spring 2013
MAGAZINE
SPRING
Premier Issue! 2013
the founders of w2w keeping kids active this summer
challenges of the sandwich generation berkswomen2women.com 1
Same address, new look.
thefutureofhealthcare.org
Features of our new site include: • Web videos • News bulletins • Events, classes and support groups • Career opportunities • Physicians and specialty services dynamic search • Wellness tools and online health information • Follow St. Joseph’s on Twitter, Facebook, and Vimeo and YouTube Video Channels We know you’re busy, but that you also want the best healthcare available for your loved ones. Our new website offers all the information you need in an easy to find format. You’re welcome to join the rest of your friends in conversation on our social media tools to learn about new practices, read heartwarming stories, and obtain additional information quickly. For those looking for a doctor, we offer seven different search options. Have questions about a medical condition? Check out BodyWise, a comprehensive health and wellness encyclopedia with ‘real people’ explanations, illustrations, videos and articles.
Visit us at www.thefutureofhealthcare.org 2
Women2Women Spring 2013
MAGAZINE
Karen Marsdale, Senior Editor | Tracy Beaky, Editor
Contents
Spring 2013
201 Penn Street | Suite 501 | Reading, PA 19601 berkswomen2women.com | 610.376.6766
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Women2Women Advisory Council Alexa Antanavage Paula Barrett Paula Barron Tracy Beaky Margarita Caicedo Robin Costenbader-Jacobson Vicki Ebner Dr. Theresa D. Haught Nancy Hoban Robyn Jones Donna Lamp Karen Marsdale Michele Richards Regina M. Rinehimer Connie Skipper Carolyn Shultz Spano
The new challenges of the“sandwich generation.”
Women2Women, launched by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, encourages women to create connections, gain knowledge, open doors and build strategic alliances, and much more. Our goal is to create more women leaders in Berks County by providing a forum where women from diverse backgrounds can learn, share ideas and mentor each other. Membership is free and open to all women of Berks County. Women2Women Magazine is a publication of the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry To join: W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org Stay connected: BerksWomen2Women.com Facebook.com/BerksWomen2Women LinkedIn: Berks Women2Women Title Investors St. Joseph Medical Center Wells Fargo Platinum Investors Carpenter The Reading Health System Reading Eagle Company Susquehanna Bank Gold Investors Bellco Federal Credit Union Berks County Bar Association Berks County Living Caron Treatment Center Fox Rothschild LLP Fulton Bank Kohl Building Products Lords & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa M&T Bank Prudential Financial RKL VF Outlet Center VIST Bank Women2Women Magazine is published quarterly by Hoffmann Publishing Group, Reading PA HoffmannPublishing.com I 610.685.0914 The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
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Success begins with “2.” The Founding of W2W.
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The Importance of Keeping Kids Active.
Women2Know
6 8
10
13
Growth2Go
W2W Founders 18 What to Know About Childcare Tax Deductions ATHENA International
20 Get the Most Out of Your Tax Refund!
and the Chamber 2013 ATHENA Award Recipient
22 The Odyssey of a Mentor Berks Girl Scouts 23 It’s Never Too Late to Learn Golf Take the Lead
Work2Life
Health2Wellness
14 An End to the“I’m Bored!” Syndrome 16 Keeping Kids Active... Here Comes Summer
24 Through the Caring Eyes of a Niece 28 Helping Seniors... Where to Start
In Every Issue 32 33
Book Club Idea Exchange
4 9
30 Care for the Caregiver
Like us at Facebook.com/ BerksWomen2Women
Editor’s Desk W2W Events
34
More Women2Know
© Cover photo by Dave Zerbe Photography © 2013 All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
Editor’s Desk
Welcome to the Inaugural Issue of Emily Branch photo
Women2Women Magazine! Tracy Beaky, Editor Women2Women Magazine
S
ince the inception of Women2Women two years ago, the buzz about this dynamic women-centric organization has spread throughout the Greater Reading area with attendance growing at each event as we continue to welcome new Women2Women members. Of course, not everyone can get to every fabulous event we schedule, so this magazine will help to reach even more of you. I like to think of this magazine as the glossy print version of our live programming–and more! Let me explain... Like the organization that inspires this publication, Women2Women magazine seeks to provide an informative and inspirational platform to support women of all occupations, career levels and stages of life who want to enrich their lives through continuous learning, networking and mentoring opportunities, and of course, have fun along the way. Look to our regular magazine sections, Growth2Go, Women2Know, Work2Life, and Health2Wellness to enhance your journey of growth in whatever stage your life and/ or career finds you. Growth2Go provides readers with educational and informative material to help in areas of professional growth and life in general. See the timely articles in this issue about taxes – what to do with your refund, and the child care tax credit. Women2Know gives us the opportunity to shine the spot-
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Women2Women Spring 2013
light on inspirational women in our community–women who have made some positive impact, women who have amazing stories, women who you might not know but should. We have lots of women to know in this issue! Work2Life informs on that oh-so-challenging concept that women struggle with everywhere–balance. Work/family, career/personal, care for others/care for ourselves...women know the balancing act from many different angles; this is where we can provide support, information and resources to help. In this issue we take a look at balancing summer schedules with work and kids. And look to our Health2Wellness section for topics aimed at keeping you healthy-in body, mind and soul. Here we explore how this relates to the care for your aging parents. Also featured in each issue of Women2 Women are books featured by Green Eggs & Hamlet (Women2Women’s book club) and other book clubs in the Greater Reading area. In February, the Junior League of Reading, PA hosted a public screening of the documentary, Miss Representation at the Miller Center. I was so pleased to attend this screening, a documentary that explores how mainstream media
contributes to the under representation of women in positions of leadership, influence and power. It was eye-opening, to say the least, how clearly the media not only under represents women but disparages the women that are portrayed in leadership positions. Even more disheartening was the impact on girls...“You can’t be what you can’t see.” Young women are not presented with positive examples of influential women. This documentary demonstrates how “media is the most persuasive force shaping cultural norms,”and the conclusion of the film presents each of us with the question, what can we do? How can we better present girls with positive images of success, strength, and influence? How can we do more to support one another on our own paths to success and leadership in our communities? I’m happy and proud to suggest that for our corner of the world here in Greater Reading and Berks County, Women2Women magazine can serve to not only represent women positively, but to celebrate them, and to shine the light on them and the path ahead. Thanks for reading!
OF W2W
SPRING
Premier Issue! 2013
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Women 2Know
Community & Business Profiles, Insights & Highlights
Success Begins with “2”
The Founding of Women Women
Y
ou have all heard it since you were little girls–don’t go by yourself, always go in pairs. A pair–two corresponding things designed for use together, such as–a pair of hands, a pair of glasses, a partnership and ah yes, a pair of shoes! When looking for a name for the premier women’s organization in Berks County we knew the name mattered. It 6
Women2Women Spring 2013
By Paula Barron
was a stepping stone to building a lasting brand. It had to be memorable and easy to spell, it needed a visual element, it had to have a positive connotation and it needed to include information about what the organization does. What could possibly be more appropriate than Women2Women? Although talks “officially” began in the summer of 2011 with women in
the business community and the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the wheels were turning long before then. The question going through the minds of many–how do we bring women together for the betterment of our community? Not just women in business but all women. No organization had ever done that–we know there are great organizations throughout Berks County that cater to segments of the women population, but how could we as a chamber of commerce, which has traditionally catered to the business community, attract women in other industries –education, health care, independent contractors, stay at home moms, college students? The answer was an easy one–reach out to women who are already leaders in their respective industries. Bring them all together and do what we do best-collaborate. Our own personal experiences enabled us to explore and try out new ways of seeing, doing and being. Through inspiration from each other and tireless effort, our founding membership formed, the Women2Women Council. We worked very hard in those early meetings to define and refine the mission and vision of Women2Women. We take our mission very seriously–“Creating women leaders in Berks County.” Some questioned whether a leader can be created. And what about those women who Pictured above. Back row (l-r): Robyn Jones, Regina Rinehimer, Carolyn Shultz Spano, Karen Marsdale, Michele Richards. Middle row (l-r): Paula Barrett, Robin CostenbaderJacobson, Paula Barron, Connie Skipper. Front (l-r): Marybeth Smialek, Donna Lamp. Accessories provided by SHE and The Carriage House. (Missing from photo is Charlotte Cooper).
don’t want to be leaders? Leadership is not produced by one person; it is something people create together. Leadership results in alignment and commitment. A leader may operate from a formal leadership role, such as a small business owner or a Chief Executive Officer at a public company. A leader may also take on an informal role as a community volunteer. Leaders show up in small ways and achieve greater collective impact. As you witness every day, the world is increasingly interconnected and dynamic–leadership sits in the middle, both driving trends and being affected by them. When we support each other to succeed, leaders naturally emerge and everyone wins! How do Women2Women members support each other? By staying true to our vision–as the premier resource for women who want to gain knowledge, connect, network, build strategic alliances and mentor each other. Here are some of the resources Women2Women makes available to all women in Berks County:
Women2Know
On November 3, 2011 we officially launched Women2Women at the Crowne Plaza with our first Women2Know speaker–Emily Giffin. Emily, a bestselling author of six books inspired a group of about 325 women, sharing the story of how she made her dreams come true. Since that launch we continue to bring speakers–women to know-whose personal stories inspire and motivate.
