Self Pride 15-Year Report

1991–2006

R e tro s p e c t i v e

15 years of instilling Self Pride back into the Community

SelfPride

in

Blooming

Board Chair & Founder’s Word

A Journey of Love SelfPride was founded in 1990 out of a need for an organization designed to provide dignity and services to enhance the quality of life of various populations of people. The years that SelfPride has been in operation have been a journey of love, as individuals whose lives SelfPride touched have blossomed into their own potential and in some cases, reached heights that they themselves did not realize they could achieve. As we reflect back over the years, SelfPride is pleased to share with you the many milestones we have made to improve the quality of life of our employees and other populations of people, who would not have otherwise had a chance to follow their dream.

It has been a worthwhile journey as I watched employees combine training with experience and move on to achieve higher employment goals. SelfPride has played a major role in assisting individuals to make it against the odds and defy the naysayer who thought they could not accomplish their dreams.

Operating a not-for-profit organization is a difficult task and depends on obtaining operating capital from outside sources. There have been times when I thought, what is the point? Then when I look at the populations of people who are affected by SelfPride, I realize that our business is a ministry that sends the message your condition does not have to be your conclusion. I am proud to see the journey of love continue.

I invite you to partner with SelfPride in the future as we continue to strive to meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and prepare a strong work force for the healthcare industry.

Sincerely,

Barbara A. Robinson, Founder & Board Chair

From the beginning one of SelfPride’s efforts was to remove individuals from an institutional setting into an environment that provided a home-like and family atmosphere. We wanted to design and implement programs to strengthen the family structure and to assist welfare recipients to transition from a life of dependence to independence, to remove them from welfare to faring well and becoming productive members of society. My vision was also to enhance the living conditions and improve the environment of our senior population, our wisdom group, by assisting them with their daily living needs.

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SelfPride assists various populations of people: senior citizens, people defined as dysfunctional or hard to serve, ex-offenders, welfare recipients, troubled youths, single parents, people who are mentally and physically challenged, individuals who have interfaced with the criminal justice system, and recovering substance abusers. SelfPride is not in the business of giving a hand out, but it does pride itself on its record of giving a hand up for those individuals who want to improve their lives and get a fresh start on defining their future.

SelfPride

SelfPride is an organization committed to transitioning people from their current situations to independence. The state of Maryland has recognized SelfPride as a Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provider for the last 15 years. The Executive Director of SelfPride was honored by former President Bill Clinton for the quality of work provided to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Over the last fifteen years SelfPride has worked hard to meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and individuals transitioning from welfare to work. SelfPride has developed three major programs to achieve this work, Alternative Living Units, Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training, and Fresh Start.

Alternative Living Units (ALU) are community based residential care homes. Alternative Living Units provide the opportunity for individuals to live in a safe and secure environment with trained staff providing direct care and assistance with their daily living needs.

Most importantly, SelfPride affords all residents the opportunity to continue living independently.

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A Legacy of Nurturing with Dignity

The Community Living Assistants (CLA) Training Program recruits, trains, and certifies individuals to provide care to people with developmental disabilities. Self-motivated program participants develop and implement an employment plan for their future in the healthcare support industry. The Community Living Assistants Training Program positions individuals to overcome personal barriers and transition from welfare to work.

The Fresh Start youth residential program provides a stable living environment for troubled youth ages15-18. This residential setting provides the young men with a nurturing and safe environment where they can gain personal and professional development training.

John Marsh John is a happy, talkative, man filled with a joy for life! John is 54 years old and has been living at SelfPride for 15 years.

How does SelfPride support you?

“They take care of me. If I want to do something they help me. They fix my food, wash my clothes, give me my medicine, help me get showered and dressed. They take me out on the van.”

Why are you a resident of SelfPride?

“There is nowhere else to put me, besides I don’t want to live in any other home only with Jessie and Susan.”

What has been the best thing about being a resident here? “A lot of people are nice to you!”

SelfPride

Mission, Philosophy & Approach Mission

What value does SelfPride offer to clients? They help you do it yourself. They help you go to programs. John is in a day program Monday-Friday. In the day program he learns how to tell time, count money, write, play games and has fun with others.

SelfPride is committed to ensuring that disabled individuals in Maryland needing long-term care services can receive assistance with such services in their homes for as long as it is appropriate. SelfPride is committed to promoting accessibility to long-term care services for people of all income levels.

SelfPride philosophy of care: b Offering cost-effective quality care that is personalized for individual needs; b Fostering independence for each resident; b Treating each resident with dignity and respect; b Promoting the individuality of each resident;

What is one fond memory you have while living in the house?

