The Bridge
News from the
Arizona Bridge to Independent Living
Volume XIV, Number 1
January 2003
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!"
Legislative Awareness
Day
Tuesday January 21, 2003
Wesley Bolin Plaza, Phoenix
Lunch with Your Legislators
11:30am - 1:30pm
Legislative Training Session
9:30 - 11:00
ABIL will once again co-sponsor the Governor’s Council
on Developmental Disabilities Legislative Awareness Day. This important annual event is YOUR chance
to discuss your disability related public policy issues with your legislators,
over lunch. Other opportunities that day include a workshop earlier that
morning on how the legislature works and how you can get involved this critical
next legislative session. Having the event early in the session has a greater
impact on the ability to educate Legislators on key issues in policy, budget
and existing and future legislation. To determine your district and legislator
call the Independent Redistricting Commission at 602-364-1350.
We will provide the lunch. All you have to do is
call your legislators and invite them
to have lunch with you. The next
legislative session starts Jan. 13th. Legislators are faced with very difficult
decisions on which programs to preserve, and which ones to cut in order to
balance the budget. Half of them are
new to the job and know nothing about disability issues. This is a great time
to get to know your legislators and for them to hear from you. There is a lot
at stake in the upcoming session.
Participants will be provided with legislative packets
containing:
- Position papers on
anticipated legislation
- Other important
information
To reserve a lunch, sign up for the legislative
training, or request a reasonable accommodation including alternate formats or
sign language interpreter please contact Valeria Hill at the Governor’s Council
on Developmental Disabilities at 602-542-4049.
Advocates
Must Demand
State
Tax Reform
Phil
Pangrazio, ABIL Executive Director
Happy New Year and welcome to
2003 in beautiful sunny Arizona! When
you wake-up (or woke depending on when you read this) on January 1st, you
will be “not-so-happy” to hear that you are still residing in a State mired in
one of the nation’s worst financial crises.
In late November, Governor Hull ordered an additional 10% in State
budget cuts to make up for a potential $300 to $500 million deficit in the
current year budget. The legislature
had already cut some $1.2 billion in previous sessions. Even with these cuts, the crisis is not
going away anytime soon as budget deficits for FY 2003/04 are predicted to
reach as much as 1.5 billion.
So what is happening in
Arizona that caused this crisis? Well,
the reality is there are many factors that can be blamed for getting Arizona
into this situation. Some include the
economic recession, September 11th, devaluation of the stock market, Enron, the loss of
public trust, and the continuing threats of war and domestic terrorism just to
name a few. Oh! I almost forgot, the continuing erosion of
Arizona’s tax base due to eleven years of tax cuts mandated by your State
Legislature has also significantly contributed to the current State financial
crisis.
Of course, I should note that
we are not alone. A study cited in the
Los Angeles Times reported that from 1994 through 2001, 43 states enacted major
tax cuts that are costing states $40 billion in lost revenue every year. The study also reported that the 10 states
that enacted the deepest tax cuts are now drowning in red ink and face budget
deficits equal to 13 percent of state spending. Ooh…does this sound like Arizona? Although Arizona was not specifically cited as one of these, it
is likely we made this inauspicious list as well.
If that is not evidence
enough, the conclusions of a 1998 study of the Arizona State tax reduction
program by Frank J. Sackton, Professor Emeritus of the School of Public Affairs
at Arizona State University predicted much of the current crisis. His study cited that for fiscal years 1993 to
1996 and for the projected years 1997 and 1998, state government engaged in a
tax reduction program that totaled $2.56 billion. Further, these tax cuts are permanent and will reduce the base
revenue stream annually by $2.56 billion in 1998 and beyond. Initially, these cuts were thought to stimulate
and improve the growth of the State’s economy and thus generate more revenue
for the treasury. In reality, however, they have done nothing more than leave
the State with huge funding problems in what is now the peak of a downturn in
the State’s economy. It is apparent
that our legislature failed to adequately prepare for this inevitable economic
recession.
The economic impacts of tax
cuts and/or tax increases have been debated for centuries and I will not
attempt here to explain economic theory.
I will, however, suggest that it appears obvious that a decade of tax
cuts have worn, torn, and down right ripped the fabric that supports the public
programs that we all depend upon, especially the most vulnerable. The fact is, public programs are a critical,
and by their very nature, a necessary component of any civilized economy. Without them, vital infrastructure and human
service supports would not exist.
