Pioneer Quarterly Newsletter now on line!

Check out the latest edition of the Pioneer quarterly newsletter the new website.
Enjoy reading this newest edtion: December '07

http://www.pioneercenter.org/newsletter.asp

Winter Safety: Penguin Walk

It is that time of year when snow and ice cover the ground causing slips trips and falls. The safest walking, according to OSHA, is walking with your toes pointed out, like a penguin. Remember to walk with short steps and do not walk on your toes or heels.

If you would like more information of safe walking for yourself and clients, please let me know and I’ll send out the pamphlets.

Have a great day! Sandra Salgado MA PHR
HR Manager
Pioneer, Center for Human Services
815.759.7101
ssalgado@pioneercenter.org

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EDS Holiday Shopping

Attention EDS Clients:

The Spring Hill Mall Shopping outing has been RESCHEDULED!

The original plan was to go holiday shopping (for others, not ourselves) on December 12. However, due to staff coverage issues beyond our control, we're going to postpone the outing 1 week. The new plan is to go shopping at the Spring Hill mall on December 19th. The bus will be leaving at 9:30 am. Clients my buy lunch at the food court or may bring a sack lunch. Clients are responsible for their money, and carrying there own bags. The clients will be back at Pioneer Center by 2:15 pm.

Please note: NOT all EDS clients will be attending this outing.

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Message from Chris: Basketball in the Park

Hello everyone,I hope this e-mail finds you enjoying the holiday season. The reason for this e-mail is to inform you of the details of this years annual Basketball in the Park fund raiser. This years Basketball in the Park proceeds will be donated to Give Kids The World Village. This benefit has been run every summer for 11 years, I'm glad that I can bring this charitable event to you once again and do some good for Children afflicted with Cancer. I'm currently planning this 2 day event which will take place either June, July or August.

I will get back to you on the specific month when I firm up the dates for this great event. Each session will include:
*Warm-ups *Free throw instruction *3-Point Contest *Hula Hoop Contest
*"Horse" Competition *Football Toss *Bean Bag Toss *Knock out *1 on 1, 2 on 2 and 4 on 4.

Instruction and competitions will be fair and they will be divided by age group. The groupings are as follows:
Elementary Middle School High School/ Adult Parents of young children are encouraged to participate.

I am thinking of the same pricing as last year for this event. $10 for the event and $10 for a commemorative shirt to remember this event by and to remember all the wonderful kids suffering from Cancer you have helped.

A few last things regarding this years event:
Open to youth and adults of all ages
Chips, beverages, T-Shirts and various souvenirs will be available for purchase with all the proceed to Benefit Give Kids the World Village

There is also plenty of sponsorship opportunities. This would be a great way to advertise and link your company up with a great philanthropic event.Do not hesitate to forward this on to anyone you think might be interested in either attending or helping sponsor this great event. Thank you for your time.

Best Regards, Christopher

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Holiday Food Distribution

Please help us on spreading the word about our annual holiday food give-away.
Again this year United Way of McHenry County along with the Woodstock Morning Rotary Club will be distributing 10,000 pounds of food to those in need. The event will take place on December 17th at our office in McHenry. We will begin at 2:00 p.m. and end at 4:00 p.m. or when all the food is gone, whichever happens first. Anyone who feels that they need assistance is welcome to come. Those driving must park in the lot just west of our office, Corporate Disk parking lot. Everyone who attends must bring their own containers to carry the food. We will not have containers available. Please ask the people not to come too much earlier than 2:00 p.m. as nothing will happen until then.

If there are any questions, please call our office.

Thanks for your help!
Dave Barber Executive Director
United Way of McHenry County 4508 Prime Parkway McHenry, IL 60050 (815) 363-1377 fax: (815) 363-1878

EDS Gift Exchange

During an EDS Client Council meeting, it was determined that they would like to continue the tradition of having a grab bag holiday gift exchange.


If an EDS client would like to participate, then they should bring a wrapped gift with a value of no more than $10.00.

The gift exchange will be held the morning of the Holiday Party (December 21st) in the EDS Classroom.

December Dates

Important December Dates

Dec. 2-11: Collect Items for food drive

Dec. 6: Holiday Shopping for EDS clients in Case Management

Dec 7: EDS @ MCC

Dec. 10: Studio Fundraiser (5 EDS clients caroling at event)

Dec. 12: Turn in items to Lake in the Hills

Dec. 14: EDS @ MCC

*NEW* Dec. 19th: Holiday Shopping at Spring Hill Mall

Dec. 21: Holiday Party (catered food and DJ fun!) NO MCC

Dec. 24-Jan 1: Holiday Break

Return to EDS on January 2nd.

