June Family Caregiver of the Month!

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Support, Inc. has had the pleasure of working with Family Caregiver, Karina Desantiago, and her son Victor for a few years now. Recently Victor graduated from high school and is now starting a new job due to the amazing support that Karina offers. Not only is she kindhearted and sweet with her son, but she is also caring for everyone on Victor’s team. She is a strong advocate for his needs and safety and ensures that doors and opportunities stay open for him. It’s been wonderful working with both Karina and Victor, and we look forward to seeing what adventures lay ahead for them.

Karina, you have been working through a lot of changes these past few months with Victor graduating from LS-ACE, aging out of some services, his birthday coming up, and his new job on top of day-to-day life. Victor couldn’t be happier to start working at King Scoopers and Happy Day Plant. He is working to make his own money and try new things after graduation. Karina, you have worked so hard to help all of this become a reality and have always encouraged him in all that he wants to do in life. Congratulations to you both and a happy early birthday to Victor! Thank you so much, Karina, for all that you do and congratulations on being nominated as our June Family Caregiver of the Month!!!

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HR News & Updates

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The Support Inc. Human Resources Team would like to highlight the Employee Appreciation event that occurred on June 5th at the FlyteCO Tower in Denver! This was a great event to recognize all our amazing employees. Staff got to relax and enjoy food, drinks, games and prizes. HR also hosted an award ceremony that involved employees voting on certain categories and specific employees winning the awards. This was such a successful and fun night where we got to show appreciation for all our employees and how much they are valued! Check out pictures from the event below.

 

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Residential Team News & Updates

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☀️ Summer is Here – A Note from the Residential Team!

We hope you and your families are finding fun and creative ways to stay cool this season!

We’re excited to invite you to our Annual Summer BBQ—a day full of food, fun, and fantastic prizes! Come enjoy lawn games, two delicious food trucks, a refreshing ice cream vendor, a raffle, and more.

📅 Date: July 24th
📍 Location: Phillip S. Miller Park – 1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock, CO

📱 New Way to Stay in Touch!
We know that sometimes a quick text is the easiest way to connect. Earlier this year, we upgraded our phone system, and now team members can send and receive SMS messages directly from their work numbers! This is in addition to phone calls and Microsoft Teams meetings.
If texting is your preferred method of communication, feel free to ask a team member for their direct line 😊.

🏢 Program Expansion Update
We’re thrilled to announce the Grand Opening of our Greeley Day Program on July 9th! This is part of our ongoing effort to bring services closer to the communities where you live.
We’re actively exploring new locations in Colorado Springs, Jefferson County, and Boulder County. As new offices open, and in an effort to regionalize, your case may have already been transferred or may transfer to a new team—especially within the Denver Metro Region.
We truly appreciate your patience and flexibility as we work to better connect our employees with the people they serve. We’ll be sure to communicate these changes with you every step of the way.

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QA Corner- June is National Safety Month

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Ways to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses

  1. Prevent workplace injuries by having good lifting posture.
  2. Before lifting
    • Be aware of the object’s weight
    • Make sure the work environment is flat, dry, and debris-free
    • Check that the lift direction is straight
    • Take care of any tripping risks or debris
    • Look for any muddy or slippery areas
    • Make multiple trips, don’t try to do it all at one time
  3. During lifting
    • Never twist your torso while lifting
    • Stay “nose between your toes”
    • Never lift a heavy item above shoulder level
    • Never carry a load that obstructs your vision
    • Never hold your breath while lifting, moving, and setting the load down
    • Keep the load close to your waist for as long as possible
    • Adopt a stable position
    • Don’t flex your back any further while lifting
    • Avoid twisting your back or leaning sideways especially while your back is bent
    • Keep your head up when handling
    • Get a good handhold and do not twist while lifting

 

  1. Always follow standard precautions.
    • Standard precautions apply to the care of all people and are applied when there is a risk of exposure to (1) blood; (2) bodily fluids/secretions/excretions; (3) non-intact skin, and (4) mucous membranes.
    • Standard precautions include:
      1. Hand hygiene: wash hands frequently for at least 40-60 seconds.
      2. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to serve as a barrier to protect skin, mucous membrane, airway, and clothing. This includes gloves, masks and gowns.
      3. Follow respiratory hygiene/ cough etiquette.
      4. Properly handle, clean and disinfect care equipment.
      5. Routinely clean and disinfect the environment.
      6. Follow safe injection practices.

