Big Lakes Development Center in Manhattan is a non-profit organization that serves intellectually disabled clients 18 and older.
According to information provided by JC Breakfast Optimist Club member Dr. Ferrell Miller the CEO and President of Big Lakes Development Center, Lori Feldkamp, spoke to the club on Wednesday.
Feldkamp said there are 220 people being served in either a residential, independent or group home within a four county area. Clients are paid to work on site, at Footlocker in Junction City and other locations. Examples of work include contracts with McCall's Pattern Company. Clients separate tissue from old patterns made by McCall's and for Parker-Hannifin, the clients assemble plastic spools used for equipment. Other contracts outside of Manhattan include work at the Clay Center Hospital and Court House."
During the COVID-19 pandemic, protocols and precautions have been put in place and implemented to protect the staff and clients. None of the staff or clients have gotten the virus.
Financial support by the state, continued funding from Medicaid and donations to the Big Lakes Developmental Center Foundation is crucial for sustained and improved services to clients. Anyone interested in donating to the Big Lakes Development Center Foundation should contact Lori Feldkamp at 785-776-9201.