Wheelchair Basketball Person with developmental disability working at a computer American Sign Language - the letter Z Skier with leg amputation Reading Braille Boy in wheelchair showing the fish he caught PRESENTED TO: The honorable Governor Ted Kulongoski, the Oregon Legislative Assembly, and to the people we serve. SILC 2008-2009 Annual Report Oregon State Independent Living Council TABLE OF CONTENTS Cover Letter......................................................................................... Page 3 Independent Living.............................................................................. Page 4 How and Why Were SILCs Formed........................................................ Page 4 Who Serves on the SILC...................................................................... Page 4 SILC Members..................................................................................... Page 5 SILC Meetings..................................................................................... Page 6 SILC Responsibilities............................................................................ Page 6 State Plan for Independent Living......................................................... Page 6 Independent Living Services................................................................. Page 7 Centers for Independent Living............................................................. Page 8 Fiscal Year 2009 State Plan Focus......................................................... Page 9 2008-2009 SPIL Amendment................................................................ Page 9 2008-2010 SPIL Goal Summary............................................................. Page 10 2008-2010 SPIL Goals and Objectives................................................... Page 11 2008 and 2009 SPIL Accomplishments.................................................. Page 13 Other Collaborations and Accomplishments............................................ Page 17 SPIL Partnerships................................................................................. Page 20 STEPS Project....................................................................................... Page 21 2008 SILC Budget Report...................................................................... Page 22 2009 SILC Budget Report...................................................................... Page 23 What Next? ......................................................................................... Page 24 Acknowledgements…............................................................................ Page 25 If you would like to request additional copies of this report or alternate formats, please contact the SILC office at 503-945-6204. This report is also available on the SILC web site at www.ORSILC.org Dear Governor Kulongoski, Oregon Legislators, Disability Advocates, Community Partners, and Interested Parties, It is our pleasure to present the State Independent Living Council (SILC) 2008/2009 Report. What is the SILC? — The SILC is a council comprised of up to twenty-one Governor-appointed disability advocates, most of whom have disabilities. SILC members share the belief that disability is a natural part of our shared human experience. Our Mission — The mission of the SILC is to promote choice, equal access, and full inclusion of people with disabilities throughout the State of Oregon, to increase opportunities and independence of people with disabilities. Why Our Mission is Important — Advancing our mission contributes to a more independent, informed, economically sound, and capable society. Philosophies and services that promote independence result in benefits to everyone — every individual who is able to extend the time they are able to live independently provides a savings to government. Who Are People with Disabilities? — It is estimated that 1 out of every 5 Americans age 5 and over experience a disability and about 80% of the general population will eventually have a disability or have a relative who experiences a disability. Thus, people with disabilities make up the largest and most inclusive “minority group” in the United States, with individuals of all ages, both genders, and all socioeconomic, religious, and ethnic groups. Members of this large minority group are parents, children, business owners, business consumers, legislators, voting constituents, community members, managers and co-workers, your friends and peers, and possibly you. Our 2008-2009 Report — We hope you find this report and the various pictures, quotes, and stories that demonstrate the value of choice, inclusion, independence, and access to be informative and inspiring. We welcome your input and encourage your involvement in increasing opportunities for Oregonians with disabilities. Sincerely, Angel Hale — SILC Chair Tina Treasure — SILC Executive Director 3 Page WHAT IS “INDEPENDENT LIVING”? The core of Independent Living philosophy stems from the belief voiced in the founding documents of the United States — that ALL individuals are created equal, with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Independent Living philosophy is the belief that disability is a natural part of our shared human experience. Responsibility, self-determination, informed choice, independence, and accountability apply to ALL people — regardless of whether a person currently has a disability. Therefore, people with disabilities: Should have the same unalienable and civil rights, options, and control over choices in their own lives as do people without disabilities. Should not be barred from equal opportunities to control decisions about their lives and pursue activities of their choosing. Should have equitable rights to inclusion and opportunities to assume full citizenship, and to be active participants in their families, communities, and careers — as peer citizens, with the associated responsibilities and risks that come with these rights. HOW AND WHY WERE SILCS FORMED? State Independent Living Councils were established as a result of 1992 amendments to the federal Rehabilitation Act. The Act includes seven sections, called “Titles”, with each Title addressing different aspects of disability and associated funding. Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act provides financial assistance to states for three main purposes: To provide, expand, and improve the provision of Independent Living (IL) services To develop and support statewide networks of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) To improve working relationships among a variety of federal, state, and other independent living and rehabilitation service programs (specific programs are outlined in the Act) Each state must form a State Independent Living Council in order to be eligible to receive Title VII financial assistance. Oregon’s SILC was established in 1994 by Executive Order of the Governor (EO 94-12). WHO SERVES ON THE SILC? Membership is mandated to include a combination of current or past consumers of Independent Living services, a representative of Centers for Independent Living (CILs), private businesses and other persons with disabilities, parents, guardians, and advocates of and for individuals with disabilities. A representative from the Oregon Commission for the Blind (OCB), and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS) serve in ex-officio positions. The majority of SILC members must be individuals with a disability. 4 Page SILC MEMBERS …….as of September 2009 Name Location/Representing Ann Balzell Portland Brad Collins Eugene Sharon Coverstone Salem Sharon Ely White City Barry Fox-Quamme CIL Representative – Portland Angel Hale - Chair Salem Wendy Howard CIL Representative – Klamath Falls Dodie McKenzie Section 121 Representative – Grand Ronde Randy Samuelson CIL Representative – Grants Pass Sherry Stock Molalla Frank Synoground Ex-officio – Oregon Commission for the Blind Stephaine Parrish-Taylor Ex-officio – Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Dean Westwood Portland SILC members at the September 2009 meeting Top row: Dodie McKenzie, Sherry Stock, Angel Hale, Sharon Ely, Sharon Coverstone. Front row: Randy Samuelson, Frank Synoground, Dean Westwood. 5 Page SILC MEETINGS The SILC generally meets quarterly, on the first Friday of March, June, September, and December. SILC meetings include discussion and action on regular business items, as well as training, presentations, updates on SILC activities and projects, and news and action alerts on local, state, and national disability issues. SILC meetings are public meetings and as such, guests are welcome to attend and participate in the public input segment. If you would like to receive meeting notices and disability news via e-mail, or if you’d like to receive our quarterly newsletter, please contact the SILC at oregon.silc@state.or.us. SILC RESPONSIBILITIES Oregon SILC’s roles and responsibilities, as stated in Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended include: Jointly develop and sign, with the Oregon Commission for the Blind and Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) – a three year plan for Independent Living across the state. Monitor, review, and evaluate implementation of the SPIL. Coordinate activities with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) and organizations that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues. Ensure that SILC meetings are public and sufficient advance notice is provided. Submit periodic required reports to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) — the federal agency that oversees national IL programs. Hold hearings and forums as the SILC deems necessary to carry out its functions. Work with OVRS to prepare the SILC Resource Plan — budget for SILC operations. Supervise and evaluate staff to carry out the functions of the SILC. STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING To be eligible to receive financial assistance for Independent Living, each state must submit a State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), which outlines the existence of appropriate planning, financial support and coordination to appropriately address, on a statewide and comprehensive basis, needs in their state for... the provision of State independent living services; the development and support of a statewide network of centers for independent living; and working relationships between – programs providing independent living services and independent living centers; and the vocational rehabilitation program established under Title I, and other programs providing services for individuals with disabilities. 6 Page This three year plan is developed with close involvement of Oregon’s Centers for Independent Living (CILs), and consumers across the state. Once a SPIL is in place, one of the SILC’s primary responsibilities is to monitor, review, and evaluate the SPIL’s implementation, to assess how effectively we are following our three year “flight plan”. INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES “Independent Living” (IL) services are commonly used to describe four specific federally- mandated services provided by Centers for Independent Living (CIL): 1) Information and Referral 2) Skills Training 3) Peer Mentoring 4) Individual and Systems Advocacy Centers for Independent Living are non-profit organizations, run by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities, serving all ages and all disability groups. All CIL services are provided with the Independent Living (IL) philosophy of consumer choice and control. IL services are designed to teach people to fish, as opposed to giving them a fish, thus empowering individuals to gain confidence, self-esteem, and independence. In 2008/2009, Oregon’s Network of Centers for Independent Living consisted of eight CILs, covering twenty-four of Oregon’s counties. This includes five CILs which received federal funding and three CILs which received grants through the State. More funding and expanded CIL services are needed to insure that people with disabilities in unserved or underserved areas have access to the valuable and cost-saving services offered by CILs. 7 Page 2009 NETWORK OF CILS Central Oregon Resources for Independent Living (CORIL) PO Box 