For these reasons, I
encourage everyone to contact your State legislator and let them know that these
failed tax policies are no longer acceptable.
We cannot afford to stand idle while our State Legislature continues to
make devastating cuts to schools, universities, children’s programs, health
care, law enforcement, and other State services.
Everyone, including people
with disabilities need to make their voices heard in this upcoming Legislative
session. We need to demand solutions to
the State budget crisis not just more tax cuts! Tax reform, including the elimination of loopholes, revenue bonding,
and raising property and income taxes should all be explored. Nobody, including me, likes paying higher
taxes. Unfortunately, now is the time
to bite the bullet and raise taxes!
The Bridge
available by e-mail!
To receive
The Bridge by email automatically each month, send your request to:
azbridge@abil.org or by mail to Penny c/o ABIL, 1229 E. Washington Street,
Phoenix, AZ 85034-1101, or call (602)
296-0518. Please indicate if you would
like to be removed from the list of those receiving hard copy by mail. The
Bridge newsletter is a monthly publication of Arizona Bridge to Independent
Living (ABIL). The Bridge is a free
publication. To add or remove your name
from our mailing list, or to place a disability related personal or business
classified ad, call or write to us at:
The Bridge c/o ABIL
(602) 256-2245
1-800-280-2245 (outside the 602, 623, 480, calling areas)
E-mail: azbridge@abil.org
Website: www.abil.org
(602) 667-0277
ABIL Metro Center office
10000 E 31st Ave, Ste # D-405
Phoenix, AZ 85051
(602) 424-4100
FAX 602-424-4118
(480) 655-9750
1-800-280-ABIL
(outside the 602, 623,480 calling areas)
e-mail: azbridge@abil.org
Staff email: First name, initial of last name
@abil.org
Questions
about the ADA?
The Pacific
Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC) can answer
questions about all aspects of the ADA and/or provide you with literature in print
or alternative formats. Call 1-800-949-4232
or log on to http://www.pacdbtac.org
Joseph Mikitish, President
Tom Ringhofer, Vice President
Lynn Houston, Treasurer
Jim Brahaney, Secretary
Marjann Fletcher, Past President
Pamela Allan, Member
Sharon Atwood, Member
Sheila Denny, Member
William Harper, Member
Ken Heard, Member
Edith Kilany, Member
Marsha Maake, Member
Edward
L. Myers, III, Member
Nicholas
L. Perry, Member
Scott Turner, Member
ABIL Administrative Staff
Phil Pangrazio, 296-0513, Executive Director
Sandy Guinn, 296-0514, Director of Operations
Penny Fore, 296-0518, Executive Assistant
Feng Chiou, 296-0511, Director of Finance
Louise Downey, 296-0519, Accounting Assistant
Nancy Fleming, 296-0512, Accounting Clerk
Tina Hedges, 296-0516, Billing Clerk
Jason Miller, Billing Assistant
Donna Jones, 296-0510, Program Aide
Jay Murrillo, 296-0517, Van Driver
Maribel Diaz, 296-0515, Receptionist
Maria Deleon, 480-222-4201, Mesa Receptionist/Program Aide
Advocacy Unit
Donna Redford Kruck, 296-0520, Unit Director
David Carey, 296-0523, Advocacy Specialist
Lynn Bejnar, 667-0277, Ext 16, “This is My Life” Prg. Mgr.
Ann Pasco, 667-0277, Ext 14, Volunteer Coordinator
Erik Jensen, 296-0527, Work Incentives Specialist
Donna Lorti, 424-4105, Work Incentives Specialist
Rhonda Webb, 296-0509, Work Incentives Specialist
Carolan Quenneville, 296-0524, Graphic Specialist/Newsletter
Employment Services
Susan Webb, 667-0277, Ext 11, Unit Director
Lynda Connors, 667-0277, Ext. 12, Employment Coordinator
Dan Siegler, 667-0277, Ext 10, Employment Technician
Buffy McDonald, 667-0277, Ext 18, Employment Coordinator
Jennifer Stetson 667-0277, Ext 17, Employment Program Aide
Community Integration Unit
Darrel Christenson , 296-0530, Unit Director
Leanne Jones, 296-0535, Soc/Rec, Youth Outreach/ILA
Tyrone Harrington, 424-4103, Com. Liv. Options Coord.
