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An Inspiration to All

2012-01-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

Annually we present the Ann Bolendar Inspirational Award to a client who, like the award’s namesake, is a dedicated worker. A person who against all odds goes to work, does their best, doesn’t complain, is joyful works hard and has a positive outlook in spite of their disability.

This year we have unfortunately presented the award posthumously. Mary Liufau is a most deserving recipient who passed away on December 3, 2011. Her memorial service was held on Saturday, December 17th. Mary worked at South Puget Sound Community College as a Compost Station Coordinator assisting students, faculty and visitors to recycle their cafeteria remnants into the proper recycling or trash receptacle. Mary lived life to the fullest and embraced each new day with a smile on her face. She really enjoyed her job and life at SPSCC. She was also active in the Polynesian Club.

I had the opportunity to announce her award at our Holiday Party held at the Lacey Community Center. The whole room exploded with applause when her name was announced and the same at her memorial service. She touched many people both at Morningside and SPSCC.

I wanted to both share this announcement to the broader public and recognize her – not only in terms of her work but the impact she had on others. It was evident at the memorial that she truly brought joy to people’s lives and was an inspiration to many. Throughout the service many people spoke, sang and shared their stories about Mary. She was very loyal to family and friends, if you connected with her she was your loyal friend for life.

The service touched me in a very special way since it was multi-cultural. It absolutely drew me in and I was thrilled to be a part of the ethnic diversity. Mary was of Polynesian and African-American decent and the service was performed in both Polynesian and English. Her uncle Tini was very welcoming and presented the Eulogy. Her step-father, Darriel, sang a couple of songs. One song sung to the tune of “Somewhere over the Rainbow” had lyrics altered especially for Mary. It was especially poignant and moved us all. Once again I had the opportunity to share her award with those in attendance and once again the room exploded in applause.

Whenever I talked with Mary I was always drawn to her smile and pleasant personality. Mary certainly made the most of her life and inspired many along the way. She will be missed and remembered by all.

Mary at her SPSCC job

Knock….Knock Anybody Out There?

2011-12-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

Well much has transpired on the state funding scene since my last blog. The Governor restored some cuts proposed by her administration in the area of Developmental Disabilities and she proposed or floated the idea of a .5 cent state sales tax to go to the voters in March.

Morningside contacted local groups to organize a legislative forum to describe the services people with developmental disabilities receive and the impact of loss of service would mean to our legislative contingent. This forum was presented on November 16th at River Ridge Covenant Church. We had over 150 people sign in but estimates placed the crowd at 200 – by far the largest turnout of this type ever in Thurston County. The people reporting on the services did an outstanding job and I was very proud of our staff for organizing this, and making all the necessary arrangements and setting up for the evening. A big thanks goes out to them. The ARC of Washington videotaped the event and a posted a clip on YouTube :http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv-WI3TCs0Y).As the video points out only one legislator out of 9 attended and we thank Sam Hunt for attending…but what about the other 8? Well most were busy with either raising funds or attending their peers fundraising events. After all isn’t filling the war chest more important than talking to continuants in this day and age?

After last session and with this special session and the short session coming up in January it is my observation that legislators are becoming more callous, in my opinion, over what the loss of service would mean to this vulnerable population. Saying “well there just isn’t enough money” is disturbing especially when the state is taking in more money than last year…and the year before that. So let’s be honest it isn’t because the state doesn’t have enough money for this service. There is just too much demand for the dollars available. But why choose to cut funding to individuals with developmental living and working in the community and boot them to the street?

Well who knows for certain the workings under the dome and the complicated bureaucratic maze? Well when it comes down to it my hope is that compassionate hearts prevail in the discussion.

Armageddon

2011-10-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

The state government revenues are not making expectations because this recovery is stalled. The national pundits are questioning whether this is a double-dip or another recession. Our local economic vitality indicators look abysmal. Obviously expectation of generated tax revenue dropping has prompted the Governor to call on state agencies to present 10 percent reduction packages in advance of the planned special legislative session slated for November 28th. What does this mean for the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), the funding arm of state government responsible for providing services to individuals who have developmental disabilities? Of the current $1.3 billion dollar hole DSHS needs to cut back $573 million and of that ADSA (the division that includes DDD) needs to cut $411 million or about 72% of all DSHS cuts!

How they plan to make the cuts is to change the eligibility criteria so that some people will be ineligible to receive any service. In terms of the number of people this represents 51% of those currently in service or 8,700 people will be denied services of any kind. For vocational programs the number is approximately 4,100 individuals who would no longer receive employment support services. So while 10 percent overall cut seems small it becomes 51 percent of people no longer receiving any support to live and work in our community - which is huge. Yikes, the thought of the impact of the loss of services is staggering. Without living and work supports most of these folks will be on the street. Many of those we support don’t have families to help them so there is no fallback position for them.