9425, Bend, OR 97708 (mailing) - 20436 Clay Pigeon Court, Bend, OR 97702 (physical) 541-388-8103 (voice/tty) - 541-388-1226 (FAX) coril@coril.org - www.coril.org Service area: Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living (EOCIL) 1021 SW 5th Ave., Ontario, OR 97914 541-889-3119 (voice/TTY) - 541-889-4647 (FAX) eocil@eocil.org - www.eocil.org EOCIL Pendleton Satellite Office 322 SW 5th St, Pendleton, OR 97801 - 541-276-1037 (voice) – 541-276-1185 (FAX) Service area: Baker, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Malheur, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wheeler counties HASL Independent Abilities Center 305 NE E St., Grants Pass, OR 97526 541-479-4275 (voice) - 541-479-7261 FAX haslstaff@yahoo.com - www.haslonline.org Service area: Jackson and Josephine counties Independent Living Resources (ILR) 1839 NE Couch St., Portland, OR 97232 503-232-7411 (voice) - 503-232-8408 (TTY) - 503-232-7480 (FAX) ilrpdx@qwest.net - www.ilr.org Service area: Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties Lane Independent Living Alliance (LILA) 99 W. 10th Ave. #117, Eugene, OR 97401 541-607-7020 (voice) - 541-284-9474 (message) - 541-345-7021 FAX lila@lilaoregon.org - www.lilaoregon.org Service area: Lane County South Coast Independent Living Services (SCILS) – SCILS closed June 30, 2009 29692 Ellensburg Ave. Suite 4, Gold Beach, OR 97444 541-247-6766 (voice/TTY) - 541-247-7894 (FAX) renee@scils.us Service area: Coos and Curry counties SPOKES Unlimited 415 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 541-883-7547 (voice) - 541-885-2469 FAX wendy.howard@spokesunlimited.org - www.spokesunlimited.org Servicea area: Klamath and Lake counties Umpqua Valley disAbilities Network (UVdN) PO Box 507, Roseburg, OR 97470 (mailing) - 736 SE Jackson Street, Roseburg, OR 97470 (physical) 541-672-6336 (voice) - 541-440-2882 (TTY) - 541-672-8606 FAX uvdn@uvdn.org - www.uvdn.org Service area: Douglas 8 Page FISCAL YEAR 2009 STATE PLAN FOCUS State IL programs are reviewed periodically by the federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). Oregon’s IL program was reviewed in 2008. Based on the review findings, much of FY 2009 was devoted to examining the roles and division of responsibilities of each SPIL partner and restructuring them to more closely align with RSA’s current interpretation of regulations, while maintaining our nationally recognized collaborative relationships. Since those changes necessitated an amendment to the State Plan, we took the opportunity to review and streamline other aspects of the SPIL as well. Fiscal Year 2009 Highlights Implemented fiscal, IL budget, administrative, and other transition activities to align more closely with RSA’s clarification about SPIL partner legal roles Drafted a job description and helped OVRS establish an IL Program Coordinator position to assume IL program tasks formerly performed by the SILC Formed an ad-hoc American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) fund committee and coordinated development of ARRA fund allocation proposals for RSA’s consideration Revised SPIL fiscal sections to apply ARRA funding decisions and new budget structures Developed specific SPIL outcome measures to more effectively demonstrate the benefits and value of IL services and philosophy Reviewed and streamlined overall SPIL goals, objectives, and activities to reflect RSA’s input about legal roles Revised CIL Network design to clarify the long-time priority - funding CILs that receive federal funds to a specific minimum level before funding additional CILs; added strategies for appropriating new, time-limited funding 2008-2010 SPIL AMENDMENT The Fiscal Year 2009 focus on role and responsibility transition and SPIL review resulted in a proposed SPIL Amendment submitted to RSA for approval. The SPIL Amendment includes a revised SPIL mission statement: It is the mission of Oregon’s Independent Living Services program to… Support the ability of Oregonians with disabilities to direct their lives, access their communities, fulfill their responsibilities, and enjoy their rights of citizenship through provision of consumer-driven, peer-delivered services Promote IL values through advocacy, education, collaborative partnerships, and outreach Demonstrate accountability of the public and private funds invested in this endeavor 9 Page Review of SPIL goals and objectives resulted in revisions to reflect four main goals: Individual & Systems Change — The Independent Living philosophy is implemented within Oregon. IL Funding — Oregon’s IL system has sufficient monetary resources. Accountability — Oregon’s Designated State Unit (DSU), SILC and CILs are accountable in regard to regulations and philosophy. Program Development & Evaluation — Oregon’s IL system maximizes available resources in the delivery of high quality services. The amended 2008-2010 SPIL was shared with SPIL partners and consumers for review and input, and SPIL signatories approved the draft amendment in June, 2009. Just before the draft SPIL amendment was to be submitted, ARRA Title VII, Part C funding negotiations were necessary. SPIL signatories agreed to withhold submission of the amendment to RSA, pending the outcome of the ARRA negotiation process. The ARRA fund negotiations resulted in additional minor SPIL changes, all of which were approved by RSA. The SPIL Amendment will be in effect through September 30, 2010, when a new, three-year SPIL, currently in development, will go into effect. SUMMARY OF 2008-2010 SPIL GOALS Although many FY2009 activities focused on developing an amended SPIL and implementing transition activities, the goals listed below were officially still in place during FY2008 and FY2009 — the first and second years of the 2008-2010 SPIL: ADVOCATE — Advocate for increased awareness and implementation of IL philosophy as a means to further choice, equal access, and full inclusion of people with disabilities. DEVELOP IL LEADERS — Develop IL leaders to help spread the word and keep the IL movement active and effective. EDUCATE/OUTREACH — Educate Oregonians about IL services and philosophy. IL FUNDING — Support Oregon’s provision of IL services. IL SUPPORT — Increase understanding and implementation of IL philosophy. SILC STANDARDS AND ASSURANCES — Attain and maintain full compliance with nationally recommended SILC Standards and Assurances. 