eNewsletter

November 2007

In This Issue…

The Inspiring Story of Alex Sierra

Learn how a young man achieved his educational and career goals through the assistance of the Center for Independent Living of Central PA. [more]

Creating an Opportunity to Move Out of the Nursing Home

Is your mother, father, friend, or loved one living in a nursing home? Does the person have a house that he or she wants to return home to? Or did your mother have to move into a nursing home because her existing house isnÕt accessible? [more]

Experiencing the Flight of Your Life

In the first newsletter, we encouraged you to try something new and fun, and experience a rush of excitement. This month, we want you to take a ride on the wild side again, and experience the flight of your life. [more]

Events to Mark on Your Calendar

Grab your calendar and mark down the upcoming events and conferences related to the disability community, not only in PA, but all over the country! [more]

Pass It On!

Know someone else who may be interested in receiving the Living Well With A Disabiliity e-newsletter? Tell them to visit our Web site, and sign up today!

Center for Independent Living of Central PA Helps Student Obtain a Professional Career

Like many young people at the age of 19, Alex Sierra had dreams of embarking on a career that would provide a comfortable income and fulfillment. For Alex, this meant a career in architecture – specifically in Computer Aided Drafting. He knew that required additional education and obtaining some real world experience. But unlike most young people, Alex faced these goals as a person with Cerebral Palsy. So in addition to the usual challenges students face in earning a degree, Alex also needed an attendant and advocacy support.

Through a referral from the organization, Elks, Alex was referred to the Center for Independent Living of Central PA (CILCP).

CILCP’s vision is to empower people with disabilities to fully participate in all aspects of society, making the organization the perfect solution for Alex. Starting in 2003, CILCP served as role models, advocates and supporters for Alex while he set his educational and career goals and later advanced to meet those goals. CILCP’s Independent Living Program assisted Alex in providing the support and resources to allow his dream to become a reality. In July 2003, Alex began attending Thompson Institute to earn an Associate’s degree in Computer Aided Drafting.

Charlie Gingerich, Alex’s Independent Living Specialist from CILCP, worked side by side with Alex during his schooling. He met with Alex six times a week at the Institute to consult with him about his successes and difficulties during the week. During his schooling, Charlie also met with Alex’s instructors, administrators, and career placement personnel about his progress and goals. CILCP provided a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) to assist Alex in daily living activities. CILCP also monitored Alex in the same manner during his internship at the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in Harrisburg.

Like most graduates, Alex needed some solid experience to strengthen his resume. “CILCP allowed me to volunteer at their office for three months to gain real world experience,” said Alex. He worked with different departments and management projects to gain experience for his resume. A community integration specialist from CILCP helped Alex in his job search and to land a full-time job with JWF Architects, an architectural firm in Harrisburg, Pa., in September 2006. Today, at age 23 Alex is modifying floor plans to make homes more accessible for people with disabilities.

In addition, CILCP identified other tools, such as an adaptive headset to help Alex with his education and career, and worked to help decrease the financial costs of these tools.

“My experience with CILCP has been very helpful. They’ve been so nice and caring; helping me do what I’ve always wanted to do,” Alex said.

Through CILCP’s services and Alex’s determination to not let his disability hold him back, Alex is working in a profession he loves, while also living independently.

In addition to the independent living services, personal care assistance, and advocacy services CILCP provided to Alex, CILCP also offers the Living Well With A Disability program. This is a comprehensive program that enables people with disabilities to live their best. Through a no-cost assessment, you will work with a living well specialist to determine the programs, services and support available to live your best. It’s a one stop source for countless resources and endless opportunities to help each person with a disability live well. For more information on how you can become a part of this program, please call the Living Well With A Disability hotline at 1-877-TO-LIV-WELL (1-877-865-4893.)

*This program is available if you live in Cumberland, Mifflin, Juniata, Perry or Dauphin counties.

