SKILLS, Inc.

We're thrilled to announce that we recently received a generous grant from the Town Fair Tire Foundation Fund! This support will go towards enhancing our Opportunities Driving School (ODS), empowering more individuals in our community to achieve their driving goals. ???? Never heard of ODS? Here's how we're helping participants prepare for the State of Maine permit and driver's license tests: ? Driver readiness assessments ? 30 hours of classroom instruction ? 10 hours of driver instruction ? Ongoing participant support The impact so far: ?? 19 people have received driving support and education, including simulator training and driver’s education. ?? 2 people have successfully obtained their licenses! Thank you, Town Fair Tire Foundation Fund, for driving change with us and supporting inclusive opportunities for all! Learn more about ODS and other programs we offer at skillsinc.net. #DrivingSchool #Maine #SKILLSME #ThankYou #PeopleFirst #TownFairTire

?? Meet the Team at SKILLS Inc.! ?? We're excited to kick off our new monthly series spotlighting the incredible individuals who drive our community of talent and innovation. This month, we're thrilled to introduce Pam Erskine, our Director of Program Services, who has dedicated the last 35 years to helping people thrive by recognizing their potential, not their limitations. ?? Career Inspiration "I stumbled upon SKILLS during a college break when a friend offered me a temporary job. I never imagined I'd work in this field, but it quickly became my passion. My philosophy? Treat people as equals, focus on their abilities, and let go of control." ? Memorable Moments "After 35 years, there's no single standout moment—it's been a collection of amazing experiences. Great mentors and the people I've supported have helped me grow into someone who seeks to understand first." ?? Hobbies & Joys "My family is my greatest treasure, a treasure you don't truly appreciate until you are a grandparent. I also love 4-wheeling with my husband, conquering tough terrain and enjoying the peace of nature." Do you have a special memory with Pam? Let us know in the comments! #MeetTheTeam #SKILLSME #InclusionMatters #Community #PeopleFirst

In honor of Veterans Day, the SKILLS administrative offices and the Opportunities Driving School will be closed on Monday, November 11th. Thank you to all who have served our country! ???? Please note that our Community Support programs locations will be open! #SKILLSME #VeteransDay #CommunityFirst

We believe in creating safe, supportive spaces where people feel connected and part of their communities. Our services aim to give the people we serve the 5 E's: ? ENRICH ?? EMPOWER ?? EMPLOY ?? EDUCATE ?? EXCEL Whether it's finding a job, learning new skills, or simply having a place to call home, we're here to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism have the same opportunities we all want. Because everyone deserves the chance to follow their dreams and make their own choices. ?? #CommunityFirst #AutismAwareness #IDD #NonProfitMaine #InclusionMatters #SKILLSInc

Disabilities come in all shapes and forms, and the more we understand them, the better we can support each other. This video from Open Future Learning gets to the heart of what it's like to live with both visible and non-visible intellectual disabilities. It's a reminder that even with the best intentions, our actions can sometimes make others feel isolated. Take a moment to watch and learn—it might just change how you see things! ?? #SKILLSInc #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #Diversity #WorkplaceInclusion #OpenFutureLearning

Did you know we created our own driving school? Providing reliable transportation is a major challenge we face daily. Many rely on MaineCare-funded services, which are often disrupted by last-minute cancellations. This leaves people stranded, and our team frequently steps in to ensure they can attend their day services. That's why we launched Opportunities Driving School. This initiative is central to our strategy for fostering independence. By teaching individuals how to drive, we're helping them gain the freedom to fully participate in their community. True inclusion starts with the ability to get where you need to go. #CommunitySupport #SKILLSInc #TransportationSolutions #Empowerment #Inclusion

We recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 2024 ANCOR Policy Summit & Hill Day! ? We joined forces with fellow advocates, legislators, and leaders to drive meaningful changes in disability services and policy. We were also honored to meet with Senator Collins during her constituent coffee, where we shared our mission and advocated for the individuals we serve. By coming together, we're ensuring that the voices of our community are heard and represented on Capitol Hill. This collaboration is essential as we work toward a future where inclusive opportunities are a priority for all. #SKILLSInc #ANCORPolicySummit #HillDay2024 #DisabilityAdvocacy #PolicyChange

Last month, we had the pleasure of marking a special SKILLS anniversary! ?? Jeffrey has been a beloved resident in our Pittsfield Community Supports since August 2019. His 5-year journey with SKILLS has been marked by his vibrant personality and infectious laughter, enriching our community and showcasing the profound impact of sustained commitment and the joy that comes from building strong, supportive relationships. ???? Learn more about our community programs and discover how your support can make a meaningful impact on residents like Jeffrey! https://skillsinc.net/ #Anniversary #CommunitySupport #SKILLSInc #Celebration

Earlier this month, we proudly celebrated Direct Support Professional Appreciation Week by recognizing two outstanding DSPs, Rick Lancaster and Roberta Braley, as SKILLS, Inc.'s 2024 Direct Support Professionals of the Year! ?? Rick has been part of our Community Support Programs for 10 years, known for his patience, positive attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond in his care. Roberta, with an incredible 17 years of service, is celebrated for her kindness and dedication to building meaningful relationships with each individual she supports. We are truly fortunate to have such compassionate and dedicated staff members like Rick and Roberta! ?? If you've been positively impacted by Rick, Roberta, or any Direct Support Professional, we'd love to hear your story! #DirectSupportProfessionals #AppreciationWeek #ThankYou #SKILLSInc #CommunityCare

??Nicole Hubbard, Assistant Residential Manager (pictured right, with Manager Rachel Fuller) was celebrated for 15 years of employment with SKILLS. Congratulations, Nicole, and thank you for all you do! #appreciation #employeeappreciation #staffappreciation #workanniversary #thankyou #celebrate #career #nonprofit #mainenonprofit #skillsme #centralmaine