KETCH

Don has been with KETCH for an impressive 43 years, beginning his journey as an Administrative Assistant. Over the years, his role has expanded to include responsibilities in Information Systems and Computer Operations, earning him the reputation as the "just do it guy" for tech support, computer training, and database management.

During his time at KETCH, Don has witnessed significant transformations. The residential program has grown from a few Small Home Operators to 26 residential sites. The organization also established a Human Resources department, and the transportation fleet has expanded from a single old bus to 57 active vehicles.

Reflecting on the past, Don remembers when metal keys were used to lock all doors, copies were made using mimeograph machines, and electronic surveillance was unheard of. Today, KETCH is equipped with advanced technology and a robust Nursing Department.

KETCH is fortunate to have Don, who finds deep satisfaction and enjoyment in his work. He and his wife love traveling with their daughter and having fun, which he proudly notes is a core value at KETCH.

"My position may involve a lot of desk work, but it also gives me the opportunity to visit other buildings and interact with the people we serve, witnessing the progress they’ve made. They are the reason we’re here."

Don never imagined that his temporary job at KETCH would turn into a lifelong career filled with enjoyment, excitement, learning experiences, and even a few challenges along the way.

📣 We're Hiring! 📣
Join KETCH for open interviews every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS. Speak directly with our hiring team and explore the fantastic job opportunities we have available. Visit ketch.org/careers to check out our current openings and apply today for a career that makes a difference.
📅 When: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS
We look forward to meeting you and helping you start your new career with KETCH!

Our Adult Learning Skills group recently enjoyed a fantastic outing to the Great Plains Nature Center. They were especially fascinated by the live turtles, frogs, snakes, and fish on display. The interactive exhibits, including the wall of native birds and the map of Kansas waterways, were big hits as well. Everyone had a wonderful time!

Join us tomorrow, Thursday, August 8th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for Together Sedgwick County – a community job and resource fair hosted by the Kansas Department for Children and Families. The event will be held at the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Central Kansas, located at 2400 N Opportunity Dr, Wichita, KS 67219.

Have questions about KETCH and how we can support you? We will be there to share information about our services and job opportunities. You can also connect with many other community resources and local employers.

We hope to see you there!

✨ Ready to breathe easy with Abreeze? ✨

Just visit www.abreeze.com to place your order online. Prefer to chat with a human? Our friendly Customer Service team is ready to assist you at 316-383-8770!

Say goodbye to stale air and hello to fresh, clean air all year round. Order today and experience the Abreeze difference! 🌟

Mark your calendars for Palette to Palate on October 12th! This year, we're doing something different – our silent auction will be held online (more details to come)!

Visit www.ketch.org/palettetopalate for more information.

Join us in making the world a more inclusive place! 💖

🌟 Join the KETCH Team! 🌟

We're holding open interviews for all positions every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS. Meet our hiring team and learn about the amazing opportunities we offer. Check out ketch.org/careers to see our current job openings and apply today for a meaningful career.

📅 When: Every Tuesday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS

Start your journey with KETCH and make a difference!

As the summer heat drives us indoors, the Osage Day Program is getting creative! This week, DSP Tonya took a group to the Nifty Nuthouse, a spot that guarantees something for everyone. Eddie and Tina quickly snagged a couple of cans of pop, while Tonya and Dale hunted for a snack spicy enough for his taste and found a habanero-flavored treat. Tina, on the other hand, couldn’t wait to crack open her can of root beer!

We're always finding fun and engaging activities to keep our group entertained and happy!

🚨 TODAY IS THE DAY! 🚨

Join us TODAY, July 30th, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Freddy's (310 N Rock Rd or 420 S Ridge Rd) in Wichita, KS, to support KETCH! 🍔🍟

15% of your purchase will go towards empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here’s how you can help:

📱 Order on Freddy's app or website with code GIVEBACK
💬 Mention the fundraiser to the cashier or show this flyer before paying

Every meal makes a difference. Let’s come together and support KETCH! See you at Freddy's!