2008-2010 SPIL GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The SPIL objectives identify overall strategies, topics, and collaborations necessary to address the SPIL goals. Combined, the SPIL goals and objectives further the SILC values and our mission of promoting choice, equal access, and full inclusion of people with disabilities, throughout the State of Oregon. 10 Page SPIL LEADERSHIP GOAL — Develop IL leaders to help spread the word and keep the IL movement active and effective Leadership Objectives: Identify and recruit 18 individuals for leadership development Encourage and mentor grass root IL leaders SPIL ADVOCACY GOAL — Expand awareness and implementation of IL philosophy Advocacy Objectives: Deinstitutionalization - Increase inclusion and independence of people with disabilities by promoting successful transition from institutions. ADA - Increase inclusion of people with disabilities by advocating for increased implementation of the ADA. Disability Conference - Increase education and awareness about IL services, IL philosophy, disability issues, resources, training, technology, and supports by advocating for a statewide cross-disability conference. Disaster Preparedness - Increase awareness about and ensure that disability-specific needs are identified and included in local, and state disaster preparedness. LEADERSHIP ADVOCACY EDUCATION SPIL EDUCATION/ OUTREACH GOAL — Educate Oregonians about IL services and philosophy Education/Outreach Target Populations: Health care providers Recruit and train youth 11 Page Dollar sign SPIL IL FUNDING GOAL — Educate Oregonians about IL services and philosophy IL Funding Objectives: Expand and share IL resources and funding opportunities Assist Oregon CILs in educating about the benefits and cost savings of IL services IL FUNDING SPIL IL SUPPORT GOAL — Increase understanding and support of IL philosophy IL Support Objectives: Increase Oregonians’ knowledge about disability, IL philosophy, and the benefit of people attaining as much independence as possible Improve and expand implementation of IL philosophy IL SUPPORT ADMINISTRATIVE SPIL ADMINISTRATIVE GOAL — National SILC Standards and Assurances IL Administrative Objective: Attain and maintain full compliance with the nationally suggested SILC Standards and Assurances 12 Page Arrow from oregon state hospital to a private residence Wheelchair 2008 AND 2009 SPIL GOAL AND OBJECTIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS Collaboration is a SPIL requirement, and it is one of the most effective paths to achieving our goals. The Oregon SILC has developed a national reputation as a leader in collaborative projects and activities. This approach has repeatedly earned us recognition for exemplary practices. Our activities during FY2008 and FY2009 continued to reflect ongoing partnerships as we implemented the SPIL. Various collaborations resulted in reduced duplication of effort, enabled greater leveraging of resources, and thus spread IL philosophy into additional programs. The following list is a sample of various SPIL achievements of the SILC and/or our valuable SPIL partners — Oregon’s Centers for Independent Living (CILs), Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (OVRS), Oregon Commission for the Blind (OCB), and the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). In many cases, the SILC was the lead coordinator, yet the list also demonstrates accomplishments led by SPIL partners, as they coordinated specific activities with other individuals and agencies. The SILC extends our gratitude to the many local individuals and agencies that were involved in many of these activities. SILC ADVOCACY HIGHLIGHTS Deinstitutionalization — A federal Money Follows the Person grant is funding “On the Move in Oregon” — a project that plans to move 1,000 individuals from long term institutionalization to community-based living, with packages of supports and services that enable individuals to live more independently. The SILC connected Oregon CILs with the On the Move project team, resulting in CILs contracting to provide peer mentoring and other support services that enable successful transitions to community-based living. Over 100 Individuals, so far, have successfully transitioned into community living, resulting in decreased costs to the state. Analysis of the On the Move project increased awareness of the feasibility and cost savings of community-based living options. Federal Education/Advocacy — The SILC and other disability groups joined advocates across the nation to share concerns about two proposed Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule changes. One change would reduce the timeframe for reimbursement of targeted case management transition cost claims from 180 days to 60 days. Another change would implement a “vendor bidding” process for Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Both changes would reduce individuals’ options, with potential to decrease independence and inclusion. 13 Page ADA - Increase inclusion of people with disabilities by advocating for increased implementation of the ADA The SILC co-signed the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) letter to legislators, supporting the concepts included in the proposed ADA Amendment Act (ADA AA). The ADA Amendment Act (ADA AA) passed through Congress in June 2008 — a significant disability/business community collaborative achievement! Lane Independent Living Alliance (LILA, a CIL in Eugene) promoted accessibility in their area, resulting in the Governor’s proclamation of “Blue Path Day” to bring attention to business accessibility. This project with local business leaders instituted the Blue Path system for identifying businesses that are fully accessible. LILA worked with the University of Oregon to develop accessibility in the construction of its new baseball stadium, including dugout access. LILA provided input on the