ARIZONA BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENT LIVING: December 2005 Newsletter

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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I am pleased to announce that ABIL has purchased a new building and land at 5025 E. Washington Street in Phoenix. As anyone connected with ABIL knows, we have long been overcrowded at our main office location at 12th Street and Washington. We are very excited about having a new building that will provide badly needed program and office space, plus plentiful parking for all! The transition to the new building will take about two years. The first step is to develop plans for the major renovations necessary to make the building universally accessible and comfortable for everyone. The second step will be the construction phase.

ABIL’s Board of Director’s and management have been working on this vision for many years. It is our ultimate goal to construct a state-of-the-art, universally designed, accessible, and transit-oriented Non-Profit Disability Services Campus to serve the community. Eventually, we would like co-locate with 8 to 10 of the Valley’s other prominent disability organizations at the campus to provide integrated programs and services. The organizations we are targeting share a common history and vision for what it takes to best serve people with disabilities.

The non-profit campus would provide program and administrative offices, fully accessible conference and event space, kitchen, computer lab, meeting rooms, a library, and a sports, recreation and fitness center. It would serve as a model for accessible design, including accessible technology design with state-of-the-art video-conferencing and captioning capabilities. People with all types of disabilities would be able to move about the campus freely and safely, utilizing all the facilities and equipment. The campus will be designed to accommodate large numbers of people with disabilities and will be located on a major public transit corridor and in close proximity to the future light rail stop at 48th Street and Washington.

ABIL is also excited to announce that its City of Phoenix Bond funding proposal was approved by the City Council and will go to the voters in March of 2006. ABIL’s project is to construct a state-of-the-art, universally accessible, 25,000 square-foot Sports, Recreation and Fitness Center for persons with disabilities. The project was recommended for $5.3 million in funding by the City Parks & Recreation Bond Subcommittee. The future facility will house the competitive and recreational sporting and fitness programs for people living with disabilities in Phoenix and Maricopa County. Some of the programs include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair floor-hockey, quad rugby, over-the-line softball, wheelchair tennis, hand cycling, wheelchair racing, power-soccer, other disability recreation programs, and local community recreation.

In addition, the City of Phoenix’ Daring Adventures adaptive recreation program and St. Joseph Hospital’s Therapeutic Recreation program have both expressed strong interest in partnering with ABIL and may possibly provide staff, in addition to our own, to operate ancillary therapeutic and outdoor adventure recreation programs at the Sports, Recreation and Fitness Center.

We believe this future facility will meet the increasing challenges of assisting and empowering Phoenix’s growing population of people with disabilities and enhance their opportunities to live successful, integrated and independent lives. We also believe the resources made available at both the Sports, Recreation and Fitness Center and the Non-Profit Disability Services Campus will change thousands of lives each year by improving attitudes, self-esteem and confidence...all paramount for living independent and self-sufficient lives.

(Washington, DC) During a marathon session of voting, the U.S. Senate passed legislation which will help veterans with disabilities who live with family members. Under the bill, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs would establish a five year pilot program to provide veterans with up to $10,000 to widen doorways, install wheelchair ramps, or make other adaptations to the homes of family members where they are temporarily living.

“Many of our young veterans are in their late teens or early 20’s, and when hurt in combat, they often return to live with their parents. This change is a commonsense approach to the reality that these young men and women face,” said Sen. Larry Craig, Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Under current law, the Department of Veterans Affairs is allowed to make one-time grants of up to $50,000 to adapt the homes of veterans with disabilities. But as the law is now, the veteran has to own the home.

Under the new pilot program, a veteran would be able to receive up to three separate grants within the allotted maximum amounts – which are $50,000 for severely disabled veterans and $10,000 for less severely injured. Only one grant could be used for a temporary residence. The other two could be used only for a home owned by the veteran.

The amendment was sponsored by Sen. John Sununu (R-New Hampshire). Sen. Craig (R-Idaho), a co-sponsor of the amendment, said he will now work to include the provision as part of a larger omnibus veterans bill which will contain other benefits-related provisions for veterans that have passed in either the House and Senate. “We are committed to doing what’s right for our veterans,” Craig said. The legislation also requires that Government Accountability Office to report on the implementation of the pilot program not later than three years and five years after the enactment of the bill.

For more information on adaptive housing, see: http://www.homeloans.va.gov/sah.htm

I got a call last month from a distressed mother of a wheelchair user. She drives an accessible van with a wheelchair lift to transport her daughter who recently sustained a traumatic brain injury. Her complaint was that she needed one of those extra-wide accessible van spaces in order to use the van’s lift to get her daughter in or out of the van. She was angry because all the wider accessible spaces (the ones with the extra striped line on the side) were taken up by people driving sedans. Some of whom she had observed did not have chair users in them. It occurred to me that although we may have disabilities, we might not be aware of each other’s needs.

