SDS Celebrates Their Annual Awareness Day

Southeastern Developmental Services held their open house at the South 4^th Street headquarters this past Wednesday, March 28.    Director Kim Engsburg said the staff decided this year’s event would be an open, “come and go” format to accommodate the public’s workday schedules.  A slide show reviewed the highlights of SDS through the afternoon while attendees enjoyed a variety of refreshments, met with staff and clients, and learned more about the SDS Mission. 

Engsburg recently spoke with the Board of County Commissioners, providing an update on the past year.  She said a tighter budget has necessitated some changes, including closing one of the five homes used by clients when their enrollment decreased.  “We’re in a situation now that we cannot afford to take on many new clients,” she said.  SDS employs about 60 persons, half of whom are full time.  “That’s another change that was finance directed,” Engsburg explained.  “Some of our clients need round-the-clock care, and we couldn’t afford to have everyone as a full time employee.”

Attendees Enjoying Lunch During Awareness Open House

“We try to be a part of the community in everything we do,” she continued, explaining, “SDS has 22 vehicles and all were purchased locally, along with as many supplies as we can manage.  That includes paper goods, food, fuel, furniture and clothing.”  Some clients perform clean-up and maintenance tasks by arrangement.  Engsburg explained to the commissioners earlier, that the SDS clients are capable of working for either businesses or private jobs, indoors or out.  The hours traditionally run from 8am to 1pm, Monday through Thursday.  Contact SDS for additional information at 336-3244.

By Russ Baldwin