We will have an opportunity January through March to view an exhibit entitled “the Lives they Left Behind…Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic” at the University of Washington’s Odegaard Library that promises to be very thought provoking and moving as the exhibit chronicles 9 individual lives.
The exhibit web site explains the story behind the stories when Willard Psychiatric Center in New York's Finger Lakes closed in 1995, workers discovered hundreds of suitcases in the attic of an abandoned building. Many of them appeared untouched since their owners packed them decades earlier before entering the institution.
The suitcases and their contents bear witness to the rich, complex lives their owners lived prior to being committed to Willard. They speak about aspirations, accomplishments, community connections, but also about loss and isolation. From the clothing and personal objects left behind, we can gain some understanding of who these people were before they disappeared behind hospital walls. We can picture their jobs and careers, see them driving cars, playing sports, studying, writing, and traveling the world. We can imagine their families and friends. But we can also see their lives coming apart due to unemployment, the death of a loved one, loneliness, poverty, or some other catastrophic event.
Researchers spent several years immersed in the material uncovered and documentary remnants of these people’s lives, forming relationships with them through the things they left behind in suitcases when they entered a state institution.
The suitcases and the life stories of the people who owned them raise questions that are difficult to confront. Why were these people committed to this institution, and why did so many stay for so long? How were they treated? What was it like to spend years in a mental institution, shut away from a society that wanted to distance itself from people it considered insane? Why did most of these suitcase owners live out their days at Willard? What about their friends and families? Are the circumstances today any better than they were for psychiatric patients during the first half of the 20th century.
As I have commented in this blog – the debate surrounding state institutions and the funding behind needs to be addressed at a federal level. Hopefully this exhibit will draw us closer to that debate.
You can get the latest info on the exhibit at the U at: http://www.liveinclusive.org/
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
State’s Rights or National Leadership concerning individual rights?
Where are we headed with public policy concerning institutions for individuals with developmental disabilities in Washington State and throughout our nation? In a recent post to this blog I asked the question about when are we going to close our state institutions, but the whole country needs to consider public policy around the freedoms of individuals with significant disabilities.
I recently read a newsletter and the opening article addressed this issue here is an excerpt from APSE Connections newsletter lead article “Pushing for Policy to Promote Self-Determination: part II by. Serena Lowe, M.P.H.
“The United States has come a long way since the days when institutionalization was the dominant way of addressing the needs of adults with significant disabilities. However, additional public policy reform is required before these individuals have the same opportunities to determine their destinies with respect to working, generating an income, building savings, and pursuing goals that the general population enjoys. The key problem lies not in a lack of money — but in the significant inequities that exist in the distribution of financial support and services for this population. As a result, thousands of individuals with disabilities continue to live in institutions, nursing homes, and other residential facilities despite their ability and desire to live in partially- or fully-independent situations. Family support and integrated employment programs receive limited funding, and, individuals are often penalized for working or saving by having benefits reduced or eliminated when they earn an income.
This problem will only get worse if something isn’t done. Within the next decade, another 500,000 persons with disabilities are expected to transition from youth into adulthood. Clearly, steps must be taken to ensure that these individuals receive the services and supports necessary to attain fulfilling, productive lives.” The article goes on to discuss the major areas that policy should address including employment. We are fortunate that in this state the Governor and policy makers have prioritized community services for young people with disabilities. But I believe it’s time to make this a national priority as we look at fiscal policy around this issue. As long as the primary source of funding comes from the Federal government and continues to encourage institutions, states are not going to take the leap even if they wanted to. If you think of all the advances we as a society have made in the last 50 years it would make sense to take this one step. Aren’t institutions so 20th century – isn’t it time to abandon these and focus on people living and working in the community?
I recently read a newsletter and the opening article addressed this issue here is an excerpt from APSE Connections newsletter lead article “Pushing for Policy to Promote Self-Determination: part II by. Serena Lowe, M.P.H.
“The United States has come a long way since the days when institutionalization was the dominant way of addressing the needs of adults with significant disabilities. However, additional public policy reform is required before these individuals have the same opportunities to determine their destinies with respect to working, generating an income, building savings, and pursuing goals that the general population enjoys. The key problem lies not in a lack of money — but in the significant inequities that exist in the distribution of financial support and services for this population. As a result, thousands of individuals with disabilities continue to live in institutions, nursing homes, and other residential facilities despite their ability and desire to live in partially- or fully-independent situations. Family support and integrated employment programs receive limited funding, and, individuals are often penalized for working or saving by having benefits reduced or eliminated when they earn an income.
This problem will only get worse if something isn’t done. Within the next decade, another 500,000 persons with disabilities are expected to transition from youth into adulthood. Clearly, steps must be taken to ensure that these individuals receive the services and supports necessary to attain fulfilling, productive lives.” The article goes on to discuss the major areas that policy should address including employment. We are fortunate that in this state the Governor and policy makers have prioritized community services for young people with disabilities. But I believe it’s time to make this a national priority as we look at fiscal policy around this issue. As long as the primary source of funding comes from the Federal government and continues to encourage institutions, states are not going to take the leap even if they wanted to. If you think of all the advances we as a society have made in the last 50 years it would make sense to take this one step. Aren’t institutions so 20th century – isn’t it time to abandon these and focus on people living and working in the community?
Monday, November 8, 2010
What ARRA you Buying? The boondoggle ends!