Pioneer Hosts Holiday Luncheon and Book Review

Pioneer Center for Human Services will host its second annual Holiday Luncheon and Book Review on Monday, December 10th, 2007. It will be held starting at 11:30 am at D’Andrea Banquets in Crystal Lake and will feature a book review by Barbara Rinella, an acclaimed dramatist and local favorite. Rinella will present her dramatization of award-winning novelist Nora Ephron’s book “I feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman.” She will bring to life Ephron’s humorous lessons on parenting, marriage, divorce, being an empty-nester, and preserving our aging bodies — starting with the neck!

For further information or to purchase tickets, which are $35, call Barb Swanson at 815.759.7144. The proceeds from this event will be used to create a new art studio for Pioneer clients.

It's exciting announce that that five EDS Pioneer Player clients have volunteered to be traveling carolers at this event and provide additional entertainment during the luncheon.

Holiday Gifts

This is a reminder that it is Pioneer policy NOT to give gifts to staff. If you want to give this year, my we suggest that gifts be given to THE CLASSROOM instead. The clients would appreciate gifts of playing cards, games, movies or books for everyone to share. If you have any questions, please email Rachel at rmerke@pioneercenter.org. Thanks and Happy Holidays!

GoodSearch and GoodShop!

GoodSearch and GoodShop!

With the giving season now in full swing, thought I’d send out a reminder about www.goodsearch.com.

If you are shopping on-line this holiday season, check out the website above. There’s a link to goodshop which takes you to many stores. Make a purchase and a donation will be send to Pioneer. It’s worth checking out.

Barb Swanson Funding Development Manager 815.759.7144

Emergency Closings

'Tis the season for snow and the possibilities of snow days.

It's only happened on a handful of occasions over the past few years. If Pioneer Center was to close the Dayton Street Facilities, you could find out by checking with...

Pioneer Dayton Street Hotline

1-815-759-7188

The Client Handbook

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PIONEER CENTER for Human Services
Client Handbook

“Expanding Opportunities through Partnership”

Our Mission:
…is to work with children and adults to explore opportunities for personal accomplishment through educational, vocational, and community participation.

Our Vision:
…is to provide the highest possible quality of services, support, and community links to help clients with cognitive, developmental, emotional, or physical disabilities live better lives. We aim to empower our clients to achieve their potential, and to enhance the reciprocal teaching and learning they have to offer.


As an Introduction:

Pioneer Center for Human Services has been providing residential, vocational, Early Intervention, and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) supports for fifty years to persons with a variety of disabilities and is licensed by the Illinois Department of Human Services Offices of Developmental Disabilities, Rehabilitation Services, Early Intervention, and Mental Health. The Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission (CARF) accredits Pioneer Center.

Our goal has always been to ensure a person’s dignity and respect in striving toward his/her greatest potential. It is the agency’s policy to conduct and be an active part of public education efforts. The goal of these efforts is to reduce stigma and increase the public’s awareness and knowledge of disabilities.

We provide a variety of services to help each participant reach his/her own level of independence. The agency’s primary service area is McHenry County. Programs and services the agency offers are:

Day and Vocational Services
Developmental Training: this program assists people who have severe and multiple disabilities in developing basic life skills. Classroom instruction, community integration experiences, and work and leisure opportunities assist in the development of participants’ skills. (Pre-Vocational)
Bridges: is designed to provide services to individuals in the Developmental Training program that may be ready to transition into the vocational program. Conversely, the program also serves individuals from the vocational program that may need more structure or training. Individuals work on both vocational skills and life skills.
Vocational Evaluation: assists in determining work interests, aptitudes, and skills for employment planning. Services can assist in identifying employment accommodations as well.
Pioneer Industries: provides general vocational training and vocational rehabilitation through work experiences both within and outside of the organization. Emphasis is placed on developing work skills for competitive employment.
Employee Development Services (EDS): EDS provides assessment of employability and employment skills to assist individuals to have access to, and participate fully in, their communities. Services are provided to adolescents and adults with a developmental disability. EDS is targeted to both students who are transitioning from special education to adult services and to adults who need to develop skills for independent living and competitive employment.
Community Employment Services: assists clients in getting and keeping jobs in the community. Clients’ preferences and skills are reviewed prior to the job search and once a job is found, staff assist clients in learning the job requirements.
Psycho-Social Rehabilitation (PSR): is a recovery program that teaches people with a serious mental illness the skills they need to function as normally as possible in the community. By teaching skills and providing support, PSR services works with the individual towards meeting the goal of independent living.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Services: provides case management supports and vocational services to adults who have a traumatic brain injury. A support group for families is also available.
Stepping Out, Adult Recreation (SOAR): formerly Senior Care, provides social, recreational, and personal improvement opportunities for aging adults with developmental disabilities. The program allows aging adults with developmental disabilities the option of partial or total retirement from their traditional work programs. The activities promote healthy aging and active retirement lifestyles to these seniors. Options include individual choice of activity level and frequency of attendance at the program.

