Charles Carr, Commissioner, MRC
From the Editor's Desk
Elaine McHugh
When this issue of the Consumer's Voice reaches you, we will have already celebrated Thanksgiving and be on our way to the December holidays and the New Year. We wish our readers a very happy holiday season!
John Chappell, Jr., Deputy Commissioner of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission has left to pursue other endeavors. John dedicated the last 24 years of his life working to ensure the independence and self determination of people with disabilities. Please read our article on John's time with the MRC. We wish him good luck.
We welcome Julie Langbort, a member of the Consumer's Voice editorial board. Julie is a volunteer at Nashoba Valley in their adaptive skiing program. She has written an article about adaptive sports and the adaptive ski program at Nashoba.
Please read Peter Gefteas' entire article on adaptive technology and how it has changed his life. Peter's MRC success story highlights the critical role of the MRC counselor, the ability of the Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) to resolve disputes, and Easter Seals' expertise in computer training for disabled individuals.
Listen to excerpts from Pete's article (MP3) 
"Hi. My name is Pete. My success story would never have come to fruition without the resourcefulness and perseverance of my MRC counselor Bruce Copeland. My case has been a very challenging one. In order to obtain a computer that would meet the needs of my disabilities, Bruce contacted Dell Computer and became the first MRC counselor to receive a computer bid from Dell. When MRC's IT Department denied the computer purchase order, Bruce contacted my advocate at the Massachusetts Office on Disability. She wrote to Commissioner Bartels and he immediately approved the purchase order. When we encountered problems with the first computer training company, Bruce turned to Easter Seals Massachusetts. Easter Seals sent out a computer trainer who created dozens of workarounds, so that now I'm able to use a computer with excellent proficiency! I'll always be indebted to Bruce for his exemplary efforts on my case."
Farewell to John Chappell
Emeka Nwokeji, Sabrina Cazeau-Class, Debra Kamen, Betty Maher
In 1992 I was interviewed for the position of Director of the Consumer Involvement Program at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. My interest in coming to the MRC was amplified by knowing I would have the opportunity to work with John Chappell. John always impressed me with the role he played at the National Council of Independent Living Centers (NCIL) and his cross disability philosophy. Today, John is my Supervisor. More importantly, he has nurtured my vision for Consumer Involvement and the MRC. The Consumer Involvement Program staff and participants will greatly miss John. Since I must acknowledge the reality that John is moving on to better days, I must wish him luck.
Emeka Nwokeji, Director, Consumer Involvement
John Chappell has played an instrumental role in the world of adult protective services since the onset of the Protective Service Program at the MRC in 1988. His ability to understand and acknowledge the self-determination of an individual with a disability who is not prepared to leave an abusive environment will always be remembered. I have had the pleasure of working with John as an Investigator, as a Supervisor and finally as the Director of the Program. In all of these capacities, John has always been a support and a guide for me in many difficult circumstances. On a personal note, John, I'm sure, will miss the beeper he has so graciously carried for many years.
Sabrina Cazeau-Class, Director, Protective Services Program
I met John Chappell when he hired me as the very first Director of the Statewide Head Injury Program in 1985. I have always been impressed with John's ability to keep his cool during difficult situations. He is a gentleman, truly a southerner, in this respect. He accomplishes things with diplomacy and tact. John is a caring and effective advocate who works on behalf of all individuals with disabilities. Leading by example is John's style and this has led to the evolution of one of the most collaborative teams I have ever worked with in my professional career. I am appreciative of having had this opportunity to work with him.
Debra Kamen, Director, Statewide Head Injury Program
Vincent Van Gogh said "Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together." John,your career at the MRC certainly exemplifies this. When I first came to the MRC, the IL Division as it was then called was so small we could all ride in one elevator at the Statler Office Building. But, you had big ideas for the MRC, being the agency that could build a network of supports that would enable people with all types of disabilities to live and participate fully in their communities. Resources were scarce, but you were able to pull together the threads of available funding and mandates and weave together a statewide network of programs that the Community Living Program is today. However, your vision was for something greater than this, as your work on Community First demonstrates. The vision of broad-based, flexible services that are cross-disability, community-based, consumer-driven, culturally competent, and truly inclusive and accessible (and funded!) is what the Community First agenda is all about. John, by sharing your vision, you've started the painting and now it will be up to us to finish it. Know that I, for one, share the vision and will do my best to complete the painting you envisioned.
