DD Quarterly Spring 2002

DD Quarterly is produced by AXIS Center for Public Awareness.

Family Support Act highlights legislative reception

More than 200 guests from throughout the state listened as Ken Campbell, Council's Public Policy Committee chairman described the officials as "champions of the legislature" who have "the kind of commitment it takes for advances to be made in regards to improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities in the state of Ohio."

Spada has worked on two major pieces of legislation: S.B. 171, known as the Abuse Registry Act, which will provide protection and allow consumers to obtain services in a safe and protected environment; and S.B.191, which improves licensure processes, and service quality in Ohio's residential care facilities. Senator Spada brings a passion to his advocacy that was very evident in his floor speech in support of S.B. 171. "I am really honored to be able to be of service to the organization. Thank you very much for doing what you do to help the citizens of Ohio who are more vulnerable than the rest of the population," he said.

Peterson, who has a daughter with disabilities, has worked on H.B. 94 and H.B. 405, Medicaid redesign legislation. "One thing that all legislators have in common is that we come to Columbus and try to make a difference and try to have an impact on the process," he explained. "This is not a symbolic piece of legislation; this is real significant legislation that will have meaningful impact in a positive way on the lives of 15,000 adults with MRDD."

Coletta Adams, of Council's Children's Issues Committee, presented a brief history of the grant and described the extensive effort of the Family Support Collaborative (FSC) in creating the proposed family support legislation. She introduced and thanked Representative Kilbane for her work on this issue. Kilbane said the Family Support Act will put a focus on families and their needs. "Establishing a Family Support Board in Ohio was a goal to developing a family centered and family directed system for the care of children with developmental disabilities," she said. "Passage of this legislation will help Governor Taft fulfill his commitment to the families of Ohio - those who have children with developmental disabilities. I hope we can move this through the legislature in a timely manner." Now is the time to educate and inform policymakers about the need for a family centered, family directed support system in Ohio. One of the most powerful ways to educate and inform is through personal family experiences...tell them your story.

Details of H.B. 537 and the sponsors are available on the FSC website, www.state.oh.us/olrs/fsc/

To request FSC materials (brochures, magnets, bookmarks, booklets), please call: 1-800-282-9181 v, 1-800-858-3542 tty or email: pbrown@olrs.state.oh.us

Photo captions included: DD Council Member Coletta Adams (center) introduces Council Chairman Gerald Plassenthal to Representative Sally Conway Kilbane of Rocky River. Kilbane recently introduced House Bill 537, the Family Support Act; Family Support Act highlights legislative reception; Representative Jon Peterson, Delaware, addressed the morning audience about the importance of Medicaid redesign legislation and how it will positively impact more than 15,000 people's lives; Executive Director David Zwyer (center) directs Senator Robert Spada of Parma Heights to the microphone while Ken Campbell, chair of Public Policy Committee looks on. Spada was honored for his leadership in passing S.B. 171 to create a registry for abusers of Ohio's most vulnerable citizens; DD Council showcased their committees and projects at display tables throughout the Atrium. More than 230 guests collected materials and talked with Council members and staff about issues and legislation.

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, Improving the lives of Ohioans with disabilities

8 East Long St., Ste. 1200, Columbus, OH 43215-2931 Toll free (800) 766-7426 Voice (614) 466-5205 TTY (614) 644-5530 Fax (614) 466-0298 www.ohio.gov/ddc

Director, David A. Zwyer; Officers, Chairman -Jerry Plassenthal, Vice Chair -Peg Gutsell, Secretary -Carolyn Knight; Staff -Fatica Ayers, Program, Inez Choice, Support, Alea Jones, Fiscal, Ken Latham, Program, Leslie Paull, Program, Stephanie Reid, Adm. Asst., Robin Shipp, Support, Richard Skelley, Program, Mary Smithson, Program, Kay Treanor, Program

It is the policy of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and the AXIS Center to use person-first language in stories written by staff. Articles reprinted or quoted exactly as they originally appeared or were presented from sources other than staff may not reflect this policy. For a free copy of the guide, "Person-First Language," contact AXIS at one of the numbers listed on back cover.

Accessible voting machines are right of all Americans

Jim Dickson, vice president of governmental affairs for the Washington-based American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), spoke about the importance of accessible voting at a press conference March 7 at the Ohio Statehouse following DD Council's Legislative Breakfast.

Flanked by displays of the latest technology in accessible voting systems, Dickson, who is blind, explained his own voting experiences, which include being assisted by others. "I have never cast a secret ballot," he said. "Someone has always known for whom I chose to vote."

The lack of accessible voting systems throughout the nation today prompts the privacy issue and other unsettling questions, he said. "I and others with disabilities, every time we vote, leave the booth with that insecure thought, 'was (the ballot) marked the way I wanted? '"

Dickson was adamant: "This does not have to be." If voting systems were completely accessible and provided privacy, he said, "I would leave knowing the ballot was cast the way I wish."

Seventy percent of all voting precincts in the United States are inaccessible to voters who use wheelchairs, Dickson noted. He added, "It is easier for a person in a wheelchair to enter a 7-Eleven than it is to go to the voting booth. That's un-American."

He stated that 35 million Americans with disabilities are of voting age and make up a strong voting contingent." People with disabilities are the sleeping giant of American politics," he said. Dickson urged attendees to contact senators to express the importance of funding for accessible voting systems throughout the country. Current legislation in Congress that would fund such systems has been bogged down, he reported.

