tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4334004919544124852024-02-20T12:09:05.272-08:00 Let's Talk AbilitiesLet's Talk Abilities is a collaboration of Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities and Cornerstone Supported Living, LLC. Our goal with this blog is to bring awareness to disabilities,issues that matter to those living with a disability and services and supports available from DCBDD. We invite you to ask questions, share solutions, and help us develop ideas. Everyone has unique abilities. Imagine what we can do when we work together!Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-71879621517526056082015-01-07T02:41:00.004-08:002015-01-07T02:46:15.429-08:0013 years old inventor creates low cost Lego printer to help build litarcy<br />
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How do blind people learn to read? It is a question a young man had for his parents that they couldn't answer. His curiosity has lead to a wonderful new invention. Click here to learn more:<br />
<a href="http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/building-literacy-among-blind-teen-inventors-low-cost-lego-printer/">http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/building-literacy-among-blind-teen-inventors-low-cost-lego-printer/</a><br />
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-5578892929781805182014-12-10T06:32:00.000-08:002014-12-10T06:33:01.854-08:00House Approves Tax-Free Disability Savings Accounts!!U.S. House members have voted to pass the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (A.B.L.E. Act).<br />
This is exciting and wonderful news for individuals with disabilities that historically have been limited to having up to $2000.00 in assets in order to qualify for government benefits. Please read the following report and share with others!<br />
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Report by Michelle Diament:<br />
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The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to approve a bill that would establish a new way for people with disabilities to save money without risking their government benefits.</div>
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The Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, Act passed by a vote of 404 to 17 on Wednesday. The measure will now move to the Senate.</div>
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Under current rules, many individuals with disabilities can have no more than $2,000 in assets in order to qualify for needed government benefits. The ABLE Act would dramatically alter that scenario, allowing people with disabilities to establish special accounts at any financial institution where they could save up to $14,000 annually under current gift-tax limitations.</div>
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The accounts could accrue $100,000 without jeopardizing eligibility for Social Security and other government programs. Meanwhile, the legislation ensures that those with disabilities can retain Medicaid coverage no matter their ABLE account balance.</div>
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Funds deposited in the proposed accounts could be used to pay for education, health care, transportation, housing and other expenses. Much like 529 college savings plans, interest earned on savings in the accounts would be tax-free.</div>
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Speaking on the House floor ahead of the vote, the bill’s lead sponsor, Rep. Ander Crenshaw, R-Fla., said it’s only fair that people with disabilities get an opportunity to save tax-free much like most Americans can already do in order to pay for college, health care and retirement.</div>
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“What this does is simply give individuals with disabilities a chance at the American dream,” Crenshaw said. “They have hopes and dreams just like we all do and this will give them the tool to open the door to a brighter future, the way to realize their full potential.”</div>
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With significant bipartisan support, the bill is being called the broadest legislation centering on people with disabilities to move forward since passage of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act a quarter-century ago.</div>
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Though widely supported in the disability community, a provision limiting eligibility for ABLE accounts to individuals with conditions occurring before the age of 26 has led to <a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/12/02/lawmakers-poised-able/19886/" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; color: #3366cc; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">misgivings</a> from some groups including the National Council on Independent Living, the National Disability Rights Network and United Cerebral Palsy.</div>
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Meanwhile, some members of the House objected to the bill over concerns that it will be paid for in part through tweaks to Medicare.</div>
Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-70489749449963130112014-11-13T09:40:00.000-08:002014-11-13T09:40:49.962-08:00Community-based care is better for disabled Ohioans by JACK D’AURORA<div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 15px;">
Ohio officials, concerned that nursing homes are becoming dumping grounds for mentally disabled people, are expanding a trial program that will transfer 2,000 people with behavioral problems from nursing homes to managed community settings. Opposing this idea are — you guessed it — nursing homes.</div>
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Disability Rights Ohio (DRO), the state’s advocacy system for disabled people, believes that more than 8,000 Ohioans with behavioral problems are improperly placed in nursing homes. “The number has grown significantly in the last 10 to 15 years,” says Michael Kirkman, the group’s executive director. “With proper support, many of these individuals could live in the community.”</div>
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Changes in funding for mental-health services and cuts in federal aid to subsidized housing contribute to the problem. Placing people with disabilities in nursing homes is an easy solution for some caregivers, Mr. Kirkman says. Some nursing homes with high vacancy rates advertise their ability to deal with “problem residents” in secure “behavioral units.”</div>
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Such residents tend to be isolated and have no contact with the outside world, DRO says. Because of anomalies in the Medicaid program of low-income health insurance, they are not served by community mental-health agencies. What care they do get is typically poor and often consists solely of medication.</div>
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Home and community-based services are more effective, more humane, and less expensive, DRO maintains. Failure to ensure that disabled people are served in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs is a violation of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.</div>
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In 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court held in the case <em>Olmstead vs. L.C.</em> that states must provide community-based treatment for people with disabilities when professionals determine that such placement is appropriate, the people do not object, and state resources can reasonably accommodate placement.</div>
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Based on that ruling, the federal court in Columbus was asked to rule on a suit affecting 12,000 Ohioans with disabilities. The lead plaintiff, Nancy Martin, was a 52-year old woman with cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, and depression. She had lived in institutional settings for more than 30 years, after she was involuntarily committed to a developmental center when her father died and her mother was unable to care for her.</div>
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Ms. Martin’s pleas to case workers that she wanted to live in a community setting were futile. Her name was placed on a waiting list, where it languished for years.</div>
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She and her fellow plaintiffs alleged that the State of Ohio violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to develop community-based services for mentally disabled people and for hindering the expansion of such services in favor of institutional care — all at greater expense to taxpayers.</div>
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The state argued that the law did not require the creation of Medicaid programs that would pay for community-based care. But the plaintiffs were not seeking a new program, just the modification of an existing one. The case was settled in 2004, and 1,500 disabled people were moved from institutional to community care.</div>
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Under a law enacted last year by the General Assembly, 2,000 Ohioans with behavioral problems who want to live in the community will be transferred from nursing homes by 2016. The law requires them to get the services they need to live independently.</div>
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Most will receive help from HOME Choice, a program administered by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services that helps disabled and elderly people move from institutional care to home- and community-based settings. To qualify, residents must be eligible for Medicaid and need care that can be provided in a community setting. The cost must be no more than 80 percent of what Medicaid would pay for nursing home care.</div>
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The nursing home industry responded by lobbying for more state funding to allow 1,000 nursing home residents with behavioral problems to receive enhanced treatment. Gov. John Kasich’s administration balked at the idea, Mr. Kirkman said, but agreed to pay for a study to develop a pilot project — something Mr. Kirkman calls “a big step backwards.”</div>
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“We already know that many people with disabilities fare much better in the community than they do in an institutional setting, and helping these people live in the community costs the state less,” he said. “What’s left to study?”</div>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-28872165399164164472014-11-10T08:25:00.002-08:002014-11-10T08:31:26.727-08:00Columbus Children's Theater's Sensory Friendly Performance Season!!!<h2 class="wsite-content-title" style="font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0.5em 0px 0.2em; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;">
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<span style="color: #5848b7; font-size: x-large;">2015 SENSORY FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE SEASON</span></h2>
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<strong><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Wednesday, January 14 at 10:00am and Saturday, </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">January 24 at 10:00am</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: #3f3f3f;"><strong>Wednesday, March 18 </strong></span><strong><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">10:00am and 7:30pm</span></strong></div>
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<strong style="color: black; line-height: 21px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;"> Wednesday, April 15 at 10:00am and Saturday, April 18 at 10:00am</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Columbus Children’s Theatre is proud to present another season of Sensory Friendly Performances for audiences on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #5848b7; font-size: small;"><strong>WHAT IS A SENSORY FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE?</strong></span><br />
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<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Elimination of loud or sudden sounds<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Elimination of abrupt changes in lighting<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Professionally trained staff and volunteers<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Audience members are free to talk and move around<span 10.0pt="" font-family:="" font-size:="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">House lights are kept on slightly to allow for safety and freedom of movement<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Limited seat sales to allow room for guests with spatial issues<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Quiet lobby area for breaks<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Communication cards for non-verbal guests<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Sensory Friendly Resource packages for families, teachers, and caregivers<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Craft activities<span font-family:="" font-size:10.0pt="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" quot="" roman="" sans-serif="" times="" verdana=""></span></span></span></li>
