TARTA Bus (image courtesy of Toledo Free Press)

Below are the upcoming dates for the community to learn about potential changes in the local public transportation system in Toledo and outlying communities. Please plan to attend one of these important meetings.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 1:00 to 3:00 PM
Maumee Public Library 501 River Road, Maumee, OH 43537

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Way Library 101 East Indiana Avenue, Perrysburg, OH 43551

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 1:30 to 3:00 PM
Sylvania Senior Center 7140 Sylvania Avenue, Sylvania, OH 43560

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 6:30 to 8:00 PM
The Ability Center 5605 Monroe Street Sylvania, OH 43560

Thursday, February 9, 2012 1:00 to 3:00 PM
Rossford Community Center 400 Dixie Highway, Rossford, OH 43460

Thursday, February 9, 2012 6:30 to 8:00 PM
Way Library 101 East Indiana Avenue, Perrysburg, OH 43551

• Meeting facilities are wheelchair accessible.
• Light refreshments will be served.

Meeting Purpose:

Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) recognizes that coordinating transportation services is essential for older adults, individuals with disabilities, individuals and families living below the poverty level, and the general public to access employment, education, health services, and community programs.

Come and provide your input and insights to discuss unmet transportation needs, gaps in transportation services, and recommended strategies to improve transportation and mobility options in and around Toledo.

Applicants for Section 5316 (Job Access/Reverse Commute) and 5317 (New Freedom Initiative) must participate in the planning effort.

Community Based Long-term Care Supports and Services
Community Based Employment
Accessible, Affordable Housing
Better Transportation

Imagine…if politicians voted in ways that reflected the concerns of Ohio’s disability community

Imagine…if Ohioans with disabilities had as much power and political clout as the senior population!

A recent television ad for AARP addressed threatened cuts to Medicare and Social Security.
The ad’s speaker pointed out that there are over 50 million seniors in the U.S. and said to Congressmen and Senators:
“You’ll be hearing from us today AND on election day!”

Seniors have power and use it! Politicians know it and listen!

You can help Ohioans with disabilities to become such a powerful voting bloc!

Join Ohio Disability Vote 2012

Build the bloc by distributing the ODVC Voter Registration Campaign 2012 Form (pdf)

Help us reach 2,012 voters in 2012

Return forms to:
The Ohio Disability Vote Coalition
670 Morrison Road, Suite 200
Gahanna, Ohio 43230

Or

Fax to: (614) 861-0392

The mission of the Ohio Disability Vote Coalition is to maximize the political power of Ohioans with disabilities through nonpartisan voter education, registration and participation of all people with disabilities at all levels of the election process. For more information call (866) 575-8055 (toll free).

However, NCPAD has recognized that for most people with disabilities, barriers to physical activity programs such as cost, transportation, and inaccessible features prohibit them from participating in sports, fitness, and recreation programs. In response, the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability has developed a free, online health promotion program for adults with disabilities which individuals can utilize from home with use of little to no equipment. The NCPAD 14-Week Program to A Healthier You is a personalized, web based exercise and nutrition program primarily for people with mobility limitations, chronic health conditions and physical disabilities.

The program will provide information on how to exercise and eat nutritious foods in a way that meets each individual’s needs and goals, as well as provide motivational tools to help participants initiate and maintain healthy behaviors. Additionally, the 14-Week Program offers an interactive interface uniquely designed to every participant’s ability level and interests.

Included in the program are the following features:

o New, personalized weekly exercises
o Physical activity and nutrition tips
o Motivational resources
o Weekly recipes
o Features to help you track your activity and what you eat
o Optional reminders and alerts
o Opportunities to connect with other participants
o Access to knowledgeable 14-Week coaches

What past participants have said about the 14-Week Program:

“I am a 62-year-old, T-5 paraplegic, female. This was just the exercise program I was looking for. I love the cardio workouts most of all! I am now moving and feeling so much better than before I started this program.”

“I thought the program was very good, especially for those who are intimidated by starting a program. It allows you to work at your own pace and you can see your progress as you gradually increase in strength and endurance. I had given up on exercising because of fibromyalgia pain but have found that movement actually helps me to feel better and it challenges me at the level I am currently at.”

“I have lived with MS for almost 30 years and the program provided me with the encouragement and incentive to get more active in accordance with my abilities.”

To join, please visit NCPAD and click join in the upper right hand corner.

Under a new collaboration, Assistance Dogs will become a program of The Ability Center and move its headquarters to a renovated building on The Ability Center’s campus on Monroe Street in Sylvania.

