Lori Feldkamp reflects on her 30-year career at Big Lakes Developmental Center as she prepares to retire, while introducing her successor, Liz Hawley, who brings 18 years of experience with the organization.
· Big Lakes has grown from 100 to over 200 employees during Lori's tenure
· The organization faces a statewide waiting list of 4,500 people needing developmental disability services
· Around 100 people are waiting for services in their four-county service area
· Funding challenges require piecing together resources from multiple sources
· Transportation is a critical need, as 99% of clients cannot drive themselves
· The organization plans to use Grow Green Match Day fundraising to purchase two used vehicles
· Staffing remains challenging, but dedicated employees often work overtime to meet client needs
· Big Lakes empowers clients through involvement in program development and event planning
· The organization's summer party on June 20 will feature a "Party in the Desert" theme
· Consistent leadership has been a hallmark, with only two CEOs since 1978
Support Big Lakes Developmental Center on Grow Green Match Day to help them purchase much-needed vehicles for client transportation!
GMCF)CFAs)
