INFORMATION EXCHANGE Published monthly by the Developmental Disabilities Program of the Metropolitan Council Vol. 11 No. 1 January 1986 Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Building St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Toni Lippert: 291-6364 If you do not receive this newsletter every month, please notify the DD Program, Metropolitan Council, 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, Minn. or telephone (612) 291-6364, TDD 291-0904. Bengi Nirje, in the 1960s, introduced the Principle of Normalization to the system serving persons who are mentally retarded. In a simple, but eloquent way, he explains what the application of the principle means in the life of a person with developmental disabilities. Normalization "Normalization means...A normal rhythm of the day. You get out of the bed in the morning even if you are Profoundly retarded and physically handicapped; You get dressed, and leave the house for school or work, You don't stay home; In the morning you anticipate events, In the evening you think back on what you have accomplished; The day is not a monotonous 24 hours with every minute endless. You eat at normal times of the day and in a normal fashion; Not just with a spoon, unless you are an infant; Not in bed, but at a table; Not early in the afternoon for the convenience of the staff. Normalization means...A normal rhythm of the week. You live in one place, Go to work in another, And participate in leisure activities in yet another. You anticipate leisure activities on weekends, And look forward to getting back to school Or work on Monday, Normalization means...A normal rhythm of the year. A vacation to break routines of the year. Seasonal changes bring with them a variety Of types of food, work, cultural events, sports, Leisure activities, Just think...We thrive on these seasonal changes. Normalization means...Normal developmental experiences Of the life cycle; In childhood, children, but not adults go to summer camps. In adolescence one is interested in grooming, hairstyles, Music, boy friends and girl friends. In adulthood, life is filled with work and responsibilities. In old age, one has memories to look back on, and can Enjoy the wisdom of experience. Normalization means...Having a range of choices, Wishes, and desires respected and considered. Adults have the freedom to decide Where they would like to live, What kind of job they would like to have, and can best perform. Whether they would prefer to go bowling with a group, Instead of staying home to watch television. Normalization means...Living in a world made of two sexes. Children and adults both develop relationships with Members of the opposite sex. Teenagers become interested in having Boy friends and girl friends. Adults may fall in love, and decide to marry. Normalization means...The right to normal economic standards. All of us have basic financial privileges, and responsibilities, Are able to take advantage of Compensatory economic security means, Such as child allowances, old age pensions, and Minimum wage regulations. We should have money to decide how to spend; On personal luxuries, or necessities. Normalization means...Living in normal housing In a normal neighborhood. Not in a large facility with 20, 50 or 100 other people Because you are retarded, And not isolated from the rest of the community. Normal locations and normal size homes will give residents Better opportunities for successful integration With their communities." Bengi Nirje METROPOLITAN COUNCIL DD PROGRAM NEWS Additions to Library The Council's DD Program has added the following publications to its curriculum library. Books and other publications may be borrowed by Metropolitan Area residents for three weeks. They must be picked up and resumed in person. Technological Aids and Information: Resource Guide, Rick Lupacchino (Ed.,) State of Florida, presents several major areas in which current application of technology is affecting the lives of persons with disabilities. Concepts and issues Related to Choice-Making and Autonomy Among Persons with Severe Disabilities, is the title of an article in the summer issue of the Journal of the Association for People with Severe Handicaps (JASH). Authors Doug Guess, Holly Anne Benson and Ellin Siegel Causey discuss issues related to concepts of preferences and choice-making among persons with severe disabilities. Included are suggestions for acknowledging preferences, and the broader implications of choice-making among persons with severe handicaps as an expression of personal autonomy and dignity. Directions for future research are discussed. This copy of JASH is available in the DD Curriculum Library of the DD Program of the Metropolitan Council. For information on obtaining this material, please call Marjorie Segell at (612) 291-6363. Used Equipment Referral Market Place: A Strategy for Cutting Equipment Costs is a 46-page manual that describes the steps in setting up a used equipment referral service (UERS): conducting a community needs-assessment, funding strategies, developing an advisory task force and developing a UERS operation, publicity, and evaluation. The manual contains sample grants and forms that can be used by parents, advocacy groups, and community organizations. The cost is $2 for parents and $6 for professionals. To obtain a copy, call or write: United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota. Room 233 S. Griggs-Midway Bldg., 1821 University Av., St. Paul, Minn. 55104. Tel. (612 646-7588. A copy of this manual may also be borrowed from the Metropolitan Council's Developmental Disabilities Curriculum Library. FOR YOUR INFORMATION Foster Homes Needed in Hennepin County Foster care providers share the security of their home and give positive guidance to persons who are mentally, physically or emotionally disabled. Providers are reimbursed for expenses and receive additional compensation based on the amount of care needed by the person placed in their care. For more information, contact Child Foster Cue at (612) 348-KIDS or Adult Foster Care at (612) 348-5456. Support Group To Be Formed Independence Crossroads, Inc. is forming local support groups for physically handicapped persons with special concerns. A support group for disabled men is being organized by Wayne LaBar, assistant director of Independence Crossroads. It meets every Tuesday afternoon from 1-3 p.m. in Room 422, Regina High School, 4240 4th Av. S., Minneapoplis. A number of handicapped women have asked if a similar group could be set up for them, and this will be done if there is enough interest. For more information about either group, call Leah Welch, director, at (612) 822-5655. Transporting Handicapped Children Modifications have been developed for commercially available child restraint seats to accommodate children with pelvic casts. Infants and children who require a pelvic cast cannot, as a rule, be secured in a child restraint. Dr. Marilyn Bull and her associates from Riley Hospital in Indianapolis, have developed modifications of commercially available seats such as Century 100, 200 and 300 seats. But Dr. Bull points out that some children with long leg or broomstick casts fit well into the Cosco-Peterson Safe and Easy seat without modification, and for older toddlers, the Strolee No. 601 booster can be used. For step-by-step instructions on how to make the modifications, write Karen Bruner Stroup, Riley Hospital, 702 Barnhill Drive, Room P-121, Indianapolis, Ind. 46223. Please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Changes in Metro Mobility Possible Metro Mobility staff recommendations have been viewed in 12 meetings held throughout the state including four meetings where over 50 service users testified on their experiences with the system. From 1983 - 1984, ridership increased by 18 percent. Even though the system is at or near capacity, requests for certification continue at the average rate of 300 per month. Over 11,000 persons are currently certified to use Metro Mobility. Under the present system a disabled person in need of a ride contacts a central transportation center. An employee then makes the necessary arrangements with one of the three bus and six taxicab firms that provide rides. One recommended change is that certified riders contact the bus or taxicab company directly. To aid riders, the Regional Transit Board, which administers the program, plans to develop education and marketing programs on how the system works. Customer service will be monitored to spot problems and identify ways to improve service. Also each transportation provider will have access to a computer bank containing pertinent information about each rider. This data bank would provide assistance should problems arise. Another change adds orientation mobility specialists to the list of processionals who can certify that a person can use Metro Mobility. The other professionals who n certify riders are physicians, licensed psychologists and certified physical therapists. To be certified to ride Metro Mobility a person must: 1. Be unable to walk one-fourth mile or more; 2. Be unable to walk up and down the steps of a mainline bus; 3. Be unable to wait outdoors for 10 minutes or more; and 4. Be unable to use or learn to use mainline bus service in the opinion of a competent professional. SERVICES Finding adequate health insurance is a major problem for many people with disabilities. Help is available through the Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association (MCHA). The association includes all proprietary and non-profit health insurers (private and public) in the state. The MCHA was created in 1976 by the Legislature to assure that all Minnesota residents are eligible for health insurance. Individuals who have been refused coverage by one insurance carrier or with a restrictive rider are eligible to apply for coverage under one of the MCHA's plans. Although the MCHA has been in existence for several years now, many disabled people are unaware of its existence and how it can benefit them. For a brochure with more information about the insurance policies available write: Minnesota Comprehensive Health Association, P.O. Box 64566, St. Paul, Minn. 55164. ABLENET Offers New Community Program Technology is offering new opportunities to individuals with handicaps. ABLENET, a new program of the Cerebral Palsy Center in Minneapolis, is offering simple forms of enabling technology to children and adults with severe/profound disabilities. In order to provide this technology, ABLENET has developed a network of parents, teachers, therapists and corporate professionals to design the needed services. ABLENET's philosophy, devices and services developed as a result of a volunteer project in the Cerebral palsy Center's Preschool Developmental Achievement Center. Devices were developed by a volunteer Honeywell scientist and the preschool staff. The devices consist of a pressure sensitive switch and control unit. The switch is plugged into the control unit in which two electrical appliances can also be plugged. When the switch is touched the electrical appliances automatically turn on. (Besides using the switch with the control unit, the switch can turn on adapted battery-operated toys or can be used with computers.) In a short period of time the children learned that they could independently control many items in their surroundings with the slightest physical movements. Even though the devices are important, they are only a small part of the ABLENET program. Their services also include information and referral, community education, material development and consultation. For more information, call Mary Kay Cicharz, support specialist, at the Cerebral Palsy Center at (612) 331-5958. Free Screening Clinic Offered Gillette Children's Hospital offers a free monthly screening clinic as a community service for children with possible, bone, joint or muscle problems. The clinic is especially useful for parents or school personnel who suspect a child may have difficulty moving his/her arms, leg or back. The free orthopedic screening clinic is held the second Friday afternoon of each month, with the next clinic scheduled for January 10, 1986. Any young person through the age of 21 who lives in the Twin Cities area may make an appointment. To register, call Mary Conroy at (612) 291-2848, ext. 147. Educational Programs and Social Events Offered for People with Hearing Impairments Bread of Life Lutheran Church for the Deaf offers help to other congregations in the setting up or adapting of Christian education programs to include children and adults with hearing impairments. The Minnesota Association for Hearing Impaired (MAHI) will provide teacher support, resources and training appropriate to the individual needs of the teachers and students. For more information, contact the Bread of Life Church at 721-4292, or Carolyn Anderson at MAHI, (612) 521-8416, voice or TTY. Guthrie Theater: Interpreted performances for persons who are hearing impaired will be offered for the following performances: On the Razzle, Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. and The Rainmaker, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. A parent education group for parents whose children (up to age 5) have hearing impairments, meets every Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon at Christ Lutheran Church in St. Paul. For more information, call (612) 221-2741, voice or TTY. Health Care Service is Focus of Education Network The Community Health Education Network (CHEN) provides advocate services for people who are mentally retarded. More people with mental retardation now live in the community and many of them may be inexperienced in health care matters. The network is a project of the Association for Retarded Citizens Minnesota. It involves a health care referral service and trains medical and dental professionals to provide better service to people who are mentally retarded and their families. CHEN also has a lending library, slide presentations and other teaching devices in the areas of health skills, sexuality, and cooking and nutrition. The CHEN service is free. For more information, call Sally Swallen director at (612) 827-5641, or (800) 582-5256 (toll free in Minnesota) or write ARC Minnesota, 3225 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, Minn. 55408. PUBLICATIONS Hmong/English Edition of Booklet Available A booklet that explains special education laws is now available from the Parent Advocacy Coalition for Education Rights (PACER) Center. It describes the procedures schools follow to identify, evaluate and plan individualized programs for students with disabilities. The booklet is written in both Hmong and English and is aimed at informing parents of handicapped children within the metropolitan Southeast Asian community about special education programs and their rights and responsibilities.. To receive the booklet, contact the PACER office at 4826 Chicago Av. S., Minneapolis, Minn. 55417. Tel. (612) 827-2966, voice and TDD. WORKSHOP/CONFERENCES March 16 - 20 The 4th International Child Neurology Congress will be held in Jerusalem, Israel. The main topic for March 18 will be "Epilepsy and the Developing Brain". A satellite symposium on child neurology and developmental pediatrics will take place on March 21. It will concentrate on reaming disabilities, attention deficit disorder and high risk infants. For more information, contact 4th International Child Neurology Congress, P.O. Box 29313, Tel Aviv 61292, Israel. INFORMATION EXCHANGE STATE SUPPLEMENT Developmental Disabilities Program 201 Capitol Square Building 550 Cedar St. St. Paul. Minnesota 55101 Minnesota State Planning Agency Roger Strand, Editor 612/296-401 8 Member of National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils January 1986 GRAMM-RUDMAN BILL NOW A REALITY The Gramm-Rudman bill, designed to mandate a balanced budget by 1991, sets up a budget process each fiscal year that allows time for Congress and the White House to reach an agreement on a deficit reduction package. If there is no agreement or if the package does not reduce the deficit enough, automatic spending cuts are imposed. Even after these cuts are announced, the Congress and the White House have time to pass an alternative before the spending reductions become final. For fiscal year 1986, the process is accelerated because the fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, is almost one-third over. On Dec. 12, 1985, The New York Times published the following analysis of the budget process: FISCAL YEAR 1986 Jan. 1 Scheduled cost of living increases for military and civilian retirees are deferred in anticipation of an automatic spending cut. Jan. 10 The Administration's Office of Management an Budget (OMB) and the Congressional Budget Office (CEO) do their deficit estimates based on completed budget action to date. Jan. 15 The OMB and CEO analyses go to the General Accounting Office (GAO). If the projected deficit is over the 1986 ceiling, the GAO prepares the order for the automatic spending cut. Jan. 20 The automatic spending cut order is sent to the President. Jan. 21 Congress convenes. Feb. 1 The President tentatively imposes the automatic spending cuts, with 50 percent coming from the military budget and the rest from nonmilitary programs excluding Social Security, interest on the national debt, veterans' pensions and programs for the poor, which include Medicaid, Aid to Families with Dependent Children, the Women's Infants and Children Nutrition Program, the Supplemental Security Income Program, food stamps, child nutrition and veterans' compensation. Cuts in several health programs, including Medicare, are limited. For 1986, the ceiling on the automatic cut is $11.7 billion, even if this leaves the deficit over $171.9 billion. Feb. 5 The President submits his budget to Congress for fiscal year 1987, which begins Oct. 1, 1986. March 1 The automatic spending cuts for fiscal year 1986 are made final if Congress and the White House have not taken action in the interim to approve their own package to reduce the deficit. 