November 28, 2024

Osceola’s young professionals

Meet Kasi Jones: Mosaic in South Central Iowa’s new community relations manager

By AMY HANSEN

OST photo by AMY HANSEN The main office for Mosaic In South Central Iowa is located at 730 S. Main St. in Osceola.

While Kasi Jones may be new to her job at Mosaic in South Central Iowa, her face is a familiar one around town.

Osceola-native Jones was recently announced as Mosaic’s community relations manager. She graduated from Clarke Community High School in 2005 and Iowa State University with a marketing degree.

Mosaic in South Central Iowa partners with people with intellectual disabilities to provide a meaningful life in a caring community, giving a voice to their needs.

“I’ve been looking for something that brings value to my work day or my career,” Jones said. “Or, something that I feel like I can … I’m changing people’s lives. I’m helping them out. I’m doing something that makes their lives more meaningful and beneficial. It really helps to be motivated for your job and what you’re doing daily.”

What it entails

Jones’ job will focus on Mosaic’s “Discover the Possibilities Tours,” developing relationships with the Osceola and Chariton communities to network volunteers and be the new editor of the Mosaic in South Central Iowa Facebook page.

Jones said she will be letting the community know more about Mosaic and what it offers their clients. She will also try to find more opportunities for clients to participate in the Clarke County area.

According to Jones, there are two “Discover the Possibilities” tours every month — one in Chariton and the other in Osceola.

“Anyone in the community is allowed to come and basically learn about MOSAIC and where we are in the community and what we do to help our clients,” she said.

Volunteerism

Since Mosaic is a nonprofit, it does rely on volunteer support.

There are different things volunteers can do, such as help with parties at group homes or with clients.

“If you are artistic and you paint, if you want to hold a painting event for the clients or if you want to paint nails for the clients — anything you’re interested in,” Jones said. “If you want to be a part of, we find to a way to involve you.”

Though it’s only been a few weeks since Jones started her job at Mosaic, she’s visited many places and local officials throughout the community.

Jones also mentioned everyone is nice at Mosaic and it’s been a great atmosphere to work in.

“Everyone’s so helpful in getting me started,” she said.