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The Nursing Home Transition Program

Creating an Opportunity to Move Out of the Nursing Home

Is your mother, father, friend, or loved one living in a nursing home? Does the person have a house that he or she wants to return home to? Or did your mother have to move into a nursing home because her existing house isn’t accessible?

Often individuals with disabilities, or family members of people with disabilities, are faced with these questions and perhaps assume their loved one has to be placed in a nursing home because there’s no other alternative. However, there may be an alternative.

The Center for Independent Living of Central PA (CILCP) provides a nursing home transition service to adults under the age of 60 who live in Cumberland, Mifflin or Juniata counties. They also provide nursing home transition to those over 60 and living in Cumberland County.

The nursing home transition program assists individuals in living independently in their homes and communities. The staff can help an individual return home by providing minor modifications to the home; identifying support services needed; or helping locate accessible homes in the person’s community.

Regardless of the individual’s situation, the transition process begins with a visit to the nursing home to gain a clear understanding of the individual’s desires and needs, including physical, social and support services. If the individual wants to return to his or her home, an evaluation is also conducted on the home to recommend how to incorporate the needs of the individual.

Some individuals want to move out of the nursing home, but do not have a place to move back into. CILCP will research area homes and apartments that are available and accessible. A staff member will also visit the home or apartment with the person to ensure it meets his or her lifestyle.

You may be saying to yourself, “yes this would be perfect, but what about the cost?” As part of the nursing transition program, CILCP will work with you to identify and obtain possible funding sources such as the state’s nursing home transition department. Waivers are also available, depending on eligibility.

For more information regarding the nursing home transition program, please contact Ann Neimer, Director of Waiver Services for the Center for Independent Living of Central PA at 731-1900.

In addition to nursing home transition services, CILCP also offers the Living Well With A Disability program. This is another program enabling people with disabilities to live their best. Through a no-cost assessment, you will work with a living well specialist to determine the programs, services and support available to live your best. It’s a one stop source for countless resources and endless opportunities to help each person with a disability live well. For more information on how you can become a part of this program, please call the Living Well With A Disability hotline at 1-877-TO-LIV-WELL (1-877-865-4893.)

*This program is available if you live in Cumberland, Mifflin, Juniata, Perry or Dauphin counties.

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Experiencing the Flight of Your Life

Welcome to the world of Hot Air Ballooning. For more than 25 years I, a tour director of US Hot Air Balloon Team, have had the privilege of introducing willing participants to the ethereal experience of hot air ballooning. Nearly anyone, at any point in his or her life can live this experience. Age and physical health are considerations, but qualified individuals, with proper equipment, can take you for the flight and experience of your life.

I enjoy hot air ballooning because of the excitement that no flight is exactly the same. Most things in life are specifically planned, but when you launch in a balloon, you are never quite sure where you will land. Each year our company, US Hot Air Balloon, is responsible for more than 3,000 person’s hot air balloon flights. Additionally, the United States Hot Air Balloon Team is the only national organization of hot air balloonists capable of booking and coordinating flights and balloon activities anywhere in the United States.

The majority of our flights are in Southeastern Pennsylvania. More specifically, we are privileged enough to view the beautiful scenery of Lancaster, Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and Bucks Counties. The hot air ballooning season in Southeastern Pennsylvania typically runs from March through November; although, flights are offered year-round.

There are many experiences that humans will encounter as outdoor adventure activities, but none that will compare to the sheer pleasure and enjoyment of flight in a hot air balloon. It is rare that people can enjoy an experience that is both exhilarating and relaxing at the same time; however, hot air ballooning is just that!

We have a variety of balloons and can easily accommodate groups up to 50 persons, or, more comfortably, 6-10 persons per gondola. We have assisted many seniors aloft, including flights for their 100th Birthday. Hot air balloon gondolas come in sizes large enough to accommodate nearly any type of wheelchair. Our flights have also included persons with visual impairments, persons using oxygen, and persons with respirator dependency. Assuming favorable weather and wind conditions, all of the above scenarios and more are possible.

My best advice to prepare yourself for a hot air balloon experience is to relax and be prepared to have a calming, one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you forever.