"We need to work hard, we need to work now. By 2004, we could have accessible machines and accessible polling places for everyone," Dickson said.

Others in the audience said they, like Dickson, have had difficulties voting on systems not designed with accessibility in mind.

DD Council member Glenda Pope said voting booths are often too high for people in wheelchairs to use. Pope said she intends to become a poll worker so she can help others understand the needs of voters with disabilities. She enjoyed sampling the voting systems on display, but urged the designers of such systems to keep in mind the full spectrum of cognitive as well as physical disabilities.

Marilyn McAmis, of Columbus, has a visual disability and also uses wheelchair. She said she has had difficulty pulling voting machine levers due to the height of the machines. "I just feel that sometimes since I couldn't reach up to pull the right lever, I didn't vote for the person I wanted. It makes you feel like you're second-rate, that you're not really a part of the country (when that occurs)," she said.

McAmis liked the displays of new technology. "They were very easy for me to use because they were at my level," she said. The private ballot is important to McAmis because they can't take your ballot and use it against you in any way if you vote privately,"

Ray Jones, also of the DD Council, whose disability affects his mobility and speech, said poll workers at times have set him to the side at his precinct and have forgotten him. "They didn't understand what I was saying," he said.

Dan Loyer, a team leader of Council's CHOICES project, said he's always voted and because he needs the assistance of his nephews to puncture his ballot, he lacks the privacy afforded the typical voter.

Loyer favored the digital voting machines in the display. "It's small, compact and just a touch of a finger activates it," he said.

Don Dillinger, president of the Athens County Board of MRDD, said his county is considering purchasing a new electronic voting system. As a member of the Athens County Republican Central Committee, Dillinger said he will pass word along to that organization about the various systems he was able to try at the event.

"There's something to be said about these new electronic systems that would be a lot handier for people with arthritis or mobility problems," he said. Stand-alone systems need to be at a proper height, though, for those using wheelchairs. "An adjustable view screen would be nice, so you could put it at different angles for the people."

Dickson also encouraged people with disabilities to seek elective office. He suggested contacting the AAPD for further information about campaign-related programs expressly designed for candidates with disabilities.

Five companies demonstrated their accessible voting systems at the event: Hart Intercivic, Election Systems & Software, Inc., Diebold Corporation, Sequoia Pacific and MicroVote. Information about these manufacturers and other accessible election system companies can be found on the AAPD website listed below.

The press conference was co-sponsored by the Disability Policy Coalition (DPC), a group of 20 disability advocacy organizations from across the state working to ensure the full inclusion of people with disabilities in our society.

For more information about DPC, contact: Bev Johnson, cpo@iwaynet.net, 4550 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214, (800) 429-8885.

For more information about AAPD, visit www.aapd-dc.org, 800-840-8844 v/tty, 202-457-0046 v/ tty, 202-457-0473 fax, or write: AAPD, 1819 H Street NW, Suite 330, Washington, DC, 20006.

Photo captions included: Kim Kirchoff (standing at left) shows versatility of Hart Intercivic voting systems to Karla Lortz, executive secretary of Governor's Council and Don Dillinger, president of Athens County Board of MRDD; Touch screens enable voters to use fingers or closed fist to make selections; DD Council member Glenda Pope gives "thumbs up" to a touch screen voting system offered by Sequoia Pacific; AAPD Vice President of Governmental Affairs Jim Dickson, Washington, DC, emceed the voting press conference and shared voting experiences with participants; Representative of Diebold Election Systems, an Ohio-based manufacturer, demonstrates accessible voting equipment to visitors at the Ohio Statehouse; ES&S associate demonstrates portability of voting equipment to DD Council Member Ray Jones. The lightweight units may be carried to curbside for voters who cannot enter the facility, they may be held on a lap, or positioned in a booth; MicroVote representative shows AXIS staff Shari Veleba (left) andSue Willis how to vote using keypad technology.

Update: On April 11, election reform took another step forward with the passage of S. 565. House and Senate negotiators now need to meet in conference and craft a compromise bill.

For more information, visit http://congress.org/c2/issues/bills/?billnum= S.565&congress=107

Mahoning County first in Ohio to purchase accessible electronic voting equipment

"We're really looking forward to it. We're glad to be leading the charge," said Board Deputy Director Thomas McCabe. "We looked at about seven different systems and thought iVotronic was the best; hands and shoulders above the rest."

Mahoning County has 171,000 registered voters, 43,000 of whom live in Youngstown, the first city in the county that will use the new system. By the 2002 November general election, all precincts in the county will have the machines, which are to be used by every voter with or without disabilities.

The phase in will serve as a way for voters and poll workers to become familiar with the lightweight, portable units. Voters who prefer some practice prior to actually voting will be allowed to cast a mock ballot on one unit in each precinct dedicated for that.

Prior to the May primary and leading up to the general election, officials from the Board will conduct educational demonstration sessions at community events to help get the word out about the new system.

McCabe said vote count accuracy and reliability initially led the Board to consider a new system, but it became clear that accessibility for all was a vital factor in its final product choice. "We wanted a system that was ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant," he said.

"If a person is elderly or physically unable to come into a polling place, the voting machines also can be taken to a person's car for curbside voting at a precinct," McCabe said.

In that instance, both a Democratic and Republican poll worker will take the machine to the person, and the voter will be able to place the unit on his or her lap and vote.

The iVotronic system also features headphones so voters with visual impairments can hear the items on the ballot. The system cannot be overvoted or undervoted in error, McCabe said.

