A publication of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Charles Carr, Commissioner, MRC

From the Editor's Desk
Elaine McHugh

We are living in uncertain times. Our economy is fragile to say the least. This issue includes a letter from Commissioner Carr updating us on the impact of the 9C cuts in regard to the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. Our article covering The House Ways and Means budget hearing produced testimony from advocates detailing serious concerns about reduced services and the impact on clients across the state.

As with all things, there is a positive to every negative. Social Security will be providing a one time benefit for certain individuals who receive Social Security benefits. Read our article to see if you qualify. The best thing is you don't have to apply or do anything extra. Your one time payment will be sent the same way Social Security delivers your monthly benefit.

We have included an article on Safelink Wireless. This program provides a free cell phone and eighty minutes of monthly airtime. Check out our article and see if you qualify.

On the lighter side we have a new Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts. Maryan Amaral was crowned Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts on March 29, 2009. Maryan has written an article about her experience and her future Ms. Wheelchair endeavors.

A wise person once wrote that during difficult times we should find joy in our challenges. Challenges produce endurance and endurance, character; and character, hope. We are never disappointed as long as we have hope.

A letter from Commissioner Carr

Dear colleagues,

I am writing to bring you up to date on the impact of the 9C cuts as they relate to the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. MRC took a total cut of $1,719,000 in its state accounts; $1,119,000 came from the Extended Employment account that, in part, supports our consumers in non competitive work programs offered through community rehabilitation providers. We worked hard with our sister agencies to ensure consumers who have no day programs will be minimally affected.

In the Independent Living account, $413,000 was cut and will affect individuals in the Turning 22 program. Again, we took care to minimize the impact by delaying entry to programs rather than cuts. Other cuts we realized through "earmarks" that cut across several accounts and will have no substantive impact on priority MRC programs.

As you can see, the result is that there will be no layoffs, furloughs or other reductions of staff at this time. Because the Secretariat empowered the agency to make its own cuts, we had the opportunity to let our values and vision drive our collective decision-making.

Let me be clear, the cuts will hurt people. Several hundred of our EEP consumers will lose their programs. Further, our provider partners will experience significant financial hardship due to the loss of our consumers in their programs. As an agency, we must do our best to support our consumers, their families and our providers through this difficult time. This is what we do during times like this.

As we get more clarity about how the overall impact of all 9C cuts affect the agency, our consumers and providers, I'll get the word to you. In closing, I want to thank you again for the work you do every day. As a result of our efforts people with disabilities benefit greatly. I also want to thank my management team for working with me over the past few weeks as we've responded to Secretary Bigby's request to work with Governor Patrick as he made the responsible and extremely difficult decision to rein in spending during tough economic times.

Charles Carr, Commissioner

House Ways and Means Budget Hearing, March 20, 2009
Elaine McHugh

The following are excerpts from the testimony at today's hearing.

Within the first session was testimony from Susan Baptiste. Ms. Baptiste is the parent of a child with autism. She speaks on behalf of her child and so many others who require family support services provided under the Autism waiver. Because of budget cuts only 100 families will still receive services statewide. Ms. Baptiste is asking that funding be restored to the previous level. The cost of services allows families to stay intact and care for their children at home.

One third of clients serviced by the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) will lose services. Several families testified about the serious consequences they will face if they loose day program placements and family support services. A mother testified with her two daughters who both have disabilities. If her daughters lose their day program she will not be able to care for them at home. The mother states her daughters will require residential services if they lose their day program. In her opinion, the state is being penny wise and pound foolish because they are cutting cost effective services. Day programs are less costly than residential services.

Members of the blind community testified on behalf of the Carroll Center asking that funding be restored. Programs that specifically help the newly blinded will be reduced significantly. Testimony was given by people who had used the Carroll Center's programming very successfully and report they are working, raising families and living in their community. Further testimony centered on the repercussions of these budget cuts. More people forced back onto SSI and Medicaid.

Deaf Inc. testified on behalf of their consumers. A ten percent cut will effect direct services to clients especially those for whom English is not their first language. American Sign Language Interpreters who have been on call for hospitals, police, courts and other programs will either be unavailable or drastically cut. They asked that cuts to the budget be restored using Federal bail out money.

