The Arc News in SAI Speakers Bureau Page 2 Thank You to Donors and Sponsors Pages 4-5 Trust Survey Results Page 7 Achieve with us.

Vol. 60, No. 1 www.arcind.org Winter 2017

2017 Public Policy Agenda The 2017 session of the Indiana • Support improved funding for General Assembly began on January programs and services that 3 and must end by April 29. The support people with disabilities, legislative session provides many their families and service opportunities to advance initiatives providers. that will lead to greater indepen- • Support legislation that provides dence for people with intellectual an appropriation for ABLE and other developmental disabilities accounts to be made available (I/DD). Following is an overview to Hoosiers with disabilities. of The Arc of Indiana’s legislative • Support legislation that The Case for a Direct Support priorities. increases employment • Continue to support efforts opportunities for people Professional Wage Increase to create a sustainable with I/DD, including The Arc of Indiana will work to KEY FACTS system that attracts and Employment First legislation. maintains the Direct secure funding in the state biennial Despite the fact that DSPs perform bias crimes legislation Support Professional • Support budget to increase the average wage for complex tasks, including administering that increases sentencing to workforce, including raising Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for medications, wages for DSPs in the I/DD offenders who commit crimes reimbursement rates for Medicaid Waiver Home and Commu- field continue to trail other health care solely based on a person having services. nity Based Services from the current workers. a disability. average of $10.15/hour (in many areas • Support efforts to increase A wage increase will help provide DSPs • Work to ensure the assessment of the state it is much lower) to $11.00/ preschool funding. with wages that make them less reliant hour by increasing waiver rates to cover replacement for ISTEP on social services themselves. includes opportunities for compensation. This is a request for a students receiving special fiscally responsible reinvestment in the The citizens of Indiana need a education services to have budget of $10 million each year of the high-quality workforce to provide critical access to a test that allows biennium or $20 million total. care and supports that will maintain the them to demonstrate academic health and safety of people with I/DD. NON-PROFIT BACKGROUND ORGANIZATION PERMIT NO. 1715 PERMIT INDIANAPOLIS, IN The Arc of Indiana is pleased to support U.S. POSTAGE PAID U.S. POSTAGE progress with the appropriate People with intellectual and other accommodations and resources. the Economic Impact Study conducted developmental disabilities (I/DD) and by the Indiana University Public Policy • Support efforts to update key their families rely on DSPs each and statutes to make supported Institute and commissioned by INARF. every day to provide the most personal The study states: decision making a viable and critical of care. Staff turnover causes √ DSP annual wages are option for people with I/DD. stress and anxiety for individuals with fractionally above the federal • Support legislation that requests disabilities as well as their families, and poverty level for a family of a comprehensive study on there is a negative impact on long term three and are only 33% of the services and supports for health when turnover is the norm. median Indiana family income. people with I/DD currently Medicaid reimbursement rates were √ A $10 million investment Printed on recycled paper Printed and in the next few years. significantly decreased in 2010, leading by Indiana in DSP wages • Support legislation that puts to a shortage of qualified and trained leverages an additional $20 forth a study of licensure of workers. Although there was a slight million of federal matching applied behavior analysts. bump in reimbursement rates in 2015, funds. the crisis in attracting quality workers √ The net new investment by Stay Informed to provide care to people with I/DD Indiana in DSP wages returns Sign up to receive Action Alerts and and their families continues. Providers $4.16 of economic activity for Legislative Memos from The Arc of of these critical services continue to each net new Indiana dollar invested. Indiana at capwiz.com/thearc/in/mlm/ compete with fast food restaurants signup/ and retail chains who can offer their √ This investment increases wages by $1,700 a year for employees a higher hourly wage. Sign up for alerts from The Arc US DSPs who support some of at cqrcengage.com/thearc our most vulnerable Hoosiers. The Arc of Indiana The St. 107 N. Pennsylvania Suite 800 Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-977-2375 The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017

