Summer is a time for sunshine, warmth and endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Finding inclusive activities that cater to individuals with disabilities can sometimes be a challenge. However, with a bit of creativity and planning, there are plenty of opportunities for everyone to enjoy the summer months to the fullest.

At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), much of our work is behind the scenes. Our Employee Spotlight helps you learn more about our team. This month, learn about Stacey Abdouch, director of services at PICS!

Taking care of a loved one is beautiful, but it can also be very demanding, both emotionally and physically. Caregivers often get so focused on the care of their loved ones that they forget to take care of themselves. Self-care may sound like a trendy term, but it is essential to ensure that you stay healthy — mentally and physically.

Did you know that April is Autism Acceptance Month? It's a time to celebrate and appreciate the unique experiences and perspectives of individuals who are on the autism spectrum. According to the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM), one in 34 Minnesotans has autism.

At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), much of our work is behind the scenes. Our Employee Spotlight helps you learn more about our team. This month, learn about Alex Welty, senior human resource specialist at PICS!

At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), we love getting to know the families we work with. Our PICS Family Spotlight series offers the opportunity to learn more about an individual or family that has chosen to partner with us for their services. This month, we are happy to introduce Annie and her son, John!

Minnesota empower older adults by offering support through programs like Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care (AC) that aim to providing crucial services that enable them to age in place comfortably. Both programs are for adults 65 and older who require nursing home-level care but prefer to remain in their homes and communities.

Medicaid is a vital program that provides health care access for millions of Americans with low income. In Minnesota, this program is known as Medical Assistance (MA) and includes Medical Assistance under TERFA (MA-TEFRA) and Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) programs.

At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), much of our work is behind the scenes. Our Employee Spotlight helps you learn more about our team. This month, learn about Giazhia Xiong, service coordinator at PICS!

While one of the main benefits of self-directed services is receiving care from a trusted family member or friend, there are times when a new paid caregiver might be needed.