Additional News and Information

From the ARC

Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities Now Available

The ARC of Ohio and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio present Medicaid Buy In & Individual Benefit Management Regional Presentations on August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 10, 24 and 25, 2008

Click here to learn more about Medicaid Buy-In and the presentations...

The Arc of Ohio has filed a formal complaint with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Click here to read the article.

The Arc is actively trying to re-connect families who wish to find love ones through TheArcLink's National FindFamily Registry. Click the following to learn more - www.thearclink.org/findfamily

The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials

Click here to read more...

From ADA-Ohio (Americans with Disabilities Act)

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued a fact sheet titled: Employment Tests and Selection Procedures. This document addresses the application of federal antidiscrimination laws to employer tests and other selection procedures to screen applicants for hire and employees for promotion. Discriminatory employment tests and selection procedures are prohibited by Title VII the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).

A copy of the fact sheet can be found at http://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/factemployment_procedures.html

From the Better Hearing Institute

The Better Hearing Institute Unveils Hearing Aid Tax Credit Website - Help pass hearing aid tax credit legislation now. Click on the following website to learn more - www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org

From the Boy Scouts of America

Opportunities for adults with disabilities to participate in some of the Boy Scout programs. Click here to read more...

From the Elizabeth M. Boggs Center

New Interfaith Resource Guide on Autism Available for Congregations, Clergy, and Families. The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities in the Department of Pediatrics at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School announces a new resource entitled Autism and Faith: A Journey into Community. The guide provides an introductory, empowering resource for use by clergy, religious educators, and families to develop inclusive spiritual supports for children and adults with autism and their families and recognize the unique gifts that congregations and people with autism can offer to one another.

To place an order, please visit The Boggs Center website at http://rwjms.umdnj.edu/boggscenter or call 732-235-9317.

Computers for Ohioans with Disabilities

Any legal Ohio resident with a disability and a need for a computer is eligible for the program. The program is also open to families who have children with disabilities, as long as the computer is used primarily by the child. Click here to learn more...

From the Cuyahoga County Board of MR/DD

MR/DD Night at Progressive Field! Two opportunities to see the Tribe - Monday, July 28 vs the Tigers & Wednesday, September 3 vs the White Sox. Click here for a flyer and to order tickets.

Planting the Seeds for a Successful Future...2008 CCBMR/DD Seminar Series. Click here to read more...

HeARTworks Gallery & Gifts - Located on the lower level of the downtown Galleria - 1301 East 9th Street, Cleveland

HeARTworks artists are blossoming this spring.

Cards for all occasions created by artisans with MR/DD at the Maple Heights Adult Activities Center are now available online! Go to www.ccbmrdd.org/card_handmadecards.asp to see these beautiful cards! Or click here for a flyer!

From the Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) Click here to read more...

Upcoming activities from Keene Promotions, Inc. Click here to read more...

From the National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO)

The NAA-NEO sent out a news release regarding grants have been awarded to families raising a child/children or dependent(s) with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through its Helping Hand Program in the counties surrounding Cleveland and Akron. Click here to read this news release.

Or go to the website for more information about the NAA-NEO http://www.autismnortheastohio.org/.

From The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health

The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health has been asked to share information from the Jed Foundation on an important and valuable research study. The Jed Foundation is an organization dedicated to suicide prevention and the promotion of mental health among college-age students. The Foundation is currently conducting research for their “Transition Year Project (TYP)”. This study is focused on young people moving from high school to college, particularly for students with mental health issues. The research will be used to create guides for both parents and students. This is a worthwhile study that will help one of the nations leading organizations working to prevent suicide and promote mental health. Click here to read more...

From the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers).

The ADA Audio Conference Series is a project of the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business

From the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI)

Survey on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Transition to Community is Now Available.

Survey for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder who have had successful employment outcomes.

Click here to read more about both of these surveys...

From the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

It is the mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. Check out their E-Diversity Newsletters by clicking the following link: http://ddc.ohio.gov/Pub/EDiversity.htm

From Ohio Office of Exceptional Children

The United States Department of Education (USDoE) provides states the flexibility of implementing an alternate assessment based on modified academic achievement standards for certain students with disabilities. The use of the achievement standards has implications for districts making adequate yearly process (AYP). This provision may be more familiar to you when referred to as the “2% modified assessment.” Click here to read more...

OLRS Voter Alert: Is your polling location accessible

Polling locations in Ohio must be accessible to voters with any type of disability, for example, mobility, hearing or visual impairment, or cognitive limitation. Voters with disabilities should make sure that their polling places are accessible before they vote on election day. Examples of common problems are a lack of accessible parking spaces, gravel parking lots and paths to the building, lack of ramps or accessible door handles. Click here to read more...

From the Parent to Parent Network

The Parent to Parent Network is sponsoring a year long Mental Health Awareness (MHA) Campaign. Go to their website to see upcoming speakers and programs - http://www.parent2parentnetwork.org/mentalhealth.htm

From the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center

Please click here to read more about a new brochure intended for spinal cord injury survivors living in the community to help maintain their health.

St. GILES Support Group

St. Giles is the patron saint of people with disabilities and the group's founders have used "Giles" as an acronym for Gathering in Love for Education and Support. This is a support group for parents and care givers of children and adults with special needs. It has been created by caring moms to give anyone who is interested a voice and outlet to talk, learn, and share with others dealing with similar daily triumphs and challenges of raising children with special needs. Feel free to invite others you know who may be interested.