self-advocates voted for the network of paid self-advocate pre- Self-Advocates first time! senters around the state. If you are As 2017 begins we are excited to interested in having a speaker talk of Indiana continue this progress. We are off to your organization or commu- to a great start, attending council nity group, please contact acircle@ President’s meetings, giving presentations, arcind.org. planning out our year, and getting We are also looking forward to Corner ready for the annual Valentine’s Day our events and meetings taking place at the State House event. This year’s this year. Kelsey Cowley, President theme is “DSPs: The ❤ of it All!” We Self-Advocates of Indiana Please save the date for these hope to remind our legislators how important SAI events: Self-Advocates had a big year in important DSPs are to our lives and • February 14—Valentine’s Day at 2016 and made lots of progress. We our dreams. The Arc News in Indiana welcomes newly the State House are proud of all that was accom- elected SAI President Kelsey Cowley to This year, we hope to continue to the “President’s Corner.” • May 1—South Regional Meeting plished at the state level and by our be a voice in legislation that impacts chapters. • Self-Advocates of Indiana people with disabilities, such as • May 3—North Regional Meeting • Over 615 people attended the elected 9 new first-time board ABLE Act implementation, Employ- • May 5—Central Regional Meeting members. 2016 Annual Picnic. ment First legislation, and legislation • July 14—2017 SAI Picnic • Self-Advocates testified on • 27 Presentations were given that would lead to higher wages for (tentative) to self-advocate groups, Direct Support Professionals. ABLE Act and Employment • November 15—SAI Conference First legislation. community organizations, One way that we hope to increase students, and state officials. & Annual Meeting in partnership • 125 people attended the 2016 our advocacy around the state is with The Arc of Indiana SAI Conference. • Voter Registration Events were by re-launching the Self-Advocates Conference & Impact Awards held across the state and many Speakers Bureau, which will be a Luncheon The Arc of Indiana SAI Speakers Bureau Returns Self-Advocates of Indiana is re-launching the Speakers Bureau. The Speakers Bureau is a group of paid Board of Directors self-advocate presenters who raise awareness and educate the public on issues important to individuals The Arc of Indiana elected officers and directors with disabilities. to the board of directors at our annual meeting on Self-Advocates of Indiana has hired 15 individuals from around the state to be a part of the Speakers November 18, 2016. We greatly appreciate their Bureau. service to The Arc. Jessica Simmons Region 1 Kelsey Cowley Region 5 Lora McGowen Region 6 Officers Kevin Callaghan Region 2 Lisa Thacker Region 5 Belinda Jackson Region 7 PRESIDENT Angela Radford Region 3 LaResha Polk Region 5 Danie’l Mize Region 8 Marlene Lu, Terre Haute VICE PRESIDENT Kate Jones Region 3 Shawn Fulton Region 6 Mark Hublar Region 8 Mike Foddrill, Indianapolis Alissa Kahl Region 5 Jamie Beck Region 6 SECRETARY Speakers Bureau members will speak on topics such as self-advocacy, supported decision-making, Kathleen McAllen, Indianapolis disability awareness and inclusion, employment and more. TREASURER If you are interested in having one of our self-advocates speak to your group or organization, please [email protected] www.saind.org/speakers-bureau William Hawkins, Indianapolis contact or complete a request at: . IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Kerry Fletcher, Zionsville A View from My Window Like A View from my Directors Hosted by Michelle Fischer Window with Michelle Nadia Adams, Zionsville Fischer on Facebook The Arc of Indiana welcomes you to listen in to A View from Arvie Anderson, Indianapolis My Window, our podcast hosted by Michelle Fischer. Follow Michelle’s Blog Sue Bassett, LaGrange – My Life and Stories Visit www.arcind.org/AViewfromMyWindow to listen to the latest Kreg Battles, Vincennes Behind the Mic edition and past podcasts of A View from My Window, including Adam Brown, Fishers these recent shows: Join Michelle on Twitter Kelsey Cowley, Indianapolis @MFView Linda Finke, Fort Wayne A View into WIOA Carole Guess, Indianapolis Julia Huffman, Indianapolis A View with Pilot Nathan Mackey Mike Lankford, Vincennes David Mank, Bloomington A View with Jennifer McCormick Danie’l Mize, Columbus Cody Mullen, West Lafayette Jericho Quick, Vincennes A View with Suzanne Crouch Paula Schaumburg, Vincennes Lucinda Weimer, Wolcottville

PAGE 2 The Arc News in Indiana The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017