Joanna Savidan, 296-0531, I&R, Home Mod. Coord. (Phx)
Judy Benshoof, 296-0532, ILA/Home Mod. Coord (Mesa/Tempe)
Jon DeWinter, 296-0537, Home Mod.Coord.(Glendale/Peoria)
Leonard Smith, 296-0533, ILA/Reintegration Prg. Coord.
Tony DiRienzi, 296-0534, Early Intervention Coord.
Paula Grodecki, 480-222-4212, Reintegration Coord.
Rosalie Manuel, 296-0536, Independent Living Skills Advocate
Personal Assistant Services
Gwen Dean, 296-0541, Unit Director
Diane Patton, 480-222-4206, Program Manager
Judy Ludlow, 296-0542, PAS Field Rep.
Grace Walstad, 602-424-4106, PAS Field Rep.
Sheri Mecca, 296-0547, PAS Field Rep.
Jerry Chee, 602-424-4107, PAS Field Rep.
Pam Burdette, 480-222-4204, PAS Field Rep.
Melanie Woods, 480-222-4205, PAS Field Rep.
Christina Velasquez, 602-424-4104, PAS Field Rep.
Kathy Carlisle, 480-222-4203, PAS Field Rep.
Mary Avila, 296-0528, PAS Field Rep.
Bonnie Zanardi, 480-222-4202, PAS Field Rep.
Cindy Kleen, 424-4106, PAS Field Rep.
Lyndora Hall, 296-0546, Payroll Clerk
Christine Pinedo, 296-0506, Payroll Clerk
Colleen Podmore, 296-0552, Program Aide
Kelli
Martin, 296-0544, Program Aide
Scottsdale
Transit in Jeopardy
By Donna
Kruck
As hard financial times hit,
cities will be cutting budgets and public transit funding is in danger. It is
important that you let your City Council members know how essential transit is
to you. Scottsdale is a case in point.
On Jan. 27, 2003, the
Scottsdale City Council will focus its attention on transit. An entire meeting will be dedicated to the
discussion of transit issues. One of the main purposes of the meeting is to
discuss how transit relates to the overall mission and critical objectives of
the city. In facing difficult economic
times, Scottsdale (like other cities) is examining all programs for their value
and importance. Scottsdale’s transit
system consists of many elements including fixed route service, dial-a-ride,
Cab Connection, Transportation Reimbursement and Information Program (TRIP),
downtown trolley and the baseball shuttle. Capital improvements associated with
the system are also part of the transit program. These include new vehicles, shelters and technology applications.
If the City Council does not think that maintaining public transit is an
essential function of the city, transit funding could be cut and services
reduced.
What
you can do:
Anyone interested in transit,
regardless of viewpoint, needs to contact the City Council and express their
views between now and the Jan. 27 session.
In addition, residents, users of the system and those affected by the
system (such as business owners) are encouraged to attend the meeting. Public testimony will be taken.
When? Jan. 27, 2003 at 5 p.m.
Where?
Scottsdale City Hall Kiva
3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
Topics will include:
l The proposed Scottsdale Transit Plan and its financial analysis
l The Scottsdale/Tempe Rapid Transit Study
l Intergovernmental agreements with the City of Phoenix
l Review of several demonstration projects within the transit system
The City Council will take
action during the meeting. Information
on any aspect of transit is available by contacting Debra Astin, Transit
Planner, at dastin@ci.scottsdale.az.us or by calling (480) 312-7696.
Updated
Information on Advocacy Opportunities
Now, more than ever, we need
ordinary citizens to get involved with the legislative process, as our
legislators meet to decide public policy and what programs to cut to address
the $1 billion budget shortfall. If we
are silent, disability programs will easily take the largest hit. Below is a list of issues that we will be
working on in the next few months, with contact information.
Don’t get hopeless – get
active!
·
Budget cuts - In
addressing pending budget cuts, for instance, our state has run out of General
Assistance funds for the 2002-3 year already – these funds only go to persons
newly disabled. We need people who have used GA until they got on Social
security to testify how it helped them.
Contact David Carey at davidc@abil.org or 602-296-0523
·
Housing issues –
1) Work with Legislature to maintain funding in the
Department of Housing’s Trust Fund. Contact Darrel Christenson, at darrelc@abil.org
or 602-296-0530
2) Work to get local Congressional Representatives to
support a federal law promoting “Visitability”- requiring all new housing
created with federal funds to have at least one accessible entrance and all
doorways accessible. Contact Donna Kruck at donnar@abil.org or 602-296-0520
3) Work with cities to get ordinances that create
smoke free apartments. Contact Bette Campbell at Non-smokers Rights
602-938-0838.
