RSVP+ North Dakota has facilitated meaningful volunteer service opportunities for 40 years. In fact, Bismarck-Mandan was one of the first RSVP projects in the nation. The initial 11 grants were awarded in 1971 aimed at tapping into a senior citizen volunteer labor force and, by doing so, improving their own health and well-being through their service. Because the endeavor was successful, RSVP nationwide was formed to match older-adult volunteers with community partners who are non-profit organizations and government agencies.

In 2009, the six RSVP regions under NDSU sponsorship rebranded as “RSVP+ North Dakota: Your Invitation to Serve North Dakota” with the mission of inviting individuals of all ages to enhance personal growth, develop leadership skills, and meet critical community needs through meaningful volunteer service opportunities. The rebranding was intended to allow volunteers of all ages the opportunity to serve and also paved the way for connecting specialized initiatives such as the Foster Grandparent Program, AmeriCorps*VISTA, Bone Builders, and the Amachi Mentoring Program.

For the year ending June 30, 1511 volunteers served 204,967 hours in the seven counties assigned to RSVP+ Central ND. Volunteers helped 224 host stations (partner agencies) that submitted requests and job descriptions. When asked, RSVP+ searches among the registered volunteers and facilitates a match. Host stations, in turn, help us track the volunteer hours according to the types of service provided: tutoring in elementary schools, delivering meals to the homebound, mentoring children, transporting wheelchair-bound residents to activities, tax consulting, and fundraising to name just a few — the list quite literally is endless.

Of course, volunteers step up in times of disaster also. RSVP+ took on the role of registering and tracking volunteers at the sandbag-filling sites so that city officials would have accurate volunteer records and timesheets. During major events, the benefit to communities of partnering with a volunteer matching organization is clear; nothing so obviously unifies a community like imminent peril. It’s all the other days of the year (those without an overt threat to life, safety, or property), however, where an organization like RSVP+ demonstrates its enduring value. For the host stations whose service missions year in and year out often cannot be achieved without support from volunteers, there is the tangible benefit of more hands and hearts to help them do their vital work.

For the volunteers, there are both tangible and intangible benefits. Beyond the personal satisfaction that countless volunteers say they get from sharing their time and expertise, the opportunity to lead projects and develop new skills, building resumes and networks, gaining connections to community, being part of something bigger than themselves–those who volunteer tend to live longer. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, volunteering brings significant positive health benefits. And it’s more than just longevity; volunteers tend to be more physically and socially active, have greater functional abilities, and have lower rates of depression.

As I often say to our many volunteers of all ages, service is personal. Being needed is personal. We all likely volunteer more than we realize because we see it as “helping out.” Older adults lead the way because they have the most time and expertise to give, but placing inter-generational volunteers into service opportunities has been especially rewarding for me. Working with high school students serving hours for honor societies or service clubs, or with college students fulfilling their various service requirements brings both rewards and challenges. Younger volunteers typically are available only evenings and weekends, which has required some creativity by our host stations. And introducing grandchildren to the world of volunteering is particularly gratifying. One set of RSVP+ grandparents have their grandson help at a local food pantry. He was able to arrange the soup by their labels before he could read the printed words. He thought he was just spending time with his grandparents when, in reality, he was giving quality volunteer time to his community.

Mary Siverson receives Certificate of Appreciation from Bismarck City Commissioner, Brenda Smith

I am fortunate to be involved with the RSVP program for almost 11 years. I tell people I have the best job ever because I get to “help people help other people” every single day. This is a very rewarding job, and at least once a week I experience the role of a volunteer when I deliver meals to the homebound through the Burleigh County Senior Adults Program. I personally benefit so much from the connections I have on my meal route. This assignment has also allowed me to introduce service to my grandchildren. When schedules allow, I bring them along and help them understand why we take hot meals to those who cannot prepare lunch for themselves. The clients love to see children, and my grandchildren have fun. How often do we get to create opportunities where everybody wins? Volunteers do, every day.

For more information, contact RSVP+ at 701.258.5436, email mary.siverson@ndsu.edu or visit their website at RSVPNorthDakota.org.

Mary Siverson is the Director of RSVP+ Central ND

“I try to put my patients at ease by making a connection,” she said. “I ask a lot of questions to see if there is any way we can give them better care. People like to be in control, but before they get here we tell them not to eat and not to drink. Then, the first thing we do when they get here is take their clothes!”