What do these cuts mean for other DSHS programs? The information below was supplied by the Washington Budget and Policy Center.
http://budgetandpolicy.org/schmudget/deeper-budget-cuts-would-put-lives-on-the-line
As a starting point, state agencies have submitted proposals to reflect a 10 percent reduction in their budgets. In addition to the cuts in employment programs such a scenario would include:
• Suspension of prescription drug coverage for 500,000 individuals.

• Over 18,000 fewer students enrolled in community and technical colleges.

• Elimination of food assistance for 14,000 low-income legal immigrants.

• Reductions in domestic violence services and assistance for children with high behavior needs, affecting 4,500 children.

• The loss of health care for 25,000 children.

• Elimination or reduction of mental health, long term care, and developmental disability services for more than 80,000 individuals.

• Elimination of support to ensure positive birth outcomes for 54,000 at-risk mothers.

• Elimination of health care coverage for 36,000 working adults.

Maybe now you know why I entitled this Armageddon. The effect of these cuts is the end for so many vulnerable individuals in our state. So please join with us in making sure individuals will not be shut out of services they deserve.

Morningside Ride

2011-09-21T16:56:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Morningside Road Challenge was fun!!!! This event is growing each year and this year we had more people come in costume.

Here is the winner of the “Best Dressed” costume award.

For the second year Alisha Blain and Stephanie Scott have worn coordinated outfits. Note the matching accessories!

And best corporate “dressed” needs to go to First Citizens.

I hope everyone who participated had a great time. This year Lucas Doelman who is both a board member and a client gave a wonderful talk from his point of view of our staff who are dedicated, motivated and strive for success. He did a masterful job from his perspective on how these attributes are important in one’s life, how it related to him and how our staff exemplify this in their daily work supporting individuals with disabilities. I trust attendees at the ride took away how wonderful and dedicated our staff are.

So in the spirit of the Road Challenge 2011 – “How do you Ride?” We hope well until our 2012 Road Challenge. See you then.

I am blessed

2011-08-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

I am thankful to God for many things but I believe, next to my family, I am most thankful for Morningside and being a part of an organization with solid values, clear vision and a social justice mission. By extension I am also thankful for our staff who are very focused on what we do, have a spirit of helping others and a drive to make sure individuals with disabilities have opportunity.

It is so fun to talk with staff who get excited when the perfect job match is found and the person we are supporting is happy for a job that they choose to do and fits their needs and desires. We don’t have easy jobs. First, it’s a challenge to get an employer to even talk with you. But then to have an employer say yes - well, it’s time to get ecstatic. What I enjoy also about my job is talking to employers who expound the virtues of hiring a person with severe disabilities. I love to hear about how the workplace has improved and changed as a result of hiring one of our clients.

It is also true that I get bummed out when something goes sour with a job. For instance I happened to find out by happenstance that a long time employee at Pizza _ _ _ was let go. I use this person as an example because this national company conducted a study extolling the virtues of hiring individuals with disabilities. The study found their turnover rate was 200 plus percent for non-disables workers at entry level jobs but a miniscule, in comparison, 30% for individuals with disabilities. This person whom we support has been an employee there for the past 9 years and rarely missed a day of work. She had been known to walk to work in the snow for fear the transit system wouldn’t be operating that day. She was the embodiment of the study they conducted nationwide. She was the living example of the positive return on investment of lowered turnover rates. She was let go because of economic reasons and no amount of discussion could change this manager’s mind. The manager has been the store manager for two years and he said that it was an economic decision and it sticks. I think it is penny wise and pound foolish. Boy are they losing out. Not only are they losing a good loyal employee they have lost a lot of goodwill in the process. I for one was a customer but I won’t be encouraging people to buy from them in the future.

The only saving grace in all of this is that I chatted with her the other day and she not bitter or resentful but looking ahead because as she puts it “I am a good worker. Someone will want me, huh Jim?”. She is so positive and encouraging to others, I am blessed to know her and a better person because of it.

ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) 21st Anniversary

2011-07-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

Justin Dart speaks at the tenth anniversary of the ADA in Washington DC

July 26, 2011 marks the 21st anniversary of the signing of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act. As always I reflect on the words of Justin Whitlock Dart Jr, a profound leader, during his lifetime, in the disability rights movement, and can almost hear his richly cadenced voice calling for justice in our society:

“I adamantly protest the richest culture in the history of the world, a culture which has the obvious potential to create a golden age of science and democracy dedicated to maximizing the quality of life of every person, but which still squanders the majority of its human and physical capital on modern versions of primitive symbols of power and prestige.

I call for solidarity among all who love justice, all who love life, to create a revolution that will empower every single human being to govern his or her life, to govern the society and to be fully productive of life quality for self and for all.