·
Police Education on Disability Issues
– We need legislation that requires police to get training so that they
understand better how to relate to persons who have mental disabilities and
hearing impairments. To get involved contact mhaazjuliec@qwest.net or
call the Mental Health Association of AZ 480-994-4407 or 1-800-MHA-9277 and ask
for July Clark
·
Prescription Drugs
– Working to get a state Medicare
Prescription Drug benefit - Donna Kruck at donnar@abil.org or
602-296-0520
·
Self-Determination
– Working towards increasing consumer and
family control of long term care funding through use of fiscal intermediaries.
New contact: Lynn Bejnar at lynnb@abil.org or 602-677-0277 x #16
·
Transportation – Working at the city, state and county level to include
public transit in their planning and budgeting - David Carey at davidc@abil.org or 602-296-0523
News on
the Medicare Front
By Donna
Kruck
It’s that time of year when
Medicare HMO’s around the state change their benefit package. Though they are making money hand over fist
(according to the 11/26/02 AZ Republic), most have stopped covering brand named
drugs and many have lowered caps on generic prescriptions. What is a person to do who can’t afford
their prescription drug costs?
According to Paulette
Fraenkel, Program Specialist with the
Area Agency on Aging Medicare Benefits counseling program, there are some
alternatives. AAA’s Benefits counseling
program has volunteers that staff a hotline and sit down with beneficiaries to
help them understand their choices.
Paulette notes that two Medicare HMOs now have plans that let the
beneficiary go out of network for their specialist for a higher premium. Cigna has a premium plan that covers some brand
name drugs on their formulary. Contrary
to a recent mailing you may have received, you are able to switch
Medicare HMO’s any month during the year if you are not satisfied with your
current plan.
AAA can provide you with a list
of legitimate prescription programs that take advantage of lower cost drugs
from Canada and Mexico.
The pharmaceutical
manufacturers have a couple of web sites that can help beneficiaries find a
list of generic alternatives, prescription discount programs www.needymeds.com or http://rxassist.org
to search by pharmaceutical company or
drug name.
To speak with a trained
Medicare benefits counselor call 602-264-2255 or 1-800-432-2020.
Remember that our Governor-elect will be organizing the effort
to create a state prescription drug plan. We will need your help to convince
the legislature to agree to this program. To get involved contact David at davidc@abil.org or 602-296-0523.
Triple R WarmLine
Triple R Behavioral Health, Inc.
602-347-1100
New Hours: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm 7 days a week
A friendly voice - Peer support - Confidential - Trained listeners!!!
If you need assistance before or
after hours please call Options Crisis Line at 602-222-9444 or 1-800-631-1314
Legal Aid Society
Disability Rights Program
The Disability Rights
Program, which includes the LIBRA Project, seeks to expand the
employment and educational opportunities for people with physical and mental
disabilities by enforcing and advancing federal and state laws. The program
uses advocacy, litigation and legislative reform to further several objectives:
l Preventing unemployment by opposing on-the-job
discrimination and harassment, and by securing the right to necessary workplace
accommodations, for persons with traditional and non-traditional disabilities.
l Contesting discrimination against persons with known
disabilities in the hiring process.
l Expanding access to higher education - a critical
prerequisite for employment, particularly for persons with functional
limitations.
l Challenging disability-based discrimination in
employment-related benefits.
l Opposing unnecessary intrusions into the private
medical information of working people.
The program’s ultimate goal
is that articulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act: to reduce poverty
among persons with disabilities by facilitating their total integration into
the labor force and society. For this and links to other issues related to
employment law, log on to:
http://www.las-elc.org/disability.html
ADA
Teleconference:
Ask the
EEOC
January 21st Noon-1:30 ABIL/Phx
Speaker:
Sharon Rennert, Attorney Advisor, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
(EEOC)
Do you have a tough
employment policy question that nobody seems to be able to answer? Have you
longed for an opportunity to ask the EEOC a question about the ADA regulations?
