Waring, 2009 will be a schedule change

Starting January 2009, we will be following a WINTER schedule.

Most importantly, the days of the week we attend MCC will be changing.

Starting the Week of January 5th, EDS will be at MCC on....

WEDNESDAYS and FRIDAYS!!

This change was due to room availability at the college. This is a great exercise in FLEXIBILITY and ADAPTING TO CHANGE.

It's also important to note that the rooms will be changed as well...

Wednesdays we will be in Room A115

Fridays we will be in Room E102

The winter class schedule will be posted as soon as we edit the final changes.

Holiday BREAK!!!

EDS will be closing for the Holiday Break!

We will be closed starting December 24th.

Clients can return to Pioneer on January 5th.

Enjoy the time with your friends and family!

Do we listen to the weather warnings?

I'm sure all of you have been listening closely to the weather predictions. At this time, they are calling for a storm to hit tonight which woul make the roads difficult tomorrow.


As luck would have it, tomorrow is they day we were planing on going holiday shopping. We just learned a few moments ago, that the Case Managers have already canceled their shopping trip. EDS however is going to wait and see.

This the new plan if Pioneer is open tomorrow...


Clients report to Pioneer Central in the morning.
Britt and I will make a judgement call at 9:00 regarding the roads.
If all looks well, then we'll go a few miles down 31 to the Super Wal-Mart.
If the roads look too dangerous, then we'll stay back and have a "fun" day.
We will watch a holiday movie, make a craft, and order pizza.

Don't forget, that if Pioneer closes, a voice mail message will be posted on the hotline!
That number again...815-759-7188!

Shopping Outing December 19th!

It's an EDS annual tradition to go holiday shopping for our friends and family in December. In years past, we have gone all the way out to Spring Hill Mall. This year, the group has decided instead to shop at the new Super Wal-Mart in Crystal Lake. They like that it's closer and a little more in budget.

The outing gives an opportunity for clients to shop for others. As always, EDS clients are expected handle their money, make their purchases and budget independently. Staff will not assist unless asked.

We selected the date of December 19th on purpose! Several EDS clients are already scheduled to shop that day with their community case manager. (Too much confusion for us to have 2 different shopping days). The rest of us will be in a separate group.

We will be leaving Pioneer at 9:30 and will return by 1:30.

Client may bring their lunch, or choose to eat at the subway, located inside the store.

As always, we'll have the EDS cell phone 815-861-6219 with us if you need to find us in the store!

Call if you have any questions.

P. Central Holiday PARTY

EDS will participate in Central's Holiday Party. The party will be on TUESDAY, the 23rd.

This is an annual tradition that we all look forward to every year, so we will NOT be going to MCC for class on this day.

The catered menu has just been announced...

ham

turkey w/gravy

cheesy potatoes

country stuffing

green beans

tossed salad

jell-o with assorted fruit

The event for the EDS clients is free, since the cost of $10 per person will be covered by the EDS Client Council Fund. At this time, we've figured that we will be spending at least $290.00 of the fund for the party.

Planners at Target $1.00

FOUND A GREAT DEAL AT TARGET!

While shopping at Target, I came upon weekly planners for only $1.oo.

I purchased as many as I could, since I know several clients are in need of a new planner

for 2009. I will put the planners on sale in the SNACK ATTACK starting Monday the 8th. And yes, they will be sold for $1.00.

Holiday Decor for Room

The EDS client council has decided to decorate the classroom for the holiday season.

If clients would like, they can bring in holiday decor to jazz up the room.

Now, don't go out and make any purchases. This is JUST FOR FUN!

All decor will be returned in January. Thanks, EDS client council.

Memorial for Rhodagae

Sadly, Rhodagae Grimes passed away on November 30th. She had been with Pioneer over 13 years and was very well known by many. We will miss her presence here at Pioneer. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Here’s the information for Rhodagae’s memorial:

Community of Faith Lutheran Church, 3010 E. Solon Rd. Spring Grove, 60081
Thursday, December 4th from 5:30pm-7pm

Possible Snow Day Procedure.

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.

Now that EDS is at McHenry County College 2 days per week, we need to update the procedure.

• IF Pioneer Center closes the Dayton Street Facilities, EDS will be completely cancled whether it be at Pioneer or at McHenry County College. All clients are to stay home and enjoy the day.

• IF McHenry County College(MCC) closes, and the Dayton Street Facilities are OPEN, then EDS classes will be held at Pioneer Central. All clients are to report to Pioneer Center.

• IF Pioneer Center is OPEN, and McHenry County College (MCC) is OPEN but there are safety concerns of driving clients to and from MCC mid day, then classes will be held at Pioneer Center. All clients are to report to Pioneer Center.

