Summer/Fall 2005 Volume Four, Number One

ith the addition of four new changing. “It made me think more clearly members, the ILA Board is the All A-Board: and appreciate things much more.” Wbiggest it’s ever been. Exuding Meet the New ILA Blum is equally enthusiastic about energy and enthusiasm, our newest board Board Members his new role on the ILA Board. “I take this members, David Blum, Carlton Butler, position seriously. I’d love for us to Audrey Pearson, and Marsha Wilner, all made it clear that become bigger,” he relates. He considers ILA to be a “class they’re happy to be here. THE SPECTATOR met with them not operation” and hopes to explore non-governmental funding long after their appointments and learned some interesting sources and “what we can do to become more economically aspects about their lives and their visions as Board Members. self-sufficient.” David Blum remembers first being approached Family also means the world to Dave. “Most important in by former colleague and ILA Board Chair- my life are my wife, Barbara, and my daughter, Meredith.” In man Mike Kass in Spring 2003 at the retire- addition to spending time with friends and family, he also ment party of the late Board Chairman, enjoys movies, reading, coin collecting, and an occasional Judge Jay Tinter. “Mike started to pull me glass of red wine “for my heart,” he beams. in,” he recalls. “We talked on the phone a lot, Like the other new board members, Carlton and soon he started sneaking in the topic of Butler is a native New Yorker. He now David Blum ILA. Little by little I was hooked.” resides in Staten Island. Carlton, who joined With his impressive military background and 30-year ILA in October 2004 at the urging on ILA career with the New York State Division of Parole, the Board Secretary Marvin O. Holloway, Jr., Brooklyn native brings strong experience to the Board. “The brings to the Boardroom an impressive military prepared me for everything in life,” he explains. “I résumé. Among the city agencies for which Carlton Butler was always in charge—from a platoon of 43 men to a compa- the Columbia Law graduate has worked are ny of 172 men. It prepared me make decisions and assert the Department of Sanitation, Department of Consumer myself as a leader.” Affairs, the Board of Education, and the Brooklyn and Queens Growing restless after his retirement from Parole in 1996, District Attorney Offices. He is currently an Assistant Blum put to use his psychology degree from Hofstra University Commissioner in the NYC Department of Finance. and was soon hired as a senior case manager at the Sunrise Butler’s experience working at Staten Island’s Project Psychiatric Center in Amityville, Long Island. In November Hospitality, a private, not-for-profit organization which provides 2003, he next landed the job of special consultant to the Deer services for the hungry and the homeless, and New York City’s Park Transitional Learning Center, where he continues today. Family Court, gave him the necessary skills to handle his service Blum’s personal motto is to “survive and never give in.” for ILA. “I learned about compassion, sympathy, and patience,” That survival theory was put to the test about two years ago says Carlton. “When dealing with people, you must develop a after he suffered a massive heart attack behind the wheel of his measure of understanding.” Listening, following-up, and deci- car. “I always thought I’d be shot in the Army or at Parole. I sion-making are other important traits that he has acquired wasn’t ready to go then,” he recalls. The experience was life- throughout his impressive career. continued on page five Message from the Executive Director: On the Side of Quality Living

Before I entered the working world, I heard the term So far, the Committee has engendered enhance- “suggestion box,” a mailbox-like receptacle affixed ments for residential care in three essential ways. to a wall, usually near the time clock. I thought this 1. Foster interagency cooperation. If the field of was a great idea to make companies better—and human services has ever had one unremitting kudos to the person who first suggested the sugges- strength, it has been our sense of community. We tion box. For all its good intentions, though, the see ourselves as a large family working as advo- suggestion box became a misused process by cates toward common goals. which employees could vent their discontent. The 2. Expand options available in consumers’ social Arthur Palevsky, suggestion box was much maligned, and became lives. Consumers who have participated in the QOL ILA Executive fodder for comic relief, thus never realizing its have expressed a desire to create their own social Director full potential. agendas. This is a welcomed declaration of self- In this field, though, we have revolutionized determination resulting from consumers living and ...ILA is excited to and legitimized the suggestion box. It has many learning in a setting which has already cultivated incarnations. We’ve come to know it as the consumer their judgment and confidence to decide what’s best be working toward satisfaction survey, as consumer advocacy and as for them. Much more can follow, such as smaller, real solutions to the labor management committee, just to name a more community-interactive trips or expanded vol- our consumers’ couple. Each of these modern-day suggestion boxes untary programs like Best Buddies. Whatever the has achieved a great deal of success and, in fact, has form, social development is at the center of the con- quality-of-life improved the lives of consumers, workers and, ulti- sumers’ expressed interest—and we would not have concerns, and to mately, the agencies. it any other way. be contributing From this field comes a new and ambitious 3. Participate in a best-practices conference. ILA suggestion box, one which was established by the has a history of directly linking improvements in genuine ideas to our Residential Quality of Life (QOL) Committee of the staff development to advancements in consumers’ staff’s professional Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council, lives. To this end, the QOL Committee wants to development goals and I am pleased that ILA was asked to play a vital ensure that we’re doing all that we can to provide role in its development. Rather than nailing a box qualified, competent, and ethical management. A on a wall, the QOL Committee has established best-practices conference can (1) bring to the table forums which have opened dialogues between con- quality-of-life dialogue that is invaluable to con- sumers, staff, families and agency administrators. sumers and care givers, (2) develop models of THE ILA SPECTATOR The QOL, spearheaded by co-chairs Dr. Christine excellence to gauge an Agency’s quality of care, (3)