Betty Maher, Director, Home Care Program
The appointment of Ms. Mary Mahon McCauley
Kasper M. Goshgarian
It is with distinct pleasure that Assistant Commissioner of VR Joan Phillips and I announce the appointment of Ms. Mary Mahon McCauley to the position of Area Director of the Downtown Boston/Roxbury Area Office effective September 1, 2008. Under our consolidation initiative, the two offices will be combined in one location within the next 12 to 18 months.
Ms. Mahon McCauley has been an employee of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission since 1989. During that period, she has served as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Senior Counselor, Job Placement Specialist and Unit Supervisor in the Quincy Area office. She has also served as a group facilitator for Massachusetts Association for the Blind (MAB) Community Services in Brookline. Ms. Mahon McCauley has been a driving force in the excellence achieved in the Quincy Area Office and has also been intimately involved in the disability community both in Quincy and statewide. In June, 2008, Ms. Mahon McCauley received an Official Citation from the Quincy City Council for her professional achievements and accomplishments. Also, in June, 2008, she received the Thomas J. Carroll Award for Employment which recognized her as the 2008 Blind Employee of the Year in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Ms. Mahon McCauley's outstanding work and leadership within the Commission as well as her achievements in the community make her the ideal candidate to assume the duties of Area Director.
As Ms. Mahon McCauley transitions into her new role, Ms. Linda Lawrie-Pfeil will assume the role of Area Director of the Quincy Area Office. Ms. Lawrie-Pfeil has served as Area Director of the Downtown Boston Area Office for the past four years and, under her leadership, has instituted numerous innovative programs and strategies to better serve individuals with disabilities. She will provide sound leadership to the Quincy Office.
Lastly, Joan and I want to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Martha Zeolla who has done an outstanding job as Acting Area Director of the Quincy Area Office. Under her leadership, the office excelled in providing services and meeting all goals and expectations.
Please join me in congratulating Mary Mahon McCauley on her promotion to Area Director.
Introducing Annette Shea, M.Ed, Senior Project Director for Medicaid Disability and Employment Initiatives
Commissioner Charles Carr
Annette will be the primary liaison between the Office of MassHealth at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) and the activities of the Massachusetts Medicaid Infrastructure and Comprehensive Employment Opportunities (MICEO) grant.
Alice Oliveira appointed Area Director of the New Bedford Office
Joan Phillips
It is my pleasure to inform you that Alice Oliveira has been appointed Area Director of the New Bedford Office.
Alice has been a faithful employee of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission for 21 years. Her experience at the MRC began in the Brockton Area Office where she worked as a counselor. She was promoted to Unit Supervisor 1998.
Alice is known for being responsive to the critical needs of the agency. She has served as an Administrative Review Officer and has taken on many leadership activities within the South District. She willingly lent her supervisory skills to the Roxbury Area Office operations for two years while also performing her duties as a Unit Supervisor in the Brockton Office. She has lent her skills and talents to the New Bedford Office since October, 2007 and has been in the role of Acting Area Director in that office since March, 2008.
Alice graduated from Rhode Island College with a degree in Secondary Education. She received her Masters Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Assumption College and has a Graduate Certificate in Alcoholism and Drug Abuse from Boston University.
Alice has a heart for serving and was a VISTA Volunteer serving at the Cape Cod Community Action Committee. She is a certified Yoga instructor.
Please join me in congratulating Alice and welcoming her in her new role as Area Director.
Executive Office of Health and Human Services Public Forum
Hang Lee
On August 27, 2008, at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston, MA, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services and its department heads held a forum for citizens to voice their opinions about the current budget and next year's budget proposals.
In terms of the disability agenda and issues there was a large contingency from the disability community. Among those who spoke, Deaf, Inc., an Independent Living Center (ILC) that focuses on serving the deaf and hard of hearing, had 15 consumers and staff present. They spoke passionately about the need for salary increases for the ILC's as staff retention is a challenge for the centers. Members of Deaf, Inc. also advocated increased funding for deaf services.
