Stepping Stones NH 2018

2017-18

NH A guidebook for people with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who support them

A specialty publication of Parenting New Hampshire, sponsored by

OUR MISSION:

“Dignity, full rights of citizenship, equal opportunity, and full participation for all NH citizens with developmental disabilities.”

COUNCIL MEMBERS: Karen Blake, Chairperson Katherine Epstein, Vice-Chairperson Jennifer Bertrand Deodonne Bhattarai Lynne Clay Jeff Dickinson Ann Dillon John Fenley Peter Fleming Denis Greenwood Kenda Howell Denise Colby-Lapierre Kristen McGraw Lori Noordergraaf Jim Piet Jennifer Pineo Todd Ringelstein Tracy Walbridge Nate Webb

COUNCIL STAFF: Isadora Rodriguez-Legendre, Executive Director David Ouellette Chris Rueggeberg Mary Lawson Samantha Gage Miles Trier Thaika Joseph

OUR BELIEF: We believe that citizens of all abilities are fully able to participate and contribute meaningfully to our society when given the supports and opportunities they need.

OUR WORK: We work to give people with disabilities a strong voice and to bring groups together to plan and build a better life for all NH citizens with developmental disabilities.

On behalf of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities, welcome to Stepping Stones NH!

www.nhcdd.org • (603) 271-3236 • 2½ Beacon Street, Suite 10 Concord, NH 03301-4447

Table of

14

CONTENTS

20

4 Welcome 7 Honoring his voice 12 Collaboration leads to change

14 Food and fun with a little help from his friends

18 Join ABLE NH 20 Self-advocacy: a journey of courage 23 How to get the services and support you need

12

25 Resource guide

7 On the cover:

Forrest Beaudoin-Friede at work in the kitchen. Story on Page 7.

Our Sponsors New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities 2 ¹⁄₂ Beacon Street, Suite 10 Concord, NH 03301-4447 603 271-3236; www.nhddc.org

Crotched Mountain Foundation 1 Verney Dr., Greenfield, NH 603 547-3311; www.crotchedmountain.org

The New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities assists individuals and families advocate for the necessary policies, programs and supports to enable people of all abilities to live in dignity, with full rights of citizenship, equal opportunity and full participation. The Council initiates activities and projects for people with disabilities that create positive, long-term change to participate in all aspects of community life and supports community initiatives that promote full citizenship and inclusion.

Since 1953, Crotched Mountain has been committed to serving the region’s most vulnerable populations. Whether it’s a young child newly diagnosed with autism or a student with severe disabilities or a person receiving their first speech device — Crotched Mountain will be at their side, allies for life.

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Dear Stepping Stones NH Readers and Supporters: It’s hard to believe this is issue No. 12 of Stepping Stones NH. We created this publication with a mission to help educate people with disabilities, family members and the community at large.

This past spring I brought copies of Stepping Stones NH to share with a group I was meeting. To my surprise, the organization not only knew of this publication, but also gave copies of Stepping Stones NH to new members. This was our goal, to reach people who have found out their child has a disability and feel like their world is crashing down.

When readers hear about the life of a person with a disability and realize they can live happily and be a productive community member, they will hopefully view their child in a different light. I have worked with advocates for many years and find we must see people for who they are — individuals with many different gifts.

In this issue you’re going to meet some incredible people who advocate for those with disabilities.

Forrest, who is featured in the cover story, is an amazing young man. I met him when I was working on an anti-bullying campaign at a summit that hosted 5,000 people. A panel was going to tell stories about being bullied, but someone was missing — a representative from the disability community.

While looking for someone who could speak in front of this group, Forrest’s name came to me. As he spoke, the place grew silent and he received a standing ovation. His message was very clear: treat everyone around you with respect.

You are going to read about the Self Advocacy Leadership Team (SALT) facilitated by Kathy Bates, a group of people who are changing laws and helping people to understand their rights. John Fenley, president of People First of New Hampshire, will help you understand about being a true advocate for yourself and others.

We hope you enjoy this issue and thank you for your support,

David Ouellette Director of Projects david.l.ouellette@ddc.nh.gov; 271-3236

Check out our Facebook page, which features information, events, conferences and workshops that pertain to developmental disabilities issues in New Hampshire: facebook.com/NHCDD. You can also go to our online resource guide at nhddresources.wordpress.com.

4 www.steppingstonesnh.com

NH PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER:

Sharron McCarthy, x5117 smccarthy@mcleancommunications.com EDITOR:

Melanie Hitchcock, x5157 editor@parentingnh.com Group advertising SALES director:

Kimberly Lencki, x5154 klencki@mcleancommunications.com

Decour and tw cn

creativE SERVICES DIRECTOR:

Jodie Hall, x5122 jhall@nhbr.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Nancy Tichanuk, x5116 ntichanuk@mcleancommunications.com MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES:

Barbara Gallaher, x5156 bgallaher@parentingnh.com Debbie Birch, x5133 dbirch@parentingnh.com OFFICE MANAGER:

Mista McDonnell, x5114 mmcdonnell@nhbr.com EVENT & MARKETING MANAGER:

Erica Baglieri, x5125 ebaglieri@mcleancommunications.com BUSINESS & SALES COORDINATOR:

Heather Rood, x5110 hrood@mcleancommunications.com DIGITAL MEDIA Specialist:

Morgen Connor, x5149 mconnor@mcleancommunications.com

Stepping Stones NH is published each year by

McLean Communications 150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 624-1442, fax (603) 624-1310 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Please forward any inquiries or correspondence to 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101. For editorial information, please call (603) 624-1442, x157. For information on how your company can advertise in Stepping Stones NH, or on the Stepping Stones NH website, steppingstonesnh.com, call (603) 624-1442, x154. ©2017 McLean Communications, LLc All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is not allowed. Articles and advertisements in Stepping Stones NH do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by Stepping Stones NH does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

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Navigating the world of developmental disabilities can be confusing, frustrating, and overwhelming at times. You may feel lost. You may be unsure of what options you and/or your child have.

That’s why the My Opinion Matters blog and forum were created. Parents, self-advocates, and professionals from all across New Hampshire have a place to share their stories, experiences, and tips. Have a question? Visit the My Opinion Matters forum section of the site and ask for advice. Your opinion matters, and we’d love to hear it.

Visit MyOpinionMattersNH.com to read more personal stories about people in New Hampshire. And don’t forget to share your own story, too!

6 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Honoring his

by Bill Burke

F

orrest Beaudoin-Friede is a musician, a civil rights advocate, a history and archeology buff and the co-owner of a fledgling business. He also happens to have an extra chromosome.

Forrest was born with Down’s Syndrome — a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21 — which is associated with assorted physical and intellectual growth challenges.

None of that, however, has slowed the seemingly indefatigable 21-year-old down. Since his high school graduation in 2016, Forrest has embarked on a busy, productive life that includes starting a gluten-free bakery business with his younger brother, Rowan.

Forrest Beaudoin-Friede and his younger brother, Rowan, at a farmers market in Merrimack in summer 2017.

Photo by Kendal Bush

Young business owner Forrest BeaudoinFriede advocates and creates

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 7

Photos by Kendal Bush

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Forrest’s mother, Lisa Beaudoin, lists her son’s accomplishments with pride, but none of it has ever seemed out of the realm of possibility.

“We do not refer to him as a person with a disability,” Beaudoin said. “We refer to him as a person who has a genetic alteration.”

Forrest was born at home in New York City during a heavy snowstorm. At the time, there was no clue that he would face any additional challenges. It would take some time before the Down’s syndrome diagnosis was revealed.

“Somehow, his pediatrician didn’t see anything,” Beaudoin says. “Forrest didn’t have a heart condition or a simian crease across his hand. No medical professional said anything to us. When he was about eight months old, we became nervous because he had some gastro-intestinal challenges and started slipping down off of developmental milestones.”

Weeks and months passed without an explanation, but Beaudoin had a sense that there was an explanation.

“I think I knew in my heart when he was a year old, and it was confirmed when he was 16 months old,” she said.

Though she initially resisted having him tested, she eventually conceded when her husband at the time insisted.

She visited a pediatric neurologist who asked her why she didn’t want to have the test conducted, and if she was afraid of being mocked by other mothers.

She had a short, but telling reply: “I’m not afraid of anyone.”

“When Forrest was born, I wasn’t going to jump onto the disability construct,” she said. “I was just going to raise him.

We wanted to work on supporting Forrest’s brain growth.

To get his brain stimulated for maximum dendritic growth as early as we could before he was five years old.”

Beaudoin sought to help her young son develop into his “fully potentialized self.” He walked and talked late, but he continued to make gains and express a fierce tenacity to engage with the world around him. The first bump came when Forrest was in ninth grade. Not long into the school

Forrest’s business that he runs with his brother, Best Brothers Bakery, specializes in gluten-free goodies.