I do so love all the patriots of this and every nation who have fought and sacrificed to bring us to the threshold of this beautiful human dream. I do so love America the beautiful and our wild, creative, beautiful people. I do so love you, my beautiful colleagues in the disability and civil rights movement."

In this forum I have questioned the advancement, or lack thereof, in our society in attitudes toward individuals with disabilities. I struggle with the dichotomy of seeing people with disabilities succeed in achieving their goals every single day and the continuing ignorance of some in our society. Sometimes the lesson comes right to my own doorstep. The night before last night my sister and my daughter, Megan, called to vent about an incident of blatant discrimination. Megan had recently traveled to Whidbey Island to look for a new puppy. After the visit the breeder called Megan to tell let her know she could not have the puppy because she was too disabled to have a dog! The woman went on to say that due to Megan’s condition she couldn’t take care of a dog adequately. After all the woman had once broken her leg and had a hard time taking care of her dogs. Not only did the woman say this to Megan but she also stated she had emailed other kennels breeding the same type of dog to warn them of Megan’s interest and notify them that they shouldn’t sell to her because of her disability.

I haven’t discussed my daughter or her disability in this forum. Suffice to say Megan is a wonderful person and a very accomplished individual. She received her high school diploma and AA degree at the same time. She was one of only 2 students to accomplish this feat attending River Ridge HS that year. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Washington, School of Medicine and has passed her licensing board examination. In high school she played on the River Ridge Tennis Team in doubles and played in the school marching band. I think she can manage being a dog owner! But all this woman could see was a young woman with a disability. Besides the fact that Megan is accomplished and she certainly can handle a dog, hasn’t this woman heard about service dogs? Apparently this breed isn’t cut out for the task.

In conversations with my friends with disabilities I know this happens all the time. I ask myself, will it ever change?

Then I think of Mr. Dart and his call for fighting injustice to ensure everyone has the right to govern their own life and participate in our society as equals. Mr. Dart gives us much to ponder.

Funding Following Policy

2011-06-29T15:10:00.000-07:00

Last month in my blog titled “Not Again” I mentioned a movement to repurpose state budget money designated for employment programs for use in day activity programs.

The troubling issue is a shift in policy that is counter to normalized services and integration for adults with disabilities. We have worked years to get away from large segregated group programs and I am concerned we will shift policy by shifting funds. The adage is true - follow the dollars and you’ll know the priorities.

The Working Age Adult Policy makes work a priority and isn’t that what our society values? Don’t we gain great intrinsic, not to mention monetary, value in working? I mentioned in the Not Again Blog that when we were contemplating closing the sheltered workshop we employed the services of an outside consultant to ask the clients what they wanted. 80% of our clients said they wanted to work in the community! They wanted to have the same opportunity as all citizens because that is what America is all about – working and being productive in our society.

Does pet therapy or music therapy sound good? Sure, but most of us need to work in order to survive. If, in fact, the policy in this state is to prioritize work then the money should follow. If, in fact, we want an ancillary program centered around singing or making a dog’s tail wag then fund that - but not by taking the funding from employment programs. I say fund the program that best represents what is happening in the community. I don’t see our friends and neighbors sitting around during the work day petting cats as a large group activity! If, in fact, this alternative program is funded then in my opinion it should be integrated with other programs. Volunteer at the local humane shelter or sing in a community or church choir. The problem once again is that people take a paternalistic stance leading to a situation where we decide what is best for individuals with intellectual disabilities without really considering what they want.

I have talked about when I worked in Ellensburg, Washington many years ago. We had a segregated recreation program – best in the state in my opinion in large part due to the fact that we had a great Director and students from CWU’s recreation program working for us. When clients came to me and asked to change the service because they wanted to have more normalized activities I had to convince the staff that it was a good idea to move away from large group activity to more individualized services. Funding always came up as a stumbling block. It is hard to fund individualized services on a large group funding model. But should Pet the Kitty be 5 days a week several hours a day? Even I get tired of singing in my church choir after an hour of practice.

So I propose that funding for employment remain the same, that the Working Age Adult Policy stand and that funding is established for “recreation” programs based on an integrated model. And finally if respite care is the real root issue then funding should be established for an appropriate very short term, short duration respite model not adult day care.

Annual Report Available

2011-05-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

Our 2010 Annual Report is available both on line and in printed form.

Our report is informative and riveting. Everyone loves it even Aiden (seen below) thinks it’s cool.

Please let me know if you would like a hard copy.

