Message from the Director
Celebrating Ability
By Jim DeBeaugrine
The month of October has been phenomenal for bringing attention to the abilities of the people the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) serves, as we celebrated Disability Employment Awareness Month. APD, and its partner agencies, spent the month putting the focus on the capabilities of people with disabilities. APD also partnered with the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper to publish daily stories about customers in successful employment.
On October 1, APD, Blind Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation handed out seven Exceptional Employer Awards honoring businesses for their commitment to hiring people with disabilities (See story below).
Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) took place on October 20. APD employees around the state matched young people with professionals working in the career of their choice (See story below). In Tallahassee, APD provided mentors to eight young people with disabilities. I had the privilege of being a mentor to Kevin Graham, a student in the Lively Transition Program. Graham is a delightful young man who will make a dedicated employee when he is ready to go to work. Another student, Garrett Dudash was paired with APD's Graphic Designer Kimberly Tharpe. Dudash is a sophomore at SAIL school and is interested in a career in graphic design. His keen eye will help him in his chosen profession.
On October 25, APD hosted an exciting grand opening of the new Bay Harbor Dental Clinic in Miami to serve people with developmental disabilities (See story below). Access to dental care is a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. Senators Nan Rich, D-Sunrise, and Alex Villalobos, R-Miami, attended the festivities. Three APD customers spoke at the event about the great need for quality dental care in South Florida.
The agency finished the month with another big announcement—this time in Sarasota (See story below). APD announced it has been awarded an AmeriCorps grant by Volunteer Florida of nearly $400,000. The money is being used to recruit five full-time and 50 half-time AmeriCorps members throughout Florida for the APD-AmeriCorps program. Many of the positions are being filled by people with disabilities, including individuals on the APD waiting list for Medicaid waiver services. The main responsibility of these newly enrolled members will be to help other people on the waiting list have access to community events and activities.
The grant is the first of its kind in the country where people with disabilities are helping others with disabilities. Two new AmeriCorps members, Marilyn DuBois and David Poepping, talked during the news conference about their reasons for participating in this new program. They both want to learn skills so when the grant is finished, they will be able to secure another position with the new expertise they have developed.
I am happy to say that this year APD has increased its activities during Disability Employment Awareness month tremendously. The reason is to keep the focus on individuals with disabilities that are anxious to be given an opportunity. The Tallahassee Democrat has once again played a major role by publishing success stories. Providing an opportunity to a deserving individual is a request I think all of us can honor all year long.
Clicking on most photos will open a larger version.
State Recognizes Disability-Friendly Companies
The state of Florida recognized seven businesses on October 1 in Tallahassee for being exceptional employers of people with disabilities. The large celebration at Tallahassee City Hall also kicked off October's Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) Director Jim DeBeaugrine, Deputy Director of Blind Services John Clarkson, and Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Bill Palmer handed out the awards honoring the businesses for their commitment to hiring people with disabilities. Tallahassee Mayor John Marks welcomed people to the event and spoke about the city's efforts to have a diverse work force.
The award-winning businesses were ARAMARK Food Services of Tallahassee; Childhood Development Services of Ocala; European Street Café of Jacksonville; LCI Industries with stores in Melbourne, Jacksonville, Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, and Milton; Mathison Retirement Center of Panama City; Zoo Miami; and TSE Industries of Clearwater
Governor Charlie Crist said, "I am proud that state government is a leader in providing job shadowing and employment opportunities to persons with disabilities. Floridians with disabilities are an important part of our state's work force, and I encourage Florida's business leaders and employers to learn more about how to better utilize this pool of untapped talent."
APD Director DeBeaugrine said, "I am thrilled to be a part of this exciting recognition event. These employers have shown their commitment to employing people with disabilities, which is a win-win for all. The business gets a dedicated, long-term employee, and the company gets a great return on its investment in that employee."
Visit http://apdcares.org/tap-the-talent.htm to see an extensive gallery of photos of this event.
