Franchise receives award

Center for Independent Living recognizes Subway

November 29, 2012

By Lauren Linhard - Sentinel reporter ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ), Lewistown Sentinel

LEWISTOWN - The Subway franchise, located in downtown Lewistown, was awarded the Business Award, by Center for Independent Living of Central PA, in recognition of the store's delivery program designed for people hired with a disability.

"When picking the award recipient, we wanted a local business that understood what living well with a disability is about," said Theo Braddy, executive director of CILCP. "This specific Subway was chosen because of its model program, allowing people living with a disability the opportunity to be employed and interact with the local community."

The award was given on Nov. 20 at the Third Annual Living Well With A Disability Awards ceremony.
Sheila Cavanaugh, the Subway franchise owner, had partnered with United Cerebral Palsy in 2010 to make the Subway a more accessible place for Clifford Peffer, an employee living with a disability, to work. The partnership resulted in a lunch delivery service that could be provided by people with intellectual disabilities.

Peffer began by serving lunch once a week to a couple customers and now, two years later, he performs delivery services twice a week for more than 50 businesses, Cavanaugh said. Besides traveling with his aid, he works very independently, she added.

"Each day, he goes out to local businesses and takes the orders," Cavanaugh said. "He brings the lists back, we make the sandwiches together and then he delivers lunch to the businesses."

It's important that businesses get involved and creative, like the Subway, so people with disabilities have the chance to improve their quality of life, build relationships and learn life skills, Braddy said.

"The goal is to change the misconceptions and stereotypes placed on people living with a disability," Braddy said. "Anyone can live well when provided with adequate opportunities and resources."

Cavanaugh said she would also like to see more businesses in the area create accessible programs. The public thought is that people with disabilities would rather rely on state money, but that's not true, Cavanaugh said.

"If there are people with a disability who want to work, more power to them," Cavanaugh said. "I will do everything I can to help them out."

Local boy draws inspiration from fellow amputee
Published: Saturday, December 01, 2012, 6:01 AM Updated: Saturday, December 01, 2012, 6:06 AM
By KARA NEWHOUSE

"How do you know how to drive a car?" 8-year-old Deven Jackson asked a fellow amputee who visited his home Nov. 19.

Rohan Murphy, a New Yorker whose legs were amputated at age 4, told Deven that he uses hand controls. "When I drive it looks like I'm playing a video game," he said, prompting a grin from the boy.

Deven is the son of David and Michelle Jackson of Shermans Dale. His feet were amputated over the summer after a case of Neisseria meningitis went septic and invaded his bloodstream. He has had 13 surgeries and may need more if a fractured kneecap doesn't heal properly.

Murphy came to the area to speak at the "Living Well with a Disability" awards ceremony organized by the Center for Independent Living of Central PA. The motivational speaker wrestled at Penn State and competes in international power-lifting competitions. Knowing about Deven's story and love of sports, the center arranged for Murphy to make a stop in Shermans Dale during his trip.

With their wheelchairs side-by-side in the Jackson family living room, Deven displayed his trophy collection from the numerous sports he played. He told Murphy that his football team could've done better this year if he'd still been playing.

Murphy, who previously was featured in a Nike commercial, showed Deven a wristband given to him by a Nike executive. It says, "If you have a body, you're an athlete."

"They also gave me an extra one to give to someone very special. I've been saving it but now I'm going to give it to you," Murphy told Deven.

Deven's most beloved sport is football. Murphy told him that he'll be able to play again with prosthetics. Deven had his first molding this month. Murphy's legs were amputated too far up to use prosthetics.
Deven asked Murphy how he does things like get in and out of the bath or his wheelchair.

"The stronger I got, the easier it got," Murphy said. He currently lifts weights for an hour each day.
The Center for Independent Living has a fitness center in Newport that is fully equipped for people with disabilities. It is open Tuesdays and Thursdays. On the other days of the week, the center's Living Well with a Disability program helps people identify and pursue their goals.

Great letter from Rep. DiGirolamo to DPW Secretary Alexander! To read please click this link... Letter from Rep. DiGirolamo 

Still want to go to Tennessee?! We've decided to give you a few more days to try and win 3 free NASCAR tickets! The deadline for submissions is now Tuesday, July 17! All you have to do is tell us why you deserve the tickets! The tickets include one accessible seating area, two standard seating tickets and an accessible parking pass. For the details on how to win, visit http://www.livingwellwithadisability.org/2012/06/are-you-a-nascar-fan-your-dream-may-come-true/.