“They took me out to celebrate my Birthday and I had a good time. We had dinner, music, and fun at the party.”

b Allowing each resident choice of care and lifestyle;

How does the SelfPride staff treat you? “They care about me in a special way! Barbara Robinson and Gail Marshall are my favorite people and they treat me nice.”

b Providing a safe, residential environment;

b Protecting each resident’s right to privacy; b Nurturing the spirit of each resident; b Involving family and friends, as appropriate, in care planning and implementation;

b Making the Alternative Living Unit residence a valuable community asset.

Would you recommend SelfPride to others? Why? “Yes, everyone should live in a house like this because it is safe and nice.”

Philosophy and Approach

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SelfPride serves people with developmental disabilities by providing assistance for them to live a normal, quality life, and assists them with all their daily needs. SelfPride is committed to the assurance of worth and dignity of all individuals served, by providing quality services as defined by individual needs in the least restrictive environment.

SelfPride

Philosophy & Approach SelfPride Pledge: To enhance the lives of our residents... b Encourage residents to achieve and maintain their maximum level of independent function; b Provide choices and options, through risk management programs and other means, to meet residents’ needs and encourage them to continue to be actively involved in decisions about their care needs;

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b Preserve each resident’s dignity and privacy.

To nurture our residents... b Assess each resident’s needs and reassess appropriately; b Provide appropriate and cost-effective services.

To provide safe environments and caring, competent staff... b Ensures that staff have appropriate background, skills, experience; b Ensure staff receive necessary training to support the services offered.

To inform residents and families about services provided... b Detail services available, related costs and policies relating to charges, including any changes in charges; b Explain thoroughly the criteria or parameters for changing the level of service, including policies relating to transfers from the residence; b Where appropriate, provide family members access to all of the information about services and involve them in decision making; b Identify other services available through arrangements with the provider or independently; b Disclose the existence of financial relationships with affiliated or independent providers of ancillary services.

SelfPride Community Pledge: b To coordinate care with other service providers when necessary; b To help the public & policymakers understand alternative living units; b To maintain a responsive attitude to evolving care needs of residents and respond proactively and cooperatively with other groups to best serve the needs of residents.

Overcoming Obstacles with SelfPride In 1997, I entered the SelfPride Community Living Assistant Training Program. The greatest benefit I received was learning about the needs and rights of people with developmental disabilities. I found the management training enlightening and inspiring. I highly recommend this training program to others seeking a career in the healthcare support industry.

I left to take a promotion with Family Service Foundation after eight years with SelfPride. Family Services Foundation is a non profit organization that provides adult day programs for people with developmental disabilities.

In my new position as counselor/instructor, I incorporate many of the skills I gained at SelfPride. I assess client needs, set individual client goals, and plan outings. I know that I would not be in my current position without my experience in the training program at SelfPride.

SelfPride

Programs of Excellence SelfPride achieves its mission through three innovative programs, Alternative Living Units, Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training, and Fresh Start. The programs are designed to tackle a variety of developmental needs that individuals within our care need.

developmentally disabled adults in a familial environment where the residents receive around the clock care and support from trained and certified staff. Most importantly, SelfPride affords their marvelous residents the opportunity to continue to live independently. b SelfPride has 8 houses located in Baltimore city and county; b The houses accommodate 24 adults;

I was facing many life challenges before I arrived at SelfPride. I jumped over many hurdles in my personal life in order to get control over the direction of my life. With help from Mrs. Robinson and the SelfPride staff, I gained a new outlook to life. No longer did I focus on the mistakes of the past. Instead I focused on how to get up and go forward to shape the rest of my life.

I thank SelfPride for everything they did for me.

—Javanka Turner

Community Living Assistants (CLA) Training Program provides individuals an opportunity to move from welfare to the workforce. SelfPride’s vigorous training program offers job readiness, medical training administration, and job placement. The program presents participants a chance to achieve selfsufficiency. This self-motivated program provides participants an opportunity to develop and implement an employment plan for their future in the healthcare support industry. This program supplies techniques to overcome personal barriers in order to obtain and retain employment.

b Over 75 people transitioned into higher positions in the last 13 years; b Currently, 70 people are employed as Community Living Assistants.

Fresh Start This program addresses troubled youths.

In July 2005, SelfPride opened its first group home for youth ages 15-18. This residential setting provides the youths with a nurturing and safe environment. b 5 youth; b Qualified CLA providers;

b The consumer to staff ratio is 3:2.

b 872 have been employed in the last 13 years;

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Alternative Living Units serve

b S elfPride provided paid training to over 2000 people in the last 13 years;

b Licensed Social Worker; b Registered Nurse Administrator.

Partnerships SelfPride has thriving partnerships with the Department of Human Resources, the Department of Social Services, the Mayor’s Office of Employment and Development (MOED), America Works as well as many community disability services providers.