Volume 4 Issue 1 2005 Cea and Linda Coull, is dedicated to enhancing the train staff to measure up to those standards, and (4) quality of life in group homes on Staten Island. And examine emerging issues that affect our consumers. • Business Corner p4 of course, any innovation that emanates from this Additionally, the QOL members have pledged • A Serviceman and an suggestion box to help Staten Island residents will to develop training curricula leading to a “certifi- appeal p5 likely spread to other boroughs. So we are eager to cate” in direct care and supervision in order to ensure • Staff Watch . . . be a major contributor in this endeavor. that the care consumers receive is second to none. Tanya Ginyard p6 The QOL Committee comprises the full com- Sounds ambitious? I’d say. But having the • NYC Regional Office fiscal Staff Honored p7 plement of stakeholders—consumers, staff, and privilege of caring for individuals with develop- administrators. Each committee member is deter- mental disabilities carries responsibilities which • Board News 8 mined to sustain an environment—at home, in the test us to see whether we are up to the task. As a • Our Heroes at Ocean Avenue p9 community, and beyond—in which consumers may valued member of the QOL Committee, ILA is • Staff News p10 enjoy as much freedom and mobility as possible excited to be working toward real solutions to our without sacrificing their safety. Committee mem- consumers’ quality-of-life concerns, and to be con- bers offer suggestions, but equally important, tributing genuine ideas to our staff’s professional

PAGE TWO committee members listen. development goals. A Bank With Our Business at Heart

n these pages, we have often mentioned what it takes First Vice-President, the Bank has a knack for understanding the to create a safe, nurturing home for individuals with human services field and making its own management comfort- Odevelopmental disabilities: committed parents and able with investing in the not-for-profit sector. “We have a very guardians, dedicated and capable staff, sound management, significant portfolio that deals with nonprofit agencies,” noted financial and technical assistance from government agencies, a O’Leary. He gave the ICF conversion matter his immediate welcoming community, and most of all, consumers who want to attention, contacting OMRDD officials and guiding ILA through achieve their maximum potential. When reciting this litany of the credit line application process. stakeholders, we take for granted financiers, who are equally indispensable on the chain of collaborators who assure residen- Moving ILA through the Process tial success. This inadvertent omission is a lot like the way we Nicols and O’Leary maneuvered through the process with a rare rarely consider the blood pumping through our bodies—that is, expertise and professionalism that made this critical moment we forget as long as the blood is pumping efficiently. in ILA’s history look routine. “He really knows our business and In many ways, a bank whose managers offer sound invest- industry, and the people in it,” said Executive Director Arthur ment advice, believe in the Palevsky. Upon hearing these Agency’s mission and vision, and words of praise, O’Leary even take risks to help it achieve responded in the self-effacing its goals becomes the Agency’s manner that has become his lifeblood. And none has con- modus operandi in dealing with tributed more to ILA’s existence his clients. “We learn about the than the State Bank of Long industry from the customers we Island. “They believe in us and deal with,” he responded in kind. have demonstrated that through O’Leary, a graduate of St. their partnership with ILA,” John’s University with a explains ILA Deputy Executive Bachelor in Business Adminis- Michael O’Leary Robert J. Nicols Director and Chief Financial Community Reinvestment Senior Vice-president, tration, has been in banking since Officer Frank De Lucia. Officer and First SBLI 1972 and with State Bank for Vice-president, SBLI nine years, the past four as ILA’s Achieving the Agency’s Strategic Goals account officer. Knowing that his full-service bank has different In 2003, ILA, in concert with the New York State Office of products for different needs, O’Leary had previously helped to Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD), provide bridge loans for some of the Agency’s homes. However, converted ten of its Intermediate Care Facilities (ICFs) to he realized that a line of credit for short-term working capital in Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs). This conversion this case would sustain the Agency in meeting its obligations as let ILA better serve the consumers who call ILA their home and it awaited the conversion process to complete. “We know how at the same time allowed the Agency to align its fiscal and oper- ILA’s funding sources reimburse. We know what to look for and ational resources. can tell what an agency’s needs could be.” Because of the complexities of funding the conversion, an ut O’Leary also understood that the dynamics of any additional line of credit would be essential for ILA to complete business partnership require responsibilities by all this project. Once this endeavor was to begin, “time elements Bparties, and he seemed as confident in ILA and in and other conditions would place a drain on the Agency’s cash OMRDD as ILA was confident in him and the Bank. “They’re flow,” said to De Lucia. great individuals,” said O’Leary. “They must know their indus- Luckily for ILA and our consumers, the State Bank of try extremely well. ILA and OMRDD staff have been able to pro- Long Island has a management team specializing in the human vide insights about their industry that we in the banking industry services field. Led by Robert J. Nicols, Senior Vice-President, have found essential to our work.” and Michael O’Leary, Community Reinvestment Officer and continued on page eleven PAGE THREE BUSINESS CORNER: The Risk-Reward Relationship of Retirement Savings