Capitol Renovation Project, resulting in plans that will improve accessibility of Oregon’s capitol building. Statewide Cross Disability Conference — SILC and CIL staff served on the Steering Committee and various program committees for the first and second statewide cross-disability Mega Conference. The conference mission is to educate, empower, inspire, and connect people with disabilities and those who assist them. The values promoted through the conference include independence, choice, equal access and equal dignity for people with disabilities. Over 400 individuals attended the Mega Conference in FY2008, and over 500 attended in FY2009, resulting in people with disabilities and family members, professionals, and advocates learning about disability and IL information and resources. Mega Conference contacts resulted in a larger pool of participants for the SILC’s FY2010 Disability Needs Assessment survey. Partnerships were developed and strengthened, resulting in more agencies making referrals to CILs and incorporating IL philosophy in their own service delivery. The conference facility management initiated staff diversity training, made accessibility improvements, and is planning a hotel addition and remodel project to increase accessibility and inclusion, as a result of input from conference planners. Disaster Preparedness — CILs, SILC members, and staff connected with disaster preparedness planning groups across Oregon to ensure that disability perspectives and needs are considered in disaster preparedness planning. 14 Page SILC LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS General Leadership Outreach — The SILC developed recruiting materials targeted for young adults with disabilities, and extended outreach to transition specialists and college disability coordinators. SILC Member Leadership Development — The SILC’s Membership Development and Training Committee revised SILC member orientation materials and mentoring processes as a means to develop stronger IL leaders at the State level. CIL Leadership Development — CILs developed IL Leaders by recruiting youth to volunteer at their agencies, posting opportunities on their Web pages, recruiting new board members with greater diversity, and partnering with other agencies on various leadership and advocacy training events. OCB Leadership Development — Oregon Comission for the Blind provided leadership training opportunities to transition counselors and conducted an annual Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP) to develop new disability leaders. Young Adult Leadership Training — Northwest Senior and Disabled Services (NWSDS) partnered with the SILC to conduct a two-day Young Adult Leadership Training course in January 2008. Participants reported that they feel more empowered and that they learned leadership concepts and skills that they will implement in their lives, schools, and communities. Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) — Oregon CILs planned and conducted several DMD events throughout Oregon, resulting in employment information and opportunities being shared with individuals with disabilities, including young adults. SILC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH HIGHLIGHTS Oregonians educated about IL services and philosophy — Outreach activities included presentations and display tables at various agencies and conferences, including Building Futures, Celebrate Wellness, the Mega Conference, and OVRS In-Service, among others. Healthcare and Correction Facility Connections — EOCIL, a CIL in eastern Oregon, developed connections that resulted in some correctional facility staff and a diverse group of healthcare professionals becoming aware of the value, benefits, and cost savings of IL services and philosophy. This resulted in some agencies incorporating IL philosophy into their service delivery, an increase in cross- referrals, more effective consumer outcomes, and less duplication of services. Healthcare Outreach and Systems Change — EOCIL participates in the state’s HIV Care Coalition, and has been recognized as a high quality provider of successful self-directed, individualized services to consumers living with HIV/AIDS. This work 15 Page Government building surrounded by money and people resulted in OHSU implementing self-management policies that mandate the teaching of self-directed strategies for providing their services to consumers. Mental Health Outreach — LILA, a CIL in Eugene, developed a relationship with the local funding agency for mental health services and partnered with Lane Individual Practices Association in conducting community events and an annual resource development event. Healthcare Outreach — OCB provided numerous presentations to health care providers regarding their IL services for individuals with low vision and blindness, resulting in cross-referrals and more successful consumer outcomes. SILC IL FUNDING AND SUPPORT HIGHLIGHTS Sharing of opportunities and resources — The SILC’s state level presence enabled multiple connections between CILs and various state agencies for a variety of projects that increased opportunities and independence of people with disabilities, while also diversifying CIL funding. General IL Education/Outreach — The SILC, CILs, OVRS, and other disability agencies and partners continue to share materials and presentations that educate about the benefits and cost savings of IL services and IL philosophy. Legislative IL Education — CILs continue to develop and share materials with legislators to educate about the value, benefits, and cost savings of IL services and philosophy. This information has resulted in legislative approval of various levels of State IL funding through the years, enabling consumers to access CIL services, increase their independence, and thus, save the State money in the long run. IL Funding via CIL/OVRS Employment Project — DHS, OVRS, and the SILC continue to work together during budget development processes so that state IL funding is included in program budget requests. OVRS partnered with local VR branches and the CILs in a project that allocates funds to local VR offices, specifically