The entire staff works to create a fun atmosphere. The nurses station is always decked out in decorations for the season or holiday. On 11/11/11 at 11:11 am, Herman gathered everyone at the nurses station to sing the Star Spangled Banner. “It was just a moment we created,” she said. “I am lucky to be a part of such a great team.”

There may be times Herman should not be singing. “I like to sing country western songs sometimes,” she said. “During one song the gentleman I was taking care of turned to the other gal in the room and said. ‘She should sing solo. So low that I can’t hear her.’”

When someone does receive bad news after a procedure, Herman consoles them and simply tells them to write everything down. “You have to be a helicopter for your health,” she said. “You may have three different doctors, a lot of new terms, so much information…it helps to write it down.”

After 37 years, Herman continues to give quality care and make her patients feel comfortable.
“When I was in the eighth grade I told my mom, ‘I hope I can be a nurse’,” said Herman. “I am living the dream. To be this age and to have a job I love, I am truly blessed.”

In Mary Tello-Pool’s basement are two file cabinets dedicated to every event she has worked on since the 1970s. “I can go back to a Holiday Home Walk from 1984, tell you what the theme was, who the chairs were, even what food we had,” she said. “When anyone needs to find out anything from the past, they say, ‘Call Mary and tell her to look it up’!”

Mary’s volunteering hobby officially began was when she was 14 and started as a candy striper at what was then the Bismarck Hospital. “I remember how exciting it was when I reached the 50 hour mark and received my cap,” she said. “The next milestone was 200 hours when we earned a gold pin to wear on our pinafores. The best thing that came out of that was caring for patients and learning skills that directed me toward the nursing profession.”

In college she volunteered in nursing homes entertaining the residents and doing their hair and nails. “The majority of my college life was studying, so the volunteering was a stress reliever and continues to be to this day,” Mary said. “Volunteering is a lot of work and can be stressful, but it is a different stress. And, it’s fun, because usually you are doing it with your girlfriends!”

After nursing school Mary came back to Bismarck and started working at Bismarck Hospital. She volunteered with events in the community where she could utilize her nursing skills. Once she got married and started having children, the focus of her volunteering shifted to them and whatever they were involved with. However, she was fortunate to be able to stay active in some of her other volunteer activities.

“My daughters started going to meetings with me when they were babies and as they grew up, they worked alongside me stuffing envelopes, hostessing, selling pop, whatever came up,” said Mary. “It was just a normal part of growing up for them. I told my girls, volunteering is a gift you give to the community, because your community provides you with many gifts every day. It is everyone’s obligation to give back to the community in which they live.”

Mary has served on numerous boards over the years, but there are some organizations she is particularly passionate about. “Thirty two years ago I was asked to bake cookies for a membership gathering of what was going to become the Bismarck Mandan Symphony League,” she explained. “I became a member and still am, to this day. It is one of my favorite organizations to volunteer for.”

Mary has been married to Duane Pool for thirteen years; they actually met at a fundraiser. Mary was not interested in dating at the time, but after he called the house several times, her daughter finally convinced her to start dating again. “I was very fortunate to find a husband who not only supports my volunteering, but volunteers himself,” she said. “Our wedding was a fundraiser. We had a friendly competition – Duane’s wedding guests were raising money for Ducks Unlimited and mine were raising money for the Symphony. My team won!”

As her girls moved on to college and Mary had a little more time on her hands, she thought about her passions and looked at the Red Cross. “I inquired what their needs were and sixteen years later, I am still a volunteer with them,” she said. “I have served in many capacities with the Red Cross, including as a member of their disaster action team and the Red Cross Nurse Corps.”

She recalled one particular Christmas: “I got a call about a family who had recently moved here, that had just lost their trailer in a fire,” she explained. “They lost everything, even their holiday gifts. We were able to get them a nice suite at a local hotel and Target donated a gorgeous tree decorated with snowmen. My girlfriend network got some gifts together and my husband and I delivered everything to them. As we were leaving the little girl came up to me and said her mom had lost her snowman collection in the fire. It was very touching and it made me realize how much impact one person can have. I didn’t pay for the tree or the gifts, all I gave was time.”

Mary shared another story: “Another group I’m involved with became aware that the Carrie’s Kids organization was looking for prom dresses for girls. In about a week, after a few phone calls, we had a dinner scheduled and over 100 people attended. We collected over 100 dresses, shoes, jewelry, nail and hair care and limo rides for these girls. Never underestimate the power of the girlfriend network. If we can do something like that in that short amount of time, we can do anything. It is amazing what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it.”

