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December Safety Tips from the Safety Committee

by Information & Resources

The Safety Committee is reaching out to bring you some interesting and helpful safety information! Each month you will receive an e-mail from the Safety Committee regarding different safety topics. If you have topics you think would be helpful to your Support Inc. team, or you would be interested in joining, please reach out to you Residential Program Coordinator to connect with anyone on the Safety Committee.

December safety topic: Being safe with electricity!

Did you know 150 home fires per year happen because of holiday lights or decorative lighting, accounting for $8.9 million in property damage each year, as well as occasional injury and rare fatality??

Here are some helpful tips for you to ensure you’ll be safe this holiday season!:

  1. Inspect all electrical decorations for damage before use. If you notice cracked or damaged sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections, do not attempt to use these as they are hazardous and may cause a serious shock or start a fire. Tip: LED lights are the best. Not only will they use up to much less power, but they run cooler, are less of a fire hazard and are long-lasting
  2. Most of us use extension cords when decorating for the holidays. Do you know if your extension cords are properly rated for their intended use? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, faulty extension cords cause 3,300 residential fires each year, resulting in 50 deaths and 270 injuries
  3. Do not overload electrical outlets. Overloaded electrical outlets are the number one cause of electrical fires during the holiday season. Avoid overloading outlets and plugging high wattage appliances into one outlet
  4. Never connect more than three strings of incandescent lights at a time. More than three strands can blow a fuse, and is also high risk to cause a fire because the wires overheat
  5. Water your tree. Dry trees are a fire hazard!
  6. Protect cords from damage. To avoid shock or fire hazards, cords should never be pinched by furniture, forced into small spaces such as doors or windows, placed under rugs, or attached by nails or staples
  7. Turn off, unplug, all decorations and extinguish all candles before going to sleep or leaving your home
  8. Keep candles away from anything flammable – especially a Christmas tree. Also pay attention to what is above candles; the hottest place is right above a candle. Paper, cardboard, synthetic fabrics and decorations can all easily catch fire
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Family Caregiver of the Month

by COVID-19

Please join us in congratulating our most recent Family Caregiver of the Month, Roxie! The following write-up is provided by Kali, Residential Program Coordinator with the Loveland Team.

I started working with Roxie in August of this year. In the short time we have worked together, Roxie has shown the highest level of patience, empathy, and compassion for J and the willingness to learn. During our second meeting, I went over the file review with Roxie and showed her some areas in which we were lagging with compliance. Roxie assured me that she would try to do her part to increase our next file review score, which she has. Roxie is also very swift when notifying me about consult visits, as well as turning in consult notes in a timely manner. At each visit, J does not miss an opportunity to let me know how much of a positive influence Roxie has been in his life and I can see why. Roxie truly embodies many of the characteristics of a great Host Home Provider.

Thanks for all that you do Roxie-we are happy to have you here at Support Inc. Congratulations for being Family Caregiver of the month!

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Jim Travels for the Holidays!

by Information & Resources

The people we serve have a wide variety of options when it comes to celebrating the holidays. Some individuals spend the time with their families. Others enjoy the company of their host home providers. For Jim, he enjoyed Thanksgiving with his providers, Juanita and Lendy! The three of them, along with two other individuals in the home, took an amazing road trip California. From Las Vegas to Disney, Laguna Beach and back to Vegas, Jim had quite the adventure in late November.

Jim enjoyed a week-long trip beginning with a road trip to Las Vegas. Juanita reports the majority of these details, on Jim’s behalf, with his permission. Juanita relays that they started with gambling in Las Vegas, people watching and spending time at the aquarium. The fish provided great entertainment in a calm and intriguing environment. Afterwards, Jim perused the strip and reportedly felt mesmerized by the holiday lights. 

The group traveled to Disney next. Between the Christmas Parade, shopping and meeting all the characters, Juanita described this as a highlight of Jim’s trip.


“We grabbed some funds from his trust, so he could shop at Disney Land. Jim looked great in his new Mickey ears, and we could tell he enjoyed picking out several souvenirs!!”