The Coalition of Clubhouses testimony supported funding clubhouse programming in the State. Clubhouse programming provides training for job skills, socialization, housing and many other areas. Testimony from providers as well as clients expressed the concern that between the 9c cuts and further budget reductions the clubhouse programming will be almost eliminated. Department of Mental Health consumers asked that Federal bail out money be used to restore some of their programming needs.

Call to Action, State House, Boston, March 4, 2009
Lora Brugnaro

Good morning, everyone. Thank you for inviting me here today! Thank you for taking time off from your busy schedules to come here today. I feel fortunate because I have a job from which to request the time off to be here with you.

Tell me! Why do I have a job? Why do I have an apartment to live in, a college education, access to Para Transit so I can get to places I need to be? Why do I have the opportunity to join my friends for coffee or go to a restaurant, or see a movie? Why was I able to join a fitness club last week? Why do I have a husband with which to share life! (40 years ago I may have been discouraged or even legislatively prohibited from doing so.) Why are people I know able to move back into homes after living, sometimes for decades in nursing facilities? Why are mothers, fathers, daughters and sons who require personal care able to remain in their homes with Personal Care Attendants? Why? Because of you!

Because of people who cared enough to tell their policy makers that all people have rights and some people need additional supports. You have stood in state houses for decades because you understand that we all are members of this "great" society regardless of race, gender, religious beliefs, age and disability.

And yes, because it makes practical sense! If I was an adult 50 years ago you might be paying for me to live in an institution, but because of decades of legislation I'm standing before you, a proud tax payer, paying for disability programs that I have used but no longer need. So I am now able to pay back a little for what I received, as well as contribute to other services, like the Registry of Motor Vehicles services, even though I do not drive.

Our Governor is famous for saying, "Yes we can"! Well I would like to say, Yes, we did! And yes, we will! As much as we need our legislators' help, they need ours. Together we can move mountains. Make an offer and surely, they will accept. I'd like to end with a quote: "The good neighbor looks beyond the external accidents and discerns those inner qualities that make all men human and, therefore, brothers." Martin Luther King. Go, meet your good neighbors!

Used with permission from Loredana Brugnaro.

State Rehabilitation Council Meeting, March 12, 2009
Robert Sneirson

In a conference room at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission's (MRC) Main Office in Boston, members of the State Rehabilitation Council met to discuss the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Conflict of Interest Law. Over the past number of years, members of the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) have become increasingly confused as to what they could or could not do in their capacity as members of the State Rehabilitation Council. Therefore, Past Chairperson of the SRC, Joe Bellil, and the MRC's Director of Consumer Involvement, Emeka Nwokeji, felt that a seminar given by the Massachusetts Ethics Commission was needed.

The Chief of the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission's Public Education and Communication Division, David Giannotti joined the SRC for the morning portion of the meeting. Before Mr. Giannotti began his presentation he told the group that he was not an attorney and could not give answers to questions that pertained to actual cases and could only address questions on the most general of levels. He then handed out a small card which contained "The Top Ten Rules that State Employees need to Know about the Conflict of Interest Law." This card contained all of the points that he wished to cover. In an attempt to be both brief and comprehensive, I quote the publication in its entirety.

Whether you are elected or appointed, paid or unpaid, part time or full time, you are a state employee subject to the conflict of interest law. Even "consultants" may be considered to be state employees.

Do not accept bribes (do not sell or trade your official actions).
Do not accept meals, tickets or gifts from anyone to thank or reward you for any official action you have taken or may take or to influence you in any official action.
Be loyal to the State.
Do not accept money from or represent anyone other than the state for work involving the state.
Do not accept paid, private work that is incompatible with your public position and duties.
Do not disclose or use confidential information that you obtained as a state employee.
Do not use your official position to get special benefits for yourself or anyone else that are not available to the general public.
Do not create appearances of conflicts of interest: Publicly disclose significant relationships or circumstances that might cause a reasonable person to think that you might be unfair or biased in your official actions.
Do not act on any matter affecting your own financial interests or those of family members, partners or organizations with which you have a private relationship.
Do not double dip. Do not accept an additional (even unpaid) state position before seeking legal advice.

After you leave state service: Do not accept money from or represent anyone other than the state if the private work involves a matter that you participated in or worked on as a state employee.