Do you have questions regarding the enforcement guidance issued by the EEOC on
reasonable accommodation for people with psychiatric disabilities? Here is your
chance to dialogue with a representative from the EEOC on any issues related to
implementation and compliance with the employment provisions of the ADA. Join
us for our first of its kind “question and answer” session! RSVP to Darrel,
602-296-0530.
Sponsored by Pacific Disability and
Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC)
http://www.pacdbtac.org
I&R Information & Referral
Q&A Question of the Month
Q: What are the
new screening procedures at Airport Security Checkpoints?
A: The
Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the new DOT (Dept. of Transportation)
entity responsible for protecting the nation’s transit system, has issued
advice to air travelers, including those with disabilities, on new security
screening procedures. Persons with
disabilities can request a private screening and the limit of one carry-on bag
and one personal item per traveler does not apply to passengers with
disabilities traveling with medical supplies or equipment, mobility aids, or
assistive devices. Screeners are
required to visually and physically inspect prosthetic devices and body
braces. All bags and satchels attached
to mobility aids should be placed on the x-ray belt for inspection. These and other tips are posted on TSA’s
website at www.tsa.dot.gov.
In addition, DOT’s Aviation
Consumer Protection Division has issued a fact sheet on the new security
requirements and accessibility requirements.
Check out (http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/rules/20011029.htm). The Division prohibits discrimination on the
basis of disability in air travel and requires U.S. air carriers to properly
accommodate passengers with disabilities. Complaints under the Act can be filed
with the Division.
If you have a question that you
would like to see addressed here call Joanna Savidan at 602-296-0531
Start
the New Year with Ed
By Donna
Kruck
Feel evangelical about
self-determination and independent living philosophy? Want a video that is
guaranteed to get you fired up and inspired on those “oh so helpless/hopeless”
feeling days? Do I have a deal for YOU! You can order your very own copy of the
twenty minute long 1988 interview with Ed Roberts, father of the Independent
Living Movement and world changer.
Simply contact:
CBS video cassette
information:
(800) 848-3256
Ask for the “Ed Roberts”
video dated 4/3/88
Cost: $29.98 + postage
Newsman Harry Reasoner
interviews Ed and his mother. He talks
about his childhood with polio, his adventure as the first disabled person on
campus at UC Berkley and his work internationally. ABIL considers this video to be the “bible” of independent living
philosophy. We use it for staff, personal assistant, consumer and volunteer
orientations, for educational seminars – anywhere where we need to get the
independent living message across in a timely, simple, and memorable manner. We
urge all advocates and entities with the mission of independent living to
obtain this video. It is well worth the investment.
Southwest
Arts Conference 2003 - Setting the Course
Friday,
January 31st 8:OOAM - 4:30PM Glendale
Civic Center
Arizona’s arts organizations,
community organizations, local arts councils and artists are all part of a
vital learning community, working together to understand how and why people
participate in the arts. Understanding Participation is a five-year project to
examine what motivates people to participate in the arts - as audience members,
students, artists, donors, volunteers - and how we can meet their desires and
expectations in our programs and organizations.
Keynote
Speaker John Killacky, Executive Director of the Yerba Buena Center for the
Arts in San Francisco, presents visual arts, performing arts and media events.
He’ll share stories of his recent experience in having to downsize his staff
and programs, while keeping his organization healthy, and how he and his staff
have orchestrated - or discovered - how to serve multiple communities.
Morning breakout sessions
will be conversations about the motivations people have for participating in
the arts. Afternoon breakout sessions by nationally recognized guest speakers
bring additional perspectives on building participation. Special guests from
WESTAF (Western States Arts Federation) will also participate.
Full day registration including continental breakfast and lunch is just $50. For online information and registration log on to www.ArizonaArts.org/SWAC. For more information call 602-229-8220 or email mlakinhayes@ArizonaArts.org
John Killacky’s keynote speech will
be ASL-interpreted, and the morning welcome session and A/V presentation on
featured artists will be audio-described. Requests for reasonable
accommodations for other Conference components can be made by contacting the
Arts Commission at 602-229-8220. Requests should be made as early as possible
to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
All Advocacy presentations are free.
Participants must RSVP with David Carey,
602-296-0523.
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 own legal guardian.
