The Bridge
News from the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living
Volume XIV, Number 6
JUNE 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!"
Winning
Combination!
Vera
Lobato & The Ticket to Work Program
She’s the “First Lady of the Ticket to Work Program!” That’s how Congressman J.D. Hayworth
described Vera Lobato’s accomplishment at a ceremony in her honor on May 2,
2003. Ms. Lobato is the first person
nationally to work for one full year under the new Ticket to Work Program. Ms. Lobato deposited her Ticket to Work with
ABIL Employment Services when the program first began in 2002. She was hired to work in ABIL’s Personal
Assistant Services Unit, and the rest is history.
More than
150,000 Tickets have been distributed in Arizona since the Program’s inception
last year. These Tickets allow people
with disabilities who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to choose among providers to help them
start or return to work so they can support themselves and their families. Ms. Lobato wasted no time in depositing her
Ticket with ABIL so she could leave her dependency behind and earn her own way
through work.
In addition
to Congressman Hayworth joining the ceremony after leaving Washington, D.C. on
a 6:30 a.m. flight to be certain he made it to the event, a video tape was
played of Social Security Commissioner Jo Ann Barnhart congratulating Vera and
ABIL on this historic achievement.
It’s
Time to Pay the Fiddler!
By Phil
Pangrazio, ABIL Executive Director
The battle
over the 2004 state budget is finally coming down to the wire. Not surprising, it seems like every day
another newspaper article is written describing the budget deficit and our
slumping Arizona economy. If a year ago
you were not an expert in economic theory, taxation, and budgets, you’ve had
plenty of opportunities lately to become astute on the subject. So what have we learned that might lead to a
solution?
First, it
is quite clear we’ve got a revenue problem…there’s not enough of it! Since the recession began in March of 2000,
revenue growth has been either negative or flat. Early projections for fiscal year 2004 were for .2 percent
growth, and more recently 2.5 percent now that the war in Iraq is ending and
the economy seems to be recovering.
Second, in
order to keep existing programs from being cut, we would need to spend more
than we are anticipating bringing in…even with a 2.5 percent growth in
revenue. The Republican legislature
proposes spending $6.176 billion, while Governor Napolitano wants to spend $6.7
billion. If the Republican proposal is
approved, program cuts could equal $350-$500 million. If Governor Napolitano’s budget is approved, we may have to
borrow hundreds of millions of dollars at the risk of creating huge future
debts depending on whether the economy recovers or not.
It seems
like everyone has a reason as to why this crisis has happened, or what to do
about it. House Majority Leader Eddie
Farnsworth, R-Gilbert, recently stated, “Our hands are tied.” “We are handcuffed by judicial and federal
mandates and voter approved initiatives.”
He says further, “We only control about 25 percent of the budget.”
Contrary to
this opinion, former State Legislator Alfredo Gutierrez says, “Stop whining!”
“The legislature either has to have the courage to cut programs or have the
courage to raise taxes.” He continues,
“Either way you have to face the consequences.”
Similarly
critical, State Senator Pete Rios, D-Hayden said, “There has been an effort by
conservatives to starve the beast by passing tax cuts and bringing in less
revenue to the state. He believes it
may now be time to “pay the fiddler” as evidenced by his recently introduced
$400 million revenue plan (i.e. tax increase and reform package).
And finally,
former State Senator Tom Patterson-R, believes the income and property tax
cutting strategies of the 1990’s resulted in strong economic growth throughout
the decade. Further he claims, “We can
get out of this current crisis and prevent future fiascos with a combination of
spending restraint and pro-growth tax policy.”
No matter
what side of the fence you’re on, one thing is certain, the state budget
problem is not going away anytime soon.
In the meantime, programs that empower people with disabilities such as
the Freedom to Work AHCCCS Buy-in, Independent Living Rehabilitation Services,
or programs serving families that have children with developmental disabilities
are sure to be cut back, require cost sharing, or eliminated altogether. Maybe it’s time to pay the fiddler!