1987-1991 Jan. 1 The first Monday after Jan. 3, the President submits his budget for the next fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1, to Congress. (The date for the 1987 budget submission is Feb. 7.) Any automatic cost-of-living increase scheduled to take effect on fan. 1. would be deferred until it is determined that the automatic spending cuts are not necessary. If that is the case, the cost-of- living increases would be restored retroactive to Jan. 1. Apr. 15 Congress is supposed to complete action on the budget resolution for the next fiscal year. June 15 Congress is supposed to approve the deficit reduction bill needed to impose much of the saving proposed in the budget resolution. June 30 The House is to have finished all its 13 appropriations bills, where additional savings to reduce the deficit would be made. There is no deadline for the Senate. Aug. 15 The OMB and CEO do their deficit estimates based on completed budget action to date. Aug. 20 OMB and CEO send report to General Accounting Office. Aug. 25 The automatic spending cut order, if the deficit ceiling is breached, is sent to the President. Sep. 1. The President issues the automatic spending cut order, with 50 percent of the total in the military budget and 50 percent in nonmilitary programs, except for the excluded programs. Oct. 1. The fiscal year begins and the automatic spending cuts take effect. Oct. 5. OMB and CEO issue final deficit projection report to reflect final congressional action to reduce the deficit. The report goes to the GAO. Oct. 10 The GAO revised report goes to the President. Oct. 15 The final order for automatic spending cuts, based on the revisions, goes into effect. While it is understood that the President will sign the Health and Human Services Appropriations Bill, a reduction in the form of recessions could occur if overall deficit reduction targets are not achieved. In fiscal year 1986, a reduction of $11.7 billion is needed to meet that target, half of which must come from the nonexempted domestic programs. The advocacy community is finding it difficult, if not impossible to determine what impact Gramm-Rudman will have on specific programs. If cuts in Health and Human Service programs become necessary, the impact would probably not be felt until the second half of the fiscal year. PUBLIC LAW 94-142 TURNS TEN "We have many reasons for celebrating the tenth anniversary of Public Law 94-142," said Norena Hale, Director of Special Education, Minnesota Department of Education, during a recent interview. Nov. 29, 1975 marked the passage of the landmark federal legislation Education for All Handicapped Children Act. "Actually," Hale continued, "Minnesota had many features of the Act in place prior to its passage, but it established a uniform policy throughout the country that all children with handicapping conditions had a right to a free and appropriate public education." "The most remarkable aspect of Public Law 94-142," Hale emphasized, "is its flexibility to respond to the unique needs of each child. Everything revolves around the continuous process of developing and evaluating each individual's education plan (IEP). Then, there are the due process safeguards, which assure parental involvement, and other protections-such as, that education must take place in least restrictive environments with respect to the needs of each child." "Without these basic guarantees," Hale continued, "many parents and educators fear that the isolated programs of the past could return." "We are all aware," concluded Hale, "that there are still many problems and unmet needs, such as: to assist parents and their disabled children prior to age three, to improve vocationally oriented curricula which aim toward employment, and to improve upon quality and effectiveness standards and measurements, to mention a few, but I think we should take time to celebrate past accomplishments and then, with renewed energy, move on to our next priorities." A free brochure entitled, "Planning Local Celebrations," has been published by the National Information Center for Handicapped Children and Youth (NICHCY). It contains: a planning checklist, ideas on what to celebrate, how to access and deal with the media, a fact sheet on P.L. 94-142, and how to raise money and pay for celebrations. Contact: NICHCY, Box 1492, Washington, D.C. 20013. FAMILY FRIENDS GRANT PROGRAM ANNOUNCED A new multisite grant program has been created to enable older volunteers to assist children with disabilities and their families. The "Family Friend Program" is a demonstration grant program of the National Council on the Aging, Inc. (NCOA), funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The program will help to support community projects that match older volunteers (age 55 or older) with chronically ill or disabled children (age 12 or younger) and their families. The volunteers are to provide social, emotional support and other types of assistance. Institutions and voluntary agencies and organizations located in metropolitan areas with populations of at least 500,000 are eligible for funding. Up to eight four-year grants will be awarded, ranging from $400,000 to $500,000. The goal of the program is to demonstrate the feasibility, value, and sustainability of the project model in different geographic locations under different types of organizational sponsorships. Completed proposals must be postmarked no later than March 10, 1986). For further information, contact: Meridith Miller, Ph.D., Family Friends Program, National Council on Aging, Inc., 608 Maryland Av. SW, West Wing 100, Washington, DC 20024. Tel. (202) 479-1200. WINTER TRIPS SCHEDULED Wilderness Inquiry II will offer a series of trips to Northern Minnesota again this year. An average of 12 people, including persons with or without sensory mobility impairments, will make up each group. Lodging will be provided at the YMCA Camp Menogyn on West Bearskin Lake off the Gunflint Trail north of Grand Marais. Five-day trips are scheduled for: Feb. 19-23; Feb. 26-March 2; and March 5-9. A three-day winter workshop is also scheduled at the Environmental Learning Center in Isabella, Minn. For more information, contact: Wilderness Inquiry II, 2929 4th Av. S., Suite 0, Minneapolis, Minn. 55408. Tel. (612) 827-4001, voice or TTY. PUBLICATIONS Investigating the Problem of Skill Generalization (3rd Edition). N. Haring, University of Washington, Seattle, 1985. This book is a product of a five-year federally sponsored project to investigate how educators can facilitate and improve the generalization of instructed skills by students with severe handicaps. Contents of the report include the first two years of the project, which started in October 1982. Focus of studies during the first two years included performance patterns, ecology, and self- control. Studies also were conducted on the effects of cue-fading in the secondary/post secondary transition. Ultimately, an integrated set of best practices for generalization will be developed and aimed at developing a comprehensive plan for verifying the practical application of the study results in natural educational and vocational settings. Contact: Research and Education of the Severely Handicapped, 110 Miller Hall; DQ-05, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash. 98195. Tel. (206) 543-8565. Directory of Courses: Minnesota Area Vocational Institutes, State Board of Vocational Technical Education, Spring 1985. This directory was designed primarily as an information tool to assist career counselors and recruitment personnel in acquainting potential students with the programs available in the Area Vocational Technical Institute (AVTI) System. Courses are arranged by occupational categories, from agri-business to health and human services. Request copies from: Peg Spencer, Communications Specialist, Minnesota State Board of Vocational Technical Education, Capitol Square Bldg., 550 Cedar St., St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-6481 or (800) 652-9021, toll-free. Advocacy for Change Training Manual: A Manual for Members of State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, CA. Metzler, National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils (NADDC), 1984-1985. The purpose of this manual (3-ring and binder) is to provide orientation and continuing education for members of state Developmental Disabilities Councils. However, the information contained in the manual is useful for others in the disability field, providing information on the developmental disabilities program and other aspects of advocacy. Content includes modules on: training needs assessment, values, history of services, history of the developmental disabilities movement, councils' legal mandates, systems advocacy, planning, and federal programs. Cost: $35. Send check or purchase order to: NADDC, 1234 Massachusetts Av. NW., Suite 103, Washington, DC. 20005. Tel. (202) 347-1234. Vocational Training and Curriculum for Multihandicapped Youth with Cerebral Palsy, W. Pietruski, R. Goodwyn, J. Everson, P. Wehman, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1985. This publication contains materials developed by a federally funded project called "Vocations in Technology" (VIT). The purpose of the project was to develop and implement a vocational training curriculum and training program for youth with multiple handicaps in areas involving technology. The project was designed to identify realistic employment opportunities in the community, provide on-site work experiences, and implement a formalized transition planning procedure to assist student in obtaining employment at the completion of their school programs. Contact: School of Education, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Va. 23284-0001. EVENTS Jan. 15, 16, 17, 1986 "Quest for Quality" is the theme of the 1986 conference of the Minnesota Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (MARF). A major portion of the program will include information about the transition from school to work by young adults with disabilities. The conference will be held at the St. Paul Hotel in St. Paul. For more information, contact: MARF, 1821 University Av., St. Paul, Minn. 55104. Tel. (612) 646-0900. LENDING LIBRARY SELECTIONS The State Developmental Disabilities (DD) Program Office has acquired several education, training and resource materials. The following materials may be borrowed from the State Office only, located at the address on the front sheet of the State Supplement section of this newsletter. Tel. (612)296 4018. -Teleconferencing: A New Approach to Training for Human Services Agencies, A Guide for Users. Department of Human Resources, Raleigh, NC, 1985. This guide attempts to answer the questions: What are the benefits of teleconferencing? What is involved in designing a teleconference system? How can I conduct a successful teleconference? Its contents are derived from the experience of the staff at the Office of Day Care Services in the North Carolina Department of Human Resources, who provided a statewide training program for day care personnel. Those wishing to purchase this book should enclose a check for $12 to: Jan Keller, Telecommunications Project, Office of Day Services, Department of Human Resources, 325 N. Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27611. Tel. (919) 733-6650. -Approaches to Training and Development, D. Laird, Addison-Wesley Publishing Co., 1978. This book offers a practical approach to staff training; what methods to use and how to implement and evaluate results. A subject often over-looked, what to do with performance problems not solvable by training, is also thoroughly discussed. This is a useful reference for training and development professionals as well as for continuing education courses. Simple-to-follow process charts describe optimum training systems. Metropolitan Council DD Program 300 Metro Square Building 7th and Robert Streets St. Paul, MN 55101 If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please call (612) 291-6364, or write to the DD Program, Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, MN 55101. MR. ROGER STRAND STATE PLAN DEV DISAB PRO 201 CAPITOL SQUARE BL ST. PAUL, MN 55101 INFORMATION EXCHANGE Published monthly by the Developmental Disabilities Program of the Metropolitan Council Vol. 11 No. 2 February 1986 Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Building St. Paul Minnesota 55101 Toni Lippert: 291-6364 If you do not receive this newsletter every month, please notify the DD Program, Metropolitan Council, 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, Minn. or telephone (612) 291-6364, TDD 291-0904. METROPOLITAN COUNCIL DD PROGRAM NEWS Public Forum The DD Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Council will sponsor a Public Forum entitled "A Focus on Case management" on Tuesday, April 15, 1986 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 300 Metro Square Building in St. Paul, MN. The forum will consist of presentations by Ron Kaliszewski, DD Planning Office of the State Planning Agency; Shirley Schue, MR Services Division of the Department of Human Services and Pat McAnally, University Affiliated Program of the University of Minnesota. They will discuss what their organizations are doing to strengthen the quality of case management in Minnesota. The Council's DD Public Forums are being resumed this year by the DD Advisory Committee in an effort to provide current information on DD resources and services to persons who are developmentally disabled, their families, services providers and others who are interested. The forums are free and open to the public. Additions to Library The Council's DD Program has added the following publications to its curriculum library. Books and other publications may be borrowed by Metropolitan Area residents for three weeks. They must be picked up and resumed in person. Feeding and Caring for Infants and Children with Special Needs, Claudia McClannahan with assistance from Sheila Farnan and Patricia Splett. This is a manual for parents and other caregivers of children with developmental difficulties that may complicate the experience of parenting, feeding and acceptance of proper foods. Integration Strategies for Students with Moderate and Severe Handicaps, Department of Public Instruction, State of Iowa. The purpose of this document is to provide resources to those who wish to prepare a plan for integration. It is a compilation of journal articles, excerpts from books, and other material written by individuals who have had direct experiences in addressing the practical issues involved in the integration of students with moderate and severe handicaps. NEW RESOURCES New Program