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Acres Of Hope And Aspirations

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Acres of Hope Takes it on the Road

Kids in Madison get into the act as Muskego brain injury facility shares their message of safety and hope

"Bringing awareness of brain injury and prevention to 275 children plus teachers at St. Dennis school in Madison was such a joy," said director Lisa Alberte of the 'field trip' that she, staff,  and about a dozen creatures of rehab took on Monday. Apparently anticipating the creatures that also serve to assist brain injury patients recover and receive therapy, some of the children dressed like their favorite animal.  Alberte and crew talked about basic safety for protecting their heads and what Acres of Hope does for its patients for the 300+ audience of K-4 through 8th grade students plus faculty. Enjoy the pictures from what was truly a fun and rewarding event!

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Congrats, Person of the Year: Lisa Alberte

A one-woman army for the brain-injured, Alberte received high praise from readers who admire her dedication and positive attitude.

Lisa Alberte is about five feet tall, and has cemented my theory about short women: beware, because we're on a mission. (Full disclosure: I'm 5'0.5) The director of Acres of Hope and Aspirations, a five-acre farmette nestled amid homes along Durham Place in Muskego, Alberte seems to do the impossible with almost nothing. Dedicated to working with patients suffering from brain injury and cognitive disorders, Alberte also incorporates 'creatures of rehab' to foster their therapy. These animals as well often have disbilities, making her a rescue for such creatures. Despite setbacks due to animal deaths and other 'breaches of security' that have resulted in the loss of several animals over the course of the year, Alberte's attitude is focused …

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

An Acres-Long Wish List

It's the season of giving, so don't overlook Muskego's most unique farm, which needs your support to provide therapy for people struggling with brain injury.

  It's tucked away on five acres in the heart of a Muskego neighborhood, but perhaps that's part of the problem. Out of sight, out of mind. However, the work that is done at Acres of Hope and Aspiration is truly amazing. The farm and rehabilitation facility assist patients that are dealing with brain injury or cognitive impairment, and it does so through the magic connection of animal therapy. However the animals could also use a little help to sustain their work. Lisa Alberte, RN, is nearly a one-woman show at Acres, and has shared the wish list for her animals and for the facility. While no barrels sit outside a store for Acres, the need is nonetheless real. Please check over the list below and see if there's any items you can donate: In…

Saturday, September 29, 2012

A National Focus on Muskego? Rehab Facility Hopes So

Acres of Hope has been helping brain injury patients on a quiet five-acre farm, but hopes to garner more attention to the cause, and their work, on a more national stage

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Historical Society is Set for Craft Fair

A great response from vendors has meant just a few outdoor spots remain available, but also means that fair goers have plenty to see, eat and do Sept. 22.

Last year's annual craft fair at the Muskego Old Settlement Centre was rainy, but kept crowds coming anyway, and with a chilly but sunny forecast, planners are excited to return this year with a bigger event. Laura Mishefske, a member of the Muskego Historical Society which organizes the event, says they are expecting more than 50 crafters to sell their wares, inside and out, rain or shine. "We have everything from pottery, textiles, floral, greeting cards and wood crafts spread throughout the grounds," she said. In addition, grill food will be served up along with Sweet Delights Kettle Corn and an old fashioned bake sale for the perpetually hungry. Tractor driven hay rides will also be offered around the grounds, and kids can enjoy …

Monday, September 17, 2012

Laughter in Unlikely Places

Acres of Hope and Aspirations deals with patients undergoing therapy to rehab from brain injury, but there's something to smile - and yes, laugh - about on Sept. 23

"Laughter is the Best Medicine" is an old adage that has some basis in fact. Doctors have long seen the power of a positive attitude and a great sense of humor lift patients out of dismal medical circumstances. It's also the theme of an afternoon out at Acres of Hope and Aspirations on Sunday, Sept. 23, with comedian Dobie Maxwell providing the headlining entertainment. Grounds open at noon, and attendees can tour the five acre grounds and meet the creatures of rehab so instrumental in the recovery of patients there. Maxwell, who has appeared with Jerry Seinfeld, Jeff Foxworthy, Robin Williams and Jay Leno to name a few, will take the stage at 2:15 p.m. Refreshments, games, raffles and a silent auction will also be featured throughout the …

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Pet Fair Returns With a Bigger Paw Print

Interest has grown from last year's first appearance say organizers, and will include more vendors to provide information on safety, nutrition and health of your favorite furry friend.

Walgreen's at the corner of Racine Avenue and Janesville Road will again sponsor a Pet Fair on Saturday, September 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Last year's event was such a success and drew such interest from other vendors that organizer Chris March, a manager at Walgreen's, said this year's event promises to be even bigger. "We started by offering pet photos, and felt we should have something for people to do while they were waiting, so we invited HAWS (Humane Animal Welfare Society) to come out as well as other pet related businesses, and it was really well-received," March said. "This year, we have so many others joining in and we are expecting it to be much more expanded." Proceeds from the sale of photos and other fundraisers during the …

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Disabled Veteran Celebrates a Birthday He'll Never Forget

Winlom Woods' enjoyed well-wishers at Jammin' on Janesville who helped him celebrate another great year in his amazing life story.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Volunteer Opportunities: Tutor; Senior Field Trips; Serve Breakfast, Lunch

Want to give back to the community? Here are some opportunities to serve via the United Way in Waukesha County.

Along with existing opportunities to volunteer at Acres of Hope and Aspirations, the Muskego Food Pantry, Muskego Senior Taxi, National Night Out and the Muskego Community Festival, the United Way of Waukesha County also has these available: Instructor Aide-Day Services, Goodwill Industries of SE Wisconsin Volunteers are needed to assist staff with recreational activities at an adult day center and/or with outings for participants that have cognitive or physical disabilities. Volunteers are needed in Waukesha, Brookfield, Pewaukee and Menomonee Falls. Scheduling is flexible, based on your schedule. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be a minimum of 16 years old, social and mature with the ability to …

Friday, June 22, 2012

Volunteers Sought in Muskego and Throughout County

Local opportunities exist to help seniors and little kids; give back to the Waukesha County community as a historic gardener, adult companion and more.

Summer's here and it's likely the kids are bored already. Depending on their age, they can be put to good use helping out the community. In Muskego Acres of Hope and Aspirations is always looking for extra hands to help with the care of its 'creatures of rehab' and basic upkeep around the five-acre property. Contact the facility at 414-422-4882. Teens are being sought to help out the younger set at the annual Safety City program in July. The classes teach youngsters bike safety and safety around the house, and teens help with 'coralling' the students to ensure the classes run smoothly. Contact Gary Mrotek at the Muskego Police Department with your interest by emailing gmrotek@ci.muskego.wi.us. As always, the Muskego Food Pantry fills a …

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