Expanded county dial-a-ride Services to start in February

By KEVIN P. CRAVER - kcraver@nwherald.com
Expanded county dial-a-ride 
services to start in February

McHenry County’s expanded dial-a-ride transit service will start rolling in February.
The new service, which partners county providers with Pace, will give county residents as of Feb. 13 the option of traveling to and from Crystal Lake, McHenry and Woodstock, as well as Valley Hi Nursing Home in Woodstock and the Fox Lake Metra station. Seniors 65 years and older and people with disabilities also can travel to and from destinations in McHenry and Dorr townships. The system also is open to clients of Pioneer Center for Human Services, which helps people with mental disabilities.
The three cities currently have access to Pace Dial-a-Ride, but they cannot leave their respective city limits, McHenry Township Supervisor Donna Schaefer said.
The new system, among other things, will give seniors and other residents the ability to travel to federal, state and local government offices in the county seat of Woodstock.
“It’s badly needed; there is no way for people who depend on dial-a-ride services now to get from one town to another,” Schaefer said. “This will help people find employment, and it will certainly help seniors and the disabled who cannot use the traditional route system, which in itself is very limited within the county.”
Pace presently maintains three fixed routes in McHenry County. The agency has balked at additional routes because the county’s layout makes traditional city routes impractical and because of low ridership on the existing routes.
The new system will be subsidized in large part by a quarter-percent sales tax that county residents pay for transportation and public safety improvements. The McHenry County Board in September voted to allocate $275,000 of the new tax’s receipts to get the expanded dial-a-ride program going.
Local officials and their General Assembly representatives have long complained that McHenry County is a “donor county” that pays more into the Regional Transportation Authority, which oversees Metra, Pace and the Chicago Transit Authority, than it gets in return. Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley, who also is the county’s representative on the Pace Board, is hopeful that the new system is the start of a greater return on local taxpayers’ investment.
“The fact of the matter is that on-demand transit, which is what dial-a-ride is, is the only model of public transportation from a busing standpoint that is going to be efficient and effective in this county,” Shepley said.
The General Assembly in 2008 doubled the RTA sales tax on the collar counties to half a percent. It also added the quarter-percent tax for county governments to spend on local projects, in part to placate suburban lawmakers upset with paying more. All three of McHenry County’s state representatives and both its state senators opposed the tax increases.
The system, if successful, may be joined by other governments. Algonquin and Nunda townships will watch how the new system works, Algonquin Township Highway Commissioner Robert Miller said. His township received $20,940 from the sales tax to help track the rides offered by its senior transportation service.
“This is step one. We’re seriously considering it. The whole idea is to work together, but we want to see how it works,” Miller said.
County residents first must register to become eligible to ride the system, and must make ride appointments one day in advance. Rides will cost $3 cash per one-way trip.
• • •
What it means

McHenry County’s expanded dial-a-ride service will begin Feb. 13, 2010. It will allow the public to make trips within and to the cities of Woodstock, McHenry and Crystal Lake, as well as Valley Hi Nursing Home and the Fox Lake Metra station. People older than 65 and people with disabilities also can travel to destinations in McHenry and Dorr townships, outside of Bull Valley.
How to ride

A one-time registration is required to participate, and people are advised to register before Feb.

1. People can register online at www.mchenrycountydot.org, or call Transportation Planner Sarah Lutz at 815-334-4985 with any questions. Rides must be scheduled one day in advance by calling 800-451-4599 or 888-454-4724 for TTY. The first appointments for registered riders will be taken Feb. 12.

Registered riders can travel from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. All one-way trips are $3, and there are no discounted or multiride fares. Fares must be paid in cash, and trips are curb-to-curb and wheelchair accessible.

Sources: McHenry County, Pace
Copyright © 2009 Northwest Herald. All rights reserved.

Steffan’s Offers “Helping Others” Charm to Benefit Pioneer

Steffan's Jewelers proudly announces that Pioneer Center of Human Services will be the recipient of multiple fund raising programs spearheaded by the store’s marketing department. Steffan’s owner, Suzanne Cannon, remarks, “I was dismayed to read about the dramatic cutbacks. The Center provides valuable services that extend beyond individuals. The first of these marketing efforts was an art contest to obtain a design for a charm that Steffan’s will manufacture and sell with the proceeds going directly to Pioneer Center. Lauen Pytel is the winner of the “Helping Others” design contest. Her design has been made into both a pendant and a charm that are on sale for a LIMITED TIME only at Steffan's. All proceeds from this special edition jewelry go directly to Pioneer . The Sterling Silver "Helping Others" charm is on sale for $25 during the holiday season.

Steffan's is located at 325 N. Front Street, McHenry, IL 60050

Pictured are Lauen Pytel and Suzanne Cannon and the winning design.

Holiday Break and New Classrooms

The Pioneer Central Building will be closed for the Holidays

Dec. 24th through January 3rd.

We will return to class on Monday January 4th.

EDS will be going to MCC on Monday January 4th and will meet in the new classrooms.

The new classrooms are as follows:

Mondays
10am – 12:45pm
E217

Wednesdays
10am – 11:00am
A213

11am – 1pm
A113

Fridays
10am – 1pm
E217

H1N1 Note

A note was sent home on Monday, did you get it???

A note was sent home asking for interest in getting a H1N1 vaccine. The Nurses are asking for a response by THIS FRIDAY?

Please get this in right away to so that we can get enough for everyone.
(If you don't know what we're talking about, please call!!!)

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 3 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.

EDS Holiday Gift Exchange

The EDS group has decided that on the morning of the 23rd before the festivities start, they would like to do a gift exchange.

For the exchage we ask that everyone who wishes to participate bring in a small gift of $5.00 or less.

We will exchange the gifts in a grab bag game.

