Programs like the SAFE Fund make ACR Homes the #1 Workplace

Gabe works at an ACR group home that supports four very active people who have developmental and behavioral disabilities. He’s on a “go with the flow” team of staff with high energy and a huge sense of humor.  He’s also a college student at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire.  He would typically drive 75 miles to Woodbury once or twice a month to work “power weekends”–32 hours from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon. For Gabe, that’s a fun and efficient way to get a paycheck and gain work experience. Working for the #1 workplace in Minnesota is a great resume builder, too. For his supervisor and coworkers, they love being able to count on Gabe to handle weekends.

ACR’s SAFE Fund to the Rescue

Gabe writes,

Last fall I had some unexpected and major car problems.  I found myself in the impossible situation of needing to work a lot of hours to pay for my car, but having no way of getting to work. My Program Director suggested that I apply for help from the SAFE fund–that’s the Staff Assistance Fund for Emergencies.

I was apprehensive at first because reaching out for charity is humbling.  That night while working an awake shift I sent an e-mail to the SAFE requesting help.  I heard back at 12pm the same day, and there was a $500 check waiting for me at my base home.  The amazing generosity of ACR and its employees allowed me to completely fix my car, which allowed me to continue my job supporting residents I care about, which also being about to pay my bills.  I love telling people about how special my job is, not just because I’m paid to better the lives of others, but because my fellow ACR staff and leaders are concerns about my well-being.  It’s programs like the SAFE Fund that make ACR Homes the #1 workplace in the state of Minnesota.