In intellectual disabilities and community support, CHOICE, Inc., stands out for its commitment to enhancing its participants' lives. We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Jon Hartmann, a key figure at CHOICE, Inc., who shared valuable insights into the organization's impact, challenges, and future goals. In this blog post, we dive into Jon's perspectives on community engagement, employment opportunities, and the collaborative efforts driving CHOICE, Inc. forward. 

Creating Meaningful Community Connections: 

Jon Hartmann discusses the importance of community involvement for individuals with intellectual disabilities, highlighting how even simple activities can have profound effects. “For many of our participants, just going out to order coffee can be a major achievement,” Jon explains. This small social interaction helps participants build confidence and feel a sense of accomplishment in their daily lives. 

Jon emphasizes the role of variety in enriching participants' experiences: “We believe in giving our participants a range of activities to try, even if it means stepping out of their comfort zones.” He notes that overcoming challenges, such as anxiety, is a significant part of this process. “It’s all about pushing boundaries in a supportive environment to help them grow.” 

Employment and Volunteer Opportunities: 

Jon Hartmann highlights the diverse employment and volunteer opportunities available through CHOICE, Inc. “We offer a wide range of roles, from light industrial work to park maintenance and everything in between,” he says. The focus is on finding jobs that align with individual abilities and interests. “One of our participants, for instance, is now working independently using public transportation, which is a huge step forward.” 

He also shares how CHOICE, Inc. adapts roles to fit the unique needs of each participant. “We use job coaches to tailor tasks and ensure that everyone can contribute effectively,” Jon explains. This personalized approach is key to fostering successful job placements and community integration. 

Collaborative Partnerships and Community Impact: 

Jon discusses the importance of partnerships with local businesses and organizations. “Our collaborations extend beyond just job placements; they help integrate our participants into the community,” he notes. Past partnerships have included providing cleaning services for local businesses, while current efforts involve fundraising events to support CHOICE, Inc.’s mission. 

Additionally, Jon highlights educational and advocacy programs such as the Ambassadors Club. “We visit schools to talk about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and promote anti-bullying messages,” he says. These programs are crucial for fostering understanding and support within the community.  

Navigating Funding and Future Goals: 

Discussing the funding landscape, Jon acknowledges the challenges faced by nonprofits. “We rely heavily on fundraising events and grants to sustain our programs,” he explains. The community's support is vital for the success of CHOICE, Inc.

Click here to enter text. Jon is proud to be part of the leadership team guiding CHOICE through its current challenges and future aspirations. “Our goal is to expand our community engagement and continue providing valuable opportunities for our participants,” he says. Despite the challenges, Jon is optimistic about the future and the positive impact CHOICE, Inc. will continue to make. 

Jon Hartmann's insights reveal the deep commitment and innovative approaches that define CHOICE, Inc. By focusing on community engagement, diverse employment opportunities, and collaborative partnerships, CHOICE, Inc. is making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Their work exemplifies how inclusive practices, and supportive environments can lead to personal growth and a better quality of life. 

To support CHOICE, Inc. and learn more about their programs and initiatives, visit https://CHOICEjobs.org/. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and fundraising efforts and consider contributing to their mission of fostering inclusivity and empowerment.