| |  | Wishing a Happy Birthday to all our amazing volunteers who are Celebrating their big day in September! | | BRUCE ROSAND - Sep 2 KATHY STRAUSS - Sep 2 Bonnie Roettger - Sep 4 DARLENE KONGSHAUG - Sep 4 Lucy Palmer - Sep 4 Marloyen DeLaine - Sep 5 SUE GAVIN - Sep 5 LINDA GILL - Sep 7 MARY ANN JOHNSON - Sep 8 | | | Nikki Hoffart - Sep 17 STEPHENIE MODE - Sep 18 JULIE WASSER - Sep 22 MORIAH KLEJESKI - Sep 22 Jane Scholz - Sep 23 LINDA HOLM - Sep 24 PAT SAWYER - Sep 28 KIERAN KRENTZ - Sep 29 | | | | | | | | Adoray Announces Christa Walz as New Executive Director | | | | The Adoray Home Health & Hospice Board of Directors is proud to announce the appointment of Christa Walz as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective September 15, 2024. Christa Walz succeeds Mary Aaby in the role, marking the start of a new chapter in Adoray’s nearly 30-year history of providing compassionate care and support to patients and families throughout Western Wisconsin. A local from Glenwood City, WI, Christa Walz has spent the past 19 years at Adoray, beginning her journey as a Physical Therapist before advancing to Director of Therapy and then Senior Director of Home Health. Raising her family in this community with her husband Gabe, daughter Haidyn, and son Langston, her dedication to service and community has been the cornerstone of her career, making her an ideal choice as the organization’s 5th leader. | | | | Christa holds her Masters in Physical Therapy from The College of St. Scholastica and is the current WiAHC Vice Chair, At Large Director. Throughout her tenure, Christa has been instrumental in the success and sustainability of Adoray’s Home Health department, skillfully navigating the numerous changes brought by CMS over the past two decades. She has ensured that Adoray’s Home Health services remain a vital resource for the community by implementing innovative solutions, such as Remote Patient Monitoring, which empowers patients to maintain good lifestyle habits, adhere to their care plans after receiving care, and reduce the risk of rehospitalization. Christa’s forward-thinking leadership and commitment to quality care will help guide Adoray into the future | |  | Hello, Adoray Family I am thrilled to take a moment to introduce myself as your new Executive Director, though many of you may already know me from my 19 years here at Adoray. I’ve had the privilege of growing with this organization in so many ways, and I’m incredibly excited to continue this journey with all of you. A little about myself… Where do you live and/or where are you from? I was born and raised in Glenwood City. After attending college at St. Scholastica in Duluth, my husband Gabe and I moved to Boyceville where we have lived ever since. Fun fact is that we are Junior High Sweethearts, having dated since 8th grade. We love raising our children in a small community like how we were raised. Gabe unfortunately has the longer commute to work for Polaris in Wyoming MN. What unique skills, interests or talents do you have? I am an interior decorator by heart. I love designing spaces and bringing a sense of comfort and style to a room. I also have a love for fashion and clothing. I used to do hair and makeup for weddings and many prom goers over the years. Who is in your immediate family? My Husband Gabe of 20 years, my daughter Haidyn who is a flight attendant for Southwest and lives in Chicago and my son Langston who is a baseball loving sophomore at Glenwood City High School. Why did you choose to work at Adoray? I have been at Adoray for 19 years. It is where my heart and passion are. I came to Adoray at the encouragement of my Mother in Law after seeing an ad in the paper for a Physical Therapist and the rest is history. I also had the honor of being on the receiving end of our services 6 and a half years ago as my sisters and I were caregivers for my mother in the last year of her life. I am truly blessed to work for such an amazing company that cares for this community for the past 30 years with compassion and grace. What do you like to do when you are not working? I love riding motorcycle with my husband, this is where I can be 100% stress free riding through the countryside, many times recognizing so many places that I visited patients over the many years as a physical therapist covering half of our service area. I enjoy going camping with our family and watching whatever hobby my children love, many years spent at horse arenas watching my daughter as a barrel racer and now on the baseball fields watching my son live out his passion. I also love to travel which has become even more fun now that I get to take advantage of the free flying since my daughter is a flight attendant for Southwest. I’m looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you better and I will be joining the upcoming Treasures Stores Volunteer Appreciation Lunches and bringing cupcakes. Let's continue the incredible work Adoray has done for our community over the past 29 years. Together, I know we will continue to make a meaningful impact with compassion and grace. Thank you for welcoming me into this new role. I’m excited for what the future holds! Warmly,
Christa Walz