Mr. Bill Henning, Executive Director of the Boston Center for Independent Living, offered praise about funding the 1115 Community Waiver, the initiative to move people with disabilities and the elderly from nursing homes into community settings.
Mr. Hang Lee of the Multi-Cultural Independent Living Center addressed the need to focus on the anti-bullying curriculum which will help protect students with disabilities.
Other representation from the disability community included Ms. Regina Snowden, Executive Director of Partners for Youth with Disabilities, a mentoring program, as well as many other providers from the mental health field and representatives from organizations that assist people with developmental disabilities.
State Rehabilitation Council Meeting, September 25, 2008
Robert Sneirson
The State Rehabilitation Council of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission met today at the Massachusetts School of Law in Andover to elect its officers for the 2008-2009 year. After balloting was finished the following slate was elected: Chair, Youcef "Joe" Bellil, Vice Chair, Serena Powell, Secretary, Warren Magee, Members at Large, Stephen Reynolds and Owen Doonan.
After Lunch, the Commissioner of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, Charles Carr, addressed the State Rehabilitation Council. He announced the following items:
Ms. Linda Lawrie-Pfeil will assume the role of Area Director of the Quincy Area Office. Ms. Lawrie-Pfeil has served as Area Director of the Downtown Boston Area Office for the past four years.
Ms. Alice Oliveira has been appointed Area Director of the New Bedford Office. Ms. Oliveira has been an employee of the MRC for 21 years.
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission has been designated as the point of entry for all people with disabilities who do not have an obvious "agency of tie" within the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. This includes people who are on the autism spectrum whose IQs are greater than 70 and those who suffer a disability after the age of 22 such as Multiple Sclerosis and Huntington's disease. To meet the expected heavy demand for MRC's services, Commissioner Carr is setting up a Performance Management Unit within the Community Living Program. This Unit will have the responsibility of helping the Executive Office of Health and Human Services administer the forthcoming Community First 1115 Waiver and the settlements of both the Rolland (services to those people who have mental retardation and who reside in a nursing home) and Hutchinson (services to the acquired brain injury and the traumatic brain injury populations) cases.
The last item announced by Commissioner Carr was that the Executive Office of Health and Human Services has determined a more consistent method for awarding vocational rehabilitation contracts throughout the Secretariat. This means MRC consumers will receive better services when they go to a community rehabilitation provider.
Consumer's Voice Editorial Board Meeting, September 10, 2008
Elaine C. McHugh
This was the first meeting of the newly convened Consumer's Voice editorial board. Members discussed a variety of issues and reviewed the roles and responsibilities of the editorial board. Further discussion included topics for future articles, reaching out to populations whose activities have not been covered in the Consumer's Voice and accessibility issues.
The meeting concluded with the understanding that most of the Board's contact will be by e-mail and phone. The Board will meet on a quarterly basis. The next meeting date has not been determined.
You Move Massachusetts
Lisa Weber
The Executive Office of Transportation has developed an initiative to improve transportation for residents of Massachusetts. The initiative is called "You Move Massachusetts" and involves hosting a series of workshops throughout the state.
I attended a workshop on September 17, 2008 which was held at the Boston Public Library. This workshop included a brief introduction by the presentation team, however, the majority of the time was spent in breakout sessions where attendees had a chance to interact directly with each other and the facilitators. Participants were asked to list items of concern regarding transportation in Massachusetts as well as anything that was working well. Comments were varied and covered many topics. Two consumers discussed the desire to have better snow and ice removal from MBTA stations as they had difficulty accessing those stations during inclement weather. Several consumers who were avid bike riders mentioned the importance of other bikers, drivers, and pedestrians giving them respect as vehicles and sharing the road. Individuals who relied on cars for transport noted the lack of street signs on many streets and stated this made driving more difficult and resulted in increased gasoline consumption and higher emissions.
The disability community, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, and other supporters were well represented at the event. Workshop facilitators acknowledged the need to continue improving access at MBTA stations including addressing safety conditions in the winter and the need to continue improving Paratransit services. The workshop facilitators thanked attendees for their participation and stated additional workshops would be held throughout the state. More information on this initiative can be found on the website www.youmovemassachusetts.org.
