Arizona Bridge to Independent Living, Image Map, shows ABIL Logo in the left corner, with various persons with disabilities through it, including hands reading Braille, a woman signing, a young man in a wheelchair smiling, a young woman in a wheelchair talking on the phone, and a couple of students with disabilities.At the bottom of this image map is the list of web site links starting from the top left: About ABIL, Newsletter, Survival Manual, Job Opportunities, Photo Gallery, Opinion Survey. Next line of links from left: Programs, Press Room, Events Calendar, Infomation & Referrals, Contact Us, and Links.

 

 

 

 




INDEPENDENT LIVING AND ADVOCACY BY, AND FOR, PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
purple divder line

The Bridge

News from the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living

Volume XVI, Number 3

March 2005

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!"

 

(Please Note: ABIL & Staff contact numbers can be found at the end of the document)

 

 

 State of the Union: What President Bush Said and Didn’t Say About His Plans for Americans with Disabilities in 2005

Taken from the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) Weekly Advocacy Monitor  (WhAM)  Vol. 3, No 5, Feb 8, 2005

Adapted by Donna Kruck

 

Bush’s Social Security Proposal - Last week President Bush spoke to the nation outlining his plans and proposals for his second term. He outlined additional details about his Social Security plan to create private or “personal ” accounts, asserted that the judges he had nominated in his first term were qualified, fair, and impartial, and expressed a commitment to budget discipline.

 

Yet, every bit as important as what he did say was what he did not say.  Though President Bush reassured senior citizens over 55 years of age that they would not have their benefits cut by his Social Security plan, President Bush did not offer such reassurance for the 8 million Americans with disabilities who receive Social Security benefits. In fact, President Bush did not include one sentence, phrase or word that spoke to those 8 million current beneficiaries with disabilities, or to young adults who have a 3 in 10 chance of becoming disabled before they reach retirement age. There was no indication in his speech of how his policy would impact this sizable constituency. Similarly, he failed to address the concerns about the future of survivors’ and adult childrens’ benefits under his proposal.

 

Ø For the full text of the President’s State of the Union speech, see

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2005/02/20050202-11.html

 

The Bush Administration’s Fiscal Year 06 budget proposal is available online at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/fy2006/budget.html. Please note that some detailed line items are not included in the posted budget materials.

 

Ø Take Action: Though there have been some informative newspaper articles about the disability implications of Bush’s approach to Social Security, NCIL was disappointed to learn that the press failed to ask a single question about the future of the Social Security disability and survivors programs during the White House press briefing on Social Security that preceded the State of the Union. Write letters to the editor at local and major newspapers stressing that the media needs to pay more attention to the potential impact of President Bush’s plan on the 8 million Americans with disabilities receiving Social Security benefits.

 

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HUD Issues Helpful Notice to Housing Authorities on “Community-Based Alternatives for Individuals with Disabilities” and the Housing Choice Voucher Program

 

For a change, there is good news to report in terms of housing policy for persons with disabilities. On February 1, 2005, HUD issued a notice to public housing authorities, PIH-2005-5 (HA), that should prove helpful to advocates as well as to Section 8 voucher holders with disabilities looking for accessible, affordable housing. The subject of PIH 2005-5 is New Freedom Initiative, Executive Order 13217: “Community-Based Alternatives for Individuals with Disabilities” and the Housing Choice Voucher program. The notice explains President Bush’s New Freedom Initiative, as well as the Olmstead decision, and provides guidance to public housing authorities (PHAs) as well as HUD field staff on initiatives that can be implemented to assist the families that include people with disabilities in their search for suitable housing options within the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. It also clarifies issues relating to the issuance and preservation of special purpose vouchers for the families that include people with disabilities.

 

Some of the suggestions offered are quite constructive:

 

1) Urging PHAs to be generous in establishing reasonable initial search terms and in offering extensions for people with disabilities in light of the greater difficulty they have in securing suitable housing.

 

2) Encouraging PHAs to refer consumers with disabilities to Centers for Independent Living, P&As, State Medicaid agencies and others who can provide housing search assistance, help with moving expenses and security deposits, etc.

 

3) Encouraging PHAs to provide set asides or preferences for all persons with disabilities, and to collaborate with other governmental agencies such as state Medicaid agencies to leverage resources under Home and Community-Based Services waiver programs.