Mary offer these suggestions to someone who is interested in volunteering:
Identify what matters to you – what are you passionate about
Identify a need in the community
Know your strengths and weaknesses, skills and talents
Know your limitations

Bryce Emineth, Nick Erickson, and Evan Gowen

Christmas has a way of sneaking up on you — even in February.

Last year, my son Evan, his two confirmation classmates and I went to Pride Manchester House for a service project. The three boys, Evan, Nick and Bryce, met at our church to prepare eight Valentines with gift cups of pencils and candy. We drove from the church toward the facility, a psychiatric residential treatment center, which that year housed eight boys. I missed the correct turn, but Nick helped me get back on track since his family often drove through that neighborhood. We parked in the back and tromped around the building to ring the doorbell. A young teacher answered the door. I had called ahead a couple times, but they weren’t expecting us for the Sunday 1:00 appointment. Thankfully, she allowed us in anyway. Once we were in the entry, the greeter asked if we wanted to give the treat cups directly to the boys ourselves or let the staff present them. “Whatever’s easiest for you,” I said, but Nick would have none of it. “We’ll give them to the boys,” he piped up. “We want them to see us.” She nodded and we proceeded past walls decorated with froggies to a larger area. In a few moments we were facing eight attentive boys seated cross-legged on the rug.

Now Evan, Nick and Bryce each had a gemstone heart sticker shining like a fresh pimple on his forehead, remnants of the card preparations. One of the Manchester boys asked about the stickers. Nick again said, “We just wanted to show the Valentine spirit, to pass it around.” His answer satisfied the curious one; the Manchester boys seemed very happy with the surprise visit and, of course, with the stashes of candy.

After we got back to the car, Nick said, “Well, that did my heart good.” I did a quick double take. A seventh grader said what?

Later having dropped Bryce and Nick back with their parents, I reflected on how the three confirmation boys anticipated the meeting with the Manchester kids. As we were printing messages on the cards, Bryce was particularly creative with wording. One line I recall — because he asked me if he should use it — “Watch over the little things now, because later they’ll be big things.” Not sure what he meant, I asked, “Can you give me an example?” He said,” My sister is little now, but one day she will be older and grown up.”

As I considered the Manchester boys’ situation, I couldn’t imagine being away from home at that age, with no parents to ask advice or get help. Floundering at sea I’d be. I recently spoke with Mindy Norton, Family & Volunteer Coordinator at the school. She said the students, boys or girls, are accepted at the Manchester House between ages 5 and 13. They may have been placed there by parents, their school, or social services as a result of unacceptable or violent behavior. A child stays at the House an average of five months; some children stay as few as two and some up to twelve months. The children have emotional, mood, impulsive or attachment disorders.

Before admitting a student to the school, Transition Coordinator Bryan Winterberg ensures that other services have been tried since Manchester House is considered the last resort in the child’s treatment. Mindy said, once admitted, the students engage in a mixture of testing, behavior plans, and psychological and family therapy. Further she said, when the students are ready, they have an individual education plan and transition to a day treatment school, receiving the services of a paraprofessional aide. Students might also arrive at the House when transitioning from out-of-state facilities.

By evening back at our house, my son Evan, true to form, had said nothing about the whole outing. Since I had heard no response, I asked at the supper table, “What did you think of Manchester House?” His immediate response was, “I thought it’d be, like, they would climb all over me.” In fact, they were absolutely calm and attentive. It was as though he was looking in the mirror at a rational human being. So went my son’s introduction to children of emotional distress.
In spite of the growing favor of online education, my offline enlightenment sprang up far from a mouse or keyboard. First, I saw and felt within myself how some youth and adults view with uneasiness their more unfortunate peers; I saw how insightful and sensitive young people can be; and not least, I saw firsthand how hidden is the nature of emotional abuse. Next time I volunteer to transport “three kings” bringing gifts to “Baby Jesus”, I’m going to have a little more respect for the Star guiding them. It was right all along. The “Christ Children” were there, cross-legged on the rug.

Two of our most faithful volunteers, Joan Klemer and Breezy Kohls, often sell memberships at the Zoo.

Since its inception 50 years ago, the Dakota Zoo has relied heavily on volunteers in virtually all areas of operation. Many early supporters spent countless hours clearing brush and making the 90 acres of Zoo land habitable for the animals to come. Whether it was plumbing projects, fence building, painting, welding or a host of other specialty jobs, volunteers were one of the main driving forces that ultimately made the Zoo a success.

Today more than ever, volunteers continue to play a huge role in helping the Dakota Zoo to continually win the Bismarck Tribune’s “Best of the Best” award in at least one category each year. Volunteers can also take much credit for our Zoo being awarded North Dakota Tourism’s “Best Tourist Attraction” in the state for 2011.

