John Kane:
“Taking Charge of Life”
Life is full of surprises. Like John Kane, for instance. Sit down with John, and the quiet, unassuming man before you quickly comes to life. You find yourself in the company of a dynamic individual—a leader—with a wry sense of humor.
A client of Spectrum Industries since 1999, John has a hand in many areas of the Decorah community. He trains one morning a week at The Spectrum Network, and spends several days in the Adult Day Services program. He also volunteers at Eastern Star, helping assisted living residents participate in activities.
“John is a great friend to everyone in Day Services,” says Kathy Donovan, program manager. “He reaches out to others and has been very involved in a variety of activities.”
Kathy adds that John has really “taken charge of life” since working with Spectrum. When he started in 1999, he was struggling and had lost his job at a grocery store. “He wasn’t very confident about his abilities and had a hard time talking to people.”
John began participating in the job skills training program, and slowly but surely, built the confidence and supports that he needed to succeed. He has trained at the Depot Outlet, in ReCompute, and fulfilling contracts for companies like Rockwell Collins and Deco Products.
For the past several years, John has been transitioning toward his retirement and spending more of his time in Day Services. John says he enjoys learning skills like cooking that help him live independently. He’s also gained computer skills and now owns a computer that he uses to keep in touch with family and friends by e-mail. And, John is a contributing author to From My Perspective: Essays about Disability published by The Spectrum Network.
Most of all, John appreciates Day Services’ opportunities for venturing out into the community. He mentions recent outings like touring an Amish community, visiting the Luther College art gallery, and going to see a play at Decorah High School. “You make a lot of friends around here,” says John.
"John is a great friend to everyone in Day Services"
—Kathy Donovan