Executive Director’s Column These are most social issues will take a back seat while for critical supports and services. and play key roles in working with certainly interest- state legislators focus on the needs of However, the opportunity exists for the state to advance supports and ing times, as the education, road infrastructure and advocates to come together with a services for people with I/DD. Indiana General our state’s drug epidemic. Though united voice to express concerns, It is more important than ever Assembly gets the state house and senate remain work together and come up with that we meet regularly, share our started under a under Republican super majorities, solutions. We have come to realize expertise and unite in helping our Kim Dodson new governor’s there is excitement and comfort in there is strength in numbers, and leaders at the state and federal level administration and the presence of Lieutenant Governor our unified voices carry more weight understand the impact of policies in begins his presidency with a Repub- Suzanne Crouch, who is knowledge- than any one of us alone. the lives of people with I/DD. lican controlled House and Senate. able about issues impacting the lives We are unique in Indiana in that At a time when our country seems No one knows what to expect, and of people with intellectual and other The Arc and the trade association so divided, there may never be a emotions are running high as repeal developmental disabilities (I/DD), for service providers, INARF, work more crucial time for advocates to of the Affordable Care Act is dis- in a key role. closely together and align on a come together. We can, and need, to cussed and Medicaid block granting We know that state and federal majority of public policy issues. We show how important advocacy is and gets mentioned. dollars are scarce, and it will be have a strong network of advocacy what can be accomplished when we At the state level, there is hope that difficult to secure more funding groups, and all have their strengths stand together. Celebrating Chapters of The Arc The following stories exemplify family hopes this experience will help damaged beyond repair. When an saving towards other goals as she how programs and services provided teach her compassion for others, as IHOP customer heard about the continues to grow in independence. through local chapters of The Arc well as lead to friendships with peers accident, he bought Simon a new enrich the lives of people with develop- who have a disability. bike. Without that person’s gener- The Arc of Evansville mental disabilities and their families. The Kirby and Maeley’s dad shares, osity, Simon might be walking to stories also highlight ways individuals “Having a special needs child can work. With savings in an ABLE might utilize ABLE accounts. Find cause all kinds of stressors, emo- account, however, Simon would a listing of our 43 chapters located tionally and financially. AnABLE have had fewer worries about the throughout Indiana by visiting www. account will allow us to put money cost of replacing his primary trans- arcind.org/about-the-arc/local-chapters. aside for the many purchases that portation or paying medical bills. If you have questions about ABLE come along with having a child with Achieva accounts or special needs trusts, and special needs and will provide us with how they could benefit you or your some financial security for Kirby.” The Arc in Wayne, loved one, contact Melissa Justice, Fayette, Franklin and Martha Langerak The Arc Master Trust Director, at Easter Seals Arc of Union Counties 317-977-2375 or mjustice@arcind. Northeast Indiana For Joe and Julia Langerak, the org. The Arc in Allen, Dekalb, challenges involved with parenting suddenly had a whole new mean- KCARC Huntington and Steuben ing for them when their daughter, The Arc in Knox County Counties Martha Mae, was diagnosed with Simon makes friends wherever Down syndrome. The unexpected he goes, including his job at IHOP, responsibilities of appointments where he thrives on socializing with with specialists, the search for accu- co-workers and customers. Thanks to rate information, and the need for his work ethic and positive attitude, services consumed their time and he has steadily gained responsibilities Jamie Beck difficult decisions had to be made. from bussing tables to washing dishes Following the death of her father, At one point, Joe and Julia seriously to working in the kitchen. Jamie Beck found herself with thought they had no other option but An ABLE account would allow nowhere to live. She was placed in a for Julia to quit her job and become Simon to set aside some of his earn- nursing home through a court order, a full-time, stay-at-home mom. Kirby and Maeley with Dad ings for future needs or emergencies. and Achieva, The Arc in Wayne Thankfully, they were referred to The Kirby, who had a stroke at birth, For example, when he was hit by a County, was named as her guard- Arc of Evansville’s Child Life Center, now daily conquers challenges from truck while riding his bike, it was ian. Achieva helped Jamie obtain where Martha Mae was able to receive his cerebral palsy and seizures. Kirby’s Medicaid Waiver services, and she a quality pre-school education. family knew from the beginning that was able to move into a home in When she graduated from pre-school he would face these challenges, but the community and begin working and went on to kindergarten, the never dreamed how an organization in sheltered employment. Jamie’s only developmental category where like KCARC would impact their life. goal, however, was to get a job in she was not aligned with her peers Being part of KCARC’s inclusive the community. Through her own without disabilities was in speech; preschool allowed Kirby to develop perseverance, Jamie became an out- however, her speech continues to relationships with his peers that his standing worker at Pizza King. Her improve. And now, Martha’s parents family hopes will lead to lifelong new goal is to find a job where she have comfort in knowing that an friendships. Kirby’s sister, Maeley, can work full time with benefits. An ABLE account can assist in saving now attends the same preschool. Her Simon ABLE account can help Jamie begin towards Martha’s future education.

