The Bridge
News from the Arizona Bridge to Independent
Living
Volume XIX, Number 2
FEBRUARY 2008
ABIL offers and promotes programs designed to empower people
with disabilities to take personal responsibility so they may achieve or
continue independent lifestyles within the community. ABIL is a member of the
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL). "Not just responding to
change, but leading it!"
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(ABIL & Staff contact numbers can be found at the end of the document)
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YOUR ADVOCACY IS NEEDED!
By Amina Kruck, Chair, Disability Advocacy
Coalition
It just takes a few
minutes of your time.
Our state is in budget
trouble and you can help - Yes, YOU!
Whenever there is a budget shortfall, the legislature’s
leadership likes to solve the problem by cutting any social service program
that isn’t required by law. There are other solutions to the budget shortfall
and they need to know that voters want them to find other solutions. The
Governor has promised to not cut programs for children and vulnerable adults.
She has another solution.
Programs in jeopardy of being ELIMINATED by the legislature
are: AHCCCS Freedom to Work, Temporary Healthcare for people on SSDI, the new
ALTCS dental benefit, the additional independent living funding for home and
community based services and for people who are blind or visually impaired.
These programs help Arizona’s economy by keeping people with disabilities
healthy, independent in their communities, working, volunteering, and spending
disposable income. Without them, people with disabilities and seniors are more
dependent, more likely to stay on entitlement programs, more likely to go into
more costly nursing homes or have costly accidents or health care crisis.
Imagine having a severe disability and wanting to work, but
needing to know you’ll have the healthcare you need. For a small premium,
people with disabilities that work can rely on the AHCCCS Freedom to Work
Program. Over 1,100 people are using this program as we go to press. For a
small Arizona investment we draw down twice as much federal funding. This
program is one of the key components of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives
Improvement Act of 1999. It will devastate working people with disabilities,
their families and their employers if they are forced to stop working due to
the need for essential healthcare. Let us work!
It is up to YOU! No one else but YOU can contact
YOUR legislator and say, “ I am a registered voter in your district and I want
you to fight to protect these important programs.”
- To find your Arizona legislators (1
Senator and 2 Representatives) go to www.azleg.gov or call the AZ Independent
Redistricting Commission at 602-364-1350 or 866-864-7569 Toll Free/Voice
-
If you are new to this kind of advocacy and want some support, contact David at
602-443-0723 or davidc@abil.org
Join Us! PAFCO
Day at the Capitol
February 12th 10:00am-2:00pm
Contact David at 602-443-0723 or davidc@abil.org
…………………………………………..
On Board!
Kale Gruetzmacher
An ABIL Board Member Profile
By Carolan Quenneville
One of our newest Board members, Kale Gruetzmacher came to
know about ABIL five to six years ago. A computer search lead her to Susan De
Nova and eventually ABIL’s Reintegration Coordinators, Paula Grodecki and Don Price.
Currently a resident of Shadow Mountain Skilled facility in Scottsdale, Kale
has had quadriplegia for 15 years due to an accidental gunshot wound and has
since developed osteomylitis, a condition that affects the bones. She
eventually wants to move out of Shadow Mountain into the community, but due to
the current unpredictability of her bone condition she tends to “jump levels”
of skilled nursing care.
Though both her disability and the mobility chair which “is
old and falling apart” can be unpredictable, Kale is not. She keeps herself
active, advocating for her roommate, as well as resident council within the
facility, and when her chair cooperates, “moves out.” She heads out of the
building, down to Home Depot, bookstores, hair salons and other shopping venues
with co-resident Jerry who knows how to assist her while they are “out
driving.” Not quite confident in the bus system (and her chair) Kale sticks to
Dial-a-ride (DAR). Appearing much younger than her 42 years, people often think
Kale and her 19-year-old son are brother and sister. After one such comment on
a DAR trip, Kale’s son joked, “Mom, I’m never riding with you again.”
Originally from Pennsylvania, her family moved to AZ when
she was 19 years old. The youngest of seven siblings, all but one lives within
the Phoenix-Glendale area. Getting to family gatherings using DAR can be
cumbersome, but it’s more than worth it for family … and the food. (Anyone who
has been in any kind of hospital, nursing/rehab or institutional type setting
knows the difference in the dining experience.)
A volunteer Peer Mentor, Kale participates in disability
awareness panels for schools and group mentoring at ABIL’s Mesa office. She
also has a mentee that she communicates with by phone and email. A brand new member
of the ABIL Board of Directors, Kale wants to bring a “new perspective to the
Board.” She spoke of the attitudinal barriers she has faced both from family
and service providers. “If you are a quad the attitude is that you have to go
into social work ... I have a medical background, with this knowledge I could
work taking calls for a medical facility, and as triage know where to refer the
call. Why throw those skills away?”