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
William Harper, Member
Ken Heard, Member
Edith Kilany, Member
Edward L. Myers, III, Member
Nicholas L. Perry, Member
Scott Turner,
Member
ABIL
Administrative Staff
Phil Pangrazio,
296-0513, Executive Director
Feng Chiou,
296-0511, Director of Finance
Maribel Diaz,
296-0515, Receptionist
Maria Deleon,
480-222-4201, Mesa Receptionist/Program Aide
Louise Downey,
296-0519, Accounting Assistant
Nancy Fleming,
296-0512, Accounting Clerk
Penny Fore,
296-0518, Executive Assistant
Sandy Guinn,
296-0514, Director of Operations
Tina Hedges,
296-0516, Billing Clerk
Donna Jones,
296-0510, Program Aide
Grace Landas,
296-0516, Billing Clerk
Jason Miller,
296-0522, Billing Assistant
Jay Murrillo,
296-0517, Van Driver
Advocacy
Unit
Donna Redford
Kruck, 296-0520, Unit Director
Lynn Bejnar,
667-0277, Ext 16, “This is My Life” Program Manager
David Carey,
296-0523, Advocacy Specialist
Erik Jensen,
296-0527, Work Incentives Specialist
Donna Lorti,
424-4105, Work Incentives Specialist
Ann Pasco,
667-0277, Ext 14, Volunteer Coordinator
Carolan
Quenneville, 296-0524, Graphic Specialist/Newsletter
Rhonda Webb,
296-0509, Work Incentives Specialist
Employment
Services
Susan Webb,
667-0277, Ext 11, Unit Director
Lynda Connors,
667-0277, Ext. 12, Employment Coordinator
Buffy McDonald,
667-0277, Ext 18, Employment Coordinator
Dan Siegler,
667-0277, Ext 10, Employment Technician
Jennifer
Stetson 667-0277, Ext 17, Employment Program Aide
Community
Integration Unit
Darrel
Christenson , 296-0530, Unit Director
Judy Benshoof,
296-0532, ILA/Home Mod. Coord (Mesa/Tempe)
Jon DeWinter,
296-0537, Home Mod.Coord.(Glendale/Peoria)
Tony DiRienzi,
296-0534, Early Intervention Coord.
Paula Grodecki,
480-222-4212, Reintegration Coord.
Tyrone
Harrington, 424-4103, Com. Liv. Options Coord.
Leanne Jones,
296-0535, Soc/Rec, Youth Outreach/ILA
Rosalie Manuel,
296-0536, Independent Living Skills Advocate
Joanna Savidan,
296-0531, I&R, Home Mod. Coord. (Phx)
Leonard Smith,
296-0533, ILA/Reintegration Prg. Coord.
Personal
Assistant Services
Gwen Dean,
602-296-0541, Unit Director
Mary Avila,
602-296-0528, PAS Field Rep.
Pam Burdette,
480-222-4204, PAS Field Rep.
Kathy Carlisle,
480-222-4203, PAS Field Rep.
Jerry Chee,
602-424-4107, Program Manager
Gerry Davis,
602-296-0546, Payroll Clerk
Lyndora Hall,
602-296-0529, PAS Field Rep.
Judy Ludlow,
602-296-0542, PAS Field Rep.
Teodoro
Marquez, 602-424-4102, PAS Field Rep.
Kelli Martin,
602-296-0544, Program Aide
Sheri Mecca,
602-296-0547, Program Manager
Diane Patton,
480-222-4206, Program Manager
Christine
Pinedo, 602-296-0552, Program Aide
Colleen
Podmore, 602-424-4108, PAS Field Rep.
Pat Trouts,
602-296-0506, Payroll Clerk
Christina
Velasquez, 602-424-4104, PAS Field Rep.
Grace Walstad,
602-296-0540, PAS Field Rep.
Roxanna
Williams, 602-424-4106, PAS Field Rep.
Melanie Woods,
480-222-4205, PAS Field Rep.
Bonnie Zanardi,
480-222-4202, PAS Field Rep.