The Board had been looking at such machines for three years but purchases were delayed due to the 2000 presidential election. McCabe said it was initially unclear whether state or federal grants would be available, or stricter voting machine regulations mandated.

Before proposing the $2.9 million system to county commissioners, the Board of Elections reduced its staff from 18 to 12 and realized additional savings by consolidating some of its 413 precincts into 312.

Nearly $240,000 in printing costs per each election have now been virtually eliminated because the iVotronic does not require paper ballots. Only $10,000 was spent to print absentee ballots. "With the cost savings, over the course of six to eight years it's going to pay for itself," McCabe said.

Marty Martinek, a Youngstown resident and member of the Ohio Governor's Council on People with Disabilities, said the new voting machines will benefit many. "Our county is becoming a county of older adults. In time, these accessible machines will be a necessity."

Martinek, who uses a wheelchair, is pleased with the system choice. "It makes it real nice. It gives you (the voter) more control," he said. While most polling places in the Youngstown area are physically accessible, Martinek, who regularly attends county commissioner meetings, said he is advocating for all precincts to become fully accessible.

Mahoning County Board of Elections Director Michael Sciortino said other county boards of election would be wise to consider such voting systems.

"If they are concerned about ensuring every person's right to vote and ensuring that every vote counts and is counted, then they should make the move to electronic voting," he said.

Photo caption included: ES&S associate explains the portability of voting equipment to Mitziken Dunn, legislative liaison to Secretary of State J. Kenneth Blackwell. This type of equipment will be used throughout all voting precincts in Mahoning County in the November 2002 election.

Medicaid Buy-In moves forward

Two recent events summarize the status of Medicaid Buy-In (MBI) and the success of the implementation campaign:

1. Senator Bill Harris and Senator Eric Fingerhut addressed the Ohio Health Day conference on February 26. Both Senators spoke positively about the chances for implementation next year. However, Senator Harris was clear that the risks to any new programs are great as the demand for funds increases and revenues continue to fall below projections.
2. Greg Moody, Executive Assistant to Governor Taft, met with the Olmstead Task Force on March 13. Moody made it clear that the continued demand for Medicaid funds, and the formula (in statute) that sends 42.5 percent of the Medicaid funds to nursing homes and long-term care facilities, will make it difficult for the State of Ohio to add any additional new programs, such as Medicaid Buy-In, or to expand any existing Medicaid waivers.

It's clear that advocates must continue to talk to legislators and write the Governor to promote a Medicaid Buy-In program. Personal stories about limits on chances to work, or reduced earnings because of loss of health care coverage, are most compelling.

In addition, we must continue to argue that the potential costs for MBI will be offset by:

• Increased taxes paid at the federal, state and local level
• Reduced rent and food stamp subsidies
• Reduced SSDI and SSI payments at the federal level
• Increased opportunities for businesses to prosper in Ohio with an expanded pool of new employees

Tell your story at the upcoming Medicaid Buy-In Legislative Reception May 23 - Ohio Statehouse Atrium - 8-9:30 am - Continental breakfast - Reservations requested (800) 589-2603 v/tty - (614) 888-8912 v/tty - (614) 888-9478 fax

DD Council recently approved another year of funding for the MBI project to keep momentum moving toward a successful outcome - adoption of MBI in Ohio. For more information, contact Doug DeVoe at the numbers listed above, or email:ddevoe@ ohioadvocates.org

Plassenthal brings facilitator, listening skills to Council as new chairman

"If I have a vision, it would be to enhance community awareness of DD Council, its mission, and the public policy that Council advocates for," he said.

Governor Taft appointed Plassenthal to the leadership role. Having served on Council for 12 years, Plassenthal has chaired the Public Policy and Systems Coordination Committees, and has worked on the Education, and Community Living Committees.

Plassenthal, 52, first became affiliated with Council through his work with the Ohio Department of Youth Services in Marion, where he oversees training, industrial and education programs for youth.

While he describes himself primarily as a facilitator to Council as it proceeds with its work on behalf of Ohioans with disabilities, overall he hopes to foster greater communication on many levels in support for individuals with developmental disabilities.

For example, Plassenthal strongly advocates for the Family Support Act that encourages multiple ports of entry to services for families in need of support for their children with developmental disabilities.

"We as a Council need to communicate why issues we back are critical to Ohioans with disabilities and their families and why other organizations also need to support those issues," he said.

Another issue that could be embraced by other organizations with similar interests is voting machine and polling place accessibility. Plassenthal suggested the aging WW II veteran population also experiences difficulties using inaccessible voting equipment. "As we all age, some of our physical abilities decrease," he said.

"We need to seek out our natural allies and partners," Plassenthal said. "When we as a Council can advocate for systems change that is beneficial to everyone, we need to be as loud as we can be and collaborate with the community as a whole."

He believes Council is strong and responsive to the issues of the day through its members' abilities to relate to the public in global, real-life terms. "What makes Council good is knowing that members have a special interest. What makes Council even better is that members can speak not only on their issues but their similar experiences to people throughout the state," he said.

With 32 members on the DD Council, and plans to expand to 35 next year, Plassenthal cites the future additions as enhancements to its diversity, which adds to the discussion of issues.

Possessing a sense of Council history, Plassenthal said he will strive to work hard to listen and build on the group's enthusiasm. "I encourage people to speak up and I solicit the opinions of everybody."