Strictly observe the one year "cooling off" rule: Do not appear as an agent or attorney for a private party on matters that were under your "official responsibility" when you were a state employee

If in doubt as to how to proceed, get advice. Call 617-371-9500 or go to www.mass.gov/ethics.

LDADHD Task Force
Christiana Erekosima

The LD/ADHD Task Force meeting was well attended. A lot of progress has been made. Goals and Objectives of the LD/ADHD Task force, Independent Living Centers' outreach and Job Coaches were among the topics discussed.

  • Warren Mcgee suggested that our Representatives at the State House should be contacted with an informational packet about the LD/ADHD Task Force and its mission.
  • Mark Cowell, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission Ombudsman stressed that when planning to meet or contact a Representative at the State House, it is important to choose key topics and relevant issues that you plan to discuss with the Representatives.
  • On the issue of providing better services for people with LD/ADHD, Ms. Shwab suggested that some training programs and learning skills should be organized. According to her, this could be done by organizing awareness programs in schools, and also providing some skills coaching.
  • Joseph Panciotti suggested the term "Job Coach" should be replaced with "ADHD Coach". His reasoning was there is a specific need for Job Coach's trained in ADHD issues.
  • Jenna Knight pointed out it is important for a person with LD/ADHD to let their counselor know that they need a job coach.
  • Leslie Wish emphasized that it is important and reasonable for job coaches to specify their field of job coaching. This he said makes it easier for counselors to refer consumers to the appropriate job coach.
  • Mary Margaret said that to provide better services for persons with LD/ADHD, it is necessary to form support groups.
  • Warren Mcgee supported Mary's suggestion by adding that, as a support group, people with LD/ADHD could come together, do research and get more information about LD/ADHD. This he said could help solve problems or issues that affect people with LD/ADHD.
  • The Task Force agreed that outreach needed to start earlier, preferably before students leave school.

For more information on the LD/ADHD Task Force, please contact Jenna Knight at (617) 204-3723 or by e-mail at Jennak1605@yahoo.com.

Unserved /Underserved Committee
Hang Lee

Members of the Unserved /Underserved Committee proceeded with the focus group project designated to begin in June of this year. The purpose of this study is to determine if clients whose cases closed as status twenty eight are satisfied with the services they received and if not, what can be done to improve the delivery system to this population.

The Committee members have reviewed a draft of a notification letter to be sent out to select consumers. A timeline was also established for each step of the process for developing focus groups. Members also proposed several sizes of focus groups, with a maximum of 15 participants a likely possibility. There will be two to five focus groups. The locations of focus groups still need to be determined. The cost of a moderator was discussed. There will be an opportunity to consult with the Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts, Boston, or Brandeis University for the availability of volunteer moderators. Further planning and the finalization of the focus groups will take place at the next meeting.

History of Self-Determination
Christiana Erekosima
Introduction by Emeka Nwokeji, Director of Consumer Involvement

I would like to introduce Christiana Erikosima. Christiana is an ICC (Individual Consumer Consultant). I asked her to assist the Consumer Involvement Program research the origin and historical development of the term Self Determination. In addition, I asked Christiana to focus on the genesis of the term and how was this term accepted and incorporated into the philosophy that drives the Independent living movement as we know it today.

Brian Abery from the University of Minnesota, defined self-determination as "living the way I want to live instead of how others expect me to live, and taking the amount of control over your life you want, in the areas you want to control."

The philosophical idea of self-determination arose out of the 18th century concern for freedom and primacy of individual will. It has been applied to every kind of group which can be said to have a will, but in the 20th century has come to apply primarily to nations.

Self-determination theory has evolved over the past 30 years from psychological research done by Edward L. Deci, Richard M. Ryan and their collaborators from around the world. "To be self-determined is to endorse one's actions at the highest level of reflection. When self-determined people experience a sense of freedom to do what is interesting, personally important, and vitalizing." Edward L. Deci & Richard M. Ryan.

In the 20th century, Woodrow Wilson was the first to use the term "self-determination" in 1918. However, it was not until the drafting of the United Nations Charter that the term "self-determination" appears as part of the international legal landscape.

Many definitions of self-determination have been offered in recent literature (e.g., Field & Hoffman, 1992, Ward. 1988, Wehmer, 1996, Martin, Marshall & Maxson, 1993, Mithaug, Campeau & Wolman, 1992). Although each of these authors approaches self-determination from a slightly different perspective, there are common themes that run throughout self-determination definitions.