Your
Advocacy is Working! Keep it up
By Donna Kruck
Make no
mistakes, your willingness to contact your state legislators is working. Good job advocates! Governor Napolitano and our legislators,
like those in many other states, are charged with balancing a budget that has
more going out to support state programs and services, than is coming back in
through taxes and tobacco settlements due to a drop in our economy. More people
unemployed equals less sales and income taxes paid and more people needing
state services like health care. It was
relatively easy for a few in legislative leadership to suggest cutting out
numerous vital healthcare, education, prevention and disability related programs
when they didn’t know what it would mean to you. You were just numbers.
Thanks to
you, those budget numbers are starting to look a lot more like people… like
you. And that is a good thing. Once
they started hearing your stories of how important these programs are to you
and what it would mean to lose them, most of the legislators decided they
couldn’t go along with all of those program cuts. So those same few legislative leaders suggested a second budget
that adds back in the Kids Care health program, community health centers and
some mental health funding (so far so good)– but still leaves out
completely:
· DES Independent Living (including
Sight Conservation – eye exams and glasses)
· AZ Ticket to Work, the AHCCCS
Freedom to Work expanded income eligibility program
· Emergency dental care for 19,000
adults
· General Assistance – cash
assistance to newly disabled people waiting for their Social Security
disability claim to go through.
· Many who will need mental health
services
· Seniors and people with
disabilities that need in-home assistance to live independently
So far, you
have opened the eyes of many new legislators to the damage these losses cause
to you and to Arizona. However, your
job is not over. Those same few
powerful legislative “leaders” are bent on “reducing state government” to what
they see as the basics: prisons, roads, and minimum education. They use their power to intimidate other
legislators, refusing to pass their bills and threatening to fight their
re-election. Your legislator needs to
know you will vote for them if they don’t go along with this “slash and burn”
budget.
You need to
keep up the heat. If you’ve already contacted your legislator, do it again. If
not, do it now. Do it once a week to remind them you want them to save these
programs. Since almost everything (and
everybody) was recommended for cuts, all legislators have had to learn tons of
new information about a ton of different programs and issues. They need to hear about the disability
related programs over and over to understand them and what they do and remember
it. You are advocates and you are
educators. They are learning from you what state programs actually do –
in most cases it is truly ignorance, not malice.
Keep
reminding them:
· You vote
· Why these programs are important for government to
provide
· There are ways to pay for these programs (See
below)
· Ask for their commitment to vote to save these programs
· Thank them for their hard work – it really is!
As of press
time, there were not enough legislative votes to pass either the governor or
the legislative proposed budgets. At some point in the next month, they must
come up with a budget that both can agree upon. Governor Napolitano’s budget
includes these vital disability related programs and defines how to pay for
them. Senator’s Slade Mead (R -Dist 20)
and Pete Rios (D -District 23) have recommended funding sources as well.
If you need
more information about the budget or how to advocate/educate, call me or David
at 602-256-2245 or emails us donnak@abil.org or davidc@abil.org.
P.S Yes,
some of those expenses are because of lawsuits our state has lost that require
us to provide a minimum of education and mental health care – and because of
the Alt-Fuel debacle. But you voted for
the legislators that brought that on and only you can vote them out.
Medicaid in Crisis: House Leadership Targets Key
Disability Programs
An AAPD
article, edited by Donna Kruck
The House Budget Resolution, passed last month, requires
various Congressional committees to pass legislation making $265 billion in
cuts over the next 10 years to entitlement or “mandatory” programs.
Approximately 62 percent of these cuts, or $162 billion are slated to come from
programs for low income families and individuals. The hardest hit program is
Medicaid with cuts of $92.1 billion over the next 10 years.
Other programs slated for major cuts
in the House budget version include Supplemental Security Income, Food Stamps,
Child Support Enforcement, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, to name
a few. These cuts would remain in effect at least through 2013, unless another
Congress elected to overturn some or all of them. The House Budget
Resolution also reflected a $726 billion-tax cut (the total amount the
Administration asked for). The Budget passed by the Senate does not cut
low-income program and to decreases the President’s tax cut package by 50
percent. Now the House and the Senate will have to agree on a compromise.
