As members of the council, we serve as part of Iowa CareGivers' (IC) governance and represent the voice of those in direct care. We offer valuable insight into first-hand experience and knowledge that guides the activities and decisions of the IC Board. We share concerns, identify solutions, and take steps to change the way that people think and talk about direct care. Our voices and your voices matter! Our role on the Council has given us many opportunities to make a difference in our personal and professional lives. Some of those opportunities include:
20 Current, Former, New, and Potential Direct Care Council Members Participated in a Retreat to Revivify from the Past Two Years!!
Board member, Scott Hartsook, donated the lovely Thoreau Center http://www.thethoreaucenter.com/ to hold the meeting and board member, Deb Madison-Levi, donated the funds from her recent Facebook “National Ice Cream Day” fundraiser to help cover the costs of the retreat. It was a wonderful day of sharing caregiving thoughts and experiences… some joyful and some sad but all extremely meaningful!! Speakers, Ellen Folkers Jenkins and Julie Spicer, UCS Healthcare, shared information about mental health services sometimes needed to deal with the stress and grief associated with direct care. Participants then enjoyed a fun but informative presentation by Erik J. Dominguez, Motivational Speaker, Speak Up Stories. The takeaway from his presentation was the power in their caregiving stories. Special thanks to all who helped made this day possible, including Iowa CareGivers staff members Pam Biklen and Jerri Adkins. And with great gratitude to the 20 unbelievably strong, dedicated, and caring individuals who were able to attend.
We're there for you, our peers and IC and IC is there for all of us!
Iowa CareGivers is currently looking for those working in direct care from across the state and a variety of settings to serve on the council. If you or someone you know has a passion for the profession of direct care and a commitment to developing your leadership skills and taking on new roles, this opportunity may be for you! If you are interested in a position on the council, please complete the application below and return to Iowa CareGivers.
Click here for more information on joining the IC Direct Care Council.
Click here to complete the online application form.
If you have questions, contact pam.biklen@iowacaregivers.org.
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Brenda Bowen Reinbeck, IA Northeast Region |
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Ann Brighton Maynard, IA |
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Sally Chapman Murray, IA Southwest Region |
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Donna Cheers Arispe, IA Southwest Region |
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Connie Cochran Leighton, IA |
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Mabaene Kolotsane-Wren Des Moines, IA |
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Karen Kubura Urbandale, IA |
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Paula Luther State Center, IA |
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Fran Mancl |
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Mary Perez Cedar Rapids, IA |
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Cindy Ramer Denver, IA Northeast Region |
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Derek Smith Oelwein, IA |
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Katie Tenney Cedar Rapids, IA |
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Renee Bernier |
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Vicky Garske |
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Leslie Hayenga-Adams Terril, IA Northwest Region |
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Michael Owens Waterloo, IA Northeast Region |
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Laura Stein Webster City, IA Northwest Region |
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Jeff Weinstock Pella, IA Central Region |
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Anthony Wells |
If you are interested in serving on the Leadership Council, please contact Pam Biklen 515-729-9729or pam.biklen@iowacaregivers.org