I know that you may still be reeling from the 2004 tax stocks and the S&P has 500 stocks, they pretty much season. So while that awful feeling is still fresh in go up or down about the same over time. The 500 your mind, take a moment to consider how you can companies represented in the S&P 500 represent ease the pain for this tax year. On the other hand, if about 70% of the value (called “market capitaliza- 2004 was a financial windfall for you, then listen up tion”) of the entire U.S. stock market, and have out- for ways to keep that winning streak alive. performed the non-index stock funds (called “man- In the last issue of THE SPECTATOR, I did all I aged funds”) about 70% to 80% of the time, over the could to explain why ILA’s 403(b)(7) retirement long run. Since 1926, the S&P 500 has averaged Frank De Lucia, savings plan was a perfect way to set aside money about 10.5% per year, although any one year can be ILA Deputy Executive while reducing your tax burden. As promised in that extremely volatile. One year it can go up 23% and Director article, I now want to offer you some tips on how to the next year it can go down 13%, but, in the past, invest that money once it’s in the Plan. the longer you left your money in, the closer the Understanding the Risk—Reward Relationship “average” return gets to 10.5%. This can also be said In the last issue of Let’s start with a simple reality: as with anything in about the Russell 2000 stock index (actually about The Spectator, I life, you can’t talk about a reward without owning 1,750 stocks), which catches up to and even outper- up to the risk. No matter what investment company forms the S&P 500 returns after about 15 years. did all that I could you decide to put your retirement funds in, you can And this brings me to the second law of invest- to explain why go with several basic categories of mutual funds, ing and financial planning: when you are thinking ILA’s 403(b)(7) depending upon how much risk you are willing to about where you should put your money, the take. Going from the most conservative to the most response should always be another question: retirement savings risky, those categories would be money market “When will I need the money?” Since we’re talking plan was a perfect funds, short-term bond funds, long-term bond about retirement money here, I am assuming that way to set aside funds, mixed bond-and-stock funds, stock index you’re not going to take the money out soon. But funds, growth funds, aggressive growth funds, and what if you’re approaching retirement age? In this money while international funds. One of the more permanent situation, most financial planners would suggest reducing your laws of investing states that “big rewards require that you begin switching your investments from tax burden. big risks.” If you’re on the conservative side and stocks to the more conservative bond funds—less don’t want to risk losing the money you put into the return, but also less risk. On the other hand, if you As promised in funds, you would invest in money market funds. are just starting out in life and have more time to that article, I now These funds, as you might expect, are similar to the make mistakes, you certainly don’t want to put your want to offer some mutual funds in a bank, except that they’re not money into bond funds. It is a well-known fact that FDIC insured. And like bank mutual funds, the the best 20 years of returns on bond funds still don’t tips on how to return you get on your money is very low (current- beat the worst 20 years of on stock index funds. If invest that money ly between 1% and 2%). Short- and long-term bond you are young, you may want to sprinkle some of once it’s in the Plan. funds are a little more risky, but the return is usual- your retirement funds with growth, aggressive ly a little higher than the money market fund. growth and even international funds. International Mixed bond-and-stock funds are just combinations funds are generally the most volatile because not of stock and bond funds. The index funds are stock only are you dealing with different accounting stan- funds which try to copy various stock market index- dards in different countries, but the exchange rate es, such as the Standard & Poor’s 500 index. When comes into play, which is always another risk. But you hear or read about how the stock market is remember, long-term investing is always the best doing, you will hear about the S & P 500 or the investing, since you have a better chance that year- Dow (Dow Jones Industrial Average). These index- ly returns will average out. Finally, remember that es are the market. Although the Dow tracks only 30 mutual fund fees can really dilute earnings. The PAGE FOUR continued on page eleven