AHCCCS
Freedom to Work –
Learn about the expanded
AHCCCS medical coverage for individuals with disabilities 16 through 64 years
of age who have countable income under 250% Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Guest
Speaker: Donna Kruck - ABIL Advocacy
Director
Thursday, January 9 1:00
p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Metro Center Office, 10000 N. 31st Avenue,
Ste. D-405, Phoenix
Wednesday, January 29 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: ABIL East - 225 East 1st Street. Mesa, AZ
Guest Speaker: David Carey - ABIL Advocacy Specialist
Social Security Work Incentives Workshops
Come and learn how employment will affect your cash and medical benefits. Please sign up for the workshop that matches the kind of Social Security you receive. If you are unsure which kind you receive, David can help you figure that out when you call to RSVP. From now on, we will be having separate workshops for each type of benefit: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because each program has different rules and different work incentives. If you receive both, let David know and he will help you get an appointment with a Work Incentive Specialist. We will conduct workshops specifically for services providers upon request.
Work
Incentives & SSDI
Guest Speaker: Erik Jensen, Work Incentives Specialist
Monday, January 13 10:00
a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: ABIL East - 225 East 1st Street. Mesa, AZ
Thursday, January 30 10:00
a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Metro Center Office (10000 N. 31st Avenue,
Ste. D-405), Phoenix, AZ 85016
Work
Incentives &
SSI
Thursday, January 23, 2003
– 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: 1229 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Arizona
Center for Disability Law –
Legal
Options for Consumers, Families and Caregivers When An Individual with a
Disability Reaches the Age of 18
Leslie Cohen, Executive
Director of the Arizona Center for Disability Law, will present a workshop on
the range of legal options available to individuals with disabilities who need
the assistance of someone else, in a legally recognized fashion, to help with
decisions affecting one or more facets of their life. The workshop will cover:
guardianship, conservatorship, durable general power of attorney,
representative payee, advanced directives and trusts. If you would like more
information on the legal options available to you, your family members or
caregivers, please attend.
Guest Speaker: Leslie Cohen
Location: 1229 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Arizona
State University Disabled Resources for Students and Scholarships – Jim
Hemaeur and Cory Gonzales will both be presenting information regarding
assistance available in applying to ASU, FAFSA (financial aid) and the general
ASU scholarship application. Cory will represent the Nina Mason Pulliam Legacy
Scholars program, or Nina Scholars, which provides students with full in-state
tuition, fees, a book allowance, tutoring, and a $2500 annual living allowance.
Applicants must meet one of the following
criteria:
1.
Be age 18-25, and raised in the child welfare system
2.
25 years of age and older with a dependant
3.
Have a physical disability, which makes navigating the campus difficult
In addition, Jim will discuss
ASU Disability Resource Services (DRS) and scholarships which are available
through DRS.
Guest Speakers: Jim Hemaeur (DRS Support Coordinator) and
Cory Gonzales (Center for Urban Inquiry - Program Coordinator)
Friday, January 17th, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Location: 1229 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Where
in the World Can Confidence and Self-Advocacy Get You?
Christa Bucks Camacho, a
newly sworn in urban youth volunteer with the Peace Corps, began to settle into
her home and community in Fernando de la Mora, Paraguay where she would spend
the next two years. Even as a young girl, Bucks Camacho knew she wanted to be
actively engaged in the world – living in other countries, absorbing other
cultures and making a positive difference. She never considered her disability
to be a barrier to living her dream. This attitude carried Bucks Camacho
through the often daunting process of getting into the Peace Corps.
While in Paraguay, Bucks
Camacho points out that her definition of independence had to be flexible. “Is
independence always being able to do something for myself? That is a very
American view of independence. I came to realize that it wasn’t necessary that
I did it by myself, but that I accomplished a goal either with assistive
technology or through human assistance. I redefined independence to include
enlisting assistance from others.”
In this way, she accomplished
everything she wanted to, collaborated with other volunteers, traveled around
Paraguay and to neighboring countries and enjoyed two years of successful
service with Peace Corps. Today she is Youth and Transition Coordinator with
the Social Security Administration working to ensure greater educational and
employment opportunities for youth with disabilities and to encourage them to
take advantage of international exchange opportunities.
Each year, people of all ages
with different kinds of disabilities participate in international exchange
programs such as study abroad, volunteer projects, language immersion programs
and internships. Many of those people start their journey by contacting the
National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE), a project managed by
Mobility International USA (MIUSA) and sponsored by the Bureau of Educational
and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State. NCDE is there to
assist people with disabilities in exploring international program options and
believes confidence and self-advocacy can take people with disabilities
anywhere in the world they want to go!
