A PUBLICATION OF TRI-COUNTIES REGIONAL CENTER
Santa Barbara
FALL 2007 Cover Story 01 Terri Delgadillo Visits TCRC
Featured Articles 03 Visits with Legislators 03 The Wedding Invitation 04 Raymond’s Artistic Talents! 04 Coming to Terms with Being “Chosen” 05 Work and Home: An Integrated Life 05 LOVARC’s Outstanding Supported Employment Program 06 Healthy Senior Living 07 A Day in the Life of Angel Salazar 07 Exploring with the Adventure Club 08 Alternative Days for Timothy
Recurring Topics 02 Message From the Executive Director 09 Family Resource Centers Update 10 Calendar of Events 14 Announcements 16 Health Information 16 Clients’ Rights Advocacy Update 17 Safety and Ethics 18 Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Program 18 TCRC News 24 Greetings From the TCADD Board President
Vision Statement Persons with developmental disabilities live fully and safely as active and independent members of their community.
TCRC Mission TCRC provides person and family centered planning, services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities to maximize opportunities and choices for living, working, learning and recreating in the community.
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Ventura • San Luis Obispo
www.tri-counties.org
Terri Delgadillo Visits TCRC
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Devereux and Hillside House. Devereux n July 26th, TCRC welcomed has completed their changeover and Director of Developmental Hillside House is still in the planning Services, Terri Delgadillo and two phases. TCRC is working collaboratively of her senior staff, Rita Walker, Deputy with these providers to make these Director of Community Operations, and important changes. Mark Hutchinson, Chief Deputy Director, to the central coast! They spent the day First stop was the Devereux Campus in visiting with selected stakeholders to learn Santa Barbara, where the group enjoyed more about our community and for an update on a few of our current projects. TCRC staff participating in the visit were Executive Director, Dr. Omar Noorzad, Lorna Owens, Chief Financial Officer, Dominic Namnath, Chief of Information Services, Michael Nagel, Director of Human Resources, Anoushka Dalsame, Manager of Adult Team, Santa Barbara, Fran Jorgensen, Assistant Director of Services and Supports, Judith White, Assistant Director of Community Development, and Sha Ms. Delgadillo observes therapy session Azedi, Assistant Director of Services and Supports. a continental breakfast and discussed the organization’s significant downsizing We asked three TCRC staff to write about and reconfiguring efforts of the past their experiences on the day of the visit. couple of years - closing all children’s services and several adult residential Fran Jorgensen, Assistant Director, Services facilities. Representing Devereux were and Supports writes. . . Amy Evans, Executive Administrator The morning was devoted to discussions of and her staff, Commodore Dixon, Janis recent experiences and challenges related Johnson and Rebecca Luden. Amy to the downsizing of two large facilities, continued on pg. 20 Fall 2007 tri-line | 1
From the Executive Director by Omar Noorzad, Ph.D., Executive Director that seek to make the person receiving services the center of planning versus attempting to “fit” a person into a “program.”
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dvocacy, family services, employment, housing, life activities - these are just some of the issues that TCRC is tackling through the efforts and expertise of staff, managers, directors and TCADD Board members. These issues are Focus Areas of the TCRC 2007-2009 Strategic and Performance Plan - a plan based on the input of representative stakeholders for this regional center. With the goals of the plan guiding the strategic activities of the organization, the staff is working diligently to strive for TCRC’s vision of persons with developmental disabilities living fully and safely as active and independent members of their community. One of the most important methods used by TCRC staff to make our ambitious goals a reality is Person Centered Thinking (PCT). PCT is both a philosophy and a practical approach to providing services and supports
To promote the PCT initiative, TCRC sent ten staff to The Gathering, a world-wide conference for professionals serving persons with developmental disabilities. They were joined by staff from several TCRC provider organizations including Genesis, Inc, People Creating Success, Inc and Work Training Program, Inc. TCRC staff shared their progress in implementing the tools of PCT and returned with helpful tips from groups in the US as well as England, Ireland and Australia. TCRC’s strong commitment to PCT is ongoing. Strategic and Performance goals for PCT training include the certification of four additional PCT trainers as well as the identification of mentors. Trainers and mentors encourage and facilitate the use of PCT philosophy and planning tools by TCRC Service Coordinators and provider organizations.
Foundation, one of the major private foundations in the US, has awarded TCRC a three year grant in the amount of $412,824. We are very pleased to add the Weingart Foundation to our list of PCT Initiative supporters. These funds will enable TCRC to allocate additional staffing resources to the PCT initiative, as well as support an evaluation project in partnership with the Council on Quality and Leadership. Funds will also be used to support PCT collaboration among regional centers and other interested organizations. TCRC is dedicated to the ongoing promotion of PCT practices. I hope you enjoy this edition of the Tri-Line. It contains many inspirational success stories of the persons served by TCRC staff and our community partners. Working together, we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the thousands served by TCRC. n
Additionally, we were delighted by the announcement that the Weingart
TCRC Staff learn about person centered thinking 2 | tri-line Fall 2007
“Wisdom denotes the pursuing of the best ends by the best means.” ~ Francis Hutcheson
The Wedding Invitation by Jennifer Dwyer, Peer Advocate, San Luis Obispo the day’s events; as a gift to the couple, I would personalize the guest book. I promised myself that I would NOT miss the big day.
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ike a nervous bride, I had sweaty palms. My heart jumped, as I attended to all the last-minute details. On this day, however, I would not be the one walking down the aisle. As a person with cerebral palsy who must have a personal assistant when traveling, I was preparing to attend a wedding in Monterey. Two college friends, Nelson and Cynthia Amaral, were finally taking the plunge. I immediately sprang into action, after hearing about Nelson and Cynthia’s engagement. I began to think of the who, what, and when of the details that would ensure my participation in
Cynthia, a former In-Home-Support Services (IHSS) provider of mine, had been there for me, almost from the very beginning. When we met, as summerschool-dorm neighbors, we took an almost instant liking to one another; the awkwardness of having a neighbor who had a disability quickly faded. We became fast friends. She would become the friendly face that I would seek out if I needed help putting on my shoes or combing my hair. She was the person who wanted to wheelchair-race down the halls, running into many walls along the way. Now I had to return the favor of support and friendship. It was my job to find someone to travel with me to the wedding, assist me in
meeting my needs, and, on some level, help me to assuage any fear that I had. She and I -- each in our own way -worried that my needs would not be properly addressed. Enter my friend Natalie. As a participant in Cal Poly’s Adaptive Kayaking program, I would meet Natalie, the program’s student coordinator, during one particular weekend boating trip to Morro Bay. She, like Cynthia, was someone with whom I bonded quickly. As our friendship developed, I felt comfortable asking that she accompany me to the wedding. Personal independence for me, to some extent, involves a degree of dependence on others. That was a hard lesson to learn. When I finally began to absorb that knowledge, I began to seek out help from those whom I knew, had built a relationship with, and had already continued on pg. 22
Visits with Legislators by Phil Dauterman, Manager, Services and Supports, San Luis Obispo
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ecently several of us visited the offices of Senator Abel Maldonado and Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee. We met with key office staff, as well as legislators. Our visitors included persons served by Tri-Counties Regional Center (TCRC), providers of service, TCADD Board members and TCRC staff. At each meeting about eight people participated, not including the office staff.
The visits focused on three main topics: 1. Lack of affordable housing for persons with developmental disabilities. 2. Regional Center staff salaries not keeping pace with comparable positions. 3. Support for the Warren Mattingly Stamp Act. Both visits were warmly received and offers of support were forthcoming from both Senator Maldonado and Assemblyman Blakeslee. Earlier this year as well, persons served, staff members,
and TCADD Board members met with Assemblyman Pedro Nava. The message for Meeting with Assemblyman Nava Assemblyman Nava was also linked with the operations budget shortfall to support competitive salaries, the unfunded mandates such as caseload ratios for service coordinators, and the affordable housing crisis on the central coast. This visit was welcomed by Assemblyman Nava and his staff. TCADD Board member and Chair of the Government and Community Relations Committee, Richard Ring, has played an important role in guiding these efforts since the beginning of the year. We look forward to continuing our collaborative and informative efforts with our legislative partners in Sacramento in advocacy for the needs of persons served by TCRC. n Fall 2007 tri-line | 3
Raymond’s Artistic Talents! by Reeta Mehta, M.Sc., Service Coordinator II, Santa Clara Team, Oxnard
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aymond, a sweet and gentle soul, is five years of age. He is a self-motivated child who has taught himself to demonstrate his creativity through art. Raymond’s passion for art gives him ways to express his profound thoughts and feelings. Throwing stones in a creek, taking a stroll on a dusty road, dancing to his favorite tunes, or just laughing and having a great time are also part of Raymond’s world. McDonald’s, donuts, and the famous LA Dodger hot dogs will find a smile on Raymond’s face as well! Raymond’s surroundings and experiencing nature bring joy to him. Just picking the occasional flower or gazing at water fountains amaze Raymond so greatly. He is an individual with interests and attributes that demonstrate his character and enjoyment of life. Raymond is a pleasure in communication as well, always remembering to say “thank you” and “please” in person and on the phone.
