An exercise in exercising

The resolutions many people make are about dieting and exercising; often they are the two parts of a bigger one- living healthier. A few weeks ago I switched wheelchairs and had no choice but to gain strength. Usually it comes naturally with transferring but this time is different. Because I must use my arms to get around I got concerned; I've lost a ton of tone in my arm muscles. For months I've been watching past General Hospital episodes and lifting weights (mostly because I was bored just watching). Now I listen to political news, podcasts, new country music, and General Hospital. I know it helps maybe not a lot but it certainly can't hurt. I actually look forward to my exercises and my transfers. My need to always be occupied and not be focused is a good thing.

Some helpful tips

Those who don't walk should take these steps I know everyone's different but read what's next. Believe you can manage, though you may feel you're at a disadvantage. First your technique is a crucial part, exercise a lot then transfer smart. Notice your upper body, legs, arms, and chair. Once you get this down pat you can go everywhere. If you try and can't move try again till you find your groove. cushion is too far up your arms are too far you're not losing the war. If your mind wants to get into bed but your body shows rejection try starting over and sliding in the exact opposite direction. If you want to shower but don't want it to take an hour Fill the tub with milkcrates so sliding is safe It works great

Disability and politics

That topic is probably not a popular one but it's an important one. There should be more politicians with disabilities and there should be more citizens with disabilities interested. The disability population is so low on the proverbial totem pole that unless a person has disability in their family there's no interest. There's very little teeth in the law. Federal funding is not supposed to be approved for companies unless 7% of the employees have disabilities but that mandate is not followed nor enforced. Nonetheless. Vocational agencies are trying to transfer their people to supported employment. Some sheltered workshops are shutting down because it is too costly to hire so many job coached and transportation is a huge issue. I am involved in a few employment projects but getting them started and accepted is challenging. Once they are I think groups will be receptive. I'd love to create jobs but in this litigious society I can't just go to gas stations and set up car washing sites for people with developmental disabilities like I did 30 years ago.

Trying Plan D

Plan A was to offer presentations to employers at a staff meeting. The booklet "Make Make Work for Everyone" was created and it included Tax Incentives, Benefits of Hiring People with Disabilities, Reasonable Accommodations, Stereotypes, and more. Plan B was to meet employers one on one to establish relationships and learn about their companies. Plan C was to work on behalf of veterans. Plan D will be with churches. This program has been successfully implemented in numerous states and the people in charge are very supportive. It makes complete sense for religious entities to be targeted. Congregants are employees, employers, and have disabilities. Generally they are supportive of each other and want to help each other. This offers an action plan which is good and I can still include my original work. The other successful groups can be used as references. That is a crucial part of generating interest in any "new" program.

LivingWELL Lancaster

I attended a program in which local agencies were represented and the discussion was on how to improve community outreach. A research study that evaluated the existing programs was analyzed and we have made numerous strides. Other counties are learning from us because we are ahead of the curve. Unfortunately there were no samples from veteran and disability populations. Sure I was disappointed to notice that; however, many of the consumers who attended the programs also belonged to those groups. I wrote to the director regarding the implementation of a Community Exchange Program. It would certainly cover identified concerns- transportation, isolation, etc. I hope the idea is given more consideration because it is a worthwhile program for other states and even countries.

PA Cares

The presenter discussed an employment program just for vets. There's a comprehensive and complex website created for veterans and explained how it works. They also discussed how many employers want to hire veterans. I asked what programs there are to educate employers regarding the benefits and challenges of the hiring processes. People were not expecting this kind of question and the presenter said it was an important question. They discussed it a bit and then they went back to describing the features of the website. A bit later I commented that this website is going to look hard to understand so professionals should help the vets go through it. Again nobody thinks about this and it is obvious that vets are not in contact with these people. I could see myself helping just by explaining this website to vets. Later I asked if job coaches were involved to help vets perform the job. I explained what the role of a job coach since they all seemed to be unfamiliar. I am not a veteran but neither was the presenter, both of us are spouses of military people so I have a good chance of working with veterans. I can do this under the radar and just get a lot of good experience speaking with employers and groups. I came home, shared this with Terry, and sure enough he insisted that employers are not that motivated, at least not in Lancaster.

Veteran employment

Employment awareness is ready to go but it needs support to give it credibility. Big businesses don't seem to be interested. It is logical to get Team River Runner involved for the following reasons: 1) The veteran population does not get much vocational support. 2) Approval wouldn't require a lengthy process. 3) The guidelines can be strict but they can also be adjusted. This program is ultimately for individuals even though it starts with education for employers. This would be the perfect match and it would generate interest and bring in money. Eventually other TRR's and then vocational agencies would implement it- why not? The goal of TRR is empowerment and inclusion, what better way for those goals to be reached than by getting a job? If the summer retreat for blind kids can be approved and really admired by the higher ups then this can be just as meaningful and successful. I will try very hard to make this happen.

Helping veterans

I wanted to hold a veterans café in Lancaster similar to the ones in Carlisle but that never materialized. However, there is more than one way to reach that goal. Hospice has a need for someone to visit veterans and just talk to them. I can do that with one alteration, I can encourage them to discuss their lives which included their military experiences. This could lead to my ultimate goal of increasing society's awareness of less glamorous populations- people with disabilities and veterans. Changing people's focus to remember good things and keeping them occupied has been the successful technique of choice in many cases. Just showing up as a person who uses a wheelchair may also be a "useful" tool. Probably I'll find other veteran groups to get involved with; this will result in a win-win for all involved.

Putting Faith to Work

This is a vocational program in which the audience is the religious community. The purpose is to reach out to people who have a desire to find employment for people with disabilities. It makes perfect sense because there are many congregants who own or manage businesses. Furthermore, this is a population of many people each of whom have many connections. I met the director from Vanderbilt University who was introducing this project. Pennsylvania is one of the states that have not implemented this program. It is perfect to combine this program with the one I have developed. I am definitely going to look into this opportunity. This seems to be an interesting way to reach others and to get some credibility in my ongoing vocational quest.

A "newbie"

I went out with a lady who became much more physically involved in the summer. She was talking of her discoveries about accessible parking spots, people asking her for help, and needing to be driven everywhere. It was interesting to hear her perspective because I never think of typical issues I only concentrate on solving them as they relate to me. Regarding parking my only issue is the islands throughout the entire lot, especially next to the close spaces. I can't use them then let my ramp down because I could never get off of them. Regarding people's offers (sometimes they don't ask) I said in order to be as independent as possible I can't worry about offending them. I lost a lot of potential friends, and perhaps should have been more sensitive, but I couldn't just rely on others generosity or sympathy cause in the end I would be hurting myself. Regarding driving, I still take buses to save gas but I'm always grateful I have the option. What bothers me is when others who can't drive get angry at me for being able to drive. I gave her the following advice. First- Pick your battles and not let everything bother you. There will always be others "to teach" and it will eventually drive you nuts. Second- Think and plan ahead each day rather than dwelling on challenges. If you do this you'll be able to have more time to enjoy the experience. Third- Think of how something could be worse and realize that it's not so bad. Like the cloud with the silver lining but much more specific.

Wheelchairs aren't automobiles

When Dodge decides to update then eliminate old models it frustrating if the part is no longer in stock- it usually can be ordered from somewhere. However when Invacare decides to update then eliminate an older model that can be a disaster. People who buy a certain model do for a reason and it's rarely for aesthetic reasons. I have jus discovered that there is absolutely no power chair on the market with shorter foot pedals. The new version not only has longer foot pedals but also an entirely different structure! I can not believe how completely ignored my issue is; I can't be the only one is this predicament. In fact I know people in this situation but they just quietly deal because there is no incentive to cater to a person with short legs but is not a dwarf. I am so tired of able-bodied people (my parents) saying that I'm inflexible. I drive in my chair so I am risking an accident if I am not securely sitting in my chair while at the steering wheel. The good thing is I di not make a purchase, went through three appointments and they all conclude with undeserving judgment.