<li .5in="" color:black="" lfo1="" mso-list:l0="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" tab-stops:list="" text-align:justify=""><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Safe and friendly environment</span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #5848b7; font-size: medium;"><strong>THE EXPERIENCE BEGINS AT HOME - WE ARE HERE TO HELP</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #3f3f3f;">We understand that the experience of coming to see a show begins long before arriving to the theatre. Going to new places can be scary – especially when you don’t know what to expect. CCT has made the following policy adjustments and some materials audiences can download and review with their family before coming to the theatre. These include:</span><br />
<ul style="list-style-image: initial !important; list-style-position: outside !important; margin: 5px 0px !important; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-style: normal;"><strong>Social Stories</strong> – A Social Story is a picture book detailing the entire experience from walking up to the front door of the theatre, purchasing or picking up your tickets, choosing your seat, finding the bathrooms…everything! It even includes some pictures of the actors in their costumes. Audience members can review this at home with their family before leaving for the theatre so they know exactly what to expect. Social Stories will be available for download approximately two weeks before the performance. Audience members who purchase tickets to Sensory Friendly performances in advance will receive the Social Story via email.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-style: normal;"><strong>Pre and post show study guide and activities</strong> to keep families engaged with the live theatre experience and each other.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-style: normal;"><strong>Trained staff and actors </strong>to help guide the audience members through the experience by creating a welcoming environment.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-style: normal;"><strong><a href="http://www.oac.state.oh.us/grantsprogs/guidelines/BigYellowSchoolBus.asp" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;" title="">Big Yellow School Bus</a></strong> supports field trips for schools to CCT's Sensory Friendly Performances.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: url(http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/files/theme/bullet-content.png?1415630916); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 1px; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-size: initial; font-style: italic; list-style: none !important; margin: 3px 0px 13px !important; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 40px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-style: normal;"><strong>Flexible Refund Policy</strong> - Normally, CCT does not offer refund for canceled reservations. However, for Sensory Friendly Performances only, we understand that complications arise before show time that may prevent families from being able to make it to the theatre. In these instances we will make our refund policy flexible. <strong>Reservations must be canceled by phone in order to receive the refund and must be within 24 hours of the missed performance by calling (614) 224-6672. </strong></span></li>
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<span style="color: #5040ae; font-size: medium;"><strong>COMMUNITY PARTNERS</strong></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.autismspeaks.org/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/4535202.png" style="border: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle; width: auto;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.autismcentralohio.org/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/4254732_orig.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.129412); margin-left: -2px !important; margin-right: -2px !important; max-width: 510px; padding: 1px !important; vertical-align: middle; width: 115px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.oac.state.oh.us/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/3610707_orig.jpg" style="border: 0px !important; max-width: 642px; vertical-align: middle; width: 118px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.vsao.org/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/412225_orig.jpg" style="border: 0px !important; max-width: 390px; vertical-align: middle; width: 118px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://livingbeyondautism.org/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/4153646_orig.png" style="border: 0px !important; max-width: 358px; vertical-align: middle; width: 118px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.theknowingplace.com/" style="color: #47b403; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture" src="http://www.columbuschildrenstheatre.org/uploads/4/0/6/4/4064502/6416515_orig.jpg" style="border: 0px !important; max-width: 1050px; vertical-align: middle; width: 118px;" /></a><br />
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<strong><span ar-sa="" font-family:="" font-size:12.0pt="" mincho="" ms="" mso-ansi-language:en-us="" mso-bidi-language:="" mso-fareast-font-family:="" mso-fareast-language:ja="" quot="" roman="" serif="" times=""><span style="color: #5848b7; font-size: medium;">For more information, contact Columbus Children’s Theatre at (614) 224-6672</span></span></strong></div>
Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-11296065085655980082014-10-30T06:07:00.000-07:002014-10-30T06:07:02.973-07:00National Disability Employment Awareness MonthAs we bring October to a close and with it, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we would like to share a wonderful piece written by Elizabeth Picciuto.<br />
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Hiring People With Disabilities Isn’t Just the Right Thing to Do—It’s Good for Business</h1>
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A new study reveals that hiring people with intellectual and developmental disabilities doesn’t just improve culture—it improves the bottom line.</div>
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What kind of employers hire people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)? You might imagine that they’re like George Bailey in <i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">It’s a Wonderful Life</i>—big-hearted souls that sacrifice their business’s profits to improve their communities. A new <a href="http://www.i4cp.com/trendwatchers/2014/10/15/what-your-d-i-policy-is-missing-employing-people-with-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities#.VD-EFUITNKk.twitter" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">study</a>, however, shows that hiring people with IDD doesn’t mean that employers have jettisoned their business interests. On the contrary, hiring people with IDD is good for the bottom line. Mr. Potter should have a look.</div>
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The study was conducted by the Institute for Corporate Productivity, or <a href="http://www.i4cp.com/company/about" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">i4cp</a>, a company that analyzes the practices of high-performance organizations. Among some of the striking findings are just how many employers believe that their employees with IDD offer specific benefits to their workplaces. More than three-quarters of employers surveyed ranked their employees with IDD as good or very good on work quality, motivation, engagement, integration with co-workers, dependability, and attendance. Many employers reported being initially leery of hiring people with IDD, only to see their concerns dissolve after the employees were on board.</div>
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“The positive impact on the workforce is brought about in two ways: hiring individuals with IDD adds highly motivated people to the workforce (which can lead to increased productivity) and it promotes an inclusive culture that appeals to the talent pool organizations want to attract,” reads the study. “The improved customer satisfaction realized can lead to better sales and customer retention. The enhanced employer brand can translate to a better image in the community.”</div>
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People with IDD have historically faced enormous hurdles to getting a job. If they worked at all, it might be in sheltered workshops for significantly less than minimum wage—separate and most definitely unequal workplaces. The employment scenario is hardly any rosier at present, with the unemployment rate for people with IDD remaining tragically high: 85 percent percent of people with IDD <a href="http://www.nationalcoreindicators.org/upload/core-indicators/Data_brief_-_types_of_employment_FINAL_101512_1.pdf" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">do not have paid work</a> in the community.</div>
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Based on the i4cp study, the organization <a href="http://www.bestbuddies.org/" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">Best Buddies International</a>, which facilitates job placement for people with IDD, launched a media campaign called<a href="http://www.imintohire.org/" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">I’m In To Hire</a>. The goal of the campaign is to convince employers that it is not charity, but in their best interests, to hire people with IDD. The Founder and Chairman of Best Buddies, Anthony K. Shriver, told The Daily Beast, “This study creates an opportunity for us to approach a CEO and say, <i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">let’s give this a shot</i>.”</div>
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Many employers reported being initially leery of hiring people with IDD, only to see their concerns dissolve after the employees were on board.</div>
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One of the business bigwigs Shriver has convinced is Carlos Slim, the second richest man in the world (<a href="http://www.forbes.com/billionaires/list/#tab:overall" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">trailing Bill Gates by a mere $1.2 billion</a>). Slim said in an interview with <a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/atwork/2014/10/07/carlos-slim-push-to-hire-more-disabled-workers/" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;"><i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">The Wall Street Journal</i></a>, “It is not only good for the morale of the organization but politically it would be very interesting to change something from a debt into an asset. You can change the equation.” As part of the I’m In To Hire campaign, Slim and Shriver co-wrote a <i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">Forbes</i> <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2014/10/21/pledging-im-in-to-hire-individuals-with-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities/" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">editorial</a> to convince employers of all the business benefits of hiring people with IDD.</div>
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On Thursday, the campaign announced it had received 100,000 pledges of support on its website. Celebrities and politicians of all stripes have tweeted their support for #ImInToHire, including Maria Shriver, Martin O’Malley, Cindy Crawford, Kevin Spacey, and Gavin Newsom.</div>
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“Best Buddies had a lot of anecdotal data that suggested the business benefits of hiring people with IDD. We wanted to find some empirical data to back those stories up,” said Eric Davis, Creative Director & Senior Editor at i4cp, in an interview with The Daily Beast. “There had been studies conducted showing the benefits of employing people with IDD on the employee, but we wanted to show the talent and business benefits for the employer.”</div>
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i4cp defines a high-performance organization by four factors: market share, revenue growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction. i4cp has found that diversity and inclusion policies generally are not a hindrance to organizations. In fact, they are correlated with high performance. High-performance organizations are twice as likely as low-performance organizations to emphasize diversity and inclusion as a matter of policy at the highest levels, and more than twice as likely to specifically include people with IDD in their diversity goals.</div>
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The high-performance organizations did not hire people with IDD simply to gain cushy tax subsidies. “All participants are paid minimum wage or higher. Very few of our employers utilize the tax credits,” wrote Paula Johnson, Director of the Best Buddies Jobs Program, in an email. “Our current average hourly wage is $11.95.” Indeed, the study found that high-performance companies are 37 percent more likely than low-performance companies to hire people with IDD for the straightforward reason that they are “good talent matches for open positions.”</div>