When weather is questionable, please ...

Call the Pioneer Dayton Street Hotline 1-815-759-7188 for closings.

NISRA Presents...

NISRA Presents
Beauty and the Beast

In cooperation with CYT (Chritian Youth Theatre), NISRA presents this Tale as old as time and song as old as rhyme...

An this performance is extra special to all of us, because we know the actor playing the role of BEAST! Our own Deb from the Bridges Program!

When: December 16th
7:30-8:00 pm Performance

Where: Cosman Cultural Center in the Huntley REC Center
12015 Mill Street, Huntley

RSVP: To Emily Todd at NISRA (815-459-0137 ext. 243 or email etodd@nisra.org0 by Friday December 5th so they can plan accordingly.

Self Advocacy Council of Northern Illinois (SACNI)

Dear Rachel, Thanks for your email!!

The Self Advocacy meetings are on the 2nd Thursday of the month and the website is www.sacni.org. We have guest speakers like Pamela Altoff(senetor) and Mike Tryon, and people from IL Voices like Lisa Cesal. We discuss issues like Transportation, which is a Huge issue, and government issues like that!All ages and even parents and teachers, and aides,etc. are welcome!!!!!

Sincerely yours, Anna :) :) :) :) :)

Ps. We meet in Rm. B166 (MCC) where the Transition Fair was, thier is also, pizza at 6:30 in the cafeteria, by the commons area!!!

Geoff's Success Party

EDS clients, you're invited too.....

Geoff's SUCCESS party!

"I moved in to my apartment last Saturday, and I'm still getting organized. I'm happy."

On Monday the 24th, the entire EDS class will be going out to McDonald's for lunch. (This was Geoff's choice. He felt that people might be tired of pizza)

We will be leaving campus at 11:15 to head out to McDonald's and will return around 1:00.

All clients will be responsible for there own money handling and ordering. Clients who choose not to eat McDonald's, may bring a sack lunch.

Craft Fair Results

Congratulations on another successful craft fair!

EDS raised $195.10 for it's clients council fund.

This money goes directly into the fund that the clients control.

And it's not a surprise that the clients already know how they want to spend this money!

The group has chosen to use this money for the Pioneer Central Holiday Party which takes place just before the holiday break in December. The money will go towards the catered food and the DJ.

Men’s Group Fundraiser

Men’s Group Fundraiser
November 14th

Chili Dog = $2.50
Chili Dog w/Cheese = $3.00
Chip = $0.50

Nachos = $2.50
Extra Cheese = $0.50

SHOP BY THE CLIENT CRAFT FAIR AND HAVE LUNCH TOO.
Pioneer West Building

Geoff's Apartment! How AWESOME!

EDS wants to congratulate Geoff becasue he just got an Apartment. Over the next two weeks, he's going to be moving his stuff in to his very own place! How Awesome is that?!?!?!


When we asked Geoff about it, here is what he had to say...


"I'll be in a building on the second floor. It's a big living room and it has two bedrooms. One is a big size and one is small. It has a small kitchen. The best part, I get to be on my own. I'll be taking care of my own things. I'll get to do normal stuff, like stay up late. I'll have people visit me. I'll make my own meals, I'll do all kinds of stuff." -Geoff


All of us are so proud of Geoff. Once he's all moved in, EDS will plan a house warming party!

Closed November 27th & 28th

Reminder: We will be closed on the 27th & 28th for Thanksgiving!

Volunteering November 14

As it was announced in class, on November 14th everyone has the opportunity to volunteer. Clients may choose if they would like to volunteer at the Holiday Craft Fair here at Pioneer, or at the Transition Fair at MCC. Both of these events will require individuals to dress to impress and perform the 5 aspects of good communication.

Craft Fair:
Clients will work shifts at the EDS craft table. They will be expected to interact with customers, explain details about the goods to be sold, and explain the pricing.

Transition Fair:
Clients will work a shift at the snack table, passing out free food to participants. They will be expected to interact with participants, explain only one free item per customer and managing the crowed. A select few, will actually help present the EDS program on the stage at MCC in a panel and address th fair participants.

Please note that we take both of these events very seriously. Regular EDS classes will not be taught this day. If clients do not want to volunteer, then it is not necessary to attend on the 14th.

Please sign-up with Britt which event you would like to work TODAY!!!

Celebrate November Birthdays

There are several birthdays in EDS this month, so we're going to have one big party. We will celebrate together on November 10th duing lunch from 12:30 to 1:30. And like any good celebration, we must have PIZZA. If you would like to have pizza bring in $5.00. If not, simply bring in your own lunch. And since it's MY birthday too, I will be providing cake! And if you really must know, I'm turning 29, again. Happy Birthday to us all, Rachel

You have the RIGHT to VOTE!