If you have any questions please contact Sherri Duncan @ 216-205-9907 or email pwd2000@yahoo.com

OR Amanda Mooney @ 216-352-0568 or email amandamooney@yahoo.com

"Save As Daisy"

"Save As Daisy" will soon work on Microsoft Office documents to change them into the format for digital talking books developed by the Digital Access Information System Consortium, known as DAISY XML. According to a press release, the “Save as Daisy” plug-in will allow people with print disabilities to smoothly navigate through documents. Microsoft expects to release this free tool after the first of the year.

Go to: http://pressmediawire.com/article.cfm?articleID=3700 to read “Microsoft and DAISY Help Enhance Reading Experience for People with Print Disabilities.”

From SOAR!

Click here to see a flyer for SOAR! Summer Session / July 14 to August 23

From Spirit of Excellence, Inc.

Spirit of Excellence, Inc., a recreational mentoring program, in partnership with The City Mission, is sponsoring recreational activities for adults with mr/dd. This will take place on Saturday from May thru October from 3:00pm - 5:30pm. For more information click below for a flyer or call Antoine Burts at 216-526-5140 or The City Mission at 216-431-3520 x230. Or email spiritofexcellence@yahoo.com

Click here for a flyer.

Study Seeks Participants with Sensory and/or Mobility Impairments

If you have a sensory impairment and/or mobility impairment, you may be eligible to participate in a new research project. This research aims to understand what people with sensory and/or mobility impairments do in their daily lives, how their environments affect their community participation and what, if any, help they need to complete activities.

Click here to read more...

From the U.S. Treasury

The US Treasury Introduces Direct Express^® Debit Card for Social Security Payments. Click here to read more...

From the Washington Learning System

Free parent-child activity materials are available for downloading at the Washington Learning Systems website.

Click here to read more...

**************************************************************************************************************************

From The ARC of Ohio

Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities Now Available

Ohio’s Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) began April 1, 2008. MBIWD allows individuals with disabilities who are working to qualify for Medicaid with higher income and resource limits, and buy-into Medicaid by paying a premium based on income. People with disabilities can qualify for MBIWD with resources up to $10,000 and incomes that under some circumstances exceed $60,000 a year.

Information about the MBIWD program, application forms and instructions can be found on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services web site below. Please read all application instructions carefully to ensure that you provide all of the information requested.

http://jfs.ohio.gov/OHP/mbiwd.stm

If you have any questions, contact:

Medicaid Consumer Hotline – 1-800-324-8680/V or 1-800-292-3572/TTY

Your local County Department of Job and Family Services

Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio – call 614-2280-8300?Columbus area, 1-800-796-8498 or send an email to CPOhio@midohio.twcbc.com

The ARC of Ohio and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio will hold regional presentations regarding the Medicaid Buy In & Individual Benefit Management on: August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 10, 24 and 25, 2008. Click here for a flyer and registration form.

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials

The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials to help individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, their caregivers, and staff to learn about diabetes prevention and management. All diabetes materials are free of charge and include:
* Laminated, wallet-sized card called "Quick Tips for Preventing and Managing Diabetes";
* Film about diabetes - geared for individuals with developmental disabilities, the film is available in both DVD and VHS formats; and
* Diabetes booklets for self-advocates and caregivers;

To order materials, contact Diane Flynn, at dflynn@arcnj.org or call (732) 246-2525, ext. 28.

To learn more about the Arc of New Jersey, visit http://www.arcnj.org/

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From the Boy Scouts of America

The Greater Cleveland Council, BSA has helped several of the homes in the North East Care Center and Phoenix Residential Services adopt the program from their residents. Some Boy Scout units have been active and successful in these homes for several years. In talking with the house managers and program directors, they have stated that the residents are able to associate themselves with a large group of people. It offers their staff a diverse range of program opportunities, from helping prepare meals, to camping overnight at our local Boy Scout Camp. All the while the residents are earning requirements towards ranks.

It is our goal to put on a “Pinewood Derby” race for all group homes to participate in and compete against one another. We also have began the initial planning process for a Spring Camporee, where the residents will be able to participate and compete in basic Scouting skills with the help on staff and local Boy Scouts.

The Boy Scouts has been made aware of the strict confidentialities with many residents and are in the process of creating an agreement for local Scouts and leaders to sign when working with the residents. We also have been made aware of the photo confidentialities and are sensitive to that.

The Boy Scouts of Cleveland are also in the initial planning stages of hosting a 4 day camp at the end of our traditional camping season for all MR/DD individuals to attend. At this point, the only hold up is the number of participants to make it effective. The more homes and individuals we can get involved the better we can coordinate super-activities and outings.

Our council is split in to 9 geographical areas and each area has a district executive responsible for the growth and implementation of Scouting in their area. I would be happy to get interested house managers or program directors in touch with the appropriate person.

For Information, call Matt Baker of the Boy Scouts of America, 2241 Woodland Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115

V: (216) 861-6060 x.120 / F: (216) 861-3431

mabaker@bsamail.org / www.gccbsa.org

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From the Cuyahoga County Board of MR/DD

Planting the Seeds for a Successful Future...2008 CCBMR/DD Seminar Series.

