People with Disabilities Task Group

Gail Bishop Chairperson

Mission:

• The group’s goal is to enable our congregation to become engaged, educated and informed advocates for members and their families and for others within our county living with disabilities.

• The group focuses on projects that help our congregants to support and be more sensitive to issues of inclusiveness and hospitality toward our members and their families who are living with disabilities.

• The group’s efforts are built upon UU principles, to be carried out over a long time. It will take time to create a change in attitude, assimilate these changes and provide hands-on experiences that will enrich    the lives of congregants and help them to understand and appreciate the needs of people living with disabilities.

 

Denominational news:

Prairie Star District info@psduua.org

To learn more about the work of the Disabilities Task Force of First UU Rochester, MN, read the complete article at: http://www.psduua.org/Newsletter/55February2010Accessibility

Unitarian Universalist Association:

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UUA Celebrates 20th Anniversary of ADA
Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:00:48 -0400
From: "Unitarian Universalist Association" <uua_l@uua.org>
Subject: [UUA-L] UUA Celebrates 20th Anniversary of ADA

Today, July 26, 2010, is the twentieth anniversary of the signing of the
Americans with Disabilities Act.  To celebrate this milestone, Unitarian
Universalist Association President Peter Morales has issued the following statement:
The Unitarian Universalist Association has always understood that people
with physical, mental, and sensory disabilities face discrimination and
barriers to accessibility. Our stated commitment to disability rights
can be documented as early as the time of our consolidation in 1961,
when one of our first social justice resolutions asked Unitarians and
Universalists to "influence public opinion and government agencies on
behalf of the needs of people with mental illness."

More recently, in 1997, the UUA furthered its commitment to disability
justice by promising that the Unitarian Universalist Association would
act "as an advocate for the human and civil rights of people with
disabilities both within its own association and globally."  The
Unitarian Universalist Association is a member of the Interfaith
Disability Advocacy Coalition, part of the American Association of
People with Disabilities, which works collaboratively with other
religious voices to be a prophetic voice for equality at the national
and global levels. We are proud to sign on to the proclamation
celebrating the twentieth anniversary of the passage of the Americans
with Disabilities Act, and to recommit ourselves to creating a world
where all people have access to full participation within our Beloved
Community.

Advocacy:

Legislative Information:

http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/districtfinder.asp To find the current names legislators from your district.

Advocacy Organizations:

ARC OF SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA

(507)287-2032 or (888)732-8520

office@arcse-mn.org

Arc of SE MN is a non-profit volunteer driven organization that builds inclusive communities by providing support, education and advocacy to persons with developmental disabilities and their families. Arc provides community awareness through newsletter, seminars and media contacts. Parent training and education, as well as information and referral, scholarships, and support groups are all part of Arc services. www.arcse-mn.org

ARC ACTION ALERTS: http://www.thearcofminnesota.org/actionalert_signup.htm )

Sign up to receive alerts throughout the legislative session when we need you to contact your legislator regarding important decisions about disability services funding.

EPILEPSY FOUNDATION OF MINNESOTA

Sue Ringhofer (507)287-2103

sringhofer@efmn.org

The Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota is a non-profit organization focused on enhancing the quality of life of those affected by seizures. The foundation is an affiliate of the National Epilepsy Foundation. Founded in 1954, the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota provides programs and services for those with epilepsy and those that care for and about them. The foundation provides: epilepsy education and awareness programs, information and referral services, advocacy and support, youth and family programs and used clothing donation center. http://www.efmn.org

MINNESOTA COUNCIL ON FOUNDATIONS Minnesota Grantmakers Online

www.mcf.org/mngrants/tour/MGOtour02.htm

The Minnesota Council on Foundations has the largest searchable databases of Minnesota grantmakers and grants.

NAMI OF SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA

(507)287-1692

nami-semn@nami.org www.nami.org

NAMI Southeast Minnesota is a grassroots non-profit organization comprised of mental health consumer, family members and professionals in our community who are dedicated to helping improve the lives of those affected by mental illness.

OLMSTED COUNTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Jane Clark (507)529-4575 Don Parsons (507)529-4585

Clark.jane@co.olmsted.mn.us Parsons.don@co.olmsted.mn.us

Olmsted County Community Services are for persons with developmental disabilities and related conditions. A social worker reviews the family’s specific needs and determines if there is a need for Case Management Services. Once service eligibility is established, the case manager will: offer assistance in identifying the needs for supports and services; help develop an individual service plan; locate, access and authorize needed services; coordinate delivery of services; monitor services to ensure needs are being met.