Simple solutions to pesky problems

If someone has poor circulation in their legs winter and even fall can be the enemy. After a few hours under the covers or after a hot bath or putting on pants, blankets, or a heater may work. By accident I tucked the cover under my leg. I was completely toasty. If a wheelchair was just measured wrong that is a big deal, it isn't like an item of clothing in which you can visit customer service and with the receipt, return it. Analyze what is wrong with it and get advice from staff at a hardware store and or a service provider. If the issue is that the footplates are too low get pieces of wood to make them higher so your feet reach. If a major piece of the structure is sticking out and limits your transfer get it cut or welded then cover it with moleskin. Unfortunately, the professionals and manufacturers are the last to help, they are not trained to offer advice that isn't expensive and approved. So many people with issues just suffer, are steered wrong, or told their concerns are illogical.

mental wellness

I just spent a day at a conference in mental health and a few talks covered veteran health issues. One was a set of parents whose son died from CTE chronic traumatic encephalopathy. It is often diagnosed as post traumatic stress and can not be detected until an autopsy is performed after death. On a positive note, I met a person from NAMI who runs the York office of York office. The lady acknowledged that Lancaster should have more programs for veterans and their families. I offered to help the process and in time it will come to fruition. There are many more things that will be explored and Team River Runner, the adapted kayaking program for veterans, will finally generate more interest. Veterans will have more chances to improve socially, recreationally, and personally. All that is needed is a few good "men."

Grievances

I just cleared up a problem with my insurance and ambulance company. I paid for something that was waived so I needed to do some advocacy. Then while the lady was on I asked her what my screen looks like regarding grievances. She read a few that I never filed and had nothing to do with. Apparently I made a formal complaint to Coventry that I wasn't getting the rehabilitation center I wanted and I phoned them from the hospital. I received a letter of refusal when I came home so I called to clarify things but I did not expect strong documentation written blaming me. Then I was never assigned the case worker to help me get a new wheelchair. I never requested one and the issue was dropped by Coventry but it was also documented. Self-advocacy is crucial and nobody checks on what's written on the other end. It's supposed to be objected but actually it's not just subjective but it's made up.

"Thank you for your (food) service"

I couldn't get an article put in the newspaper so I am trying for something on the opinion page. I hope it will get published and then replies. Christine Lynskey, Manager of Friendly's and Michael Wolfe, Store Manager of Golden Corral both on Lincoln Highway in Lancaster are among the 1000's of restaurant staff serving our veterans free meals in honor of Veteran's Day. November 11 traditionally features clothing store deals but more valuable than that are free meals. That is because many of the people who fought for our country now have $0 to their name. There have been more than 6,000 veteran suicides each year (Sept. 2018 Nat'l VA data). Many feel there is nothing to look forward to but loneliness and psychological and physical pain. One local recreational option is Team River Runner. This is a free adaptive paddling program originally for veterans. November 11th is the 1 day that is "their day" let's make it count. Consider making your day more than just a single day.

Why give to Team River Runner?

November 16 is the day that people donate to non-profits in Lancaster County. Lancaster County Community Foundation hosts a 24-hour charitable giving campaign that connects over 500 local charitable organizations to donors across our county, state, even across the country. Team River Runner is just one of the charities. So why choose this charity? 1) This event supplies the funds that help to deliver our promise to serve local Veterans, disabled Veterans, and children and adults with disabilities who wish to break barriers through adaptive paddle sports. 2) TRR offers veterans, who put their lives at risk for our freedom, now should get our support. 3)TRR gives a purpose to veterans who were/are seriously maimed forever. 4) TRR can decrease the significant veteran suicide rate of 22 deaths a day, many more. This event supplies the funds that help us to deliver our promise to serve local Veterans, disabled Veterans, and children and adults with disabilities who wish to break barriers through adaptive paddle sports. Team River Runner is just one of the charities. Last year Extraordinary Give raised more than $31 MILLION for organizations across our community.

New perspective

When something unfortunate happens in my life I gain perspective and realize how it could be worse. It's healthy to do that because things become stagnant and nothing happens. The meeting with Person Directed Supports will be very meaningful; I would be helping them with their placements so I could generate business for my program. I may grow my own program and get experience and connected. It would be great to make connections with people from the Mental Wellness Conference. That's a whole other population to tap and it isn't much of a stretch. I always find a way to enjoy a program or even a one on one meeting. Sure my leg hurts but whatever, life goes on and the more I challenge it the better it will be.

(un)missed chance

Last week was the PADES Conference which stands for Pennsylvania Disability Employment Summit. I felt badly about not going especially since it was in Harrisburg, practically the next town over. However, after reading the agenda carefully I decided to reach out to many of the speakers by writing letters to them. I wonder how many people will be doing that and commenting on each of their topics. I may get more attention from some of them than if I met them in person there. I will benefit from their views on my idea of employer outreach for the purpose of exchanging information on disability and establishing relationships for future job placements- not to immediately make job placements for consumers. Last time I mentioned my idea at a conference the speaker said it was an interesting idea. After such a comment I knew it had to be implemented. Who knows where it will lead. I'll never know until I try - 16 more emails (all of which I will have to call individually).

Round two's

The first surgery I chose to have at Hershey Medical. I thought I'd be able to connect them with Team River Runner (TRR), a veteran adapted kayaking program. I did and it worked. Both sides connected and now RecFest doesn't happen without TRR. The second surgery I chose to have Hershey Medical and I thought I'd be able to connect me with Bayada. I sent a page of "Do It Yourself Disability" to the Nurse Case manager with a letter suggesting we partner. I hope it works but if not, I am ready to go elsewhere. I went to the Lancaster Business Expo and met a few people. One man has a brother with a disability and a small business. He is interested in partnering with me so I will meet with him next Monday. The idea is to keep trying round 1, 2, 3, … round 67.

Wheeling through 2019

I wanted to offer something to remind people that October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. A few times in the past I created a calendar and I enjoyed deciding the most useful information to share. Most people need new ones in December anyway so I created one. Each month begins with a disability topic or a story of a person with a disability who is working. Hopefully this project will give people some incentive to learn more on the topic. The type of information on the calendar centers around employment of people with disabilities. The incentives for hiring, hiring myths, hiring veterans, some financial incentives, stereotypes, communication, and empowerment. The stories inspire and display people with challenges in optimistic lights. A welcome residual is that I generate some interest in Infobility, my ongoing disability awareness work.

Opportunities

I attended the Business Expo even though it was really scheduled for tomorrow. I took down the names of the vendors and plan to send them a 1 page sheet on disability and employment. Two companies inspired me- one was about the employee and the other was about the company. First, was a local restoration company. The business was not interesting; however, after meeting Jessica I learned of ways we could work together I will send her my manuscript, maybe I could find her a few potential disabled employees, and I will offer a "Lunch and Learn" with my power point. Second, was a marketing company that really grabbed my attention. I get library audios and books on the subject but this one displayed a kayak and a few how-to books. I called and spoke to the director of marketing and ask her how much it would cost to buy one. Then I explained Team River Runner and asked why the kayak was displayed. I know this is the company I can feel good about helping me grow Infobility. There may be more opportunities in Lancaster.

An acquaintenance

The OT from Bayada was the same girl I had two years ago. It was nice to see a familiar face, we hit it off. She made a good suggestion for putting on my socks and more importantly she will connect me to the person who will approve (hopefully) my booklet. "Do It Yourself Disability" needs to be approved. It can help many people, I can help many people. I just need an established company behind me. The last operation was about helping Team River Runner and this one will be about helping me. It is such a win-win situation for Bayada. It will make them stand out among the many other home health care agencies. Now, there can be one that actually gives their rehab patients a concrete tool to empower them before they face the community. The assistance to assess their limitations and create solutions to make it easier. If it doesn't work I'll pursue another company. I will not give up my disability quest.