for procuring employment-related IL services from CILs. This diversifies CIL funding, and results in more cross-agency referrals and more successful consumer employment outcomes. OVRS IL Support — OVRS consistently dedicated portions of the federal IL program dollars to support IL services via contracts with eligible CILs. This collaboration helps to offset fluctuations in the State’s IL funding. Although this doesn’t resolve the need for higher and more consistent levels of State IL funding, OVRS’s generosity increases CIL viability and consistency in staffing and service delivery levels. OVRS also provided fiscal, administrative, and other supports to the SILC, thus freeing more Title VII SILC resources for CIL support. WIN — In this CIL/Work Incentives Network (WIN) project, Work Incentive Coordinators were housed in CILs across Oregon, offering employment planning information to people with disabilities, enabling them to make more informed 16 Page employment decisions, often with the safety net of having some benefits in place during the transition, contributing to more successful employment outcomes. SILC STANDARDS AND INDICATORS Attain and maintain full compliance with nationally recommended SILC Standards and Indicators — This administrative goal reflects our interest in joining with SILCs across the country to develop consistency and compliance by identifying and voluntarily implementing a set of Standards and Indicators. The Oregon SILC conducted a self-evaluation to determine our compliance level with the recommended SILC Standards and Indicators and identified that we are in substantial compliance with the majority of the SILC Standards and Indicators. Work is in progress to increase compliance in a few remaining areas that have been identified as valuable and consistent with the legal role of the SILC. Identified some SILC Standards and Indicators that we will not implement, since they don’t fit the new federal input about the legal role of the SILC. OTHER ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND COLLABORATIONS Some accomplishments do not fit neatly into specific State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) goals and objectives. Highlights of some of those achievements are listed below. SILC Collaboration — In federal year 2009, the SILC was nationally recognized by RSA and listed on their website for two exemplary practices: 1) Exemplary collaboration with SPIL and other partners; 2) Exemplary SPIL monitoring process where SPIL partners voluntarily complete and submit SPIL progress reports to the SILC during the course of the SPIL, enabling the SILC to more effectively fulfill our responsibility of monitoring SPIL implementation and progress. OVRS/IL — OVRS was in Order of Selection this year, resulting in an increased wait list for OVRS services and decreased utilization of CIL services. ARRA dollars and other funds were used to hire staff in OVRS branch offices, resulting in 1,400 consumers moving off the Order of Selection wait list as of September 2009, and more OVRS/IL collaborative services that improve consumer employment outcomes. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Fund Proposal — OVRS, OCB, SILC and CIL representatives collaborated to develop a State proposal on ARRA C Fund allocation to fit federal criteria regarding funding, timeline, outcomes, and reporting criteria, while also reflecting IL philosophy and Oregon’s IL funding priorities in ways that enable CIL stability beyond the ARRA fund period. Pending official approval by RSA in early federal year 2010, the proposed ARRA funds will supplement CIL funding during the ARRA period — a significant accomplishment, enabling CILs to assist consumers to attain and maintain more inclusion and independence. 17 Page National SILC Projects — The Oregon SILC assisted in two national SILC projects. In one project, a national subcommittee began developing SILC outcome measures to enable more SILC consistency, quality, and accountability. The second project allowed the Oregon SILC to review a SPIL development tool, in collaboration with Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU), enabling more clarity and consistency in each state’s SPIL development process. State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) & SILC — The SILC continues to have at least one representative serve on the SRC, enabling joint efforts on issues and projects that impact both agencies. This relationship also enables the SILC to be more aware of VR State Plan development and needs assessment processes, resulting in more opportunities to leverage resources and partner in mutually beneficial ways. Medicaid Long-Term Care Quality & Reimbursement Advisory Committee — This committee advises the Seniors and People with Disabilities (SPD) Division on changes or modifications to the Medicaid reimbursement system, as well as the effects of proposed changes or modifications on the quality of long-term care and community- based care services. The SILC has a representative on this committee, insuring that committee work and input reflects consumer control, disability, and IL perspectives. Highlights from federal years 2008-2009: Reviewed and provided input on the Governor’s proposed Division budget Recommended greater investment in Oregon’s long-term care delivery system Shared concerns about the negative impact of proposed funding reductions on access and quality of services for seniors, people with disabilities, and the provider community Reviewed SPD Initiatives on diverse topics and submitted input to the Governor and legislature, as applicable Reviewed provider quality and efficiency initiatives that include defining quality measures, measuring provider quality, and updating and clarifying licensing rules Worked with partners to conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) Analysis as a tool to analyze how budget cuts and other changes will affect people with disabilities during an economic downturn Submitted input to the 2009 Legislative Assembly regarding concerns about DHS proposals for 20% and 30% budget reductions Reviewed and approved rules