Marilyn Meisenzahl

Mar 1, 2007

Sometimes some of the nicest things come in small packages. The OBRA program is small but powerful in what it has been able to accomplish for people in area nursing homes who have a diagnosis of mental retardation. SPIN's therapeutic recreation specialists visit each person, plans activities to do on the visits and when possible take people out into the community. A key part of the TR specialist role is to build a relationship with the staff at each nursing home as a way of building social capital for the residents. 

You are excellent in the advocate role! For example, over the past year you have worked hard to help Tracey to get a new and improved wheelchair. Though there were tremendous barriers, you persisted and Tracey finally has her new chair and is thriving as a result. You've also helped open up the Norcom Community Center for some residents and staff of the Somerton Springs Nursing Home. They've come to sample some classes and see the Talent Show and have had a wonderful time. Getting out into the community is not something people in nursing homes often have the opportunity to do. With your help they have enjoyed this new experience. We can all take some lessons from your quiet, persistent approach and your determination to overcome barriers to help people. 

So it is a pleasure to honor you today as Employee of the Month and to thank you on behalf of the SPIN, Inc. Board of Directors, your fellow employees, and all of the people who benefit so much from your work. I'll steal a line from Carla Higgins, "It's a beautiful thing!" 


Sincerely,


Trina Losinno
Executive Director