Still the same

The CNA's were the same, for the most part, treating me like I was a baby, calling me honey, and ignoring my transferring feedback. After two bad experiences they said I could transfer myself, not using the board, as long as someone was watching me. I won even though I struggled each time for a long time. Instead of an evaluation form, once again I tried to get my message to the top so I wrote to the administrator and the director. I suggested that a short video talk about disability sensitivity be shown during training for each CNA class. I explained the video in detail and offered to help. Once again I received no reply but was "yessed to death." I really thought I had a good idea but apparently it wasn't an important enough topic to bring up separately.

Programing

The long break with the broken leg gave me time to think and read about programs and people that started them. It can't be that hard and my desire to start something won't go away. So I have to try something- advocacy, awareness, empowerment, employment, etc. It has to be fairly simple also necessary or it will not generate interest. It also must be backed by something bigger such as a company, a well connected person, etc. It can't just be me but I will not be the only one involved. People have to be motivated and intelligent enough to help make this work. It must be also be far reaching but not something brand new something brans new. I will think this through after considering all the programing I do over the years.

the flip side of my broken leg

I opened a door then wheeled down quite a high step. I just finished a hospital stay, surgery, and rehab. Now my getting around will be painful, slow, and home-bound. I've been racking my brain to figure out the lesson from all of this. Usually experiences like these have hidden meanings. Two professionals are interested in hearing my take on employment for people with disabilities. Two administrators are interested in my solution to training disability sensitivity to CNA's. I have another chance with the head social worker at Lancaster Rehabilitation. That's where I wanted to create a support group. I have another chance with a director of Bayada Home Health Care. That's who I wanted to support my Do-It-Yourself-Disability Booklet. I will pursue each and every avenue carefully because this is a whole new list of contacts. The broken leg may be worth it.

The month of October

It will be disability employment awareness month soon and my rabbi seems to be willing to do something to remember it. He suggested I view a podcast of a professional speaking about disability awareness. It's weird and somewhat uncomfortable to hear another talk about how to manage life. Then I realized it was good for me to listen to a different perspective. There can be a positive message offered and putting it that way it will be received better. So with an audience of my fellow congregants the message is likely to be spread and also build my confidence. Perhaps I can gain traction and now that I have my booklet finished and I'm sharing it with 400+ places. I will have to take one day at a time and believe something good will result in the end of the month. I'm certainly trying and keeping busy for 30 days.

connecting veterans with jobs

I connected all of the vendors at the veteran expo with offices of vocational rehabilitation offices county wide. Since some of the employers have multiple branches I decided to do this much more efficiently. I asked the people I met that they publish the findings in their newsletters. I can not be certain that the employers will make any calls. At this point I can do no more; however my next step will reach 100's of people who do care. It will be more work for me but more effective to reach people from the disability angle than that of the employer. I will certainly get more exposure because I will also share my booklet. People can be found in the most unlikely places. It's hard not to have control over a project this big however, I have to believe that some progress will result from this.

Knowing when

My friend lives with me because I need help sometimes, especially at night. Suddenly food stamps are discontinued even though my friend has $0. He is a marine and is afraid of being blackballed. How can he refuse to advocate- that's just not me. I was sent the wrong wheelchair in 2014, I have since quit using it and requesting a new one a few months early. I'm in the process of organizing documents and old files from 3 different places so I can prove my request. I was told that my insurance does make exceptions and with my careful, continuous, accurate work to justify my request I should win. It is hard to know when to advocate and when not to advocate. Professionals can be subjective with their decisions and if challenged they can make things worse. However, I can't imagine not trying and just giving in. I have alienated decision makers because I proved them to be wrong. I keep winning yet they keep trying because so many of them underestimate consumers. Empowerment is hard to achieve when people count on remaining among the "haves" and keeping the "have-nots" low.

The right people

I met some people in city hall and they're very interested in disability awareness through a video that illustrates some does and don'ts. I will be forever glad that I purchased the "10 Commandments for Communicating with People with Disabilities." Eventually employers follow but I'm quite confident that my message will fall in line in time. I may also be able to get an awareness video going for people to learn in 3 minutes clips of buildings and common sites in the county. My other goal is to direct some funds to our Susquehanna Valley Team River Runner. That too will fall in line. I am excited to be able to make connections for others. I'm not sure if I'm helping my case or not but I did encourage people wo contact Disability Empowerment Center to get involved also. That's just my nature, they need to learn about then try the kayaking program.

Falling isn't failing

Recently I was sent an e-card with the tree of life on it. I saw it as my climb the proverbial latter. Here's why: 1) In my life I spent an unusual amount of time trying to climb the tree. Every time I thought I was making my way up I was merely going across. 2) Having said that, each time I was "knocked down" I really wasn't. I just "grabbed another branch." I was never really knocked out. 3) Each time I was becoming a better faller on "the trapeze of life." One of my exercises in PT was to literally become better at falling. 4) Falling isn't failing and my practicing made me a stronger person both physically- falling on the ground & psychologically falling- on a lower branch. 5) Sometimes when I would fall I would catch another branch, other times I would catch a leaf, other times a flower that was about to bloom. 6) Lately I've been resting on the flowers. Falls don't hurt as much, my falls are getting better, I don't stay as long, they're less far from the ground. 7) Now when I look up, I can see the top of the tree. Surprisingly I see that there are a multitude of branches to grab, and each have pretty flowers too. 8) I ask myself these questions- Are the highest branches really better? What makes them better? They look just the same as the ones I've been on. 9) Since I have never been at the top now that I will have a chance I don't think I want to be there. If I want to be able to touch the sky I'll take a balloon ride.

Sharing to generate interest

In order to grow I need people to help the progress move along. Preferably I would like the person(s) to have a disability because they will be more empathic to the situation. I will now crush all the "rules in the book" and share the booklets with 400+ independent living centers across the country. I spent all weekend recording and compiling websites, email addresses and phone numbers by looking up the ILRU Directory. I'm sure a few, if not most, of the contacts I reach will doubt my words since my request to share is odd. However, I am certain that some will appreciate my hard work creating the booklet. I hope to find a few who come forward and offer to share the work. Perhaps I will find new avenues that will push my booklets forward. Some centers do not do anything in the vocational realm. One thing for certain is that I control this road. Distribution is up to me...I just hope nobody decides to take advantage of things. I will continue to do some job recruiting- that may lead to some good contacts and results.

Filling a need

Until now I just wanted to market my manuscript; it's good, comprehensive, and unique. The problem isn't that isn't the problem and no employer is happy to sit down and be educated on the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. Since recruitment, retention, and return on investment are the bottom line issues they need to have solution. Employers do not see why they should be educated and they may be somewhat insulted. Suddenly I realized a more meaningful (and easier) way to get my wheel through the door. How can an employer worry about retaining an employee unless (s)he has an employee. Therefore, my job will be a broker and I will connect employers who I meet at expos with vocational counselors at Careerlinks! If I do enough of them a match will eventually be made. Then I can send these counselors my booklet and Team River Runner can make a few dollars on my efforts. The best parts are: 1)I can do almost everything through the internet; 2) I don't have to drive to worksites; 3)I don't have to convince employers to give me extra time in their days; 4)I don't have to be a great presenter; 5)it's saving their human resource people time and money; and 6) There is a real need for qualified applicants. I'm really looking forward to doing this.

I want to attend but..

I am the first to say how so few people with disabilities are out in the community. I am not wrong but sometimes there are risks that need to be evaluated before making a final decision whether or not to participate. For example, I really want to attend a peaceful walk in Washington DC but I'm pretty sure there will be groups there inciting riots. I am soooo tempted and it would mean a lot to me to attend. Many of the others are trying to convince me and my presence as a person in a wheelchair would speak volumes on many levels. However, there would be absolutely no recourse if I was to get hurt. I rarely have this dilemma but I rarely have this kind of option because I was never before as political as I am now.

Where are the others?