The Arc News in Indiana PAGE 3 The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017 THANK YOU TO OUR

For over 60 years The Arc of Indiana has stood as a beacon of hope for individuals Frances McCrary Mark & Mandy Wise with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. We were Donal & Susan McDaniel Edith Woodward able to touch countless lives in 2016 because of the incredible generosity of Kevin & Susan McDowell Jennifer Woolums our donors. Thank you for helping us help others. Clint McKay Carol Wyatt Cynthia McKay Mr. & Mrs. M. Yablonsky Donors Scott Flood Larry McKinney Charles & Catherine Young Matt Folk Judith McWilliams William Zmirski Joe Adams David & Gayle Foy Michael & Melanie Metzger Nadia Adams Bobbie Jo Franson Kevin & Anjel Meyer Corporations & Non-Profit Cynthia Addison Richard & Carolyn Giles Susan J. Miller Robert Agranoff & Susan Klein Organizations Dr. John & Nancy Gilliland Rex & Katy Millspaugh Michael Allen Autism Alliance of Michigan Jill Ginn Daunna Minnich Arvie Anderson Christ Church RP Penny Githens & Ed Buffie Carolyn Monroe Jerry & Cathy Arthur Comcast Heartland Region Elizabeth B. Goldsmith John & Wilma Morris Terry & Carla Ault Cross & Crown Lutheran Church Jenny Good Sally Morris Mary & Doug Austrom F & M MAFCO, Inc. Leslie Green Stuart & Ellen Mufson Georgeann Baker Ice Miller LLP Steve & Lana Green Mr. & Mrs. Bernhard Olsen III John & Marilyn Barcus MHS Alice Greenburg Rita & Tom O’Neill Jeff & Sue Bassett Gardner & Lose Company, Inc. Robert & Marilyn Grigsby Larry & Brenda Ostermeyer Marjory A. Bates Hylant Mark Grondin Drs. Michael & Lisa Patchner Christina Baumis Pacer Sports & Entertainment John & Marisa Grover Kathryn Pennington Debbie Bennett Passages Carole Guess E. Jean Phillips Cynthia Bingaman Schmidt Associates Robert & Paula Guzzo Tod Phillips Jean Blanford The Academy of Model Mr. & Mrs. Alan Hamilton Susan Polubinsky Robert & Margaret Blome Aeronautics, Inc. Carroll & Sunya Hamner Gayle Porter-Key Jerry & Eva Bohannon Wright and Associates PC Bruce Hanway Evelyn J. Poston Michael & Linda Boone Mary Ann Harrison Jeff & Alice Prothero Ella Boyd Foundations George Hartnett Cass & April Pyatt Paul & Janas Brandt William Hawkins Ilene & Harold Qualkinbush AWS Foundation William & Sandra Branstrator Philip Heidenreich Clifford Robinson Hamer D. & Phyllis C. Shafer Eleanor A. Brant John Heiligenstein Janice Rockey Foundation Ken Brashaber Christi Hickman Marvin O. Ross Hancock County Community Sandra Brehse Mr. & Mrs. John M. Hine Royce & Janice Ruckman Foundation, Inc. Ron & Claire Brettnacher Mark & Kathy Hisey Jane Ruff Hoover Family Foundation Clyde Broderhausen Mr. & Mrs. Charles M. Hobbs Dominic & Danice Sainato Indiana