This is a reminder not jut for EDS clients, but for everyone that you have the right to vote!

Make arrangements to get out and vote tomorrow.

As always remember: Along with the RIGHT, you have a RESPONSIBILITY!

If you decided to vote in an election, you have the responsibility to find out what the issues are that you will be voting on or about the person you will be voting for.

If you need assistance at the voting place, you can have a support person help you read the ballot and mark your choices. The voting place also has booths that are wheelchair accessible.

If you feel that you have denied access to voting, speak up and tell someone.

Barbara Rinella Returns

3rd Annual
Holiday Luncheon &
Book Review
Presenting Barbara Rinella
Book Dramatist

Join us: Monday, December 8, 2008 11:30 a.m. Social Hour ~ 12:15 p.m. Lunch Served
12:45 p.m. Presentation
D’Andrea Banquets & Conference Center
Rte. 14, Crystal Lake, Illinois

Tickets: $35
For more information call 815.759.7144
On-Line registration at www.pioneercenter.org

2008 Book Review Benefits
Horticultural Therapy at Pioneer
The Mental Health Division at Pioneer will soon include horticultural therapy, using plants, gardening activities, and the natural world in professional
therapy and rehabilitation programs.

A small insignificant seed or humble seedling can prosper, giving hope and joy and a feeling of accomplishment.

5th Annual Transition Resource Fair

The 5th Annual Transition Resource Fair

Friday, November 14th, 2008

McHenry County College

Building B-Commons Area

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Agencies serving McHenry County will be present to provide information and transition resources. There is NO cost to attend.

Sponsored by the McHenry County Transition Planning Committee, Pioneer Center for Human Services, and Family CARE Project

Please direct questions to Jeannine Bolton

815-790-2545 or jbolton@sedom.org

Come join us. TOGETHER we can make a difference.

More on Budget Cuts

We need you all to call again, ask friends family anyone to log into a phone call. He must restore the cuts!!! As you may have heard yesterday, a Governor’s spokesperson said the Governor does not plan to restore budget cuts until he is sure the spending plan can withstand an economic slide. The reality is the Funds Sweep bill (SB 790) that the Governor already signed into law provides enough funding, readily available to restore cuts to community services and has nothing to do with the economy, at this time. All the Governor needs to do is sign the Supplemental Appropriations bill (SB 1103) into law and there would be funding to restore our cuts. As we previously reported, the Governor’s office has been signaling for over a month that the Governor might sign the Funds Sweep bill into law and then see how much money could be swept out of dedicated funds before he decided what to do with the Supplemental Appropriations bill. We view this most recent statement about whether the state spending plan can withstand an economic slide to be nothing short of a political statement aimed at putting restoration of funding for community services in jeopardy again. We were previously assured by the Governor’s office that restoring cuts to community services remained a top priority. However, with the first round of cuts (DD program rate cuts) for community services slated for November 1, 2008 quickly approaching, we must make our strongest effort yet to urge the Governor to immediately sign the Supplemental Appropriations bill (SB 1103) into law. We need you to call the Governor at 217-782-6830 in Springfield and 312-814-2121 in Chicago. Cuts to community services begin November 1, 2008. We cannot wait for the Governor to take action! Urge the Governor to immediately sign the Supplemental Appropriations bill (SB 1103) into law to restore cuts to community services back to annualized FY 2008 levels. Lorraine Kopczynski, President/CEO , Pioneer Center for Human Services, 4001 Dayton Street McHenry, IL 60050, Phone: (815) 759-7056 , Fax: (815) 344-3815

The Halloween Party Question

We have been asked repeatedly, "Are we having a Halloween Party?"

The answer is NO! EDS is not organizing a Halloween party. We are scheduled to attend class like usual at McHenry County College on October 31st.

However, when we return from the college, you may choose to crash the DT party in the common area if you'd like. (Please note: it is not necessary to wear a costume).

Top Sales Award Goes to....

The AIM (Advocates in Motion) Halloween Candy is SOLD OUT!

Way to go Everyone! As a group, you have $150 dollars to use for your Self-Advocacy Activities.

Congratulations to Geoff for being the Top Seller. Geoff sold 75 suckers all on his own. He received a $5.00 gift card to McDonald's for his effort. Way to go.

EDS Presented to IARF

As most of you know, Jason and I presented the EDS program to the folks attending the IARF conference on Wednesday. What's IARF you ask?

IARF is short for the Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities.