People often mistakenly think that if a person is able to walk, they don’t need an accessible parking space. They are unaware that that person may have a significant heart condition, spina bifida, arthritis or other disabling condition that limits their ability to walk distances – either because of stamina or pain - both of which can be invisible to the eye. It may not occur to a wheelchair user who uses a van, that another wheelchair user may be using a sedan and also need that wider accessible space to get in and out of the car. Without the wider space, sedan drivers are unable to open their doors wide enough to load their wheelchair. And hey! Some wheelchair users may be able stand or walk a step or two, but that doesn’t mean they can walk 10 feet.

On the other hand, drivers with disabilities who don’t use wheelchairs that have “handicapped” licenses plates because they can’t walk distances, may be using those wider accessible spaces – not realizing they are taking up the few precious spaces desperately needed by the wheelchair users!

Sisters and brothers, we need to be considerate of each other. I realize there is the occasional disability fraud who somehow has access to the “handicapped” license plate or placard and parks inconsiderately in an accessible space. But what about us, people with “real” disabilities being considerate when we choose which parking space to use and giving each others the benefit of the doubt.

R - Reserved - Sometimes you don’t need to shout to have your voice heard
O - Ordinary, like you and I - with organized support
S - Stimulus. One act, one story can bring forth change
A - Anybody, able, alongside assembled associates

P - Power of one, persistent, poised, purposeful, persuasive.
A - Active - Addressing problems, articulating solutions
R - Repeat - Just in case they didn’t hear you the first time... or second ...or third
K - King - What you do can stir someone to greater leadership!
S - She proved you can take a stand while sitting!

GET EMPOWERED! - Join one of ABIL’s advocacy e-groups and keep informed on what is going on in AZ and around the nation. Advocacy e-groups include Empower (general alerts) and topical alert lists: transit, healthcare/Rx drugs, Independent Living, Employment. Anyone who subscribes can post events and alerts. It’s yours. Use it! Just send a note asking to subscribe to listserv@abil.org

If you need assistance before or after hours please call the Value Options Crisis Line at 602-222-9444 or 1-800-631-1314

Remember - no one needs to enroll right away. Let the dust settle and glitches get worked out. People have until May to enroll. No rush.

For those on AHCCCS (Medicaid) and Medicare - they will be automatically enrolled, but they will get that notice in the mail to tell them. It is random, but they can change the following month if it is not a plan they want.

If someone has a Medicare plan they like now, have them call to see if they can keep it under Medicare Part D, ask for any premium change and if their medications are still on the new formulary.

If someone has other health insurance or are not using any prescriptions at this time and are wondering whether to enroll in the new Medicare Part D - remember this is an insurance plan. Like house, car or life insurance. The longer you wait to buy it the more it will cost for the premium (1% more for each month you delay enrolling). When you buy life insurance, the older you get, the more expensive it is. Flood and car insurance costs more if you wait until after the flood or car wreck! Ask yourself do you want insurance for prescription drug costs that you might have in the future.

Anyone with other health insurance should get have a letter telling them if it is “creditable coverage” (equal to ) for the Medicare Part D plan. If it is “creditable coverage,” then you don’t have to enroll now - and when you do, you will not be charged that penalty on the premium. If you haven’t gotten the letter, call them to get one and keep that letter in case you need it to enroll in Part D later on!

ABIL has a grant through the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) to help people enroll in Medicare Part D. Contact us at 602-256-2245.

ABIL volunteers help us daily achieve our mission to empower individuals with disabilities. Anyone with time available has something to offer. Volunteers help us by serving on our Board of Directors, being Peer Mentors, serving internships, providing expert consulting services and day-to-day clerical support.

Peer Mentors come from all walks of life, bringing with them a variety of powerful assets: awareness, availability and expertise just to name a few. By becoming a volunteer with the Peer Mentor program, you give of yourself spending time with an individual talking, teaching and leading by example. Seeing the growth of a mentee, reaching a goal excited to set another sharing experiences. In keeping with the “Independent Living philosophy, experience makes for good teaching. Let ABIL assist you in giving the gift of YOU today!

For more information on the volunteer mentor program and other volunteer opportunities, please call Marilon Cox at 602-443-0725.

Accessible Web Based Communication Tools, Part II: Why are they so hard to find?