Fall 2008 Wednesdays, October 15th, 22nd and 29th from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Beachwood Adult Activities Center 23750 Mercantile Rd., Beachwood, Ohio 44122. Register by October 1!

John and Carol Culley, life planners serving people with disabilities and their families, are the workshop moderators, along with other experts in legal planning, residential options and person centered planning. To sign up, call (216) 736-2717 or mail the registration form. Enrollment costs $50 per family to cover the printed materials that participants keep. Click here for a flyer with more information and the registration form.

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From the Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO)

Check back soon for more activities!

All IGO programs have been evaluated regarding accessibility and activity level. With professionally trained staff and the ability to make equipment adaptations, most programs are accessible to anyone who would like to participate. For further information regarding program accessibility, or to schedule an accessible custom program, please contact the IGO Outdoor Adaptive Recreation Specialist, April Rosenthal, CTRS at 216-341-1704. You can also visit their website at http://www.clemetparks.com/education/igo/index.asp

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

Upcoming Activities from Keene Promotions, Inc.

Captains Game! Friday, July 25^th 7:05 PM Classic Park in Eastlake

$10 includes a game ticket. Please register through Mayfield Village Recreation at (440) 461-5163.

Please remember these activities are for young adults 13 and up.

Continue to check back for upcoming activities...

For information, call or email Judi Greenspan at 216-932-1989 or jgreenspan@keenepromotions.com

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health

Criteria: They are seeking parents whose children are college-age (17-24) and have dealt with mental health issues to participate in the “testing” of their research guide; this will be done by reviewing the guide, and offering feedback.

Process: The first part of their research study is currently being conducted. They have been interviewing parents and asking them general questions about how their child’s mental health issues impacted the transition from high school to college and lessons that they have learned. With the information gained from the interviews, they will be developing the Parents Resource Guide. They need parents to “test” the Parents Resource Guide.

For this second aspect of the project, the participants will be mailed Parents Resource Guides in advance to review. They will then be asked to spend 15 minutes, on the telephone, expressing their reactions to the guide.

Compensation: For parents who meet the criteria, after the conversation where they “test” the guide, The Jed Foundation will send them a $15.00 check in the mail. We will also include copies of the parent and student guides, other Jed Foundation products and a thank you note from the staff.

If you are interested or know someone who might be, please contact Ms. Michele Eichorn at (212) 647-7544 or via email at meichorn@jedfoundation.org as soon as possible.

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers).

The ADA Audio Conference Series is a project of the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business

Technical Assistance Centers). The ADA Audio Conference Series provides in-depth information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Accessible Information Technology and other related topics. This program is designed as a springboard to enhance an individual's existing knowledge base or facilitate continued learning regarding regulations and trends under the ADA. The program is available in three formats: Teleconference, Streaming Audio via the Internet and real-time captioning on the Internet. You can learn more at http://www.ada-audio.org

The ADA Audio Conference Schedule for 2008 is:

August 19, 2008 Serving Customers with Disabilities: Implications for the Hospitality Industry

September 16, 2008 Latino Immigrants with Disabilities: Challenges in employment

Call for more information: LEAP, Gary Edler, Program Assistant, 216-696-2716, x 101

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

OCALI Survey on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Transition to Community is Now Available!

Two Surveys are now available!

1) Transition to Community encompasses transition to employment, postsecondary education/training, and to community participation, including residential options, health care and financial management. Results of this survey will provide information to OCALI, Ohio Department of Education and other state agencies regarding the experiences of students with ASD in school, their activities after leaving school, and their ongoing needs for supports and services as an adult. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. This survey is for:

Family Members with individuals on the autism spectrum (ages 14 and older),
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ages 14 and older), and
Professionals that support individuals with autism spectrum disorder

To take the survey - visit http://www.ocali.org/ The survey is on the homepage.

2) The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) has partnered with The Ohio State University Nisonger Center to identify individuals on the Autism Spectrum to participate in a survey about successful employment outcomes.

They are looking for individuals with ASD who have been successfully working in the community for 6 months or more and would be willing to be interviewed, as well as, share their stories with others. Interviews will be with the individual with ASD and/or their family representative. Interviews will be by phone and should take about 30 minutes to complete. If you are interested or have questions please contact Rachel Straus at straus.9@osu.edu or 614-292-4185.

*************************************************** Back to the Top *****************************************************

From Ohio Office of Exceptional Children

In 2007, Ohio, as part of a three state consortium that includes Oregon and Minnesota, received a grant from the Office for Special Education Programs (OSEP) to develop an alternate assessment based on modified achievement standards. The consortium is working with American Institutes for Research (AIR) in developing the test.

As part of the development work the consortium has developed a draft Eligibility Guidelines and a Decision Flowchart which will assist educators in determining whether the modified assessment would be appropriate for a particular student with a disability.

The following link will direct you to a survey seeking your feedback on the two documents before they become final.

The documents are included as part of the survey. This survey is intended to collect data from key stakeholders and will be considered by the consortium in final revisions to these two key documents.

http://websurveyor.airws.org/ss/wsb.dll/6/AAMAS_survey.htm

The department would like as many people as possible to complete the survey by August 08, 2008. Please inform your colleagues and associations about this survey so that as many people as possible can provide input. The survey will take less than 20 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous.

