Reactions to budget cuts

The Senate revealed their version of the budget cuts- they were indeed horrifying. Heath care for people with disabilities and the agencies who provide services were once again on the wrong side of the tracks. Many people who live in the community who require extensive assistance to do so may have to make changes. However, my concern was with the visual reactions by the advocates with disabilities. Individuals were being physically carried out of the building while chanting and yelling about the negative impact it would have on lives. I certainly understand the reason for the distress but it leaves a very poor taste in the viewers mouths who were watching the nightly news. It also makes my population look like cranky babies. That does more harm than good because it does not look like we are an intelligent group of people worthy of respect. There are other means of advocating that offer better results. One example is testimonials- when affected people write letters to Congress explaining that they will no longer be able to work if they do not receive attendant care to help them in the mornings it makes a difference. When the job performance is explained and includes commentary from co-workers and clients who admire their work that is worthy of respect. You get more bees with honey than vinegar.

Looking ahead

It's time to prepare and implement programs; I've been over and over and over and over and overthinking this for far too long. I will now focus on what I still have and look ahead- not behind. Sure I've missed many opportunities but my pattern stops right now Here are my summer plans: 1)Create a vocational booklet for the veteran center in Lemoyne. 2) Meet with Turkey Hill regarding our paddling program and their veteran program. 3) Practice the speech for the staff at Careerlink. 4) Write to school districts about awareness programs for older and younger students, find a video to show and create a brochure. Copy the brochure for churches and companies. The busier I am the less time I'll have to remember missed opportunities and the happier I'll be cause it's my passion.

Random Q & A

In the interest of involving others with this blog I asked what would be interesting topics to cover. Here are a few: Q) How do men and women with disabilities handle day-to-day challenges differently? A) One can't make generalizations; however, as a woman I am determined and patient with myself to figure out solutions. The problems don't resolve themselves but with repetition they do get easier. Every time I relocate I must rework the shower transfer. In the beginning I always feel scared that I can fall so easily. After a few times I was always relieved to have figured out the challenge. Q) Do disabled people enjoy the company of other disabled people (in general) or are they more interested in socializing with not-disabled people? A)In general people with severe disabilities may spend more time with family and caregivers. These people are not disabled but may be there for reasons other than altruistic (job/obligation). They may be able to better identify with people with disabilities. People with disabilities who are fully integrated with jobs and relationships, are more likely to be with friends without disabilities.

Veterans in Harrisburg

I visited Dauphin County armed with brochures and biz cards. The list I was given from the Center Director was HACC and a program in Lemoyne. I called the college and I can mail one from Lancaster HACC. Then I called the other center and immediately went there to learn more. I was glad I did and wish I lived in Harrisburg again. The have a food bank (boxes of food worth $90), a clothing bank, a café, many events and plans for a vocational skills program. Immediately I offered to assist with that. They were very interested in the paddling program and planned to drum up more interest. I was very excited because I want to get some paddling in this area. They are part of the territory (Susquehanna Valley) but most of the activity was happening in Lancaster- much too far. Now the brochure will be more accurate.

Re-structuring the message

The panel never even eluded to the disability population being included in the workplace. If the introductory speaker can make an entire living on just including 1 population (African Americans)into the a worksite, I should be able to spread that message and offer solutions on people with disabilities. I have 7 strategies to explain and help with implementation in addition I have a film explaining the importance of communication. Hopefully I local employment law firm will support me on the journey. The issue is relevant, easy, and interesting (the way I do it). It is time to make this happen and people need to know regardless of how unglamorous the topic may be. I hope my 15 minutes, which were filled with real life examples and practical solutions, made at least a bit of difference, Somehow, someway it WILL happen.

Producing a video

I've wanted to produce a video on disability. Years ago I got college students in the broadcasting field to create a simple film. It was effective and an interest way to promote disability awareness. Recently I met a documentary film, producer who suggested I consider creating something more sophisticated but on disability awareness to enhance my programs. I would have a few recognizable agencies to partner with first, then start a Kickstart Campaign to really get things moving. The Ten Commandments video really needs to be updated but the concept is fine. The themes would be inclusion in the areas of employment, socialization, psychological, community, and family. I could definitely design something, perhaps I can interest a few college students to produce it, like before. Communications classes still require projects.

Assumptions

"Assumptions" are very damaging they are barriers to acceptance and awareness. Regardless if it's in the employment or adoption arena professionals decide based on biases - untrue information and this can ruin a person's life. Women are told that they can't take care of their babies and job applicant are told they can't be hired for no reason other than they do things differently. It shouldn't matter, studies have proven time and time again that these negative statements are just myths. However, it is hard to change one's mind so people continue their thought process. The question is how to open a person's mind in offer to consider the other side. It helps to have testimonials (stories) in the situation of people who succeeded once they were given the chance. Change does happen slowly but good people who don't deserve judgments from professionals suffer unnecessarily.