ODDC membership grows to 32

Joyce Fox, North Canton

The mother of four - Brittany, 13, Lindsey, 12, Jordan, 8, and Mackenzie, 4 - she is very active in their activities. She presently is serving as chair of the Jackson Township Playground Advisory Committee. This group is working on redesigning and expanding the existing playground for complete accessibility for all members of the community.

Her son Jordan has Down syndrome, and Fox wants to bring forth issues relevant to school age children with disabilities and their families. She feels strongly that people with disabilities should be included in the everyday fabric of communities: in the workforce, in educational settings, and in recreational and social activities. "I want to be a contributing member (of Council) to any system change effort that will further this," she says.

Fox received a Bachelor's degree in Finance and Business Administration from the University of South Florida. She serves as a member of Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio. She will be serving on Council's Children's Issues, Public Policy and Community Living Committees.

Her husband Monte is a dermatologist. She enjoys reading, sewing, and outdoor activities with her family when there is time.

Coletta Adams, North Olmsted

Adams finds herself in the middle of an initiative that will make possible the reinventing of a system that should ensure all children with disabilities live within safe and healthy families, allow families the ability to determine and control the supports and services that they need, and be able to access a single point of entry.

To keep momentum going, she will serve on Children's Issues as well as Public Policy and Community Living Committees.

Adams is the mother of two girls who are attending The Ohio State University, and a son Jamie, 18, who has mental retardation. He is a junior at North Olmsted High School and recently attended his school's prom.

Adams explains, "I learned early on not to just believe the experts. I questioned anything that didn't feel quite right. I learned to trust my instincts and not be intimated."

She is self-employed and is active in many organizations and serves on many boards, including the League of Women Voters, Special Olympics, Achievement Center for Children, and Adolescent Literacy Committee.

Ann Christopher, Columbus

Christopher has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Education from Wright State University and a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling from The Ohio State University.

She works as a Training Specialist for the Franklin County Board of MRDD at ARC Industries West. "I've made my career working with adults who have mental retardation and developmental disabilities in the sheltered workshop environment. This has afforded me the opportunity to work with families, community members, and other professionals to help our employees create a meaningful lifestyle," she explains.

As a person with a life-long developmental disability, Christopher feels she has a unique perspective of the needs and desires of Ohioans with disabilities. She will serve on the Health and Education Committees.

Save the date!

DD Council Annual Conference "Olmstead: Theory and Reality"

Details will be included in DD Quarterly, Summer Issue and on DD Council website, www.ohio.gov/ddc

Council staff bring experience and diversity to the job

Her funding, grant writing and guardianship experience from jobs at the Franklin County Department of Family Services and in Delaware County as the director of senior citizen supportive services has helped with her work on Council projects.

Treanor also worked for 15 years for the Ohio Department of Corrections as a program coordinator, and is a certified chemical dependency counselor.

Treanor is most involved with the Family Support Collaborative (see page 1) and the Success for All Students project, a Council grant that promotes inclusion for children with developmental disabilities in typical classrooms.

"Representing the needs of children with disabilities so they stay a priority among all children, and so their needs don't get overlooked is my priority," she says.

While her experience with other government agencies is helpful to her current work, the experience she brings to Council as the mother of 18-year-old Cliff, a young man with MRDD and other medical needs, is equally important.

"I think being a parent gives you a whole different perspective," she said. "I can speak to the needs of families through my experience." She added that it is best to view children's issues as "family oriented" issues to draw attention to the wider impact those topics make on a daily basis.

Treanor earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University. She lives in Lancaster with Cliff, her four other children, and one grandchild. She enjoys antiques, but admits family responsibilities leave little time for many other hobbies.

Leslie Paull has worked as a policy analyst with Council's Employment Committee for five years.

Paull earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University in 1991. She previously worked as a personal care assistant to adults and children with disabilities and an administrator of a group home. While working with the Ohio Department of MRDD, she worked in provider relations, approving care providers and offering technical assistance.

Paull's ability to quickly learn things and become well-versed on many Council issues has allowed her to "help out a lot in many different areas," she said.

Her experience is most apparent in employment issues. "I'm hoping that our projects in the Employment Committee help more people with disabilities get jobs and earn more income," she said.

Paull and her husband Bill have three children: William, 7, Sarah, 5 and Benjamin, eight months. A busy mom, Paull said her main enjoyment is her children, but she's also a fantasy/science fiction movie fan, and can hardly wait for the Star Wars motion picture series to continue.

Inez Choice has worked at the DD Council for 21 years as an executive secretary.

She previously worked as an assistant librarian at Miami University in Oxford and The Ohio State University, as well as the State Library of Ohio.

At Council, Choice is in charge of making hotel and travel arrangements for Council members and staff. As part of the work, she has had the opportunity to check hotels for accessibility.

"Just making sure all the Council members are taken care of," is how she describes her work.

Because she has become so knowledgeable about hotel accessibility, she also has been able to inform hotels what can be done to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

Choice said finding accessible lodging is important to people who attend Council meetings and events from throughout the state. "That makes it a whole lot easier for people with disabilities to carry on with their busy lifestyles," she said.

Born in Jamaica, West Indies, but raised in Ohio, Choice has three children and eight grandchildren. She enjoys traveling to beautiful destinations, reading, walking and working out.

Siblings program to continue fall conference

People with brothers and sisters who have disabilities are often left out of the service-planning loop for their loved ones current and future caregiving and life goals.

