Creating Connections and Inspiring Independence

Terry is well-known in our community due to his dedication to helping others. Whether through his roles at the Fairfield Center for Independence, assisting with local events, or coaching Little League baseball, Terry works to create a vibrant community.

As an assistant Little League baseball coach with Kiwanis, Terry works with children aged 8–12. Drawing on his extensive baseball knowledge, he helps players develop their skills while also analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of opposing teams to guide his team to victory. Outside of coaching, Terry is an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Guardians and enjoys attending Columbus Clippers games.

Terry is also the co-host of the Fairfield Center for Independence podcast “Independence Rules," where he shares insights on gaining independence and discusses the various activities he is involved in. He frequently utilizes the library to research podcast topics and improve his podcasting skills.

At the Fairfield Center for Independence, Terry leads morning affirmations, fostering confidence and encouragement. He guides others by saying affirmations like, "May I trust I’m enough." and invites everyone to repeat the words, helping them build confidence for the day.

Terry is out Terry is out and about at a variety of events. The next event on his calendar is Friends of Fairfield DD's Celebration of Possibilities, where he will serve as the award presenter. Terry will join community leaders in honoring members of the community who illustrate the mission of Fairfield DD and work to create a more vibrant community.

Terry at Fairfield DD's Celebration of Possibilities

Through his efforts, Terry exemplifies how small acts of kindness, offering a helping hand, and getting involved can create a vibrant community where people can live lives of greater independence and make meaningful contributions. 

Weathering the Storm

Katrina Tipple’s interest in weather began in 2024 when Ohio was hit by back-to-back tornadoes. For many with weather anxiety, these events would trigger an instinct to avoid anything related to storms. However, Katrina’s severe storm anxiety pushed her in the opposite direction. She chose to learn more about the weather, believing that knowledge could help her confront her fears. Katrina not only educates the public about weather patterns and storm safety; she also inspires others to face their fears with knowledge.

Katrina’s journey began when she enrolled in courses through Fairfield County’s Emergency Management Agency. It didn’t take long for her to develop a deep interest in meteorology. You can now find her measuring wind speeds, watching the sky for color changes and cloud formations, tracking precipitation, and reporting her findings to the weather service.

“We’ve got ice coming tonight, and I’ll be out there measuring with my ruler,” Katrina says excitedly. Last winter, she couldn’t contain her enthusiasm when a snow squall warning was issued. It was a weather event she had not experienced before, and she was ready to go outside and see it firsthand.

Katrina is now using her experiences and training to help others. In December, Katrina spoke at the Center for Independence about her struggle with storm anxiety and how it drove her to learn about the weather. On July 12th, she will speak at a Storm Chaser Conference in Pennsylvania about weather safety and the journey that led her to where she is today. When asked if she would ever storm chase, Katrina said, “I don’t know; for now, I safely observe from the house.”

Katrina’s success in public speaking and growing expertise in weather are just the beginning. She’s utilizing social media to share her wide range of interests. Katrina hosts an online music program, shares life lessons with her followers, and will be doing her first live-streamed food review this week. When Katrina is not sharing on social media or helping track the weather, you can find her enjoying her cats, Gus and Willow. You also might find her outdoors camping, fishing, and boating.

Katrina has proven that fear can be transformed into strength. Through her talks, she motivates others, demonstrating that our fear can often guide us toward unexpected and positive journeys.

Stepping Stone Towards Independence

Matthew joined Art & Clay on Main as an intern through the program at Lancaster High School. During his internship, Matthew enjoyed the hands-on experience of working in both the coffee shop and the pottery studio. He appreciated the opportunity to learn about the different aspects of the business, from working with painters to maintaining the public spaces at Art and Clay

After graduating, Matthew knew he wanted to continue in his position at Art & Clay. He felt a strong connection to the business and the people, and he was eager to stay involved in the work he had come to enjoy. He took the initiative to learn about the interview process and went through each step, eventually securing the position.

Now, as an employee, Matthew has an important role in the operation of Art & Clay, keeping the work areas in the coffee shop clean and ensuring the art supplies area is well organized. He also maintains the seating area to ensure it stays clean and accessible for customers. His attention to detail and commitment to a welcoming environment have made him a valuable member of the team.

Matthew’s story shows how internships can be a steppingstone to finding your passions and setting up a career. Through hard work and trying new things, he not only secured a permanent position but also has made friends, learned new skills, and is looking forward to growing more as an employee at Art & Clay.
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