Better Together: A Work Skills Podcast

Step inside Artisan Corner, the heart of Work Skills Foundation, where art becomes a path to confidence, connection, and income. Host Kelly Borg sits down with Michelle, Gracie, and Liz, one of its longtime artists, to talk about what makes this creative space so special. Michelle shares how she landed at Work Skills almost by accident, through a chance dinner conversation that turned into an eleven-year career, and Gracie tells her own unexpected path into the role. Together they trace Artisan Corner's growth from four artists making wind chimes in 2011 to nearly seventy creatives today, working in everything from sublimation printing to pointillism to resin art. The conversation turns personal when Michelle recounts the story of Garrett, an artist who arrived unable to speak to strangers and left years later running his own painting business. It's a moment that captures exactly what this program is built to do: meet people where they are and help them grow one small victory at a time. The episode wraps with a look at how the community can get involved, from volunteering and mentorship to the studio's biggest fundraiser of the year, the 18th annual golf outing. Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg Email [email protected]  Ph: (517)304-8003

Get ready for a heartwarming and inspiring episode as Julie and Stacey spotlight the incredible growth of the Artisan Corner, where artists with barriers turn creativity into confidence, community, and income! From newcomers discovering hidden talents to powerful stories of healing through art, this episode celebrates the magic happening behind the scenes and the support that keeps it going. With a holiday match opportunity, volunteer options, and Giving Tuesday on the horizon, Julie and Stacey bring the energy, gratitude, and holiday spirit. Tune in for joy, impact, and maybe a little Thanksgiving fun!   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg Email [email protected]  Ph: (517)304-8003

In this episode, Julie and Stacey sit down with Tina Hubbard and Meg Novacek, two long-time members of WoW – the Women of the Work Skills. Tina reflects on how she first got connected with Work Skills and the benefits her company gained from having WSC participants as a part of their team.  Meg shares what has kept her engaged for more than a decade - the joy of helping individuals recognize their own potential and achieve success.  Their stories highlight the Foundation’s significant impact over the past 20 years, creating opportunity, challenging assumptions about people with disabilities, and proving that with the right support, anyone can thrive.     00:00 Introduction to Work Skills 01:12 Meg and Tina’s Work Skills Journey 03:40 Beyond Basic Skills: Real-World Impact 07:21 Corporate Board, Foundation, and Group Home 11:32 The Women of Work Skills (WOW) 15:09 Tours, Artisan’s Corner, and Community Engagement 19:57 The Secret Sauce: Tours and Therapies 25:29 Innovative Giving: QCDs and WOW Community 29:57 Expanding WOW and Monthly Giving 35:05 Giving Tuesday and Matching Donations 37:41 Clinical Services and Community Impact 41:31 Work Ethic, Impact, and Starfish Analogy 46:45 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg Email [email protected]  Ph: (517)304-8003   Guest Links Tina Hubbard, President and CEO HDA Truck Pride Website: https://www.hdatruckpride.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hdatruckpride LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hdatruckpride/ X: https://x.com/HDATruckPride Email: [email protected]   & Meg Novacek

In this episode of Better Together, hosts Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson sit down with Kim Harbaugh, home supervisor at Work Skills’ Genoa House. Kim shares her journey from selling cars to discovering her calling in caregiving, a path that has brought meaning both at work and in her personal life. The discussion highlights how Work Skills supports residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities by teaching essential life skills, encouraging healthy choices, and fostering independence. Kim explains how family-style meals, creative outings, and job opportunities help residents build confidence and community connections. She also reflects on the importance of adaptability for staff and clients alike, emphasizing that learning often comes from trying new approaches. The episode captures the heart of Work Skills’ mission: dignity, growth, and purpose.   00:00 Welcome and Introductions 03:19 Genoa House and Resident Success 06:20 Daily Life and Support at Genoa 09:46 Promoting Independence and Healthy Habits 12:12 Work, Transportation, and Personalization 16:09 Impact of Work and Payday Excitement 20:29 Transitioning to the Home and Dynamics 25:24 Culture of Acceptance and Adaptability 30:38 Learning and Growth for All 36:20 Conclusion and Call to Action   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg  

Julie Smith welcomes board member, donor, and volunteer Brandon Krugh for a heartfelt conversation about community, family, and the mission of Work Skills Foundation. A lifelong Brighton resident and high school coach, Brandon shares how his daughter’s journey with special needs deepened his connection to the organization. Together, he and Julie highlight the 20th Anniversary "20/20/20" initiative and invite listeners to reallocate a small monthly expense toward lasting impact. With personal stories, laughs, and an open invitation to visit, this episode captures why we are Better Together.   Chapters: 00:34 Welcome to Better Together 01:18 Brandon’s Journey in Brighton 04:12 Discovering Work Skills 09:06 The Impact of Community and Support 12:01 Celebrating 20 Years of Work Skills 16:32 Artisan Corner: A Gateway to Opportunity 20:08 The Importance of Tours and Community Engagement 22:00 The 20/20/20 Initiative 27:00 Personal Stories of Impact 30:00 Building Confidence and Finding Passions 34:00 Looking Forward: Goals and Community Spirit   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg   Guest Links Brandon Krugh, Owner -State Farm Insurance Agency Website: https://brandonkrugh.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandonkrughSF/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sfagentbkrugh/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-krugh-735a129b/   