My name is Forrest My name is Forrest Beaudoin-Friede. I was born in New York City, grew up in Temple, and now live in Peterborough.

It took an extra semester but I graduated with a real diploma in fourand-a-half years from ConVal High School in January 2016. I completed the Business Management program in the Career and Technical Education curriculum. It was in my entrepreneurship class that Best Brothers Bakery was created. But before I get into that story, let me tell you a little about my life in Peterborough.

Our family home in Temple had a fire in February 2014 when I was 18 years old so we moved to an apartment in downtown Peterborough.

In 2014, the fall of my junior year in high school, my mom began the NH LEND program and was away from home for long days.

Peterborough is a walkable town unlike rural Temple, so I shopped, used the bank, and visited restaurants. My freedom to explore and take care of myself was empowering. By the end of October, I told my mother I was never moving back to Temple when our house was rebuilt. She told me I needed to get a job to be able to afford my life.

My mother returned to Temple in December 2015. A few weeks before finishing my final semester of high school, I got my first job at Ocean State Job Lot so I stayed in Peterborough. I shop for groceries, cook, clean and do laundry. Sometimes family members want my place to be neater and my mom provides a to-do list, but mostly I have it figured out. What do people want ­— I’m a 21-year-old guy! My roommate Eddie moved in the following May because apartments are expensive.

year, a group of administrators called upon Beaudoin to remove her son from the general education classes he was enrolled in.

“High school is when I started to have concerns,” she said. “Not about Forrest and what he could do.

But that’s when I came up against a world that said, ‘you’re disabled, you don’t belong in a regular classroom, we don’t really believe in your abilities.’

There were a lot of limits.”

Beaudoin said she became aware that people labeled as disabled are “hyper marginalized in all sectors of American society.” She said they’re often seen as “not quite worthy, not quite employable, not quite capable of being a real friend.”

“The systemic challenges were so profound that I could not turn my head away from the reality of kids like Forrest who grow up in Manchester, daughters and sons of immigrants, of poor families, who had zero chance of graduating with a diploma from high school,” Beaudoin said. “It’s rough out there. High school showed me the ways in which ableism — discrimination based on ability — is very real in America and in our systems and institutions.”

Not long after, a house fire damaged the family’s Temple home. This necessitated a move to a small apartment in Peterborough while repairs were made. It was there that Forrest began to experience a newfound freedom.

“A month into it, when he was a junior in high school, he said, ‘I love you, but I am never moving back to Temple,’” Beaudoin said. “In a month of taking care of himself around Peterborough, he understood very clearly that his autonomy and independence depended on living in a walkable community.”

Forrest continued to persist and graduated with a high school diploma from ConVal High School, completing the Business Management program in

Instead of working at Ocean State, I now co-own a small gluten-free bakery, Best Brothers Bakery, with my younger brother, Rowan.

Our family hasn’t eaten gluten in years so we have a lot of great recipes because finding great tasting, fresh, gluten-free baked goods in New Hampshire is hard. Rowan was really impressed with my business plan for the Entrepreneurship class and suggested we build it together.

Owning a business gives me more freedom in my schedule and more job security. “Ableism,” discrimination based on society’s perceptions of ability, makes finding a job hard.

We sell our products at local farmers markets and have pre-order customers, too. Best Brothers Bakery is applying for a homestead license so our products can be sold at stores and served in restaurants. Our gluten-free pancake mix is delicious! I love talking with customers and selling our delicious baked goods.

In addition to working, I volunteer at the Peterborough Library and at the Unitarian Church by helping set up for our weekly free community supper. At some point, I will take community college classes but not yet.

For fun, I walk to my piano lesson and play music at open mic at Harlow’s Pub. Sometimes you can hear me playing Native American drums in the park across the street from my house. My girlfriend lives in Twin Mountain so I take a Concord Coachlines bus from Concord to Littleton to visit her on weekends. She is so beautiful and I love her.

Advocacy is another big part of my life. I first testified before NH legislators in winter 2015 telling them to fully fund long-term supports and services for people with different abilities. It is terrific to share my story, speak to public officials and sometimes I’m quoted in the paper, which is really nice.

— Forrest Beaudoin-Friede

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the Career and Technical Education curriculum. It was there that the first hints of his entrepreneurial spirit began to appear.

“We have been a gluten free family pretty much since Forrest was a baby — long before gluten free was trendy,” Beaudoin said. “We have been through many iterations of pancakes, and just because there is more gluten-free food around doesn’t necessarily mean it tastes as good as we’d like it to taste.

Forrest’s project at school was a gluten free bakery. His brother Rowan said, ‘this is a super idea, Forrest. Let’s do it.’ So they worked on a business model, and they test baked all of March 2016.”

Not long after, Best Brothers Bakery was born and a line of delicious, gluten-free goods began to appear at farmer’s markets.

“They make artisanal baked goods,” Beaudoin said.

“They make a pecan sticky bun that’s so good you’ll want to eat three.”

The brothers bake out of their mother’s Temple home and are investigating a homestead license that would allow them to wholesale to restaurants and place their bread in stores. Forrest’s specialty is the duo’s pancake mix. It has a longer shelf life, and the ambitious, young business owner does most of the work himself: He can mix it, label it, bag it and prepare it for delivery.

“Best Brothers Bakery’s goal is to ensure that Forrest has sustainable self-employment that requires minimal support,” Beaudoin said.

Forrest fills what little free time he has with playing Native American drums, performing at open-mic nights, spending time with his girlfriend, volunteering at the town library and community dinners, tidying up his Peterborough apartment (he attributes this task to his mother’s to-do list) and singing. He’s also the Monadnock Chapter Leader of ABLE NH — a grassroots organization dedicated to working toward equality while advocating for the civil rights of individuals and families with disabilities. He acts as its representative to the board of directors.

As for the mission that Forrest becomes his fully-potentialized self? Mission accomplished.

“He’s got an infectious laugh and a really lyrical way of communicating that fundamentally gets to the heart of the matter much of the time,” Beaudoin said. “He’s much more authentic and has great emotional intelligence. He can read others well and knows how they’re feeling. And he knows himself quite well and can communicate his own needs.”

Look for Best Brothers Bakery goods at the Merrimack Farmer’s Market, the New Ipswich Farmer’s Market and Peterborough area stores this fall.

Bill Burke is the managing editor for custom publications at McLean Communications in Manchester. He is also a columnist for Parenting NH Magazine.

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Collaboration leads to

change

By Kathy Bates

I

was so excited when the director of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities asked if I was interested in facilitating a new advocacy group that would serve as advisors to the council and other organizations.

On Feb. 22, 2013, the Self-Advocacy Leadership team (SALT) began working together.

David Ouellette photos

In a short time, the Self-Advocacy Leadership team has made its mark in NH

SALT serves as consultants for the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities and other advocacy groups. Our members are talented citizens who want to effect positive change in New Hampshire. We are committed to supporting people who have disabilities by tackling the big issues that keep them from living quality lives in their communities.

We were all so energized at the first meeting, the team wrote a mission statement in 10 minutes. That’s when I knew that this group was going to be different than any of the other groups of advocates I had worked with. Everyone had leadership experience and we didn’t have to start from, “what does advocacy mean to you?”

But we did have to decide what we should work on. I advised the team to choose issues that would be important to the wider community and not just the disabled community.

Collaboration is an important part of advocacy and change.

After brainstorming, we came up with four core issues to focus on: transportation, mentorship, employment/real careers, and abuse and neglect prevention.

For our first project, we decided to write a position paper outlining the issues related to transportation, especially for 12 www.steppingstonesnh.com

members of the community who cannot drive, called “Modernizing the Infrastructure of Our Cities and Towns including Public Transportation.” It was distributed to several organizations including the Department of Transportation and the Institute on Disability.

About two years ago, the then-director of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities asked SALT to take on the issue of abuse and neglect prevention. This is a complicated issue, so the topic needed to be broken down into manageable activities.

The team chose to translate the adult protective services law, using words that are easier to read and understand.

Rights are not truly ours unless we know how to use them.

The process of going through the document paragraph by paragraph and rewriting it with user-friendly language proved to be very challenging.

For example, the word “incapacitated” that appeared over and over in the law was offensive and it didn’t accurately describe people who have disabilities. We thought the word “vulnerable” would be a better representation for most people. To make this vocabulary change we knew that the law

would have to be amended.

Committee member John Fenley, also the president of People First of New Hampshire, and I were invited by the Coalition Against Later Life Abuse to do a presentation about SALT and our project to rewrite the adult protective services laws.

During the presentation, a group member, who is a police officer, said that in law enforcement, the term “incapacitated” refers to a person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. I asked the officer, “Do I seem incapacitated? Should I be taken off the street?” He answered, “No ma’am.”

