Madonna Community-Based Services (CBS) is our fourth featured Omaha finalist in the 100 Year, $100k Office Makeover Contest. Founded in 1983 by Sister Mary Evangeline Rudolph, RSM, Madonna Community-Based Services aims to empower disabled persons to become as independent as possible in in their adult lives. Madonna CBS teaches them the academic, job and life skills they need to become contributing members of society. Answers provided by Amy Bogard, Madonna CBS Program Manager.
To vote for the Omaha winner of the office makeover contest, click here!
Q: Why do you need an office makeover?
A: We serve individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. As funding for our individuals continue to get cut every dollar is stretch to make a better life for these wonderful individuals. Our building is old, and all our furniture is used and the carpets are worn. The staff here get little recognition from the caring work that they do, so if we could make the office more inviting and relaxing, it would make a world of difference to our wonderful staff and the individuals.
Q: How do you devote ethical business practices to fulfilling your mission?
A: Our missions is: Special people meeting special needs for special people. I am the Program Manager and I get to observe our wonderful staff caring for these special people with such compassion and love. Each one of our 40 individuals is an extension to each of our families. We love and care for them as if they are our brothers, sisters, parents or grandparents.
Q: What are some positive examples of your influence on the community?
A: Here at Madonna we are giving these individuals a chance to make money by working, and become part of their communities by enhancing their social skills, communication skills, money management skills and much more.
Q: Please demonstrate your leadership.
A: As the Program Manager I (Amy) am responsible for writing each and every individualized skill plans to teach our people the skills they need to live full and productive lives. I also train all new staff on how to implement these skills plans.