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Among the high-performance companies surveyed, more than 80 percent reported a positive experience with their employees with IDD, and a third reported the experience exceeded their expectations. “You usually don’t see those kind of numbers from HR departments that have started new hiring initiatives,” said Davis. “It’s likely the employers had anticipated certain challenges that weren’t there, and the resources to support them were greater than they had realized.”</div>
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The satisfaction experienced by high-performance companies did not surprise Shriver at all. “They’ve hired an effective and enthusiastic employee, and now have lower turnover in those jobs,” Shriver pointed out. “The culture of our schools have changed since we began inclusion of people with IDD. Our offices can transform as well.”</div>
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“CEOs in their 40s and 50s did not grow up with inclusion in the schools and many simply do not know anybody with IDD.”</div>
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Younger people today have grown up in an era of increasing inclusion in schools, and are far more likely to be familiar with people with IDD. However, Shriver suggested that much of the reluctance to hire people with IDD stems from lack of familiarity given previously segregated schools. “CEOs in their 40s and 50s did not grow up with inclusion in the schools and many simply do not know anybody with IDD,” he said. “They don’t know who this population is, what their capacity is when they have the right training to support them, or how to train and support them.”</div>
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To find out more about how someone with disabilities gets successfully incorporated into his workplace, I spoke with Brian DeAtley. DeAtley is Senior Research Manager at the Institute for Economic Empowerment at <a href="http://www.sourceamerica.org/" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">SourceAmerica</a>, a non-profit organization that helps people with disabilities find jobs. He emphasized that employing people with IDD is a triple win: the employer, the employee, and the federal government all benefit. The federal government currently spends hundreds of billions of dollars yearly on services and support for unemployed people with disabilities. DeAtley argues, “Even given the EPTA [a tax credit for employers hiring people with disabilities], employing people with IDD is budget-positive for federal government.”</div>
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I also spoke with Ty Ross, who uses his considerable expertise in computers for his job as a data technician in the Davis County School District in Utah. Ross has cerebral palsy, and the <a href="http://www.sourceamerica.org/workforce-and-research-programs/pathways-to-careers" sl-processed="1" style="-webkit-transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out; box-sizing: border-box; color: #6c899d; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out;">Pathways to Careers</a> initiative of SourceAmerica helped him get his position. Before Pathways, Ross had significant trouble finding a job. “My mom would take me on interviews. We got the vibe walking through the door that they weren’t taking me seriously and it was really frustrating,” he said. “I had a lot of schooling, but that doesn’t make it easy to get a job. That’s only the half the equation. You need to get an interview and get someone to give you a chance to get your foot in the door.”</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;">Pathways operates on the premise that employing people with disabilities should never be done simply because it’s the right thing to do. “It just doesn’t work. It doesn’t sustain itself, and then they’re out of work 4-5 months later with neither side knowing what went wrong,” said DeAtley. Pathways also avoids delivering platitudinous messages about people with IDD such as,</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;"> </span><i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">She’s such a happy person</i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;">or</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;"> </span><i style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility; vertical-align: baseline;">He’s just so grateful to get a job</i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 1.1875em; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.6;">. These, DeAtley suggests, communicate to the employer that the worker isn’t really a valuable employee.</span></div>
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Instead, like Best Buddies, Pathways argues that people with disabilities can and should be the right person for a given job. And they mean all people with disabilities. Pathways offers employment services no matter the intensiveness of the disability (they have a lottery system).</div>
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“The important work is upfront,” says DeAtley. Pathways first works with employers. Many employers don’t have an official open position that could be a fit for someone with IDD, but Pathways identifies how someone with disabilities could nonetheless add value to the company in a different way.</div>
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Then Pathways expends a good amount of effort discovering what each client can do and finds a job for him to choose from. With the right person in the right job, the need for on-the-job support is diminished. Kim Stuart, Ross’s aunt and guardian (whom he calls “mom”), agreed that the upfront work was what helped Ross get settled so well. “Pathways spent hours and hours one-on-one learning about Ty. They talked about his strengths, and how to turn them into employable skills.”</div>
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Ross started as a paid intern with a internship facilitator who helped smooth any initial bumps with his employer. For example, when Ross’s difficulties with coordination made it troublesome to use the keyboard, his facilitator found him a modified keyboard. At the end of his internship, the Davis County School District decided to hire him.</div>
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“We had thought that Ross was going to have to live on Social Security and that was that,” Stuart said. “This job totally changed his life. His outlook on life is totally different and so is the way he feels valued. That’s just as important as his getting a paycheck.”</div>
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“I’ve made close friendships. I feel like I’m making a difference when they ask me to ask me to do something and I know I’ve contributed to the overall running of the district,” Ross affirmed. "This is the first month I haven’t been receiving benefits. I’m self-sufficient.”</div>
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Shriver wants every workplace eventually to be like Ross’s. “We will finally have integration and inclusion for people with disability. It’s going to happen at some point,” he declared. “Corporations will have people that are focused on diversity, instead of me running around trying to explain the benefits and sending in staff to train them. The company itself would have that training in place. We need to give people an opportunity to demonstrate their skills. We need that door open for them, and then we can go to town.”</div>
</section>Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-84758108132442778792014-10-14T09:08:00.000-07:002014-10-14T09:08:23.297-07:00Let's go Krogering!!!October is National Disability Employment Awareness month. We salute The Kroger Co. for their on-going support by giving opportunities to individuals with disabilities to have community employment at competitive wages.<br />
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I have been living in my community for 15 years now. I have had the pleasure of watching several individuals with disabilities at each Kroger store location develop as strong and valued team members over the years. I know that regardless of which location I visit in my community, I'm going to see a work force that is diverse and committed to providing opportunities to all their employees.<br />
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I've watched a young man with a developmental disability progress in his career at Kroger over the last few years at one particular location. I remember when he first started his employment; he was responsible for carts and clean up. He was very quiet and serious; kept his head down and went about his job. In time, he was bagging groceries. Still quiet and serious; always careful to do everything just right, rarely making eye contact and seemingly uncomfortable when engaged in small social exchanges. About 6 months ago, I find him in a cashier's position! I exclaimed that he had been promoted and congratulated him. He couldn't contain his smile, made eye contact with me, and said "Yeah, I did it!". He quickly regain his serious composure and completed my order. It was absolutely awesome.<br />
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In my professional life, I have been afforded the same pleasure of seeing the commitment of The Kroger Co. to having a diverse workforce where each employee is compensated fairly for the work performed and has equal opportunities for job support and advancement. We thank the Harper's Point and the Lewis Center Kroger stores for their support and employment of two wonderful people, whom we have the good fortunate to know and support, Greg and Kyra.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhRyhdBPgcf91HNye0ZTK1-5J-QhlGzgAAWh6Y3LWTeGro_mOf5sErgLjV6wEEdOTI6ex9YtSagAPH56gjOk86_xve2HszrYAATWlFAjhAKlHPtydxibahKZIZDyxJC9FPUAgPjrhYW8/s1600/G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhRyhdBPgcf91HNye0ZTK1-5J-QhlGzgAAWh6Y3LWTeGro_mOf5sErgLjV6wEEdOTI6ex9YtSagAPH56gjOk86_xve2HszrYAATWlFAjhAKlHPtydxibahKZIZDyxJC9FPUAgPjrhYW8/s1600/G.jpg" height="320" width="178" /></a></div>
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Greg P. is a valued Harper's Point Kroger employee for the last 8 years. Of his employment at the Harper's Point Kroger, Greg states that he will never retire!</div>
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<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-80545568565846463712014-10-08T02:34:00.001-07:002014-10-08T02:34:22.734-07:00October is National Disability Employment Awareness MonthMany states, including Ohio are making the shift from sheltered workshops to community employment for individuals with disabilities. It has been learned that community employment and community involvement are the ideal environments for all our members of society. During this month of awareness we would like to share stories of people with disabilities that are successfully working in their communities. It is our hope that through these success stories, more individuals with disabilities are given opportunities by employers to have typical jobs at competitive wages. Click the link to read an editorial about disabled workers!<div>
<a href="http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/09/27/editorial-disabled-workers-deserve-opportunities/16329521/">http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/09/27/editorial-disabled-workers-deserve-opportunities/16329521/</a></div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-7956189179526525812014-09-25T09:52:00.001-07:002014-09-25T09:52:19.633-07:00Are you saving the date???<div>