*************************************************** Back to the Top *****************************************************

OLRS Voter Alert: Is your polling location accessible

Voters with disabilities should:

Know where to vote. Polling locations can and do change. You can search the Secretary of State's Web site to find your polling location: http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/pollinglocation.aspx?page=361
Review the accessibility of your polling location. Go from the parking area or bus stop, into the building, to the room where you will vote. Note any accessibility problems.
Make a complaint about access problems or other voting rights violations. You can make a complaint about polling place accessibility and other voting rights violations to the Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS). The mission of OLRS is to protect and advocate, in partnership with people with disabilities, for their human, civil and legal rights, including voting rights.

Contact OLRS: 614-466-7264 or 1-800-282-9181 (toll-free in Ohio only); TTY: 614-728-2553 or 1-800-858-3542
Write: Intake Department, 50 West Broad Street, Suite 1400, Columbus, Ohio 43215-5923

The full version is available on the OLRS Web site at: http://olrs.ohio.gov/asp/OLRSVoterAlertReady.asp

*************************************************** Back to the Top *****************************************************

From the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center

As part of the continued focus on knowledge and prevention of secondary conditions associated with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Spinal Cord Injury (RRTC on SCI) has produced this educational brochure on Diabetes and SCI. To access this publication on the Web please visit:
http://www.ilru.org/html/publications/SCI/library/Diabetes.pdf

This brochure is intended for spinal cord injury survivors living in the community to help maintain their health. "Diabetes and SCI" is the first in a series of educational brochures focused on specific health concerns and issues of long-term spinal cord injury survivors. It is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a medical condition.

*************************************************** Back to the Top *****************************************************

Study Seeks Participants with Sensory and/or Mobility Impairments

Eligibility requires that you:

Are between the ages of 18 and 75
Live in the community
Have access to a computer
Can read at or above the 6th grade level
Can enter responses into a web-based survey or direct another individual to enter your responses into a web-based survey
Have either a mobility impairment, a visual impairment, or a hearing impairment

If eligibility is established you will receive a code to log on to the survey site and complete the study. All information will be kept confidential and no connection between you and your survey answers will be made. Participants will be reimbursed by either a personal check or by a gift certificate to either Target or Walgreens, and may choose the method of reimbursement they prefer. The web-based assessment contains a set of two surveys and will take approximately one hour to complete.

Please click on the link below and you will be directed to a short pre-survey to determine eligibility.

Study Participation Eligibility and Registration Survey

This study is conducted by the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy in collaboration with Paraquad, Inc. This research is funded by the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research at the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research at the US Department of Education

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

U.S. Treasury Introduces Direct Express^® Debit Card for Social Security Payments

Treasury today announced that a prepaid debit card option for Social Security payments and other federal benefits is now available. The Direct Express^® Debit MasterCard^® card – designed as a safe, convenient alternative to paper checks – is currently being introduced in 10 states, and will be rolled out nationwide this summer.

The Direct Express card provides another option to choose from for the nearly four million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who do not have a bank account, but are looking for a no-cost or low-cost alternative to using check cashing facilities and carrying large amounts of cash. Cardholders can make purchases, pay bills and get cash at thousands of ATMs and retail locations.

Treasury has engaged a financial agent – Dallas-based Comerica Bank – to issue this nationally available card exclusively for federal benefit payments. People currently receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas have received information about the card. People may sign up for the card by calling toll-free 1-877-212-9991 or visiting www.USDirectExpress.com. For more information, see Treasury's press release here.

A robust public education campaign will accompany the launch of the card and promote debit card literacy among likely users. Partner organizations will play a vital role in communicating the benefits of the card to check recipients.

For additional information about the Direct Express Debit MasterCard, visit the Direct Express Web site at www.USDirectExpress.com and click on the Partners link. Or, contact your Go Direct campaign representative or call 952-346-6004 or email a partner outreach coordinator.

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************

From the Washington Learning System

Free parent-child activity materials are available for downloading at the Washington Learning Systems website. The development of these materials was supported by Grant H324M020084 from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. Free reproducible language and early literacy activities in English and Spanish. Developed by Angela Notari-Syverson, Ph.D. and colleagues.

To download materials go to www.walearning.com and click on the purple button that says "Free Parent Education Handouts" on the home page.

These materials include activities for adults and young children that encourage early language and literacy development from birth through preschool. They are appropriate for children with disabilities as well as children who are developing typically.

*************************************************** Back to the Top ******************************************************