on Abuse of Children with Handicaps Handicapped children are especially vulnerable to child abuse, according to numerous experts in the field of child abuse. Yet some handicaps can also interfere with a child's ability to receive or understand critically needed information about abuse. To address this dilemma, PACER Center has begun a new program on child abuse, using its COUNT ME IN puppets to reach audiences of schoolchildren. Scripts are being prepared as needed so they can be understood by children with hearing impairments, mental retardation, or by students, with handicaps who are in mainstreamed classrooms. The puppet programs describe types of abuse, talk about the feelings experienced by victims, establish that abusive situations are not the fault of the victims, and suggest how children can obtain help. Through presentations and in-service trainings, the new programs on abuse will also reach parents, teachers, and other adults involved in the care of, or service to children with handicaps. These sessions and the Resource Manual on Child Abuse (presently in preparation) develop strategies to counter the risk of abuse by caregivers. Persons interested in any facet of the program are encouraged to contact Lili Garfinkel at PACER, (612) 827- 2966, voice & TDD, or write for a free brochure to PACER at 4826 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55417. Twin Cities Down Syndrome Association Being Formed The newly formed Twin Cities chapter of the Down Syndrome Association is looking for members. Fraser School Community Services provided start up funds for mailing and for affiliation with the National Down Syndrome Congress. Dues for the organization are $10 a year. If you are interested in joining, write to Sunny Waters, 6021 Northwood Ridge, Bloomington, MN 55437. Apple Computer Opens Special Office Apple Computer has created an Office of Special Education Programs to respond more effectively to the needs of children and adults who are disabled. Apple will work with educational institutions, advocacy and human service organizations around the country to identify computer-related needs of persons who are disabled and to assist in the development of responsive programs. For further information contact Alan Brightman, Office of Special Education Programs, Apple Computer, Inc., 20525 Mariani Av., Cupertino, CA 95014, (408) 973-6864. FOR YOUR INFORMATION Scholastic Aptitude Tests For Disabled Students Many colleges require Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores as part of their admission process. Students and parents should be aware that arrangements can be made for disabled students who are disabled to take the test. On any day of the school year that is convenient for the student and guidance counselor, the test can be taken in either the regular print, large print, cassette or braille versions. These tests are untimed to allow students sufficient time for completion of each section. There is, however, a designation on the transcript which reads "non-standard administration. In addition, a reader may be requested for students with communication impairments, who have the option to answer orally. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the test. A brochure and test information can be obtained from the Educational Testing Service. Contact: Admissions Testing Program, Services for Handicapped Students, CN 6602, Princeton, NJ 08541-6602, (609)734-3867. Fitness is for Everyone Nearly 80 people with physical disabilities are professionals from the health and fitness fields attended the second annual fitness clinic at Courage Center last fall. The clinic, with the theme of "Fitness is for Everyone," was designed by the National Handicapped Sports and Recreation Association especially for people with paraplegia, quadriplegia, cerebral palsy, amputations and other mobility impairments. Seminars covered modifications in strength, flexibility and aerobic exercises; nutrition and weight control and individual fitness assessments. The seminar was part of the Courage Center Sports, Physical Education and Recreation Department's ongoing wellness, lifestyle and health sports programming. For more information about upcoming activities, call Courage Center for the sports and recreation department's winter program brochure. (612)588-0811. Weicker Introduces Quality Services Act On December 13, Senator Lowell Weicker (CT), chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on the Handicapped introduced the "Quality Services for Disabled Individuals Act. The bill will require states to provide home and community-based services as a condition of participation in the Medicaid program. 1948 establishes a new Bureau of Quality Services HHS and radically increases the role of the federal government in the certification of residential facilities. Although the bill is significantly different from S.873, Senator Chafee's Community and Family Living Amendments, it will put new pressure on the Finance Committee to take a serious look at the ICF/MR program. Report on National Attendant Care Symposium: In early December the National Council on the Handicapped issued a report with recommendations for development of a national policy for attendant care services. The report reviews current federal funding options and includes a 14-point framework for creation of a national system of attendant services. The report suggests that Congress consider amendments to the Rehabilitation Act and Social Security Act to expand coverage of attendant services. Work Incentives for Persons With Disabilities Increasing attention of Congress and the Administration is being focused on development of additional work incentives for persons with disabilities. H.R. 2030 introduced by Representative Steve Bartlett (TX), would make the Section 1619 program, which allow permanent cash and Medicaid benefits to persons with disabilities who are able to work. S. 1721, introduced by Senator Donald Riegle (Ml), offers an approach to assisting persons with severe disabilities receive rehabilitation services. Disability groups are working with both members of Congress to strengthen these legislative proposals. HCFA Proposes New Code The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFAS) on November 5, published in the Federal Register (page 45921) a proposed rule to amend the fire safety standards for intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded (ICFs/Mr). HCFA has proposed adoption of the 1985 edition of the life safety code of the National Fire Protection Association. Restrictive interpretations of the current guidelines by federal surveyors jeopardized continued funding of small community ICFs/MR to serve nonambulatory individuals who are capable of self preservation with staff assistance. The Senate Finance Committee has included the provision as part of its reconciliation amendments that mandate the Secretary to adopt the 1985 code. Although the proposed rule would enable organizations to serve more clients in a wider variety of settings with reduced capital expenditures for fire protection features. This not evident how soon the final rule will be published. For further information, please contact HCFA, Department of Health and Human Services, BERC-352-PPO Box 26676, Baltimore, MD 21207: 301/597-5909. NIHR Sets Priorities On November 13, (FR, page 46810) the National Institute on Handicapped Research (NIHR) proposed for six FY 86 priorities for research and demonstration projects and two priorities for knowledge and dissemination projects. Two of the research priorities should be of particular interest to readers. The first focuses on the problems of financing home care for seriously disabled and chronically ill children. The second priority focuses on "housing adaptations to promote less restrictive environments." In many situations, housing is not modified or adapted to the special physical needs of the individual. For further information, please contact Betty Jo Berland, NIHR, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Room 3070, Washington, D.C. 20202; 202/732-1139. Accessibility Loans Available Families with disabled members now may obtain low-interest loans for purchasing accessible housing. As part of the 1985 Single Family Home Loan Program, the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency is making available 30-year, 9.95% loans with a minimum down payment of 5%. The loans may be used for new construction, or for modification to existing houses, condominiums, townhouses or duplexes. For a list of participating lenders or further information, call the MHFA at (612) 296-7613 or 1-800-652-9747 toll-free. Interpreter Services Workers with hearing impairments employed by companies receiving federal funds are entitled to interpreter services through their company health insurance plans. For more information, contact Sharon Meyers, Office for Civil Rights, 1275 Market St., 13th floor, San Francisco, CA 94103. WORKSHOPS/CONFERENCES PACER Workshop Schedule PACER has planned a busy late winter and spring workshop schedule. Along with the standard sessions that present information still needed by many parents, PACER has developed many new workshops to meet changing informational needs. Listed below are the workshops scheduled to date: General Information Workshops provide information on special education laws and procedures, and parents' rights and responsibilities. Unless otherwise indicated, these workshops are designed for ALL parents of handicapped children. March 4 - evening; St. Paul April 3 - evening; Minneapolis, for Native American parents primarily April 15 - evening; Twin Cities; Hennepin Co. Foster Parents Communication Workshops are scheduled in both Minneapolis and St. Paul one week after the general information workshop is offered in each city. Parents are encouraged to attend the Much 4 workshop listed above. Communication skills workshops are designed for parents interested in working more comfortably and effectively with their children's schools. The skills are taught in situations that build upon the information about laws, procedures, and rights explained in the earlier workshops. Feb. 11 - evening; Minneapolis March 11 - evening; St. Paul RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS Integrated Leisure Services The Jewish Community Center of St. Paul, Minnesota integrates children and youth with severe handicaps into the agency's regular programs and classes. The Jewish Community Center is a non-profit social work agency that serves the social, cultural, educational, recreational, and athletic needs of over 250,000 persons of all ages in the St. Paul area annually. The primary goals of this integration program includes: 1) integration of children with handicaps into agency regular programs and classes (i.e. social integration and leisure skill acquisition), 2) staff training in integration strategies, and 3) parent/sibling training with respect to integration strategies developed for the family member with a disability. As a result of the integration, children with severe disabilities will develop lifelong friendships and social interaction skills useful throughout life. In addition, peers without disabilities, parents of peers, agency staff and Jewish Community Center members will benefit as they are exposed to children with severe handicaps and grow in awareness of their individual needs and abilities. For more information: Jewish Community Center, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul, MN 55116, 698-0751. Community Programs The Learning Exchange, 8900 Portland Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55420, has a Community Education Program for South Hennepin area residents who are handicapped. Programs include: --ADAPTED AQUATICS for adults and children whose disabilities prevent them from being adequately served in regular swim classes, -ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES to help adults with physical disabilities or mental health concerns participate in regular classes, -INFORMATIONAL SEMINARS on topics of interest to people with various handicaps, -ADAPTIVE COMMUNITY EDUCATION classes for adults who are mentally retarded or learning disabled, and -VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES in Community Education. For more information: 887-9144. Testimony Invited The Commission on Minnesota Outdoors invites testimony on the recreation needs of Minnesotans, the community benefits from recreation, and the relationships of recreation and quality of life in Minnesota. Testimony is scheduled for the Metro Area on April 16, 1986. Disability organizations should take note of this opportunity to testify on behalf of Minnesotans who are disabled regarding physical or program access, insurance problems, costs, etc. Call ahead to state that you or your organization wish to testify. Written testimony is requested in advance. Direct call or correspondence regarding time, location and testifying to: Kate Hanson, Commission on Minnesota Outdoors, Department of Natural Resources, Box 10, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55146. Respite Weekends Offered In response to the growing need for respite care, Camp Eden Wood offers three pilot weekends in the coming months. The Winter & Spring Weekends will provide the perfect opportunity for a respite weekend. Participants will choose from a variety of recreational activities available during their stay - both indoors and out. A one-to-one staff-to-participant ratio will enable an individual program approach. The weekends will be open to anyone with or without handicaps ages 5-90. The $110 fee includes meals, lodging, around-the-clock staffing and recreational programs. Check-in is 5-7 p.m. Friday and check-out is 5-7 p.m. Sunday. Arrangements may be possible for part- time care. Please call 874-6650 for further information on: Pilot Respite Weekends scheduled for; February 21-23, March 14-16, and April 25-27. Artists Sought The Sister Kenny International Art Show will be held from April 4th to May 6th, 1986. Any artist with a physical or mental disability is eligible to enter up to three pieces of art. Prize money will be awarded, and the artists will have the opportunity to sell some of their pieces. Contact: Art Show, Public Relations Dept., Sister Kenny Institute, 800 E. 28th St. at Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55407, (612) 874-4482. INFORMATION EXCHANGE Developmental Disabilities Program 201 Capitol Square Building 550 Cedar St. St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Member of National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils January 1986 GOVERNOR REAPPOINTS MEMBERS ON DD COUNCIL Governor Rudy Perpich recently reappointed the following persons to serve for a second three-year term on the Governor's Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities: Richard S. Amado Barbara Pihigren Robert DeBoer Sharon Shapiro Marcel A. Bourgeault Edward R. Skamulis Helmi Lammi Karen Titrud Margaret C. Lindstrom Larry R. Wefring Nancy A. Okinow Others who continue to serve on the Council are: Douglas Butler Roger A. Deneen Suzanne M. Dotson Sandra J. Fink John Groos Virginia Hanel Anne L. Henry Paula lohnson Gerald Nelson Bill Niederloh Dorothy Peters Ruth Rafteseth lanes M. Rubenstein Elaine Saline Glenn Samuelson The Governor's Planning Council operates under federal legislation, Public Law 98-527, the Development Disabilities Act of 1984. The Council is charged with supervising the development of a three-year state plan, to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the state plan, and to review state service plans for persons with developmental disabilities. A new state plan is currently being developed which will address case management services as a priority concern. The plan, once approved by the Governor and the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, DC, will go into effect on October 1, 1986. For more information, contact: Developmental Disabilities Program, 201 Capitol Square Building, 550 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296 4018, or (612) 2969962 TDD. RFP ON CASE MANAGEMENT ANNOUNCED The Governor's Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities has recently disseminated a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Case Management of Persons Who re Developmentally Disabled. Over 1,500 copies of ~e RFP were sent to professionals in