This photo was taken on Wednesday just after our 2 hour presentation. I have to admit, that I was very nervous to speak to a room full of people. But I reminded myself, that I expect good communication from all the EDS clients, so I better step it up!

I honestly had a lot of fun telling other agencies, like Pioneer, your success stories. I told them about the classes your taking, how you go to MCC, how you volunteer with us and on your own... and yes, THE PARTY BALLS!!!!

The best part of the conference was watching our own Pioneer President & CEO, Lorraine Kopczyncki, received her BIG award. Make sure you read the blog all about it!!!!

Eventhough it was fun, I'm happy to be back! Rachel

Lorraine's Award

At the IARF conference yesterday Lorraine was the recipient of The Don Burke Award for Executive Excellence. This is awarded in recognition of the standard set by Don during his career as executive of Crosspoint Human Services. He always had as his personal and professional mission to provide excellent services in an environment that respected and honored staff and consumers for their abilities.

The Don Burke Award for Executive Excellence is presented each year to an individual who has displayed outstanding leadership within their organization. Nominated individuals should have made an impact in the human service field by their commitment and contributions.

Lorraine Kopczynski, President & CEO of Pioneer Center for Human Services has been advocating on the behalf of people with disabilities since she began her career at Pioneer Center in 1986 as a case worker. She has worked her way through the ranks as program manager, program director, associate director, chief operating officer, and finally in July 2005 being appointed President/CEO, while completing her master’s degree during this time.

Lorraine has been the voice for people with disabilities in McHenry County for over 22 years. She has been involved by combating the lack of governmental supports for people with disabilities by participating in numerous campaigns, committees, and other organizations that promote fairness, equal opportunity, and to encourage people with disabilities to have a voice of their own.

Under Lorraine’s leadership Pioneer Center has changed its name and expanded services to serve a broader population of people. With a new name of “Pioneer Center for Human Services” Lorraine moved forward to add new programs and services. Lorraine adopted the ‘Voice’ program, the only certified Sexual Assault Services program in McHenry County and McHenry County’s largest provider of homeless services, McHenry County PADS, which are both now under the Pioneer Center for Human Services umbrella. As a result of the recent program additions, the client numbers have increased from 1300 to over 1700 people annually.

The award can be seen in the reception area of P. West. Please congratulate Lorraine next time you see her!

Monday and Tuesday!

Yes, Pioneer Center IS open on Monday October 13th, Columbus Day. Report on Monday, business as usual.

However MCC is closed on Tuesday October 14th, so all clients should report to Pioneer Center!

And to all of you Canadians, Happy Thanksgiving!

No MCC on Tuesday Oct. 14th

EDS Will NOT be going to MCC on Tuesday Oct. 14th. The college will be closed. We will resume classes at MCC on Friday Oct. 17th.

The Book Fair is Back!

Mark Your Calendar
The Book Fair is Back!
Pioneer will once again be hosting our bi-annual
Book Fair
October 30th 9:00-2:00
Training Room P. West
Get a Jump start on Holiday Gifts!

Remember that a portion of all sales comes back to Pioneer.

Letter to a Mom

A EDS client just lost his mother and has asked to post this letter to her.

Dear Mom,

I want to let you know that I love you a lot and thank you taking me in your home. And I thank you for raising me as your own son. You always took care of me since I was 8 months old and then for 22 years. You were my comfort when thing were rough. When I needed to talk to somebody, you listened. We would read bible verses together which made me feel good. We would sing songs together on the couch before bed. We sang, “The Good Old Gospel Train” do you remember? Mom, I want to let you know that I will do my best for you. I want to let you know that one day Mom I will see you in heaven when you can take care of me again.
Love, Your Son

Treasures & Trimmings Craft Fair

It seems the holiday season starts earlier and earlier!

It's already time for us to start advertising the Pioneer's Client Craft Fair.

The fair will be on November 14th from 9:30 to 1:00.

The proceeds will go directly back to the clients for their activity funds.

Immunizations

October 3, 2008
Dear Parents and Families,

Once again Pioneer is providing an opportunity to have you family member to receive their annual flu shot at Pioneer Center. A pneumonia shot will also be available, keep in mind those are given once every 5 years.

We are sending home a form that should be filled out and returned no later than October 27, 2008. If I can be helpful in answering questions you may call me at 815-759-7248.
If their insurance is Medi-care or Medi-caid there is no cost to you. If you don’t receive either, the flu shot is $20.00, the pneumonia is $40.00. Cash or checks will be accepted, make the check out to Dominick’s Pharmacy.

Keep in mind that side effects do occur in individuals receiving immunizations. Mild pain in the arm, low grade fever, and muscle aches may occur. Rest, Tylenol, and fluids should relieve the symptoms. Should symptoms get worse, or you have concerns you should call your Dr.
Hopefully we will all have a healthy winter season.

