Elwyn Experience newsletter December 2013 issue

Annual Elwyn Elves Tree Elwyn Media Campus Administration Building 111 Elwyn Road, Elwyn, PA Contact: Patty Burke 610-891-2326 [email protected] May 9, 2014 34th Friends of Elwyn Ball Please Touch Museum Philadelphia, PA Contact: Barb Williams 610-891-2002 [email protected]

This issue’s back cover drawing is by 5 year old Alaina Sands, a student at Elwyn’s Development Center. It is her vision of Commu-

nity.

Many volunteer opportunities are available at Elwyn. For further information please contact [email protected] or

610-891-2183. To receive the “Elwyn Experience” by email, please contact [email protected].

CALENDAR OF

Elwyn Vendors: Unsung Community Partnerships

Behind the consumers, staff, and facili-ties that define Elwyn are the valuable relationships that Elwyn has established with its numerous vendors. Appropriate supplies, therapeutic equipment and recreational materials are essential to support quality programming. Locating vendors and establishing contractual relationships yields goods that are nec-essary to keep Elwyn moving forward. Elwyn’s list of approved vendors con-sists of thousands of businesses across the country in various industries. From household supplies and educational textbooks to physical therapy equip-ment, Elwyn searches the globe for high quality, affordable products from ven-dors with a history of providing goods to the Human Services industry. With the assistance of these vendors, Elwyn of-ten qualifies for not-for-profit, education-al or governmental pricing. In many cases, Elwyn’s relationship with a ven-dor goes beyond that of purchaser/purchasee. Often, a vendor begins to

experience a kinship and reaches out to the Elwyn community in a variety of un-expected ways. Sponsorship, dona-tions of goods and resources and an active presence at our numerous func-

tions are examples of this. Vendors come to understand that ulti-mately Elwyn’s goal is to provide oppor-tunities to people with special needs and challenges. Elwyn works with a large variety of businesses in a multi-tude of venues to promotes this under-standing. Elwyn’s vendors are critical to the suc-cess of our mission. In the past, numer-ous vendors have supported Elwyn’s mission through:

Volunteer initiatives on Elwyn’s

Media campus.

Sponsorships at major fundraising

events.

Donation of sporting event tickets

for people receiving supports through Elwyn.

Elwyn is most appreciative of our ven-dors. Through their continued support Elwyn’s mission is furthered through true community partnership.

December 2013 A publication for family and friends of Elwyn.

Over the past two decades, Elwyn

has become a multi-faceted or-

ganization with services and sup-

ports tailored to meet the individ-

ual human service needs of a

broadly diverse

consumer base.

Community expan-

sion has largely

been the vehicle for

this unprecedented

growth in Elwyn’s

mission. The devel-

opment of a large

array of community

based residential,

educational, health,

early intervention,

vocational and day

supports has great-

ly increased Elwyn’s community

presence. Today, less than 1/10th

of Elwyn’s supports are delivered

on campus based settings.

Increased community presence

has also brought the development

of partnerships with other busi-

nesses, organizations, health care

systems and other individuals

who reside in the community.

Community integration is as

much about supporting communi-

ty life as it is about supporting an

individual in a home or an apart-

ment located in the community.

When the community itself is

supported, Elwyn truly becomes

a community partner and in the

best scenario gives back

more to the community than it

takes.

This occurs in many ways: peo-

ple volunteer with local organiza-

tions and individuals volunteer in

support of Elwyn, students and

others in need of engaging in

community service spend time

with people that are a part of

Elwyn. In the course of this ser-

vice, community members learn

more about people with disabili-

ties and generally feel better

about themselves for doing so.

During this process, Elwyn has

not only developed a large com-

munity presence but has also

gained many community part-

ners. Businesses that work coop-

eratively with Elwyn, universities

and medical centers that benefit

from exposure to people with

specific health care needs, re-

searchers who gain knowledge

from interacting with the people

that Elwyn supports are all richer

from their interaction and part-

nerships with

Elwyn. These

examples are

only a few of the

ways in which

Elwyn gives

back.

Elwyn’s commu-

nity presence and

partners are spot-

lighted in this

issue of the

Elwyn Experi-

ence. Some of

the partnerships you will read

about have been ongoing for

years while some are very new.

Elwyn’s residential supports ven-

tured back into the community in

the late 1960s but that aspect of

Elwyn has recently been very

active in increasing its communi-

ty presence. Similarly, Elwyn’s

Behavioral Health Service Line

has dramatically grown in the

community. In addition, changes

in education, work, and health

services that have resulted

in meeting the needs of more

people in the community are

highlighted herein.

STAY UP TO DATE

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter

Facebook.com/elwynorg Twitter.com/elwynorg www.elwyn.org

Elwyn’s Community Presence

ARTICLE PAGE

Community Presence 1

From the President 2

New Jersey Art Show 2

PA Community Living 3

Behavioral Health 4-5

California Partners 6

Educational Transition 6-7

Ben’s Community Partner 7

Pennsylvania Partners 8

Calendar of Events 8

IN THIS ISSUE

OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Dennis

Marion visits Welcome House. See

inside to learn more.

mailto:[email protected]

December 2013

2 ELWYN

FROM THE

Elwyn Experience: A Quarterly Publication of Elwyn Managing Editor Elliott W. Simon, Ph.D. Photography and Layout Editor Walter Fernandez Photography Kunil Park Copy Editors: Candy DeMarco, Tony Catania Content Editors Dennis Ritrovato, Brian Boxall, Angela Sands, Jane Detweiler, Denise Cole, Renee VanBueren Distribution Editor Larry Mandel

HAPPY HOLIDAYS and a Healthy New Year from all of us.