Executive Director, Adoray Home Health & Hospice | | | | | | | | We're thrilled to announce that Adoray Home Health & Hospice has received a generous $2,000 donation from the St. Croix Electric Cooperative (SCEC) Board through their Operation Round Up program! This incredible contribution, made possible by SCEC members who round up their bills to the nearest dollar, will go towards purchasing Companion Pets for our Dementia patients. These lifelike pets provide essential comfort and companionship to those living with Dementia, and we couldn't be more grateful to SCEC and their amazing members for helping make this possible. We are beyond Thankful for their vital support in bringing joy and comfort to our patients! | |  | | | | | We are excited to share about the inaugural Dementia Caregivers Conference on October 22nd, where we unite to empower and educate those at the heart of dementia care in our community. This free event, hosted by Adoray Home Health & Hospice and Western Wisconsin Health, promises an afternoon filled with enriching discussions and expert insights. Dive into the complexities of dementia with Sheri Fairman, a renowned specialist and Certified Teepa Snow Trainer, to explore practical strategies to enhance your caregiving journey. From understanding the nuances of our aging brains to embracing the progression of dementia with a fresh perspective, this conference is an essential beacon for caregivers seeking guidance and support. | |  | | | | | | |  | Hospice Volunteers! Labor day, American Chess day, National Pet Rock day, Pink Cadillac Day, World Letter Writing Day, National Blueberry Popsicle Day, World Coconut Day, World Beard Day, National Skyscraper day, Eat an extra dessert day, National Wildlife day, National Be Late for Something day, National Cheese Pizza Day, National Read a Book day, National Hummingbird day, World Beard day, National TV Dinner day, National Chocolate Milkshake day, National Hug your Boss Day. | | | | This is the list of just a few of Holidays and observances that September 2024 has to offer. Every day there is something to celebrate, something to recognize and something to be thankful for. One specific thing that stood out to me the most and that has been on my mind lately is observed on September 5th International Day of Charity. Originally a Hungarian civil society initiative to commemorate Mother Teresa’s death, International Day of Charity on September 5 took off worldwide in 2012 when the UN declared it an international holiday. Besides honoring Mother Teresa’s tireless work to help others overcome poverty and suffering, the holiday provides a platform for charitable opportunities to take place. This day reminds us that simple acts of charity can alleviate the worst effects of humanitarian crises and create more inclusive and resilient societies. Just the other day I found a very powerful quote about charity: “Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don’t judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone’s differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn’t handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of another’s weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other.” Marvin J. Ashton Charity is what each one of you, as volunteers, do, with every visit they make, every song you play, every hand you hold. Our patients are touched in so many ways by each one of you. Thank you. Keep being amazing and touching the lives of our patients. Martina😊 | | | | Welcome to team Adoray!
We are excited to introduce 3 new Hopsice Volunteers who will be sharing their
time and talents with our patients. Thanks for joining our circle of care! | | Mary Hejny Where do you live/where are you from?
Hudson, WI is where I reside currently. I am originally from St. Paul, MN What unique skills, interests, or talents do you have?
I love reading out loud. I love writing and journaling. I love doing a variety of crafts and participating in my two grandchildren’s homeschooling. What do you enjoy doing when you are not volunteering?
Long walks in nature, studying my bible, reading of listening to books on tape, spending time with my family, playing 500 at the Senior Center and going on outings with the group. Why were you interested in volunteering?
Because my husband was on hospice for a year-and-a-half. I experienced firsthand the amount of good it did for my husband and myself. Why did you choose Adoray to give your time?
I is the hospice agency my husband utilized and was recommended to us by more than one source. | | | | Karen Cowles Where do you live/where are you from?
I live in Baldwin, WI. Originally from Stillwater, MN What unique skills, interests, or talents do you have?
Active listening, compassion, enjoy building relationships, choir member (so some signing). What do you enjoy doing when you are not volunteering?
Reading, sewing, cooking, babysitting grandchildren, small groups with church friends, puzzles, quilt tying. Why were you interested in volunteering?
I have a heart for people needing companionship when they are feeling alone, sick, etc. Why did you choose Adoray to give your time?
Close to home, familiar with Treasures from the Heart, my daughter is a nurse/case manager with Adoray. | | | | Jenny Most Where do you live/where are you from?
Live in River Falls and from Spring Valley, WI What unique skills, interests, or talents do you have?
I’m a great listener and can easily relate to people. Fun Facts: I have a red ’69 Camaro and I enjoy shooting archery. What do you enjoy doing when you are not volunteering?
Summertime fishing, baking, spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing with my pups. Why were you interested in volunteering?
I know how valued hospice services are to patients and families. I enjoy helping and serving people, especially in times of great need. Why did you choose Adoray to give your time?
Adoray provides exceptional service to its clients by its amazing employees and volunteers. It’s a supportive and welcoming environment, which is important for end of life care. | | | | Martina Steltzner
Hospice Volunteer Manager Contact Information
Direct Cell: 715-928-9981
Email: m.steltzner@adoray.org | | | | | | | |  | | | Treasures Volunteer Drawing Winners River Falls: Baldwin: Barb Neilsen Osceola: George Viellieux | | | |  | Store Hours and Donations:
OPEN:
Mondays 12:00pm - 6:00pm
(Baldwin & River Falls Only | No Donations Accepted)
Tuesdays - Fridays 10:00am - 6:00pm
(Donations Accepted 10am-5pm)
Saturdays 10:00am - 3:00pm
(Donations Accepted 10am-2pm)
Sundays 10:00am - 3:00pm
(River Falls Only | No Donations Accepted) FOR DONATIONS:
Donations are accepted Tuesday - Saturday up to 1 hour before closing.
