July is World Watercolor Month
Artwork by IC Member Koreen S.
“I got to see where my work started and where it is now, it kept growing” Jeannette S.
Monday 10:30AM-11:00AM and 1:30PM-3:30PM Wednesday 10:30AM-11:00AM and 1:30PM-3:30PM
Jeannette’s artwork was recently featured in her own Pop Up Art Show, entitled “Dreams do Come True”! “I couldn’t believe it was my chance to have a show. I felt a little nervous and excited because I wondered what people would think of it. It felt great to see all of my art together. It showed me what I can do if I set a goal. I always wanted to be an artist. I got to see where my work started and where it is now, it kept growing! I want to keep growing, it isn’t over yet! My pop up art show gave me more confidence, I didn’t feel shy and I was able to express myself. People heard me out and gave me a lot of compliments. I told a lot of my friends and put it up on my Facebook page. Everyone was surprised and said “Wow! You did all of that?”. I’m going to keep coming to the IC to paint, it helps me feel stress free, express myself, and keeps me moving forward.”
Friday 10:30AM-11:00AM and 1:30PM-3:30PM (Food Bank is not available during parties and meetings.
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The Hispanic Heritage Club is scheduled to meet on July 20th, at 2:30PM, at the IC. Different topics are discussed each month. Everyone is welcome, so come join Jose and the group. It’s fun and informative.
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“Origami is a fascinating discipline. To its practitioners, it presents an unparalleled challenge to the mind and body, and the knowledge that can be unlocked by pushing the limits of what is possible with a single sheet of paper never ceases to amaze. The study is ancient, yet we are beginning to unveil its full potential. It involves the manipulation of paper, among the humblest of materials, yet it sheds light on questions that flow through fundamental branches of human study such as mathematics, physics, pedagogy, art, and meditation. It is an art that in its purest state neither adds nor subtracts material, but alters it in an almost alchemical process. It has international and intergenerational appeal, is accessible to all willing to put effort into its practice, and is represented by organizations that consistently promote the philosophy of communal advancement. My work is just beginning. I have used this art to become a proficient educator, writer, curator, mathematician, photographer, organizer, and entrepreneur. While none of these were my intended vocation, I have had to adapt to be successful at my craft. It has shaped who I am, my direction in life, and my relationships. It will be fascinating to see what comes of this practice in the years to come.” –Ben Parker
Frank loves creating and sharing his arts in different mediums. Frank was taught drawing, photography and music from an early age. He enjoyed drawing with his grandmother and learning how to use a camera with his mother. After a career in photography, digital imaging and digital graphics, Frank has returned to drawing and painting and incorporating a variety of themes, mediums and styles, building small installations that he plans to document and display virtually with photography and video. Frank enjoys creating mending art that expresses his personal experience using his artistic skills across a variety of mediums, including literally...multimedia. “In addition to art, I started playing music at 5 years old. It has always been, I’m an artist AND a musician”, says Frank. “Maybe, like learning two different languages, learning art and music gave me confidence to try new mediums. I think of them like different ways to communicate; telephone, email, text message, postal mail...using different ways to tell a story or send a message. Multimedia can tell a story with visual AND sound and in some cases other senses.” “A big part of mending art for me is connecting with community. My art being received and appreciated by other members and members of the community encourages my spirit to avoid isolation, reach out...to hear and be heard, see and be seen. Not being limited to just drawing or just photography or just music is like being able to speak more languages and connect to more people.”
For people who hear voices: www.facebook.com/cthearin gvoicesnetwork or http://www.hearingvoicesus a.org/ Alternatives to Suicide Support Group 399 Franklin Avenue Hartford Wednesdays 4-5pm http://toivocenter.org/ OCD support group http://psychiatry.yale.edu/o cd/patients/support.aspx Alcoholics Anonymous http://www.aa.org/ Narcotics Anonymous http://www.na.org/ Overeaters Anonymous https://oa.org/
Art has been an expression of the human soul, and a salve for the same. One of the most ancient art forms is watercolor painting, and World Watercolor Month celebrates it and Artwork by IC Member: Laurie J. encourages everyone to give it a try. World Watercolor Month is a celebration to inspire people to paint with watercolor while raising awareness for the importance of art and creativity in the world.