Some Thoughts on Social Justice

2011-05-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

I was about 12 years old when the first Freedom Riders traveled to the south to demand full civil rights for African Americans. I asked my dad what it was all about. While he was explaining it I remember being somewhat baffled by the whole notion of inequality. I was raised Christian and taught we have an obligation to take care of each other - all of us. My dad was disturbed by the fact that people who were demanding social justice were attacked by law enforcement. I was incensed we could treat other people differently because they didn’t look like us - that some in our country thought people of color were less somehow. It didn’t really hit me then that some prejudice looms in each of us.

About the same time my dad told me of an Asian couple that wanted to move into our neighborhood and the association voted against it. I couldn’t believe my ears as my father’s explanation for discrimination was based not on ethnic bias but on property values. I couldn’t reconcile it and hoped that deep down he couldn’t either. Later I experienced firsthand racial discrimination, right here in the Pacific Northwest. I had an African American roommate and we were denied entrance into a restaurant. I wanted to make an issue of it because the restaurant owner said there was no room but I saw plenty of open tables but my roommate said “Let’s just move on, it’s not worth the hassle”.

Following the signing of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, the civil rights law guaranteeing equal opportunity for people with disabilities, the federal bureaucracy failed to create the regulations to implement the Act. As a result there was a nationwide sit-in of government buildings operated by HEW (Department of Health, Education and Welfare) in 1977. I watched the demonstrators with chained wheelchairs refusing to leave the offices in San Francisco and thought they didn’t have a chance of forcing the government into action. It didn’t seem possible because the group was small and no Freedom Riders were coming over the horizon to their aid. I was wrong. The protesters prevailed. They got noticed and the regulations were issued. I think that was the first time I was impressed with the determination and issues surrounding individuals with disabilities. You can read more on the history of the disability rights movement at: http://www.museumofdisability.org/home.asp

By time the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) came before Congress I was personally involved with the issues relating to the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. With 16 years in the rehabilitation field and firsthand experience with the challenges of individuals with disability in the areas of accessibility, I worked to encourage Congress to pass this significant legislation. It is sometimes difficult for an able-bodied person to understand the importance of access. The able-bodied person has not experienced the challenges of a non-ambulatory person negotiating moving from point A to point B until you have actually helped someone in a wheelchair access the entryway of a museum or hotel room or other public area. I vividly remember my experience in 1978 or 1979 of traveling with a person in a wheelchair to a conference. This was long before laws were changed to require curb cuts and accessible hotel rooms and restaurants. What I thought were simple steps turned out to be monumental barriers for this person in a wheelchair.

I learned through many years working on behalf of individuals with disabilities the challenges and, by extension, the indifference to disability. The prejudice they experience – name calling, teasing, lack of access were all done in my presence as if an able-bodied person had the right to look down upon another human. It reminds me of Selma, Alabama in 1961. The blatant discrimination of not being allowed entry or being asked to leave a restaurant because the people I was with were “too grotesque”. It reminds me of the “Whites Only” signs at public facilities in some parts of this country until the mid-60’s. On July 26, 1990 the ADA was signed into law and what a glorious day it was! I had been at Morningside a year and was elated at the signing. With this law the self-determination movement began, centering on the right of people with disabilities to make choices about their own lives, have the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else, and speak and advocate for themselves. It made so much sense – their time had arrived. Or had it? Has it changed monumentally in the last 20 years?

This last week I was listening to board members of a sheltered workshop defend paying sub-minimum wage and sheltered employment. I was outraged at the thought and expression that people with disabilities were “less than”. I thought of how embarrassed I would be if my friends with disabilities were in the room listening to people talk about people with disabilities as not really being productive, that no business would pay the going wage for them. Finally, I couldn’t contain myself and spoke out (really on behalf of them) saying that as a matter of justice we should do everything in our power to make sure people with disabilities have the same rights, same access, same wage and same opportunity as all other citizens. I wish I could have been as powerful and eloquent as Justin Dart, the tireless supporter of access for people with disabilities. I can just hear his message “I call for solidarity among all who love justice, all who love life, to create a revolution that will empower every single human being to govern his or her life, to govern the society and to be fully productive of life quality for self and for all.” He concluded with a call for “Justice for All”.

Fighting for people’s rights is a challenge. It isn’t easy. It can be painful. But it sure feels good to know you are supporting what is right, what is true and what is just.

Not Again

2011-05-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

I think by now you know I am old. I don’t feel old but when I tell people I started in this business in 1973, well it’s been a long time – over 38 years. I remember my uncle telling me that in this business over time the pendulum swings back and forth around programs, required documentation or philosophies. Never would I believe that we would swing from individualized, integrated services back to congregate segregates services but that is what the legislature wants to do in the House version of the operating state budget for 2011-2013. Luckily the Senate changed their position to maintain integrated community based employment as the primary service. Now we need to get it passed and enacted.