In 2012, the Dakota Zoo will provide over 50 special events for our visiting public. Events such as Junior Zookeeper Day Camps, Breakfast at the Zoo, Children’s Day, Wine-tasting, Zoo Run…to name just a few, all have one common denominator that helps to make them successful. VOLUNTEERS!

In addition to volunteering for special events, the Dakota Zoo enjoys the benefit of having numerous volunteers that continually help out in a variety of ways.

Veterinarians- since the beginning in 1961, the Dakota Zoo has enjoyed donated veterinary services from some very caring individuals. Dr. James Wheeler, who continues in the capacity of Senior Veterinarian, has provided care for our 600+ animals almost since day one. Most recently Dr. Kelly Thorsness has joined the ranks of caring individuals who set aside time each week to help keep the Zoo animals in tip top shape. Other veterinarians from area clinics have also assisted in various capacities and we owe them much.

Docents- since the early 1970’s the Dakota Zoo Docents have played a vital role in helping to educate thousands of visitors of all ages. From helping with camps to visiting nursing homes and classrooms, docents continue to help the Zoo carry out one of its most important missions…education.

Youth- the Zoo has a considerable number of young volunteers, ages 12 – 18. Helping in various ways with things such as face painting, animal presentations, work projects, etc., these young workers make the Zoo a better place and learn some responsibility and organizational skills at the same time.

Office and Clerical- a small but dependable group of volunteers help out with membership sales, clicking in members on very busy days, setting up the gift shop, folding maps, etc. But for them, the Zoo would have to spend more on labor costs.

Board of Directors- to be a member of the Zoo Board it takes more than just saying “yes!” There are more than 20 committees that members of the Board are asked to help with. From Fundraising to Exhibits to various Special Events committees, Zoo Board members are required to be some of our best volunteers.

For all of the above events, tasks and programs we utilize upwards of 200 volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life.

Other Volunteers- just when we think that we have covered all of the bases for how volunteers have helped and continue to help the Dakota Zoo, something like a flood comes along. When we received word in late May that the Zoo should plan for up to 4’ of water in the center of the facility we wondered how we would go about evacuating animals and sandbagging buildings. A Facebook plea, along with some helpful stories by the local media provided over 300 volunteers the next morning for assistance in filling and hauling sandbags. Likewise, offers came from all over for help in hauling animals and providing homes for some of them if necessary.

Volunteers really are what “makes the zoo go around” and we are so thankful for everyone that helps in a variety of ways.

Women seeking deeper relationships with Jesus Christ or simply wanting to connect with other Christian women come together at Women’s Bible Studies. Hungry to learn more about God’s Word or to worship outside of a regular church service; ready to learn, pray and experience fellowship in an atmosphere of support, women join other women to make connections and grow their faith in Jesus Christ.

Laura Roberts and her family sought not only a church service that would feed her family’s spirituality, but one offering numerous ways of connecting with Christian men, women and youth while learning more about God’s Word, instilling Jesus into their hearts. Her family discovered Evangel Assembly of God and knew they’d discovered a new home church. For the first time, her children loved coming to church each Sunday morning and looked forward to many of the children’s ministry offerings. As a couple, she and her husband joined and led small connection groups; growing their faith while learning and developing as a couple. The only missing component was a women’s bible study. Together with a friend, she approached the church to help develop women’s studies, and the group became a reality.

Today, women of all ages come together on either Tuesday evenings or Thursday mornings to study, pray and grow together as women of Christian faith. A Beth Moore study kicks off each autumn (September) with a second study (differing author) each winter (January). As a leader, Roberts said, “Evangel study is our (each woman’s) study. I simply set up tables and arrange for coffee. This study is for any woman who has a heart for the Lord – it’s about building each other up, making connections and knowing that we’re learning how to make it through this world as Christian women, not learning how to live like the world.”

A couple of women, a heart for the Lord and ten or so women interested in growing their Christian faith has developed into a steady group of women at this study. For information: www.goevangel.org or phone 255.0500.
At Charity Lutheran, both Carol Bjork and Shelley Traynor facilitate women’s bible study, similarly offering a safe place to pray and hope together – a place for women to learn, grow and maintain the utmost of respect for one another. As women, we are so vulnerable,” Traynor said. “Here we are breaking down people’s ‘storms’ – the various flooding in your life (water, grief or other issues). We work together to learn that nothing is broken that cannot be made beautiful again.”