It was hard to pull themselves away from Disney, but alas, the show must go on. Jim, Juanita and the crew continued their adventure to Laguna Beach, their final destination. The weather was warm and breezy with breath-taking views of the ocean. Juanita took Jim and the other two individuals to see the beach, and they enjoyed a stroll along the sand. Juanita remembers their picnic fondly, with a blanket in the sand and yummy snacks for all to share. Spending time in Laguna Beach was calm and relaxing, a great way to wrap up the trip before returning home.

When asked what was Jim’s favorite part of his vacation, Juanita suspects it was Las Vegas and Disney Land. She relays this was very exciting for him. When asked what Juanita enjoyed most, she said, “This was first time taking Jim on vacation with us. We greatly enjoyed his presence, his smile and his enjoyment as we explored a few places together!” Juanita also admitted that returning to Las Vegas on the way back was fun, as well.

What makes this most incredible is, Jim is in respite with Juanita and Lendy, a temporary placement! We are blown away to their commitment of individuals in respite; it’s not every day that someone in a temporary home is able to travel to such nice locations. Jim has been with Juanita for the last 6 weeks and Jim will be given a choice where to live once that decision needs to be made, with Juanita as an option. To top it all off, Jim and their other two individuals traveled to Steamboat a few days later. Additionally, a Florida trip is in the works for next year.

Ultimately, we love to read of Jim’s adventures. We’re so happy for the care that Juanita and Lendy provide him, and we hope to hear of more travel in the future!

Support, Inc. is a residential service agency that provides support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you or someone you know could benefit from DD services in Colorado, please email us at Intake@supportinc.com.

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Emily has Landed a New Job!

by Information & Resources

Emily has come a long way since starting with Support Inc in 2012. Her team is extremely proud of seeing her grow into the confident, intelligent, and independent woman that she is today.

Emily has always wanted a job; in September, she finally achieved her goal and started working at Clay and Glaze. She will be assisting with clay projects, glazing and recycling. Before starting her new job, Emily was sharpening her skills by helping Support Inc. sort out documents, shredding and even learning how to work the copier and fax machine! Emily has also taken on a leadership role in day program and assisting her peers whenever needed. In addition to everything mentioned, Emily has become quite the fashionista! Often setting trends with her peers in and outside of day program.

Way to go, Emily! We’re so proud of you and excited to watch your continued growth at Clay and Glaze!

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Clinical Webinar

by Information & Resources

We’re so excited to share the recording from our Clinical Webinar yesterday morning! If you missed it, please see the link below. Chris Sharkey, Jamy Wetzel-Little and Faith Wilkins join us for a discussion on what makes Support, Inc.’s Clinical Services unique! From our person-centered approach to trauma-informed care and consideration of heart rate variability, we take a closer look at our services and who could benefit from them. Following the lecture, we have another half hour of discussion for questions and feedback.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pYBKv6M-ttDZVR4jfcH46TrRk81SlqAJ/view?usp=sharing

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COVID-19 Communication

by COVID-19

To Support, Inc. staff, providers, and families

In this COVID-19 communication we will cover the following:

  1. Omicron variant
  2. Vaccine updates & booster dose clinic
  3. COVID-19 Operating protocol update

COVID-19 Omicron variant

On November 26, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a new variant, B.1.1.529, as a Variant of Concern and has named it Omicron. The first case of the Omicron variant was detected in the United States on December 1st.  The individual, who is fully vaccinated, recently traveled internationally. The developed mild symptoms that are improving and has been in self-quarantine since symptoms developed. The WHO is working with researchers around the world to conduct studies to better understand the Omicron variant.

In previous communications we discussed that all viruses are continually changing through mutations. A variant has one or more mutations that are different from other variants in circulation. As expected, multiple variants of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) have been documented across the globe. Scientists compare the genetic differences between viruses to identify variants and how they relate to each other. Variants are labeled using the Greek alphabet (i.e. Alpha, Beta, Gamma, etc.) as way to identify and discuss variants by non-scientific audiences. The CDC classifies variants into three classifications, variant of interest (VOI), variant of concern (VOC) and variant of high consequence (VOHC). The CDC has classified the Omicron variant as a variant of concern (VOC).

The recent emergence of the Omicron variant further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and prevention strategies to protect against COVID19.

Vaccine updates & booster dose clinic

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends all adults aged 18 and over get a COVID-19 booster shot. Individuals who received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine should get a booster dose 6 months or more following their second dose. Individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine should get a booster dose 2 months or more following the initial vaccine. 

