FEB 18, 2012: Parent to Parent of Oregon Mentor Training
Announcing the Parent to Parent of Oregon Mentor Training. Parent to Parent of Oregon’s mission is to offer high quality statewide parent to parent connections for families who have children with long-term health, developmental, behavioral or emotional conditions.
Parent to Parent of Oregon
Mentor Training
When: Saturday, February 18, 2012; 9:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m.
Where: East Rose Unitarian Church
1133 NE 181st
Portland, OR
Please call 503 706-0744 or
email p2poregon@gmail.com to register.
Pre-registration required
Lunch Provided. There is no cost for this training. Donations accepted.
Thanks, Evelyn Lowry, for the tip.
Free Thanksgiving Meal and Community Building: Saturday Nov 19th, 2011
Building Relationships Through Giving Thanks!
The Mallory Avenue Church of Christ, Piedmont Church of Christ and Agape Church of Christ are reaching out to the community and invites you to come and have a meal with them! They are offering a free traditional Thanksgiving meal this Saturday at 1pm and are eager to get to know you, talk about your concerns and pray for a change and healing.
Join them at the Mallory Avenue Church of Christ – 3908 NE Mallory Avenue in Portland, Oregon. (Located at the corner of NE Mallory Ave.& Failing St. across from the Mallory Court Apartments)
Saturday, November 19th from 1pm – 4pm
Free dinner, prayer and fellowship
Questions? Contact Frederick or Tresa Berry at 503.285.5195.
Thanks to INW’s own Tresa Berry for this resource.
Winter Shelters and Homeless Families Emergency Services in Multnomah County
The City of Portland and Multnomah County fund year-round, winter, and severe weather emergency shelter. There are also privately-funded organizations that provide shelter services. There are 640 emergency shelter beds and 27 family spaces available year-round.Winter shelter is available from November 1-March 31, unless otherwise indicated below. An additional 291 beds are available during the winter season, which includes winter shelter for men (146 beds), women (85 beds), and families (60 beds).
Severe weather emergency shelter is also available when the City declares a Severe Weather Notice, based on temperatures at 25 degrees Fahrenheit or below for several nights in a row, or other life-threatening weather conditions. When severe weather is declared, up to 250 additional beds may be made available for homeless persons.
SAVE THE DATE: 11.22.11 Portland Public Schools Adult Transition Resource Fair
SAVE THE DATE: 11/22/11. Announcing the 2nd Annual Portland Public Schools Transition Resource Fair. Please join us as we partner with dozens of organizations to help bring you a resource fair for transition-aged individuals and their families. Please pass this on to your networks. We look forward to seeing you at the fair!
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011
12 noon to 7pm
Travel Tip: Bus #19 runs on Duke Street
The resource fair is for transition aged youth (14 – 21), families, special educators, professionals and transition specialists in Multnomah County. You’ll learn about resources and services available throughout the community. It’s an opportunity to make connections, ask questions and explore opportunities.
Exhibitors and Speakers include:
ADVOCACY:
Oregon RISE
211 Info
IEP Partners
Safety Zone
SPEAC Advisory Council
Oregon First
Disability Compass
Disability Rights Oregon
Autism Society of Oregon
SEPTAP (Special Education PTA of Portland)
BENEFITS:
Brokerages (Independence Northwest, Community Pathways, UCP Connections, Inclusion Inc., Mentor Oregon)
Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services
Social Security Administration
Multnomah County Housing
EDUCATION:
Portland Community College: Culinary Program
Portland Community College: Skills Center
Portland Community College: Disability Services
Incight
RECREATION:
Trips Inc.
Portland Parks and Rec
Vibe Dance Troupe
Off the Couch
Club Impact
EMPLOYMENT:
Ticket to Work Program
Vocational Rehabilitation
Portland Habilitation Center (PHC)
CTP Vocational Training
DePaul Project Search
SERVICE PROVIDERS:
Full Life
RideWise
Art from the Heart
Project Grow (info only)
On the Move Community Integration
Independent Living Program (The Inn)
20 – 30 MINUTE PRESENTATIONS ON:
– Community Transition Program
– Transition Requirements
– Aging and Disability Services
– Social Security Benefits
– Brokerage Basics
– Parent Panel
– Student Panel
– Work Incentives
Please join us! And pass this on to anyone you believe might be interested. We look forward to seeing you at the fair.
Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=228585253874771
Materials for Print/Sharing:
Russian Transition Fair Flyer
English Transition Fair Flyer
Vietnamese Transition Fair Flyer
Spanish Transition Fair Flyer
DHS Releases Proposed Budget Cut List – Brokerages in Crosshairs Again
Just five weeks ago, about 700 people were exited from brokerage services due to budget cuts. Once again, Support Services Brokerages are showing up on a reduction option list for additional cuts. Proposed cuts would make significant reductions to brokerage operations and would slash the amount of money brokerage customers have available to them in their Individual Support Plans. A message from Erinn Kelly-Siel, the Director of the Department of Human Services was just released (see below.)
Please spend some time reviewing the letter and the accompanying links. Our state is in a very difficult space and many difficult decisions must be made. DHS is asking for comments and alternative reduction suggestions no later than THIS FRIDAY. Please let your voice be heard so we can preserve these essential services. Please forward this along to your networks.