 

4) Explaining the latitude that housing authorities have to offer higher exception payments for persons with disabilities as a reasonable accommodation.

 

5) Classifying an aide for a person with a disability as a family member for the purpose of the Housing Choice voucher program

 

HUD is also putting housing authorities on notice that they are expected to utilize vouchers that Congress designated for the exclusive use of persons with disabilities for that purpose and warning them that if they fail to utilize the vouchers accordingly, they may be compelled to forfeit the vouchers.

                       

This is an impressive document, which marks a substantive step forward in HUD’s policies regarding persons with disabilities. Although it does not remedy the trend towards an erosion in the amount of rental vouchers that HUD is supporting, it offers advocates a major opportunity to press their local housing authorities to allocate available resources in a manner consistent with the full implementation of the Olmstead decision. NCIL welcomes Secretary Jackson’s and HUD’s constructive response to major concerns brought forward by NCIL and other disability advocates.

 

 

Ø Go to the Source: Read HUD’s PIH 2005-5 (HA) for yourself at http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/publications/notices/05/pih2005-5.pdf

 

 

Ø Advice on Advocacy to effectively use PIH 2005-5(HA) from Steve Gold: http://www.stevegoldada.com/stevegoldada/archive.php?mode=A&id=114;&sort=D

 

 

CMS Issues New Guidance on Power Wheelchairs

 

On February 3, 2005, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a draft National Coverage Determination for “mobility assistance equipment,” which includes wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and scooters. This CMS action followed closely after the completion of a request for public comments to the recommendations of the Interagency Wheelchair Work Group (IWWG) and reflected many of the IWWG’s recommendations. Positive news in the National Coverage Determination includes the replacement of the “bed or chair confined” requirement with a functional assessment. Under the new standards, beneficiaries could obtain coverage if it allows them to complete one or more “mobility-related activity of daily living,” such as eating, grooming or toileting. However, the CMS draft National Coverage Determination does not substantively address the objections of the ITEM* Coalition and the Medicare Rights Center to the “in-home restriction.”                                        

 

*Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid

 

 

In a statement issued in response to the preliminary coverage determination, the Medicare Rights Center gave voice to these grievances. “CMS remains in the Dark Ages by proposing to retain an inhumane coverage policy that leaves people with disabilities isolated in their homes and walled off from their communities…. The President has a special moral obligation to lead Americans to independence, and his federal agencies should not be permitted to continue policies that breed isolation and dependence.” NCIL is a member of the ITEM Coalition and submitted comments consistent with its recommendations during the recent public comment period. Be assured that NCIL will continue to monitor this issue and update advocates as developments warrant.

 

Ways and Means [Jurisdiction Includes Social Security and Some Health Care Issues]

http://waysandmeans.house.gov/members.asp?cong=17

 

 

For more information on any article in WhAM contact: Gwen Gillenwater, NCIL Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at gwen@ncil.org or 703-525-3406 (V) Ext. 25 or 703-525-4153 (TTY) or Daniel Davis at the same number, extension 26, and at daniel@ncil.org.

 

WhAM is a weekly publication of the National Council on Independent Living for the benefit of it’s membership. Your feedback and input is welcome. We appreciate your advocacy and commitment to the Independent Living Movement.           

 

 

It cost $35 to become a member of NCIL - the National Council on Independent Living. NCIL provides a strong advocacy voice in D.C. supporting our IL Movement values and issues!

 

National Council on Independent Living
1916 Wilson Blvd, Suite 209
Arlington, VA 22201
Voice: (703) 525-3406
TTY: (703) 525-4153
Fax: (703) 525-3409
Toll Free: (877) 525-3400 (V/TTY)
E-mail: ncil@ncil.org

 

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Become a member of the Arizona Coalition to Defend Social Security

By Donna Kruck

 

ABIL is a member of this coalition. The concept of private or personal accounts offers nothing to “save” or “strengthen” the Social Security insurance program for our children and grandchildren. In fact it puts us more in debt costing trillions of dollars to implement! There is no crisis.  The fund is solvent for another 40 years according to the Congressional Budget Office.   Adjustments will need to be made because worker numbers will eventually become less than those using benefits.  What about taking the earnings cap off and have individuals earning over $90,000 continuing to pay SSA taxes on their earnings?  There are other solutions. Personally, I am outraged by this deceptive attempt to dismantle Social Security.  The private account proposal would be disastrous for persons with disabilities – what if you become permanently disabled at age 26?  You wouldn’t have had time to for your “investment” to have matured enough.  What if the year you go to withdraw your retirement fund the market is down?  You may not agree with me  - that’s OK.  However – speak now or forever hold your peace! Congress works for you – contact them now!

