This Issue: **Administration’s

New Home PG 1

** Insight from the E.D. & Services Information

PG 2 **Fundraisers &

Updates PG 3

** The Soul of SEICAA “THE STAFF”

PG 5

** Donation Information

PG 6

Executive Director: Debra R. Hemmert

Chairman of the Board Guy Price

“ SEICAA is dedicated to strengthening individuals and communities through services, education, and training while promoting

human Potential.”

S outheastern Idaho Community Action Agency Inc (SEICAA) Administration

has relocated to new offices. SEICAA has limited office space and several years ago, Debra Hemmert, Executive Director, began researching viable options to increase office space. Grants were prepared, financial institutions contacted, and funding received from Idaho Power and Zions Bank made the remodel of the 5th floor possible. The remodel took approximately one year, and was completed in October 2007. Administration and other personnel moved at the end of October. Although office location has changed, telephone extensions remain the same. Access to the administration offices is through Community Services at 845 E. Bridger in Pocatello. Staff in that department will direct those interested to the 5th floor. Administration staff effected by the move are Executive Director, Debra Hemmert; Chief Financial Officer, Jerald Jones; Administrative/Human Resources Coordinator, Merriann Forrest; Financial Assistant/Payroll, Joy Sweeney; Fiscal Assistant Housing/Self-Help Housing, LeeAnn Hodgson. Community Services Director, Julia Campbell and Community Services Assistant, Kati Davis, moved to the 641 N. 8th Avenue location. Senior Services, comprised of the Meals on Wheels and RSVP Programs moved into Community Services’ former location at 845 E. Bridger. Veteran Services moved into the location previously occupied by RSVP at 845 E. Bridger.

NEWS!!

SEICAA Community Action

Issue:  Fall 2007 

Administration Offices on renovated 5th floor.

Administration Moves to New LocationAdministration Moves to New LocationAdministration Moves to New Location

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency inc. is a private, non-profit corporation created in 1968 to combat poverty in southeastern Idaho. SEICAA provides a network of integrated services where no eligible person is turned away. SEICAA provides and advocates for resources that empower Southeastern Idaho residents to have the skills and resources necessary to improve their quality of life and become self-sufficient. Services are provided for over 95,737 individuals throughout seven counties of southeastern Idaho. Administration: (208) 232-1114 Community Services: (208) 233– 7348 Mutual Self-Help Housing Program: (208) 232-1114 Ext 108 Community Development (Construction): (208) 232-1114 Ext 111 Senior Services: (208) 233-2878 Outreach Offices: Bannock County: (208) 232-1114 Bingham County: (208) 785-1583 Bear Lake County: (208) 847-1462 Caribou County: (208) 547-4257 Franklin County: (208) 852-1515 Oneida County: (208) 766-2737 Power County: (208) 226-7330

SEICAA “ Agency in Action” televised show informs Poca-

tello community!!

Stay informed: Watch Channel 12 Wednesdays and Saturdays.

SEICAA Community Action News Pg 2

Insight From SEICAA’s Executive Director

Not a day goes by in this business that I don’t marvel at people’s generosity. The two small words “thank you” seems so trivial, yet speak volumes when I reflect on the past year. Over and over again SEICAA employees witness miracles as community members step up

when asked to contribute to those less fortunate. Without the “kindness of strangers” the Agency would simply not have the ability to provide the level of services to participants as we do now. More importantly, the people in southeastern Idaho who need additional assistance would be forced to go without life’s necessities. Again…thank you Southeast Idaho for all you continue to do for those less fortunate. HAPPY HOLIDAYS and may all good things come your way!

SEICAA Community Action News Pg 3

Once again, SEICAA hosted annual Stone Soup fundraisers. Bingham County’s 5th year welcomed 11 soup vendors and entertainment for the year. The favorite soup was provided by pbg’s Steak and Seafood. Bingham County’s youth centered celebration featured numerous children’s activities, a raffle and silent auction. This busy event raised over $4000 for Bingham County to assist with gap needs for those in need. Bannock County’s Stone Soup fundraiser celebrated its 19th year in October. The event included performances by Marcco Erickson, dancers from Dance Factory and the Stone Soup Play by area school children. Fourteen restaurants provided soup and dozens of businesses donated raffle items. The Continental Bistro won for favorite soup; Litho Printing received SEICAA Business of the Year; Friend of SEICAA Award was given to ISU Athletic Department; and this year’s Stone Soup Child was Jacob Woodward. This traditional event helped raise over $5000 for Bannock County.

SEICAA personnel receive training and education to ensure compliance and increase staff knowledge of the agency’s numerous programs. Several SEICAA staff members received certifications this summer and fall. Certified Family Development Specialist: * Karen Crawshaw * Kandie Keller * Patti Orona * Rilla James * Judy Rickard Certified to conduct lead-based paint activities: * John Danks * Robert Johnson * Bill Karn * Rick Burgin Certified to teach Homebuyers Education: * Shalynn Peirsol Drug Coalition Certified: * Karen Briand Helping People.

Changing Lives.

Traditional Elvis impersonator serenades attendant in Bingham

County.