This edition of the Elwyn Experience is designed to give you the flavors, types

and variety of Elwyn’s presence and partnerships in communities. It demon-

strates the mutually beneficial relationships that we have sought, enriched and

grown.

Community living is not merely moving congregate care systems to a different

location. Community living is leaving for work like the neighbors, greeting visi-

tors, shopping and making special meals. It is finding ways to give back. It is

exercising new skills and having more opportunities.

We hope that you share our pride in this approach and that you will find ways to

actually experience what we do. You are each cordially invited to come to our

homes, neighborhoods and places of work. Please feel free to contact us to ar-

range a visit.

Sincerely,

Sandra S. Cornelius, Ph.D.

President

The 8

th Annual Art of Two Palettes was held

at Elwyn New Jersey

On September 18, 2013, businesses, members of the community, Elwyn staff and family members participated in gourmet food tasting from prem-iere area restaurants and caterers, including a wine and vodka bar. The evening featured auctions showcasing the work of artists with disabili-ties, Wheaton Arts giftware, and a number of themed baskets. These included an autographed baseball from Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout. Mike was born and raised in Millville, NJ and is known as the “Millville Meteor.” This year BC Technologies, a leader in the payment technology world, partnered with us using Biddit Auction software. For those that did not have a smartphone, iPad stations were placed in several locations under the tent, which allowed the attendees to bid on auction items, receive real time alerts when they were outbid, and to

pledge donations for the Cumberland Mall’s Giving Tree. The Giving Tree enables those who reside in Elwyn NJ community homes, to re-ceive a gift during the holiday season. The technology created an enthu-siastic and competitive bidding environment by displaying current bids on BC’s leader board. Tommy Serra and Patience Carroll, supporters of Elwyn New Jersey, served as Masters of Ceremony keeping the guests entertained. The Cumberland County College Jazz Band provided the music and a video showcasing Elwyn New Jersey educated the guests about the ongoing mission of the agency. In celebration of its 125th year of continuous operations, Elwyn New Jersey received an Elite Sponsorship from the Doyle Alliance Group; a Platinum Sponsorship from Brown and Brown of Pennsylvania and Gold Sponsorships from Capital Bank of NJ and Millcreek Capital Advisors. The support of our sponsors, including the gifts-in-kind, made the even-ing a resounding success. Special thanks go to the members of the committee, especially Donna Lon-go and Angie Hogan from PREIT/Cumberland Mall, who co-chaired the event. Proceeds from the event will be utilized to purchase a handicapped accessible vehicle which transport individuals to their daily programs and community activities.

7

nity transition experiences provides successful employment opportunities. Starting with the need to secure com-munity based sites that would accept Davidson School students for explora-tory work experiences, the Davidson School Transition staff have developed a broad based list of community part-nerships throughout the Delaware Val-ley.

Over a period of years, this list has grown to include corporations, small retail and commercial businesses, community centers and churches. Long term partnerships include: The Attic Shop, Deals, Fair Acres, First United Methodist Church, Giant, Houser’s Automotive, Maris Grove, Media Courthouse, Media Library, On-A-Roll, Pathmark, Delco SPCA, Staff-ing Plus, Terrain at Styers and Wil-mington Trust. These community partnerships are a win-win situation for the employer and the individual student who will be tran-sitioning to the adult community. A demonstrated benefit for the business partners is an extended exposure to individuals who may become valuable employee candidates. For the Da-vidson School students, extended placements in authentic community based work sites provide the students opportunities to experience co-worker

and supervisor interactions, career specific work requirements, independ-ence, community participation and em-ployment considerations.

Ben’s Community Partner Ben is a 45 year old resident of the Media Campus. The value of commu-nity partners is most evident in his sto-

ry. A local retailer, who wishes to re-main anonymous, routinely donates boxes filled with an array of games, fashion accessories, school supplies, sports equipment, cosmetics, electronic gadgets and more. On January 22, 2013, Ben and his staff were the lucky recipients of this community partner-

ship. Ben was ready to take his break, and Tami Skinter, a 28 year Elwyn em-ployee, wanting to make sure Ben was-n’t bored, handed him a boxed game, “Funglish.” This is a game of 120 words each written on a small card in different and unusual fonts. Tami knew Ben could read: His as-sessments had him at a third grade level, and his staff, throughout his many years at Elwyn, recognized this and taught him sight words for safety and encouraged him to read primary level books for enjoyment. But Tami knew this game was way too advanced - ages 12+ stamped on the box. At least he would enjoy arranging the cards and looking at the colors. So Tami handed Ben a card. “Hard.” he said immediately. Hmmm. She handed him another; “Happy,” said Ben. Another, “sweet,” read Ben. “White,” “Fabric,” “stripy,” “paper”. Ben read these easily and with a smile on his face. Tami called her supervisor over as Ben kept reading-- “fictional,” “illegal,” “glamorous,” all the while smiling and confident-- “entertaining,” “rough,” “American,” “famous,” “flexible,” And of those 120 words, Ben was stymied by a mere fourteen. The