Community-Based Services
Early Intervention: provides therapy and support services to infants, toddlers, and young children, aged birth-5 years, and their families. After assessment, children are assisted in the development of skills through speech, occupational, physical, and developmental therapies.
Community Case Management Services: provides individually tailored supports and recovery services for people who have a mental illness. The goal is to assist persons living with a mental illness in developing strategies to cope with symptoms while living in the community.
Client and Family Support: provides community support and services to adults with developmental disabilities. The goal is to assist the individual in maintaining their community living through the development of daily living skills.
Respite Care: provides resources, via a voucher reimbursement system, to assist families with members who have disabilities in securing care and services for that person to allow the rest of the family a break from daily care-giving duties.
Home-Based Support Services: provides resources, supports, and services to assist persons with a developmental disability, aged 18 years and older, to become more independent; either living on their own or with their families.

Residential Services

Supported Apartments: provides support services to individuals living in the community who have a mental illness and/or a developmental disability. Services are individually tailored to help each person live in the community as successfully as possible.
Harvard, Johnsburg, Manke, Marengo, Ponca, Schroeder, and West Avenue Homes and Silver Creek Townhome: these eight homes offer daily living skills supports for adults who have developmental disabilities. Varied levels of support are available to meet the individual needs of those living in the homes.
Clay, Jackson, Madison, Lawndale, and Wheeler Group Homes: these homes provide community living opportunities for adults who have a mental illness in a system of care in partnership with families and the community. The program provides opportunities for consumers to successfully live in the community. Varied levels of support are available, depending on the home, including recovery focused case-management, community services links, skills training and medication management.


Natural Supports

Pioneer Center strongly encourages you and/or your family to utilize your natural support system to assist with the provision of services. Support members may be parents, siblings, spouses, children, guardians, extended family, friends, co-workers, volunteers, church members, etc.

Recognizing the unique circumstances of each person and family, you and your family will be assisted by staff in identifying your natural support system and have a plan developed which is tailored to you. These supports will be reviewed and updated at least annually, at the time of your Individual Support Plan review. Linkage to other areas of support through community resources is available, such as your church, Big Brothers/Sisters, FISH, etc.


Transportation Linkage

Pioneer Center refers clients to private and/or public transportation services. In general, most clients served within the various programs of Pioneer Center rely on public transportation or their natural support system when travelling to and from Pioneer Center. Those with special transportation needs will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and will be referred to the appropriate providers in McHenry County. Family or friends may be asked to provide assistance to a specific individual.


NO SMOKING POLICY

All Pioneer Center buildings and vehicles are designated as non-smoking. Please refer to the posted signs or appropriate staff regarding any assigned smoking areas at a specific Pioneer Center site.


HIPAA

Pioneer Center complies fully with the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All information regarding services you receive in any Pioneer Center program is protected by the Act. Upon entry into a Pioneer Center program, and as needed, HIPAA will be explained to you and you will be given a copy of the Privacy Notice and asked to sign that you have received the notice; where applicable, the guardian will also be given a copy of the Act and asked to sign the Privacy Notice.


Your Rights and Responsibilities
As someone who receives services from Pioneer Center for Human Services, you have both rights and responsibilities—no matter which program(s) you receive services from. They are:

Your Right: Retention of Rights—you maintain all of your legal and civil rights while receiving services.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible to learn about your rights. Ask the staff you work with, your family, guardian, advocate, etc. to assist you in learning your rights.

Your Right: Refusing Services—you, or your guardian on your behalf, have the right to refuse services, including medication. In general, when services are refused, they will not be given to you. However, they may be provided even if you refuse if there is a medical or other emergency or if a judge orders it.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for your decision to refuse services and the consequences that may occur. You are responsible for your decision to refuse to take prescribed medications and the consequences that may occur. Your Community/Clinical Support Team may meet regarding your decision and decide to challenge your refusal of services. The Team may then ask the Human Rights Committee to decide whether or not your rights should be over-ridden to protect you from harm. Please note, your family may be asked by the Team to participate in these meetings and to help you in making decisions.

Your Right: Discharge—you have a right to continue to receive services unless you voluntarily withdraw from a program or you meet the criteria for discharge from a program. You have the right to terminate services at any time.
Your Responsibility: If you choose to leave any Pioneer Center program you have the right to do so. However, you are responsible for giving notice prior to withdrawing from the program. You are responsible for all fees, rents, and other bills you incur while in the program.

