MEET KIM
My guardianship journey began after receiving a B.A. in Psychology from the College of St. Benedict when I decided to explore my interest in ASL by enrolling in the Interpreting Program at St. Catherine University.
During my studies, I accepted a position as a Community Coordinator at an Intermediate Care Facility in Minneapolis where visual-communication, whether it be gestural to fluent ASL, was required to support the various diagnoses of the individuals in my care.
Born with Down Syndrome and deaf since age five, Jim had recently transitioned from the State Institutional system to the facility where I worked. He was reserved and guarded upon his arrival, but his inner personality shined. He was gentle and friendly, and his captivating smile and resilient nature were inspiring. We had a connection, and I wanted nothing more than to see him enjoy the quality of life he deserved.
When I decided to leave the facility where Jim lived to pursue a new career opportunity, I didn't leave Jim. I took steps to serve him in another capacity; as his court-appointed guardian.
Working with Jim's distant family members (who were available to intercede on Jim's behalf when needed) and a team of legal and medical professionals, we created person-centered programs tailored to his specific needs and interests. Today, he is flourishing in a place he truly calls home.
Whether it's the dress coat, bow tie, and fedora he likes to wear to grab a bite to eat or the enjoyment he feels rocking in his favorite chair or riding in the front seat of the car, his interests and strengths are far more important than his diagnosis.
Over the years, Jim has taught me how to think in a different capacity by focusing on the whole person and not just what the eyes can see; what it takes to be a strong advocate; and how to become an agent of change.
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I am proud to continue my journey – sharing the tolerance, creativity, and compassion I've gained through our time together.
CREDENTIALS
EDUCATION:
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B.A. Psychology, College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, M.N.
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American Sign Language and Interpreting, St. Catherine University, Minneapolis, M.N.
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EXPERIENCE:
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ASL Interpreting Services, Golden Valley, MN (2018 - Present)
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Court Appointed Guardian, Twin Cities, M.N. (1995-Present)
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Program Director, The Greater MN Assessment Service - Lifetrack Resources, St. Paul, MN (2006-2010)
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Coordinator, The Greater MN Assessment Service - Regions Hospital, St. Paul, MN (1998-2006)
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Health Partners Staff Interpreter, Health Partners, St. Paul, MN (1996-1998)
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Staff Interpreter, Deafness Education Advocacy Foundation, St. Paul, MN (1994-1996)
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ICF-ID Group Home Community Outreach Coordinator, Minneapolis, MN (1991-1994)