So…….if you are considering, or have ever considered the possibility of flight in a hot air balloon, throw caution to the wind, and prepare yourself for the event of a lifetime. Come join our team in flight. Call us at 800-763-5987 or email us at info@ushotairballoon.com for reservations or more information. You can also visit our Web Site at www.hotairballoon.com.

Stan Hess, Tour Director

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Events to Mark on Your Calendar!

Institute for Managers with Disabilities

When: November 12-16, 2007
Where: UCLA
Phone: (310) 825-2001
Email: execed@anderson.ucla.edu

Designed to assist managers with disabilities to develop and hone leadership styles and capabilties, increase developmental relationships and networks, and create a personalized plan for applying program learnings to aid in career growth. There is a program fee of $5,500 (includes tuition, books, educational materials, refreshment breaks, receptions, and most meals).

World Congress and Exposition on Disabilities

When: November 15-17, 2007
Where: Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C.
Phone: 201-722-9233 ext. 110 (Registration and general inquiries)

Event includes activities, keynote speakers, educational seminars, and exhibitors of products and services for people with disabilities.

American Sign Language Expo

When: November 17, 2007
Where: The Great Frederick Fair Building 13, 14 and 14A 797 East Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21705
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

The Expo is designed to educate consumers and allow exhibitors to demonstrate what’s currently available for deaf and hard of hearing consumers. Items may include wireless communications, interpreter services, American Sign Language video distributors, and more.

Cluster B Personality Disorders – Explore with Valerie Lemmon, Psy.D.

When: November 26, 2007
Where: Girl Scout Council
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Phone: 1-877-238-3660
Email: Registration@RiversidePD.com

Workshops provided by the Riverside Professional Development. Contact Riverside for more information, including costs or to register.

Telecommunication Device Distribution Program Free Equipment Training

When: November 29, 2007
Where: Radisson Valley Forge, King of Prussia
Directions: www.radisson.com/kingofprussiapa

The Pennsylvania’s Initiative on Assistive Technology is facilitating one-day trainings for individuals interested in volunteering to help TDDP equipment recipients learn to use the equipment they have received through the program; staff from agencies and organizations serving people with disabilities; and people with disabilities, advocates, and family members.

Aspire Series

When: December 5, 2007
Where: Girl Scout Council
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Phone: 1-877-238-3660
Email: Registration@RiversidePD.com

Workshops provided by the Riverside Professional Development. Contact Riverside for more information, including costs or to register.

TASH Conference

When: December 5-7, 2007
Where: Washington State Convention and Trade Center
Sheraton Seattle Hotel & Tower
Seattle, Washington

The conference will focus on strategies for achieving full inclusion for people with disabilities.

Perspectives on Employment of Persons with Disabilities Conference

When: December 5-7, 2007
Where: Hyatt Regency
Bethesda, Maryland

Will provide information on personnel policies and practices, developments in technology, legal updates, and resources through workshops, keynote speakers and a general session.

Telecommunication Device Distribution Program Free Equipment Training

When: December 6, 2007
Where: Temple University, Harrisburg, PA
Directions: http://www.temple.edu/harrisburg/Map-Directions.asp

Discovery 2007 Low Vision Conference

When: December 6 - 8, 2007
Where: Holiday Inn Mart Plaza
Chicago, IL
Contact: Leah Gerlach
Phone: (630) 690-7115 Ext. 325
Email: leah@deicke.org (For all inquiries, please put "Discovery 2007" in the subject line.)

For people with vision impairments, their families, employers/potential employers, and vision rehabilitation professionals. One of the keynote presenters will be Carl Augusto, President & CEO, American Foundation for the Blind, and a nationally respected leader in the vision impairment field.

World of Possibilities Expo Virginia 2007

When: December 7-8, 2008
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Richmond International Raceway
Richmond, VA

The expo is for children and adults with disabilities, family members, caregivers, senior community, baby-boomers, healthcare providers, educators and other service providers. There will be demonstrations, workshops, fun activities and more!

