Consumer Updates from the HOME Choice Program

August 15, 2011 – 2:47 PM

Booker Brown – Living Independently (In His Own Words)

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

Booker Brown

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

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)

By Barb Manning | Posted in Advocacy, Community, General News, Housing, Independent Living | Tagged , , | Comments Off

ADA Awareness Day at Toledo Zoo 2011 — Creating Welcoming Communities

July 28, 2011 – 4:29 PM
Man on a hoyer lift.

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!

ada-zoo-day-1 ada-zoo-day-2
ada-zoo-day-3 ada-zoo-day-4
By Barb Manning | Posted in ADA Zoo Day, Community, Events, General News, Independent Living | Tagged , , | Comments Off

Ottawa Youth Group Graduates Leadership Training

July 15, 2011 – 8:44 AM

The Ability Center’s Ottawa County Office, along with the Ottawa County Family and Children First Council, hosted the sixth annual two-week Youth Leadership Program with this year’s theme of Giving Back to the Community and Others. Focusing on young people ages 13 to 19, the program helps instill a sense of self-awareness, empowerment and pride in self.

Ottawa Youth Leadership Event Ottawa Youth Leadership Event Ottawa Youth Leadership Event

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:

Arby’s – Port Clinton
Benner Family
Buckeye Dentistry – Port Clinton
–(Dr. Greunke and Diana Wahl)
Crane Creek – Oak Harbor
Elmore Kiwanis Club
Island Adventures
Kroger – Port Clinton
Lakeside Association
Magruder Hospital
OCTA
Ohio State University Extension
Services –(Marcia Jess)
Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department
Ottawa County United Way		 Our Guest Inn – Port Clinton
Owen’s Community College
Pizza House – Port Clinton
Port Clinton Fire Department
Port Clinton Kiwanis Club
Jack Rasar – Laundry Presentation
Dennis Russo – Self Defense
Saint John’s Lutheran Church – Oak Harbor
Schedel’s – Elmore
TDH
Walmart – Port Clinton
Wendy’s – Port Clinton
Dan Wilkins – The nth Degree
Woodforest Bank- Port Clinton

You can find other photos from the event on Facebook.

By Barb Manning | Posted in Community, Events, General News, Youth | Tagged , , , | Comments Off

Protect Medicaid: White House and Hill Meeting for Families with Disabilities

July 11, 2011 – 9:44 AM

Medicaid Should Be Protected In Debt Ceiling Negotiations

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.

###

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

By Barb Manning | Posted in Advocacy, Community, General News, Political | Comments Off

The Catholic HEART Work Camp and The Ability Center Collarborate

July 5, 2011 – 10:55 AM

CHWC logoThis year, the annual Catholic HEART Work Camp visited Toledo from June 12-18. Youth from all over the Midwest came to serve less fortunate individuals in the community. The Work Camp helped The Ability Center build an access ramp for one of our consumers.

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.

CHWC Ramp Build Image 1 CHWC Ramp Build Image 2
CHWC Ramp Build Image 3 CHWC Ramp Build Image 4
CHWC Ramp Build Image 5 CHWC Ramp Build Image 6
By Barb Manning | Posted in Events, General News, Independent Living | Tagged , , | Comments Off

The Ability Center Helps Clean-Up Walbridge Park

June 3, 2011 – 3:21 PM
Walbridge Park Clean-up Crew

Walbridge Park Clean-up Crew

The Ability Center participates in the City of Toledo’s park clean-up to fulfill part of its obligation for receiving funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The center uses the funds received to build access ramps for the homes of people with disabilities living in the city.

This year, Ability Center staff and volunteers worked to clean-up Walbridge Park, the City of Toledo’s first park with an accessible playground.

If you would like to participate in the next clean up please email Angie Hiser.

