This month is full of moments that show how much we can accomplish when we come together. Across MOKA, we’ve seen creativity flourish, new partnerships take shape, and countless reminders of what community can do when it moves with purpose. From celebrating achievements, to highlighting personal growth and meaningful opportunities, to exploring creativity and connection, this past month has been full of moments that reflect the heart of who we are. We’re grateful to everyone who helps make this progress possible! Take a look at a few highlights that capture this forward motion.
Celebrating Disability Employment Awareness Month: stories of purpose and pride
October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, which shines a light on the importance of meaningful work and what’s possible when the right supports are in place. Through our Employment Servicesprogram, 121 people have been placed in jobs, and 69% have remained employed for over a year, showing the lasting impact of these opportunities.
People like Ben, Carmen, and Caleb are finding purpose and pride in their work:
Ben’s positivity lights up the Holland Aquatic Center. Read about his employment journey in our latest Annual Report
Carmen is building confidence, skills, and independence at Ross Dress for Less. See her in action in our recent TikTok!
And Caleb, recognized as Employee of the Year for his work at Wesco, shows how inclusive workplaces empower people to grow and thrive. Celebrate with him through this video!
Together, their journeys remind us of the pride, purpose, and belonging that meaningful work creates.
Sponsors make employee appreciation event possible: heart & soul highlights
This year’s Heart & Soul event was filled with joy, connection, and gratitude. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we were able to create a night that truly celebrated our incredible employees. We enjoyed a delicious meal, laughed together through fun games, and shared meaningful moments listening to testimonies from parents and guardians. It was an evening that reminded us how much heart and dedication our team brings every day. We are so grateful to our community partners who helped make this event possible!
Creative Care: Our Poetry Course for Direct Support Professionals
This summer, with support from Impart Alliance and collaboration fromThe Diatribe, we offered a virtual poetry course for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Seventeen participants from various organizations explored creativity, shared experiences, and connected in a supportive space. Through weekly sessions, they reflected on their work and personal lives, creating original poems that were shared at an in-person showcase.
“This opportunity ignited my creativity,” said Janet Fowler.
“This type of writing is so therapeutic.” Lowanda Hogg added, “I’m grateful for the chance to share my story in a creative way in hopes that it will help others.”
Read more about the course and the participants’ experiences in our full blog post.
Mission of the month: MOKA Featured at 317 Coffee
All through November, 317 Coffeein Hudsonville is featuring MOKA as their Mission of the Month! When you round up your purchase, your support helps fund programs that empower the people we serve. If you need a coffee or a place to work remotely, consider doing it from 317 next month. The MOKA Foundation will also be there on November 18, giving you a chance to stop by, say hello, enjoy a coffee, and learn more about our mission!
Be sure to share this with your friends and family so they can join in too!
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