Message from Erinn Kelley-Siel, DHS Director
As a result of the ongoing economic weakness facing the state, and the potential for additional projected revenue declines in future forecasts, Oregon’s Legislative Fiscal Office (LFO) requested the submission of reduction options from all state agencies. LFO requested agencies to develop a total of 10.5% in reduction options, based on 2011-13 legislatively adopted budget level, including the 3.5% supplemental ending balance adjustment amount. This list is due to LFO by November 14, 2011. To reach that target, the total level of reduction for the Department of Human Services is $210-220 million general fund.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT: DHS is seeking feedback on the attached reduction options [ see links below] prior to their submission to the Legislative Fiscal Office. Feedback should be submitted no later than 12:00 noon on November 11, 2011. Feedback should concentrate on alternative reductions that would help the agency achieve its savings target and/or on recommendations regarding the prioritization of the reductions on the list. Ultimately, decisions about any proposed reductions will be vetted through the legislative process.
Please note that these reduction options are not intended to reflect the policy or program recommendations of the agency. DHS is acutely aware that the reduction options on this list have significant consequences for Oregonians and the communities in which they live.
Department of Human Services Reduction Options
The list is posted on the DHS website at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/aboutdhs/budget/2011-2013/index.shtml
Here is the DIRECT LINK to the list: http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/aboutdhs/budget/2011-2013/reductions/stakeholder-input2011-1108.pdf
Reduction Option List Format
Please note the following as you review and comment on the reduction options:
- The list is organized by major program area. Within each program area, the reduction options have been prioritized – but DHS has not yet prioritized the reduction options across the department.
- At the top of each list (in grey shading) are the reductions that the Legislature has already taken in each program in the 2011-13 budget. Some of those reductions have not yet been fully implemented. However, the savings associated with those reductions have already been included in the 2011-13 DHS Legislatively Adopted Budget.
- The list in total equates to $210-220 million in General Fund savings, the 10.5% target set by LFO. The entire list of reduction options would need to be taken in order for DHS to achieve the full savings target.
- The list is currently focused on program reduction options. Additional reductions to program delivery infrastructure and administration are still under review by DHS and Oregon Health Authority leadership.
Next Steps: If you would like to offer comment on the proposed reduction options, please send your comments to gene.evans@state.or.us. Please send comments NO LATER than 12:00 noon, November 11, 2011. DHS Leadership will review and consider all comments prior to submitting the list to LFO on November 14, 2011.
Conclusion
These are difficult times for Oregonians and for our state. DHS takes very seriously its obligation to the people it serves, our partners in that service, and to the taxpayers of Oregon. Thank you in advance for your understanding with regard to the difficulty of this task and all it entails. Your feedback is invaluable to our ability to do the best work we can with the resources we have.
Fall Parent Social at On The Move November 30th, 2011
Open to all community members! Announcing the Fall Parent Social put on by On-the-Move Community Integration. Meet and socialize with other parents and caregivers who are caring for an adult with developmental disabilities. Wine & appetizers will be served.
Wednesday, November 30th 2011 6:00 -7:30pm On-the-Move Community Integration, located at 4187 SE Division in Portland, Oregon.
Please RSVP to Deborah Waggoner, Community Inclusion Specialist
deborah@onethemoveonline.org
503.287.0346
Fix It Fair Season is Upon Us (Portland)
Join your neighbors and talk to the experts about how to spend less and stay healthy!
The Fix-It Fairs are free events designed to save you money and connect you to resources. Fix-It Fairs occur seasonally, on three Saturday mornings during the winter (between November and February) from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at various locations around Portland. The first Fix-it Fair of the season is always the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
Saturday, November 19th, 2011
Ron Russell Middle School, 3955 SE 112th Ave, Portland
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
Rosa Parks Elementary School, 8960 N Woolsey Ave, Portland
Saturday, February 25th, 2012
Jefferson High School, 5210 N Kerby Ave, Portland
All Fairs occur from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Visit us on Facebook to get more information from us and the community.
What you’ll find at a Fix-It Fair
Ongoing exhibits and hourly workshops on such topics as:
- Water and energy savings
- Safe and healthy home
- Food and nutrition
- Neighborhood and community resources
- Recycling
- Weatherizing your home
- Gardening and growing your own food
- Yard care and composting
- Transportation
Plus
- Free lead blood testing
- Free giveaways
- Hourly door prizes
- Free professional childcare
- Free lunch
- Free minor bike tune-ups and flat tire repair for students and families
For more information or to receive email notification for future Fairs: 503-823-4309, fixitfair@portlandoregon.gov.
Thank you to our Fix-It Fair Sponsors
The 2010-2011 Fix-It Fair season was presented by The City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability with support from the following sponsors: Energy Trust of Oregon, Pacific Power, Portland Housing Bureau and Portland General Electric.
Thanks to Erin Graff for the tip.
Donated Dental Services: Nov 21/22 at Oregon Convention Center
The Oregon Dental Association will host their second annual Mission of Mercy event on Monday & Tuesday, November 21 and 22, 2011. Mission of Mercy is a dental clinic with portable dental stations set up in a large public arena. Dental screenings and services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge to those who attend. MOM combines the donated services of hundreds of dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, dental lab technicians and an array of volunteers to provide these free dental services.
