At Sunrise Enterprises, wellness isn’t just about health—it’s about connection. November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to pause and reflect on how communities can show up for one another and create spaces where health and understanding thrive.

More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and roughly 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. In Oregon, diabetes continues to rise, particularly among adults who face challenges accessing consistent healthcare, transportation, and nutritious food. These numbers remind us that awareness is not just about information—it’s about creating the kind of environments that make healthy living possible.

Diabetes management depends on daily balance—steady meals, movement, medication, and encouragement. Yet wellness doesn’t happen in isolation. A person’s ability to thrive is deeply influenced by the world around them—by workplaces that understand, families that adapt, and communities that care.

At Sunrise, wellness is seen as a team effort. It shows up in how we educate, encourage, and empower one another—whether that means offering healthier options at work, learning to recognize signs of low blood sugar, or simply checking in on someone’s well-being. Those small, intentional actions build compassion, and compassion is the foundation of a healthy community.

This month, let’s not only raise awareness about diabetes, but also deepen our awareness of one another. By staying informed, supporting healthier choices, and fostering understanding, we can strengthen both individual and community wellness—because when people are supported, communities thrive.

Employment is more than a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to contribute, to grow, and to feel connected to community. For individuals with disabilities, access to meaningful employment also represents independence, dignity, and the chance to fully participate in the life of our county.

Yet, barriers still exist. Nationally, people with disabilities are employed at lower rates than those without disabilities. By observing NDEAM, we shine a light on these challenges while also celebrating the businesses, organizations, and individuals who are leading the way in inclusive hiring and workplace practices.

The 2025 theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” is a powerful reminder that every person brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. Inclusive employment is not just about fairness—it makes our community stronger. Diverse teams are more innovative, resilient, and better equipped to meet the needs of today’s workforce.

Here in Douglas County, we see examples every day of how inclusive employment strengthens both businesses and community life. Whether it’s a local employer who opens new doors of opportunity, or an individual who thrives when given the chance to showcase their abilities, these stories remind us that inclusion benefits everyone.

By working together, we can create a culture where every individual’s talents are valued, where businesses benefit from diverse perspectives, and where communities continue to grow as a welcoming, inclusive place to live and work.

Behind every statistic is a person, a story, a family, and a future. Many people who struggle with suicidal thoughts often feel isolated, overwhelmed, or believe that things will never get better. But suicide is not inevitable—help and healing are always possible.

At Sunrise, we believe that mental health matters and are committed to creating a culture that supports emotional well-being. Suicide is a leading cause of death, but it is also preventable. By opening conversations, reducing stigma, and showing compassion, each of us has the power to make a difference.  This Suicide Prevention Month, we invite you to join us in breaking the silence, spreading hope, and standing together for healing. Every life has value, and every life is worth fighting for.

Even small actions can bring hope:

• Listening without judgment

• Checking in on a friend, colleague, or loved one

• Sharing resources and encouraging others to reach out for help

These gestures remind people they are not alone and that support is always within reach.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember: you are not alone.
Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Trained counselors are available 24/7, ready to provide immediate support.

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