10/15/2026
What would you enjoy doing this month?
That's the question our founder, John Marvin, invites everyone to ask someone this October. Take time to hear their answer. Share an idea of your own. Where possible, make a plan together, and leave room to change it.
Our October newsletter is all about making room for one another. Inside, we celebrate two people who show what that looks like:
• Kim, our Empowered Star and Customer of the Month. Her advice to customers and providers: "Advocate for yourself as best as you can and remember to just have fun!"
• Cori, our featured DSP and Pillar of Empowerment. Cori joined the team in June 2025 and says the best part is "getting to know the individuals I support and being able to make a positive difference in their lives."
You'll also find a message from our CEO, Dylan Surrett, on Down Syndrome Awareness Month and mental health, tips for kind self-talk and building your own regulation toolkit, a pumpkin chocolate chip bread recipe and fall-leaf craft, and sensory-friendly outings and Halloween gatherings across Oregon.
Read the October newsletter: https://empowered-services.org/october-2026-newsletter/
Looking for events near you? Our October Resource Hub lists them by county and date: https://empowered-services.org/october-2026-empowered-idd-resources/