In this episode, Julie and Stacey speak with Clarence, a grandparent raising two grandchildren with special needs. Clarence shares the challenges his family has faced—from early diagnoses and medical hurdles to navigating education systems and support services. With the help of Work Skills, they’ve found critical resources and compassionate guidance, bringing stability and hope to their journey.   01:13 Meet Clarence and Mike 02:20 Clarence’s Journey as a Grandparent 05:00 Understanding Autism and Special Needs 10:10 Navigating Educational Support 15:00 The Impact of COVID-19 20:00 Insurance Hurdles and Financial Struggles 25:00 Progress and Success Stories 32:00 The Power of Community Support 34:00 Building Connections and Skills 39:00 The Role of Play in Development 45:00 Challenges of Modern Parenting 51:00 Celebrating Individuality and Potential   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg

In honor of the Work Skills Foundation's 20th anniversary, Julie and Stacey sit down with two icons of the Work Skills legacy: Rod Jones and Freddie Robinson. Packed with laughter, powerful stories, and lasting legacy, this episode is a tribute to the heart behind the mission. From its humble beginning in 1973 to now, discover how being in the business of serving people has shaped the organization's past and continues to inspire its future.   00:00 Introduction to Work Skills Foundation 02:01 Rod Jones’s Journey to Work Skills 06:09 Transforming Work Skills: Growth and Challenges 09:20 Creating Independence and Purpose 11:45 Adapting to Change: The Future of Work Skills 19:02 The Power of People Skills 20:36 Celebrating Longevity and Culture 22:01 The Foundation’s Role and Vision 25:21 Fundraising and Community Impact 35:43 Rod’s Legacy: Building a Culture of Excellence 38:20 The Future of Work Skills: Adapting to Change   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg

Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson team up with Rob Johnson to spotlight the Work Skills Foundation’s 20-year journey of creating real change—one step at a time. From breaking the “best kept secret” to tackling big topics like mental health and workplace accessibility, they share how quick action, strong partnerships, and a whole lot of heart are driving community impact in a major way. Plus, hear what’s coming up next, including fresh initiatives and their 17th annual golf outing that’s sure to make a difference on and off the course.   01:08 The Foundation’s Vision 03:50 Breaking the Best Kept Secret 06:02 Accessibility in the Workplace 10:02 Quick Responses to Community Needs 12:10 Impact of Immediate Support 15:20 Prioritizing Community Needs 19:06 The Unique Work Skills Experience 21:06 Celebrating Progress and Growth 23:55 Upcoming Events and Opportunities   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg   Wayne Media Group Links: Website: https://waynemedia.com/ Website: https://www.speakeasynetwork.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waynemediagroup Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waynemediagroup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/waynemediagroup/posts/?feedView=all YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WayneMediaGroup

Julie and Stacey welcome new Work Skills Foundation board members Erika McNamara and Andrew Szewc to discuss their passion for empowering individuals through employment. Erika, an attorney, highlights the importance of community support, while Andrew, a wealth advisor, shares his excitement to chair the upcoming golf outing fundraiser. They explore Work Skills’ impact, from breaking down employment barriers to fostering confidence and independence, and look ahead to the foundation’s 20th anniversary initiatives.   01:20 Meet the New Board Members 02:49 The Importance of Community Connection 04:11 Andrew’s Passion for Work Skills 06:12 The Annual Golf Outing 10:12 Spotlighting Participants 12:11 Celebrating 20 Years of Impact 15:07 Creating a Welcoming Culture 19:22 Empowering Individuals Through Work 27:06 The Value of First Jobs 30:40 Board Member Responsibilities 36:05 Looking Ahead: Monthly Donor Program   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg   Guest Links Andrew Szewc - Vice President - Advisor EP Wealth Advisors Chair of Oppurtunitees Gold Outing Ph: (810) 255-7132 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.szewc.1   Erika McNamara Email: [email protected] Ph: (734) 476-0739 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikamcnamaralaw/

Thought Partners Julie Smith and Stacey Anderson showcase the Foundation’s impact as they prepare to celebrate 20 years of changing lives. Work Skills programs empower individuals and foster independence.   Learn about the transformative impact of community-driven initiatives and the importance of expanding to serve more participants.  Want to know more? Schedule your tour today!   00:00 Introduction to the Foundation 02:25 A Journey of Partnership 04:01 Celebrating 20 Years of Impact 05:46 Understanding the Foundation’s Role 06:35 Stories of Transformation 08:44 Community Partnerships and Their Impact 10:40 Proving the Naysayers Wrong 12:12 The Artisan Corner Program 15:05 Supporting Residential Homes 18:05 Employment Services and Accommodations 20:16 Looking Ahead to 2025 22:12 The Growth of Artisan Corner 25:37 Getting Involved with the Foundation 27:19 Fundraising and Community Support 30:05 Celebrating the 20th Anniversary   Show Links To learn more about the Work Skills Foundation check out their links below. Website: https://wskillsfoundation.org Donate here!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=T6W5SDJ5SQZLL  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WskillsFoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvB58IqpYoBV5fm3CL2RUAg