Always open to the public, Traynor said there is a lot of discussion into where God is working. As women, the participants trust in Him to see what each needs to see. And when in doubt, pastors are available for a pastoral connection. Entitled, “Hope for your Heart. Finding Strength in Life’s Storms”, the fall study is open to the public. Concurrently, Bjork facilitates a second group. Bjork said she trends toward topics that are both interesting and are answers to her prayer. This fall, she selected Beth Moore’s “So Long Insecurity”. Here, women will work through a workbook and address personal issues – much of which is between her and God alone. For information: www.charitylutheran.org or 258.1228.

The Church of Corpus Christi twice offered “Lord, Teach Me to Pray” by Kay Arthur, a 30-week Catholic study developed to follow Ignatian prayer. Currently offered, part two will address praying in a Catholic manner. Additionally, Corpus Christi studies include either Ascension Press or Catholic themed studies using a traditional approach. For information: www.corpus-christi.org or 255.3104.

Spirit of Life Catholic Church also offers ongoing Catholic studies. Current programming includes: “Discover the Riches of the Mass” where Catholics learn about the Mass, the center of Catholic faith and “Matthew, the King and His Kingdom”. Both educational classes are available to parishioners. For information: www.myspiritoflife.com/education or 663.1660.

First Evangelical Free Church (FEFC) will hold a women’s bible study this fall, offered either Tuesday mornings or evenings: Beth Moore’s “David: Seeking a Heart Like His” where women will explore their own experience with temptations, loss, family problems, personal inconsistencies or doubts. For information: www.firstefree.com or 223.3330.
At Faith Lutheran, women participate in ‘circles’: Esther, Mary Martha, Ruth or Demaris. Currently, the Ruth Circle is following a study, entitled, “Bad Girls of the Bible”. For information: www.faithbismarck.com or 223.2236.

While many attend a weekly service to fuel their faith, as Christians, there is a need to exercise their faith by learning, studying, praying and communicating while connecting with others of Christian faith to fully root their faith. Women’s bible studies offer a safe place for women to connect with one another while deepening their faith, growing Christian-based relationships with other women and nourishing a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ, as they open their hearts to the Lord.

About the same time, Smith was feeling a need to do something else, something with meaning. “I felt there was something I was supposed to be doing with my life,” she said. “I know now the rescue was what I was meant to do.”

Smith and her husband Steve own and operate a non-profit miniature horse rescue called Triple H Miniature Horse Rescue. Deciding to open the rescue took a bit of time. “I researched for over a year before acting on my dream,” said Smith. “It took me that long to work my husband over to get on board, too!”

But once Steve came on board he has not looked back. The couple find they work well together. Each has different talents and niches with the horses. “I am better as far as training and getting them to relax and adjust to their new homes,” said Smith. “I feel I just understand them and almost hear what they are saying to me.”

When Smith went to her lawyer to set up the non-profit organization, he was very skeptical of the need or demand for this type of rescue. Three days after the meeting, Triple H welcomed their first two horses. The rescue has brought in over 200 horses since 2007 and currently has 22 at the ranch.

When the opportunity arose to buy her husband’s family farm, they went for it and the horse rescue is located there. “We have had a lot of people come out and help with chores and updating the place,” said Smith. “We have volunteer night every Thursday and people can come out and help with chores and walk or groom the horses.”

Triple H has developed strict guidelines for adoptions and had good success with the process. “Most, but not all of the horses are broken and spiritless when they arrive and it can take a long time to get that spark back in their eyes,” explained Smith. “We want to make sure the horses go to a good home. Rescue is so much more than just taking the horse in and giving it food and water. You need to repair and rehabilitate and that can take months.”

Last year, a very special horse, Bella, was given to Alison as a gift. She is not a rescue horse, but she lives on the ranch and shares a pen with her buddy, Lilly. Bella is a tiny miniature horse and children are especially drawn to her. “She does have an attitude, but she knows when she is supposed to behave,” said Smith. “I have taught her some tricks, too. Last year she rang the bell (with her nose) for the Salvation Army and this year she learned to wave.”

‘Big-Hearted Bella Finds a Friend’ is the title of a new book authored by Smith and inspired by Bella. “My goal with the book right now, is to help children and the horses,” said Smith. “I really want to raise money to start a food bank for the horses, stockpile hay or take hay donations.”
She explained: “Many people who may have starving horses this winter don’t want to get rid of their horses – they don’t want to surrender them, but they may not be able to afford to feed them. It would be nice to be able to give them four or five round bales to get them through the winter. I also think it would be great if businesses buy the books and donate them so children who have been affected by disasters, are ill or mentally challenged can enjoy the books for free.”