Where: Oregon Convention Center
Time: Doors open @ 6 AM
Services: cleaning, x-rays, filings, extractions, and partial dentures
Home Care Commission Offers Training; New DD/Mental Health Committee Forming
Beginning January 1, 2011 Personal Support Workers who provide services to persons with Developmental Disabilities or Mental Health conditions have:
Access to training opportunities available through the Oregon Home Care Commission
Priority in registering for training classes for Homecare Workers and Personal Support Workers.
Access to Workers’ Compensation benefits.
If you would like to receive monthly newsletter and updates, please send your e-mail address to DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us.
New Developmental Disability and Mental Health Committee
House Bill 3618 requires that the Home Care Commission to create a Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Committee. The Developmental Disability and Mental Health Committee will review issues related to (but not limited to) the areas below:
1) Qualifications for Personal Support Workers;
2) Registration of Personal Support Workers;
3) Referrals for routine, emergency, and respite care;
4) Training opportunities for Personal Support Workers; and
5) Collective bargaining.
6th Annual Youth Transition Conference: Building Futures
6th Annual Building Futures Youth with Disabilities Secondary Transition Conference
October 24th & 25th, 2011 at the Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel
8235 Northeast Airport Way Portland, Oregon 97220
Building Futures is for youth with disabilities and anyone who has an interest in supporting youth with disabilities as they transition from school to adult life.
This includes Secondary Educators, Post Secondary Educators, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors, Special Educators, therapists, counselors, service providers, job developers, and other rehabilitation specialists, and especially secondary students with disabilities and their families.
Throughout this two-day event there will be presentations by regional and national experts on issues surrounding secondary transition, post-secondary transition, employment, higher education and assistive technology.
If you would like to sponsor this annual event or receive more information, please contact Karen Ripplinger at: 503.581.8156 ext. 210 or kripplinger@oregonrisecenter.org.
Resources for Customers Exiting Brokerage Services
On October 1st, somewhere between 700 and 800 people will be exited from brokerage services due to non-Medicaid status. Recently, our staff got together to create resource lists for those affected. Below are some resources that might be of use to you or someone you know.
211 – This should always be your first stop for resources in our community. This clearinghouse has a comprehensive listing of resources available to you 24/7. Check them out now!
Ride Wise – Ride Connections’ Ride Wise program teaches older adults and people with disabilities to travel independently and safely on public transportation. The services are provided at no charge for those who qualify and encompass all forms of public transportation (bus, light rail).
Independent Living Resources – ILR promotes the philosophy of Independent Living by creating opportunities, encouraging choices, advancing equal access, and furthering the level of independence for all people with disabilities.
Mint – Mint is a free money management software that will help you manage your funds so you can continue living independently.
Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation– The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation, founded in 1959, serves as the nonprofit arm of the Lions Clubs of Oregon. Today, the Foundation continues to provide sight and hearing assistance for Oregonians in need through numerous programs that improve the quality of life of our most vulnerable members of our community.
Free Geek – Free Geek’s mission is to recycle technology and provide access to computers, the internet, education and job skills in exchange for community service.
Human Solutions – Since 1988, Human Solutions has developed a wide range of effective programs to assist families and individuals to find successful pathways out of poverty and homelessness toward self-sufficiency. Human Solutions helps families and individuals gain prosperity which in turn helps our greater community to thrive.
Impact NW – Impact Northwest’s mission is to help people achieve and maintain self-sufficiency and to prevent and alleviate the effects of poverty.
DART (Disability Assault/Abuse Response Team) – DART provides a domestic violence support group for women with developmental/cognitive disabilities. They are currently holding their meetings at the INW office. Please follow the link to learn more.
SE Works – SE Works’ mission is to strengthen the economic health and well being of our diverse southeast Portland community by facilitating successful connections between job seekers and employers.
Educate Ya – The mission of Edúcate Ya, Inc. is to foster social change, cultural integration, professionalism, and wellness education in the Latino communities. Our objective is to educate and create awareness about cultural, social, economic, and health concerns in the different Latino communities, as well as the broader community.
Latino Connections – A project of Easter Seals, LC is a grassroots employment service for employers. LC works to train, educate and motivate Latino participants focusing on employment. LC implements a holistic approach to reducing barriers to employment, fully integrating job seekers into the current workforce.
Catholic Charities – Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services provides high quality immigration legal services to low-income immigrants and refugees, and engages in public education, training and community outreach in order to promote justice for all newcomers.
Neighborhood House – Our programs help low-income, recent-immigrant and other vulnerable people overcome challenges so they can achieve success, stability and independence.
Volunteers of America of Oregon – Our programs help individuals, families and even communities to move from instability to security, from feeling unseen and uncared for to acknowledged and affirmed and from isolation to independence.
Incight – Incight empowers people with disabilities to become contributing members of society. We accomplish this through several dynamic programs focused in the areas of: Education, Employment, Networking and Independence.
Parent to Parent – We’re a state-wide non-profit organization based in Portland, OR dedicated to making a difference in the lives of parents of children with various disabilities.
Disability Rights Oregon – Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) promotes Opportunity, Access and Choice for individuals with disabilities by assisting them with legal problems directly related to their disabilities.
Thank you to the Personal Agents of Independence Northwest for compiling this list of resources.
Need Help with Voc Rehab? DRO’s Client Assistance Program is Available
- Need or receiving Voc Rehab (VR), Independent Living (IL) or employment services?
- Been denied VR, IL or employment services?