Agency Expands Dental Care for People with Disabilities
Dozens of people turned out on October 25 to tour a new dental clinic dedicated to serving people with disabilities. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), has partnered with a Miami dentist to open the Bay Harbor Complete Dentistry clinic. The dental clinic is located at 1090 Kane Concourse (96th Street), Suite 204, in Bay Harbor Islands.
APD Director Jim DeBeaugrine and dentist Jonathan Tuman, D.D.S., spoke at the Grand Opening ceremony. Senators Nan Rich, D-Sunrise, and Alex Villalobos, R-Miami, attended and spoke at the ceremony about the good work APD has been involved with over the past few years. Three individuals with disabilities who will use the clinic, Alvin Crosby, Vincent Denis, and Alexander Gonzalez, also talked about their need for this specialized dental care. October was Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Children and adults with developmental disabilities in Dade and Monroe counties who have been unable to find dental care will be able to use the clinic. APD eligible individuals, including those on the waiting list for waiver services, may receive cleanings, screenings, X-rays, and other specialized services at reduced cost or with financial assistance.
APD Director DeBeaugrine said, "This is the agency's second community clinic in the state to help people with developmental disabilities get the services they need. Dental care is a basic need, and APD is committed to looking for partnership opportunities, like this one with Dr. Tuman, to help those we serve. I am sure hundreds of people in South Florida will be happier and healthier because of this new initiative."
Dr. Tuman said, "This project of providing health care to individuals with developmental disabilities within the special needs community has been a dream of mine for many years. I am thrilled and honored to be part of this history-making event."
To make an appointment at the dental clinic, contact the APD Area 11 office in Miami at (305) 349-1478
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Agency Launches Grant During Disability Awareness Month
The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) launched its new APD-AmeriCorps program at a news conference on October 27 in Sarasota's Longwood Park. APD Director Jim DeBeaugrine announced this unique partnership grant to serve people with disabilities. Two new AmeriCorps members, Marilyn DuBois and David Poepping, also talked about their reasons for participating in this new program. October is Disability Employment Awareness Month.
APD has been awarded an AmeriCorps grant of $389,080. The money is being used to recruit five full-time and 50 half-time AmeriCorps members throughout Florida for the APD-AmeriCorps program. Many of the positions are being filled by people with disabilities, including individuals on the APD waiting list for Medicaid waiver services. The main responsibility of these newly enrolled members will be to help other people on the waiting list for waiver services have access to community events and activities.
Many of the newly enrolled APD-AmeriCorps members were in Sarasota to begin their required training for the program. Their responsibilities will include supporting meaningful daily activities for people on the waiting list in the areas of volunteerism, community exploration and participation, job exploration, and employment.
APD Director DeBeaugrine said, "The agency is very excited about this new partnership with AmeriCorps and Volunteer Florida. It provides much needed funding to recruit people with disabilities who will serve others with disabilities. It is a win-win-win for all involved."
"APD-AmeriCorps is a fantastic opportunity for people with disabilities to become an AmeriCorps Member and serve Florida's communities," said Wendy Spencer, CEO of Volunteer Florida. "They will change not only the lives of those they serve, but also their own lives—gaining valuable skills and having a one-of-a-kind experience."
In addition to the APD-AmeriCorps activities, APD partnered with dozens of other disability organizations to host an Informational Fair at Longwood Park. More than 100 people turned out for the free event.
The Governor's Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, known as Volunteer Florida, was established in 1994 by the Florida Legislature to administer grants under the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993. The commission grants funds to Florida AmeriCorps and National Service programs; encourages volunteerism for everyone from youths to seniors to people with disabilities; coordinates volunteerism in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery; and helps to strengthen and expand volunteer engagement. For more information, visit www.volunteerflorida.org |
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APD Does DMD Right
By Jeff Saulich
If APD ever had anything to compare to a full-court press, it would have to be Disability Mentoring Day (DMD). The annual event to mentor young people with disabilities inspires all kinds of mentoring events throughout the state on or around October 20. From Pensacola to South Florida, APD employees served as mentors to hundreds of students preparing to seek employment. This article captures only some of the highlights.