(At the time of this interview, Bella and Smith were planning on traveling to the Red Cross shelter in Minot to donate some books to the children living there.)

For more information on the Triple H Miniature Horse Rescue, to donate, volunteer or buy books, visit hhhmhr.org. You can get updates on Bella at myminibella.org or visit her on facebook at facebook.com/bella.contessa.

When Sherris Richards’ daughter, Faith, was diagnosed with autism at 18-months it impacted her entire family. “It devastated us to the core,” she says. “I think it affected us even more because we didn’t know about autism.”

The initial shock of the diagnosis caused Richards and her husband, Tony, to believe they could handle their daughter’s care alone. “I thought I could work with my daughter and take care of her autism.”

At the time, the Richards lived in Pennsylvania where autism treatment was very progressive. “We were provided with 3 hours of floor play therapy a day and, initially, I was concerned with how that was going to fit into our schedule,” she notes. “But once I got over my attitude, the therapy was the best thing that ever happened to us.”

The Richards participated in support groups and therapy services, focusing on the care of their daughter and family. “We sought out the support we needed and were able to do what we needed to do to get our daughter on track.”

In 2006, the Richards moved to Bismarck and soon realized the community was in need of the same type of support. “When we moved here my husband said, ‘We need to get something going,’” she says. “There were families that just jumped on board to get our group started.”

The group became a chapter of the national organization Autism Speaks and later developed their own identity as the North Dakota Autism Connection. Richards now serves as executive director of the organization. “Our goal is to educate the community and to provide encouragement and support to families living with autism,” she says.

Understanding Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a term given to a group of bio-neurological developmental disabilities that impair the way individuals interact and communicate with others. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function.

Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication and leisure or play activities. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, generally appearing before the age of 3.
One out of every 110 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism and the rate of diagnosis is four times more prevalent in boys than girls. A new case is diagnosed every 20 minutes, making autism the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the United States.
“There are many children diagnosed but also many undiagnosed,” says Richards. “You can’t look at a person and see the disorder or pinpoint all of the signs and say they have autism.”
She says one of the most prevalent symptoms of autism is sensory issues. “Our children experience both hypo and hyper sensitivities. Things such as lights and perfumes cause certain behaviors, and they may not have good eye contact because it actually hurts their eyes to look into yours.”
These behaviors can spur one of the greatest misconceptions related to the disorder, says Richards. “People can be very judgmental because they don’t understand,” she notes. “They may think the parents are bad because they don’t do certain things when these behaviors arise, but the parent struggles to help their child and also deal with the stares of others.”
Both therapy and early intervention can help the individual with autism and their family, she notes. “This is why we push therapy, so we can help children deal with their sensory issues. And, as the parent learns about how to help the child, they can educate others.”
Treating Autism
There are many different approaches to treating autism, says Richards, but the best options often change with each individual.

One facility helping children with autism improve their communication and function within society is Red Door Pediatric Therapy. “When families come to us, they usually have children struggling with behaviors and communications,” says Kelli Ellenbaum, a speech therapist at the facility. “Once parents understand how and why their children communicate the way they do, it is easier to move forward in building a meaningful relationship using strategies taught in therapy.”

Ellenbaum says Red Door Pediatric Therapy takes a team approach to treating autism, pairing speech therapy with occupational therapy. “We address communication by helping children learn verbal communication, augmentative communication devices, such as the iPad, and pictures.”

Occupational therapy helps children manage sensory difficulties as well as learn daily living skills. “Children with autism interpret visual information, touch, taste, texture, sound, smell, and body awareness much differently,” notes Ellenbaum. “We help parents and community members interpret a child’s behavior as a meaningful exchange of communication.”

She says children with autism should begin therapy by age two, but most typically start by age four or five. Red Door Pediatric Therapy also includes training for parents which helps to continue skill development in home and community environments.

Ellenbaum says children with autism have unique abilities and often require a different means of communication to accommodate their learning styles. “Children with autism often have average or above average cognitive skills and when information is presented in a way that can be understood, amazing things happen.”

The North Dakota Autism Connection
“We want to work with children that have autism and help them to live successful lives,” say Richards. “We look at what we can do now and how we can go forward.”

The North Dakota Autism Connection offers monthly meetings, along with community workshops, to allow families to connect and promote advocacy. The organization also plans activities, including sports nights at the YMCA, arts activities with VSA ND and the annual Autism Awareness Walk. “There is power in numbers,” says Richards. “We support each other in going out and doing activities.”