Web based chat rooms, bulletin boards and on-line meeting tools are used by many individuals and organizations to facilitate communication. The challenge is identifying tools that are accessible to individuals who use screen readers or other types of assistive technology. Many features of these tools render them inaccessible, yet most entities do not realize this or take this into consideration when they are choosing the tools which they are going to use. This session will explore what the barriers are and how to determine whether or not a tool is accessible as well as demonstrate some accessible options.

Do you need assistive technology, but can’t afford the out-of-pocket expense?

$ Affordable loans to persons with disabilities for the purchase of assistive and adaptive technology

For more information contact Pamela Alcala, 602-776-4670 (V); 602-728-9536 (TTY); 800-477-9921 (Toll Free) or email pamela.Alcala@nau.edu.

Youth Action Council of Arizona

(For Youth with disabilities, ages 15-30)

Are you interested in meeting new people your 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!

Basha’s grocery store is offering non-profit agencies and schools an opportunity to raise money. Each time you shop at Bashas and use your Thank You Card one percent of the total purchased will be donated to the nonprofit you choose. You must first register your Thank You Card at Bashas using the non-profits identification number.

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.

l We can help you understand the Social Security rules, new work incentives, and how to work your way off poverty.

Workshops for Service Providers

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 602-443-0723 to RSVP. We are holding 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 persons are welcome.

Work Incentives & SSDI

Have questions about the new Medicare Prescription Drug Program or changes in your HMO? Do you need assistance interpreting your Medicare supplemental claims forms? Rest easy, you are not alone. The Area Agency on Aging’s Benefits Assistance Program (BAP) has staff and volunteer counselors placed throughout the Valley who provide individual assistance on these often confusing policies and forms. Trained volunteers provide free personalized assistance with the preparation of Medicare and supplemental claims forms, appeals, applying for Medicare, Social Security, and more.

l Explaining and comparing Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Medicare supplemental policies (MEDIGAP)

If you are on Medicare Part A or B and do not have SSI or AHCCCS, come find out about the extra help you may qualify for to pay for your prescription drug coverage through the new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program. Representatives from Social Security will be available to take your application for this extra help and answer any questions you may have.

What do you get when you mix advocacy with ‘ham’? You get the Improbable Theatre Company (ITC). ITC originated from ABIL advocates and consumers who enjoyed attending Arts events and wanted to be more than spectators. The message of the independent living movement is that people with disabilities no longer wish to be spectators in life - we want to take part and show the world who we are and what we can do! Theater is a great way to get that message across. Whether we portray something from our own lives or a piece from a published play - whether we perform on stage or before a class of school children, our very presence sends a dramatic message. Actors without disabilities have played us for years - often creating stereotypes.

“I enjoy blowing away stereotypes, surprising the audience and getting a message across... and I’ am a bit of a ‘ham’

Want to get involved but not sure where you might fit in? Come and join us as we learn more about the nuts and bolts of theatre. What goes in to choosing a play? Setting the stage? How do I learn lines? Stage left, stage right, down stage? What’s up with that? Stage presence? Voice? Movement? I want to be involved but I’m not sure I’m ready to be in front of an audience. How can I be involved without being on stage?

“...shared objectives, professional integrity, gifts, personalities, work styles, and chemistry has been a boon to my development and confidence... I am assured that I can continue to build on this wonderful foundation!”

Every year we try something new and learn something new. How about you? To RSVP please leave a message at ABIL’s Artreach/ITC line, 602-296-0503 or email improbabletheatreco@cox.net.

ITC operates under the auspices of ABIL and is partially funded by the Phoenix Arts Commission & the Arizona Commission on the Arts

To reserve your space call Jay Murillo, 602-296-0531. Transportation will be provided to ABIL open consumers, 18 years of age + or own guardian. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van. If you require alternate format materials or other accommodations please call at least a week before the workshop date.

Q: I’m receiving disability benefits from Social Security, but I’m considering a return to the workforce. Are the any changes in the work incentives for 2006?

A: Social Security’s work incentives will still work the same way in 2006 that they did in 2005. However, the dollar amounts relating to most of the incentives will increase effective January 1. For example, if you received SSDI in 2005, earnings of $590 or more in gross wages in a month activated your Trial Work Period. In 2006, it will take $620 each month. For more information on how the changes in dollar figures may affect you, call one of our Work Incentive Specialists at 866-304-WORK.

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. Please do not smoke or wear scented products when attending events. Reasonable Accommodations, including Sign Language Interpreters and Personal Assistants, will be provided at ABIL events upon request.

