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Article by By Pam Adams | GateHouse News Service
MARQUETTE HEIGHTS — The little boy jumping in the middle of the bed, screeching out his favorite song, “Play that Funky Music White Boy,” has congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, a gene mutation that causes his body to forget to breathe.
“There’s maybe 600 known cases worldwide,” said his father, Bill Thompson.
The rare disease is also the reason 5-year-old Alex has had a tube sprouting from his windpipe since he was 6 weeks old and a bedroom that doubles as a hospital room.
But right now, it is not the rarity of Alex’s disease that concerns his parents. It’s Illinois’ effort to reduce wide-ranging Medicaid costs, his father says, at the expense of children like Alex who rely on medical technology and round-the-clock nursing care to live at home.
Bill and Holly Thompson are among some 500 families throughout the state who depend on what’s called the MFTD waiver, or the Medically Fragile and Technology-Dependent Waiver program.
With the waiver, their children are eligible for Medicaid regardless of parental income. Without it, parents can’t afford the round-the-clock nursing care — at an average cost of $188,000 a year — their children require to avoid institutionalization.
Fighting the changes
MFTD-waiver families have popped up as one of the most vociferous grass-roots groups fighting specific changes in the state’s Medicaid reform package.
So far, families have played a role in blocking state plans to shift more of the costs to families, impose income eligibility caps and change standard-of-care definitions. They’ve cornered Julie Hamos, head of the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, at public forums and filed a lawsuit to stop the changes.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services stepped in, asking state officials to request a deadline extension so federal officials would have time to review the changes. An initial Sept. 1 deadline has been extended 90 days.
“About 100 families are on Facebook every night talking about strategies (and) which legislators we’ve harassed lately,” Thompson said.
Harassing legislators is nothing compared to sacrifices the Thompsons have made since Alex was born.
His tracheostomy tube is his airway, and he practically began life on one in a neonatal intensive-care unit. He was on a ventilator to keep him breathing his first few years. He’s still on one at night. His parents rely on private nurses at night and when Alex goes to school.
Both parents learned to suction the tube to prevent clogging and replace it if it comes out. Their 15-year-old daughter, Allie, also learned to care for her brother. If Alex pulls the tube from his neck, they’ve got 10 seconds to get it back in.
Concerted effort
When Holly Thompson’s maternity leave was up, Bill Thompson, 48, quit his job for a year. “I didn’t trust the nurse,” he said.
When Holly, 38, was laid off, they held onto $700-a-month COBRA payments. They both eventually took lower-paying jobs, mainly so they could be with Alex. Even so, they saved for Allie’s college education, though private nurses became part of their routine.
“I never dreamed there would be a cost I couldn’t take care of with my insurance or money I had saved,” Holly Thompson said. “The waiver program was a Godsend for us.”
If the MFTD waiver took effect as state officials intended, the Thompsons would pay 5 percent of their income, about $386 a month, to maintain the nurses.
But to the MFTD families, the income cap and changes in care standards are more worrisome than sharing costs. Families that earn above 500 percent of the official federal poverty level would not be eligible for the waiver. That’s about $95,000 for a family of three.
“Some people might say that’s a pretty good income,” said Larry Joseph, director of the fiscal policy center at Chicago-based Voices for Illinois Children. “But not when nursing costs average $188,000 a year.”
Families no longer eligible for the waiver would face huge out-of-pocket expenses with no transition plan. Some say they’d have to quit their jobs, work part time or divorce to make sure their children get the proper care. Or their children might be forced to move into a nursing home, which would cost Medicaid three times as much as the waiver program.
The Thompsons take Alex’s boisterous rendition of his favorite song in stride. Bill Thompson joins him on a few bars.
“Where he is today is because of concerted effort,” Bill Thompson said.
“We worked with him, and the nurses worked with him also. There’s no way they could do that in a hospital or a nursing home.”
http://www.rrstar.com/healthyrockford/x887150136/Program-for-medically-fragile-kids-holds-on-despite-cuts-threat?zc_p=1
30 Eylül 2012 Pazar
'Adaptive Driving' Financial Assistance Options | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
By Guest Blogger Chris Miller, Director of Interactive Marketing, The Mobility Resource
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
State Programs
For Veterans
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
Government Programs
Medicaid: Medicaid is a jointly administered federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid benefits differ by each state, but Medicaid usually offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare. Most state Medicaid agencies do not have an exclusive list of covered medical equipment. Instead, any medical equipment, including newer technologies, is approved on a case-by-case basis when a request for funding is presented through a prior approval process. After being placed on a Medicaid Waiver list, Medicaid may pay for adaptive equipment. A list of Medicaid state offices is available at http://www.medicaid.gov/
Medicare: Medicare is a federal program, but Medicare health plans are offered through private companies that contract with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits to people enrolled in Medicare. Part A is hospital insurance, while Part B covers doctors and outpatient services, and some medical devices based on medical necessity. In some instances Medicare will pay for adaptive equipment following a specialty evaluation performed by a qualified practitioner. For more information, call 1-800-633-4227.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI eligibility and payment amounts are based on income and other resources. SSI offers a Plan to Achieve Self-Support program, or PASS, which helps those with disabilities pay for items or services needed to achieve a specific employment goal – to ultimately return to work. For more information, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Often sales-tax exemptions on equipment purchases and other out-of-pocket costs can qualify for tax deductions as medical expenses. If an adaptation qualifies as a medical necessity, it can be deducted from federal taxes. Contact a tax adviser or get literature from the IRS that outlines the tax code for medical equipment by calling 1-800-829-1040 and asking for publications with extensions 3966, 907 and 502.