Many members of the Senate, including
Senator John McCain and the leadership of both parties, are opposed to
any cuts in Medicaid. Seventy-nine Senators sent a passionate letter to the
budget leadership of both houses states opposing proposed cuts to
Medicaid. The letter states that “Any
reduction in federal Medicaid funding would place millions of vulnerable Americans
now receiving Medicaid in jeopardy of losing their health coverage. Federal
funding reductions would force states to implement even deeper cuts by
restricting eligibility, eliminating or reducing critical health benefits, and
severely cutting or freezing provider reimbursement rates. As a result,
Medicaid funding cuts would add millions more to the ranks of the uninsured.”
No decision has been made as to
which Medicaid programs would be reduced. This will pit seniors and people with
disabilities needing long term care against families with disabled children
needing healthcare. It is the old “divide and conquer” routine, pitting us
against
each other. Who is most vulnerable? Who do we throw out of the boat? We must
stand to ether to say no one person with a disability or health need is more
valuable than another. If we can afford
universal health care for Iraq, we can afford to maintain our Medicaid program
at home (my editorial comment).
The Medicaid
program is a “matched” program in which the federal government and states share
the cost of providing health care to low-income individuals. This means that
when Arizona spends $1, we get a federal Medicaid match of about 73 cents. States, due to their budget deficits are
already cutting back spending and programs rely on the additional federal
matching dollars. If those get cut too, significant numbers of people will lose
healthcare.
The cuts in the
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program in the deepest cut year, if achieved
by reducing the number of SSI recipients, would lead to the elimination of SSI
benefits for 467,000 low-income elderly individuals and people with
disabilities. If the cut were achieved by reducing the maximum SSI benefit, SSI
recipients with no other income would see their federal benefit rate fall even
lower (from an already low 74 percent of the federal poverty line to 70
percent.)
The House Budget Resolution also makes
$244 billion in cuts in domestic “discretionary,” or annually appropriated
programs, below the 2003 levels, adjusted for inflation., which will also
affect individuals with disabilities and their families.
AAPD – The American Association for People with Disabilities
and ABIL urge you to contact their House and Senate representatives and tell
them how critical Medicaid is to people with disabilities!
* This
article was adapted from the AAPD newsletter. To keep up with national
disability news and become an AAPD member contact 800-840-8844 (V/TTY) To
contact your Representatives log on to www.house.gov or www.senate.gov
New
Medicare Discount Rx Program Starts By Donna Kruck
Governor
Napolitano’s new discount prescription drug assistance program for persons on
Medicare is up and running. Rx America
will be the program manager. They bid
for the contract and won the potential business of 600,000 customers on
Medicare statewide. They have a network
of 500-600 pharmacies across the state including Fry’s, Safeway, Wal-Mart,
Target, Albertson’s, Walgreen’s and Osco, to name a few. As of May 7th, 16,000 have already enrolled.
Remember
your friends next time you go to the polls to vote! We tried for three years to pass a prescription drug program
through the legislature and the Republican leadership wouldn’t let it happen.
It took an Executive Order from Governor Napolitano, who had the will and the way,
to create this opportunity and she did it without spending an Arizona dime!
Eligibility: You must already be on Medicare. Cost to join: $9.95 per year.
Cost of prescriptions: expect a 10 – 80% discount, depending upon the
particular medication. How to get started: Call 1-800-770-8014
Transit
Updates By Donna Kruck
Cities
without dedicated funding for transit are cutting pubic transit (bus and
Dial-a-ride) services due to the drop in the economy and budget
shortfalls. Mesa is a good example.
They are planning on reducing evening routes and Dial-a-ride trips. They are considering taking some of the
money they use for Dial-a-ride and putting it into their new voucher program
that helps pay for regular cab rides for seniors and people with disabilities that
don’t need wheelchair accessibility.
City councils are holding meetings to make these important budget
decisions. Don’t let them make those decisions without hearing from you, the
voters in their districts.