Meet ILA’s New Board Members from page one

When asked about working with ILA, Carlton offers noth- they have access to systems that support and validate their ing but praise. “It’s wonderful, effective, and efficient. I’d like to uniqueness and individuality.” be as supportive as possible in an already impressive organiza- Pearson enjoys singing in her church choir as well as trav- tion.” He has the utmost respect for his ILA peers and finds them eling. Her most recent trip was to Mexico. “I loved the people to be “very knowledgeable, generous, and helpful. I learn some- and can’t wait to go back.” Next on her list is the Caribbean. “I thing from them during every conversation,” he says. need to put Mardi Gras on my to-do list,” she says. In his spare time, Carlton enjoys reading, writing, and play- Marsha Wilner is another ILA board member to ing with his grandsons. A martial arts enthusiast with a black belt come out of the New York State Division of in tae kwon do, he hopes to soon suit up again with his grand- Parole. Born in Chelsea, raised in Staten son. He is also planning to start a new screenplay with a friend. Island, and now living on the Upper East Side, The story line? Stay tuned! she too was recruited by Mr. Kass and joined Audrey Pearson joined the ILA Board in 2004, the board in the summer of 2004. also after being recruited by Marvin O. Marsha credits her 25 years at Parole for Marsha Wilner Holloway, Jr. She brings to the job a career in giving her the suitable background to become the mental health field, from psychiatric clinics involved with ILA. “My administrative background with the to day programs. Pearson lives and works in Division of Parole (dealing with budgeting) parallels things dis- Jamaica, Queens, where she has been directing cussed at our board meetings,” she acknowledges. “My comput- a mental health community-based clinic for er and personnel experience have also helped.” Audrey Pearson the last five years. Her work experience has Probably most important to Wilner’s professional repertoire definitely helped shape her for a role on the ILA Board. is her investigative background. She currently conducts private “Because of all the management positions, you get a macro view freelance investigations on national and international levels. of things,” Pearson explains. “From client systems to regulatory “The experiences are definitely coming in handy as an ILA board and political systems—you have to integrate all those issues to member.” She and Mr. Blum compose a committee which over- make the resources available to the consumers.” sees the Agency’s investigations of incidents. Pearson first heard about ILA during its early years through Wilner finds her new role on the ILA Board “very chal- the late John P. Welch. She notes the solid lenging, interesting, and stimulating.” reputation it has always had in the ACROSS THE BOARD: She has only kind words and respect for WHAT ILA’s BOARD DOES Brooklyn community. “It’s good to be part her fellow Board Members. “I’m very The Primary Responsibilities of the of a dynamic and consumer-oriented impressed with them. They’re so unbe- ILA Board are to: Board that has a reputation for keeping I Set goals and objectives towards the lievably smart and well spoken.” such a large organization in operation. fulfillment of the agency’s mission When she is not busy investigating Since we’re dealing with changes in so I Oversee all aspects of the agency’s cases, Wilner enjoys taking advantage of many different areas, we need a diverse operations everything the city has to offer. “I love New Board that looks where it is and can pro- I Establish policies in response to laws, York. I’d never want to live anywhere regulations and best practices ject what the future of ILA will be,” else,” she says proudly. Among her I Organize committees to tackle issues Audrey notes. with professionally trained individuals, favorite activities are going to the theater In addition to her providing expertise including therapists, lawyers, accountants, and the Philharmonic as well as shopping. in mental health systems, she intends to and investigators In addition to painting the town red, she contribute to the Board “a lot of energy Current Issues under Review can also shake things up in the kitchen, and passion. I’m excited about the possi- I Expansion of care for autistic individuals having studied cooking in Italy. Her best bility of human growth and development. I Opening of new residences and day dish? “I make great meatballs and a really ILA changes lives and gives people the habilitation programs good lasagna,” she boasts. opportunity to live a life full of possibility. I Developing and implementing policies By Kelly Kass Contributing Writer I have seen how people can change when that assure consumers’ right to privacy PAGE FIVE Staff Watch . . . Tanya Ginyard

Anyone who enters ILA’s Executive Offices on the third Loyalty would be another of Tanya’s attributes. floor of 110 York Street would likely see Tanya “Tanya was part of the original ILA administrative Ginyard before anyone else. This fact would make staff, notes Arthur Palevsky, ILA’s Executive Tanya, our Manager of Administrative Services, Director. “She’s down to earth, agency-focused the most recognized face in our Agency. But who and very organized.” Add to these attributes pur- is Tanya Ginyard? If you’d ask her, she’d say, posefulness. “Tanya’s very focused and dedicated “I’m a private person.” on her work,” says Abel. “She’s a perfectionist. Who is she kidding? During business hours, a She wants things organized so that she gets it done Tanya Ginyard, visitor would find Tanya surrounded by many staff one-two-three. She will know what you said and ILA Manager of Administrative members as if her work area were a honeycomb be able to quote the exact time and place.” Services and she the queen bee with her workers converg- Tanya got her start in ILA in 1987 when the ing and dispersing to the sound of Tanya’s buzz. executive offices were housed at the 50 Greene If you’d ask her friends at the Agency, you’d Avenue Residence. She was a student at Blake “She’s the center of hear that Tanya is anything but private. “I see no Business School, but human service was in her everything here. shyness in her,” says Pat Perkins, Director of family’s blood. Her mother was an Assistant Residential Services, with a laugh. “She says she’s Supervisor at ILA’s Pacific Street Residence, and All the information shy, but she’s not. She’s outgoing and she’s every- her aunt was an Assistant Supervisor at our New flows toward her one’s friend.” As someone who has worked with York Avenue Residence. For a while, Tanya had and from her. If you Tanya for nearly 13 years, Pat speaks with author- her eye on Hunter College’s nursing program. ity. Sandra Irons, Director of Case Management, After a quick transition from an office temp (only need to know what’s who has known Tanya for 14 years, agrees with two weeks) to a full-time position in Accounts going on, you find Pat. “No doubt about it: Tanya is a people person.” Payable, she opted for office work. out from Tanya. Abel Dorvil, Information Technology Tanya stayed in Accounts Payable for three Manager, who has known Tanya for 13 years, years, even though she felt that she wasn’t cut out She’s often in the would vouch for his coworkers on this matter. He for it because she wanted greater involvement in eye of the storm first met Tanya when he was a 16-year-old co-op the more general aspects of the Agency’s busi- and someone you student from Bushwick High School. At that time ness. (Perseverance seems to be another of her he was on an internship at ILA, and Tanya was his traits.) She eventually asked ILA Founder John can depend on.” supervisor. “If you don’t know her, she comes off Welch for another opportunity. “He was a very Bill Myhre as a disciplinarian. But when you know her, she fair person,” Tanya recalls. “It didn’t matter who ILA’s Director of Human laughs all the time,” says Abel, implying that you were. He would find a way to help you.” Services Tanya will reserve her professional affection for In 1990, Tanya became an administrative those who earn it. support staffer, a position she filled exceedingly So is Tanya Ginyard quiet and shy or ener- well, as evidenced by her promotion to Manager getic and gregarious? Regardless of one’s opinion of Administrative Services in 2003. “The on this point, no one disagrees about one of Administration of ILA trusts my judgment. They Tanya’s distinguishing qualities: reliability, a know I don’t need anybody to stand over me to get word that Pat, Sandra, and Abel all used to my work done,” says Tanya. “My level of respon- describe her attitude about work and the Agency. sibility has increased over the years, and the field “She’s the center of everything here,” says Bill, has become more complex. My work previously “All the information flows toward her and from involved just personnel and finance. Now I support her. If you need to know what’s going on, you find incident management, case management, and the out from Tanya. She’s often in the eye of the storm residential director. But I have learned a lot. I like and someone you can depend on.” continued on page eleven PAGE SIX NYC Regional Office Fiscal Staff Honored