Political Definition: Self-determination is a process by which a group of people, usually processing a degree of political consciousness, form their own State and government. The principle of self-determination refers to the right of a people to determine its own political destiny. The right to self-determination has become one of the most complex issues in the United States and the international community at large. According to Mark Charfauros Chamorro, "Self-determination is an alienable right of a people to determine for themselves their relationship with their colonizer. It is a right that can not be taken away nor given to someone". As a political principle, the idea of self-determination evolved at first as a by-product of the doctrine of nationalism, to which early expression was given by the French and American Revolutions.

Legal Definition: Self-determination as it is articulated under the rubric of equality, begins with freedom, includes responsibility, and forces us to grapple with the meaning of freedom for those who need assistance in exercising this right. According to Thomas Nerney, "Self-Determination grounded anywhere outside the Constitution and Bill of Rights or an international declaration of rights, leads to a continued diminution of these rights." The principle of self-determination, often seen as a moral and legal right, is that every nation is entitled to a sovereign territorial State, and that every specifically identifiable population should choose which State it belongs to often by plebiscite.

Government Definition: Self-determination is the right of a people to determine its own form of government without interference from the outside.

Educational Definition: Self determination is a complex concept with deep historical roots. It is important to understand this concept in order to understand the model, how the model works, and how the model differs from a typical teacher or instructor directed model to a consumer directed, problem solving model. "Self-determination refers to the attitudes and abilities required to act as the primary causal agent in one's life and to make choices regarding one's actions free from undue external influence or interference." Wehmeyer (1992).

Medical Definition: The movement toward patient empowerment began in the 1970s. Some references cite American and European civil rights movements as its root. Others suggest the patient of the 70s became more interested in complimentary and alternative methods of health care and therefore demanded more of a say in their treatment choices. Even the explosion of technology and its resulting possibilities for research, testing and medical treatment played a role. In 1999, the Institute of Medicine, an agency of the US government, issued its report called To Err is Human which cited the deaths of between 44,000 and 98,000 Americans each year due to medical errors. Thus, the flames of patient empowerment were fuelled, and the quiet-to-that-point movement began to grow.

Self-Determination for the Deaf-Blind: In the United States the history of blind people has been characterized by the domination of agency-based programs. Until recently, blind people themselves had little influence on the direction of agency programs and philosophy. The struggle is now intense, as blind people require agencies to provide programs and activities consistent with goals of independent living and full participation in society. In the United States most of the professional writing about rehabilitation and blindness describes narrowly focused inventions or programs aimed at helping blind people adjust to the world as seen by blindness professionals. For these people, self-determination is a continuum. It does not mean having a complete control over every aspect of life because no one has total control. Some individuals who are deaf-blind have the ability to exert control in many areas, while others have it in only a few areas. This continuum is representative of variations in personality and skill and the degree of support that is available. "Nature, disposition, and the personality of an individual all influence self-determination." Erwin & Brown, (2000).

Self-Determination for People with Developmental Disabilities: The juxtaposition of the self-determination demonstration projects with emerging aspirations of people with developmental disabilities combined to spur the growth of organized self-advocacy. The combination of person-centered planning and self-determination has sharpened the practice of person-centered "doing" to person-centered "thinking".

Facts about Self-Determination: Self-determination is a complex concept with multiple definitions and perspectives. There are, however, some consistent characteristics. Self-determination has been defined and described in various ways but the unique thing about all the definitions and descriptions is that they all narrow down to decisions made by individuals, state or culture to be autonomous, independent and free of force.

All people desire self-determination and are capable of achieving it. Each of us has an innate drive to satisfy our own needs and lead a life of choice. Individuals who are living with disabilities have the same desire.

SSA One Time Payment

On February 17, 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that provides for a one-time economic recovery payment of $250 to certain people who receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement, and Veterans benefits.

The law provides for a one-time payment for certain individuals who receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement and Veterans benefits. If you were eligible for one of these benefits at any time during the months of November 2008, December 2008 or January 2009, you may be eligible for the one-time payment. To receive the payment, your address of record must be in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, or the Northern Mariana Islands.

You should receive your one-time payment by the end of May 2009. You don't need to do anything to receive this payment. Social Security does not need to contact you to request information. Please do not contact them about your payment unless you do not receive it by June 4, 2009. The Department of the Treasury will be sending payments throughout the month of May.