Pacers Foundation Adam & Alesa Brown Mr. & Mrs. Ken Hoffman Greg & Claudia Schenkel IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital Dr. Tim & Jane Brown Dale Horton Rich Schreiner Foundation Anna Bryan Vivian Householder Jennifer Schrier J. Robert & Joanne Baur Alan & Carol Bucksot Foundation John M. Howard Jr. Donald Schweir Steve & Carol Ann Bucksot The GE Foundation Nila Howell Kirk & Judi Shafer Enid Callaghan The Hageman Foundation, Inc. Steven Hoyt Doug Sharp Jamie Campbell Andy Jarboe Kathleen Sideli Dr. K B Carboneau Memorials Marie Jarrard Dorothy Smith Marc Carmichael John Kantner Greg & Kelly Smith During 2016, The Arc of Indiana Michael Carney Dan Kaplan Mark & Mary Smith Michelle Castaneda received memorial donations for the Kenneth & Phyllis Kaplan Ralph G. Smith Donita Clyne following individuals. While nothing Susie Keaton Winifred Smith Jerritt Coffing will ease the loss suffered by family and Lynn Keen Greenberg Karen & Michael Smollen Brad Cohen friends, these memorial gifts serve as Roberta M. Keirce Charles & Jan Stenftenagel Lynn & Mike Collins Mr. & Mrs. Jerry R. Kerr Thomas Sternal a tribute to these very special people. Steve & Cindy Cook Mark & Chris Kevitt Ronald & Erika Steuterman Mark Baker Steve & Sally Corbett Mr. & Mrs. Robert Kinzer Linda & Jerry Stewart Larry Beavers Lynne Coverdale Myron Knauff Bertie Strait Billy G. Brant Debora Crislip Matt & Laura Konkle Michael & Valerie Strohl Eric Calvert Don & Jane Critchlow Diana Krawczyk Donna Susens Marsha Carder Benita Davis Robert Krug Mr. & Mrs. Robert Templeton Margaret Childers Kathy & John Davis Beth Kuhns Frederick & Lynn Thate Chrissy L. Clawson S. Joe DeHaven Mike Kumor Mitchell Tobin Alan Clyne Dennis L. Dietz Ashley Kurtz June Ulery Lloyd Crowe Aaron & Jennifer Dixon Anne Lammert John & Carol Valentine Francis Egner Richard & Joann Dodge Paul Lang Mark & Marie Van Lummel Alice Ewbank Kim Dodson Eli & Irene Lehman Jackie Van Ostran Rachael Fiege Jim & Leslie Dora Joan Lesch Jill Vaught Donna Folk Bradley & Vicky Dougherty Clark Lienemann Vicki Veach Maynard Householder Joshua Dubach Patricia Livingston Steve Vedra Tom Kinzer Lisa Dum Lisa Lowery Joyce Vandenberg Miriam A. Knauff John & Gail Euber Marlene Lu John & Marianne Vevia Bob Krug Thomas P. Ewbank James MacDonald Michelle & Thomas Wagner Joe Lesch Susan Failey & Brian Wertz Mary Jane Manuwal Melissa Walden Rita Kay Martin Rick & Angela Fiege Dianna Marshall Rick Whiteman Alex Paul Murray Linda Finke Betty L. Martin Betty Williams Christopher Patchner Gayle Fischer John & Kathleen McAllen Wayne & Margaret Williams Andrea Pearcy Richard & Joyce Fleck Joyce & Robert McCann Doug & Karleen Wink Tom G. Pettigrew Kerry & Sam Fletcher