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<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;">When</span></strong><b><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;"><br /><strong>Friday October 10, 2014 from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM EDT</strong></span></b><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;">Benes Room at OWU Campus Center</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><br /></span><strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;">40 Rowland Avenue</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><br /></span><strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;">Delaware, OH 43015</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;">(near the Jaywalk)</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;"> <strong> <u> Friday October 10th, 2014</u></strong></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Delaware Creative Housing is hosting "An Evening with Anthony Billups (star of Crazy Hearts: Nashville) and Company, sponsored by Creative Foundations, Delaware.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Please join us for a lively Country-Western themed fundraiser celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Acoustic show by Anthony Billups star of Crazy Hearts: Nashville with guest appearances by Nick Billups and other talented individuals with Developmental Disabilities from Central Ohio.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">VIP Tickets for this anticipated sold-out show include a fabulous country dinner and the best seats in the house to enjoy the concert. These tickets are presale. Doors open at 5:30pm with dinner served at 6pm. $50.00 per ticket/ $80.00 per couple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Concert tickets ONLY are available for $20.00. Presale is highly suggested. Tickets may be available for purchase at the door depending on availability. Doors open at 7pm for general seating.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Dinner will be BBQ Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, Corn, Salad, and Apple Pie. Please alert us to any dietary concerns on your registration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-size: 14pt;"> Silent Auction and Cash Bar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<em><span style="color: white;">*All proceeds to benefit Focus on Abilities in support of Delaware County board of Developmental Disabilities</span></em><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">REGISTRATION information will be heading your way shortly, but we wanted to make sure you SAVE THE DATE for this boot stompin' good time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Thank you for your time and we look forward to seeing YOU on October 10th!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: white;">Sincerely,</span></b><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Focus on Abilities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">Melissa Crohen,:Acting Chairwoman<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;"><a href="mailto:info@focusonabilities.com" shape="rect" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">info@focusonabilities.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: white;">740-201-5800<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-78802572012250667612014-09-16T08:22:00.000-07:002014-09-16T08:25:44.955-07:00FDA deciding whether to ban skin shocks....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sometimes it is difficult to know the day and age in which we live, considering what still happens in the world. Currently the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering whether to ban devices used by the Judge Rotenberg Educational Center (JREC) in Canton, Massachusetts. The JREC is the only known place in the United States that uses skin shocks for aversive conditioning for aggressive individuals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">JREC uses graduated electronic decelerator (GED)<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6399993896484px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">,</span> a device that is attached to the arms or legs. If an individual engages in self injurious behaviors (SIBs) or is physically aggressive to others, a center staff presses a button to activate the electrode which delivers a two second shock to the person. Some liken the shock as being stung by a bee, others describe it as being stung by hundreds of bees.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6399993896484px;">The FDA initially cleared the device for use in 1994. JREC started using a device 2.5 times stronger than the original FDA cleared device when one person built up a tolerance to the shocks. In 2000, the FDA stated that the stronger version of the device didn't require clearance for use. In 2011, the FDA changed it's position and is now in the process of deciding whether the device will remain in use or be banned.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6399993896484px;">There are supporters for both sides of the issue. One parent, Sharon Wood of Charlottesville, VA supports the use of the device and fears that if it is banned that her 21 year old son will return to violently aggressive behaviors. In her interview with the FDA, Ms. Wood stated, "Do not take away what is saving his life.Don't take this away until you are convinced there are better alternatives."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 17.6399993896484px;">In contrast to praise of the device by those such as Ms. Wood, Jennifer Msumba, a recipient of said shocks stated the the device doesn't feel safe. She stated she has nightmares, that the GED leaves burn marks and is prone to malfunctioning that results in unintended shocks. Ms. Msumba's mother is currently suing JREC. Cheryl McCollins also sued the center in 2002 due to her son being shocked more than 30 times within a seven hour period. JREC settled with Ms. McCollins.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.6399993896484px;">It is my sincere hope that the FDA bans the use of this device. While I cannot compare my experience and knowledge in this field to that of any parent, I do humbly disagree with Ms. Wood in that the GED is the only option in helping address her son's aggressive behaviors. Caring for someone that has aggressive behaviors against themselves and others is terribly difficult, exhausting, and at many times frightening. However, history has shown the effects of using methods such as GED on our fellow human beings. We have learned a world of techniques that are far more effective and humane; person centered planning is one of the crucial lessons we have learned. We have to look at each person and find ways to reach them. We should not and cannot resolve any person as being unreachable and reduce them or ourselves to techniques such as the GED in the name of therapy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17.6399993896484px;">Please share your thoughts.</span></div>
Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-21636243088146942142014-09-14T22:54:00.004-07:002014-09-14T22:54:49.400-07:00September events in your community!Head out to the Delaware County Fair this week for fun and entertainment! The Delaware County Fair runs through Saturday, September 20, 2014. Be sure to take a walk through the Merchant's Building and visit the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities(DCBDD) booth. There are some wonderful people from the DCBDD to answer questions and share information about services that are available to eligible individuals in the Delaware County area as well as various agency providers that serve individuals in the Delaware County area. Cornerstone Supported Living, LLC agency representative had a fantastic time Saturday night manning the booth the fair!<br />
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<span style="font-family: arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 20pt;"><b>Know someone who wants to </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 20pt;"><b> Be a Super Star?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <img align="right" border="0" height="142" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/955.jpg" width="181" /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Auditions for Jesus Christ, SuperStar</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">are being held at</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">First Baptist Church,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">101 N. Franklin St.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Delaware Ohio 43015</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <b> </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Sunday Sept 14 5pm -7:30</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Sunday Sept 21 5pm -7:30</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"><b>Click here for more information</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"><b> <a href="http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-958/Auditions.pdf">http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-958/Auditions.pdf</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: 22pt;"><img alt="orange-bounty-header.gif" border="0" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/961.gif" width="563" /><b> Leeds Farm Autism Harvest Festival</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Saturday Sept 20</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">9am to 11am</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> FREE to all children with autism and their immediate families</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Click here</span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> for more information</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> <a href="http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-964/leeds.pdf">http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-964/leeds.pdf</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><b> </b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><b><u> Join Li Li's Team</u></b></span></span><img align="right" border="0" height="206" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/965.jpg" width="177" /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><b><u> </u></b></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Lorelei's Princess Parade</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Sunday, September 21</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Click here for more information</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><a href="http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-967/Lorelei%27s+Princess+Parade.pdf">http://origin.library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102532460867-967/Lorelei%27s+Princess+Parade.pdf</a></span></span></div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-66680066171383437032014-09-01T14:17:00.001-07:002014-09-01T14:17:09.608-07:00My Baby Rides the Short Bus.....<h1 class="a-size-large a-spacing-none" id="title" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; line-height: 1.3 !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
<span class="a-size-large" id="productTitle" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.3 !important; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">My Baby Rides the Short Bus: The Unabashedly Human Experience of Raising Kids with Disabilities by Yantara Bertelli is available on Amazon.com. It is a collection of parents' perspectives on raising a child with a disability. Both humorous and full of reality, this book is a good read. Karen Wang is one of the contributing authors of the book. Below is her advice on how to give attention to a sibling of a child with special needs:</span></span></h1>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-size: 1rem; line-height: 1.714285714; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">At every IEP, I announce that the most important member of my 12 year old son’s support team is his 6 year old brother. My younger son knows his brother better than anyone else, and will probably be a part of his team longer than anyone else, too.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-size: 1rem; line-height: 1.714285714; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">by Karen Wang</span></div>
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I haven’t hidden the truth from my little one: he knows about his future responsibility.</div>
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But he needs to be a 6 year old. And sometimes he still wants to be my baby. In the flurry of activity that surrounds my older son’s disability, it’s too easy to put his younger brother’s wishes on the back burner. So I’ve thought about how to re-prioritize the needs of kids like him who have a sibling with special needs. Here are 10 steps to get started.</div>
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10. Sib Nights</h2>
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My 6 year old says that his favorite activity is Sib Nights at the Friendship Circle, which meets every other week for one hour. There he plays games, works on an art project and talks with other siblings who understand his life experience. Sib Nights follows the same structure as the <a href="http://www.siblingsupport.org/sibshops" style="border: 0px; color: #21759b; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">SibShops curriculum</a>, which is practiced internationally with proven long-term positive impact on the lives of siblings.</div>
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9. Daily rituals</h2>
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<a href="http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2012/05/15/how-tradition-can-help-individuals-with-special-needs/" style="border: 0px; color: #21759b; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Rituals or traditions</a> can help build relationships, provide emotional security and develop<a href="http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2011/11/30/what-is-self-regulation/" style="border: 0px; color: #21759b; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"> self-regulation</a>. Rituals may be religious or secular – a special moment shared when waking up in the morning or a bedtime routine are meaningful rituals to maintain. Every morning after the school bus picks up my older son, I announce to my younger son, “Mommy Time!” Then we share a story and a snuggle before he goes to school.</div>
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8. Validate</h2>