A mock interview session for job seekers was the brainchild of the Area 1 office in Pensacola. Students from six area high schools and Project SEARCH met with interviewers representing Gulf Power Co., Cox Communications, the University of West Florida (UWF), SunTrust Bank, Hixardt Technologies, and Sears Holding Co. The event was held at UWF, which provided lunch for the attendees.
"169 students and individuals on the APD waiting list participated in the workshop," said Area 1's Katrina Washington. "Participants were given T-shirts that were donated by AmeriCorps and Volunteer Florida."
APD's Area 2 office in Tallahassee hosted four students. The students participated in job shadowing in the area office and at the PATLive call center, and also took a tour of ITT Technical Institute to learn about additional educational opportunities.
"It turned out to be a huge success!" said Octavius Jackson, M.Ed., of Area 2. "Jermaine, Annie, Joyce, and Valerie really enjoyed the experience and gave feedback that they have broadened their goals and horizons due to their participation."
Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton got a jump on DMD by presenting partner agencies with a proclamation declaring October 12 as Disability Mentoring Day in his city. The Area 4 office's DMD event invited job seekers and employers to share information.
"The downtown event brought students and adults with disabilities together with representatives of various businesses in a job fair atmosphere," said Nancy Boutot of the Area 4 office.
The Area 10 office in Fort Lauderdale opened its doors to 14 students from Sheridan Vocational Center. Broward County Commissioner Al Jones kicked off the event by telling the students about the challenges he faces in government. He encouraged them not to see their disabilities but rather to see their abilities and to be persistent in every aspect of their lives. Then Mark Foley, ranger at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, gave a presentation on the different types of wildlife that make South Florida their home.
"He brought over different types of snakes, spiders, turtles, birds and the different types of plants," said Area Administrator Martha Martinez. "Ranger Foley spoke about the State Park Ranger program and exactly what the rangers do from feeding the animals to cleaning cages."
The Vero Beach Disney Resort was the setting for DMD in Area 15. More than two dozen potential job seekers, staff members, and APD-AmeriCorps members toured the facility and learned how to apply for employment. The resort's Debbie Collins and Patty Bruzzese from the St. Lucie Arc were instrumental in planning and facilitating the event.
"During the tour, Area 15 APD-AmeriCorps members Jennifer Patino and Jack Henmy III helped to keep the tour and activities on track," said Jose Pinto of the Area 15 office in Fort Pierce. "It was an excellent opportunity for the APD-AmeriCorps members to witness firsthand the benefits of community collaboration projects and how the people we serve can benefit from these events."
"Staff members at APD's Suncoast Area office in Tampa organized job shadowing opportunities for several mentees while collaborating with community partners and fostering new relationships," said Suncoast's Glorie Singleton.
These and many other activities throughout the state provided information and inspiration to hundreds of students with disabilities as they prepare to seek employment in their communities. And that's what DMD is all about!
iBudget Florida—the Waive(r) of the Future
By Hilary BrazzellUnbelievably, it's been just one year since APD first gathered a group of 16 stakeholders—individuals with developmental disabilities, family members, waiver support coordinators, large and small providers, and advocates—to begin building a new waiver system. What happened during this past year, and where are we today?
We had five in-person, two-day stakeholder meetings and four conference calls to develop the iBudget Florida plan and policies. We wrote a 216-page plan describing our vision for the new system. We had 12 public meetings across the state to get feedback from individuals, families, waiver support coordinators, providers, and advocates on the ideas and draft plan.