This is Raymond, the one and only precious son of Grace and John Sihler. The Sihlers are working hard to help Raymond to overcome his challenges with his positive attributes. They believe that one day Raymond may earn his living as an artist! Though Ray is not yet fully aware of his talents and creativity, his parents take immense pride in framing his paintings for display and maintaining an album of his artwork. His paintings are uniquely developed original designs of scribbles and smears of colors that transform to shapes and objects. As Raymond’s Service Coordinator, I am supporting the family to develop a micro-enterprise for the beginning of a career path for Ray. His parents are
Raymond’s creative work
Raymond and his supportive parents excited to know that this idea can be considered. Raymond’s parents are also well aware that Raymond will need their support along with help from TCRC and Pleasant Valley School District in Camarillo. They feel it is a blessing to have support like respite and the Discrete Trial Training (DTT) program that helps Raymond to remain positive. These services and supports help the entire family to overcome their challenges and look forward to a good future for Raymond. I look forward to seeing Raymond’s continued growth in life and in his art. n
Coming to Terms with Being ‘Chosen’ by Linda Miyahira, M.S., Service Coordinator II, Conejo Team, Simi Valley
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s a service coordinator serving families of children with disabilities, I have an upfront view of many things. I get to see what occurs when a frightening question turns into a more frightening confirmation. Linda and Son Ronan I get to see the grief process and how some parents never stop grieving or stay stuck in a stage of grief like denial or anger. I get to see babies with disabilities grow up or pass away. There are so many things that I see, but there are not many things that I am allowed to reveal because of my position. So, let me take this time to tell you what else I see…
I get to see little souls, little spirits, who come into families to shake up their very foundations. I see a child whose eyes convey so much more than can be expressed verbally. I see families totally oblivious to the answer to their prayers, the “guru” that they have been asking for in that prayer for a “perfect” life. I see parents so focused on finding a cure that they fail to be natural mothers or fathers to their children. I see families forget that they have a beautiful child and not a disability. I see parents grieve over a disability that they do not own. And, I see parents’ faces light up with the realization that they were chosen to be the caregivers to an incredible little being… As much as I see these things, I also feel them acutely. For I have also been graced with an incredible little being who is the guru for my own family. He is a gift who was not continued on pg. 6
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Work and Home: An Integrated Life by Dan Van Keuren, Service Coordinator II, Adult Team, Oxnard
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obert Rodriguez, age 37, lives in Oxnard with his family but is about to move out to his own apartment in a newly rent subsidized one bedroom in Port Hueneme! Robert is eager to move; the lack of affordable housing is what has kept him at home for all of these years. This opportunity for his own apartment just became available for him. Independent Living Services through Villa Esperanza will continue to assist Robert with money management, budgeting, food shopping, major life decisions, and his health. Robert is an employee of the Sterling Hills Golf Club in Camarillo, where he does landscaping, weeding, gardening, and operates gardening equipment. Robert receives Supported Employment Job Coaching through Westview Services. Robert’s work helps to make the golf club one of the most beautiful in the area! The club is a daily fee course attracting golfers with high expectations of the condition of the course; Robert works hard every day to
keep the course in excellent condition for the clientele. Robert has a rigorous schedule; often beginning at 5:30 in the morning, and continuing until 9:30 in the evening on certain days. Robert’s work record is excellent; he has been employed at Sterling Hills for over 2 years. Robert drives to work daily in his own pickup truck. He makes monthly payments on the truck - it will be paid off this next year, thanks to his diligence. He has a small credit card debt (who doesn’t?) but he has a payment plan to pay it off in the near future. Robert is generally healthy and followed by his doctor for certain conditions; he takes medication responsibly and tries to follow a healthy diet to maintain good health. He has the Medicare Part D Drug plan to cover his medication expenses.
raising activities; he helps with weddings and other functions in their hall. He also attends church weekly and has spoken in front of the congregation to fundraise for charitable organizations, such as the Arc Ventura County programs. What strikes me so much about Robert is his excellent work ethic, his responsibility and honesty and devotion to his family. This hard working man takes care of himself and others, has a good sense of humor and enjoys time with his girlfriend. Robert is a man of whom his friends, family, employer, service providers, Knights of Columbus, and TCRC are all proud. n
For fun, Robert is an active member of the Knights of Columbus and participates in their charitable fund Robert at Sterling Hills Country Club
LOVARC’s Outstanding Supported Employment Program by Rick Hummel, Vocational Services Director, LOVARC
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ife Options, Vocational and Resource Center (LOVARC) has provided Vandenberg Air Force Base with dining services at “The Breakers” since 1996. In 2007, LOVARC and Vandenberg realized the honor of winning the Hennessy Award, earning the title “Best Air Force Dining Facility in the World.” An honor of this magnitude is impossible without outstanding contributions from all personnel. The efforts of persons referred for employment by Tri-Counties Regional Center are noteworthy. Mary Ann was employed in 2000 as a Food Service Worker. While she initially lacked confidence in her abilities, her mastery of job skills inspired her and gave her a new sense of her potential. She has been promoted into a cook position, which she has performed with distinction for the past 6 years. Her career provides Mary Ann economic self sufficiency, the
respect of peers and self respect. Carlos recalls his feelings in his first days on the job, “I was shy and nervous. I never talked to anyone. I had butterflies and a nervous stomach.” Recently, when asked “What is one thing you’d like people to know about you” Carlos said, “I’m a hard worker and a good example.” Employment affords Mary Ann and Carlos many personal rewards and the benefits of their efforts are also far-reaching. They do not require government subsistence any longer and have become tax paying citizens with discretionary funds that are spent in the community. An important benefit resulting from their service at Vandenberg Air Force Base has been the elevation of their self esteem. n Fall 2007 tri-line | 5
Healthy Senior Living by Jackson Wheeler, Manager of Services and Supports, Ventura
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atricia Garcia, known by friends as Patti, has a remarkable story to tell. With love and dedication from family, as well as carefully constructed supports through the efforts of Service Coordinator, Marion McClain, Ms. Garcia lives in her own home in Ventura. Patricia’s relationship with TriCounties Regional Center began in 1996 when she was determined to be eligible for services. However, at that time, Patricia and her mother, the late Mrs. Noma Fowler, did not utilize any services until Mrs. Fowler’s health began to fail and she wanted her daughter to be able to continue living in their mobile home in Ventura.
place for her life without her mother. Patti had actually taken on caregiver responsibilities for her mother. With the support of her staff, Patricia maintains her home, takes care of her cat Memphis (and how he got
Patricia remembering her mother
In 2004, planning began in earnest for Patti’s future. A trust was established to hold the mobile home for Patricia. Supported living services through United Cerebral Palsy were put in
his name is another story), manages her health care, which includes a careful diet, and follows her doctor’s instructions for maintaining her health as someone living with diabetes. By all accounts, Patricia is a tremendous housekeeper and a “very good cook.” Patricia has never participated in a specific program for individuals with disabilities and fills her days like anyone else of retirement age. She prides herself on keeping her home neat and clean, having good check-ups with her doctor, and participating with her neighbors and other seniors in community events. Patricia has learned to use the Public Access transportation system from Gold Coast to assist her in accessing the community, and continues to be pleased with the new world the supported living services have made available to her. Congratulations to Patricia for living in the community, contributing and enjoying life! n
Memphis the Cat
Coming to Terms with Being ‘Chosen’ continued from pg. 4
initially appreciated despite my many years working with special children. I have seen through the tearful eyes of a parent receiving confirmation that their baby has a disability. I have raged at the very people who entered my child’s life to help him reach his potential because they were grim reminders of a lost dream. I have blamed myself for possible karma from some possible bad deed, that created his cross. I have seen my child surprise me and sadden me. I have seen the beauty that is my child. Being ‘chosen’ is not necessarily the romantic, heroic experience portrayed in novels. It is, by its very definition, an opportunity based on cosmic selection, for which you and your child most assuredly have a handle in accepting. Being ‘chosen’ is about choice. It is about choosing to pull that sword out of the stone of grief and former expectations and doing wonders with it or letting the sword remain in place and dreaming of what might have been if it had never been put there. The sword can either cut down barriers or hurt others, as well. It is an opportunity given to few, but its potential for good is boundless… n 6 | tri-line Fall 2007
Ronan has fun in the backyard
A Day in the Life of Angel Salazar by Ron Garton, Personal Assistant, People Creating Success, Inc.
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ngel is a 33 year-old man living a comfortable life in Ventura with his roommate. He lives in a supported living environment and receives services from personal attendants around the clock through People Creating Success Inc. (PCS). Program Manager, Valerie Wood, oversees these services. He came to PCS from the Porterville Developmental Center in early 2003. In the beginning, Angel was quite a handful. He arrived at his community home with some severe behavioral and emotional problems that impacted his environment. With plenty of intervention, support, and determination, Angel has completely turned around. Angel now enjoys quiet, pleasant days. By 2005 he was able to move into his current residence, a two-bedroom duplex near the mall, which he shares with his roommate.