Tom Fish, director of Family and Employment Services at The Ohio State University's Nisonger Center, hopes that will change as a result of more awareness of an adult sibling's program initiated last fall that will once again feature a conference in early November.

The 2001 Ohio Adult Sibling Conference attracted more than 60 people from 25 counties in the state for two days of discussions and learning about the dilemmas and joys many brothers and sisters experience.

"One of the things we've found over the years is that parents who took the responsibility of their kids (with disabilities) early on didn't institutionalize their children but also didn't keep the other siblings informed," Fish said. "It's not uncommon for siblings to feel left out because they don't know what plans their parents have made."

Siblings of those with disabilities often have never had the opportunity to meet other people who are in similar situations.

Beth Headings, of Mentor, a habilitation specialist with the Lake County Board of MR/DD, has a 43-year-old sister with Down syndrome. After attending the conference last year, Headings learned that siblings of those with disabilities have much in common.

"For most people, the parents aren't planning," she said, adding that as many parents age they get medical and life or death issues of their own. "I think it's important to inform siblings that if something does happen (to the parents), the siblings will know what to do."

Headings said such a conference "opens the means of communication between family members" so future planning can begin.

While it is good for siblings who live in and out of Ohio to remain informed of their brother's and sister's goals, it is also vital for decision makers throughout the state to have a heightened awareness of the important roles brothers and sisters do play in each others' lives. "The sibling relationship is the longest relationship that two people will have with one another," Fish said.

Boo Krucky, of Columbus, agrees. She has a 30-year-old sister with Down syndrome who lives in Missouri. She said roundtable discussions at the conference revealed the stress siblings can experience while trying to support their own families as well as looking after their brother or sister. "They didn't have anyone to tell them where they can get support," she said.

In the long term, Fish seeks to officially name the program, build its constituency, and have information and referral programs for siblings in each of Ohio's 88 counties so they can make informed family decisions. Support groups and guidance on important planning decisions is also a goal. Five years from now, Fish would like to see siblings have a larger role in policy making.

"I think siblings deserve a right to be at the policy development table," he said. Fish said that other states have informal groups for siblings, but there are no statewide efforts like he envisions for Ohio.

Krucky sees the potential. "I think it's incredibly valuable that the system will change and become better through the involvement of siblings," she said.

Joyce Clemons, with the Ohio Department of MRDD, agrees. "Siblings aren't really that much on the radar screen as far as policy makers. We'd like to change that," she said.

Clemons, the self-described "researcher" in her family, has two brothers in their 40's with Asperger's Syndrome and autism living in different states. She said sibling involvement can bring "peace of mind" to aging parents. "That's worth its weight in gold," she said.

"This is a movement, this is a happening," Fish said. "We need to get parents to pass this along to adult siblings who may not know about it."

Currently, Fish has a listserv whereby issues are brought forward and questions answered by sibling peers and service professionals.

The siblings project has received support from the DD Council, Ohio Association of Superintendents of County Boards of MRDD, the Columbus Foundation, and the Ohio Adult Services Association among others.

The Nisonger Center is a member of a national group of university centers that focus training efforts and research for people with developmental disabilities.

For more information about the program and conference, visit www.acs.ohio-state.edu/units/osunc/ or contact Tom Fish, Nisonger Center, McCampbell Hall, 1581 Dodd Dr., Columbus, OH 43210-1257, (614) 292-7550, (614) 292-3727 fax, or fish.1@osu.edu

To join the project's listserv, email: kreitzer.5@osu.edu

Media and individuals create positive public awareness

• The inspiring story of a man moving into a community setting after spending nearly his entire life in an institution
• The photograph showing the pride and happiness of a young woman at her job as a greeter at a bank
• The corporation that became intimately involved with Special Olympics

Ohio Public Images and DD Council recognized these efforts at creating positive awareness of people with developmental disabilities, March 7, at their annual Awareness Awards Luncheon. The awards honor organizations and individuals that succeed in creating a greater understanding of people with developmental disabilities.

Top journalism honors went to Grant Segall of the Cleveland Plain Dealer and to Denny Sampson of the Gazette in Medina.

Awards of Excellence for overall awareness went to the Stark County Board of MRDD and to ATCO, Inc., Athens.

Self-Advocate of the Year was Willis Radabaugh of Stark County who became a spokesperson for the G.E.D. program statewide. The runner-up award was presented to Ruben Garcia of Lucas County for his efforts with People First.

"I would encourage all organizations to make nominating their local reporters, photographers, and broadcasters for the Awareness Awards part of their year-long public relations effort," says Lon Mitchell, president of Ohio Public Images. "Many of the award recipients this year are repeat winners, which indicates to me that the efforts we make to encourage positive stories about people with MRDD, and acknowledging those efforts, are worthwhile."

Photo caption included: 2000 Advocate of the Year Christy Riley (standing) shares the stage with this year's Advocate of the Year Willis Radabaugh and runner-up Ruben Garcia (right).

For more information, visit: www.publicimagesnetwork.org, or contact Lon Mitchell. OPI, 2001 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo, OH 43620, (419) 254-4069, (419) 244-9567 fax, info@ publicimagesnetwork.org

"That's what friends are for" poster contest generates interest, spreads awareness

Liz Sheets, public relations coordinator of the Wood County Board of MRDD, coordinated the contest, and it generated responses from students representing 22 counties and 55 schools from throughout Ohio.

"Judging from the number of entries and what was displayed, I think this was real successful," Sheets said. The contest will be repeated next fall.

