Dove, Inc.

As we reported on the blog a couple weeks back, today was Joan Meeder's last day and at 4:30pm today she will be officially retired. We also said good-bye to Stacey Brohard, MAX Coordinator, today as he moves to his new position as Executive Director of Good Samaritan Inn.  He will surely be missed.  Below is a picture of Stacey at the potluck that staff hosted for him today.  Because we can't say good-bye and good-luck without some food involved!!!

In case you didn’t know it, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Like most social service agencies, Dove, Inc. provides services for a wide variety of people who may be suffering from various mental health disorders. A few of these include depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Over the last decade or so, there have been valuable strides in the field of mental health, although there is no one size fits all approach to treating mental illness. The important thing to remember if you are suffering from any kind of mental health disorder is that you CAN be helped, and it is not your fault. The majority of mental illness is caused from abnormal brain chemistry, and that is something that in most cases, can be treated. If you are struggling with mental health issues, please don’t give up hope. Help is available.

Joan Meeder, RSVP Director since 1999, is retiring as of May 31.   Her replacement, current RSVP Program Assistant Janet Pasier, will take over on June 1.   Joan has given her time and talents to the RSVP program for fourteen years and the volunteers love her.   Would you believe she calls every RSVP Volunteer on their birthday!?   Joan will be difficult to replace, but she has been and will be training Jan until her last day to ensure a smooth transition.   The RSVP Volunteers are in good hands with Jan! If you’d like to wish Joan farewell, please send correspondence to 788 E. Clay St.   Decatur, IL 62521 or email dove@doveinc.org Happy Retirement, Joan!   You will be missed!  

On behalf of all advocates, victims and citizens in Illinois I want to thank our law enforcement officers for the outstanding work they do in helping keep our streets and communities safe. National Police Week is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the important role the men and women of our forces play.  They carry out their demanding and often dangerous roles with incredible dedication, professionalism and pride. We should also take this opportunity to thank the families of these law enforcement professionals.  Quite often, these families live through the daily worry that comes with having a loved one serve on the front- lines of law enforcement.  All across our county, in our communities, on our highways and waterways, at ports of entry and airports law enforcement officers work hard to help ensure the safety of our families and the protection of our communities. Law enforcement is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding profession.  Policing ac...

Ever since 1963, May has been a month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults and their contributions to our communities. The theme for Older Americans Month 2013 A Unleash the Power of Age, @ has never been more fitting. Older Americans are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, wisdom, and life experiences with their families, friends, and neighbors. While Dove and RSVP provide volunteering opportunities in our community to older Americans year-round, Older Americans Month is a great opportunity to show special appreciation for our beloved citizens. We wish to express a sincere A Thank You @ to all RSVP volunteers for playing an important role by continuing to engage in helping to improve lives and strengthen our community. As a community, we flourish as a result of your service to others. Silvia, Jan and Joan RSVP Staff Members