SelfPride:

Care Giving at its Best

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Alternative Living Units (ALU) We are your partner in care giving Since 1992, SelfPride has provided quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities. SelfPride offers home health care, early intervention and family support services to adults with mental retardation, mental illness, developmental disabilities, and senior citizens. The Alternative Living Units preserve the independence and enhance the quality of life of individuals and their families. SelfPride’s staff strives to meet your loved one’s physical, social and emotional needs in a safe, family like setting. SelfPride’s medically-based program uses individual plans of care to provide a variety of health, social, recreational and therapeutic activities, supervision, support services, and personal care.

Nurturing with dignity SelfPride as a partner for care giving offers loved ones a safe, secure, and caring environment that provides:

b Activities based on individual abilities and interests, creative expression and increased self-esteem;

b Top-quality medical supervision; b Daily interaction with new friends, dedicated, professional staff and partners;

b Opportunities to explore hobbies, special interests, educational programs, field trips, computer use, games, arts and crafts;

b Dignified assistance, support with feeding, bathing, dressing and other activities of daily living;

b Wholesome, nutritionally balanced hot meals and snacks;

b Weekend activities in the community including mall trips, fellowships, outings with the other houses, movies, and other social activities.

Care you can count on The state of Maryland recognizes SelfPride as a Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provider. SelfPride’s employees are trained as Community Living Assistants in accordance with Maryland regulations. The community partners of SelfPride provide medically-based, state licensed adult day programs. Their services provide three levels of care based on the residents needs. On a regular basis, the nurse administrator meets with the residents to determine the level of care required.

There are 8 alternative living units that serve 24 consumers. Currently, the program employs 64 individuals with a ratio of 8 employees per house.

Transportation services are provided for residents to attend adult day programming and weekend activities.

Alternative Living Unit programming is available all year long.

Increasing Marketability I was one of the original participants in the Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program. I was referred by a friend who saw the wonderful opportunities SelfPride had to offer. When I joined the training program I already had a CLA certification. I, like many individuals wanted to acquire additional skills in order to increase my marketability, but I could not afford community college. This program was extremely beneficial to my career advancement. I recommend the program to friends and associates who are interested in the field of health and human services.

As a retiree I look back at SelfPride with fond memories. Without receiving training at SelfPride I would have never acquired the qualifications to work for state agencies. My training experience was rewarding and working with Mrs. Barbara Robinson was wonderful. Mrs. Robinson is very interested in an employee’s well being. She listens to their concerns and above all she cares about the individuals within the care of SelfPride.

I believe that training programs like SelfPride’s are important to the health and human services field because there is a need for reliable and qualified CLAs. — Anna Jefferies

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I left SelfPride and took a position with the state of Maryland. Currently, I do private duty with senior citizens. I work with them in their own homes.

SelfPride:

Connecting People & Jobs

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Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program SelfPride’s Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program supports individuals who want to secure employment in the healthcare support industry. The program provides job readiness, job training, job placement, and marketable skill attainment to men and women who are welfare dependent. Through partnerships with the Mayor’s Office of Employment and Development (MOED) and America Works, SelfPride receives referral candidates for the CLA training program. The program gives an opportunity for people to provide quality care to others, while gaining work experience. SelfPride hires 95% of their employees through the CLA program.

Accessing the fundamentals for professional success SelfPride provides all the building blocks to success for individuals to transition into the workforce. Come along with SelfPride as people transition from welfare dependence to the workforce. This program has three major components; job readiness, job training, and job placement.

Job Readiness places an emphasis on the development of positive work characteristics that are valued by employers.

b The establishment of positive attendance and punctuality records;

b Participants also learn proper job search techniques, including resume development, completing applications, and interview techniques through classes, small groups and one-on-one instruction.

Job Training places an emphasis on developing the skills to work with the residents in the group home and alternative living units.

b There are 13 customized training modules required for the Community Living Assistants (CLA) certification;

b Participants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of training;

b The Nurse Administrator conducts monthly training modules based on the residents’ particular needs;

b The Nurse Administrator observes the community living assistants during weekly house visits;

b Participants maintain their certifications by renewing on a yearly or bi-yearly basis.

Job Placement occurs upon successful completion of the CLA training program.

b An individual is hired as a community living assistant for SelfPride;

b The individuals are placed in either the group home or one of the eight alternative living units;

b The development of positive interpersonal work relationships;

b Developing a professional appearance and maintaining quality standards in order to retain employment;

b Opportunities for promotion and career advancement are afforded to all program participants.

SelfPride: A Track Record of Success The state of Maryland has recognized SelfPride as a Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provider for the last 15 years. All staff members for the group home and alternative living units are trained and certified to be qualified developmental disabilities professionals.

bS ince 1993, SelfPride has

provided paid training for over 2000 people in the CLA program

bS elfPride has employed 872 people in the last 13 years. bO ver 75 participants have received promotions within SelfPride or moved into higher level jobs in the field. bC urrently, the program employs

70 community living assistants in the alternative living units and the group home.