Please call each store directly regarding large donations.
💥Get Double Punches with every purchase of $20 or more ALL DAY Wednesday!💥 Join us on Facebook!
Click on the links below to go to each store page.
💜 Adoray's Treasures from the Heart - Osceola
💜 Adoray's Treasures from the Heart - River Falls
💜 Adoray's Treasures from the Heart - Baldwin | | | |  | | | | | | |  | Welcome Back Joanne! Joanne has never left but has been busy behind the scenes preparing the Bath & Body items and Office Supplies. We are thrilled that she is back in the saddle and able to help us out cashiering once again! Joanne enjoys the interaction with the customers. Welcome back to the front line Joanne and thank you for all you do for Adoray! Stop in on Tuesday late afternoon or Saturday afternoon and visit with Teresa. Thanks Teresa for volunteering, we are happy you joined Team Adoray! | | | | | |  | September is BOGO Month in River Falls. We join forces with the other River Falls Thrift Stores and encourage everyone to shop smart! Make sure to stop in for a coupon when visiting River Falls! Fall is in the air! We are getting ready for the Hallo-thanks-mas Season! Any extra time you have to share with us is greatly appreciated! We are fortunate to have you all on the Adoray Team. THANK YOU! | | | | | | | |  | This months Volunteer spotlight is Sharon Janske Sharon lives in Baldwin and is originally from Mondovi and Alma. Sharon helps with bagging items at the cash wrap for the cashier, Sharon also helps with tagging clothes and putting merchandise on the floor in between customers. When Sharon isn't sharing her time with Treasures, she loves spending time with her daughter in Woodbury and going to concerts with her. Sharon also enjoys spending time with her friend up north baking. Sharon loves shopping, Micky Mouse, the Packers, and dancing. We thank Sharon for sharing her time with us. | | | | We are excited for all the Chili Fest fun this Saturday, September 28th on Main Street, Baldwin. Come on down and enjoy all the great chili's and help vote for Adoray Booth for Best Chili and Booth Design. A Reminder due to the street closure on Saturday, we will not be accepting any donations. | | | | | | | | | |  | Coincidentally, this month we have a story that features George - way to go! Some time ago, George came to vounteer and shared with staff that he had gone on a Trishaw ride in New Richmond with his sister. He was very enthusiastic about this and suggested that Sonya take ride herself. So, fast forward to this July when George set up a time for both he and Sonya to take a ride on the Trishaw around New Richmond! Here they are, enjoying a brisk Friday morning ride, over 10 miles of trails and streets and a wonderful tour of historic New Richmond. If you've never done this, you may want to consider. The nonprofit organization that owns the trishaw is called Cycling Without Age and here is a link to their site to learn more. | | | | | |  | Thank you all for a wonderful fellowship at the Village Pizzeria! It filled my heart that so many of you could attend and/or had contributed to the beautiful gifts and meal. I truly treasure each of you and the time we shared over the past 8+ years. We created the BEST store in Osceola-TOGETHER! I am so proud of our team and will cherish the good memories we shared. Please keep in touch. I would love to hear what you're up to and I will keep in touch with you as well. Carry on your good works!! You are each amazing. With much love, Sonya | | | | | | We are excited to announce that Tia Erickson has been promoted to
Store Manager of Adoray’s Treasures from the Heart Osceola! | | Tia has been an invaluable part of the team as a Store Associate for nearly three years, and her dedication to Adoray has truly shone through. Beyond her role at Treasures, Tia is a talented singer, delighting audiences at our 2023 Adoray Staff Picnic, Veterans Day Ceremonies, and at care facilities in Osceola. Her passion for Adoray, bringing joy to others, combined with her creativity, makes her the perfect fit for this role. We can't wait to see her vision take Treasures Osceola to new heights! | | | | | | | | Adoray Volunteers Needed!!
As our census grows - so do our requests for Volunteers from our patients and families. We are in need of more Hospice Volunteers. If you know anyone who would be interested in sharing their gifts and time to help care for our community.
Please have them contact Martina. We are also in need of cashiers at our Baldwin and River Falls stores.
2 person teams would be great! We are hoping to find two friends or family members to come 1 afternoon a month or every other week and share a shift cashiering together! What a Great way to meet people and spend time with your friend or family member while giving back to your community! If you know of anyone who would like to Volunteer at one of our wonderful Treasures from the Heart stores.
Please have them call the store they are interested in Volunteering at directly. | | | |  | | | | | Virtual Suggestion Box Do you have ideas on how to make Adoray a better place to work and care for patients? Submit your ideas using the virtual suggestion box. This box will be monitored daily and will be forwarded to the appropriate manager for action. | | | | | | Adoray Home Health & Hospice
990 Main Street, Suite 1, Suite 1 | Baldwin, Wisconsin 54002
715-629-1888 | a.bettinger@adoray.org | | Get Social with Adoray Today! | | | | | | |