Individual’s may choose which vaccine they receive for their booster dose. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) allow for ‘mixing and matching’ the booster dose vaccine type. Side effects of the booster shot are similar to the side effects after the second dose series. The most common side effects are fatigue and pain at the injection site. Most side effects are mild to moderate. To relieve side effects, use or exercise the arm you got the shot in, drink plenty of fluids and apply a cool washcloth to the injection site.

We have contacted our partners at Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to request support to host a booster dose clinic. We hope to offer a booster dose clinic at our Aurora office after the new year. As we work with CDPHE to plan the clinic we will provide on-going updates.

COVID-19 Operating protocol update

We have updated our operating protocol and COVID-19 procedure to reflect the current guidance from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) regarding the testing window following a known exposure. Individuals who are unvaccinated should quarantine following a known exposure to COVID-19 and get tested 5-7 days after the last date of exposure. Individuals who are fully vaccinated and asymptomatic following a known exposure do not need to quarantine but should wear a mask in public and get tested 5-7 days after the last known exposure.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to myself or your supervisor. We will continue to provide updates through email, our website and our Facebook page.

Thank you,

Laura Viers
Associate Director of Quality Assurance
T :: 970-667-7424 ext. 200

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Jeremy Cooks a Delicious Thanksgiving Meal!

by Information & Resources

Jeremy Boudreaux has a lot to be thankful for this year. He is living independently in his own apartment, landed a job on his own and is planning a big Thanksgiving feast to celebrate.

Jeremy has Support, Inc. in his corner cheering him on and giving him the support he needs to live life on his own terms. Jeremy is 28 years-old and has mild intellectual disabilities. For the last seven years, Jeremy has worked with Support, Inc. and their team of caregivers that provide him with the help and support he needs, when he needs it – from integrated health care services and life skills development to access to community-based social activities and more. His team knows him well. When Jeremy decided he wanted to live independently in his own apartment, his team helped him identify and set goals that would help him make his dream a reality. By meeting each goal, Jeremy was able to make a safe transition from living with Host Home Providers to residing in his own apartment. Support, Inc. helps Jeremy remain safe, healthy and independent.

Jeremie has been enjoying apartment life for the last year with his dog, Zeus and his bearded dragon, Alex. His sister lives within walking distance. He loves cooking and honored his mom’s memory this Thanksgiving by cooking from her recipes. His Thanksgiving menu includes spinach casserole, cornbread casserole, green bean casserole, pecan pie and, of course, turkey with garlic and butter.

On Thursday, Jeremy visited with family in the early afternoon and served up his delicious side-dishes. Jeremy reports having a great time with his nephew and sister, Erika. Jeremy made a turkey and decided to leave it at his apartment for leftovers. This is “Italian style” turkey turned out well, and Jeremy plans to share the leftovers with his sister.

This year, Jeremy is grateful for his independence, his apartment, his job, his friends, his team, his dog Zeus, and his bearded dragon Alex. And we’re grateful to support Jeremy as he continues to thrive in the community!

Jeremy wants to share his story and let other people in similar situations know that, with the help of organizations like Support, Inc., they can live independently, too.

About Support, Inc.

With more than 32 years of experience, the Support, Inc. team offers a wide range of residential, day and clinical services to clients across the front range of Colorado. Support, Inc. has a unique, whole-person approach that allows caregivers to develop a deep understanding of each individual’s needs. As a Program Approved Service Agency (PASA), Support, Inc. is Medicaid certified and its programs are approved by the State of Colorado. Support, Inc. is redefining the life experience for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and is a leading provider of community-based solutions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

If you know someone on the DD Waiver in needs of residential supports, please contact us at intake@supportinc.com.

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COVID-19 Communication

by COVID-19

October 27, 2021

To Support, Inc. staff, providers, and families

In this communication we will cover the following:

  1. COVID-19 vaccine updates
  2. Preparing for flu season during COVID-19

COVID-19 operating protocol updates

1. COVID-19 vaccine updates

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends certain people to get a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose including those who received Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson/ Janssen COVID-19 vaccines.

Individuals who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine: the following groups are eligible and recommended to get a booster shot at 6 months or more after their initial vaccine series.