Dec 02 Holiday Party, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Consumer & Peer Mentor Holiday Party. Longview Recreation Center 4040 N 14th St. Phx. Cost: None. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 06 Work Incentives/SSI, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Thomas Ste 290. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 06 V.O.I.C.E., 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM. A monthly support and information group for individuals with disabilities, their families & rehabilitation providers. 5th ANNUAL VOICE CHILI COOKOFF AT ENCANTO PARK CLUB HOUSE. Clayton Guffy 602-789-9129.

Dec 08 Work Incentives/SSDI, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Metro Classroom. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 08 SR/Glendale Glitters, 6:00 - 8:00 PM. 59th Ave/ Glendale Ave– Historic Downtown Glendale comes to life with nearly one-million multi-colored twinkling holiday lights throughout a twelve-block area. Cost: None. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 12 Benefits Assistance Program, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Thomas Ste 290. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 12 SR/Newsletter Assembly Party, 9:00 AM - ??? Phx Kitchen. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 13 ADA/PDBTAC Teleconference, 12:00 - 1:30PM. Phx Kitchen. Accessible Web Based Communication Tools, Part II: Why are they so hard to find? Details, page 6. Darrel Christenson, 602-296-0530

Dec 13 Work Incentives/SSDI, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Thomas Ste 290. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 14 Work Incentives/SSDI, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 14 SR/Holiday Shopping, 10:00 AM- 1:00 PM. Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 Arizona Mills Cir, Phoenix. Holiday shopping for family/friends. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

Dec 15 Medicare Part D, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Mesa Classroom. Prescription Drug Coverage. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 16 COMPASS, 2:00 - 4:30 PM. Providing Direction and Networking to Persons with Disabilities. Scottsdale Senior Center, 7375 E. 2nd St., Bldg. 2, Rm. 5, Scottsdale. Randy Werner, 602-439-0121

Dec 19 Work Incentives/Providers, 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Metro Classroom. Details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

Dec 19 Healer Within, 1:00 - 3:30 PM. Thomas Ste 290. Women’s Wellness Group – relaxation, support. Give yourself the gift of YOU - body, mind & spirit! Donna Kruck, 602-443-0722

FEB 1st - Legislative Training, 1:30- 3:30PM, Hors D’oeuvres and Dinner, 3:30-5:30PM - Mock Legislative Session (Training), 5:30– 7:30PM. Location to be announced.

FEB 2nd - Legislative Awareness Day, 9:00AM – 4:00PM - State Capitol Building, Phx - Luncheon & time to meet with your legislators

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To place a disability related ad call 602-443-0724 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. The fee for a business ad is $25. ABIL is not responsible for the quality of advertised items or services. Please call to renew ads.

Due to staff holiday/vacation schedules the DEADLINE for the JANUARY ISSUE of the Bridge is NOVEMBER 30^th

‘’92 Ford E150 Hi-top van w/Braun lift. Exlnt cond, gently used. 2 owner van, bought from grandparents. Pwr seats, new tires, brakes, front & rear air. Serviced regularly, recent oil & trans service. 150K miles. $5,800 OBO. 480-857-6673

‘93 Chevy Caprice Wagon w/Wheelchair Topper& Hand controls. All pwr, seats/windows. 9 passenger. Good condition. $3,800. Frank, 623-972-1763

‘93 Dodge full size van, Trail Wagon Ram 250. Wheelchair accessible & hand controls. Rear door lift w/automatic control. 6 way seat needs some work. Runs excellent. Asking $3000 OBO. Call 480-649-5578 or (c) 480-203-3815

‘96 Ford E150 van w/Ricon Lift & hand controls. “Eyebrow” door openings, pwr seat, finished int. Reliable, great cond., 103K miles, no problems. $4,900. Call Gary, 602-305-6462

‘99 Dodge Hi-top van w/crowriver lift. Only 51K miles. Pwr windows/locks,cruise,stereo/CD/TV/VCR w/remote & head phones. Wood grain int, electric trifold rear couch. Windows tinted, blinds on back side windows. Front/rear AC/heat. New heavy duty battery. Interior in exclnt cond. 1 owner. Serviced regularly. Dk green w/tan cloth int., driver & passenger Captains chairs. Qstraint tie down system. Must see!, runs great. $18,000 OBO. Dennis or Robin, 623-979-3767

3-way remote, modified drivers seat, excellent mechanical cond, ext. blemishes. $11,000 OBO. Call 480-516-1975

Braun hydraulic whlcr lift (never used), 4 captains chairs (2 middle back seats removed for wchair user), back bench seat (electronic), pwr windows/locks, heating & NEW A/C (front & back), track lighting, tinted window, luggage rack & more! Call Ida 480-567-4297 43rd Ave/Bethany Home Rd, Glendale