Regionally,
HB2292 is working its way through the legislature that will bring a public vote
in 2004 to extend a current (but expiring) ½ cent sales tax dedicated to
transportation. It is our job (you and
me) to make sure that the plan for the use of those dollars includes money for
regional public transportation – and to help it pass at the ballot box.
In the past this tax was used to build freeways only. This time it needs to include public transit projects as
well. At least I think so – what about
you?
To get more
involved and learn how to make a difference regarding transit issues join us at
our regular TRIP (Transit Regional Improvement Project) meeting the second
Monday at our Mesa office. At the next meeting: June 9th, 1-3:00 pm, Gary Bretz
of East Valley Dial-a-Ride will discuss the possible impact of new budgets on
Dial-a-Ride services. Contact Mary Hartle-Smith for more information, to get on
our email or phone alert list or for accommodation at 480-733-5266 or email
hartle@extremezone.com.
Wheelchair
User Transit Study
If you are
a wheelchair user who sits in your wheelchair while riding public buses, and
you can complete a survey on the Internet or have a family member or personal
assistant help you complete it, the University of Pittsburgh has an opportunity
for you! We are investigating the
real-world usage patterns of wheelchair transportation safety equipment on
public buses, and we would like your input. To participate in the study, you
must:
· Be
eighteen years or older
· Sit
in your wheelchair while riding public buses
· Have
access to the Internet
· Live
in the United States of America
If you
would like to participate or would like more information about this study,
please point your browser at http://www.wheelchairnet.org/survey/bus.html
Governor
Napolitano
Proclaims
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities Awareness Week
On April
17th Governor Janet Napolitano supported a growing constituency of citizens by
proclaiming May 4th - May 10th, 2003 as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Awareness
Week throughout the State of Arizona. Below is a large part of the text of the
proclamation.
WHEREAS, people of all ages in Arizona have
developed the condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS) often
following either a single massive chemical exposure or repeated low level
exposures to chemicals in the environment: and
WHEREAS, among the symptoms of MCS are
asthma, seizures, headaches, short term memory loss, and other respiratory and
neurological problems, severe fatigue, and muscle and joint pains: and
WHEREAS, MCS is recognized by the Americans
with Disabilities Act, the Social Security Administration, the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
other governmental agencies and commissions: and
WHEREAS, MCS, a chronic condition for which
there is no known cure, can cause major personal, financial, employment,
housing, health and other consequences for those afflicted with this condition:
and
WHEREAS, increased awareness of MCS and the
risks of chemical exposure can help prevent others from becoming similarly
disabled,
NOW, THEREFORE, I Janet Napolitano, Governor of the
State of Arizona, do hereby proclaim May4th – May 10th as “MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY WEEK”
throughout the State of Arizona.
For
information on joining the Chemical Sensitivity Service & Support Group
of Phoenix , contact Melinda Honn, 46619 N. 12th Lane, New River, Arizona 85087,
phone 623-742-0126 or e-mail: melhonn@aol.com.
Can’t
Get Out? There are
still many ways to help and become involved with the group from your own home.
Contact us if you are interested in being in touch with our group by telephone
or e-mail.
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.
Social
Security Work Incentives
Speakers: Erik Jensen, Rhonda Webb, & Donna Lorti
- Work Incentives Specialists. RSVP to 602-296-0510
Learn how
ABIL’s Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach program, granted through the
Social Security administration, can help people on SSI and/or SSDI understand
how employment affects their cash and medical benefits. Over the last few
years, several new work incentives have been created through Social Security
and other public programs. Our trained
and certified Work Incentive Specialists are also happy to provide
presentations at your agency location.
Wednesday,
June 25, 2003 – 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Location:
Metro Center Office (10000 N. 31st
Avenue, Ste. D-405), Phoenix, AZ 85016
Workshops for Consumers
Consumers 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. Family members and/or support person are welcome.