Accessibility a Top Priority at the State House
Elaine McHugh
People with disabilities and their advocates met at the State House for the unveiling of several access improvements. The group was welcomed by Governor Deval Patrick, Senate President Therese Murray, and House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi who insist they will make the State House accessible to all Massachusetts citizens. Most of the improvements have been made over the last year. They include new power door lifts, closed-captioning for web casts of Legislative debates and sign language interpreters (on request) for any proceedings. Several offices have been retrofitted with small ramps over the thresholds to improve access for wheelchair users. ATM's with Braille have been installed. Other improvements are being planned with a $239,000 annual budget the Legislature has put in place for improving accessibility.
Future improvements include making the artwork accessible to the blind through audio descriptions. All improvements highlighted today are quick fixes.
Recovery Learning Communities
In 2005, the Department of Mental Health embraced the President's New Freedom Commission's vision of transformation, and developed a plan to establish local consumer governed and staffed centers that would build upon established partnerships with consumers. Called "Recovery Learning Communities," these local hubs of information and support are now operating in all six DMH areas. It is a new type of model that builds on the momentum of the consumer movement and the partnership among consumer leaders and the DMH that continues to grow.
Recovery Learning Communities (RLC) are consumer-run networks of self-help/peer support, information and referral, advocacy and training activities. Training in recovery concepts and tools, advocacy forums and social and recreational events are all part of what goes on in a recovery learning community. This is a significant culture change that shifts the focus on symptom management to a focus on promoting recovery, resilience and wellness. Recovery Learning Communities are at the following locations:
Central Mass. RLC
91 Stafford Street
Worcester, MA 01603
(508) 751-9600
centralmassrlc@yahoo.com
Metro Boston RLC
c/o Boston Resource Center
Solomon Carter Fuller MHC
85 E. Newton Street, 5th FL
Boston, MA 02118
(617) 305-9974
info@bostonresourcecenter.org
Northeast RLC
c/o Nan Donald
Northeast Independent Living Program
20 Ballard Road
Lawrence, MA 01843
(978) 687-4288
ndonald@nilp.org
Metro Suburban RLC
460 Quincy Avenue
Quincy, MA 02169
(617) 472-3237
info@metrosuburbanrlc.org
Southeastern RLC
71Main Street, Suite 100
Taunton, MA 02780
(508) 880-8527
ecampbell@comcounseling.org
Western Mass. RLC
187 High Street, Suite 303
Holyoke, MA 01040
(866) 641-2853
info@westernmassrlc.org
http://www.westernmassrlc.org
My MRC Success Story
Peter Gefteas
I'd like to share with you my recent success story with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. The MRC provided me with assistive technology products and extensive computer training that enabled me to use a computer almost as well as an able-bodied person. My MRC counselor Bruce Copeland, my Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) advocate Mary Fitzgerald, and my Easter Seals computer trainer Eric Oddleifson made it all possible. I refer to them as "My Dream Team for Disability Services." They faced every challenge with undaunted determination.
Bruce was always completely supportive and he adeptly used various resources to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Finding an appropriate bid for the computer was the first obstacle that we faced. Not only were the first two bids ridiculously high, but they also did not include a computer processing unit (CPU) with adequate speed and memory necessary to operate voice recognition software, nor did either one provide a large-screen monitor necessary for my visual disability.
Bruce's attention to detail and his willingness to explore all options proved invaluable. He had recently received an MRC memo indicating that Dell Computer, Inc. had just become an authorized vendor for the MRC. He became the very first MRC counselor to contact Dell and request a bid. Dell's bid was thousands of dollars less than the previous two bids. It also included adequate speed and memory, as well as a large LCD TV computer monitor. Thanks to Bruce's perseverance, we were able to select a computer that would meet the needs of my multiple disabilities.
When Bruce submitted the computer purchase order to the MRC's IT Department, it was rejected without any written explanation. Bruce tried to work out a resolution, but the IT Department was adamant in its denial. He consulted with Mary, my advocate at MOD, and explained the situation to her. She had acquired a vast knowledge of MRC regulations during her 15 years with MOD and was able to cite specific MRC regulations that supported the need for my receiving that specific Dell computer. She wrote to the then-Commissioner of MRC, Elmer Bartels, who immediately approved the purchase order. By turning to Mary, Bruce was able to acquire the products necessary to meet my disability needs, and also achieved a speedy resolution to a stalemate that could have gone on for months.