- Disagree with your VR or IL counselor’s decisions about the services you receive or need?
- Had your VR or IL case(s) closed?
CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Disability Rights Oregon’s Client Assistance Program (CAP) helps people having difficulty seeking or receiving vocational rehabilitation services from Oregon’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS), Independent Living (IL) centers, the Oregon Commission for the Blind, and tribal programs.
CAP OFFERS INFORMATION, ADVICE AND ADVOCACY THAT FACILITATES EMPLOYMENT AND INDEPENDENT LIVING.
We provide information about VR, IL and employment services and benefits, teach you how to protect and assert your rights, and inform you about your responsibilities. We can help. Call us.
YOUR RIGHTS:
- Determination of your eligibility for services within 60 days
- Understanding the process and how decisions are made
- Participation in assessments and in the development of your Individualized Plan for Employment
- A written copy of your Individualized Plan for Employment and all decisions
- Review of your Individualized Plan for Employment once a year
- Appeal of decisions you disagree with, including receiving a due process hearing and continuation of services during the appeal period
- Mediation of disagreements if you’ve requested a hearing
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Communicate openly with your VR or IL counselor, including discussing your concerns, interests, desires and goals
- Maintain records of what is said and all paperwork you are given
- Keep your counselor informed of changes in your circumstances
- Ask questions when you do not understand
- Get the facts and follow the correct steps to make a complaint or to appeal if you don’t agree with a decision
ABOUT DRO:
DISABILITY RIGHTS OREGON (DRO) promotes OPPORTUNITY, ACCESS & CHOICE
for individuals with disabilities. They assist people with legal representation, advice and information designed to help solve problems directly related to their disabilities. All services are confidential and free of charge.
DONATIONS
Disability Rights Oregon is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are tax-deductible.
RESOURCES
DBTAC Northwest
Tribal VR — Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Voice: 503-879-4543
Oregon’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Voice 1-877-277-0513
TTY: 1-866-801-0130
Tribal VR — Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
Voice: 541-553-4952
Oregon Commission for the Blind
Voice: 1-888-202-5463 or 971-673-1588
TTY: 971-673-1577
Job Accommodation Network
Voice: 1-800-526-7234
TTY: 1-877-781-9403
Frequently Asked Questions about Brokerage Customers Losing Services Oct 1
Effective October 1st, 2011, brokerage customers who are not currently Medicaid recipients (or Oregon Health Plan/ OHP Plus as it’s often called) will be exited from brokerage services.
Why is this happening? Oregon has been dealing with a serious budget deficit for some time. The State of Oregon Department of Human Services was instructed to find areas to cut spending. The State chose to cut non-Medicaid* recipients from support services. When a customer in services becomes eligible for Medicaid, the state can access federal funding on their behalf. If a customer is on a Medicaid waiver, the federal government funds approximately 60% of their services, therefore saving the state money.
Somewhere around 800 people are losing services on October 1st, 2011. At Independence Northwest, we estimate between 35 and 45 people will lose services. Brokerage operational funding is also being cut since we are paid for the number of people we serve. This is the largest cut to support services in its ten year existence.
What happens when I am exited from brokerage services?
If you are exited from Independence Northwest, you will be referred back to your local Community Developmental Disabilities Program in Washington, Multnomah or Clackamas. There, you will be assigned a Case Manager/Service Coordinator.
Will I have access to paid supports after exiting the brokerage?
Unfortunately, this is not likely. If you are exited from the brokerage and referred back to the county, the probability of having any service funds is very low. Cutting your service cost is one way Oregon’s Department of Human Services is addressing its program budget cuts. Your county Case Manager/Service Coordinator will be available to connect you to resources in the community and during times of increased need.
What happens to my current providers?
Your brokerage plan will pay those providers you currently work with (domestic employees, independent contractors or provider agencies) through September 30th, 2011. After that, the State of Oregon will no longer permit state funds to be used to pay for your services. Effective October 1st, 2011, all service agreements will be null and void. If work happens on or after this date, you should be sure you have alternate payment options.
Can I private pay for services?
You should speak directly with your providers to see if this is a possibility. Independence Northwest is unable to offer private pay case management.
My plan just started. I want to use my entire plan year’s funds before I’m exited. Can I?
We have received direction from the State of Oregon Department of Human Services that customers exiting our services are to have their overall annual benefit amount reduced by the number of months left in the plan October 1st forward. (For example, if your plan year is July through June, you would be eligible for a pro-rated plan amount for three months: July, August and September, thereby reducing your overall benefit amount.) Were all non-Medicaid customers to spend all their funds between now and October 1st, the State might be in a position to cut other services to make up for the unexpected loss. If you have questions about this, check with your Personal Agent. Since guidance in this area has been minimal and this is a time of unexpected change for all involved, we will likely refer you to the State for a direct answer to more complex queries.
These services are essential for my health and safety. This puts me at serious risk.
Please communicate as soon as possible with your Personal Agent about any health and safety issues related to this service loss. We need to connect you with county personnel and work together on a transition that addresses these concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us – we want to work closely with you and your circle of support during this difficult time.
If I get on Medicaid in the future, can I re-enter brokerage services?
Everything we’re being told by the State indicates that you will be able to come back to brokerage services if/when your situation changes and you become Medicaid eligible. There will be many openings at brokerages throughout the state and for some time we are not expecting waitlists to be an issue. We know that this is not possible for everyone and are disheartened by this reality.