 

What you can do:

 l Contact your Congressmen and tell them you are a voter and let them know your opinion of  “personal/private” Social Security accounts.

 

 l Ask them if they will support or oppose  “personal/private” Social Security accounts.

 

 l Make them go on record. We can stop this. They all  have to be re-elected, President Bush does not. Go to  www.house.gov and www.senate.gov .

 

 l Join the AZ Coalition to Defend Social Security by contacting Dana Kennedy dkennedy@retiredamericans.org or 602-277-2272

 

Senior Action Day

Tuesday, March 15th

8:30AM - 1:00PM     Arizona State Capitol

17th Ave. & Jefferson St., Phoenix

w Meet Your Legislators                 w State Capitol Tours

w Free Informational Seminars, Exhibits and Entertainment

For more information call 602-542-4710 or visit www.azdes.gov/gaca

 

Sponsored by the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging. A variety of low cost food vendors will be available

 

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Legislative Awareness Day - March 9, 2005

Legislative Training and Update Workshop   8:30 – 11 AM

Grand Canyon Room,  Capitol Tower Basement,  1800 W. Washington

 

Workshop seating is limited! Must RSVP to Yvonne by March 7.th 

To register or to request reasonable accommodations, alternate formats

or sign language interpreters - 602-443-0705 (V) or yvonnec@abil.org

 

¨  Get updates on proposed disability related legislation

¨  Learn how the Arizona Legislature works

¨  Learn how YOU can make a difference!

 

Invite Your Legislator to Lunch! -  11:00AM-2:00PM - Wesley Bolin Plaza 

Come and join the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities as they host the annual Legislative Awareness Day across from the Capitol at Wesley Bolin Plaza. The event will include a luncheon and presentations by a number of individuals with disabilities and family members on public policy issues of particular importance to Arizonans with disabilities. AZ Disability Advocacy Coalition (AzDAC) will conduct a workshop on upcoming legislative issues and how the legislature works. Spend the whole day and attend legislative committee meetings later in the afternoon.

 

For updates on state legislation go to AzDAC web site www.azdisabilityadvocacy.org

or call the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities at 602-277-4986

 

 

Medicare Beneficiaries - Get Ready!         

By Donna Kruck

 

On December 8, 2003, President George W. Bush signed into law the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003. It provides a prescription drug (Rx) benefit for Medicare eligible seniors and beneficiaries with disabilities. It represents the biggest change in Medicare since 1965, the year that Medicare began.

 

This Act will have a very large impact on AHCCCS. Medicare recipients who are also eligible for Medicaid (called dual eligibles) will no longer be able to receive Medicaid prescription drug benefits. Instead, all prescriptions will need to be obtained through the recipient’s new Part D Prescription Drug plan.

 

If you have AHCCCS and Medicare now, you will have to enroll in the new Medicare Part D program in November!

 

Low income beneficiaries: There is still time to enroll in the temporary Medicare Rx Discount Card program.  The first provision of the law was implemented on June 1st, 2004, when Medicare eligible individuals with low incomes were able to enroll in a temporary Medicare Rx Drug Discount Card program, which will end on December 31, 2005.  If you enroll by March 31, you will get a $600 Rx benefit. If you enroll between April 1 and June 30th 2005 you will get a $450 Rx benefit.  If you enroll between July 1 and September 30th you will get a $300 benefit.

 

Medicare Part D, the new Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage program, will be implemented on January 1, 2006. Medicare Part D recipients will enroll with Prescription Drug Plans or Medicare Advantage plans offering prescription coverage. Part D will provide Medicare payment for some prescription costs. Some program recipients will be required to pay premiums, deductibles and co-payments.  Medicare recipients will have to enroll in the new Part D program in November 2005.  For every year a beneficiary does not enroll, their premium goes up, so it will cost less to enroll this year.