PACER CENTER

Phone: (952)838-9000 TTY: (952)838-0190

PACER@PACER.ORG

PACER is staffed primarily by parents of children with disabilities and works in coalition with 18 disability organizations. PACER’s mission is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.

PLAN OF SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA (Planned Lifetime Assistance Network)

plan@arcse-mn.org

(507)287-2032 or toll-free 1-888-732-8520

PLAN addresses the question, “Who will watch after my loved one when I am no longer able to do so?” PLAN provides supplemental care for persons with developmental or physical disabilities, mental illness and/or brain injury, on behalf of parents or caregivers who are no longer able to do so themselves. Plan of SE MN serves: Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, rehabilitation and contract services Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties. www.arcse-mn.org/plan.html

PROJECT C-3

(952)838-9000 toll-free (888)248-0822

email C3@c3online.org

Project C3 is a project of PACER Center, in cooperation with Pathways to Employment, Minnesota Department of Human Services, Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Minnesota State Council on Disability, and various state and local youth serving agencies. Project C3 is to improve transition outcomes for youth through facilitated collaboration, resource mapping, Communities of Practice, training, and advocacy.

REGION 10 QUALITY ASSURANCE COMMISSION

Dan Zimmer (507)289-2032

danz@mn-voice.org

Initiated by the Region 10 Stakeholders Group, the QA Commission is comprised of people with disabilities, parents/advocates, providers and supports. The Region 10 Quality Assurance Commission is funded through the Minnesota State Legislature. The Quality Assurance Commission’s mission is to ensure and enhance the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. This is accomplished through the person-driven VOICE (Value of Individual Choices and Experiences) review process. This process is approved as an alternative licensing process in the participating counties. The QA Commission office is co-located with Arc SE MN.

REGION 10 STAKEHOLDERS BRAIN INJURY WORKGROUP

Harry R. Nevling (507)289-8989

hrnevling@hotmail.com The Stakeholders group is comprised of people with disabilities, parents/advocates, providers and supports. The Stakeholders promote information on disabilities and support through quality of life and legislative issues for those with disabilities. The BI workgroup is involved specifically with issues relating to BI survivors.

ROCHESTER AREA BRAIN INJURY COMMUNITY COMMITEE (BICC)

Harry R. Nevling (507)289-8989

hrnevling@hotmail.com

The BICC is comprised of persons with brain injury, members of families affected by brain injury, and representatives from many agencies which provide services for persons with brain injury. Its mission is to coordinate and promote development of community resources for persons with traumatic and other acquired brain injury to enhance quality of life and community involvement.

SPECIAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

Rochester School’s Offices of Student Affairs 507-328-4310

http://www.rochester.k12.mn.us/se3bin/clientgenie.cgi?schoolname=school85&statusFlag=goGenie&geniesite=225.

The Rochester Public Schools Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) developed a Parent Guidebook for Special Education in collaboration with the Rochester Public Schools Student Support Services Department. It is designed to help parents of children who have special needs become better advocates for their children

RT AUTISM AWARENESS FOUNDATION, INC.

Brad Trahan

rtautism@yahoo.com

The RTAAF is also very much involved in advocacy for children with autism their families throughout SE MN. www.rtautismawareness.org.

UNITED WAY

April Sutor (507)287-1533

aprils@uwolmsted.org

The United Way works to unite people and resources to improve lives in Olmsted County. The organization is uniquely positioned to bring together a diverse mix of resources and invest them strategically to help people and strengthen the community in more effective ways. The United Way is a partner in change, working with a broad range of people and organizations to identify and resolve pressing community issues. The 2-1-1 is a 24 hour information and referral service of the United Way that is free, confidential and multi-lingual. www.uwolmsted.org

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

In Minnesota, the Department of Education is responsible for the rules and regulations affecting special education. You may obtain detailed information about Minnesota laws, regulations, and statutes on the state Web site at: http://education.state.mn.us/html/mde/index.html.