SelfPride timeline

1991– 2006

SelfPride timeline

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February 1992

March 1992

March 1992

June 1992

June 1992

January 1995

1992

July 2005

Kahn House

Fairmount House

Rogene House

Bland House

Date Opened: February 4, 1992

Date Opened: March 27, 1992

Date Opened: June 29, 1992

Date Opened: January 27, 1995

House Manager: Taneka Gibbs

House Manager: Jacqueline English

House Manager: Natasha Richardson

House Manager: Robin Foreman

Consumers:

Consumers:

Consumers:

Consumers:

Delores 14.5 years

Leon 14.5 years

John 10.5 years

Jerry 6 years

Regina 2.5 years Dennis 4 years

Ransome House Date Opened: March 11, 1992

Linwood 14.5 years Irene 12 years

Carlynn House Date Opened: June 12, 1992

House Manager: Janice Byrd

House Manager: Janice Byrd (acting)

Consumers:

Consumers:

Donna 14.5 years Agnes 14.5 years

Bright Circle

Susan 7 years

Dates of Operation: June 21, 1992- September 2005 No longer occupied

Kenneth 8 years Crystal 12 years Robyn Meadows 11 years

Jessie 14.5 years Susan Kohl 3.5 years Arlene 15 years Helen 14 years

Courtleigh House Date Opened: 1992

Donald 6 years Floyd 12 years

Chesley House Date Opened: July, 2005

House Manager: Jenise Brooks

House Manager: Kewanda Green

Consumers:

Consumers:

Sheryl 5.5 years

Demeterous

Carolyn 14.5 years

James

Barbara 6.5 years

Ricky Donte Antwione

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Quality Care that Counts

I am confident that Arlene is receiving the best care at SelfPride. I remember once when Arlene was hospitalized how SelfPride kept me present and informed. They also made sure Arlene received the best treatment at the hospital.

SelfPride is the best place for Arlene because, they truly care about her. The people are wonderful and the houses are very nice and in good neighborhoods.

SelfPride

Developing Future Leaders Fresh Start Program Fresh Start is a youth residential program designed to help youths transition into positive and productive adults. In 2005, SelfPride opened its first group home for young men ages 15-18. Currently, there are five young men ages 15-18 living at the group home.

A place to blossom Young men in the Fresh Start program have a history of behavioral issues, which SelfPride addresses through a nurturing, safe, and secure environment. The program provides the following support services: b Time to improve problem solving skills, individual creativity, and taking responsibility for ones own behavior; b Exploration of educational interests and goals; b N utritionally balanced hot meals and snacks;

Patricia Shifflett is the sister of SelfPride resident Arlene.

Currently, Arlene resides at Rogene house. She has been with SelfPride for 15 years.

b A ssist the youth in overcoming their roadblocks to success though training sessions at SelfPride; b Engaging in professional and soft skill development; b Participation in community activities such as; professional sporting events, museums, church, and other social activities.

Caring for our future The Program Director for Fresh Start is a licensed social worker and experienced family advocate. All support staff are trained medically in order to provide optimal service to the young men. The Fresh Start program employs six community living assistants. All Fresh Start employees receive their training through SelfPride’s Community Living Assistants Training Program.

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— Patricia Shifflett

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SelfPride’s intimate setting offered Arlene the opportunity to build her socialization skills with other residents and within the community. I am well informed about the level of care Arlene receives. Arlene participates in a variety of activities. Arlene loves to travel and go to places in Baltimore. The adult day program, dining at restaurants, looking at magazines, and talking with Patricia are Arlene’s favorite things to do.

SelfPride

Partners for Success Seeing an opportunity to increase the quality of services SelfPride purposefully devoted time to establish community partners. These flourishing partnerships allow SelfPride to offer a diverse range of adult day programming to the residents.

Our partners include:

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ARC of Baltimore offers service programs for individuals with developmental disabilities such as: supported employment; residential; day habitation; family & individual support; services for children; foster care; respite care; sports, leisure, recreation, child care. SelfPride has three individuals who participate in programming at the Arc of Baltimore.

The Chimes organization focuses on vocational, medical day, day habilitation & senior services. Generally the program includes: self-care skills, eating skills, leisure activities, personal hygiene, community involvement, food preparation skills. SelfPride currently has three people enrolled in the Day Habilitation and Medical Day programs for more severe developmentally disabled adults with physical and medical limitations.

Family Service Foundation (FSF) is a non-profit human service agency affiliated with United Way. The program provides direct services which include family support, individual support, pre-vocational training, day habilitation, residential, and supportive housing.

Francis X. Gallagher is an organization under the umbrella of the Catholic Charities of Baltimore. SelfPride uses the medical day, occupational programs, social worker services and nursing services offered by the organization. Currently,

SelfPride has 7 people enrolled in the Francis X. Gallagher day program.

The Intervals organization provides day habilitation programs to adults with developmental disabilities. Recently Intervals received the Maryland Quality Award Gold Medal. The day habilitation includes medical programming because most of the individuals served have severe physical limitations or complex medical conditions.