Minnesota who work with persons who are developmentally disabled. The RFP has four funding categories within which interested persons can submit proposals. The four categories are: Case Management Research; Improving Efficiency of Case Managers; Empowering Consumers to Receive Quality Case Management Services; and Volunteer Monitoring Committees. Generally, any nonprofit organization, unit of government, or educational institution is eligible to submit proposals. Proposals must be in the Council office before 4:30 p.m. on April 18, 1986. Copies of the RFP are available from the Council office, 201 Capitol Square Building, 550 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4018, or (612) 296-9962 TDD. REPORT ON MCKNIGHT GRANTS AVAILABLE A 16-page summary report of the first year of the McKnight- funded Developmental Disabilities Program was recently released by the State Planning Agency. In December 1981, the McKnight Foundation made a grant of $300,000 a year, renewable for up to three years, to the Developmental Disabilities Program of the State Planning Agency. This report contains a description of the projects that were funded in the first year of the three-year program. The projects were in three areas: training for staff and boards of facilities serving persons who are developmentally disabled; projects that would resolve or mitigate existing problems in the delivery of services, and projects that would increase the physical accessibility of facilities providing day services. Copies of the report are available from: Developmental Disabilities Program, 201 Capitol Square Bldg., 550 Cedar St., St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4018, or (612) 296-9962 TDD. MASTER'S DEGREE IN TRANSITIONAL PROGRAMMING ANNOUNCED The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has established an Interdisciplinary Master's Program in Transitional Programming for Handicapped Youth. Beginning June or August 1986, five 1-year, quarter-time assistantships are available for individuals interested in careers in teacher education and personnel preparation. The deadline for applications is April 15, 1986. For more information, contact: Dr. L. Allen Phelps, Office of Career Development for Special Populations, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Education Bldg., 1310 So. Sixth St., Champaign, III. 61820. Tel. (217) 333-0960. ANNIE'S STORY AVAILABLE THROUGH MNASH By popular demand, the Minnesota Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps (MNASH) has acquired additional copies of Annie's Coming Out, written by Anne McDonald and Rosemary Crossley, Penquin Books, 1984 This real life story takes place in Australia, portraying Anne McDonald, co-author, who has cerebral palsy and had spent most of her childhood in an institution. Anne's advocate, Rosemary Crossley, discovers new methods for Anne to communicate and thus ensues their battle through the court system to establish Anne's right, along with her fellow residents', to live in smaller settings in the community. This is a story that has universal appeal. Available for $5 (including postage) through: MNASH, P.O. Box 1837, Pioneer Station, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. PUBLICATIONS Resource Directory of Materials Produced and Developed by Councils on Developmental Disabilities, National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils (NADDC), October 1985. Publications and resources materials from each state and territory are listed in this directory. Audio-visual productions are also included in a special section. For more information, contact: NADDC, 1234 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 103, Washington, DC 20005. Tel. (202) 347-1234. Standards Manual for Organizations Serving People with Disabilities, Commission on Accredition of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), 1986. These new residential standards have been designed for small, personalized, community-based living environments. These standards reflect the Commission's commitment to independence and community integration for individuals with developmental disabilities. Issues addressed in the standards include community integration, empowerment of the individual in decision making which affects their lives, resident rights, and the relationship of quality of life to types of living environments as well as individual program planning, staff training, health and sanitation, etc. Through the development of standards for respite programs which provide time limited and temporary relief from the ongoing responsibility of care, the commission provides an accountability mechanism for those programs that help to maintain individuals in their natural family setting. Cost: $25. To obtain a copy of this document, contact: CARF, 2500 North Pantano Road, Suite 226, Tucson, Arizona 85715. Tel. (602) 886-8575 Topical Reports, Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC), are published on a periodic basis in a newsletter format. These reports address specific topics related to employment of persons with mental retardation. Past issues have focused on supported employment options, model programs, and parent training. Future issues will examine benefits to employers and research outcomes. For further information, contact: Paul Wehman, Director, RRTC, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1314 West Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23284-0001. Tel. (804)257-1851. "Transition from School to the World of Work. is the focus of a special issue of Techniques: A Journal for Remedial Education and Counseling (October 1985). This is a broad-based review of the concept of adult entry of handicapped youth into the world competitive employment and independent living. The emphasis is on practical approaches and practices. To order, make $10 check payable to Clinical Psychology Publishing Company and send to: Techniques, 4 Conant Square, Brandon, Vermont 05733. Tel. (802) 247-6871. "National School Volunteer Program Catalog" lists publications and slide-tape presentations geared to strengthen volunteer programs in school settings. It includes resources for working with children with special needs. This free catalog is available from: National School Volunteer Program, Inc., 701 North Fairfax Street, Suite 320, Alexandria, Virginia 22314. "Fund-raising Ideas and Techniques," is a new, 14-page catalog describing 33 systems, computer programs, how-to books and other publications for executives of nonprofit groups. Available free from: Fund-Raising Institute, Box 365, Ambler, Penn. 19002. A Complete Cooking Program for Non-Readers, Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC), Ottawa County, Michigan. Developed by a special education teacher, several products have been developed: (a) a cookbook with 101 picture recipes, (b) a teacher's manual and symbol flash card kit, and (c) shopping list cards. For more information, contact: ARC/Ottawa County, 246 South River, Holland, Mich. 49423. "Innovative Programming for the Aging and Aged Mentally Retarded/Developmentally Disabled Adult", by Paul Herrera, M. Ed., is a book that examines the needs of a growing population-the aging and aged MR/DD adult. It provides comprehensive information to establish a broad understanding of what can be expected to happen to this group as they enter later stages of life and describes innovative programming to improve their quality of life. The 200 page book is based on seven years of field work experience in a workshop setting. It is available from Exploration Press, P.O. Box 705, Akron, OH 44309, at a cost of $24.95 per copy. "Public/Private Partnerships in Transition is the title of the results of a survey compiled by the National Association of Regional Councils and the Urban Mass Transportation Administration. Information was gathered from over 300 metropolitan planning organizations (MPO's) concerning ways to maximize private sector involvement in providing special transportation services. For a copy of the summary report (DOT-1-85-30), send a self-addressed mailing label to: Technology Sharing Program (I-30-TAX), Office of the Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs, Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. The following 7 maps published by Sona Karents Andrews are available for loan or for sale. They are available in large-type or braille and include: Minnesota Population 1980; 1980 Population of Western United States by SMSA; Nautica/ Chart of the Apost/ends; University of Minnesota, Minneapo/is campus ability atlas; Downtown Minneapo/is; and Minneapo/is. For further information: University of Minnesota, Department of Geography, 414 Social Science Building, 267 19th Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455. COMMUNICATION SERIES OFFERED IN ROCHESTER Four seminars are scheduled at the Rochester Center, University of Minnesota in communication skills for professionals. Each seminar will run from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following dates: February 21 February 28 March 7 March 14 Efficient Reading Efficient Writing Efficient Listening Efficient Speaking. The instructor for this series is Dr. J. Michael Bennett, Director of the Efficient Reading Program and Associate Professor of Rhetoric at the University of Minnesota. Cost: S140 for all four sessions, or $40 each. For more information, contact: Registrar, University of Minnesota, Rochester Center, 1200 South Broadway, Rochester, Minn. 55904. Tel. (507) 288-4584, or (612) 224-3106. CAMP OZ OFFERED IN JUNE Camp Oz for children and teens with epilepsy will hold its fourth annual session June 16-21 at the YMCA Camp Ihduhapi on Lake Independence (22 miles west of the Twin Cities). The goal of Camp Oz is to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable resident camping program to boys and girls, ages 8-17, whose primary medical condition is epilepsy. To register or for more information, contact Camp Oz, 2701 University Avenue, SE, Suite 106, Minneapolis, Minn. 55414. EVENTS Feb. 17, 1986: Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) Minnesota Day at the Capitol will be held again this year, starting at 8:30 am. at the Holiday Inn near the State Capitol (1-94 at the Marion Street exit). A special rally will be held at 12:45 p.m. in the Capitol Rotunda in support of expanded services to children from birth to age two. Other legislative concerns to be addressed include family support, care-giver services, and residential services. Fee: $10. For more information, contact: ARC Minnesota, 3225 Lyndale Avenue, South, Minneapolis, Minn. 55408. Tel, (612) 827-5641 or (800) 582-5256, toll free. March 1986: March has been declared by Governor Rudy Perpich as "Mental Retardation Month." Ideas for community awareness and involvement activities can be obtained by contacting the Association for Retarded Citizens Minnesota, 3225 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minn 5408. Tel. (612) 827-5641 or (800) 582-5256, toll free. March 10-12, 1986: "Discovery: Training and Technology for Persons with Disabilities" will be held at the Red Carpet Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For more information, contact: Office of Continuing Education and Summer Session, University of Wisconsin--Stout, Menomonie, Wisc. 54751. Tel. (800) 45-STOUT, toll free. March 31-April 4, 1986: "Celebrate the Exceptional" is the theme of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) 64th Annual Convention to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. For more information, contact: CEC, 1920 Association Drive, Reston, Virginia 22091 -1589. Tel. (800) 336-3728, toll free. April 11 -16, 1986: "An Introduction to Normalization through PASS 3." This intensive workshop of PASS (Policy Analysis of Service Systems) will be sponsored by the Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM) to be held at McGuires Inn, St. Paul. For more information, contact: ARRM, 1885 University Avenue St. Paul, Minn. 55104. Tel. (612) 644-8181, or (800) 5512211, toll free. May 20 and 21, 1986: "Charting Change in Infants, Families and Services" is a national conference to be held at the Wyndham Hotel South, Austin, Texas. The conference will focus on research findings and process evaluations to improve programs serving children from birth to age three. For more information, contact: Julia Kirby, ECI Program, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756. Tel. (512) 465 2671. FUTURE EVENT October 23-25, 1986: The 37th Annual Convention of the Association for Retarded Citizens of the United States will be held in Omaha, Nebraska. For more information, contact: Jim Mckenna, ARC of the United States, 2501 Avenue "J,- Arlington, Texas 76006. Tel. (817) 640-0204. LENDING LIBRARY SELECTlONS The State Developmental Disabilities (DD) Program Office has acquired several education, training and resource materials. The following materials may be borrowed from the State Office only, located at the address on the front sheet of the State Supplement section of this newsletter. Tel. (612)296~4018. An Assessment of Attendant Care Needs Among Disabled Pennsylvanians: A Summary, Physically Handicapped Training Center, University of Pennsylvania, 1g85. In response to the apparent need among Pennsylvanians who are disabled for community based attendant care, the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Planning Council contracted with the University of Pennsylvania to conduct a study of this service need. Attendant care was defined as an individual who assists people who are disabled with daily living tasks either on a daily or weekly schedule. Such activities included personal care as well as household tasks, meal preparation, travel, and telephoning. Among several findings, the report stated, "Not surprisingly, consumer directed services are the least expensive alternative for providing services to individuals in need of attendant care." Metropolitan Council DD Program 300 Metro Square Building 7th and Robert Streets St. Paul, MN 55101 If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please call (61V291-6364, or write to the DD Program, Metropo/itan Council 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, MN 55101. (TIME-DATED MATERIAL) Assessing and Enhancing the Quality of Services: A Guide for the Human Services Field, Human Service Research Institute (HRSI), Boston, 1984. This report is the product of a project supported by the Office of Policy Development, Office of Human Development Services, Department of Health and Human Services. It also serves as a manual that provides a new way of viewing quality assurance mechanisms and presents a variety of concrete methods for enhancing service quality while also regulating provider accountability. Its purpose is to assist public officials, social service professionals, consumers, and their advocates to design and install quality assurance techniques that are cost-effective, utilize existing resources, respond to client interests, and stretch agency capabilities. Those who choose to purchase this document may send a $15 check directly to: HRSI, 120 Milk Street, 8th Floor, Boston, Mass. 02109. Otherwise, a copy is available on loan from the State Developmental Disabilities Program. INFORMATION EXCHANGE Published monthly by the Developmental Disabilities Program of the Metropolitan Council Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Building St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Toni Lippert: 291-0364 If you don not receive this newsletter every month please notify the DD Program, Metropolitan Council, 300 Metro Square Bldg. St. Paul Minn. or telephone (612) 291-6364,TDD 291-0904 METROPOLITAN COUNCIL DD PROGRAM NEWS The DD Program lost two invaluable staff members the past month. Dr. Jeny Karser joined the staff in 1984 and was best known by many readers for his work on the DD Community Work Training Project. He worked many weekend and evening hours to make sure project clients had the support they needed as they started new jobs. This time was over and above his regular working hours and was typical of his very personal commitment to the belief that employment opportunities should not be limited by the severity of one's handicaps. Marjorie Segell, DD secretary since 1981, has left the program. It was through her efforts that this newsletter met its deadline each month. Her productivity was legendary and her command