Cornhusker State News

Bear Creek Gifts is located in the town of Beatrice, Nebraska, just south of Lincoln. This gift shop is special because it sells unique artwork and products crafted by individuals living at Beatrice State Developmental Center (BSDC).

BSDC is a 24-hour state and federally-funded residential treatment facility dedicated to the provision of specialized psychological, medical, and developmental support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Individuals residing at BSDC can use their artistic and other skills to produce creative and quality products that are sold at Bear Creek Gifts.

The gift shop and art studio opened in May of 2012 and took its name from the creek that runs along the east side of BSDC. The store was started as a way to include the community, since they are open to the public, and provides opportunities for individuals at BSDC to learn new skills and be active members of the community. They attend craft shows where the individuals can help sell their items and build relationships with members of the community. Individuals living at BSDC are encouraged to explore what the studio has to offer. Some individuals work on their own projects from start to finish, while others may take part in working on different steps such as sanding and priming wood, painting and staining wood, or cutting out designs for decoupage projects.

Individuals are paid an hourly wage to work on and create new projects. They have the opportunity to learn new techniques and work with a variety of different materials such as individual artwork, candles, ceramics, custom door mats, holiday-themed products, slumped wine bottles, special occasion balloons, children's items, and Nebraska-themed products. They also offer the option to make personalized or custom-made orders. Follow their Facebook  page to receive updates on their store and view finished products that are ready to sell. 

“Bear Creek Gifts brings value to the community because we are a one-stop shop gift store. We are different than any other store in the area because we have so many unique items and we can make custom items," says Lisa Schultis, an Active Treatment Program Manager with the State of Nebraska, who is the manager of Bear Creek Gifts and the art studio. “It bridges the gap between people with disabilities and the community. This store has provided our individuals with the opportunity to get out in the community, get to know other people, and build relationships."

Bear Creek Gifts is located at 834 Sheridan Dr. Beatrice, NE 68310. They are open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on state holidays. 

Original source can be found here.