Southern Oregon Aspire

03/09/2026

Individuals with disabilities have always been part of our history, our present, and our future. They are our friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers.

Inclusion means more than simply making space—it means creating a community where everyone is welcomed, valued, and supported. People with disabilities deserve more than a place in our community; they deserve acceptance and a genuine sense of belonging.

This month, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we celebrate the contributions and voices of individuals with disabilities and continue working toward a community where everyone can thrive.

NACDD kicks off Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month with We’re Here. Then, Now, Always.

People with developmental disabilities have always been part of our communities — and always will be.

This month, we’re sharing stories that connect past, present, and future.

Join us.

Learn more here: https://nacdd.org/2026-dd-awareness-month-were-here-then-now-always/

03/05/2026

Last Chance to Register! 🚨

Our FREE workshop on Understanding Dementia in Adults with I/DD is happening next Monday — and there’s still time to claim your spot!

Perfect for DSPs, healthcare providers, caregivers, and loved ones who want practical tools and a deeper understanding of supporting individuals with I/DD and dementia.

What We’ll Cover:
✔ Early Detection & Screening
✔ Behavioral Symptoms
✔ Dementia-Related Changes
✔ Health Care Advocacy
✔ Aging in Place

📅 March 9th | 1–5 PM
📍 Marie Hill Conference Center, Room #4
➡️ Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/r/41XpP1zYF0

This workshop is free to the public thanks to the generous support of Four Way Community Foundation

Can’t attend? Check out our upcoming dates!

03/03/2026

James is gearing up for the Special Olympics Oregon-Josephine County basketball regionals later in March and is looking forward to finishing the season strong with his teammates.

Good Luck, James! 🏀

02/26/2026

Mission Moment: Josh Serving His Community 🍽️

Josh had been sharing with his Job Coach that he would like to volunteer at a "soup kitchen" to serve his community. Josh is very community-oriented and loves to help people.

After some hard work, networking around town, filling out applications, and studying for and passing his food handlers certification, Josh had a successful first day volunteering at St Vincent De Paul.

He portioned and organized different foods that will be included in sack lunches to be distributed at various locations in the community. He assisted with clean up and got to know several new people who also volunteer there. Josh was welcomed by all at the facility, and they were grateful to have his help, inviting him back to help in the future.

02/24/2026

Jennifer and her staff had planned a waterfall hike for later in the week. When the morning of the waterfall hike came, Jennifer was delighted to see the rare addition of fresh snow! ❄️

02/12/2026

Susan and Moosey are getting ready for a hike around Spaulding Pond. Taking advantage of the mid-day break in the fog! ⛅🥾

02/04/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Diane Juenemann’s passing. Diane was a beloved member of our Aspire family, and her presence left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. ❤️

Diane was, in every sense, a true fashionista. She loved to dress up, wore her accessories with pride, and embraced every holiday with flair. She enjoyed looking beautiful—her hair done, favorite jewelry on, nails freshly painted—and absolutely lit up when someone noticed. That joy, that sparkle, was unmistakably Diane.

Detail-oriented by nature, Diane took great pride in her home, keeping it tidy and welcoming, with the support of her staff. She was kind and sweet, with a smile that could melt your heart. Diane loved observing the world around her—children playing, dogs at the park, people coming and going—quietly taking in the stories unfolding before her.

At Horizon, she cherished the perfect vantage point from her bed, nestled beneath her pink comforter with all the pillows she could wish for. It was her throne, and she ruled it with quiet confidence.

This past weekend in the hospital, we painted her nails—four coats on each hand, as she kept smearing them and insisting they be fixed. By the end, her palms sparkled. Every visitor was greeted with hands proudly lifted for admiration. She was calm, content, and beautifully herself.

That’s how we want to remember Diane: at peace, ruling her kingdom, feeling beautiful and adored, everything just as she liked it. She lived her final years with comfort, dignity, and joy, and was truly at home at Horizon.

We take comfort knowing she is now at peace, reunited with her mom and dad—what a joyful reunion that must be. Please join us in holding her memory close. We are honored to have supported Diane throughout her life, especially those who worked closely with her and loved her deeply. 💗

02/03/2026

Troy and Nate from our Commercial Landscaping crew are excited to show off their new jackets as they get ready to maintain equipment and enhance their mechanical skills. 💪

01/29/2026

When he’s not enjoying country music or cheering on the Oregon Ducks, James is honing his basketball skills for the Special Olympics. Here he is getting some practice shots in before Special Olympics Oregon Special Olympics Oregon-Josephine County practice. 🏀

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Southern Oregon Aspire! 🎉🥂

As we near the end of 2025, we are full of gratitude for the continued support of our community and for the opportunity to serve our individuals every day, helping them live the life they choose. 2025 was a special year, marking our 50th anniversary, and we look forward to all that 2026 has in store!