REM Iowa Celebrates its 35th Anniversary
18 September 2014
This year, REM Iowa is proud to be celebrating its 35th anniversary, and is doing so in honor of the dedicated employees who have helped make the organization a leading provider of quality services to adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other complex challenges across the state.
REM Iowa was founded in 1979 with one vocational site, four community-based homes and 18 employees. The organization now offers a comprehensive range of services and supports through a network of caring employees throughout the state who empower hundreds of individuals receiving services to live life to the fullest.
“Quality is always at the forefront of all that we do, and we are proud of our 35-year history and our continued ability to make a positive impact for the individuals and in the communities we serve,” said Lisa Pakkebier, executive director of REM Iowa. “We dedicate this milestone to all staff members who have contributed to our success over the years.”
With the theme of “Serve, Serve Well, Serve More,” REM Iowa held events throughout August and into September, with each geographic region celebrating in unique ways.
Individuals from the Cedar Rapids region attended a Cedar Rapids Kernels baseball game, while teams from the Keokuk, Fort Madison, and Mt. Pleasant regions also enjoyed a night at the ballpark, taking in a Burlington Bees game. Employees, as well as individuals served and their families, from Davenport, Urbandale, Adel, Marshalltown, Atlantic, Council Bluffs, and Avoca held picnics to celebrate and enjoy the company of those with whom they work each day.
These events are only a part of a year-long celebration designed to help staff reflect on the growth that the organization has experienced over the past three decades and how this has positively impacted the lives of the individuals served.
“Each of our employees is committed to our mission, and this shows in all of their interactions with the people we serve and our community partners,” Pakkebier said. “We could not have accomplished such a milestone without their extraordinary passion and dedication.”
Visit the REM Iowa Facebook page for more information about these events, as well as everything happening with our teams and the individuals we serve.