We just read an article about how Big Sandy Activities required new vans. However, Big Sandy is more than new vans. Those who have lived in Big Sandy know Big Sandy Activities was started by Connie Green, who was passionate about serving people with disabilities in 1974. They started a day program in 1975 and Incorporated in 1976. She hired Doris Gullickson and then Lenore Marx. Doris and Lenore still work for Big Sandy Activities; the only individual here is Donald Christianson. The first group home was started in 1992. It's almost 50 years old.
Donald and Ronald, his brother, used to walk all around Big Sandy, and everyone knew them. Ronald recently passed away. Occasionally, someone will ask me how Donald is doing. He lives in the group home now and is happy because he loves being with people and constantly interacting and visiting with everyone. He still attends church every Sunday because it is very important.
The old vans will be sold shortly, and one could easily make it into a traveling camper.
Covid changed how things are done. The state realizes that people are real, so the craziness for perfection has relaxed slightly. "Yes, the rules are still there. Some of the rules are different, but they also realize that we're human.
Like all businesses in Big Sandy, Big Sandy Activities has found it difficult to find enough employees. However, recently, the board approved increases in the pay scale, which Heather Pleninger, Executive Director, hopes will help with hiring.
Big Sandy would be a great place to get a second job. It's just like working at home, and Heather would easily work with individuals if they only wanted a few hours.
I recently talked to an employee at the women's home who told me she "actually looks forward to it" because "I feel like I'm growing a special bond with each of the girls separately. We all have our little connections. It was hard to remember their routines, but I got it down now. I just love being around the girls. They're amazing people."
Doris Gullickson, who has been working on and off at the Big Sandy Activities, passionately believes the personal relationships between the staff and individuals stand out as extraordinaire. It's just out of the ordinary! Birthdays, holidays, and especially Christmas are just over the top.
Connie Green still cares and always comments on Heather's wonderful job as Executive Director. So take time to look into the possibility of a part-time or full-time job at Big Sandy Activities.