Sheets noted some inner city school teachers were especially pleased with the contest, which enabled students to consider, discuss and artistically represent an issue other than the crime, homelessness and poverty the students confront on a daily basis.

"I was so impressed with the message kids conveyed in their artwork," Sheets said. "Even first and second graders were very clear about people with and without disabilities doing activities together."

"If we can continue to work with kids and build on that they will have more of an understanding as teenagers and adults," she added.

Erin Rine, an art teacher with Mary Ann Elementary School near Newark, said the contest was a natural match for the school's fall "Don't Laugh At Me" program that promoted diversity.

Rine escorted two fifth grade classes to a March 1 program and exhibit of the works at the Ohio Statehouse, in honor of MR/DD Month.

There, students got to hear children with disabilities speak about their lives. Rine said she heard some students say they would no longer tease students with disabilities. "It's because they were seeing real solid people overcoming their difficulties and being happy with their lives," Rine said.

She said many youngsters previously did not realize that disabilities children have are not always temporary, but can last an entire life.

Photo caption included: Poster winners, left to right: Brianna Bauer, of Parma Community School, First Place grades 1 -3; Justin Spengler, Madison School, Newark, Third Place grades 4-6; Justin Spencer, Milton School, Bowling Green, Third Place grades 1-3; and Jill Majka, Dag Hammarskjold Elementary, Parma Heights, First Place grades 4-6.

A complete listing of winners can be found at www.publicimagesnetwork.org

Ohio Deaf-Blind Outreach Program conducts census

Deaf-blindness means that a person has a combination hearing and visual impairment that is advanced enough to impact his or her independence and everyday living. A person does not have to be completely deaf and blind.

ODBOP needs your help to conduct a statewide survey to identify people with deaf-blindness. If you would like to assist or if you know someone who is deaf-blind, contact:

Dr. Jeffrey Bohrman, ODBOP, jbohrman@columbusspeech.org, (614) 261-5792 v, (614) 263-2299 tty.

Benefits Innovators training - a WISE way to work

The program, called Work Incentives for Successful Employment (WISE), began two years ago and involves ten days of free training during a three month period. Training has taken place in Cleveland and Columbus, and the next sessions will be this fall in Southwest Ohio.

"This training addresses the unemployment and underemployment of people with disabilities," said Beverly Johnson, CPO executive director.

Johnson added that fear of losing healthcare coverage - especially Medicaid - leads many people with disabilities away from pursuing employment.

"People with disabilities have taken jobs, or didn't know the impact of taking a job, and lost their benefits," Johnson said. She noted that most private insurance plans do not provide as comprehensive a package as Medicaid. For instance, some assistive devices and equipment, and some prescription drugs, while not covered through private plans are covered by Medicaid.

"That makes keeping Medicaid coverage especially important to people with disabilities," Johnson said.

Training participants develop their knowledge base with homework case study assignments because the information they obtain is complicated.

"We assign sample exercises to practice information participants can use with real people," said Janet Miller, CPO associate director.

Participants learn the difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). "Learning that is one of the most important things," Miller said. The training also teaches about work incentives, such as impairment-related expenses.

Classes are conducted by Sharon Brent, of the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Workforce Investment and Employment Policy on People with Disabilities. Typically, the training consists of four days geared toward professionals, two days tailored to people with disabilities, and two days for families and friends. All participants are brought together for the final two days of training on advocacy. Small class sizes allow for productive, question and answer learning experiences.

Participants receive comprehensive training manuals, calculation sheets, case studies, and additional resources.

The training provides people with disabilities the information needed to use work incentives so they can go to work and increase their income and assets while maintaining their health care coverage.

"There are different ways people use this information," Miller said. "Some people are using this information in their jobs to help people with disabilities make informed decisions about working. Others are using it to better manage their own benefits or those of a family member."

"We teach them to advocate so that they can get the benefits they deserve, and that they're entitled to," Johnson said. Feedback from past sessions is positive, Johnson and Miller report."

We're taking a very complex subject and presenting it to people in a way they can understand and use it after they leave the class." The information applies to people with all types of disabilities, and is helpful to anyone providing employment services - MRDD and mental health county boards, and independent living centers.

WISE trainings are only one component of the grant, which also includes a demonstration component, and a public policy change component.

For more information, contact: Bev Johnson, CPO, 4550 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214-2246, (800) 796-8498, (614) 267-5071, (614) 267-4550 fax, or email: cpo@iwaynet.net.

PATHS Project works to make direct support jobs into careers

DD Council funds a project called PATHS (Professional Advancement Through Training in Human Services) that hopes to change all that by beginning a program of voluntary training and credentialing for DSPs.

By identifying areas of knowledge and determining recommended competency levels for DSPs, the project will create meaningful career paths that will help to:

• Stabilize the workforce and keep people on the job longer
• Improve quality of service for people with disabilities
• Emphasize ethics
• Update support skills
• Create a consumer and family response system
• Honor diversity
• Enhance the role and recognition of DSPs
• Provide clear descriptions of competencies needed to be proficient in direct support work
• Increase opportunities for quality training and education of DSPs

The project sees a DSP as one who helps a person with a disability lead a self-directed life and to contribute to his or her community. The DSP encourages attitudes and behaviors that enhance inclusion in the community.

In order to fulfill this role, the DSP needs knowledge and skills in many areas. And as the DSP gains the knowledge and skills, he or she will be able to pursue an official state credential that reflects the level attained.