The first Dragon Naturally Speaking trainer that we hired was unable or unwilling to search for solutions to the difficulties I was having with the product. He would simply say, "You can't do that because you're disabled." Bruce realized I wouldn't be able to successfully complete the computer phase of my rehab plan with that first trainer, so he decided to get an evaluation from Easter Seals Massachusetts. An AT specialist from Easter Seals, Eric, made specific recommendations so we decided to terminate services with the first trainer and complete my training with Eric instead.
Eric had spent many years working with disabled people as an Easter Seals occupational therapist and his approach to computer training was completely opposite from the previous Dragon trainer. Whenever there was something I was unable to do with Dragon, he would say, "Let's try to find another way for you to do that." His positive approach to computer training reminded me of the popular motto: 'Think about what you can do, NOT about what you can't do.'
Eric was very patient and he created numerous "workarounds" so I can now use Dragon very effectively. We even devised a completely hands free method for restarting a computer. I believe this method could revolutionize the way many disabled people use a computer. The details about this innovative method as well as many other techniques that Eric and I developed are outlined in my magazine article entitled "Do as I say: Taking Full Advantage of Today's Voice Recognition Technology," which was recently published in a magazine called Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners.
As I write this article and introduce myself to readers, I do so with a deep appreciation that my current computer proficiency would never have become a reality without the exemplary efforts of the three members of My Dream Team. My MRC success story highlights the critical role one's MRC counselor plays, the ability of MOD to resolve disputes, and Easter Seals' expertise in computer training for people with disabilities.
Editors Note: Peter Gefteas was recently interviewed by Easter Seals. Please go to: http://ma.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=MADR ATPeter.
Outdoor Activities for All
AbilityPLUS is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization that offers year round sports and recreation programs for individuals of all ages with any disability. AbilityPLUS was founded in 1997 when a small group of volunteers were inspired by the awesome achievements of disabled individuals participating in the Adaptive Skiing Program at Waterville Valley Resort in New Hampshire. This group, along with the program's director, Kathy Chandler, decided to create a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access and recreational opportunities for people with physical and mental disabilities with the aim to "create freedom, promote independence, support inclusion and help individuals and their families discover their full social, mental and athletic potential."
AbilityPLUS is located at Waterville Valley, NH, Attitash, NH, and Mt. Snow in VT. At Nashoba Valley where I work, as well as Gunstock in NH, Crotched Mountain in NH, Wachusett Mountain in MA, and Stowe VT are all affiliates of AbilityPLUS. In addition to snow sports, AbilityPLUS offers programs in hiking, biking, kayaking, therapeutic riding and waterskiing. They are also one of the founding members of the Northeast Adaptive Sports Coalition (NEASC).
If you are interested in participating in any adaptive activities or volunteering your time, please contact AbilityPLUS, a nonprofit adaptive, snowsports & recreation organization, PO Box 253, Waterville Valley, NH, 03215, or call: 603-236-4758, fax 603-236-4250, via e-mail: info@abilityplus.org, or on the web at www.abilityplus.org.
The Access Advisory Committee to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (AACT) 30th Anniversary Celebration
Elaine C. McHugh
On Thursday, October 16, 2008 the Access Advisory Committee to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (AACT) celebrated their 30th anniversary.
The festivities where held at the Holiday Inn in Brookline, Mass. Ben Haynes welcomed guests with opening remarks about how many successes there are to celebrate and that much of the credit is due to the hard work, dedication and leadership of the AACT's Board and its members. Mr. Haynes reminded attendees of the theme for the celebration "Accessibility throughout MBTA Transit Systems and Beyond-It Works!"
April Maselli, from the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission was the Master of Ceremonies. Ms. Maselli introduced the speakers, including the keynote speaker, and provided the closing remarks. April received a floral tribute for her continued dedication, hard work and coordination between the MRC and the AACT.
Robert Rizzo, Manager of THE RIDE program and his staff of 17 work to ensure the delivery of safe, reliable, accessible service with over 6000 trips per day. This is the largest paratransit program behind Los Angeles and Philadelphia. Mr. Rizzo spoke about the AACT and its dedication to the improvement of paratransit services.