 

Community Organizations and Resources:

Sponsored by: the SPECIAL NEEDS ORGANIZATIONS COMMITTEE The following list of resources was inspired and developed to help individuals, families and professions become aware of the ever-expanding list of resources available in the Rochester area. These resources will help individuals with a disability on their journey through life, as well as helping those serving persons with a disability. The content below is for informational purposes only and not an endorsement of the services provided by the businesses or resources listed.

EDUCATION SERVICES:

SERVICES – RCTC CAMPUS (507)280-2968 MN Relay TTY (800)627-3529 Disability Support Services mission is to provide academic support services to assist students with disabilities in achieving their educational goals. Disability Support Services is located in the University Center Rochester, in the Student Support Services office.

OCCUPATIONAL SKILLS PROGRAM - RCTC Vicky Keller (507)529-2722 Vicky.keller@roch.edu The Occupational Skills Program provides individuals with mild to moderate disabilities the vocational training necessary to obtain and maintain competitive entry-level employment. www.rctc.edu/catalog/programs

PACTT Rachel Weitzel (507)535-7101 pact@abcinc.org PACTT – People Achieving Change Through Technology is a program of Ability Building Center providing a variety of assistive technology options in order to enhance independence. PACTT provides: a loan program of assistive technology tools, assessments, computer training, another options to enhance individual’s abilities.

ROCHESTER CENTER FOR AUTISM Mandy Eggert (507)424-3234 mandyeggert@rcautism.com The Rochester Center for Autism is a center-based program that provides one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism. www.rcautism.com.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #535 Student Support Services Mickey Curtis (507)328-4310 micurtis@rochester.k12.mn.us www.rochester.k12.mn.us Student Support Services provides support in the following Special Education areas: * Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) * Deaf/Hard of hearing (DHH) * Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) * Developmental Cognitive Disabilities – Mild/Moderate (CDC-MM) * Developmental Cognitive Disabilities – Severe/Profound (DCD-SP) * Early Childhood Special Ed (ECSE) * Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (EBD) * Occupational Therapy (OT) * Other Health Disabilities (OHD)* Physically Impaired (PI) * Physical Therapy (PT) * Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) * Speech/Language Impairments * Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) * Visually Impaired (VI) * Work Experience Handicapped

ROCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY Adaptive Computer Workstation (507)285-8002 hearing impaired (507)297-2110 The Rochester Public Library has an adaptive computer workstation for people who are blind, have low vision, or reading/learning disabilities. The workstation is equipped with adaptive technology which allows people with visual disabilities to use the library’s online catalog and surf the internet. The workstation is located on the 2nd floor of the library and is available during library hours. www.rochesterpubliclibrary.org

EMPLOYMENT AND DAY PROGRAMS:

ABILITY BUILDING CENTER (ABC) Brett Graham (507)535-7132 brettg@abcinc.org ABC provides vocational rehabilitation and production services of individuals and businesses throughout SE MN. Individualized, person centered programs and service options allow each person to choose their own path toward becoming productive and fulfilled members of their own community. www.abcinc.org.

CARING PARTNERS ADULT DAY PROGRAM – THE SALVATION ARMY Doug Coop (507)288-3663 Caring Partners offers a supervised, structured and comprehensive programming with a variety of health, social and related support services in a protective setting. . A physical therapist outlines the daily 30 minute exercise routine. www.usc.salvationarmy.org

OPPORTUNITY SERVICES (OS) Amber Gauerke – (507) 252-1597 amberg@oppserv.org The mission of Opportunity Services is to facilitate adults with disabilities to make meaningful, individual contributions in the community. . Our services in Rochester include a Community Immersion Program, Community Living Program and Enhanced Program. www.oppserv.org.

POSSABILITIES OF SOUTHERN MN Administration Office (507)281-6116 A non-profit agency dedicated to providing meaningful work and community opportunities for adults and youth with disabilities. . Support areas include: Supported Employment; Life Enrichment; Senior Services; Alzheimer’s and Dementia programs; Employer of Record; School-to- Work; and Youth Recreation (after school and summer). www.possabilities.org

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES:

GIRL SCOUT OF MINNESOTA & WISCONSIN RIVER VALLEYS Marlene Jehnke (507)288-4703 ext.108 marlene.jehnke@girlscoutsrv.org Girl Scouting is for every girl, everywhere! An adaptive troop is availble. For more information contact Marlene or check the website at www.girlscouptsrv.org.