I have given you an account of the state’s use of ARRA funds in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation that chose to use the 8.8 million dollars funding a program called Project H.I.R.E (Hiring Individuals with disabilities who are Ready for Employment). I had pointed out how the project fell well short of the goals set and the individual placement costs were staggering – over 10 times the cost of a “regular” placement using existing Community Rehabilitation Providers.
They spent roughly half of the 8.8 million to place less than 100 people into jobs. The leadership of DVR has decided to end Project HIRE and to divert the money to other areas. The State Rehabilitation Council has suggested four areas to bolster service to improve services but to date we haven’t been told were the money will be spent.
I must applaud the executive leadership of DVR for recognizing the shortcomings of the program and high cost associated with it. According to one of the leadership members of VR they apparently learned important lessons and built new partnerships. Let’s hope the next foray into a project won’t cost 4 million tax dollars before the lesson is learned.
I still ask where would you place your ARRA money if given the choice?
Stay tuned.
They spent roughly half of the 8.8 million to place less than 100 people into jobs. The leadership of DVR has decided to end Project HIRE and to divert the money to other areas. The State Rehabilitation Council has suggested four areas to bolster service to improve services but to date we haven’t been told were the money will be spent.
I must applaud the executive leadership of DVR for recognizing the shortcomings of the program and high cost associated with it. According to one of the leadership members of VR they apparently learned important lessons and built new partnerships. Let’s hope the next foray into a project won’t cost 4 million tax dollars before the lesson is learned.
I still ask where would you place your ARRA money if given the choice?
Stay tuned.
Monday, October 11, 2010
A celebration that was worth attending
I attended a celebration of life for Gene Winther on September 19th and came away with a greater appreciation for life and for the simple pleasures that make life worth living. Gene was 84 years old and he loved his job and loved to work. As a matter of fact at his last staffing we talked to Gene about retiring and he got very upset making it quite clear that he wanted to work and indeed that is what he did. Excited about his forthcoming trip to the San Juan’s with his bud Jack, Gene worked on Thursday prior to heading up to Seattle for the boat trip to Friday Harbor where he became ill. To be honest I didn’t have a lot of contact with Gene at the work site these last few years. I basically saw him at our picnic or holiday celebration. I do remember him greeting me when I visited him at work with his huge smile, shaking my hand and continuing on with his job, having met his social responsibility as quickly as possible but anxious to get back to work. According to those who gave an account of his life prior to my knowing him he led an extraordinary life, quite simply summed up as a cheerful giver.
During this service attended by 65 of his friends from programs such as Kokua, South Sound Options and Morningside many spoke of their friendship and love for the man who “worked hard all his life” who was a “friend of Morningside” and loved by all. The stories about Gene often included his friend Jack and many commented on how content he was with seemingly nothing but remembering that Gene said “I have it all… my friends and my work”. I was moved by many of those who spoke. One woman spoke of having a particular bad day and rushed to work all harried and a bit on edge. Gene asked her why she was out of sorts and she said she was having a bad day and he asked her why was that and how did that feel because he didn’t’ know what that felt like because according to him he never had a bad day in his life. Gene was a client of ours since 1967! For his 43 years at Morningside Gene’s desire was to work and enjoy life. We will miss you Gene.
During this service attended by 65 of his friends from programs such as Kokua, South Sound Options and Morningside many spoke of their friendship and love for the man who “worked hard all his life” who was a “friend of Morningside” and loved by all. The stories about Gene often included his friend Jack and many commented on how content he was with seemingly nothing but remembering that Gene said “I have it all… my friends and my work”. I was moved by many of those who spoke. One woman spoke of having a particular bad day and rushed to work all harried and a bit on edge. Gene asked her why she was out of sorts and she said she was having a bad day and he asked her why was that and how did that feel because he didn’t’ know what that felt like because according to him he never had a bad day in his life. Gene was a client of ours since 1967! For his 43 years at Morningside Gene’s desire was to work and enjoy life. We will miss you Gene.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Morningside Ride – 2010 Road Challenge
The Morningside Ride event held on Sunday, Sept. 19th was a big success. We had 48 cars run the route a big increase over last year’s 33 teams. At the finish, held at Lucky Eagle, the event room was filled with about 150 persons this year so that was very exciting. The Ride has grown quite a bit from last year and a lot more than the first year.
We want to thank our sponsors - Presenting Sponsor, Lucky Eagle Casino; Media Sponsor, 94.5 ROXY and the many additional corporate sponsors: Heritage Bank, Olympia Federal Savings, Titus-Will Cars, Coffee News, Color Graphics, The Law Offices of Harold D. Carr, First Citizens Bank, Chicago Title, McDonald’s, Olympics West Retirement Inn, Twin Start Credit Union, Wayne’s Ground Maintenance, West Coast Bank and Starbucks. We really appreciate the support of these companies without them our event wouldn’t be a success. I would also like to thank the many persons and companies who provided raffle prizes – too numerous to mention here.
A special thanks goes to Mike Marohn who wore many hats as a sponsor, awards MC and committee member. Also a big shout-out to Peggy Rogers our event Chair who did an outstanding job this year. I know I can’t mention everyone by name here but I appreciate all the work done by our army of volunteers – thank you very much.
If you haven’t participated in this event please consider it next year. It’s easy, fun and you are helping a great cause.