I am not clear on the impetus behind the House budget but I surmise that it is parents who want something “nice” for their son or daughter to do. I’ve talked with many parents of children with disabilities in the K-12 Special Education system and often times find they often don’t even consider work when discussing their son or daughter’s future. They apparently can’t conceptualize their son or daughter working. When I mention we have worked with individuals with multiple or profound disabilities or challenges they either don’t think it applies with their child or are totally shocked and want to probe the issue in greater detail. I am thrilled when a parent says “Wow, that’s fantastic, I want my child to experience the same thing!”

The problem is that people take a paternalistic stance leading to a position of we decide what is best for individuals with intellectual disabilities without really asking them what they would like to with their time and life, even into adulthood.

When I worked in Ellensburg, Washington many years ago we were having a staffing for Danny, one of the persons coming out of a children’s group home. I was representing adult employment services. There sat this large group determining what was best for Danny who was soon to graduate from the special education program. Danny didn’t fit everyone’s paradigm. He didn’t need the services of an adult group home yet no tenant support services existed at the time. The discussion was quite intense. I was lucky enough to be seated next to Danny. As I was taking it all in and, trying to get to know this person, I noticed a look of bewilderment on his face. I suggested it was time we heard from Danny. To that point in the conversation Danny was in the circle but he wasn’t even being noticed. The debate raged around him. I asked Danny a series of questions and in the end it was clear what he wanted. He wanted to live in an apartment and work at a job he had held while in work study. It was our job to make it happen. So we put together a program. It required many people filling in the holes or pieces where needed but it ended by making Danny’s dream a reality - not our dream for him but his dream. I tell this story because everyone at that meeting knew exactly what Danny needed even though no one had ever asked him.

When we were contemplating closing the sheltered workshop we employed the services of an outside consultant to ask the clients what they wanted. 80% said they wanted to work in the community. I am glad we asked rather than assume the segregated, sheltered employment was the best option. As a result of their leadership look where we are today. We support over 200 people working in jobs in the community! We need the legislature to continue to support people leading inclusive, self-determined lives

Believe in Your Dreams

2011-04-19T14:20:00.000-07:00

The Olympian ran an article on the front page of Sunday’s Living Section entitled “It’s all about Perspective. This article written by Molly Gilmore tells a story about Kathleen Avery, a client of Morningside and the partnership with Steve Vento a local professional photographer who has taken Kathleen under his wing. Steve has helped her in many ways, from developing a stand mounted on her wheelchair to hold her camera to advice on photography art. He also has put together with her a show of her work that will be in Arts Walk. (see below)
I happened to be with the troop taking pictures at the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge because I wanted to take my own photograph to be used in our Annual Report that will be published soon and was very impressed with the community coming together to assist a person who has a dream of becoming a commercial photographer. It was a rather drizzling spring day and I was competing with Steve Bloom, The Olympian’s venerable photographer to get a good angle to visually depict this relationship but kept witnessing a very unique and beautiful sight of someone sharing their knowledge to help another person learn.

Exhibit 'A View from a Wheelchair'

What: Kathleen Avery’s first photography exhibit, which will be part of Arts Walk XLII.

When: 5-10 p.m. this Friday and noon-8 p.m. Saturday (she will be onsite at 6:00 p.m. Friday)

Where: Canvas Works, 525 Columbia St. S.W., Olympia

Link to article: http://www.theolympian.com/2011/04/17/1619553/its-all-about-perspective.html#ixzz1K0KUiSTR

Steve and Kathleen looking at a recent shot.

Kismet

2011-03-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

Kismet (ˈkɪzmɛt)
-n
2. fate or destiny

Have you ever walked into a store and instantly felt a kinship, drawn into its presence like a magnet observing the ambiance and catching the eye of enthusiastic sales people? I had such an experience in Aberdeen recently when photographing a client for our upcoming 2010 Annual Report and had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Popcorn Café. If you are in Aberdeen or driving through on your way to the ocean you need to drop in to this charming popcorn and coffee house in the heart of Aberdeen. You can choose from one of their many popcorn flavored delicacies and maybe try a cappuccino or latte. Look for it on the corner of Wishkah and Broadway heading into town on 101.

I was drawn to the friendly wait staff including the client we support who does “outside” (literally) sales by taking his popcorn cart and going to other businesses in town peddling his wares on foot. The owner, Celia Barry, is one of the most pleasant, positive people I have met. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her while I was taking pictures and disrupting business a bit. She is the quintessential small business entrepreneur. She is outgoing, and seems to have boundless energy along with a very positive attitude. Presented with the opportunity to hire a client, she saw the positive and how to use his strengths of sales and out-going personality to her advantage to start another revenue stream. Innovative, you bet! It’s also a family business as her mother helps make the gluten free brownies, cookies and other tasty morsels beckoning from the display case. Innovation, energy, and a wonderful product a recipe for success at the Popcorn Café!

