How NorthStar Services helped Rosemary build community and meaning in her life. Carole White, NorthStar Services shares a success story!

One year ago we gathered Rosemary's whole team together (including day program staff and parents). We were concerned that she was withdrawing and did not seem to want to participate in many activities or with other people enough to get out of bed.

At the meeting we identified her gifts, talents and interests in order to figure out how to help her be more connected in her community.  At the top of the list was Rosemary's passion for animals and especially animal rights. After that meeting we tried cold calls to businesses - doggie daycares etc… - it felt awkward a nd did not move forward.

I knew Monica Mankinen, a local storeowner who also runs the Daisy Davis Pit Bull rescue group so I called her to see if there was any volunteer work she needed. I explained to Rosemary that Monica was working with Shiloh who had been terribly abused and neglected and was terrified of many things. Monica was spending a lot of time with him trying to desensitize, socialize and nurse him back to health and needed some help. Rosemary met Monica at an animal fair - they hit it off! Rosemary's staff said, "When it is a good match it just flows, it felt breezy and easy!"

Rosemary volunteers two times a week and works with Shiloh the recused Pit Bull.

Providing good support: Rosemary's staff intentionally focused on the relationship being between Monica, Shiloh and Rosemary.  They talked to Monica about this and explained the staff would always be available if needed, but they would aim to stay in the background. 

The relationships have also extended to include Monica's husband, Joe, her mother, Linda, and her other dog Daisy. Monica continues to learn new things about Rosemary, which deepen their friendship and strengthen their regard and respect for each other. 

To keep this working smoothly requires teamwork and sharing information amongst all the staff supporting Rosemary.  We keep in touch with Monica periodically to find out how things are going.

Monica says, "Rosemary has been diligent with showing up 2-3 times a week and the changes in Shiloh are enormous. Putting together this program requires consistency, patience and a kind heart. Rosemary has all three. We feel so lucky to have her be a part of the Daisy Davis Crew."

In February 2011, Rosemary shared her story at a community connecting training.  Of her work with Shiloh she said, "I feel absolutely wonderful and amazing about doing this. For the first time in my life. To be part of his recovery."