Red Door Pediatric Therapy is involved with the organization through the Autism Awareness Walk and various event sponsorships. “The ND Autism Connection provides a way for families to get together and know they have both exceptional and awesome kids,” says Ellenbaum.

Richards says it will always be important to help those living with autism, both her own loved ones and those she meets through the North Dakota Autism Connection. “As long as there is autism, we want to help.”

For additional information on the North Dakota Autism Connection and the resources available to individuals and families living with autism visit www.ndautismconnection.org. Information on the services provided by Red Door Pediatric Therapy is also available at www.reddoorpediatric.com.

Ralph Waldo Emerson poetically wrote in his book Self Reliance about the journey of life, comparing it to a “zigzag line of a hundred tacks.” As he says, the path of life doesn’t look straight until it’s seen from a sufficient distance. This passage sticks out to me because it best identifies the concept of significance, which I have come to closely identify with through my experiences in college and my future outlook. By grasping onto specific opportunities through my tendency to say “yes,” and turning away from others, I strongly believe in Emerson’s observation that each action is somehow connected.

Through my college experiences I’ve hit some rough paths and I’ve had many glory moments, but looking back I can see how each event, each action and each opportunity I took advantage of happened for a reason. When I graduate in May of 2012, I will leave Minnesota State University Moorhead knowing that I absorbed every aspect of college in order to shape who I am today and who I will strive to be as I enter the world beyond school.

My college focus began as a search for new social experiences and lasting friendships. My perceptions of college initially were that of fun gatherings and meeting new people. As my perceptions changed to a broader, more in-depth look at my own university, I realized how many opportunities stood right in front of me. I won’t lie and say I jumped right into campus involvement, and I also won’t say that it’s the right and only path to take in college, but I strongly believe that the paradigm switch I experienced shapes the identity I’ve created for myself today. I took a look at my life and decided that I want to surround myself with people who share similar goals, drive and passion for experiences that I do. That sense of purpose led me to a group called Students Today Leaders Forever, which is an organization centered around service work, relationship-building, and leadership. My college values and personal confidence developed immensely from the experiences I gained traveling the country doing volunteer work with people who share the same passion as I do. Once I established myself in this organization, my “yes” mentality kicked in, and today that mindset has opened many doors for me, which all will aid in my career and personal development.

I’ve filled a lot of time in my college career with extra-curricular activities, and along with my school education, they are the pieces that have linked together to ultimately create my career path. I’ve been fortunate enough to take advantage of many opportunities I’ve encountered, and each one, whether I will follow a career directly related to it or not, serves a purpose in my life. When I thought I wanted to pursue a career in journalism, I took on the position as editor-in-chief of the weekly newspaper at MSUM called The Advocate. As a sophomore, I served as the youngest editor in the history of that paper, which is an accomplishment in itself, but the lessons I learned and challenges I faced shaped new leadership and problem-solving skills that I will continue to use for the rest of my life. I decided journalism wasn’t the career path for me, but it was because of that “yes” mentality that I was able to grasp an in-depth, on-the-field look at an area of interest I was certain I wanted to pursue. Currently my biggest commitment is with the campus activities board at MSUM: Dragon Entertainment Group. I now serve as the Showcase Coordinator, which means I’m in charge of booking, planning and implementing events related to the “showy” acts, such as comedians and hypnotists. I had no idea event coordinating would turn into my passion, but because I embraced this campus job with my “yes” outlook, I entered a world of passion, motivation, and goal-setting that has pushed me in a direction towards the next step in my life.

College began as a place I wanted to stay at forever—a place of fun, friendships, school activities, and community. As I enter my last year of college, I’m steering away from those feelings of never wanting to leave and, instead, using the insight I’ve gained in the last three years as momentum for my future successes. The different paths on which I’ve set forth may have all intended for different aspirations, but my journey has progressed as a search for my own inner happiness and success. Through all the “yes’s,” and an often over-booked schedule, I’ve captured a list of goals and hopes on a personal and professional level. We can never expect anything, not until we see anything from a “sufficient distance.” I can now clearly see the route I took from the beginning of college to where it has brought me now. Each moment aided in the significance of where I am today and the goals I intend to reach as I jump into a working world.

Megan Nitschke a senior at MSUM majoring in Communication Studies and Leadership

The third weekend in May wasn’t much better, as our son Jonathan graduated from high school, and we also celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. I remember vaguely hearing one of my friends mention the word, sandbagging, at our son’s graduation party. However I was knee deep in the chocolate fountain by that time and didn’t give the discussion much thought at all!