We will deliver your one-time payment the same way we currently deliver your Social Security or SSI benefit. If we deliver your monthly benefit by check, we will deliver your one-time payment by check. If you receive your benefits by direct deposit or Direct Express® debit card, you will receive the one-time payment the same way. They will send your one-time economic recovery payment separately from your Social Security or SSI benefit.

After June 4, 2009, you can call the toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or contact your local Social Security office to tell them your payment has not arrived. Please wait until then to ask about your payment because the Department of the Treasury will be sending payments until the end of May. or visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

Mass. Rehabilitation Commission Honors Employees for their Commitment to Serving People with Disabilities
Jennifer Kritz

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) honored staff members from across the Commonwealth for their commitment to promoting dignity for people with disabilities through employment and independent living. At the Hoagland-Pincus Conference Center in Shrewsbury, the Commission recognized the excellent services and supports state employees provide by presenting the 2008 Governor's Commonwealth Citation Awards for Outstanding Performance and the MRC Commissioner's Awards.

"Each and every day, employees of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission devote themselves to advancing the empowerment, independence and equality of individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts," said Commissioner Charles Carr. "We're proud to present these awards in honor of their outstanding commitment to the people we serve."

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission assists individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. The MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Living Services, and eligibility determination for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefits programs for Massachusetts citizens with disabilities. The MRC serves people with all types of disabilities except those who are blind, who are served through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. To learn more about MRC, please visit: www.mass.gov/mrc.

Ms. Wheelchair America
Maryan Amaral

I won! On March 29th, I was crowned, Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009! Let me tell you about this great pageant.

This unique competition was held at Carson Place at the Boston Teacher's Union in the Bayside Expo Center Complex in Boston. A total of seven woman advocates with disabilities across the Commonwealth competed for the state title held by Kristen Parisi. Many know Kristen McCosh, Ms.Wheelchair America 2008. Kristen McCosh is an advocate with the local chapter of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association. Autumn Grant, Ms. Wheelchair America 2007/ State Coordinator beautifully fielded all our questions and organized our pageant festivities.The MRC "Artists with Disabilities Task Force" members displayed unique hand-painted art work and jewelry. Tara Southard, the MWM Board of Directors, and family and friends all pitched in with helping set up our presentation boards and running the event. Kristen Connors was "Mistress of Ceremonies."

Marty Ball, Karyn Estrella and Chelsea Smith judged us in two private sessions prior to the final public forum.We were judged on poise, confidence, advocacy, media/ peer relations and personal achievements since the onset of our injury. The "First Runner Up" was Ashley Speicher from Lynn. She gave a great platform speech on the importance of people with disabilities to exercise our rights to vote and get involved. Jane Parris from Boston was "Second Runner Up", giving an eloquent speech on accessible travel. Carmen Rosado gave a moving platform speech of her travel to this country and excelling to win the "Spirit Award." Sarah MacIsaac from Lynn and Santara Sen, a senior at Bridgewater State College also gave great presentations. Marion "Midge" Dawicki, an advocate from Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital competed but unfortunately had to pull out due to illness just prior to the platform speech.

Movie producers for "Ms.Wheelchair America" filmed us, as well as interviews by a local television station. NEMED, Tilite, Hudson Home Medical, and Wheelchair Recycler were present, as well as "Miss New England Pre-teen", "Miss CT Sweetheart", "Miss Earth Massachusetts" and "NE COED Princess Hostess". We even had a chance to celebrate briefly with moves from Aero integrated mixed abilities dance.

In June, I will be traveling to Washington DC to meet our Congressmen and Legislators to discuss funding and advocacy on the top priorities for people with disabilities including health care reform, PCA's, inclusive education with funding for higher education, public policy, adaptive equipment, and push to remove existing attitudinal and architectural barriers in government sponsored programs and entities.

In August, I will be traveling to Rapid City, South Dakota, to compete in Ms. Wheelchair America 2010. As a person living with a cervical spinal cord injury from a car accident in 2002, I have learned the power of working together as a team to confront our challenges together. I will be launching a blog and would love to hear from you. Please send me an email at mswheelchairmass09@yahoo.com and visit www.mswheelchairmass.org.