staff excitement was palpable and it grew as this was shared across Elwyn. Ben is a prime example of the scope and continuum of Elwyn’s supports : A young Ben was educated in Elwyn’s approved private school and then moved into a new Elwyn home where he was supported to become a working adult. Books were purchased for Ben’s leisure time, and his activities were broadened . For the Elwyn staff, they reveled in this sparkling moment; they felt renewed and rewarded and will continue to push for community involvement and part-nership. But most importantly, they will keep doing what they do-- for these good people who make up Elwyn never tire of helping, pushing, prodding, sup-porting, cajoling, and negotiating--day after day, week after week, year after year. They never tire because they be-lieve every person must be given the chance to achieve the utmost possible and that at any given time anything can happen ... And so it did. Mrs. Ellen Goss, the parent of another Elwyn consumer, guest wrote this article after hear-ing Ben’s story. Mrs. Goss is herself a long term Elwyn volunteer and another very valued Elwyn community partner … Ed.

Gary, Pam and Lynda are among 45-50 people who enjoy sup-ported employment opportunities each day, thanks to Elwyn California’s many partnerships in the local community. They each work 20 hours per week at the National Cat Protection Society (NATCAT) in Newport Beach. NATCAT welcomes own-er-relinquished cats and kittens to stay in their clean and comfortable living quarters until they find a proper home.

Employment opportunities for adults with disabilities have become increasingly scarce during the past ten years, mainly due to the economic decline in many job sectors. With unem-ployment rates higher than in the past, Elwyn California often finds itself in direct competition with traditional “temp” agen-cies that are trying to find part-time employment for workers without disabilities. In addition to maintaining several state and federal contracts, California Elwyn is actively building relationships with local Chambers of Commerce and Rotary Clubs in southern California in order to network with other

mission-based businesses, according to Cheryl Westley, Elwyn California’s Director of Business Development and Contract-ing. The NATCAT contract came as a referral from the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) in late 2011. Kenneth Ager, Contracts Manager/Operations, toured the cat shelter to eval-uate the work site and access the unique job duties of working in an environment heavily populated with cats. He then craft-ed a proposal that met the needs of NATCAT and provided a meaningful work experience for the Elwyn CA clients. The bid was accepted in January 2012, and has been renewed every month since. Gary and Lynda were selected for the job based on their work abilities and their comfort around animals; Pam was referred to the program by RCOC. Their day starts with cleaning the assorted “cat trees” and play areas, changing the litter pans and bedding materials. Later in the morning they sweep and mop the various rooms, clean the feeding bowls, and prepare supplies for use the next day. The quality of their work is important for maintaining the health of the feline pop-ulation, which may number as many as 30. The workers are supervised by Jeremy Brock, an Elwyn CA Certified Job Coach. He says that the three clients adapted to the job quickly, and now require minimal prompting during the course of their work day. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a stable working environment, with the possibility of an inde-pendent job placement. This would suit Gary just fine. “I like it a lot here,” he says. “It’s a brand new experience."

6

Caring for Cats: An Elwyn California Community Partnership

Federal and State Regulations man-date that Transition Services be provid-ed for all Special Education students 14 years of age and older. The ser-vices must be described in the stu-dent’s Individualized Education Pro-gram (IEP) and include goals and ob-jectives that drive the Transition Ser-vices and experiences that the student will participate in while he/she attends the Davidson School. What is unique for Davidson School students is the individual transition journey that each student will experience prior to gradua-tion. For most students at the Davidson School between the ages of 14 to 16, Transitional experiences will be struc-tured in whole class groupings, small group and/or individual assignments at sites on the Media Campus. At the be-ginning of each school year, students complete an interest inventory that pro-

vides direction to the work sites that the student will explore. Assessments at each exploratory site generate feed-back on student interests, ability and performance that formulates individual-ized planning. As students aged 17 to 19 enter into their Secondary Education Programs, the focus shifts to Community Based Transition Experiences at sites throughout Delaware, Montgomery, Chester and Philadelphia Coun-

ties. Based on student interest inven-tory data, students are assigned to au-thentic work sites for a 10-week rota-tion on a half-day or full day per week basis. It is during this time that students begin to develop career interests, posi-tive work habits and increased inde-pendence and self-determination. Community sites provide the students with options for unpaid training, volun-teer projects, community service pro-jects and paid employment support. During placements, there may be op-tions for students to participate in ex-tended experiences for job training. As the students enter their final school years, Transition staff including Com-munity Integration Specialists, support student efforts to strengthen employ-ment skills, finalize career choices, ac-cess work sites in the student’s home community and strengthen independ-ent community living skills. For many students, participation in local commu-

Transition: The Journey From School Student to Working Adult

ELWYN

3

Although Elwyn started as a small community-based residential school, modern Community Residential Services (CRS) have been in operation for about forty years. Christopher Place-Primos (which is today called Linden Lane) and Chestnut Hall in Philadelphia were among the first CRS apartment complexes and were designed for individuals living semi-independently. Thirty years ago, CRS had only a handful of single family homes but in the subsequent two decades, many more homes were purchased and leased. Today Pennsylvania CRS supports ap-proximately 300 individuals in over 90 locations that include more than 45 single family homes and 46 apartments. Most CRS residences are licensed under Commonwealth of Pennsyl-vania Department of Public Welfare regulations.