The Legislature approved the iBudget Florida program and the governor signed it into law! We wrote an application for a new waiver and gave it to the federal government, which has already begun reviewing it. We chose the initial phase-in area—Area 2B—including Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla, Taylor, Franklin, Madison, Liberty, and Jefferson counties. We began sharing information with the individuals, families, waiver support coordinators, and providers in these counties.
We created a video to tell people about iBudget Florida. We almost finished the first phase of a new online system that will help individuals, families, and waiver support coordinators have more choice and control over services and help speed the process of service planning and approval. And we have begun the rule development process.
So what does this mean? It means that iBudget Florida is on its way to becoming a reality! Once the federal government approves our waiver, the agency will begin transitioning people in the eight counties mentioned above to iBudget Florida. After APD has tested and refined its processes and policies with the first group, the agency will begin expanding iBudget Florida across the state. When iBudget Florida is fully implemented, the tier system will go away.
iBudget Florida is a way for APD to better manage the waiver system, while giving customers more flexibility. Individuals will get an allocation of funds, or budget, at the beginning of the service plan year. They will choose how to spend it on waiver services. Waiver support coordinators will still assist individuals and families. With our new online system for developing and reviewing cost plans, in many cases service approval will take as little as one day.
iBudget Florida is designed to give individuals more self-direction and to be simpler, more equitable, and sustainable. Will it give individuals and families more choice and control with how they use their waiver funds? Yes. Will it help them get their chosen services faster? Yes. Will things be perfect for individuals under iBudget Florida? Unfortunately, nothing is perfect. Will iBudget Florida fix the funding problems due to Florida's tough economy? No. Will it help the waiver program to continue serving individuals with developmental disabilities far into the future? That is the goal!
iBudget Florida will be for individuals who are currently enrolled in a waiver. Individuals in Consumer-Directed Care Plus (CDC+) will receive an iBudget Florida allocation but will follow CDC+ policies in using the funds.
APD will continue to provide information to customers about iBudget Florida. Meanwhile, you can view the iBudget Florida video, plan, and more information at http://apdcares.org/ibudget, where you can also submit questions or comments about the waive(r) of the future.
Commitment to Work
By James VidrinePatrick "P.J." DeGuzman has proven that a desire to overcome any obstacle and continued perseverance are the keys to his success. DeGuzman works in the garden section at the Wal-Mart located in Cape Coral. He receives services from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
His supervisors consider DeGuzman to be a great worker, and very dependable. They wish they had more employees like him. The managers noticed that DeGuzman was physically weak when he started working at the store—he could hardly sweep the floor. But now, he lifts heavy bags of soil and decorative bricks without a problem.
DeGuzman began his career working in the garden area sweeping and keeping high volume sale products well organized. He learned how to water and care for the plants under the direction of his manager. DeGuzman learned these skills and wanted to expand his abilities, so he was moved to the "corral" area. There he maintained the cleanliness and order of the outside garden supplies, such as bags of gravel, mulch, and various landscaping supplies. He also assisted customers by loading items into their vehicles.
DeGuzman developed a keen eye for inventory and presentation, and soon he was running the corral area on his own. But again, he did not stop there. He then learned how to be a greeter, and how to check receipts when the alarm sounded, as well as recording his findings and providing excellent customer service to Wal-Mart patrons.
DeGuzman also learned how to spot potential hazards and protect customers when co-workers are operating the forklift and other heavy equipment. He always keeps the safety of customers and excellent customer service as the top priorities of his job.
Although DeGuzman has physical limitations, he continues to move forward in his career at Wal-Mart by learning new skills and taking on new responsibilities. At Wal-Mart, DeGuzman is considered a "rock solid performer."
Governor Appoints 12 to FDDC
On October 7, Governor Charlie Crist announced the following appointments to the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council. Unless specified otherwise, the term of each appointment is October 7, 2010 through September 30, 2014.
Casey Stewart of Pembroke Pines, front-end bagger with Publix Supermarkets, reappointed.
