In March of each year in recognition of Disability Awareness Month, Rauch offers two activities to fourth grade students in our community. This is an annual event for 4th graders. Many schools and teachers have made it an integral part of their annual curriculum. To date over 5,500 4th grade students in Floyd and Clark Counties have participated in this annual event.
Read MoreI spent today at the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Kentucky statewide conference. While it was an interesting, engaging, inspiring, and enlightening day in many ways, there were aspects that made me feel a bit small. But then I realized how lucky I am.
No, we do not regularly get $1 million gifts at Rauch. Nor do we regularly receive $100,000 donations. Or $10,000 contributions. Or - let's be honest - $1,000 ones. But, you know what? We celebrate every dollar our donors invest in our agency. Truly.
Read MoreOn behalf of the 2014 Imagine Awards judging panel, the Rauch Foundation is pleased to announce this year's Imagine Awards Honorees. Please join us in congratulating the following deserving recipients!
For many years, artistic exploration has been a focus of Rauch's programming for people with disabilities. Beginning with A Place to Create downtown New Albany and now operating as The Studio at Fairmont Neighborhood Center, a division of our Adult Developmental Activities program, our talented staff have guided program participants in a variety of activities. As a result, these individuals have discovered a creative outlet, new ways of expression, and a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Read More
Each year, our ADA and ACCESS programs gather to celebrate the holidays with a pot luck lunch, a visit from Santa, some carols, and a few gifts. Loved ones of those we serve graciously make this special day possible with contributions to purchase food and gifts, and many bring a dish to share.
This year, ADA & ACCESS Director Sandy Braunbeck kicked the festivities off by introducing all the Rauch program participants in attendance. Everyone was celebrated with their own round of applause, and the family and friends in attendance got some special waves and smiles in return.
Read MoreEach year, we host a holiday celebration for participants in all our programs… the most genuinely and completely joyful day we have all year. On Christmas Eve, our clients and staff will gather atRauch Industries to dance, dine, and be merry… and yes, receive a small gift. Can you help?
Read MoreThe Rauch Foundation and Title Sponsor Horizon Wealth Management are thrilled to announce that the 2014 Imagine Awards will feature the talents of entertainer Sujeet Desai. An accomplished musician who was born with Down syndrome, Mr. Desai plays seven instruments: soprano and bass clarinet, alto saxophone, violin, trumpet, drums and piano. He graduated from high school with honors and completed a two-year residential post-secondary study in Music and Human Services at Berkshire Hills Music Academy in Massachusetts. Sujeet lives independently in his home in Niagara Falls, NY.
Read MoreToday, I had the happy experience of being the guest of theHorseshoe Foundation of Floyd County at the Association of Fundraising Professionals Louisville Chapter's National Philanthropy Day Luncheon. It's an event that reminds you of the potential we all have within us to do good, make change, and give back. They honored a bevy of individuals and organizations who have devoted countless hours to the betterment of the greater Louisville community - a truly uplifting experience that puts your heart and mind in the right place.
Read MoreLast year, Dr. Joseph A. Fleck, DDS; Mr. Andrew Ganote; and Ms. Kim Kruer had a moment in the limelight in recognition of their contributions for individuals with disabilities. Who will be honored this year?
Read MoreLike all of us, the people Rauch serves have an array of interests, abilities, goals, and dreams. Staff members like Peggy Pinaire spend their days helping these individuals on their journey of expanding those abilities, enjoying these interests, and achieving their goals and dreams. Along this path, however, Peggy often finds that our clients give back just as much as they receive.
Read MoreI was struck by something almost right away when I came to work at Rauch - how much the people in our programs enjoy having their photos taken. Many times, if they spotted me with a camera, they would ask me to take their picture. They would remember for weeks and ask me to print them a copy of it.
Most of the people we serve at Rauch aren't worried about their smile looking just right, sporting the latest fashions, or if the camera adds five or ten pounds to their frame. They take joy in the simple pleasure of having their image captured to keep for themselves or share with loved ones... something I've found to be incredibly refreshing.
Read More(adapted from a story written by Pam Sinsel)
Pam, a Rauch Supported Employment Consultant, first met John in late 2012. He was a very large fellow with piercing blue eyes and a somewhat disheveled appearance. He was very quiet and seemed guarded when speaking to her. At first glance, he appeared intimidating.
John wanted to work in food service. After several meetings and through setting small goals for him, his grooming improved. He became more trusting of Pam and began to share information about his interests and dreams, including that he enjoys photography and would like to eventually become a chef.
Read More