Lifesharing and In-Home Supports are two newer CRS living options. Lifesharing was opened in 1992 and by 2001 was sup-porting only nine individuals. Today, 35 individuals live in this residential option that engages families to share their life with a person who has intellectual disability. Diane, who is a Lifeshar-ing provider, has worked at Elwyn for over 25 years and became interested in Lifesharing in 2007. She wanted to extend her fam-ily, love and home to an individual who needed support. When Barbara met Diane, they instantly clicked, and the match was

undeniable. Since moving into Diane’s home, Barbara has been one busy lady. Barbara recently began a second position through her job coach and is working at the Cosmic Café on Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. With the love and support of Diane, Barbara has overcome many struggles in her life, includ-ing quitting smoking after a number of years. She has been suc-cessful at anything she is determined to do, and when she needs some assistance, Diane is always there for her. In-Home Supports were received by only ten people in 2001. These crucial supports, which allow people to remain in their chosen homes with their families, are provided to over 60 indi-viduals in Delaware County and the State of Delaware. Another specialty CRS residential option is the Prader Willi Program which began in 2007 with one house for 4 individuals. Prader Willi Syndrome is a genetic disorder that has a specific behavior-al phenotype that includes an insatiable appetite and multiple behavioral and physical complexities. Currently, there are 2 homes serving eight individuals with this diagnosis that are spe-cially engineered to support independence and safety. Marsha Blakney, a resident of Elwyn’s Prader Willi Program, is an active member of her community. She enjoys helping others and takes every opportunity to do so at her church. Marsha vol-unteers with her mother doing various activities in order to help those who are less fortunate in her community. Most recently, Marsha helped run a booth for a “Kick Off for Vacation” event related to the church’s Bible School. Marsha decided that she was going to use her own time and materials to make key chains to sell at the event and was able to sell $25 worth of key chains which she donated to the church’s missionary. In the past two years, CRS Community Homes have also greatly expanded with 12 new single family homes opening to support individuals who previously lived on Elwyn’s Media Campus. Car-olyn Chassen who had lived on Elwyn’s Media campus for sev-eral years, recently had the chance to move into one of these new homes. Along with her house mates, she has explored a lot of what Delaware County has to offer, as well as expanding into the Philadelphia and Chester County areas. Carolyn enjoys go-ing to Great Cuts to get her hair done, loves to go food shop-ping, do errands for the house, and help to make dinner. One of her favorite things to do with her housemates is spa day. Car-olyn is also joining a church monthly outreach ministry group at Rejoicing Spirits where she will connect with other people with disabilities who also give back to the community. Elwyn CRS continues to expand into the community and in the process give back to the community in very special ways.

ELWYN

ELWYN 4

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS: Providing Enrichment, Empowerment,

Success

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE

Residential Homes- Residential homes assist residents with participating in various activities within the community. Many

residents participate in community volunteer programs. This enables them to learn new skills, assists in socialization, and also

helps to build self-esteem by giving them a great sense of “giving back.” Some of the community partnerships are: Meals on

Wheels through Hometown Senior Center, cleaning and feeding pets with Delaware County SPCA, field clean-up with Aston

Ball Field, and serving meals and working in the kitchen at the Salvation Army. Giving back through volunteering has been a

focal point for many years.

Fairweather Lodge Co-op Community Housing Program – Elwyn BHS’s Fairweather Lodge is a quality home in a residen-

tial community. The Lodge is affordable housing close to shopping and public transportation. It is a peer supported and self-

governing community with access to employment opportunities for financial security and hope.

COMMUNITY INCLUSION: An evidence based practice that provides persons with Severe Mental Illness (SMI)

community support and a subsequent means to successfully reside and work in the community of their choosing. It

focuses on the value of a persons uniqueness and abilities as a contributing factor in a community. Persons with

SMI were once confined to a life in an institutional setting. Today, the same demographic have an opportunity to a

reciprocal community life. This is the result of a change in fundamental service philosophy.

TRANSFORMATION: Elwyn Adult Behavioral Health Services (BHS) embraced the Community Inclusion

philosophy, along with the emergence of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Recovery, in the late 1990’s. As a result,

BHS launched an all-out effort to transform its entire range of community support services. In doing so, BHS rec-

ognized early on the need to strengthen and expand community and stakeholder partnerships and supports in order

to carry out this pivotal transformation.

Recovery is a process of change whereby individuals work to improve their own health and wellness and to live a meaningful life in a community of their choice while striving to achieve their full potential.

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ELWYN ADULT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES

NEW VISIONS As a Community Integrated Recovery Center (CIRC) New Visions believes that everyone has something to contribute. Our members serve lunch at shelters, bag food in the SHARE project, and participate in community walks. Shown at right are two of our members who were honored at Lankenau Hospital for their weekly volunteer positions as guides.

OMHSAS Deputy Secre-

tary Marion (2nd from

right) tours Welcome

House and is greeted by

Executive Director Lew

Manges (far right) and

guests from State and Re-

gional Offices

DELAWARE COUNTY CRISIS CONNECTION TEAM

Our newest program, which started in July 2013, is the Delaware County Crisis Connection Team (DCCCT). DCCCT consists

of support services for Delaware County residents who may be at risk of an emotional crisis. The service continuum was de-

veloped in collaboration with Elwyn, the Delaware County Department of Human Services Office of Behavioral Health, and

Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania, Inc.

