ARISE Receives Statewide Award · Sibs up front: Dedrah Crowson, Zach Sheridan, Mark Forger,...

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May 2009

Center for

Independent Living

ARISE Oswego

9 Fourth Avenue

Oswego, NY 13126

(315) 342-4088

ARISE Pulaski

2 Broad Street

Pulaski, NY 13142

(315) 298-5726

What’s inside:

Director: Sabine Ingerson Oswego County EditionDirector: Sabine Ingerson Oswego County EditionDirector: Sabine Ingerson Oswego County EditionDirector: Sabine Ingerson Oswego County Edition

Our mission is to work with

people of all abilities to

create a fair and just

community in which

everyone can fully

participate.

1 Agency of the Year

2 ARISE Groups

3 Other Announcements

4 Community Events

5 (Continued)

6 The Transition Corner

7 Hearing Loss

8 Children’s Fun Page

9 May Calendar

10 Make A Difference

ARISE Receives Statewide Award By: Maryann Piazza-Toms

ARISE Child and Family Service, Inc. received the first ever Agency of the Year Award given by the New York State Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. The award, presented on March 19 in Albany at the 2009 Spirit of Social Work Dinner, recognizes an agency that demonstrates exceptional professional qualities. “I’m honored we’ve been recognized,” said Maryann Piazza-Toms, Director of the ARISE Child and Family Mental Health Clinic. She, along with ARISE Executive Director, Tom McKeown, and other staff accepted the award on behalf of the agency. “This award recognizes all the hard work that ARISE staff do every day of the year without regard to accolades or applause,” said Piazza-Toms. As a Center for Independent Living, ARISE’s core services include peer counseling, independent living skills training, information and referral, and individual and sys-tems advocacy. The agency also offers a range of programs beyond its core services, each designed to support inde-pendent living and community integration. Its work is guided by the independent living philosophy, the belief that people with disabilities have a right to self-determination – the freedom to make choices and work toward achieving personal goals.

ARISE’s Child and Family Mental Health Clinic de-livers services using a person-centered approach that builds on inherent strengths to develop maximum independence and improve quality of life for children, adults, and fami-lies. “We need to continue being a community partner and help the public learn about what we do,” Piazza-Toms said. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership association for professional social workers in the world. The New York State chapter encom-passes all of New York State except the five boroughs of New York City. The Spirit of Social Work Awards are given annually in March.

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ARISE GROUPS

Social Club May 11th - 1:00 - 2:00 pm

The purpose of the group is to get people with any type of disability together to socialize. At this month’s meeting we will be creating centerpieces for the upcom-ing May Flower Dance! Light refreshments will be served. For more information please contact Jen Stanard at 342-4088 ext. 216.

Self-Advocacy Group May 11th - 12:00 - 1:00pm

This group is open to anyone with a disability and a desire to advocate. At each meeting we discuss accessibility issues in the area and plan how to advocate for change. For additional information, or if you have an issue you would like the group to advocate for, please contact Ken Skillen at 342-4088 . ext. 226

Teen Group May 2nd - 12:00 - 2:00 pm

This group is open to any teen (ages 13 - 21) who has a developmental disability. This month we will be attending the Medieval Day at ARISE at the Farm. For more informa-tion, call Heather Lee at 342-4088 ext. 243.

Oswego County Edition

SPECTRUM Meeting

This parent support group focuses on all disabilities and is open to any parent, caregiver or professional. We meet once a month in Central Square and it is not re-stricted to Central Square School District in-dividuals. We have had trainings on autism, Dealing with Bullies, IEP requirements, transition service, differences in girls and boys relationships, drunk driving dangers and disability awareness. For information on May's activities please email [email protected] or call 668-4231 ext. 2108.

Central Square Social Club

For students with disabilities that are 13-21 who are still in school. We meet in Central Square twice a month. The youth so-cialize, explore their community, have fun, enjoy celebrations and go on field trips. For information on May's activities please email [email protected] or call 668-4231 ext. 2108.