State Programs
Some State Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc Rehab) Agencies may be able to assist with the costs associated with purchasing an adaptive vehicle (or adding adaptive equipment to an existing one) if the vehicle is necessary in order for a person to get to and from work. For more information, contact your state’s department of vocational rehabilitation.
Many nonprofit organizations offer programs that provide assistance paying for adaptive vehicles or vehicle modifications, especially if the vehicle is necessary in order to meet an individual’s work-related transportation needs. These programs include Pennsylvania’s “Ways to Work” program and Otsego County, NY’s “Wheels to Work” program. To learn more, visit Disability.gov or read the fact sheet, “Car Ownership Programs for Low-Income Earners”.
State Assistive Technology Loan Programs may also be able to provide assistance to help pay for modifications to your vehicle. Contact your state’s program for more information.
Your local Center for Independent Living (CIL) can provide additional information on programs that may be available in your state.
For Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a grant enabling veterans and service members to purchase a new or used automobile to accommodate certain disabilities that resulted from an injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. There are two components of the grant, each requiring a separate form, but some veterans could be eligible for both:
An automobile grant is paid directly to the seller of the automobile for up to $11,000 and is available once in the service member’s lifetime. Veterans who qualify for the automobile grant may also qualify for the adaptive equipment grant.
An adaptive equipment grant includes, but is not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats and special equipment necessary to assist the eligible person into and out of the vehicle. The adaptive equipment grant may be paid more than once, and it may be paid to either the seller or the veteran.
For more information on this program, call 1-800-827-1000 or read the VA’s “Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants” fact sheet.
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
Daimler Chrysler Corporation: buy or lease any new 2010, 2011 or 2012 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or Fiat vehicle from a participating dealership or FIAT studio, and Chrysler will provide cash reimbursement to help reduce the cost of installing the adaptive driver or passenger equipment on the vehicle. Leased vehicles must be leased for a minimum of 12 months to be eligible.
Ford Motor Company: the Ford Mobility Motoring adaptive equipment reimbursement offers up to $1,000, or up to $200 for alert hearing devices, lumbar support or running boards and is available on any new Ford or Lincoln vehicle purchased or leased from a U.S. Ford or Lincoln dealer during the program period. Maximum reimbursement per vehicle is $1,000. Major structural vehicle modifications to accommodate the installation of wheelchair lift or ramp must be completed by a Ford Authorized Qualified Vehicle Modifier to be eligible for reimbursement.
General Motors Corporation: through the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program, new vehicle purchasers/lessees who install eligible adaptive mobility equipment on their new Chevrolet, Buick or GMC vehicles can receive up to a $1,000 reimbursement for the cost of the equipment. Also, you can get two extra years of standard OnStar® service at no additional cost on all 2011–2013 Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar.
Volkswagen: Volkswagen will provide up to $1,000 toward the purchase and installation of lift equipment, carriers, hand controls, pedal extensions or other assistance equipment on any eligible model of new and unused Volkswagen models.
Audi: Audi offers $1,500 in assistance for hand controls or other approved assistance devices to anyone who purchases or leases a new Audi or CPO Audi vehicle. Contact an adaptive equipment retailer of your choice for information concerning the purchase and installation of such equipment. All payments will be made directly to the Audi owner approximately four weeks after submission to Audi.
Toyota: the Toyota Mobility Assistance Program provides cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 of the cost of any aftermarket adaptive equipment or conversion, for drivers and/or passengers, when installed on any eligible purchased or leased new Toyota vehicle within 12 months of vehicle purchase or lease. The cash reimbursement will be provided for the exact cost to purchase and install qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for transporting persons with physical disabilities. The program also applies to purchasers of the Toyota Factory Installed Auto Access Seat, where the full $1,000 cash reimbursement will be paid directly to you. Only vehicles sold or leased and delivered to a retail customer by an authorized Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. dealer are eligible under this program.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
FTA Issues New Civil Rights, Environmental Justice Guidance | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
The Federal Transit Administration has issued new guidance to help recipients of FTA grant funding better understand and comply with federal civil rights requirements and, separately, Environmental Justice principles. New guidance in the form of a revised circular is now available to help FTA funding recipients comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protects people from discrimination based on race, color or national origin in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance.
The revised Title VI circular provides guidance to FTA funding recipients on how to comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Title VI regulations, which require careful evaluation of the impact of proposed service and fare changes on minority riders and the provision of language access to people with limited English proficiency.
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice Policy Guidance For Federal Transit Administration Recipients:
Federal Register Volume 77, Issue 137 (July 17, 2012)
Summary: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has placed in the docket and on its Web site final guidance in the form of a Circular (hereinafter ``EJ Circular'') on incorporating environmental justice principles into plans, projects, and activities that receive funding from FTA. This final guidance provides recommendations to State Departments of Transportation, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, public transportation providers, and other recipients of FTA funds on how to fully engage environmental justice populations in the public transportation decision-making process; how to determine whether environmental justice populations would be subjected to disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects as a result of a transportation plan, project, or activity; and how to avoid, minimize, or mitigate these effects.