Where can I complain and/or voice my concerns about this change?
You may file a formal complaint by using this form or you can call the Department of Human Services or your legislators directly.
Think you might be eligible for Medicaid? Check out our FAQ sheet on Getting on Medicaid here.
Have additional questions not addressed in this FAQ?
Contact your Personal Agent or Independence Northwest’s Executive Director Larry Deal at larry.deal (at) independencenw.org or by calling 503.546.2950.
Non-Medicaid Customers Dropped from Brokerages October 1st
UPDATED JULY 26th 2011:
As a result of budget cuts during the 2011/2013 session, the State of Oregon Department of Human Services has instructed Independence Northwest and all other support services brokerages statewide to exit any and all customers without Medicaid from our services on October 1st.
We will exit approximately 35 – 45 people from our agency alone. Statewide, there are about 800 people who will lose services. If you aren’t on Medicaid and you need help applying, call your Personal Agent as soon as possible.
How does eliminating services for people without Medicaid/OHP save the state money?
- The state currently provides services for customers who are not Medicaid eligible solely from the state general fund budget. When a customer in services becomes eligible for Medicaid, the state can access federal funding on their behalf. If a customer is on a Medicaid waiver, the federal government funds approximately 60% of their services, therefore saving the state money.
I have a job; can I still apply for Medicaid?
- Most likely. Currently, brokerage customers can potentially access Medicaid if they have resources under $2,022.00. “Resources” means the amount of money left over in your bank account the following month after you’ve paid your bills. Your primary vehicle or home does not count as a resource. If you are an adult over the age of 18, your parents’ resources no longer count and the Medicaid worker would be considering your resources alone. There are also other incentive programs out there which help working people with disabilities qualify for Medicaid such as the Employed Persons with Disabilities (EPD) program. Ask your PA to set you up with a benefits planner to discuss your options.
I have private insurance already, why should I apply for Medicaid?
- You can keep your private insurance AND still be eligible for Medicaid. Your private insurance will remain your primary insurance benefit. In some cases, once you become eligible for Medicaid, it will even cover your premiums on your private insurance or Medicare insurance plan, saving you money! If you are a brokerage customer, having Medicaid also increases the amount of plan dollars you are eligible for. Even if you are not utilizing all the money in your plan now, you may need additional supports some day.
Who do I talk to about my options for applying for Medicaid?
- Talk to your Personal Agent. They can help direct you to the right office and can assist with the application process if needed. Sometimes it’s helpful to talk to a benefits planner beforehand to make sure you are taking advantage of all the incentive programs that might be available to you.
Helpful phone numbers:
- Benefits Planners:
- Disability Rights Oregon 503-243-2081
- Independent Living Resources 503-232-7411
- Medicaid offices
- Multnomah County ADS helpline 503-988-3646
- Clackamas County Medicaid office 503-655-8336
- Washington County DAVS office 503-846-8881
You can download a PDF version of this information here.
– Erin Graff, Assistant Director Independence Northwest
Free Health Event in Vancouver on Saturday July 23rd
Compassion Vancouver West, a free event, will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2011 from 9am- 3pm at Washington Elementary School, 2908 S St (30th & S St) Vancouver, WA 98661.
This is a multii-service event welcoming the uninsured and underinsured members of Vancouver. The following will be provided:
- Basic medical exams
- Basic dental cleaning and emergency treatment
- Basic chiropractic exams
- Basic eye exams
- Social service fair
- Children’s activities
- Free haircuts
- Free lunch, and other services
Compassion Vancouver is a collective of local churches working together to bring health and dental care to our community that does not have access to care.
Go to the following link for more info: http://compassionvancouver.com/
Thanks to Natasha Roe for the heads up.
Memorial for Judy Cunio: June 30th in Salem
Long-time advocate and Salem resident, Judy Cunio, died June 17, 2011 from injuries sustained in her home the previous day. She was 59 years old.
A celebration of Judy’s life is scheduled for Thursday, June 30, at 3:00 pm at Salem Alliance Church, on Gaines and 5th in Salem.
Born with cerebral palsy on January 23, 1952, Judy was a pioneer of the self- advocacy movement for people with developmental disabilities. Barred from public education and institutionalized as a teen because of her disabilities, Judy fought for her independence and was determined to become a professional advocate for others in Oregon with developmental disabilities. In the early 1970s, she was a founding member of People First, now an international organization of individuals with developmental disabilities helping people learn to speak for themselves. After living in several state-funded facilities, Judy realized her dream of living independently in her own apartment, where she lived for the last 14 years.
For the past ten years, Judy served in a professional position as the Self Advocacy Coordinator for the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities. During her many presentations to other advocates and professional groups, Judy often said “This is the best job I’ve ever had.” She made it her personal mission to ensure that self-advocates like herself be actively included in all groups making decisions that affect the lives of people with developmental disabilities. At the time of her death, Judy was a regular and valued member of a variety of groups and organizations, including the Resource Connections of Oregon board of directors, the Oregon Disabilities Commission, the Oregon Developmental Disabilities Coalition, the Home Care Commission, Fairview Housing Trust Fund, Self Advocates as Leaders, and the Attorney General’s Sexual Assault Task Force.