For further information log on to: www.miusa.org
Or contact NCDE at PO Box 10767, Eugene, OR 97440, (541) 343-1284 (V/TTY)
(541) 343-6812 (FAX)
clearinghouse@miusa.org
Arizona
Scottish Gathering & Highland Games
February
22 - 23 Mesa Community College
Mark your calendars and come
celebrate Scottish and Celtic history! Enjoy the sound of bagpipes, visit the
dozens of clan tents, sing along with the entertainers, admire the skill and
energy of the highland dancers and the spirited athletic competitions!
Advance ticket prices: Adult
(16+) $10, Senior (60+) $8
Child (5-15) $4. For group
ticket sales call 602-431-0095.
Horsing Around
For the Health of It
The Therapy Zone is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 company,
established solely for the educational and rehabilitative needs of the
community. This includes providing consumers who are financially challenged
with the same opportunities as people with insurance benefits or financial
funding. Located in East Mesa, our on-site facilities include a riding arena,
gym, weight room, outdoor heated pool, sensory trails, private treatment rooms,
ADL kitchen and bathroom, outdoor mobility training area and adaptive
playground.
The Therapy Zone is a
volunteer-based organization affiliated with the NARHA (North American Riding
for the Handicapped Association). Opportunities for involvement include working
with horses and students, maintenance, office support and special events. For
more information call 480-380-2810.
Social
Security
Work
Incentives Q&A
Q: I’m currently working part-time and receiving
SSDI. My company gives everyone an end-of-the-year
bonus. Will this affect my cash payments?
A: A
bonus from your employer is considered earned income, so it may affect your
cash benefit, depending on your previous earnings since receiving SSDI.
If you are still using your
Trial Work Period, or have not performed Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
since your Trial Work Period, your bonus should not have a significant effect
on your SSDI check. If you have
performed SGA since the end of your Trial Work Period, then your check may at
least temporarily affect your SSDI.
To
figure out the effect of a one-time bonus on your SSDI benefits, call one of
ABIL’s Work Incentive Specialists at (602) 256-2245.
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around the nation regarding advocacy, legislation, public policy, and civil
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Please help us get the word out by including
this notice in your organization’s publication.
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ABIL COMMUNITY CALENDAR – Please RSVP for All Events
Funding for Social and Recreational activities is provided (in part) by the Area Agency on Aging Region I, Inc. and the Arizona Department of Economic Security Rehabilitation Services Administration. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van. Consumers must be 18 years+ or own legal guardian for transportation on the ABIL van. Please do not wear scented products or smoke when attending events. Reasonable Accommodations, including Sign Language Interpreters and Personal Assistants, will be provided at ABIL events upon request.
Jan 7 Youth Transition, 9-11:00 am. Recreation.
Phx/Kitchen. Leanne, 602-296-0535
Jan 7* Improbable Theatre Company - 6-8:00 pm. Longview Rec. Center, 14th St/Indian School. Join us for new theatrical challenges. (*and every Tues. evening of the month) Kathy Tweet, 602-296-0503
Jan 8 Peer
Mentor Quarterly Meeting, 1:00-3:00
pm. Phx/Classroom. Ann, 602-667-0277
Jan 9 Healer
Within, 10:00-1:30 pm. ABIL/Metro
Center. Womens group. Wellness group. Use your whole self, body mind
& spirit to achieve a satisfying life. Group sharing, relaxation practices.
Donna, 602-296-0520
Jan 9 SR/In-House
Movie, 1 - 3:30 pm. Phx/Kitchen. Soda
and popcorn provided. Leanne,
602-296-0535
Jan 9 AHCCCS/Freedom
to Work, 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Metro Center
Office, (10000 N. 31st Ave, Ste. D-405)
Learn about the expanded AHCCCS medical coverage. See details page 7.
David, 602-296-0523.
Jan 13 East
Valley Disability Advocacy Group/ TRIP Meeting, 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Community Advocacy/ Transportation
Improvement Planning meeting. Bob Payne, 480-642-8445
Jan 13 Focus on SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00-Noon. Mesa/Classroom. Want to work?
Come find out how going to work will effect your SSDI benefits. See page 7.
David, 602-296-0523
Jan 14 SR/Cooking
Group, 10:30 am - 1:30 pm.
