Elaine Bielefeld

Role Description

I do a little bit of everything in Community Resources and around the main office. I have also done Direct Care in the previous 12 years. My unofficial title from one of my co-workers was “What Ever”.

What is something that people with disabilities have to deal with that you want to fix?

I am not looking to fix anything, but I want to enable individuals to live richer, fuller lives by offering new experiences and opportunities that give confidence and growth.

What’s your past experience?

I worked with elementary students, including Special Education students, for 27 years. I have been an elementary school aide, after school aide, park department employee, newspaper correspondent, worked at a dry cleaners, had an antique shop, did child care, did senior care, raised eight children, and was a community and school volunteer.

What do you like about working at In-Pact?

I like being creative in working with individuals and like my flexible schedule. This allows me to be myself. The vast majority of the In-Pact staff is dedicated to our individuals and will do everything in their power to make each day the best for them.

Tell us something about yourself.

I grew up in Cedar Lake and St. John. I went to High School at Bishop Noll Institute in Hammond. I have a Humanities Degree from St. Mary of the Woods College, with a concentration on History and a minor in Professional Communications.

What are the values that drive you?

Integrity, Honesty, Cooperation, Respect, Kindness, Inclusion.

Name your top 3 favorite podcasts or books

I am especially fond of reading the classics and Austen, Delderfield and Goudge. I watch mainly PBS and RTE (Ireland) stations

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

Getting together with family and friends; Music of all kinds; Genealogy; Reading and watching biographies and historical fiction; Being outdoors; Road trips and adventures; and Self-awareness and discovery

What’s your favorite quote?

I have three favorite quotes:
“It’s Simple; Be Kind”
“No Matter Where You Go, There You Are”
“You Are Always Where You Are Supposed To Be”

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