“Our organizations share a strong common mission that focuses on helping people of all ages to live and work independently and in fully accessible communities,” said Pam Howell-Beach, board chair of The Ability Center.

“Combining resources also creates greater operational efficiency, eliminates duplication of functions, and makes an even stronger community impact,” she said.

“The new partnership benefits the region by training more dogs to serve a greater number of people,” said Cheri Budzynski, board chair of Assistance Dogs. “It will also increase public awareness about the possibilities and value of full accessibility for all citizens, and promote internal discussion and planning about new kinds of services and delivery.”

The Ability Center is seeking private funding to renovate the current Housing Resource Center to accommodate the Assistance Dogs programs and move the resource center to a new facility on Skelly Road in Sylvania. The Ability Center expects the completion of both projects by next spring.

The new partnership benefits our community by training more dogs to serve a greater number of people. Governance of Assistance Dogs transfers to The Ability Center Board of Directors immediately, and financial and operational management will be absorbed into The Ability Center’s current staff. Ten current staff members of Assistance Dogs will become Ability Center employees.

A grant from the Strategic Alliance Partnership supported the planning phase of the merger process. The Strategic Alliance Partnership is a collaborative funding pool created by the Toledo Community Foundation, the Stranahan Foundation, and the United Way of Greater Toledo.

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo provides a variety of programs to assist people with disabilities to live, work and socialize within a fully accessible community. Established in 1920 as The Society for Crippled Children, it served as a hospital/rehabilitation facility for children (and later adults) with Polio until the advent of the Salk vaccine in the mid-1950s. It evolved to provide comprehensive services to people of all ages living with disabilities – with an emphasis on independent living. Today, The Ability Center serves seven Northwest Ohio counties and has regional offices in Defiance and Port Clinton.

Assistance Dogs of America, Inc. has helped children and adults with disabilities achieve greater independence by training and placing service therapy dogs to assist with an individual’s daily needs. It has served more than 250 people in more than 25 years of operation. It also launched the PUPPS program, which teaches inmates at the Toledo Correctional Institute to raise and train dogs for ADAI placement.

• Want to learn more about how to advocate for and get services for your sibling with a developmental disability?
• Want to learn more about the sibling movement and a dynamic group of siblings in Ohio and Nationwide?
• Want to meet other siblings in your area?
• Well, you’re in luck, Ohio SIBS is sponsoring a Sibling Community Conversation in Toledo and Cleveland!

Toledo Event

When: The Toledo event will be on Monday, September 19, 2011 from 7:00-8:30 PM

Where: Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities
1155 Larc Lane, Toledo 43614
Toledo Flyer

Questions? Email Michelle Truby or call (614) 571-4542.

Cleveland Event

When: The Cleveland event will be on Thursday, September 29, 2011 from 6:30-8:00 PM

Where: Maple Heights Adult Activity Center
14775 Broadway Avenue, Maple Heights, 44137
Cleveland Flyer

Questions? and RSVP to Barb Sapharas or call (216) 736-2742.

See the attached flyers for more information. Please invite family and friends to these events.

Don’t forget to sign up for the 11th Annual Ohio Adult Sibling Conference!

By Tammy Hubbard, Advocacy Intern, The Ability Center of Greater Toledo

Booker Brown

“I am a 51-year-old African-American male. My home was originally in Cleveland, Ohio. However, I relocated to northwest Ohio due to the medical treatment that was available in this area. I was successfully transitioned into my own apartment at the end of June 2010.

“My diagnoses were obesity, hypertension, diabetes and lymphedema. This combination of conditions is why I was admitted into a nursing home. While I was regaining my health, I learned that my home in Cleveland was being foreclosed. Not wanting to become a burden to my friends and family, I decided to stay in the Gibsonburg area, which is where I was introduced to the HOME Choice program. I was thrilled to hear of this program because I knew that in the end it would mean I could move out of the nursing home facility.

“I looked at several rental options before signing the lease where I am. I signed the first lease that was available and probably should have waited a bit longer. Living on a fixed income with rising utility costs is a rough task to handle.

“The funds that I was provided through the HOME Choice program were very helpful. I used these funds for my deposit and first month’s rent. They also helped me get the furniture I needed as well as the movers to get the furniture to me. I just love the blankets, towels and various kitchen utensils I was able to buy with HOME Choice funds. I also loved the experience of shopping for them. Without the HOME Choice program I would have been in this apartment without anything. In fact, I probably would not even have this apartment!

