Yippie Skippy

P.S. The next post–What does this mean?–invites your advice, recommendations and suggestions.

With joy and thanksgiving, I accepted the position of “Corporate Director Marketing & Communications” with Bethesda Lutheran Communities in Watertown, Wis. To accommodate my mobility issues, I will begin in August.  We’re exploring how contract work might allow me to jump in (so to speak) earlier while working from home.

Bethesda Lutheran Communities’ mission is “to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through services that share the good news of Jesus Christ.” In 13 states, over 3,000 employees offer faith supports, residential services, case management, supported employment, day services, short-term care, camping experiences and supports for community based living. There are 10,000 Bethesda volunteers, often engaged with Bethesda Thrift Shops, camps, facilities, parent groups and auxiliaries.

Bethesda is a 109-year-old organization closely tied to The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. Parish Ministry Consultants and regional Religious Life Directors work with an ecumenical network of 200-plus Christian congregations, church-schools and faith-based organizations committed to full inclusion. Bethesda Institute provides consultation, resources, research, education, professional training and leadership development. Bethesda Voices is a grass-roots advocacy program that works to mobilize for improved and sustained state and federal funding for developmental disability programs and supports. Bethesda extends its services in several other countries through IMPACT, an organization that provides assistance to international NGOs working with people with developmental disabilities. It also works closely with LCMS World Relief and Human Care in their international outreach.

Taking notes on Bethesda materials, I wrote “Included. In faith. Involved.” And, happily, I will soon be a Bethesda Lutheran Communities insider!

—Sue Edison-Swift (6/9/2011)