We strongly believe that crisis is a community issue, not just an individual issue. We have already infiltrated the community

on many levels. In addition to building partnerships with traditional behavioral health providers, we are also developing partnerships with other communi-

ty resources such as police departments, local universities, and church organizations. We are scheduled to present to the Delaware County Police Chiefs

Association, at the Delaware County District Judges meeting, Widener University, Delaware County Truancy Meeting, Delaware County Suicide Preven-

tion and Awareness Task Force, and many others.

DCCCT includes services in mobile crisis outreach, peer to peer Warmline, and community education around issues pertaining to behavioral health. These

services are available to anyone in Delaware County day or night, seven days a week.

DARBY PARENTING PROGRAM

The summer can be very long for children not involved in positive structured activities. The Fresh Start Program, a community mentoring

and tutoring program for teens, located in Darby, PA, offers a 10-week summer day camp program in the community for children ages 8-

16. Housed in the Sharon Hill Elementary School, the children enjoy sports, swimming, arts and crafts, day trips, and participate in com-

munity service activities.

The Darby PACT (Parents and Children Together) parenting program facilitated a partnership with Congregation Beth Am Israel in Penn

Valley, whose members provided summer scholarships for five children to attend The Fresh Start Camp. A parent, who attends the PACT

program, reported that she was very pleased that her 14 year old son loved the camp and benefited from the experience of being part of a

positive, nurturing community of staff and campers all summer long.

WELCOME HOUSE CLUBHOUSE:

Community Inclusion Relationships

Delaware County Community College - Our Community Relationship with

DCCC Academic Support Department has provided increased access for indi-

viduals with severe mental illness to attend and/or return to college. Over 20

individuals have successfully been enrolled since the supported education

program began.

Department of Veteran Affairs – Our community partnership with the Depart-

ment of Veterans Affairs is with its Compensated Work Therapy (CWT) pro-

gram. CWT is a vocational rehabilitation program that supports work ready

veterans in competitive jobs.

Multi-Media Industry - Our facility provides exploration opportunities with the

music production industry as an employment or education goal. Individuals have an opportunity work in a studio environment and copy-

right and/or share their music with international and national music communities.

Community Supported Employment - Our facilities reciprocal community relationships with the West Chester Pike Business Associa-

tion and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce has helped provide employment opportunities with neighboring businesses and na-

tional merchandising chains.

Ronald McDonald House (RMH) - Our program participants are collecting toy donations for RMH Children for the holiday. Additionally,

we are involved with their Pop Tab Recycling donation program that helps raise money for RMHC.

Hillside Farm Greener Partners Community Food Project (CFP) – Our program participants are involved with the CFP. The initiative

brings healthy food education to low-income communities in Delaware and Philadelphia counties. Our on-site horticultural center and

garden sun deck is a community location of production, processing, utilization, consumption and distribution of community garden grown

foods.

5 ELWYN

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Gary, Pam and Lynda are among 45-50 people who enjoy sup-ported employment opportunities each day, thanks to Elwyn California’s many partnerships in the local community. They each work 20 hours per week at the National Cat Protection Society (NATCAT) in Newport Beach. NATCAT welcomes own-er-relinquished cats and kittens to stay in their clean and comfortable living quarters until they find a proper home.

Employment opportunities for adults with disabilities have become increasingly scarce during the past ten years, mainly due to the economic decline in many job sectors. With unem-ployment rates higher than in the past, Elwyn California often finds itself in direct competition with traditional “temp” agen-cies that are trying to find part-time employment for workers without disabilities. In addition to maintaining several state and federal contracts, California Elwyn is actively building relationships with local Chambers of Commerce and Rotary Clubs in southern California in order to network with other

mission-based businesses, according to Cheryl Westley, Elwyn California’s Director of Business Development and Contract-ing. The NATCAT contract came as a referral from the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) in late 2011. Kenneth Ager, Contracts Manager/Operations, toured the cat shelter to eval-uate the work site and access the unique job duties of working in an environment heavily populated with cats. He then craft-ed a proposal that met the needs of NATCAT and provided a meaningful work experience for the Elwyn CA clients. The bid was accepted in January 2012, and has been renewed every month since. Gary and Lynda were selected for the job based on their work abilities and their comfort around animals; Pam was referred to the program by RCOC. Their day starts with cleaning the assorted “cat trees” and play areas, changing the litter pans and bedding materials. Later in the morning they sweep and mop the various rooms, clean the feeding bowls, and prepare supplies for use the next day. The quality of their work is important for maintaining the health of the feline pop-ulation, which may number as many as 30. The workers are supervised by Jeremy Brock, an Elwyn CA Certified Job Coach. He says that the three clients adapted to the job quickly, and now require minimal prompting during the course of their work day. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a stable working environment, with the possibility of an inde-pendent job placement. This would suit Gary just fine. “I like it a lot here,” he says. “It’s a brand new experience."