A state representative and member of CALLA, Kathy Rogers, agreed to sponsor HB1165, “Changing Incapacitated to Vulnerable in the Adult Protective Services Law.” Then-Gov. Maggie Hassan signed the bill into law on May 5, 2016.

Collaboration has been extremely important as we near the completion of this project. SALT has worked with EngAging NH, the Alzheimer’s Association, New Hampshire Health and Human Services, Disability Rights Center, and CALLA. The

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SELF-ADVOCACY LEADERSHIP TEAM

It keeps your feet on the ground and helps you climb that slippery slope.

SALT members work as consultants to a number of organizations to effect positive change. From left to right, Michelle Schladenhauffen, Tammy Mills, Roger Vachon, John Fenley and Kathy Bates. team plans to launch a major marketing campaign by distributing educational materials. These materials will be distributed throughout the state to senior citizens and the agencies that serve people with disabilities. Our brochure and poster designs share the theme of a “lock and key” and features the slogan that the group created: “The key to staying safe is knowing your rights… Unlock your power!”

Kathy Bates’ background is in elementary education with an emphasis on special education. Kathy was a member of the NH Developmental Disabilities Council for nine years and an officer for five years. She has been a group leader at the Leadership Series presented by the Institute on Disability for seven years and has worked for People First NH as a group leader.

SALT serves as a consultant to the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities and other organizations. Our members are talented citizens with developmental disabilities who want to effect positive change in New Hampshire.

We are committed to supporting people who experience disabilities by tackling big issues that keep them from living community. quality lives in the communit SALT is available to any agency in New Hampshire to:

• Provide input on any proposed policy that impacts people with disabilities

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Advocacy It adds spice to your life

2 ½ Beacon Street, Suite 10 • Concord, NH 03301-4447 Phone (603) 271-3236 • Fax (603) 271-1156 • www.nhcdd.org Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 13

Food and fun Courtesy photo

A brain injury doesn’t keep Brandon Smith from working toward a career

By Mikayla Collins

14 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Courtesy photo

B

randon Smith loves people, and people love him.

He is a 35-year-old man who exudes positivity, and says that his dream job involves “just being happy every day.” But Brandon will also be the first to tell you about the challenges that he faces, and about the accident that changed his life more than a decade ago.

Brandon was driving under the influence of alcohol, too fast and without a seatbelt. He crashed and was pronounced dead at the scene. Brandon spent a month in a coma with a traumatic brain injury.

Brandon has been employed by The Common Man Roadside in Hooksett (Interstate 93 northbound) for the past year. When Brandon decided he wanted to look for a job, he applied to the New Hampshire Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (NHVR), which helps people with disabilities to meet their goals for productivity and independence through employment.

Through NHVR’s career exploration services, Brandon figured out he was interested in pursuing a career in the food service industry.

NHVR referred and funded J. Cook Workforce Solutions to take over Brandon’s job development and support. They worked with Brandon to find employment that would be a good match for his interests and his schedule.

Jen Cook and her associates teamed up with CM Roadside to create a position where Brandon can provide a useful service. Brandon’s main task is to package the famous Common Man potato chips, but he is also involved in some food preparation and bakery packaging. Memory issues pose a challenge when learning new tasks, but Brandon’s employers give him the time and accommodations he needs to become comfortable with each additional responsibility.

ks at Brandon wor ide, ds oa the CM R es ar ep pr he where od fo es ag ck pa and r ei th — including to ta po famous chips!

help n with a little from his friends While most of Brandon’s work takes place in the prep area on the lower level of the CM Roadside, Brandon also has opportunities for one of his favorite activities: socializing. Brandon describes his coworkers as being more like his family and friends. When Brandon began transitioning into employment last year, a goal was to work on developing social skills in a professional setting.

Brandon was integrated into the staff with om ease, surprising no one who knows him.

The dining ro ly In fact, Brandon was treated so well that at the Friend in n his direct support professional (DSP), John, he Kitc also took a job with CM Roadside outside of Concord. the hours he provides support for Brandon.

John says that the one drawback is that no matter how good his relationships are with

Courtesy photo

Photo courtesy of www.thefriendlykitchen.org the other staff, it would be impossible to be as well-liked as Brandon.

Brandon has a tendency to click with customers, too, as he brings the packaged chips out to be sold. John is well aware of Brandon’s knack for interacting with people, and makes sure to give him plenty of space.

In his DSP role, John makes sure people know that Brandon is an employee and that they can communicate with him directly. While it is his role as the DSP to help out with initial training and any additional needs at work, the goal is to have the DSP remain in the background whenever possible.

When Brandon is not working at CM Roadside, he spends a lot time at the pool, enjoying himself while

strengthening the muscles in his legs. When Brandon realized he would need to devote more time to this physical therapy, CM Roadside agreed to cut back his hours without question.

Brandon also makes the time every week to volunteer at the Friendly Kitchen, a soup kitchen in Concord, where he has volunteered for more than five years. This activity served as a launching pad for paid work. When he started looking for a job, a J. Cook Workforce Solutions associate observed Brandon while he volunteered at the Friendly Kitchen to identify his interests, needs and support preferences.

Brandon takes pride in his work at the Friendly Kitchen.

During Friday shift, he is responsible for the desserts. He fills up a cart with sweet treats, and serves them. Interact-

ing with guests is another aspect of what makes volunteering with the Friendly Kitchen so enjoyable for Brandon – its mission of feeding the hungry in a warm and caring environment doesn’t hurt, either. Brandon speaks frequently about wanting to “help people out” with the work that he does.

He enjoys volunteering, but Brandon is also still working toward his dream of having a job that involves cooking.

He has been cooking more in his daily life. Brandon goes grocery shopping every Saturday, and enjoys cooking everything from breakfast foods to chicken, even baked goods. He feels fortunate that his current employment and volunteer work both revolve around food.

Mikayla Collins spent the past year as the Outreach VISTA for the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities. Her main priority was to keep community members informed through the use of publications (like this one!), email, social media, and the Council’s website.

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 15

Community Support Network Inc. 10 Ferry St., Suite 401, Concord, NH 03301 (603) 229-1982 info@csni.org 16 www.steppingstonesnh.com

About Us Community Support Network, Inc. (CSNI) is a not for profit organization that works in support of the ten Area Agencies throughout the State of New Hampshire that provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

CSNI provides administrative and financial services to the Area Agencies, establishes policy positions on legislative or regulatory issues, and manages grant programs benefiting our constituents in the community of individuals with developmental disabilities.

CSNI serves as the communication and contact center on issues and services for those seeking information on developmental disability issues.

Our Mission CSNI and its member agencies will continually strive: • To promote public policy, at all levels, which enhances the lives of people with disabilities and their families.

• To educate ourselves, the people we serve, and the general public, about issues important to people with disabilities and their families.

• To facilitate the exchange of information among member agencies in order to share best practices and promote state of the art supports to people with disabilities and their families.

New New Hampshire’s Hampshire’s Area Area Agencies Agencies

NORTH COUNTRY NORTH COUNTRY Northern Human Services 87 WashingtonHuman Street Northern Services Conway, NH 03818 87 Washington St., 603-447-3347 Conway, NH 03818 www.northernhs.org 603-447-3347 www.northernhs.org

CLAREMONT/UPPER VALLEY UPPER VALLEY Pathways of the River Valley

Pathways of the 654 Main Street RD#3, Box 305, Claremont, NH 03743 Claremont, NH 03743 603-542-8706 603-542-8706 www.pathwaysnh.org

River Valley

LAKES REGION LAKES REGION Lakes Region Community Lakes Region Community Services Services Council 719 North Main Street 67 Communication Dr., Laconia, Laconia, NH NH 03246 03247 603-524-8811 603-524-8811 www.lrcsc.org www.lrcsc.org

CONCORD CONCORD AREA AREA Community Bridges Community Bridges 525Pembroke Clinton St., 70 Road Bow, NH NH 03304 Concord, 03301 603-225-4153 603-225-4153 www.communitybridges.org www.communitybridgesnh.org

MONADNOCK REGION MONADNOCK REGION Monadnock Developmental Services Monadnock Developmental 121 Railroad Street Services

SEACOAST REGION SEACOAST REGION One Sky Community Services 755 Banfield Road, Suite 3 Community Developmental Portsmouth, ServicesNH 03801

NASHUA REGION NASHUA REGION Gateways Community Area Agency of Greater Services Nashua 144 Canal Street

DOVER & ROCHESTER AREA DOVER & ROCHESTER Community Partners AREA 113 Crosby Road, Suite 1 Community Dover, NH 03820 Partners

NHSt., 03431 121Keene, Railroad 603-352-1304 Keene, NH 03431 603-352-1304 www.mds-nh.org www.mds-nh.org

144 Canal St., Nashua, NH 03064 Nashua, NH 03064 603-882-6333 603-882-6333 www.gatewayscs.org www.areaagencynh.com

MANCHESTER AREA MANCHESTER AREA Moore Center Services The Moore Center

132 Titus Ave., Street, #400 195 McGregor Manchester, NHNH 03103 Manchester, 03102 603-668-5423 603-206-2700 www.moorecenter.org www.moorecenter.org

603-436-6111 195 Hanover St., Ste 40, www.oneskyservices.org Portsmouth, NH 03801 603-436-6111 www.cdsregion8.org

113 Crosby Rd., Suite 1, 603-516-9300 Dover NH 03820 www.communitypartnersnh.org 603-749-4015 www.communitypartnersnh.org

DERRY & SALEM AREA DERRY & SALEM AREA Community Region 10Crossroads Community (formerly 10) Support Region Services 8 8Commerce CommerceDrive, Dr., Suite 801 Atkinson, Atkinson,NH NH03811 03811 603-893-1299 603-893-1299 www.region10nh.com www.communitycrossroadsnh.org

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 17

Join ABLE NH and join the

By Beth Dixon, board president, ABLE NH

F

illed with new visions for themselves, their families, and communities, many NH Leadership Series graduates were looking for ways to stay involved, connected and engaged in creating positive change.