 

  1. Prevent slips, trips, and falls.
    • Falls can happen anywhere. Whether it’s working at heights or tripping on the same level, you always need to keep your eyes out for hazards.
      • Keep walkways and staircases clear.
      • Practice good cord management! Secure cords and when needed, tape down power cords and cables to prevent tripping.
      • Clean up spills and messes promptly.
      • Ensure there is proper lighting.
      • Keep floors clean and dry.
  1. Be prepared for an emergency.
    • The 1st week of June is national CPR & AED awareness week. Delivering first aid quickly and effectively can be lifesaving as every second counts when someone has lost consciousness. CPR/FA training must be renewed every 2 years, to find a class near you- American Heart Association CPR and First Aid
    • Have basic supplies: water, flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, radio, etc.
    • Be prepared for natural disasters, listen to EAS, NOAA weather radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
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All the Twins at Support, Inc.

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Greetings from the Intake Team! We hope you’re enjoying a safe summer so far with the cooler temperatures.

We have onboarded some wonderful families and people receiving services in 2025. The Intake Team feels so grateful for everyone we’ve encountered in the last several months.

When Cindy learned of twin girls needing placement, Emmi and Charlette, she knew right away that she wanted to work with them. As a twin herself, Cindy understood the importance of finding the perfect match for two young women to continue living together.

Dolma Tsering recently became their provider and reports that everything is running smoothly! The following wrote-up was relayed by Dolma on behalf of Emmi and Charlette-

Two Hearts, One Home: A Journey of Care and Comfort

As a host home provider, I give love, care, and support, but I also know that the journey of adjustment is different for each person. On the 1st of May, 2025, the twins arrived at my home. I knew I could take care of them, but I was nervous about how they’d adjust to their new environment and routine.

The twins are very different from each other. One is quiet, spending most of their time reading, drawing, or watching their iPad in a peaceful corner. The other is talkative, always asking questions and sharing their thoughts, but also loves watching their iPad, especially for funny videos and shows.

Both of them love food. They don’t enjoy cooking, but they are always excited to try the meals I make. I surprise them with new snacks, and the talkative twin will ask for the recipe, while the quiet twin will enjoy the food quietly, offering a small smile of approval.

It wasn’t just the food that helped them settle in—it was the little things that made them feel more at home. Over time, the quiet twin started asking more questions and joining in, while the talkative twin began to enjoy the quiet moments too. They even helped around the house in their own way.

As a host home provider, I feel happiest when they are happy. Seeing their smiles, hearing their laughter, and knowing they are finding comfort here means the world to me. Adjusting to a new home wasn’t easy, but after some time, I could see them both becoming more comfortable. With patience, care, and a few tasty treats, they are beginning to feel like this place was truly home.

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Not only did Cindy work with the twins as a twin herself, Jessica (their Residential Program Coordinator) is a Mom to twins as well! Word spread internally that 3 three sets of twins shared a team. And then we realized that two other employees at Support, Inc. are also twins. How wild is that?!

We couldn’t let this opportunity pass without sharing these fun details about our staff. From the twins we serve to the employees at Support, Inc. and their loved ones, we are lucky to have so many cool stories to share!

Cindy Cridlebaugh: Intake Specialist- “Clark A” has a twin (Cristy Rusch) lovingly referred to as “Clark B”.

My favorite story is when we both were pregnant (with boys) at the same time. I was up in the labor and delivery room.  My sister was in the cafeteria eating lunch with our parents.  The doctor saw her, and said ‘You are supposed to be in bed, why are you down here?’”

Also, I was maid of honor at my sister’s wedding, I came down the aisle and everyone stood up.  I had to shake my head “no” to everyone- “I’m Cindy!!!!

Thoughts on the recent intake-“What a treat getting to meet the identical twin sisters! One of them is talkative, and the other one is more shy (common traits of twins). Knowing they can have rooms close to each other with a connecting jack-and-jill bathroom is the perfect setting for them. They’re both so sweet. 😊 And I plan on visiting a lot. 😊

Overall, I enjoy all of our staff, meeting new families and seeing the success’s they have. 😊 I’ve always enjoyed “working” because it doesn’t feel like work. And I always wanted Cristy to come to the Support, Inc. office and pretend to be me- but she wouldn’t. I went to her office and pretended to be her, but when I sat down with the sales manager- I couldn’t open her briefcase, so I started to giggle. The joke was up at that point.