Home	Services & Ministries	Who We Serve	Where We Serve	Contact Us	News & Links
Additional News and Information From the ARC Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities Now Available The ARC of Ohio and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio present Medicaid Buy In & Individual Benefit Management Regional Presentations on August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 10, 24 and 25, 2008 Click here to learn more about Medicaid Buy-In and the presentations... The Arc of Ohio has filed a formal complaint with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Click here to read the article. The Arc is actively trying to re-connect families who wish to find love ones through TheArcLink's National FindFamily Registry. Click the following to learn more - www.thearclink.org/findfamily The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials to help individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, their caregivers, and staff to learn about diabetes prevention and management. Click here to read more... From ADA-Ohio (Americans with Disabilities Act) The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued a fact sheet titled: Employment Tests and Selection Procedures. This document addresses the application of federal antidiscrimination laws to employer tests and other selection procedures to screen applicants for hire and employees for promotion. Discriminatory employment tests and selection procedures are prohibited by Title VII the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). A copy of the fact sheet can be found at http://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/factemployment_procedures.html From the Better Hearing Institute The Better Hearing Institute Unveils Hearing Aid Tax Credit Website - Help pass hearing aid tax credit legislation now. Click on the following website to learn more - www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org From the Boy Scouts of America Opportunities for adults with disabilities to participate in some of the Boy Scout programs. Click here to read more... From the Elizabeth M. Boggs Center New Interfaith Resource Guide on Autism Available for Congregations, Clergy, and Families. The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities in the Department of Pediatrics at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School announces a new resource entitled Autism and Faith: A Journey into Community. The guide provides an introductory, empowering resource for use by clergy, religious educators, and families to develop inclusive spiritual supports for children and adults with autism and their families and recognize the unique gifts that congregations and people with autism can offer to one another. To place an order, please visit The Boggs Center website at http://rwjms.umdnj.edu/boggscenter or call 732-235-9317. Computers for Ohioans with Disabilities Any legal Ohio resident with a disability and a need for a computer is eligible for the program. The program is also open to families who have children with disabilities, as long as the computer is used primarily by the child. Click here to learn more... From the Cuyahoga County Board of MR/DD MR/DD Night at Progressive Field! Two opportunities to see the Tribe - Monday, July 28 vs the Tigers & Wednesday, September 3 vs the White Sox. Click here for a flyer and to order tickets. Planting the Seeds for a Successful Future...2008 CCBMR/DD Seminar Series. Click here to read more... HeARTworks Gallery & Gifts - Located on the lower level of the downtown Galleria - 1301 East 9th Street, Cleveland HeARTworks artists are blossoming this spring. Cards for all occasions created by artisans with MR/DD at the Maple Heights Adult Activities Center are now available online! Go to www.ccbmrdd.org/card_handmadecards.asp to see these beautiful cards! Or click here for a flyer! From the Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) Click here to read more... Upcoming activities from Keene Promotions, Inc. Click here to read more... From the National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) The NAA-NEO sent out a news release regarding grants have been awarded to families raising a child/children or dependent(s) with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through its Helping Hand Program in the counties surrounding Cleveland and Akron. Click here to read this news release. Or go to the website for more information about the NAA-NEO http://www.autismnortheastohio.org/. From The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health has been asked to share information from the Jed Foundation on an important and valuable research study. The Jed Foundation is an organization dedicated to suicide prevention and the promotion of mental health among college-age students. The Foundation is currently conducting research for their “Transition Year Project (TYP)”. This study is focused on young people moving from high school to college, particularly for students with mental health issues. The research will be used to create guides for both parents and students. This is a worthwhile study that will help one of the nations leading organizations working to prevent suicide and promote mental health. Click here to read more... From the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers). The ADA Audio Conference Series is a project of the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers). The ADA Audio Conference Series provides in-depth information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Accessible Information Technology and other related topics. Please click here to read more... From the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) Survey on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Transition to Community is Now Available. Survey for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder who have had successful employment outcomes. Click here to read more about both of these surveys... From the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council It is the mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. Check out their E-Diversity Newsletters by clicking the following link: http://ddc.ohio.gov/Pub/EDiversity.htm From Ohio Office of Exceptional Children The United States Department of Education (USDoE) provides states the flexibility of implementing an alternate assessment based on modified academic achievement standards for certain students with disabilities. The use of the achievement standards has implications for districts making adequate yearly process (AYP). This provision may be more familiar to you when referred to as the “2% modified assessment.” Click here to read more... OLRS Voter Alert: Is your polling location accessible Polling locations in Ohio must be accessible to voters with any type of disability, for example, mobility, hearing or visual impairment, or cognitive limitation. Voters with disabilities should make sure that their polling places are accessible before they vote on election day. Examples of common problems are a lack of accessible parking spaces, gravel parking lots and paths to the building, lack of ramps or accessible door handles. Click here to read more... From the Parent to Parent Network The Parent to Parent Network is sponsoring a year long Mental Health Awareness (MHA) Campaign. Go to their website to see upcoming speakers and programs - http://www.parent2parentnetwork.org/mentalhealth.htm From the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center Please click here to read more about a new brochure intended for spinal cord injury survivors living in the community to help maintain their health. St. GILES Support Group St. Giles is the patron saint of people with disabilities and the group's founders have used "Giles" as an acronym for Gathering in Love for Education