Joanne Verwolf is doing very well after having a total hip replacement and we all wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to her return to the office.

The Picnic at Lake Como was a huge success. We had a total of 45 people and a good time was had by all. Even the weather cooperated with beautiful sunshine, and just as we were ready to clean up it began to rain. The Independent Living Symposium in Helena from August 22 to the 24 was very informative and the outing to Gates of the Mountain made it even more enjoyable. We are busy organizing the next social activity which is a Harvest Dance on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. The band “The Montana Kids” will be playing, so give us a call at 363-5242 if you would like to join us. In an effort to reduce isolation for individuals with disabilities and give them the opportunity to join others in a variety of different activities, the Ravalli County Peer Advocates are starting a “Can Do Club.” Give the office a call at 363-5242 if you have ideas for activities, or would like to join this group.

The Bitterroot Valley People First Aktion Club had a really busy summer. They attended the Summit picnic at Como Lake in July. Also in July they helped out at the Kiwanis pancake breakfast for Daly Days, worked an aid station for the Land Trust Bike Tour, and had a picnic for prospective new members. In August, besides the regular meetings, there was a fun shopping trip to Missoula with lunch at Fort Missoula. People First members are planning to help the Summit Peer Advocates with the Harvest Dance on October 15 and are hoping to attend a Halloween party.

Elizabeth Varnum, IL Specialist