Angel starts his day around 6:00 a.m. He wakes up, showers, and shaves with the assistance from his PCS staff. He then gets a quick bite to eat and he is out the door and on the bus for a Day Program. At Cole Vocational Services, he enjoys a full morning of interaction, activities, and crafts. After lunch, he has a short amount of time for more socialization before its time to get back on the bus. Upon arriving back home, the first thing Angel wants to do is change into some more comfortable clothes. He prefers a good, soft pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt to the jeans he wears at the Day Program. Angel, like most people, enjoys relaxing when he gets home after a long day. He listens to music and watches television as well. Angel really gets into it when he hears a good song on the radio. He enjoys anything from rock to rap, to country and the oldies.
Angel enjoys a stroll The stronger the beat, the more Angel will rock-out and start dancing in his seat. His favorite television show is “COPS”. Angel is also content to sit for hours absorbed in his own company; he is stimulated by his toys and his “chains”. He sometimes likes to sit outside on the bench and listen to the continued on pg. 22
Exploring with the Adventure Club by John Gange, Wonderful World Adventures
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s I experience being in the natural world, among the trees, mountains, oceans and clouds, I am continually amazed by the effect the experience has upon my mind, body and spirit. Such a deep sense of connection arises even with a few moments of gazing at a sunset or a river, that I am compelled to seek these wild places on a daily basis. In my travels around the planet, I have been fortunate to delve deep into my passion for the wild and to share this understanding with many kindred seekers. Observing the profound process of change this brings about in all who regularly connect with the outdoors has strongly influenced my approach to serving and guiding hundreds of people over the last 16 years.
Especially for those who have physical and mental challenges, such experiences seem to be extremely limited. Often times the status quo settles for safety as the end goal of services to these individuals. Of course we need to ensure safety, but perhaps it is merely a foundation from which we can help people to begin to grow and discover their deeper potentials and find true meaning. Most people, “challenged” or not, seem to find it increasingly difficult to “unplug” from the technological world that continues to creep into most aspects of our lives.
Tide pool discovery in an Adventure Club Outing
For many years I have combined my Aikido training with my extensive studies of psychology and brain development. These studies have continued on pg. 21 Fall 2007 tri-line | 7
Alternative Days for Timothy by Felicia Rueff, Manager of Alternatives to Day Services, People Creating Success, Inc.
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inding an appropriate day program that fits a persons needs can be a difficult task for service coordinators, and service providers, as well as participating individuals. Tim has been enrolled in several different day programs over the past nine years. He has had a hard time fitting into the routine of his programs, working with their set activity schedule, getting up in the morning to get to day program on time, and being in a group setting for several hours a day. Tim and his family didn’t feel that his needs were being met at his traditional day service program. People Creating Success, Inc (PCS) has provided Tim with an opportunity to have an individualized alternative to day services program that meets his needs, schedule and preferences.
able to make a schedule that has time allotted for breaks, trips back to his house for rest and transition times that are flexible in length to fit Tim’s preferences.
Tim has been a part of this alternative program since July. During this time, Tim has chosen to participate in volunteer services at the Santa Barbara Zoo, in an Adopt-A-Block program in Isla Vista, and at a local fire station. Tim really enjoys being outside and has a passion for landscaping. The volunteer jobs that Tim chooses to participate in provide him with access to community members and a chance for him to make lasting relationships Tim in his home and connections with people in the Santa Barbara and Goleta areas. These volunteer jobs make up the basis of Tim’s day; however, Tim is still actively researching One of the issues that has hindered Tim’s complete success and pursuing additional opportunities to make a difference in his neighborhood. in a traditional day service program is the irregularity of his sleeping patterns. Tim is a gentleman who tends to have sleepless nights and late starts in the morning. This has made Community integration is an integral goal of this alternative it difficult for him to arrive on time to his program. Tim was program with focus on building and maintaining working often rushed in the morning and didn’t have positive starts relationships with various community businesses and to his day. This made it difficult for Tim to be motivated organizations. PCS continues to search for new opportunities throughout the day and he was regularly inactive during for Tim to expand upon his community involvement with traditional day program activities. Due to the structure of both volunteer and work experiences. At weekly meetings, his alternative program, Tim has been able to schedule his Tim has the opportunity to discuss any issues with his activities at times that are convenient for him. He is also current sites, as well as to provide staff with more ideas about activities that he would enjoy during the day. Tim has recently met with the volunteer coordinator at the Hearts Adaptive riding facility to discuss various volunteer opportunities. At Hearts Adaptive they have volunteer needs in grounds maintenance, assisting with the small animals, cleaning tack room and offices, and eventually assistance with the horses.
Tim and his mother, Mary Ellen 8 | tri-line Fall 2007
Tim continues to be a diligent worker who has shown that he can provide a quality service for whatever task is assigned to him. Tim’s staff have also begun to fade out support for him, allowing him the freedom to complete his tasks independently and to utilize natural supports from the agencies he is working with. Tim has demonstrated that he can be consistent in his prompt arrival to his sites, and at times even earlier then the start time! Overall, Tim continues to show a great effort in making his program meaningful and successful. n
Family Resource Centers What’s New at Your Resource Center? Alpha Resource Connections Santa Maria, CA . . . . 805.347.2775 Santa Barbara, CA . . 805.957.9272 Married with Special-Needs Children: A Couples’ Guide to Keeping Connected Laura E. Marshak, Ph.D. , Fran Pollock Prezant, M.Ed., CCC-SLP , Published by Woodbine House, 2007 Married with Special-Needs Children is the first book for parents to examine the stress that is often placed upon a marriage when a couple has a child with a disability. Many parents worry that even strong marriages can buckle – and some may break – under the intense demands of raising a child with special needs. In this practical, supportive guide, the authors draw on their combined professional experience in marital counseling and parent training, and feedback from hundreds of parents of children with disabilities who share their solution and secrets for a healthy relationship. For parents looking for ways to strengthen their marriage, prevent future strife, or resolve or move forward after a serious marital breakdown, this book is a positive first step.
Parents Helping Parents - “We’ve been there!” San Luis Obispo, CA . . 805.543.3277 Atascadero, CA . . . . . . 805.461.7415 Communicating Partners: 30 Years of Building Responsive Relationships with Late-Talking Children Including Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome (ASD), Down Syndrome, and Typical Development James D. MacDonald Communicating Partners, the result of over thirty years of clinical practice and research work with pre-verbal and verbal children with language delays, offers an innovative approach to working with late talking children that focuses on developing relationships through mutual understanding. Providing detailed maps of what children and their life partners need to do to ensure effective social relationships, the program focuses on five key stages of communication development - interactive play, nonverbal communication, social language, conversation, and civil behavior - and five life-long responsive strategies to use every day to build relationships within the child’s own world. Making Visual Supports Work in the Home and Community: Strategies for Individuals with Autism and Asperger Syndrome Jennifer L. Savner and Brenda Smith Myles Finally, a book that shows parents how to make and use visual supports. This book contains step by step directions and pictures to create visual supports.
Rainbow Connection Oxnard, CA . . . . . 800.664.3177 ext. 3672 Simi Valley, CA . . 805.522.8030 ext. 2325 Sharing Information About Your Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder Beverly Vicker, M.S. This book is immensely helpful in two vital ways. First, it uses a logical, step-by-step approach to gathering and using important information. Second, it is loaded with good, concrete examples. Ms. Vicker’s explanations of basic, essential components of behavioral support are accurate and easy for untrained people to understand. Families of both children and adults can use this book as an important tool in training respite workers, and even family members or friends who provide care for someone with special needs. Fall 2007 tri-line | 9
Calendar of Events With each issue of the Tri-Line, we provide information on some of the resources available to families within the Tri-Counties area. Please call to confirm dates and times of events. Check with your service coordinator for information on other resources available to you in your area.