Judy Cunio was known, admired and loved by many throughout Oregon and the nation. She will be dearly missed and always remembered for her passion, her unique brand of humor, her many hair styles and colors, her generous spirit, and her profound impact on the quality of life of Oregonians with developmental disabilities.
Judy was deeply saddened by the recent loss of her mother, who died June 4, 2011. Judy is survived by her sisters Kim Cunio, Brandy Brockway and Millie Young all of Salem, Kelly Allen of Gillette, WY. and Susan Campbell of Sutherlin; as well as several nieces and nephews. Memories and Stories are being shared on the Judy Cunio Memorial Website
Thanks to the DD Coalition for the information.
RIP: Judy Cunio | Oregon Loses One of Its Strongest Voices
Judy Cunio, one of Oregon’s most illuminating, involved and direct self-advocates for the developmental disability community has passed away from an injury resulting from a fall in her home. Ms. Cunio was not in pain and did not regain consciousness, per Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities Interim Director Kathryn Weit.
Our thoughts are with Judy’s family, friends and all who were lucky enough to know this incredible woman. Oregon’s DD system would not be what it is today without Judy’s voice.
Visit her memorial website at http://judy-cunio.last-memories.com/
About Judy, in her own words:
“My name is Judy Cunio. I have been the Self Advocacy Coordinator for the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities for 11 years and I have seen many changes in the Self Advocacy Movement over the years. I have been involved in some kind of advocacy off and on for almost 40 years. I grew up with cerebral palsy at a time when there was no advocating for people with disabilities. In fact, I was not allowed to go to public school. So we really have come a long way even though at times it doesn’t feel that way. Sometimes you may feel like giving up, but its more critical now than ever before to advocate for what we need and deserve. Because now more than ever we are in danger of losing many of the things we have worked so hard for. We have to keep up the good fight. We have had tough times before and we always get through them… It will take work! But anything worth having is worth fight for. And WE are worth it.”
Memorial information forthcoming.
Thanks to Kathryn Weit and Tim Kral for contributing information.
OREGONIAN: Senator Richard Devlin Accused of Trying to Silence Criticism of Union Drive
From The Oregonian’s Jeff Mapes:
SALEM — At the behest of Service Employees International Union, Oregon Senate budget chief Richard Devlin sought to stifle criticism of an organizing drive that added more than 7,700 workers to the union’s membership and turned it into the largest in the state.
During a drive to organize workers who help care for developmentally disabled Oregonians, Tualatin Democrat wrote a letter to officials who help employ the workers, warning them not to say anything even “mildly” critical of unionization. He also suggested that a successful union drive would help boost legislative support for services for Oregonians with developmental disabilities. .
Several officials who received the letter said it appeared Devlin tried to tip the scales in favor of the union’s expansion. Devlin said that wasn’t his intent.
Nevertheless, Devlin’s letter illustrates how closely the powerful public employee unions and supportive politicians work with each other behind the scenes. In the end, SEIU won its organizing fight. As a result, the union has now passed the Oregon Education Association to become the largest union in the state, with 60,000 members.
SEIU financially backed Devlin’s reelection last year and has been a key supporter of the Democratic legislative leadership. The union continues to work with the Legislature to expand its membership. Union lobbyists are trying to push through legislation allowing them to organize an entirely new category of community health workers expected to be created this year as part of Gov. John Kitzhaber’s drive to reduce health-care costs.
The organizing drive for workers who help care for the developmentally disabled was particularly sensitive — and unusual. Several brokerages, most of them nonprofits, help people with disabilities such as cerebral palsy or autism get the services they need to stay out of institutions and live as independently as possible. Most of the caregivers paid by the state through the brokerages are actually family members of the clients, who are technically the employers.
Devlin’s letter (reprinted below), which he sent to the brokerages, came as a surprise. While many officials said they had concerns about how unionization would affect their clients, they had not mounted any major campaign against it.
“When I read it, it sounded threatening,” said Barb Charette, executive director of the Southern Oregon Regional Brokerage. She said Devlin’s letter made it clear that he had a powerful position over the state budget and left the impression their funding could be affected if they weren’t careful about what they said about unionization.
As a result of the letter, “I’m much more cautious” in talking about the possible ramifications of unionization, said Zee Koza, board president of Eastern Oregon Support Services Brokerage. Several other people involved in the care of people with developmental disabilities said they did not want to speak on the record for fear of affecting legislative support for their programs.
In his letter, which was sent last December and obtained by The Oregonian this week, Devlin said it was a “misuse of public funds to participate in efforts meant to dissuade support service workers from exercising their collective bargaining rights. Even mildly worded communications against collective bargaining will carry disproportionate weight because of your role in providing services.”
Devlin referred to his budget position and added: “If support service workers choose to form a union, I believe they will be able to significantly strengthen our collective ability to preserve funding and enhance services.”
Devlin said he decided to send the letter after hearing that some workers were being told that joining a union “might diminish their opportunities for employment in the future” and that he didn’t want anyone “thwarting” a worker’s collective bargaining rights.
Devlin insists he wasn’t trying to tilt the playing field in favor of the union and that he wasn’t trying to gag the brokerages.
Margaret Theisen, who heads a Eugene brokerage and is president of a statewide association representing them, said she was not aware of any workers being told that unionization would threaten their employment. She said the big question was whether increased costs for a union workforce would reduce the services that could be provided to clients.