Growth2Go
Our growth to go series, the Women2Women brand of a lunch-and-learn was created to feed our collective hunger for increased knowledge and the development of new skills. Timely topics such as negotiation skills, problem solving and how to create the perfect pitch teach us how to become the best we can be. We listen to the women in our community to bring topics of interest that are most relevant–to you!
Green Eggs and Hamlet
Whether you already belong to a book club or are looking to join one, you are
invited to read along with our W2W book club, Green Eggs and Hamlet. Our book selections are discussed every other month on BCTV. Join host Robin Costenbader-Jacobson live on the air for these lively book discussions, tune in and call with your insight, or simply discuss the book among your own book club members. It’s always a good read!
Women-Owned Business Roundtables
Recognizing that women face unique challenges as business-owners, we have provided the forum for these like-minded women to learn from local experts about topics relevant to business ownership, and to learn from one another’s experiences. These roundtables meet monthly with an expert speaker and a facilitator.
Latina Business Owner Roundtable
Women2Women has taken the first step in the Greater Reading area in bridging the gap between the Latina business community and the “traditional” business community at large. With the cooperation of the GRCCI, the Latino Chamber of Commerce and Kutztown University’s Small Business Development Center’s Latino Business Resource Center, we aim to extend the reach of our common goal to create more women leaders in Berks by supporting the success of our Latina peers in the business-owners’ world.
Mentoring Program Our newest initiative provides opportunities for women to find (or to be) great mentors and recruit W2W mentors from the community who have the skills and desires to give back, while advancing our mission of creating more women leaders in Berks. In addition to these resources, Women2Women has a dedicated Education Committee working to reach out to our future leaders. The Education Committee was formed so that we can nurture a sense of strength, courage and leadership in girls and young women, from grade school through high school in Berks County. This group is commit-
ted to their specific mission–to empower young women to seek leadership roles; to build strong relationships with others; to inspire trust and exhibit confidence; to pursue their vision; to exercise their voice; and to embrace life’s opportunities. So inspirational! Looking to have some fun, too? We’re not just about formalized programming. Women2Women also plans various outings as a way to informally network and connect with other women. Bus trips, golf lessons, and Seafood Fest are just a few of the outings we have planned. We welcome new suggestions and are always looking for Ambassadors–volunteers who can help us build the membership and make sure women who attend the events feel welcomed. Our website BerksWomen2Women.com can provide additional information. In addition to our Ambassadors and volunteers, we want to support and acknowledge our wonderful investors who since the inception of Women2Women less than two years ago, continue to provide funding for our speakers, programs and events. We cannot say thank you enough, for without this support we would not be where we are today. We are welcoming new members every day–there is no charge to join. All we need is an email address sent to W2W@GreaterReadingChamber.org. While there are costs associated with attending programs and roundtables, we have kept the costs down so as to reach the largest women’s population we can, and whenever possible we try to provide scholarship opportunities to attend our events through the generous contributions of tickets from our investors. To date we are over 5,000 members strong and plan to continue our mission for many years to come. Remember, all it takes is two women coming together–Women2Women. That’s how success is created.
berkswomen2women.com 7
Women2Know
ATHENA International
and The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Collaboration in Honoring Women Business Leaders. By Trish Doll, PA State Ambassador, ATHENA INTERNATIONAL
W
hat ATHENA International founder, Martha Mayhood Mertz, conceived little more than a quarter-century ago in Lansing, Michigan, is now a high-profile global women’s business movement. What the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GRCCI) conceived two decades ago in collaborating with ATHENA International, has flourished into a powerful women’s program for the region. The ATHENA International organization, which celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2012, has bestowed more than 6,500 awards worldwide, working globally with hundreds of organizations that include Chambers of Commerce, universities, business publications, and women’s groups to administer the ATHENA Award Program. Together these visionary organizations have recognized the ATHENA leaders–“women who have made a significant outstanding contribution–both to their profession and to their community... It is through their example and generous involvement that these women have provided models and have opened paths so that others may follow.” ATHENA INTERNATIONAL The ATHENA Award is unique in that it recognizes leaders across the world’s professional sectors. An ATHENA nomination speaks volumes about an individual’s quality of character and unique ways of knowing and leading. It’s important to remember that the ATHENA Award is neither a contest nor a competition -rather, it is a celebration of exemplary
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Women2Women Spring 2013
leadership, and the honor is truly in the nomination. On a local level with the GRCCI, the ATHENA nomination process is based on the following criteria for the selection committee’s scoring process: Those women or men (yes, men!) who
Demonstrate excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession. Contribute time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community (by giving back to the community with involvement outside of work). Actively assist women in realizing their full leadership potential. The Greater Reading Chamber has proudly honored and presented 28 “A-List” women business leaders with the ATHENA Award since 1993: Jeanette Finkel, Ann Miller 1993; Sandra M. Graffius, Carole Snyder 1994; Mary Ann Chelius Smith, Charlotte B. Cooper, 1995; Trish Doll, Ramona D. Turpin, 1996; Karen Baxter, Carol L. Kinsey, 1997; Beth Molets, Beverly Cabral, nee Montgomery, 1998; Deborah L. Moore, Missy Orlando, 1999; Jan Heller, nee Armfield, Sue Reese, 2000; Mary Ann Campbell, Crystal Seitz, 2001; Marsha D. Egan, Lillie Foster, 2002; Christina Talarico, 2003; Julia Klein, 2004; Cheryl M. Guthier, 2005; Marybeth Smialek, 2007; Robin Costenbader-Jacobson, 2008; Joanne M. Judge, 2009; Joni Naugle, 2010; and Christine Judith (CJ) Rhoads, 2011.
W2W Events (April-June) Women2Know:The Leader Within
Anti-Aging Program & Networking
Thurs. April 25 / 11:30 am-1:00 pm Crowne Plaza Reading Wyomissing, PA
No Fee
Natalye Paquin, Esq., CEO Girl Scouts of Eastern PA
$30.00 Per Person
Natalye is the CEO of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP), the state’s largest girl serving organization and among the largest Girl Scout Councils in the nation. Natalye is the recipient of many awards for her exceptional leadership and community service and has been profiled in numerous professional and business journals. Learn how Natalye has applied her passion to engaging the innate leaders in women and girls along her journey, and how you can tap into and leverage the leader within you.
Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa and Store No Fee / May 6 / 5-7pm Manor Golf Club Women’s Golf Clinic
Get Golf Ready in 5 Days for $99 5-Session Golf Clinic on May 28, June 4, 11, 18 & 25. Start time 6:30 p.m. $60 Per Person
Cost includes clinic, 5 buckets of balls & free greens fee. Free clubs available for clinic use. Register with Cheryl Heckman at: info@themanorgolfclub.com
Mentor Gathering
Women’s Seafood Fest at Fish Pond West
No Fee
$60 Per Person
May 1, 4:30 - 6:30pm GRCCI Center for Business Excellence, Wyomissing, PA
Wed. June 19 / 5:30- 8:00 pm Fish Pond West 100 Swiftwater Lane, Bern Twp
Join us for the 5th annual Women’s SeafoodFest at Fish Pond West as we kick off summer! Choose from succulent fresh Maine lobster or sizzling New York steak and network with other phenomenal women. Beer and soda will be provided. Bring your own wine.