Being the youngest in the family and having her disability,
“The family still looks at me as the baby… like I can’t do things. I had to
fight with my sister just to get my own access to my bank account so if I
wanted to make personal transactions, I could … They would never think of
placing my mom in a nursing home, but for me it’s okay … they sleep better
knowing I’m ‘safe’…” Kale further stated, “It’s not the injury, it’s the things
around you that impact your choices.” For Kale, living in an institutional
setting is “not conducive to my life style” and she’s keeping her options open.
She refuses to listen to the voices that say, “You can’t do this or that.” She
will make her own choices and like anyone else, “If I fail, I fail.”
I wouldn’t bet on it. Welcome to the Board Kale!
……………………………………………….
Spirit of ABIL
Award 2007
Do
you know a consumer or advocate who exemplifies the Independent Living
philosophy?
Nominations are being accepted through February 15, 2008 for
the 2007 “Spirit of ABIL” award. The award will be presented to the consumer
or advocate who best personifies the Independent Living philosophy. The
Independent Living philosophy states that people with disabilities should have
the same civil rights, options, and control over choices in their own lives, as
do people without disabilities. For more information and nomination forms
contact suzys@abil.org or call 602-296-0545.
…………………………………………
JUST VOTE AZ!
Use your power and vote!
Your civil rights, accessibility, the ADA, IDEA, housing, transportation and health care depend on it.
Ask where candidates stand on issues
that effect you and millions of others with disabilities.
It’s your right. It’s your responsibility!
Let your voice be heard in the February 5, 2008 Presidential
Preference election. If you are not registered yet, register today so you can
vote in upcoming local elections this spring and Presidential and State
Legislative elections this fall. Help get someone who is registered to the
polls in February.
Don’t complain
take action! We need to be part of the
solution.
Let candidates
know that people with disabilities are voters.
To get more information and to register go to
http://www.azdisabilityvote.org
………………………………………….
Do You Qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit
(EITC)?
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can put money back in
your pocket if you meet any of these criteria:
Earned income and adjusted gross income
(AGI) must each be less than:
· $37,783 ($39,783 married filing jointly) with two or more
qualifying children;
· $33,241 ($35,241 married filing jointly) with one
qualifying child;
· $12,590 ($14,590 married filing jointly) with no
qualifying children.
Tax Year 2007 maximum credit:
· $4,716 with two or more qualifying children;
· $2,853 with one qualifying child;
· $428 with no qualifying children.
Investment income must be $2,900 or less for the year
Maximum Amount of Advanced Earned Income
for Tax Year 2007:
· $1,712
Criteria for Free Income Tax Assistance
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income
Tax Assistance (VITA) stand ready to help you with your income taxes for free
if you fall into one of the following categories:
- Individuals with disabilities
- Individuals with low or limited income
- Non-English speaking persons
- Senior citizens
Home Based Tax Assistance
To find a site near you Go to
http://www.cir.org/seasonal-tax.html or call Arizona’s statewide Community
Information & Referral 24-hour Income Tax Assistance site’s Hotline at
800-352-3792 or 602-263-8856. If you have further questions regarding this
information call David for assistance at 602-443-0723.
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ABIL
Reaches Out to Arizona Children in Need
ABIL is giving Arizona children a Valentine’s Day gift this
year. On February 14th, ABIL joins other business, community, education,
faith-based and healthcare organizations to participate in Love Your Kids, a
statewide KidsCare project that will provide information and enrollment
assistance.
“ABIL is proud to be part of this project, which will make a
positive difference in the health of children throughout Arizona,” said Phil
Pangrazio, ABIL Executive Director.
KidsCare is Arizona’s state-sponsored health insurance
created just for children. More than 250,000 children in Arizona lack health
insurance. That’s the equivalent of 3,500 school busloads of children. But the
good news is 130,000 of these children are eligible for KidsCare.
“Many families don’t know about KidsCare and so their
children may continue to go without healthcare services,” said Pangrazio.
“ABIL is proud to be associated with a program that will make a difference to
these children.”
On Feb. 14, volunteers in communities throughout Arizona will sponsor Love Your Kids
events to assist families in registering eligible children for KidsCare.
Businesses, churches, hospitals and other organizations will serve as Love Your Kids
locations.
For more information about Love Your Kids, visit
www.loveyourkidsaz.org
or call 1-800-352-3792 or 602-263-8856.