So stop in the next time you are in Aberdeen….it will be worth your while.

Outstanding Employers

2011-03-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce forum Morningside was pleased to introduce and honor the four Thurston County Outstanding Employers for 2010. The event was so packed that Saint Martin’s University catering company Bon Appétit had to bring in extra tables to handle the overflow crown. I suspect the draw was the presenter. Dr. Arun Raha, Executive Director, Economic and Revenue Forecasting Council gave the audience a very complete economic prediction. He was well received by the forum participants, who’d a thunk that an economist could be so funny. He gave a plug for Morningside. After our presentation he was introduced and said that he was taking his Morningside pen back to work because of the state cutbacks, pens are hard to come by in his state office.
This year we videotaped three Outstanding Employers giving testimony employing individuals supported by Morningside. You can view these three employers clicking on this link: http://www.mside.org/videos.asp

I would like to congratulate the 2010 winners: Southgate Ace Hardware, Walgreens on Martin Way, Trader Joe’s and the State of Washington, DSHS, Division of Child Support. It was fun to have the employers in attendance and experience the overwhelming support the chamber members gave to them.

Don’t forget that the next CEO breakfast is scheduled for March 22nd at 7:30 at the Business Center. Come and hear from an employer who has worked with Morningside. They will be candid and available to meet with you and answer your concerns. It is your opportunity to ask any question you may have about the process. The meeting will end promptly at 8:30 – guaranteed. See you then.

Thanks for the Memories

2011-03-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

Well the day finally arrived – Maxyne’s retirement. If you have been fortunate to work at the Corporate Center or have come to Morningside’s Olympia office you undoubtedly know Maxyne and her pleasant, welcoming personality. Maxyne has been a client of Morningside since 1972 but for the last 7 years she has worked as our electronic imaging expert scanning primarily old client paper files into a digital format for efficient shortage. Thanks to the Accounting department who took seriously our mission in their department planning session, they were proactive in utilizing a person with a significant disability to move us closer to paperless files and put our mission into practice.

I happened to be the beneficiary of Maxyne’s constant ribbing. She enjoyed giving “the boss a hard time” and it didn’t matter where or when or whatever the circumstance I would usually count on Maxyne’s little quip delivered with her broad grin and chuckle. She took the most glee when the whole staff was assembled to announce her nick name for me “Jimbo” followed by the fact that she was going to give me a “hard time” or some other staff was going to let me have it.

She had an uncanny ability to register who walked by her cube by listening to their footsteps. No you couldn’t just slip by – she would say “what are you doing Jim or where are you going?” of course I had to reply and recognize the fact that she knew I was there. On the rare occasion she mistook me for one of the other guys in the office I took much pleasure in telling her she was slipping because I wasn’t the person she thought it was.

Why this tribute well because Maxyne taught me a lot. She taught me about perseverance and determination. I saw her frequently waiting for the bus on Ruddle road if I happened to be going early to work – there was Maxyne, faithfully going to work-rain, shine, sleet and yes snow. She was always there, much the same with most all of those clients whom we serve. She loved her job and the people who surrounded her. I was always greeted with a friendly “hello Jim (or Jimbo or Boss)” every morning she worked – she brightened my day. So like other employers who comment on those we serve, she changed the “landscape” at work made me a better person able to appreciate all this life has to offer.

So as Maxyne was crying on the outside during her combination birthday and retirement party – I was crying on the inside because I know I was going to miss her cheerful “Hello Jimbo, how are you doing this morning” as much as she was going to miss being a part of us.

"The Lives they Left Behind - Suitcases from a State Hospital Attic"

2010-12-29T08:42:00.000-08:00

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/

State’s Rights or National Leadership concerning individual rights?

2010-11-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

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?

What ARRA you Buying? The boondoggle ends!

2010-11-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

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.

A celebration that was worth attending

2010-10-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

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.

Morningside Ride – 2010 Road Challenge

2010-09-30T15:09:00.000-07:00

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.

What ARRA you Buying? The folly continues……

2010-09-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

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.

Sad News

2010-09-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

We just learned that Mike Balcom passed away unexpectedly and while we don’t usually publish such news I felt that since Mike was the face of a Morningside client, we should let our community know of this news. Mike was on the cover of the Voice, the Thurston County Chamber’s monthly newsletter. When the Chamber wanted someone personifying working I thought of Mike with his great 100 watt smile and had to take his picture. Mike loved working at Red Robin (see picture), in part I believe, is the fact that he could get a hamburger, one of his basic food groups. Many of us remember Mike showing up at our old location off 14th avenue after his shift at Red Robin with a huge burger in hand and plunking in change or sliding dollars into the pop machine retrieving his favorite soda – his other basic food group, and smiling broadly showing off his gastronomical bounty. Mike will be missed but he will be long remembered.