In recognition of the years of support that Kathleen M. Broderick, Associate Commissioner of OMRDD’s New York City Regional Office (NYCRO), has shown to ILA, the Agency’s Board set out to host an event of their appreciation. Kathy gra- ciously accepted, but in true Kathy style advised ILA of the true source of that support: her fiscal staff. It was Kathy’s wish not to share center stage, but to offer the spotlight to her loyal and hard working fiscal staff. On June 8, ILA’s Board was happy to oblige. An appreciation luncheon was held at ILA’s Clinton Avenue Residence. There to honor the fiscal staff of NYCRO, and rep- resented on the lectern, were consumers who call ILA their home, their families, and members of ILA’s Board of Directors, staff and administration. The celebration began with a tour of the Clinton Avenue home for the NYCRO staff, who observed firsthand the fruits of their labor: a pristine home where con- sumers enjoy community life. And while all were enjoying a backyard Bar-B-Que, consumers presented Celia Solomita, Fiscal Director, (pictured on right of top left photo, page 7) with an appreciation plaque for all of NYCRO, and an individual the event as consumers serenaded their thanks to NYCRO for token of recognition from ILA’s Board to each NYCRO staff their help in developing and operating the homes that they enjoy. member. All of ILA’s voices were in unison at the conclusion of All of us at ILA join in. Thanks NYCRO. A Serviceman and An Appeal

These are the worst of times and the best of times for members of several U.S. bases, most recently at Eglin Air Force Base, our armed forces: the worst because so many of them are in harm’s Florida, with the 728th Air Control Squadron. In the Persian way in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other hostile locations throughout Gulf, he has also been stationed in Kuwait and Qatar. the world, and the best because they continually overcome fear Since enlisting, Staff Sergeant O’Leary attained two associ- for the sake of their country, which they serve in a time-honored ate degrees: in business and in science. He plans on completing tradition of pride, excellence, compassion, and courage. his B.A. in psychology and then becoming an officer. Of course, We most notice this truth when someone we know ships off the Air Force is not all school. Much of his time is spent operat- to a war zone. For this reason, ILA is proud to number as one of ing and maintaining critical technologically sophisticated com- its own Staff Sergeant Jason O’Leary of the U.S. Air Force 727th munication equipment which captures and transmits data essen- Expeditionary Air Control Squadron. He is the son of Michael tial to soldiers in the field. “He has learned a lot in the Air Force, O’Leary, Community Reinvestment Officer and First Vice-pres- and his family is proud of his decision to serve,” said his father. ident of State Bank of Long Island, one of the Agency’s premier A Special Appeal financial institutions. Now 26, Staff Sergeant O’Leary complet- Now here’s a great suggestion from Staff Sergeant O’Leary that ed a four-year tour in August 2004 and immediately signed up we should all take as an order. He recommends that people who for another four. He is currently stationed in Kirkuk, Iraq, as a are concerned about our troops deployed throughout the world satellite communications specialist. go to the website www.anysoldier.com to learn about sending A Life of Service much-needed care packages to a soldier. The website’s tagline, Before enlisting in 2000, Staff Sergeant O’Leary was a student “Freedom isn’t free… Just ask any soldier,” immediately cap- at Suffolk County Community College. He soon decided to com- tures the imagination. It provides information about what our plete his education in the Air Force. He trained at Lackland Air continued on back page Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, and has since been stationed in PAGE SEVEN Site Tours Bring Kudos By Kelly Kass Contributing Writer