We want to thank our sponsors - Presenting Sponsor, Lucky Eagle Casino; Media Sponsor, 94.5 ROXY and the many additional corporate sponsors: Heritage Bank, Olympia Federal Savings, Titus-Will Cars, Coffee News, Color Graphics, The Law Offices of Harold D. Carr, First Citizens Bank, Chicago Title, McDonald’s, Olympics West Retirement Inn, Twin Start Credit Union, Wayne’s Ground Maintenance, West Coast Bank and Starbucks. We really appreciate the support of these companies without them our event wouldn’t be a success. I would also like to thank the many persons and companies who provided raffle prizes – too numerous to mention here.
A special thanks goes to Mike Marohn who wore many hats as a sponsor, awards MC and committee member. Also a big shout-out to Peggy Rogers our event Chair who did an outstanding job this year. I know I can’t mention everyone by name here but I appreciate all the work done by our army of volunteers – thank you very much.
Friday, September 10, 2010
What ARRA you Buying? The folly continues……
I thought I would give you an update on the state’s use of ARRA funds in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation that chose to use the 8.8 million dollars “to provide services to 1,000 new DVR customers with disabilities and assist them in finding jobs in high demand, high wage occupations and new green economy jobs”. The program is called Project H.I.R.E (Hiring Individuals with disabilities who are Ready for Employment). “The Goal: full-time jobs (35+ hours per week) with benefits earning mid-to-high wages ($15/per hour depending on the area) in demand occupations – such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects”.
In my May 20th blog, I pointed out the $15.00/hour has been lowered substantially as has the placement expectations and the target job areas and also reported out the abysmal results.
So where are we at? So let’s look at the current scorecard.
Goal Results
June-December 2009 – 200 persons placed in jobs Outcome 6 people placed – 93 clients in plan
January – June 2010 – 200 persons placed in jobs Total 93 persons placed
July-December 2010 – 300 persons placed in jobs
January – June 2011 – 300 persons placed in jobs
Let’s see they spent the first $2.0 million (on the initial 6 people placed) and then another $1.5 million or a total of $3.5 million for the 90 or so clients. That’s running about $38,000 per case. Oh the folly doesn’t stop there they want to add an additional $50,000 per contractor and keep the program running adding to the already bloated program costs.
Keep it going? Are you kidding me? 93 people placed out of the 400 expected at an average case cost of $38,000 what is going on there?
Who is keeping an eye on this? The State Rehabilitation Council asked for an independent review of the plan – not happening. I wonder why?
According to my records Morningside placed 88 individuals into jobs vs. the 93 these other contractors placed and these were individuals who happen to be substantially more disabled than the Project HIRE folks. Given adequate resources and the same level of clients targeted in this program we could have placed substantially more than 93 at far far less money. Our reimbursement rate would have been approximatly 10% of what it costs the state and Federal government in Project HIRE.
Where would you place your money if given the choice?
Like I said this past spring I am certain that President Barack Obama isn’t a follower of my blog and has no idea that these funds are being squandered but I would bet that he would be disappointed in how “Obama bucks” as the press terms these funds are not being utilized to the maximum extent possible and that the dream of 1,000 jobs being secured in demand occupations such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects was just that a dream.
In my May 20th blog, I pointed out the $15.00/hour has been lowered substantially as has the placement expectations and the target job areas and also reported out the abysmal results.
So where are we at? So let’s look at the current scorecard.
Goal Results
June-December 2009 – 200 persons placed in jobs Outcome 6 people placed – 93 clients in plan
January – June 2010 – 200 persons placed in jobs Total 93 persons placed
July-December 2010 – 300 persons placed in jobs
January – June 2011 – 300 persons placed in jobs
Let’s see they spent the first $2.0 million (on the initial 6 people placed) and then another $1.5 million or a total of $3.5 million for the 90 or so clients. That’s running about $38,000 per case. Oh the folly doesn’t stop there they want to add an additional $50,000 per contractor and keep the program running adding to the already bloated program costs.
Keep it going? Are you kidding me? 93 people placed out of the 400 expected at an average case cost of $38,000 what is going on there?
Who is keeping an eye on this? The State Rehabilitation Council asked for an independent review of the plan – not happening. I wonder why?
According to my records Morningside placed 88 individuals into jobs vs. the 93 these other contractors placed and these were individuals who happen to be substantially more disabled than the Project HIRE folks. Given adequate resources and the same level of clients targeted in this program we could have placed substantially more than 93 at far far less money. Our reimbursement rate would have been approximatly 10% of what it costs the state and Federal government in Project HIRE.
Where would you place your money if given the choice?
Like I said this past spring I am certain that President Barack Obama isn’t a follower of my blog and has no idea that these funds are being squandered but I would bet that he would be disappointed in how “Obama bucks” as the press terms these funds are not being utilized to the maximum extent possible and that the dream of 1,000 jobs being secured in demand occupations such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects was just that a dream.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Sad News
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Disability Fraud
At Morningside we work mostly with the 15% - that is the majority of those we serve were born with or their disability occurred before age 18 verses acquiring it through trauma, disease, etc. at a later age. So when I read or see reports that show someone “claiming” to be disabled to work the system it annoys me. No it does more than merely annoy me it totally ticks me off.
Twice in the past month, I have either read or viewed video of individuals taking advantage of the system, claiming they have a disability and can’t do anything to gain a higher pension or not work and live off whatever they fraudulently gained through insurance claims or suing the government. I actually read that in one municipality back east over 30 percent of employees getting ready to retire claim to be disabled to garner a bigger retirement check. Apparently the workgroup that is the biggest abuser are the fireman which leads me to the second story I saw.