SEICAA’s Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a program designed for those 55 and better that wish to remain active in the community. RSVP volunteers donate their time to various activities, including helping at the Senior Center and working in the Police Department. This program has over 100 volunteers that work to make a difference in their community. RSVP is also where the mentoring program is located. Unlike the afore mentioned volunteer activities involving those over 55, those interested in being a mentor can be any age. The mentoring program completed a grant for mentoring children of incarcerated parents last year and work to maintain positive influences in the lives of area youth. Mentors are paired with a mentee on a long-term basis and spend at least one hour a week together. Mentors assist with school work, as well as other less serious tasks. RSVP always welcomes those interested in volunteering and look forward to progressing and growing the department.

“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.” Mother Teresa

Upcoming Holiday Events 12-15-07: Bannock County ♦ Holiday Party Sponsored by Bannock Civitan - 200 children 0-12 years will receive gifts & treats; 15 children ages 13-16 will search by snowmobile for a tree. * Visit from Mr. And Mrs. Claus. 12-2007: Oneida County ♦ 43 children in Oneida County have been adopted

from the Angel Tree and will receive gifts, including new gloves and hats collected by a local business and community members.

12-2007: Bingham County ♦ Team Automotive has donated a car to raffle off before the holiday to raise funds for families in Blackfoot. 12-2007: Bear Lake County ♦ 25 families will receive turkeys for the Holiday

and 45 families will receive assistance through the Toys for Tots Program.

Retired Senior Volunteer ProgramRetired Senior Volunteer ProgramRetired Senior Volunteer Program Stone Soup CelebrationStone Soup Celebration

Employee Certifications

Rick Burgin, Weatherization Director Rick has been at SEICAA for over 20 years, and currently serves as the Weatherization Director. Rick supervises five employees, all of whom appreciate Rick’s flexible attitude and laid-back style. Mr. Burgin is just a “nice guy that understands what it’s like to be a crew member, not just a boss that’s never done the work.” Rick is always eager to assist employees, whether on sight or just being understanding about a personal issue. Rick is proud to work at SEICAA, and SEICAA is lucky to have him!

Introducing the team of

SEICAA “Long-timers.”

Aka..

The dinosaurs

SEICAA Community Action News Pg 4

SEICAA is fortunate to have incredibly dedicated employees. Employees at SEICAA enjoy positive work relationships and experiences, and a flexible family friendly atmosphere. For whatever reason, SEICAA has been a “home away from home” for over 20 years to several individuals that have dedicated much of their time and lives to SEICAA’s mission.

“Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves.” James M Berrie

John Danks, Weatherization Lead Auditor Safety Coordinator John Danks completes the list of SEICAA “long-timers.” Mr. Danks has always worked in the Weatherization Program and enjoys the rewards associated with helping those in need. John currently serves as SEICAA Weatherization Lead Auditor Safety Coordinator. John demonstrates great compassion and commitment to SEICAA’s mission. In addition to the great work he does in Weatherization, he is always willing to help any other department. John served on the Meals on Wheels Golf Tournament Advisory Board and actively solicited sponsors, teams, and raffle items.

Deb Hemmert, Executive Director SEICAA’s Executive Director has served in many capacities throughout the organization. Deb earned a training certification in Family Development in 1997. Ms. Hemmert has been at SEICAA since August 1983, and served as Southern County Coordinator until

1995. Since then, Deb has acted as Outreach Coordinator, Interim Executive Director, Community Services Program Director, and since October 2001, she has been the Executive Director. Ms. Hemmert is very knowledgeable about the issues facing Community Action Agencies and is a Certified Community Action Professional. Deb is great to work for and keeps the work environment fluid and enjoyable.

Ha ha, ha ha

SEICAA Community Action News Pg 5

Help Us Make It Happen...

The overwhelming number of people in crisis can be assisted with your help. Your generous tax deductible contribution is greatly appreciated. All donations directly benefit those needing assistance in the SEICAA seven county service areas.

Name Address State Telephone Enclosed is my gift of

SEICAA 641 N 8th Avenue Pocatello, ID 83201

Guy Price, Chair

Private Sector Renee Richardson, Vice Chair

Public Sector Suzanna Nelson, Treasurer

Private Sector Kay Stilwell, Secretary

Low-Income Sector Lin Whitworth

Public Sector Ron Frasure Public Sector

Elmer Martinez Private Sector

Dave Maguire Private Sector

Marianne Donelly Public Sector

Rhonda Anderson Low-Income Sector

Paula Miller Low-Income Sector Judy McClanahan Low-Income Sector

Beth Hill Private Sector

Mary Watkins Low-Income Sector

Janice Lawes Public Sector

Community Action News is a publication of the Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency of

southeastern Idaho Executive Director Insight: Debra R. Hemmert

Articles by: Lynette Sampson Photos by: Shalynn Peirsol, Lynette Sampson,

Helen Mayberry, Merriann Forest Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Please address comments to:

Marketing and Public Relations 641 N. 8th Avenue

Pocatello, Idaho 83201 Or lsampson@seicaa.org, 232-1114 Ext 113

Community Action Partnership of Southeastern Idaho: America’s  Poverty Fighting Network 

Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency Inc. Board of

Directors