6

Caring for Cats: An Elwyn California Community Partnership

Federal and State Regulations man-date that Transition Services be provid-ed for all Special Education students 14 years of age and older. The ser-vices must be described in the stu-dent’s Individualized Education Pro-gram (IEP) and include goals and ob-jectives that drive the Transition Ser-vices and experiences that the student will participate in while he/she attends the Davidson School. What is unique for Davidson School students is the individual transition journey that each student will experience prior to gradua-tion. For most students at the Davidson School between the ages of 14 to 16, Transitional experiences will be struc-tured in whole class groupings, small group and/or individual assignments at sites on the Media Campus. At the be-ginning of each school year, students complete an interest inventory that pro-

vides direction to the work sites that the student will explore. Assessments at each exploratory site generate feed-back on student interests, ability and performance that formulates individual-ized planning. As students aged 17 to 19 enter into their Secondary Education Programs, the focus shifts to Community Based Transition Experiences at sites throughout Delaware, Montgomery, Chester and Philadelphia Coun-

ties. Based on student interest inven-tory data, students are assigned to au-thentic work sites for a 10-week rota-tion on a half-day or full day per week basis. It is during this time that students begin to develop career interests, posi-tive work habits and increased inde-pendence and self-determination. Community sites provide the students with options for unpaid training, volun-teer projects, community service pro-jects and paid employment support. During placements, there may be op-tions for students to participate in ex-tended experiences for job training. As the students enter their final school years, Transition staff including Com-munity Integration Specialists, support student efforts to strengthen employ-ment skills, finalize career choices, ac-cess work sites in the student’s home community and strengthen independ-ent community living skills. For many students, participation in local commu-

Transition: The Journey From School Student to Working Adult

ELWYN

3

Although Elwyn started as a small community-based residential school, modern Community Residential Services (CRS) have been in operation for about forty years. Christopher Place-Primos (which is today called Linden Lane) and Chestnut Hall in Philadelphia were among the first CRS apartment complexes and were designed for individuals living semi-independently. Thirty years ago, CRS had only a handful of single family homes but in the subsequent two decades, many more homes were purchased and leased. Today Pennsylvania CRS supports ap-proximately 300 individuals in over 90 locations that include more than 45 single family homes and 46 apartments. Most CRS residences are licensed under Commonwealth of Pennsyl-vania Department of Public Welfare regulations.

Lifesharing and In-Home Supports are two newer CRS living options. Lifesharing was opened in 1992 and by 2001 was sup-porting only nine individuals. Today, 35 individuals live in this residential option that engages families to share their life with a person who has intellectual disability. Diane, who is a Lifeshar-ing provider, has worked at Elwyn for over 25 years and became interested in Lifesharing in 2007. She wanted to extend her fam-ily, love and home to an individual who needed support. When Barbara met Diane, they instantly clicked, and the match was

undeniable. Since moving into Diane’s home, Barbara has been one busy lady. Barbara recently began a second position through her job coach and is working at the Cosmic Café on Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. With the love and support of Diane, Barbara has overcome many struggles in her life, includ-ing quitting smoking after a number of years. She has been suc-cessful at anything she is determined to do, and when she needs some assistance, Diane is always there for her. In-Home Supports were received by only ten people in 2001. These crucial supports, which allow people to remain in their chosen homes with their families, are provided to over 60 indi-viduals in Delaware County and the State of Delaware. Another specialty CRS residential option is the Prader Willi Program which began in 2007 with one house for 4 individuals. Prader Willi Syndrome is a genetic disorder that has a specific behavior-al phenotype that includes an insatiable appetite and multiple behavioral and physical complexities. Currently, there are 2 homes serving eight individuals with this diagnosis that are spe-cially engineered to support independence and safety. Marsha Blakney, a resident of Elwyn’s Prader Willi Program, is an active member of her community. She enjoys helping others and takes every opportunity to do so at her church. Marsha vol-unteers with her mother doing various activities in order to help those who are less fortunate in her community. Most recently, Marsha helped run a booth for a “Kick Off for Vacation” event related to the church’s Bible School. Marsha decided that she was going to use her own time and materials to make key chains to sell at the event and was able to sell $25 worth of key chains which she donated to the church’s missionary. In the past two years, CRS Community Homes have also greatly expanded with 12 new single family homes opening to support individuals who previously lived on Elwyn’s Media Campus. Car-olyn Chassen who had lived on Elwyn’s Media campus for sev-eral years, recently had the chance to move into one of these new homes. Along with her house mates, she has explored a lot of what Delaware County has to offer, as well as expanding into the Philadelphia and Chester County areas. Carolyn enjoys go-ing to Great Cuts to get her hair done, loves to go food shop-ping, do errands for the house, and help to make dinner. One of her favorite things to do with her housemates is spa day. Car-olyn is also joining a church monthly outreach ministry group at Rejoicing Spirits where she will connect with other people with disabilities who also give back to the community. Elwyn CRS continues to expand into the community and in the process give back to the community in very special ways.

December 2013

2 ELWYN

FROM THE

Elwyn Experience: A Quarterly Publication of Elwyn Managing Editor Elliott W. Simon, Ph.D. Photography and Layout Editor Walter Fernandez Photography Kunil Park Copy Editors: Candy DeMarco, Tony Catania Content Editors Dennis Ritrovato, Brian Boxall, Angela Sands, Jane Detweiler, Denise Cole, Renee VanBueren Distribution Editor Larry Mandel

HAPPY HOLIDAYS and a Healthy New Year from all of us.

This edition of the Elwyn Experience is designed to give you the flavors, types

and variety of Elwyn’s presence and partnerships in communities. It demon-

strates the mutually beneficial relationships that we have sought, enriched and

grown.

Community living is not merely moving congregate care systems to a different

location. Community living is leaving for work like the neighbors, greeting visi-

tors, shopping and making special meals. It is finding ways to give back. It is

exercising new skills and having more opportunities.