I regularly peruse online newspapers and recently clicked on a video of a “disabled” fireman who had won a huge settlement with a municipality claiming to be severely injured on the job and was filmed doing some pretty amazing physical things unbeknownst to him by a hidden camera.
What’s with firemen and civil employees and claiming disability? What is in their subculture that permits this type of behavior is acceptable and is an appropriate thing to do? If we want to reform government why don’t we start here?
Twice in the past month, I have either read or viewed video of individuals taking advantage of the system, claiming they have a disability and can’t do anything to gain a higher pension or not work and live off whatever they fraudulently gained through insurance claims or suing the government. I actually read that in one municipality back east over 30 percent of employees getting ready to retire claim to be disabled to garner a bigger retirement check. Apparently the workgroup that is the biggest abuser are the fireman which leads me to the second story I saw.
I regularly peruse online newspapers and recently clicked on a video of a “disabled” fireman who had won a huge settlement with a municipality claiming to be severely injured on the job and was filmed doing some pretty amazing physical things unbeknownst to him by a hidden camera.
What’s with firemen and civil employees and claiming disability? What is in their subculture that permits this type of behavior is acceptable and is an appropriate thing to do? If we want to reform government why don’t we start here?
Friday, July 23, 2010
Happy 20th anniversary ADA
Like many laws the ADA (Americans with Disability Act) has been both cursed and praised as well as abused. How rights are exercised and averted can yield fairly strong emotions from both sides of the issue. But why should rights be averted or challenged is and will be a lingering question in the minds of many who were raised to believe the all men (and by inference women) have certain God given unalienable rights. Our own Declaration of Independence states,
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Life (read security), liberty (freedom to believe and to move freely in our society) and the pursuit of happiness are not rights individuals with disabilities had enjoyed until the ADA and as with any minority group its citizens still don’t partake of fully.
But I am not here to debate the issues nor explain how the law is being implemented etc. I am here to recount in part the movement. Like any radical movement there were leaders and followers who felt passionately about the subject and the ADA is no different. I think the person I remember most was Justin Dart. He is called the father of the ADA and I suspect deserves the title as I believe he threw himself wheelchair and all into the movement. I believe he traveled to all 50 states garnering support and urging the passage of the ADA. I had the opportunity to hear Justin in person at Seattle Community College in 1996 when he was stumping the country urging individuals with disabilities into greater political involvement, as he was gathering ideas for a national-policy summit in Dallas later in the month. I remember that he exhorted the audience to campaign and vote for candidates and initiatives that empower the individuals with disabilities because the work wasn’t done with just the passage of the ADA. I was in awe of him as I am sure African-Americans and others were in awe of Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement or those of Hispanic origin in awe of Cesar Chavez the Latino civil rights and farm worker activist and like Dr. King, Mr. Dart was a moving orator. He wore his signature white Stetson and had a very smooth eastern accent. He reminded me of FDR in the way he talked and delivered his message. I could have listened to him for hours. He threw himself into his passion – civil rights for individuals with disabilities. What impressed me most is that he was a lifelong Republican. His Republican roots ran deep and he out of conscience switched parties since at that time couldn’t agree with their platform planks that weren’t accessible to people with disabilities (pardon the pun). But for a person who had national recognition in a political organization to switch parties is well huge in my opinion and brought greater respect for the man. He was very clear on his message –advance the principle that people with disabilities and disability issues should be fully-integrated into all national political and policy discussions and decision-making. Justice for All means to defend and advance disability rights as the central issue. You can read a bit about Justin in the link to Ability Magazine:http://www.abilitymagazine.com/JustinDart_remembered.html
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Life (read security), liberty (freedom to believe and to move freely in our society) and the pursuit of happiness are not rights individuals with disabilities had enjoyed until the ADA and as with any minority group its citizens still don’t partake of fully.
But I am not here to debate the issues nor explain how the law is being implemented etc. I am here to recount in part the movement. Like any radical movement there were leaders and followers who felt passionately about the subject and the ADA is no different. I think the person I remember most was Justin Dart. He is called the father of the ADA and I suspect deserves the title as I believe he threw himself wheelchair and all into the movement. I believe he traveled to all 50 states garnering support and urging the passage of the ADA. I had the opportunity to hear Justin in person at Seattle Community College in 1996 when he was stumping the country urging individuals with disabilities into greater political involvement, as he was gathering ideas for a national-policy summit in Dallas later in the month. I remember that he exhorted the audience to campaign and vote for candidates and initiatives that empower the individuals with disabilities because the work wasn’t done with just the passage of the ADA. I was in awe of him as I am sure African-Americans and others were in awe of Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement or those of Hispanic origin in awe of Cesar Chavez the Latino civil rights and farm worker activist and like Dr. King, Mr. Dart was a moving orator. He wore his signature white Stetson and had a very smooth eastern accent. He reminded me of FDR in the way he talked and delivered his message. I could have listened to him for hours. He threw himself into his passion – civil rights for individuals with disabilities. What impressed me most is that he was a lifelong Republican. His Republican roots ran deep and he out of conscience switched parties since at that time couldn’t agree with their platform planks that weren’t accessible to people with disabilities (pardon the pun). But for a person who had national recognition in a political organization to switch parties is well huge in my opinion and brought greater respect for the man. He was very clear on his message –advance the principle that people with disabilities and disability issues should be fully-integrated into all national political and policy discussions and decision-making. Justice for All means to defend and advance disability rights as the central issue. You can read a bit about Justin in the link to Ability Magazine:http://www.abilitymagazine.com/JustinDart_remembered.html
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Mission Possible
Our video, Morningside Ride 2010, debut was last Wednesday at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce lunch Forum. It was well received by those present. Watch and let me know what you think.