ABLE NH (Advocates Building Lasting Equality in NH) was created to serve this purpose. ABLE NH is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) that was launched through a collaborative effort with the UNH Institute on Disability, NH Developmental Disabilities Council and the Disability Rights Center to serve as an independent voice to create positive change in the lives of people with disabilities and their families.

At the core of its mission is advocating for the civil and human rights of all children and adults with disabilities and promoting full community participation by improving systems of supports, connecting families, inspiring communities and influencing public policy.

What has ABLE NH done?

• ABLE NH has successfully supported efforts to achieve accessible playgrounds, schools and businesses in Concord, Nashua and Peterborough.

• ABLE successfully led the charge on New Hampshire’s seclusion and restraint legislation.

ABLE supported legislation that banned the subminimum • wage in New Hampshire, legislation that caught the attention of the rest of the nation.

• ABLE led the charge on waitlist funding, which resulted in $3 million to support adults waiting for services in New Hampshire in 2012.

• ABLE members supported local leaders working on pediatric in-home nursing care and consistently support the full efforts of the disability advocacy community on budget-related work by writing letters and going to hearings.

ABLE NH has experienced extraordinary growth this past year. ABLE NH hired a full-time community organizer, Linda Quintanilha. The board of directors expanded to include new members; membership has risen to more than 100 dues-paying individuals.

An issues assembly was held in November 2016 to identify the most pressing issues individuals with disabilities and their families face. Many issues were identified and three formal task forces to create positive change in the following areas were created: • The Right to Communicate • Transition and Employment • Managed Care Task Force (ongoing)

18 www.steppingstonesnh.com

movem

In addition to the task force groups, ABLE NH supports seven chapters throughout the state. Chapter members work together alongside schools, businesses, legislators, etc., to create change on a local level.

A few examples of work the chapters have completed: Concord: The beautiful and accessible Main Street project has been completed after years of work

A more accessible downtown Concor d is finally complete.

Photo courtesy of the City of Concord and planning. It began with the small ABLE NH action of trying to get a member who used a wheelchair into a local but inaccessible business. Partners and city planners spent several years hammering out the details and the result is a better, more welcoming Main Street that everyone can enjoy.

A current issue includes the accessibility of Concord’s premier playground, White Park. New members are welcome and needed.

Manchester: Manchester parents have started a chapter and as a first step, the group identified issues experienced by parents with children in the Manchester School District. In July 2017 they held a picnic at Lake Massabesic and continue to build a community of people who understand and are willing to work for inclusion, equity and opportunity for everyone.

This includes accountability and implementation of IEPs. Peterborough: The Peterborough chapter held a candidates’ forum in November 2016 and have continued to meet

ement

Taking the next steps to create positive change for people with disabilities and their families

Deborah Genthner photos

with their representatives around issues that affect all of us. In July 2017, the chapter organized a Blues Barbecue in Temple to get people together for good food and music and to celebrate the recent successes in their community.

If you have an interest in starting or joining a chapter, contact Linda Quintanilha at quintanilha.linda@gmail. com or go to www.ablenh.org for details.

As president of the board of directors, past NH Leadership Series coordinator, and a parent, I am excited to continue to witness and have a role in developing leaders to address the issues facing individuals with disabilities and their families.

Join ABLE NH and join the movement. By becoming a member of ABLE NH, you invest in an organization that has been effective in changing the lives of people with disabilities and their families, their schools and their communities.

None of us are alone — we are Advocates Building Lasting Equality in NH (ABLE NH).

Kathy Bates, who uses a wheelchair, receiv es assistance from fri end Robin Carlson at Evo Rock + Fitness Climbing Gym in Concord at the AB LE Rocks event in Ju ne 2017.

Beth Dixon, president of ABLE NH, was the driving force of the NH Leadership Series for 25 years. She is a powerful advocate in New Hampshire.

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 19

Self-advocacy:

A journey of

courage

By John Fenley

T

he road of life is unpredictable. There are many ups and downs and sharp turns. At times we may even come to a fork in the road that forces us to make hard choices. But along that wild and crazy road, paths intersect and you meet new people.

A wise woman told me that self-advocacy is a journey. You have individuals who are just starting to find their courage and voice and for them advocacy is, “I want eggs for

20 www.steppingstonesnh.com

breakfast.” That is a big deal because they have been told their whole life, “You’re getting oatmeal.”

But you have people further along on their journey, the veterans of the disability rights movement, who show up at the State House and refuse to leave until money is restored to the waitlist so individuals with disabilities can receive supports and services We all have courage and conviction and the ability to be great leaders. But you can’t just turn it on with the flip of a switch. You have to foster those abilities over time and

Photos courtesy of www.peoplefirstofnh.org

learn from the amazing advocates that have come before you.

The journey starts with speaking up for yourself, and evolves into speaking up for all people with disabilities.

As president of People First of New Hampshire, it can be challenging to lead a meeting because all our members are at different stages on their advocacy journey. I respect the fact that there are the shy, silent individuals who just come to listen and don’t feel bold enough to say anything. I give them their space, and from time to time they surprise me by saying something profound that truly adds to the conversation.

Linda, a survivor of the oppressive Laconia State School, proudly shares stories about life in her own home with her loving husband of over 20 years.

I see Mike, whose developmental At the People disability once led First retreat him to bouts of in September 2016. anger, sharing how he calmly walked

away after a A few of the many cruel man faces at People First muttered of New Hampshire’s “retard” to LEARN IT! LIVE him in IT! LOVE IT! passing, and I Conference remember us in 2017. praising him for keeping his cool, and laughing as he shrugged and said, “Yeah... but I should’ve decked him.” These individuals are among the many of who have shown me over the years that courage is self-advocacy.

Self- advocacy, a journey of courage, means speaking out against prejudice and proclaiming, “I want to be a contributing member of this community, but I need support.”

More than 22 percent of Americans have a disability, including 11 percent of New Hampshire residents. The simple truth is that we stand at the precipice of the continued civil rights movement.

Advocates need to and will be heard.

John Fenley, president of People First of New Hampshire, is a member of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities. He is also the creator and founder of Spark Community, a place where people with disabilities and non-disabilities come to learn.

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 21

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How to get the services and supports you

need

From the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities

P

eople throughout New Hampshire have successfully navigated the maze of health care, education and human service systems to obtain needed supports and achieve a high quality of life for themselves or a loved one living with a disability. It can be done!

If you are a parent, one of the best sources of information and support, in addition to your family, friends, health care providers and other professionals, is other parents who share their experiences and wisdom. We are very fortunate that in New Hampshire there is a strong tradition of parents supporting parents. Many of the agencies that support children with disabilities are operated by parents or have parents on staff. These professionals, who have personally experienced the challenges of supporting a child with a disability, bring an exceptional degree of care and commitment to their work.

The resource guide on the pages that follow is designed to provide a starting point and map to help people who are experiencing a disability or caring for a child or adult with a disability find the services and supports they need. Many organizations exist solely to provide information to people and families about how to access needed supports or to assist those who are having difficulty finding services, are having problems with their services or would like information about their legal rights. These informational resources are listed at the beginning of the guide.

One of the best resources for someone beginning the journey is a comprehensive guide of services and supports for children and adults, titled “Maneuvering the Maze,” produced by NH Family Voices and available online free of charge. Family Voices is a “Family To Family Health and Education Center” assisting families of children, youth and young adults with chronic health, physical, developmental and mental health challenges, through one-to-one phone assistance, educational materials, online resources, a lending library and quarterly newsletter. Of the 10 staff members, eight are parents of children and young adults with disabilities or chronic health conditions, and two have disabilities.

According to co-director Martha-Jean Madison, families find it valuable to brainstorm with the staff about possible solutions to the challenges they are experiencing.

“Sometimes support is just listening. We listen and want to support a parent wherever they are at.”