If you have any additional questions feel free to contact Britt at 815-759-7180

Holiday Party at Pioneer

The Annual Holiday Party will be on December 23rd at Pioneer Center.

EDS will NOT be going to MCC this day.

Lunch will be catered with the following menu:

Ham

Cheesy Potatoes

Green Beans

Macaroni Salad

There will also be a DJ!!!!

Come and celebrate with us!!

Next Task Force Meeting!

The next Task Force Meeting for Developmental Disabilities is scheduled for Wed January 13th, 2010. We will be holding the meeting at the Shah Center in McHenry.
6 PM to 8 PM
1/13/10

Please email Jason Clark with any specific agenda items you wish to see. Hope to see many of you there.

Please see the Task Force Blog for further information and updates and feel free to email me anything you find pertinent to posting.
http://mchenryddtaskforce.blogspot.com/

Pizza By The Slice -Dec 3rd

Are you interested in a fresh warm slice of cheese, 3 meat or deluxe pizza?

TBI Services is having a fundraiser tomorrow in our building TOMORROW!

The TBI clients will be selling pizza by the slice from 12:00 to 12:45 in the lunchroom.

Each slice will cost $2.00.

MCC CANCELED for Wednesday Dec 2nd!!!!!!!!

We had to cancel MCC for tomorrow Dec. 2nd. We have been working very hard on a dog treats job and the deadline is sooner than we thought. We will be at Pioneer Center tomorrow working again.

We will have our regular day at MCC on Friday Dec. 4th.

Thanks for being flexible!!!

Making some Money!!!

This week Tuesday and Wednesday the EDS group will have the opportunity to work on the production floor.

We will be working on the Dog Treats job that some of the clients worked on last year.

This is a great opportunity to make some MONEY!!!

MCC is closed Wed. November 25th

MCC is closed for Thanksgiving starting Wednesday November 25th.

EDS will meet at Pioneer that day.

GOBBLE, GOBBLE, GOBBLE!!!!!

EDS is closed November 26th & 27th!

Enjoy the Break.

FRIDAY, NOV. 20
“TREASURES & TRIMMINGS”
CLIENT CRAFT FAIR
PIONEER WEST

9:30 – 1:30

INCLUDES A VARIETY OF CRAFTS, FOOD, GAMES AND RAFFLES.

THIS ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR. DON’T MISS IT.

SUPPORTS POIONEER’S CLIENT COUNSEL GROUPS.

NO MCC NEXT WED AND FRI

Next Wednesday the 18th of November we will NOT be going to MCC.

Classes will be held at Pioneer Center.

Next Friday the 20th of November we will also NOT be going to MCC.

That is the day of the Client Craft fair and EDS will be selling our Crafts and working at the Fair that day.

Last Min. Change of Plans

Yikes!
Britt has and ear infection and is out sick!
She will not be able to teach the class at MCC tomorrow.
Please report to Pioneer Central on October 3oth for class.
So with these last min change of plans, we can have a Halloween Party AFTER ALL!
You can wear a costume if you want!

Party on EDS and Happy Halloween!

Funding/Medicaid Update

Pioneer is continuing with the medicaid conversion for those not already with CILA funding.

Thank you to all of those who turned in a current copy of their medicaid card for the files. This is very helpful in making sure that we have the most accurate information.
As posted previously, having a medicaid card is the first step in securing funding.
Please remember that Pioneer can NOT guarantee programming without being on the medicaid waiver.
I'm asking that if you do NOT have medicaid, that you contact me with an update where you are at in the process.

I may not have the answers to all of your questions, but I know people who know the answers.

Let me know how I can assist you! Rachel

Life My Way: Community, Advocacy & Life in Illinois

http://www.lifemyway.org/

Dear Advocates & Friends,LifeMyWay is collecting stories from people around Illinois so that you can make your voice heard. We know how busy you are advocating and working hard to create a better future for your family and special loved ones. Today we ask, won't you take a few moments to visit www.LifeMyWay. org/TellUs to tell your story?It's easy. Tell us a little bit about yourself, why you advocate and what freedom means to you. By sharing your story, you empower others and make your voice heard. Everyone has a story to share. What's yours?

Micheal Jackson By: Ben

I like his music.
I like his dance moves.
He dances a lot.
He did a lot of stuff.
He died.
ANd now I'll sing the Micheal Jackson Video from the MTV Music Awards.
I'm doing a song called "The Way you Make Me Feel."

jjslist

Some websites review hotels. Some websites review restaurants. This is the first website that reviews the disability awareness of these and many other kinds of businesses in customer service and the workplace. http://www.jjslist.com/pages/home/66.php

Medicaid Converstion Meeting Notes from Last Night!

It was great to see so many faces last night at the DD Task Force/Pioneer Family meeting at the SHAW center.

I know that not everyone was able to make the meeting, so I'm going to list the highlights of the evening. Keep in mind, that this is a process that we are all in together.

1. It was explained that EDS (which falls under the Vocational Development Grant) of Pioneer center is one of several programs that is participating in this conversion project. Why? “Participating in the FY10 Conversion Project is voluntary with the understanding, based on the FY09 and FY10 budgeting experiences, that choosing not to convert non-Medicaid funds to Medicaid reimbursable programs could make their funding more vulnerable to budget reductions. Providers and individuals must make their own decisions, given the current environment, as to whether they want to convert programs. If a provider makes the choice to convert, the individuals served must determine how they wish to proceed in light of the new circumstances.” --Division of DD.