Circular 4703.1 is effective August 15, 2012
---------
New Guidance on Title VI Civil Rights Requirements
The Federal Transit Administration has updated the Title VI Circular to 4702.1B. FTA’s revised circular provides guidance to grantees on how to comply with Title VI regulations, as well as to ensure grantees provide meaningful language access to persons who are limited English proficient. The circular provides specific compliance information for each type of grantee and provides comprehensive appendices including additional guidance and examples to ensure recipients understand the requirements.
FTA published a notice in the Federal Register on August 28, 2012 (77 FR 52116) addressing comments received during development of the Circular.
# For more information on the New Guidance visit the FTA at:
http://www.fta.dot.gov/index.html
The revised Title VI circular provides guidance to FTA funding recipients on how to comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Title VI regulations, which require careful evaluation of the impact of proposed service and fare changes on minority riders and the provision of language access to people with limited English proficiency.
Environmental Justice
FTA’s new Environmental Justice Circular, which became effective on August 15, 2012, is the first stand-alone guidance we’ve issued to address the intent of the 1994 Executive Order on Federal Actions To Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations. The new circular is meant to ensure that FTA funding recipients avoid, minimize, or mitigate disproportionately high and adverse health and environmental effects, including social and economic effects, on minority populations and low-income populations. FTA funding recipients are also required to incorporate EJ principles into transportation planning and decision-making processes as well as project-specific environmental reviews---
Environmental Justice Policy Guidance For Federal Transit Administration Recipients:
Federal Register Volume 77, Issue 137 (July 17, 2012)
Summary: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has placed in the docket and on its Web site final guidance in the form of a Circular (hereinafter ``EJ Circular'') on incorporating environmental justice principles into plans, projects, and activities that receive funding from FTA. This final guidance provides recommendations to State Departments of Transportation, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, public transportation providers, and other recipients of FTA funds on how to fully engage environmental justice populations in the public transportation decision-making process; how to determine whether environmental justice populations would be subjected to disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects as a result of a transportation plan, project, or activity; and how to avoid, minimize, or mitigate these effects.
Circular 4703.1 is effective August 15, 2012
---------
New Guidance on Title VI Civil Rights Requirements
The Federal Transit Administration has updated the Title VI Circular to 4702.1B. FTA’s revised circular provides guidance to grantees on how to comply with Title VI regulations, as well as to ensure grantees provide meaningful language access to persons who are limited English proficient. The circular provides specific compliance information for each type of grantee and provides comprehensive appendices including additional guidance and examples to ensure recipients understand the requirements.
FTA published a notice in the Federal Register on August 28, 2012 (77 FR 52116) addressing comments received during development of the Circular.
# For more information on the New Guidance visit the FTA at:
http://www.fta.dot.gov/index.html
Oversight Concerns Raised Over Independent Living Centers | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
As Posted by: Disability Scoop - article By MICHELLE DIAMENT | Sept 28, 2012
Oversight of the nation’s Centers for Independent Living is severely lacking, a new audit finds, calling into question how effective the centers are at helping people with disabilities integrate into the community.
In a report from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Inspector General, officials found that the agency’s Rehabilitation Services Administration is doing far too little to assess the effectiveness of the independent living centers it oversees across the country.
The Centers for Independent Living provide information and referral services, training to help those with special needs live independently, peer counseling and advocacy services. As of 2010, there were 337 federally-funded centers across the country, all of which are run predominantly by people with disabilities themselves.
Between October 2007 and September 2010, investigators found that the Rehabilitation Services Administration conducted just 40 onsite reviews, a fraction of the 153 that are mandated under the law. What’s more, the report found that the locations selected for the reviews were not chosen randomly as required.
More problems were uncovered when the inspector general selected 12 independent living centers in 11 states to assess. While each location provided all of the services required, investigators found that poor record keeping permeated centers, with inconsistent reports on funding and how many consumers were served.
“As a result of the inadequate monitoring and oversight, partially supported performance reports and inadequately documented files, (the Rehabilitation Services Administration) did not have sufficient, accurate information to provide required oversight of the grant programs at the CILs reviewed,” the inspector general wrote. “Appropriate oversight is essential to ensuring that the program goals are met.”
Officials at the Rehabilitation Services Administration acknowledged the problems and told the inspector general that staffing and funding issues make it “extremely difficult” to review the growing number of Centers for Independent Living.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/09/28/concerns-independent-living/16551/
Oversight of the nation’s Centers for Independent Living is severely lacking, a new audit finds, calling into question how effective the centers are at helping people with disabilities integrate into the community.
In a report from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Inspector General, officials found that the agency’s Rehabilitation Services Administration is doing far too little to assess the effectiveness of the independent living centers it oversees across the country.
The Centers for Independent Living provide information and referral services, training to help those with special needs live independently, peer counseling and advocacy services. As of 2010, there were 337 federally-funded centers across the country, all of which are run predominantly by people with disabilities themselves.