Besides supporting parents themselves, they also provide training to parents who want to support other parents.

Another important resource for parents is the Parent Information Center on Special Education (PIC). PIC provides telephone or email support to families with questions about early supports and services, special education, and other disability related concerns, workshops, advocacy training and informational materials.

ServiceLink Aging and Disability Resource Centers are located throughout the state and serve people of all ages, income levels and abilities. ServiceLink provides local community-based supported information and supported referral services, options counseling, assistance with understanding and accessing Medicare and Medicaid and a comprehensive online resource directory for individuals seeking information about long-term services and supports.

To better support those in need of services, the NH Department of Health and Human Services recently launched an initiative known as NHCarePath. NHCarePath represents the state’s vision of improved access to services through statewide collaborations and cross training for organizations that provide services, to ensure those seeking help receive consistent information and are provided with resources and information for all their needs. The NHCarePath website, nhcarepath.org, provides helpful information for those seeking resources and support, as well as provides tools and resources for professionals, including training and informational materials.

The Disability Rights Center provides legal information, advice and in some cases legal representation, to children and adults with disabilities on a wide range of disability-related issues. Many other information resources are listed on the pages that follow.

The needs of people of all ages and abilities change over time. What worked for a child in elementary school may not be effective when they are in high school or when they are adults. For parents, it is important to maintain a close relationship with your child’s primary care physician and school staff, and be involved as much as possible with agencies and service providers. Share with them your child’s gifts, challenges and aspirations. At times it may take patience, perseverance and diplomacy to get the services needed for you and your family.

New Hampshire is a leader in community-based services for people with disabilities. You or your loved one can lead a full and productive life given the right support services and opportunities. You do not have to make this journey alone.

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 23

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Grants available thethe Grants availablefrom from NewHampshire Hampshire Council onon New Council Developmental Disabilities Developmental Disabilities

The New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities offers small

Serving Carroll, Coos and Upper Grafton Counties

Visit our website: www.northernhs.org

grants to individualsCouncil or groupson to support disability-related activities and The New Hampshire Developmental Disabilities initiatives that help achieve the Council’s mission of “Dignity, Full Rights offers small grants to individuals or groups to support of Citizenship, Equal Opportunities, and Full Participation for all New disability-related activities and initiatives that help achieve Hampshire Citizens with Developmental Disabilities.”

The grants are awarded mission based on available funds. Full Rights of Citizenship, the Council’s of “Dignity, Please contact Carol at (603) 271-3236 Equal Opportunities, andStamatakis Full Participation for all New or carol.m.stamatakis@ddc.nh.gov Hampshire Citizens with Developmental Disabilities.”

The grants are awarded based on available funds.

Visit

nhcdd.org • Call (603) 271-3236 or Email grants@nhcdd.us for information about:

Community Education Grants Youth and Young Adult Grants Community Project Grants

24 www.steppingstonesnh.com

The Council p up to $1000 to conferences, t disability-rela Hampshire

Tee

The Council p up to $500 pe young adults want to make communities to people of a

Commu G

The Council p up to $1000 to nity projects t goals in the C plan

RESOURCE GUIDE

The New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities has compiled this listing to help people with disabilities and their families find the information, services, and supports they need. A complete version of the resource guide is available at nhddresources.wordpress.com or may be obtained by calling 271-7038.

CONTENTS I. Information and Referral Services, Guidebooks and Online Resources II. Information and Resources on Specific Disabilities or Topics • Advocacy and Self-Advocacy • Assistive Technology • Autism • Blind Resources • Brain Injury • Bullying • Children with Disabilities or Significant Medical Needs • Deaf and Hard of Hearing • Dental Services • Developmental Disabilities and Acquired Brain Disorders • Employment • GED/Adult Education • Government Benefits and Agencies • Housing • Independent Living - Adults with Physical Disabilities • Legal Assistance • Mental Health and Suicide Prevention • Research and Training • Transition • Transportation

Information and Referral Services, Guidebooks and Online Resources Maneuvering Through the Maze

http://www.nhfv.org/Publications.html

A comprehensive resource guide of state health and human services agencies, educational resources, private associations and organizations that serve people in New Hampshire with physical, developmental, mental health and chronic illnesses and their families, from birth to adulthood. Produced

by NH Family Voices.

NH Family Voices

(603) 271-4525, (800) 852-3345 x. 4525 (in NH only) http://www.nhfv.org

A “Family to Family Health and Education Center” assisting families of children and young adults with chronic health, physical, developmental and mental health challenges. Provides one-to-one phone assistance, educational materials, online resources, a lending library and quarterly newsletter.

Funded by state and federal grants, as well as donations from community partners and supporters.

Parent Information Center on Special Education (PIC)

54 Old Suncook Road, Concord (603) 224-7005, (800) 947-7005

http://nhspecialed.org

Telephone/email support to families with questions about early supports and services, special education, and other disability related concerns, interactive workshops for parents, volunteer advocate training and informational materials (online and printed).

Funded in part or whole by the U.S. Department of Education.

Disability Rights Center – NH (DRC)

(603) 228-0432, (800) 834-1721 (v/tty) http://www.drcnh.org

Information, referral, advice, and legal representation and advocacy to individuals with disabilities on a wide range of disability-related issues. Online resources and materials available on many disability-related topics.

Federaly-funded Protection and Advocacy Center.

ServiceLink Aging & Disability Resource Centers

(866) 634-9412 http://www.nh.gov/servicelink

From local offices throughout the state, helps individuals access long-term services, supports and resources, access family caregiver information, explore options and understand and access Medicare and Medicaid.

After-hours appointments are available as needed. Callers are automatically connected to the ServiceLink office in their area.

Funded by the State of New Hampshire and federal government.

Online ServiceLink Community Services and Supports Resource Directory: http://www.referweb.net/nhsl/ Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire

http://www.bianh.org/resourcedir.html

Resources compiled by the Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire.

Family Resource Connection of the New Hampshire State Library

20 Park St., Concord (800) 298-4321 http://www.nh.gov/nhsl/frc/

Collects and makes available to New Hampshire residents current information on all aspects of caring for, educating, and raising healthy children, especially young children with special needs. Provides online library catalogue and online directory of children’s services. Materials can be borrowed through the library free of charge. A collaborative effort of the NH Departments of Health & Human Services, Education, and the NH State Library.

Governor’s Commission on Disability

121 South Fruit Street, Suite 101, Concord (800) 852-3405, (603) 271-2773 http://www.nh.gov/disability

Provides information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and accessibility issues, including accessible parking spaces, housing, voting and transportation. Online

list of state and federal government benefit programs for people with disabilities.

http://www.nh.gov/disability/information/community/benefitsforpeople.htm NH Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)

121 South Fruit Street, Concord (800) 852-3405, (603) 271-0476 http://www.silcnh.org/

Provides a monthly resource newsletter, archives of past issues and online “tip sheets” on benefits, housing and health care, based on an independent living philosophy.

A federally funded independent, cross disability council.

NH Family Ties (Formerly Parent to Parent of NH)

Ashlee Fye, Statewide Coordinator (800) 499-4153 ext. 241 http://www.nhfamilyties.org

Provides parent matches between experienced parents, who have “been there,” with new or referred parents of children with special needs just beginning to meet the challenges of a disability or chronic health condition. Available through the area agency network as part of their family support services. NH Family Ties provides information and referral to community resources, services, support groups, state support programs, and others.

2-1-1 New Hampshire

http://www.211nh.org

Information and referral for general human services including help with food, emergency housing, employment, health care and counseling is available by dialing 211 in NH or (866) 444-4211 from out of state. Operated by United Ways of New Hampshire.

NHCarePath

(866) 634-9412 http://www.nhcarepath.org/

Designed as New Hampshire’s “front door” to quickly connect individuals of all ages, abilities and income levels to a full range of community services and supports, including housing, transportation, financial assistance, Medicaid, veterans’ services, mental health, drug and alcohol services. Operated by the NH Department of Health and Human Services.

Pick up your free copy of Parenting New Hampshire magazine at hundreds of locations throughout the state! You can also visit us at www. parentingnh.com.

Our website is mobile and tablet compatible, so you can read us anytime, anywhere!

Disability.gov

https://www.disability.gov/

A federal inter-agency web portal providing access to comprehensive information about disability-related programs and services. The site contains thousands of trusted resources, updated daily, from the federal government, educational institutions, non-profit organizations and state and local governments.

NH DHHS Division of Family Assistance

129 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 852-3345 ext. 9700, (603) 271-9700

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 25

Resource Guide Information and Resources on Specific Disabilities or Topics Advocacy and Self-Advocacy ABLE NH

(603) 271-2336, (603) 271-3236 http://www.ablenh.org

ABLE (Advocates Building Lasting Equality) advocates for the human and civil rights of all children and adults with disabilities and promotes full participation by improving systems of supports, connecting families, inspiring communities and influencing public policy.