For information on KidsCare call
1-877-KIDS-NOW, or 602-417-5437.
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Hitch
your event to the
ARIZONA DISABILITY
POST
www.azdisabilitypost.org
For
all the current disability events information throughout Arizona
………………………………….
“Home for the Holidays”
By Fernando Cruz,
Reintegration Program Coordinator
For Karin Kellas, a wheelchair user, a person with
bi-lateral amputations and paraplegia, being home for the Holidays was a dream
and a goal she has had for a long time. December 15, 2007 was Karin’s
Independence Day and homecoming day all in one. That was the day she moved
into her own private apartment in the Coppertree Villas Apartments complex in Glendale.
After living in and out of nursing homes for years she grew
tired of this life style. Karin had always wanted to leave the nursing home,
but had no idea on how to go about it. A year and a half ago, while a resident
of Desert Terrace nursing home, Karen saw ABIL’s Reintegration Program
Coordinator Fernando Cruz visiting other residents. Later learning why he was
there, she immediately called, left a message and was surprised to get a return
call the following day. That call changed her world. ABIL’s Reintegration
Program assists residents of nursing homes in transitioning out into the
community.
Since then Karin has been a whirlwind of setting and
accomplishing goals. When Karin became an ABIL consumer her first goal was
getting her financial situation in order, this was done with a just few phone
calls. The second goal was moving her to a transitional place to live while she
applied for an apartment at various subsidized complexes in the Valley. Desert
Sky Assisted Living Facility (ALF) served the purpose. Karin soon became the
Residents Council President. The third goal was finding her own private home.
She knew this would take time, decided not to sit on her laurels and kept busy.
The fourth goal was to get herself ‘motorized.’ After a lengthy period of time
she received a brand new power chair from Apria. The fifth goal was to apply
for a Section-8 Voucher with the City Glendale Housing Authority. She received
her voucher on November 16th, 2007. Her sixth goal was to sign up with
Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS). She had done this earlier before
summer school. Last December, VRS came through in a big way and will be assisting
her with technical equipment as well as other services that she will need while
attending ASU-West in January 2008.
While she waited, Karin became involved in other programs at
ABIL. She became a Volunteer Peer Mentor, mentoring other residents at Desert
Sky ALF. In 2006 she received the ABIL Volunteer of the Year Award. She is
involved with the Disability Awareness Group at ABIL, doing presentations at
elementary schools as well as other locations. Karin attends many of the
Socialization through Recreation Program (Soc/Rec) events as well as doing
these presentations. Last summer Karin enrolled in classes at Glendale Community College and looks forward to attending classes at ASU-West, School of Human Services this year.
The past year or so has been a breathtaking whirlwind for
Karin. She said that there are so many people at ABIL she wants to thank, along
with VRS, Desert Sky ALF staff and fellow residents for their support and Apria
Medical for her power chair.
Lastly, I, Mr. Cruz would like to thank Karin for all she is
doing with her volunteering, her peer mentoring and everything else she is
involved with in and around ABIL-Land. Most of all thank you for allowing me to
relive what it was like for me to move out of Highland Manor nursing home back
in November 1986. I know with all that Karin has accomplished, some day I will
no longer call her my consumer, but someday I will call her my colleague in the
Independent Living Movement.
You are Invited to Visit ABIL’s West Valley ‘Home’
West Valley Office Open House
Friday, February 22nd 11:30am -
4:30pm
4136 N. 75th Ave. Ste. 111, Phoenix
NW corner of 75th Ave / Indian School Rd
Come visit with staff, view the offices and classroom. Enjoy
refreshments!
Come to the Winter Carnival!
Friday, February 8th
10:00am - 3:00pm
Neuro Institute, 1221 West Warner Rd
Suite
102, Tempe
Festivities for individuals with all levels of brain injury.
Continental breakfast and lunch provided. Family, friends, and caregivers are
encouraged to join in the fun. Festivities include therapeutic games, crafts,
prizes, food, socializing, and fun! Please RSVP with your contact information
and number of attendees. We look forward to seeing you!
Phone: 480-735-0124
FAX: 480-735-0126
Email: jodi@theneuroinstitute.com or renaep@theneuroinstitute.com
…………………………………
Accommodating Older Workers:
Implications for Employers
February 19th
11:00am-12:30pm ABIL Main/Kitchen
Disability increases with age and as the workforce ages,
individuals with disabilities will make up a larger percentage of the
workforce. Implementing changes in the workplace to address the needs of this
population will not only help older workers, but will benefit all workers. Join
us for this session to learn more about the types of accommodations that may be
needed and strategies for implementation.