Women2Women’s Evolving Mentoring Program
If you are a mentor, we want you to have access to tools and a network of support that will strengthen your communication and relationship with your mentee. If you are a mentee, we want you to know what to look for in a mentor, how to best call upon a mentor, and how to work with your own definitions of success and progress as part of your work with a mentor.
Contact Tracy Beaky at the GRCCI to learn more about the Women2Women mentoring program! tbeaky@greaterreadingchamber.org, or 610.898.7780.
berkswomen2women.com 9
Women2Know
Introducing the 2013 ATHENA Award-Recipient
Paula Barrett Recognizing Paula’s leadership, professional achievements and community contributions.
T
he Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Women2Women are pleased to announce this year’s Athena recipient is Paula Barrett, CPA/ABV, CVA, partner and department head of the Business Consulting Services Group, Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP (RKL). With RKL since 1989, Barrett is a certified public accountant and a leading business valuation expert with ABV and CVA designations. As head of the firm’s Business Consulting Services Group Barrett specializes in business valuation, litigation support services and mergers/acquisitions. Her leadership and vision has resulted in significant growth for the firm’s consulting practice.
Throughout her career, Barrett has been an active supporter of her community, contributing to the success of dozens of organizations and initiatives, including the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Women2Women, Great Valley Girl Scouts, Penn State Advisory Board, Berks Women in Crisis and many others. A working mother of two, Barrett was instrumental in the development of RKL’s creative and progressive philosophy toward working mothers. Barrett helped lead the way for the acceptance of flexible and reduced hour work schedules throughout the firm, helping retain valued employees seeking balance in their personal and professional lives. She has served as a mentor at RKL and outside the firm, encouraging them to reach their personal and professional goals. We salute Paula Barrett as the 2013 Athena Recipient. She is most deserving of this award and joins a distinguished group of Berks County women who continue to make a difference in the lives of others. 10
Women2Women Spring 2013
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Women2Know
The Girl Scout emcees and presenters showed off their strengths during their training for the Take The Lead event, which was hosted by the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry. (l-r): GS Senior Audrey H. of Shillington; GS Senior Morgan S. of Morgantown; GS Ambassador MaryGrace K. of Pottstown; GS Ambassador Laura S. of Kutztown; GS Senior Abby W. of Wyomissing, and being held up by her sister, Girl Scouts, GS Ambassador Leah H. of Sinking Spring.
Girl Scouts took the lead to honor notable Berks County women April 17th.
E
ach year, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP) highlights its mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character during its annual Berks County “Take the Lead” event. Girl Scouts embrace this call to action to honor some of their community’s most distinguished women, whose leadership has made the world a better place. Girl Scouts, themselves, run the annual program from start to finish, serving as masters of ceremonies and award presenters, showcasing their poise and maturity as emerging leaders. This year’s Berks event, with more than 400 local Girl Scouts in attendance took place on April 17 at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center, honored four noteworthy local leaders. “We were honored to celebrate remarkable Berks county women who serve as role models for our Girl Scouts,” said CEO Natalye Paquin of this year’s event. “For more than 100 years, Girl Scouts has been dedicated to creating supportive environments for developing leadership skills in girls. Through programs like Take the Lead we empower this generation of girls to reach their full potential and become dynamic leaders in their communities and beyond.”
By Carla C. Hickey, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania
Michelle M. Davis is a prominent volunteer in the Berks community. Michelle spent many years as a classroom teacher and a Reading Specialist for elementary aged children, an Instructional Support Teacher, and most recently, a Response to Intervention and Instruction (RtII) Coordinator. Over the years Michelle has volunteered in various private, collegiate, and for-profit educational organizations. Michelle is the Wyomissing Area School Board Immediate Past President, a trustee at Alvernia University and has also served on the boards of the Wyomissing Area Education Foundation, Montessori Country Day School, Berks Talkline, and the American Red Cross. Crystal Gilmore-Harris has also dedicated her life to impacting young women through her work as the Reading Youth Cheerleading Director and Head Cheerleading Coach at Reading High School. Following graduation from Reading High School, Crystal began coaching with the Northwest Athletic Association. She now oversees the Reading School District’s award-winning cheerleading program. In addition to her work as a coach and mentor, Crystal enjoys volunteering with the Gilmore-Henne Foundation and the Afro-Latino organization.
Yvonne Frey Oppenheimer is a retired non-profit consultant in the Reading area. She draws from an extensive business and administration background; spending a large part of her career investing in the Reading community. At the Rainbow Home of Berks County, Yvonne served as Director of Social Work Services, developing the agency’s first case management program. She has been involved with numerous Berks County organizations as a volunteer on many levels. Finally, Michele Richards is Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at Fulton Bank. Michele is also an active member of the community, having served on numerous boards and committees over the years including Junior Achievement, Mentors for Berks Youth, Caron and the YMCA. Michele is currently serving on the board of directors for United Way of Berks County and the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Industry; she is also the board chair for the St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation. Michele is one of the founding members of Women2Women.
To learn more about supporting Girl Scouts leadership, visit gsep.org.
berkswomen2women.com 13
Work2Life
Balancing Life, Work & Family
Put an End to the “I’m Bored!” Syndrome By Tracy Beaky, with an introduction by Kim Johnson, President & CEO, YMCA of Reading & Berks County
T
he cold of winter has come to an end, and spring is in the air. It is difficult to imagine that before we know it, school will be out for the summer and you and your kids will be looking for things to do. As much as our children say they can’t wait for summer, it doesn’t take long to hear the words, “I’m bored.” Let’s see what we can do to keep kids busy and avoid the “I’m bored” syndrome. We are fortunate to live in Berks County, home to many attractions, historical sites and just plain fun things to do. Our own Reading Public Museum has great exhibits and programming for the whole family throughout the summer. Local amusement parks and water parks are a great way to beat the heat of summer, as is our local gem, Crystal Cave. And we are blessed with many local parks and playgrounds, State Parks
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Women2Women Spring 2013
like Nolde Forest, Blue Marsh and Gring’s Mill, French Creek State Park and the nearby Hopewell Village National Historic Site. Of course we have the Fightin’ Phils for our local baseball fans of all ages. New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware beaches are just a few hours’ drive to hit the shore and get your toes in the sand. New York City is also just a drive away for a zillion things to do and see, and in the opposite direction the Baltimore Harbor is a wonderful day trip destination with the National Aquarium, or Washington D.C. for historical and culturally-rich attractions. Closer to home we have beautiful Lancaster County, as well as Harrisburg, Philadelphia and the Lehigh Valley for a variety of fun and educational places to visit. The list of activities both at home in Berks and in our neighboring counties
and states provide countless possibilities for day trips, weekend getaways and weeks of fun away from home. As lovely as that all sounds, the reality is that not everyone has the time to take weeks away or even day trips while the kids are out of school for summer. How about some solutions for the busy parents who are looking for ways to keep their kids
occupied, safe, educated and entertained throughout the summer while they go off to work? We’ve gathered a few of the many options for day camps for kids of all ages. There’s so much to explore, and so we’ve provided the web address for each of these as well–check it out to find the right solution for you and your kids!
The YMCA Summer Adventure Camps
Albright Junior Explorers Summer Camp
GoggleWorks Summer Camp
Full-day summer camp programs for school age children at each of the YMCA’s six branches. Summer day camp at the Y is designed to provide a fun summer full of swimming, arts & crafts, weekly field trips, sports and special activities.
Offers five 2-week camps for children entering first through sixth grades with activities such as hiking, cooking, swimming, theatre activities, arts and crafts, library and sports.
The camp encourages kids to keep their creative juices flowing all summer long with opportunities to participate in multiple art media, from clay and paint to papier-mache and fused glass.
albright.edu/resources/ learningcenter/summerprogram
goggleworks.org/Education/ Summer-Camp
ymca-berkscounty.org
South Mountain YMCA/Camp Conrad Weiser/Bynden Wood Day Camp All provide weekly camps throughout the summer with activities in aquatics, shooting sports (archery and BBs), creative arts, athletics, adventure (low ropes course and climbing tower), pony and horseback riding and outdoor education (hiking, wildlife, map and compass, fishing).
smymca.org
Camp Adahi SuHa Day Camp Provides programming for kids and families throughout the summer. Day camp provides group programming, which includes arts & crafts, canoeing, hiking, outdoor adventure, as well as daily swimming.
