All people have strengths and gifts that they contribute to their community
In 2018, RSI was awarded a two-year innovation grant through the Minnesota Department of Human Services to develop tools and processes for matching the people we serve with people from communities across the state for the purpose of building relationships and natural supports. We believe that those connections can develop into powerful relationships that will benefit the people we support and the people they meet. After the initial grant period, RSI’s leadership made the decision to sustain the Community Connections service.
With a foundation in Person-Centered Thinking and research from Angela Novak Amado, John McKnight, Mike Green, and Beth Mount, the Community Connection service utilizes a phased process that encourages a person to share their talents, interests, and dreams to forge connections with people in their community. Our hope is to create a culture of inclusion and kinship and allow the power of the human heart to create lasting friendships.
Discovery Process
Discovery services that help a person gain a better understanding of their skills, abilities, routines, and aspirations. Through a process that combines conversation and observation, the Community Connector can identify the ideal conditions to begin building sustainable relationships.
Matching Process
The matching process is designed to increase the potential to build new relationships by finding spaces where there are other community members with similar interests and goals.
Sustainability & Natural Supports
Building natural support is a critical element as we continue to move from presence to active contribution in community settings. Sustainable practices include identifying and addressing barriers, skill–building, and communication.
Eligibility
RSI is able to work with individuals with the ability to self-pay or who receive support through the following Minnesota disability waivers:
- Developmental Disabilities (DD)
- Community Alternative Care (CAC)
- Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI)
- Brain Injury (BI) waivers
Meet our Community Connections Team
Jeff Mortimore
Jeff’s background in business, education, sales, and human services has given him many tools to approach the challenge of changing perspectives, establishing new support networks, and forging powerful connections between the people he works with.
“I believe all people, regardless of disability or background, have the ability to contribute with their community in valuable and meaningful ways. Anything is possible!”
Mary Brodzinksi
After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a B.A. in Criminology and minors in Public Health and Health & Wellness Promotions, Mary worked in varying positions in Special Education, Conductive Education, and Teenage Residential Services. Mary loves collaborating with individuals to find what is important to them and how it can contribute to improving our community.
"Be the change."
Stacy Johnstone
Stacy feels honored to be a Community Connector for RSI, and one of her greatest passions is helping all kinds of people enhance their life journey. Her experience as a legal guardian/conservator for Lutheran Social Services and a Special Education teacher has prepared her well to share her knowledge and to help others.
“Inhale * Grace * Exhale * Gratitude”
Norman Mota
Norman brings over a decade of experience in program supervision and person-centered support. He holds a B.A. in Organizational Behavior from the College of St. Scholastica and is committed to inclusive practices that promote independence, dignity, and meaningful community connection.
“Community heals isolation, so include others.”