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: December 11, 2007
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accomodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “The LEAD (Leadership for the Employment of Americans with Disabilities) Initiative.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

Aspire Series

When: December 12, 2007
Where: Girl Scout Council
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (EXAM)
Phone: 1-877-238-3660
Email: Registration@RiversidePD.com

Workshops provided by the Riverside Professional Development. Contact Riverside for more information, including costs or to register.

2008 & Beyond…Events to Mark on Your Calendar!

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: January 8, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “K-12 and Beyond: The Importance of Internships to Students with Disabilities and Businesses - Featuring Booz Allen Hamilton Emerging Leaders Internship Program as a Best Practice.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

Society for Social Work and Research 12th Annual Conference

When: January 17-20, 2008
Where: Washington, D.C.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: February 12, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “‘Current Events’ in Job Accommodation.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

International Conference on Aging, Disability and Independence

When: February 20-23, 2008
Where: Hilton St. Petersburg, FL

Learning Disabilities Association of America’s (LDA) Finding Your Future - Postsecondary Opportunities

When: March 1, 2008
Where: Hilton Chicago
Chicago, Illinois

This meeting focuses on learning disabilities and will feature over 300 workshops and exhibits. Attendees will learn effective teaching techniques and strategies; hear from leading experts in the LD field; network with colleagues; learn about critical policy issues; earn graduate and/or continuing education credits (CEUs) and much more.

23rd Annual International Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference

When: March 10-15, 2008
Where: California State University, Northridge

Planning is underway for the longest-running and largest annual university sponsored conference on technology and persons with disabilities. The conference strives to present a best-practices approach for the education of students, professionals and consumers involved with the many aspects of technology and disability.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: March 11, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “Chemical Sensitivities in the Workplace.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: April 8, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “US BLN Best Practices: Part One.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

Pacific Rim Conference

When: April 14-15, 2008
Where: Sheraton Waikiki Hotel & Resort

The Pacific Rim Conference is an international educational offering for and from persons with disabilities, family members, researchers, service providers, policymakers, community leaders, advocates, and nationally recognized professionals.

World of Possibilities Expo Maryland 2008

When: May 2-3, 2008
Where: Montgomery County Fairgrounds
Gaithersburg, MD
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: May 6, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “Accommodating Employees with Psychiatric Impairments.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

National ADA Symposium

When: May 12-14, 2008
Where: America's Center
St. Louis, MO

The National ADA Symposium concentrates on the Americans with Disabilities Act and related disability laws. Registration begins January 7, 2008.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: June 10, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “US BLN Best Practices: Part Two.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) Annual Conference

When: June 19-21, 2008
Where: Hyatt Regency
Washington, D.C.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: July 8, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “ADA Update with EEOC and JAN.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Conference

When: July 14-19, 2008
Where: Reno, Nevada
The Grand Sierra Resort

The annual international AHEAD conference brings together professionals in the fields of higher education and disability for a week of information-sharing, networking and theoretical and practical training.

JAN/USBLN Webcast Series

When: August 12, 2008
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Email: training@jan.wvu.edu

Sponsored by the Job Accommodation Network and the US Business Leadership Network. Session title: “Accommodation Process.” Register at http://www.jan.wvu.edu/webcast/ ; seating is limited.

2008 Annual Program Meeting of the Council on Social Work Education Program Meeting

When: October 29-November 1, 2008
Where: Marriott
Philadelphia, PA
Email: apm@cswe.org

Institute for Managers with Disabilities

When: November 10-14, 2008
Where: UCLA

Designed to assist managers with disabilities to develop and hone leadership styles and capabilities, increase developmental relationships and networks, and create a personalized plan for applying program learning to aid in career growth.

Association and American Rehabilitation Counseling Association

When: March 18-22, 2010
Where: Pittsburgh, PA

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We welcome information regarding upcoming events, conferences or workshops related to the disability community. Please email your information to mkurtz@hersheyphilbin.com.