Can't get enough information? you can check out the website for more!
http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=45752

2. Medicaid! If you don't have it, step one is to get it. We are lucky to have Pioneer's own, RUTH ASHER (Client Benefits Specialist) that is willing to assist folks with the Medicaid application questions. Her email is rasher@pioneercenter.org. She stated in the meeting that sometimes having a letter submitted about circumstances along with the application is helpful. It was suggested that in your letter incorporate the words "NEEDS TO BE IN A MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM".
You can get an application on line at
http://www.hfs.illinois.gov/assets/hfs2378h.pdf

Or you can travel out to Woodstock to the DHS office (McHenry County Local Office 2215 Lake Shore Drive Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815/338-0234)

3. PUNS! You need to be on the PUNS list, which is basically a big data base of needs of everyone in Illinois. To get on this list, you will need to meet with Options & Advocacy. They are the agent for the county, so they are the ones to see. O&A gathers up the paperwork needs and gets your person on this list. The person heading this up for us is JoEllen Bianchi. Her email is joellen.bianchi@opad.org and her phone is 815-477-4700. It was learned that once you are on this list, you stay on this list. But pay attention when you get a letter in the mail about the PUNS list. If you get a letter asking for updated information, it is your responsibility to contact O&A. The will not be tracking you down since they have some 600 people to keep track of for this database. Paperwork they are looking for: Medicaid card, medicare card (optional), social securty card, birth certificate, psycholgical eval & guardianship papers (if applicable).

Even more information, see the below site

http://www.dd.illinois.gov/SignUp.cfm#link1

4. Eligibility: Each individual will need to meet with O&A for an evaluation. They are the individuals who will looking at all the criteria areas 1) Self-Care;(2) Understanding and Use of Language;(3) Learning;(4) Mobility;(5) Self-Direction; and (6) Capacity for Independent Living. Psychologicals need to be submitted as well. At this time, it is recommended that you have one on file less that 5 years old. But O&A is working hard to use even old psychs to prove eligibility. O&A will work with individuals on a case by case to get people updated psychs.

5. Harsh Reality: It's unfortunate that there is possibility that not everyone is going to be eligible for services (there might not be enough spots allotted). There is a strong commitment here at PC to serves as many as people as possible. What is going to happen is there will be a transparent process defined of who will, and will not get served as well. This is being developed with several criteria. This will be investigated even further.

Funding Conversion!

Excellent responses to the conversion posting!!!!

It's awesome that you are contacting us and asking questions.

Q: If my son/daughter does not have medicaid, what should I do?
A: Apply. (*unless you have the means to private pay)

Q: If my son/daughter has medicaid, are we taken care of?
A: NO, having Medicaid is the first step to several steps of the waver process. Get a copy of an updated card on file just to make sure we're all up to date.

Q: If my son/daughter lives in a CILA group home, do they need to go though this waiver process?
A: No, the CILA funding covers EDS programming.

Q: If my son/daughter has HOMEBASED funding, do they need to go through his waiver process?
A: No, the HOMEBASED funding covers EDS programming.

Q: What is the next step after having Medicaid?
A: You son/daughter will need to be assessed by O&A (Options & Advocacy). They are the over site agency that will determine if you individual is in need of Active treatment. They will also assit with on getting on the PUNS list if you are not already.

Q: What other steps are there for this conversion?
A: Each individual will need an updated psychological evaluation on file(that means not over 5 years old). We will assist in connecting you with that service. If you happen to have one lying around, SEND IT IN!

Q: Yikes, I can't make the meeting on the 7th.
A: Trust us, we want to serve as many people as we can with this conversion. We will be working with everyone individually as well to get this process completed.

Q: I hate sitting around, what else can I do?
A: Continue to follow up on funding issues and continue to be active in advocating for services. This isn't just about the EDS program, but all of those in Pioneer Central not already on the Medicaid Wavier Developmental Training Program.

Q: How can I learn more?
A: Call or Email Rachel. Attend the meeting on October 7th at the SHAW center.

DD Task Force & Pioneer Family Group- OCT 7th - SHAH CENTER

As you are aware, Pioneer Center for Human Services along with every other service provider in the State has been greatly affected by the cuts in funding to human services by the state of Illinois. While some funding has been temporarily restored for the time being, we have been informed by our state funding entities that there will be changes in how services will be funded in the near future. First and foremost, we will only be given funding for those clients that have been approved for services under the state of Illinois Medicaid Waiver program; and the funding for Waiver services is limited.


Our first meeting will be Wednesday, October 7th, 2009 at 6 p.m. at the Shah Center in McHenry, located at 4100 W. Shamrock Lane, directly off Route 31, just north of Pioneer Center and learn about the Illinois Waiver programs and how to have your family member/ward approved. At this meeting, presenters from Pioneer Center and Options & Advocacy will be there to answer your questions about the Medicaid application process.


In order to ensure enough seating, please RSVP to Jason Clark jclark@pioneercenter.org <mailto:jclark@pioneercenter.org> or 815-759-7030 or Cindy Sullivan cindy.sullivan@opad.org <mailto:cindy.sullivan@opad.org> or 815-477-4720 no later than Tuesday, October 6.

Pay Attention - Funding will be an issue for YOU!!!

Funding is a Hot Topic and you need to pay attention!

ALL OF EDS THIS MEANS YOU!!!!

As you know, there was a lot of activity at the state level about funding, and the was

a breath of relief when funds were restored for the grant programs.

However, the funding was only reinstated until the last day of December of 2009. In order to keep dollars coming into the program, there will be a funding conversion to a

Medicaid waiver program.

This mean, the individuals attending program in the Pioneer Central building , need to become Medicaid waiver eligible. (*yes, there are a few exceptions and you know who you are!)

This will take several steps, but let's get one piece done at at time!

So step one, is to be on Medicaid.

If you have Medicaid, GREAT! Send a current copy in right away for the file ASAP!

If not, get the process going!!!!

If you need help, there is a meeting on October 7th at 6 pm at the SHAW center that you can attend. See post for more details!

NO MCC FRIDAY OCT. 9th

EDS will NOT be having Classes at MCC on Friday Oct. 9th.

Classes will be held at Pioneer Center.