Goddard School (Wyomissing, Morgantown, Gilbertsville) Offering day camp for schoolage children to age 12 to explore science and nature, arts and crafts, manners, computers and technology, literature and language, music and movement, sports and games, cooking and drama.
goddardschool.com
summer Arts Connection at the Yocum Institute for Arts Education Provides theater, music, art and dance experience through themed weeks throughout the summer.
Museum Discovery Camp at the Reading Public Museum Offers programming through the summer that lets kids explore space, inventions, and other adventures in science, art and history.
readingpublicmuseum.org/ education/summer_camp
Colonial Sports Summer Camp
Summer Adventure Camp at Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex Includes activities such as swimming, sports, ice skating, Gaga ball, fresh-air activities, arts and crafts and more.
bodyzonesports.com Summer camp has long served not only as a means to an end (what to do with the kids while we’re at work), but as a great place for kids to stay engaged in learning, making new friends, and creating life-long summer memories. As you explore these and other options, we wish you and your families the best summer yet! And visit Women2Women on Facebook to share your favorite summer adventures and child-care solutions!
Teamwork in a sports environment with themes ranging from superheroes, myths & monsters to wipeout water week, kitchen wars and more.
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Eco-Adventure Camp Through the Berks Conservancy in cooperation with Angelica Park and Alvernia University offers programming in science & nature, arts & crafts, nature technology, creative energy, and sustainable agriculture for kids who love the outdoors.
ecoadventurecamp.com berkswomen2women.com 15
Work2Life
Keeping Kids Active By Kim Johnson, President & CEO, YMCA of Reading & Berks County
What Motivates Kids? There’s a lot to gain from regular physical activity, but how do you encourage kids to do it? The three keys are: Choosing the right activities for a child’s age: If you don’t, the
child may be bored or frustrated.
Giving kids plenty of opportu- nity to be active: Kids need
Keeping the focus on fun: Kids won’t do something they don’t enjoy.
A
nyone who’s seen a bustling playground knows that most kids are naturally physically active and love to move around. But what might not be apparent is that climbing to the top of a slide or swinging from the monkey bars can help lead kids to a lifetime of being active. As they get older, it can be a challenge for kids to get enough daily activity. Progressing through school, they are faced with increasing demands of homework. School work aside, many kids lack active role models, and as a result they don’t have a chance to mirror an active lifestyle. There’s also the ever increasing draw of electronics, games and television which foster more solitary, sedentary activity. And that seems a lot more attractive-easier-to some kids than going out for sports. When kids don’t get the exposure to an active lifestyle, the push to get involved in sports, or lack confidence 16
Women2Women Spring 2013
in their physical abilities, chances are strong that they will forget the joy in moving their bodies that they so freely express at younger ages on the playground or running around the yard. In spite of these challenges, it is important to keep kids active year round, and throughout their childhood. When kids are active, their bodies can do the things they want and need them to do. Why? Because regular exercise provides these benefits: Strong muscles and bones Weight control Decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes Better sleep A better outlook on life
Healthy, physically active kids are more likely to be academically motivated, and successful. And physical competence builds self-esteem at every age.
parents to make activity easy by providing equipment and taking them to playgrounds, and other active sports.
When kids enjoy an activity, they want to do more of it. Practicing a skillwhether it’s swimming or riding a bike or tricycle, throwing a ball-improves their abilities and helps them feel accomplished, especially when the effort is noticed and praised. These good feelings often make kids want to continue the activity and even try others.
Age-Appropriate Activities
The best way for kids to get physical activity is by incorporating physical activity into your daily routine. Toddlers and preschoolers should play actively several times a day. Children 6-to-17 years should do 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily. This can include free play at home, active time at school, and participation in camp, classes or organized sports. Have fun with your kids, encourage them to play in physical activity, try to be physically active with them. Play! Your kids will thank you for it... for years to come!
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Finance, Mentoring & Education
What You Should Know About Childcare Tax Deductions By Ruthann J. Woll, CPA, Manager, RKL’s Tax Services Group
A
ny working mom with young children understands the impact of childcare on the family budget. The good news is that you may qualify for a tax deduction or be able to pay for your childcare with pretax earned income–taking some of the sting out of this very necessary expense. Generally if you pay someone to care for your child while you (and your spouse, if married) work, you have two options to recoup these expenses. If your employer offers a dependent care account, you may pay for child care with pretax earned income throughout the year. Otherwise, you could claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit on your federal income tax return if you are eligible. To qualify for either benefit: The care must have been provided for one or more qualifying persons. A qualifying person is a dependent child who is age 12 or younger when the care is
provided. Your spouse and other dependents who are physically or mentally incapable of self-care may also qualify. The childcare provider must be a licensed day care provider, preschool provider or legal nanny. Costs to attend kindergarten or a higher grade do not qualify, however before or after school care would qualify. You must identify the care providers on your tax return by including their name, address, and Social Security number or employer identification number. If you pay someone to come to your home to provide the care, you may be considered a household employer that would need to withhold and pay social security and Medicare taxes.
Employer Provided Dependent Care Accounts For an employer dependent care account, you can elect to fund the account based on the maximum amount you are allowed to deduct, which is the lower of $5,000 or your
earnings in any given year. So if you set aside $5,000 and are in the 25 percent tax bracket, you will save $1,250 in federal taxes throughout the year. You need to budget carefully when setting these accounts up. Any funds that are not spent on childcare will be taxable when you file your return. The dependent care contributions are reported on Form W-2, Box 10. If you have an amount shown in this box, you will need to file Form 2441 to show that you spent that amount for qualifying dependent care.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit The child care tax credit allows you to deduct 20-to-35 percent (depending on your adjusted gross income) of the first $3,000 you spend per dependent child, per year for qualified child care. If you have two or more qualifying children, you may use up to $6,000 of expenses to figure the credit. There is no limitation on your adjusted gross income. The credit is available for individuals to take if they work full or part-time. They may also take the credit if they are looking for work or if they are going to school full-time. If the taxpayers are married, both taxpayers must be employed, looking for work or going to school full-time. If one parent stays at home, the credit is not available. If you exclude any income under a dependent care benefit plan, you cannot count that as an expense when figuring out the child and dependent care credit.
Form 2441 If either option is used, Form 2441 must be filed with your tax return. You need to report the qualifying individual’s name, social security number and the amount of expenses incurred. You also need to report the care provider’s name, address, identification number and the amount paid.
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Women2Women Spring 2013
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Growth2Go
Get the Most Out of Your Tax Refund! “You’re getting a refund!” What an exciting phrase to hear. Perhaps it was unexpected or it was planned. Either way, I encourage you to consider how this money can best be used to help you reach your financial goals.*
A
s a financial planner and tax preparer, I advise my clients on this subject and I understand how emotionally driven finances can be. For that reason, I recommend taking a moment to think about your overall financial plan and how your tax refund can fit into that plan.
Below is a list of five ideas to help you get the most out of your tax refund:
1
Build up an emergency fund
A general rule of thumb is to have at least six months of living expenses saved for an emergency fund. If you were to unexpectedly lose your job, discover a large home repair or car repair it could wreak havoc on your financial security. This is why it is necessary to have a pool of money that is earmarked for the emergencies in life. Make sure this money is in a safe and liquid account where it is earning a competitive interest rate. Having an emergency fund is a good foundation in creating a sound financial plan and can provide much needed peace of mind. 20
Women2Women Spring 2013
By Julie M. Kemp, CFP® A Certified Financial Planner professional with Financial Planning Advisors.