San Luis Obispo County LOCAL EVENTS: Pediatric Epilepsy Network Support Group November 5, 2007, Monday: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Founder’s Pavilion, Twin Cities Hospital, Templeton Contact: Wendy or Carrie at 805.434.0960 pediatricepilepsynetwork.org Engaging the Young Child with Autism December 11, 2007, Tuesday, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Presented by Bev Long of the California Diagnostic Center Morro Road Education Center, 8005 Morro Road, Atascadero Cost: $5.00 RSVP/Register: Debbie Stone, SELPA, 805.782.7302 or dstone@slocoe.org A Parent’s Guide to Understanding and Supporting the Communication Needs of Verbal Children with Autism December 12, 2007, Wednesday, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Presented by Bev Long of the California Diagnostic Center Morro Road Education Center, 8005 Morro Road, Atascadero Cost: $5.00 RSVP/Register: Debbie Stone, SELPA, 782-7302 or dstone@slocoe.org Save the Date for a PHP Presentation: “Working Toward a Goal of Micro-Enterprise for People with Developmental Disabilities” May 15, 2008, Thursday, 12:00 – 2 p.m. A free workshop to be held at the UCP Abilities Fair, Veteran’s Hall, 801 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo Contact: PHP 805.543.3277 ONGOING: North County Autism Spectrum Support Group 7:00-9:00 pm 3rd Friday of every other month; next meeting Nov. 16 Hampton Inn Conference Room, Paso Robles Contact: ncautismsupportgroup@charter. net or Becky: 805.471.1354 or Rebecca: 805.712.7044 South County Autism Support Group 7:00 - 8:30 pm 3rd Wednesday of every month, 150 So. 6th St. Suite D, Grover Beach Contacts/RSVP: Leslie 805.904.9212 or sweeters@digitalputty.com Community Counseling Center Support Groups: Anger Management Group, 10 | tri-line Fall 2007
Depression Support Group 1129 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo Contact: 805.543.7969 Support Group for Parents of Children with Epilepsy 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Twin Cities Hospital, Templeton Contact: Wendy or Carrie at 805.434.0960 or at sloepilepsy@charterinternet.com Grandparents as Parents Support Group 9 a.m. Thursdays, 1086 Grand Ave., S.A.F.E. Center, Room 107, Arroyo Grande Contact: 805.481.5722 Kinship Center Relative Resources Adults Caring for Relative’s Children 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the second & fourth Monday; 6 – 8 p.m. on the first & third Tuesday of the month Kinship Center 75-B Main St., Templeton Contact: 805.434.2126 or 805.434.2449 Peer Support Meeting for Individuals with Disabilities 1:30-2:30 p.m. First Monday of every month, Independent Living Resource Center 1150 Laurel Lane, San Luis Obispo Contact: Denise Martinez, Peer Support Advocate, 593-0667 San Luis Obispo Parents Support Group 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. 3rd Saturday of the month; Support Group for families of struggling teens Sierra Vista Hospital Auditorium, 1010 Murray Street, SLO Contact: Randy or Kip, 805.541.4864 or rcdettmet@charter.net Postpartum Depression Support Group 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. 2nd Saturday of the month. Cost: $20. Contact: Joan Fusco, LCSW 805.801.3127 SLO County Mommies Free local group welcoming all moms in SLO County for online support and local events: outings, play dates, message boards, community groups & service. Contact: SLOCountyMommies.com TOP Soccer Division For young athletes with learning or physical disabilities, Ages 4 – 19 yrs Contact: George: 805.528.5567 or Denise at 805.528.5490 Parents Helping Parents Get Acquainted Meets: 2nd Friday of each month in San Luis Obispo, 1st Friday of each month in Atascadero. Time: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Location: 3450 Broad Street, Suite
Calendar of Events San Luis Obispo County 111, in San Luis Obispo and 6005 Capistrano Ave, Suite A, in Atascadero. Contact: PHP San Luis Obispo: 805.543.3277 or PHP Atascadero: 805.461.7415. Parents Helping Parents provides information, family support, parent-to-parent matches and resource libraries.
Epilepsy Support Group for Parents Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. second Monday of every month. Location: Twin Cities Community Hospital, 1100 Las Tablas Rd. Templeton, CA. Contact: Child Neurology of SLO, 805.434.0960, sloepilepsy@charterinternet.com.
Five Cities Swim Club -Mighty DolphinsSwim Class This class is designed for those students of all ages with special needs. Indoor, heated pool. Drop-in class, adult must accompany child. Cost: $7 members, $9 non-members (sliding scale for low income). Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 11:30 a.m. Contact: 805.481.6399
UCP Respitality Offers a get-away for parents so they may enjoy an evening stay in a local hotel. Local inns and hotels have donated the rooms for this purpose. Contact: Lisa at 805.540.5153.
Paso Robles Youth Bowling Join the fun, learn the art of bowling. Saturday mornings at 10:00 am. Cost: Call for info, Wilson’s Lanes, Paso Robles. Contact: 805.238.5020.
santa Santa barbara Barbara county County Parent-to-Parent Support Sponsored by Special Needs Network. Meets third Thursday of every month, 9:00 am at Coffee Diem, 505 S. McClelland Street in Santa Maria. Contact: Diana 805.937.8756 or JoAnne 805.937.2465. City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation Department Check out what they have to offer. Contact: Adapted Programs 805.564.5421. Jr. Wheelchair Sports Camp Ages 5 - 19 who use a wheelchair to participate in sports. Contact: 805.893.4114 or email rick.vanhoorn@essr.ucsb.edu. Family First A family resource center and parent network. Provides parent-to-parent and family support, parent-professional collaboration, parent and family workshops, and information and referral. Contact: North County 805.347.2775 / South County 805.683.2145. Something for the Siblings The Special Needs Network is a new club for the siblings of individuals with disabilities. The club
UCP Kid/Teens Saturday Recreation Call for a schedule of fun events. Ages 7-12 & 13-22. Contact: Lisa 805.540.5153. UCP Community Interactions Programs, Leisure Club Events and CIP Tours Contact: Kathy 805.543.2039.
will consist of several fun activities and will be a chance to get away and relax with others who also have siblings with disabilities. Contact: Laura King, 805.344.1403. Santa Maria Special Education & Support Information Kathy Rowley has started a Yahoo Group for parents of children with special needs who live in Santa Maria. To join go to http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/santamariasupport. Autism Society of America Santa Barbara Chapter Contact: Patti 805.569.1091 Santa Maria Autism Support Group Has an online support group for parents of children diagnosed with autism. There is also a weekly playgroup that meets at a local park. Contact: 805.714.1187 or email begeasykr@yahoo.com. Lompoc Autism Support Group A support group for parents and other caregivers of children diagnosed with autism. Contact: Polly Bleavins 805.347.2775 or email pollyb@alphasb.org Santa Maria Autism Support Group Has an online support group for parents of Fall 2007 tri-line | 11
Calendar of Events santa barbara county (Cont.) Santa Barbara county children diagnosed with Autism. There is also a weekly playgroup that meets at a local park. Contact: 805.714.1187 or email begeasykr@yahoo.com. P.O.S.E. Parents of Special Education This parent support group meets the third Wednesday of every month at 9:30 a.m. The group also fundraises to provide additional educational materials for special education programs in Santa Barbara. For meeting locations and fundraising events, contact Jennifer Griffin, 805.967.0371 (jenagrif@verizon.net) or Cathy Abarca, 805.448.6431 (cat736@aol.com)
ventura ventura county county Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center Library Oxnard Office Simi Office 800.664.3177 x290 800.517.2524 805.485.9643 805.522.8030 Rainbow Connection provides many activities for children and families. Here is a list of on-going support groups: Special Families Support Group (Spanish) First Friday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Oxnard families share their experiences parenting a child with special needs. Cerebral Palsy Support Group (Bilingual: English and Spanish) First Monday of the month, 9:00 am - 10:30 am, Simi Valley Library. Special Parents Network (English) Second Wednesday of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm. Join other parents to talk about issues related to raising children with special needs and share resources and information. Oxnard.
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Fun with Mom
Down Syndrome Support Group (Spanish) Second Thrusday of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard. NICU Support Group (Bilingual: English and Spanish) Third Wednesday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Oxnard. Families share ideas of coping, memories, joys and triumphs. Santa Clara Moms Night Out (Bilingual: English and Spanish) Third Wednesday of the month. Social time for moms with children with special needs. Autism Support Group (Bilingual: English and Spanish) Third Wednesday of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard. G-Tube/J-Tube/NG-Tube Support Group (Bilingual: English and Spanish) Third Thurday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Oxnard. Mom’s Night Out Third Friday of the month, 6:00 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard. Teddy Bear Brigade Third Saturday of the month, 1:00 - 3:00 pm, Thousand Oaks. Rainbow offers a program at Emanual Presbyterian Church in TO for Children 3 - 13 years old with special needs and their siblings. We will have stories, sensory themes, crafts and music.
On the Wings of ANGELS. . . by Charlene Huston, Angels Bearing Gifts
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t’s the most wonderful time of the year and ANGELS BEARING GIFTS has lots of news this holiday season!