Speaker: Michael Williams, Ph.D., Rehabilitation Planning
Specialist, Department of Veterans Affairs, Blind Rehabilitation Service
National Program Office, Rehabilitation Strategic Health Care Group
RSVP to Andrew Moody, 602-296-0536.
Teleconference presented by Pacific
Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (PDBTAC) ,
http://www.pacdbtac.org
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Parent Information Network
Support for Families throughout the Special
Education Process
The Parent Information Network (PIN) is pleased to announce
the new toll-free number dedicated to parents only, 8:00am-5:00pm at
1-877-230-PINS (7467).
In an effort to support and empower parents to fully
participate in the special education process, the Parent Information Network
continues to develop innovative tools such as a hotline for Special Education
questions and concerns. For more information and resources visit www.ade.az.gov/ess/pinspals.
…………………………………..
The Arizona Disability EXPO:
“Your Life, Your Community, Your Future”
Wednesday, February 20th
Hall E of the Phx Convention Center, 3rd St/Jefferson
9:00am – 4:00pm
Keynote Speaker, PAUL “DOUG” GODDARD
Owner/President, Synergy Consulting & Sports Marketing
- 100+ Exhibitors -
Speakers & performances by Improbable Theater Company - Honoring Community Leaders with the Brandy Liston
Awards & the Randy Werner Award for Excellence - and much, much, more!!!
For further
information, please call or email Susan DeNova
at 602-470-1802,
x114 or azdx@AZdes.gov
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Partners in
Policymaking
A FREE Leadership Training for adults with
disabilities and parents of children with disabilities from ages birth to
adulthood
Partners in
Policymaking is an innovative leadership training program for parents of
children with disabilities and for adults with disabilities. The program is
designed to provide information, training, resources and skill building to
people with a disability and the parents of children with disabilities so that
they can become better advocates for themselves or their children. Partners in
Policymaking provides participants with opportunities to meet and talk to
national and state leaders in the disability advocacy field.
Participants
will have an opportunity to meet and unite with others who have similar
concerns to create a powerful voice on important issues. Participants learn how
the legislative process works at the local, state and national levels. The goal
of the training is to develop productive partnerships between people who need
and use services and those in a position to make policy and law.
Topics To Be Addressed:
History of the Disability Movement - Inclusion & Quality
Education - IEP Participation - Community Supports
People First Language - Early Intervention - Person Centered
Planning - Assistive Technology - State & Federal Policy - Legislative
Process - Planning for Transitions
Organizing for Change
The application
can be downloaded at:
http://www.pilotparents.org/pdf/2008PIPApplication.pdf
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 27, 2008
1-520-324-3150 Toll Free 1-877-365-7220
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Advocacy
Presentations/Workshops
All Advocacy presentations are free –
Participants must RSVP with David Carey, 602-443-0723
Presentations/Workshops without a minimum of 4 participants
are subject to cancellation. For accommodations or alternative format please
call in advance. For ABIL van transportation, please call as soon as possible.
ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for ABIL van transportation. Consumers
must be 18 years+ or their own legal guardian.
No fragrances please. To accommodate those with allergies,
breathing conditions or multiple chemical sensitivities please do not smoke or
wear scented products when attending ABIL events.
Arizona
Freedom to Work
Work Incentives Planning & Assistance
(WIPA)
- On Social Security Benefits?
- Do you want to work?
- We can help you understand the Social Security rules, new work
incentives
and how to work your way out of poverty.
Workshops for Service Providers
only -
Learn about the WIPA program. Teleconference not
available
Friday, February 15 10:00am
– 12:00pm
Gilbert Career Center, 735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134
Erik Jensen - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Workshops for Consumers
Learn how employment will affect your cash and medical
benefits. Sign up for the workshop that matches the kind of Social Security you
receive. If you receive both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), David will help you get an appointment with
a Work Incentive Specialist. If you are unsure which kind of Social Security
you receive, require alternate materials, and/or assistance with
transportation, and to RSVP, call David at 602-443-0723.
Family members and/or support persons are welcome.