of the written and spoken word unsurpassable. (Oh, how she enjoyed catching this editor's grammatical and spelling mistakes! - the occasional ones I may have made, that is.) As a result of the Metropolitan Council's recent reorganization, these talented workers were drafted for another department. This note is intended to convey regret in the loss of good and creative helpers and to wish them luck in their new positions. A hearty welcome to Edith Watson who will now be responsible for the DD secretarial activities. She has made an excellent transition to this very demanding job. FOR YOUR INFORMATION Volunteers and Staff Needed for Summer Camp Camp Friendship has several positions available: counselors; recreation leaders; cabin leaders; campcrafter; music, nature, arts and crafts) boating director (boating maintenance); lifeguards; swimming instructors; cooks and dining hallworkers; registered nurse and graduate nurses; coordinators (counseling, activities and volunteer). Vol. 11 No. 3 March 1986 Volunteers are also needed to assist the counseling staff. If you are at least 15 years old or perhaps a college student looking for volunteer experience, you may enjoy spending 1 or 2 weeks this summer volunteering at Camp Friendship. Both volunteer and paid staff are given an orientation prior to their time at camp to familiarize them with the camp and its program. For more information contact Georgann Rumsey at Camp Friendship (612) 274-8376. Income Tax Guides The Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) of Minnesota has federal income tax guides for parents of children with handicaps. The guides for parents were produced by the ARC Michigan. Cost is $3 which includes postage and handling. To order a copy, contact ARC Minnesota, 3225 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minn. 55408. Tel. (612) 827-5641 or toll-free, 1-800-582-5256. College Students Needed St. Paul School District's Special Education staff have proposed a follow-up study to determine the current employment status of its graduates who are handicapped and who have used the district's vocational services program. They need one or two college student volunteers who are looking for a project that relates to their educational field. College instructors and students who are interested may get more information from Dennis Jensen, Humboldt High School, 30 East Baker Street, St. Paul, MN 55107, (612)292-0087. Minnesota Social Service Association Conference Set The Minnesota Social Service Association will hold its 93rd annual conference and training exposition on March 19-21 at the St. Paul Radisson Hotel. This year's focus will be "Human Dignity: The Investment for the Future." Featured speakers at the program will be Nancy Amidel, Visiting Professor, University of Michigan School of Social Work, commentator of National Public Radio's "All Things Considered" and writer and Gar Alperovitz, President of the National Center for Economic Alternatives, Washington, D.C. For more information call (612)227-3400. Proposed Rule "On Related Conditions" Available The latest draft (1/16/86) of the Department of Human Service's Proposed Rule on Services for Persons with Mental Retardation and Conditions Related to Mental Retardation, popularly called the rule "on related conditions" is available for review and comment from the department. Write or call Department of Human Services; Division of Mental Retardation Services; Centennial Building; St. Paul, MN 55155 (612) 296-2160. Guide to Foundations Available A thoroughly researched, 1986 edition of Guide to Minnesota Foundations and Corporate Giving Programs lists more than 400 Minnesota funders. Each entry contains data to help nonprofit organizations match their funding needs to the interests of grantmakers. Included among the foundation and corporate listings is vital information such as the grantmaker's purposes, its areas of interest; its geographic requirements; whom to contact for information; when and how to contact; information on assets; the size and number of grants given; a listing of some of the organizations receiving recent grants and the amount of the grants; director, and more. In addition, the Guide contains information on other resources to use in a funding search. It has current information on philanthropy in Minnesota and describes the types of grantmakers working in the state. Indexes simplify the search for funding by offering topical information. The Guide is available through the Minnesota Council on Foundations, 1216 Foshay Tower, Minneapolis, MN 55402 in early 1986. Its cost is $25, plus S1.50 sales tax or tax exempt number. Interpreter Referral Program Funding Cut The Interpreter Referral Center (IRC) received a severe funding cut as a result of legislation passed during Minnesota's 1985 legislative session. In addition, the administration and fiscal authority of the IRC was transferred from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to the Department of Human Services (DHS) as part of the reorganization of the Regional Service Center Program. In response to reduced governmental support, the IRC has initiated an income generation plan which charges a S3.50 service fee per interpreter request. The purchaser will be billed for the fee. In addition, interpreters working through the IRC will be charged one dollar for each interpreting assignment. The total fee of $4.50 will help to offset the loss of funds. It is estimated that this plan will generate over $20,000 per year which will be used for the program operations. An additional $20,000 will be sought to meet growing demand for interpreter services. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Full time Foster Care providers needed by private agency serving mentally handicapped persons. Training and support staff, plus salary and respite care. One year commitment. Call Luanne at (612)642-0174 or (612)641-0041. Respite Care providers for weekends and/or weekdays needed by private agency serving mentally handicapped persons in Ramsey County. Provide services in your home or apartment. Salary. One year commitment. Call Luanne at (612)642-0174 or (612)641-0041. WORKSHOPS/CONFERENCES April 4 ¥ "Recruiting Civic Organizations, Corporations and Community Groups," a two-hour workshop on creating partnerships with civic organizations, corporations and community groups to enhance a volunteer program. Sponsored by the United Way's Voluntary Action Center of Minneapolis. For additional information, contact the Center at 404 5. 8th Street, Minneapolis, 55404; (612) 340-7532. April 11-16, 1986: "Normalization Training Through PASS 3" is a workshop sponsored by the Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM) at McGuire's Inn in Arden Hills, Minnesota. Program Analysis of Service Systems (PASS explores the philosophy of normalization and its implications for the planning, development and evaluation of services for persons with developmental disabilities. It is a five-day, intensive reaming experience for directors, program managers, parents, persons with developmental disabilities, direct care staff, advocates, board members, county social service staff and others who profess to believe in the right to genuine participation in the full life of the community for individuals who are handicapped. The course fee of $245 includes tuition, materials and meals. Lodging costs are extra and requires participant to make their own room reservations and payments. For more information and registration forms: ARRM; 1885 University Avenue-Suite 90; St. Paul, MN 55104; (612)644-8181. NEW RESOURCES PACER's transition projects are designed for two target populations ¥ high school age students with handicaps and parents of students in this age range. According to Christine Hunter, PACER's coordinator for the transition projects, the new programs have been designed with the student's whole adjustment to adult life in mind. "Ours is a kind of holistic approach," she explained, "that looks at social, recreational, residential, financial, and training and employment needs." The first project consists of a pair of workshops designed primarily for parents of handicapped, secondary school students. Students themselves are also welcome to attend. The primary goal of the project for parents is to acquaint them with the steps that can be taken during a student's high school years to make progress smoother after high school. The other workshop is for high school students who are handicapped and will present information on how to obtain needed services. PACER is a Twin Cities-based parent coalition that also provides information and training to parents of school-age children with all handicaps about special education laws and procedures and the partnership role they may take with schools in planning and Kuiding their youngster's educational process. Call PACER (612)827-2966 for assistance and more information about the transition project and workshops. "Work site training for adults with mild, moderate and severe disabilities" is the title of a course offered for the Spring Session. It runs from April 3rd to June 5th, on Thursday evenings, 6 to 9 p.m. at Bridgeview School, 360 Colbome Street, St. Paul, MN. This course is designed to give the student an overall orientation to the many facets of work-site training, sometimes referred to as "job coaching." The course will cover marketing strategies, employer agreements, job-worker match techniques, legal requirements, job costing methods, work and site efficiency analysis, training strategies, and fade-out and follow-up procedures. Students will also be expected to complete a short field work project related to course topics. The course will earn 3 University credits, which can be applied to either an undergraduate or graduate program. Cost is $151.50. Instructors are Terrence Kayser, Ph.D. and James Brown, Ph.D., plus outside resources who are experts in specialized topic areas. Pre-registration is required by March 20, 1986. Call (612)373-5050 for registration details. This course is offered through the University of Minnesota, Department of Vocational-Technical Education's Special Services Program. "Disability & Sexuality: The Myth and Reality" is an in-service program developed by Family Tree. The training was designed to help participants understand the effect a disability may have on an individual's life and to explore ways that will enable them to meet the needs of their disabled clients, fellow workers or family members. The program goals include: Helping participants understand the effects a disability may have on an individual's sexuality; Identifying myths concerning disability and sexuality issues; Helping participants become more comfortable in discussing sexuality issues with disabled individuals and helping participants to identify strategies to use in communicating sexuality issues with their clients. The training is offered by the Disability Education Program at Family Tree on March 7th; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, at the Family Tree, 1599 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. The fee is $20.00. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Contact Deb Reckner, (612) 6450478. Dental Care for persons who are hearing impaired is available at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Clinic is available at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Clinic. Persons with hearing impairments who use sign language or need to call by TDD are scheduled with staff dentists and dental students who use basic sign language. Your first appointment will be an examination and x-rays. Your dentist will tell you what dental care you need, what appointments you will need, and how much it will cost. Please come one-half hour early to your first appointment to answer a questionnaire about your health. To make an appointment call: (612)373-3348 T.D.D. or (612)373-2535 Voice, Monday - Friday, 7:45 am -4:30 p.m.. Mothers Respite Retreat Weekends for mothers of children with mental retardation are sponsored by the Association for Retarded Citizens of Hennepin county. Sessions in April and May are planned at the Eden Wood Center and cost S45. For more information on specific dates, time and accommodations, write or call ARC of Hennepin County, 2344 Nicollet Avenue, Suite 340, Minneapolis, MN 55404, (612)874-6650. RECREATION/LEISURE An Adapted Aquatics swimming and water exercise program for adults who have physical disabilities will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday evenings this spring at Oak Grove Junior High pool, 1300 W. 106th Street. The pool and locker rooms are accessible, including a hydraulic lift to assist with pool entry and exit. The class will be taught by a Red Cross certified Adapted Aquatics instructor, and trained aides will be available to provide individualized help as needed in pool and locker rooms. Registration dates are March 3 through April 18. The cost of the 8 sessions is S14. Some assistance is available with fees and transportation. The program is sponsored by the Learning Exchange, a Community Education program for handicapped adults run through the public schools of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, and Richfield, and by the Minneapolis Red Cross, South Branch. To register, or for more information, call Lynn at (612)887-9226. Registration for summer camping programs for children and adults with mental retardation are currently being accepted at Eden Wood Camping & Retreat Center in Eden Prairie. Operated by Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) of Hennepin County, Eden Wood offers outdoor experiences for people of mixed abilities through a variety of theme camps like Sports & Health, Leisure Specialties, Kids Week and Family Camp. Off-site programs to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and state parks are also offered. Most sessions run five days, with some weekend programs available. Program fees nun from $100-$250, with camperships available to qualified applicants. Participants of all ages are invited. A high staff to-participant ratio and an emphasis on serving individual needs and interests are strong points for Eden Wood programs. For registration materials and information, call (612)874-6650. WILDERNESS INQUIRY II is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation that conducts wilderness adventures for mixed ability groups. The program seeks to promote integration of disabled and non-disabled individuals, and the development of skills and confidence. Their new address is 1313 5th St. SE., Suite 327A, Minneapolis, MN 55414, (612)379-3858 V/TDD. PUBLICATIONS "Deinstitutionalization of Mentally Retarded People" and Deinstitutonalization of Mentally 111 People, February, 1986 are two new reports published by the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor. They were requested by the Legislative Audit Commission to examine, respectively, changes in state hospitals as a result of litigation and other forces and the transition of people who are mentally ill from state hospitals to community care. Single copies may be obtained by writing or phoning Program Evaluation Division, Office of the Legislative Auditor, Veterans Service Building, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155, (612)296-4708. "Feeding and Caring for Infants and Children with Special Needs" is a 46 page booklet developed by an occupational therapist and a nutritionist. It is a resource for parents and other care givers of children with developmental difficulties. As described in the foreword by Richard P. Nelson, M.D., the booklet's purpose is to assist parents in establishing a sound basis for the child's growth through nutrition, feeding, movement a sensory development. It includes practical suggestions and illustrations for appropriate feeding and handling techniques. A bibliography offers references to both parents and professionals. The information contained in the booklet is intended to supplement the care from a nutritionist, occupational therapists, physical therapist or physician. The booklet has been developed by the Minnesota Department of Health, Service for Children with Handicaps and Section of Health Education and published by Gillette Children's Hospital, St. Paul, Minnesota. It is available without charge to Minnesota residents from Health Education, Minnesota Department of Health, P.O. Box 9441, Minneapolis, MN 55440. Orders are limited to 20 copies per agency. Large quantities or out of state orders should be directed to Brett Day, Gillette Children's Hospital, 200 E. University, St. Paul, MN 55101. Single copies are $1.90 which includes postage. Checks should be payable to Gillette Children's Hospital. Information regarding quantity prices can be obtained from Brett Day at (612) 291-2S48 Ext. 121. SOUND AND HEARING is material designed for supplemental use by children with hearing impairment in elementary classrooms. To order the packet free, contact Judy Massanby, National Grange Deaf Activities, Sound and Hearing, 1616 H Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006. Action Alliance of Parents of the Deaf has a "Primer for Parents and Professiona/s about Evaluating Total Communication Programs for Deaf and Hearing-impaired Children and Youth." Cost is $1. Write to MPD, 120 W. Lancaster Av., Ardmore, PA 19003. INFORMATION EXCHANGE STATE SUPPLEMENT Developmental Disabilities Program ,1 Capitol Square Building 550 Cedar St. St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Minnesota State Planning Agency Roger Strand, Editor 6 1 2/296-40 1 8 Member of National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils March 1986 REPORT ON MEDICAID SUBMITTED TO CONGRESS-.CALL FOR COORDINATED ACTION As required in the Developmental Disabilities Act of 1984, the Secretary of Health and Human Services recently submitted a report to Congress on services provided under the Medicaid program, including the home. and community-based waiver service option. The report focused on ways to improve services which would increase the independence, productivity and integration into the community of persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. The following major Departmental goals were outlined in the report: 1. Increase Incentives for Community Living: The authors pointed out that a common criticism of the Intermediate Care Facilities for the Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR) program is that, under Medicaid funding, incentives are created for states to retain rather than to encourage the trend toward the development of less restrictive living situations in community settings. "One way to achieve a better balance is to give states more flexibility in a manner which does not provide inappropriate fiscal incentives," the authors suggested. 