Often I feel like the only one in the group and wish there were others. I attended a Veterans Expo and the overall need it to find others. I can offer suggestions but I can't guarantee there would people willing to "get on board." To me it feels much better to not be "doing it alone." I realize that everyone is different but when it's a big function (professional conference or public gathering) I am usually hard pressed to find the other person(s) who can not walk up steps. In terms of facebook it would be helpful to know of others; especially the sites that have a lot of followers. Inclusion still needs to grow- hopefully it will.

Connecting people is valuable

"Everyone counts." Everyone knows something we don't and everyone knows someone we don't. "Helping someone else is the best way to help ourselves." With those thoughts in mind I came up with a meaningful activity that can be a win-win for everyone involved. As expected/ unfortunately the vet expo yesterday was not well attended. I spoke to almost everyone and the over whelming response, and based on what I saw, there were not many consumers interested in working. Sure I could tout my booklet "Welcoming Disabled Employees into the workplace" and I did but that wasn't enough. These employers needed to find workers first. Since recruitment, retention, return on investment is the purpose of my manuscript, I will offer to put companies in touch with employees. As a former job coach, I can troubleshoot, thus maintaining employment (job retention). Once the first two are addressed the third issue is also, an employer won't keep an employee unless there is return on investment. In particular there was a Vice President of Human Resources for a 60 year old veteran owned company For over 60 years that has a 70,000 square foot distribution center with an inventory 45,000+ products. The businesses interested in my booklet and follow-up presentations will send donations to Team River Runner.

Inspired to get hired- for employees

Stereotypes and financial incentives are only part of the reason for low employment rates among people with disabilities. There are at least two other barriers that exist; lack of motivation and lack of marketable skills. The first one is financial benefit programs that people hide behind. However, there are guidelines and incentive which encourage the person to work as well as maintain health and financial benefits. Depending on the disability the person can work outside the home. Jobs usually require transportation but adaptive cars do exist and a state agency (The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation) defrays the cost of the adaptations and driving lessons. Many people with challenges do not wish to make the extra effort to work if they do not have to. The second one the person's skills. Usually can't just work in basic jobs like fast food and grocery stores. They must enroll in secondary schools to receive college degrees. The other skills may be a lack of social experiences resulting in poor social ones. Parents do not want their child to be hurt so this results in limited friendships, inability to fit in in a work environment, or criticism. or

The desire to hire- strategies for employers

Tuesday is a veterans Expo and companies who are seeking out vets as applicants will be there. I'm going to meet each and every one show them my booklet, and ask them if they will get involved. They may not even know about the financial benefits and other information. These are the places I am seeking to help me and in turn I will certainly help them. I have an elevator speech, a power point, and background. I can also help applicants to improve their vocational skills; that can be useful also. I have decided this is where and when my consulting work begins. I will spread info on Team River Runner at the same time. I was called by a professor who wants all 25 of her students to have experiences with minority projects. We practice kayaking at the university gym- how perfect is that. I live for trying things from a different angel.

Advocate for yourself

There are a few important suggestions for a person who has a disability. One is to advocate for yourself because you know yourself best and often professionals do not have your best interests in mind. They will find the loophole as an excuse to not help you resolve the problem. Sometimes they do want to "help" you so as not to lose your business (insurance money). The professional may not be capable of resolving a problem but will insist that there is no need to look elsewhere even though there is. Here is why advocacy is important. In the first case, research and find out if what the person told you is accurate- often it isn't. In the second case, remaining with your current professional can actually exacerbate your problem- this can mean you must now go directly to a surgeon! This all sounds so negative and there are professionals and customer service representatives at heal insurance companies who are very helpful but there are many other who are not. When you find a good one let the person know and take the time to make a formal compliment. It will also make you feel good.

Point of view

One major problem with past disability presentations to professional is the focus. Disability as a topic is not a glamorous topic and can ignite fear and defensiveness in people. Since the goal is to attract employers (the decision- makers) not vocational agencies change the semantics. The entire presentation should be from a business point of view. Rather than "Welcoming Disabled Employees into the Workplace" which discusses job placement and job coaching services agencies offer, appeal to the employer using their terminology. So now we have recruitment, retention, and return on investment- their wheelhouse. Add statistics to justify the depth of the problem and the solution. Statistics and testimonials to justify hiring people with disabilities is important. Teach employers how to build natural supports in the workplace. For example, use another employee to guide the new employee. That as a normal business process anyway, it's called a mentorship. Form a work group to explain some ways to discuss concerns and integrate the person with the challenge into the work environment. It's not rocket science and it has proven effectiveness. It just needs to be a more common practice.

Joint ventures

Creating, implementing, and sustaining Infobility independently is easier when there is a partner involved. That has been tried and failed over and over again. One person only wanted a storefront so photos with legislators could be taken WHAT? Then I had someone from the next town over. I was really excited to welcome her on board until a few weeks later when she jumped ship. I was unavailable to make a meeting and figured she could take over- WRONG. After planning for months she had no idea what to say at a meeting I couldn't make and then she just disappeared. Then I thought I found a business but when I requested a meeting to discuss details the man disappeared. Back to square one. Until one day when I missed a bus. The manager of a well established restaurant drove me home and my thank you note to him was published in the local newspaper. I just spoke with him and brought him a copy. He not only read it when it a month ago, he insisted that people came to his establishment for a meal in support of his generosity to me. I then asked him if he'd like another opportunity to support a disability and in turn receive attention. We have a meeting planned to discuss details soon. His support, in name only, will be invaluable. His business contacts are numerous as are his fellow parishioners. That is an area I want to tap as well. There are successful programs that are developed through religious groups. No need for expensive entrepreneurial group meet-ups.

Think positive only

A person can not have two opposing thoughts at the same time so why not keep the positive one and build on it. Turkey Hill has a form to complete and submit regarding requests from non-profit organizations. It is straight forward but it asks where the event will be held. The retreat will be in Juniata County and there are not Turkey Hills stores there. The company is more likely to help events that are local and have their stores on their streets so it was doubtful that they would help. I read a few big fundraisers they did for veterans so I new they were receptive to the population. I figured it wouldn't hurt to call and set up a meeting explaining why a form was not submitted. The lady said they do help groups who are not local. I explained that we are but the event is not in Lancaster then I thanked her for their veteran's fundraisers. I gave her my pitch and she asked how many people will be involved and I said 100. She didn't miss a beat stating that she would donate 6 cases, which will total 144 bottles, to us and let her know which Lancaster store the order should be sent. Boy, am I glad to have pushed the negative though aside.

An easy answer

There's a piece of advise I follow practically every day of my life. It doesn't matter if I'm going to take a vacation in another state or shop at the corner story. It makes things happen more smoothly almost every time. Just two words- think ahead. I just had two projects that I needed to ensure my entrance in a building and entrance in a restroom. The first required finding the ramp to place over the step which would involve three people. Last time no one knew where it was and I was late for the meeting. The second was using a much bigger portalet or being able to use the bathroom in the building nearby. Last year it took 20 minutes with a full bladder to finally get approval. I figured it would take a few weeks and people to approve the building use. I was right but last year I was fuming because it took so long and people didn't believe I couldn't use what was available to guests. It is easy to just see the downside of things and waste time and energy with anger and ultimately get nowhere. Refusing to attend the concert would just be hurting myself. This year I will have a chance to get a ticket at the first location and know that it will be a smoother event.

Concerned Veterans 4 America

A first I was quite disappointed with the non-profit. I was asked to contact veterans and ask them to talk to legislative offices about appointing Brett Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court. What is wrong with that? I know that my time could be spent on many bigger issues. I would just succeed in angering veterans and they were not actively involved in the vote anyway. I told the lady in charge...I'm glad I did. She is going to start some real advocacy campaigns that have nothing to do with the court appointments and everything to do with education on advocating for issues. I will have the opportunity to meet people and they will have the chance to vent. I am really looking forward to letting them feel that their voices count. All of this is because I got involved with Team River Runner.