Jessica Daniel and Residential Program Coordinator: Mom to 13-year old twins, Matthew and Madison

One of my favorite stories to tell about my twins is when they were about 1 years old, I put them down for a nap in their separate cribs (same room). I could hear them playing they liked to throw toys into each other cribs which were right next to each other. When I didn’t hear them playing any more, I went in to check on them and my daughter had climbed into her brother’s crib and both of them were asleep cuddled right next to each other. They fight like cats and dogs now but every now and then I’ll catch them sleeping in each other’s rooms. Mostly when one is sick or upset about something. I wouldn’t give up being a twin mom for anything in the world!

When I learned about Emmi and Charlette, I was super excited to hear about them joining our services. I think that twins are so fun to work with because they are so alike and so different from each other. I can’t wait to see how they grow and become a special part of our community.

Working with Support, Inc. has been an amazing opportunity for me and my twins. It offers me the flexibility to be able to attend their after-school activities and not have to miss anything that’s going on in their lives. Which is a lot – my son plays football and does karate, and my daughter is a ballerina and enjoys volleyball and track. They keep me very busy and I love knowing that Support, Inc. will support me and my family life as well as the individuals I serve.

Lily Kirkman, Benefits Specialist, Support, Inc.

Your twin’s name: Evan Kirkman

Favorite twin story: Well, since we’re not identical, I don’t have any mistaken identity stories like some of my twin counterparts might! Growing up we always figured out how to make a game out of anything. One of my favorite ones was silly and simple. When we’d go out to eat at a restaurant, we’d each take a sugar packet and the first person to find every letter of the alphabet would win! I usually won. Maybe that’s why I liked it so much.

What I like most about working for Support, Inc. is the people. I truly believe we have some of the most compassionate, dedicated, and fun people in our network. From the people receiving services, to HHPs and FCGs and their families, to internal staff- we are surrounded by wonderful humans.  

One last thing to add- my twin isn’t a stranger to working at Support, either😉. At different points over the years, he worked as a DSP in the Aurora Day Program, he was an RPC, and he temped in our accounting department helping with AP entries. He still holds the people in services and staff close to his heart.

Alex Ring/ Loveland RPC

Twin’s name: Kaitlyn Ring

There are two main types of twins – fFraternal and identical. When twins are born the doctors know twins are identical if they share one placenta, if they are separate then there is only a 30% chance that the twins are identical and a DNA test would need to be done to find out. Kaitlyn and I grew up with people who could never tell us apart and others who would hardly ever get us confused (no one has a 100% track record of not confusing us). In 2020 we got a DNA test done and had all of our friends and family guess if we were identical. People were pretty split, but our results came back as identical! We told everyone we were fraternal most of our lives but now we know for sure.

What I enjoy most about working with Support, Inc. is working on things for my people in services that make their lives better in some way. A lot of what we do is in the background but that is where we help the most!

My photo on the company page may or may not be my twin – you’ll never know.

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Thanks to Emmi and Charlette joining us recently, we had a lot of fun collecting these details on twins across the agency. Who knew we had so many twins at Support, Inc.? Thanks to everyone for participating and a special thank you to Dolma for her write-up as well!

Thanks again and as always, please keep Intake in mind for any DD waiver questions or needs!

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May Family Caregiver of the Month

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🌟 Provider of the Month: Kristi Martinez

A Foundation of Love, Dedication, and Unbreakable Commitment

We are proud to celebrate Kristi Martinez as PCR’s Provider of the Month — a recognition that reflects not just her extraordinary efforts, but the deep and enduring relationships she has built through years of love and unwavering service.

Kristi is more than a provider; she is the heart and backbone of her household. She recently stepped fully into the role of primary support for the home, and she has done so with remarkable grace and resilience. Whether coordinating critical agency needs, managing complex schedules, or performing the demanding tasks of her personal life, Kristi meets every challenge head-on — and always with heart.

In a time of transition, Kristi has ensured that both Cathy and Kelly continue to receive every opportunity to thrive in their community. She advocates fiercely for their needs, supports their goals, and remains steadfast in making sure their lives remain rich with dignity, connection, and purpose. Her commitment ensures that their options are never limited, and that every day includes access to joy, growth, and community inclusion.

Her collaboration with PCR staff is a shining example of partnership. Kristi communicates with clarity, responds with urgency, and always prioritizes thoughtful planning. Her proactive approach and genuine care make our jobs easier, and more fulfilling.

Having served as the RPC for this household, I had the privilege of experiencing Kristi’s warmth and sincerity firsthand. She welcomed me not only into the home, but into family traditions, celebrations, and the fabric of their daily lives. That openness extends to every new staff member — Kristi meets each person with kindness, trust, and an unwavering willingness to do whatever it takes to support her family’s wellbeing.