2
Whether you are behind on bills, have credit card balances or other loans, now is the time to pay it down. First priority would be to use the refund towards any payment that is past due. Second priority would be to put money towards the highest interest credit card or loan. The compounding effect of interest over time is staggering. For a $15,000 car loan at 5% interest for five years, the interest that will be paid over the life of the loan will equal almost $2,000! The more money you are able to apply towards the principal of the loan, the less interest will be charged over the life of the loan and the sooner you will be the full owner of the car. Lastly, consider pre-paying some of your bills. For example, with most insurance companies, if you pay annually rather than monthly, you will pay less.
pre-tax which saves you money on your tax return next year. Use the tax refund money to replace the decrease in pay. Another method of contributing to a retirement plan would be to invest in an IRA or Roth IRA. Each type of retirement account is different and has its own contribution limits. The advantages of putting money into retirement plans is that it is a dedicated savings account toward retirement and the money inside these accounts grows tax-deferred. If you already contribute the maximum possible amount into retirement accounts and you still have extra funds to invest, a personal investment account can be started. Personal investments can also be useful if you are investing towards a goal other than retirement. There are many investment products available in the marketplace as well as eligibility criteria to consider when investing in retirement plans so please speak with a financial professional before investing.
3
4
Pay down debt
Fund your retirement, or other investment account
If you have a retirement plan available through your employer such as a 401(k) or 403(b), begin contributing to the plan, or increase contributions to the plan. Contributions to these retirement accounts can only be made through payroll deduction and are typically
Use towards education for yourself or a loved one
Pay for your education or the education of a child or grandchild. The money could be used for immediate education needs or placed in a college savings plan for the future. There are some great investment vehicles available specifically geared towards saving for college or other post-secondary education.
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Usually when a large expense arises, most people plan to finance it with credit cards or loans. Consider using your tax refund to start a savings account that is earmarked toward a particular expense. For instance, if you need a new car in the next two years, put aside your tax refund money into a “car fund� account. Continue adding to it over the months as if you have a car payment right now and see how much you can accumulate before you go out to purchase the car. It will significantly reduce or eliminate the need for a car loan. If you receive large tax refunds each year, consider changing your tax withholding to receive more in your paycheck during the year. The goal should be to withhold or pay in only the amount needed during the year to cover your tax liability. This will allow you to receive more in your paycheck from month to month. In addition, the refund money the IRS has been holding all year is not earning any interest as it will in an interest-bearing bank account.
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The Odyssey of a Mentor By Tracy Beaky
Mentoring is as old as Greek mythology, and has been a model of professional development in the workplace for decades.
I
f you speak to anyone at any level of success, chances are they can tell you they’ve had at least one mentor somewhere along the way. Mentoring means different things to different people. For some, it’s the image of the senior leadership guru of an organization drawing an eager and capable underling under his or her wing, a show of support with a wink that suggests, “I believe in you, kid.” In a formalized workplace mentoring program earning a coveted mentorship could give one an edge in gaining a few rungs on the corporate ladder. Mentors may also be the role models you’ve had throughout your life; nothing formal, but still impactful. Maybe it was your favorite teacher in school or college who stands out in your mind as a model of strength, wisdom, great fashion sense, fill-in-the-blank. These are the mentors you’ve sought for hints or guidance toward some ideal you held for yourself. Officially, the mentoring relationship looks something like this: the mentor has experience that she can share to benefit a mentee (the person being mentored) who may be on the same or a similar path career or otherwise. The mentee can clearly define her goals, and can identify and communicate the type of guidance she is seeking from a mentor. Communication between a mentor and mentee is open, honest, and confidential, and each respects the trust that is established in the mentoring relationship. In a formalized mentoring program the mentor and the mentee usually receive guidance in establishing their relationship and support in maintaining it. Unofficially, as Regina Rinehimer of Wells Fargo Advisors puts it, “You’re mentoring or being mentored every day of your life, whether you know it or not.” Think
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Women2Women Spring 2013
back on your path and identify where someone has taken an interest in your success. What support have you received? What extra boosts have helped you to get where you are? Regina shares that in this way a lot of mentoring happens in retrospect; looking back you can see mentoring in action, and it’s not always in the professional world. We receive mentoring throughout our lives when we are guided by a friend or colleague who has “been there, done that.” When Michele Richards, Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at Fulton Bank speaks of mentoring, she says that her participation in formalized mentoring at work has informed her view of mentoring both at work and beyond. “I try to take something from everyone I meet or work with.” Regina and Michele both agree that once you recognize the value of having a mentor, it becomes almost second nature to continue seeking them out. So, how do we recognize mentoring opportunities, and what do we learn from them? My first “official” mentor was Tom McMahon years before he became Mayor of the City of Reading. I was living in Philadelphia when he encouraged me to become a VISTA volunteer (the organization now known as AmeriCorps), to serve with the Mentors for Berks Youth program in its second year of infancy. It meant big changes, and it meant doing something completely new and different. He was doing what good mentors do: encouraging, challenging, and opening doors.
This gave me the opportunity to find something that truly inspired me, and Tom was a natural figure for me to look to for guidance because he was also very dedicated to the program. My first mentoring nugget from Tom was the statement, “It’s easier to get forgiveness than permission,” when ideas were brimming out of my ears for the program. I realize now that people say that all the time, but the first time you hear that from a mentor, it’s like they just handed down ancient scrolls from some mystical place. Another mentoring nugget comes not from Tom directly, but from the confidence that I gained working with him. For every idea that I had, Tom had ten more, and I’ll never forget sitting across from his desk one day while he rattled off a long list of brilliant ideas, until I felt so overwhelmed I said, “Tom, please back off.” And with that, he just stopped, and then he laughed and agreed to back off. I had never felt the confidence to speak up before, but in his mentoring, Tom had created a safe place for me to practice speaking up. In retrospect it is clear that having one good mentor set the stage for me to continue seeking mentors ever since. I am grateful for every single one of them, past, present and future.
Growth2Go
More than just a game... Time on the links can be more rewarding than you think. By Joni S. Naugle, Principal at Focus, llc
I
picked up my first golf club about 20 years ago when I was still in banking. Golf outings were even more prevalent back then, and I noticed that when the company was filling foursomes, women, including me, weren’t raising their hands. When my girlfriend asked me to take golf lessons with her, I jumped at the chance. I’ve loved the golf course ever since. Don’t misread my enthusiasm. The LPGA will never be calling me. I am an average golfer. Some days my shots are beautiful and some days they aren’t. And most days both of those situations happen in the same round of golf. But being able to raise my hand and join in the game has afforded me many business benefits. Here are some points to keep in mind as you consider your future on the links.
You Can Be Included Before I started playing, I couldn’t even be considered to participate. It’s important in today’s business world to be able to raise your hand and be considered. Playing golf is just one more dimension of leveling the playing field.
Build Relationships While I’ve never experienced any “big deal” being cut on the golf course, spending four to five hours with someone is a great way to build a relationship. The time actually hitting the ball is quite small. Driving from tee to tee and waiting your turn offers great opportunities to ask questions about someone’s business, challenges, work force, interests and family. When I golf, there always seems to be a lot of laughter. And when we laugh, those are memories we
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remember. I guarantee you will know someone better after playing just one round of golf with them.
It’s a True Measure of Character If you want to really get to know someone’s character, play golf with them. You will quickly know if they lose their temper or cheat. If someone throws a club or becomes extremely moody over something as insignificant as a bad shot, what will happen when they are under pressure with something really important?
Everyone Makes Bad Shots Even people with low handicaps hit bad shots. I remember playing in an outing and watching others tee off. Even people who have been golfing their entire adult lives hit ugly golf shots. The important thing to remember is don’t dilly-dally. Go up, hit your ball, and move on. Most outings are scrambles anyway–where a team of four ends up with one team score–so to participate you don’t have to be Betsy King. The good news for everyone is it’s never too late to start playing golf. I recommend starting with a few lessons. Bad habits are hard to break, and having some instruction will make a big difference. Then get a group of friends and head to the golf course. Before long you will be raising your hand and lacing up your golf shoes. berkswomen2women.com 23
Health2 Wellness
Mental, Spiritual, Physical Health & Wellness
Through The Eyes Of A Caring Niece M
By Maria Radwanski, RN, MSN, CRRN
y dear friend, Susan has been writing on her Facebook page about the latest with “auntie” who is frail, aging and in need of medical, social, and legal assistance. While auntie is never identified in her writings to protect her privacy, Susan’s relationship with auntie has captured my attention. Friends encourage her writing as she uses wit and wisdom to effectively manage the stressful issues. I take pause. This uncomfortable life journey is not typically shared in a Facebook post. I salute
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Susan for her bravery. Caring for auntie is a common denominator of a tender touch-point of life for a majority of the women of our culture. When a family needs medical care, most women have no experience upon which to draw and are adrift in an
“unknown universe without a lifeline” says Elisabeth Schuler Russell, founder of Patient Navigator, llc. Most people don’t discuss options proactively or seek information and help that Susan has needed until caring puts them in the thick of it. “The need for medical care places patients and families in the unfamiliar world of doctors, tests and treatment options. They must simultaneously find information, make decisions under pressure, seek the best medical care, cope with family changes, and deal with home safety, insurance, financial, and day-to-day care issues.” Perhaps you’ve heard of the “sandwich generation”–those of the generation who are caring for their children and also their aging parents. Susan Denaro, the great-niece in the above scenario tells me these burdens find women “not in a sandwich, but a panini, grilled and pressed.” That’s a strong statement, but reflective of the tremendous burden most women experience when the moment strikes. Many women like Susan, an attorney with RKS law firm, find that when their children are finally self-sufficient, the care of an elder is more difficult. Women are much less prepared for this than child-rearing.