Any questions feel free to call Britt or Rachel at 815-759-7180.

Terrie House Warming Party

What: Terrie recently moved into a Pioneer group home and is working towards her independence. We are having a House Warming Party for her.

Where: Silver Creek Townhome, Woodstock, IL

When: Tuesday October 6th.

How: Staff will provide transportation to Silver Creek in Woodstock.

We will leave Pioneer around 10:30 and return around 1:30 for everyone to catch their busses home.

Please Bring a 2-Liter of Pop or a bag of chips to share.

DIABETIC RETINOPATHY/MACULAR DEGENERATION

FREE
DIABETIC RETINOPATHY/MACULAR DEGENERATION
EYE SCREENING

Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of new blindness in adults in America today. Diabetic Retinopathy can have devastating visual consequences and can lead to blindness. Without a doubt, early detection greatly enhances the visual prognosis and outcome for all patients with Diabetic Retinopathy and other retinal diseases. The purpose of the Diabetic Eye Program is to provide communities throughout the State with a method for early detection of Diabetic Retinopathy and other retinal diseases, including Macular Degeneration.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact your eye care professional as quickly as possible: blurring vision, distorted vision, double vision, darkened or reduced vision. Any one of these symptoms can be an indication of Diabetic Retinopathy or one of the complications from it.
The Lions of Illinois Foundation along with the Illinois Retina Associates, S.C., in conjunction with the Johnsburg Lions Club, is providing an entirely FREE screening to anyone who has diabetes, a family history of diabetes, or is 55 years old and older and would like to have a picture taken of their eyes to check for this problem. This screening will be taking place on September 25, 2009 from 9:00 to 1:00 at the Johnsburg Village Hall 1515 Channel Beach Avenue. The Foundation will take the photographs and then they will be forwarded to Illinois Retina Associates, S. C. where they will be reviewed by one of their retinal specialists. The person who has had the screening test done will be notified with a copy of the results.
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Lion John Smidl at 815-344-4265.

penguin walk!

Anyone at work can help reduce slips, trips, and fall hazards through safer work practices.

Slips, trips, and falls remain are largest cause of accidents at Pioneer Center and with education, we can prevent many of these unfortunate events.
On Thursday October 1st, we are having a mandatory training for all day program, administration, and community staff (Dayton Street based employees) which will be provided by our Risk Management team. Trainings are at 2pm and 3pm in the training rooms. Please contact Lisa Mitchell to register for one of these trainings. Clients are welcome to come.

Remember-the safest walk is the penguin walk!

Sandra F. Salgado MA, PHR
Director of Human Resources

Facebook

Please check us out! We’ve now joined the social network of Facebook. This will allow our “fans” who want to know more about Pioneer and the programs and services we offer, become a volunteer or be the first to know about our fundraising events and breaking news.

Find us on Facebook. Become a “fan” and help spread the news. (If you are on Facebook, you’ll have to do this from home as we don’t have access here at work!)

FYI – You want to become a FAN not a FRIEND (FANS are for businesses and FRIENDS are for personal Facebook accounts.


Barb Swanson
815.759.7144 fax: 815.759.7098
http://www.pioneercenter.org/

Visit www.pioneercenter.org/events for information regarding the 4th Annual Holiday Luncheon & Book Review fundraiser on Dec. 1, 2009.

Pioneer Nurses Flu Letter

September 23, 2009

With flu season coming we all have responsibilities to maintain our health. The Department of Human Services from Illinois as well as the McHenry County Health Department is asking all of us to help keep the spread of the flu to a minimum.

We are asking everyone that comes to Pioneer to be aware of the 3 C’s

Clean as in clean hands/body/environment, good hand washing before eating, after using the bathroom, and after working. Staff will be assisting clients by reminding them to wash their hands and overseeing if necessary.

Corner as in “cornering your cough”. Sneezing and coughing into our sleeves or elbows keeps the spray of germs to a minimum. You can assist by modeling at home. Staff here will be modeling and reinforcing that maneuver as well.

Contain, that is if the client is sick, they must stay home to contain the infection. If fever, body aches, excessive coughing, sneezing, or lethargy are present, flu is suspected. DO NOT bring them to Pioneer Center. Please call your doctor for instructions. They may be tested for the flu or put on certain medications to lessen the duration of the illness. Anyone who exhibits these symptoms will be sent home.

Clients may return to workshop if released by their doctor to return to work.


Thank you

Pioneer Nurses

Grants Job Party

Grant's Super Duper Job Party

Grant got a job all on his own working at the Red Tail Golf Course.

We are going to have a party to celebrate this awsome accomplishment!!!

When: Friday Sept. 25th

Where: MCC Room D152

What: We will be playing games and having cupcakes.

Please join us to Celebrate with Grant!!!!

Sandy's Job Party

What: Sandra got a job at Portillos. We are going to celebrate by having Ice cream sundaes.

When: Tuesday September 15th, 1:00-2:00

How: Everyone that wishes to enjoy with us should bring in $2.oo.

Where: EDS classroom.

Please join us to celebrate Sandra's Success!!!!!

We are so Proud of you.

HOUSING DISCRIMINATION AND FAIR HOUSING LAWS
with an emphasis on the rights
of people with disabilities

Free Workshop
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2009
at
Pioneer Center for
Human Services

4031 Dayton Street, McHenry, IL
10:00 am to 12:30 pm

For More Information, call Pioneer Center
at 1-815-759-7129
Please RSVP by Monday, August 31, 2009

SPONSORED BY
The Fair Housing
Education Project

and

Pioneer Center

Funded in part through a grant from
the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development

For People with Disabilities and those who advocate
for them

→ When is housing conduct illegal discrimination?
→ What is a reasonable accommodation?
→ How to file a free HUD complaint to fight housing discrimination
→ When does a disabled tenant have a right to make modifications?
→ Extensive free materials

EDS MCC SCHEDULE!!