Between October 2007 and September 2010, investigators found that the Rehabilitation Services Administration conducted just 40 onsite reviews, a fraction of the 153 that are mandated under the law. What’s more, the report found that the locations selected for the reviews were not chosen randomly as required.
More problems were uncovered when the inspector general selected 12 independent living centers in 11 states to assess. While each location provided all of the services required, investigators found that poor record keeping permeated centers, with inconsistent reports on funding and how many consumers were served.
“As a result of the inadequate monitoring and oversight, partially supported performance reports and inadequately documented files, (the Rehabilitation Services Administration) did not have sufficient, accurate information to provide required oversight of the grant programs at the CILs reviewed,” the inspector general wrote. “Appropriate oversight is essential to ensuring that the program goals are met.”
Officials at the Rehabilitation Services Administration acknowledged the problems and told the inspector general that staffing and funding issues make it “extremely difficult” to review the growing number of Centers for Independent Living.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/09/28/concerns-independent-living/16551/
EEOC Releases Tools to Educate Young Workers about Workplace Discrimination | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
PRESS RELEASE 9-19-12
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Youth@Work Video, Classroom Guides and Updated Web Page Part of National Outreach Effort to Teach Teens About Their Rights at Work
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today released a video and accompanying classroom guides to educate working-age students about sexual harassment and other forms of employment discrimination. These tools were developed as part of EEOC's Youth@Work, an effort to educate America's youth about their employment rights and responsibilities and help employers create positive work experiences for young adults. The tools are free to the public and will be posted online at www.youth.eeoc.gov under "free downloads." In addition, educators may request the video and classroom guides by e-mailing Youth.AtWork@eeoc.gov.
The video and the classroom guides provide a series of vignettes to help teenagers entering the work force understand some of the issues they may face. The vignettes show typical workplace settings for teens, such as a retail store and a fast food restaurant. The classroom guides help teachers and students identify illegal discrimination and harassment. EEOC will provide one copy of the video and one set of classroom guides per person, while supplies last.
"As young people enter the workforce, it is important that they understand their rights and know how to respond if they experience or witness unlawful discrimination or harassment," said EEOC Chair Jacqueline A. Berrien. "The EEOC is committed to ensuring that the promise of equal employment opportunity is meaningful for everyone, including members of the labor force who are especially vulnerable to discrimination and harassment."
The EEOC also updated its Youth@Work web page, which includes information about different types of job discrimination that young workers may encounter and suggests strategies they can use to prevent, and, if necessary, respond to such discrimination. The web page also includes an interactive tool called "Challenge Yourself!" that provides an opportunity for teens to test their knowledge by analyzing sample job discrimination scenarios.
The EEOC developed Youth@Work in 2004 to help educate teens about their rights and responsibilities at work and to help employers create positive work experiences for young adults. Since then, the federal agency has hosted nearly 6,600 Youth@Work events nationwide, reaching over 400,000 students, education professionals, and employers. Further information about Youth@Work is available online at http://www.youth.eeoc.gov/.
The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the EEOC is available on its web site at www.eeoc.gov.
http://www1.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/9-19-12.cfm
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Youth@Work Video, Classroom Guides and Updated Web Page Part of National Outreach Effort to Teach Teens About Their Rights at Work
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today released a video and accompanying classroom guides to educate working-age students about sexual harassment and other forms of employment discrimination. These tools were developed as part of EEOC's Youth@Work, an effort to educate America's youth about their employment rights and responsibilities and help employers create positive work experiences for young adults. The tools are free to the public and will be posted online at www.youth.eeoc.gov under "free downloads." In addition, educators may request the video and classroom guides by e-mailing Youth.AtWork@eeoc.gov.
The video and the classroom guides provide a series of vignettes to help teenagers entering the work force understand some of the issues they may face. The vignettes show typical workplace settings for teens, such as a retail store and a fast food restaurant. The classroom guides help teachers and students identify illegal discrimination and harassment. EEOC will provide one copy of the video and one set of classroom guides per person, while supplies last.
"As young people enter the workforce, it is important that they understand their rights and know how to respond if they experience or witness unlawful discrimination or harassment," said EEOC Chair Jacqueline A. Berrien. "The EEOC is committed to ensuring that the promise of equal employment opportunity is meaningful for everyone, including members of the labor force who are especially vulnerable to discrimination and harassment."
The EEOC also updated its Youth@Work web page, which includes information about different types of job discrimination that young workers may encounter and suggests strategies they can use to prevent, and, if necessary, respond to such discrimination. The web page also includes an interactive tool called "Challenge Yourself!" that provides an opportunity for teens to test their knowledge by analyzing sample job discrimination scenarios.
The EEOC developed Youth@Work in 2004 to help educate teens about their rights and responsibilities at work and to help employers create positive work experiences for young adults. Since then, the federal agency has hosted nearly 6,600 Youth@Work events nationwide, reaching over 400,000 students, education professionals, and employers. Further information about Youth@Work is available online at http://www.youth.eeoc.gov/.
The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the EEOC is available on its web site at www.eeoc.gov.
http://www1.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/9-19-12.cfm
29 Eylül 2012 Cumartesi
One-legged Soccer Player "Nico" Calabria Scores Amazing Goal!