The Zola Center
Donna Suskawicz

The Irving K. Zola Center for Persons with Disabilities, 20 Hartford Street, Newton Highlands, MA 02461 was created in January 2006 to provide a location for people with disabilities to congregate, socialize and participate in the community. The Zola Center closed in July 2008 to undergo a $519,000 interior/exterior building renovation that included installation of a universal design kitchen. A re-opening celebration was held on Saturday, February 7, 2009.

The Zola Center is a social drop-in center open on Saturday afternoons from Noon-4:00 P.M. and staffed by volunteers. The Center is named for Irving Kenneth Zola, internationally known sociologist and advocate who specialized in disability studies and medical sociology. Dr. Zola was a founding member of the Society of Disability Studies and the first editor of DSQ: Disability Studies Quarterly. Through his writings and work he became a mentor and role model for many individuals. Facilities include a 42" wide television in HD, a pool table, computers with Internet access, a room for meetings and amateur radio (Ham) available for use by licensed operators. The Zola Center offers a monthly Meditation Class, Women with Disabilities Support Group, art shows, concerts and holiday parties. All events are free. If you are interested in offering a workshop, lecture, art class or other activity, please contact us.

The Zola Center is pleased to announce the creation of a Free Food Distribution Program through collaboration with the Brookline Food Co-op. Registration, by telephone or e-mail, is required to receive free food. Walk-ins can not be accommodated. Food is donated from local supermarkets, bakeries and restaurants. Actual food items will vary. Sample items may include fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and bakery items. The Zola Center needs volunteers to set up tables and organize food in the morning and break down tables and sweep the floor in the afternoon. Volunteers will be allowed to obtain their food prior to the public opening.

In 2008, the Zola Center won a nationwide grant sponsored by Avon Products, Inc. to encourage people with disabilities to participate in Amateur Radio (HAM) for communication and hobby. Through collaboration with the Boston Amateur Radio Club, a 'License in a Weekend' study workshop was held to prepare people with disabilities to take the FCC license exam. A second workshop is being planned in 2009 for people with disabilities. Full scholarships are available for women with disabilities to take the workshop, license exam and purchase radio equipment.

For more information contact Donna Suskawicz, Director (617) 277-5131 or zolacenter@juno.com

Free cell phones and airtime from Safelink Wireless!

What is Safelink?

Safelink Wireless is a government program available to income-eligible residents of Massachusetts (and an increasing number of other states). In Massachusetts the program provides a free cell phone and 80 minutes of monthly airtime to households at or below 135% of the federal poverty level. Recipients may purchase more airtime at their own expense.How do I know if I'm eligible?

You are eligible if you:

  • Have a household income of 135% or less of the federal poverty level.

You automatically qualify if you are a current recipient of one of the following programs:

  • Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children
  • Social Security Income
  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
  • Food Stamps
  • MassHealth
  • Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children
  • Fuel Assistance
  • Have a valid US Postal address. PO Boxes are not acceptable for shipping.
  • Are not already receiving Lifeline Assistance through another phone carrier and no one in your household is receiving this assistance (you must first cancel Lifeline to receive Safelink).

How do I apply?
Learn more or apply at http://www.safelink.com

Long-Term Care Financing Advisory Committee Created to Advance Community First Agenda
Executive Office of Health and Human Services

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) announced the creation of a Long-Term Care Financing Advisory Committee - a commitment from the Olmstead Plan and a priority for the Patrick Administration - designed to identify strategic options for the future financing of care for elders and individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts. The overall goal of the Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the Administration regarding a multi-year process of reform.

The Advisory Committee will advise the state regarding public and private long-term care financing options that will support elders and people with disabilities in a manner that maximizes independence; assures access to the necessary continuum of long term supports; and supports a sustainable mix of personal and familial responsibility, private financing mechanisms, and public assistance.

The Committee will also identify strategic concerns regarding long-term care development and reform including the parameters of long-term care populations and their service needs; features of the evolving long-term care system; considerations regarding public financing expansions; opportunities for private financing mechanisms; and intersections between the public and private financing roles.

"This committee reflects the Administration's understanding that disability and its attendant long-term support needs is an individual, family, provider, payer, and public policy concern across the lifespan from children to elders," said Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. JudyAnn Bigby. "We are fortunate to have the resources and commitment being put to this critical effort."