Hearing Loss Group May 14th - 1:00 - 2:30

This month, we will be meeting at the Oswego ARISE location. Details and information will be mailed out when it be-comes available. All are invited to intend. For more information, contact Sabine Inger-son at 342-4088

Sibshops May 16th - 12:00 - 4:00 pm

This month, we will be meeting at the Oswego ARISE office for Springtime crafts and activities. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, please contact Lisa Seguin at 342-4088 ext. 208

Wii Bowling League for Adults Beginning April 2nd, the Res Hab/Day Hab department will be offering adult consum-ers the opportunity to participate in the Wii Bowling League at no cost. The League will meet every Thursday from 1:00 - 2:30 pm. We encourage Integration Specialists to bring their adult consumers to this ongoing event.

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Training for Integration Specialists

ARISE recognizes the importance of training integration specialists who teach our consumers independent living skills. Training will be taking place at the Oswego ARISE location on these dates.

Wednesday, May 27th from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Monday, June 29th from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

*We realize that these trainings may conflict with scheduled service times, but arrangements will be made to accommodate those consumers affected.

Going Green In an effort to cut down on excess paper consumption, you now have the option of re-ceiving the ARISE newsletter by e-mail! If you are interested, please contact Katelyn at 342-4088 ext. 209 or e-mail your request directly to: [email protected]

Moved? If you have moved or have a new address, please let us know! Contact ARISE to up-date your address for our records, our newsletter and voter registration.

Kim Dusharm has been selected as the Commu-nity Integration Specialist of the Month. The families Kim serves commend her work and dedication. One family stated, if Kim could be summed up in one word, it would be “ excellence,” further proof that she goes above and beyond the call of duty. Another par-ent wrote in requesting that we acknowledge Kim for all she does explaining that Kim took the time to get to know her child and that it made a difference in her family. The change is visible in her daughter’s ear-to-ear smile. Kim has been a strong advocate for her con-sumers and is conscientious about the work she does. Her dedication and commitment to quality service is evident with the success her consumers are able to achieve. I would like to thank Kim for all her efforts and as well as all CIS workers for everything they do. Everyone makes a difference in the lives of those they

work with!

ARISE Presents: Kimberly

Dusharm, CIS of the Month By: Lee Sperino

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ARISE Announces First May Flower Dance

Spring is in full swing and soon, you may be, too! ARISE has announced its first ever dance for its adult consumers to be held on Friday, May 22nd at the Oswego Armory on West First Street from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Community Integration Specialist Rachel Montemurro made initial contact with com-munity supports to get this dance up and moving. With the help of various staff and coordi-nators, this may soon become an ongoing project to get our consumers out of the house and on the dance floor. Anyone age 18 and over who receives services from ARISE, ARC, Oswego Industries and OCO, Inc., CNY DSO or YMCA Respite, is invited to attend the May Flower Dance, free of charge. This is bound to be a great time and a wonderful opportunity for every one to get to-gether, socialize and have fun. In addition to music, there will be door prizes and a special performance by a band of rock n’ roll renegades! For more information and to make reserva-tions, contact Jon Gilmore at 342-4088 ext. 213.

Pizza Hut Hosts Celebrity Tip Night

Four Accessible Apartments Will Soon be Available in Oswego

Good, affordable housing is not easy to find. The Hamilton Homes Complex has a new owner, Housing Visions, who is renovating the complex in three phases. The first group of 54 apartments will be ready for occupancy this summer. Nine units are set aside for indi-viduals with disabilities. Four two-bedroom apartments are fully ADA accessible with lower counter tops in the kitchen as well as a roll-in shower. Should you be interested in finding out more about the nine apartments set aside for consumers with disabilities such as cost and eligibility, please contact Melissa Reeves, ARISE’s Housing Advocate, at 342-4088 ext. 207.

Pizza Hut in Oswego graciously supported the “Ramp Program” by hold-ing “Celebrity Tip Night” on April 28. All tips earned by the ARISE celebrity waiters, Christine Ward, Danielle Syrell, Katelyn Bolen, Melissa Reeves and Sabine Ingerson were designated for ramps. Over $370 was collected! We want to thank Pizza Hut and all who do-nated generously to this cause. A special thank you goes out to the ramp builders and all the volunteers who will make this year’s Ramp Project a success!