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Let's not beat around the bush: What Nicolai "Nico" Calabria pulled off Wednesday in Massachusetts has to be one of the greatest goals ever scored. That's not because of the arc of his shot or the power of his header. It's because Nico Calabria only has one leg, and he scored one of the most acrobatic goals of the season in an able-bodied, varsity soccer game.
YouTube Published on Sep 20, 2012 by Ray Pavlik
Calabria is a high school senior who competes for the Concord-Carlisle (Mass.) High soccer team. He was the captain of the junior varsity squad as a junior. He is also a wrestler for the Patriots. He does all these things with just one leg, which is about as remarkable an achievement as one can come across.
On the soccer pitch, Calabria motors up and down the field on crutches. Incredibly, the don't seem to keep him out of the action much, either, because Calabria can really move on his two crutches, as he showed with his celebration after his recent goal during C-C's 9-0 victory against Newton (Mass.) South High.
How he managed to score that goal, however, is more remarkable still. Balancing on his crutches, Calabria positioned himself in the penalty box for an oncoming Concord-Carlisle corner. As the ball floated in, Calabria was in position to get his boot on the ball, if he could get it high enough to make contact.
What followed next was incredible, with Calabria swinging his leg as if he was attempting an overhead volley. He made contact with the inswinging corner with his leg over his head like a full scissor kick, and the ball sailed into the net with ease.
Even if you've already watched the goal above once, go back and check it out again. It's well worth it. It would easily qualify as one of the top goals of the week if Calabria had taken the shot with both of his lower limbs, let alone scoring it with one.
That Calabria has even made it to the Concord-Carlisle varsity soccer team is a major accomplishment. The Patriots are among the strongest teams in the Dual County League (DCL) each year, and the DCL hosts some of the best boys soccer in the Boston area. Suffice it to say, Concord-Carlisle doesn't need Calabria on the field just to make up the numbers. He's there on his own merit.
Though he is still in high school, Calabria is already a member of the U.S. national amputee soccer team. His bio on that team's website claims that he has been a guest on the Ellen DeGeneres show and has been profiled on National Public Radio's All Things Considered.
Based on what he accomplishes on the field, Calabria deserves all that attention and more. Yet his accomplishments aren't limited to soccer and wrestling, either; Calabria also summited Mt. Kilamanjaro, reaching the top of the mountain at age 13.
That expedition may have set the stage for Calabria's future triumphs, but it certainly didn't stop him. Now the high school senior can comfortably look back and realize that he's succeeding in things that some able-bodied athletes could only dream about.
Article By Cameron Smith | Prep Rally
YouTube Published on Sep 20, 2012 by Ray Pavlik
Calabria is a high school senior who competes for the Concord-Carlisle (Mass.) High soccer team. He was the captain of the junior varsity squad as a junior. He is also a wrestler for the Patriots. He does all these things with just one leg, which is about as remarkable an achievement as one can come across.
On the soccer pitch, Calabria motors up and down the field on crutches. Incredibly, the don't seem to keep him out of the action much, either, because Calabria can really move on his two crutches, as he showed with his celebration after his recent goal during C-C's 9-0 victory against Newton (Mass.) South High.
How he managed to score that goal, however, is more remarkable still. Balancing on his crutches, Calabria positioned himself in the penalty box for an oncoming Concord-Carlisle corner. As the ball floated in, Calabria was in position to get his boot on the ball, if he could get it high enough to make contact.
What followed next was incredible, with Calabria swinging his leg as if he was attempting an overhead volley. He made contact with the inswinging corner with his leg over his head like a full scissor kick, and the ball sailed into the net with ease.
Even if you've already watched the goal above once, go back and check it out again. It's well worth it. It would easily qualify as one of the top goals of the week if Calabria had taken the shot with both of his lower limbs, let alone scoring it with one.
That Calabria has even made it to the Concord-Carlisle varsity soccer team is a major accomplishment. The Patriots are among the strongest teams in the Dual County League (DCL) each year, and the DCL hosts some of the best boys soccer in the Boston area. Suffice it to say, Concord-Carlisle doesn't need Calabria on the field just to make up the numbers. He's there on his own merit.
Though he is still in high school, Calabria is already a member of the U.S. national amputee soccer team. His bio on that team's website claims that he has been a guest on the Ellen DeGeneres show and has been profiled on National Public Radio's All Things Considered.
Based on what he accomplishes on the field, Calabria deserves all that attention and more. Yet his accomplishments aren't limited to soccer and wrestling, either; Calabria also summited Mt. Kilamanjaro, reaching the top of the mountain at age 13.
That expedition may have set the stage for Calabria's future triumphs, but it certainly didn't stop him. Now the high school senior can comfortably look back and realize that he's succeeding in things that some able-bodied athletes could only dream about.
Article By Cameron Smith | Prep Rally
Disabilities in Movies Month (Oct) at Turner Classic Movies
To contact us Click HERE
Turner Classic Movies will dedicate the month of October to exploring the ways people with disabilities have been portrayed in film. On behalf of Inclusion in the Arts, Lawrence Carter-Long will join TCM host Robert Osborne for The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film. The special month-long exploration will air Tuesdays in October, beginning Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. (ET).
TCM makes today’s announcement to coincide with the 22nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) on July 26. And in a first for TCM, all films will be presented with both closed captioning and audio description (via secondary audio) for audience members with auditory and visual disabilities.