“I am happy with the HOME Choice program. Tiffany Tierney the Community Support Coach from The Ability Center of Greater Toledo calls me each month to check on me. I think that is such a selfless and caring act for her to do. What a great program I was a part of!”

Peggy Cly – Living Independently for the First time Ever (In Her Own Words)

By Tammy Hubbard, Advocacy Intern, The Ability Center of Greater Toledo

Peggy Cly

“I am a 52-year-old female living in Gibsonburg, Ohio. Living on my own is something that I had never done until September 10, 2010. Thank you HOME Choice program, for allowing me to have this awesome experience! It is such a great feeling to know that I am doing this on my own. For the 14 months prior to September 2010 I had lived in a nursing facility.

“Coming into the nursing home I was not physically able to properly care for myself. I was cared for and given guidance to get to where I could, and I wanted out of the nursing home. When I first heard of the HOME Choice program, I was wowed to the fact that there was money available for me. I just was amazed that because I was in a nursing home, I got assistance. The thought of getting out was great. I was ready to leave all the rumors that went with living with other patients.

“The process seemed to roll along pretty smoothly for me. I did get discouraged at points when I was trying to get transportation to do what needed to get done. But just as easily as I got frustrated, solutions were found and I got where I needed to be. The HOME Choice program seemed to know how to work with me to make it happen.

“The funding that was available through the HOME Choice program was so helpful. When I first started thinking about going out on my own, I kept thinking, ‘I cannot do that, I don’t have monies for all the start ups.’ Then HOME Choice went to bat. It was able to help me with my first month’s rent and deposit for the apartment and also utility deposits. What a relief it was having those taken care of.

“Then I got the opportunity to go shopping and purchase the things I needed for my apartment. I remember going to the store and getting to pick out my groceries. I loved picking out my food, which I later was able to prepare the way I wanted. I am again thankful that the HOME Choice program was there to help me with that.

“My biggest accomplishment since getting into my own apartment is [to get] my cat. I recently was able to go to the Humane Society and adopt Jackilyn. She is a beautiful black-and-gray, short-haired tabby cat. I had fun naming my cat, and I ended up naming her after both of my parents. She brings joy to me every day. I also enjoy playing cards and watching television.

“I am so thankful for all of the help that I was given from the HOME Choice program. Being able to get in the community and staying close to friends and family is important to me, and I received Community Support Coach training that helped me to get things done that I would have otherwise procrastinated. I would get in a mood and it seemed like those were the days my Community Support Coach would be scheduled to come out. Tiffany Tierney was able to encourage me to accomplish a new challenge and that alone would bring me back up and positive again.

“I cannot say enough how beneficial the HOME Choice program was for me. I am so glad I was given that opportunity.”

Stories originally published in HOME Choice Newsletter (Summer 2011) (pdf)

Casey Arroyo, of CGA Home Modification, demonstrates lift system.

This year’s theme for the 11th Annual ADA Awareness Day at Toledo Zoo was “In welcoming communities citizens look out for one another.” The need to create a welcoming community is a primary goal of The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. Everyone should have access to the community they live in. This goal is also one of the reasons The Ability Center hosts the annual information fair at the Toledo Zoo.

Vendors from all over the region participated in this important annual community event. While this event is an opportunity for vendors to provide information on their services and products, the ADA Awareness Day is also a chance for individuals with disabilities in our community to learn about local and regional resources. Sometimes just seeing a piece of machinery on display and in-use can profoundly affect the way an individual with a disability maintains independence.

The Ability Center appreciates every organization the participated in the event this, as well as the assistance of the great staff at Toledo Zoo, particularly, Jen Brassil, Special Events Coordinator.

Below are several photos from the event. For more photos, please visit The Ability Center’s Facebook page. Please leave your comments regarding the  event. The center welcomes your input!

Among the many things achieved, the teens and young adults visited the County Jail, Justice and 911 offices, met with disability advocates, took field trips to area organizations and attractions, like Crane Creek where they learned about local ecosystem management, and animals endangered in our community. They went to Schedel’s, spent a day in Lakeside, at the Chatauqua on the Lake and received instructions on nutrition and skin care from Marcia Jess, of the Ohio State University Extension Office.

They visited Island Adventures Family Fun Center and, on June 21, 2011 they had an opportunity the learn about rescue and support service, enjoying demonstrations by the Port Clinton Fire Department, Sheriff Department SWAT Team, Emergency Medical Technicians and how to give back to the community from Port Clinton Fire Chief Johnson.