PAGE 4 The Arc News in Indiana The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017 DONORS AND SPONSORS

Frederick W. Rockey 19th Hole Sponsor The Columbus Organization Anass Sentissi, Safron Cafe Barbara Smith Stone Belt Arc, Inc. Special Recognition Elise Shrock, Indiana Restaurant Susan Smith & Lodging Assoc. Hole in One Sponsor Eagle Creek Golf Club Rev. & Mrs. Louie W. Stokes Megan Stevenson, Freedom Helicopters The mother of Diane White KCARC Erskine Green Training Institute Golfsmith Promotional Sponsor Lauren Strother, Sweets by Lauren Sun King Brewing Company Honorariums Rick Whiteman, Private Chef Priority Press Thr3e Wise Men Brewing In 2016, The Arc of Indiana received Jill Vaught, Beverage Sponsor donations in honor of the following IndyCooks for The Arc The Arc of Indiana Foundation individuals. Indiana Beverage Alliance 2016 State Conference & Sign Sponsor Gold Sponsors Curtis Allen Ice Miller, LLP Impact Awards Luncheon Ron Brandt Instant Signs & Graphics Indianapolis Monthly Sally Morris Bryan Cart Sponsors Platinum Level The National Bank of Indianapolis Bert & Irene Curry Indiana/Kentucky/Ohio Regional ICEArc John Dickerson Silver Sponsors Council of Carpenters Susan E. Dietz Gold Level Indiana State Building & Priority Press Kim Dodson Developmental Services, Inc. Construction Trades Council Schmidt & Associates Curt Ewbank Noble Closest to the Pin Chefs Vicki French Silver Level Jessica Green Insurance Management Group Liz Berg, IPMG Steve Howell The Skinny Chick Can Bake Gold Sponsors Tangram Michael Kaplan Jeff Bricker, Rosa McDaniel King Bradley Associates Ivy Tech Community College Bronze Level Rep. Shelia Klinker Damar Services Amanda Circle, Achieva Resources Corp, Inc. Braden Krueger General Hotels Corporation Self-Advocates of Indiana Advocacy Links, LLC Joseph Kumor Insights Consulting Terry Curry, Bosma Enterprises Jimmy McClung JA Benefits Marion County Prosecutor Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Jason McCoy Sertoma Club of Broad Ripple Conner Eklund, Pastry Chef Company Tiffany R. McCrary Sikich LLP Dennis Frick, HIP Employer LinK Cass & April Pyatt The Arc of LaGrange County Indiana Legal Services Horizon Convention Center Quentin & Grady Travers Hole Sponsors Jenny Good, INARF Michele Trivedi The Arc of Indiana ABRA Auto Body & Glass Mdwise, Inc. Harrison Vedra Daniel Gurulé, Achieva Resources Therap Services Teddy Vandenberg Erskine Green Training Institute Caregiver Homes Partner Level Jill Vaught Kevin Hampton, The National Bank ICEArc Samuel L. Wise of Indianapolis Indiana Institute on Disability & Indiana Bankers Association Gail Kahl, Opportunities for Community 27th Annual Golf Outing Indiana Laborers District Council Positive Growth Night Owl Support System, LLC IPMG Mark Kevitt, The Arc of The Columbus Group Lunch Sponsor Katz Sapper Miller Bartholomew County I-TRAIN/Aglet Solutions The National Bank of Indianapolis Promethius Consulting Alexa Lemley, Artisan Foodworks Rest Assured 2017 Calendar Prize Sponsor Katie Loggins, Schmidt Associates, Inc. The Arc Master Trust Achieva Resources Corporation MDwise Steve & Lana Green Marlene Lu, Bi-County Services, Inc. The Arc Board of Directors Easter Seals Arc Lisa Lueck, Ganache Chocolatier of Northeast Indiana in Zionsville Insights Consulting Kate Marvel, KCARC Strategic Financial Planning Noble/The Arc Kathleen McAllen, of Greater Indianapolis Community Health Network Passages, Inc. Dan McGowan, Stone Belt Arc Inside INdiana Business The Arc of Evansville Mayrin Sanchez, The Arc of Greater Boone County El Venezolano Food Truck The Arc of LaGrange County Karly Sciortino-Poulter, The Arc Northwest Indiana The Arc of Indiana The Arc of Vigo County

The Arc of Indiana Making a Difference #TheArcAction • Over the past eighteen months The Arc • The Arc of Indiana membership has grown to of Indiana has assisted over 5,800 fami- over 25,000 individuals and families through lies and individuals with intellectual and our 43 chapters of The Arc. developmental disabilities through The Arc • In its first year, the Erskine Green Training Advocacy Network. Institute (EGTI) has graduated 39 students, • We have participated in over 80 events and and over 60% of EGTI’s graduates have found exhibits and have had nearly 3,750 self- full-time employment to date. advocates involved in our activities. • The Arc Master Trust is serving over 3,000 • The Arc of Indiana Utility Support Program families, and we have distributed over $5 has assisted 1,731 families and individuals, million dollars this year to beneficiaries. providing over $320,000 in assistance.

The Arc News in Indiana PAGE 5 The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017

