Nonprofit breaks ground on home for individuals with traumatic brain injury

Bear Creek Services began construction this week on a new group home for individuals with traumatic brain injury. The home will be located at 2340 30th Ave NW, and will be fully wheelchair accessible. 

The nonprofit says the decision to build a new home came in response to the growing needs of the people they support. Currently, Bear Creek provides services for more than 90 individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injury.

This building will provide a safe and comfortable home for four individuals with traumatic brain injury. The name of the building, "Kelly D's House," honors a longtime staff member of Bear Creek Services who passed away a few years back.

“This is all a part of a plan we are working on that reaches out 10 years into the future," said Executive Director Linda Driessen.  "Our goal is to replace homes that are aging, or no longer meet the needs of the residents who live there."

Bear Creek Services provides personalized community life experiences for individuals who have developmental disabilities or brain injuries. The nonprofit was created in 1976 by parents who had children with developmental disabilities. 

Olmsted County citizens spend over 4,000 hours per year volunteering for Bear Creek. There are many opportunities to get involved and serve the residents, such as being a companion to a resident, or doing yard work on one of the 15 properties. 

For more information or to learn how to get involved, visit www.bearcreekservices.org.

Written by contributor Micalyn Maier. A senior at Mayo High School, Micalyn enjoys reading, writing and traveling. She wants to pursue a career in journalism covering social justice issues.

Cover photo courtesy Bear Creek Services