June 2025 Newsletter
A letter from DJ of SAM Central
My name is Darren but most of you may know me as DJ. I have worked on a few projects with and without ACT/SAM. I think when you can find people that can help you (by teaching you new ways of looking at things), you should jump on the opportunity to try those things and become a leader. You may learn that although you might need help with some things, you can build a team of people that can support you in anything you set your mind to.
I was working with a job coach through Options in Big Lake, Minnesota when I got in touch with SAM Central leader, Bev. We worked on helping strengthening the community of Big Lake with inclusion projects through the Olmstead Academy. Yes, it was a little harder because we did our project during Covid, but even the mayor and some of the city council representatives joined us over zoom for our dance parties by the time we were finished with our project.
-DJ
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DJ is co-chair of the ACT board and is a massive asset to the team. He is very proud of his contributions with the Olmstead Academy, being active in the SAM Network, and contributing to the ACT Board.
What is happening in June?
- Coffee Chats will take place on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th
-Disability Power Day is back on the 5th, 12th, 19th (In-person), and 26th
-Book Club is meeting on the 4th and 18th
-Happy Hour is taking place on the 19th at Dual Citizen Brewing Co.
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New Look - Business Cards
Back in March, ACT revamped our logo as we enter a new era. This month we continued to build on that. We have new business cards! While it it nothing ground breaking, it feels great to be able to represent ourselves when we are out in the community. Make sure to ask for one if you see us at an event!
ACT Spotlight - Adam Ruff
Each month ACT interviews someone from our community to shine light on our team. This month we checked in with Adam Ruff. Adam works as the Self-Advocacy Program Administrator here at ACT. He is one of the longest current tenured ACT employees. About Adam:
Coffee, tea, or something else?
- Cold brew (black)
Favorite Animal?
-My two cats, Prin and Gus
Passions outside of work
-Birding, Biking, Soccer, and Basketball!
Creative Corner - Henry W.
Starting in June we want to open the newsletter up to our readers. With the amount of creative folks in the community we want to give people a voice! If you have artwork of any variety you want to share, send it our way!
This month, we have a beautiful piece from Henry Wenzel. The work is done with colored pencil on paper. This piece is on the walls of the ACT office and is available for purchase if you are interested.
If you would like to submit artwork to the newsletter, please send inquires to act@selfadvocacy.org.