Here is the link to our video. http://vimeo.com/13318661
Here is the link to our video. http://vimeo.com/13318661
Monday, July 12, 2010
Mission Impossible
I just got done viewing the third rough cut of the Morningside Ride video, a spoof on the Mission Impossible opening theme. It’s pretty funny if you know the script – the cast did an outstanding job. I would like to thank our cast: Tamara Schaffert, Betsy Pozzanghera, (agents Turbo and Cabriolet) Michael Cade, Celia Nightingale (dynamic duo), Brian Salva and Ben Howeiler from Heritage Bank (pushing a car and hauling a huge king salmon) along with Jerry Farmer, guest star who is from ROXY one of our sponsors. We have some very creative minds in this organization and those who we tapped to star in this epic production. Jonathan Pleger and Tamara did an outstanding job of working on the script and working with the videographer. Yours truly has a cameo appearance. The purpose is to generate interest in the ride and explain in a humorous way what the Ride is all about. We will be presenting this at the Thurston County Chamber Forum this Wednesday (7/14/2010). Look for the video on our web page and on Youtube when it comes out - soon. I don’t think this is going to go viral but you never know.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Big Disability Elephant in the Room
I just returned from the Association for Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) Conference. [More information about the organization is available at http://www.apse.org/. One of their initiatives is Employment First which establishes the idea that integrated competitive employment is the first option for all individuals regardless of disability level or support needs. It is exciting that this new public policy is gaining increased momentum both at the state and federal levels. It also begs the question about Washington State: What is happening with institutions in our state? While we are moving away from sheltered employment and segregated service to services in the community we still have 5 state institutions. The move to the community is a good trend that we have embraced wholeheartedly for many years now. But doesn’t it fly in the face of all national and state policy trends to maintain institutions? Washington is noted for its progressive supported employment movement - as a matter of fact we are first in the nation. So how can we reconcile the fact that we still have 5 state institutions for individuals with disabilities?
The governor proclaimed that community based services are the preferred options and suggested the state close some of the institutions. So what is happening? What is the hang up? Is it the unions? Is it a reticent administration? Is it battle weary legislators? If the residents want to live and work in the community, and believe me they do, what is stopping us from making the move? Why are we holding back? So to the policy makers and people in the position to change let’s show some courage and be brave about this after all courage is the power to let go of the familiar. And the opposite of courage in our society is not cowardice, it is conformity. We don’t need to study the issue to death like everything else in this state what we need is a band of people to act, to move this forward. To this I say “Sign Me Up”. I am ready to serve. I am ready to move forward. It should and can happen. And soon.
The governor proclaimed that community based services are the preferred options and suggested the state close some of the institutions. So what is happening? What is the hang up? Is it the unions? Is it a reticent administration? Is it battle weary legislators? If the residents want to live and work in the community, and believe me they do, what is stopping us from making the move? Why are we holding back? So to the policy makers and people in the position to change let’s show some courage and be brave about this after all courage is the power to let go of the familiar. And the opposite of courage in our society is not cowardice, it is conformity. We don’t need to study the issue to death like everything else in this state what we need is a band of people to act, to move this forward. To this I say “Sign Me Up”. I am ready to serve. I am ready to move forward. It should and can happen. And soon.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Lemonade out of Lemons part deux
A few blogs ago I recounted a story in Port Angeles about the company that won the bid to clean the UPS office decided to hire our clients – well they promptly let all of them go, apparently a directive from the regional or home office – whatever (hey this isn’t the first time something like this has happened. Apparently they mumble something about chemicals and danger forgetting the fact that the clients have been doing this for the last 10 years without mishap). So in response we have planned on reconstructing in a small way our “Bridge to Community” effort where we closed the sheltered workshop in Olympia now we are moving clients from a group work crew to individual supported employment. We think it is time for these folks to work in their own job being paid by an employer other than Morningside. Well the wheels are in motion – we have met with funders, case managers, parents, residential providers and most importantly the clients themselves and all are on-board with the plan. We hope to place 6 individuals soon who are currently out of work. We are excited about the possibilities this step will bring these 6 and push on to where “everybody works”.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Happy Birthday ADA