Merritt 4 wheel indoor/outdoor scooter. Used 3 weeks, still under warranty. Weight capacity 250lbs. Paid $1000, asking $650. Call 623-977-5288

Easy Go Scooter, w/deluxe seat & oxygen tank holder. 3 months old, used very little, 275lb wt capacity, breaks down to 4 pieces - heaviest piece is 25lbs. Sun City West. Orig. cost $1175, asking $875. Call 623-214-1567 or (c) 602-741-0822

Shoprider Sovereign Scooter, 2 baskets, charger & cover. Hardly used, practically new. Origl cost $4K, asking $1500 OBO. Must sell. Rose (w) 602-368-0370, (h) 623-546-0526

Granstand standing frame, not meant for complete paralized individuals (no back support), has table platform, good condition, made by Plane Manufactuers, asking $600, must sell. Contact Linda 480-861-2730

Jazzy 1121 power chair, like new. Purchased in ‘02, exclnt condition. Asking $2500, negotiable. Call 623-972-9688

Rally Scooter w/basket and holder for walker, solid tires, $1100. Walker excellent condition $50. Automatic “Lift chair” recliner w/remote. Dark Brown. Cost new $850, asking $350. Call 623-583-0419

Pride Sundancer scooter, only a couple of months old. Like new. Blue/silver. Asking $1600 negotiable. Call 623-974-9123

Jet 3 Ultra power chair, for larger person, hardly used. No flat tires. Cost new $6K, asking $4900. Call 623-933-2519

Pride Jet 3 power chair, w/oxygen tank holder. Like new. $750. Call 623-214-1871

Two scooters - #1 Craftmatic Comfort Coach III, deluxe model, never used, $1800 OBO. #2 Pride Legend, like new, $1200 OBO. Call 623-974-9009

Portable Oxygen Unit - Incl. NPB Companion 50 Regulator (new) which adjusts from 0-6 liter output, E oxygen tank w/682 liter capacity and two wheel “Port A Cart” for easy indoor and outdoor transportation. Original cost is $300. Asking only $125,00 OBO. Call/leave message with Jay, 602-942-3034

Accessible Home, 1800sqft, 3BR/2BA, roll-in shower, pool w/chair lift, 2 car garage. Avondale. $310,000. 623-877-8728

Fully Accessible Rental - 2BR/BA side of duplex. Built for accessibility - lowered kitchen counters, appliances & switches, roll-in shower, raised toilets, sliding doors. Sunnyslope. Must rent soon or rental will be converted for renters without disabilities. Call David, 602-944-0712

Two Rooms for Rent - Accessible, close to bus route & shopping, 19th Ave/Northern. Call barb 602-433- 7969

Seeking part-time caregiver for 35 year-old male quad. Must be very reliable. Tempe (ASU) area. Ask for David or leave message. 480-731-9113.

Seeking roommate possibly @ first of the year. Current renter has mild DD, attending Tungland Day Program in Peoria. Home is staffed by Tempe Center for Habilitation and is located in nice neighborhood near Beardsley/33rd St., and Cave Creek Exit off the 101. Rent includes utilities, cable, & use of washer/dryer, $500 a mo. Call Linda 623-376-2468

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.

Thursday, January 5, 9:45AM– 2:00PM (bring money for lunch or your own lunch) ASU Museums of Art, Anthropology & ASU’s College of Nursing. We will tour the museums and have lunch in the Memorial Union afterwards. Arizona State University, Main Campus, Tempe. Cost: $2.00.

Thursday, January 12, 10:00AM –12:00PM (Bring own lunch for after tour).Challenger Space Center. A space themed learning environment. 21170 N 83rd Ave. Peoria. Cost: $4.00.

Wednesday, January 18, 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 ingredients for lunch.

Monday, January 23, 9:00AM - ???PM Newsletter Party (lunch provided) - Join the fun. Meet new people, share experiences and work towards a goal of sharing the Bridge with others throughout the states. 1229 E Washington, Phx. Cost: None.

Thursday, February 9, 11:00AM – 2:00PM Bowling. Enjoy an afternoon of fun and bowling. Bowling ramps will be provided. 4407 S Rural Rd., Tempe. Cost: $1.50 per game.

Wednesday, February 15, 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 ingredients for lunch.

Thursday, February 23, 10:00AM – 2:00PM (Bring $3.00 for pizza or your own lunch)Arts & Crafts Group. Come be creative with Arts and Crafts projects. 2150 S. Country Club, Mesa. Cost: $2.00

Monday, February 27 , 9:00AM - ???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.

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 or schedule any of these, please call Leanne Jones at 602-296-0535 to RSVP. For accommodations or alternative format please call Leanne in advance.