Rixys Alfonso of Pembroke Pines, vice president of development, Here’s Help Inc., succeeding Judith Owen.
Pat Archer of Boca Raton, front-end bagger with Publix Supermarkets, succeeding Christopher Drummond.
Sylvia James-Miller of Ocala, adult day trainer manager with Best Behavior LLC, succeeding Bettina Farmer for a term beginning October 7, 2010, and ending September 30, 2011.
Susan Kabot of Plantation, director of clinical and therapeutics services, NOVA Southeastern University, succeeding Enrique Escallon.
George King of Port St. Lucie, deputy officer, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, succeeding Karyn Kander for a term beginning October 7, 2010, and ending September 30, 2011.
Kathy Leigh of Starke, receptionist, Arc of Bradford County, succeeding Amber Luke.
Barbara Moss of Miramar, retired, succeeding Jacquelyn Needelman.
David Ott of Oviedo, clinical director, Devereux Florida, succeeding Steve Howells.
Sara Romineof Lakeland, student, Polk State College, succeeding Ernest Smith.
Tricia Riccardi of Inverness, president, The Dream Society, succeeding Idelio Valdes for a term beginning October 7, 2010, and ending September 30, 2011.
Robert Whitney of Oviedo, executive director, Advocacy Center for Persons with Disabilities, Inc., appointed for a term beginning October 7, 2010, and ending at the pleasure of the governor.
Around the State
Area 10 Ramps up APD-AmeriCorps
"Our Area 10 APD-AmeriCorps Team is on board!" reports Area Administrator Martha Martinez. "We have four part-time members: Amanda Hicks, Mario Del Aguila, Jennifer Aubrey, and Joy Stewart."
Staff member Bonnie Florom will serve as site manager for the project. Vena Bradley and Martinez also will be actively involved. The first meeting was held in the area's new APD-AmeriCorps Office with all the participants present. Orientation and training is ongoing as participants look forward to a productive and exciting project.
DisAbilities Expo and Art Show in Ft. Lauderdale
By Martha Martinez, Area 10 Administrator
Employees of APD's Area 10 office participated in the 31st Annual DisAbilities Expo at Nova Southeastern University on Saturday, October 16. The expo, now in its third decade, provided an opportunity to learn about services, resources, products, and information for persons of all ages with various disabilities. The expo was a great success with more than 500 people attending educational seminars and an art showcase, enjoying musical entertainment, and visiting approximately 100 exhibitors.
Cora Brown, Area 10 employment coordinator, was one of the speakers on the panel of school and work experts in a seminar entitled "Transition from School to Life: What's Next?" The forum discussed employment and school options as well as the potential obstacles that individuals with developmental and physical disabilities might face once high school is complete.
The art showcase, entitled "See the World Through Our Eyes," featured artwork by people with disabilities. It was displayed at Nova Southeastern University October 13 through 19 in conjunction with the expo. The showcase featured work by artists from 9 Muses, Ann Storck Center, ARC of Broward, Center for Independent Living, Schott Communities, Rebel Drop In Center, and Art from Local Children. It also displayed the talents of Haley Moss, Luz Aponte, and Queenie Archer. Area 10 Community Affairs Manager Bonnie Florom and yours truly served as expo committee chairs for the art showcase.
Conference Targets Treasure Coast Students and Businesses
By Peter Karlan, MSL, Area 15 Administrator
APD's Area 15 office and a large contingent of community stakeholders held the first annual Treasure Coast Transition Conference. The September 25 event was held at the Kight Center for Emerging Technologies on the Indian River State College campus in Fort Pierce. Nearly 150 people attended, including students, educators, businesses, providers, vendors, advocacy groups, and other community groups too numerous to mention.