We hope that you share our pride in this approach and that you will find ways to

actually experience what we do. You are each cordially invited to come to our

homes, neighborhoods and places of work. Please feel free to contact us to ar-

range a visit.

Sincerely,

Sandra S. Cornelius, Ph.D.

President

The 8

th Annual Art of Two Palettes was held

at Elwyn New Jersey

On September 18, 2013, businesses, members of the community, Elwyn staff and family members participated in gourmet food tasting from prem-iere area restaurants and caterers, including a wine and vodka bar. The evening featured auctions showcasing the work of artists with disabili-ties, Wheaton Arts giftware, and a number of themed baskets. These included an autographed baseball from Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout. Mike was born and raised in Millville, NJ and is known as the “Millville Meteor.” This year BC Technologies, a leader in the payment technology world, partnered with us using Biddit Auction software. For those that did not have a smartphone, iPad stations were placed in several locations under the tent, which allowed the attendees to bid on auction items, receive real time alerts when they were outbid, and to

pledge donations for the Cumberland Mall’s Giving Tree. The Giving Tree enables those who reside in Elwyn NJ community homes, to re-ceive a gift during the holiday season. The technology created an enthu-siastic and competitive bidding environment by displaying current bids on BC’s leader board. Tommy Serra and Patience Carroll, supporters of Elwyn New Jersey, served as Masters of Ceremony keeping the guests entertained. The Cumberland County College Jazz Band provided the music and a video showcasing Elwyn New Jersey educated the guests about the ongoing mission of the agency. In celebration of its 125th year of continuous operations, Elwyn New Jersey received an Elite Sponsorship from the Doyle Alliance Group; a Platinum Sponsorship from Brown and Brown of Pennsylvania and Gold Sponsorships from Capital Bank of NJ and Millcreek Capital Advisors. The support of our sponsors, including the gifts-in-kind, made the even-ing a resounding success. Special thanks go to the members of the committee, especially Donna Lon-go and Angie Hogan from PREIT/Cumberland Mall, who co-chaired the event. Proceeds from the event will be utilized to purchase a handicapped accessible vehicle which transport individuals to their daily programs and community activities.

7

nity transition experiences provides successful employment opportunities. Starting with the need to secure com-munity based sites that would accept Davidson School students for explora-tory work experiences, the Davidson School Transition staff have developed a broad based list of community part-nerships throughout the Delaware Val-ley.

Over a period of years, this list has grown to include corporations, small retail and commercial businesses, community centers and churches. Long term partnerships include: The Attic Shop, Deals, Fair Acres, First United Methodist Church, Giant, Houser’s Automotive, Maris Grove, Media Courthouse, Media Library, On-A-Roll, Pathmark, Delco SPCA, Staff-ing Plus, Terrain at Styers and Wil-mington Trust. These community partnerships are a win-win situation for the employer and the individual student who will be tran-sitioning to the adult community. A demonstrated benefit for the business partners is an extended exposure to individuals who may become valuable employee candidates. For the Da-vidson School students, extended placements in authentic community based work sites provide the students opportunities to experience co-worker

and supervisor interactions, career specific work requirements, independ-ence, community participation and em-ployment considerations.

Ben’s Community Partner Ben is a 45 year old resident of the Media Campus. The value of commu-nity partners is most evident in his sto-

ry. A local retailer, who wishes to re-main anonymous, routinely donates boxes filled with an array of games, fashion accessories, school supplies, sports equipment, cosmetics, electronic gadgets and more. On January 22, 2013, Ben and his staff were the lucky recipients of this community partner-

ship. Ben was ready to take his break, and Tami Skinter, a 28 year Elwyn em-ployee, wanting to make sure Ben was-n’t bored, handed him a boxed game, “Funglish.” This is a game of 120 words each written on a small card in different and unusual fonts. Tami knew Ben could read: His as-sessments had him at a third grade level, and his staff, throughout his many years at Elwyn, recognized this and taught him sight words for safety and encouraged him to read primary level books for enjoyment. But Tami knew this game was way too advanced - ages 12+ stamped on the box. At least he would enjoy arranging the cards and looking at the colors. So Tami handed Ben a card. “Hard.” he said immediately. Hmmm. She handed him another; “Happy,” said Ben. Another, “sweet,” read Ben. “White,” “Fabric,” “stripy,” “paper”. Ben read these easily and with a smile on his face. Tami called her supervisor over as Ben kept reading-- “fictional,” “illegal,” “glamorous,” all the while smiling and confident-- “entertaining,” “rough,” “American,” “famous,” “flexible,” And of those 120 words, Ben was stymied by a mere fourteen. The

staff excitement was palpable and it grew as this was shared across Elwyn. Ben is a prime example of the scope and continuum of Elwyn’s supports : A young Ben was educated in Elwyn’s approved private school and then moved into a new Elwyn home where he was supported to become a working adult. Books were purchased for Ben’s leisure time, and his activities were broadened . For the Elwyn staff, they reveled in this sparkling moment; they felt renewed and rewarded and will continue to push for community involvement and part-nership. But most importantly, they will keep doing what they do-- for these good people who make up Elwyn never tire of helping, pushing, prodding, sup-porting, cajoling, and negotiating--day after day, week after week, year after year. They never tire because they be-lieve every person must be given the chance to achieve the utmost possible and that at any given time anything can happen ... And so it did. Mrs. Ellen Goss, the parent of another Elwyn consumer, guest wrote this article after hear-ing Ben’s story. Mrs. Goss is herself a long term Elwyn volunteer and another very valued Elwyn community partner … Ed.