Work
Incentives & SSDI
Thursday,
June 12 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Work
Incentives & SSI
Monday,
June 9 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
ABIL
East - 225 East 1st Street. Ste. 206 Mesa
Friday,
June 20 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Monday,
June 30 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Does the VR
program mystify, befuddle or otherwise addle your brain? Maybe a quick review
of the basics would help. This workshop will include a review of the vision and
mission of the Vocational Rehabilitation(VR) program, basic principles and
concepts behind the VR program, and consumers’ roles, rights and
responsibilities. Bring your thinking caps and questions.We won’t be solving
your individual problems but the workshop will give you some useful
perspectives and maybe some tips to help you negotiate the dreaded “VR
process.” Guest Speaker: Jozef de
Groot - RSA Manager, Program Services
Tuesday,
June 17, 2003 – 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 noon
Location: 1229 E. Washington St., Phoenix
City
of Phoenix Housing
The Housing Department provides and promotes diversified living environments
and services for low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities by
operating and leasing assisted and affordable housing. Eric Rojo, Housing Program Assistant
for the Section 8 Rental Assistance Program, will discuss the Section 8 Rental
Assistance Program offered through the City of Phoenix-Housing Department.
He will touch on the application process, wait-list criteria, eligibility
requirements, and discuss other housing programs currently offered. If
you are considered low-income, wish to live independently, and need help with
locating affordable housing, then you don’t want to miss this event.
Guest speaker: Eric Rojo
Wednesday,
June 18 1:00p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: 1229 E. Washington St., Phoenix
June 13th, 9 a.m.-1
p.m.
Sheraton Crescent Hotel, Phx*
Please join
the Arizona Center for Disability Law (ACDL) and the Arizona Governor’s Council
on Spinal and Head Injuries for a half-day Conference covering topics such as:
Legal Rights of Individuals with TBI, Employment, Special Education,
Understanding TBI: Its Impairments and Implications, Assistive Technology, What
to Do When You Have Been Denied Services, Community Resources for Individuals
with TBI, and More! To Register call Judy, 602-274-6287 (V/TTY) or
1-800-927-2260 (V/TTY) by June 1, 2003. If you need special accommodations,
please let us know as soon as possible.
*2620
West Dunlap Ave (NE corner of 1-17 / Dunlap Ave)
Funding
for this conference is provided by the Health Resources and Service
Administration (HRSA) and the Arizona Governor’s Council on Spinal and Head
Injuries
Ability
Counts Job Fair
Monday,
June 16 11AM - 3PM
Burton
Barr Central Library Pulliam Auditorium
1221 N.
Central Ave., Phoenix
Meet with
more than 30 employers and learn about career opportunities in hospitality,
technology, retail, high-tech, health care, manufacturing, finance, government
and customer service occupations. Several workshops will be offered; “How to
Positively Talk About your Disabilities
at an Interview” and “Employment Barrier Busters for Individuals with
Disabilities.” Interpreters will be available throughout the day. Free. For information, disability
accommodations or materials in alternate formats, call 602-262-6690/voice or
602-534-1557/TTY.
Sponsored
by the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues, Phoenix Equal Opportunity
Department, the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Arizona Department of Economic
Security Rehabilitation Services Administration.
Cooler Start-Up Program
The City of Phoenix Human Services
Department’s Cooler Start-Up Program helps residents who might not otherwise be
able to afford repairs on their cooling systems. Residents must be 60 years old
or over, or disabled, and meet low-income requirements. They also must own
their own home and not have participated in this program in the past 12 months.
Services may include inspecting and replacing cooler motor and belt, changing
the pump or pads, shutting down the furnace or replacing the system when repair
costs exceed replacement costs. For more information, call 602-262-4614.
I&R Information & Referral
Q&A Question of the Month
Q:
I’ve heard there are little monkeys that can be trained to assist me in
my day-to-day activities. Where can I
obtain information about getting one?
A: Helping Hands is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving
the quality of life for individuals with severe disabilities, primarily
qualdriplegia, by training capuchin (organ grinder) monkeys to assist them with
daily activities. Monkey helpers
perform simple, every day tasks such as getting something to eat or drink,
retrieving dropped or out of reach items, assisting with audio cassettes, video
cassettes, CDs, and books, turning lights on or off.....tasks that we take for
granted, and in many cases, their monkeys have enabled people to work from
their homes. Helping Hands charges no
fees for its services and is largely supported by private contributions.