The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film features more than 20 films ranging from the 1920s to the 1980s. Each night’s collection will explore particular aspects, themes, or types of disability, such as blindness, deafness and psychiatric or intellectual disabilities. In addition, one evening of programming will focus on newly disabled veterans returning home from war.
TCM’s exploration of disability in cinema includes many Oscar-winning and nominated films, such as An Affair to Remember (1957), in which Deborah Kerr’s romantic rendezvous with Cary Grant is nearly derailed by a paralyzing accident; A Patch of Blue (1965), with Elizabeth Hartman as a blind white girl who falls in love with a black man, played by Sidney Poitier; Butterflies Are Free (1972), starring Edward Albert as a blind man attempting to break free from his over-protective mother; and Gaby: A True Story (1987), the powerful tale of a girl with cerebral palsy trying to gain independence as an artist; Johnny Belinda (1948), starring Jane Wyman as a “deaf-mute” forced to defy expectations; The Miracle Worker (1962), starring Anne Bancroft as Annie Sullivan and Patty Duke as Helen Keller; One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975), with Jack Nicholson as a patient in a mental institution and Louise Fletcher as the infamous Nurse Ratched; The Best Years of Our Lives (1946), the post-War drama starring Fredric March, Myrna Loy and real-life disabled veteran Harold Russell; and Charly (1968), with Cliff Robertson as an intellectually disabled man who questions the limits of science after being turned into a genius.
The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film also features several lesser-known classics ripe for rediscovery, including the atmospheric Val Lewton chiller Bedlam (1946), the intriguing blind-detective mystery Eyes in the Night (1942); A Child is Waiting (1963), with Burt Lancaster and Judy Garland; the British family drama Mandy (1953); and a bravura performance by wheelchair user Susan Peters in Sign of the Ram (1948).
Each year since 2006, TCM has dedicated one month toward examining how different cultural and ethnic groups have been portrayed in the movies. Several of the programming events have centered on Race and Hollywood, with explorations on how the movies have portrayed African-Americans in 2005, Asians in 2008, Latinos in 2009, Native Americans in 2010 and Arabs in 2011. TCM looked at Hollywood’s depiction of gay and lesbian characters, issues and themes in 2007.
“The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film is a valuable opportunity to take a deeper look at the movies we all know and love, to see them from a different perspective and to learn what they have to say about us as a society,” said Osborne. “We are very proud to be working with Inclusion in the Arts on this important exploration. And we are especially glad to have Lawrence Carter-Long of the National Council on Disability with us to provide fascinating, historical background and thought-provoking insight on how cinematic portrayals of disability have evolved over time.”
“From returning veterans learning to renegotiate both the assumptions and environments once taken for granted to the rise of independent living, Hollywood depictions of disability have alternately echoed and influenced life outside the movie theater,” said Carter-Long, who curated the series. “Twenty-two years after the passage of the ADA and over a century since Thomas Edison filmed ‘The Fake Beggar,’ TCM and Inclusion in the Arts provide an unprecedented overview of how cinematic projections of isolation and inspiration have played out on the silver screen – and in our lives. When screened together, everything from The Miracle Worker to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest reveals another layer where what you think you know is only the beginning.”
About Lawrence Carter-Long
Widely recognized for his expertise in the arts, access and media, Lawrence Carter-Long is a sought-after media spokesperson on a wide variety of subjects, ranging from medical ethics to media representation of disability. His numerous media appearances have included The New York Times, NBC’s Today Show, CNN, NPR and the BBC, among others. He was a co-host and producer on The Largest Minority Radio Show on WBAI-FM from 2006-2011.
While recognized for his media work, Carter-Long is perhaps best known as the founder and curator of the disTHIS! Film Series, presented in partnership with New York University’s Center for the Study of Disability from 2006 until 2010. The groundbreaking monthly film series brought new audiences and attention to cinematic representation of disability by showcasing edgy, provocative and unconventional portrayals across the disability spectrum with the promise of “No handkerchief necessary; no heroism required.” He was a member of the steering committee of the ReelAbilities: Disabilities Film Festival from 2007-2010 and selected the Emerging Disabled Filmmaker Apprenticeships for the American Film Institute/Silverdocs and VSA Arts from 2009-2011.
For his advocacy, Carter-Long was awarded the Frieda Zames Advocacy Award by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2009 and the Paul G. Hearne Leadership Award from the American Association of People with Disabilities in 2010. In May 2011, Carter-Long moved to Washington, D.C. to work as the public affairs specialist for the National Council on Disability, an independent federal agency that recommends federal disability policy to the President, Congress and other federal agencies.