Gamblers Anonymous http://www.gamblersanony mous.org/ga/ For additional information on Support Groups in Connecticut, visit http://www.mhconn.org/ed ucation/information%20and %20referral/ or call: 1-800-842-1510, ext. 10
Come to the IC and see Amy to try watercolors yourself!
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Infoline CT 211 VEYO 1-855-478-7350 Guiding Path Warmline: 1-860-482-1783 or 1-800-314-2680 5pm-10pm 7 days per week
Participants in the WHAM (Whole Health Action Management) recently held a graduation celebration after completing the 8-10 week workshop that can assists members attain their health goals. Pictured from left to right are member Janet G., Staff Advisor, Alisa R., and members Valerie F. and Terrex C. Congratulations to all!
National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255 Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline 1-888-999-5545 En Español 1-888-999-8332 Crisis 1-866-794-0021
At the last meeting of the Men’s Group, participants discussed the importance of both having and being a role model. Some of the qualities of a role model the group felt were important were, the ability to inspire someone to do better, showing acceptance and tolerance, good values and being able to help someone overcome obstacles. Many members of the IC are role models for their peers. Working together, they have shown that, in spite of the obstacles and setbacks they have experienced, living a successful and rewarding life is very possible.
Dentists in Waterbury Who take Husky Health Staywell Health Center 203-597-9044 South Main Street 203-756-8021 Phoenix Avenue Community Health Center 203-574-4000 Columbia Dental 1-866-645-0111 Statewide # for Opioid (Opiate) Dependence 1-800-563-4086 You will be linked with walk-in assessment centers
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Members recently attended the Mind and Body Wellness Fair at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. While at the park, they had the opportunity to learn about many health related resources and some were even treated to tours of the stadium. Looks like MAX enjoyed himself too!
Emotional troubles don’t pay attention to income, and people who seem to “have it all” can also have the mental health difficulties. The stress of modern life has us on a treadmill of daily routine. There is also the social stigma that surrounds talking about topics like depression, anxiety, therapy and suicide, leaving us unsure about what we can do to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Mental health encompasses not just depression and anxiety, but also wellness, joy, meaning and connection in life. There are things you can do every day to not just stay afloat but thrive as a happier, more joyful person. 6 steps you can take now to protect your mental health1. Have real conversations: Having “real conversations” means communicating in whatever form you want—send a text, pick up the phone or meet for coffee— but in a way that moves beyond the superficial of “I’m okay” or I’m just busy” to talking about hopes, dreams and challenges. If you have trouble opening up to friends and family, a mental health professional can be an independent, confidential person in whom to confide. 2. Build your own safety net: Identifying the activities that bring you joy and the people you can speak to openly creates an important network of support. When you write down the things you like to do—whether it’s journaling, dancing, exercising, meditating, reading—and the people you can call in a moment’s notice—friends, family, neighbors—you have created a safety net for yourself. You now have a actionable list you can turn to again and again. 3. Snap back into the moment: Doing something physical when you’re stressed or feeling hopeless can snap you back into the moment. Take a rubber band and put it on your wrist so you can snap it when you need to re-focus your energy. A splash of cold water on your face will have the same effect. 4. Schedule a workout: If exercise becomes a regular part of your life, it can help keep those moods at bay. The key is to pick an activity that you won’t dread doing every day, and one that you can continue doing for the long-haul. Even better, schedule a workout date with a friend or loved one so you can sweat and connect together.