Initially, the state credential will be awarded at four levels: Registration; Certificate of initial proficiency; Certificate of advanced proficiency; and Specialized certificates, such as supervision, behavior management, health care, and so on.

Pilot testing for credentialing will begin at the end of this year. Many stakeholders will have input. Actual credentialing will begin in 2004.

DD Council awarded this grant to the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals and the Ohio Provider Resource Association (OPRA). The Human Services Research Institute is developing framework for the training and credentialing program.

For more information, contact: Amy Gerowitz, 1209 Hidden Wood Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208, (513) 871-0835, (513) 871-2135 fax, gerowitz@ix.netcom.com

Education after high school is important and requires planning

• More likely to be continuously employed
• Less likely to be laid off
• More likely to earn more money over their lifetimes.

Higher learning also tends to improve quality of work and personal lives. Compared with high school graduates, those who have graduated from some type of post-secondary education:

• Are more likely to have meaningful, interesting work and the freedom to make decisions
• Tend to be more satisfied with their careers
• Rate themselves as happier and more satisfied with life
• Have higher self-esteem and more self-direction
• Enjoy better health
• Tend to be more efficient consumers
• Are more efficient in their savings and investment behaviors
• Tend to be more politically active
• Are more likely to be involved in community affairs.

Transition planning is a process that develops a coordinated set of activities designed to move students with disabilities successfully from school to post school settings such as college, vocational training, independent living, and employment.

Thanks to many legal rulings, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and many students with disabilities who have gone through the educational ranks in recent years, accommodations for students with disabilities are relatively commonplace today.

When thinking about disability-related needs and support services at a post-secondary school, a student's first step should be to track down someone on campus who can answer very specific questions. Don't assume that the folks in the admission office, or even in the general counseling office, will have the information you need. Instead, talk specifically to the people who will provide these services on campus.

Most campuses will give you an opportunity to identify yourself as a student with a disability during the admission process. If the school invites you to identify yourself as a student with a disability and in need of accommodations, it is to your advantage to respond as quickly and completely as possible. By law, your disability cannot be used to discriminate against you in the admission process.

When you are in high school, the school district is responsible for providing any and all support services you need to encourage your full participation in the educational process. Post-secondary education facilities do not have the same obligation. They must, by law, provide any reasonable accommodations needed for you to have equal access to the educational opportunities and services available to your nondisabled peers if you request the accommodation. You must identify the need for an auxiliary aid and must give adequate notice of the need to the appropriate representative of the college, who might be an ADA coordinator, a dean, a faculty advisor, or other official.

Colleges and universities are not required to seek you out to see if there is something you may need. They vary in how much support they provide, but seldom will the level of support equal what is given in high school. Once you have identified the person you need to speak with about accommodations, make a list of questions to ask. Be very specific, based on the needs you have.

For example, students who are hard of hearing or deaf might ask who makes arrangements for interpreters and whether interpreters are available for nonclassroom activities. They might ask whether they get priority for early class registration/scheduling and how they make arrangements for notetakers in their classes.

People with mobility impairments should make sure they visit a potential campus and see for themselves whether accessibility is adequate. They should sit in on a class, eat a meal, and maybe even stay overnight. They might want to ask about test-taking accommodations if they are unable to write quickly or in small spaces.

People who use wheelchairs might ask whether there are buildings that are not accessible, if adapted housing is available, and if public areas of residence halls are wheelchair acceptable.

For more information about transition from high school to higher learning request these resources: "How to Choose a College: Guide for the Student with a Disability" 5th ed., 1997 Association on Higher Education and Disability and the HEATH Resource Center of the American Council of Education, One Dupont Circle, Ste. 800, Washington, DC 20036-1193, (202) 939-9320, http://www.ACENET.edu.

"Auxiliary Aids and Services for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities" U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, Washington, DC, (800) 421-3481.

"Transition Guidelines & Best Practices" Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, 400 E. Campus View Blvd., Columbus, OH 43235, (800) 282-4536 v/tty, www.state.oh.us/rsc

Obtain good general transition information from: "Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC)", 2277 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850, (800) 538-3742, e-mail acceric@inet.ed.gov.

Seek information about scholarships from: "Directory of College Facilities and Services for People with Disabilities" published by The Oryx Press, 4041 North Central at Indian School Rd., Ste. 700, Phoenix, AZ 85012-3397,(800) 279-6799.

Transition Planning: A Guide for Parents and Professionals

The transition from youth to adulthood is a critical period for students with disabilities. This guide explains the transition requirements under the IDEA of 1990 and 1997, the School-to-Work Opportunities Act, and Goals 2000: Educate America.

It contains exemplary transition practices from Project L.I.F.E., Ohio's systems change project for transition, and a survey on transition policy compliance and best practices that can be used as a self assessment by families, educators and adult service providers.

Margin notes summarize major points of interest and the body of the text provides more in-depth explanations, citations and examples.

Includes a disk with transition text and forms from the manual in Microsoft Word and WordPerfect formats to make your own transition manual.

62pp. Spiral bound. $30 includes book and disk. Payable to: Kent State University. Robert Baer, 300 White Hall, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242-0001. (330) 672-3833.

RESOURCES

Money and Ideas: Creative Approaches to Congregational Access

Congregations of all faiths often fail to remove barriers because of budget restrictions. This booklet, with lively stories and an extensive resource list, moves congregations from thinking why something can't be done to planning how it can be done.

