Month: February 2021

Outside of the opportunities for independence, Jody frequently explored his love for music. At family reunions he could always be spotted with the musicians in Betty’s family, engaging in the harmonic atmosphere and soaking in his love for a beautiful melody. Jody even owned a banjo, guitar, and harmonica where he could practice and further this love. Angela Jeffrey, a staff member heavily involved with Jody, reminisced on some memories jamming out to Bluegrass with Jody. Through Angela’s time with Jody a friendship blossomed, they sang Johnny Cash songs while on car rides and in Jody’s living room they frequently sang and danced to Bluegrass. As staff devoted their time to promote Jody’s independence, they were introduced to his fun-loving and mischievous nature. He touched the lives of so many staff members and could always put a smile on their faces.  

We are so grateful for the many memories and relationships that developed throughout Jody’s involvement in the LIFEDesigns community. We could not be more thankful for all the generous donations that have been made on his behalf. A huge thank you goes out to the individuals who made these donations, including the Deckard family and the many staff members that had the honor of working with Jody.  

In loving memory of Jody Deckard. 

PJ O’Heran, a hard-working and humble employee, is an instrumental figure within the LIFEDesigns community. Beginning his career with the organization 14 years ago as a DSP, PJ now serves as the Service Coordinator for the various group homes. It is fitting to call PJ the group home guru, as his breadth of knowledge and involvement with his position allows him to answer any inquiry about the group homes where LIFEDesigns clients may reside.

PJ’s drive to pursue this occupation stemmed from his involvement in high school, where he first had the opportunity to work with individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. Based on his experience, PJ decided to pursue a degree in Special Education. This ultimately led to him seeking a part-time job with LIFEDesigns, which then led to his fulltime commitment as Service Coordinator.

As PJ’s current position requires him to oversee various group homes, he is responsible for house staffing, maintenance, and dealing with individual care. What PJ finds most rewarding about this work is how he has helped LIFEDesigns clients live meaningful lives. He goes the extra mile; PJ has not only helped promote independence for his clients but has assisted in finding employment opportunities. A couple of clients are now employed at C3, a local neighborhood bar, as PJ’s familial connection secured these positions.

Outside of PJ’s dedication to LIFEDesigns, he devotes his time to his family and his passion for woodworking. PJ loves staying involved in the lives of his 4 children, which is displayed through his involvement as a leader for his son’s boy scout group. Woodworking then provides a creative and relaxing outlet, as PJ’s commitments require substantial dedication.

Thank you, PJ, for your dedication to LIFEDesigns!

Pictured: Vanessa McClary & LIFEDesigns Director of Community Relations, Kristen King, at the Kiwanis One Day Event in 2019

In honor of LIFEDesigns 40th anniversary, our committee has set a goal to get 40 new pledges of at least $40.00 per month for one year. Accomplishing this goal will help build a foundation of giving for the next 40 years of providing supports to people with disabilities. We are so thankful for Vanessa McClary, who is the very first person to help us accomplish this goal by committing to a new monthly gift! Vanessa is actively involved in her community as a member of the Kiwanis Club of South-Central Indiana. She also helped charter several other clubs including Kiwanis Aktion Club, which many LIFEDesigns clients are proud to be member of. Her gift will help one person receive staff support to work on their personal goals each month! If you want to make a difference in someone’s life and make a lasting impact in the community, click this link to support the campaign and make a pledge to LIFEDesigns for one year!