"The Plight of the Veteran"

It's time to share the story of the challenges that veterans experience re-entering society upon their return. Among them include finding work and the beliefs some employers have when considering applicants who have been in the military. There are many good qualities veterans have like work ethic, work under pressure, and collaboration. Unfortunately PTSD is a very powerful barrier. Among the solutions include adaptive paddling and that's where Team River Runner enters the equation. This non-traditional therapy is powerful and positive ammunition to strengthen core muscles, relax the mind, and improve relationships. Society needs more awareness of the plight of the veteran and veterans need a tool that will empower them, and give them the will to live (decrease the suicide rate). Presentations will be held at chambers of commerce, libraries, and rotary clubs in Dauphin, Lancaster, and York Counties. Hopefully this effort will increase our membership but at the least it will increase awareness.

Veteran Venues

Outreach efforts will now be much greater; everything will be expanded to the greater York and Harrisburg areas. Rotary clubs will be re-visited through facebook and then with visits. Libraries, which traditionally were not popular, can be once the presentation is expanded to include PTSD information, food, and have better marketing. Chambers of Commerce traditionally have nice size audiences and offer good exposure. Total number of contacts will be 70 (in addition to the 5 we made before and all the events we attended). Often the sequels are better than the originals and in this case that will be true. This is already a successful program accepted nationally and it has good websites as well as videos to illustrate a variety of testimonials from veteran participants. It's high time for Susquehanna Valley Team River runner to shine.

Empowerment booklet

Since the target audience is those who have been discharged from rehabilitation centers. I will try to reach them through home healthcare agencies. My first I thought was to visit them but that would turn out to be a challenging endeavor. Instead it may be best to just email the entire booklet, include a note to please give me feedback, and then then share the booklet with clients. This way staff will better understand what I offer and hopefully realize it's something that could enhance what they do. The one concern is that the spacing will be wrong and that will make the entire booklet look bad. There is a need for this information and cannot be provided by a person who does not live with the challenge. The amputee support group leader states that he becomes unhappy when professionals do not give the individuals on support groups. I feel the same way when professionals refuse to allow me to create groups on things that are related to social work since they should be aware but do not always care. I also spoke to the man who runs the West End Market. Hopefully he will have some ideas to promote the educational booklet.

Strategies for employers: growing success

In order for the 18.7% disability employment rate to increase the hiring successes and the barriers to employment must decrease. In order for that to happen success stories must be shared. Companies should offer trainings to provide disability awareness to other companies and the community. A few examples are workshops, giving papers at conferences, holding community fundraisers in conjunction with vocational rehab agencies, supportive groups for employers like the ones at Careerlinks, and on a much smaller scale, they can have educational programs during staff meetings. Topics may include transportation barriers, attitudinal barriers, success stories, examples of assistive technology, community integration, vocational rehabilitation counselors discussing their programs, employees with autism and companies that employ them, and more.

Strategies for employers: assistive technology

This section will discuss devices that help some disabled employees secure and succeed at their jobs. They increase ability and productivity for people with disabilities regardless of limitations. Simple examples are electric staplers for people with poor dexterity and complicated examples are voice activation for computer use and braille writers (for people who are blind). There are many items some are even create by individuals. They can help people with disabilities get, keep, and advance in employment. Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT) offers the training needed to use this technology. Employers should have a staff person who can teach and fix the equipment because if it's broken that costs the company an entire day of work. Some items may be borrowed and other costs may be defrayed through tax credits like the IRS 190 which covers architectural barrier removal. In general for every $1 spent of devices $23 is earned by that specific employee's work.

Strategies for employers: hire the best

One concern for employers is where to find qualified people with disabilities who are seeking employment. They are not likely to be locate at a networking function or a job expo. The first type of event is very uncomfortable for people who use wheelchairs since everyone is standing around and no one even sees you, since you are sitting down. The second type of event is very uncomfortable for people who use wheelchairs, since it gets extremely crowded in the room with table after table of employers who are making judgements based on appearances. Partnerships are an interesting way to find job seekers as well as learn about agencies who serve people with disabilities. They could create interesting fundraisers together and educational workshops for the community. The agencies can also present trainings in their workplaces. This can all ultimately lead to employment opportunities. There are now secondary educational classes and work-study internships for job seekers with disabilities.

Promoting inclusion

The most powerful way for a person with a disability to break the barriers of disability is really easy- just show up! Whether it's in a job situation or at a community event if a person with a disability is seen then others will see that they exist. Most places are getting better with their accessibility but it means more if there is some degree of interaction as well. Once present others are more likely to realize that we have things in common as they do and think beyond the wheelchair. Volunteering in the community is important but applying for work is even more meaningful. In the case of work, it is good to get co-workers at all levels involved in interacting with the person. They should hold a staff meeting to introduce the person this creates an opportunity for the individual to immediately address any concerns/fears that may materialize and deal with them before they grow. Mentorships in the workplace are common but in this case they are crucial to building relationships with others.

Strategies for employers: involving all workers

The traditional way of job placement is with the use of a vocational agency. The staff brings the applicant along, meets with the interviewer, coaches the person while on the job, then makes a few follow-up visits to the job site and meetings with the employer. This can be done more effectively by helping the employer understand the accommodations a person may need to succeed and ask him/her to prepare the staff. The best placements are with minimal presence from the staff because the goal is to build natural supports in the workplace. The main needs can be done with a mentor; a program many companies have anyway. The mentor meets with the new hire accompanies the person on breaks, lunch, and after work. This need not be special undertaking because the person happens to have a disability. If an agency staff is involved that sets the newbie apart and is likely to encourage dependence rather than independence. Many placements through vocational programs fail because the funding and staff decrease and the person hasn't really learned the job.

Strategies for employers: financial incentives

Many employer are not aware of the ways to reduce taxes and or receive government stipends for hiring people with disabilities. Others do not want to bother with the paperwork involved to get deductions. Regardless, the employers must be qualified to perform the essential job functions. The Work Opportunity Tax Incentives Credit in which employers can receive a tax credit of up to $2,400 an employee. A second example is the Architectural and Transportation Barrier Removal Deductionin which a businesses may deduct up to $15,000 for making a facility or public transportation vehicle, more accessible to individuals with disabilities. A third example is the Special Incentives for Hiring Veterans (SEI) in which up to 50% of veteran’s salaries may be subsidized. Programs help reduce the cost of assisted technology and employment agencies provide on the job training in the cases of people who have intellectual challenges.

Reasonable Acommodations

Reasonable accommodations are adjustments to a job that permits the employee to apply for the job, perform the job, and/ or enjoy privileges like other employees. Many employees tweak the job to make it easier for them, they just don't have a term for it. Some examples are the following: request interpreters for an interview, schedule break times around medication times, include an accessible piece of equipment in the fitness room. This is a major barrier for employers but can be demystified. Other simple and free accommodations for people who may have focusing issues may be moving a workplace to a quieter location, partnering with a co-worker who serves as a mentor, enlisting the help of a job coach who will help the person at the job site until natural supports are created. All of this is contingent upon the applicant with the disability is forthcoming about the disability.

Interviewing

Typically an applicant with a disability should be treated the same way as any other applicant; that includes medical testing. Questions may be asked about transportation and if they directly relate to the job. If the person chooses to share information on the disability it may be worthwhile because if obvious, it is often going to be on the person's mind. If hidden the applicant should decide the consequences of not revealing. In the case of epilepsy, the employer who does not know this, will not be prepared and seizures can happen without much warning. If an interpreter is needed the applicant must request one. Applicants must be able to perform the essential job functions. Other more complex mandates include: 1) If a person can perform most of the duties but one the task may be swapped with another employee. 2) If the person takes medications, (s)he should be allowed to alter the break/lunch schedule to match. 3) If a person needs to work at home arrangements can be made. If a person has autism or attention deficit disorder but can prove successful performance, the interview may be greatly altered.