Currently, three individuals from SelfPride participate in the day program at Intervals.

Providence Center was founded in 1961 to provide supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. Their programs are professionally managed and individually designed to empower these adults to exercise higher levels of control over their lives. One person from SelfPride participates in programming at Providence Center.

STAR Associates, Inc. was founded in 1985, as a human resources training and development firm. STAR Associates is committed to enhancing the employment opportunities of individuals and families with a history of welfare dependence. They provide CDL training to qualified individuals.

STAR Associates provides all transportation services for SelfPride.

Mayor’s Office of Employment and Development (MOED) mission is to coordinate and direct workforce development initiatives responsive to the needs of Baltimore City employers and job seekers in order to enhance and promote the local economy. MOED refers candidates to SelfPride for the Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program.

America Works operates through the Department of Human Resources and provides support services for recruitment, workforce development, and training resources. America Works provides SelfPride with prospective candidates for the Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program.

Department of Human Resources aggressively pursues opportunities to assist people in economic need, provide prevention services, and protect vulnerable children and adults. They refer mothers who are welfare dependent to SelfPride’s Community Living Assistant (CLA) Training Program.

Department of Social Services meets the needs of families, protects vulnerable children and adults, and promotes self-sufficiency. Through a collaborative partnership with SelfPride the Department of Social Services refers youth to the Fresh Start program and individuals with developmental disabilities to Alternative Living Units.

Care that Makes a Difference in my Sister’s Quality of Life I was introduced to SelfPride when Mrs. Robinson spoke to the families of Rosewood residents. I liked the idea of few residents in the houses and the caring staff. I like the personal attention SelfPride staff give my sister, Helen, which does not occur in larger residential facilities.

From the Beginning...

In 1993, Project Independence, a government sponsored program referred me to the Community Living Assistant Training Program at SelfPride. This program was designed to provide job training to people on welfare. At SelfPride I received job readiness skills, training, and placement. I always wanted to work in the healthcare support industry and SelfPride presented an opportunity for me to realize my dream.

Barbara Robinson Founder, Executive Director Board Chair

Marion D. Daniel Director of Juvenile Services, MD

Jericka Robinson Law Enforcement Board Vice Chair

Kim Harden Event Planner

Jerome Robinson, Jr. Chief Financial Officer Board Treasurer Barry Hampton Director of Training Board Secretary Regina Carroll Community Advocate Steven Chalawsky Certified Public Accountant Gwendolyn Clark Judicial System retiree

Gail D. Marshall Registered Nurse Melvin Scott Transportation Specialist Gai Young Talent Management Robin Meadows Developmentally Disabled Advocate Regina Murphy Developmentally Disabled Advocate

— Regina Murphy

I think the staff truly cares for each resident in the house. Helen never looks disheveled and lives in her own room. Her room is decorated and home like. Although Helen cannot speak to me I know she is happy at SelfPride. SelfPride’s quality care extends to celebrating the turning points in people’s lives. Every year Helen has a birthday party where

she is the center of attention. She loves to socialize with residents from the other houses.

SelfPride provides excellent services to my sister. Helen has learned personal care skills. While at the state home she was diapered, but at SelfPride she learned to communicate to the staff that she needs to go to

the bathroom. She no longer has to wear diapers. I am not sure how they taught her this but, it is great. I am very pleased with her care.

— Mildred Fink Mildred Fink is the sister of Helen, a resident of Rogene house. Helen is 65 years old. She has been a member of SelfPride’s family for 14 years.

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During my tenure with SelfPride, I have worked at many of the houses, but I prefer my current schedule because it allows me to work with children in the mornings. The benefits I have gained have been life changing.

Board of Directors

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The training modules were beneficial because the instructors were excellent and the classes were small.

If I had it to do all over again, I would not change anything. I was able to expand my trained skills to include caring for children with developmental disabilities. Currently, I am a community living assistant (CLA) at Carlynn house. I work the second shift from 3 in afternoon to 11 at night. At Carlynn, I assist the residents with their daily needs. I help them with personal hygiene, dress, food preparation and eating, and accomplishing individual goals.

SelfPride

SelfPride

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Wall of Support Ms. Marilyn Aklin

Mr. Dennis T. Bryne

Ms. Angela Allen

Mrs. Florine P. Camphor

Mr. Charles Allen

Mr. James Winky Camphor

Kalim Ali, Ph.D.