Kristi’s story is one of strength, sacrifice, and unshakable love. She is the kind of provider who reminds us of the power of compassion in action — and we are so lucky to have her as part of the PCR family.

Congratulations, Kristi — thank you for being the glue, the heart, and the example of what true support looks like.

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Support Inc. Network Spotlight- Chase

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Chase joined the Pueblo Community Resources and Support Inc. Network family upon turning 18, as he transitioned into adult services. His journey has been supported every step of the way by his dedicated mother, Autumn, who has worked tirelessly to ensure that Chase receives access to all the services and opportunities available to him.

Over the past year, Chase has demonstrated remarkable personal growth and has become an integral part of our community. He is a valued member of our karaoke group, often taking the lead as DJ and helping to create a fun, inclusive environment for his peers.

Chase has also excelled athletically, earning notable achievements in both wrestling and unified swimming, where he proudly qualified for the state competition. This year, he celebrates another significant milestone—graduating from Pueblo West High School!!

In addition to graduating, Chase received a very special award at his graduation ceremony, bringing the whole room to their feet and most everyone to tears. This award is given to one special needs student every year in the city of Pueblo who embodies the “Team Taneisha” spirit. Chase was awarded this beautiful honor for his helpfulness with his peers, regardless of their abilities. For his amazing positive attitude, his excellent participation in all his classes and activities, his energetic school spirit, kindness, and sportsmanship in all he participated in. Chase was celebrated for seeing the needs of others even while he navigates life with his own needs. He has been passionate about seeing everyone succeed around him and carries on the spirit of Ms. Taneisha’s legacy.

Chase looks toward the future with enthusiasm and optimism. We are incredibly proud of all that he has accomplished and are excited to see where his path will take him next. Congratulations, Chase, and thank you for letting us share the journey with you!

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Lucy Road Trips to San Diego!

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Support Inc. person receiving services, Lucy Casias, recently went on a road trip to San Diego for her birthday! She was accompanied by her Host Home Provider (HHP) on the trip. While in San Diego they had lunch at Chicken BBQ and took photos at the garden in Sea World. Lucy visited Korheim Korean Beauty where she bought make up and cute masks. Lucy and her HHP also went to Universal Studios theme park and visited Little Tokyo. Lucy said she really felt like she was in Japan and took many photos with characters throughout the park! We’re so happy that Lucy got to enjoy her birthday in San Diego!! We’re also appreciative of her Host Home Provider for assisting with this amazing trip! Check out pictures from the trip below.

 

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April Family Caregiver of the Month!

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We would like to nominate and congratulate Amy Vandermeer for our April Family Caregiver of the month! Amy like all our caregivers has an extremely hard job but always approaches everything with such patience and willingness. Recently Amy went on the trip of a lifetime to London to be present for her eldest son, David’s gradation from college. Prior to leaving she took so much extra time to ensure that her youngest son John’s care was planned and covered; So that he could be with natural supports and continue to feel truly cared about and loved as if mom had never left. It was amazing to witness. While Amy was gone for this extended period, no issues occurred largely due to her amazing love and support, which allowed for her to have the time of her life and be able to celebrate without worrying! The extra love and care she provides truly goes above and beyond every single day and it does not go unnoticed. Amy you are not just an amazing family caregiver but an amazing mom! Congratulations on being named our April Family Caregiver of the Month!

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Becky’s Bathroom Renovation

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We would like to congratulate person receiving services, Becky Krekow, and her Brother/Family Caregiver, Marty Krekow for their hard work in getting their recent bathroom renovation completed. As her Brother, Marty has always made sure Becky has all the supports needed for her to thrive in her home and in the community. This home renovation was not an easy one, but he made sure to reach out and make it happen! Please read a little message below from Marty:

“Becky needed a bathroom modification from a tub to a step-in shower with a seat for her bathing and personal hygiene needs. Her ability to enter and exit the bathtub had become increasingly more difficult as her slips and falls have also become more frequent. I was worried about Becky’s safety while bathing and possibly getting injured. As her brother and FCG, I’m looking out for Becky’s safety and well-being so she can maintain her health and most importantly her independence. I would like to recognize and give credit to all those involved that helped Becky receive a safe and comfortable way to maintain her personal hygiene and keep her independence.  The staff at Support Inc. (Paulyn, Ashley and Katie) and Developmental Pathways (Miranda Brinkman and Alexis Aviles) helped us navigate through the process to achieve the modification.”

Thanks to everyone for their hard work and congratulations to Becky on her new and improved bathroom!!