empower: abilities

Empower: abilities currently seeking a Consumer Directed Services (CDS) Specialist to join our team. This is a rewarding position for someone who is passionate about helping individuals with disabilities live independently and direct their own services.

As a CDS Specialist, you will build meaningful relationships with consumers, provide training and support, advocate for independent living, and connect individuals with resources that help them achieve their goals. Every day offers the opportunity to make a real difference in someone's life.

At empower: abilities, we believe in choice, independence, inclusion, and community. Our team is dedicated to empowering people with disabilities, and we are looking for someone who shares that commitment. If you are seeking a career with purpose, where your work has a direct and positive impact, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, view the position on Indeed CDS- Indeed (link in the comments) or send a resume directly to:

Sara Nuñez | [email protected] | 417-886-1188

Thank you for helping us spread the word as we continue our mission of empowering individuals to live independently and thrive in their communities.

Tune in to Prime Time today at 4:00 pm on 92.3 FM - KICK.

We'll be joined by Chance Hasten from Jordan Valley Health for an important conversation about healthcare access, community resources, and the services available to help individuals and families stay healthy and connected to care.

Whether you're looking for a primary care provider, behavioral health services, dental care, or support navigating healthcare options, this discussion will highlight resources that can make a difference right here in our community.

Join us as we explore how Jordan Valley is working to improve health outcomes and expand access to care for people across southwest Missouri.

Hello, June!

A new month brings new opportunities to learn, grow, connect, and build independence.

As we welcome June, we're looking forward to helping individuals and families access resources, overcome barriers, and achieve their goals. From community events and workshops to advocacy and independent living services, we're proud to walk alongside the people we serve every step of the way.

Here's to longer days, new possibilities, and a summer filled with connection, accessibility, and empowerment.

Happy June from all of us at empower: abilities! 💙

Empower Hour Episode 11 has been released! Empower Hour is a podcast dedicated to connecting people with the knowledge, resources, and stories that strengthen disability services and accessibility. Through thoughtful conversations, we aim to inform, empower, and build a more inclusive community.

In the eleventh episode of Empower Hour, we sit down with Kevin Rusenstrom from SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging to discuss what it means to age well and maintain independence throughout life.

Kevin shares insights on the importance of staying active, connected, and engaged as we age. The conversation explores how independence looks different for everyone and why having the ability to make choices about your own life remains important at every age. We also discuss practical ways to avoid isolation, stay involved in your community, and maintain meaningful relationships and activities.

The episode highlights how today's older adults are redefining aging. Many continue to work, volunteer, mentor others, care for family members, and contribute their knowledge and experience in ways that strengthen their communities. Kevin also discusses aging in place, retirement, and the growing emphasis on personal choice and autonomy when planning for later life.

Whether you are thinking about your own future, supporting an aging loved one, or simply interested in the conversation around aging and independence, this episode offers valuable perspectives on staying connected, engaged, and empowered throughout the aging process. Links are in the comments.

Families Eating Smart and Moving More Workshop Series
Presented by MU Extension

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- Quick and easy meal ideas
- How to save time and money
- Way to make movement fun
- Guidance on healthy choices when eating out

WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Try new recipes
- Tips for grocery shopping on a budget
- Take-home recipes
- FABULOUS PRIZES

Each participant who attends all 6 sessions will earn a FREE SMALL APPLIANCE of their choice (approval needed)

Sessions:
June 10th, 12:30 PM
June 17th, 12:30 PM
June 24th, 12:30 PM
July 15th, 12:30 PM
July 22nd, 12:30 PM
July 29th, 12:30 PM

Location: Empower: Abilities, 1450 W Cambridge St, Springfield, MO 65807
Contact Donna to register 417-886-1188 x 225

Thank you, Abilities First, for your continued partnership and support of programs that help people with disabilities stay independent. Our Independence Kitchen project will enable all abilities to learn essential cooking skills and nutrition. We can't wait for you to see it in operation at our new location.

Build confidence. Learn practical skills. Empower yourself. 💙

Join us for a FREE Adaptive Self-Defense Class presented by Valley Self Defense at empower: abilities.

Participants will learn practical, easy-to-remember techniques designed to increase confidence and provide skills that could make all the difference in a difficult situation.

June 25
5:00–7:00 PM
empower: abilities 1450 W. Cambridge, Springfield

Light snacks will be provided.

Important: Participants will be required to sign a waiver before participating. Minors and individuals with a guardian or legal authority must have that individual present prior to participation to complete required forms.

Come learn, connect, and build skills in a supportive environment.

Questions? Contact us for more information or to register 417-886-1188
Limited spots available.

Your voice matters. Community input creates stronger solutions. 💙

Our partners at OACAC Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation are conducting a Community Needs Assessment to help guide programs and services over the next three years, and they want to hear from YOU.

This survey helps identify challenges and opportunities impacting our communities and covers topics including:

✔ Employment
✔ Education
✔ Housing
✔ Health
✔ Technology
✔ Community Leadership

There are no right or wrong answers—just your experiences, perspectives, and ideas. Whether your responses are brief or detailed, your feedback can help shape future programs and community priorities.

⏱ Survey time: Approximately 10–15 minutes

Your input today can help create a stronger community tomorrow.
You can find the link in the comments.

Our Access Team is excited to participate in the Assistive Technology Resource Fair at the Springfield-Greene County Library District this Friday!

Join us and explore innovative tools and technology designed to help individuals increase independence, improve accessibility, and make everyday life easier.

From devices that support mobility, communication, vision, hearing, and daily living, assistive technology can open doors and create new possibilities for people of all ages and abilities.

📅 Friday
⏰ 4:30 – 7:00 PM
📍 Springfield-Greene County Library District

Stop by and connect with our team, ask questions, discover available resources, and see some of the latest technology that can support independence at home, work, school, and in the community.

Whether you're looking for solutions for yourself, a loved one, or simply want to learn more, we’d love to see you there!

See how assistive technology can support daily life with demonstrations from local experts from 4:30-7 p.m. Friday, May 29, in the Library Center Annie Busch Community Room.

ATTENTION: Youth Social Club

Our Picnic in the Park activity has been postponed until June due to pending soggy weather. Join us at the Center for Youth Game Night—a weekly space to play, laugh, and socialize.

🗓 Thursdays | 4:00–6:00 PM
👥 Ages 14–24

🚗 Transportation is not provided by empower: abilities.
👨‍👩‍👧 Parents, guardians, and attendants are welcome to stay and socialize during game time.

If you have questions, contact Nikki at 417-886-1188.