On July 26 1990 President George H. W. Bush on the south lawn of the White House, signed into law the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), the most sweeping civil rights legislation of all time. As we approach the 20th anniversary of the signing I am not struck by the enormity of the impact on American life for all Americans because of this important piece of legislation but I am still in awe of the leaders of the disability movement at the time and how I was and am still humbled by their courage and conviction. So while I reflect on Justin Dart, Evan Kemp, Judy Heumann, Ed Roberts, Pat Wright and others I can’t help but think of the pioneers and people who impacted my life in the Pacific Northwest. My uncle Art comes to mind first. Art Larson worked for DVR (the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) for many years and rose to be fairly high up in the central office. I got my first taste of VR at the Seattle office in the old Orpheum Building adjacent to the Orpheum Theatre – the sight now of the Westin hotel towers. I remember it was just before the Monorail so that dates me somewhat so I’m guessing I was 12 or 13 years old at the time. He invited me to his office to show me around but got a great kick out of taking me across the street to the health food store to get a glass of carrot juice and apparently my expression revealed my instant distaste for the elixir and loved to tell the story of my experience. He swore by its medicinal properties. Uncle Art was introduced to DVR as a recipient of services. He contracted polio while attending the University studying to become a pharmacist. Following treatment VR assisted my uncle to find his first job working as a technician for KOMO radio. While touring his office he pointed out his rolodex that was brim full on names and he said that this was the envy of the Seattle office because my uncle had this tremendous collection of contacts in the business community. But what my uncle taught me was that people who were paralyzed had the same aspirations as everyone else and could do the work only they had to be super at the job and needed to put forth tremendous effort because of the physical challenges. I guess why I am so maudlin is that my uncle is celebrating his 97 birthday and is very ill and last weekend while visiting friends in Oregon I ran across a brief obit and invite to Margaret Reavis-Larson’s memorial notice in the newspaper. Margaret was the founder of Mid-Valley Workshop and Rehabilitation Centers program. I worked for them in the late ‘80’s and she was on the board when I worked there. She was a visionary who could motivate people to join in the effort. She was on the same caliber as Jan Loutzenhiser the first Exec of Morningside. Jan was a dear woman who was exceptional. A very bright woman who also motivated people to do their best and always thought first of the people we served. Evelyn McBurney, Mike Hatch the founder of Work Opportunities (an old boss of mine) and of course my father Ed ranks up there as a pioneer and visionary with the work he did at Custom Industries. My father would “invite” me to join him during breaks while I attended college to move some machinery or set up some work station for a new project at Custom. I suspect that is how I got involved in this unusual business. So here’s to the early pioneers both local and nationally who made it sure that people with disabilities could have the same opportunity as all citizens.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
What ARRA you Buying?
Our auditor suggested that we seek ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) funds. Remember this is the federal program that distributed $787 billion in funds to boost our country out of the recession or to keep us from plunging deeper into recession. I replied to his suggestion by noting that funding for our programs is funneled through state agencies that have decided to put them to “other uses” than support or enhance existing services. For example, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation chose to use the 8.8 million dollars to provide services to 1,000 new DVR customers with disabilities and assist them in finding jobs in high demand, high wage occupations and new green economy jobs. The new program is called Project H.I.R.E (Hiring Individuals with disabilities who are Ready for Employment). “The Goal: full-time jobs (35+ hours per week) with benefits earning mid-to-high wages ($15/per hour depending on the area) in demand occupations – such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects”
These new clients or customers as DVR refers to individuals with disabilities were to be freshly minted graduates from our trade and technical schools so new partners were engaged to work on this project. So where are we at? So let’s look at the scorecard.
Goal: Results
June-December 2009 – 200 persons placed in jobs Outcome 6 people placed – 93 clients in plan
January – June 2010 – 200 persons placed in jobs
July-December 2010 – 300 persons placed in jobs
January – June 2011 – 300 persons placed in jobs
The $15.00/hour has been lowered substantially as has the placement expectations and the target job areas. So while this program was ramping up (incidentally the second round of contracts was just let with yet another extended ramp-up period) to place these 6 people, Morningside placed 44 individuals into jobs, individuals who happen to be substantially more disabled than the Project HIRE folks.
With minor enhancements to our program and given additional tools we could have substantially added to our numbers – I suspect we could have doubled the figure.
Where would you place your money if given the choice?
Oh by the way DVR wants to expand the program….I am certain that President Barack Obama isn’t a follower of my blog and has no idea that these funds are being squandered but I would bet that he would be disappointed in how “Obama bucks” as the press terms these funds are not being utilized to the maximum extent possible and that the dream of 1,000 jobs being secured in demand occupations such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects was just that a dream.
These new clients or customers as DVR refers to individuals with disabilities were to be freshly minted graduates from our trade and technical schools so new partners were engaged to work on this project. So where are we at? So let’s look at the scorecard.
Goal: Results
June-December 2009 – 200 persons placed in jobs Outcome 6 people placed – 93 clients in plan
January – June 2010 – 200 persons placed in jobs
July-December 2010 – 300 persons placed in jobs
January – June 2011 – 300 persons placed in jobs
The $15.00/hour has been lowered substantially as has the placement expectations and the target job areas. So while this program was ramping up (incidentally the second round of contracts was just let with yet another extended ramp-up period) to place these 6 people, Morningside placed 44 individuals into jobs, individuals who happen to be substantially more disabled than the Project HIRE folks.
With minor enhancements to our program and given additional tools we could have substantially added to our numbers – I suspect we could have doubled the figure.
Where would you place your money if given the choice?