Work Incentives/SSDI - Teleconference not available
Tuesday, February 5 10:30am
– 12:30pm
City of Phoenix One-Stop, 9801 N. 7th St. Phx
Rhonda Webb - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Tuesday, February 12 10:00am
– 12:00pm
Gilbert Career Center, 735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134
Erik Jensen - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Tuesday, February 19 1:00pm
– 3:00pm
ABIL’s W Office, 4136 N. 75th Ave. Ste. 111, Phx
Donna Lorti - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Work Incentives/SSI - Teleconference not
available
Tuesday, February 12 1:30pm
– 3:30pm
Gilbert Career Center, 735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134
Erik Jensen - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Tuesday, February 19 10:30am
– 12:30pm
City of Phoenix One-Stop, 9801 N. 7th St. Phx
Rhonda Webb - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
Tuesday, February 26 1:00pm
– 3:00pm
ABIL’s NW Office, 4136 N. 75th Ave. Ste. 111, Phx
Donna Lorti - Community Work Incentives Coordinator
To
participate via teleconference in the presentations listed below, please
contact David. (Local Calls Free)
Getting
on the Road Again with Driving To Independence
Topics to be covered:
- Driving assessment
- Driver’s training
- Medical review process/Certificate of completion
- Driving equipment recommendations and financial resources
- Why a driving assessment is necessary
Guest Speaker: Jenny Nordine - Occupational Therapist,
Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist
Thursday, February 7 1:00pm
– 3:00pm
ABIL - 2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste., 290, Phx
Attend in person or via teleconference
call. In order to attend via conference call, please call David no later than
Wednesday, February 6, 2008.
Update on Transit
Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG)
Come and learn about the Maricopa Association of
Governments’ planning work in the area of transit. Also get your
questions answered by a Valley Metro representative concerning bus,
para-transit services and other transit issues!
Guest Speakers: Mary Hartle-Smith, MAG Liaison
to disability community for transportation; Jason Stephens, Public Outreach
Coordinator for MAG; and Valley Metro representative to be determined.
Thursday, February 28 1:00pm
– 3:00pm
ABIL - 2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste., 290, Phx
Attend in person or via teleconference
call. In order to attend via conference call, please call David no later than
Wednesday, February 27, 2008.
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Peer Mentor Training
April
23rd 10:00am - 4:30pm
April
24th 11:00pm - 3:30pm
ABIL
Thomas Office, Suite 290
Are you
someone who:
- Has a disability, or are close to
someone who does
- Has successfully achieved independence
on your own
- Is willing to assist others to achieve
their own independent living goals
If so:
we have peer mentor opportunities for you!
- One-to-one contact with people with
disabilities
- Outreach to people at rehab centers and
nursing homes
- Advocacy for individuals and community
issues
In
addition to one-one mentoring opportunities, ABIL Peer Mentors can participate
in group opportunities:
- Disability awareness
presentations to local elementary, middle, or high school students.
A panel
of mentors shares their personal stories of living with a disability, discuss
disability etiquette, and describe
what Independent Living and empowerment means to them.
- Group Mentoring Sessions
A group of mentors and mentees gather to discuss
developing Independent Living skills and how to apply those skills in every day
life.
Peer Mentor Training includes:
Disability Awareness - Adjustment to
Disability -
The Independent Living Philosophy -
Communication - Goal Planning - Crisis Intervention - The Mentor/Mentee
Relationship - and much more!
If you are interested in attending the
training, contact April Reed at 602-296-0533 or aprilr@abil.org. Ask for a
peer mentor application and let her know if you need transportation.
Applications must be received in the ABIL office by April 16th.
……………………………..
AZ Freedom to Work,
Work Incentives Planning & Assistance
Q&A
By Erik Jensen
Q: I’m
receiving SSI, and I have a part-time job. I’d like to get some training for a
more permanent position down the road that pays better, but I can’t afford it.
I’ve tried getting help to pay for it, but have been turned down every time.
Is there anything I can do?
A: You sound like an excellent candidate for a Plan for
Achieving Self-Support, or PASS. A PASS is a tool that a person receiving SSI
uses to set aside income or resources to reach a work goal without it counting
toward your resource limit. For example, a person could set aside money for an
educational or training program or to start a business.
A PASS must:
• be in writing to be approved by SSA
• have a specific work goal you
expect to reach
• say how long you expect it to take
you to reach your goal
• say what income or resources you
have to be set aside
• explain how you will keep the
income or resources set aside separate from your personal funds
• describe the goods and services you
need to reach your goal and explain why you need them
For more information about PASS, contact a Community Work
Incentives Coordinator at (866) 304-WORK.
………………………………..
IMPROBABLE THEATRE COMPANY
“Advanced Acting: The Flow”
With Dr. Bonnie Eckard, Professor in ASU’s School Of Theatre and Film
Saturday, February 16th
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Phoenix Burton Barr
Library
4th Floor Lecture Room
“When actors are not blocked, they flow freely in time and
space. This workshop is about helping actors find the freedom that will allow
them to access their intuitive and creative impulses. The workshop will involve
moving with others in space with awareness and courage; and giving attention to
the other. Participants will learn the Viewpoints: tempo, duration, kinesthetic
response, repetition, shape, gesture, architecture, spatial relationship, and
topography.” Join Us!