The ILA Board recently toured four Agency facili- (perhaps influenced by his days of surveying reha- ties in Manhattan and Brooklyn. With Executive bilitation facilities with the New York State Board Members Director Arthur Palevsky and Deputy Executive Division of Parole), he instead found “sweet smells thoroughly viewed Director Frank De Lucia serving as tour guides and and pleasant people.” From food to linens to per- chauffeurs, the eight Members piled into two vehi- sonal items, Mr. Blum could see that “consumers each residence, cles and made their way to the Battery Park City, are well taken care of.” He added, “I’m really proud from bathrooms Garnet Street, Carlton Avenue, and Waverly Avenue to be a part of ILA!” to kitchens to residences. Board Member Audrey Pearson, who in addi- Board Members thoroughly viewed each resi- tion to this full tour visited the Clinton Avenue laundry rooms, dence, from bathrooms to kitchens to laundry Residence at an earlier date, also gave the staff a big and all residences rooms, and all residences received high marks. thumbs-up. “They generate confidence and care. received “Overall, we thought the places were very well- They really know their programs and consumers,” maintained,” praised Board Chairman Michael Ms. Pearson complimented. “The staff exhibit a high marks. Kass. “They were clean, neat, and well-organized.” creative atmosphere and a passion for what they’re Staff members were equally impressive as they doing.” When comparing the five sites she toured, happily answered questions posed by the Board. Ms. Pearson observed, “Each had its own individ- According to Mr. Kass, “Staff were very friendly ual character and expressed a unique approach to and accommodating. It’s apparent and reassuring caring about and attending to what consumers that they take pride in their residences.” need.” What stood out most for her was “the absence of a sterile, institutional environment. They A Feeling of Family are loving homes.” Board Member Marsha Wilner was particularly After all the positive feedback, there are now impressed at the “realness” of the staff. “They’re plans for a second tour during the fall. According to genuinely concerned about the consumers,” Wilner Mr. Kass, “the next visits will be planned at a time commented. During the tours, she could not help when the consumers are in the residences.” During but notice “a feeling of family” and found everyone the initial tour, he pointed out, “they were away par- to be “very well-informed.” Among the many fea- ticipating in day programs.” The next time around, tures Wilner found most impressive was the facili- Board Members hope to meet with the consumers ties’ wheelchair accessibility. and observe how they interact with staff. If the Board Member David Blum also enjoyed the results of the first tour are any indication, the sec- walk-throughs. He appeared pleasantly surprised by ond one should be a smashing success! what he saw. In search of drips and dirty toilets

By Sandra Irons It’s Off to Work They Go Director of ILA Case Management

If ILA’s executive offices look Keith, and Robert, consumers in Our staff and visitors enjoy busier than usual these days, the Association’s residences, are their cheerful demeanor and dili- maybe we owe it to Christine learning and working several gent work ethic. And we can tell Coddling, Keith Dickerson, and hours a week at our 110 York that Christine, Keith, and Robert Robert Escribano. Christine, Street facility, delivering mail. are enjoying the experience too.

PAGE EIGHT

Our Heroes at Ocean Avenue

We all have asked ourselves the question at some point in our ored at the Black American Achievement life: How would we act in the face of grave danger? Award Ceremony on March 14 in Brighton Because of bravery, Four ILA staff members of our Ocean Avenue Residence Heights Reformed Church. know the answer to that question: They acted heroically. During the awards ceremony, John quick thinking, Alpha Barrie (Direct Care Counselor), Edwina Caulker Davis, Captain of the New York City Fire and skilled (Direct Care Counselor), Sunday Olotu (Residence Nurse), and Department, introduced our fearless four- maneuvering, ILA Benedict Snyder (Direct Care Counselor) all put their personal some to an enthusiastic audience by saying, well-being second to the safety of eight consumers by rescuing “Most of the time, people run away from a staff ultimately them from a burning van in front of the Ocean Avenue Residence fire. For them to run to that van was heroic.” succeeded in last summer. The van, belonging He added that removing all the to a transportation provider, was their smart returning consumers from a day at actions under passengers without program as it pulled up to the adverse cir- injury to anyone Ocean Avenue Residence with cumstances smoke billowing. Quickly, the van proved that became engulfed in smoke and ILA’s staff is among the best trained flames, and some of the con- in New York. sumers seated in the van panicked. Staten Island Borough They would not move despite the President James P. Molinaro then driver’s best efforts. presented Alpha, Edwin, Sunday, Because of bravery, quick and Benedict with a framed award, thinking, and skilled maneuver- acknowledging their bravery. The ing, ILA staff ultimately succeed- Sunday Olotu and Benedict Snyder of the Independent Honorable Mr. Molinaro expressed ed in removing all the passengers Living Association helped rescue occupants of this his admiration of the passion they smoldering van in South Beach. without injury to anyone, and the have for their work. Fire Department extinguished the fire shortly thereafter. With a characteristic humility that would not have surprised Eyewitnesses fearing that the van would explode were unani- their coworkers, the heroic quartet commented that in saving mous in their praise of the ILA heroes as life-savers. lives they were only doing their job. These staff members and The story gained citywide attention when it was reported in other ILA heroes will be honored by ILA’s Board of Directors at the Staten Island Advance. Alpha, Edwina, Sunday, and this year’s Annual Agency Picnic. Benedict were remembered for the heroics when they were hon-

Sunning and Funning Round the Country By Stephanie Mays Area Coordinator

As the Michel Legrand song goes, “You Battery Place) traveled to Mystic, Millennium Theatre and Hershey Park. must believe in spring,” and after a long, Connecticut, and greeted the fair weather In June, three consumers from 49 cold winter our consumers certainly do by visiting the fabled Mystic Seaport and Madison will embark at the 50th Street believe in it. They’re pretty strong believ- Aquarium. Pier in Manhattan for a three-day Cruise ers in summer too, as many are finding In the summer, ten consumers from to Nowhere. time in their schedule to vacation in vari- Garnet Street and eight from Waverly We wish all our consumers—as well ous east coast locales. Avenue will tour Willow Valley, as their families and our staff—some fun In April, nine consumers (eight from Pennsylvania, the heart of Amish in the sun while the weather is agreeable. 691 Madison Street and one from 50 Country, with stops at Sight and Sound