 

Part D Subsidy Programs  As with Medicare A and B, there will be subsidy programs for low-income individuals under Medicare Part D. Depending on income, individuals will pay either no premium or a reduced premium, reduced or zero co-payments. The subsidy programs are very similar in concept to QMB, SLMB and QI-1 and have a top income limit of 150% of the FPL.

 

Social Security is planning a big public information outreach program. You should get several  letters explaining the new program and inviting you to enroll in Medicare Part D, so be sure to open all mail from Social Security!

 

Important Medicare Dates:

 

Enrollment deadlines for Medicare Rx Discount Card program for low-income individuals:

1/1/05 – 3/31/05 - $600 benefit

4/1/05 – 6/30/05 - $450 benefit

7/1/05 – 9/30/05 - $300 benefit

12/31/05 Medicare Rx Discount Card benefit ends!

 

Medicare Part D – New Rx benefit for all Medicare recipients:  11/1/05 and 1/1/06 – Enrollment dates.

 

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Youth Action Council of Arizona

Southwest Institute for Families and Children with Special Needs (SWI)

 

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 our initial brainstorming session/pizza party to learn more about the group:

 

Initial Meeting/Pizza Party

Saturday, March 19th, 12:30 p.m.

Please RSVP by March 16th!

 

Highlights:

l Learn how to speak in public about issues that affect you.

l Meet your legislators.

l Volunteer with organizations.

l Learn how to self-advocate.

l Organize and participate in social activities.

l Have fun!

 

Location: 5111 N. Scottsdale Rd. #105

                    Scottsdale, AZ 85250

                    Phone: 480-222-8800  

                    Fax: 480-222-1080

                    E-mail: info@swifamilies.org

 

Contact:                     David Carey @602-443-0723, or

                   Nora Stiles @480-222-8800 ext. 30

 

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Research Center seeks participants for a study of Depression among Women with Disabilities

 

The Center for Research on Women with Disabilities (CROWD) is seeking women with physical disabilities who would like to participate in a study of depression. This research project is part of a national study conducted by Dr. Rosemary Hughes and her researcher team at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. “Women with disabilities often struggle to overcome depression.  Their disability may have a significant impact on the way they view themselves. This study will explore the physical and attitudinal barriers that women with disabilities face everyday,” said Dr. Rosemary B. Hughes. “This project will also help us to better understand the effect that depression, stress, and lack of social support can have on women with disabilities.”

 

Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL) is one of ten U.S. Centers for Independent Living participating in the research study. Women with physical disabilities who are interested may call Judy Benshoof at 602-296-0532 for more information. Qualified participants will receive a small payment.

 

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Do You Qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)?

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can put money back in your pocket if you meet any of these criteria:

 

Ø Workers earning less than $11,230 ($12,230 for married workers filing jointly) with no qualifying children.

 

Ø Families earning less than $29,666 ($30,666 for married workers filing jointly) with one qualifying child.

 

Ø Families earning less than $33,692 ($34,692 for married workers filing jointly) with two or more qualifying children.

 

Criteria for Free Income Tax Assistance

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) stand ready to help you with your income taxes for free if you fall into one of the following categories:

 

Ø Individuals with disabilities

 

Ø Individuals with low or limited income

 

Ø Non-English speaking persons

 

Ø Senior citizens

 

Home Based Tax Assistance
Call 800-829-1040 (AARP’s Tax-Aide Telephone Site).

 

To find a site near you

Go to http://www.cir.org/seasonal-tax.html or call Arizona’s statewide Community Information & Referral 24-hour Income Tax Assistance Sites Hotline at

800-352-3792 or 602-263-8856.  If you have further questions regarding this information call David for assistance at 602-443-0723.  This year’s income tax filing deadline is Midnight Friday, April 15!

 

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Advocacy Presentations/Workshops

All Advocacy presentations are free –

Participants must RSVP with David Carey, 602-443-0723.

 Presentations/Workshops without a minimum of 4 participants are subject to cancellation.

For accommodations or alternative format please call in advance. For ABIL van transportation please call as soon as possible. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for ABIL van transportation.  Consumers must be 18 years+ or their own legal guardian.

 

Social Security Work Incentives

l On Social Security Benefits?