RSVP to ITC’s message line 602-296-0503
or email: info@improbabletheatrecompany.org
As a courtesy to those
with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, please to not smoke or wear scented
products when attending ITC workshops.
ITC operates under the auspices of ABIL
and is partially funded by the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture & the
Arizona Commission on the Arts
…………………………………
Save The Date!!! March 19th
4th Annual Urban American Indian Disability
Summit
Burton
Barr Central Library, 1221 N. Central, Phx
This important gathering will explore strategies to meet the
needs of Native people with disabilities and their families in urban settings.
It will also highlight links to tribal resources and to resources available
through Arizona state agencies and local communities. Questions? Call Native
Health at 602-279-5262
Social Pow Wow! Connect with old friends and meet
new ones at our Social Pow Wow. Location to be announced.
……………………………………….
Youth Action Council of Arizona (YACAZ)
Southwest Institute for Families and
Children with Special Needs (SWI)
2345 E. Thomas Rd. Ste. 290, Phoenix
Are you interested in meeting new people your age (14 to 30
years of age)? Do you believe young adults should have a voice in matters that
affect them? Are you interested in politics? YAC-AZ is your group! You make the
rules! You decide what to do! Join us to learn more about the group:
Highlights: · Learn how to speak in public
about issues that affect you · Meet your legislators · Volunteer with
organizations · Learn how to self-advocate · Organize and participate in social
activities · Have fun!
Contact: David Carey @602-443-0723
………………………………………….
ABIL Community
Calendar
RSVP for All Events
Funding for Social and Recreational activities is provided
(in part) by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. ABIL requests a $1+ donation
(each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van. Consumers must be 18
years+ or own legal guardian for ABIL van transportation. Reasonable
Accommodations, including Sign Language Interpreters and Personal Assistants,
will be provided at ABIL events upon request.
Please do not smoke or wear scented
products when attending events.
JUST
A WHIFF of perfume, pesticide, or tobacco
smoke could make a person with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities sick for hours,
days, or longer.
Feb 05 Work Incentives & SSDI, 10:30am-12:30pm. Details page 7. David Carey,
602-443-0723
Feb 07 Driving to Independence, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Thomas Ste 290. Details pg 7. David
Carey, 602-443-0723
Feb 07 SR/Heard Museum, 10:30am-1:30pm. Heard Museum of Native Cultures and Art is a must-see Arizona landmark. 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix. Cost:
$10.Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535
Feb 12 PAFCO Day at the Capitol, 10:00am-2:00pm. For more information call David
Carey, 602-443-0723
Feb 12 Work Incentives Twofer; SSDI,
10:00am-12:00pm and SSI,
1:30pm-3:30pm. Details page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723
Feb 12 Healer Within, 1:00pm-3:30pm. Thomas Ste 290. Women’s Wellness
Group - Make an appointment with yourself to relax, heal, connect. Amina Kruck,
602-443-0722
Feb 12 Lively Limbs, 4:30pm-6:30pm. Support
group people with amputations. Greenbaum Surgery Center, 2nd Floor Training
Room 3535 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. Lise R. Lindsay, C.P. 480-620-7125
Feb 14 SR/Cooking Group, 10:30am-1:30pm. Phx Kitchen. Learn new recipes,
skills, and just socialize with others. Cost: Consumers assist by bringing
ingredients. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535
Feb 14 V.O.I.C.E., 1:00pm-4:00pm. A monthly support/information group
for individuals with disabilities, their families & rehab providers.
Foothills Library, 19055 N. 57th Ave. John Lignos, 602-470-1802 x108
Feb 15 Work Incentives for Service Providers, 10:00am-12:00pm. Details page 7.
David Carey, 602-443-0723
Feb 15 COMPASS, 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Providing direction and networking
to persons with disabilities. Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef
Rd, Scottsdale. Pauline Staples, 602-241-1006
Feb 16 ITC Advanced Acting Workshop, 1:00pm - 5:00pm. Burton Barr Public
Library. Details page 8. RSVP to ITC’s message line, 602-296-0503 or email:
info@improbabletheatrecompany.org
Feb 19 Work Incentives & SSI, 10:30am-12:30pm. Details page 7. David Carey,
602-443-0723
Feb 19 Work Incentives & SSDI, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Details page 7. David Carey,
602-443-0723
Feb 19 Glendale Commission on Persons with Disabilities, 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Open to the public.