Oh by the way DVR wants to expand the program….I am certain that President Barack Obama isn’t a follower of my blog and has no idea that these funds are being squandered but I would bet that he would be disappointed in how “Obama bucks” as the press terms these funds are not being utilized to the maximum extent possible and that the dream of 1,000 jobs being secured in demand occupations such as health care, information technology, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, international trade, other stimulus projects was just that a dream.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Phoenix of Funding
Out of the ashes (cigarette ash more likely according to the new tax) funding for employment services for students with developmental disabilities transitioning to adult services from high school arose. So what does the tax on a can of Budweiser beer or pop (soda for non-natives) yield - well it means that around 1,000 students graduating from special education will have employment services available to them when they graduate. This $4.5 million infusion of funds is a huge relief after the “regular 09-11 budget” session slashed any funding for students hoping to work after high school. The governor and the majority of legislators calling for reasonableness in fiscal approach protecting the state’s most vulnerable indeed supported funding for adults with developmental disabilities. If the rallying cries of “jobs are the way out of the recession” then the legislature heard the call and stepped up to the plate on this and backed their rhetoric with action. The proposed cut of general employment services by another 3% also was rescinded. Before you get all hopped up (pardon the pun) over forking out extra denaro for your precious MGD to preserve funding remember that the state slashed 3% from the funding last year and since agencies such as Morningside had only received 2.5% COLA in the last 10 years we were looking at funding levels used to support individuals at 1995 rates – trust me it will be difficult to support at year 2000 rates given all the increases over the last 10 years (I think our health care cost alone had doubled in that time). So all-in-all I am quite pleased. I am pleased for the students and their families who now have hope instead of despair.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Quiet Bill Yields Huge Change
In my blog I have revealed the fact that I have been in this field a number of years now. Over the course of those years I have seen a lot of change. It’s the change prompted by self-advocates that have always caught my attention. That change was fought in a variety of ways - from the sit-ins during the 70’s to push for rights associated with the Voc Rehab Act of 1973 to the campaigning for total civil rights in the late 80’s to push for the adoption of the Americans With Disabilities Act to become a reality (the 20th anniversary of the signing will be this July 26th). And most recently in the Washington State Legislature this past session with the passage and subsequent signing of HB 2490 Respectful Language Bill. No there were no sit-ins or mass demonstrations and if you weren’t careful you would have missed this effort because huge problems like severe service cutbacks seemed paramount in many people’s minds.
However the people with significant disabilities I talked to at the legislative reception held in January the conversation was around this respectful language bill. Why was this important – well it was for respect and acceptance in my opinion. Personally not having been tagged with a label (well other than the most recent geezer) I can’t relate to being called a derogatory name – but I have experienced repeatedly in the presence of individuals with disabilities and other minorities groups name calling and many, many forms of discrimination and derogatory references. So while it may not seem like much for those of us who are not of a minority group – this is huge and I applaud the legislature, the Governor and the countless advocates and self-advocates who worked on this bill and to Representative Jan Angel the bill sponsor – well you deserve a huge thanks and much gratitude for taking this on. I have copied a piece of the bill below.
The code reviser is directed to avoid all references to: Disabled, developmentally disabled, mentally disabled, mentally ill, mentally retarded, handicapped, cripple, and crippled, in any new statute, memorial, or resolution, and to change such references in any existing statute, memorial, or resolution as sections including these references are otherwise amended by law. (b) The code reviser is directed to replace terms referenced in (a) of this subsection as appropriate with the following revised terminology: "Individuals with disabilities," "individuals with developmental disabilities," "individuals with mental illness," and "individuals with intellectual disabilities."
Who knows why at this time such a law passed? Maybe the legislature thought well we will “toss them a bone” and give them this because in the budget we are cutting their dental benefits, or they will be out of a job because we are going to lop funding. Or maybe this was an easy thing to pass - something concrete because the huge unanswered budget question was too large and took an extra session to address. Or just maybe everyone thought that in law it isn’t respectful to have words like cripple when we mean individuals with disabilities or retarded when we mean individuals with intellectual disabilities. I’d like to think the latter after all everyone deserves respect even in outdated, obscure laws.
However the people with significant disabilities I talked to at the legislative reception held in January the conversation was around this respectful language bill. Why was this important – well it was for respect and acceptance in my opinion. Personally not having been tagged with a label (well other than the most recent geezer) I can’t relate to being called a derogatory name – but I have experienced repeatedly in the presence of individuals with disabilities and other minorities groups name calling and many, many forms of discrimination and derogatory references. So while it may not seem like much for those of us who are not of a minority group – this is huge and I applaud the legislature, the Governor and the countless advocates and self-advocates who worked on this bill and to Representative Jan Angel the bill sponsor – well you deserve a huge thanks and much gratitude for taking this on. I have copied a piece of the bill below.
The code reviser is directed to avoid all references to: Disabled, developmentally disabled, mentally disabled, mentally ill, mentally retarded, handicapped, cripple, and crippled, in any new statute, memorial, or resolution, and to change such references in any existing statute, memorial, or resolution as sections including these references are otherwise amended by law. (b) The code reviser is directed to replace terms referenced in (a) of this subsection as appropriate with the following revised terminology: "Individuals with disabilities," "individuals with developmental disabilities," "individuals with mental illness," and "individuals with intellectual disabilities."