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Siblings often express negative emotions, thoughts or worries that may be surprising. Try to listen calmly, without judgement. Make sure that he or she knows that your love is unconditional.</div>
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7. Kid swap</h2>
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I know a family whose children are close to the ages of my children with similar needs. When the sibling tension is running high in both families, we swap kids – younger siblings go to one house, older siblings go to the other house. Everyone wins in that scenario.</div>
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6. Volunteer in the classroom</h2>
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My younger son requested that I volunteer in the school library with his class once a week. It’s only half an hour, and my son usually acts “too cool” to interact with me in the library. But privately at home, he tells me that he loves to see me in school – he knows that I’m there just for him.</div>
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If once a week doesn’t fit your schedule, consider signing up for one school event or program. Some teachers ask parents to come in and talk about their career choice or area of expertise once a year, some schools have an art appreciation program run by parent volunteers a few times per year.</div>
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5. Focus on friendship</h2>
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Encourage friendships outside the world of special needs. The social skills learned in those friendships can help make life more peaceful for everyone at home.</div>
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4. Develop interests <strong style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="Guinea Pig" class=" wp-image-13680 alignright" height="164" src="http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/P7190408-1024x768.jpg" style="border: 0px; float: right; height: auto; margin: 0.857142857rem 0px 0.857142857rem 1.714285714rem; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Guinea Pig" width="220" /></strong></h2>
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Sports, art and drama classes, scouting and hobbies are all wonderful opportunities to develop an identity that is separate from a sibling’s.</div>
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3. Special outing with grandparents or other relatives</h2>
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Allow time for siblings to develop relationships with grandparents and other relatives. These relationships will provide strength that is needed in the long run.</div>
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2. Special time with Mom or Dad</h2>
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Arrange for respite care for your child with special needs so that siblings can enjoy your undivided attention. Go somewhere that you wouldn’t usually visit with your child with special needs.</div>
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1. Recognize the strength</h2>
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Take a moment every day – or as often as needed – to acknowledge the fact that your child is trying to be strong for the sake of the family. Remind your child that he or she doesn’t have to be strong all of the time – every person has needs that the whole family works together to meet.</div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-26521081208551623462014-08-26T03:31:00.000-07:002014-08-26T03:31:01.479-07:00Pull out your track suits and lace up your sneakers!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Help support and bring awareness to Delaware County Special Olympics and Delaware County Coalition of Victim Services. </div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-65932862940473452542014-08-24T02:23:00.001-07:002014-08-24T02:23:54.429-07:00DRO requests student information from Ohio Department of EducationDisability Rights Ohio (DRO) is representing a group of students in a class action suit against the Ohio Department Education. The suit is challenging the adequacy of funding for special education funding for disabled students that attend Ohio public schools.<br />
DRO has requested the release of students information from Ohio Department of Education. The information to be released will include a student identifying number; demographic information, such as school, grade,<br />
gender, race, age, and disability category; attendance statistics; information on suspensions and<br />
expulsions; and results on state tests such as the Ohio Graduation Tests, the Ohio Achievement Assessments, and the Third Grade Reading Guarantee. Data released will not include students' names, addresses, or any other identifying information. DRO may only use the information for the purposes of their class action suit; the data may not be released to the public or used in any other capacity.<br />
Parents may object to the release of their child's information by submitting an objection in writing to:<br />
Clerk’s Office: Judge Watson’s Docket<br />
U.S. Courthouse<br />
85 Marconi Boulevard<br />
Columbus, Ohio 43215<br />
RE: DOE V. STATE, Case No. 91-464Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-35507982721453078392014-08-22T03:09:00.000-07:002014-08-22T03:17:59.973-07:00Williams Syndrome Awareness<div style="text-align: center;">
Recently I was informed about Super Sociality: Williams Syndrome Awarness; a blog that has wonderful stories about individuals with Williams Syndrome. The blog contributors are Douglas Patterson and Spencer Channell. They are high school students that want to bring awareness to Williams Syndrome.</div>
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Click here to check out their blog <a href="http://supersociality.blogspot.com/">http://supersociality.blogspot.com/</a></div>
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The following is an entry from the blog by Spencer Channell. I think it is fantastic!</div>
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<a href="http://supersociality.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-haglers-playing-harmonica.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The Haglers Playing Harmonica!</span></a></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"It has just been an amazing journey and it's been amazing to watch. Especially to parents of younger children: get ready to be amazed at the kind of life that's going to unfold." - Mike Hagler</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">'Amazed' is an apt descriptor of how Douglas and I have felt as we've researched Williams and gotten to know Garrison better. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a freshman, I rode on the morning bus with Garrison - he was lively, talkative, social, charming, and memorable. He used to bring a harmonica with him and perform miniature concerts for the rest of the students, establishing a joyful, engaged environment on the bus. Each time the bus pulled away from his driveway, he would face the window and say, "bye mom!" even if she couldn't have heard him.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">Needless to say, some genetic disorders can be 'amazing.' It would be a disrespect to Williams Syndrome to merely summarize its biological causes and methods of diagnosis; you simply must tell the stories. The truth-revealing impacts people with Williams make are too precious to not share.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">Watching a person grow, mature, and learn from the challenges presented to them at birth helps us better understand the nature of life on earth. "It's a fascinating thing to watch the accomplishments of a child with 'special needs' versus perhaps a child who we would term 'normal'," said Mr. Hagler.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="line-height: 1.4;">What should we do, then, when a person with 'special needs' enters our life? We should allow our understanding of the world to be expanded by our experiences with them. We should get informed about the things we can do and walk beside them. Just like with anyone, we should be sensitive, listen to their stories, and try to better understand the way they experience the world.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">On parenting, Mr. Hagler advised, "don't be afraid to try new things...you don't have to just listen to the experts...seek out as many different resources as you can."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGmnm4cLuik">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGmnm4cLuik</a></span></span></div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-49840450110782156142014-08-13T09:09:00.001-07:002014-08-13T09:09:11.801-07:00Save the date and support Focus on Abilities!!!<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: #151D20; mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%px;">
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<b><span style="color: #526472;">
<img border="0" height="176" hspace="5" id="_x0000_i1025" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.941" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/941.png" vspace="5" width="190" /></span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">When</span></strong><b><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br />
<strong>Friday October 10, 2014 from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM EDT</strong></span></b><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />
<strong> </strong></span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><img border="0" id="_x0000_i1026" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.939" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/939.jpg" vspace="5" width="207" /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">Where</span></strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">Benes
Room at OWU Campus Center</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><br />
</span><strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">40 Rowland
Avenue</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><br />
</span><strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">Delaware, OH
43015</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<strong><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">(near
the Jaywalk)</span></strong><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #526472; font-size: 14.0pt;"><img border="0" height="126" hspace="5" id="_x0000_i1027" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.940" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs127/1102532460867/img/940.jpg" vspace="5" width="190" /></span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #526472;"><br />
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #526472;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;">
SAVE THE DATE! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;"> <strong> <u>
Friday October 10th, 2014</u></strong></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Delaware Creative Housing is
hosting "An Evening with Anthony Billups (star of Crazy Hearts:
Nashville) and Company, sponsored by Creative Foundations,
Delaware.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Please
join us for a lively Country-Western themed fundraiser celebrating
Developmental Disabilities Awareness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Acoustic
show by Anthony Billups star of Crazy Hearts: Nashville with guest
appearances by Nick Billups and other talented individuals with
Developmental Disabilities from Central Ohio.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">VIP
Tickets for this anticipated sold-out show include a fabulous country
dinner and the best seats in the house to enjoy the concert. These
tickets are presale. Doors open at 5:30pm with dinner served at
6pm. $50.00 per ticket/ $80.00 per couple. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Concert
tickets ONLY are available for $20.00. Presale is highly suggested.
Tickets may be available for purchase at the door depending on
availability. Doors open at 7pm for general seating. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Dinner
will be BBQ Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, Corn, Salad, and Apple Pie. Please
alert us to any dietary concerns on your registration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: white; font-size: 14.0pt;"> Silent
Auction and Cash Bar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<em><span style="color: white;">*All
proceeds to benefit Focus on Abilities in support of Delaware County
board of Developmental Disabilities</span></em><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">REGISTRATION information will
be heading your way shortly, but we wanted to make sure you SAVE THE DATE
for this boot stompin' good time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Thank you for your time and we
look forward to seeing YOU on October 10th!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: white;">Sincerely,</span></b><span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Focus on Abilities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">Melissa Crohen,:Acting