GREAT RIVER EARTH ADVENTURE TRIPS 507)273-2636 oxbowtom@msn.com Great River Earth Adventure Trips established to allow mentally and physically disabled individuals to be able to experience the wonders and beauty of the outdoors. www.greatrivertrips.com/default.aspx

IRONWOOD SPRINGS RANCH Bob Bardwell (533)6707-4315 Bob@ironwoodsprings.com Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch is a non-profit, non-denominational, year-round camp located along the Root River in SE Minnesota on 200 acres of woods, trails, and wildlife. www.ironwoodsprings.com.

J.E.T.S. GYMNASTICS (507)285-9262 jetsgym@hotmail.com J.E.T.S. holds Adaptive Gymnastics classes that focus on motor, social and cognitive development for children with special needs. Focus is on kinetic movement activities that help develop better spatial and body awareness.

RECREATION/ ACTIVITIES PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT Adaptive Recreation Program Karen Meyer (507)328-2539 kmeyer@rochestermn.gov The Adaptive Recreation program is a year-round therapeutic sports and leisure program for persons 3 years and older with developmental disabilities. It is sponsored by the Rochester Park and Recreation Department. Activities include: swimming, bowling, soccer, softball, music therapy, choir, crafts, movie night, dances, summer day camps, etc. www.rochestermn.gov/parks

RIDEABILITY Jeanie Michelizzi (507)356-8154 rideability@yahoo.com RideAbility provides therapeutic, recreational and instructional horseback riding lessons and equine- related activities to individuals with disabilities and their families. www.rideability.org.

ROCHESTER COMMUNITY EDUCATION ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM Karen Ek mirogers@rochester.k12.mn.us kaek@rochester.k12.mn.us The Rochester Community Education Adults with Disabilities Enrichment Program provides leisure and recreational activities for adults (18 and older) with disabilities. The program offers classes in the areas of Hobbies and Crafts, Leisure, Physical Fitness, Music and Art, and Community Awareness in its “Community Connections” brochure. The brochure is mailed each fall, winter, and spring directly to group homes or individuals. If you would like to receive a copy of the brochure, please call the Community Education office at (507) 328-4000 and you will be added to the mailing list. www.rochester.k12.mn

SPECIAL OLYMPICS – ROCHESTER AREA Mindy Schroeder (507)285-2638 specialolympicsrochester@hotmail.com Special Olympics Rochester Area is a year-round sports training and competition program for persons 6 years of age through senior adult with intellectual disabilities. www.specialolympicsrochester.com

RESIDENTIAL:

ARSYS, LLC Kevin Smith, Todd Natzke, Kevin Ward (507)536-9221 kevins@arsysllc.com arsystoddn@qwest.net arsyskevinw@qwest.net The mission of ARSYS (A Road to Support Your Self) is to provide the clients serve withopportunities and experiences that enrich their lives.

BEAR CREEK SERVICES Diane Sellner (507)288-7195 ext.202 dianes@BearCreekServices.org Bear Creek Services is a non-profit agency in Rochester providing support to adults with Developmental Disabilities and Traumatic Brain Injuries. www.bearcreekservices.org

CARDINAL OF MINNESOTA LTD. Paula McGuine (507)281-1077 paula@cardinalofminnesota.com Cardinal of Minnesota is a residential service provider that prides itself on an individualized approach to serving it’s clients with developmental disabilities, providing services in home settings developed by the agency, or we can provide services in the client’s own home.

HIAWATHA HOMES, INC. Karolee Adler & Sue Rostad (507)289-7222 kadler@hiawathahomes.com srostad@hiawathahomes.com Hiawatha Homes, Inc. is a local non-profit agency that is dedicated to establishing and conducting home and community based services for people with disabilities and specialized medical needs. www.hiawathahomes.com

MAINS’L SERVICES, Inc. Tanya Keller (507)289-4463 TKeller@mainsl.com Mains’l provides community alternatives for children and adults with mental health considerations. www.mainsl.com

WING HOUSE, CORPORATION Sadie Wermers LaDeane Peterson (507)282-0868 ladeanep@chartermi.net Wing House is a 22-bed transitional care facility designed to assist adult survivors of traumatic brain injuries. www.winghouse.org

REM RIVER BLUFFS (507)287-6824 REM Minnesota offers adults, children, young people and their families innovative, quality services and supports that lead to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual or behavioral challenges they face.