Understanding diagnoses, treatments, medications, even knowing what questions to ask are overwhelming considerations. Being emotionally and intellectually present to ask questions and advocate for a frail, ill family member is challenging but absolutely essential. There are financial, legal, and important life choice/medical decisions that would optimally be spelled out with an attorney’s counsel long before an urgent or emergent situation. Susan says that “people wait too long. They are looking at nursing homes before consulting with a lawyer.” Michelle Bosch, a certified financial advisor at Waddell and Reed explains, “two priorities of equal concern exist for everyone, but especially those who are dealing with personal or family health issues.” Michelle recommends consulting with an elder law attorney and reviewing financial needs with an experienced financial planner. “Planning arrangements with your attorney and financial counselor should include an additional, but private appointment for mom and dad, to be less confrontational. The message becomes clear it’s always a priority, not just when you’re ill.” Sharon Webb, of Webb Medical Systems, agrees that planning is very important. “Families in crisis are so overwhelmed. Many friends and relatives are making suggestions based on their experience which may not apply to the current situation. People often come in to the showroom to purchase equipment without any knowledge of the appropriateness to the patient or situation.” While Webb Medical Systems has a comprehensive catalogue, Sharon
recommends “professional help from an agency with occupational and physical therapists to evaluate the home, the patient’s needs and ability to use equipment safely before a purchase or home modification program is begun.” Safety is an area that Terry Rothenberger sees as an absolute priority. As an occupational therapist for health calls home health agency, Terry finds that a frail person “stops getting in the tub and instead bathes at the sink” due to a fear of falling. This fear isn’t always verbalized and seems to occur without any insight into the underlying cause of the lifestyle adjustment. When a family uncovers the issue, it’s best to have an occupational therapist make recommendations based on the specific bathroom layout and the individual’s needs for the safest plan. “Major bathroom renovations aren’t affordable and usually aren’t necessary. A few hundred dollars spent on the right equipment (handheld shower head, tub bench, suction grab bars) usually meets the needs to help a person feel safe again.” Families expect that these minor modifications will be
paid for by medicare and other insurances. Medicare does not pay for most of these safety tools. “There are many misconceptions about medicare benefits. Medicare is not free, it does not include many routine medical expenses and it won’t pay berkswomen2women.com 25
for long-term/custodial care,” Kathy Eynon, RN, of Parent Care Alliance tells me. “If a person needs long-term care in a nursing facility, medicare may pay for 2 weeks to 28 days of therapy. Beyond that, it is an out-of-pocket expense. Many items such as eye exams and eyeglasses can add up quickly. Caregivers must plan for how those out-of-pocket, non-covered expenses are going to be paid.” Private duty care, assisted living or personal care facilities are also private-pay. Paula Corbacio, a physical therapist with Health Calls Home Health Agency suggests that “when a person requires ongoing assistance with their care it is important to continue to support as much independence as she (or he) is capable of. Care and assistance should be provided to support without compromising safety.” It’s a difficult balance to know when someone is safe or more help is needed. Encourage the person to participate in whatever task is at hand, such as putting on socks and shoes while seated. If that goes well, advance to more difficult tasks, but always start out by standing by to encourage and support if needed. People are often more capable of self-care if given the opportunity of patience and time. In the end, it is important to a person’s dignity and self-worth to be successful in self-care. There are options for support in the care of a family member including an adult care center where your parent can spend the day while you work and return home at the end of the work day as well as moving into a supportive 26
Women2Women Spring 2013
community. Kara Dobson, managing director of Columbia Cottage Wyomissing, responds to the issue of where to live with this advice, “know that your feelings of guilt are normal. You want the best for your parent and sometimes the best decision is the hardest to make. Look at the facts of the situation and take the emotion out of it. Realize that your loved one is probably looking at the situation purely with emotion and may be unable to make a decision with sound judgment. Do not wait for a crisis. If a crisis occurs, you have a limited time to make a choice as to where you want your loved one to move. If you wait for the crisis, you will be faced with a move to a community that you haven’t prepared for or had an opportunity to choose. By being proactive, rather than reactive, you maintain control. If your loved one is able to, involve her in the process. Realize that you cannot do it all on your own. It is difficult to be a daughter and a caregiver.” There are many recreational and social activities in an environment that highly encourages participation while receiving the personal care oversight, assistance with medication management and health care support when needed. The result is a happy, healthy, well-adjusted member of the community. Tracy Polacheck, executive director of Keystone Villa Fleetwood reports that retirement communities offer amenities and services (such as movie theaters, computer labs and fine dining to name a few) that have “changed the way we can embrace our futures during our golden years. Providers are now aimed at engaging seniors into active and social lifestyles-and people choose residency to live life to the fullest. It is not uncommon to hear residents and families remark, ‘I wish we had done
this sooner!” Kara adds, “once your parent is in a community, you can go back to being the daughter and enjoy each other. Don’t look back. Once you make a decision, move forward with a positive attitude. In most cases, fears are worse than reality. The process typically goes so much easier than expected.” Waiting until a crisis erupts limits the opportunities for our loved ones to plan and leads to need-based decision making rather than preference. Involving each other in the quest to find just the right solution early on helps both the parent and child alleviate the guilt that is felt when the caregivers are left with few or no options. A little planning will go a long way toward enjoying quality time spent together later on. “Providing care for a family member is somewhat symbiotic and leads to guilt experienced by both parties, which can take quite an emotional toll,” tracy polacheck explains. “It is essential that wherever you are in the care-giving process, you let go of the guilt and you take the time for you.” Terry Rothenberger says, “caregivers become so involved in the care-giving role that they forget about the need to care for themselves. If you are in the hospital and the person you are caring for has been completely dependent on only you, what then?” And Paula Corbacio cannot agree more. “Provide the necessary assistance as long as you do not lose sight of your own health, and the things that are important to you in your lifestyle. A stressed-out caregiver is generally not helpful to the person being cared for or anyone’s wellbeing.” Suzie Carpenter, a self-employed health coach gives permission to “focus on your own health and happiness, realizing that it is not selfish to direct energy and resources for self-care.” Suzie recommends four simple steps: “one, take one action everyday that is for you and make it non-negotiable. Two, breathe. Several times a day, take 3-5 deep breaths. Three, pause and take your emotional pulse. Check in on your emotional and physical needs every day. Four, love you!
ADDRESSING THE UNIQUE FINANCIAL NEEDS OF WOMEN? THAT’S A CHALLENGE WE CAN MEET.
Mother. Daughter. Professional. You wear many hats. And sometimes, it seems like everyone else takes priority. But what about your needs, particularly when it comes to your financial life? At Prudential, we understand. And during a quick, no-obligation meeting, I can assess your situation. Evaluate your needs. And recommend a course of action that can help provide a secure future for you— and your loved ones.
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Health2Wellness
Berks County Area Agency on Aging
Will assess care needs, and coordinate in-home services. Their programs and services include a Family Caregiver Support Program, Nursing Home Transition, Ombudsman, Protective Services, APPRISE health insurance counseling and services for individuals with disabilities. berksaging.org. 610-478-6500
Berks Encore
Provides core programs, services, education, advocacy and referrals to Berks County’s seniors. Core programs and services include Medicare Insurance counseling, Meals on Wheels, exercise programs, evening educational programs on legal, financial and insurance issues, bookkeeping services, volunteer friendly visitor and grocery shopping to name a few. berksencorepa.org. 610-374-3195.