limiting nursing facility administrative costs and property expenses to help Oregon manage through its budget crisis Supported changes to the nursing facility reimbursement structure to implement the proposed Certified Nursing Assistant staffing standards Supported an increase to reimbursement rates for Alzheimer’s Care Units based on appropriate changes to support the needs of this specific population Testified before the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Human Services Subcommittee regarding Budget Reduction Option 18 Page State Plan on Aging Development Committee — This committee is charged with the task of developing the State Plan on Aging. SILC and other IL representatives were involved in a two day planning session to develop the framework for the plan and then three committees were formed to focus on priority area content development. Highlights from federal years 2008-2009: SILC involvement enabled a unique and significant opportunity to provide input that ensures that the State Plan on Aging incorporates IL philosophy. The final draft was an exemplary model of an IL based State Plan on Aging. Increased collaboration with many senior groups and advocates. ADRC Advisory Committee — IL representatives are involved in reviewing and evaluating the pilot Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) project. This analysis will be used to develop an ADRC model to implement state wide. Highlights from federal years 2008-2009: SILC participation provides an IL voice in planning an ADRC model that utilizes wellness education and services as a prevention/intervention strategy, via a one stop user-friendly system. ADRC projects focus on increasing awareness of home and community-based service options so that individuals who are at risk for institutionalization are able to remain in their own homes with appropriate services, resulting in more individual independence and lower costs to the state. SILC representation on this committee provides an avenue for IL perspectives and CIL involvement in ADRC projects. SPD-OPI (Oregon Project Independence) Focus Groups — OPI was initiated in 1975 to serve seniors, with direction to expand services to people with disabilities, as funding permits. So far, funding has been insufficient to adequately serve seniors so the expansion has not occurred. A legislative budget note directed SPD to work with partners to advise how OPI services can be delivered more effectively, and how OPI can expand its services to include people with disabilities. Highlights from federal years 2008-2009: Stakeholder focus groups were conducted to solicit ideas and input. The Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) asked the SILC to collaborate on a joint response, based on the SILC’s major involvement in a previous OPI project where administrative rules were drafted for expanding OPI to people with disabilities. Although OPI direction had not been determined during this reporting period, the SILC and other partners joined together to develop and share input about how to retain this valuable program that serves many people who would be forced into more restrictive situations if OPI ceases to exist. It appears the addition of services to people with disabilities is not far off. 19 Page Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC) — The Oregon Disabilities Commission advises the Governor, the Legislative Assembly, and state agency administrators on issues related to achieving full economic, social, legal and political equity for individuals with disabilities. Highlights from federal years 2008-2009: As a result of maintaining two SILC representatives on the ODC, the SILC has an ongoing opportunity to offer IL perspectives and concerns on many disability issues that ODC considers, including transportation, adult protective services, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) state changes, long-term services and supports, health care (including mental health), and employment. Developed a sub-committee to advise SPD on the state’s Medicaid buy-in program, “Employed Persons with Disabilities” (EPD). This program enables qualified working people with disabilities to buy in to the Medicaid program, and thus gain access to insurance coverage for services not usually covered through private health insurance, enabling people to attain and/or maintain their health, independence, and/or employment. Work is in progress to consider “asset portability” to address the problem that EPD clients often experience when they retire and suddenly have too much countable income to qualify for Medicaid. Reviewed and commented on legislation that impacts people with disabilities via position papers, legislative testimony, and/or conversations with legislators and other decision makers. Topics included care provider payments, aspects of foster care and assisted living, cost effectiveness of in-home services, a state version of the ADA, an anti-bullying bill, and the Capitol Renovation Project, resulting in more inclusion and independence of people with disabilities. SPIL PARTNERSHIPS In addition to the collaborative relationships and projects listed above, OVRS, OCB, and the SILC have connections with, and/or representation on numerous disability related councils, boards, and commissions throughout the state. Although connections may shift as member terms expire, and various groups disband or are initiated as needs change, the list below serves as an example of the diverse connections and partnerships that have not been listed in previous sections of this report. lElders in Action lOregon Cross-Disability Coalition lLifespan Respite Committee lPublic Transportation Advisory Committee lHelp America Vote Act Advisory Subcomittee lSpecial Transportation Fund Committees lDisability Service Advisory Committees lOral Hull Foundation for the Blind lWorkforce Policy Board lOregon Fair Housing Council lHuman Services Coalition lCompetetive Employment Project 20 Page House with stepping stones leading to the door STEPS PROJECT This state-wide training project is a partnership between the Home Care Commission, and Oregon’s Centers for