Andrea Stoller helping with the clean-up

Andrea Stoller helping with the clean-up

Amanda Neal working in the park

Amanda Neal working in the park
By Barb Manning | Posted in Community, Disability Culture, Events | Tagged , | Comments Off

Social Security Facts vs Fiction Training

June 3, 2011 – 11:07 AM

The Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans and The Alliance of Informed Citizens of NW Ohio

trainingInvites you and your group to a Free Seminar about

Social Security Facts vs Fiction

Virginia Reno, Vice President for Income Security at the National Academy of Social Insurance and Barbara  Easterling, President of the Alliance for Retired Americans and Ohioans Benefiting from Social Security

Lunch Included!

Date: Thursday June 16, 2011
Time: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Location: WPOS Center
7112 Angola Road, Holland, Ohio
(Off 1-475 Exit 8 (Ohio Route 2) Airport Hwy and South McCord Road)

Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 10, 2011
By calling (419) 536-2536 or emailing Alliance for Informed Citizens.

For additional information regarding the subject of this event, please contact Norman Wernet, Ohio Alliance Education Fund Organizer, at (614) 271-4975.

Teens, College Students, Young Adults

Will Social Security be there for you?
Will you have the same kind of retirement your grandparents have?
How disability or death benefits apply to me?
Social Security is 76 years old.
Can it continue for another 76 years?

These are questions you need to ask our legislators in Washington, D.C.

People with Disabilities and Middle Aged Tax Payers

What are my disability benefits?
What are the death benefits for my family?

Seniors

Why is Social Security part of the deficit discussion when it is paid for from contributions?
Would scrapping the cap on earnings finance Social Security for our children and grandchildren?
Would spending caps hurt current recipients of Social Security?
What can we do to help to make Social Security secure for ourselves, our children and grandchildren?
It seems the fund is always under attack.
It has over 2 Trillion dollars in assets to pay benefits.
How can we keep that from disappearing into the national debt?

The government has big economic problems, but Social Security is not one of them right now.
The future can be secured, but how?

To Register, contact:
Rod Farnsworth
Alliance of Informed Citizens
7570 Caple Blvd
Nortlnvood, Ohio 43619
(419) 536-2536

Or register by email before June 10,2011.

By Barb Manning | Posted in Advocacy, Community, Educational, Events, Political | Comments Off

Raising a Child with a Disability

May 4, 2011 – 10:55 AM

by Rogill L. Anderson-Clute, Guest Writer

Who Will Hold the Lemonade? (Book Cover)Upon hearing the news that my newborn baby had Spina Bifida, I chose deal with it by fighting for a chance at normalcy. I recognized that it was imperative for me to nurture and take care of this little life, whose challenges would be many and great

As a parent, I knew that I had to create a loving and nurturing environment for a child other would see as “different”. The most important thing I learned was to never, ever give up in my resolve to treat him as though he were perfect. To me, he was perfect.

At the time my son Peter was born, I had a toddler at home. Having a child already made it easy for me to include Peter in childhood activities. I enrolled both children in community activities and treated Peter as if he were not born with Spina Bifida. I made sure he did everything his sister did, except become a Brownie. Instead, he was a Boy Scout. I made sure that he only felt “special” because I love him and because he is wonderful.

When Peter was at home and under my wing, he was a normal child. It was when he went to school, that I found it even more important to remain involved and to be his biggest supporter. As Peter got older, my role seemed to change. I had to be his advocate and protector. I was a strong voice in his corner. I was his champion…and he was mine.

As I watched him grow up and go to school, I realized that there was a need for awareness and acceptance in the community. All children, because they are in the process of discovery, should be included and encouraged to feel “whole.” It is hard for children with disabilities to feel that way when no one wants to include them in childhood activities. It was, and is, my strong belief that we must encourage children who are not familiar with disabilities to recognize that everyone has value and purpose.

As Peter grew, a story began to develop in my heart about the importance of awareness, kindness and acceptance in the lives of children with disabilities. I kept that story inside for many years, now I want to share it with everyone. My blessing is Peter. He gives me a special purpose and his experiences give me a story to tell – a story to help make the world a better place. I like to refer to this story as Peter’s Promise – a promise I made to him to “include” him in life’s journey and make him feel “whole”.