and Support. This is a support group for parents and care givers of children and adults with special needs. It has been created by caring moms to give anyone who is interested a voice and outlet to talk, learn, and share with others dealing with similar daily triumphs and challenges of raising children with special needs. Feel free to invite others you know who may be interested. If you have any questions please contact Sherri Duncan @ 216-205-9907 or email pwd2000@yahoo.com OR Amanda Mooney @ 216-352-0568 or email amandamooney@yahoo.com "Save As Daisy" "Save As Daisy" will soon work on Microsoft Office documents to change them into the format for digital talking books developed by the Digital Access Information System Consortium, known as DAISY XML. According to a press release, the “Save as Daisy” plug-in will allow people with print disabilities to smoothly navigate through documents. Microsoft expects to release this free tool after the first of the year. Go to: http://pressmediawire.com/article.cfm?articleID=3700 to read “Microsoft and DAISY Help Enhance Reading Experience for People with Print Disabilities.” From SOAR! Click here to see a flyer for SOAR! Summer Session / July 14 to August 23 From Spirit of Excellence, Inc. Spirit of Excellence, Inc., a recreational mentoring program, in partnership with The City Mission, is sponsoring recreational activities for adults with mr/dd. This will take place on Saturday from May thru October from 3:00pm - 5:30pm. For more information click below for a flyer or call Antoine Burts at 216-526-5140 or The City Mission at 216-431-3520 x230. Or email spiritofexcellence@yahoo.com Click here for a flyer. Study Seeks Participants with Sensory and/or Mobility Impairments If you have a sensory impairment and/or mobility impairment, you may be eligible to participate in a new research project. This research aims to understand what people with sensory and/or mobility impairments do in their daily lives, how their environments affect their community participation and what, if any, help they need to complete activities. Click here to read more... From the U.S. Treasury The US Treasury Introduces Direct Express^® Debit Card for Social Security Payments. Click here to read more... From the Washington Learning System Free parent-child activity materials are available for downloading at the Washington Learning Systems website. Click here to read more... ************************************************************************************************************************ ********************************************************************************************************************** From The ARC of Ohio Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities Now Available Ohio’s Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) began April 1, 2008. MBIWD allows individuals with disabilities who are working to qualify for Medicaid with higher income and resource limits, and buy-into Medicaid by paying a premium based on income. People with disabilities can qualify for MBIWD with resources up to $10,000 and incomes that under some circumstances exceed $60,000 a year. Information about the MBIWD program, application forms and instructions can be found on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services web site below. Please read all application instructions carefully to ensure that you provide all of the information requested. http://jfs.ohio.gov/OHP/mbiwd.stm If you have any questions, contact: Medicaid Consumer Hotline – 1-800-324-8680/V or 1-800-292-3572/TTY Your local County Department of Job and Family Services Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio – call 614-2280-8300?Columbus area, 1-800-796-8498 or send an email to CPOhio@midohio.twcbc.com The ARC of Ohio and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio will hold regional presentations regarding the Medicaid Buy In & Individual Benefit Management on: August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 10, 24 and 25, 2008. Click here for a flyer and registration form. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials** The Arc of New Jersey has published educational materials to help individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, their caregivers, and staff to learn about diabetes prevention and management. All diabetes materials are free of charge and include: * Laminated, wallet-sized card called "Quick Tips for Preventing and Managing Diabetes"; * Film about diabetes - geared for individuals with developmental disabilities, the film is available in both DVD and VHS formats; and * Diabetes booklets for self-advocates and caregivers; To order materials, contact Diane Flynn, at dflynn@arcnj.org or call (732) 246-2525, ext. 28. To learn more about the Arc of New Jersey, visit http://www.arcnj.org/ ************************************************* Back to the Top ************************************************** From the Boy Scouts of America The Greater Cleveland Council, BSA has helped several of the homes in the North East Care Center and Phoenix Residential Services adopt the program from their residents. Some Boy Scout units have been active and successful in these homes for several years. In talking with the house managers and program directors, they have stated that the residents are able to associate themselves with a large group of people. It offers their staff a diverse range of program opportunities, from helping prepare meals, to camping overnight at our local Boy Scout Camp. All the while the residents are earning requirements towards ranks. It is our goal to put on a “Pinewood Derby” race for all group homes to participate in and compete against one another. We also have began the initial planning process for a Spring Camporee, where the residents will be able to participate and compete in basic Scouting skills with the help on staff and local Boy Scouts. The Boy Scouts has been made aware of the strict confidentialities with many residents and are in the process of creating an agreement for local Scouts and leaders to sign when working with the residents. We also have been made aware of the photo confidentialities and are sensitive to that. The Boy Scouts of Cleveland are also in the initial planning stages of hosting a 4 day camp at the end of our traditional camping season for all MR/DD individuals to attend. At this point, the only hold up is the number of participants to make it effective. The more homes and individuals we can get involved the better we can coordinate super-activities and outings. Our council is split in to 9 geographical areas and each area has a district executive responsible for the growth and implementation of Scouting in their area. I would be happy to get interested house managers or program directors in touch with the appropriate person. For Information, call Matt Baker of the Boy Scouts of America, 2241 Woodland Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115 V: (216) 861-6060 x.120 / F: (216) 861-3431 mabaker@bsamail.org / www.gccbsa.org *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** From the Cuyahoga County Board of MR/DD Planting the Seeds for a Successful Future...2008 CCBMR/DD Seminar Series. Fall 2008 Wednesdays, October 15th, 22nd and 29th from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Beachwood Adult Activities Center 23750 Mercantile Rd., Beachwood, Ohio 44122. Register by October 1! John and Carol Culley, life planners serving people with disabilities and their families, are the workshop moderators, along with other experts in legal planning, residential options and person centered planning. To sign up, call (216) 736-2717 or mail the registration form. Enrollment costs $50 per family to cover the printed materials that participants keep. Click here for a flyer with more information and the registration form. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** From the Institute of the Great Outdoors (IGO) Check back soon for more activities! All IGO programs have been evaluated regarding accessibility and activity level. With professionally trained staff and the ability to make equipment adaptations, most programs are accessible to anyone who would like to participate. For further information regarding program accessibility, or to schedule an accessible custom program, please contact the IGO Outdoor Adaptive Recreation Specialist, April Rosenthal, CTRS at 216-341-1704. You can also visit their website at http://www.clemetparks.com/education/igo/index.asp *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** Upcoming Activities from Keene Promotions, Inc. Captains Game! Friday, July 25^th 7:05 PM Classic Park in Eastlake $10 includes a game ticket. Please register through Mayfield Village Recreation at (440) 461-5163. Please remember these activities are for young adults 13 and up. Continue to check back for upcoming activities... For information, call or email Judi Greenspan at 216-932-1989 or jgreenspan@keenepromotions.com *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** From The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health has been asked to share information from the Jed Foundation on an important and valuable research study. The Jed Foundation is an organization dedicated to suicide prevention and the promotion of mental health among college-age students. The Foundation is currently conducting research for their “Transition Year Project (TYP)”. This study is focused on young people moving from high school to college, particularly for students with mental health issues. The research will be used to create guides for both parents and students. This is a worthwhile study that will help one of the nations leading organizations working to prevent suicide and promote mental health. Criteria: They are seeking parents whose children are college-age (17-24) and have dealt with mental health issues to participate in the “testing” of their research guide; this will be done by reviewing the guide, and offering feedback. Process: The first part of their research study is currently being conducted. They have been interviewing parents and asking them general questions about how their child’s mental health issues impacted the transition from high school to college and lessons that they have learned. With the information gained from the interviews, they will be developing the Parents Resource Guide. They need parents to “test” the Parents Resource Guide. For this second aspect of the project, the participants will be mailed Parents Resource Guides in advance to review. They will then be asked to spend 15 minutes, on the telephone, expressing their reactions to the guide. Compensation: For parents who meet the criteria, after the conversation where they “test” the guide, The Jed Foundation will send them a $15.00 check in the mail. We will also include copies of the parent and student guides, other Jed Foundation products and a thank you note from the staff. If you are interested or know someone who might be, please contact Ms. Michele Eichorn at (212) 647-7544 or via email at meichorn@jedfoundation.org as soon as possible. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** From the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers). The ADA Audio Conference Series is a project of the National Network of ADA Centers (Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers). The ADA Audio Conference Series provides in-depth information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Accessible Information Technology and other related topics. This program is designed as a springboard to enhance an individual's existing knowledge base or facilitate continued learning regarding regulations and trends under the ADA. The program is available in three formats: Teleconference, Streaming Audio via the Internet and real-time captioning on the Internet. You can learn more at http://www.ada-audio.org The ADA Audio Conference Schedule for 2008 is: August 19, 2008 Serving Customers with Disabilities: Implications for the Hospitality Industry September 16, 2008 Latino Immigrants with Disabilities: Challenges in employment Call for more information: LEAP, Gary Edler, Program Assistant, 216-696-2716, x 101 *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** OCALI Survey on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Transition to Community is Now Available! Two Surveys are now available! 1) Transition to Community encompasses transition to employment, postsecondary education/training, and to community participation, including residential options, health care and financial management. Results of this survey will provide information to OCALI, Ohio Department of Education and other state agencies regarding the experiences of students with ASD in school, their activities after leaving school, and their ongoing needs for supports and services as an adult. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. This survey is for: Family Members with individuals on the autism spectrum (ages 14 and older), Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ages 14 and older), and Professionals that support individuals with autism spectrum disorder To take the survey - visit http://www.ocali.org/ The survey is on the homepage. 2) The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) has partnered with The Ohio State University Nisonger Center to identify individuals on the Autism Spectrum to participate in a survey about successful employment outcomes. They are looking for individuals with ASD who have been successfully working in the community for 6 months or more and would be willing to be interviewed, as well as, share their stories with others. Interviews will be with the individual with ASD and/or their family representative. Interviews will be by phone and should take about 30 minutes to complete. If you are interested or have questions please contact Rachel Straus at straus.9@osu.edu or 614-292-4185. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************* From Ohio Office of Exceptional Children The United States Department of Education (USDoE) provides states the flexibility of implementing an alternate assessment based on modified academic achievement standards for certain students with disabilities. The use of the achievement standards has implications for districts making adequate yearly process (AYP). This provision may be more familiar to you when referred to as the “2% modified assessment.” Click here to read more... In 2007, Ohio, as part of a three state consortium that includes Oregon and Minnesota, received a grant from the Office for Special Education Programs (OSEP) to develop an alternate assessment based on modified achievement standards. The consortium is working with American Institutes for Research (AIR) in developing the test. As part of the development work the consortium has developed a draft Eligibility Guidelines and a Decision Flowchart which will assist educators in determining whether the modified assessment would be appropriate for a particular student with a disability. The following link will direct you to a survey seeking your feedback on the two documents before they become final. The documents are included as part of the survey. This survey is intended to collect data from key stakeholders and will be considered by the consortium in final revisions to these two key documents. http://websurveyor.airws.org/ss/wsb.dll/6/AAMAS_survey.htm The department would like as many people as possible to complete the survey by August 08, 2008. Please inform your colleagues and associations about this survey so that as many people as possible can provide input. The survey will take less than 