First, we would like to thank Dr. Omar Noorzad, Executive Director of TCRC, for his generous spirit and for giving ANGELS a home to work from. You are the best, Omar!!!! We have learned that in Santa Barbara County, there are over 300 people who qualify for receiving gifts from ANGELS. Our criteria are very simple: ANGELS serves people with developmental disabilities who have no one to remember them on their birthdays and during the December holiday season. Here’s how YOU can help to reach all these deserving people! HELP US LOCATE BENEFICIARIES If you know anyone you think might qualify, please contact Sue Dumm, at 805.884.7222. Sue has spent over 25 years employed at the Alpha Resource Center. In her role as the Program Director, she built relationships with many of the link agencies and beneficiaries that ANGELS serves. She currently works as a part time staff person with the Office of Protection and Advocacy that serves people with developmental disabilities. She is also on the Board of Directors of Retinoblastoma International at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
ATTEND OUR ANNUAL VOLUNTEER OPEN HOUSE Monday, November 26, 2007 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm Santa Barbara TCRC Annex Conference Room. VOLUNTEER TO WRAP GIFTS • Santa Barbara Annex Conference Room Wednesday, December 19, 2007 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. • Santa Maria Conference Room #1 Thursday, December 20, 2007 • San Luis Obispo Friday, December 21, 2007
Painting entitled “Angel” by J. Dan Gibbs & Kevin Hosseini SUPPORT OUR SPECIAL ARTISTS Attend the “Images of Angels” art exhibit at the Faulkner Gallery, located in the downtown Santa Barbara Public Library from November 20-30, 2007. Artists with special needs from around Santa Barbara County were invited to submit work for this juried exhibition. Works may be for sale with 70% of the proceeds going directly to the artist and 30% going to ANGELS to help purchase holiday gifts. You can also volunteer to gallery sit during this exhibition. A featured painting will be ANGEL, a collaborative piece by J. Dan Gibbs and Kevin Hosseini for the Normal Films Production “Arts”. Artists Reception will be Tuesday, November 27, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served. This piece has become the traveling angel, bringing love and compassion wherever it goes. This past year, it has traveled to these locations: November 2006 - Venecian Design in Hollywood & Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks; June 2007 – The Rhythmic Arts Project Fifth Annual Benefit in Carpinteria; August 2007 – Carpinteria Arts Council and in September & October 2007 at CHANCE Inc. in downtown Santa Barbara. SPONSOR A BENEFICIARY Purchase gifts for one person (value $75). Call for a wish list. VOLUNTEER TO BE A DELIVERY ANGEL All you need is a vehicle and proof of insurance to help us on Monday December 24, 2007 from 9:00 am - Noon.
George receives a gift from his Angel
There are lots of other ways you, your friends and family can help ANGELS this holiday season. Anyone interested in volunteering, please contact charlene@angelsbearinggifts. com or call the Angels Office at 805.884.7222. n Fall 2007 tri-line | 13
Announcements Weingart Foundation Grant Supports PCT Initiative by Mary Beth Lepkowsky, Manager, Organizational Development
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am very pleased to announce that Tri-Counties Regional Center (TCRC) is the recipient of a $412,824 grant from the Weingart Foundation. This grant will support a culture change initiative entitled “Good to Great: Building Individual and Organizational Capacity for Person Centered Thinking (PCT)� in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties over the next three years. The Weingart Foundation is one of the major private foundations in the United States, supporting a variety of Southern California social services, educational, and community programs that address the needs of the underserved and the general community. The Good to Great project is a partnership among TCRC, Genesis Developmental Services, People Creating Success, Inc., Work Training Programs, Inc., Vocational Training Corporation, Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center, Council on Quality and Leadership. TCRC and its partner agencies are committed to using PCT practices to enhance the way Individual Program Plan (IPP) meetings are conducted, increase collaboration between TCRC and provider partners through person-centered approaches to planning and problem-solving, and pilot innovative approaches to interagency documentation. These changes should introduce more control, influence and choice into the lives of persons with developmental disabilities in attaining employment, recreation, housing, and participation in community life. Grant funds will support a full time PCT Project Manager for three years to coordinate the work of the Interagency Person Centered Thinking Taskforce and implement various capacity building activities. The grant will provide partial support for an evaluation project to measure the impact of this work on personal outcomes for people who receive services. A third component of the grant will support collaboration and information sharing with other regional centers in an effort to provide information and training to other organizations intending to implement Person Centered Thinking best practices. n
Parents Helping Parents Announce Training Scholarships
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new scholarship program is now available through Parents Helping Parents to parents of children with a developmental disability for conference, workshop attendance or training. The child must currently be receiving Tri-Counties Regional Center services in San Luis Obispo County. The intent of the training experience should be to further knowledge on topics related to raising a child with special needs. Applicants are responsible for the initial registering and paying for all associated costs. Prior approval of a scholarship must be obtained. Maximum reimbursement for costs through the scholarship award is $200; awarding of scholarships will be contingent upon available funds. Parents Helping Parents (PHP) will provide a limited number of scholarships per event. For more information, please contact PHP staff at 805.543.3277. n
Volunteer for the TCADD Board!
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re you looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity to volunteer for a non-profit organization? If so, consider the Tri-Counties Association for the Developmentally Disabled (TCADD) Board! Potential members have business management, public relations, education or other non-profit experience. Persons served by the Regional Center are strongly encouraged to apply. Representatives from all three counties (San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura) are sought. Please contact Nancy Kavin nkavin@mwdh2o.com for more information. Make a rewarding contribution to TCADD and help improve the quality of life for persons with developmental disabilities. n
Create an Ornament for the State Capital Tree!
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he 2007 State Capitol Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 4th. For over twenty years, ornaments made by persons with developmental disabilities have adorned this tree. This year, a child will participate in the televised ceremony with the Governor and First Lady.
To be included, ornaments must be received in Sacramento by November 16th. If you have questions, contact Paul Verke at 916.651.1209 or pverke@dds.ca.gov. Visit www.tri-counties.org and click on the Parent or Family Member link for details. n 14| tri-line Fall 2007
Announcements Award for R&D Transportation by Charles Devlin, President, R&D Transportation, TCADD Board Member
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n August 16, 2007, R&D Transportation Services was honored by the Pacific Coast Business Times and the U.S Small Business Administration as a Spirit of Small Business 2007 award winner. The awards luncheon was held at Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort, Santa Barbara and Fess Parker (aka Davey Crockett) was the keynote speaker. Henry Dubroff, Business Times Editor and Alberto Alvarado, U.S. SBA Los Angeles District Director presented the awards at the ceremony attended by approximately 500 people. R&D, headquartered in Moorpark, provides transportation brokerage services to TCRC and other California regional centers. Founded in 1991 by Charles Devlin, R&D assists TCRC in providing safe, reliable, cost effective and efficient transportation services to individuals who live in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. However, R&D received the Spirit of Small Business Award for the firm’s efforts in Eastern Ventura County. R&D provides TCRC with a number of transportation management services, including a toll free call center, staffed with multilingual customer service representatives, computerized route design, and field representatives who monitor service and insure that buses are well maintained and bus drivers are appropriately trained. R&D’s commitment to the community and individuals served, also includes a comprehensive travel training
program, whereby persons served are taught to use public transportation, thereby allowing them greater access to their communities. The program, modeled after the Easter Seals Project Action, includes familiarizing the person with the location of bus stops, instruction on how to safely board a bus and informing them of other important safety related issues. An individual “graduates” from the program only after they have shown that they can safely use public transportation. R&D actively recruits persons served as paid travel trainers because they are excellent role models and they are very reliable and capable employees. The program creates a great sense of independence because not only can you get to a job or day activity, but in evenings and on weekends, you can get to the mall, the beach, or hang out with friends. Charles Devlin represents the provider community on the TCADD Board of Directors. n
Charles Devlin with R&D staff
Health Information Time Management: Tips to reduce stress and get things done! by Katie Doan, RN Nurse Specialist
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o you find yourself overwhelmed by the number of things you have to do? Is time flying by without things getting finished or because you can’t get everything organized?
But how do you get back on track when organizational skills don’t come naturally? Start by choosing one of these tips, try it for two to four weeks and see if it helps. If it does, consider adding another one.
Better time management will help you get more done each day. It has important health benefits, too. By managing your time more wisely, you can minimize your stress and improve your health and quality of life.
Plan each day. Planning your day can help you feel more in control of your life. Make a to-do list, putting the most important tasks at the top. Keep a schedule of your daily activities to minimize conflicts and
last-minute rushes. Prioritize your tasks. Like many people, you may be spending the majority of your time on a small percentage of your tasks. Prioritizing will ensure you spend your time and energy on those that are truly important to you. Break large tasks into smaller tasks. Work on the smaller parts of the continued on pg. 17 Fall 2007 tri-line | 15
Health Information Anti-dementia Drugs for Children with Down Syndrome by Dr. James F. O’Hanlon, Psychopharmacologist
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arents of children with Down Syndrome (DS) generally know that the disorder is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21 in every cell of the child’s body. Yet not every one knows how an extra chromosome can wreak such havoc. It is because chromosomes contain DNA templates, called genes, each of which encodes a particular protein or RNA ‘housekeeping’ molecule. Overabundance of gene products, as much as deficiency, can be pathological. Most aneuploidies (more or fewer than the normal pair of chromosomes) are fatal to the fetus. But because chromosome 21 is one of the smallest, containing just over 400 genes, most individuals with DS survive for decades after birth. Congenital cardiac abnormalities were once the most frequent cause of early death in DS but today most can be corrected surgically. Sadly, longevity has come at the price of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Whereas about 15% of ordinary people develop AD by the time they are 85, about half of those with DS do so before 55. The earlier onset of AD in DS is commonly attributed to their possession of an extra gene for producing the amyloid precursor protein. The protein itself is
harmless but its breakdown products, called beta-amyloid peptides (Aβ), can over periods of years, congeal to form plaques that cause neurodegeneration and dementia in AD. Yet the adverse effects of Aβ may begin long before plaque formation. While still soluble, Aβ binds to a subtype of neuronal receptors for the transmitter acetylcholine. The binding is not permanent and normal concentrations of Aβ are not high enough to interfere with brain functions mediated by this transmitter. In DS however, excessive Aβ is thought to seriously impair “adaptive functions,” specifically those involving learning and memory. Theoretically, drugs that increase the availability of acetylcholine at its receptors should allow the transmitter to compete effectively with Aβ. Obvious candidates are drugs that inhibit the inactivation of acetylcholine after its release by nerve fibers; e.g. Aricept. These are widely used for sustaining acetylcholine transmission once neurodegeneration has begun in AD but the theory holds that they may be beneficial in DS before that occurs. Support for this concept has come from small studies, undertaken with young adults, and children, with DS.