Your Right: Medical or Dental Services—except in an emergency, no medical or dental services will be provided to you without the informed consent by you or your guardian. You have the right to purchase and use the services of private physicians and other professionals of your choice. Your choice shall be documented in your service plan.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for your decision to refuse services and the consequences that may occur. The Community/Clinical Support Team may meet regarding your decisions and decide to challenge your refusal of medications. The Team may then ask the Human Rights Committee to make a determination as to whether or not your rights should be over-ridden to protect you from harm. Please note, your family may be asked by the Team to participate in these meetings and to help you in making decisions.
Your Right: Non-Discrimination—you have a right to be treated fairly without regard to your gender, race, color, religion, ethnic background, disability, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or financial standing.

Your Right: Mail/Phone Calls/Visits—you have the right to communicate with other people in private, without obstruction or censorship by the staff. Communication by these means may be reasonably restricted, but only to protect you or others from harm, harassment, or intimidation. Staff will not keep you from making/receiving phone calls receiving/sending mail, having visitors, or visiting your friends and family.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for ensuring your bills are paid; if you wish staff to assist you, you may want them to look at your bills, etc. when those things come in the mail.

Your Right: Property—you have the right to receive, possess and use personal property unless it is determined that certain items are harmful to you or others. When you stop receiving services from a program, all lawful property will be returned to you.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for letting staff know what things are valuable to you and it will be documented. If you need assistance in getting something repaired, the staff will assist you with that as well. You MAY NOT keep items such as weapons, mechanical equipment, or anything else that may cause you, or others, harm.

Your Right: Banking—you may deposit your money at a bank or place it for safe keeping with an account with Pioneer Center. If Pioneer Center deposits your money, any interest earned will be yours. Neither Pioneer Center nor any of its employees may act as payee to receive any assistance directed to you, including Social Security and pension, annuity, or trust fund payments without your informed consent.
Your Responsibility: Again, you are responsible for budgeting your money and your support staff will assist you in doing so.

Your Right: Money—you may use your money as you choose, unless you are prohibited from doing so under a court guardianship order.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for paying all bills such as rent, food, utilities, etc.

Your Right: Humane Care and Services Plan—you have a right to adequate and humane care, services in the least restrictive environment, and an individual services plan.

Your Right: Abuse or Neglect—you have the right to be free from abuse or neglect. This includes physical abuse such as hitting, kicking, biting, corporal punishment, etc.; mental abuse such as verbal and physical threats; and exploitation such as not paying you for work done in the workshop etc.. Neglect is when staff does not help you when you are hurt or ill. If you think someone has treated you badly, you should tell someone you trust so that the problem can be resolved. Any incidents of abuse or neglect shall be reported to the Inspector General of the Department of Human Services, the Department of Public Health, or the Department of State Police for investigation.

You should never tolerate anything less than responsive and respectful supports from any Pioneer Center staff. If at anytime you feel you are not being treated fairly, you should notify your assigned staff person, your Qualified Human Services Professional (QHSP) or Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), Program Manager, Division Director, or any other agency staff person.
Other people you can talk to are:
1.) The Office of the Inspector General, 1-800-368-1463.
2.) Equip for Equality, 1-800-537-2632.
3.) The Department of Human Services, 1-800-843-6154.
4.) Guardianship and Advocacy, 1-312-793-5900.
5.) Options and Advocacy, 1-815-477-4720.
6.) Illinois Department of Corrections, 1-312-793-2698.
7.) Child and Family Connections, 1-815-477-4720.
8.) Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, 1-800-252-2873.
Your Responsibility: As you have the right to be treated with respect and dignity, so are you expected to treat those around you with respect and dignity. This includes your co-workers, room/house mates, participants in groups, friends, and Pioneer Center staff.

Your Right: Reporting—you have the right to report any infringements of your rights to the Human Rights Committee, the above named agencies or writing the following:

Guardianship and Advocacy
421 East Capitol, Suite 205 State of Illinois Building
Springfield, IL 62701 --OR-- 60 North LaSalle, Suite S-500
(217) 785-1540 Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 793-5900
Equip for Equality
P.O. Box 276
Springfield, IL 62705
(800) 758-0464
(217) 544-0464

The McHenry County Mental Health Board (708 Board)
Some of our programs are funded in-part or in-full through the McHenry County Mental Health, also known as the 708, Board. These programs include the Psycho-Social Rehabilitation, Respite, Community/Family Supports, and Traumatic Brain Injury. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about programs funded through the 708 board you may contact them at:
620 Dakota
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
(815) 455-2828

You have a right to ask Pioneer Center staff to assist you in contacting the above agencies. If you would prefer, you may also get assistance from a friend, advocate, family member, or any other interested party.