Read the entire article and see Senator Devlin’s letter to the brokerages here.
FACES: Focused Advocates for Choice and Empowering Solutions
ABOUT FACES OREGON:
Focused Advocates for Choice & Empowering Solutions is a grass roots group of advocates for people with developmental disabilites (DD).
Our mission is to promote self-determination for people with developmental disabilities by advocating for system change and flexibility at the local, state and federal levels.
FACES was formed to unite small grass roots groups throughout Oregon, all working toward similar goals, but all “going it alone”. We joined forces when we discovered several years ago the power of working together to effect change through the legislative process. We provide a united front for people with developmental or “different” abilities.
FACES is a group of people who are civically engaged to empower people to organize and make changes for good within their local societal structure. One of our goals is to to create community awareness that people with developmental disabilities want to live self-directed, intentionally planned lives with the supports that they need to live safely and with maximum independence; that they deserve the same opportunities that all citizens of the United States expect – freedom to choose where they live, where they work, and who they interact with.
Persons with developmental disabilities want and need to live fulfilling lives within a framework that is new, not the same old entitlement system that serves few well. FACES is dedicated to make systems improvement, to change the status quo.
Join Us
FACES is a public benefit nonprofit organized as a 501(c)(4) to be effective in the politics of DD issues in Oregon and the nation. Our coalition of parent driven 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the Willamette Valley is a grassroots effort to improve the plight of persons with DD. Contact a director for information and meeting dates.
Carol Taylor, 503-789-2921 or email altrego52@hotmail.com
Gordon Teifel, 503-267-2041 or email gordon@teifel.us
PHAME Production: GREASE June 18th and 19th
Have you heard? The talented group at PHAME are putting on a full scale production of GREASE here in just a couple of weeks. The show runs Saturday June 18th at 7pm and again on Sunday the 19th at 2pm. Both performances will be held at the Mt. Hood Community College Mainstage Theatre. Details below. Get out there and support the disability and artistic communities of Portland. If you’ve never seen a PHAME production, this is your chance.
From the PHAME blog:
“Grease (school version)”
Everyone’s favorite hand-jiving rock’n’roll musical
Book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Saturday, June 18, 7 pm
Sunday, June 19, 2 pm
PHAME’s “Grease (school version)” runs June 18-19 at MHCC, Gresham
Mt. Hood Community College Mainstage Theatre, 26000 SE Stark, Gresham
Jessica Dart, stage director
Ben Landsverk, music director
Korie Chung, choreographer
Starring an incredible 47-member cast of PHAME student performers!
Bethany Ide as Sandy – John Landsverk as Danny – Anne-Marie Plass as Rizzo – Lea Mulligan as Frenchy – Kim Forrer as Marty – Chad Bode as Vince Fontaine – Aaron Hobson as Doody – David Hutzler as Johnny Casino – Melissa Halstead as Jan – and many more!
Tickets on sale now!
Gold Circle reserved seats: $27 adults, $21 students/seniors
General admission: $19 adults, $13 students/seniors
Special thanks to our “Grease” (school version) production sponsors…
Premiere Sponsors
James R. Kuse Family Foundation, RedPine Systems and Tychon Development
Production Sponsors
Cinema 21, Ivey Performance Marketing, Regional Arts & Culture Council, Tom Dwyer Automotive Services and Work for Art
Production Friends
Benjamin Moore, Cupcake Jones and Ronald Atwood, PC
SEIU Gets Personal Support Workers Vote – Includes Domestic Employees and Independent Contractors
Today the vote for SEIU’s unionization of Personal Support Workers was held.
Final tally per the Employment Relations Board is 1,873 to 772. This means that Personal Support Workers are now set to be represented by SEIU and arbitration is expected to begin shortly.
A Personal Support Worker is defined in House Bill 3618. The majority of domestic employees and independent contractors working with brokerage customers will be affected.
Of a potential voting population of 9,000, just 30% voted. The union won the majority of votes cast.
Those affected include the majority of domestic employees and independent contractors performing services listed in House Bill 3618. This affects brokerage providers as well as those working with the Community Developmental Disabilities Programs and some mental health programs.
Survey for Young Adults with Disabilities – Chance for a $20 Gift Card for Participants
From Gimpgirl.com, National Youth Leadership Network, Oregon Health Sciences University, Oregon Public Health Division, and Women with Disabilities Health Equity Coalition:
Latest Budget and Legislative News from the DD Coalition
The latest DD Coalition GO! Legislative Update:
MAY REVENUE FORECAST TO BE RELEASED
BILLS SCHEDULED FOR HEARINGS THIS WEEK
HB 3361 (relating to accessibility of cluster mailboxes)
SB 800 (bill that removes certain outdated or redundant provisions in education laws and eliminates certain reporting requirements)
HB 2220A (relates to proficiency-based education)
HB 2283A (relates to high school transition hours)
HB 2285 (relates to consent for school diplomas)
HB 2652A (disqualifies certain persons from serving as fiduciary for protected person if parental rights terminated)
SB 99A (creates the Oregon Health Insurance Exchange)
HB 3650 (bill that sets the stage for implementation of Health Care Transformation)
HB 2036A (clarifies application of statutes related to unlawful discrimination against persons with disabilities)
HB 2683A (establishes procedure to request confidential information in protective proceeding)
SB 99A (creates the Oregon Health Insurance Exchange)
BILLS THAT NEED YOUR SUPPORT
Rep. Tim Freeman, Co-Chair—rep.timfreeman@state.or.us
Rep. Mitch Greenlick, Co-Vice Chair—rep.mitchgreenlick@state.or.us
Rep. Kim Thatcher, Co-Vice Chair—rep.kimthatcher@state.or.us
Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson—sen.lauriemonnesanderson@state.or.us
Sen. Jackie Winters—sen.jackiewinters@state.or.us
Caregiver’s Night Off – TOMORROW
The Edwards Center in Aloha is now providing a new program called Caregiver’s Night Off.