Aricept or a similarly acting drug significantly improved expressive language performance in all groups. Dramatic results were also reported for two young adults with DS who had spontaneously lost the ability to communicate but regained it while taking Aricept. Large-scale, controlled trials would be necessary to confirm the drugs’ efficacy, but even this modest beginning is enough to inspire hope that cognitive deficits in DS may not be as immutable as it has seemed. n References: Deutch, S.I. et al. Progressive worsening of adaptive functions in Down syndrome may be mediated by complexing of soluble Aβ peptides with the alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor: therapeutic implications. Clinical Neuropharmacology 2003; 26: 277-283. Johnson, N. et al. Effects of donepezil on cognitive functioning in Down syndrome. American Journal of Mental Retardation 2003; 108: 367-372. Heller, J.H. et al. Donepezil for the treatment of language deficits in adults with Down syndrome: a preliminary 24-week open trial. American Journal of Medical Genetics 2003; 116A: 111-116. Heller, J.H. et al. Donepezil effects on language in children with Down syndrome: results of the first 22week pilot clinical trial. American Journal of Medical Genetics 2004; 130A: 325-326.
Clients’ Rights Advocacy Parent Leadership Advocacy Training by Kathy Mottarella, Clients’ Rights Advocate, Protection and Advocacy, Inc., 805.884.7218 or 800.322.6994 ext. 7218
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fter the great success of our Parent Leadership training sessions earlier this year, the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy, Area Board IX and Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center are planning to conduct another Parent Leadership Training series. New training sessions will begin this fall, offered in Spanish and English. The training will be held monthly on Saturday mornings at TCRC in Oxnard. Three sessions will be focused on special education, one on communication and being an
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effective advocate, two on the Lanterman Act, one on In Home Supported Services and the final session will be on MediCal. Speakers include attorneys and advocates from Area Board IX, Protection and Advocacy, Inc., State Council on Developmental Disabilities and Tri-Counties Regional Center. Choose to attend as many of the sessions you like. Space will be limited, sign up early by contacting Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center at 805.485.9643. n
Safety and Ethics TCRC and Service Provider Ef forts by Gerri Knilans, Former TCADD Board President
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n early 2004, TCRC sponsored its first workshop on Ethics, presented by consultant Anita Bock. As a result of the program, two important decisions were made: 1) write a code of ethics for TCRC and 2) create a TCRC Ethics Council and a TCRC Ethics Committee. The Ethics Council is composed of management and staff of TCRC. The purpose of the committee is to ensure the organization’s adherence to the values defined in the TCRC Code of Ethics - trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and civic responsibility. Additionally, the Council provides a safe and supportive place for staff to communicate their concerns regarding the actions of individuals and/or the organization. The Council has the responsibility and authority to investigate issues and make recommendations to the TCRC Operations Committee and/or TCRC Leadership. The Ethics Committee is comprised of two members of the Vendor Advisory Committee, two TCRC Directors, a representative from the TCADD Board, the community, a person served and the Area Board IX. The goal of the Ethics committee is to facilitate ethical conduct and decision-making amongst organizations and individuals working on behalf of people with developmental disabilities in the Tri-Counties area. The Committee’s responsibilities are to: perform ethical analysis on issues, with an emphasis on ethical conduct, which affects our system of care; to offer guidance and support to individuals in the application of ethics in decisionmaking; to encourage community members to use ethical policies, values and conduct in their interactions and dealings with others.
During the last three years, several issues have been brought to the Ethics Committee and the committee helped the parties involved improve their communication processes. In addition, the Committee worked in conjunction with the Vendor Advisory Committee to create a protocol (based on our community’s core values) for program closure and other events/ decisions that affect service delivery to persons with developmental disabilities. One of the important components of the original Ethics training was the concept of an Ethics Barometer. This is a process that encourages all of us to “check in” with ourselves daily to where we are on the Ethics scale. For example: Will we speed to work, even though we know it is breaking the law? Will we return all phone calls and e-mails in a timely fashion? Will we listen carefully to what others have to say and not interrupt? Will we look out for the best interest of others, even if it is not to our financial advantage? These internal questions are good ways to assess where we are and a reminder to act in accordance with our core values. For more information about the Ethics Committee, including future membership, please contact Mike Mamot at mmamot@optionsccnbc. org. For more information about the Ethics Council, please contact Dominic Namnath at dnamnath@tri-counties. org. n
Health Information Time Management continued from pg. 15
large task for a few minutes at a time until you get the whole job done. Practice the 10-minute rule. Work on a dreaded task for 10 minutes each day. Once you get started, you may find you can finish it. Get plenty of sleep and exercise. This will give you improved focus and concentration and will make it easier to do what you need to have done in less time. Take a break when needed. Too much stress can derail your attempts at getting organized. When you need a break, take one. Take a walk. Do some quick stretches. Take a day of vacation. Talk to a friend or family member about how you feel. Ask for help. If you’re too frazzled to think about trying any of these tips, it’s time to ask for help. Does your life feel totally out of control? If so, discuss your situation with your doctor. Effective time management is a means to a less stressful life. These practices can help you reduce your stress and reclaim your personal life. n
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Who Would Have Guessed! by Diana Slais, Manager, Foster Grandparent & Senior Companion Program
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or the last several years, Laura Rose has been a volunteer with the Foster Grandparent Program serving children with special needs. This past year she decided it was time for a change. Laura transferred to the Senior Companion Program to assist adults at Arc Skyway in Camarillo where she lives. While working with the Foster Grandparent Program, she shared many special moments with me, but this year as a Senior Companion she had one of the most rewarding experiences. Like any new job or volunteer experience, it took Laura a while to find her niche at Arc Skyway. But soon she was busy teaching people to paint ceramics and play various
Laura and Julia games. After several weeks had passed she noticed one person, Julia, who was not participating with the others. She never spoke, just sat and played with an abacus, moving the balls back and forth, back and forth, most of the day. Later that week, Laura had an idea and decided to try it out. She sat down with Julia
with a box of dominoes, said good morning, and spread the dominoes out on the table, placed the double six in front of her, added another six and started a chain. Julia quickly caught on and they played for about half an hour. “She was so happy - her smiled touched my heart,” said Laura. “We began to play dominoes each day, then added UNO, a more difficult game, which she enjoyed.” One afternoon, Laura sat down at the piano to play a few simple tunes when Julia sat next to me and began playing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star ” on the piano. “I could hardly believe it,”said Laura. Julia taught Laura such a valuable lesson; if you take the time to care, amazing things can happen. n
TCRC News A Time to Expand by Jeff Barkhorn, Manager of Facilities & Purchasing
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CRC is currently expanding or remodeling six of our seven offices to accommodate service coordinator and other staff growth required to meet state mandated caseload ratios. The most dramatic growth has been in Ventura County.
The annex space has expanded to 5,617 square feet and the main office is 25,560 square feet. A few renovations will be necessary and will start early in 2008.
In Simi Valley, we added 2,850 square feet. We will now occupy the entire 1st and 2nd floors of a three story building. The main conference room will be on the 1st floor allowing easier access to visitors attending certain meetings. This project is expected to be completed in November.
Santa Maria continues to experience population growth and TCRC is reflecting this growth as well. We are finishing an expansion of 2,250 square feet for a total square footage of 11,790. We are very excited about the new resource library space that will be bigger and cheerier than before!
The Oxnard office will be moving into a new building on the corner of Sola and Gonzales. The new office will be comprised of about 28,000 square feet and allow for continued growth in staff over the next 10 years. The expected move date is currently scheduled for February 2008.