2. Improve Standards for ICF/MR: "The regulations established in January, 1974, are outdated and... have had a medical bias," the authors stated. This is "because the ICF/MR program is a component of the medically-oriented Medicaid program..., "the authors added. "While some ICF/MR clients have heavy medical needs, this is not the case for the majority,- the authors stated. "In addition, inappropriate placement of those in need of residential services has been a continuing concern. The ICF/MR standards should be designed to avoid institutionalization of those not needing such a restrictive setting," the authors recommended. 3. Meet the Needs of Adults: Besides the significant increase in the proportion of adults in ICF/MR (programs), there is a particular concern for those young adults who leave ~ school and face a service delivery system that is uncoordinated and diffuse. 4. Improve Coordination and Cooperation: "If integration of persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities is to occur, it will require coordinated action by federal, state and local agencies, the private sector, and families of this population," the authors stated. One of several solutions under consideration, the authors indicated, is the possibility of establishing a "separate funding mechanism" for financing services to persons with developmental disabilities. These and other issues are being discussed by an interagency committee at the federal level, consisting of representation of the Office of Social Services Policy, the Department of Education, the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, Justice, and the National Council on the Handicapped. For copies of the report, entitled "Report to the Congress on Policies for Improving Services for Mentally Retarded and Other Developmental Disabled Persons Served under Title XIX of the Social Security Act," contact: Developmental Disabilities Program, 201 Capitol Square Building, 550 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4018, or (612) 296-9962 (TDD). SENATOR WEICKER INTRODUCES MEDICAID REFORM BILL On December 13, 1985, Senator Lowell Weicker, Jr., Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Handicapped, introduced the "Quality Services for Disabled Individuals Act of 1985. (S. 1948). The intent of this proposed legislation would be to ensure quality services in institutions, hospitals, and in communities. Amon'; several provisions of the bill, is the requirement of an individualized habilitation plan, aimed at increasing client independence, productivity and integration; established as standards for determining an individual's placement. The Weicker bill would also overhaul the survey, certification and monitoring systems for institutions, which would virtually eliminate the existing state self-certification conflict of interest. New certification standards would be developed and uniform training of surveyors would be provided. Such activities would be administered by a newly created disability bureau within the Health Care Financing Administration, assigned to monitor Medicaid and Medicare disability programs. 5 Finally, the Weicker bill provides incentives for states to expand community-based services by establishing the community waiver as a permanent part of the Medicaid program. For additional information contact United States Senate Subcommittee on the Handicapped, 113 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510. MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION CALLS FOR GREATER COMMITMENT AND ACTION Contained in a report, Mandate for Action: Recommendations of the Governor's Mental Health Commission (February 3, 1986), is a summary of the findings and a set of concrete recommendations for a planned development of a comprehensive mental health service system in Minnesota. The Governor's Commission was formed to look at every aspect of mental illness and especially issues related to mental health services and policy. While some positive trends and exemplary services are highlighted in the report, the Commission noted that the mental health "system" was, "to a significant extent, divided, inconsistent, uncoordinated, undirected, unaccountable, and without a unified direction." Another critical observation made in the report was that because there is an absence of a vigorous case management and individual service planning approach, and of uniform placement criteria, there is an increase in the risk that services will be offered based on the costs to the unit of government making the placement rather than the needs of people.. The recommendations were organized according to three themes: making a commitment, organizing to meet the commitment, and ensuring that the commitment is met. Among the several recommendations made, four immediate priorities were suggested by the Commission: 1. The adoption of a mission statement in the state statute. 2. The extension of the Bill of Rights to outpatient mental health services in state statute. 3. The creation in state government of a visible, responsible, and committed focal point of administrative and professional leadership. 4. The continuation of a Governors Commission on Mental Health to monitor and advocate the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report. Upon completion of the Commission's work, Norma Schleppegrell, Chair, (Hibbing) commented, "There will be a concerted effort around the state to make sure that people understand the recommendations and become mobilized to do something about them--and that's a good beginning. l think it's an exciting time." For free copies of the report, contact: Developmental Disabilities Program, State Planning Agency, 201 Capitol Square Building, 550 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4018, or (612) 296-9962 (TDD). REVOLVING DOOR SYNDROME FOR PERSONS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS COULD BE PREVENTED Based on a study conducted by. the Minnesota Legislative Auditor, about two-thirds of all patients served by state hospitals had been admitted at least once in the past for mental illness treatment. "Readmission rates are high because of the nature of the illnesses, gaps in discharge planning, and limited participation by county case managers and others in planning follow-up care in the community," the authors stated. Recommendations made to the Department of Human Services included: (1) assure that financial aids toward community support services are more equitably distributed throughout the state; (2) improve the quality of discharge plans; (3) establish consistent record keeping procedures for discharge planning and patient follow-up; and (4) focus discharge planning on community support services and residential programs that enable patients to remain in the community. Finally, it was recommended that the Legislature direct the Department of Human Services to establish a task force that would recommend ways of improving the coordination of discharge planning between state hospitals and counties. For copies of the report contact: Program Evaluation Division, Office of Legislative Auditor, Veterans Service Building, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4708. COMPLIANCE WITH WELSCH CONSENT DECREE STUDIED TASKS REMAIN BEFORE JULY 1987 DEADLINE Although the Department of Human Services has successfully reduced populations within state hospitals serving persons with mental retardation and has been in compliance with staff-to-resident ratios for direct care staff since 1983, several issues remain unresolved under the Welsch Consent Decree agreement of 1980. According to a recent study conducted by the Program Evaluation Division of the Legislative Auditor's Office, the Department of Human Services is likely to meet the Consent Decree's population deadline "with little difficulty." However, children are still being admitted to state hospitals and are staying longer than the one-year limitation. Individual program plans are generally inadequate. The use of restraints, seclusion, and medications to control residents' behavior has not been reduced at several state hospitals. Hospital staff often lack the necessary skills to implement individual programs, particularly in the management of behavior problems. The-e is serious questions regarding the "appropriateness' of community placements in residential and day programs, according to individual needs. In this regard, the Department of Human Services should develop standards by which counties will review the appropriateness of community placements before and after discharge. 6 The report concludes that the Consent Decree has made a difference and that the Legislature should consider continuing outside monitoring of the state hospitals and -Community facilities beyond July 1987. For copies of the For contact: Program Evaluation Division, Office of Legislative Auditor, Veterans Service Building, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 296-4708 SEARCH FOR EXEMPLARY VOCATIONAL PROGRAMS ANNOUNCED Applications from private, non-profit organizations are being solicited by the J. M. Foundation National Awards for Excellence. A blue-ribbon panel of judges will select and award S20,000 in each of the following categories: Community-Based Supported Work Facility-Based Work Adjustment Long-Temm Sheltered Employment and Occupational Skill Training Application deadline is May 1, 1986. For applications and for further information, contact: Walker and Associates, Inc., 123 East Grant Street, Minneapolis, Minn. 55403. Tel. (612) 870-4420. TRAINING OF TRAINERS IN TRANSITION SERVICES .AVAILABLE TO STATES Located in Richmond, Virginia, Project Transition into Employment (TIE) is providing a week-long course with follow up technical assistance to assist states in developing interagency teams designed to facilitate a smooth transition from school to work for persons who have severe disabilities. Project TIE staff will prepare state teams composed of leaders from special education, vocational rehabilitation, vocational education, and developmental disabilities to serve as statewide transition team trainers for local transition teams. For more information, contact: Project TIE, 1314 West Main Street, RRTC-VCU, Richmond, Virginia 23284-0001. Tel. (804) 257-1851. PACER OFFERS TRANSITION WORKSHOPS Intended for parents of high school age special education students, the Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights (PACER) Center is conducting a second series of workshops relating to living environments on the following dates and locations (in the evenings): March 20, Owatonna; April 10, Twin Cities; April 17, St. Cloud, and May 8, Morris. For information contact: PACER Center, 4826 Chicago Avenue, South, Minneapolis, Minn. 55417-1055. Tel. (612) 827-2966. CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS March 21: The Minnesota State Chapter of the American Association of Mental Deficiency (MMD) will present two concurrent workshops: (a) Rule 185--Case Management; and (b) Rule 40--Aversive and Deprivation Procedures. These sessions will result in the submittal of recommendations for rule modifications. These workshops will be held at the Radisson Plymouth, 2705 North Annapolis Lane, Plymouth, Minnesota. Contact: Mary Ann Stevenson, MMD Treasurer, 11777 Xeon Blvd., Coon Rapids, Minn. 55433. March 25: "Special Skills for Special People" is an afternoon and evening regional conference for parents, students, and professionals concerned with children with special needs. It will be held at the Austin Area Vocational Technical Institute, 1900 Northwest 8th Avenue in Austin, Minnesota. Contact: Parenting Resources Center, P.O. Box 505, Austin, Minn. 55912. Tel. (507) 437-7746. May 1~3: The Fifth National Conference on the Training and Employment of Paraprofessionals in Special Education, Vocational and Rehabilitation Service Programs for Children and Adults with Disabilities will be held in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Contact: Anna Lou Pickett, National Resource Center for Paraprofessionals in Special Education, 33 West 42nd Street, New York, New York 10036. Tel. (212) 840-1278. May 19-21: The Annual Conference of ARRM (Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota) will feature preconference workshops on May 19. The two-day conference, "Empowerment: Actions Through Choices," will begin the following day at the Sheraton Park Place in St. Louis Park. For further information, contact: ARRM, 1885 University Avenue, St. Paul, Minn. 55104-3486. Tel. (612) 644-8181, or (800) 551-2211 toll free. LENDING LIBRARY SELECTIONS 1 The State Developmental Disabilities (DD) Program Office has acquired several education, training and resource materials. The following' materials may be borrowed from the State Office only, located at the address on the front sheet of the State Supplement section of this newsletter. Td. (612)296~4018. | Design of High School Programs for Severely Handicapped Students, B. Wilcox and G. T. Bellamy, Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company, 1982. This text attempts to integrate current best practice and promising approaches in providing high school services for students with severe handicaps. Focus is on the preparation of students for functioning in future work and living environments and providing effective transition to those environments. Content includes: basis for program design, curriculum content, individualized education programs, community activities, instructional methods, vocational preparation, and preparing students for independent living, leisure and recreation. A special chapter addresses administrative concerns and the need for support services. An additional chapter addresses the need to facilitate the transition of students from school to adult life and adult services. Metropolitan Council DD Program 300 Metro Square Building 7th and Robert Streets St. Paul, MN 55101 If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please call (612)291-6364, or write to the DD Program, Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, MN 