The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin": Vol. 2025 #10: 12-4-24

VOLUME 2025           DECEMBER 4         NUMBER 10

President Greg McCune welcomed everyone this morning, Bruce McMillan gave us our morning reflection, that was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  

ACHES & PAINS: Find the good in each other and remember, kindness always matters.    

PROGRAM:  President Greg McCune handed the meeting over to Mike Fincham, who introduced us to our speaker, Michael Peschel, CEO of Twin Valley Developmental Services.  Michael Peschel graduated from KSU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences with an emphasis on Social Welfare.  Before Joining Twin Valley in 2020, he worked for 6 to 7 years in the Foster Care System as well as 5 years or so with Social Rehabilitation Services (SRS).  Michael also worked for 4 years at Via Christie Village.  And as a side note, from 2001-2005 he was the Equipment Manager for the Kansas State Wildcat Football Team and served as a special assistant to the legendary coach, Bill Snyder!  Michael is married and has 4 children.

Today Michael is providing information about Twin Valley Developmental Services.  What does Twin Valley do?  They serve individuals with developmental disabilities in Marshall and Washington Counties in day center work and living programs such as group homes, assisted living and independent living.  The Corporate office is located in Greenleaf Kansas with additional offices located in Marysville Kansas as well as Beattie Kansas.  In comparison, they operate much the same as Big Lakes, like we have here in Manhattan. 

Our mission is to assist the individuals we serve to live more robust lives and actively support their inclusion in their local communities.  What sets us apart is our commitment to not only providing life and job skills, but also creating real, on-site work opportunities as well as independent living spaces for our individuals.  In 2004, a thrift shop was opened in Waterville Kansas that sells high-quality recycled clothing and housewares as well as baling and selling clothing for delivery to third world countries.  This provides funding opportunities as well as work opportunities for these individuals. 

They have since opened a second location in Beattie Kansas. 

The First CEO of Twin Valley, Ed Henry, was instrumental in the movement to encourage individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently outside of large institutions.  Seeing success placing individuals into group homes and supported living, Ed took it a step further to foster even more independence for those who were able.  Twin Valley has assisted many individuals to not only get their “own” jobs and live in their “own” place, but to become more active and very productive citizens in their local communities.

“Founded by a group of passionate parents and advocates, our goal has always been to provide a safe and nurturing environment for developmentally and intellectually disabled adults.” 

“A person with intellectual and developmental disabilities is still a person with desires and needs.  We recognize and honor them, their journeys and their goals for their life.”

Thank you, Michael, for all you do, what a meaningful and rewarding career!

Thank you to all who helped this first weekend of Tree Sales.  70% of the inventory has been sold.  Thank you to all working extra shifts, it has been much appreciated.

There was a great article in the Manhattan Mercury about the two co-chairs who will be stepping back after more than 25 years of running this event!  It was a great article, if you have not read it, go on-line and do so! 
Please remember to wear your name badges so everyone knows who we/you are!  This is especially helpful to our newest members.
Hoop Holler & Shoot-Girls semi-finals and finals coming right up.  Please let Thad Hall know if you are available to assist.  Many thanks to all who have helped this far, it’s been successful. 
T-Ball – In working with Manhattan Parks and Recreation, thanks to our contributions that offset the cost, T-Ball is free to those wanting to play.
Please sign up for the Christmas Breakfast that will be held December 18th. Great entertainment with the Pops Choir and a special guest appearance from SANTA!!!

GUESTS: Vera Hintz was in attendance this morning.     

DECEMBER 11: NOON MEETING: PROGRAM: Student of the Month Presentation / Lisa Sederlin Issaacson, Dir. Early Childhood Education – Manhattan Technical College: Topic: “Childhood Business Initiative”

DECEMBER 18: MORNING MEETING: PROGRAM: Christmas Breakfast: Manhattan High School Pops Choir Entertains.

DECEMBER 25: CHRISTMAS:  MEETING CANCELLED.