Waitstaff Jeff, Cija and Jenna join Celebrity Waitresses Melissa Reeves, Danielle Syrell, Christine Ward, Kate-lyn Bolen and Sabine Ingerson at Pizza Hut’s Celebrity

Tip Night fundraiser.

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ARISE and Sibs Support Autism Awareness

A group of Siblings who have a brother or sister with special needs and a group of ARISE staff partici-pated in the 3rd Annual Autism Walk held at Leighton Elementary School on April 25. ARISE serves many indi-viduals with autism. It is important for our staff to support the Autism Task Force and its mission. The walk was a great event not only for the commu-nity, but also for those who partici-pated. Thank you all who came out!

Constellation Energy gave a grant to ARISE to help the Call-N-Ride service continue in Oswego County. On Monday, April 27, we finally had the chance to extend our thanks to their representatives, Jill Lyon, Ken Geary and Jill Whitaker at the monthly luncheon for OCVI (Oswego County Visu-ally Impaired). This door-to-door service is available to anyone in Oswego County for a very reasonable fee. There is a discount for individuals who have a disability. Almost 400 rides are provided per month. The hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. one day a week. Please call ARISE or OCO for more information.

Constellation Keeps Bus Service

a Call Away

Attendees of the Oswego County Visu-ally Impaired group extend their thanks to the representatives of Call-N-Ride. This ser-vice provides transporta-tion throughout Oswego County for those who may otherwise be with-out a ride to and from daily activities. Top: Sabine Ingerson, Gary Mashaw, Betty Jaekle, Betsy Copps Laura Smith and Ken Skillen. Bottom: Ken Geary, Jill Whitaker, Ruth Kitney and Jill Lyon stand in front of the Call-N-Ride bus.

Participants of the 3rd Annual Autism Walk hold banners of ARISE. Left to right: Josh & Kim Van Patten, Genny Roarick, Danielle & Lee Sperino, Lisa Seguin. Sibs up front: Dedrah Crowson, Zach Sheridan, Mark Forger, Katherine Breezee, Alexis Sheridan, Rebecca Scheinert.

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The Transition Corner

Transition Service Coordinators Vicki Affinati-Central Square High School Jen Stanard-Mexico High School

668-4231 ext. 2108 963-8400 ext. 5135

A Transition fair was held at the Central Square High School on April 24. Vicki Affinati,

Transition Coordinator, organized it. We are grateful to the many agencies that participated

and helped make it a success!

PAUL V. MOORE HIGH SCHOOL

By: Vicki Affinati

What is the Transition Service Program?

Services are available at Paul V. Moore High School for students with disabilities to explore interests and pan for life after school. Any student is welcome to stop in for assistance

whether they have a 504 plan or IEP.

What types of services are available?

Employment assistance Higher education/College application assistance VESID-referral and help with application Driving Permit preparation assistance. Eligibility for Medicaid funded programs:

• Medicaid Service Coordinator • Community Access assistance • Residential in-home assistance

Independent living skills and self-advocacy IEP Goal planning Resume assistance Shopping skills and money/banking skills Additional services to assist students with disabilities to gain employment or attend college and to live as independently as possible.

Where?

ARISE staff is located in room 2108. Our office hours may vary but are typically from 7 AM -3 PM on Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays.

How do I make a referral?

Teachers, counselors, social workers or students can complete a Youth Services referral Form, available in the guidance office and return the form to Vicki Affinati, Transition Ser-

vice Coordinator. Parents and service providers can also make referrals. Vicki can be reached at 668-4231 extension 2108. Or you may email her at [email protected].

How can students get involved?

The ARISE Transition Service Coordinator will meet with students during Study Halls, after school or during free periods or as arranged with teachers.