 

l Do you want to work?

 

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

Tuesday, March 29      

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134, Gilbert

 

 

Workshops for SSI/SSDI 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 the number at the top of this page 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 person are welcome.

 

Work Incentives & SSDI

Tuesday, March 8            1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

2345 E. Thomas Rd.  Ste. 290, Phoenix

 

 

Work Incentives & SSI  

Friday, March 18, 2005 - 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location:  2345 E. Thomas Rd.  Ste. 290, Phx

 

Tuesday, March 22, 2005 - 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Location:  735 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 134, Gilbert

 

Friday, March 25, 2005 - 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

ABIL Metro Center, 10000 N. 31st Ave. #D405, Phx

 

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Arizona Center for Disability Law - How to Represent Yourself at an Administrative Hearing to obtain AHCCCS

Have you or someone you know been denied a healthcare service by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS)?  An AHCCCS consumer who is denied a healthcare benefit has a right to a fair hearing before an administrative law judge at the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings.  The Arizona Center for Disability Law is offering a free workshop on How to Represent Yourself at a Administrative Hearing to obtain AHCCCS benefits such as prescription drugs, referrals to specialist and assistive technology devices.  Family members, friends, ABIL staff, and others who assist AHCCCS consumers in obtaining healthcare benefits are welcome to attend.

 

Guest Speaker:  Robin Murphy

Thursday, March 10                   2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

2345 E. Thomas Road, Suite 290, Phoenix

To register for this presentation only contact Ginette at the AZ Center for Disability Law (602) 274-6287

 

Communicating Effectively with the Healthcare Professional

This program was designed to include the family caregiver into the healthcare team as an advocate for the individual receiving care. Each participant at the workshop receives a “Family Caregiver Guide: Tools & Worksheets” manual. The skills taught are meant to help you be better prepared for and raise the quality of your doctor and therapy appointments, as well as situations of urgent care.

Guest Speakers: Lois von Halle and Bob Rosenberg have presented numerous advocacy and caregiver programs throughout Arizona and work as volunteers for and are certified trainers with the National Family Caregivers Association.

Thursday, April 7                        1:00 - 4:30 p.m.

2150 S. Country Club Dr., Suite #10, Mesa

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Urban American Indian Disability & Vocational Rehabilitation Summit

March 24th             8:00AM – 4:30PM

Burton Barr Public Library Auditorium

1221 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix

 

When faced with governmental and non-governmental systems that appear to be disconnected, impenetrable, and at the very least confusing, it is easy for those needing services to give up.  This Summit will allow those voices to be heard and providers to assist in increasing both knowledge of availability of providers and access to care and services.

 

Welcome voices: NACHCI, American Indians with disabilities, consumers, service providers (i.e. Vocational Rehabilitation, Workforce Investment, American Indian Service Programs), employers and the general public.

 

Registration will be on site starting at 7:30 am.  For additional information, contact Dennis Huff, at 602-279-5262, ext. 243 or by email at dhuff@nachci.com.

 

Co-sponsored by The Native American Community Health Center, Inc.,  American Indian Disability Technical Assistance Center (AIDTAC), Arizona Bridge to Independent Living, City of Phoenix Clear Path Tribal Outreach, Statewide Independent Living Council and the Social Security Administration American Indian Public Affairs Liaison

 

NAMI* ARIZONA WALKS

April 16, 2005

5 Kilometer - Rain or Shine Event!     

Arizona State Capitol

Check-In: 7:30AM          

Start Time: 9AM

 

No registration fee. Families, companies and organizations are encouraged to organize teams! For information on how your company or organization can sponsor the Walk contact Carol Cronlund or Adrienne Pagel at NAMI Arizona Walks, 480-308-9700, or email walk@namiaz-events.org.

 

The NAMIWalks for the Mind of America is a nationwide fundraising and mental health awareness event. Proceeds from the Arizona Walk will be used to fund programs here in Arizona. NAMI’s programs include support, education, research and advocacy involving schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic depression), major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and severe anxiety disorders.

*National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.