Carl Erskine Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award A new edition of Carl Erskine’s book, The For baseball fans, The Parallel includes historic Parallel, was released at the event. As Jackie Rob- photos of Carl and Jackie Robinson’s days with inson’s teammate and father of Jimmy, Carl was the Dodgers. For people everywhere, the book a firsthand witness to “two of the greatest social shares family photos of the Erskine’s and the story changes in my lifetime.” of how they became leading advocates for people Jackie Robinson was a pioneer in proving that with disabilities. people of color belonged in professional sports. Much in the same way, Jimmy Erskine and his family helped to change the perception of and opportunities for people with intellectual dis- abilities. In The Parallel, Carl reflects on his experiences playing with Jackie Robinson and raising a son Baseball legend and advocate for people with with Down syndrome: disabilities, Carl Erskine, received The Arc of Indiana’s Lifetime Achievement Award at a “My nine seasons as a teammate and friend of special event in December, 2016. Jackie Robinson gave me a close-up experience watching this super talented black athlete beat Many know Carl Erskine for his career with the Dodgers, but his dedication to Hoosiers with Carl has dedicated this new edition of The disabilities is also worthy of recognition. Carl, Parallel to benefit the Erskine Green Training along with his wife Betty, began their advocacy Institute (EGTI). It is available at the Courtyard for people with disabilities in the 1960’s when Muncie at Horizon Convention Center or at The their son Jimmy was born with Down syndrome. Arc of Indiana offices as our gift for your donation They became leaders in the early movement to of $20, or shipped directly to you for $25. Visit develop programs and services to support people www.erskinegreeninstitute.org/giving/ways-to-donate with intellectual and other developmental disabil- for more information. ities in communities throughout Indiana. Their The Erskine Green Training Institute is a work, along with other early pioneers, led to the postsecondary education program, housed at the establishment of Hopewell Center, the local chap- Courtyard Muncie at Horizon Convention Center, ter of The Arc in Madison County. Carl is also a that provides vocational training for employment longtime supporter of Special Olympics. In 2015 segregation. And then in the same lifetime experi- in the hospitality, food service and health care Carl graciously agreed to lend his name to the ence a parallel journey with my son, Jimmy, born fields. After receiving training, skills are applied nation’s first training institute and teaching hotel, with Down syndrome who would face prejudice, through internships at the Courtyard Muncie, the Erskine Green Training Institute, founded by exclusion and rejection similar in many ways to Thr3e Wise Men restaurant, and IU Health Ball The Arc of Indiana. Jackie’s.” Memorial Hospital. www.erskinegreeninstitute.org

“It is an honor to recognize Erika for her long time impact on lowering the unemployment rate for people leadership and service to The Arc. Her ability to with disabilities throughout Indiana through the engage public officials and business leaders on issues development of The Arc’s teaching hotel and Erskine impacting people with I/DD is second to none. We Green Training Institute. are forever grateful for the difference she has made Education Impact Award in the lives of people with I/DD and their families, Barb Smith – Hamilton, Boone, Madison and the impact she has made on The Arc.” Special Services, Limitless Program Executive Director’s Award

The Arc of Indiana honored individuals, busi- nesses and organizations making an impact on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the 2016 Impact Awards Luncheon on November 18. Congratulations and thank you to all of our award recipients. President’s Award Erika Steuterman Jim Dora, General Hotels President & CEO Scott Wise, Founder of a Pots & Pans Production IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital “Barb’s passion for creating independent adults who are empowered to guide their life decisions is “We could not have asked for more outstanding unmatched. The program is beyond anything we partners than Jim Dora, Scott Wise, and IU Health could have imagined.” Ball Memorial Hospital as we worked to make an Continued on page 8

PAGE 6 The Arc News in Indiana The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017

2016 Trust I and Trust II Satisfaction Survey Results The Arc of Indiana intends for its trust service to be easy to use. How are areas. It also helps families thinking about enrolling. “Is The Arc Trust easy we doing? To answer this question, each year we send a User Satisfaction to access?” “Is getting approval difficult?” As the survey shows, we are very Survey to people using our service. The survey asks about our responsiveness accessible and rarely turn down requests. to requests from the time people contact us and make a request to when the For information about The Arc Master Trust, please visit www.thearctrust.org, request is fulfilled. call us at 317-977-2375 or 800-382-9100, or email trust director Melissa This survey provides us with valuable feedback and identifies potential problem Justice at [email protected]

1. When I call to use the trust, the person with whom I must speak is immediately available. Never: 0% Rarely: 3% Sometimes: 12% Usually: 70% Always: 15% 2. When the person with whom I must speak is not immediately available, he/she does return my call and is able to speak with me within two business days of my request. Never: 1% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 2% Usually: 22% Always: 74% 3. Making contact with this person is a problem. He/she is not available when I call, and I am not available when he/she returns my call. Never: 54% Rarely: 30% Sometimes: 8% Usually: 3% Always: 4% 4. Requesting disbursements is a positive experience for me. The person with whom I speak is receptive to how I want the trust used. He/she is encouraging and supportive of my efforts. Never: 1% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 3% Usually: 18% Always: 77% 5. When I call with a question on non-trust matters or need advice, the person with whom I speak is willing to help. Never: 2% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 2% Usually: 19% Always: 77% 6. When I make a request for using the trust, my request is approved. Never: 0% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 3% Usually: 29% Always: 67% 7. The time that passes from when I submit a bill for reimbursement to when I receive the check is two weeks or less. Never: 1% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 4% Usually: 37% Always: 57% 8. On a scale of 1 to 10, circle your overall satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) with The Arc Trust. A score of 10 is the most positive score you can give. A score of 1 is the most negative score you can give. Ten: 64% Nine: 21% Eight: 6% Seven: 3% Six: 1% Five: 2% Four: 0% Three: 1% Two: 1% One: 1% 9. When I speak with someone at The Arc Trust office, or receive written communications, it is in a prompt and business-like manner. Never: 0% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 2% Usually: 14% Always: 82% 10. The person that I have spoken with at The Arc of Indiana Trust office is knowledgeable. If they don’t know the answer, they find out promptly and return my call. Never: 1% Rarely: 1% Sometimes: 3% Usually: 15% Always: 80%