We are adding 4,000 square feet to our San Luis Obispo office. Given the layout of this multi-tenant building, we are pleased to secure space adjacent to our existing space. The conference room will be much larger and accommodate more people and functions. Also, we expect to sublease a portion of this to Central Coast Assistive Technology Center (CCATC). CCATC serves people with special needs in the area of technology and ergonomics. This project is expected to be completed by early 2008. n
In Santa Barbara, we are pleased to renew our current lease for another 10 years at our Montecito St. location. We also lease annex space across the street which we are renewing. 18 | tri-line Fall 2007
TCRC News New Web Site Launched Training Update
by Dominic Namnath, Chief Information Officer
by Vi Nguyen, Organizational Development Associate
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n November 2007, TCRC will be presenting two training events: “Residential Services Orientation” (RSO) and a training called “Leadership is Everybody’s Business” (LIEB). RSO is intended for service providers who would like to be vendored with TCRC, while LIEB is open to TCRC employees and community providers interested in strengthening their leadership skills. LEIB will also be held in December 2007 as well. Residential Services Orientation: Annex, 505 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara November 6-7, 2007 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. each day Fountain Room, Oxnard Office, 2220 E. Gonzales Road, suite 210, Oxnard May 6-7, 2008 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. each day Leadership is Everyone’s Business Open to TCRC employees and community providers interested in strengthening their leadership skills. Conference Room, Santa Maria Office, 1234 Fairway Drive, Santa Maria November 1, 2007 (9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) November 2, 2007 (9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) Fountain Room, Oxnard Office, 2220 E. Gonzales Road, suite 210, Oxnard December 6, 2007 (9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) December 7, 2007 (9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) In February of 2008, the “Introduction to Person Centered Thinking” training will be held. This training is open to all community members. Introduction to Person Centered Thinking Oxnard/Ventura area February 2008 Exact location and date TBD. n
e launched our new website (www.tri-counties.org) and it’s worth a look. Our objective with the redesign was to incorporate ideas we have collected over the years with fresh new person centered navigation. What we have are collections or “threads” of information that are tailored to our main visitors - the people we serve, the parents and or family members, our service providers and potential new providers, and people generally interested in TCRC and the DDS system. You may also recognize many of the faces and places now featured on the site. Stop by and watch it grow and send us your impressions and ideas to make it even better! Email feedback to webfeedback@tri-counties.org. n
TCRC Arts Extravaganza 2007 by Dale Lewis, Service Coordinator Adult Team, Santa Barbara
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magine walking into a large rectangular space with late afternoon sunlight streaming through skylights in the tall ceiling. Displays of pottery, paintings, photographs, fused glass, drawings, jewelry, and cards fill the room. Imagine a gallery of visitors admiring, exclaiming, buying the works of art, and the artists feeling the joy of public acknowledgment and appreciation of their work. If you were at Tri-Counties Regional Centers Art Extravaganza at Casa de la Raza in Santa Barbara on July 13th, you’re probably grateful you had the opportunity to meet the artists we serve -- Janet Berenice Alatorre, Kyle Allen, Ashlee Chuda, Liz
Ballinger, Judy Gilder, Kevin Hosseini, Harry Moffat, Ali Shahrouzi, Nicole Turofsky (and DJ Chris Benedict) -and buy the art they create. And if you missed the event, there will be another TCRC art show next year. You also can visit the Santa Barbara office where the lobby and hallways exhibit photographs and paintings of many artists we serve. n
Nicole Turofsky displays her work
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Terri Delgadillo Visits TCRC continued from pg. 1
updated the group on Devereux’s continuing commitment to provide residential services, primarily through Supported Living Services in the community. She noted that they are negotiating with UCSB to sell the Devereux property. Devereux plans to retain a portion of the property and to continue with the current smaller mix of residential and day services on the campus. We were treated to a brief visit with people being served by Devereux, an opportunity thoroughly enjoyed by all. Next, the group traveled to Hillside House, where we were greeted by Pam Flynt, Executive Director, and John Polanskey, Director of Housing Development, Housing Authority of Santa Barbara County. They shared the latest plans for changing Hillside House from a 59-bed congregate facility to an integrated residential community. The design calls for subsidized and market rate housing as well as several licensed homes, each with a capacity of six, to serve current residents in an inclusive community arrangement. This planned transformation is a collaborative effort between Hillside House, the housing authorities of the County and City of Santa Barbara, and TCRC. A picnic lunch brought us the company of Richard Ring, TCRC Board Vice President, who joined us in conversation about affordable housing issues in Santa Barbara. Dr. Noorzad shared TCRC’s strategic plan goals related to the development of housing resources with Ms. Delgadillo. Lunch ended with a very special presentation made by Kevin Hosseini, a young artist with autism. He presented one of his wonderful oil paintings to Ms. Delgadillo as a memento of her visit. Judith White, Assistant Director, Community Development writes. . . I was able to join the Ventura County tour of Ms. Delgadillo and her staff. The first stop was the Arc-Wagon Wheel facility, where we were greeted by Fred Robinson, Executive Director of Arc Ventura County and his colleague Carolyn Whalen. Joining the tour was TCRC’s Board President, Stan Deakin. This is a large day program which has historically served about 100 people. This was an excellent opportunity for Ms. Delgadillo to witness the huge transition in philosophy and programming in day services in the TCRC area that has occurred over the past five years. The Wagon Wheel facility, while still being exceptional in the provision of individual programming, will be closing this year. Current Wagon Wheel participants will be transitioning into one of Arc’s several smaller day programs where they will have even greater opportunities for progressive and community based services and supports. 20 | tri-line Fall 2007
A warm welcome for Terri Another memorable stop was a visit with an Oxnard family served by the Amigo Baby program directed by Pablo Velez. A young mother and her child were involved in a therapy session. The child, along with an older brother and the mother, was singing, doing exercises and participating in various other early intervention activities. It was wonderful to watch Ms. Delgadillo interact with the children, talking, playing, and even distributing gift bags. It was a rewarding scene to experience. The most wonderful thing about the visit was the downto-earth qualities of Terri and her staff. We all enjoyed taking part in the lives of persons served by TCRC in their daily setting, It was clear to us all that the Director of Developmental Services has the passion for her job that will result in continued support for the innovative changes that TCRC strives to achieve. Lorna Owens, Chief Financial Officer writes. . . During Ms. Delgadillo’s visit, I had the opportunity to tour several of TCRC’s service providers with the group. It was a privilege for TCRC to host a visit for our DDS colleagues. Terri, Mark and Rita were very interested in the services provided by TCRC and I could tell that they thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the people we serve. One of the highlights of the tour was visiting a home served by People Creating Success, Inc. (PCS) for Supported Living Services. Shirley Dove, the mother of one of the residents, purchased the home in order for her daughter to live in the community as independently as possible. We were joined there by staff from PCS and enjoyed a party put together by the residents. They told stories of how they stayed up late cleaning, shopping, baking cookies and making everyone a party favor. We had a wonderful time observing the happy life that these women enjoy. n
DDS Staf f Visits TCRC and Community Partners
Pictured from left: Dr. Omar Noorzad, Executive Director, TCRC; Amy Evans, Executive Administrator, Devereux Santa Barbara; Anoushka Dalseme, Services & Supports Manager, TCRC; Fran Jorgensen, Assistant Director of Services & Supports, TCRC; Mark Hutchinson, Chief Deputy Director, DDS; Terri Delgadillo, Director of Developmental Services, DDS; Rita Walker, Deputy Director of Operations, DDS; Lorna Owens, Chief Financial Officer, TCRC; Commodore Dixon, Devereux Santa Barbara; Rebecca Luden, Devereux Santa Barbara.
Exploring with the Adventure Club continued from pg. 7
confirmed that getting out into nature with others and moving our bodies does more than feel good; being in nature actually dramatically influences how our brains and bodies develop. This experience seems to carry over into people’s daily lives and help them to feel more confident, mindful and calm. In this spirit, I set out to create a different program for the people that I serve. One such experience has focused on the beautiful and dynamic environment and community that is the central coast. It is my goal to blend exciting times, exploring the outdoors, with ample time to connect with people in the small communities where we live. I have seen the remarkable results of this method repeated many times over. Combining the authentic experience of nature with meaningful social interactions seems to amplify the transformative experience and draw people out of their isolation and static patterns. Over the last year I have led small (two to four person) groups in a format called “The Adventure Club.” Together, we have explored many new activities, such as kayaking and surfing, while expanding local knowledge of easy to access recreational opportunities. For some this has led to taking hikes, rock climbing or going to tide pools with their free time. For others it has been a great means of making friends and working on social interaction skills. Each group has been carefully matched and activities are
based both on ability levels and the desires of the people participating. I am pleased to provide the opportunity for people to try new things and to make new friends. Because I work directly with my groups and keep the groups small the context is markedly different than most “day programs.” Thanks to a grant from the Department of Developmental Services administered by Tri-Counties Regional Center (TCRC), I now have the capacity to serve more of those interested in participating. The central coast provides opportunities for connection both with the natural world and the community twelve months a year. It is exciting to consider the groups and activities for the coming seasons. I am so happy to offer this service to the community. To help people to expand their horizons in this context and to connect with others is a wonderful experience. I feel privileged to be part of the transformation. John (Johnee) Gange has a BA degree in liberal arts. He has been working with persons served by TCRC in a variety of contexts for the last 16 years. His accomplishments and vision have been recognized by a start up grant and he has recently been vendored by TCRC to provide The Adventure Club year round. John has a black belt in Aikido and is currently training to become a certified Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®) consultant. Contact John at wwadventures@gmail.com. n Fall 2007 tri-line | 21
A Day in the Life of Angel Salazar continued from pg. 7
birds, especially on hot summer afternoons. He frequently takes a short nap before dinner. Angel loves to go out to eat. He is in heaven when we go to McDonalds and order his favorite hamburger. He loves the sounds of the crowd inside as long as they give him his space. Another favorite meal is pizza which he especially prefers from Chuck E. Cheese. Angel likes to go out in the community. His PCS staff have taken him to many places. Early in the spring, he was an active participant in the PCS Cheering Squad for the Corporate Games. He provided his support at
a number of events, such as basketball, softball, flag football, and horseshoes. At the Closing Ceremonies, he was enthralled by running his bare feet through the sand at the Ventura Harbor. He had a ball at the Ventura County Fair. He likes to go to the movies and listen to the action. After an exhausting day, Angel is usually ready for bed around 9:00 p.m. Angel’s days at home and in the community are in striking contrast to his life in the Developmental Center. He now enjoys a typical day of activities both inside and outside the home. If you were to see Angel in the community, he would be happy to greet you. n
The Wedding Invitation continued from pg. 3
begun to trust. I am the one who knows my needs best, and in advocating for myself, I made a conscious choice to determine where any and all help would come. Receiving daily assistance from the staff at Work Training Program, Inc. (WTP) is, indeed, a vital aspect of my self-sufficiency. As I have quickly come to learn, though, it is not the only thing that allows me to thrive. Having some degree of control over the quality of services that I receive guarantees that I will always maintain my own voice. Others are not allowed to blindly speak for me. Natalie said yes to my proposal and I finalized our travel arrangements. Unexpectedly -- one week before the wedding -- Natalie learned she had an out-of-state job interview. Suddenly, just when I thought everything was falling into place, the plan was thrown on its head. I had to scramble to come up with a quick alternative. At first, that prospect produced a large dose of anxiety. As the realization slowly seeped in, however, I began to see just how the turn of events would, in its own way, become a gift. I was going to have to slow down long enough to figure out exactly which steps I would have to take, in order to secure the type of IHSS assistant I 22 | tri-line Fall 2007
sought. Perhaps if I was deliberate and thorough enough, I thought, I could teach this lesson to others. I jumped into action again. My mind began to spin with all the names of the people I knew. It is good to start with acquaintances rather than rely on strangers from an IHSS list. These people already have a presence in your life. They have a vested interest in what is happening, pre-existing knowledge of your personal needs, and may communicate more effectively than a stranger. Relying on those you know, has in my experience, provided a higher quality of care. Unfortunately, though, this is not always possible. Most of my friends -- and former IHSS providers -- were unable to rearrange their schedules. My built-in network of supports was not available to assist me. I would have to plan, plan, plan, seeking help and advice from a variety of sources. I called my Service Coordinator, seeking guidance on how to deal with this less-than-ideal situation. I was prepared and able to travel to Monterey alone, if no supports were found. She contacted another vendor of services in the area and I agreed to call my case manager at WTP.