Michael Mulhern, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Retirement Fund and former manager of the MBTA spoke about his time working with AACT. He reminded everyone of the dedication of the AACT board members and all the improvements in paratransit service they helped to develop.
Daniel Grabauskas, General Manager of the MBTA , spoke about all the improvements in accessibility the MBTA has made in recent years. Mr. Grabauskas plans to have the entire transit system accessible by 2012.
The keynote speaker was Kristen McCosh, Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts-2007. Ms. McCosh sustained a C6 spinal cord injury in a diving accident at the age of 15. She lives in Boston and Falmouth, Cape Cod, with her husband. Kristen is a gifted speaker and writer: she is currently finishing a women's fiction novel series featuring women with disabilities as heroines. Kristen is employed as the Editor in Chief of "Solutions" e-magazine, published by Hire Disability Solutions, LLC ( www.hireds.com). Kristen stated that before learning to drive she used paratransit exclusively. During her many travels Kristen advocates for accessibility issues and independence.
A Celebration of Disability Mentoring Day, October 29, 2008
Elaine C. McHugh
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission welcomed Partners for Youths with Disabilities (PYD) and Charlestown High School Students to Disability Mentoring Day. The students and their PYD leader, Alex Freeman, shadowed MRC employees during their daily activities.
A discussion group was held during lunch, pizza was served. Emeka Nwokeji welcomed Charlestown High School students Troy Handy, Hilda Gonzalez, Alijua Alleyne, David Legagneur and Sang Pham. Mr. Nwokeji asked the students what they wanted to do when they finished school. Many were looking into medical careers and others expressed an interest in careers in art and computers. Mr. Nwokeji encouraged the students to go after their dreams saying "you can be anything you want to be."
Assistant Commissioner John Chappell described the mission and philosophy of the MRC. Mr. Chappell stated that people with a disability can work full-time jobs, raise a family, and do anything else they choose. Joy Bevan spoke about being a mentor and the benefits of a younger person with a disability meeting her and seeing that she lives independently and earns enough money to support herself. Laura Brugnaro also spoke about mentoring, it is especially important for the parents so they can help their child realize their full potential. April Maselli has mentored in the past and recommended the experience to others.
John Chappell made the closing remarks and presented each student with a certificate. It was an enjoyable day and Charlestown High students will be able to go back to their school and community with a new sense of what is possible.
How to Access the Consumer Involvement Program and Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council via the MRC Website
Leslie Wish
Step one: go to www.mass.gov/mrc
Step two: In the What We Do module click on Advocacy which brings you to: Disability Community Advocacy
Step three: Scroll down to Consumer Involvement to explore:
- The Consumer's Voice Newsletter
- Home-Based and Self-Employment Guide
- Individual Consumer Consultant Program (ICC)
- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) Annual Consumer Conference
- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission Consumer Handbook
Step three: Scroll down to Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council to explore:
- Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council
- About the SRC
- Annual Reports
- Scheduled Events and Meetings
- Regional Advisory Committees
- Standing Committees
- Statewide Advisory Councils
- Task Forces
MRC Needs PCA's
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) has an ongoing need for people who can provide physical assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) at conferences and Council meetings. These individuals, who shall be contracted to provide the ADL's and IADL's at SRC meetings and Consumer Conferences, may be referred to as Personal Care Attendants (PCA).
Please direct all questions to Emeka Nwokeji at 617-204-3665.
Go green, Save a Tree
Have the Consumer's Voice sent by e-mail. If you are interested please e-mail your request to: consumer.involvement@mrc.state.ma.us
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Cathy Thatcher is a Brookline artist who lives with her kitty, Dori. Cathy previously made a living bookkeeping. Now she makes fun, designing and hand crafting funky jewelry with stones, crystals and wire. Cathy looks forward to having great success with her jewelry.
Elaine McHugh, Editor
Contributing Writers
Sabrina Cazeau-Class
Peter Gefteas
Debra Kamen
Julie Langbort
Hang Lee
Betty Maher
Joan Phillips
Robert Sneirson
MRC Staff Editors
Kasper Goshgarian, Deputy Commissioner
Emeka Nwokeji, Director, Consumer Involvement
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.