OTHER RESOURCES :

BLUESTEM CENTER FOR CHILD AND FAMILY DEVELOPMENT Ann Schwanke (507)282-1009 1(888)283-1009 info@bluestemcenter.com Bluestem Center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with neuro- developmental disorders. www.bluestemcenter.com

CH.I.L.D. PLAY Child Interaction and Learning Development through Play Anne Harrington (612) 298-8037 harringtonab@yahoo.com The P.L.A.Y. Project is a community based/regional autism training and early intervention program. www.playproject.org

DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS, LTD. Dr. Candace A. Mensing & Dr. Robyn R. Loewen (507)288-8060 www.dentistryforchildrenrochester.com Dr. Mensing and Dr. Loewen specialize in dentistry for all children. They both have a great deal of experience in working with children who have special needs.

DISABILITY LINKAGE LINE 1-800-333-2466 Disability Linkage Line is a state-wide information and referral resource for Minnesotans with disabilities or chronic illnesses, their family members and service providers. The information is free of charge. www.MinnesotaHelp.info

INCREDIBLE CONNECTIONS Joanette Robertson (507) 281-3913 jrobertson@fccnetwork.org Incredible Connections is a new preschool day treatment program in Rochester. The program provides a safe, nurturing, and experiential environment in which staff and the child’s parents work collaboratively to improve a child’s functioning at home, school, and in community settings.

LOQUELLA Speech & Language Services Jennifer Leuthold (507) 206-6200 jen.leuthold@gmail.com Loquella Speech & Language Services is a therapist- owned company dedicated to helping patients meet their full potential. They also provide Social Language Groups for children ages 3-18 with Asperger's Syndrome, high functioning Autism, and other disorders affecting social language skills. www.loquellaservices.comwww.loquellaservices.com

PARENTING PLUS THROUGH PAIIR (507)328-4023 Parenting Plus provides early childhood and parent education for parents with cognitive disabilities. Placement is by referral. www.rochesterce.org/paiir

ROCHESTER FAMILIES.COM Lindy Lange (507)536-4856 lindy@rochesterfamilies.com Rochester Families.com is a website for families in Rochester, MN. It provides information on family and kid-friendly events, activities, classes, organizations, resources, etc. Rochester Families is locally owned and free of charge. www.rochesterfamilies.com

SEMCIL (507)285-1815 semcil@semcil.org The Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living, Inc. is a non-profit organization that assists people with disabilities to become independent and productive community members. TheIndependent Living and Personal Care Assistance Programs promote self-sufficiency and help assure that persons with a disability have the same opportunities as members of the general public. www.semcil.uhhc.org

SOCIAL ODYSSEY Susan Powers (507)252-5790 http://www.socialodyssey.webs.com/ Social Odyssey is a support group for adults who have family members or friends with syndromes such as Asperger’s or Highly Functioning Autism.

SPECIAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (SPRED) Shirley Russo (507)289-2607 or Sharon Spencer (507)287-6426 SPRED is a non-denominational program for children and adults who are mentally challenged.

STANLEY JONES AND ASSOCIATES INC. THERAPY SERVICES Pat Hanks (507)288-0064 pattihanks@aol.com Stanley Jones and Associates Therapy Services offers speech/language, occupational and physical therapy services for children and adults. www.sjatherapyservices.com

ZUMBRO VALLEY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER www.zumbromhc.org (507)289-2089 Zumbro Valley Mental Health Center exists to address the mental health and chemical health needs of community members, regardless of their social position or status. Our purpose is to improve the mental and chemical health of the communities we serve, thereby contributing to a safe, healthy Valley Residential Treatment. www.zumbromhc.org.

TRANSPORTATION:

R & S TRANSPORT INC. (507)289-5080 R&ST provides transportation for individuals with special needs or disabilities. The vans are equipped for a maximum of two occupants with wheelchairs.

ZIPs (507)328-2439, FAX (507)328-2401 TDD (507)328-2900 The Zumbro Independent Passenger Service (ZIPS) is a door-to-door transportation system for persons who cannot use Rochester City Lines' bus service due to a disability. Handi Van (507) 281-3600 The concept at Handi Van is to offer premium, affordable, nationwide specialty transportation services for the disabled, handicapped, seniors, special need, pregnant women and your active children from tots to teens. They provide services to group homes, hospitals and nursing homes. http://myhandivan.com