5. Eat mood-boosting power foods: Healthy eating—fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains—has been linked in studies to lower the risk of depression and even suicide. Tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, nuts, fish like salmon and sardines and fruits like oranges and strawberries are all foods that fight inflammation. 6. Be proactive: Though it may be difficult, families should talk openly about their mental health and the tools they use to overcome difficulties. Anyone in crisis, or who knows someone in crisis, can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. *ABC News Radio
Enjoy Your Summer 5
Sunday, July 1 Waterbury Firework & Food Truck Fest at the Brass Mill Center, 11am to 10pm Watch the movie “independence Day” Have friends over for a picnic and watch televised fireworks together.
Layer blueberries, strawberries and either yogurt or whipped topping in a clear container. You can also add a little crunch by adding chopped nuts or crunchy cereal. Enjoy!
Look for special offers at McDonalds, Baskin Robbins, Cumberland Farms and Dairy Queen.
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The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day or July 4th—has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. *History.com
Come join the Culinary Unit Monday through Friday from 11AM-12:30PM to help prepare a wonderful lunch and learn Safe Food Handling skills! Please speak with our Culinary Specialist Jessica for more information.
Keep The Promise is looking for stories regarding issues with trying to reach DSS via phone. Below is a summary of what KTP is asking for. “We have been hearing about severe delays in reaching the DSS Call Center/ Benefits Center with an average wait time of one hour and 3/4 or two hours. Not being able to get through to the call center can have severe negative consequences for DSS clients and applicants who are trying to resolve important issues. We really need stories from people who are affected by this in order to get the attention of policy-makers. We are particularly looking for people who have other serious issues which caused them to try to reach the call center and then be subject to the long call center delays- resulting in no help at all or delayed help and then being unable to access or maintain benefits. The more compelling the factual circumstances the better. (Note: this is not a call for stories regarding the far more timely Access Health-CT call center, which only addresses HUSKY A and D - not HUSKY C, Medicare Savings Program or MedConnect, or non-Medicaid programs.” If you have a story or would like assistance writing one, come to the IC and meet with Debbie.
You never know when or where your next act of kindness will appear or show up. A woman (Linda) was speechless after an act of kindness by an “angel”. Linda’s groceries were all rung up, then she swiped her credit card only to find it had insufficient funds. Linda returned some items only to have the same response. Linda was so embarrassed and upset- until Emma stepped in. Emma, an “angel’, a women Linda never met before, said she would pay for the groceries. Linda gave Emma a big hug and thanked her through her tears. She had a real life angel. Linda promised she would do the same for someone else one day. So beware, kindness may be one step closer to you.
Douglas Darlene Karen David Sheila Richard Mark James Angelica Enrique Edward David Skip Stephen Laurie James Thomas Michael Ronald Julie Karoline
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Join us for a birthday bash on the 25th at 3:00 p.m.!
Choices Work Services is happy to announce in the month of May, one participant had an interview, two participants started new jobs, and eight participants started their journey towards employment! Congratulations! Lifelong Learning Supported Education is also celebrating 6 participants starting their journey towards school, 2 new school starts, and 3 college applications filled out in the last quarter! Choices tip #1- A first impression is made in less than 30 seconds, make sure to always “put your best foot forward.” Smile, make eye contact, and give a firm handshake while introducing yourself. Stay tuned for a new tip each month! Have you been trying to find employment or start school? Need assistance with a resume, interview prep, applications and more? Choices and Lifelong Learning Supported Education can help! Contact an Independence Center staff member, your clinician, or Choices at 203-757-5431.
Henry R. Jose A. RaeAnn G. 7
Disclaimer: Articles which show “submitted by” are not written by an IC member. They are articles that our members came across, were inspired by, and brought in to the Center to inspire and encourage other members. Often the authors of these articles are unknown. The opinions expressed in the newsletter are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Independence Center’s members, the staff, or the Editor.
presents Yoga in Our City Community classes building a happier, healthier Connecticut FREE yoga classes this summer in Waterbury Tuesday: 5:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM Chase Park House 150 Sunnyside Avenue 203-574-8292