Finally, if you are aware that any Pioneer Center employee is not performing his/her duties in a professional or ethical manner you should immediately notify your QHSP/QMHP, the Program Manager, Division Director, or any Pioneer Center administrator. You may also contact the Corporate Compliance Officer directly at (815) 344-1230 or anonymously at the Corporate Compliance Hotline, (815) 759-7019.

Your Right: Labor—you must be paid for work you are asked to perform which benefits Pioneer Center. However, this does not apply to personal housekeeping chores required for the day-to-day duties of those receiving supports in a Pioneer Center group home.
Any participant in Pioneer Center Day/Vocational services, including Employment Services, has the right to work/receive services in a safe and comfortable place.
Your Responsibility: Any jobs performed within the vocational programs will be paid. Day-to-day chores that keep your home clean and safe—taking out the trash, cleaning out the refrigerator, scrubbing out the bathtub are just some examples of chores you are responsible for in your home.

Your Right: Service Planning—you have a right to participate in the development of your own individualized service plan.

Your Right: Meetings—you have a right to participate in any Community/Clinical Team meeting about you. If you choose not to attend, the meeting will still be held, and your QHSP/QMHP will inform you of any decisions made. If you are uncomfortable during the meeting, you can ask someone to advocate for you during the meeting, whether you attend or not.

Your Right: Clinical Record—you have a right to look at your Client Record and other information about you kept by Pioneer Center.
You may ask your QHSP/QMHP to assist you in reviewing your record and explaining to you anything that you do not understand. You may also ask a family member/friend, or your advocate, to assist you in accessing your records.

Your Right: Grievances—you have a right to express grievances in writing to the President/CEO. Some decisions by Pioneer Center (denial, reduction, suspension, and termination of services) are appealable to the Illinois Department of Human Services and/or the Department of Public Aid. (Please see the Pioneer Center Grievance Policy—“If You Have A Complaint”--in this handbook.)
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for communicating your complaints in an appropriate and truthful manner. The Grievance Procedure is reviewed later in this Handbook.

Your Right: Restraints—restraints may be used only to protect you from physically harming yourself or others; or as a part of a medical/surgical procedure, and only under the supervision of a qualified professional.

It is the policy of Pioneer Center to never use physical restraint unless there is a significant risk of physical danger to clients or others. Physical restraint must only be employed when a client presents a serious physical threat to themselves or others and may only be used as a last resort when other interventions have not been successful. Physical restraint will only be performed by staff trained and certified in CPI techniques.

Your Right: Seclusion—the use of seclusion shall not be permitted.

Your Right: Confidentiality—personal information about you and the services you receive is private and may be shared with someone else only as allowed by the Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for respecting others privacy—not gossiping or telling stories about roommates, friends, or staff.

Your Right: Right to Information about Pioneer Center—you have the right to know if Pioneer Center is not meeting quality standards and to look at written survey reports describing the quality of services.

Your Right: Exercising Your Rights—you may not be denied, suspended, or terminated from services, or have services reduced, for filing a grievance or for exercising any of your rights.

Your Right: Restriction of Rights—if your rights are restricted, the person who is responsible for your services (your QHSP/QMHP) must tell you, your parents if you are under age eighteen, and your guardian if one has been appointed. In addition, Pioneer Center must tell all persons or agencies that you choose to have told about the restriction. Justification for any restriction of your individual rights shall be documented in your Client File.

Other Rights and Responsibilities you have while receiving services from Pioneer Center:

Your Right: You have a right to privacy. Staff cannot search your person, your room, your locker, or personal items without your permission; unless it is part of a behavioral program approved by the Human Rights Committee. Staff will not enter your home/room without your permission and will always knock before entering.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for respecting the privacy of your friends, room/house mates, and staff. No gossiping, telling stories, etc. about people.

Your Right: You have a right to communicate and associate with persons of your own choice.
Your Responsibility: You may visit and see whomever you want. However, you are responsible for you actions with your friends and for their actions within your home. If your Community/Clinical Team feels you are associating with people who may do you harm, the Human Rights Committee may be asked to restrict your access to those friends. Again, your family may be asked to assist in the decision making process.

Your Right: You have the right to select and wear your own clothing, which is clean, in good repair, and appropriate with respect to your age and the season of the year.
If you wish, staff can assist you in purchasing appropriate clothing; they can also assist you in keeping the clothing clean and in good repair.
Your Responsibility: You are responsible for asking for assistance, when needed, and for getting rid of clothing you can no longer wear. Again, your support staff can help you with this.