2nd floor Conference Room, 5959 W. Brown St. Sylvia Charters, 623-930-2297
Feb 22 ABIL West Valley Office Open House, 11:30am-4:30pm. 4136 N. 75th Ave. Ste. 111, Phoenix.
Feb 26 Work Incentives & SSI, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Metro Classroom. Details page 7.
David Carey, 602-443-0723
Feb 26 Healer Within, 1:00pm-3:30pm. Thomas Ste 290. Women’s Wellness
Group - Make an appointment with yourself to relax, heal, connect. Amina Kruck,
602-443-0722
Feb 28 SR/Bowling, 11:00am-2:00pm. Enjoy an afternoon of fun. Bowling
ramps provided. 4407 S Rural Rd. Tempe. Cost: $1.75. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535
Feb 28 MAG, 1:00pm-3:00pm. Thomas Ste 290. Details page 7. David Carey,
602-443-0723
Feb 28 Men’s Disability Issues Group, 6:30pm-8:00pm. Explore the range of
thoughts, feelings and beliefs regarding the impact disability has on your life
and the perceptions of others. FOR ADULT MEN ONLY! Legacy at Piestewa Peak
Clubhouse, 1411 E Orangewood Ave., Phx. Don Price, 602-980-3232
……………………………
Classified Ads –
Deadline for the MARCH
issue – FEBRUARY 7th
To place an ad please send an email marked “Want Ad” to
carolanq@abil.org or call 602-443-0724 and leave the information on voice mail.
ABIL provides
space free of charge for individuals placing personal disability related ads.
The fee for a disability related business ad is $25. ABIL does not endorse
listed services, nor is responsible for the quality of advertised items or
services. Please call to
renew ads.
PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE through AzTAP
The Arizona Assistive Technology Exchange (ATEX) program is an online
forum to donate, buy, sell, exchange or advertise a need for a piece of
assistive technology (AT). To review posted listings or post your ad go to www.azATEXchange.org
or contact Clayton Guffey at 602-776-4699 or 1-800-477-9921.
FOR SALE:
‘91 Chevy full size, hi-top van w/Mark III
Conversion,
white ext, maroon int, Braun lift (new motor), Ricon seat, universal slide
& click wheelchair tie-downs, auto door openers, left mounted hand
controls. Power windows & door locks. Cruise, tilt wheel, fold down bed,
121K miles. Asking $5,500. Please call 623-203-0070
Hoveround power chair. Rt hand joystick, leg/head rests.
Looks good, works great. Cost new $7,000+. Asking $1,250 OBO. Can deliver.
480-837-8775
Pride Lift Chair, brown, approx. 6yrs old but rarely
used, good condition. Asking $250. Call 602-330-7136
Sara 3000 by Arjo, battery powered
standing/raising aid. Raise someone into a standing position for dressing, toileting, transferring.
Used only 6 mos., 2 battery pcks. Cost new $4200, asking 3000. 602-840-0683
‘05 Jet 3 Ultra power chair, in/outdoor use, head rest, swivel,
reclining seat. Adjustable seat height, foot board, elevated leg rests, 300lb
wt cap., on bd charger, needs 2 batteries. Metallic cherry. Orig cost $7,574
asking $2250. Call 480-232-2704
Power assist manual wheelchair, 20” Roho cushion, titanium frame,
very light, used once, $2500 cash or trade. Invacare
R Storm Series power chair, 2 1/2 yrs old, new batteries as of
12/07. Cost new $18K, asking $1,800 OBO - cash or trade. Turn Key mattress $new $3800, asking $925.
Call 480-855-0226
Jet 3 power chair, top of the line, w/oxygen holder,
foot rests, used only once, 3yrs old. $1500 OBO. Call 623-933-4522
Jet 3 power chair by Pride, like new, internal batteries. Cost
new $5400, asking $2000 OBO. Call Brandon, 602-841-2213
Pronto M51 Sure Step power chair, reclines, 1 yr old, used 3 months.
Incl. 36” metal door ramp made for chair. $1000. Call 623-271-7246
Hospital bed, exlnt cond. $300. Call 602-354-7576
Invacare Power Chair, xlnt cond., $800 firm. Call
602-410-0281
Jazzy 1113 powerchair, w/reclining leather seat, ROHO
cushion, red base, grey seats, Joystick controls. Great cond., 6yrs old. $2500
OBO. Email: rw25roper@msn.com
ACCESSIBLE HOUSING:
For sale by owner, 2 residential co-op
units in S. Scottsdale. 1BR/1BA $87,500 and 2BR/1BA $125,000 Ground floor w/close covered assigned
parking. Close to shopping, around the corner from public transportation.