EDS MCC SCHEDULE

Please bear with us with all of the changing of schedules at MCC. As some of you may have heard, MCC is going to be packed this fall. However, we were very lucky to get a classroom for 3 days in the fall!!!

The three days will be Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays. However the three days will not start UNTIL after Labor Day.

Here is our MCC schedule for the next couple of weeks:

Friday August 14 MCC Room C118
Tues. August 18th MCC Room C118
Friday August 21st MCC Room C118
Wed. August 26th MCC Room D152
Friday August 28th MCC Room D152
Wed. Sept. 2nd MCC Room D152
Fri. Sept. 4th MCC Room D152
Mon. Sept. 7th PIONEER IS CLOSED FOR LABOR DAY!
Wed. Sept. 9th MCC Room D152
Fri. Sept. 11th MCC D152
MON. Sept. 14th start THREE DAYS A WEEK! MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY for the rest of the semester!!!!!
With all that being said, we are really going to be encouraging clients to get to MCC on their own. As you know, using public transportation is a huge part of getting a community job and becoming more independent in the community. Please start investigating ways to get to and from MCC. I will be contacting every family regarding this in the near future.
This past Tuesday we had to have 7 clients stay back at Pioneer, while the rest of us went to MCC. I don’t want clients missing out on the services we provide at MCC especially when it is going to be a majority of what we do here in EDS. MCC is a great opportunity for community integration, and the clients are very excited about increasing to three days a week.
Expect to get a phone call from me within the next few weeks to discuss your personal situations and provide information about bus schedules.

Thanks for your support with this!!

Britt and Rachel.

Please feel free to call with any questions comments or concerns. 815-759-7180

Keep Job Hunting

It's back to school time for college and high School students. As they return to school, jobs in our area will start to open. Please keep on the look out for help wanted signs. We all need to keep hunting for jobs since the number of Pioneer Job Developers was reduced due to budget cuts. Remember, if you get an interview or job on your own, you can still get a Pioneer Job Coach!!!! This is a great shortcut for those on the waiting list.

Schedule change AGAIN

Our MCC schedule has changed. Starting next week the Week of July 27th we will be going to MCC on Tuesdays and Fridays.

We will be in room C118 both days.

**Tues August 4th MCC will be canceled and classes will

be held at Pioneer Center.**

Any questions feel free to call Britt or Rachel

815-759-7180

Thanks

Retirement Party Friday

Pioneer Central this having a Retirment party for Russ on Friday the 24th.

NO MCC!!!!

Tomorrow in the Pioneer Central Building, we are having a Pioneer Player Open Mic Show starting around 10:15 in the production area.

In this informal show, the clients are paying tribute to Russ Marks and his 18 years here at Pioneer.

Even though Russ’s last day actually on the 31st, we’re celebrating on Friday so that everyone can be involved who has worked with him over the years.

Budget Issues Continue

I know all of you have been watching the progress of the state budget closely. We have been too. It has been a very difficult time for all of us at Pioneer. Staff and clients have been waiting to hear how things will effected. At this time, we know that the out grant program has been cut.

EDS continues business as usual. EDS has several revenue streams, but we did get some funds from the grant. We don't know quite how this will impact our particular program as of yet. We have to wait and see together.

It's not business as usual for the Pioneer Industries Program. Many individuals attended services under the grant funding. For these clients, their last day of service will be this Friday, the 24th .

It appears that the EDS clients are under stress knowing that they will have to say goodbye to their friends, so they might need some extra support.

As I get more information regarding EDS funding, I will forward it to you. Thanks

GAME ON!

Looking for something cool to do this summer?
GAME ON!

VS.

Saturday JULY 18, 2009 at 6:30pm at the LEAFS Ice Centre in Dundee
Watch area Fire Fighters take on McHenry County area Law Enforcement Officers in a friendly game for charity.
The proceeds raised will be donated to Anderson Animal Shelter in Elgin and The Pioneer Center in McHenry.
Enjoy the game, participate in a silent auction, take a chance in playing our 50/50 raffle, and meet the mascots.
BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY!
Call the LEAFS Ice Centre at 847-844-8700 for ticket information.

Summer Picnic was a Success!

On July 2nd the EDS clients held the annual Summer Picnic at Pioneer.

The theme was Baseball.

The clients did a great job running all the different games and serving food.

Congrats on another Successful Picnic!!!!!

Annas Going Away Party

Our good friend Anna is moving out of state.

We will miss her very much.

We wish Anna the best of luck at her new home.

We will have a Going Away Party to Say Good-Bye

on Friday July 10th at MCC.

Please join us in sending Anna Off.

Famous Person

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson he was born in
1958 -2009 He was a great person in the world and great a
Singer and he was a great dad and he was great family man and we will miss you
And we will love you for forever and but his sings will live on for forever .

By :Deserea

Email from Pamela J. Althoff, State Senator

Forward of an email sent today:

To keep you informed, I would like to provide you the following information about what has been happening regarding the budget negotiations in Springfield .

I am deeply disturbed and disappointed that negotiations that should have been going on back in March have truly only begun to take place. As Minority Spokesperson on the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have put forth numerous potential solutions that could help address the budget crisis. Earlier this year, I joined colleagues in unveiling a deficit reduction plan that would have reduced the deficit by $3 billion next year through government cost-savings and fiscal reforms. Unfortunately, the majority party in the General Assembly failed to act on those measures.

This week, I joined other lawmakers in calling for a “bridge” plan in the hopes of getting things moving before the new fiscal year starts July 1. We did so because it has become abundantly clear that the Governor and the majority party in the legislature continue to target cuts to critical state services, in particular, the social service agencies, their clients who are at risk, and families in need.