Your Right: You have the right to practice your faith or religion. You can attend the church, synagogue, or any other place of worship you choose. Staff will assist you with arranging transportation to-and-from services.
Your Responsibility: Please respect the choices of your co-workers, friends, room/house mates who may not share the beliefs you have and honor their right to practice their faith as they see fit.

Your Right: You have the right to vote in all public elections. Your staff person or QMRP/QMHP can assist you in registering to vote in your community. Staff will also assist you in getting to-and-from your polling place on all regular election days.


Modification of Services

At some point, the staff that work with you may determine that the services and supports outlined in your Individual Support Plan are not benefiting you. This may include changes to the goals you are working on or even your ability to stay in the residential program you live in or vocational program you attend. Pioneer Center must send you and/or your guardian notification of any changes that are being made at least 10 days before the changes are to be implemented. If you and/or your guardian disagree with the changes being recommended you can appeal them following the grievance procedure below.



Termination of Services (CILA)

There may come a point in time when the services you receive from Pioneer Center no longer meet your needs; at that time, you may be told that you can no longer be apart of a Pioneer Center program. Reasons you cannot continue at Pioneer Center may include for the CILA program:
· your medical needs cannot be met in the program.
· your behavior places yourself or your housemates in danger.
· you transfer to another agency at your or your guardian’s request.
· you are absent from the program for more than 60 days and you will not be able to return to the program.
· you no longer benefit from CILA services.






If You Have a Complaint

You may at some time disagree with the services being provided to you, such as: supports received, place of residence, work assignments, etc. If this occurs, Pioneer Center has a client Grievance Procedure for you to use to advocate for yourself.

The first step is to present your grievance to the appropriate Program Manager. If you are uncomfortable doing this, you may choose to speak with your QHSP/QMHP, the Division Director, your assigned staff person, or any of the agencies listed on Page 3. You may also seek assistance from a friend, advocate, family member, or any other interested party. Grievances are to be documented using the Grievance Record Form—again, you can ask any of the above staff to assist you in completing this form. All parties involved in the grievance must be given a copy of the grievance record with the original placed in the client’s file. NO ONE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE ACTION OR DECISION BEING GRIEVED WILL BE PART OF THE REVIEW PROCESS!

Everyone receiving services from Pioneer Center, their guardian—when applicable—and families have the right to present grievances, to appeal adverse decisions and to receive appropriate responses in a timely manner without fear of negative impact on the services received. No action being appealed will be implemented during the grievance process. All grievances must have a final administrative decision.

1.) Grievances are to be documented using the Grievance Record Form.
2.) The form should be given to the appropriate Program Manager and/or QHSP/QMHP, who will then forward it to the Program Manager within 1 working day from receiving it.
3.) The Program Manager will respond to the grievance in writing within 5 working days.
4.) If the client, their guardian/advocate, or family member do not agree with the response, they should forward the grievance and the response to the appropriate Division Director.
5.) The Division Director will respond to the grievance in writing within 5 working days.
6.) If the client, their guardian/advocate, or family member do not agree with the response, they should forward the grievance and the responses to the Vice-President of Programs.
7.) The Vice-President of Programs will respond to the grievance in writing within 5 working days.
8.) If the client, their guardian/advocate, or family member does not agree with the response, they should forward the grievance and the responses to the President/CEO.
9.) The President/CEO will respond to the grievance in writing within 5 working days.

If necessary, the President/CEO will request that the Agency’s Human Rights Committee review the case and render an opinion—within 5 working days—to the Board of Directors who will render an opinion within 5 working days. The Board of Directors renders all final resolutions on behalf of Pioneer Center.

10.) If the client, their guardian/advocate, or family member do not agree with the decision of the Board of Directors, any of the previously listed agencies can assist in reaching some sort of resolution to the issue.

11.) The President/CEO, or a delegate, will conduct an annual review of all grievances.

Throughout this process, the client may also seek assistance from a Pioneer Center Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is someone who has been trained to assist a client with problems or issues they may be having. The client will not be assigned an Ombudsman who works within any program that client receives services from.


The Human Rights Committee

The purpose of the Human Rights Committee is to preserve and protect the rights and personal dignity of all persons served at Pioneer Center. The Committee provides the direction when dealing with sensitive human rights issues and client grievances in a timely, constructive, and confidential manner. It is the responsibility of the committee to review any Individual Plan, Policy and Procedure, program or practice which may restrict the rights, or compromise the dignity, of any person served within the agency.