Make a difference with your Dillons Rewards card! By choosing KETCH as your preferred organization, every purchase you make supports our mission. Here’s how you can help:

Visit: https://www.dillons.com/account/enrollCommunityRewardsNow
Register or log in to your account.
Search for "KANSAS ELKS TRAINING CENTER FOR THE HANDICAPPED" or use 89770 in the Community Rewards section. Select KETCH.
And you’re done! Your shopping at Dillons will now contribute to KETCH’s essential services.
Together, let’s create positive change.

Exciting Career Opportunities at KETCH!

Join us every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM for open interviews at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS. This is your chance to speak directly with our hiring team about our various positions. Visit ketch.org/careers to see our current openings and apply today for a job that’s more than just a paycheck.

📅 When: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS

Take the next step in your career with KETCH. We hope to see you there!

Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! The ADA has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals we serve, like Allen.

Allen loves to cook and spend his free time with his cat, Ann. He also enjoys looking up military history. Sadly, growing up in foster care was not ideal for Allen, but now he is able to live a fulfilling life at KETCH, a place he couldn’t imagine living without.

The ADA empowers individuals like Allen to pursue their passions and lead enriching lives. Let’s continue to support and celebrate the unique interests and achievements within our community.

🎉 Help Us Make a Difference! 🎉

On July 30th, 2024, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Freddy's is hosting a fundraiser to support KETCH. Enjoy your favorite burgers, fries, and frozen custard at 310 N Rock Rd or 420 S Ridge Rd in Wichita, KS, and 15% of the sales will be donated to KETCH!

Participate by:
🖥️ Ordering on Freddy's mobile app or website with code GIVEBACK
💬 Telling the cashier you're there for the fundraiser or showing the flyer

Every bite counts! Thank you for your support!

🌟 Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! 🌟 The ADA has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals we serve, like Ryan.

Ryan collects Yu-Gi-Oh cards and enjoys playing Magic: The Gathering, a popular card game. When asked what he would do if he could do anything in the world, Ryan says he can’t imagine anything different. He is content with leading a full life filled with hobbies, friends, and his work at KETCH.

The ADA enables individuals like Ryan to thrive and enjoy fulfilling lives. Let's continue to support and celebrate the diverse passions and achievements within our community.

🍔 Dine Out for a Cause! 🍔

Join us on July 30th, 2024, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at Freddy's (310 N Rock Rd or 420 S Ridge Rd) in Wichita, KS. 15% of all sales will benefit KETCH, helping us continue our mission of empowering adults with disabilities.

How to participate:
📱 Order through Freddy's app or website with code GIVEBACK
🗣️ Mention the fundraiser to the cashier or show this flyer before payment

Your meal can make a difference! Let’s come together for a great cause!

🚀 Join Our Team at KETCH! 🚀

We're excited to announce open interviews every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS. Come chat with our hiring team and find out more about our available positions. Visit ketch.org/careers to learn more and apply today for a career that makes a difference.

📅 When: Every Tuesday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS

We can't wait to see you and help you start your journey with KETCH!

Meet Cheryl, a dedicated member of the KETCH team since 2002!

Cheryl started her journey as a DSP in the WORK program and later transitioned to Case Management, eventually becoming the Director of Case Management. Now, she handles Case Records, leveraging her expertise in state regulations to ensure everything is in order. Cheryl's workspace reflects her love for organization, with label makers and color-coded spreadsheets. She enjoys watching the people we support learn and grow, taking pride in their achievements, whether it's a simple task like cleaning off a table or a major milestone like securing a job in the community. Cheryl finds joy in knowing her work helps support the growth and success of those we serve.

🌟 Breathe Easier and Make a Difference! 🌟

At Abreeze Filters, our filters aren't just built to keep your home air clean; they're made to support our community. Crafted in Wichita, KS, through the KETCH Vocational Training program, our filters provide employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Plus, they're made from 100% recycled materials for maximum efficiency and sustainability. 💚

Order your filters today and join us in making a positive impact: abreezeair.com

🌟 Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! 🌟 The ADA has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals we serve, like Lydia.

Lydia loves listening to music, getting out in the community, and watching her favorite comedies. If she could do anything in the world, she would like to stay at KETCH, where she has a job in the KETCH WORK program and gets to be with her boyfriend Clyde. They’ve been together since high school, 40 years ago.

The ADA not only supports Lydia’s dreams but also helps create a community where everyone can thrive. Let’s continue to celebrate and support the diverse abilities and stories of those around us.

Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! The ADA has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals we serve, like Kendra.

Kendra appreciates that, thanks to the ADA, everyone is treated with respect. This is important to her as she cares for her friends, who all have different abilities. Kendra also enjoys playing games with friends and spending time with staff at the house.

The respect and inclusivity fostered by the ADA empower Kendra and her friends to live full, meaningful lives. Here’s to celebrating the progress we’ve made and the vibrant communities we continue to build together.

📣 Open Interviews at KETCH! 📣

Join us every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS for open interviews. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet directly with our hiring team and learn more about the amazing positions we have available. Check out ketch.org/careers to see our current job openings. Apply today for more than just a job!

🗓️ When: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS

We look forward to meeting you and discussing your future with KETCH!

🌟 Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! 🌟 The ADA has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals we serve, like Skyler.

Because of his autism, Skyler is more philosophical than mathematical. He has trouble with numbers, reading, and writing, saying, “There’s a kind of disconnect in my brain.” Despite these challenges, Skyler is very articulate. He dreams of writing a book orally and plans to use software that converts his voice into words on a page.

When asked, "If you could do anything in the world, what would you do?" Skyler's heartfelt response is to make world peace permanent and to make people smile.

Thanks to the ADA, individuals like Skyler are empowered to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the world.

🚨 Mark Your Calendars! 🚨

Join us on July 30th, 2024, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm for a delicious way to support KETCH! 🍔🍟

Head over to Freddy's at 310 N Rock Rd or 420 S Ridge Rd in Wichita, KS, and enjoy a fantastic meal. 15% of all fundraiser sales will go to KETCH to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To participate:
👉 Order digitally on Freddy's app or website using code GIVEBACK
👉 Show this flyer or mention the fundraiser at the cashier

Spread the word and let's make this fundraiser a success!

🌮 Who doesn't love tacos? The group at County Acres is no different! Whether it's a sizzling beef taco loaded with fresh toppings or a savory chicken taco, our team can't get enough of these delicious treats. Tacos bring us together, adding a burst of joy to our day and a reason to celebrate the simple pleasures in life. Join us in the taco love fest and share your favorite taco moments with us! 🌮

🌟 Career Opportunities Await at KETCH! 🌟

Looking to start a new career? Join us for open interviews every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 230 S. Ida – Downtown Wichita, KS. This is your chance to meet directly with our hiring team and explore our exciting job openings. Check out ketch.org/careers for more information and apply today for a role that’s more than just a job.

🗓️ When: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: 230 S. Ida, Downtown Wichita, KS

We look forward to welcoming you to the KETCH family!

Wishing everyone a joyous Independence Day filled with fun, family, and fireworks!

Please note that our offices and day programs will be closed today. We look forward to seeing you all tomorrow, July 5th.

Enjoy the celebrations and stay safe! 🎉✨

Meet Maria, one of the friendly faces at KETCH!

Maria is often the first connection for families seeking support for their loved ones with special needs. She guides them through paperwork, always emphasizing patience. Maria is part of the admissions team where they determine the best programs or residential locations for those we serve. She gives tours, takes calls, and represents KETCH at events. Maria's positivity and dedication shine through in her interactions and office decor. Her favorite part of the job is conducting Satisfaction Surveys, where she hears how happy and safe the persons served feel, making her day.

🌟 Sign Up for the KETCH Newsletter! 🌟

Stay in the loop with all the exciting happenings at KETCH! https://bit.ly/3xucda4 By subscribing to our free newsletter, you'll receive:

Updates on Upcoming Events
Inspiring Person Served Stories
Important Announcements
…and so much more!

Don't miss out on the latest news and opportunities to get involved with our community. Sign up today and be part of our journey to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This month we are celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act! We will be sharing stories from the incredible individuals we serve, highlighting why this month is so meaningful to them.

Opal recalls attending school without ramps in her elementary, junior high, and high school. She said, “I would have my braces on my legs and walk in with canes. It was very tiring.” Despite this, she had the determination to keep going.

Thanks to the ADA, Opal is now able to go places in her motorized chair. She said she will never give up on herself and will keep fighting to keep on living her life. One day, Opal dreams of going to Hawaii, and with her determination, we have no doubt she'll make it happen!