Monkeys are devoted helpmates, giving their disabled companions independence,
dignity, and love.
More
information can be found at: www.helpinghandsmonkeys.org.
Phone:
(617) 787-4419
Helping
Hands Monkey Helpers for the Disabled
541
Cambridge St., Boston, MA 02134.
If you have a question that you would
like to see addressed here, call Joanna Savidan at 602-296-0531
Social
Security
Work
Incentives Q&A
Q: Is
there anyone who can assist me with legal problems concerning using
my Ticket to Work?
A:
The Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) program
offered through the Arizona Center for Disability Law is designed to provide
protection & advocacy to persons receiving Social Security benefits who
desire employment, but who are facing barriers to working. PABSS offers
assistance to those seeking to use the Ticket to Work, but are having problems
in using their Tickets. They are also able to provide advice on your rights
under Social Security law, including appeals and waivers. They are not,
however, permitted to represent you in any action taken against Social
Security.
To see if the PABSS
program can help you, call the Arizona Center for Disability Law at (800)
922-1447.
ADA
Teleconference:
June 17th 11:00 am- 12:30 pm ABIL/Phx
Demystifying Federal Accessibility Requirements: ADAAG,
UFAS, Fair Housing...
Confused about which federal
accessibility requirements apply to what? How does the ADAAG and UFAS
interface? Which standard does a state government that receives federal funds
use when remodeling an existing structure or designing a new building? How does
the ADAAG apply to housing? What is the difference between transient housing
addressed under the ADAAG and Multi-family housing addressed under the Fair
Housing Act Accessibility Guidelines? Confused? Take this opportunity to ask
the “experts” your technical questions.RSVP to Darrel, 602-296-0530.
Sponsored
by Pacific Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC) http://www.pacdbtac.org
Empowering
Youth
Independent Living
Skills Workshop - Topic: Housing
June 10th, 9-11:00
ABIL/Phx
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.
ABIL
Community Calendar – 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. 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.
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.
Jun 03 SR/Phoenix Zoo, 10:00 AM -1:00 PM. Home to more
than 1,300 animals. 455 N Galvin Parkway, Phx.
Cost: $12.00 adults, $9.00
seniors. Leanne Jones, (602) 296-0535
Jun 09 SSI/Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Mesa Classroom.
Consumers come and learn how employment will affect your cash and medical
benefits. David Carey, (602) 296-0523
Jun 09 EVDAG/TRIP Meeting, 1-3:00 PM. Mesa Classroom. Gary
Bretz of East Valley Dial-a-Ride will speak on the possible impact of new
budgets on services. Robert Payne, 480-642-8445 or Mary Hartle-Smith,
480-733-5266
Jun 10 Youth
Transition/Housing, 9:00 - 11:00AM. Mesa Classroom. Leanne, 602-296-0535
Jun 11 Healer Within, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Thomas Conf
Room. Women’s wellness group: explore how body, mind and spirit work together
towards wellness. Relaxation practices, group discussion. Donna Kruck (602)
296-0520
Jun 12 SR/Cooking Group, 10:30 AM-1:30 PM. Phx Kitchen.
Learn new recipes, skills, and just socialize with others. Cost: Consumers
assist by bringing ingredients for lunch. Leanne Jones, (602) 296-0535
Jun 12 SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 2-4:00 PM. Phx Kitchen. Consumers
come and learn how employment will affect your cash and medical benefits. David
Carey, (602) 296-0523
Jun 12 V.O.I.C.E., 1-4:00 PM. 19055 N. 57th Ave., Glendale. Monthly support and information group for
individuals with disabilities, their families & rehabilitation providers.
Clayton Guffey, 602-789-9129
Jun 17 PDBTAC Teleconference, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Phx Classroom.