###
TCM Schedule 2012 Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30:
Tuesday, Oct. 2
8 p.m. – An Affair to Remember (1957)
10:15 p.m. – A Patch of Blue (1965)
12:15 a.m. – Butterflies are Free (1972)
2:15 a.m. – Gaby: A True Story (1987)
4:15 a.m. – Sign of the Ram (1948)
Tuesday, Oct. 9
8 p.m. – Lucky Star (1929)
9:45 p.m. – Bright Victory (1951)
11:45 p.m. – Reach for the Sky (1956)
2:15 a.m. – The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
Tuesday, Oct. 16
8 p.m. – Eyes in the Night (1942)
9:30 p.m. – 23 Paces to Baker Street (1956)
11:30 p.m. – Johnny Belinda (1948)
1:30 a.m. – The Miracle Worker (1962)
Tuesday, Oct. 23
8 p.m. – A Child is Waiting (1963)
10 p.m. – Mandy (1953)
Midnight – Of Mice and Men (1939)
2 a.m. – Charly (1968)
Tuesday, Oct. 30
8 p.m. – The Unknown (1927)
9:15 p.m. – Freaks (1932)
10:30 p.m. – Bedlam (1946)
Midnight – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
All times Eastern.
Schedule subject to change
TCM makes today’s announcement to coincide with the 22nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) on July 26. And in a first for TCM, all films will be presented with both closed captioning and audio description (via secondary audio) for audience members with auditory and visual disabilities.
The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film features more than 20 films ranging from the 1920s to the 1980s. Each night’s collection will explore particular aspects, themes, or types of disability, such as blindness, deafness and psychiatric or intellectual disabilities. In addition, one evening of programming will focus on newly disabled veterans returning home from war.
TCM’s exploration of disability in cinema includes many Oscar-winning and nominated films, such as An Affair to Remember (1957), in which Deborah Kerr’s romantic rendezvous with Cary Grant is nearly derailed by a paralyzing accident; A Patch of Blue (1965), with Elizabeth Hartman as a blind white girl who falls in love with a black man, played by Sidney Poitier; Butterflies Are Free (1972), starring Edward Albert as a blind man attempting to break free from his over-protective mother; and Gaby: A True Story (1987), the powerful tale of a girl with cerebral palsy trying to gain independence as an artist; Johnny Belinda (1948), starring Jane Wyman as a “deaf-mute” forced to defy expectations; The Miracle Worker (1962), starring Anne Bancroft as Annie Sullivan and Patty Duke as Helen Keller; One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975), with Jack Nicholson as a patient in a mental institution and Louise Fletcher as the infamous Nurse Ratched; The Best Years of Our Lives (1946), the post-War drama starring Fredric March, Myrna Loy and real-life disabled veteran Harold Russell; and Charly (1968), with Cliff Robertson as an intellectually disabled man who questions the limits of science after being turned into a genius.
The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film also features several lesser-known classics ripe for rediscovery, including the atmospheric Val Lewton chiller Bedlam (1946), the intriguing blind-detective mystery Eyes in the Night (1942); A Child is Waiting (1963), with Burt Lancaster and Judy Garland; the British family drama Mandy (1953); and a bravura performance by wheelchair user Susan Peters in Sign of the Ram (1948).
Each year since 2006, TCM has dedicated one month toward examining how different cultural and ethnic groups have been portrayed in the movies. Several of the programming events have centered on Race and Hollywood, with explorations on how the movies have portrayed African-Americans in 2005, Asians in 2008, Latinos in 2009, Native Americans in 2010 and Arabs in 2011. TCM looked at Hollywood’s depiction of gay and lesbian characters, issues and themes in 2007.
“The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film is a valuable opportunity to take a deeper look at the movies we all know and love, to see them from a different perspective and to learn what they have to say about us as a society,” said Osborne. “We are very proud to be working with Inclusion in the Arts on this important exploration. And we are especially glad to have Lawrence Carter-Long of the National Council on Disability with us to provide fascinating, historical background and thought-provoking insight on how cinematic portrayals of disability have evolved over time.”
“From returning veterans learning to renegotiate both the assumptions and environments once taken for granted to the rise of independent living, Hollywood depictions of disability have alternately echoed and influenced life outside the movie theater,” said Carter-Long, who curated the series. “Twenty-two years after the passage of the ADA and over a century since Thomas Edison filmed ‘The Fake Beggar,’ TCM and Inclusion in the Arts provide an unprecedented overview of how cinematic projections of isolation and inspiration have played out on the silver screen – and in our lives. When screened together, everything from The Miracle Worker to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest reveals another layer where what you think you know is only the beginning.”
About Lawrence Carter-Long
Widely recognized for his expertise in the arts, access and media, Lawrence Carter-Long is a sought-after media spokesperson on a wide variety of subjects, ranging from medical ethics to media representation of disability. His numerous media appearances have included The New York Times, NBC’s Today Show, CNN, NPR and the BBC, among others. He was a co-host and producer on The Largest Minority Radio Show on WBAI-FM from 2006-2011.
While recognized for his media work, Carter-Long is perhaps best known as the founder and curator of the disTHIS! Film Series, presented in partnership with New York University’s Center for the Study of Disability from 2006 until 2010. The groundbreaking monthly film series brought new audiences and attention to cinematic representation of disability by showcasing edgy, provocative and unconventional portrayals across the disability spectrum with the promise of “No handkerchief necessary; no heroism required.” He was a member of the steering committee of the ReelAbilities: Disabilities Film Festival from 2007-2010 and selected the Emerging Disabled Filmmaker Apprenticeships for the American Film Institute/Silverdocs and VSA Arts from 2009-2011.