We have suggested that lawmakers adopt a temporary budget that can keep service providers in business while legislative leaders negotiate. We have proposed financing at the Fiscal Year 2008 levels. We know this is not ideal, but it would roll back spending to a more responsible and affordable level across the board.

We feel this is better than the budget plan adopted at the end of May – a plan I voted against – that focused massive cuts on only a few select areas of the budget (social service agencies) and increased spending in other areas. That drastic measure was designed to create a backlash, which it did. But it has done nothing to advance a responsible solution or address the underlying problems facing Illinois government.

People have asked for alternatives, and I believe this bridge budget is a reasonable option. While it would still require sacrifice, it is shared and manageable sacrifice that would allow Illinois to move forward and negotiate solutions to the problems underlying state government in Illinois .

I offered to stay in Springfield as long as is necessary to pass a budget that meets the needs of the social services community and avoids the unnecessary and draconian cuts contained in the budget passed in May.

We can find a solution that addresses these priorities, but it will take willpower, bipartisanship and a desire to advance the common-good, rather than a political agenda, to get us there.

Pamela J. Althoff
State Senator, 32nd District

As Seen on TV!

Everyone is talking about it!

Britt, our EDS staff extraordinaire, and one of out EDS clients were on TV Monday Night.

The two of them went made the news because they were at the Rally in Chicago to represent all of us in EDS and Pioneer.

People are reporting they were on Channel 2 and Channel 5.

Did anyone see? Can we find it on the Internet somehow?? Let us Know!

Jam the fax

One more surge. The legislators are back in session tomorrow. At a meeting with Mike Tryon the other night he suggested we hit the leadership with letters, emails or faxes. So I ask that you fax for immediate attention to Madigan, Cullerton, and Quinn and Cross. By the way Tracy called Madigan’s office and was told he does not have an email anymore so he probably never got the other emails…lost in cyberspace.

Remember it is much more effective if the fax comes from you at home or a friend or relative than all from Pioneer. If you don’t have a fax, then do an email or letter. Make the letters bold and large.

Use words like: Stop the augments and get to business and come up with an agreement
Be leaders and open the budget for more discussions
Don’t let the cuts happen to Human Services
Stop the doomsday budget
Look at reform
Don’t put clients on the streets

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

June 24th -Mental Health Board (NO MCC)

Attention all EDS Clients, Guardians and Supporters;

EDS will NOT be going to MCC on June 24th.

On Wednesday, June 24th client have a choice if they would like to go to the Mental Health Board for the Task Force meeting, or if they would like to work on the production floor.

It is my suggestion that clients take advantage of going to this meeting. The EDS program is funded by the Mental Health Board. With out it's funding, there would be NO EDS. With all of the cuts that are discussed, it is important to be as knowledgeable as possible. Families, you too are invited to attend.

JUNE MEETING

McHenry County Task Force on Developmental
Disabilities Meeting

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009 @ 10:00 am
Mental Health Board – Crystal Lake, IL
620 Dakota Street

Featuring Special Guest:
Ed McManus, Network Facilitator DHS

Presenting on:
Ed will give an overview of how to navigate the DHS developmental disability services system, including what steps individuals with developmental disabilities and their families need to take to obtain services; what residential and in-home services are offered by the Department; how the Department processes applications; what the proposed Ligas consent decree will mean; etc., plus questions/answers.

June 22nd - Chicago Rally

This posting is to let all of you know about a rally that is taking place on Monday!

It would be awesome if all the EDS clients could attend, but taking a group so large would be difficult us to manage. Therefore, Britt is scheduled to only take 2 EDS advocates to this event. However, if you are interested in attending on your own, here is the information.

http://accessliving.org/index.php?tray=content&tid=top683&cid=2al13

Olmstead Anniversary Rally for Disability Rights and against service cuts!

Ten years ago, the Supreme Court ruled that Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits the unnecessary institutionalization of persons with disabilities. The 1999 Supreme Cour ruling in Olmstead states that services to persons with disabilities mus t be provided "in the most integrated setting possible."

Our government has failed to give people the choice they are entitled to under the law! Announced cuts of 50% to the budget would further eliminate community services and contribute to the problem.

Our Government is breaking the law and breaking the bank.

We are rallying to recognized the thousands of people in Illinois and around the country who are still forced to live in institutions where they are routinely denied basic human and civil rights.

Rally at the Thompson Center

June 22nd, 2009 @ 11:00 a.m.

A solidarity march to Federal Plaza will follow the rally.

Meet in the Plaza of the Thompson Center, 100 West Randolph, Chicago at 11:00 am. For more information, contact Cary Arnold at 312-640-2199 voice, 312-640-2102 TTY, garnold@accessliving .org email.

Opportunity to Give Pioneer Clients a voice against the Doomsdays Budget

Re: Opportunity to Give Pioneer Clients a voice against the Doomsdays Budget


June 16, 2009

Dear Friends, Families and Significant others:

The reality of the "Doomsday Budget" is that on July 1st, Pioneer Center for Human Services may no longer be able to serve approximately 300 clients. Supporters of Pioneer have been asking, “What can I do about it?” First of all keep writing! Continue to write your personal letters to Governor Quinn, Speaker Madigan, Minority Leader Tom Cross and your legislators and tell them how you and your family will be affected.

Secondly, there is an opportunity for you, in person, to give a voice for the clients at Pioneer on Thursday June 18th. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of McHenry County is holding a forum at the Mental Health Board Building at 7:00 PM at 620 Dakota Street in Crystal Lake. It is our goal to fill the room with clients, families and supporters who will give voice to those impacted by the Doomsday Budget. As always, thank you for your support.