Employment Myths

This topic is the first part of the booklet on Welcoming Disabled Employees. First Return on Investment- There are programs that defray the costs of accommodations in the workplace. Each dollar spent $20 - 35 is earned by the employee with a disability. These points are important in dispelling the myth "Employees with disabilities will not be able to perform and will slow down the production rate." Second Safety Employees with disabilities are more cautious than their co-workers so safety is a major issue. Insurance rates are based on the task not the person performing it. These points are important when dispelling the myth "Employees will be careless and have accidents, causing insurance premiums to rise." Third Performance Employees with disabilities show an equal or above average rate of productivity as compared with their co-workers. They may often be the source of motivation. Furthermore Customers are more likely to patronize companies who hire people with disabilities. These points are important when dispelling the myth "Employees with disabilities will not be able to perform and will slow down the production rate."

Vocationally Speaking

Epowerment is a positive consequence of holding a job so it makes that this is our focus. I just completed designing a booklet "Welcoming Employers with Disabilities into the Workplace" and it is ready to be distributed. The next step is to offer simple meetings and/or a formal power point at staff trainings. The issues covered are: employment myths, strategies for hiring, interviewing, accommodating, financial incentives, and improving job skills for veterans. This is the way we can establish employer relationships then discuss job development for veterans. We can also offer employers the opportunity to work with individuals through the "Veterans Serving the Community Program" which is TRR approved. If employers are already involved with veterans, they will be read to contact us once job openings arise at their company. This would be a good precursor to permanent employment. I would really like feedback from YOU since it's the only way this will work.

A Support Group

Lancaster Rehabilitation is willing to accept a support group for free as long as it is not accepting funding. Therefore, Team River Runner will have a bi-monthly presence the topic will be "strategies for coping with one's new challenges." This is very broad and appropriate because most of the people there are getting medical help for sudden situations but non-medical situations have been addressed only minimally. I will supplement their care with non-medical assistance because that's what I know best. The booklet I wrote "Do it yourself Disability" is aimed at those who fall into the gap- medically stable but not yet re-integrated in the community. Areas explored will include social, psychological, physical, social, vocational, and community. The last area can include Team River Runner and other recreational outlets. everyone will receive a follow-up call if desired. This will generate interest in kayaking and finally provide me with an opportunity to empower others.

PA CARES

This is a monthly gathering of people who work for veterans in Harrisburg. The last program was Thursday and had a lively discussion. Many people shared what they do and how they help veterans. Representatives were from Red Cross, New Vitae (a drug and alcohol program), PA Food Bank, P Cares, Developmental Disability Council, The Disability Rights Program, Team River Runner and more. Concerned Veterans for America was impressive. They are in 36 states and they do advocacy and have 8 projects as of now. They have a number of legislators on board and seem to be successful in their missions to help people and families. "The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the VA MISSION Act. This is important legislation that will overhaul and expand programs that allow veterans to seek health care outside the Department of Veterans Affairs." This law approves veterans to receive care in community medical facilities rather than going to the closest veterans hospital. This cuts down on transportation and times issue among other benefits.

Combat Stress

Key symptoms include: Irritability and anger outbursts; Excessive fear and worry; Headaches and fatigue; Depression and apathy; Loss of appetite; Problems sleeping; Changes in behavior or personality. Don't blame yourself or a family member. Like an overused muscle, the brain must heal from excessive trauma. Consider if your body’s getting enough nutrients, exercise, and rest (7-9 hours sleep), your body and can protect you from too much stress. Practice relaxation techniques this includes doing things you enjoy, using humor, deep breathing (it relaxes the nervous system). Combat stress differs from PTSD because the disorder is brief and symptoms often disappear after being home for a few months, or even weeks. Post-traumatic stress disorder can often interfere with a person’s daily responsibilities and requires sessions with a mental health professional and methods to process difficult emotions. Symptoms are more specific – such as recurrent dreams or flashbacks – following a traumatic event as part of the combat experience. Call the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, and press 1.

World War 2 Weekend

There are only 7% of the population left who experienced the second world war. In order to preserve this time period we must find ways to expose future generations and one successful way is to hold the program in Reading Pennsylvania. Just some of the activities include a parade of military vehicles; reenactments of battles and skirmishes between the French Resistance, Allied and German troops around the battle-scarred French Village; over 1,700 WWII military and civilian re-enactors and dozens of combat and support units representing many nations;Pacific and European theaters offer Navy, Marine, and Army, encampments, British Commonwealth forces, German Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe camps, and more. As a guest said "This is one of the finest WW2 shows on the east coast. Plenty of re-enactors, vintage aircraft, WW2 veterans, big band music. If you close your eyes and let your imagination work, you'll be back in 1943."

Disabled Drivers

Disability advocacy can be challenging since disability issues are not often on legislators minds and the population isn't powerful. Not having other people with the same problem to give credence to the issue makes it even harder. The regulations PennDOT makes for drivers of adapted vans are meaningless. There is an approved list of places to go for state inspections. The list is filled with vendors who no nothing about adapted vans, are uncomfortable working on adapted vans, or not approved inspection sites. This is true because I have called places on the list. Even more interesting is the place we are told to go (shops where the hand controls were installed)are often not approved inspection sites. I want to know who created this list, I doubt if anyone will take responsibility. Finding people in my situation would be nice but due to HIPPA regulations there will be no help from companies who have disabled drivers.

employment for all

Working is not just 1 person working for 1 employer; there are many other ways. Hiring is not just reviewing applications and interviewing people; there are many other ways. My next project will be in two parts 1) Designing programs to help agencies get their consumers working through unique enclave ventures. 2) Helping employers learn the benefits of hiring people with challenges through educational trainings. I may travel but I will not relocate nor will I likely be working with anyone in Lancaster. This will be successful due to sheer stubbornness and re-energizing my soul. The packaging will be online and assisted by established programs. I will have the opportunity to use what I have written years ago. This can also be applied to the veteran population.

kayaking a commonality

In a conference for disability and employment in Philadelphia a speaker mentioned that she's excited to be learning how to kayak. Wow we have something interesting/unique to discuss. Of all the people who spoke to her afterwards, I'm sure that no one mentioned that topic. Her help in the area of marketing, her expertise, will do wonders for my confidence. That is a crucial component that has been severely lacking. Another area that is in need of my expertise is strategies for hiring disabled employees. For the first time I feel a realistic confidence for my topic and work. It is too bad that there is no incentive for employers to hire handicapped. I agency staff will work so hard to get people employed but the decision ultimately lies with the employers. I will come up with alternatives- enclaves.

the right people

I attended 5 expos, 3 health fairs and 2 conferences. Everyone with whom I interacted expressed interest in Team River Runner and Infobility ideas I discussed. A few still sounded promising since they took the time to reply to my notes. In between all of these opportunities I decided lend my my time at a festival-like event for a local agency that houses people with intellectual disabilities. The people I met there are the ones who will make things happen for the veterans organization as well as my own awareness ideas. The people were 2 residential counselors who work 2 two jobs just to make ends meet. The vibe I got from speaking to them (a college student and a massage therapist) proved that "by helping another you really DO help yourself." I can't wait to start growing disability and veteran awareness the way it should be done. The education of employers will result in some good vocational opportunities that have been waiting to happen for years...for decades.

Abilities Expo

The event was Friday and this is a display of good people who want to help people with disabilities. Here are some of the highlights: A company who is going to create residential and vocational programs for people with intellectual disabilities (such as a local café); representatives from wheelchair and van companies who know what really exist and is needed by consumers; lawyers who have years of experience implementing the ADA. It is a pretty long trip to get there but nowhere could a person find this many options in one place. It is too bad that this event is not available in local towns. The cost of service and products can be very high but there is a lot for consumers, participants, and interested people to take away from the experience. It does exist throughout the United States.