Thank you,
Sarah Walker RN
Nurse Manager
Pioneer Center for Human Services

EDS attends the Dare to Dream Workshop

Thurs. Oct. 2nd and Friday Oct. 3rd Pioneer hosted a Dare to Dream workshop. At this workshop clients discussed their Dreams and some of the "bricks" they may run into trying to achieve these Dreams.

"It was very interesting. They were telling everybody that even people with disablities can do what everybody else can. I learned people that have disablities can accomplish their dreams."
-Terrie T.

"I'm happy with it. I learned about myself and my dreams and people that can listen and help me with it. "
-Terri H.

"I learned that you can have more dreams, then if you have a brick wall in your wall your dream is harder to see."
-Geoff

"I was nervous to say what my dream was in front of the whole group. I realized that I have dream cheerleaders!"
-Anonomous

"I think it was the best workshop."
-Kevin S.

"Its the first time I ve ever been to a workshop with the group. I learned that a brick wall can block your dreams away, but I have to push the block away from me and then my dreams will come true."
-Wayne

"It was a wonderful workshop."
-Kim

"I thought it was a nice and helpful workshop."
-Tony

"My mom said I need to accomplish my Dreams and believe in myself."

-Sean G.

"To meet Dewayne Wade"

-Ben

Chicago Baseball

The state of the economy may be in the dumps, but let’s focus on the positive.

This is the first time since 1906 that both the Cubs and White Sox have been in the playoffs at the same time!

Let’s celebrate by wearing the colors or the jersey of your favorite team on Friday, October 3rd!

AIM Fundraiser

Starting TODAY
the AIM group (Advocates in Motion) will be selling
chocolate SUCKERS in the break room
from 10am to 10:15 am and again @ 12:00pm to 12:45pm
until October 31 2008!!!!!!!

They are selling for $1.00.

Bouns Deal: 6 for $5.00

Annual Dance & Sandwich Buffet

Save the Date!!!!

Event: Annual Dance at the Harvard Moose Lodge

Date: Thursday, October 16th, 2008

Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Location: 22500 Route 173 W, Harvard, Illinois 60033

Benefit for individuals with developmental disabilities, counselors, parents and guardians.

There will be no charge, by you must RSVP @ 815-943-5925.

Kiwainis Peanut Day

Today three EDS volunteers collected donations during the Kiwainis Peanut day drive.

They worked a two hour shift collecting money at the McHenry Jewel.

GREAT WORK!!!

News: Call Your Senators

Yahoo…the pressure worked.

Governor Blagojevich has called the Senate and House back into session next Monday, September 22 to deal with the ethics legislation and perhaps other issues. IT IS CRUCIAL THAT WE HAVE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO RESTORE THE CUTS TO THE FY '08 LEVEL IF THE SENATE VOTES TO PASS SENATE BILLS 790 (THE FUND SWEEPS BILL) AND SENATE BILL 1103 (THE RESTORATION OF CUTS).

Now call your senators and let them know the above information.
State Senator Bill Peterson, phone 847-634-6060, fax 847-634-1569, illsen26@aol.com
State Senator Pam Althoff, phone 815-455-6330, fax 815-455-8284, palthoff@mc.net


Thanks


Lorraine Kopczynski, President/CEO
Pioneer Center for Human Services
4001 Dayton Street
McHenry, IL 60050
Phone: (815) 759-7056
Fax: (815) 344-3815

Class Sign-up September 29th

Attention EDS Clients:

The opportunity to sign up for extra curricular classes will be on Monday the 29th.

Just like in the summer, there will be a variety of booths set up in the P. Central Common area where you can sign up for classes that you are interested in taking.

Please note that since class space is limited you may not get your class of "first choice."

I Scream You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream

As part of Rehab week, yesterday we celebrated Pioneer Day. There was a flag raising event where clients lead the pledge and the national anthem. McHenry Mayor Sue Low and State Representative Mike Tryon, who are both great advocates for Pioneer, attended.

"It's awesome, we have tons of ice scream. We celebrated Pioneer and the 50 year anniversary. Pioneer is good at having classes to take for me to learn about self-advocacy, time management and life skills."- Nichole

"I've been her for a few year, and I like it here. I want to get a job. I will have help becasue of Pioneer." Melissa

Sean Dares to Dream!

Today Sean accepted the Dare to Dream Co-facilitator position. He was selected out of several applicants to present at the October workshop with Illinois Voices. Make sure you sign up today for the event if you haven't already! It will be great to see Sean in action!