Phx/Kitchen. Leanne, 602-296-0535
Jan 15 AZ
Center for Disability Law, 1:00-3:00
pm. Legal options for consumers, family and caregivers when a person with
disability reaches age 18. See details page 7. David, 602-296-0520.
Jan 16 Focus on SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 1:00-3:00 pm. Phx/Classroom. Want to
work? Come find out how going to work will effect your SSDI benefits. See page
7. David, 602-296-0523
Jan 17 Arizona
State University Disabled Resources for Students and Scholarships, 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Phx/Classroom. See details page 7.
David, 602-296-0520
Jan 21 ADA
Teleconference, 12:00-1:30 pm.
Phx/Kitchen. Dialogue with a representative from the
EEOC on any issues related to implementation and compliance with the employment
provisions of the ADA. See details page 7. Darrel, 602-296-0530.
Jan 23 SR/Arts
& Crafts Group, 10:00 am - 2:00
pm. Phoenix Craft & Sewing Festival. 1826 W McDowell Rd - AZ Fair Grounds.
Phx. Cost: $7.00 Leanne, 602-296-0535
Jan 23 Focus on SSI/Social Security Work Incentives, 1:00-3:00 pm. Phx/Classroom. Want to
work? Come find out how going to work will effect your SSI benefits. See
details page 7. David, 602-296-0523
Jan 24 Healer
Within, 10:00-1:30 pm. Phx/Kitchen.
Womens group, wellness group. Use your whole self, body, mind & spirit to
achieve a satisfying life. Group sharing, relaxation practices. Donna,
602-296-0520
Jan 27 SR/Newsletter
Party, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. Phx/Kitchen
& Classroom. Leanne, 602-296-0535
Jan 29 AHCCCS/Freedom
to Work, 10:00 - Noon.
Mesa/Classroom. Learn about the expanded AHCCCS medical coverage. See details
page 7. David, 602-296-0523.
Jan 30 Focus on SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00-Noon. Metro Center Office, (10000
N. 31st Ave, Ste. D-405). Want to work? Come find out how going to work will
effect your SSDI benefits. See page 7. David, 602-296-0523
ABIL Soc/Rec
Events – February – March 2003
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.
Tuesday, February 4, - 10:00 am-2:00 pm The Bead Museum – An exciting visual journey of the bead from ancient times to the present. 5754 W Glenn Dr. Glendale. Cost: $4.00.
Thursday, February 11, 10:30 am – 1:30 pm 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 ingredients for lunch.
Saturday, February 22, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Scottish Gathering & Highland Games - A celebration of Scottish Culture. 460 N Mesa Dr. Mesa. Cost: None
Monday, February 24, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Newsletter Party (lunch provided) - Join the fun of meeting new people, sharing experiences and working towards a goal of sharing the Bridge with others throughout the states. 1229 E Washington, Phx. Cost: None.
Monday, March 3, 1:05 pm – 3:00 pm Spring Training Baseball Game – Oakland A’s vs. Arizona Diamondbacks. 401 E Jefferson St. Phx. Cost: $10.00
Thursday, March 13, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (Bring $3.00 for pizza or your own lunch) Arts & Crafts Group. Come be creative with Arts and Crafts projects. MetroCenter Office 10000 N 31st Ave. Phx. Cost: $2.00
Monday, December 16, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Newsletter Party (lunch provided) - Join the fun of meeting new people, sharing experiences and working towards a goal of sharing the Bridge with others throughout the states. 1229 E Washington, Phx. Cost: None.
Empowering
Youth
Independent Living Skills Workshop Topic: Recreation
The Empowering Youth with
Disabilities into Adulthood/Youth Transition Program brings in community
resources to teach independent living skills to young adults ages 14-22. If you
or your high school group would like to attend any of these, please call Leanne
Jones at 602-296-0535 to RSVP. For
accommodations or alternative format please call Leanne in advance.
Wanted:
Your Opinion on Transportation Services
The US Department of Transportation
has a web site for individuals with disabilities to submit comments on
transportation services for individuals with disabilities. The current Transportation for Equity Act
for the 21st Century (TEA-21) is set to expire September 30, 2003 and Congress
is seeking input as they develop replacement legislation. The web site is: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/reauthorization
Written comments can be sent
to:
Docket Clerk, USDOT, Room
PL-401,
Docket Number OST-2002-12170,
400 Seventh Street, SW,
Washington, DC 20590.