THE NEXT CARGIVER’S NIGHT OFF IS MAY 6TH.
WE WILL PLAY BINGO (FOR PRIZES), Make CUPCAKES, PLAY Wii AND HAVE PIZZA!!
The first Friday of every month from 4pm-8pm, well-qualified staff and an on-site nurse will be available to provide leisure activities with your loved one 18 years and older, while you enjoy time to yourself. Only $25 for the entire evening!
Edwards Center, Milwaukie
4287 SE International Way, Suite A
Milwaukie, OR 97222
503-653-2381 for information or to register
And
Edwards Center, Aloha
20250 SW Kinnaman
Aloha, OR 97007
503-356-1131 for information or to register
Thanks to Mary Lanxon and Robyn Hoffman for the tip.
Portland Woman’s Disability Advocacy Inspires
For the last several weeks, employees of Independence Northwest have been working on an advocacy effort called The Dear Legislator Project as a response to deep cuts proposed to our services. The idea for the project is simple: Oregonians with disabilities and their supporters record short 2 – 3 minute videos directly addressing their legislators with their concerns and solutions. We’ve been recording and posting these videos on The Dear Legislator Project website and Facebook and sending them off to Representatives and Senators via email. The site has had over 2,000 unique hits in just five weeks.
A couple of weeks ago, I had an impromptu visit to my office from someone by the name of Kaaren Londahl. Karen, a woman with a developmental disability and recipient of brokerage services through a fellow agency, was accompanied by Megan, a support person from the provider organization On The Move Community Integration as well as two other folks supported by the agency.
We shuffled into the conference room, Kaaren handed me a large stack of papers and said “Larry, we have got to save our services now.” She explained that she has been receiving skills training and inclusion assistance through On The Move four days a week for the last couple of years. She had heard about the scheduled cuts and The Dear Legislator Project and wanted to be a part of the solution. She shared that she recently began visiting with friends, family, community members and businesses in her neighborhood. Kaaren explained to each person what these cuts would mean to her and to the community at large and asked them each to write a short statement to their Representative or Senator. In just a week, she had over seventy-five notes and signatures. “I went to Starbucks, Kitchen Kaboodle, my neighbors, everyone!” she says. “I just wanted to do it for everyone. It’s very important for people to have programs.”
In less than a week, Kaaren helped give voice to scores of people in her community. “My mom was an advocate and so I need to be one too, you know.” Who knows – without her efforts many of those folks may never have phoned their lawmakers, written a letter to express their concerns or raised their voice in protest of the cuts. I promised her I would forward on her concerns to her legislators and mail copies of her testimonial sheets to both Representative Lew Frederick and Senator Chip Shields.
“We can’t go backwards – we have to go frontwards,” she said. She’s right. Oregon faces the most significant cuts to developmental disabilities services we’ve ever seen.
- Brokerages are preparing to lose 10% of the money paid to employ case managers and an extension of a 10% loss to our administrative dollars on top of 100% loss of our quality assurance funding. This will result is poorer services and a weaker system.
- Brokerage customers who are without Medicaid (maybe because they are dealing with Social Security appeals or are recently diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome or Autism) will be completely dropped from our rosters on October 1st. That’s 800 Oregonians who will lose all services.
- Brokerage customers between the ages of 18 and 21 are set to lose 75% of their funding because there’s an assumption that schools will pick up the slack.
- Finally, the State is poised to cut 2,000 people from their day programs. This will reduce an already limited provider pool and remove options. Many people will likely lose their jobs and some provider agency will close their doors.
I’ve always admired the louder voices among us – folks who are willing stand on the steps of city hall and raise their voices until their faces turn red. I admire the well-spoken, those who are willing to put themselves out there for a cause and affect change through words. My problem is that I’ve got a pesky shyness that chokes me up every time I try to speak publicly. Things just don’t flow and I decided long ago that such efforts are best led by those with such gifts. The concept of The Dear Legislator Project gave me a way to get involved without being front and center. We all need forums that work for us. For some people, it’s getting up in front of hundreds of people and testifying, for others it’s recording the stories of others. For others still it’s collecting signatures and stories and concerns from neighbors and community members.
If you’ve yet to get involved, I urge you to do something this go round. We are at serious risk for significant changes to the way Oregon supports people with disabilities. Right now, we’re in the final stretch. In a couple of weeks we’ll know what will be cut and how deep.There’s still time to make a difference. Please consider sending a message to the Ways and Means Committee at waysandmeans.budget@state.or.us. Even if you just send a few lines, it sends a message.
“Fight for our programs so we can move on,” Kaaren said just the other day to me. It’s good advice. Fight – however it makes sense for you.
– Larry Deal, Executive Director of Independence Northwest