Ron Munsterman:
“Achieving Great Things”

When Ron Munsterman came to The Spectrum Network in 1993, he needed help with the basics. He lived independently, but wasn’t skilled in areas like planning meals, budgeting money, and home safety. Without these skills, he was limited in what he could accomplish, both socially and professionally.

“Ron needed help with day-to-day living skills that many of us take for granted,” says Kathy Donovan, program manager of the Supported Community Living (SCL) program. Kathy adds that Ron’s health and safety were at risk.

With the help of staff at The Spectrum Network, Ron has been able to find and maintain a safe and healthy home in which to live. He has learned to accomplish daily tasks like planning menus, managing and budgeting money, grocery shopping, and paying bills. With these skills in place, Ron is now enrolled in an Associate of Arts degree program at the Northeast Iowa Community College (N.I.C.C.)

These achievements haven’t happened overnight, however. They’ve come about through determination and hard work. In addition to SCL, Ron has participated in The Spectrum Network’s job skills training and provides custodial services at Bank of the West.

Ron also has built a strong social network over the years, and pursues several leisure activities. He belongs to a church and attends a focus group at Luther College. He is very involved in the arts—both in creating his own drawings and in appreciating the work of others. He is an avid bicyclist and enjoys riding to nearby towns. And, he is a contributing author to From My Perspective: Essays about Disability published by The Spectrum Network.

Ron is quick to agree that his friendships and connections have greatly enhanced his quality of life. “I like what I do in the community, and the church I attend.”