By Rogill L. Anderson-Clute is the author of Who Will Hold the Lemonade?, a book about her life as the parent of a child with a disability. Her book is published by Steuben Press and available through Amazon.com.

By Barb Manning | Posted in Community, Disability Culture, Independent Living | Tagged , , | Comments Off

Toledo Crash Best UT Footballers

April 18, 2011 – 11:25 AM
UT scores first

UT scores first

Sean O’Mara predicted a victory over the UT Footballers in The Blade. This usually does nothing more than incite the opposing team, which may explain the 4 to 1 lead UT held going into the half. (Each touchdown in Wheelchair football counts as one point. There are no extra points).

The second half was a different story. The Toledo Crash held the Rockets to two scores in the second half, foiling a last second pass, while scoring six times themselves to pull off the victory and uphold the prediction. 7 to 6 was the final score of the game, watched by over 100 spectators, a victory that brings the trophy back to the Crash.

Coaches Hyndman and Etzel rally team at halftime

Coaches Hyndman and Etzel rally team at halftime

This game, an annual event for over ten years, is hosted by the University of Toledo at the Recreation Center and is sponsored by the UT Recreation Therapy Club. It is intended to be an opportunity for community awareness and, with such a great turnout and an article in the Blade, we’d have to say it was another success.

Chris Clark is open for a pass

Chris Clark is open for a pass

“Everyone has such a good time,” said one UT Footballer, “and these guys play with intensity.” He was referring to the Crash players who were full of competitive spirit.

“We learn just how difficult it is to get around in a chair, and also what is possible.” said another, “My arms are burning!”

One of the biggest on the UT squad was heard to say to a teammate, “Watch out for that guy in the power chair. He’s dumped me out of my chair twice! He’s an animal!”

UT Footballers pass trophy to the Crash

UT Footballers pass trophy to the Crash

That would be Sean. He had a prediction to defend.

 

By Danwilkins | Posted in Community, Disability Culture, Events | Tagged , | Comments Off

Alva Bunker Memorialized

April 12, 2011 – 8:27 AM

Tim Harrington Addresses Audience

Tim Harrington Addresses Audience

ALVA BUNKER, INSPIRATION FOR THE ABILITY CENTER, MEMORIALIZED

It was a cool, blustery day and the sun did not shine but there was a certain warmth enfolding the crowd gathered to honor one man’s life and contribution. It would have been his 110th birthday and though he died in 1979, it wasn’t until this day that his grave would finally have the marker it deserved.

Barbara Floyd Shares Alva's Story

Barbara Floyd Shares Alva's Story

On April 7th, about 60 people, representing University of Toledo, Rotary Club of Toledo, the Ability Center and the man’s family, came together to celebrate the difference made by Alva Bunker 90 years prior. Along with the marker on his grave, a memorial was dedicated to his efforts. Those in attendance, including family members, many who, until this moment, had no knowledge of the extent of their relative’s influence or bravery, were moved to tears.

Clint Mauk, historian for the Rotary, honored Mr. Bunker by sharing how he helped to mold and inspire the direction of Rotary’s focus that continues today on an International level.

Bunker Memorial Stone

Bunker Memorial Stone

Barbara Floyd, Director of the Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections, followed. She, as the person who painstakingly uncovered the truth and extent of Alva’s life and contribution, is the true champion for his cause and this ceremony. She shared an emotional walk through his years, touching on his early life, his bravery and difficult journey, and the millions of children with better lives because of the trail he blazed.

Mr. Bunker’s niece, who, as a child, lived with him in her home, shared a heartfelt thank you on the family’s behalf. The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the memorial.

The stone inscribed with Alva’s story will be prominently displayed on a triangle just off the main drive, in view of every car that enters, a fitting tribute to a quiet, unassuming man who lived an extraordinary life. It was also a worthy event with which to conclude The Ability Center’s 90th Anniversary year, honoring the man who, just by being who he was, made the Center possible.

By Danwilkins | Posted in Advocacy, Disability Culture, Events | Tagged , | Comments Off