PAGE NINE Raves By Karen Burke Human Resources Specialist

I What a busy life! Benida Alexander, daughter of I Brittany Owens, 10-year-old daughter of Carolyn Ms. Birgitta Offutt (Direct Care Counselor, Carlton Owens (Residence Supervisor, John Welch/New York Here are some great Avenue Residence), will graduate from John Jay Avenue Residence), performed a selection from reasons to celebrate College with an associate’s degree in May. Also, in Mozart for her first classical piano solo at the March, Benida became a Human Resources Recruiter Douglaston School of Music Recital in Queens, New with Family ILA! for Lighthouse International—right after she starred in York. Shava Owens, Brittany’s 16-year-old sister, will her first Off-Broadway play, Yet to Evolve. intern in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office this I Cenai B. Christian, four-year-old daughter of Ajene summer after graduating with honors from Flushing Christian (Residence Supervisor, Waverly Avenue High School. In the fall, she will attend Clark-Atlanta Residence), performed a in ballet recital at the University in Georgia. Freeport Recreation Center, Freeport, Long Island. I Jade Quinn (Direct Care Worker, where?) gave I Congratulations to Kimberly Hardin (Residence Super- birth to her daughter, Ciara Qu inn on September 8, visor, Carlton Avenue Residence), who graduated from 2004. Ciara weighed 7 pounds and 11 ounces. Baruch College in June of 2004 with an MBA degree. I Barry Scotton, Jr. (Direct Care Counselor), son of I Alesha Jarrett, daughter of Sandra Irons (Director Barry Scotton, Sr. of our maintenance staff, graduated of Case Management), received an academic scholar- from Brooklyn College in November 2004, with a ship from the Princeton Review and was elected to the bachelor’s degree in Business Management and National Honor Society as an eleventh grader at Clara Finance. He looks forward to a rewarding career in Welcome To Barton High School, Brooklyn. Be on the lookout for financial management. Our Home Alesha, as she is a finalist in the National Miss I Anna Karina Shinder, 11-year-old daughter of Raisa America Teen Pageant, to be held on August 15 and Shinder (Accounts Payable Manager), has already Brandice Williams, the Marriott Hotel, Brooklyn. You go, girl! begun earning her civic wings. She and her classmates Assistant Supervisor, I Lorenzo Jones, (Direct Care Counselor, John P. recently lobbied in Albany for after-school funding 9 Faber Street Welch/New York Avenue Residence), who has worked and met State Senator Carl Adams. The gifted fifth- who recently joined with ILA for seven years, has recently joined the ranks grader is not all political, as she also participates in the ILA Family of New York’s Finest as a police officer for the NYPD. dance, the arts, and her greatest interest: fashion All the best, Officer Jones! design. I Candise McGhee (Assistant Supervisor, Ocean I Olabisi Sogeke (Assistant Residence Supervisor, Avenue Residence) is pleased to announce the birth of Ocean Avenue Residence), gave birth to her first child, her daughter, Cherish McGhee. Cherish was born on a baby boy, on January 28, 2005. Baby Obaloluwa September 3, 2004, and weighed 7 pounds and 3 ounces. Sogeke’s weight was 8 pounds and 9 ounces. I Kudos to Luvena Moore (Assistant Residence I And another first: Jennifer Wells (Assistant Supervisor, 691 Madison Avenue Residence) graduat- Supervisor, Lucille Avenue Residence), gave birth to a ed from New York City College of Technology with a baby girl, Madison. Bachelor degree in human services.

Greater Heights

Congratulations to the following ILA staff who recently received promotions

I Richard Amoah, from Counselor to Assistant I Faith Oviasuyi-Brown, from Counselor to Assistant Supervisor, 691 Madison Street Supervisor, 144 Ocean Avenue

I Candace McGhee, from Counselor to Assistant I Jeannette Vernon, from Counselor to Assistant Supervisor, 144 Ocean Avenue Supervisor, Fort Hamilton Parkway

