Semcac Contact Center

Southern Minnesota Independent Living Enterprises and Services, also known as SMILES, is a nonprofit, nonresidential center for independent living that offers a range of services that assist individuals with disabilities. Established in 1988, the center is funded by public contributions and the United Way, as well as government, community, and private and public foundation grants. As a certified center for independent living, SMILES serves the residents of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca and Watonwan counties in Minnesota. It provides a variety of peer counseling, information and referral, independent living skills training and advocacy services. The center also offers programs related to recreational activities, community services, transition, and assistive technology and environmental access. SMILES is located in Mankato, Minn.

The CAC is happy to host two interns from the Leaders for Social Change program at St Olaf. This summer nine students were selected for the program. Students work at area non-profits, live in a St Olaf house, and particpate in weekly seminars. Signe Knutson and Daniel Murphy will be with us through August 6. Inquiries may be directed to Jim Blaha, Executive Director of the Community Action Center at 664-3550. Letters of nomination may be sent to Jim Blaha at 1651 Jefferson Parkway, MN 55057 HS 200 Nominations should be received by June 18, 2010. The Community Action Center, in partnership with South Central College, will offer classes for those interested in becoming a certified nursing assistant. Classes will be offered from 6: 00 9: 00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning September 14 and ending in December. The tuition is waived for CAC clients. An orientation will be held on August 16 from 6: 00 9: 00 pm at Three Links Care Center, 815 Forest Avenue in Northfield. For more information or to sign up for the orientation, call the CAC at 664-3550 or Bob Kell at 507-333-5036. About The Community Action Center is a private, nonprofit organization serving the greater Northfield area whose mission is to promote a healthy, caring and just community for all people through resources, advocacy and volunteer effort. Community Action Center of Northfield 1651 Jefferson Parkway, MN 55057 Northfield Suite HS-200, 507.664.3550