Luckily, in the end -- and one day before my scheduled departure -- WTP was able to secure a personal assistant for me. The next step in the process was to openly communicate with the assistant about my needs, honestly discussing how I, the person with the disability, needed/wanted to have things done for me. This is especially important to consider when dealing with someone whom you have not had the privilege to work with before. Prior to the wedding in Monterey, my assistant and I had never met. It was our mutual responsibility -- as members of the same team -- to meet and discuss my daily routine, how I usually went about doing what I could for myself, what she would be expected to do, and how she would assist me in fulfilling my added responsibilities as a member of the wedding party. In order to resolve any unplanned issues, communication and mutual respect must prevail. You must both feel free to air any frustrations or misunderstandings that may develop. Whether you travel frequently, or are just striving to live independently, with the quick resolution of any issues that exist between you and your support staff, fun can, eventually, be had by all. It was for me. n
TCRC News
Spirit of Excellence Award Winners 1st Quarter, 2007 Tri-Counties Regional Center awards employees nominated by their colleagues with the Spirit of Excellence Award. The award acknowledges employees who demonstrate teamwork, service to people we serve, morale building, good citizenship, the quest for quality and above and beyond dedication to the vision and mission of TCRC. Congratulations to the following employees: Dee Rittenhouse Service Coordinator II, Atascadero Paul Crafts Service Coordinator II, San Luis Obispo Jean Holmquist Secretary III, Santa Maria Diva Johnson Service Coordinator II, Santa Barbara
Tracy Jackson Lead Quality Assurance Specialist, Santa Barbara Dan Van Keuren Service Coordinator II, Oxnard Laurie Jordan Director, Rainbow Resource Center, Oxnard Linda Miyahira Service Coordinator II, Simi Valley
Welcome New Employees
Megan Bovenzi Service Coordinator II
Shiloh Freer Service Coordinator I
Sheri Smith Secretary III Not Pictured: Marilyn Stein Service Coordinator II Matt Lorden Payroll Associate
Wendy Watson-Morgan Benefits Coordinator
TCRC Promotions Tracy Jackson Lead Quality Assurance Specialist, Santa Barbara Danielle Gonzales Secrectary III, Simi Valley Lilia Reyes Service Coordinator II, Santa Barbara
Adele Anderson Service Coordinator II, San Luis Obispo Sonia Qualls HR Associate I, Santa Barbara
San Luis Obispo County Atascadero Hotel Park Business Center 6005 Capistrano, Suite E Atascadero, CA 93422-7219 805.461.7402 800.771.6898 FAX 805.461.9479 San Luis Obispo 3450 Broad Street, Suite 111 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-7102 805.543.2833 800.456.4153 FAX 805.543.8725 Santa Barbara County Santa Barbara 520 East Montecito Street Santa Barbara, CA 93103-3278 805.962.7881 800.322.6994 FAX 805.884.7229 Santa Maria 1234 Fairway Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93455 805.922.4640 800.266.9071 FAX 805.922.4350 Ventura County Oxnard 2220 East Gonzales Road Suite 210 Oxnard, CA 93030-2119 805.485.3177 800.664.3177 FAX 805.988.7157 Simi Valley 1900 E. Los Angeles Ave. Simi Valley, CA 93065 805.522.8030 800.517.2524 FAX 805.522.8142
Fall 2007 tri-line | 23
Tri-Counties Association for the Developmentally Disabled
520 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. Postage
PAID
Santa Barbara CA 93101 Permit No. 359
Greetings from the President by Stan Deakin, TCADD Board President
I
am pleased to lead the TCADD Board of Directors, working with Board members, TCRC leadership and staff to strive to achieve the vision and mission of the organization. TCRC staff and board members adhere magnificently to our Code of Ethics. This is evident in interaction with stakeholders and community partners. The Code of Ethics is referred to on a daily basis by TCRC staff and regularly in group meetings such as the Operations and Services Review Committees. The TCADD Board has also conducted Board retreats and trainings on topics including ethics and advocacy. TCRC’s population of persons served is growing at approximately 4% annually. Purchase of Services budgets for regional centers continue to grow steadily while funding for Operations budgets has remained the same for the last four years. The salary expense for positions that provide direct services to persons served represents 97% of the TCRC Operations budget. In addition to the lack of additional Operations funding, significant cuts from previous years have never been restored. As a result, we operate regional centers serving increasingly more persons without adequate Operations funding. Another management challenge is for the regional center to achieve the terms of the performance contract with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) while striving to meet strategic goals. The TCADD Government and Community Relations Committee has met with four different assemblypersons this year to work for change in budgeting practices affecting TCRC’s Operations budget. Despite these budgeting challenges, TCRC is not only performing well for all measures required by DDS, but also pursuing an aggressive set of objectives and activities linked with the TCRC 2007-2009 Strategic and Performance Plan. Our seven Focus Areas include family services, healthcare, training, housing, employment/life activities, autism, and advocacy on behalf of persons served. We align each Focus Area with the primary needs for services and supports of persons served by TCRC. 24 | tri-line Fall 2007
In July, I had the privilege to discuss the challenges and successes of TCRC with Terri Delgadillo, California’s Director of Developmental Services, during her visit to the central coast. It was rewarding to converse with her, and most enlightening to observe her true passion for the persons served by the regional center system. Whether we have cared for a family member with a developmental disability, have a particular compassion for those challenged with disability or have encountered disabilities personally, our path is the same. We gladly embrace the service principles and values embodied in our Code of Ethics. Desire and commitment to provide service excellence and surpass contractual requirements enable us to make a difference in the lives of many people. The Person Centered Thinking Initiative is one way for the regional center and its partners to fully achieve our mission. By focusing on the particular needs of each individual, increasing quality of life remains the focus of our activities. Over the last two years, TCRC has made steady strides in this area. More persons are experiencing a person centered IPP meeting and more staff are using person centered tools for problem solving. I’m proud to be a part of this great organization, and appreciate the role that all of you play in our system. If you need more information about the regional center or about DDS, be sure to visit TCRC’s new web site at http://www.tri-counties. org for more information. Have a wonderful holiday season!
TCADD President
Tri-Counties Regional Center Administrative Offices 520 E. Montecito St. Santa Barbara, CA 93103 Telephone 805.962.7881 Toll Free 1.800.322.6994 www.tri-counties.org
TCADD Board of Directors Stan Deakin, President Richard Ring, Vice President/ Treasurer Nancy Kavin, Secretary Sandra Aldana Justine Blevins Sam Castillo Bob Costello Charles Devlin Cathy Farrar Julie Kahn Harriet Levine Donna Moore Kathleen Redmond Kathy Webb Board Meetings November 2, 2007, 6:00 p.m. Santa Barbara For more information please contact our Executive offices at: 805.844.7215
Editors
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translation
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photography
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