June 18th @ 7:00 PM
Mental Health Board, Crystal Lake, IL, 620 Dakota Street
( http://www.namimchenrycounty.org/index.html)

Local agencies bracing for cuts

The article posted below is from the Northwest Herald Website that was posted today.

http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2009/06/15/r_fw2yfmayskwa40bqizbxa/index.xml

Local agencies bracing for cutsBy CRYSTAL LINDELL - clindell@nwherald.com

On July 1, the Illinois Federation of Families might have to close its doors. And the Pioneer Center for Human Services might have to stop serving about 300 clients.

They are among the social service agencies facing severe cuts next year, which were detailed in letters that they received during the weekend from state department heads. The state Department of Human Services, one agency that funds the agencies, faces $2.24 billion in cuts.

Letters to local human services agencies broke down, by grant program, proposed cuts to the agencies and reiterated Gov. Pat Quinn’s message that lawmakers need to approve a state income tax increase to avoid the shortfall.

Locally, some agency heads speculated that the move is a political stunt but are preparing for the worst nonetheless. They also are planning a news conference on the issue today.
The cuts are slated to go into effect at the start of the fiscal year, July 1.

Lorraine Kopczynski, president and CEO of the Pioneer Center for Human Services, said for her agency, it would mean a loss of about $4 million from its $13 million budget.
She said if this was a scare tactic from the governor’s office, it was a horrible one.
“What an awful thing to do to people,” she said. “In two weeks it will be July 1. I have to give notice to these clients.”

Cynthia Sheppard, Illinois Federation of Families’ executive director, said the agency was preparing to close its doors because it relied so heavily on state funding.
“It’s going to be devastating,” she said.

Bob Martens, CEO of Family Services and Community Mental Health Center, said he hadn’t determined how the cuts would specifically affect his agency, but he knew they would have a drastic impact.

“The safety net that has been in place for so many years is being ripped apart piece by piece,” he said. “We’re deeply concerned.”

Martens added that if this was a political ploy, it didn’t solve the underlying problem.
“Regardless of if it’s a scare tactic or political theater, the issue is the cuts are not getting addressed,” he said. “I hope and pray that the legislators and the leadership in Springfield pull this together, sooner rather than later.”

Local lawmakers agreed that the move was irresponsible, and that cuts should be made across the board rather than just to human services.

State Rep. Mike Tryon, R-Crystal Lake, said he had heard that lawmakers might be called in for a session early next week to consider a new budget.

State Sen. Pam Althoff, R-McHenry, said she had heard the same rumors about a possible session next week in Springfield.

She added that she did believe the move was a political ploy from the governor’s office to force lawmakers to consider the income tax increase.

“I’m just surprised and I’m disappointed that this is the tactic that [the governor] would take,” Althoff said. “There were other alternatives that were proposed and given to him.”
State Rep. Jack Franks, D-Marengo, said he would like to see other revenue sources explored. In particular, he’d like the state to try to sell off debt related to unpaid taxes.

He added that even without an income tax increase, human services agencies alone should not have to endure drastic cuts.

“I know the work that these agencies do,” he said. “And I just don’t want to see politics played with them.”

State Legislator: Keep Calling!

Clients, Guardians, Familys and Self-Advocates:

It is important to continue to speak up regarding funding cuts!

Gov. Pat Quinn
217-782-6830

State Sen. Pamela Althoff
217-782-8000 fax:217-782-9586
palthoff@mc.net

State Rep. Jack Franks
217-782-1717 fax:217-557-2118
jack@jackfranks.org

State Rep. Michael Tryon
217-782-0432 fax: 815-344-4020
mike@miketryon.com

State Rep. Mark Beaubien
217-782-1517 fax:217-782-7012
strepmbeaubien@aol.com

State Sen. Dan Duffy
217-782-8010 fax:217-782-0116
dan@senatorduffy.com

Speaker Michael Madigan
217-782-5350 fax: 217-524-1794
mmadigan@ilga.gov

McHenry County Task Force on Developmental

JUNE MEETING

McHenry County Task Force on Developmental
Disabilities Meeting

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009 @ 10:00 am
Mental Health Board – Crystal Lake, IL
620 Dakota Street

Featuring Special Guest:
Ed McManus, Network Facilitator DHS

Presenting on:
Ed will give an overview of how to navigate the DHS developmental disability services system, including what steps individuals with developmental disabilities and their families need to take to obtain services; what residential and in-home services are offered by the Department; how the Department processes applications; what the proposed Ligas consent decree will mean; etc., plus questions/answers.

Please RSVP
Cindy Sullivan at Options & Advocacy (815) 477-4720 or cindy.sullivan@opad.org
Or
Jason Clark at Pioneer Center jclark@pioneercenter.org


http://mchenryddtaskforce.blogspot.com/

Lunch N Learn: The confident You

Attention EDS clients:

You are invited to attend a Lunch n Learn

The Confident You

Have you ever had something you really wanted to say to someone, but held it back because of some kind of fear or shyness? Do you wish you had the confidence to stand up for yourself more firmly in some situations?

June 16th, 2009 12:00-12:45pm

Pioneer West-Training Room B

Please sign up ASAP, space is limited!

Please see Britt

Kane County Cougars

Kane County Cougars
Sponsored by NADS
Come join us for Down Syndrome Awareness Day
Sunday, August 30, 2009
2:00 p.m.

Kane County Cougars,
Elfstrom Stadium, 34 W. Cherry Lane, Geneva, IL 60134

This will be a great opportunity for everyone in the Down
syndrome community to gather with their family and friends.
Tickets are $10 each for reserved seats.
To order, please fill out the form below and mail your payment by
July 15th to:
NADS
7145 N. Ozanam
Chicago, IL 60631
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kane County Cougars Ticket Request
Name:______
Address: ______

City_____
Zip______

Phone Number____
E-Mail:____
Number of tickets ($10 each):_________

Total Enclosed: $____________
Please make checks payable to NADS.
Tickets will be mailed August 10.

http://www.nads.org/

Men's Group Fundraiser at the Senior Fair

The Men's Gorup iwll be selling a lunch at the Senior Fair as a fundraiser for the Men's group home.