Who knows why at this time such a law passed? Maybe the legislature thought well we will “toss them a bone” and give them this because in the budget we are cutting their dental benefits, or they will be out of a job because we are going to lop funding. Or maybe this was an easy thing to pass - something concrete because the huge unanswered budget question was too large and took an extra session to address. Or just maybe everyone thought that in law it isn’t respectful to have words like cripple when we mean individuals with disabilities or retarded when we mean individuals with intellectual disabilities. I’d like to think the latter after all everyone deserves respect even in outdated, obscure laws.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Pizza Hut National Claim Proven Locally
At the Lacey and Thurston County Chamber Forum’s that we sponsored I highlighted a statistic we use in regards to lowering turnover that was supplied by the Pizza Hut Corporation. They report that entry-level turnover is 250% annually; among its employees with disabilities, the rate is 32%. Adding a mentor component brought turnover down to a stunning 2%. That statistic in all probability is being played out in the Pizza Hut on Pacific and Carpenter Road in Lacey with a client that we support who has been working there since 1992. One of her job duties is to make pizza boxes at during the busiest times Thursday, Friday and Saturday late afternoon and evening when the whole business is in a frenzy as pies are flying out of there as fast as frisbees at an “Ultimate Frisbee” match. She has seen managers, pizza makers, delivers, and front counter staff come and go throughout her tenure there – she is the most senior staff I suspect – and she is there day-in and day-out making those pizza boxes so there is no bottleneck in the production. Similarly, I recently took an old photo I took of the entire staff at a local Olive Garden restaurant when we awarded an Outstanding Employer Award to them a few years ago and asked the current shift manager who was there to identify any person still employed in the picture – she pointed to the person we support. Want to lower your turnover, want to improve morale; want consistency and dependability in your company please consider Pizza Hut and Olive Garden’s experience and give us a call.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Lemonade out of Lemons
Have you ever been presented with terrible news only to be followed by events that not only changed the situation but it turned into the best possible outcome? We were notified that an office we clean in Port Angeles was changing janitorial companies. This is a national firm and apparently a directive came that discontinued our service. We were devastated as clients had worked there for 15 years and for some this was their only job. We were frantic and in the process of planning on working through the problem. The company that took over the contract (apparently they were awarded the janitorial service contract for multiple cities in Washington) contacted us and as a result hired all our clients. Of course this is the ultimate outcome we wish for all our clients to work directly for a company - we are thrilled.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Great Thurston Chamber Forum
Wow what a positive response to the forum on Wednesday March 10th about hiring people with disabilities. John Evans did an outstanding job and the audience response to Morningside clients and employers was heartfelt. See the article in The Olympian http://www.theolympian.com/2010/03/11/1168384/businesses-hailed-for-jobs-for.html#Comments_Container
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
State Budget revealed - Yea and Yuk
The State Legislature revealed their budgets yesterday and you couldn’t find two diametrically opposed budgets for employment programs. The Senate budget proposal contains the same provisions as the Governor's Book #1 "All Cuts" budget including a 3% cut to County Employment Contracts, elimination of 'state only' funded employment and day services, funding for the transition students already on a waiver, no additional funding for other transitioning students, and suspension of the Jobs by 21 project. I testified at the 3:30pm Senate Ways & Means Committee hearing, to encourage restoration of funds they wanted to cut. The Community Employment Alliance had a strong contingent of people to testify against and ask for their reconsideration.
The House budget proposal contains exceptionally strong support for employment services for people with developmental disabilities. The mood amongst the Community Employment Alliance members attending last night’s House hearing was elation with everyone expressing joy especially for the add-ins. Their budget proposal does not reduce County funding, their budget does not eliminate 'state only' funding for employment and day services, it also includes funding for transition services for students on the basic waiver, and adds funding for 1,058 students not currently on the waiver. Funding for all students - can you believe it? The House did also reduce funding and suspend the Jobs by 21 project. Support for people with developmental disabilities received on the House side of the budget is appreciated. A huge thanks to our Representatives for their work.
The House budget proposal contains exceptionally strong support for employment services for people with developmental disabilities. The mood amongst the Community Employment Alliance members attending last night’s House hearing was elation with everyone expressing joy especially for the add-ins. Their budget proposal does not reduce County funding, their budget does not eliminate 'state only' funding for employment and day services, it also includes funding for transition services for students on the basic waiver, and adds funding for 1,058 students not currently on the waiver. Funding for all students - can you believe it? The House did also reduce funding and suspend the Jobs by 21 project. Support for people with developmental disabilities received on the House side of the budget is appreciated. A huge thanks to our Representatives for their work.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
“Jobs are the Way Out”
I now have heard the Governor of the State of Washington and the President of the United States say that jobs are key to moving our state and country out of the recession. Why then aren’t the Federal and state governments supportive of individuals with significant disabilities finding and keeping jobs in the community? Federal economic stimulus money went to serve the least disabled (contrary to the priorities of the federal law). State monies to serve individuals in supported employment working in jobs in the community are earmarked to be cut by over 200 positions. Frankly, I don’t understand this – is it because policy makers don’t really believe that the job a person with a developmental disability performs is important? If that is the feeling held by policy makers then they aren’t listening to the hundreds of business owners that value the work and dedication these individuals have toward their job. I have heard from scores of business managers, supervisors and owners who extol the work ethic and outstanding work performed by the individuals we support in the community. Business owners get it. People with disabilities get it. Our staff get it. Why don’t bureaucrats and policy makers get the fact that people with developmental disabilities want to work, are good workers, and just need a bit of support (like us all) to succeed?
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Service Cuts = loss of jobs
There are over 250 individuals in Washington State – 29 who are served at Morningside in Thurston County alone that will be without service if the proposed cuts are implemented this legislative session. While these numbers are not staggering, in my opinion, one person losing a job because supports can’t be given would be a tragic thing. Work is important and vital to these individuals lives probably more so than the average person as this is the only area that they are recognized for their worth – their individual contribution to the common good. Funding for developmental disability services is complicated but to boil it down the reason they may lose services is that they don’t qualify for a federal program and the matched money it yields therefore the policy body can exclude them from service to save money. Linked to this is a position paper developed by our state association Community Employment Alliance. I ask that you read this respond to the call. http://www.communityemploymentalliance.org/legislativeagenda.html
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