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Marty's Announcement: Poinsettias for Sale

Poinsettias for Sale
Thursday December 6th from 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Stop by the Greenhouse in the D-Building at MCC and get your poinsettias
Three different varieties available this year
Red, White, and Pink
$5.50 each

To my friends and co-workers:
I have been taking a greenhouse class this year at MCC. As part of our class, we have been growing poinsettias to sell to the public this Christmas season. They (the poinsettias) are all in full bloom and ready to be sold, and supplies are limited, so stop by ASAP to get the plant no Christmas should be without.

If you have any questions, please contact Marty at EDS ext. 7180

(Please note: EDS Clients who will be going to MCC with Class on Friday, December 7th, have an opportunity to buy poinsettias. Remaining inventory of plants will be sold on a first come basis. They may be purchased with Marty's help at MCC. Marty wants people to know that if you are allergic to latex, please do not touch the sap if the stem breaks.)

EDS Food Drive

A while back, the EDS clients were looking for community volunteer opportunities. One of the ideas that the client council came up with was to participate in a food drive. Then along came The Festival of Trees event in Lake In the Hills. This event is to collect food for the Interfaith Food Pantry. The EDS clients thought that this was a great idea and quickly volunteered to be one of many local organizations to participate in tree contest.

Each EDS client made a personalized ornament with a special holiday message inside. Then, on November 29th, the EDS clients went out to the site and started decorating the Pioneer Tree.

Starting December 3rd, the EDS clients will collect non-perishable food items and cleaning supplies. On December 12th, the EDS clients will be turning in the items to count for their "votes". We would like to encourage our family and friends to donate a item or two. Items will be accepeted in the EDS classroom December 3rd thorugh December 7th.

For more information on the event, please see the Northwest Herald article below.

http://nwherald.com/articles/2007/11/29/news/local/doc474e5aeba114d419961846.txt

Requesting EMAIL addresses

A typical day in EDS is usually very action packed and truthfully we rarely answer the phone when in class. If you leave a voice mail message, we are usually good at responding quickly. However, we would like to remind you of another avenue of communication. Email is a quick way to stay in contact and send out information.

We are beginning to compile an email address book of families, guardians, clients and agencies who would like to give out their email address. If you would like to be in this address book, please email Rachel at rmerke@pioneercenter.org.

Curtis Gallery Art Show

As most of you know, Bridges had it's second art show last Friday at the Curtis Professional Building. The Northwest Herald covered the event. Below is the link to the article published on Saturday. The painting in the lower left of the photo is one of the six Bridges pieces showcased.

http://www.biz-journal.com/articles/2007/11/09/local/doc4735251a521ea589106961.txt

November Holiday Schedule

Pionner Center will be close November 22nd and 23rd for Thanksgiving.

Feel Free to Comment

EDS would like to encourage you to make comments on this blog.

The hope is that this is a site that you will check often just to see what we're up to.

It's very easy to post a comment, so please take the time to give feedback.

Thanks,

The Blog!

Direct Deposit

Tired of running to the bank to cash or deposit your paycheck? Why are you not taking the easy route? Maybe it's time to consider direct deposit. All pioneer clients have the opportunity to have their paycheck deposited to an account of their choice. Clients would still receive a paycheck envelope with the amount deposited every other Friday. Direct deposit would hopefully eliminate the hassle of lost checks or time out out of your day for checks that are less than a dollar.

If this is an option you would like, please call or email for one simple form that needs to be completed. 815-759-7180.

Ombudsman Supports

Clients who receive services at Pioneer have access to Ombudsman Support.

According to the dictionary, an ombudsman is "one who investigates complaints, as from consumers. Assisting in achieving fair settlements."

Currently, there are 12 individuals identified throughout Pioneer who are trained Ombudsman. Clients have access to this list of people and may select whomever they would prefer assistance from.

Examples of when a client may chose to have an ombudsman:

• facilitate a meeting when one is dissatisfied with services provided
• assist with the grievance process
• assist with requesting additional/new services
• provide a list of outside agencies
• assist with understanding the client handbook
• assist with accessing other supports in the agency
• assist with understanding any agency documents.

The Risks of Being in EDS

With all of the exciting things happening in EDS, it's important every once and a while to think about the programming. There are some risks of participating in this particular program and they are...

Top 5 risks of EDS:

5. Dependency on Center: EDS is a time limited program, and some client become too dependent on the program or too comfortable.

4. Inadequate furniture: Updated furniture needs to be added to make classroom more accessible/safe (include armed chairs for safety).

3. Feeling of rejection/disappointment: Many clients become very disappointed or hard on themselves when they observe peer’s success in obtaining a community job.