Youth Group Graduates

On Friday evening, June 24, 2011 from 5:00-6:30 PM, the group hosted a graduation ceremony at the St John’s Lutheran Church in Oak Harbor. The teens cooked and served an Asian style dinner for those attending. The teens received a certificate, various donated gifts, and a t-shirt sporting a design on which they collaborated with Dan Wilkins, Director of Public Relations and Community Partnerships for the Center.

“It’s amazing to be a part of young people coming of age.” said Tory Heilman, Manager of the Ottawa County office, “With all that we offer, do and share with these guys, they literally blossom in front of us. It is an honor to witness such growth.” Each summer this program is open to young people living with and without disabilities in Ottawa County.

Thank You, Thank you!

It takes a whole community to do such good work and Ottawa County is full of wonderful people and organizations. We would like to send a special “thank you” to the following organizations and individuals, for their very generous financial contribution:

You can find other photos from the event on Facebook.

Media Alert
Contact: Valerie Holford (301) 926-1298
American Association of People with Disabilities
United Cerebral Palsy

Sue Hetrick (866) 575-8055
Director of Public Policy
The Ability Center of Greater Toledo

On Tuesday, July 12, Americans with disabilities and their family members will meet White House officials and members of Congress to discuss the way that Medicaid has strengthened their families and provided them with opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. These everyday Americans will meet with the most powerful people in government to share their stories and provide a human face to the debt ceiling negotiations. The Administration has signaled their strong support for Medicaid and other programs critical to people with disabilities. It is vital that this support continues and that members of Congress work with the Administration to prevent devastating cuts.

Medicaid is a lifeline for 8 million children and adults with disabilities, among others including millions of seniors and families.

“It is critical that President Obama continue his support for Medicaid and that members of Congress stand up for the most vulnerable people in America. Leaders in Washington must not balance the budget on the backs of people with disabilities, children, the elderly, and the poor,” said Mark Perriello, President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD).

“Tackling our nation’s budget woes cannot be combined with an attack on people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers,” said Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy. “Medicaid is a fundamental lynchpin for people with disabilities to live and work independently in communities across our nation. To eliminate this vital support is short-sighted and wrong.”

People meeting with White House officials and Capitol Hill offices include:

Linda and Javi Guzman (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)

Linda is a single mom whose 17-year old son, Javi, has both autism and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Medicaid provides him health care, daytime assistance, and training in life skills that will help him achieve an independent life. Linda explained, “Without the services from Medicaid, I would have to quit my job and go on public assistance, or even worse I would have to possibly place Javi in an institution that costs a lot more than Medicaid services.”

Anna Liebenow (Providence, Rhode Island)

Anna has multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair. She lives alone and is unable to get in and out of bed without assistance. Because of Medicaid, she has an aide who helps her with getting out of bed and other basic activities. Because Medicaid provides this service, Anna is able to work and volunteer in her community.

Sue and Micah Hetrick (Columbus, Ohio)

Sue’s son Micah has Down Syndrome. Through Medicaid he gets assistance from an aide during the day, enabling his mother to work. Without this aide, his mother would likely need to be on public assistance herself.

In addition to providing aides to assist people with disabilities, Medicaid also provides access to wheelchairs and prosthetic devices for people with spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Medicaid pays for prescription drugs for persons with mental illnesses, epilepsy and other medical conditions. Medicaid enables people with intellectual disabilities to live and work in the community by providing skill-building and support programs, and through Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis & Treatment programs Medicaid helps identify children’s disabilities early and gets them the care they need.

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, please contact Valerie Holford at (301) 926-1298.

This marks The Ability Center’s (ACT) fifth year of collaborating with the Catholic HEART Work Camp (CHWC). Together we landscaped and performed various other beautification projects at the Center. The group also helped construct wheelchair ramps and even painted a garage for one of the Center’s consumers. We typically had one or two groups of 5 to 7 people working with The Ability Center’s experienced staff to get the jobs done. This year, the group along with ACT’s carpenters, constructed 2 wheelchair ramps. One for Ernest C., a double amputee and the other for John B. who recently started using a wheelchair due to deteriorating health.  ACT had another great year collaborating with CHWC and making some new friends.

To find out more about the Catholic HEART Work Camp, please visit their website. To learn more about how to apply for a ramp, visit the Home Modification Program page, or call the center at (419) 885-5733. You can also view more photos on Facebook.