Helping Seniors... Where to Start. By Mary Clark, Client Relations Manager, Transition Connections
I
At some point, many of us will be helping our elder parents through a difficult life transition.
t may be the process of helping them through an unexpected illness, a debilitating fall, or more simply, helping them to relocate from the family home to an apartment or senior living facility. Achieving success in handling any transition is far more likely with thoughtful planning when the senior is healthy, mobile and clear-headed. Unfortunately the fact is...most families are faced with these transitions in an emergency or crisis situation with little or no foresight. This leaves families reeling with questions and uncertainty when navigating unknown territory due
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Women2Women Spring 2013
to the sudden nature of their situation. We don’t have a crystal ball to tell us when we will be facing these challenges, and each situation is certainly unique, but we can lay the groundwork for planning by becoming aware of what choices are available. By increasing awareness now, anyone can successfully resolve their individual issues and minimize stress at the same time when the time comes to help our elders face various levels of transition. Following are many of our local organizations and general professions that can be valuable resources.
Elder Attorneys
Specialize in development and implementation of long-term care plans. They can draft powers of attorney, wills and other planning documents, develop asset protection plans, file Medical Assistance applications and perform Medicaid planning. Elder attorneys also help petition the court for guardianship and advise families on care giving responsibilities. This is a highly specialized field requiring extensive estate planning, Medicaid, probate, tax and fiduciary litigation expertise.
Senior Communities & Apartments
There are many senior residences for all income levels and assistance requirements. For comprehensive listings, contact Berks County Area Agency on Aging or Berks Encore. Spending a little time doing this research will help you make good decisions for and with the senior, rather than limiting your choices when you’re faced with the decision unexpectedly.
Home Medical & Personal Care Agencies Are both medical and non-medical
providers. It is important to know the difference. Medical can administer medication and provide medical assistance, while Non-Medical provide personal care, housekeeping, transportation
services, etc. As more seniors prefer to stay at home, these agencies become critical. Finding the agency that matches your expectations and values and those of the senior can be critical to keeping the senior at home.
Geriatric Care Managers
Conduct assessments, monitor physical safety status, advocate for seniors, and respond to emergency calls.
Counseling and Emotional Support
Are very important for seniors and their families struggling with relocation, loss of a spouse, depression, etc. Call around and talk to as many counselors as it takes to find the one that feels right for you and your concerns.
Hospice Agencies
Support seniors and their families as hospice becomes necessary.
Senior Move Managers
Coordinate all facets of downsizing, cleanout, disposition of contents, floor planning for a new residence, and specialize in working with seniors.
Realtors
There are realtors who specialize in working with seniors and preparing homes to sell quickly and for the best price.
Other Resources
Such as auction companies, moving companies, churches and other places of worship, stagers for home preparation, cleaner, cleanout companies, home repair companies, landscapers and many more.
Unfortunately, there’s no one-stopshopping handbook to make this easy. Most of us come to the situation with little or no experience. We want our loved one’s transition to be free from unnecessary stress. But starting here, being aware of the available resources and doing some planning will dramatically increase your chance for a successful transition for everyone.
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Health2Wellness
Care for the Caregiver By Jill D Snively, Licensed Professional Counselor
I
am the proud daughter of a mother who celebrated her 100th birthday this past October. Family and friends gathered to express their appreciation for her. All three of my sons were there-one from Colorado, one who is local and another who attends a Rhode Island college. They love and admire their grandmother beyond imagination. Even though she lived in Florida most of their growing up years, they were her number-one priority when she visited. They don’t seem to remember her absence, only
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Women2Women Spring 2013
her presence. She gave, and still gives, unconditional love. My father died in 1987 and my mother lived on her own in a private community until I moved her to Pennsylvania in 2005. During those years of living solo in Florida she had cataract surgery, two knee replacements, reactions to medications, and a variety of outpatient procedures. Some of these times I was there, and sometimes I had to rely on her friends to be the support she needed. I simultaneously felt torn, guilty and angry. My finances were
limited, my children needed my presence, my husband worked, and I worked and attended classes for my master’s degree. There were times when I resented that she was missing so much of my life and her grandchildren’s lives. But my mother worked hard all her life and retiring to her little home in Florida was her reward, her welldeserved respite. Today she lives at a local nursing home. She feels safe and well cared for. Everyone loves her. She is positive and uplifting. I know she would be thrilled to see me everyday but she knows it is not possible. She rarely complains, never demands, and never guilts me. I do that to myself. When I am with her she lifts my spirits. She is awed by the fact that she is 100 and she wants to enjoy every day she has. While I worry about finances, global warming, school shootings, and my children’s futures, she shares these concerns, but with an inner wisdom that brings her peace. She often says, “whatever will be, will be,” or “this too shall pass.” I see her memory slipping. So does she. It is hard for both of us. She has prided herself on her sharpness and her memory. I feel sad that I may lose her presence, that her body may outlive her mind, that I may experience what so many others have...a parent who no longer recognizes them. I fear the change; a loss perhaps worse than a physical death. So we ask the question, “how do we as women take care of ourselves when caring for an aging parent in the midst of our personal lives?” Each of us needs to find our own place of comfort in caring for an aging parent. Look at your own situation. Do your children need your presence? Is your job and financial situation at risk if you take time off? Do your marriage and significant relationships need attention? Are you angry and resentful about the care you are giving? Are you physically being depleted and compromised? Are you enjoying life? Are you operating out of guilt? Are you in a victim role (and enjoying it too much)? Why are you not setting limits?
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Exercise for reflection and action: Take a piece of paper and answer the questions below. Allow yourself to write freely and without fear of vulnerability. This is for your eyes only. Read over your answers. Then set goals that are realistic and healthy for you. I do realize there are parents who are demanding and negative and even hurtful. Know that somewhere in them is fear; fear of loss, fear of change, fear of abandonment. It is important to step back and try to understand their journey and struggle. Know that you cannot change them. Each of us has a unique situation, a different past, and a fluctuating present. There is no prescribed template on how to care for your self while caring for another. Each of us needs to be true to ourselves. Keep in mind throughout this journey that your loved one is also an individual with accumulated losses, past and present fears, and is a on an uncharted journey. Allow the wisdom within you both to be heard.
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BookClub How to Start a Book Club With Green Eggs & Hamlet U
sing book club tips provided by LitLovers (litlovers.com) our fearless reader and book club host, Robin Costenbader-Jacobson has compiled a guide to starting your own book club with tips for joining Green Eggs & Hamlet on BCTV! Follow the 10 basic steps to good books, good talks, and good eats. Join Green Eggs & Hamlet, or your own book club–and let us know what’s on your reading list!
1
What kind of book club is Green Eggs & Hamlet?
The Women2Women Green Eggs & Hamlet is a bi-monthly book club designed for use on an interactive BCTV program. It creates a club between highly social (on site where you meet)...and seriously academic. What kind of club do you want to form? Themed, specific genre, literary or fluff? • If your club wants to join with Green Eggs & Hamlet, your club will have a representative liaison to Green Eggs & Hamlet. Home Clubs can tune in when BCTV Program is live. • Members can call in and join discussions, ask questions, give point of view. • Home Clubs unable to meet whe Program airs live have option to meet Program repeats 3 additional times throughout month and incorporate the televised Book Club into their Home Club meeting and discussion.
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What kind of books? What genre do you enjoy? First, consider a mix of genres. • Fiction—general, current or classic, historical, mystery, sci-fi, western, romance. • Nonfiction—memoir, biography, history, current events, science, travel, cooking. • Others—poetry and drama. Consider reaching beyond your comfort zone; if you always read mysteries, consider a memoir or classic novel. The Green Eggs & Hamlet selections will be posted on the Women2Women website. Be sure to check and share with your book club members!
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Women2Women Spring 2013
3
What about members?
8-to-6 members are best: enough for a discussion, but not too many to make discussions unwieldy. Start with 3 friends, and ask each to invite 1-to-3 others. It’s not important for everyone to know one another; in fact, it’s fun if you don’t.