New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities

2 ½ Beacon Street, Suite 10, Concord (603) 271-3236 http://www.nhcdd.org

Federally funded agency that supports public policies and initiatives to remove barriers and promote opportunities in all areas of life. Its mission includes “dignity, full rights of citizenship, equal opportunities, and full participation for all New Hampshire citizens with developmental disabilities.” Members are appointed by the Governor and represent people with developmental disabilities, parents, guardians and agencies that serve people with disabilities.

New Hampshire Leadership Series

(603) 228-2084, (800) 238-2048 http://nhleadership.org we

bsi

Ch e te c k o u f or t e ve o u r nt de t ail

s!

Intensive 7-session leadership training provides parents and people with disabilities with information and strategies to effectively impact local and state organizations regarding issues related to individuals with disabilities and their families.

People First of New Hampshire

NH Council on Developmental Disabilities 2 ½ Beacon Street, Suite 10, Concord (603) 271-3236 http://www.peoplefirstofnh.org

An environment accessible to various disabilities.

AMAZING Birthday Parties and Events!

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Statewide self-advocacy organization and umbrella for 17 self-advocacy groups for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Provides resources, training and support. Call for the chapter in your area or how to start one.

Assistive Technology Crotched Mountain ATECH Services

Gift Certificates Available Online

Fundraisers and Non-Profit Organizations welcome!

746 D.W. Highway • Merrimack, NH 603-429-2200 • nuthinbutgoodtimes.com 26 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Online Party Booking Available!

Visit our Café, no candy here!

Freshly made orders, including our wellknown Pizza.

Introducing Mayaʻs Mango Smoothie!

57 Regional Drive, Suite #7, Concord (800) 932-5837, (603) 226-2900 atech@crotchedmountain.org http://www.crotchedmountain.org/ Programs-and-Services/ATECH-Services/ ATECH-Services/

Formerly NH-ATEC, this highly specialized clinical program provides evaluation and consultation services in the area of assistive technology. Services include augmentative and alternative communications (AAC), seating and wheeled mobility, access and independent living and computer access Autism NH Virtual Autism Center

Maintained by NH Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders 2 ½ Beacon Street, Suite 10, Concord info@nhcouncilonasd.org http://www.nhvirtualautismcenter.info

Provides a single point of entry to a common, comprehensive body of information

about NH services for those who experience autism spectrum disorders and best practices guidelines.

Autism Resource Center

Crotched Mountain ATECH Services 57 Regional Drive, Concord (603) 226-2900, ext. 29, (800) 932-5837 autismresources@crotchedmountain.org http://www.crotchedmountain.org/ Programs-and-Services/ABA-Treatmentfor-Young-Children-with-Autism/AutismResource-Center/

Provides services at no cost, functioning as a single point of contact for support, information and services for autism-related disorders. Helps families navigate the developmental service system, explore treatment options, identify funding options and advocate for their child.

The Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders Training

Department of Applied Psychology Antioch University New England 40 Avon Street, Keene (800) 552-8380 admissions@antiochne.edu http://www.antiochne.edu

Offers practice-oriented, values-based graduate study. Master degrees in education, environmental studies, management, and psychology; doctoral degrees in environmental studies and psychology. Also offering an Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate program — a program for teachers, counselors, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, advocates, occupational therapists and others.

Asperger’s Association of New England

(617) 393-3824, (866) 597-AANE

The Asperger’s Association of New England (AANE)’s mission is to foster awareness, respect, acceptance, and support for individuals with AS and related conditions and their families.

Blind Services Future In Sight

25 Walker St., Concord (603) 224-4039, (800) 464-3075 http://www.futureinsight.org

A nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of those who are blind or visually impaired and their families.

Provides a range of services in education, rehabilitation, and social services for infants and toddlers, children (3-21), adults and seniors.

NH Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired

21 South Fruit Street, Suite 20, Concord (603) 271-3537, (603) 271-3471 (v/tty), (800) 581-6881 http://www.education.nh.gov/career/vocational/blind_visu.htm

Provides those services necessary to help people with visual loss to enter, re-enter, or maintain employment. Most services are provided without charge to the referred individual. Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Program is supported by state and federal tax dollars.

Brain Injury Brain Injury Association of NH

52 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 773-8400, (603) 225-8400 (NH only Information & Resources)

(800) 444-6443 (National toll-free Brain Injury Resource Line) http://www.bianh.org

Helps people with brain injury-related disabilities live in their own homes and communities. Chartered state affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA; http://www.biausa.org). Comprehensive online resource directory at http://www. bianh.org/resourcedir.html Bullying Come Together NH

http://www.cometogethernh.org

A collaboration of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities, Bully Free NH and other community members committed to building respectful, inclusive communities in New Hampshire. Bringing awareness, intervention, and prevention of peer abuse/ bullying to NH schools and communities.

NH Department of Education

Bullying and Cyber Bulling Resources http://education.nh.gov/instruction/integrated/title_iv_cyber_bully.htm Disability Rights Center – NH

http://www.drcnh.org/bullying.html

Information about the legal rights of students with disabilities experiencing bullying in school.

StopBullying.gov

http://www.stopbullying.gov

A federal website that provides information from various government agencies about what bullying is, what cyberbullying is, who is at risk, and how to prevent and respond to bullying.

Children with Disabilities or Significant Medical Needs

NH DHHS Bureau of Developmental Services 105 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 852-3345, ext. 5034

Provides assistance for children with the most significant medical and behavioral challenges requiring long-term supports and services, who live at home with their families, are Medicaid eligible, and meet the ICF/ MR level of care and other qualifications of the program. The goal of the IHS waiver is to provide services which are necessary to allow the individual to remain at home with his/her care-giving family. Services are provided through the Developmental Disabilities Area Agencies.

Family Centered Early Supports and Services (FCESS)

Special Medical Services

NH Department of Health and Human Services 129 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 852-3345 ext 4488, (603) 271-4488 http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bds/sms/ specialcare.htm

NH Medicaid for Children

NH Partners in Health

Your Local School District

Coverage for children up to age 19 and “Katie Beckett” option 129 Pleasant Street, Concord (877) 464-2447 Children’s Medicaid Unit http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dfa/medical/ children.htm

Provides comprehensive health and dental insurance to NH children ages 0-19 for families without access to insurance or for whom it is unaffordable (formerly NH Healthy Kids). Also, Home Care for Children with Severe Disabilities (HCCSD), commonly known as the “Katie Beckett” option, is available for severely disabled children up to age 19, whose medical disability is so severe that they qualify for institutional care but are being cared for at home. Only the income and resources of the disabled child are counted towards eligibility for this program.

In-Home Support (IHS) Waiver for Children with Severe Disabilities

8 Taylor Farm Rd. • Windham, NH • (603) 244-0025 www.Soaring Speech.com

A program designed for children birth through age two who have a diagnosed, established condition with a high probability of delay, are experiencing developmental delays, or are at risk for substantial developmental delays if supports and services are not provided. FCESS are delivered in the family’s home by designated non-profit and specialized service agencies located throughout the state.

If you have a child with a disability who is eligible for special education services, your child may receive services from ages 3-21.

Contact your school district before your child turns three — the age at which the school district becomes responsible for your child’s education.

Provides the gateway to proper assessment, diagnosis, and initial treatment, services, and supports.

Every child deserves the opportunity to soar to success!

NH Bureau of Developmental Services 105 Pleasant Street Concord (603) 271-5034, (800) 852-3345, ext. 5034 http://www.dhhs.state.nh.us/dcbcs/bds/ earlysupport/index.htm

The NH Title V Program for Children with Special Health Care Needs. Administers health programs and services for children ages birth to 21 years, who have, or are at risk for a chronic medical condition, disability or special health care need. Works together with families and their health care providers, community agencies and schools to obtain access to needed health care and related services. Provides care coordination services; support for child development and neuromotor clinics; nutritional and feeding/swallowing consultation; psychological and physical therapy services.

YOUR Pediatrician

Contact us to schedule a no cost, no obligation consultation!

129 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 656-3333, (800) 735-2964 (TDD) http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bds/sms/ pih/

Helps families of children with a chronic health condition that significantly impacts daily life. Partners in Health’s role is to advocate, access resources, navigate systems and build capacity to manage the chronic health condition of their child. Locations throughout the state. No income requirements.

NH Partners in Health Regional Sites and Towns Served. http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/ dcbcs/bds/sms/pih/documents/towns.pdf New Hampshire Connections

admin@picnh.org, (800) 947-7005 http:// nhconnections.org/

Aims to improve educational outcomes for all children, while meeting the unique needs of children and youth with disabilities through strengthening family-school partnerships.

See other sections for additional children’s services.

Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 27

Resource Guide Providing quality programs to enhance the lives of adults and adolescents with autism and their families in our community. communit www.greengardcenter.org greengardcenter@gmail.com

Deaf and Hard of Hearing HEAR in New Hampshire

(603) 624-4464, (603) 206-6800 x878 http://www.hearinnh.org/resources.php

Local and national resources for children who are deaf.

Northeast Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc.

95 Brewery Lane Portsmouth, NH 03801 603-501-0686

57 Regional Drive, Concord (603) 224-1850, (603) 224-0691 (TTY) Video Phone (VP): 968-5889 http://www.ndhhs.org

New Hampshire’s “one-stop” resource for services specific to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and for information about hearing loss.

Gallaudet University State Resources for Deaf and Hard of Hearing

http://www3.gallaudet.edu/clerc-center/ info-to-go/national-resources-and-directories/state-by-state-resources/state-resources-new-hampshire.html

Lists resources that provide information and referral or direct services to deaf and hard of hearing children in the state of New Hampshire. A starting point for people who are looking to identify the different types of services statewide.

Staff evaluates, monitors, and responds to patients with a wide range of disabilities and special medical needs. Medicaid accepted.

Developmental Disabilities and Acquired Brain Disorders NH DHHS Bureau of Developmental Services

105 Pleasant St., Concord (800) 852-3345 ext. 5034 http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bds/index. htm

The NH developmental services system offers individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders a wide range of supports and services within their own communities through 10 designated non-profit area agencies that serve specific geographic regions. Supports include: • Service coordination • Day and vocational services • Personal care services • Community support services • Early Supports and Services and Early Intervention • Assistive technology services • Specialty services and family supports (including respite services and environmental modifications) • In-Home Support (IHS) Waiver for Children with Severe Disabilities For area agencies and communities served: http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bds/agencies.htm Employment Work Incentive Resource Center

28 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Vocational Rehabilitation

NH Department of Education Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation 21 South Fruit St., Suite #20, Concord (800) 299-1647 http://www.education.nh.gov/career/ vocational/

Helps people with disabilities of all ages get jobs.

Regional Offices: Berlin ........................................ (603) 752-2271 Concord .................................. (603) 271-2327 Keene ...................................... (603) 357-0266 Lebanon .................................. (603) 448-5793 Manchester ............................ (603) 669-8733 Nashua .................................... (603) 889-6844 Portsmouth .............................. (603) 436-8884 (603) 271-7275 http://nhworks.org

(603) 621-3482 http://www.easterseals.com/nh/our-programs/dental-center/

Shop our online showroom at shoprem.com or call 603.226.2900

A description of the vocational rehabilitation process and overview of the NHVR process, from application to post-employment services.

nhworks

Easter Seals Dental Center, Manchester

REM is now selling parts!

http://www.education.nh.gov/career/vocational/cust_guide.htm

Dental Services

A statewide program that provides comprehensive treatment by volunteer dentists to elderly, disabled and medically challenged individuals.

From power wheelchairs to patient lifts to speech devices and everything in between, the Refurbished Equipment Marketplace (REM) is your destination for high-quality pre-owned medical equipment at incredible discounts!

New Hampshire Vocational Rehabilitation Guide

Donated Dental Services

Dental Lifeline Network (800) 292-1241 http://dentallifeline.org/new-hampshire/

Refurbished Equipment Marketplace

New Hampshire’s online destination for information about benefits, planning and work incentives for individuals with disabilities.

http://nhwirc.org

Information center for job seekers and employers. Lists current job openings, NH economic and labor market information, education and training programs, employment laws, small business resources, and local Works Centers locations. Work Centers provide technical assistance to prepare resumes and cover letters, job search workshops, employment counseling, aptitude and skills testing, and career exploration tools. Sponsored by the NH Workforce Opportunity Council.

GED/Adult Education NH Bureau of Adult Education

GED & Adult Education Information 21 So. Fruit St., Suite 20, Concord (603) 271-6698 http://www.nhadulted.org

Supports educational services to adults who have not received a high school diploma or GED certificate or who do not read, write, or speak English. Grants to school districts and not-for-profit organizations make it possible for local adult education programs to serve adult learners whose skills range from very basic to high school level.

Partnership in Employment: Supporting Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in their Communities

http://www.aucd.org/docs/resources/ pie_adults_Nov2014_families.pdf

A project of the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston, and the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services. Overview of day and employment services for people with developmental disabilities and guidance for those assisting them to become employed and part of the community.

Government Benefits and Agencies Government Benefits for People with Disabilities

http://www.nh.gov/disability/information/ community/benefitsforpeople.htm

A list of links and contact information for

government benefit programs that support people with disabilities.

Provides housing for low-income people and families in local communities.

Apply Online for Benefits with NH EASY

Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire Housing Assistance Guide

https://nheasy.nh.gov

New Hampshire’s Electronic Application System (NH EASY) offers NH residents a fast and easy way to apply online for cash, medical, child care, Medicare savings program and food stamp benefits.

NH Department of Health and Human Services

129 Pleasant Street, Concord (800) 852-3345 http://www.dhhs.nh.gov

Provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services for mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse and public health. The DHHS website contains a description of programs and services administered by the department and how to apply.

DHHS District Offices:

http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/contactus/districtoffices.htm

Local offices to apply for Medicaid, financial assistance, food stamps and other benefits.

Social Security

70 Commercial Street, Suite 100, Concord (800) 772-1213, (800) 325-0778 (TTY) (603) 228-5206 (FAX) http://www.ssa.gov

Applicants for SSDI and SSI can file for benefits online at SSA.gov website, by phone or by visiting a local Social Security Office.

Special Education

NH Department of Education Bureau of Special Education 101 Pleasant St., Concord (603) 271-6693 http://www.education.nh.gov/instruction/ special_ed/index.htm

Online reports, data and regulations relative to special education.

NH Circuit Court - Probate Division

45 Chenell Drive, Suite 2, Concord (855) 212-1234 probateservice@courts.state.nh.us http://www.courts.state.nh.us/probate/ index.htm

The Circuit Court Probate Division has jurisdiction over all matters related to wills, trusts and estates, guardianships and involuntary commitment proceedings, adoptions, name changes and partition of real estate.

Probate judges preside over these cases from courthouses located in each of the 10 counties in NH. Housing NH Housing Finance Authority

32 Constitutional Drive, Bedford (800) 640-7239, (603) 472-8623 (603) 472-2089 (TDD) http://www.nhhfa.org

A self-supporting public benefit corporation.

The Authority administers a broad range of programs designed to assist low- and moderate-income people and families with obtaining decent, safe and affordable housing. Home ownership programs, multi-family housing programs and rental assistance programs.

Local Public Housing Authorities

http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/pha/contacts/states/nh.cfm

http://www.bianh.org/pdf/Housing.pdf

Lists housing assistance resources compiled by the Brain Injury Association.

Disability.gov’s Guide to Housing

https://www.disability.gov/resource/ disability-govs-guide-housing

Information about government agencies and organizations that help individuals and families find affordable places to live. Additional information about rental assistance programs, assisted living facilities and modifying a home to make it accessible.

AUTISM PROGRAMS

Granite State Independent Living’s Home Access Modification

http://www.gsil.org/community-based-disability-supports/home-access-modification

Trained staff assess accessibility needs and provide referrals to licensed vendors throughout NH. May also assist in establishing a plan and identifying funding sources for accessibility projects.

USDA Rural Development in Vermont/New Hampshire

(802) 828-6000, (802) 828-6080| http://www.rd.usda.gov/nh

Works to improve the quality of life in rural areas. Provides technical assistance to communities, and funding and resources for home purchase, apartment rental and repairs.

New Hampshire Community Loan Fund

7 Wall Street, Concord (603) 224-6699 http://www.communityloanfund.org

Collaborates with a wide range of donors and lenders, and with business, nonprofit and government partners. Provides financing and support to people with low and moderate incomes for affordable housing.

US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

New Hampshire Programs and Services (603) 666-7510 http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/ states/new_hampshire

Assistance with home ownership, subsidized apartments, public housing, foreclosure assistance, homeless resources and discrimination.

Counseling and other services available.

State of NH Foreclosure Prevention Initiative

For immediate assistance dial 211 (in NH) www.homehelpnh.org

Website with important tips on alternatives to foreclosure as well as other valuable resources. There is also a list of qualified housing counselors who can offer specific suggestions.

Independent Living - Adults with Physical Disabilities Granite State Independent Living

21 Chenell Drive, Concord (800) 826-3700, (603) 228-9680 http://www.gsil.org

New Hampshire’s only Independent Living Center. Provides information, specialized services, and peer support for people with disabilities following the principles of personal choice and direction. Provides home care services, personal care, communitybased disability supports and employment services including benefit counseling.