 

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Peer Travel Training Program

Seeks Students and Trainers

Riding the bus can be a bit intimidating for anybody, but for people with disabilities, the prospect can be downright scary. Wouldn’t it be easier if somebody could travel along? The Peer Travel Training Program pairs older adults and people with disabilities who would like to learn how to ride the bus with their peers who are already experienced transit users.  This program is seeking individuals who would like to learn how to ride the bus.  Students receive up to 15 hours of FREE training tailored to their schedules, needs and skill level. 

 

The Peer Travel Training Program needs experienced bus passengers with disabilities who can teach others with disabilities how to ride the bus. Dependability and good communication skills are required.  People who are ambulatory and those who have hidden disabilities are encouraged to apply.

 

For information on how to get enrolled as a Student or to apply as a Trainer, please contact Donna at Easter Seals Arizona: 480-222-4134

 

East Valley Disability Awareness Program Seeks Panelists

 

Do you have a disability and travel primarily on bus routes in the Tempe area?  Read On! The East Valley Disability Awareness Program (EDAP) brings passengers with disabilities and Tempe bus operators together to share experiences and expectations of the transit system. We need people with a variety of disabilities to serve as panelists sharing their lives, disabilities, bus use and transit expectations with bus operators.  If you are interested and can speak articulately in front of a group of 25 people, please call Donna at Easter Seals Arizona: 480-222-4134.

 

ADA Teleconference

Reasonable Accommodation

Special 3 Part Series: March - May 2005

Part I: March 15th   Noon -1:30PM   ABIL/Phx

This series will focus on the issues surrounding reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The sessions will highlight best practices, share strategies for addressing reasonable accommodation requests as well as discuss issues related to documentation, assessment and reassessment and the critical nature of the interactive process. Plan to participate in all three sessions! RSVP to Darrel Christenson, 602-296-0530.

 

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Questions about the ADA?

The Pacific Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center (PDBTAC) can answer questions on 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

 

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GET EMPOWERED!

Join one of ABIL’s advocacy e-groups and keep informed on what is going on in AZ and around the nation regarding issues of importance to people with disabilities. 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 on the list. It’s yours. Use it! Just send a note asking to subscribe at listserv@abil.org

 

Please help us get the word out by including this notice in your organization’s publication.

 

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ABIL Community Calendar – RSVP for All Events

Funding for Social and Recreational activities is provided (in part) by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. ABIL requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van. Consumers must be 18 years+ or own legal guardian for ABIL van transportation.  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.

 

 

Mar 08         Work Incentives/SSDI, 1- 3:00 PM. Thomas Ste 290. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 09         LEGISLATIVE AWARENESS DAY  - See details on page 5.

 

Mar 10          SR/Art & Craft Group, 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM. (Bring $3.00 for pizza or your own lunch). Phx/Kitchen. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

 

Mar 10         Arizona Center For Disability Law, 2- 4:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 290. Representing yourself at an AHCCCS hearing. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 10         V.O.I.C.E, 1-4:00 PM. A monthly support and information group for individuals with disabilities, their families & rehabilitation providers. 19055 N. 57th Ave., Glendale. Clayton Guffy, 602-789-9129

 

Mar 15   ADA Teleconference, 12:00 -1:30PM. Phx/Kitchen. Part I of a Special 3 Part ADA Series: “Reasonable Accommodation.” See details on page 8. Darrel Christenson, 602-296-0530

 

Mar 15         Glendale Commission on Persons with Disabilities, 6:30-8:30 PM         Open to the public. 2nd floor Conference Room, 5959 W. Brown St. Pamela Unternaehrer, 623-930-2287

 

Mar 17         Healer Within, 1:30-3:30PM. Thomas Ste 290. Women’s wellness group: Body, mind and spirit - Make an appointment with yourself. Donna Kruck, 602-443-0722

 

Mar 18         COMPASS, 2- 4:30 PM. 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

 

Mar 18         Work Incentives/SSI, 1- 3:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 290. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 22         Work Incentives/SSI, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 23         SR/In-House Movie, 12:30-3:00 PM. Mesa/Classroom. Soda and popcorn provided. Call Leanne with movie title ideas. Cost:  None. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

 

Mar 25         Work Incentives/SSI 1-3:00 PM. Metro/Classroom. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 28         SR/Newsletter, 9:00 AM - ???. Phx/Kitchen. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

 

Mar 29         Work Incentives/Providers, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

 