The Advisory Committee was announced by Secretary Bigby at an invitational conference hosted by the Massachusetts Medicaid Policy Institute (MMPI).

"This Committee could not happen at a more important time, given the demographic imperative we face with both elders and people with disabilities," said Phil Johnston, MMPI Board member and Advisory Group participant.

The Committee will meet for 12 months starting in January 2009. The Committee will begin its work by reviewing the current long-term care financing landscape locally and nationally. An assessment of the profile of long-term care populations here in Massachusetts will provide the backdrop for considering both the current patchwork of support, predominantly family caregivers and public financing, and the future opportunities for innovation in both public and private arenas.

"As a person living with a disability - and a professional in the field - I know first hand how important it is that the state is tackling the financing agenda," said Joe Bellil, Vice President of Public Affairs at Easter Seals. "It is important for us to discuss what this care should be, who should be paying for this care and who will be delivering these services. This Advisory Committee is a great step in the right direction."

The 25-member Committee is made up of a diverse group of talented experts and community representatives. The group will be co-convened by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs. The Committee's work will be supported, in part, by the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Commonwealth Medicine and the Massachusetts Medicaid Policy Institute.

Members of the Advisory Committee include:

• Emanuel Alves, Vice President, Counsel and Corporate Secretary, JohnHancock Financial Services;
• Joe Bellil, Vice President of Public Affairs, Easter Seals;
• Bruce Bullen, Chief Operating Officer, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care;
• Nonnie Burnes, Commissioner, Massachusetts Division of Insurance;
• Sheldon Bycoff, Founder and President, Mental Health Programs, Inc;
• Marc Cohen, Executive Director, Lifeplans, Inc.;
• Jessica Constantino, Director of Advocacy, AARP Massachusetts;
• Tom Dehner, Medicaid Director, Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS);
• Dean Denniston, Director, Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity, EOHHS (retired);
• Mike Fadel, Executive Vice President, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East;
• Len Fishman, President and CEO, Hebrew Senior Life;
• Ann L. Hartstein, Executive Director, Massachusetts Association of Older Americans;
• Patricia Jehlen, State Senator, Second Middlesex District;
• Phil Johnston, President, Johnston Associates;
• Paul Lanzikos, President, Mass Home Care;
• Kevin Mahoney, Director, National Cash & Counseling Demonstration, Boston College;
• Tom Manning, Deputy Chancellor, Commonwealth Medicine, UMMS;
• Bob Master, President and CEO, Commonwealth Care Alliance;
• Jean McGuire, Assistant Secretary, Disability Policy, EOHHS;
• Scott Plumb, Senior Vice-President, Massachusetts Senior Care Association;
• Kathi-Ann Reinstein, State Representative, Sixteenth Suffolk District;
• Elissa Sherman, President, MassAging Services Association;
• Gail Snowden, Chief Executive Officer, Freedom House;
• David Stevenson, Assistant Professor, Harvard University Medical School;
• Amy Weinstock, Disability Policy Advocate

Massachusetts Annual Independent Living Education Day at the State House
Robert Sneirson

One hundred and forty advocates from Independent Living Centers across Massachusetts met at the State House for the Annual State Council of Independent Living Centers and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) Education Day.

Given the current state of the economy and reduced resources at the state government level advocates are promoting living in the community with support. The funding of Independent Living Centers (ILC) benefits all citizens of the Commonwealth by providing services that assist people with disabilities to live in their community and assisting individuals in nursing homes to transition and expand their opportunities to live in a community of their choice. Advocates seek to ensure full compliance and funding resources for all programs. Civil rights and anti-discrimination practices that impact the lives of people with disabilities are maintained.

At a meeting of the Joint Committee of Elder Affairs Medicaid Director Tom Dehner said that "the 1115 Waiver is not likely to be approved in the near future." Also, the Patrick Administration announced that the Fiscal Year 2009 budget deficit had climbed to $3.6 billion and that preliminary estimates of the Fiscal Year 2010 budget deficit had climbed to $4 billion. Commissioner Charles Carr from the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) remarked that an old independent living rallying cry of "Independent Living is a full time job" should be resurrected for the occasion.