June 30, 2012

Harrisburg – Secretary of Public Welfare Gary D. Alexander today announced the funding appropriations for DPW’s fiscal year 2012-13 state budget and the continued efforts to preserve the safety net of services that continue to serve millions of Pennsylvanians.  

 “Governor Corbett has once again signed a fiscally prudent budget that will help preserve core services for the neediest Pennsylvanians and deliver value to the taxpayers,” said Alexander. “Our commitment remains, we must focus on streamlined, efficient and effective programs that will benefit those truly in need.”

The enacted budget provides $10.6 billion in state funds for the human service programs that will continue to serve millions of Pennsylvanians who rely on core programs and to further help able-bodied individuals into self-sufficiency and break the dependency from public assistance.  

The 2012-13 fiscal year budget implements real reforms that fully support the department’s mission of providing services for the neediest among us, breaking the cycle of dependency on government programs and helping Pennsylvanians who have fallen on hard times find their way back to their feet.  

“The Department of Public Welfare provides services to millions of Pennsylvanians and this budget focuses on spending every tax dollar smarter,” said Alexander. “These are unique economic times that require us to re-evaluate how we do business; we must maximize every dollar and preserve programs for the most vulnerable.”

The Corbett administration is proud to add an additional $31 million to programs that help individuals with intellectual disabilities.  An additional $17.8 million will be dedicated to addressing the waiting list associated with these programs including young adults who are “aging out” of the system and adults with aging parents who are at risk of no longer being able to care for them.

Due to an increase in revenues, the administration was able to restore $83.7 million in funding for community-based programs such as behavioral health services, mental health services, child welfare and homeless assistance.

This budget also transforms how state government works with county governments in providing services. The Human Services Block Grant pilot program, which will be available for up to 20 Pennsylvania counties to start, will provide flexibility. This flexibility gives counties more control over their human services dollars, allowing spending decisions to be made closer to home. 

“Counties know the needs of their people better than we do here in Harrisburg,” said Alexander. “Giving the counties the flexibility to meet the needs of their people is a positive step in the right direction.”

The department will also consolidate planning and reporting requirements for all counties, allowing them to spend more funds on providing services, and less on dealing with cumbersome red tape. We will continue to work with counties to develop better program performance measures that drive outcomes like self-sufficiency, improved health and education. 

The department has maintained the medical portion of the state-funded General Assistance program, by continuing to provide health care for individuals who do not qualify for the federal Medicaid or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) programs.   

The 2012-13 budget focuses on providing support for children and adults. Enhancements made to Pennsylvania’s foster care system ensure that young adults, ages 18 – 21, continue to receive support until they can safely reach self-sufficiency. This budget also provides safeguards that protect those who are physically and cognitively impaired between the ages of 18 and 59. This is a core function of government that Pennsylvania currently offers for children and the elderly, these reforms extend this to those who are middle-aged.

In a continued effort to root out waste, fraud and abuse, new audit enhancements will ensure that welfare claims are reviewed thoroughly before being paid. This will reduce instances where incorrect payments have to be chased down by the department, often resulting in lost taxpayer dollars. Audit enhancements will also focus on reducing fraudulent billing, leading to a reduction in medical errors. 

In addition, the department will implement high cost case reviews, performing intensive review and case management of high-cost consumers enrolled in Medical Assistance programs. This ensures better health outcomes for enrollees and ensures services are delivered in the right place, right time and right setting.

Further, the department is enhancing its recoupment of benefits for those who have been found ineligible.

“Bringing integrity back into our programs will help the department realize true costs savings and cost containment measures that ultimately ensure tax dollars are being spent on the programs and people they were meant to be spent on,” said Alexander.

During the 2012-2013 fiscal year, the department will also focus on a work-first initiative to move able-bodied recipients into work. Greater accountability and performance-based measures will be used with providers to encourage greater outcomes for the recipients.

“Work experience is best learned from actual work itself, and these reforms will help recipients achieve successful, independent lives free from public assistance,” said Alexander.  “This budget brings common sense reforms that will allow for effective and efficient delivery of services for the truly needy. We must remember that the best anti-poverty program is a job.”