Money and Ideas describes creative initiatives and fund raising strategies used by 50 congregations to become more accessible to people with all types of disabilities. These congregations, although limited in funds, serve as models of inclusion and hospitality.

36pp. Softcover. $3.50. Religion and Disability Program, National Organization on Disability, 910 16th St. NW Ste. 600, Washington, DC 20006-2916. Lorraine Thal, (202) 293-5960; e-mail: religion@nod.org www.nod.org

Disability Sport and Recreation Resources

This book is a must for people with disabilities who refuse to have limits placed on their selection of physical activities. It has up-to-date information on 47 sports and recreation activities.

Great reference for physical education and adapted physical education teachers, recreational and physical therapists and health-care professionals.

Each chapter includes information on international, national, and regional disability and non-disability sport governing organizations that oversee each sport. Also includes historical overviews, rule modifications and adaptations, equipment and equipment suppliers, and information on how people with disabilities can become involved in competitive and recreational activities.

341 pp. Softcover. $35. Cooper Publishing Group, PO Box 1129, Traverse City, MI 49685. (231) 933-9958; e-mail: icooper100@aol.com

From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide 2002

Whether you are beginning to advocate for a child with a disability, or are an experienced advocate who needs a good reference, this book provides a clear roadmap to effective advocacy. You will learn how to plan, prepare, organize and get quality special education services.

Practical and user-friendly, it includes hundreds of strategies, tips, references, warnings and Internet resources. Learn to:

• Develop a master plan for your child's special education
• Organize your child's file
• Work with consultants and evaluators
• Write SMART IEP goals and objectives
• Use test scores to monitor your child's progress
• Resolve parent-school conflict early
• Write effective letters and create paper trails
• Use parent agendas to improve meeting outcomes

382 pp. Softcover. $29.95 plus $4.95 S& H. Harbor House Law Press, Inc., PO Box 480, Hartfield, VA 23071-0480. (804) 758-8400; www.harborhouselaw.com

All resources listed in DD Quarterly are available from AXIS library. (800) 231-2947 axiscenter@aol.com

Taking charge - Guide to personal care decision-making in later life

The process of making long-term care decisions can be a confusing one. If you are thinking about your future health needs, or you or someone you know, needs services or assistance now, this guide can help you with the planning and decision making process.

Guide covers:

• The decision making process: the who, what, when, how, and why of the care decisions you will be making.
• The role of families in this process and long-term care in general.
• How you can locate and obtain services: who can help you figure out what you need and how to find these services.
• Your options for long-term care services, including home and/or community-based services as well as institutional services.
• Financial and legal considerations.
• How to be an effective long-term care consumer.
• Lists of questions to ask when looking into different types of services
• Location and phone numbers for Ohio Area Agencies on Aging, Ombudsman, Care Choice Ohio and PASSPORT offices.

23pp. Available on the website for the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA), www.state.oh.us/age For more information or location of the Area Agency on Aging near you: ODA, 50 West Broad St. 9th Fl., Columbus, OH 45321-5928; (614) 466-5500.

Personal SPACE - Safety, Planning, Awareness, Choice, Empowerment: A Violence Prevention Program for Women

This curriculum was developed by women with developmental disabilities, family members, and professionals in the fields of developmental disabilities, sex education, counseling, violence prevention, training, and evaluation.

It includes eight interrelated lessons that are a framework curriculum, meant to be adapted and modified. The overall program goals are that women completing the program:

• Are knowledgeable about their rights to privacy and to freedom from physical harm.
• Have a basic understanding of different types of violence.
• Are able to identify places or situations that might pose a threat to their safety.
• Are able to recognize common forms of sexual harassment.
• Show an understanding of what constitutes sexual assault or abuse.
• Are able to identify the common signs of an abuser and understand the cycle of domestic violence.
• Have a physical safety plan prepared.
• Have knowledge of local resources and people to whom they can turn to for assistance

Curriculum contains guidelines for class discussions, sample scripts for role-playing activities, continuing learning projects, and sample letters for communicating with family members or staff.

149pp. Spiral bound. Free. Limited number of printed copies available. The Arc of Maryland, Inc., 49 Old Solomons Island Rd., Ste. 205, Annapolis, MD 31401. (410) 974-6139. Also available on web site: www.thearcmd.org

UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI presents... HEALTHY LIVING CONFERENCE

Featuring Dr. Murray Goldstein, Medical Director, United Cerebral Palsy, Research & Educational Foundation

User Friendly - Hands On - Helpful Information Networking - Break Out Sessions

Registration: $25 - Includes Continental Breakfast and Lunch

For more information, contact: Ami Alderman Brown (513) 636-4446 ami.alderman@chmcc.org

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Improving the lives of Ohioans with disabilities

DD Quarterly is available in large print and on audiocassette, upon request.

Please pass this copy to others who could benefit from it. If you, or someone you know, would like to be added to the mailing list, please call AXIS.

Toll free in Ohio, v/tty: (800) 231-2947; In central Ohio, v/tty: (614) 262-8124 ; Fax: (614) 267-4550; E-mail: axiscenter@aol.com; Website: http://www.axiscenter.org

AXIS STAFF : Sue Willis, project director; Vince McGuire, photographer; Kelley Femia, designer; Beth Kramer, writer/editor; Shari Veleba, writer; Kim Ryan, audio recording; Joyce Talkowski, assistant; Donna Kinney, assistant

Copyright 2002. Content may be reprinted upon request.

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