Ms. Denise Carroll

Ms. Janice Anderson

Ms. Regina M. Carroll

Mr. Charles Armstrong

Ms. Deborah Moore-Carter

Ms. Wanda Ashburne

Ms. Iris Carter

Roky Ausby

Mr. John Carter

Ms. Nini Azzies

Ms. Tanika Carter

Ms. Jackie Bailey

Mr. Steven Chalawsky

Marcus D. Baker

Ms. Mary Chalawsky

Ms. Lillian Barnes

Ms. Patricia Cheek

Ms. Connie Bell

Mr. Bryoult Claiborne

Ms. Marian Bell

Ms. Terice Clarke

Soror Nancy H. Bennett

Mr. Mickey Cohen

Ms. Ruth Bensky

Ms. Judy Colbert

Ms. V. Mays-Bester

Ms. Kathleen N. Cole

Ms. Joyce Black

Mr. Bryan Collier

Ms. Barbara Blackwell

Mr. Herbert Conley

Mr. Joshua Blackwell

Mr. Wallace Cook

Ms. Lula Mae Boleware

Rev. Luther Charles-Cooper

Ms. Janice Bowie

Ms. Jacqueline T. Copeland

Ms. Debbie Brandow

Ms. Vergella Cox

Ms. Pricilla Briggs

Mr. Lee Cross

Mr. James E. Britton

Ms. Addie HendersonCunningham

Ms. Kenisha Brooks Mr. Daniel Brown Ms. Ginger Brown Ms. Mary Brown Mr. Levorn Bruce Ms. Barbara Burgess Mr. Michael C. Burke Ms. Brenda Bush Ms. Alice Butler Mr. Charles E. Byrd

Mr. Erik Daniel Ms. Marian D. Daniel Mr. Derek Daniels Ms. Mary Dark Ms. Virginia Jones-Davis Mr. Daniel Dayq Mr. William D’Emilo, Jr. Ms. Sharon W. Diggs Ms. Jules Dunham Howie

Robyn Meadows Robin is delightfully bubbly and she loves her care givers at SelfPride! Robin has been living at SelfPride since 1996.

How does SelfPride support you? “They help me to get around and do things that I can’t do. They cook my meals, help me go to the bathroom, wash me, comb my hair, and they take me out to my program.”

Why are you a resident of SelfPride? “Because it is good here and safe in the house.”

What has been the best thing about being a resident here? “Everything! They take me to my day program and I like going there. They take you out. I have gone to the beach and we have fun holiday parties with all of the people.”

What value does SelfPride offer to clients? “They help you have fun and get out. My family can visit me. My aunt and niece visit and take me out to lunch and buy me materials to make mats.”

Would you recommend SelfPride to others? “Yes, everyone should live in a house like this. They got me into my day program and I have fun there. I go to the day program 7 days a week and we do crafts, play bingo and other games. I have been able to make lots of friends in the program.”

What is one fond memory you have while living in the house? “My time with Regina. I miss her, she was real special. She showed good care and love to me. I miss being around her. I didn’t want her to leave. She loved me and I loved her.” Regina was Robin’s nurse for many years.

How does the SelfPride staff treat you? “They treat me well. They cook meals, give me medicine, and take care of me.”

Ms. Shirley Dunean

Ms. Debbie Hall

Neal M. Janey

Ms. Karen Marshall

Mr. John Duerke

Ms. Gloria M. Hall

Ms. Linda Janey

Ms. Shellye Martin

Ms. Margaret Duerke

Ms. Nichole Y. Hall

Ms. Linda Jay

Ms. Melanie Martin, M.S.W.