Program for everyone

Tomorrow is another health and wellness fair concentrating on stroke victims. The hope is that since it will be in the hospital lobby people with other issues will check it out. My table will offer all sorts of resources including veterans, health insurance, and employment skills. The goal is find some people who are interested in the disability awareness topic regardless of whether the person has had a stroke or not. Infobility remains for everyone regardless of challenge, age, finances, residence. etc. My choice to attend as a vendor means the plan to attend a full day conference on inclusion had to be cancelled.

Another approach

Rather than meeting vendors staying put and letting participants come to me may be an effective method. The local hospital offers a health and wellness fair featuring the stroke disability. It is important to get to know the staff of the hospital in order to consider this a useable location. This is similar to what I just did. I volunteered for a large event at a non-profit- Race Against Racism through the YWCA. I met a resident and she will be a good start in my plight to reach out to the caring community about social issue of importance. This will be an experiment on my part.

Inclusion in a program

There's a good program for teens who help them focus on future vocational goals then introduce fitness. The program is down three steps. I have been actively trying to facilitate a move to another building. However, that is difficult due to the limited budget and layout of the building. The land lord is unwilling to make changes or purchase a platform lift. I considered some fundraising options regarding awareness programs in churches, service auctions, and raffles. Just recently I thought about trying a third angel. Rather than adapt the current location or travel to a different one ii would be possible to have the program for people with disabilities in a different location in which they would conduct the vocational aspect and limited fitness for a limited time. This way people can see the worth of the program and benefits to moving. There's always many other angels to try when the first and even second do not work successfully.

Continued outreach

I saw a movie in which a 90 year old Holocaust victim goes to schools to spread the message. Some people don't even believe the atrocity happened. Veterans Cafes give people the chance to hear about wartime stories that veterans have gone through, there is only 7% of that population left. The next generation needs to pick up the baton. I conduct disability programs for the same cause there are always more people who are afraid of and discriminate against people with disabilities. Continued outreach is important because if you don't know your past, it can come back again. Often people want to live their own lives and have their beliefs tho they may be false. That is not good because people must learn about situations in society and not just from text books.

Connecting and growing

There's a Lancaster in which teens combine vocational skills with fitness. I'm looking forward to my work with them but right now they need to move out of a basement to an accessible location so they could be inclusive. Once they begin to have people with disabilities they can be eligible for grants and I can really work in my field and get our veterans from Team River Runner involved. The kids would learn a lot from them. I never considered weight lifting as being a non-traditional therapy. Sure it increases one's physical strength but these kids do not have physical issues. I guess it's "cool" to lift weights so it makes other topics (like employment) more desirable. If it works I'm all for it.

The Paddling Press

I hope it's approved! I think this is a great way to reach out to the TRR paddlers of past. There are too many people that were once and done. This is a way to get to know and actively involve people in our program. Articles may be in the following categories: 1) historical, 2) national, 3) local, and 4) personal. Examples of articles #1 famous people and related events, news from headquarters in Maryland, #3 news from our chapter and others, #4 getting to know local people who are/were involved and asking for their ideas. Hopefully help will follow because when people have a stake in something they usually care more. This may take awhile to catch on but I think it's worth a try.

project progression

Last week was a meeting of various non-profits about their successes and challenges when it comes to implementing projects. Many people rely on volunteers but it is hard to keep them interested and grow the numbers. Some of the ways to do this include express your appreciation, include them in decision making, and ask them for their ideas. The participants involved with TRR often try the activity a few times but do not necessarily continue. Therefore there are many people who would still be interested but do not have a person to invite them to the next activity. This could be remedied by going through the people and inviting them to an event such as a paddling party and then slip a meeting in. This way our larger projects will be more successfully because we can count on more participants. I'm excited to explore this idea.

2 collaborations

I think we're going to get somewhere with my part of the fundraising. I attended a breakfast for a local fire company. I asked the lady in charge a question about the group in charge. They invited me to a meeting and now I'm on track. there's a restaurant who will give 10% of a daily bill to a non-profit to patrons who have the flyer- even if the just received the flyer in the parking lot! Then I discovered that the leader of the group belongs to a large church who has a large members. My idea is to help their programs any way I can, then ask if I can show the video, then request donations. That's the only way I will roll with this. Furthermore, I will solicit gift cards from grocery stores, which I've done in the past, rather than ask strangers for donations. Now I can feel proud of my own ability to contribute and not rely on my speaking engagements and worry about getting more.

TRR Lancaster

Being part of our chapter as an outreach worker has given me a new angle and population on which to focus. I spent oodles of time on the traditional disability community. It's time to change my entire focus and once I do I think I'll get people from the community to become interested in my brand of awareness and empowerment. I am no longer going to swim upstream (pun intended) I will go with the flow- or current in this case. There's a lot of potential to grow the vocational among those who have fought for us and were never the ones to accept help. Now we can show that there are many ways to improve your quality of life besides traditional exercise. Just grab a kaya or raft and paddle- find friends who understand your situation, strengthen your core muscles by paddling, and relax your mind float in the river and enjoy nature. Best of all- be accepted regardless of challenge, age, finances, and support system.

2 people and 2 projects

It's all about sharing and caring but people talk a lot, don't really think outside of the box, and you should be part of a bigger entity. Doing it independently is really tough; I've been at it for years. Recently, I met 2 people from different groups and within 2 seconds these people were each immediately willing to share these programs. The first program is "Employer Centered Employment." This unique approach to supported employment is simply making job placement easy by explaining a few things to employers: the benefits of hiring; myths of disability; and sharing success stories. The second is "Veterans Voices." This is a unique social program in which people can read a variety of monologues about soldiers who have very challenging experiences re-entering society: families who are struggling to stay above water financially; veterans who can't secure employment; and kids who are acting out because they have no parental role model. Don't give up may be a cliché but it's also true.

Veteran voices

Listening to them about why Team River Runner was/is so wonderful is the way it will grow. Then they will share the story with the audiences. Testimonials are the key to successful marketing. I am truly interested to hear what happened to these people and why they came to our program. Instead of implementing fancy and expensive technologies I will turn to the basic technique of listening. We do already know that the mind is relaxed when the body is in the boat paddling in the river. Socialization increases because people are among others who have " been there." It also enables the veteran to change the daily routine to something different and challenging. I really think including a participant in the presentation will enable it to be more desirable an investment.

Knowledge

When contacting a large company I was told "Our building isn't wheelchair bound." WHAT? that statement doesn't even make sense. Those people truly need an awareness program. So how does one encourage an awareness program for a place like that? Well the facilitator could be someone with a different type of disability who could enter the building? Sometimes inaccessibility makes the employer more receptive and other times it results in being ignored. It makes me pretty upset when key people, programs, and groups display their apathy. They are the one's who need the training instead we "preach to the already converted." This can become quite frustrating since their are always more people to meet and learn.

working

Working to get veterans and other disabled populations work is more than a full time job. It becomes upsetting when one calls people with questions and the answer continues to be "I don't know" or an issue is continually ignored. People begin to accept that as an acceptable answer. This is a major reason for entrepreneurships as we see on Shark Tank over and over. Why even bother to seek answers when the workers don't know them? There do exist companies, with have similar goals that are willing to collaborate so both parties succeed. This really is something worth pursuing. Joint ventures still do make things happen so there is hope. Take the chance and inquire. A non-local private employment company is willing to 'employ' Infobility ideas so more should happen this week. Giving up is never an option.

teaching and funding

Team River Runner is having an overnight experience for kids with visual impairments. They and their families will be taught to kayak in Juniata County. We are combining with Easter Seal but we must come up with funds since it's noted as a free venture. I was considering the typical donation letter and I looked for possible recipients and I am making some appointments to speak at Rotary Clubs but I really wasn't sold. So I will try offering the "Disability Dialogue" program in exchange for a donation for the KAOS event. Soon I'll be meeting a professional fundraiser so that should help and I will consider a "Movie Night" at a local AM Vets building. Maybe a cookoff of some kind will be interesting... maybe all of the above.