State Senator Recipient of The Arc’s Public Policy Award State Senator Luke Kenley tive session, Senator Kenley received The Arc’s Public Pol- authored and introduced SEA icy Award at a special event in 11, which sets forth Indiana’s December, 2016. Senator Kenley ABLE (Achieving a Better Life was first elected to the Indiana Experience) program. ABLE Senate in 1992. He is the chair- accounts, which are similar man of the Senate Appropriations to 529 accounts, allow people Committee and a member of the with disabilities and their fam- Tax and Fiscal Policy Committee. ilies to save toward qualified Senator Kenley has supported disability related expenses, many of The Arc’s legislative including education, housing, efforts over the years, including transportation and employ- the original seed money that ment. Senator Kenley’s efforts led to the establishment of The were instrumental to the pas- Arc’s Erskine Green Training sage of this important program Institute. In the 2016 legisla- for Hoosiers with disabilities. Senator Luke Kenley and Kim Dodson

The Arc News in Indiana PAGE 7 The Arc of Indiana Winter 2017

The Arc of Indiana Impact Awards, Continued from Page 6 Employment Impact Award Outstanding Professional Outstanding Self-Advocate Award Mike Nason – AMC Theaters, Bloomington Achievement Award Jamie Beck Katy Dietrich – City Bus, Lafayette, Best Buddies

Jamie works at Pizza King, has worked for The Arc’s “My Life, My Choice” program, is the photographer for “Katy has trained over 500 individuals with I/DD the regional Special Olympics program and is active on how to access and navigate the Greater Lafayette with the Richmond Kiwanis Aktion Club. Her goal public transportation system, and she is the heart and is to obtain full-time employment with benefits. soul of the Best Buddies Chapter.” The Arc of Tomorrow Cathleen Clark Professional “Thanks to Mike’s efforts, AMC has become a place Service Award Stone Belt Arc – The Arc to watch individuals grow and become a part of the in Monroe County workforce.” Jennifer LaMarca – Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist Media Impact Award Shaina Cavazos – ChalkBeat

“Over the last few years, Shaina has included the “Jennifer cared about my son and his future success. The newly establishedThe Arc of Tomorrow award perspective of parents of students receiving special She always looked at any program we implemented recognizes a chapter of The Arc that is making an education services in many of her stories.” as a lifetime fix. My son is currently enrolled in his impact through innovative services and initiatives 2nd year of college. He has 2 jobs, a full class schedule that enrich the lives of people with I/DD. As part and is living in a dorm on campus. I owe all of this of their mission, Stone Belt takes an active role in to Jennifer.” advocacy efforts that have reached out to citizens throughout Monroe county. The history of The Arc is one of advocacy – through its ongoing advocacy efforts, Stone Belt continues the commitment to ensure that the voice of people with disabilities, their families and Save the Date those who support them, are heard by local officials, at the State House and in the halls of Congress. February 14 September 16 Valentine’s Day at the State House Cruising for Dreams Horizon Convention Center, Muncie March 20-22 benefiting the Stay Connected Disability Policy Seminar Erskine Green Training Institute Washington D.C. November 1-4 June 16 The Arc US National Convention The Arc of Indiana The Arc of Indiana San Diego, California Annual Golf Tournament Eagle Creek Golf Club, Indianapolis November 15 @TheArcIN The Arc of Indiana Conference, July 14 Annual Meeting & Impact Awards Self-Advocates of Indiana Luncheon @TheArcIN Annual Picnic Indianapolis Tentative

PAGE 8 The Arc News in Indiana