Mar 30         SR/Spring Training Baseball, 12:00 - 3:00 PM. Anaheim Angels vs. San Francisco Giants. 2200 W. Alameda, Tempe. Cost: $9.00 Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

 

Mar 31         Healer Within, 1:30-3:30PM. Thomas Ste 290. Women’s wellness group: Body, mind and spirit - Make an appointment with yourself. Donna Kruck, 602-443-0722

 

Apr 06         SR/Botanical Gardens, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phx. Leanne Jones, 602-296-0535

 

Apr 07         Communicating Effectively with the Healthcare Professional, 1- 4:30 p.m. 2150 S. Country Club Dr., Suite #10, Mesa See details on page 7. David Carey, 602-443-0723

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(Late entry – not listed in paper publication of the Bridge)

Soc/Rec – Comedy Improvisation Show

Thursday April 7th

8pm-9:30pm

Theater 168 / Jester'z Improv Comedy Troupe

Cost: $8.00 admission. There is a snack bar to purchase snacks and drinks this is not included in the admission price. This event is a Comedy Improvisation show. It is family-sensitive with NO intermission. Theater 168 is a smoke-free establishment and does not serve alcohol.

Contact person: Andrea Reynoso, 480-222-4211

Space is limited so RSVP by Monday March 21st!

ABIL transportation is limited.

 

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Classified Ads –

Deadline For March issue – March 16th

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.

 

FOR SALE:

01 Dodge Caravan w/scooter lift. Remote sliding side door. 17K miles. Ranger Van Lift in back (can be sold separately for $800). $13,800 for both - EXLNT COND. Call Jeannine or Roger at 480-545-6781

 

92 Ford E150 Hi-top van w/Braun lift. Excellent cond, gently used. Two owner van, bought from grandparents. Power seats, new tires, brakes, front & rear air. Serviced regularly, recent oil & transmission service.  Asking $6,200 OBO. Call Burt 480-857-6673

 

‘86 Dodge van w/lift. 88,000 miles. runs good. Needs A/C work and paint. New tires,and new brakes. Recent front end has been rebuilt.$2,500. Call Dennis or Robin, 623-979-3767

 

‘99 Dodge Hi-top van w/Crowriver lift. Pwr windows/locks, cruise, radio/CD/TV/VCR w/remote & head phones. Wood grain int., int. lighting, elec trifold rear couch. Tinted windows. Blinds on side windows. Front/rear A/C/heat. New heavy duty battery. Int. exclnt cond. One owner. Serviced regularly. Dark green w/tan int. Captain chairs, locking gas cap. Must see! Runs great! Asking $25,000. Dennis or Robin 623-979-3767

 

Twelve low floor Dodge Caravan wheelchair vehicles available at Laidlaw Transit. High mileage, some need work, asking $2100. Call Joe 602-723-8277

 

‘01 Chevy Venture Minivan with lift for Lark scooter. Good shape, low miles 30K. Asking $10,000. Call 623-977-8136

 

Hand Controls for van, complete set for braking and accelerator, etc. Like new. $100 OBO. Shower Stool, fits into tub, extends outside of tub, w/handles and back. $50 OBO. Commode chair w/handles, adjustable. $50 OBO.  Shower stool & commode are new, never used.  E-mail : rw25@cognisurf.com  or  call 480-778-5021, leave name and number.

 

Silver Star scooter lift for truck, car, or van w/receiver

hitch. Swing away feature for a tailgate or hatch back. Very good shape, works perfect. Secure key opperation. Fully automatic. Willing to demo on your receiver hitch in Phx, Glendale, Scotts, or Tempe w/your scooter for $5. Will wave this if you buy the lift. $700. 602-909-8672

 

FOR SALE:

Golden brand power chair with heavy duty lift for car. Bought & used 8 months. Paid $1700 for chair. Asking $1000 OBO for chair, $500 for lift. Call Kathy 623-975-7050

 

Hoveround MPV 4 power wheelchair. Purchased 8/04, like new, seldom used. Call 480-699-4428. Leave message.

 

Quickie S-525 Integrated CG Tilt Wheelchair w/EZ-Lock connector. Custom chair w/headrest, and all in very good Condition. $1,000. Call 480-832-5671.

 

Pride Jazzy 1143 power chair, hardly used. $2500. Call 602-643-0030 x3