20 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************* OLRS Voter Alert: Is your polling location accessible Polling locations in Ohio must be accessible to voters with any type of disability, for example, mobility, hearing or visual impairment, or cognitive limitation. Voters with disabilities should make sure that their polling places are accessible before they vote on election day. Examples of common problems are a lack of accessible parking spaces, gravel parking lots and paths to the building, lack of ramps or accessible door handles. Voters with disabilities should: Know where to vote. Polling locations can and do change. You can search the Secretary of State's Web site to find your polling location: http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/pollinglocation.aspx?page=361 Review the accessibility of your polling location. Go from the parking area or bus stop, into the building, to the room where you will vote. Note any accessibility problems. Make a complaint about access problems or other voting rights violations. You can make a complaint about polling place accessibility and other voting rights violations to the Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS). The mission of OLRS is to protect and advocate, in partnership with people with disabilities, for their human, civil and legal rights, including voting rights. Contact OLRS: 614-466-7264 or 1-800-282-9181 (toll-free in Ohio only); TTY: 614-728-2553 or 1-800-858-3542 Write: Intake Department, 50 West Broad Street, Suite 1400, Columbus, Ohio 43215-5923 The full version is available on the OLRS Web site at: http://olrs.ohio.gov/asp/OLRSVoterAlertReady.asp *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************* From the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center As part of the continued focus on knowledge and prevention of secondary conditions associated with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Spinal Cord Injury (RRTC on SCI) has produced this educational brochure on Diabetes and SCI. To access this publication on the Web please visit: http://www.ilru.org/html/publications/SCI/library/Diabetes.pdf This brochure is intended for spinal cord injury survivors living in the community to help maintain their health. "Diabetes and SCI" is the first in a series of educational brochures focused on specific health concerns and issues of long-term spinal cord injury survivors. It is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a medical condition. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************* Study Seeks Participants with Sensory and/or Mobility Impairments If you have a sensory impairment and/or mobility impairment, you may be eligible to participate in a new research project. This research aims to understand what people with sensory and/or mobility impairments do in their daily lives, how their environments affect their community participation and what, if any, help they need to complete activities. Eligibility requires that you: Are between the ages of 18 and 75 Live in the community Have access to a computer Can read at or above the 6th grade level Can enter responses into a web-based survey or direct another individual to enter your responses into a web-based survey Have either a mobility impairment, a visual impairment, or a hearing impairment If eligibility is established you will receive a code to log on to the survey site and complete the study. All information will be kept confidential and no connection between you and your survey answers will be made. Participants will be reimbursed by either a personal check or by a gift certificate to either Target or Walgreens, and may choose the method of reimbursement they prefer. The web-based assessment contains a set of two surveys and will take approximately one hour to complete. Please click on the link below and you will be directed to a short pre-survey to determine eligibility. Study Participation Eligibility and Registration Survey This study is conducted by the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy in collaboration with Paraquad, Inc. This research is funded by the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research at the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research at the US Department of Education *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** U.S. Treasury Introduces Direct Express^® Debit Card for Social Security Payments Treasury today announced that a prepaid debit card option for Social Security payments and other federal benefits is now available. The Direct Express^® Debit MasterCard^® card – designed as a safe, convenient alternative to paper checks – is currently being introduced in 10 states, and will be rolled out nationwide this summer. The Direct Express card provides another option to choose from for the nearly four million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who do not have a bank account, but are looking for a no-cost or low-cost alternative to using check cashing facilities and carrying large amounts of cash. Cardholders can make purchases, pay bills and get cash at thousands of ATMs and retail locations. Treasury has engaged a financial agent – Dallas-based Comerica Bank – to issue this nationally available card exclusively for federal benefit payments. People currently receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas have received information about the card. People may sign up for the card by calling toll-free 1-877-212-9991 or visiting www.USDirectExpress.com. For more information, see Treasury's press release here. A robust public education campaign will accompany the launch of the card and promote debit card literacy among likely users. Partner organizations will play a vital role in communicating the benefits of the card to check recipients. For additional information about the Direct Express Debit MasterCard, visit the Direct Express Web site at www.USDirectExpress.com and click on the Partners link. Or, contact your Go Direct campaign representative or call 952-346-6004 or email a partner outreach coordinator. *********************************************** Back to the Top ************************************************** From the Washington Learning System Free parent-child activity materials are available for downloading at the Washington Learning Systems website. The development of these materials was supported by Grant H324M020084 from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. Free reproducible language and early literacy activities in English and Spanish. Developed by Angela Notari-Syverson, Ph.D. and colleagues. To download materials go to www.walearning.com and click on the purple button that says "Free Parent Education Handouts" on the home page. These materials include activities for adults and young children that encourage early language and literacy development from birth through preschool. They are appropriate for children with disabilities as well as children who are developing typically. *********************************************** Back to the Top ****************************************************

The Arc of Ohio has filed a formal complaint with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Click here to read the article.

The ARC of Ohio and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Ohio will hold regional presentations regarding the Medicaid Buy In & Individual Benefit Management on: August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 10, 24 and 25, 2008. Click here for a flyer and registration form.

OCALI Survey on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Transition to Community is Now Available!

U.S. Treasury Introduces Direct Express® Debit Card for Social Security Payments

U.S. Treasury Introduces Direct Express^® Debit Card for Social Security Payments