What will they be selling????

1 hot dog

1 bag of chips

1 cup of Kool-aid

All for just $3.00

11:00am to 1:00pm on Thursday June 11th!!!

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

THIS INFO – FAIR IS AN INFORMATION EXCHANGE …it is strongly geared to assist us with future-planning for senior citizens.

TARGET AUDIENCE IS:
GUARDIANS, FAMILIES, DSP’S, Q’S,
AND SELF ADVOCATES OVER THE AGE OF 50.

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2009
PIONEER WEST
11:30am – 1:00pm

Groups of 5 or more please RSVP BY MAY 28 TO : SOAR@pioneercenter.org Or 759-7145

iPhone adapts for augmentative communication needs

Monday, May 25, 2009

iPhone adapts for augmentative communication needs
From the Web site for the technology, Proloquo2Go:
Proloquo2Go™ is a new product from AssistiveWare that provides a full-featured communication solution for people who have difficulty speaking. It brings natural sounding text-to-speech voices, up-to-date symbols, powerful automatic conjugations, a default vocabulary of over 7000 items, full expandability and extreme ease of use to the iPhone and iPod touch.With an introductory price of US$ 149 [1], Proloquo2Go is a perfect solution for anyone who cannot afford spending thousands of dollars on an AAC device and yet wants a solution that in terms of sheer communication power and easy of use rivals solutions typically priced over 10 times as high. It is also perfect for teenagers and young adults who want a device as cool as the iPhone or iPod touch. Not to mention, this a great solution for children and adults with autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, developmental disabilities, or apraxia. Proloquo2Go can also serve adults with acquired disabilities such as ALS, stroke or traumatic brain injury. It can be a useful solution in hospital and rehabilitation settings.Special educators, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists have found Proloquo2Go a proven communication solution for children and adults who can access the iPod touch. Educators see it as a cost-effective solution for special education. Augmentative and Alternative Communication specialists love the ease of programming and customization. Users love Proloquo2Go because it is not only powerful, but it runs on the iPhone and iPod touch. Parents appreciate the system because it is easy to program and makes their children cool. Proloquo2Go can be used as a companion to a table top device or as a user’s sole AAC device.Proloquo2Go uses Acapela Group’s state-of-the-art Text-to-Speech voices. The current version includes North American English male, female, girl and boy voices. British English voices will soon be available as an option. Support for other languages and voices is in the pipeline. Proloquo2Go provides the innovative, new VocaSpace vocabulary that is build on an extremely flexible organizational system and includes close to 8000 symbols from SymbolStix LLC. Conjugation support is provided through Ultralingua’s Grammatica technology.

Britt's Birthday!

Today is May 27th, we want to wish Britt "Happy Birthday."

Yesterday we SURPRISED Britt with an early birthday party. We decorated the room with balloons, posters, banners, and streamers. We even truned off the lights, and yelled "happy birthday" when she walked in the door. We had mini-cakes. We played a game called, "Who knows Britt the best." We had to prove that we knew her very well. If we got the question right, then we got a necklace.

Rachel made Robbie write a rap about her....and here how it goes...

Happy Birthday to you

Happy birthday to you

I act like a Monkey, and

this wrap is for you!

Keep up ther pressure!

It can not be stress enough how serous the budget cuts for funding just might be, especially to our own agency. Pioneer’s President and CEO Lorraine Kopczynski, is currently in Springfield doing her part to address this issue. She has made people aware that “If the General Assembly does not approve new revenue, then state funded services - including community DD and MH services - could be cut by as much as 51% in the final budget! We know community services cannot endure ANY cuts without eroding services and supports. Cuts of this magnitude would DEVASTATE the community system beyond repair! We also know that the community system requires survival provisions to sustain the services that are currently being provided!” We would like to encourage everyone to contact your Legislators. If you need a list of names and numbers, please let me know. All of us need to keep up the pressure!

Memorial Day

ENJOY THE 3 Day weekend!

See you all back at Pioneer on the 26th!

EDS does Mock Interviews

There are some things to remember when preparing for mock interviews. Good grooming, clean clothes, be early,and practice what you are going to say.

We have already done one round of mock interviews. We watched everyones interviews on the big screen at MCC. We gave each person some tips to improve on their interviews. We are now in the process of doing another round of mock interviews so we can show off the new and improved skills. Everyone came in Dressed for Success on their scheduled day.

We plan to review these interviews also.

We are ready for some interviews!!!!!

Pause

On Tuesday May 19th we all Paused for 2 Minutes to bring attention to the fact that IL is ranked Dead last in providing community supports for people with Developmental Disablities.

Some of the changes we would like to see IL make are:

Reduce the number of people on the waiting list. Currently there are 16,000 people waiting
Spend the money more efficiently and wisely, and
Reduce the number of state operated institutions.

We would like to Thank Mayor Susan Low for coming to support Pioneer at this Event.


Thank you for your time at Pioneer Center.
We enjoyed meeting you.
Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to show us your support and to speak to us. It's great to know that you will support Pioneer in the future.
Can we contact you again in the future for other Self Advocacy events?

Pause For A Cause

Join us on Tuesday, May 19th

at exactly 10:00 a.m. for

Pause For A Cause

We will demonstrate the need for the state of Illinois to increase legislation and funding to provide community integrated supports for people with developmental disabilities. From 10:00 a.m. to 10:02 a.m., we will ‘Freeze’ in whatever we are doing. The main event will take place in the Pioneer Central building common area, but anyone can join by ‘freezing’ at that time.

Please contact Britt Whiting at extension 7180 or Wendy Weikel at extension 7119 with questions.

Thank you for supporting our self-advocates.