Demystifying the Federal Accessibility Requirements: ADAAG, UFAS, Fair Housing,
etc. U.S. Access Board. Darrel Christenson, (602) 296-0530
Jun 17 Vocational Rehabilitation Program, 1-3:00 PM. Phx Kitchen. Does the VR
program mystify, befuddle or otherwise addle your brain? David Carey, (602)
296-0523
Jun 18 City of Phoenix Housing Department, 1- 3:00 PM. Phx Kitchen. There will
be a discussion regarding Section 8 Rental Assistance Program. See details on
page 7. David Carey, (602) 296-0523
Jun 20 SSI/Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Metro Classroom Consumers come and learn how employment
will affect your cash and medical benefits. David Carey, (602) 296-0523
Jun 20 COMPASS, 2:00 – 4:30pm. Providing direction
and networking to persons with disabilities. Scottsdale Senior Center, 7375 E.
2nd St., Bldg. 2, Rm. 5, Scottsdale. Susan DeNova, 602-470-1802, x114
Jun 23 SR/Newsletter Assembly Party, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. Phx Kitchen.
Leanne Jones, (602) 296-0535
Jun 25 Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Metro
Classroom. Learn how ABIL’s Benefit, Assistance and Outreach program granted
through the Social Security administration, can help people on SSI and/or SSDI
understand how employment affects their cash and medical. David Carey, (602)
296-0523
Jun 26 Healer Within, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM. Thomas Conf
Room, 24th and Thomas. Women’s wellness group: explore how body, mind and
spirit work together towards wellness. Relaxation practices, group discussion.
Donna Kruck, (602) 296-0520
Jun 30 SSI/Social Security Work Incentives, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Phx Kitchen.
Consumers come and learn how employment will affect your cash and medical
benefits. David Carey, (602) 296-0523
ABIL Soc/Rec Events, July – August 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, July 8, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Arizona Science Center Come
explore the natures/history of science. 600 E Washington. Phx. Cost: $9.00 adults, $7:00 seniors.
Thursday, July 17, 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. 225 E 1st St. Ste 206. Mesa.
Cost: $2.00
Thursday, July 24, 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Ice Cream Social. Come get
some cool and refreshing ice cream to beat the summer heat. 1229 E Washington. Phx. Cost: None.
Monday, July 28, 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.
Tuesday,
August 5, 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Bowling.
Enjoy an afternoon of fun and bowling.
Bowling ramps will be provided.
4407 E Washington. Phx. Cost:
None.
Thursday,
August 14, 10:30 am – 2:00 pm. Movie
Theatre, Arrowhead Towne Center.
7700 W Arrowhead Towne Center. Glendale. Cost: $7.00 per
person.
Thursday,
August 21, 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.
Monday, August 25, 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.
Classified
Ads Next ad deadline: June 11th.
Call 602-296-0524 or
send by email marked “Want Ad” to carolanq@abil.org ABIL provides
space for individuals to place personal disability related ads free of charge
and is not responsible for the quality of advertised items or services. The fee
for a disability related business ad is $25. Please call to renew ads.
For Sale: ’99 Dodge Grand Caravan ES w/Ricon
Activan under carriage automatic ramp, lowered floor, EZ Lock whlchr floor
locking system. Seats 4 ppl + whlchr. Hunter green exterior, tan leather int.,
sun roof, dual side doors, front/rear AC, remote entry, radio/CD, driver &
side door van door controls. Exlnt cond. - 39K miles - original owner $29,900.
Call 480-229-3923
For Sale:
Wheelchair, tracer
EX Invacare. Never used.$150 OBO. Call Shirley 480-345-0246 evenings or
480-345-5239 days
For Sale:
Hvy duty Bruno pwr
chair w/pwr seat. 1 1/2 yrs old, Xlnt
cond, used inside only. Pd $6400, asking $3000. Call Kirk, 602-258-7330.
For Sale:
Travelark 3 wheel
scooter w/basket. Charger included. $450. Call Eleanor, 623-561-0494.
Foe Sale: Walker, $300 new; asking
$200, exlnt cond., incl. basket, seat, handle breaks, collapsible. Call
Mike, 480-733-5266.