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Meeting—how often and when? The most important thing is to pick a schedule...and stick with it. If you’re joining in on the Green Eggs & Hamlet discussion, meet once bi-monthly while we air live or when it is replayed 3 more times to start your meeting. Then you can continue your meeting and socializing when the program is over. The live program airs the first Wednesday of every other month from 8:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
5
Where should we meet? • Meet at each other’s homes–take turns hosting. • Make sure there is a T.V. if you’re joining in on the Green Eggs & Hamlet discussion! • If you don’t feel like cleaning up before or after, consider meeting at an establishment away from home.
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What about food? You have to ask? If at home, do you want full meals, or something lighter—wine & cheese, or dessert & coffee? Home meetings—in some clubs the host does all the cooking. Other clubs like to share the cooking—everyone brings a dish. Book Club Recipes—LitLovers
(litlovers.com) has nearly 300 recipes from around the world. A lot of clubs find it fun to eat food to match the book: if you’re reading one on India, take a look at our Indian menus...or ones from France...or the American South. Forget the Joneses—don’t make serving food a competition. Who needs the pressure? Establish a no-compete rule: chips & dip or artichoke flambé, it’s all good.
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How do we keep in touch?
Send out monthly meeting reminders to your Book Club members. For those who don’t use email, send postcards or set up a phone tree. Distribute a complete list of phone numbers, as well as home, email and Twitter addresses. Or create a group page on Facebook where meeting dates, times and book selections can be posted.
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Keeping memories Keep a club journal—a binder or an Excel spreadsheet to track the books you’ve read, plot summaries, discussion highlights, and members’ opinions. It’s very helpful in bringing new members up to speed.
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Giving to Community Some book clubs use their regular gatherings to establish a collection of some sort for local charity organizations.
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Visit w2w@GreaterReadingChamber.org for more Info To learn about becoming your book club liaison, or emailing your members’ email addresses (w2w@GreaterReadingChamber.org) and W2W will add them to the W2W database.
Idea Exchange
Want to catch up with Green Eggs & Hamlet? Here are a few of the books we’ve read:
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
The Latest Green Eggs & Hamlet book selection: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman. Tune in to BCTV on June 5 at 8pm
Because I Can In seconds, a family vacation became a nightmare when a vehicle accident almost took marathon runner Janet Oberholtzer’s life. It decimated her legs and shattered her pelvis. Doctors weren’t sure she’d ever walk again, but her determination, and her traditional Mennonite upbringing helped her through the difficult physical recovery the first few months. Be the Miracle In a collection of inspirational essays, Regina shares lessons that will make a difference in the world around you. The lessons come from Regina’s life experience and from the lives of others, especially those she has met in her 24 years as a journalist Wendy and the Lost Boys Wendy Wasserstein lived creatively, died young, and left an impressive body of work. This exhaustive biography reveals her public triumphs and private heartaches. The Invisible Thread She was a successful ad sales rep in Manhattan. He was a homeless, eleven-yearold panhandler. He asked for spare change; she kept walking. But then something stopped her, and she went back. And she continued to go back, again and again. They met up nearly every week for years and built an unexpected, life-changing friendship that has today spanned almost three decades. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Rebecca Skloot takes us from the “colored” ward of 1950s Johns Hopkins Hospital, to laboratories with freezers full of HeLa cells; from Henrietta’s hometown of Clover, Virginia-a land of slave quarters, faith healings, and voodoo-to East Baltimore today, where her children and grandchildren live and struggle with the legacy of her cells.
CSA is a way to make farm-to-table an easy way of eating healthy and locally. CSA is a mutual relationship between a local farm and the community that consumes its produce. Members pay a fee and in turn receive a weekly share of the harvest during the growing season. CSA members then pick up their share at a set location throughout the season. According to a Facebook poll, here are some of the local CSAs our Women2Women use.
B & H Organic Produce. “has amazing organic produce and meats. Love that you can choose what you want each week rather than get what they give you.” Thanks for sharing, Rebecca! bhorganicproduce.com
Lancaster Farm Fresh Cooperative. “I like more root veggies, so the winter share is perfect. I like the newsletters they send out: recipes, interviews, knowledge sharing.” Thanks to another Rebecca and Lauren for that tip! lancasterfarmfresh.com
Crawford Organics. “Neat...some of them work together like Crawford and B&H for more variety,” says Emily. crawfordorganics.com
Orchard2Office from Weavers. Orchard brings fresh fruit to your office (and we love the name – wonder why?) That’s an awesome tip for local businesses! weaversorchard.com
Deep Roots Valley Farm. offers eggs and chicken! deeprootsvalley.com.
berkswomen2women.com 33
More
Women2Know & : QA
More Women2Know looks behind the scenes at outstanding women who have successfully contributed to their organization’s successes, inspire and motivate others to achieve, and personify the mission and objectives of Women2Women.
to provide a comprehensive care approach to our community.
ally through personal and clinical experience; I have gained the ability to become a resource to my colleagues and to the community.
As the first female President of the Home Builders Association of Berks County, Cathy has achieved what was perceived as a profession closed to women. The construction industry does not discriminate–it sees only the skilled and unskilled. Cathy leads the skilled workforce in Berks County to greater heights while helping the unskilled to learn a trade so they may join this wonderful profession.
Q: Would you wish to acknowledge a mentor or friend who helped you aspire to this point in your life’s journey, and why? A: I have been very fortunate to be sur-
Q: Why is your position unique to women within our community? A: Not long ago, construction jobs were
Q: How have you lead other women in their career paths? A: I think that I have matured profession-
Donna Lamp
RN, BSN, CCM 2013 Nursing Champion Donna is the Coordinator for the Cancer Risk Evaluation Program and Nurse Case Manager for Out-Patient Oncology Services at St. Joseph Medical Center, an affiliate of Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute. She was recently honored as the 2013 Nursing Champion by the Berks Visiting Nurse Association.
Q: Why is your position unique to women within our community? A: As a Cancer Risk coordinator, I offer
information and evaluation using genetics to assess risk for developing breast, ovarian, and other hereditary cancers. I provide relevant information based upon personal and family risk factors to enable individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare management and offers genetic testing as appropriate.
rounded by so many encouraging mentors that have inspired me throughout my nursing profession that it would be difficult to single any one out. I learn from every individual on a daily basis. My family is the heart and soul of my ability to maintain nursing as a career.
exclusively male dominated, but this is no longer the case. Women have entered the design and construction trades; and men have overwhelmingly welcomed them.
Q: Would you wish to offer any words of wisdom for other women to follow or consider? A: Sharing your knowledge and experience
business as a receptionist and bookkeeper. Soon, I wanted to know more about the business. With my husband, Kert Sloan’s support, I began studying, attending training seminars, networking with peers, and attending HBA meetings.
is a reflection of your own professionalism and influence on others is immeasurable.
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Women2Women Spring 2013
Q: How have you lead other women in their career paths? A: I have helped many of the younger gen-
eration realize they can achieve anything if they work hard. I speak at the Career Roundtable days at the Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center, and the young ladies pay close attention when I explain how I work alongside my husband in a traditionally male industry. I’m proud to know I’ve encouraged them to follow their dreams.
Q: What has led you to your current career path? A: The passion to ensure that patients
and families coping with a cancer diagnosis receive the education and coordination of care throughout their journey. Nursing as a career provides many opportunities to heighten personal and professional growth. The field of genetics sparked my interest as a new and challenging learning curve and our genetics’ program enhances our ability
Q: What has led you to your current career path? A: I started working in my husband’s
Cathy Sloan
CGR, CAPS, CGP Cathy is the President of the Home Builders Association of Berks County (HBA) and Office Manager of Aluminum Associates/Sloan Corp.
Q: Would you wish to acknowledge a mentor or friend who helped you aspire to this point in your life’s journey, and why? A: I haven’t had an actual ‘female men-
tor’ that inspired me to take this journey.
I never set out to be a leader or to break a glass ceiling. I started working in the industry and became curious. My drive to learn and better myself kicked in. I was always told by my grandmother, ‘if you work hard you can achieve anything no matter what others may say.”
Q: Would you wish to offer any words of wisdom for other women to follow or consider? A: Find something you are interested in and enjoy doing; then
apply yourself and work hard to achieve.
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