looking back / looking ahead

They say "only look behind if you want to go that way." They also say "you must learn from history in order not to repeat it." So which is it? It's both. To really grasp a concept and to ensure progress you look behind at past mistakes then look ahead. You must learn from past mistakes but don't stay stuck. What happened previously can eliminate what not to do, so analyze it all for a bit. Keep those lessons in mind as you move ahead. Concentrate and focus on what's needed to attain the goal. Everything has its season but seasons are seasonal. They change and that's a good thing. Another strategy for reaching success is to create smaller manageable portions so success is attainable rather than overwhelming. Don't just look at the big picture but see smaller goals along the way; it's all about the journey and make a mental not of things encountered. Once you reach 1 objective, stop and do something nice for yourself then move on to the next goal. This works when transferring your body to another location- bed to the wheelchair; interviewing for jobs, or raising funds.

van

When people admire the fact that I can drive I acknowledge there statement but I sometimes comment "it's great when it works." Well, this is one of those times. Well, it does but it doesn't. I can travel from place to place; however different bells and whistles can go off at any time. It is not just annoying for the horn to blow when I press for the blinker, it can be dangerous. I doubt that the police would be understanding of my situation (they haven't been in the past). At this point I have remained home due to these issues and when I do venture out, I am on one lane roads and do not press my blinkers at all. T his issue could take minutes to fix, hours, or days. At this point I am concerned about getting myself to Allentown. I will drive carefully and hope to heaven that the problem doesn't continue repeatedly while on the highway. Yes I am thrilled to be able to drive but there are times when I have been happier about the skill.

facebook

I almost never visited my site, I never completed the site with my information nor did I use my current last name. Everyone kept talking about facebook, facebook. One day I decided to read and post on Spinal Cord Peer Support. I was amazed by all the different people with their many perspective and topics. Then I decided to try posting my Infobility. Wow- I can reach more people with more comments than I ever saw, just by responding to others posts. They come right to my emails so I know immediately. I feel much more connected. I may actually get somewhere with Infobility. I completed my booklet on "Employer Centered Employment" and I posted this on a site designed just for this topic! Then I found someone in Ohio who wants to be a consultant like me. She has her own ideas but I asked her if we could collaborate. Now I know I'm on my way...not just in Lancaster (my home).

Ideas for Everone

I saw my 3 minutes of Live with Kelly and Ryan Wednesday and noticed a lady in a wheelchair was the chosen dancer for the day. It was really nice to see how far society has come. I went to the "Live" studio one day and sat in the audience. She was pretty and just doing something she probably does regularly. I read a book that gave 50 ideas for improving one's life. Some ideas seemed logical and simple such as "Control Your Clutter" and "Balance your Books" and Get Your Zzz's." Other ideas such as "Just Say No" and "Heart Healthy Eating" are not as easy. Typical ideas can work successfully for people with disabilities also. We need not dwell on our differences, I think others do that and impose their unnecessary concerns on us. Just having fun and "showing up" is all it takes. There's no reason to hesitate doing that dance.

facebbook finally

Perspectives on disability will soon be available because I am creating a facebook page for Infobility. I decided to organize my booklets, add one on employment, and offer presentations to simplify hiring people with disabilities to the workplace. I think there is someone to collaborate with me also. Tomorrow night I am attending a spinal cord injury group in Ephrata so perhaps that will also lead to participants. The plan isn't perfect but it's time to put aside my fears and make this real. The topic needs to be addressed and there is no better time than the present. Actually I have been trying little by little. I will build the plane flying then see where I land.

Unique ideas

I attended a grant meeting on an RFP entitled "Employer Centered Employment." I have been mentioning my idea about putting the employer, who is the decision maker, the center rather than the consumer. People looked at me like I had two heads. That is the opposite of the way it is done. Well, it has not worked very well so why are we continuing to do it this way? I learned that the Disabilities Council had the grant 13 years ago but there were no better ways offered from the grantees and therefore, this was all cancelled. This time 1 question was asked about paying the consumer to work with grant money. 1 question was asked if money from the state agency could be used for the grant (which requires matching funds). Does anyone actually "get it." Why should consumers be paid to be placed? That's the job of the employer once placed- it's called a paycheck. Money from the state agency if for the consumer's job needs why would it go to the staff for the grant? I offered to help a local agency but I think they may be intimidated because of all I have done for this project due to my interest. It's not a job to me.

Full Circle

I began my professional life implementing a disability awareness grant from Pennsylvania Developmental Disability Council and I'm going to end it implementing a grant from the Pennsylvania Disability Council. I say "end" because this project will happen no matter what and it will continue forever. It will be the king of project grantors like since they always seek projects that will share outcomes with other groups, be collaborative, and grow. As long as it receives some kind of support it will go on. At some point the program directors who underestimated my abilities and refused to alter their programs will notice that there is one that is successful and being done backwards. That was a main issue that no one understood when I explained the problem. They continued to have a consumer focus (that's not even how the world works) I proposed that it be employer focused. It will begin small and gain traction, eventually holding supportive groups like they have in Philadelphia for 17 + years.

Feeling welcome in community groups

It important to belong to community groups as a way to learn and raise awareness just by showing up. Sometimes the group is not receptive and it's best to just move on. I belonged to one such group that I did not feel comfortable with no matter what I did. I was welcomed and spoke twice- a member of a panel and a presentation. First was the talk "Strategies for hiring employees with disabilities." I developed a power point and spent 30-45 minutes talking on the benefits of hiring and workforce engagement. The beginning was an activity and the conclusion was for comments. The participants hardly said anything either time. Did I expect too much? The second was a panel on diversity. I recalled the experiences I had as a placement specialist and job coach. The moderator made something sound funny that wasn't. It was not appropriate and I felt really uncomfortable. Then the diversity group I was excited about had meetings without me. They would send the summary after the gathering or cancel but not inform me. I realized that after a year I was not going to make any more inroads so I decided to seek a different group.

Musical Messages

There are so many country artists who sing of adversity, moving forward, staying strong, etc. However, when it happens to them they play a different tune. Carrie Underwood had a bad fall outside of her house. She told the world that she broke her wrist. A month or so later she admits that her face needed stitches and she's not ready to face the world. All she has to do is look back on her own words in her songs for inspiration. Even Bethany Johnson, the movie she was in, will tell her that her life will go on in spite of this setback... perhaps I'm too hard on her. Lives of famous people can be ruined with accidents that alter appearance but country fans are usually very forgiving. Shania had problems with her vocal chords, Jo Dee Messina has cancer, I'm sure there are many more. I'm sure this too will pass. Everyone deserves time to process things.

Wheelchair advocacy

I just read a book called "The Best Year of Your Life" and I need to re-evaluate my skills and interests. I am spinning my wheels when it comes to educating employers so I will shift focus for awhile. I need to get some answers from the insurances, providers, and manufacturers regarding their lack of ethics. Who decides a wheelchair will not be covered by insurance and therefore will not be manufactured. Most importantly why is this a secret and why are consumers made to feel stupid that the chair received IS the one ordered when they know it's not? I don't think these questions are even considered let alone asked. If professionals are just going to continue as they will, and I suspect they will and get even more dishonest and even fewer types of wheelchairs will be available and even more consumer's concerns will be ignored. This time I will not be alone because I asked The Spinal Network, who I wrote an article for about this, to connect me with other intelligent consumers. This will not be a typical healthcare battle it will be an organized investigation and I'm sure it will take professionals by surprise.

grant$

Still trying to alert others of the ten proposal requests in hopes that someone will reach out. I'm not a non-profit entity so I can't submit anything. It kills me that there's money available just for the taking. Well, it really isn't that easy it is time consuming to complete a proposal. The concept is a good one- regardless of the specific topic all 10 projects have a collaboration component. The goal is to work together with another population and then be self-sustaining. That's not a popular idea but it will come to that in this field and many agencies are already sharing the load. Thinking ahead is crucial - it's a matter of survival.