Members of the Massachusetts Legislature asked people to spend most of their time telling their stories. Most attendees were supportive of their Representatives and Senators, even if they raised their taxes, they would most likely vote for them again. The Independent Living Education Day ended with a charge from Bill Henning, Executive Director of the Boston Center for Independent Living, to get members of the Legislature to sign on to an amendment to the House of Representatives version of the State Budget for Community Living items from $16 million to $25 million.

Call your Legislator and tell them your story. Help them realize that Independent Living Centers benefit everyone.

Save the Date
SRC Quarterly Meeting

DATE: Thursday, June 11, 2009
TIME: 10:30 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
LOCATION: Massachusetts School of Law
500 Federal Street
Room # 204
Andover, MA 01910
If you need further assistance, and other reasonable accommodations, please feel free to contact Emeka Nwokeji at (617) 204-3665.

SRC Artists With Disabilities Task Force
Calendar 2010 Entry Participation Application
(Applications must be received by July 1st, 2009)

General Information (NOTE: We need this information to contact you in the case your artwork is chosen. We will not publish any of your personal information without your consent)

Name:__________________________________________________
Phone 1:___________________________
Phone 2:___________________________
Address:________________________________________________
City:_________________State____________ (must be from MA) Zip:___________________
Email:__________________________________________________

Required Calendar Information

Artwork: Up to 3 pieces may be submitted by each artist. Digital images should be submitted if possible (either through email or saved to a CD and mailed). If this is not possible please contact us to make alternate arrangements.

Artwork Title: (25 character limit, including spaces and punctuation)

Artist Statement: (180 character limit including spaces and punctuation)

Example: I aim to get rid of the "Y" in "Rocky" and permit an Artist In Progress to have a "Rock" (my rock being origami and charcoals featuring it) to secure oneself, opening consumers' eyes to the fine arts world.

Biography: (240 characters including spaces and punctuation).
Example: Lisa Corfman, born in Boston, MA, holds a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts and is certified as a Nurse Assistant. Working part-time as a recreational therapist, Lisa holds several jobs including at her company Rocky Arts.

Self-Portrait: Please include, if possible, a black and white photo portrait. If you do not want to have your photograph displayed in the calendar you may take some other kind of artistic black and white photograph such as a close up of your hands.

Contact Information: You can include address, email, phone number, fax number, and/or website. You may also opt to leave your personal information off.

Please note: We will do our best to remain true to the original artwork. However, some changes (such as slight color changes from the original artwork to the final print, or edges being cropped) may occur. Submission of your artwork to this project demonstrates that you understand and accept these terms.

All correspondence and submissions should be sent to:

Attention: Lisa Weber
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Suite 600
27 Wormwood Street
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 204 - 3638 (TTY/V)
lisa.weber@mrc.state.ma.us

Featured Artist: Lisa Fay

My mother is my inspiration for painting. I remember seeing her paint on the kitchen table when I was young. Her painting taught me that I just needed to do it; I didn't need an MFA in order to paint. I have since taken painting at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, where I have been under the tutelage of Sue Miller. I like many painters, among them Joan Snyder, Alice Neel, Vincent Van Gogh, and Henri Matisse.

Lisa Fay was born in Norwood and raised in Walpole, MA. Ms. Fay now lives in Boston and has traveled extensively to London, Paris and Prague. Lisa also publishes poems and exhibits her photos and paintings.

Are you an artist? Become our next Featured Artist; whether it be painting, drawing or writing poetry, submit your works to us via e-mail to
consumer.involvement@mrc.state.ma.us or call Lisa Weber at 617-204-3638 for more information.

Elaine McHugh Editor

Contributing Writers

Maryan Amaral
Lora Brugnaro
Christiana Erekosima
Hang Lee
Robert Sneirson
MRC Staff Editors

Kasper Goshgarian, Deputy Commissioner
Emeka Nwokeji, Director, Consumer Involvement
Joan Phillips, Assistant Commissioner
Sheila Wojdakowski, HR/Customer Relations
Leslie Wish, ICC Program Coordinator
Lisa Weber, CI Program Coordinator



This newsletter is an independent publication sponsored by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). The opinions expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the policy and practices of the MRC. They are solely the opinions of consumers of MRC programs and services.

For further information contact Emeka Nwokeji, Director of the Consumer Involvement Program, at 617-204-3665.

To receive the newsletter electronically, send an e-mail to consumer.involvement@mrc.state.ma.us

This information is provided by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission.