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05/09/22
Part C Tiny-k services transitioning from HACC to DSNWK
The Hays Area Children's Center (HACC) and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) are collaborating together on a transition process for Part C, Tiny-k services in Ellis County and a portion of Rush County.
Infant-toddler early intervention services are available to infants and toddlers to enhance development and minimize their potential for developmental delays, and to recognize the significant brain development that occurs during the child’s first three years. Intervention services include screenings, home visits, occupational, physical, speech or behavioral therapy and other intervention services.
This home-based service previously provided through the HACC, will officially transition over to DSNWK's Kid-Link services on May 15, 2022. The HACC will continue to operate their daycare services without change at the Children's Center on the FHSU campus.
Both the HACC and DSNWK are working to make this a smooth transition and would like to express our appreciation to all the affected families involved in this Part C, Tiny-k program for their help, patience and understanding as we work together through this transition process.
DSNWK's Kid-Link program has been proudly serving families in several surrounding counties in northwest Kansas including Norton, Phillips, Rooks, Smith, Osborne and Russell since 1976.
Parents involved in the Tiny-k program at the HACC can reach out with any questions about this change by calling HACC at (785) 625-3257. Over the next several weeks, direct outreach will be occurring with each enrolled family. New referrals in this area can be sent to DSNWK Kid-Link by faxing (785) 623-2867, phone (785) 621-5270, PO Box 310 or ASQ database
English: https://www.asqonline.com/family/eabcab
Spanish: https://www.asqonline.com/family/42baa5.
04/25/2022
Individuals served by DSNWK enjoy art collaboration
with first responders
On March 30th, Fort Hays State University hosted a Collaborative Arts project between persons served, FHSU students, and first responders. This event was sponsored by the FHSU Honor Society and in association with Disability Awareness Week. The event brought together persons served, first responders, and students to create art projects as well as build trust and teach effective communication between the participants.
Amy Schmeirbach, an Art Professor from FHSU, has been hosting Collaborative Arts Projects for six years. These events have been held at the Reed Center and Employment Connections, and were moved virtually during the pandemic. Schmierbach emphasizes the importance of art and communication, “For many of us we learn and communicate visually so making art helps us build confidence and articulate our voice,” stated Schmierbach.
Schmierbach wanted to include first responders in the project because persons with cognitive disabilities are at a higher risk of being victims of violence. Bringing together first responders and persons served in a safe, relaxed environment helps build trust and communication.
Schmeirbach also emphasizes the importance of students having experience with persons with disabilities. “Students learn what people with disabilities need to live and thrive in our community,” she says, “and what is lacking in services and in the educational system”. Students work closely with persons served to assist with their art projects.
04/25/2022
Graham County Community Foundation supports DSNWK with AED
Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas will be getting a new automated external defibrillator (AED) thanks to a $891.00 grant from the Graham County Community Foundation. The AED will be utilized at its group home that serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Hill City located at 122 W. Prout Street.
The AED will allow DSNWK staff to be better equipped for cardiac arrest-type situations should they occur. Having AEDs in all DSNWK locations helps increase the ability to implement EMS advice on-site to save the life of someone as they wait for an emergency responder to arrive on scene. All DSNWK staff are trained to use the AED devices through its staff training program.
“DSNWK hopes never to be put into a situation where an AED is needed,” states Jerry Michaud, DSNWK President. “This grant helps us to be better prepared for these time sensitive situations with the right equipment to ensure the best care and response, especially as our population continues to age.”
DSNWK is a 501c3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.
