MARINETTE – Aspiro, a Green Bay-based nonprofit that has served individuals with disabilities and their families for nearly 70 years, is accepting new clients for a trio of programs recently introduced in Marinette.
The Building Full Lives, Employment Services and Transition Services programs began operating through the Marinette Community REC Center as of Sept. 1.
Aspiro’s expansion to Marinette was a response to challenges faced by residents in the area.
While information, referrals and long-term care resources are available through existing county-based programs, many residents struggle to access specialized disability services.
Individuals and families often must travel to Green Bay or other neighboring communities to find consistent day programs, employment assistance, inclusion opportunities or structured transition services. The time and cost associated with this transportation can be burdensome, especially in a largely rural service area.
“When transportation is a barrier to program participation, individuals with disabilities may remain isolated from their community and miss out on opportunities to develop important life and vocational skills,” said Katie Doble, vice president of services at Aspiro.
“We also know young adults often experience additional hardships when navigating the transition from educational support to adult services, increasing the risk of lost opportunities for employment and independence.”
Aspiro’s presence in Marinette will address the service gap that exists in the area. By providing local, person-centered programs, Aspiro will significantly improve access to essential disability services for residents throughout Marinette County and surrounding communities.
These disability services include their three programs, Building Full Lives, Employment Services and Transition Services.
The Building Full Lives program supports individuals with disabilities through small-group, community-based activities designed around three components: Daily living skills, career exploration and volunteerism.
Daily living skills focus on building independence and confidence through skill building. Activities include cooking, laundry, personal hygiene, health and wellness and more.
Career exploration helps in preparing individuals to pursue their career goals. Activities include job interest assessments, interview preparation, business tours and more.
Volunteerism and community living intentional techniques are used to teach a mix of hard and soft skills needed for community life.
Volunteerism provides a connection with and contributions to the greater community.
The Employment Services program assists individuals in obtaining and retaining employment with area businesses. This can be accomplished through supported employment or job placement, both in partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Additionally, the Transition Services program offers high school students with disabilities — ages 18 to 21 — the opportunity to begin preparing for life after graduation, while still receiving school support. Students can attend Aspiro while remaining enrolled in their high school program.
This innovative model helps students and families build confidence and independence as they move toward adulthood. Participants gain real-world experience, develop vocational and daily living skills and learn how to access community resources in a supportive environment.
By gradually transitioning from the structure of high school to adult services, students and their families can explore future opportunities, set meaningful goals and make a smoother, more successful shift into post-school life.
Darnece U. of Wallace, Mich., has experienced firsthand what access to Aspiro’s programs can mean. Her daughter began attending Aspiro because disability services were no longer available in their area after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Without local services, our daughter began to regress. She had more difficulty communicating, became less physically active and lost some of her independence,” said Darnece.
“Thanks to Aspiro, she is regaining her confidence and excitement. Our daughter looks forward to attending the Green Bay and Marinette facilities, where she is making new friends and doing activities she enjoys.”
Aspiro’s support has also made a meaningful difference for Darnece as a parent and caregiver.
“I am strengthened by the respite Aspiro provides. Knowing my daughter is in a safe, caring environment allows me to step away without guilt,” Darnece said.
“To other parents looking to give their child more, Aspiro is a perfect choice. From engaging activities to valuable learning experiences, Aspiro helps its clients create greater purpose in their lives.”
Aspiro is accepting new clients for the Building Full Lives, Employment Services and Transition Services programs operating through the Marinette Community REC Center. Interested clients or families should contact Aspiro at (920) 498-2599.
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