Independent Living (CILs). The SILC initially developed and administered this very successful project with funding and support from the Home Care Commission. During 2009, the SILC transferred the STEPS project administration to the Home Care Commission. CILs hired and trained staff to teach employer skills to consumers that utilize Homecare Workers (HCWs) through the Client-Employed program, Oregon Project Independence, State Plan Personal Care (for people with physical disabilities), and the Spousal Pay program. The training is FREE to consumer-employers and includes topics such as how to recruit, interview, hire, manage, and provide a safe working environment for Homecare Workers. As of July 2009, 2,864 STEPS training events have been conducted across the state, resulting in increases in consumer self- advocacy skills, independence, safety, employer skills, more consistent services, and increased numbers of seniors and people with disabilities being able to remain in their homes. The project also resulted in a positive impact on case managers and others in the service delivery system. The impact includes decreased workloads, empowered consumers, and less turnover and greater client satisfaction with their in-home services. STEPS to success with your Homecare Worker 21 Page INDEPENDENT LIVING BUDGET REPORT OCT 1, 2007 – SEPT 30, 2008 IL REVENUES BUDGET Federal Title VII Part B Funds $299,070 Federal Title I OVRS and OCB Funds $20,485 State General Fund FY2007/08 $360,000 OVRS/SILC Match Project Funds $915,434 STEPS Project Funds $317,440 TOTAL IL REVENUES $1,912,430 IL EXPENDITURES SILC OPERATIONS EXPENDITURES SILC Staffing $217,406 SILC Administrative Expenses $51,056 SILC IL Support Expenses $20,446 TOTAL SILC EXPENDITURES $288,907 CIL BASE FUNDING $740,803 IL PROJECTS STEPS $317,440 Work Incentives Network (WIN) $452,361 TOTAL IL PROJECT EXPENDITURES $769,802 TOTAL IL EXPENDITURES $1,799,591 IL CARRYOVER TO FY 2008/09* $112,918 TOTAL IL EXPENDITURES $1,912,430 * Carryover is a result of various revenues issued for fiscal periods that extend beyond the SILC’s fiscal year, thus portions of some revenues are allocated in FY 2008-09. 22 Page Tree with leaves made with money INDEPENDENT LIVING BUDGET REPORT OCT 1, 2008 – SEPT 30, 2009 IL REVENUES BUDGET Federal Title I OCB Funds $3,576 Federal Title I OVRS Funds & SG Match $255,030 TOTAL IL REVENUES $258,606 IL EXPENDITURES SILC OPERATIONS EXPENDITURES SILC Staffing $197,350 SILC Administrative Expenses $45,796 SILC State Plan Activities $15,460 TOTAL SILC EXPENDITURES $258,606 CIL BASE FUNDING* $0 IL PROJECTS* $0 TOTAL IL EXPENDITURES $258,606 * Based on input from the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) regarding the legal roles and fiscal responsibility of each SPIL partner, CIL Base Funding and IL Projects are no longer listed in the SILC Budget. They are budgeted and tracked in the OVRS IL Budget as of FY2009. As a result of that shift, the SILC Budget is significantly less in FY2009 than FY2008. Note: During FY2009, the SILC also received $611,994 as pass through funds from the Home Care Commission for the administration and operation of the STEPS Project. The full amount was expended during FY2009, so there was no bottom line impact to the SILC Budget. The STEPS Project was fully transitioned to the Home Care Commission as of FY2010. 23 Page WHAT NEXT? The 2008-2010 SPIL goals, objectives, and activities reflect the SILC’s ongoing belief that in order to spread the Independent Living philosophy, further our mission, and achieve Oregon’s State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) goals, the SILC must focus on increasing collaborations and connections between combinations of individuals and federal, state, and community organizations. These connections and resulting partnerships and joint projects build awareness and increase implementation of the Independent Living style of service delivery and the life philosophy of informed choice with associated responsibility. Although Oregon’s SPIL already has a strong focus and history of exemplary collaborations, FY2009-10 will focus on further development and coordination of connections and project partnerships to maximize efficient use of limited staffing, funds, and other resources. Although this is always important as an aspect of our responsibility to be good stewards of public funds, this is more important than ever due to tight federal and state budgets, cuts to some important agencies and programs, and the growing aging population where disability percentages are likely to increase. With those fiscal and demographic realities, now more than ever, collaboration, cross-referrals, and holistic approaches are necessary to make the best use of each partners’ strengths, while empowering individuals to become as independent as possible. 24 Page ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The SILC is extremely grateful to the many partners, agencies, public officials, and private citizens who have contributed to the growth and development of inclusion for people with disabilities and of Independent Living services and philosophy. Thanks to each of you. We look forward to continuing our work and partnerships that demonstrate the value and cost savings of Independent Living services and philosophy and further the mission of promoting choice, equal access, and full inclusion of people with disabilities. SILC STAFF Shelly Emery, Operations Coordinator Tina Treasure Joan Claypool, Community Partner Liaison Executive Director Joette Williams, Administrative Specialist and many thanks to our special projects contractor, Wilcox Business Services – Lynelle Wilcox Thank you! 25 Page SILC Logo. State of Oregon encircled, with the following text: Promoting choice, access and inclusion for people with disabilities 500 Summer Street NE Dept. E-87 Salem, OR 97301-1120 Voice: 503-945-7015 FAX: 503-945-8991 oregon.silc@state.or.us www.orsilc.org If you would like to request additional copies of this report or alternate formats, please contact the SILC office at 503-945-7015. This report is also available on the SILC Web site at www.orsilc.org