Consultant Name: Mindy Austin
Company Name: Progressive Community Services, Inc.
Phone Number: 920-350-5921
Email: mindya@pcsdane.org
Work History
Job Title: IRIS Consultant
Care Responsibilities: I have a bachelor’s degree in human services/management and a background in various roles in Long Term Care settings including: Direct Support/Caregiver, a facility and staff manager for a 65 bed Assisted Living and Memory Care Unit, a Case Manager for My Choice-Family Care Program, and as an IRIS Consultant.
I relocated to Dane County and like serving individuals in and around the surrounding counties. I really like to build new relationships and learn about resources to share with the people I work with. I am deeply passionate about advocating for quality of care, autonomy in decision making, honoring preference in daily activities, and providing a person centered approach to services. I want each person I serve to feel their life has purpose. I value seeing people I support being empowered to maximize their efforts and achieving goals beyond what they ever thought to be possible.
Educational Background
Name of Institution: University of Wisconsin – Colleges
Major/Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Services & Management
Date Obtained: 8/2013
Credentials
Name of Certification/Accreditation:
*CPR/First Aid
*Certified Medication Technician
*Certified Direct Support Care Provider
*Certified Dementia Care Specialist
Certifying Agency:
*University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
*University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Date Certification was Obtained: 6/2012
Specialties
I became certified as an Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care Specialist in 2012 while managing an assisted living facility. During this time, I became highly involved in annual fundraising events to raise awareness and funds in effort to find a cure for the disease. I am a member of Alzheimer’s Alliance of Wisconsin and with their generous donations, I was able to implement a successful ‘Doll Therapy’ program at the assisted living facility. We saw a remarkable decline in behaviors and a reduction in symptoms related to anxiety and depression in residents who were involved in the program.
County/Region I’m familiar with
South Central Wisconsin/Milwaukee County
Languages or Communication Skills
English, Some Spanish, Some Sign Language
I’m comfortable with pets in the home
Yes
More about me
I cherish and value close and meaningful relationships and friendships. I love to spend time with my three children doing any activity. I have a boy and two girls. We have a busy household, and our home is usually filled with laughter and silliness. We attend church services together every Sunday and after the service, we have a family lunch and usually watch whatever sports are in season. I also enjoy spending time with close friends relaxing and enjoying a good conversation. A simple life is what I enjoy most.