Attendees at the opening ceremony filled the space, and the balconies of the conference center had to be opened for overflow. All were on hand to watch Sandy Akers from St. Lucie County Florida Diagnostic Learning Resource Systems (FDLRS) and me recognize and award local employers for their commitment in hiring and supporting transitioning students with disabilities. Those recognized included Publix, Walgreens Distribution Center, Buddy's Mobility, Martin Memorial Healthcare Systems, Butterfield's, and Aegis. Other organizations in attendance included the Internal Revenue Service.
The purpose of the conference was to educate students ages 14 to 22, families, businesses, and other stakeholders on the importance of transition planning for high school students. Informational booths were set up by partner agencies including Vocational Rehabilitation, Helping People Succeed (HPS), the ARCs of Martin and St Lucie counties, United for Families, Family Care Council, Stand Up For Independence, Division of Blind Services, and Center for Independent Living Options (CILO).
Several breakout sessions were held on topics such as micro enterprises, advocacy, interviewing, and resume writing. I was pleased to facilitate a session with two local attorneys on guardianship and special needs trusts.
The planning committee of the conference was led by APD, CILO, FDLRS, and the school systems of Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. We thank everyone who came out and participated to make it a great success.
Suncoast Art Show is Award Winner
There were lots of winners at an awards ceremony and reception, held by APD's Suncoast Area office at the St. Petersburg Developmental Disabilities Center. The event on October 22 capped a month-long art show featuring works by APD customers, in recognition of Disability Employment Awareness Month. More than 50 people attended the awards ceremony and a dozen awards were handed out for various categories.
Participating independent artists included Siloame Faircloth, Rene Hall, Mary Ann Hennosy, Charles "Leigh" Hutchinson, Gayle Klein, and Marsha Trout. Contributing art studios included Creative Clay, Friends and Families, and Loveland Center.
The following awards were presented to the very deserving artists: Best Abstract, Jeffrey Ashbanian; Best Watercolor, Robert Miller; Best Acrylic, Maryann Hennosy; Best Mixed Media, Carolyn R., Jill Oldenski, and Mickey; Best Social Commentary, Friends and Family Support Center; Best in Show, Delores M.; Best Artist Series, Marsha Trout; Best Jewelry, Siloame Faircloth; Fine Craft, Leigh Hutchinson.
United Way of Tampa Bay's Day of Caring
Suncoast Area employees participated in the United Way of Tampa Bay's 18th annual Day of Caring. The event brings volunteer teams together to help with projects most agencies could never undertake on their own—everything from weeding and planting to conducting mock interviews for low-income job seekers. This year, the Suncoast Area team's project consisted of collecting kitchenware items for The Spring of Tampa Bay, a women's shelter. Staff members contributed four boxes of supplies.
Breast Cancer Walk
Pensacola APD-AmeriCorps member Nielah Spears and waiting list member Asharyii Nash participated with Pretty in Pink, Inc., in the American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Walk. The October 31 walk took participants from University Mall to Cordova Mall in Pensacola—for a very worthy cause.
A Day of Caring
On October 22, APD's Area 1 office in Pensacola partnered with the United Way by participating in a Day of Caring. The event began with a kick-off breakfast at the Shriner's Temple. Agencies then departed from the breakfast to participate in individual projects. Ten staff members from Area 1 assisted Mr. and Mrs. Poole of Pensacola by cleaning, edging, and mowing their lawn.
Disability Summit in Pensacola
APD's Area 1 office in Pensacola partnered with the Disability Summit Council to present its annual Disability Summit Council Luncheon. Project SEARCH participants were honored by Pensacola Mayor Mike Wiggins during the event. The luncheon was held on October 4 at Scenic Hills Country Club in Pensacola
Volunteer Fair Held in Pensacola
APD's Area 1 office participated in the Volunteer UWF Vendor Fair sponsored by the University of West Florida. The September 29 event was organized to encourage college students to partner with various agencies and organizations and give back to the community. There were numerous vendors and college students participating. Area 1 employees encouraged dozens of students to volunteer and mentor persons with disabilities through APD.
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