love and care she provides truly goes above and beyond every single day and it does not go unnoticed. Amy you are not just an amazing family caregiver but an amazing mom! Congratulations on being named our April Family Caregiver of the Month!

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Becky’s Bathroom Renovation

We would like to congratulate person receiving services, Becky Krekow, and her Brother/Family Caregiver, Marty Krekow for their hard work in getting their recent bathroom renovation completed. As her Brother, Marty has always made sure Becky has all the supports needed for her to thrive in her home and in the community. This home renovation was not an easy one, but he made sure to reach out and make it happen! Please read a little message below from Marty:

“Becky needed a bathroom modification from a tub to a step-in shower with a seat for her bathing and personal hygiene needs. Her ability to enter and exit the bathtub had become increasingly more difficult as her slips and falls have also become more frequent. I was worried about Becky’s safety while bathing and possibly getting injured. As her brother and FCG, I’m looking out for Becky’s safety and well-being so she can maintain her health and most importantly her independence. I would like to recognize and give credit to all those involved that helped Becky receive a safe and comfortable way to maintain her personal hygiene and keep her independence.  The staff at Support Inc. (Paulyn, Ashley and Katie) and Developmental Pathways (Miranda Brinkman and Alexis Aviles) helped us navigate through the process to achieve the modification.”

Thanks to everyone for their hard work and congratulations to Becky on her new and improved bathroom!!

March Host Home Providers of the Month!

We would like to nominate Chance and Bill Nahuway for our March Host Home Providers of the Month!

Below is a message from their Residential Coordinator, Morghan:

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Chance and Bill for the past eight months, and during this time, they have consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication. They are highly communicative, ensure all documentation and paperwork is always up to date, and provide outstanding care for their individual in services. They truly exemplify what it means to be a great provider that provides quality care.

Recently, Chance and Bill took a much-deserved vacation and went above and beyond by securing highly capable providers to support their individual with complex medical needs. This is just one example of their commitment to maintaining continuity and excellence in care, even in their absence.

As an Residential Coordinator, I deeply appreciate their reliability, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment. Their home is one I never have to worry about, and if they had availability, I would confidently recommend them to others without hesitation. I honestly can’t say enough positive things about them—they are truly exceptional.

Congratulations Bill and Chance on being named our March Host home Providers of the Month!!!