We tumbled into bed early that next Monday night, too tired to care about anything but a decent night’s sleep when the phone rang. I could hear desperation on the other end as one of our friends begged Todd to please come and help sandbag another friend’s home. Sandbag? Was she serious? Was the threat of flooding that real and imminent? I thought to myself. Todd got up to leave and within three days the reality of the situation began to sink in when a group of St. Mary’s High School kids sandbagged our home, too.

This summer seemed so surreal. Everyone was begging for spring to arrive after surviving a horrendous winter, only to be followed by a treacherous summer of sandbagging and trying to stay ‘high and dry.’

Nadine Glur remembers that beautiful day in May extremely well. She was happily planting her first garden in their backyard. Like everyone on that Sunday, she too, was enjoying the warmth of the sun. It was during that afternoon she also received word about the impending flood. “It started out slow but it sure went fast,” Nadine recalls.

Her husband, Doug, came up with a plan, which they both agreed to follow. “I remember random people showed up from our church to help. Doug’s boss also called to see if he could help. The generosity of people was just overwhelming!” Nadine stated. The only time worry set in was when they remained idle.

Plans seemed to change daily as they began the process of building a dike with sandbags. What started out as a two- foot sandbag dike mushroomed into a six- foot high earthen dike. It became apparent that for their family’s safety they would need to leave their home.

When they attended church services Memorial Day weekend, Nadine noticed other members bringing their household possessions to be stored at the church or in other people’s homes. At that point, congregation members urged her to remove their belongings as well. She wondered how that could work with their huge dike already in place. A friend of theirs, who owned a roofing company, had just the answer. He set up a ramp over the dike, allowing them to move their furniture to higher ground.

At that moment Nadine was in awe of the wonderful people in her life! She and her family left their home that weekend. But before she could leave she knew she had one more thing to do. She went into her garage, found some boards and leftover paint, and quickly wrote the phrase, “In God’s Hands.” She then nailed it to a tree in their front yard and it gave her peace. At that moment Nadine thought to herself, “Ok, God, whatever you have, we’re ok with it. We did our best.” Little did Nadine know that her sign would become one of hope and peace for her neighbors and the community as well.

As Nadine was leaving, her neighbor, Isabel Hernaiz-Fernandez, was just returning home from visiting family in Mexico City. She had heard about the flood from her husband, Patricio, and son, Patrick, but nothing could prepare her for the sight she saw when she returned.

“ I came home to a husband who was tanned, thin, and muscular!” Isabel joked. He was extremely busy sandbagging and keeping their sump pumps going. They had not met a lot of their neighbors prior to the flood, but they knew all of them now. Fortunately, their family was able to stay in their home during the flood fight. It was quiet in their neighborhood, and Patricio would take Isabel out for rides on their four-wheeler. Isabel always took her camera along on those rides. “I was angry at the time. I felt so trapped by the river,” Isabel recalled. She and her husband would pray for people and their homes as they passed by them.

One night they came across the sign, “In God’s Hands.” Isabel thought to herself. This family has got it right. It gave her the peace she needed to keep going.

Isabel often waited for the sun to set and would begin to take pictures of nature during the flood. “It gave me a purpose, and it challenged me to look for the beauty in the midst of pain,” she stated.

When Isabel had the pictures developed she was struck by how beautiful nature was even in the midst of the flood. She decided to make the pictures into a calendar. She wondered if there was a way that this calendar could help benefit others who had been affected by the flood.

In discussing her idea with friends, they all seemed very supportive of her idea of producing the calendar to sell and donating the proceeds to area flood victims.

Consequently, the calendars will be on display in October at Bob’s Photo, all Kirkwood Bank locations, and Walkers N’ Daughters Jewelers in the Kirkwood Mall. Proceeds from the Flood Fight Calendar will be given to the local United Way to aid flood victims based on need. The calendars could make a wonderful Christmas gift for friends and family members who want to help those still struggling from the flood damage.

All three of us were amazed by community spirit during this flood fight. People truly worked together to help one another under a very stressful situation. It reminded us of the Golden Rule: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.” We all agreed that it was a miracle that there was no loss of life due to the flood.

I believe that both Isabel and Nadine responded to the circumstances of the flood with trust and gratitude. They inspired me to look for the beauty all around, whether in a kind face of a stranger or friend, or in the wondrous awe of nature itself.

Shelly Preszler resides in Mandan where the West begins and friendly folk are plentiful.