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Tips for Restaurant Guests with Hearing Loss By: Sabine Ingerson

Have you ever been to a restaurant and were not able to follow the conversation at your table? It has happened to me in a place with a lot of background noise. We discussed this issue at the last meeting of the Hearing Loss Group in April. David Branfield, who fa-cilitates the group, shared some helpful tips which we are reprinting with the permission from the Rochester HLAA. • Call and make reservations ahead of time. Request a table or booth in a well-lit area. • Make your reservation for “off” hours. Avoid peak times like Friday or Saturday night, or

noon to one o’clock during the week. • Avoid a restaurant with live entertainment. • Keep your group small. • At the drive-thru, you can hand your order in on paper. • At “fast food” establishments, decide ahead of time what you plan to order. • Tell the hostess and the server that you have a hearing loss. • Avoid areas close to the kitchen, air conditioners or noisy equipment. • When seated, position yourself near the person you wish to communicate with; if possi-

ble, sit with your back to a wall and don’t face a window or bright light. Avoid tables in the center of the room.

• If an amplifier to a P.A. system is near you, ask if it can be turned down. • If “specials” are available, ask to see a list you can read. • Use your own personal devices, such as one-on-one communicators. • Discourage more than one conversation at a time in your group. • Keep your sense of humor. • Give thanks to those who assist you.

ATTENTION A bus stop in the Hillside Commons Plaza would benefit the entire community. That’s why the Oswego County Self-Advocacy group is circulating a petition asking Centro to make ARISE a routine stop. Businesses in the plaza have a copy of the petition for those who are interested in signing it. If you visit ARISE, be sure to ask! We can’t do this without your help!

Questions about Social Security Benefits?

Jim Cronk, Peer Advocate recently completed a training, and is now a certified Benefits Consultant. If you need help navigating the Social Security system please call Jim at 342-4088 ext. 211.

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Children’s Fun PageChildren’s Fun PageChildren’s Fun PageChildren’s Fun Page

ACROSS

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Red-breasted songbird.

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The day we celebrate mothers.

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A cold treat in a cone, good for sunny days.

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April showers bring May...

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People plant and tend to these throughout warm weather.

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..Is much greener this time of year.

www.CrosswordWeaver.com

DOWN

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This celebration includes marching bands, floats and lots of fun.

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It rises in the east and sets in the west.

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What flowers do after winter ends.

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The last Monday in May...

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The only month with 3 letters.

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It happens after winter.

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May 2009


Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

2 Teen Group

11 - 4 p.m. Medieval Day

At ARISE at the

Farm

3 4 5

6

7

8

9

10 Mother’s Day

11 Self-Advocacy

12-1 p.m.

Social Club

1-2 p.m.

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13

14

Hearing Loss

Group

1 - 2:30 pm

15

16 Sib Shops

12-4 p.m. Oswego ARISE

17 18

19 Sheldon

Roundtable on

Homelessness

9 - 11:30 am

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21 Chicken &

Biscuit Dinner

4:30 - 7 p.m. United Methodist

Church

Ramp

Fundraiser

22 May Flower

Dance

6-10 p.m. Oswego Armory

23

24

25 Memorial Day

Office

CLOSED

26 27 Knitting Club

1-2 p.m.

Integration

Specialist

Training

3 - 5 p.m.

28 29 30

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ARISE 9 Fourth Avenue Oswego, NY 13126 Phone: (315)342-4088 Fax: (315)342-4107 TTY: (315)342-8696 www.ariseinc.org


Mailing Address Goes Here

NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 25

OSWEGO, NY 13126

Do you want to make a difference?

Have you ever considered working for ARISE as an Integration Specialist? Permanent part- time positions are available working with individuals with disabilities in their homes and/or community, in our Residential and Day Habilitation Programs throughout Oswego County. As an Integration Specialist your job would be to assist people with disabilities learn to live a more independent life. Required: High School diploma (or equivalent). Associates degree or experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age with valid driver’s license; and be willing to work flexible hours in the late afternoon, and /or early evenings. A background check is required for employment. Persons with disabilities and/or minority status are encouraged to apply. Rate starts at $9.00 an hour, or higher depending on experience. Forward resume to: ARISE Attn: Community Services Manager 9 Fourth Avenue Oswego, NY 13126 or e-mail to [email protected]; or fax to (315) 342-4107

ARISE Receives Statewide Award · Sibs up front: Dedrah Crowson, Zach Sheridan, Mark Forger,...

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Transcript of ARISE Receives Statewide Award · Sibs up front: Dedrah Crowson, Zach Sheridan, Mark Forger,...