For more information about the Department of Public Welfare, visit the department’s website at www.dpw.state.pa.us or call 1-800-692-7462.

Pennsylvanians who suspect welfare fraud should call 1-800- 932-0582.

Pack your picnic basket as you enjoy the musical stylings of "Soul Solutions" on Saturday, July 7, 2012 from 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm at Harmony Hall- 1400 Fulling Mill Road,  Middletown, PA 17057. 

A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the CILCP.

Advance/Online tickets are $15.00 per person.  Day of show gate ticket purchases are $20.00 per person.  *CASH ONLY WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE GATE*  This is an over 21 event, proper ID required. 

Visit www.harmonyhall.info for additional  information and pre-concert ticket purchases or call the concert line at 985-9300 ext. 6. 

Click on the link to see the Works for Me article about the CILCP's very own, Charlie Gingerich.

http://worksforme.tiu11.org/profile/employernewsletters/readarticle/83/?utm_source=employernewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Employer%2BNewsletter

PA PCA membership,

The May 3, 2012 hearing testimony from consumers, family members, PA PCA members and P4A can be accessed on the Public page of the PA PCA website at the following web link:

http://www.pa-pca.org/newsevents/press-room/

In addition, Here is the link to the video by Lucy Spruill: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSM93JJrqps&feature=youtu.be  

Please come out to ANY Arooga's or Brew 22 on May 7th or 8th to support the CILCP's Walk 'N Roll!  ****Don't forget to print out the voucher and bring and submit it to your server.****

CILCP received notification that we have successfully completed the PA Association of Nonprofit Organizations’ (PANO) Standards for Excellence recertification program!

PANO is the statewide membership organization, serving and advancing the charitable nonprofit sector through leadership, advocacy, education and services in order to improve the quality of life in PA.  PANO is committed to bolstering public confidence and support for the nonprofit sector.  Therefore, PANO has adopted these Standards for Excellence (Standards) to promote ethical practices and accountability in nonprofit organizations across the state.

Nonprofit organizations must comply with applicable local, state and federal laws.  The Standards build on the foundation and go a step further.  Based on fundamental values – such as honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, trust, responsibility and accountability – these Standards describe how nonprofits should act to be ethical and accountable in their program operations, governance, human resources, financial management and fundraising.  Eight (8) Guiding Principles are provided, along with fifty-five (55) Standards-more detailed performance benchmarks which enable nonprofits to strengthen their operations.  

Three years ago CILCP received certification.  We were the 44^th nonprofit in PA to achieve this certification.  At that time there were almost 40,000 nonprofits in PA.  And we were the first, and as far as I know, the only CIL to achieve this recognition.

http://www.pano.org

Click on the link to find out more about registering to vote:

http://www.whptv.com/news/local/story/March-26-is-deadline-to-register-to-vote-in/WKzKo0qBjUiYaw1pSt3UJQ.cspx

Benefiting the Dare to Dream Well Fund for Living Well With A Disability^TM

Form a Team or Participate as an Individual!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Riverfront Park/Walk/Run/Bike Tour - We will gather at the Walnut Street Bridge Plaza - Front Street side

Registration: 8:00 am / Event: 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Early registration: $20/person

Registration after April 20, 2012: $25/person

Contact Katrina Bradley, CILCP Development and Events Coordinator at 717-731-1900 ext. 238 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information or click here to register online at

http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1014600

Congrats to Jesse Swoyer, Director of CILCP Fitness Center on passing his Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT) certification!

Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT) is a fitness professional involved in developing and implementing an individualized exercise program for a person who may have a physical, sensory or cognitive disability, who is healthy or has medical clearance to perform independent physical activity. CIFT certified professionals hold a current NCCA-accredited health/fitness certification and CPR and AED certifications. In addition to knowledge of exercise physiology, exercise testing and programming, a CIFT has knowledge in inclusive facility design and awareness of social inclusion for people with disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Additionally the ACSM/NCPAD CIFT demonstrates and leads safe, effective and adapted methods of exercise; writes adapted exercise recommendations, understands adapted methods of exercise; understands precautions and contraindications to exercise for people with disabilities; is aware of current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policy specific to recreation facilities (US Access Board Guidelines) and standards for accessible facility design and can utilize motivational techniques and provide appropriate instruction to individuals with disabilities to begin and continue healthy lifestyles.

Join an afternoon of inspiration and fun for Keystone Mobility's "Independence in Vogue" Fashion Show & Open House on Saturday, April 21, 2012 from 1 pm - 6pm at their office in Middletown.

• Attend Educational Workshops
• Talk With Manufacturer's Reps and See Demonstrations
• Tour New, Custom-Designed Facility
• Meet New People and Make New Friends

For more information or to sign up for updates, visit: www.independenceinvogue.com or call 717-482-8140!

Cape May Accessible Private Home
Fully furnished and accessorized farm house designed for use by
persons with limited mobility vacationing with their families -
3/4 mile to bird sanctuary, beach and shopping

For Availability and Rates, Call us at
Art Museum Signature Properties
215-236-4664
Or Visit the Website www.capemayrentals.com/2586th.html

Benefiting the Dare to Dream Well Fund for Living Well With A Disability^TM

Form a Team or Participate as an Individual!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Riverfront Park/Walk/Run/Bike Tour

Registration: 8:00 am / Event: 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Early registration: $20/person

Registration after April 20, 2012: $25/person

Contact Katrina Bradley, CILCP Development and Events Coordinator at 717-731-1900 ext. 238 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information or click here to register online at

http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1014600

Over 150 people attending yesterday's State Rally at the HBG Capitol to voice their frustration about Governor Corbett budget cuts to the Disability Community.

Click on the links below to see yesterday's footage! 

http://www.abc27.com/story/17046850/disabled-advocates-protest-pa-welfare-agency-move 

http://videos.pennlive.com/patriot-news/2012/02/disabled_in_action_sponsor_ral_3.html

STATE RALLY - Wednesday, February 29 from 11 am - 4 pm at the Capitol Rotunda, Harrisburg, PA.  We will march to the Governor's mansion after the rally.  Bring a lunch and dress weather appropriate.

The Disability Community wants to tell Governor Corbett to STOP the erosion of CONSUMER CONTROL and CONSUMER CHOICE; STOP restricting eligible Consumers from services and creating waiting lists; STOP creating fraud where non exists and using it as an excuse to institutionalize the Disabled Community. 

If you live in the Central PA area, contact CILCP Director of Living Well, at 717-731-1900 ext. 226 for more information.  If you live outside the Central PA area, contact the Disabled in Action of PA (DIA) at 215-627-7255.

Check out the article about the CILCP's impact in Newport, PA!

http://www.pennlive.com/perry-county-times/index.ssf/2012/02/center_has_impact_after_six_mo.html

PARENT/YOUTH/PROFESSIONAL FORUM

PLEASE JOIN US!
The Pennsylvania Department of Health will host the Parent /Youth/ Professional Forum for the South Central District (SCD) in an effort to  improve services for the Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN).
                                           
Our forum for the SCD will be held:
Wednesday February 22, 2012
The Giant Community Center
2300 Linglestown Road
Harrisburg, Pa 17010
At our last forum our parent-leaders met as work groups to challenge the Special Health Care Needs Children and families to refuse to accept failure, to be inspired to turn their disability into an ABILITY,  and to work hard for our forums to be successful in accomplishing the goal of changing systems. Progress can be made through a united effort to meet the challenges of our state-wide concerns. It is amazing to hear of the inspiration and work they are doing  between our forums.
How can we make this apply to the SCD?

Please come and assist a workgroup to move us forward in forming goals followed by action steps.  Some of you expressed an interest in a specific group.  Our state-wide concerns are care coordination, accessing resources, Medical Home/insurance and youth needs for independent living/transition and  cultural competency. We welcome all past and new participants to join us.
Do not miss this important forum!!!

We look forward to seeing you there.  We wish to include you.  Please contact  Carol Miller at 717.787.8092 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  at the PA Dept. of Health to obtain the registration form.  Form must be completed by Febuary 17, 2012.   There will be limited reimbursement available for those that incur travel and child care expenses to attend this meeting.
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!

The Pennsylvania Consortium for CYSHCN is an initiative of the Special Kids Network Systems of Care through the Pennsylvania Department of Health. To learn more about available resources and to be involved in making a difference in the lives of CYSHCN call 1-800-986-4550 or visit our website at www.gotoskn.state.pa.us.