Disability Fraud

2010-08-31T16:43:00.000-07:00

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?

Happy 20th anniversary ADA

2010-07-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

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

Mission Possible

2010-07-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

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

Mission Impossible

2010-07-12T17:16:00.000-07:00

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.

Big Disability Elephant in the Room

2010-07-06T13:27:00.001-07:00

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.

Lemonade out of Lemons part deux

2010-06-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

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”.

Happy Birthday ADA

2010-05-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

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.

What ARRA you Buying?

2010-05-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

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.

Phoenix of Funding

2010-04-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

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.

Quiet Bill Yields Huge Change

2010-04-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Pizza Hut National Claim Proven Locally

2010-04-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

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.

Lemonade out of Lemons

2010-03-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

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.

Great Thurston Chamber Forum

2010-03-11T17:18:00.000-08:00

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

State Budget revealed - Yea and Yuk

2010-02-24T16:29:00.000-08:00

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.

“Jobs are the Way Out”

2010-02-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

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?

Service Cuts = loss of jobs

2010-01-28T16:03:00.000-08:00

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

New property purchased in Port Angeles

2009-12-16T11:33:00.000-08:00

Morningside purchased an office building in Port Angeles in November and is in the throes of minor remodeling. We are slated to move in December 22nd. This venture began with the realization that we needed a more appropriate location and office design in keeping with our corporate image. On September 1st I scheduled an appointment with a local realtor (Kathy Love) to view a few properties on the market. Ironically unbeknownst to me the property we eventually purchased was once owned by current Morningside Board member, Tim Haley. Tim had purchased the building in the early 90’s and complete gutted the building and remodeled it garnering a couple of architectural wards for design and efficiency. Tim operated his architectural firm from this location and eventually sold. The building will not only meet our current need for space but for future growth as well. We will be leasing a portion of the building out to suitable tenants in the future. We are pleased with all the advantage this site offers our business.

Governor's Budget - Cuts but calls for fresh look in January

2009-12-09T15:43:00.000-08:00

From Richard Davis WashACE Blog - This morning the governor unveiled her proposed 2010 supplemental budget, then quickly walked away from it. As expected, Gregoire said that resolving a $2.6 billion shortfall in the current biennial budget without new revenues was unacceptable. She explained her thinking in a letter to the public. Referring to the current revenue budget, she writes:

Today’s document does not reflect our values as a state. It does not reflect the Washington I know and love or the Washington I want for our future and the future of our children and grandchildren. I am convinced it is not the plan for the future that Washingtonians would choose, either.

She is required by law to present a balanced budget within current revenues. This budget will be followed by another in January, one which will restore the cuts she finds most egregious - Basic Health, levy equalization, early childhood education, development disability services and more.

Developmental Disability Services shakeout

1. Reduce County Employment Contracts by approximately 3% effective July 1, 2010. (- $2.65 million)
2. Jobs by 21 Partnership will be reduced by 75 percent in 2010 and eliminated effective July 1, 2010. (- $1.75 million)
3. Eliminate State Employment and Day Services for 200 clients who do not qualify for Medicaid. (- $1.2 million)
4. Waiver graduate employment services for 343 graduating transition students who are currently on the Basic Waiver. (+ $1.79 million)

The Governor has accepted the consultant's recommendations on the closure of institutions, and is moving forward on shutting down Francis Haddon Morgan Center in Bremerton by June 2011 and Rainier School by June 2014.

Bridge to Community – closing the Sheltered Workshop

2009-11-25T11:54:00.001-08:00

What precipitated Morningside’s closing the sheltered workshop – client expressed need and their desire live and work like everyone else in the community. All successful companies regularly look to their customers to determine how they are going to provide great service so Morningside’s planning and moving to close the workshop really was no different. A survey conducted by Dr. David Mank formally a professor with the University of Oregon (David is currently the Director of the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community at Indiana University) surveyed our clients and 80% responded that they wanted to work in the community.
Our board, funders, leadership and leaders in the disability community joined together and pledged to move forward with a plan to move all the clients in our sheltered program to the community in 5 years. We dubbed the plan “Bridge to Community” as we were crossing over from segregated large group services to small, individual, integrated community employment.
Through a huge effort, and commitment by all parties we succeeded and on June 24, 2004 held a celebration at our old facility commemorating the monumental event that just occurred – ending sheltered services. Former Secretary of State Ralph Munro a long time supporter of our program but recognized statewide as a tireless advocate on behalf of citizens with disabilities was our keynote speaker. Dennis Braddock then the Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services spoke as did Todd Wagner an employer as well as Jeannette Loutzenheizer the first Executive Director of Morningside. All concurred that this was indeed a milestone and a dream long held that people with significant disabilities can and should work in the community. This was indeed a true paradigm shift on how we now viewed and delivered service.