Annual Elwyn Elves Tree Elwyn Media Campus Administration Building 111 Elwyn Road, Elwyn, PA Contact: Patty Burke 610-891-2326 [email protected] May 9, 2014 34th Friends of Elwyn Ball Please Touch Museum Philadelphia, PA Contact: Barb Williams 610-891-2002 [email protected]

This issue’s back cover drawing is by 5 year old Alaina Sands, a student at Elwyn’s Development Center. It is her vision of Commu-

nity.

Many volunteer opportunities are available at Elwyn. For further information please contact [email protected] or

610-891-2183. To receive the “Elwyn Experience” by email, please contact [email protected].

CALENDAR OF

Elwyn Vendors: Unsung Community Partnerships

Behind the consumers, staff, and facili-ties that define Elwyn are the valuable relationships that Elwyn has established with its numerous vendors. Appropriate supplies, therapeutic equipment and recreational materials are essential to support quality programming. Locating vendors and establishing contractual relationships yields goods that are nec-essary to keep Elwyn moving forward. Elwyn’s list of approved vendors con-sists of thousands of businesses across the country in various industries. From household supplies and educational textbooks to physical therapy equip-ment, Elwyn searches the globe for high quality, affordable products from ven-dors with a history of providing goods to the Human Services industry. With the assistance of these vendors, Elwyn of-ten qualifies for not-for-profit, education-al or governmental pricing. In many cases, Elwyn’s relationship with a ven-dor goes beyond that of purchaser/purchasee. Often, a vendor begins to

experience a kinship and reaches out to the Elwyn community in a variety of un-expected ways. Sponsorship, dona-tions of goods and resources and an active presence at our numerous func-

tions are examples of this. Vendors come to understand that ulti-mately Elwyn’s goal is to provide oppor-tunities to people with special needs and challenges. Elwyn works with a large variety of businesses in a multi-tude of venues to promotes this under-standing. Elwyn’s vendors are critical to the suc-cess of our mission. In the past, numer-ous vendors have supported Elwyn’s mission through:

Volunteer initiatives on Elwyn’s

Media campus.

Sponsorships at major fundraising

events.

Donation of sporting event tickets

for people receiving supports through Elwyn.

Elwyn is most appreciative of our ven-dors. Through their continued support Elwyn’s mission is furthered through true community partnership.

December 2013 A publication for family and friends of Elwyn.

Over the past two decades, Elwyn

has become a multi-faceted or-

ganization with services and sup-

ports tailored to meet the individ-

ual human service needs of a

broadly diverse

consumer base.

Community expan-

sion has largely

been the vehicle for

this unprecedented

growth in Elwyn’s

mission. The devel-

opment of a large

array of community

based residential,

educational, health,

early intervention,

vocational and day

supports has great-

ly increased Elwyn’s community

presence. Today, less than 1/10th

of Elwyn’s supports are delivered

on campus based settings.

Increased community presence

has also brought the development

of partnerships with other busi-

nesses, organizations, health care

systems and other individuals

who reside in the community.

Community integration is as

much about supporting communi-

ty life as it is about supporting an

individual in a home or an apart-

ment located in the community.

When the community itself is

supported, Elwyn truly becomes

a community partner and in the

best scenario gives back

more to the community than it

takes.

This occurs in many ways: peo-

ple volunteer with local organiza-

tions and individuals volunteer in

support of Elwyn, students and

others in need of engaging in

community service spend time

with people that are a part of

Elwyn. In the course of this ser-

vice, community members learn

more about people with disabili-

ties and generally feel better

about themselves for doing so.

During this process, Elwyn has

not only developed a large com-

munity presence but has also

gained many community part-

ners. Businesses that work coop-

eratively with Elwyn, universities

and medical centers that benefit

from exposure to people with

specific health care needs, re-

searchers who gain knowledge

from interacting with the people

that Elwyn supports are all richer

from their interaction and part-

nerships with

Elwyn. These

examples are

only a few of the

ways in which

Elwyn gives

back.

Elwyn’s commu-

nity presence and

partners are spot-

lighted in this

issue of the

Elwyn Experi-

ence. Some of

the partnerships you will read

about have been ongoing for

years while some are very new.

Elwyn’s residential supports ven-

tured back into the community in

the late 1960s but that aspect of

Elwyn has recently been very

active in increasing its communi-

ty presence. Similarly, Elwyn’s

Behavioral Health Service Line

has dramatically grown in the

community. In addition, changes

in education, work, and health

services that have resulted

in meeting the needs of more

people in the community are

highlighted herein.

STAY UP TO DATE

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter

Facebook.com/elwynorg Twitter.com/elwynorg www.elwyn.org

Elwyn’s Community Presence

ARTICLE PAGE

Community Presence 1

From the President 2

New Jersey Art Show 2

PA Community Living 3

Behavioral Health 4-5

California Partners 6

Educational Transition 6-7

Ben’s Community Partner 7

Pennsylvania Partners 8

Calendar of Events 8

IN THIS ISSUE

OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Dennis

Marion visits Welcome House. See

inside to learn more.

mailto:[email protected]

Elwyn Experience newsletter December 2013 issue

Documents

Transcript of Elwyn Experience newsletter December 2013 issue