Autism & ABA Programs • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) & Autism Consultation, Training & Services for families, schools & agencies • Special Educational Day School for students with autism • Career Opportunities for clinical instructors, RBTs, BCBAs & other professionals at one of the “Coolest Companies for Young Professionals in N.H.” (Winner, 2013 Rising Stars Awards) The Birchtree Center admits students of any sex, race, creed, color, marital status, national/ ethnic origin and economic status. EOE.

Newington, NH • A nonprofit organization www.birchtreecenter.org • 603-433-4192

RESOURCE GUIDE The New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities has created an online resource guide to help people with disabilities and families find the information, services, and supports they need.

Find links to: • Information and referral services, guidebooks and online resources • Information and resources on specific disabilities or topics • Disability service providers • State offices and programs • How to apply for public benefits • Legal services and guides

nhddresources.wordpress.com Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 29

Resource Guide Legal Assistance Guide to New Hampshire Legal Services Programs

http://www.courts.state.nh.us/selfhelp/ documents/legal_services_brochure.pdf

The “Law Line” – NH Bar Association

Mental Health Peer Support

(800) 868-1212

NH DHHS Bureau of Behavioral Health (800) 852-3345 ext.5000, 603-271-5000 http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bbh/peer. htm

Talk to a lawyer free of charge on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, from 6 - 8 p.m.

Produced by the NH Judicial Branch

University of New Hampshire School of Law Civil Practice Clinic

NH Legal Aid

(603) 225-3350

(800) 639-5290 http://www.nhlegalaid.org/

A cooperative effort of the legal services agencies serving New Hampshire’s lowincome population to provide legal information, referrals, and pro se assistance. Online application for legal assistance. Website provides links and contact information to a number of non-profit agencies that provide a range of services across the state. Includes online self-help guides.

NH Judicial Branch Self-Help Center

http://www.courts.state.nh.us/selfhelp/ index.htm

Basic, practical information about the New Hampshire court system, how it works, and what the procedures are for bringing a case to court.

Disability Rights Center - NH (DRC)

See above.

NH Bar Association Pro Bono Referral Program

(800) 639-5290, (603) 224-3333

Connects low-income individuals with volunteer attorneys who provide free legal services in family law, bankruptcy, consumer, housing and senior citizen matters. The Pro Bono Referral Program.

New Hampshire Legal Assistance

(800) 562-3174 http://www.nhla.org

Provides free legal advice and representation to low–income people and older adults in civil matters involving basic needs, including food, shelter, income, medical care and public benefits.

Local Offices: Berlin ........................................ (800) 698-8969 Claremont .............................. (800) 562-3994 Concord .................................. (800) 921-1115 Manchester ............................ (800) 562-3174 Portsmouth .............................. (800) 334-3135 Foreclosure Relief Project... (877) 399-9995 Senior Citizens Law Project .(888) 353-9944 ..............................................or (603) 624-6000

Assists low-income clients with a variety of issues from consumer protection, collection and foreclosure defense, (including Chapter 13 bankruptcy), predatory lending and auto fraud. Will take cases from Merrimack, Belknap, Sullivan and Hillsborough counties.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Local Peer Support Agencies provide services to adults with mental illness who self-identify as a recipient, former recipient, or at significant risk of becoming a recipient of publicly funded mental health services.

Provided by and for people with a mental illness. Includes face-to-face and telephone peer support, outreach, monthly educational events, activities that promote self-advocacy, wellness training, after-hours warm line and crisis respite.

SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator and Treatment Referral Helpline

Disaster Distress Helpline

(800) 662-HELP (4357) (800) 487-4889 (TDD) http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/

Website and helpline for those affected by a disaster and in need of immediate assistance, information, support, and counseling. Callers are connected to the nearest crisis center.

Use the Locator to find alcohol and drug abuse treatment or mental health treatment facilities and programs around the country.

Or call the SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline. Free and confidential information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing substance abuse and mental health issues. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) NAMI NH

85 North State Street, Concord (800) 242-6264, (603) 225-5359 http://www.naminh.org

A statewide network of affiliate chapter support groups, staff and volunteers that provide information, education and support to all families and communities affected by mental illness.

Community Mental Health Centers

NH DHHS Bureau of Behavioral Health (800) 852-3345, ext. 5000, (603) 271-5000 http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bbh/ centers.htm

Regional agencies provide publicly funded mental health services to individuals and families who meet certain criteria for services. Services include 24-hour emergency services, assessment and evaluation, individual and group therapy, case management, rehabilitation, psychiatric services and specialized programs for older adults, children, and families as well as short-term counseling and support.

(800) 985-5990, (800) 846-8517 (TTY) http://disasterdistress.samhsa.gov/

Disability.gov’s Emergency Preparedness Resources

https://www.disability.gov/?s=&fq=topics _taxonomy:%22Emergency+Preparednes s%5E%5E%22 Suicide Prevention Lifeline

(800) 273-TALK (8255) www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org New Hampshire Suicide Prevention and General Resources

(603) 225-5359, (800) 242-6264 (These are NOT crisis response numbers) www.theconnectproject.org Research and Training UNH Institute on Disability

(603) 228-2084 (TTY) (800) 238-2048 (TTY) http://iod.unh.edu

Provides a university-based focus for the improvement of knowledge, policies, and practices related to the lives of people with disabilities and their families. Offers seminars and workshops, webinars, interdisciplinary evaluation and consultation, leadership training, and customized, on-site support in schools.

Transition

Strategies, tools and resources for families of youth with disabilities to assist in creating successful transition plans.

Next Steps NH: Options for Life After High School

http://nextsteps-nh.org/

Transition and career development resources for special educators, students, parents and others interested in increasing transition and career development opportunities for youth with and without disabilities.

National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center’s Age Appropriate transition assessments toolkit

http://nsttac.org/content/age-appropriatetransition-assessment-toolkit-3rd-edition

Designed to help with the selection of assessments for students in regards to transition planning.

Disability.gov’s Guide to Student Transition Planning

https://www.disability.gov/resource/ disability-govs-guide-student-transitionplanning

Links to transition resources.

Transportation

New Hampshire Transportation Resources

http://www.bianh.org/Transportation.pdf

Transportation resources compiled by the Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire.

NHCarePath’s transportation webpage

http://www.nhcarepath.org/transportation NH Department of Transportation Public Transportation Information

(603) 271-3734 http://www.nh.gov/dot/org/aerorailtransit/railandtransit/transit.htm

Information about public transportation in New Hampshire, including links to regional transit providers.

National Rehabilitation Information Center – Guide to Finding Transportation Services

http://www.naric.com/?q=en/FAQ/ where-can-i-find-transportation-services

Information on finding transportation services.

NH Parent Information Center’s Life After High School Toolkit

nhspecialed.org/life-after-high-school/

ADVERTISER INDEX Birchtree Center, The............................................29 Carriage Barn Equestrian Center, The................ 8 Cedarcrest Center................................................22 Community Support Network Inc (CSNI).....16-17 Crotched Mountain Foundation........................................... 5, 11, 28, 31 Easter Seals.............................................................. 8 Gateways Community Services..................... 5, 13 Granite State Independent Living.....................10 Granite State Music Therapy.............................29 Greengard Center for Autism............................28 Independent Services Network..........................24 Kimi Nichols Center...............................................22 Lakes Region Community Services Council.......26 Living Innovations.................................................... 6 Manchester Community Music School................27 Monadnock Developmental Services.................. 5

30 www.steppingstonesnh.com

Nashua Center.......................................................24 NH Council on Developmental Disabilities...................................... 2, 6, 13, 24, 29 NH Vocational Rehabilitation............................. 11 Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network.....22 Northern Human Services....................................24 NUThin’ but GOOD TIMES!.................................26 One Sky Community Services.............................28 Opportunity Networks........................................... 6 OT In Motion..........................................................30 PathWays of the River Valley............................27 Premier Speech Therapy.....................................22 Residential Resources, Inc..................... Back Cover Richie McFarland Children’s Center..................25 Soaring Speech.....................................................27 Swim Angelfish.......................................................22 The Moore Center................................................... 5

“My child has been diagnosed with autism.

What do I do now?”

This is a big deal. But you’re not alone.

At Crotched Mountain’s Ready, Set, Connect! we blend clinical rigor with pure, unadulterated fun, all with the specific needs of your child at the core of our work.

Using evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), our Board Certified Behavior Analysts and ABA Therapists develop custom goals, designed to put your child on a path to a successful future in school and beyond!

Because we are center-based, our children come together in a school-like atmosphere, complete with circle times, jungle gyms, art projects and toys as far as the eye can see. We offer regular parent workshops to help the learning continue into the home.

Autism will be a new adventure, but Ready, Set, Connect! and the Crotched Mountain family are excited to share the journey with you.

Learn more at cmf.org/autism 603.226.2900 57 Regional Dr., Ste. #7, Concord, NH 03301 340 Granite St., Unit #3, Manchester, NH 03102 Stepping Stones NH • 2017-2018 31

32 www.steppingstonesnh.com