CEO Breakfast imformative and fun

2009-11-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

We had a great employer turnout for our CEO Breakfast on October 27th. Danny Stusser from the Coffee News was our guest employer speaker. Danny told of his personal experience in hiring individuals with disabilities and how Morningside is his first option in looking for a good employee match with his firm. Danny said that his employees from Morningside are the most loyal and conscientious workers he has. Want to be a part of our next CEO Breakfast? Contact Jonathan Pleger at 596-3539

Growth of the Sheltered Workshop Movement

2009-10-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

As I watch the health care reform process unfold I am struck by how significant legislation enacted in the Other Washington can change how we do business right here. Watching the current debate I am reminded of the passage of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It was the impetus for us to move from therapeutic arts and crafts to industrial based sheltered employment in the 1970’s and 1980’s because of the influx of federal money which propelled the growth of facility based services. Funds were made available for not only a wide array of services but grants were created for building and equipment purchases. This, coupled with the establishment of a nationwide network of college based centers to train staff, propelled our industry into areas not previously dreamed.
Laws were passed both at the state and national level that gave purchasing preference to sheltered workshops which boosted the number, type, and complexity of contracts available for us. The growth of sheltered workshops was phenomenal with some agencies manufacturing very complex items for the military, aerospace and electronics industries. Often where the agency was located typically reflected the type of work the workshop performed. For instance programs in central Washington were involved in wood products, manufacturing items such as tree spreaders, bins and pallets to move product for the orchard industry. Programs in the greater Seattle area were involved in manufacturing sub-assembly for the aerospace and electronics industry as well as packaging. There developed an entrepreneurial spirit within sheltered workshops; a belief that within reason you could bid and produce anything.
During this time laws were also enacted governing and regulating sheltered workshops primarily in the area of wages paid to working individuals with disabilities. The laws were to protect both the worker and competing companies. Additional legislation also promoted the growth of public benefit corporations (such as Morningside).
Eventually the unprecedented growth made referring an individual to a sheltered workshop too easy even though the workshops were increasingly placing individuals with disabilities into jobs outside the sheltered program. At the time it was believed that a person needed to learn a variety of skills and produce at a certain rate before they were helped to find a job. As a result, people with disabilities got stuck in the system with little expectation of working in a community job like family members and friends. This frustration, coupled with the development of a strong self-advocacy movement, pushed for integration in all aspects of life. This caused the service providers, led by those we serve, to examine sheltered workshops programs including the reason for their very existence. And this examination led directly to Morningside’s Bridge to Community - which will be the focus of my next blog.

Reflections

2009-08-05T14:26:00.000-07:00

In the spring of 1969 I had the opportunity to help my dad set up a new workstation at Eastside Handicappers (later called Custom Industries) located in the Kirkland Presbyterian Church. We were moving in a blister pack machine used to package wax color chips for Pourett Candle Manufacturing. (This was a booming company at the time that manufactured and sold candle molds and supplies for a growing arts and crafts industry. Pourett recently went out of business according to Google…my how times do indeed change.)
I remember it seemed odd to set up such an industrial piece of equipment in a church multipurpose room where the existing looms and ceramic kilns looked so much more appropriate for this serene setting. This was really an example of the first transformation in our industry by moving from therapeutic arts and crafts to contracts with industry. The same transformation happened here at Morningside. At one time we had quite the cottage industry including a store in town selling items woven on our looms or fired in our kiln. In my office I still have a ceramic owl that we made given to me by Helen Carlson who thought I should have it soon after I started working at Morningside.
We’ve come a long way since 1969 and those days in the church basement filled with looms and kilns and packaging machines. But one thing hasn’t changed the future is still filled with promise – limitless in the possibilities and the reality the individuals with disabilities working and earning a living like anyone else.

Starting a Blog

2009-07-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago I followed two blogs religiously: Bert Stovers “Reporting for Duty” and Melissa Plaut’s “New York Hack”. They were very interesting and I could hardly wait for a new post particularly in Bert’s case where he was a National Guard helicopter pilot who got called up to fly in Iraq and he relayed his whole experience from being notified to his time in Iraq and return home. I even started a Blog with my son called “Andy and Me” but he lost interest in updating the blog with his dad and before you knew it our blogging days were over. So what possesses me to now start a blog – well two words Social Networking – a rather new phenomenon in business to connect with others using various forms of technology – blogs, Facebook, Twitter etc. So on the eve of my 20th anniversary at Morningside I thought this a good time to reflect on the changes in vocational rehabilitation from the viewpoint of a community rehabilitation program.