Chairwoman<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;"><a href="mailto:info@focusonabilities.com" shape="rect" target="_blank">info@focusonabilities.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: white;">740-201-5800<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-77591455996877525462014-08-08T11:05:00.003-07:002014-08-08T11:05:46.460-07:00DRO warns that current state initiatives will not be enough to forestall legal actionAs many of you are most likely aware, there are many changes being made in how individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities(ID/DD) receive services and supports through out the country, and in particular here in Ohio.<br />
<br />
Disability Rights Ohio (DRO) sent a letter 07/01/2014 to the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD), Governor Kasich, the Office of Health Transformation, and the Ohio Department of Medicaid. In their letter DRO recognizes that the State of Ohio has made and is in the process of making changes to how individuals with ID/DD receive services and supports, however the changes that have been made are not sufficient to address the needs of their findings. Read the article here : <a href="http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/u62/DRO_to_Governor_Kasich_et_al_re_ICFs-IID.pdf">http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/u62/DRO_to_Governor_Kasich_et_al_re_ICFs-IID.pdf</a><br />
<br />
July 31, 2014, DRO received a response from DODD that stated the department's position is that they share the vision of the DRO however they did not agree with DRO's findings and an invitation was made for all parties to meet and discuss the issues at hand. Read DODD's response here: <a href="http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/u62/Response_to_July_1_DRO_letter.pdf">http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/sites/default/files/sites/default/files/u62/Response_to_July_1_DRO_letter.pdf</a><br />
<br />
DRO responded that they would indeed meet with the department. DRO expressed their disappointment in the response from the department and is now threatening legal action for their alleged violations of ADA as well as the rights of individuals with ID/DD. DRO's response here:<a href="http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/dro-warns-current-state-initiatives-will-not-be-enough-forestall-legal-action">http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/dro-warns-current-state-initiatives-will-not-be-enough-forestall-legal-action</a><br />
<br />
I am confident that DODD, Governor Kasich, the Office of Health Transformation, and the Ohio Department of Medicaid have the shared vision of DRO as well as those of us that have chosen to make a career in this industry. There is no denying that there are still many areas in which we can improve how we offer support and services to those with ID/DD. That being said, I think the DRO isn't being fair in their assessment and judgement of DODD; nor do I think DRO is being fair in giving the departments ample time to make the necessary and desired changes.<br />
<br />
In order for changes on this scale to be successful, care has to be taken in a number areas; financing, adequate and appropriate service providers, community participation-just to name a few. In addition to that, the changes that DRO is demanding doesn't have 100% support from individuals with ID/DD and their families. A common concern that is voiced right now in the heat of all of this is that many state they don't want some of what DRO is demanding; they state that they like their lives.<br />
<br />
We have opponents of DRO such as Georgia's Department of Disabilities that state swift and severe changes that they have made in response to pressures from advocacy groups have resulted in some tragedies. It is at this time that they have decided to halt any further transitions from their developmental centers and ICFMRs until at least January 2015 pending further research and development of these new programs.<br />
<br />
While I applaud DRO for advocating for the individuals that require supports and services, I would ask that DRO take a bit of a step back, use their efforts to facilitate change with all those involved rather than issue demands that very could prompt rash decisions that in the end may not work to the greater good.Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-85726455764740410642014-08-03T14:17:00.000-07:002014-08-03T14:19:09.814-07:00Accessible IconNew York is the first state to require all new and replacement signs that indicate accessibility for people with disabilities to include an image that is active and in motion! Click on the link to read more:<br />
<a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/07/28/in-first-state-handicapped/19552/">http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/07/28/in-first-state-handicapped/19552/</a><br />
<br />
This is simply fabulous! I love the new accessible icon. I am hopeful that it and other creative accessible icons are used through out the country. While this may be a small change in the grand scheme of issues that people with disabilities face. I think this is a wonderful step towards helping rid society's preconceived ideas regarding people with disabilities.<br />
<br />
Check it out and share your thoughts:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBdhDYmxtLVFCRjg3WLaSYqvvcrWOLV3Jqog9f5ME4fPnZQ8zzMpeoC4jN6AXeVBcnjfBp9E38RHYiBOFj6-lAEqEsp92RI4chXnnKz_4QZo-QVW7t9Bv0M6dS6P331nM2AZ10ovOeMg/s1600/ds140728_accessible_icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBdhDYmxtLVFCRjg3WLaSYqvvcrWOLV3Jqog9f5ME4fPnZQ8zzMpeoC4jN6AXeVBcnjfBp9E38RHYiBOFj6-lAEqEsp92RI4chXnnKz_4QZo-QVW7t9Bv0M6dS6P331nM2AZ10ovOeMg/s1600/ds140728_accessible_icon.jpg" height="209" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-43467801164718307022014-07-28T08:07:00.000-07:002014-07-28T08:07:10.614-07:00What disability?Perception is one of the cornerstones of life. How we see ourselves and our capabilities is so vital to the human experience. Regardless of what anyone says, know that "impossible" things happen everyday. Click on the link below to watch a short video of one man's perception of himself, life, and his so called disability. It is great; you won't regret it!<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H9S3n_tILKo">https://www.youtube.com/embed/H9S3n_tILKo</a><br />
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-69314998125308821472014-07-16T10:49:00.000-07:002014-07-16T10:49:29.382-07:0010 Things You May Not Know About the American with Disabilities ACT (ADA)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 115%; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&100&&&https://www.disability.gov/disability-connection-newsletter-july-2014/"><strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">10 Things You May Not Know about the
ADA</span></strong></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">1. A New Perspective on Disability
Facts and Figures</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">.
In preparation for the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
in July, the U.S. Census Bureau released its collection of the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&101&&&https://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/pdf/cb14ff-15_ada.pdf">most
recent data</a> pertaining to Americans with disabilities. The numbers are
striking. Approximately <em><b>57
million</b></em> Americans have a disability. Since this figure may be
difficult to comprehend, let’s take a look at some facts for comparison: There
are more people with disabilities living in America than the entire population
of Canada or the Caribbean. The number of Americans with vision impairments is
comparable to the entire population of Switzerland, and there are more
Americans with hearing impairments than in all of Denmark, Paraguay or Hong
Kong. If you take the population of Ireland and cut it in half, that’s roughly
the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s or other neurocognitive
disorders. Additionally, more Americans with disabilities require the
assistance of others to perform basic activities of daily living than the
entire population of Greece. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">2.
Breaking Down the ADA.</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">
<a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&102&&&http://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm">The
ADA</a> of 1990, including its <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&103&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/statutes/adaaa_info.cfm">Amendments
Act of 2008 (ADAAA)</a>, covers five different areas:</span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&104&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/publications/fs-ada.cfm">Title
I</a> requires employers with 15 or more employees to treat qualified
individuals with disabilities equally in all stages of employment. From
the hiring process to full employment, this includes compensation,
benefits, trainings, promotions and other aspects, such as offering
reasonable accommodations to workers with disabilities. This section also
restricts hiring managers from asking certain questions about an
applicant’s disability during the hiring process or retaliating against
someone for opposing discriminatory employment practices. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&105&&&http://www.ada.gov/ada_title_II.htm">Title
II</a> prohibits public entities like state or local government agencies
from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. All programs
and services, such as public transportation, recreational activities,
courts and town meetings, should be available to people with disabilities.
In addition, state and local government buildings must be accessible, and
accommodations should be available to communicate effectively with those
who have vision, speech or hearing disabilities. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&106&&&http://www.ada.gov/ada_title_III.htm">Title
III</a> requires public accommodations and commercial facilities to offer
equal access and treatment, effective communication and removal of
existing barriers for people with disabilities. Examples of such
facilities include restaurants, retail stores, hotels, movie theaters,
private schools, convention centers, doctors' offices, homeless shelters
and recreational facilities. Any altered or newly constructed buildings
must follow architectural and design standards to ensure accessibility.
Additionally, classes and examinations for professional, educational or
trade-related purposes, licensing and certifications should be accessible
to people with disabilities or alternative arrangements must be offered. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Under <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&107&&&http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/title-iv-ada">Title
IV</a>, telecommunications companies must establish telecommunications
relay services for callers with hearing and speech disabilities. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&108&&&http://www.adainfo.org/content/more-title-v">Title
V</a> includes various provisions that are not necessarily covered by
other titles, but have been used to clarify the application of the law.
For example, this section notes that the ADA does not invalidate or
override any other federal, state or local laws that provide equal or
greater protections for people with disabilities. It also defines conditions
that are not covered under the term “disability,” as defined by the ADA.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">3. Preserving Our History</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">.<strong> </strong>“Those who cannot remember the past are
condemned to repeat it.” This quote, spoken by philosopher George Santayana,
reflects the missions of both the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&109&&&http://www.adalegacy.com/">ADA
Legacy Project</a> and the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&110&&&http://disabilityvisibilityproject.com/about/">Disability
Visibility Project</a>. The ADA Legacy Project has a threefold mission: to
preserve the history of the disability rights movement, celebrate the impact of
legislation like the ADA and educate the public on improving inclusion and
equal rights for those with disabilities. In partnership with <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&111&&&http://storycorps.org/about/">StoryCorps</a>,
the aim of the Disability Visibility Project is to record the stories of those
in the disability community. You can <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&112&&&http://disabilityvisibilityproject.com/how-to-participate/">participate
in the project</a> until July 2015 by attending a recording session in the San
Francisco Bay area, Chicago, Atlanta or one of the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&113&&&http://storycorps.org/mobile-tour/">Mobile
Tour locations</a>. All stories will be archived by <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&114&&&http://www.loc.gov/folklife/">The
