CAUSES I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT

UTE INDIAN MUSEUM

Located in Montrose, Colorado this museum features an amazing array of Ute artifacts and historical displays. The Ute people say they have been here for as long as anyone can remember. The museum sits on the site of the old homestead that once belonged to Chipeta and Chief Ouray, part of the Los Pinos II Indian Agency. Ute history comes alive at the Ute Indian Museum. It provides cultural and STEM programs meant to enrich and educate the public about Indigenous cultures and the Ute People.

https://www.historycolorado.org/ute-indian-museum

https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/history/chronology/

https://www.utemountainutetribe.com

https://www.utetribe.com/

https://www.historycolorado.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020/full_nuu-ciu_strong_resource_guide_cde_.pdf

PARKINSON’S DISEASE

In recent years, I have had the privilege of teaching art to persons with Parkinson’s disease. While I was working at Covenant Living of Colorado, we started P.E.A.C.E. (Parkinson’s Exploring Art and Creative Expression) after a resident was encouraged to take an art class to help with small motor skills. In 2015 we had our first class with a small group, and four years later had a regular group of 8-10 artists who met every week to explore art. Students in the class had some experience or none, it didn’t matter.

We came to paint, draw, assemble, and write to express ourselves. Tremors in the arms and legs gave way to calm during the creative process.

It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had. We have had exhibitions and done a large group “Paint with Parkinson’s” with the Parkinson’s of the Rockies organization.
www.parkinsonrockies.org

CENTER FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: BEYOND VISION PEER GROUPS

As a Resident Life Director at Covenant Living of Colorado for 7 ½ years, I had the privilege of getting to know the staff and volunteers at the Beyond Vision program through the Center for People with Disabilities. They provided people with the much need resources as they navigated the world of low or no vision. They updated our group members with the latest resources and technologies geared toward improving the quality of life.

In recent years, my connection to Beyond Vision became personal, when my own vision became difficult due to a variety of issues. Two eye muscle surgeries later, injections, and constantly changing vision, my right eye was patched permanently. Through these trying times, The Beyond Vision Peer Group, provided me with much needed support helping me find ways in which to navigate my world.

The Center for People with Disabilities is a wonderful resource for persons with low or no vision and their caregivers
www.cpwd.org