2. Consequences for Choices: EDS is an opportunity for clients to learn about choice making in relation to good/bad consequences. Clients may make harmful choices (such as buying pop even when on a restricted diet, or spending too much money).

1. Unsupervised: There are times when clients are expected to be independent in Pioneer or in public places; (Staff does not monitor “off” hours at MCC, loading on and off busses, etc.)

Good Hair Day

Attention Clients:

On November 15th, a professional photographer will be coming to Pioneer Center to take photos for the upcoming 50th anniversary booklet. The photographer is looking to take a variety of photos of both staff and clients. Just in case you might want to be in some of the photos, I would suggest that you try to have a good hair day. Dressing up is not necessary, but it would be nice to look "put together." Please note, no photos would be published without a signed release.

Employee Performance Evaluation

This November, marks my third year anniversary at Pioneer Center. Typically performance evaluations are completed by my manager. This year however, I asking for the individuals who receive services to also complete an evaluation. I am putting myself in this position as part of my goal to facilitate client self-advocacy. The evaluation will give clients an opportunity to speak-up for themselves and the quality of services they receive in EDS. The survey developed by Illinois Voices has nine questions and responses will remain anonymous if requested. Thanks, Rachel

November 16th Reminder

This is just a friendly reminder that the EDS clients will NOT be attending MCC on November 16th due to the Craft Fair. Thanks

Fallen Soldier Exhibit

If you haven't heard, EDS classes are held off site at the McHenry County College on Fridays. (The focus of the curriculum is around commonly required trainings for anyone who obtains a community job.) Last Friday, it was very exciting because there was a special exhibit and presentation on Fallen Illinois Soldiers. We had an opportunity to look at sketches of portraits and meet several Naval officers.

The Northwest Herald wrote an article on the event. Below is the link for that article.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2007/10/27/news/local/doc472301979aae2247464225.txt

Self-Advocacy Training

On October 31th, the EDS client participated in Self-advocacy training run by Illinois Voices.

Illinois Voices is a state-wide self-advocacy initiative designed to empower people with developmental and other disabilities to make their own decisions, stand up for their rights and speak for themselves based on their strengths and desires.


It was a fun filled day was for persons with disabilities, family members, and agency staff. The information included in the training was the following: ideas needed to begin building capacities, changing lives, and recognizing the value of persons with disabilities through: a celebration of gifts, group activities, videos
scenarios, ways to support self advocacy.

For further information regarding this impressive self-advocacy program log onto the web site:
www.illinoisvoices.com

Job Opening in EDS

At this time, EDS is looking to fill the open staff position of an Employee Development Specialist. The EDS clients will again be part of the hiring process for this position. There has been many discussions on what type of qualities they will look for in a potential employee.

The EDS clients have stated that they are looking to hire someone with the following criteria:

• experience working with people with disabilities
• experience teaching or training
• an understanding the needs/dreams of the EDS clients
• a good sense of humor

The clients have begun the process of reviewing job criterias and developing interview questions. Keep your eyes open for updates on this process.

The Posting for the open position can be found on the Pioneer Center for Human Services Website:

http://www.pioneercenter.org/EmploymentOpportunity/EO.ASP?Param=ID&Data=766

Workouts

The clients in EDS have been utilizing the new exercise room in the Pioneer Central building. They have been consistently working out daily Monday through Thursday. Each workout session is for 21 minutes. The clients have the choice to use cardio equipment or to follow along with a video. The choice is theirs to participate, but everyone is strongly encouraged.

Holiday Craft Fair

The EDS clients have decided to participate in the agency's fourth annual holiday craft fair. After researching several ideas, the vote was to make three crafts this year. They will be selling decorated vases, candles, and light switch covers. The crafts will be on sale on November 16th from 9:30-1:30 in the Pioneer West (Administration) building. Please note that all of the profits from the fair, goes directly to the client council funds.

About EDS

Listen to this article

EDS provides assessment of employability and develops employment skills to assist individuals to have access to, and participate fully in, their communities. This programs develops skilled employees through a diversified time-limited and accessible transitional training program for individuals who dream to develop or re-establish skills, attitudes, personal characteristics, interpersonal skills, work behaviors, and functional capacities to achieve positive employment outcomes. Students experience volunteer work, job exploration, skills training, computer training, and interviewing. Graduates enter the work force with a working portfolio, self-inventory profile, and a recorded mock interview. Services are provided to adolescents and adults with a developmental disability. EDS is targeted to both students who are transitioning from special education to adult services and to adults who need to develop skills for independent living and competitive employment. EDS was recognized by the Illinois Association for Rehabilitation Facilities (IARF) as one of “the Best of the Best” programs in the State in 2005.


EDS Direct Phone Number: 815-759-7180