Ms. Deidre Moore-Durant

Ms. Ruth E. Hall

Mrs. AndreaJeffrey

Ms. Mary Jo McCulloh

Mrs. Faydra Edwards

Mr. Winston Hall Jr

Mr. Anthony Jeffrey

Ms. Patricia McCullum

Ms. Joyce Edwards

Mr. Barry Hampton

Mr. Eugene Johnson

Ms. Lois McFaden

Ms. Phyllis A. Ray-El

Ms. Durrell Hampton

Ms. Helen K. Johnson

Ms. Shirley McKenzie

Mrs. Deaiva Evans

Mr. John T. Harden

K. Johnson

Ms. Marie McNeal

Mr. Derrick Evans

Ms. Jordan Harden

Mr. Ken Johnson

Ms. June Michael

Ms. Susan Borden-Evans

Mr. Joseph P. Harden

Ms. Michelle Dark-Johnson

Ms. Ceecee Michaela

Ms. Judy Ference

Ms. Kim Harden

Ms. Shirley Johnson

Mr. David F. Michaels

Ms. Fesudent

Ms. Denise G. Harper

Ms. Venesa Johnson

Ms. Diane Mitchell

Ms. Melanie H. Few

Ms. Gina Harper

Ms. Tina M. Jolivet

Senator Clarence M. Mitchell, IV

Ms. Louis C. Fields

Ms. Lisa Harris

Ms. Lauren D. Jones

Mr. Ronald Mitchell

Mr. LaRian Finney

Ms. Taneka Harris

Ms. Diane Jowers

Ms. Yvette Carter Mitchell

Mr. William Flewellen

Ms. Anne W. Harvill

Ms. Sandra Jowers

Ms. Alexus Moore

Ms. Dawn Foote

Mrs. Darleen Hayes

Ms. Jennifer Keitt

Mr. Herman Moore

Ms. Evelyn Fowlkes

Mr. Morris Hayes

Mr. & Mrs. Roland Kenner

Ms. Lashalle Moore

Ms. Pamela Franks

Mr. Ralph Hearrd

Mr. Craig Kerr

Mr. Brian C. Morrison

Ms. Jane Friedman

Ms. Bernice Henderson

Mr. Larry Kirshbaum

Ms. Marnette Morton

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Ms. Cassandra Gaskins

Ms. Nancy Henry

Ms. Iris Kislin

Ms. Regina Murphy

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Ms. Rachel Gaston

Ms. Paulette Hill

Mr. Alfred A. Knopf

Ms. Wanda Newton

Ms. Rashaun Gaston

Ms. Dymond Holmes

Ms. Monique C. Knowles

Mr. Robert Nitz

Ms. Linda Gill

Mr. William G. Holmes

Ms. Gail Kroman

Mr. Keith Norman

Mr. George Gilliam

Ms. Lisa M. Hopkins

Mr. Garcia Langston

Ms. Beth O’Connor

Mr. Donald Glover

Mr. A’aron Hoprons

Ms. Rhonda Langston

Ms. Odhiambo

Ms. Latrice Goodman

Mr. Mark Howie

Ms. Tanya Yvette L. Lawson

Mr. James E. Oliver

Mr. Grady

Mr. Michael Howie

Dr. Jewa M. Lea

Ms. Mary Oliver

Ms. Pamela Graham

Mr. Myron Howie

Mrs. Erin Clarke-Loby

Ms. Teresa Orozco

Ms. Brenda Green

Ms. Georgia Hunter

Mr. Maurice Loving

Ms. Romell Foster-Owens

Ms. Lana Grimm

Ms. Diane Hutto-McComb

Ms. Creola Lucas

Ms. Estelle Owens

Mr. William Grogg

Ms. Rose Iney

Mr. Elroy Makell, Jr.

Ms. Vivian Parham

Ms. Eva Gross

Ms. Joyce Isaac

Ms. Iris Mapp

Ms. Shina Parker

Ms. Pat Gunther

Ms. Ann Jackson

Ms. Quierra Marriott

Ms. Patsy

Ms. Patricia Haley

Ms. Catreena Jackson

Ms. Salima Siler Mariott

Mr. Allen Patterson

SelfPride

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Wall of Support continued Ms. Lisa Paul

Ms. Abber Shelton

Ms. Cynthia Wilder

Mr. Antwan Perry

Ms. Carrie Ross-Shelton

Mr. Steven Wilder

Mr. Jeffrey J. Phillips

Mr. Barry Simms

Mr. Arnold Williams

L. Polk

Ms. Marlene Simmons

Ms. Terrie Williams

Ms. Tyneisha Polk

Ms. Minnie Barnes-Slaughter

Ms. Alaina Wilson

Mr. James Portis

Ms. Parissa Snider

Mr. Robert Winder

Ms. Alice Powell

Ms. Kim Stone

Mr. Ed Windield

Ms. Barbara Powell

Mr. Wayne Stovahh

Ms. Delores L. Winston

Mr. Terri Powell

Susan Hardy Stroud

Ms. Cynthia E. Wise

Ms. Irene Reid

Ms. Elaine Summerville

Mr. Lionel Woodyard

Ms. Ressie

Ms. Tammy Taylor

Mr. James S. Wright

Ms. Ida Rice

Ms. Sabrina Terry

Ms. Mary Louise Wycoff

Mr. Oliver Rice

Ms. Shawn Terry

Ms. Lillian C. Cooper-Woods

Mr. Glen Riley

Ms. Natasha Thomas

Ms. Nellie Yarborough

Mr. Clarence O. Rotchie

Ms.Toni Thompkins

Businesses

Ms. Gigi Roane

Mr. Reginald Toran

Cal Calame

Mr. Paul Robeson, Jr.

Mr. Stanley Tucker

Ms. Ann Robinson

Ms. Roseline Ugwu

Central Maryland Regional Office Class Act

Ms. Anne Paul-Robinson

Ms. Eunice Urame

Ms. Jeanene Robinson

Ms. Karen Walker

Ms. Odessa Rose

Ms. Irene S.K. Warker

Developmental Disabilities Administration

Ms. Beatrice Jones Ross

Mr. George W.

Hunt Manor Insurance

Mr. Steve Rubin

Ms. Jeanie Waddell

Ms. Sylvia Ruff

Ms. Wanda Waddy

Maryland Association of Community Services

Ms.Oliva Thomas Rutledge

Mr. Joseph Walters

Odis Cain Photography

Mr. Kevin Saunders

Ms. Darlene Washington

Rosewood

Ms. Melissa Saunders

Mr. J. C. Watley

Ross Ford & Associates

Mr. Melvin Scott

Mr. Jerry Watkins

Stroud & Associates

Ms. Pam Shaw

Ms. Patrica White

Taylor Co.

Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Jessie Windsor Jessie is a beautiful woman who greatly enjoys living in the SelfPride house. Jessie has been living at SelfPride for 15 years.

Why are you a resident of SelfPride? “Because they gave me a nice house with my own room. I live with John and Susan.”

What has been the best thing about being a resident here? “I have choices, I can go to bed when I feel like it and I get to watch Price Is Right and my stories during the day and rest.”

Would you recommend SelfPride to others? Why? “Yes, because it is easy to live here. You can move around on your own and you have freedom.”

What is one fond memory you have while living in the house? “We have holiday parties for the group and celebrate birthdays together — that is fun!”

How does the SelfPride staff treat you? “Good. I like them and I’m used to them. They take good care of me.”

I recommend SelfPride’s Community Living Assistant Training Program to anyone seeking employment in the care giving field. I enjoyed the training instructor’s ability to communicate job techniques and life skills. In particular, Mr. Barry Hampton taught me management skills that I can use where ever I work. The Community Living Assistant Training Program was thorough and complete. In addition, SelfPride is one of the few CLA training programs that will pay individuals for training. The training I received at SelfPride has been invaluable to me and has been used in all of my positions outside the organization.

Currently, I work for the Maryland Department of Social Services as a full time Home Aide for senior citizens. On the weekends I work for SelfPride at Kahn house. I continue to work at SelfPride because it is a chance for me to give back. I would have never acquired the training, skills, and work experience necessary to gain employment at the state level without SelfPride. Now, I have a rewarding career.

SelfPride is an excellent organization to work for because they provide continual training that help to improve your skills.

— Bernice Henderson

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What value does SelfPride offer to clients? “They help you and there is nowhere else for me to go. I am used to it here and I like it.”

I started working at SelfPride in 1994. My sister, who worked at Fairmount house referred me to SelfPride.

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How does SelfPride support you? “They provide my meals, help me get showered and dressed. They comb my hair and wash my clothes too.”

Leaving the Nest

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Advocating for Self Sufficiency In 1990, Mrs. Robinson and I went to Rosewood to select people for admission to SelfPride Alternative Living Units. I noticed a lady in the corner sitting in a wheelchair with nobody around her. Her chin was flat on her chest and hands were beside her head. As I looked around at the other people the lady never moved. About thirty minutes went by and I decided to speak to the lady. The lady turned her head to the sound of my voice.

Her name was Deborah. I knew she had potential. I saw the person inside of the shell that was just sitting in a wheelchair all alone. I accepted the challenge to make Deborah a viable participant in the community. I knew that SelfPride could feasibly work with Deborah to give her independence.

True to form Deborah still held her head down, not actively participating when she first came to SelfPride. Over time Deborah began to bloom. As I and the staff talked to her and exposed her to touch and feel, like feeling the rain on her head, sun on her skin, sounds of TV and music, smelling the aroma of food, and people visiting the unit we saw the change. Today, Deborah no longer holds her head down, she enjoys

being around people, she claps her hands, which shows her participation.

In 2003, Deborah experienced a medical setback. The doctors deemed her dead and put her into a hospice.

They expected her to die in thirty days. After three months in hospice, I went to visit her. Deborah’s head was down on her chest again. She was despondent. I promised her that we would get her out of hospice and bring her back home to SelfPride.

It was a battle to get Deborah released back into the care of SelfPride but Future Care nursing home assisted me in getting Deborah into our facility.

SelfPride has continued to work with Deborah through many medical challenges, since 2003 she has had two surgeries including a hysterectomy.

Deborah currently is doing extremely well. She is holding her head up, clasping her hands, and she is aware of her environment. Most of all Deborah is part of the community and we love her here at SelfPride.

— Deborah’s story as told by Gail Marshall

SelfPride

A Good Investment SelfPride is an organization of excellence that can use your support.

Since 1991, SelfPride has provided essential services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Generous gifts from the government, corporations, foundations and individuals allow us to further develop and provide programs that help youth transition into independent adults, supply adults with the skill set to obtain employment in the healthcare support industry, and encourage independent living for challenged adults.

It is a challenge for individuals with developmental disabilities to become confident and responsible adults. Their ability to reach their full potential decreases dramatically when love and support are lacking in their lives. SelfPride provides individuals with developmental disabilities the human connections that they need to thrive. We do this by providing quality care with highly trained community living assistants. The individuals we serve receive care with dignity, advocacy to live a normal quality of life and opportunities for independence.

SelfPride is a sound investment. Your support will allow us to provide high quality services for the individuals in our care. Join us today by contributing to SelfPride’s important work.

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