American Folklife Center</a> at the Library of Congress. You can also visit <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&115&&&http://www.adalegacy.com/">adalegacy.com</a>
to <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&116&&&http://www.adalegacy.com/events">find
ADA events or programs near you</a> and prepare for the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&117&&&http://www.adalegacy.com/ada25">25<sup>th</sup>
anniversary of the ADA</a> next year. There’s even a countdown calendar!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">4. Job Accommodations</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> enable people with disabilities to
perform essential job functions, be productive and accomplish work tasks with
greater ease and independence. Examples include modifications such as ergonomic
desk chairs, reserved parking, flexible schedules, telecommuting, alternate
workstations and periodic rest, food or bathroom breaks. According to the <u><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&118&&&http://askjan.org/media/lowcosthighimpact.html">Job
Accommodation Network (JAN)</a></span></u>, a free source of expert one-on-one
guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues, nearly
60 percent of the accommodations needed by workers with disabilities cost
absolutely nothing, and only 36 percent of employers incurred a one-time cost
of roughly $500. JAN's publication, the <em><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&119&&&https://askjan.org/EeGuide/">Employees'
Practical Guide to Requesting and Negotiating Reasonable Accommodations under
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)</a> </em>summarizes the
provisions of the ADA, common accommodation issues and JAN's practical
solutions for resolving them. For additional guidance on reasonable
accommodations and enforcement, visit the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&120&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/accommodation.html">Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) website</a>.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">5. The Rights of Pregnant Workers</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> are generally protected by three
laws: the <u><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&121&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/regulations/ada_qa_final_rule.cfm">ADA
Amendments Act (ADAAA)</a></span></u>,<span style="color: blue;"> </span>the <u><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&122&&&http://www.dol.gov/whd/fmla/index.htm">Family
and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)</a></span></u> and the <u><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&123&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/statutes/pregnancy.cfm">Pregnancy
Discrimination Act (PDA)</a></span></u>. Although pregnancy is not considered a
disability under the ADAAA, pregnancy-related impairments, such as gestational
diabetes, severe nausea, sciatica or preeclampsia, may be recognized as a
disability and could require an accommodation. Nursing mothers also have
protections under the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&124&&&http://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/">Fair
Labor Standards Act</a>. According to the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&125&&&http://www.nationalpartnership.org/research-library/workplace-fairness/pregnancy-discrimination/reasonable-accommodations-for-pregnant-workers-state-laws.pdf">National
Partnership for Women and Families</a>, 10 states and two cities have
implemented laws requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for
pregnancy. These include Alaska, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois,
Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Texas and West Virginia, in addition to New
York City and Philadelphia. The Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund’s <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&126&&&https://www.legalmomentum.org/state-state-map-pregnancy-discrimination-laws-breastfeeding-and-leave-rights">interactive
map</a> details pregnancy discrimination laws, as well as breastfeeding and
leave rights, in each state. An article from the Society for Human Resource
Management (SHRM), “<a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&127&&&http://www.shrm.org/publications/hrmagazine/editorialcontent/2014/0214/pages/0214-pregnancy-accommodation.aspx">Accommodating
Pregnant Employees</a>,” highlights real-life situations and offers helpful
suggestions on reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers. If you feel you
have been discriminated against, visit the EEOC’s <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&128&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/laws/types/pregnancy.cfm">Pregnancy
Discrimination</a> page, which provides contact and other useful information
about how to file a complaint. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">6. Does Your School Pass with Flying
Colors? </span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Students
with disabilities attending post-secondary schools are protected from
discrimination by both the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&129&&&http://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm#anchor62335">ADA</a>
and <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&130&&&http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/504faq.html">Section
504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973</a>. In accordance with these laws, a
school must make its programs, including its extracurricular activities,
accessible to students with disabilities in an integrated setting. This
includes providing accessible architecture, such as classrooms and housing,
accessible transportation and <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&131&&&http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/auxaids.html">auxiliary
aids and services</a>, if requested. Examples of auxiliary aids include
interpreters, electronic readers and talking calculators. A student must
disclose his or her disability to the school in order to receive these
accommodations; however, if no accommodations are needed, then students are not
required to disclose this information. When choosing a school, students with
disabilities should consider factors such as the type of services already in
place, accommodations they will require and the school’s overall attitude and
reputation towards providing accommodations. Students should talk to their
school’s ADA coordinator, Section 504 coordinator or Disability Services
coordinator <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&132&&&http://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-c51g.pdf">for
more information</a> or if problems arise. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">7. Get the 5-Star Accessibility
Treatment. </span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The
ADA (i.e., Title III) requires all hotels and motels in the U.S. to make their
facilities equally accessible to people with disabilities. There are two types
of accessible guest rooms: those with “mobility” features and others with
“communication” features. For guests with mobility impairments, roll-in showers
and grab bars, lower counters and closet bars are a few of the structural
features that should be offered. For guests who are deaf or hard-of-hearing,
hotels and motels are required to provide rooms equipped with visual
notification devices, telephone amplifiers and TDDs (Telecommunication Devices
for the Deaf). According to the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&133&&&http://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm">2010
ADA Standards for Accessible Design</a>, accessible guest rooms must be
dispersed among different classes of guest rooms and provide choices in the
type of guest rooms, number of beds and other amenities comparable to those
offered to other guests. A fact sheet from the Northwest ADA Center, “<a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&134&&&http://dbtacnorthwest.org/_public/site/files/fact_sheets/Facts_Lodging.pdf">Accessibility
for People with Disabilities at Hotels and Places of Lodging</a>,” gives an
overview of the different elements accessible hotels should include. For more
tips on finding an accessible hotel room, read the post, “<a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&135&&&http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2010/08/25/disability-travela-dream-or-a-reality/">Disability
Travel...a Dream or a Reality?</a>,” on Disability.Blog. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">8. Accessible Public Transportation</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">, such as buses, trains, subway
systems, paratransit and ferries, makes it possible for people with
disabilities to get to work, medical appointments and social activities in
their communities. According to the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&136&&&http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb11-ff14.html">U.S.
Census 2009 American Community Survey</a>, six percent of workers with
disabilities age 16 and older use public transportation to commute to work.
Common accessibility features include accessible parking, elevators, raised
lettering and Braille signage, automatic doors, wheelchair turnstiles and
lifts, public address systems, curb cuts, elevator status announcements and
TDDs. Air travel is regulated under the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&137&&&http://www.dot.gov/individuals/air-consumer/what-airline-employees-airline-contractors-and-air-travelers-disabilities">Air
Carrier Access Act</a>, which prohibits domestic and foreign passenger airlines
from discriminating against people with mental or physical disabilities. For
additional information on transportation, read the May 2014 <em>Disability Connection</em>
newsletter, “<u><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&138&&&https://www.disability.gov/disability-connection-newsletter-may/">10
Things You Need to Know about Planes, Trains and Automobiles</a></span></u>,”
or read Easter Seals Project ACTION’s <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&139&&&http://www.projectaction.org/TransportationtheADA/DisabilityandTransitGlossary.aspx">Glossary
of Disability and Transit Terms</a>. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">9. Technology and the ADA</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">. Let’s first discuss the difference
between accessible technology and assistive technology. <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&140&&&http://accessibletech.org/access_articles/general/whatIsAccessibleEIT.php">Accessible
technology</a> can be used by people with a wide range of abilities, whether
they use assistive technology or not. <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&141&&&http://accessibletech.org/assist_articles/general/whatAT.php">Assistive
technology</a> allows individuals with disabilities to perform tasks or
functions they might otherwise be unable to do. For example, someone with low
vision may not be able to read a book without a video camera magnifier. <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&142&&&http://www.drnpa.org/File/publications/assistive-technology-and-title-ii-and-title-iii-of-the-americans-with-disabilities-act--ada-.pdf">Under
the ADA</a>, governments and public entities must provide devices temporarily
to help individuals with disabilities access their programs and services. For
example, a movie theater should loan you an assistive listening device if you
have a hearing disability. The <em><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&143&&&http://www.ilr.cornell.edu/extension/files/download/Assistive_Tech.pdf">Assistive
Technology, Accommodations and the Americans with Disabilities Act</a></em>
brochure from the ILR School at Cornell University explains more fully how
assistive technology is covered under the ADA. If you are interested in
learning more, the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&144&&&http://www.ada-audio.org/Webinar/AccessibleTechnology/Schedule/">ADA
Online Learning Center</a> offers webinars on a variety of technology-related topics.
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: px;">
<strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">10. People You Should Know</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">. The enactment of the ADA would not
have happened without the hard work of these advocates and many others: </span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&145&&&http://www.abilitymagazine.com/JustinDart_remembered.html">Justin
Dart, Jr.</a>, who is known as the “father” of the ADA, held public forums
across the U.S., Guam and Puerto Rico at his own expense to converse with
people with disabilities and advocate for their civil rights. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&146&&&http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/frederick-a-fay-forceful-activist-for-rights-of-the-disabled-dies-at-66/2011/08/30/gIQAxaxhsJ_story.html">Dr.