Perfect for mobility challenged. Easily ADA certifiable w/little rehab. Have
e-bay ad & Craig’s List posting most days. For info call Mack, 602-318-5508
or e-mail tnjedaz@yahoo.com
Sun City Grand Home w/separate Casita. Master BR extended 4’,
w/motorized Goldman lift & exit to patio. Master BA w/roll-in shower,
custom vanity, large custom closet. For more info call Patty Stelton,
Coldwell Banker Residential Broker agent 480-951-1010 or 800-627-2286.
$349,900
For rent 3 BR/2BA home, quiet, stable Phx neighborhood.
1600sqft, remodeled for accessibility, 1BA w/roll-in shower, fully accessible
kitchen w/stove/fridge, remote control ceiling fans, attached & accessible
laundry room, new phone/data/cable TV wiring, attached 1-car garage, accessible
garden, 7th St /Northern, 1.5 blocks to bus stop. $1500 per mo., 1yr lease
incl. water/garbage/lawn care. Call 602-622-2772
SEEKING/WANTED
Caregiver needed for male w/quadriplegia, Gold Canyon area. Need assist mornings, 2 hrs, w/bathing, dressing, etc. Ask for Steve or
leave message, 480-983-1053
38 yr-old male quadriplegic Seeking Part-Time Caregiver. Must be very reliable. Tempe
(ASU) area. Ask for David or leave message. 480-731-9113
33yr old male w/spina bifida Seeking Roommate. Receives SocSec & works PT in Glendale area. Seeking to share 2BR/2BA apt. Responsible renter w/or w/out disability,
preferably w/out anger or emotional issues. Call 623-773-0441 (h), 602402-4855
(c) or archyfan@hotmail.com
New Vision Ministries seeks
people with disabilities interested in Christian ministries,
volunteering in nursing homes etc. Call 602-384-710 or tsburdick@msn.com
SERVICE - BUSINESS ADS
A-Z Personal Services - Providing mobile salon services
to individuals with disabilities. A-Z Personal services provides haircuts
& a variety of styles in the comfort of your home. Contact Selina,
602-434-2038
Communication Consultant - Non-judgmental, active listener,
encouraging confidant. Need to talk? Meet at a public place of your choice.
Call 480-314-1699
Accessible Homes - Buy or Sell, New or
Pre-owned.
16yrs experience in serving the disability community. I can help you buy or
sell properties in AZ as well as anywhere in the continental U.S., Canada or Puerto Rico. Certified Cartus Relocation Specialist and USAA Certified Specialist.
Patty Stelton, Disabilities Specialist, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.
(o) 480-951-1010 , (c) 480-540-6898. Email: patty@pattystelton.com Web:
www.pattystelton.com
DDR is hiring people to work as Direct
Support Professionals in the East Valley for Respite, Habilitation &
Attendant Care services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Benefits: earn up to $14.75/hour, flexible schedules, direct deposit, paid
training, employee referral program. Contact DDR at www.ddresources.com or
480-529-6844 for an employment application.
Handicap Accessible Vans and WHEELCHAIRS
for rent.
Daily/Weekly/Longer term rentals. Chrysler Town & Country or Toyota Sienna
with fully automatic door/ramp, lowered floor, “kneeling” function and hand
controls. Excellent low mileage vans with guaranteed low rates. We also rent
manual or power WHEELCHAIRS. Handi Vans AZ. Open 7 days/week
7am-8pm. 480-747-7510. Web: handivansaz.com
………………………………………………
ABIL
Soc/Rec Events, March- April ‘08
Contact Leanne, 602-296-0535
Transportation is limited. Please RSVP at your earliest
possible convenience. Consumers must be 18 years+ or own legal guardian for
transportation. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation
provided on the ABIL van.
Wednesday,
March 5,
11:00am –1:00pm Phoenix Zoo, 455 N Galvin Pkwy. Phx. Cost: $3.
Wednesday, March 12, 10:30am –1:30pm (Bring $3.00 for
pizza or your own lunch) Arts & Crafts Group. Come be creative with Arts
and Crafts projects. 1229 E Washington, Phx. Cost: $2.
Wednesday, March 19, 10:30am–1:30pm Cooking Group –
Learn new recipes, skills, and just socialize with others. Each month we try to
have a luncheon theme. 1229 E. Washington. Phx. Cost: Consumers assist by
bringing lunch ingredients
Thursday, March 27, 10:30am-1:30pm Bingo. (Bring your
lunch or $3.00 for pizza) Come play bingo with a group of friends. 1229 E Washington Phx. Cost: None.
Thursday,
April 3,
10:00