  • People aged 65 and older
  • People aged 18-64 at high risk of severe COVID-19
    • Medical conditions that may put people at higher risk of severe COVID-19
      • Cancer
      • Chronic kidney disease
      • Chronic lung disease including COPD, asthma (moderate to severe), interstitial lung disease, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension.
      • Dementia
      • Diabetes (type 1 or type 2)
      • Down syndrome
      • Heart conditions (heart failure, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathies, hypertension)
      • HIV infection
      • Immunocompromised state
      • Liver disease
      • Overweight or obesity (BMI greater than 25 kg/m2)
      • Pregnancy
      • Sickle cell disease or thalassemia
      • Smoking, current or former
      • Solid organ or blood stem cell transplant
      • Stroke or cerebrovascular disease which affects blood flow to the brain
      • Substance use disorders (alcohol, opioids cocaine use disorders)
  • People aged 18-64 whose frequent institutional or occupational exposure to COVID-19 puts them at high risk. Occupations at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission include front line essential workers and health care workers
    • Since risk can vary across settings and based on how COVID-19 is spreading in a community, people aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may get a booster shot.


Individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine: anyone over the age of 18 who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is recommended to get a booster dose two months or more following the initial vaccine.

Individual’s may choose which vaccine they receive for their booster dose. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) allow for ‘mixing and matching’ the booster dose vaccine type. Side effects of the booster shot are similar to the side effects after the second dose series. The most common side effects are fatigue and pain at the injection site. Most side effects are mild to moderate. To relieve side effects, use or exercise the arm you got the shot in, drink plenty of fluids and apply a cool washcloth to the injection site.

If you or someone you support is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster, speak with the primary care physician to determine when and where the person can receive their booster dose.

2. Preparing for flu season during COVID-19

It is important to get a flu vaccine because COVID-19 and the flu may be circulating at the same time, and they cause similar symptoms. You can get the COVID-19 vaccine with other vaccines, including the flu vaccine, during the same visit.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to myself or your supervisor. We will continue to provide updates through email, our website and our Facebook page.

Behind the scenes at Fox31 News- 15 minutes before we went live!

Support, Inc. Featured on Fox31 News

by Information & Resources

Support, Inc. was proud to recently showcase it’s Host Home Provider services on Fox 31 News. Heather, Shaunti and Cathy were recently interviewed before Shaunti and Heather embark on their 6 week road trip across the country.

  • Behind the scenes at Fox31 News- 15 minutes before we went live!

Earlier this year 667 spots became available through Colorado’s developmental disability waiver program. For many eligible Coloradans – who have waited an average of 15 years – this means they are finally be able to access 24-hour community-based services, either at home or in host homes.

With more than 32 years of experience, Support, Inc. a leading provider of community based solutions is here and ready to help. Support, Inc. team offers a wide range of residential, day and clinical services to clients across the front range of Colorado. Support, Inc. has a unique, whole-person approach that allows caregivers to develop a deep understanding of each individual’s needs.

Support, Inc. is redefining the life experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recently, we were thrilled to highlight one of our favorite Host Home matches, Shaunti and Heather. Heather has truly become a part of Shaunti’s family; since beginning their road trip, we have truly enjoyed their adventures from a vicarious standpoint, living through their photos and recent videos.

Check out a few photos from Heather, Shaunti and Brent’s road trip! To learn more information, please follow this link.

You can apply to become a Host Home Provider with Support, Inc. by applying at www.supportinc.com

And if you have a family member or a loved one searching for placement, please email us at placement.team@supportinc.com

Halloween

Spooky Fun in Day Program

by Information & Resources

Recently, our Day Program participants have enjoyed dressing up and getting outside for some Halloween fun! Lucas and Mikey, along with a few others, visited Nick’s Garden Center where they were able to check out the pumpkins and plants.

While we continue to offer services on-sight at our Day Program in Aurora, it’s the outings that we greatly look forward to. The people we serve have a chance to develop their skills, such as learning about new plants, counting back change at the register and socializing with others.

We’re grateful for the fun that was had at Nick’s Garden Center, thanks in part to our wonderful staff. Check out the photos below- for more information on our Day Services, please contact Cathy at cathy.kellogg@supportinc.com