Fred Fay</a>, who was a quadriplegic and prominent advocate for disability
rights, won support for not only the ADA, but also the federal
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&147&&&http://dredf.org/about/staff/wright.shtml">Patrisha
Wright</a>, who is known as "the General" of the ADA, was also a
driving force behind the Handicapped Children’s Protection Act of 1986 and
amendments to the Fair Housing Act, which prevented landlords from
discriminating against people with disabilities. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&148&&&http://www.law.udc.edu/?RBurgdorf">Robert
Burgdorf, Jr.</a>, a professor at the University of the District of
Columbia, wrote the original version of the ADA that was introduced in
Congress.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&149&&&http://www.workforce.com/articles/confronting-barriers-an-interview-with-lex-frieden">Lex
Frieden</a>, the former director of the National Council on the
Handicapped (now the <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&150&&&http://www.ncd.gov/">National
Council on Disability</a>), helped craft the language of the ADA. The
concept of “reasonable accommodation” stemmed from his experience in
college when his classes were moved to a building that could better
accommodate his wheelchair. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&151&&&http://history.house.gov/People/Detail/11178">Tony
Coelho</a>, a former Congressman, was the primary author and sponsor of
the ADA. He stated the law was urgently needed to prevent the
discrimination against individuals with disabilities that he experienced
as a person with epilepsy.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&152&&&https://www.harkin.senate.gov/abouttom.cfm">Senator
Tom Harkin</a>, whose brother is deaf, authored, sponsored and introduced
the ADA to the Senate. He considers it to be his signature legislative
achievement and continues to advocate for the rights of people with
disabilities. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTQwNzExLjMzOTYwNjYxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE0MDcxMS4zMzk2MDY2MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE2OTE0Mzk5JmVtYWlsaWQ9bGlzc25lci4yQE9TVS5lZHUmdXNlcmlkPWxpc3NuZXIuMkBPU1UuZWR1JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&153&&&http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/history/35th/bios/evankemp.html">Evan
Kemp, Jr.</a>, a former chairman of the EEOC, worked closely with
President George H.W. Bush during the ADA deliberations. He even wrote
several of the President’s speeches for disability-related events.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-6865873008698352342014-07-09T05:49:00.001-07:002014-07-09T05:49:36.259-07:00Upcoming events in the Westerville AreaThe Music and Arts Festival will be held Saturday, July 12th, 10:00am-6:00pm and Sunday, July 13th 10:00am-5:00pm at Heritage Park in Westerville. This event is sponsored by Nationwide Children's Hospital at Westerville, Roush Honda, and the Westerville Parks and Recreation Department.<br />
Go out to enjoy arts and crafts, music, and fun! The Magic Nate Show, LLC sponsored by Tuffy Auto Service will perform at 11:00a.m, 1:00pm, and 3:00p.m.<br />
<br />
Rock the Ville is back in Westerville for their second annual event, Saturday, August 9th 3:00pm-9:00pmAbility DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-75394011786967584922014-07-09T05:42:00.000-07:002014-07-09T05:42:10.838-07:00Annual Picnic at Mingo Park in Delaware, OH <div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> For our Friends, Self Advocates, and Aktion Club have joined forces to bring together their annual picnic! </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>Make a dish, grab a friend, and go join in the fun! Details below!</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Self Advocates, For Friends, and
Aktion Club Annual Picnic<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Friday, July 11, 6:00pm—8:00 pm<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Mingo Park, Three Season Shelter<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">500 E Lincoln Ave.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Rain or shine<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">You bring:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Last name begins A to L—side dish<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Last name begins M to Z—dessert<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">BBQ pork
and drinks!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Hope you
all can come!</span></b></div>
Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-39102221164038802742014-07-08T14:22:00.000-07:002014-07-08T14:22:32.138-07:00Feds Seek Comment On Subminimum Wage PlanDisability Scoop features an article on the issue of Individuals with Disabilities receiving sub minimum wages and the recent executive order from President Obama mandating a pay hike so that all federal employees, disabled or not receive a minimum wage of $10.10 per hour. Read the article here: <a href="http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/06/18/feds-comment-subminimum/19453/">http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/06/18/feds-comment-subminimum/19453/</a><br />
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There are strong opposing opinions on this issue. I'm finding that there aren't any easy answers and we are far from a resolution.<br />
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If an individual is performing a job the same as their non disabled counterpart, that person should be paid a fair and competitive wage along with equal benefits and opportunities for advancement. Many businesses have unfairly thrived because of their not paying fair wages to individuals with disabilities; individuals that produced goods and/or services equal or superior to their non disabled peers. This is a discriminatory practice that has exploited generations of disabled workers and by all means should immediately end but how are we to ensure this executive order is going to actually benefit people with disabilities?<br />
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Will those awarding the government contracts ensure that the companies that win the contracts employ people with disabilities? It is fine that there is a mandate to pay individuals with disabilities a fair and competitive wage, however if the federal contracts aren't awarded to companies that employ individuals with disabilities then nothing has been accomplished.<br />
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Will this mandate create an even larger unemployment rate among individuals with disabilities? Individuals currently serviced by sheltered workshops because they are unable to meet community employer productivity requirements are faced with the possibility of not having employment at all. The concern of many is that if sheltered workshops are completely phased out, what will become of those individuals that community employment simply isn't an option? Many argue that the sheltered workshops not only give individuals an opportunity to work, they give opportunities for socialization and skill building in a safe environment.<br />
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What about private employers;employers that don't contract with the federal government thereby not mandated by this executive order? There are plenty of businesses in the private sector that employ individuals with disabilities. How will we ensure that those individuals are being paid fairly and equally to those performing the same jobs?<br />
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It isn't a simple black and white issue. There are so many things to consider because there isn't any one answer that can apply to everyone. People are different as are their needs, abilities, and dreams. I believe while it is wonderful that the Obama administration is making strides to enact changes, that more conversation has to be had so that more varying plans of actions can be developed. The more options available, the better we as DD professionals will be able to assist individuals with disabilities in creating the lives that they want and deserve.Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-15531170275469398942014-06-30T11:03:00.002-07:002014-06-30T11:03:47.937-07:00Cook Out!! Hosted by Cornerstone Supported Living, LLC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Come join us for a fun summer day at Walnut Ridge Park 529 E. Walnut St., Westerville, OH 43081.</div>
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We are hosting a cook out July 25th 2014, 3:00pm-7:00pm</div>
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We are planning a fun day of games, music, great food, and a lot of laughs!</div>
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All we need is YOU!</div>
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Please RSVP to chantilla@cssliving.com or by calling 614-882-4499</div>
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Hope to see you there!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBzlF4NcZJHSUNMokxVqvnHIyoRm3bQUOX2W5Pm1w1bazUdnGoQ_WWfjj1XS_k4e69xuk4e_YbFPR-QcRa1aekd7jwImuGqA-hncCkV7DNson4poSYDKXXK5hD9TEjD-2aKUVCQyFh7Y/s1600/cookout.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBzlF4NcZJHSUNMokxVqvnHIyoRm3bQUOX2W5Pm1w1bazUdnGoQ_WWfjj1XS_k4e69xuk4e_YbFPR-QcRa1aekd7jwImuGqA-hncCkV7DNson4poSYDKXXK5hD9TEjD-2aKUVCQyFh7Y/s1600/cookout.png" height="640" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-89729327129104895612014-06-25T04:15:00.001-07:002014-06-25T04:15:54.680-07:00The Future Is Bright!Roughly 20 years ago, I was sitting with a group of friends on a Saturday night watching television, eating store brand pizzas, and perfecting our coolness as a way of entertaining our financially challenged selves for the evening. Naturally it was I that broke the cool vibe we had going that evening.<br />
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Out of the blue, I made the statement that as a society we used to be the Flintstones, but now we are almost the Jetsons. I looked into everyone's faces for their understanding of the profound statement I had just made. All I got was side eyes and reluctant nods (I was the odd one in that crowd; they revoked my cool card due to statements such as this. Apparently the statement wasn't as profound as I thought).<br />
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Recently the memory of that evening came back to me after I read an article about Ian Burkhart, a young man that was paralyzed in a freak swimming accident when he was 19 years old. Mr. Burkhart recently traveled to the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center as the first participant of a medical trial by surgeons from the Ohio State University and engineers from Battelle.<br />
Read the article here <a href="http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/2014/06/24/cbs-new-technology-allows-quadriplegic-to-move-hand.html">http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/2014/06/24/cbs-new-technology-allows-quadriplegic-to-move-hand.html</a><br />
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Science and technology are discovering breakthroughs to difficult and complex issues everyday. The future is bright with possibilities. It is amazing that this medical trial that has allowed Mr. Burkhart to move his fingers with power of his mind, is just the tip of the ice berg. Not only are we going to unlock the mysteries of the brain to help individuals such as Mr. Burkhart walk again, I believe we are going to be able to solve the mysteries of all disabilities.<br />
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Perhaps we aren't the Jetsons yet, but we are well on our way!<br />
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-433400491954412485.post-29184053673283387552014-06-17T08:16:00.000-07:002014-06-17T08:16:01.974-07:00Parents of Special Needs Children vs. Parents of Typical ChildrenA parent recently shared with me a blog written by a parent of a special needs child. Read the article here:<br />
<a href="http://www.ellenstumbo.com/confessions-of-a-special-needs-parent-the-hard-things/">http://www.ellenstumbo.com/confessions-of-a-special-needs-parent-the-hard-things/</a><br />
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As I read the article, I thought of a recent conversation I had with a parent regarding my typical son. While this parent and I have worked together for the last five years in providing support to her special needs child, initially I was careful in my statements regarding my worries and concerns for my son so as to not be offensive to her or to seem ungrateful for my typical son.<br />
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I disguised my worries and fears for him in jokes that had us both enjoying a deep hearty laughter that cleanses the soul and releases stress (contrary to my public persona, I can be a comedic genius in a relaxed atmosphere!). I shared evidence of his not being ready for the world by relaying stories of his follies over the last year: fender benders, traffic court, and most recently his being offended by a 911 operator that hung up on him when he called to report the emergency of locking his keys in the trunk (he called back to make sure they didn't just get disconnected and was informed to not call again).<br />
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As our laughter subsided, the parent said to me, "You know, I never have to worry about <i>those</i> things."<br />
Honestly, for a moment I was taken aback. She went on to say, "It just hit me how lucky I am to have that kid just the way that she is. I don't have to worry about what is going to happen to her behind the wheel of a car or any of the things you are talking about. I get to do what you wish you could do, which is protect her for the rest of her life. Maybe it won't be me personally doing it forever, but I get to put her in a position that someone is always there looking out for her."<br />
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I came to a beautiful realization in that moment. Parents are parents. There was no need for me to be careful in talking about my typical son to her. In fact it was a bit arrogant on my part to think that my concerns about my typical children would be a cause for offense to her. The idea I had that it is poor manners to complain about our typical children to a parent of a special needs child was wrong. Parents are parents.<br />
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After I finished the article, Confessions of a Special Needs Parent. I came to the conclusion that I can relate to every confession the mother listed on some level. While I don't understand every challenge faced by parents of special needs children, I do understand what it is to be a mom. Regardless of the package, worry is worry, fear is fear, joy is joy, and love is love. Rather than our looking at the world from our opposite sides, I think it is best for us to understand we are all part of the same coin; if we can do that, we can accomplish amazing things through our acceptance, support, and love of each other.<br />
<br />Ability DCDDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09353266954346451331noreply@blogger.com0