PAGE TEN Business Corner Modell’s Is Quite the Sport from page four

Have you noticed lately that many of the individ- lowest stock fund fees are index fund fees, since they are a “no-brainer” for uals who live in ILA homes are looking even more the investment company, and because the fund doesn’t have to pay a high- dapper? Good observation! That’s because Modell’s priced money manager to make decisions. Becoming an Investment Student Sporting Goods has generously bestowed gift cer- tificates on several of our consumers. You can find out plenty about these funds by visiting Mrs. Leah Dickerson, parent and member of www.Vanguard.com, which offers reliable information about financial plan- ILA’s fund raising committee, contacted the cor- ning. You’ll find a great piece there about what the Vanguard folks call the porate offices of Modell’s several years ago and “risk-reward continuum.” It makes a simple point about mutual funds being explained the mission of ILA and the interest that less risky than any one stock. Once you have 15 stocks, your risk is diversi- our consumers have in sports. Modell’s responded fied so that if you lose on one you’re still OK. You have received your “free quickly, and we have enjoyed an annual gift from lunch” through diversification. Any more than 15 stocks, and your risk does- Modell’s, which has increased over time. And if n’t go down very much after that. Since most of us can’t afford the time to you think that our consumers look good, you pick 15 stocks, we should leave it to a money manager to do it for us through should see the smile on Mrs. Dickerson’s face a mutual fund. The American Association of Individual Investors every time she receives a Modell’s gift certificate, (www.aaii.com) is also a good place to do your research because it’s run by which she has the well-deserved pleasure of pass- people like us who, unlike the mega-corporations, need to watch every ing on to a consumer! penny they invest. You’ll find some shrewd thinking there. The Proverbial Disclaimer Now, you knew this was coming: Past performance is no guarantee of future A Bank with a Heart performance. If I didn’t tell you that, I’d be out looking for a new job. You from page three need to know that mutual funds are not FDIC insured like a bank savings account, a CD or money market. At the same time, the record shows that the Nicols, who has worked with State Bank for odds are low for losing completely in mutual funds. Some truly have very 12 years and holds a bachelor’s degree in eco- low risk over the long haul. nomics from City College and an MBA from Whatever road you choose, I wish you many happy “returns.” Adelphi, agrees wholeheartedly with that assess- ment. “We understood why this deal made sense,” Staff Watch: Tanya Ginyard he explains. “It would have been difficult for from page six another bank, but our knowledge of the (human services) industry gives us the ability to make the counselors and everyone else in the Agency. They’re what keep me here.” deals like this work. But it’s a two-way street. ILA Perhaps the moment in which Tanya’s life transforms from public to pri- gave us the time we needed to have our Board of vate is at the end of her workday. While she has a busy life outside ILA, she Directors’ Loan Committee make a decision and vigilantly guards her privacy. She is married with a 20-year-old daughter, avoid surprises.” and she stays connected to her three brothers and two sisters, but she seemed The bottom line: The Bank soon gave ILA the to feel that talking about them for THE SPECTATOR would be boasting. She increased operating line of credit, which has since enjoys watching movies and reading fiction and nonfiction, but she will not been satisfied. All of this bodes well for the be the first to air her opinions. future. A bank with a heart is a perennial priority One thing that is common knowledge about Tanya is her taste for cloth- for a not-for-profit agency, but ILA’s battle for the ing. “I love to shop, and everyone around here knows it,” she smiles. To this, buck is far easier because of its friends at the State Abel chimes in, “Tanya has a nice fashion sense.” Bank of Long Island. ILA is grateful to consider So that’s who Tanya Ginyard is: A well-dressed and focused manager in State Bank a vital stakeholder that ultimately con- the midst of a hectic atmosphere; a good-humored worker in the heat of the tributes to providing a safe haven for its con- action; and an appreciative colleague in a world that often does not demand sumers, and ILA looks forward to strengthening civility. But private you’re not, Tanya. We’ll keep the bees swarming around that partnership. you—as long as you rule over them! PAGE ELEVEN ILA Bowl-a-thon 2005

A good time was had by all at ILA’s First Annual Bowl-A-Thon fundraiser which was held in April at the Gil Hodges Lanes. ILA greatly acknowledges the dedica- tion of the Fundraising Committee: Kim Harden, Chairperson, Tanya Ginyard, Co-Chairperson and Freda McDuffe, Velma Bishop, Leah Dickerson, Carolyn Owens, Gloria Paige, Amanda Villacis, John DeGroot, Sandra Irons, Sally Bunkeddeko and Kimberly Porter. A special thanks from the consumers of ILA goes to Barbara Lowery, and to everyone not mentioned who worked behind the scenes to support the event.

A Serviceman and An Appeal Thank You from page seven troops need (relatively inexpensive items such The Board of Directors of ILA and the Fundraising Committee, chaired by as Big John’s beef jerkies and Hooah! bars), Kimberly Hardin (top left picture), gratefully acknowledge all of the donors and where and how to send them. The most to the Bowl-A-Thon. A partial list of contributors is contained below. The exciting feature of the website is the section in Board and the Committee also gratefully acknowledge all other contributors, which troops write notes of appreciation and everyone who bought and sold raffles, and everyone who came out to bowl other comments of interest to those of us state- and support ILA. side. More than 2,000 members of military DONORS units including Staff Sergeant O’Leary’s have Arthur Adinolfi Peggy Endress J.P. Napier contributed their thoughts to AnySoldier.com. Vernon Baker, M.D. Fairweather, Inc. Alfred Pagano At the least, be sure to write a note to a John Basile Mrs. Fischetti Arthur Palevsky Allen C. Bentson Agency, George Gajewski Payless Locksmith, Inc. soldier through the website—or why not write Inc. Stanley Gajewski Doris Pollara to Staff Sergeant O’Leary directly at Velma Bishop Gift Baskets & Flowers Peter Pollara [email protected]. He’d be glad Jeffrey V. Bloom Gordon’s Cleaning Service Amelia Randazzo to hear from you! Mary Brannan Greene Community Raven’s Day Care Dwight A. Brown - D1st Pharmacy RS & KP Service Station Vending Hays & Co. Anthony Ruopoli THE ILA SPECTATOR Volume 4 Issue 1 2005 John Burkhart Jubilee Electric Corp. Savings Bank of Long Island 110 York Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Carr Business Systems Gerard Lee Ameena Shareef Freelan Chen Virginia Lee Siebert Phillips 718-852-2000 fax: 718-852-2027 Erin Cropley Mary Meredith Lois Small email: [email protected] web: ILAonline.org Frank De Lucia Merson Sales Co. Donald Spitzer Editor: Philip Vassallo Evelyn Dongen Kathleen Moseman Vivienne Thompkins Design: Concentric Circles, Ltd. 914-738-3546