55101. (TIME DATED MATERIAL) School to Work Transition for Youth with Severe Disabilities, P. McCarthy, J. Everson, M. S. Moon, 8` I. M. Barcus, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1985. Several authors have contributed to this monograph which was intended for participants in a "train the training course sponsored by the Project Transition Into Employment (TIE) at the Virginia Commonwealth University. The ultimate goal of transition, portrayed by the authors, is an array of meaningful employment, residential, and community functioning options from which individual choices may be made by young adults with disabilities. It is the development of a process which assures a smooth transition without a gap in services after school. Both professionals and parents must redefine the roles and responsibilities of school and adult service providers while working cooperatively to enhance inter-agency collaboration. St. Paul, Minn. Permit No. 702S 8 1 INFORMATION EXCHANGE INCENTIVE Published monthly by the Developmental Disabilities Program of the Metropolitan Counci/ Metropolitan Council 300 Metro Square Building St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 Toni Lippert: 291~6364 If you do not receive this newsletter every month, phase notify the DD Program, Me Metropolitan Council, 300 Metro Square Bldg., St. Paul, Minn. or telephone (C12) 291-C364, TDD 291~0904. METROPOLITAN COUNCIL DD PROGRAM NEWS The DD Advisory Committee (DDAC) of the Metropolitan Council is preparing a vigorous communications campaign to publicize the Council's Developmental Disabilities Regional Policy Plan. This effort is directed to boards and advisory committees of agencies and organizations who have an interest in persons with developmental disabilities. The DD policy plan, adopted by the Metropolitan Council in 1985, includes a description of a comprehensive service system to meet the needs of persons with Developmental disabilities who reside in the seven county Metropolitan Area. The focus of the plan is to promote a system of quality services. The plan states that in order to have a quality system, one must have choices among services. Therefore, the number and types of services currently offered need to be increased. The Metropolitan Council's four goals for the region's residents with developmental disabilities and for their service system are listed. In order to promote achievement of these goals, the plan identifies six characteristics that are essential in a quality system. Criteria and guidelines for each of the six characteristics provide indicators of whether a service and the system measure up to the level of quality desired. If you are interested in a short presentation to your agency or organization's board of directors or advisory committee after June 1, 1 986, please call the DD Program at 291-6364. Materials highlighting the quality characteristics and suitable for inclusion in newsletters will be made available at the time of the presentations. REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE Quality foster homes are needed for elderly persons, mentally, emotionally or physically disabled children and adults in Scott County. Vol. 11 No. 4 April 1986 Providers are reimbursed for expenses and receive additional compensation based on the amount of care needed by the person placed in their care. To find out more about becoming a licensed foster parent call Scott County Foster Care at (612) 445-7751 and ask for Liz or Linda. The Learning Exchange, 8900 Portland Avenue South, Bloomington, MN 55420 is seeking volunteers to teach community education classes. They do not require a license or special training and encourage persons who are disabled to apply. The Learning Exchange provides a wide variety of programs such as adapted aquatics, informational seminars and community education classes for South Hennepin area residents who are handicapped. For more information call (612) 887-9241. For information on programs and services call the Learning Exchange Coordinator, (612) 887-9226 or 887-9144 TDD. FOR YOUR INFORMATION Nominations for ''Teacher of Year" Award The Twin Cities Society for Children and Adults with Autism, Inc. (TCSAC) is seeking nominations for the society's "Teacher of Year" award. Criteria include: Currently working with a child with autism, professional growth in the field of autism, sensitively to individual needs of children with autism, ability to work effectively with parents and advocacy. Nominees may reside anywhere in Minnesota. Nominations must be received by April 30, 1986. For a nomination form write or call: TCSAC, 253 East Fourth Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101, (612) 291-2848. 1 Barrier-Free Tax Incentive Restored Section 190 of the Internal Revenue Code has been reinstated by Congress. This provides a tax deduction for companies that remove barriers to people with disabilities in public facilities, and for transportation vehicles rented or owned in a trade or company. It will be in effect for the next two years. The maximum deduction allowed for a year is S35,000. This deduction can be taken by a corporate or private taxpayer. Barrier removals, such as widening doors, door frames, and building ramps, that comply with standards published by the Treasury Department qualify for the deduction. For information about Treasury Department standards write: John Coulter, Legislation and Regulations Division, Office of the Chief Counsel, Internal Revenue Service, Room 4320, 1111 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20224 or call (202) 566-4473. New Hennepin County Library Service Library services, books and a whole lot more are available to hearing-impaired persons through the TDD service offered by the Hennepin County Library. The Library system has two TDD devices -- one at the Brookdale-Hennepin Area Library in Brooklyn Center (566-2233) and one at the Southdale-Hennepin Area Library in Edina (8304927). Interested persons are invited to call either library via the TDD and request library services and materials. Included in the library's collection are books, magazines, records, 16 millimeter films, newspapers, slides, tapes and video cassettes. Closed caption video cassettes and children's signed-English books may be of special interest. The service is free and the Library staff welcomes requests! Annual Sports Games Competition Minnesota Sports Games for Cerebral Palsy will hold its annual state competition in track and field, swimming, slalom and other sports on May 17th, from 9 am. - 4 p.m. at St. Louis Park High School. These games are based on the philosophy that competition is essential to personal development, and that involvement in sports can teach independence, pride and sportsmanship. Athletes from the ages of eight and over, from any skill level, are encouraged to participate. For more information on the games, call 646-7588, or Meet Coordinator Karyl Hoeger at 5880811. Art Show The 23rd Annual Sister Kenny Institute's "International/ Art Show on Disabled Artists" will be held April 4-May 6 in Minneapolis. For more information call (612) 874-4482. Summer Schedule for Signing and Interpreting 1986 Summer Programs in Sign Language and Interpreting are scheduled for June 2-July 3, 1986. The "Sign Language Immersion Program" is an intensive course for people who wish to learn sign language quickly and easily. The course includes sign reading, vocabulary, grammar, finger-spelling and culture. It is designed for various professional, other service providers and those interested in acquiring sign language skills. Instructors are Marty Barnum and Beth Siebert. Registration fee is $250. For more information: St. Mary's Junior College; 2500 South Sixth Street; Minneapolis, MN 55454; (612) 332- 5521. Computer Programs for Persons with Hearing Impairments The Teachers' Institute for Special Education, Inc., has developed computer programs for persons who are hearing impaired. The programs, which are visually cued, teach keyboarding and upgrade language and comprehension skills. They are designed for grades 1-6, 7-9, 1012, and high school graduates. For additional information, contact Gregg McGraw Hill, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, N.Y. 10020. (212) 512-2000 (Voice only). State Grant Award Announced The Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women is pleased to announce its receipt of a $75,000 state grant administered by the Minnesota Department o~ Corrections. The grant is for an 18 month project to develop and implement a program of services for women with disabilities in need of shelter/advocacy related to battering. MCBW will provide training and technical assistance to its member programs and conduct an outreach and training effort to disability groups regarding battering. The model training package will be developed in the first 6 months of the project and implemented in 5 sites throughout Minnesota in the remaining 12 months of the project. For more information contact: Gara Swenson, Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women; 435 Aldine Street; St. Paul, MN 55104; (612) 646-6177. Applied Technology Program START, a unique program currently being established within the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth seeks to advance career opportunities in applied technology for persons with physical and sensory handicaps. Directed primarily toward identifying and removing or diminishing attitudinal, financial, and physical barriers in technology and engineering, the effort has been designated Project "START. (Science, Technology, Accessibility, 2 Rehabi/itation, and Training. For more information about the program write to: Project START, College of Science and Engineering, UMD, Duluth, MN 55812 or Telephone Bill Kielczewski at (218) 726-8851 or leave messages with the college receptionist at (218) 726-7201. MCIL Transition Services Program The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) has received a grant to provide Transition Services in the seven county Metro area. The program is designed to address the priority of transition from a school or institution to community living and/or employment. The goal of this Transition project is to develop a system for the delivery of Independent Living services to severely disabled students through the Centers for Independent Living to assure transition from school to community or work and to develop the capacity of each disabled youth for independence. The program will focus on the services most needed by severely disabled young adults for successful independent living. These will include: assistance with attendant care, housing assistance/referral, transportation assistance and peer counseling. For more information: Tom Silkey, MCIL, 1821 University Avenue; Suite N-350, St. Paul, MN 55104 or (612) 6468342. WORKSHOPS/CONFERENCES 7th Annual Metrowide Consumer Conference will be held at Anoka Area Vo-Tech Institute. The title for the conference is "Steppin' Out with Style " with George Latimer, Mayor of St. Paul, as keynote speaker. The conference will be held Saturday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The conference is designed for people with developmental delay or mental retardation who want to learn more about their community. The conference fee is $10 per person which includes lunch, refreshments, dinner, workshops, speakers and a live band for the dance afterwards. For more information and to register call Metro Area Chapters of the Association for Retarded Citizens. "Se/f Esteem and Sex Education: Techniques, Resources and Strategies with Mentally Handicapped People" is a workshop sponsored by Planned Parenthood of Minnesota on May 9, 1986. For location and registration information: Planned Parenthood of Minnesota; 1 965 Ford Parkway, St. Paul, MN 55116; (612) 698-2401. "Breaking Through Unemployment: New Job Strategies for Community Leaders" is the title of a one-day workshop sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Jobs and Training for May 16, 1986. For information call (612) 296-1823, 296-8794 or 296-5632. 77,e 1986 International Spina Bifida Conference will be held from June 4-8 in Dearborn, Michigan. For more information: Spina Bifida Associations of Minnesota; P. O. Box 29323; Brooklyn Center, MN 55429-0323. The 1986 ARRM Annual Conference will be held May 19th, 20th and 21st at the Sheraton Park Place. The theme for this year's conference is "Empowerment: Actions through Choice". For registration information: ARRM; 1821 University Avenue; St. Paul, MN 55104-3486; (612) 644-8181. RESOURCES/SERVICES 3 NEWS is a bi-monthly publication of the National Library Service for the Blind and Handicapped/Library of Congress. To receive the publication regularly, send your name, agency and address to: Publications and Media Section, NLS, 1291 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20542. VALOR Resources, Inc. will offer a new session of classes in music, painting and drawing and photography from April 21 to May 17, 1986 for persons who are developmentally disabled. The four-class sessions cost $20 each and are held from 1-3 p.m., 6-8 p.m. or at other times during the day by special arrangement. Classes are held at the Studio Arts Center, 23 East 26 Street, Minneapolis, MN 55404. For further information: Colleen Daley Sanders, (612) 8717595. MELD, a Twin Cities-based parent education program, and Minneapolis Children's Medical Center announce a new program for families. "MELD-Special. offers discussion groups for parents of disabled or chronically ill children up to the age of three. While MELD-Special addresses the impact of an illness or disability on child rearing, discussion is geared to those concerns faced by all parents rather than medical information. MELD-Special groups are led by volunteer facilitators, men and women who are themselves parents of a disabled or chronically ill child. Facilitators receive training, materials and support from MELD and Children's staff. If you are interested in attending or facilitating a MELD-Special group, please telephone Deborah Weiland at MELD, (612) 870 4478. t The Minnesota Foundation for Better Hearing and Speech announces that the Parent Network, a statewide program for families of hearing impaired children, is expanding its services through a grant from the State Department of Education/Special Education Section. Among the new services to be offered: 1) A Puent to Puent Outreach Program. This program will train parents to provide support for other families having hearing impaired children. 2) Workshops and seminars that focus on parent education, family dynamics and advocacy techniques, and 3) A Parent Resource Center. For more information about the Puent Network Program, contact Laura Becker at (612) 223-5140. The Washington County Board of Health has a new program designed to prevent developmental delay or disability in high risk births. Any Washington County resident giving birth in 1986 or 1987 or child born then who is at risk is eligible. Risk factors for infants include birth weight under five pounds, birth prior to 34 weeks, and congenital anomalies or other birth problems. Maternal factors include certain health conditions, no prenatal care or care begun after the sixth month, and age of less than 18 or more than 40 years. A referral to either the Washington County Public Health at (612) 430-1400 or Washington County DLC at (612) 459-0076 will provide assistance to the family. Assistance would include a free developmental screening for the infant and could provide other services to the family. Gillette Children's Hospital offers a new support group for parents of children with birth defects. This new support group is for parents who have had a baby with a major problem or who have gone through a difficult pregnancy and are considering having another child. They will meet at 7:00 p.m. every first and third Tuesday of the month at Gillette Children's Hospital in St. Paul. Parents who may be anxious or afraid to have another child will share experiences and feelings, deal with emotional needs, and receive information for future decision making. To register or for further information, contact Beth-Ann Bloom, M.S., Genetic Counselor, Gillette Children's Hospital, 200 East University Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55101, (612) 291-2848. Courage Residence continues to offer respite services to persons who are 16 years of age or older, fully cognitive, medically stable, and able to remain out of bed and to participate in the regular activities of the residence. Admission requires some lead time for the person's medical assessment. However much of the admission procedure can be done by telephone. For more information call or write: Courage Residence; 3915 Golden Valley, MN 55422; (612) 5880811. 