Rural Employment Alternatives, Inc. reflects back on Fiscal Year 2005 to find a major shirt in funding for services which created several changes. Change is not always easy, but agency staff worked diligently to meet the challenge. The majority of the funding which in the past had come from Iowa and surrounding counties now is provided through the federal government (Medicaid). Program adjustments, along with major documentation and billing requriements were implemented. The majority of comsumers and staff were affected by these changes. "Overwhelming" may be the best word to describe the agency atmosphere, but as the year progressed, a commintment to quality programming did prevail.

Community businesses and organizations continue to offer generours financial and morale support to REA, Inc. I would like to recognize the United Way of East Central Iowa; Marengo American Legion & Auxiliary, Post 76; the Iowa County Knights of Columbus (Williamsburg, Marengo, and Victor); Maytag Appliances; Kinze Manufacturing, Ducks Unlimited, Marengo Memorial Hospital Foundation and all of the businesses who chose to hire employees through REA's Supported Employment program.

REA, Inc. continues to be a financially viable non-profit organization that successfully combines quality vocational services and sound fiscal practices.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Staff members, and Consumuers, I extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who assisted in guiding the agency during the past yea, and look forward to continued input and support in the future.

Richard L. Jacoby
President,REA, Inc. Board of Directors