By Lauren Sanders, Program Coordinator
Five years ago, I had the idea to take a small group of individuals from one of our MORA residential homes on a trip to Carlson’s Lloveable Llamas. As a former 4H kid who grew up in the llama project, I’ve always had a soft spot for these gentle, curious animals. I hoped it would be a fun outing—what I didn’t expect was that it would spark a lasting relationship between one individual and a whole new community.
Ko, one of the individuals I brought that day, was instantly captivated—not just by the llamas, but by the entire atmosphere of the farm. It wasn’t long before he began asking to go back. Today, five years later, we still visit the farm several times a week. He walks, brushes, and feeds the llamas with care and confidence. But more than that, Ko has become part of the llama family. He chats with familiar faces, meets new people daily, and is a beloved presence at the farm. If he misses a day, people ask about him.
As a direct care worker, this kind of connection is everything. We help individuals build relationships that go beyond family or staff—and those connections can be transformative. At the farm, Ko isn’t just a visitor; he’s a friend, a helper, and a recognized member of the community. He plays games with the farmers, reads flashcards, and shares laughs. These are more than activities; they’re experiences that strengthen his confidence, increase his social independence, and broaden his support circle.
Over the years, I’ve held many roles within MORA—DSP, Medical Specialist, Program Coordinator, Behavioral Specialist—but working in a 1:1 position has allowed me to take person-centered care to a whole new level. Every day, I have the privilege of supporting someone in a way that is deeply individualized, balancing what’s important to them with what’s important for them. It’s not just about care—it’s about connection.
Ko’s social world extends far beyond the farm. We also take part in an adaptive recreation program that hosts weekly park picnics. He loves catching up with old friends and meeting new ones. And let me tell you—Ko loves whistles. So much so, the lifeguards at the park all know him by name and blow their whistles in greeting when he walks by. Sometimes they even pause their break to play a quick card game with him. These small moments build lasting joy and trust.
While we have our regular hangouts, Ko and I also love to explore. At the beginning of each month, we sit down with a calendar and plan out the adventures that spark his interest. Whether it’s a fair, a beach day, or a sports game, this planning gives him more than a full schedule—it gives him anticipation, purpose, and ownership of his life.
Over the years, we’ve shared so many unforgettable experiences:
- County and State Fairs
- Zoos and local festivals
- McGregor campsite weekends
- Trips to Duluth, Stillwater, and Minneopa State Park
- Baseball and basketball games
- Museums, libraries, and beaches
- Bowling, Special Olympics, and so much more
Each outing, big or small, brings something new. Watching Ko light up with excitement, pride, or wonder is the most rewarding part of my job. It reminds me, again and again, why this work matters.
Through consistent, thoughtful, and individualized support, we’re not just filling days—we’re helping people live fuller, richer lives. And sometimes, that journey starts with a llama.
Discover your calling.
Start a career where you make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day, including your own.
Recent Blog Posts:
- Home at Last: A Heartwarming Reunion After the Storm
- Raising Our Voices for Disability Rights and Medicaid Support in Washington, D.C.
- From Llamas to Lifeguards: Building Community, One Connection at a Time
- 2025 MORA Carnival
- Employee Spotlight: Stephanie’s Journey of Heart, Growth, and Community