4 A Support Group for parents of preschoolers who have cerebral palsy is forming. Meetings will be at Cerebral Palsy Center, 360 NE Hoover Street, Mpls. For information: Anita Bracchi (612) 331-5958. The Handicapped Driver's Mobility Guide is available at most local American Automobile Association (AAA) offices. It offers information and lists which cover a variety of areas: Adaptive equipment, driver training, state agencies, periodicals and newsletters that may be useful to handicapped drivers. For more information check the telephone directory for your local AAA office. Applications for the 1986 National Organization Awards Program sponsored by JC Penney and the National Organization of Disability (N.O.D.) are now being accepted at N.O.D. $20,000 in cash awards, along with honorary awards, will be presented at a . Washington ceremony in October to non-disability organizations that initiate disability programs or strengthen existing ones. The competition is open to all national, non-governmental, non-profit organizations with chapters, affiliates, institutions and/or members throughout the country. A panel of independent judges will select the winners. This new 1986 JC Penney-N.O.D. program aims at stimulating disability programs in general organizations whose principal objectives are not related to disability matters, so as to increase participation of disabled Americans in more fields. Application forms must be received by August 29, 1986. Forms may be obtained by writing: Martin Comer; The National Organization on Disability; 2100 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.; Suite 232, Washington, D.C. 20037. RECREATION/LEISURE ACTIVITIES Camp Oz for children and teens with epilepsy will hold its fourth annual session June 16-21 at YMCA Camp Ihduhapi on Lake Independence. The goal of Camp Oz is to provide a safe, educational and camping program for boys and girls, 8-17, whose primary medical condition is epilepsy. Camp Oz combines the traditional camp setting with a specially trained medical staff including a pediatric neurologist, psychologist, pharmacist and several registered nurses. The cost of the six-day camp is $175. Payment plans and financial assistance are available. To register or for more information contact Camp Oz, 2701 University Avenue S.E., Suite 106, Minneapolis, MN 55414, (612) 376-5031. Established in 1982, Camp Oz is a nonprofit organization sponsored by Gillette Children's Hospital, Comprehensive Epilepsy Program and Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota. INFORMATION EXCHANGE STATE SUPPLEMENT Developmental Disabilities Program ,01 Capital Square Building Minnesota State Planning Agency 550 Cedar St. Roger Strand. Editor St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 612/296-4018 Member of National Association of Developmental Disabilities Council April 1986 MINNESOTA RECOGNIZED VOLUNTEERS In tribute to Minnesota's volunteers, Governor Rudy Perpich has proclaimed the third week in April (April 20-27) as "Volunteer Recognition Week." Organizations and communities throughout the state are planning special recognition for their volunteer workers during this time. "More than one million Minnesota volunteers help...to meet emergency and on-going needs," the Governor said in the proclamation. "This caring spirit is evident throughout the state," observed the Governor and urged Minnesotans to "help renew and sustain the spirit and vitality of our communities and our state by volunteering. " A number of recognition items and promotional ideas have been developed by the Minnesota Volunteer Network (a coalition of organizations) and the Minnesota Office on Volunteer Services. One example ; a specially designed logo that looks like a license plate and reads, "Minnesota THANKS over 1,000,000 Volunteers." (The "K" in "Thanks" is substituted with an outlined map of Minnesota.) For more information about these materials or Volunteer Recognition Week, contact the Minnesota Office on Volunteer Services, Department of Administration, 500 Rice Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155. Tel (612) 296-4731, or (800) 652-9747, toll free. INEZ ERICKSON OF DULUTH RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION Known primarily for her work on behalf of people with epilepsy, Inez Erickson, Duluth, was recently presented a Volunteer Award by Jean Elder, Director of the Administration on Development Disabilities at the Annual Forum held in Dallas, Texas. Inez was nominated to represent Minnesota by the Governor's Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities because of her significant and exemplary services for the past many years as a volunteer. Inez helped to organize the Arrowhead Epilepsy League and served as a volunteer executive director from 1970 to 1977. She worked as a paid director between 1977 and 1981, and then resumed her volunteer status on behalf of persons with epilepsy on both state and local levels. On the local level, she averages 20 hours of volunteer service each week for the Arrowhead Epilepsy League, spending most of these hours as an advocate and raising funds for the organization. Besides serving on the board of the National Epilepsy Foundation of America for two years, Inez served as co-chair of the Governor's Task Force on Epilepsy for 18 months, starting in 1981. She has also served on the board of directors of the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota for three years. Inez and her husband, Erick, have raised seven children, two of whom have epilepsy. They are also foster parents to troubled teenagers, licensed by the PATH (Professional Association of Treatment Homes) program of the state Department of Human Services. This special commitment requires thirty hours of training each year. In addition, Inez serves as a trained surrogate parent with the Board of Education and is secretary of the Central Hillside United Ministry (CHUM) church board. Regarding the latter, she is involved in several projects, such as a refugee program, a. committee for handicapped persons and a project for persons who are elderly. Examples of these activities are: taking individuals shopping, giving talks in churches about architectural and attitudinal barriers and visiting people in nursing homes. After receiving her award, Inez commented that the gratification and happiness she has received from people she has helped has been ample reward in itself. "Being an active volunteer has helped me to be a whole person," Inez concluded. GUARDIANSHIP TASK FORCE SUBMITS REPORT TO LEGISLATURE As requested by the 1985 Legislature, the Guardianship Task Force completed its study of the Minnesota Public Guardianship Program and made recommendations that are contained in a publication, Public Guardianship Study: Report to the Legislature (January 1986). 5 For the purpose of this study, Nguardian" was defined as ~a person appointed by the court to make all decisions for another person (ward) judged legally incompetent, which includes determining residence supervising care, and protecting property." Under Minnesota law, the Commissioner of Human Services is authorized to serve as public guardian of people who are mentally retarded and are in need of such protection, as determined by a Probate Court. "Although the Task Force members were not in total agreement over certain issues," commented Kay Hendrikson, from the Department of Human Services, who served as staff to the task force, there was unanimous agreement regarding the need for a wider variety of guardianship options, as well as a need to expand and extend information about these services to the public.. According to Hendrikson, the range of choices when selecting a method for substitute decision making, should include: no guardianship at all, advocacy, representative payee, case management, private guardianship, corporate guardianship, and public guardianship. Minnesota is the only state in the Midwest (Region V) that does not have a corporate form of guardianship service. Corporate guardian. was defined in the report as court appointed corporation or employee of a corporation offering guardianship services." The Task Force recommended that a system of non-profit corporate guardianship be created for low-income clients who have no near-relatives. Partial funding for corporate guardianship should be authorized by the Minnesota Legislature. Such corporations should be supervised by a central monitoring agency, the Task Force recommended. There was considerable disagreement among the Task Force members, Hendrikson indicated, in regard to the placement of the proposed independent Office of Public Guardianship. According to the report, this central office function should be strengthened, expanded, better funded and should remain within the Department of Human Services (to retain the authority vested in the current system). Placement elsewhere, which would be independent of other state agencies was recommended for further study. The Task Force further recommended that providers of services should not make decisions for clients (who are unable to make their own decisions) without legal sanction. Therefore, it was recommended that in order to avoid the potential for conflict of interest and unlawful decision making by unauthorized parties, there should be a system created where regional public guardians would assume the major role in providing substitute decision-making now made by counties. Another major conclusion reached by the Task Force was: "The present system of public guardianship is not amenable to expansion to other populations,. such as, persons who are mentally ill, chemically dependent, and/or elderly For further information and for copies of the report contact: Kay Hendrikson, Department of Human Services, Fourth Floor Centennial Building, St. Paul, Minn. 55101. Tel. (612) 2962168. PROJECT STUDIES HEALTH CARE STANDARDS A Health Care Standards Project is now underway at the University Affiliated Program on Developmental Disabilities at Gillette Hospital in St. Paul. The project will study and make recommendations regarding the quality of health care services received by persons with developmental disabilities in Minnesota. Focus of the study will include issues regarding: access, availability, financing, personnel, health practices, and quality assurance. Three products will result from the study: 1) health care standards guidelines for health professionals to use in providing services to persons with developmental disabilities; 2) a document which will lay the groundwork for public policy changes; and 3) recommendations regarding continuing education for health professionals. Guided by a technical advisory task force, work is expected to be completed this fall. Funding for the project is provided by the Governor's Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities. For further information, contact: Deborah A. Plumb, MPH, Project Manager, Health Care Standards Project, 208 East University Ave., St. Paul, Minn. S5101. Tel. (612) 221- 3642. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNlTY Executive Director: Experienced person to manage statewide non-profit organization serving providers of residential resources for people with mental retardation. Responsible for planning and administering agency services. Position requires abilities for fiscal and program management, grant writing, leadership, public relations, community organization. Knowledge of mental retardation and service systems desired. Salary commensurate with experience. Send resume to: Search Committee, Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota, 400 West Marie Avenue, West St. Paul, MN 55118. CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS -- SUPPORT TO FAMILIES A statewide conference is being planned for November 14 and 15, 1986, entitled, Building Community Supports for Families of Children and Adults with 6 J Developmental Special Needs," to be held at the Earle Brown Continuing Education Center in St. Paul. Persons interested in providing presentations in the form of workshops, panel discussions and displays may submit abstracts or proposals by May 30, 1986. To request further instructions and information, contact: Neil Tift, Program Director, Continuing Education in Social Work, 107 Armory, 15 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455. PUBLIC MEETINGS SCHEDULED BY STATE COUNCIL FOR THE HANDICAPPED A series of public meetings are scheduled throughout Minnesota in April and May, sponsored by the Minnesota State Council for the Handicapped. The purpose of the meetings will be to inform people about what happened during the 1986 Legislative session and to identify issues for next year's session. All interested persons are invited to participate. For further information, contact: Minnesota State Council for the Handicapped, 208 Metro Square Building, St. Paul, MN 55101. Tel. (612) 296-6785 or (800) 652-9747, toll-free. (Both numbers are for voice and TDD.) Public Meeting Schedule Date Time Place April 22 10:30 a.m. Bemidji - Bemidji State University, Hobson Memorial Union, North Conference Room April 23 7-9 p.m. St. Paul - Earle Brown Center, Room 135C, University of Minnesota, 1890 Buford Ave. April 28 7-9 p.m. April 29 7-9 p.m. April 30 7-9 p.m. May 1 May 5 7-9 p.m. 7-9 p.m. Wadena - Immanuel Lutheran Church, 403 SE Second St. Thief River Falls - Area Vocational Technical Institute, Hwy. #1 East Windom - Habilitative Services, Inc., Highways 60 & 71 Willmar - Willmar Junior High School, 201 Willmar Ave. Fergus Falls - Public Library, 205 E. Harnpden May 7 7-9 p.m. Austin - Austin Community College, 1600 8th Ave. NW May 8 7-9 p.m. Mankato - Blue Earth County Govemment Center Auditorium, 410 S. 5th Street May 12 7-9 p.m. Duluth - The Depot, Great Hall, 506 W. Michigan May 14 7-9 p.m. North Branch/Lindstrom - Chisago County Senior Multi-purpose Center, 6th & Maple, North Branch CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS May8&9 The 1986 Spring Conference of the Minnesota AssociaI;on of Behavior Ana/ysts will be held at The Sunwood Inn in St. Cloud. Focus will be on Behavior Therapy. Contact: Richard Hirschenberger, Brainerd Regional Human Services Center, East Oak Street, Brainerd, MN 56401. June 4~6 "Employment of Persons with Severe Disabilities" is a national symposium to be held in Syracuse, New York, with a focus on systems change. The aBenda will cover: a) innovative strategies, b) setting policy and financing integrated employment opportunities, and c) employer initiatives and perspectives. Registration will be limited to 250 people. For more information, contact: National Employment Symposium, ATTN: Marylee Kerr, Center for Human Policy, 123 College Place, Syracuse, New York 13210. PUBLICATIONS The Right to Grow Up: An Introduction to Adults with Developmental Disabilities, J.A. Summers (Ed.), Brookes Publishing Co., 1986. This book reviews issues and services needed by persons with developmental disabilities throughout their lives. Part I examines the needs of people with developmental disabilities as they move through the various stages of the adult cycle exploring such issues as the transition into adulthood, sexuality, marriage, parenthood, and concludes with a chapter on aging and elderly persons with developmental disabilities. Part II of the book looks at the services necessary (including a chapter on independent living programs) to provide the training and support needed by adults with developmental disabilities to participate successfully in their community--at home, at work, in recreation and leisure activities. Part lil explores the policy/legal issues with chapters on self-advocacy, federal legislation, and finally, administrative and policy trends to ensure the development of programs that adults with developmental disabilities truly need and want. The Right to Grow Up can be ordered by prepaying $21.95 to Brookes Publishing Co., P.O. Box 10624, Baltimore, Maryland 21285, or calling toll-free (800) 638-3755. 7 LENDING LIBRARY SEL