For his advocacy, Carter-Long was awarded the Frieda Zames Advocacy Award by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2009 and the Paul G. Hearne Leadership Award from the American Association of People with Disabilities in 2010. In May 2011, Carter-Long moved to Washington, D.C. to work as the public affairs specialist for the National Council on Disability, an independent federal agency that recommends federal disability policy to the President, Congress and other federal agencies.
###
TCM Schedule 2012 Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30:
Tuesday, Oct. 2
8 p.m. – An Affair to Remember (1957)
10:15 p.m. – A Patch of Blue (1965)
12:15 a.m. – Butterflies are Free (1972)
2:15 a.m. – Gaby: A True Story (1987)
4:15 a.m. – Sign of the Ram (1948)
Tuesday, Oct. 9
8 p.m. – Lucky Star (1929)
9:45 p.m. – Bright Victory (1951)
11:45 p.m. – Reach for the Sky (1956)
2:15 a.m. – The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
Tuesday, Oct. 16
8 p.m. – Eyes in the Night (1942)
9:30 p.m. – 23 Paces to Baker Street (1956)
11:30 p.m. – Johnny Belinda (1948)
1:30 a.m. – The Miracle Worker (1962)
Tuesday, Oct. 23
8 p.m. – A Child is Waiting (1963)
10 p.m. – Mandy (1953)
Midnight – Of Mice and Men (1939)
2 a.m. – Charly (1968)
Tuesday, Oct. 30
8 p.m. – The Unknown (1927)
9:15 p.m. – Freaks (1932)
10:30 p.m. – Bedlam (1946)
Midnight – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
All times Eastern.
Schedule subject to change
New Ticket to Work Website! - Social Security Administration | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
By Guest Blogger Bob Williams, Associate Commissioner for the Social Security Administration’s Office of Employment Support Programs
I’m pleased to announce the redesigned Ticket to Work website! The new portal, www.socialsecurity.gov/work, is your entry point to program information, resources and news about our employment support programs.
We provide many ways to connect with the Ticket to Work program! People who receive Social Security disability benefits and want to work, or are already working, can find the following resources on the site:
Real Success Stories from people who used their Ticket to go to work and improve their life.
A Find Help tool to search for service providers who can help you explore your employment and earnings options.
Employment Network (EN) report cards to help you choose the EN that best fits your needs.
The Choose Work blog, featuring news about our programs and other employment topics.
FREE monthly Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinars and access to past webinars for viewing anytime.
Easy access to Social Security’s Ticket to Work Help Line, social media and email updates.
The website also offers:
Access to information and resources for Ticket to Work service providers.
Access to information about Social Security’s Office of Employment Support Programs, which administers the Ticket to Work program.
Socialsecurity.gov/work, the Ticket Help Line and WISE webinars (both live and archived) allow you access to information when you want it and how you want it, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I urge you to visit the website, call 1-866-968-7842 (V) or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY/TDD) or email us at support@chooseworkttw.net today! As always, if you are seeking one-on-one assistance, contact the Ticket Help Line to speak with knowledgeable representatives who can answer your questions and help you get started.
We believe these tools will enable you and other beneficiaries like you to better access the information, resources and supports you need to make more informed choices about how you can go to work, increase your earnings and perhaps one day leave cash benefits behind for a better, more secure life.
Bob Williams is the Associate Commissioner for the Social Security Administration’s Office of Employment Support Programs. Previously, he was the Commissioner of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities and later headed the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Disability, Aging and Long Term Care Policy.
# As posted by Disability.gov :
http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/20/introducing-the-new-ticket-to-work-website/
I’m pleased to announce the redesigned Ticket to Work website! The new portal, www.socialsecurity.gov/work, is your entry point to program information, resources and news about our employment support programs.
We provide many ways to connect with the Ticket to Work program! People who receive Social Security disability benefits and want to work, or are already working, can find the following resources on the site:
Real Success Stories from people who used their Ticket to go to work and improve their life.
A Find Help tool to search for service providers who can help you explore your employment and earnings options.
Employment Network (EN) report cards to help you choose the EN that best fits your needs.
The Choose Work blog, featuring news about our programs and other employment topics.
FREE monthly Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinars and access to past webinars for viewing anytime.
Easy access to Social Security’s Ticket to Work Help Line, social media and email updates.
The website also offers:
Access to information and resources for Ticket to Work service providers.
Access to information about Social Security’s Office of Employment Support Programs, which administers the Ticket to Work program.
Socialsecurity.gov/work, the Ticket Help Line and WISE webinars (both live and archived) allow you access to information when you want it and how you want it, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I urge you to visit the website, call 1-866-968-7842 (V) or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY/TDD) or email us at support@chooseworkttw.net today! As always, if you are seeking one-on-one assistance, contact the Ticket Help Line to speak with knowledgeable representatives who can answer your questions and help you get started.
We believe these tools will enable you and other beneficiaries like you to better access the information, resources and supports you need to make more informed choices about how you can go to work, increase your earnings and perhaps one day leave cash benefits behind for a better, more secure life.
Bob Williams is the Associate Commissioner for the Social Security Administration’s Office of Employment Support Programs. Previously, he was the Commissioner of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities and later headed the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Disability, Aging and Long Term Care Policy.
# As posted by Disability.gov :
http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/20/introducing-the-new-ticket-to-work-website/
Illinois Program for 'medically fragile' kids holds on despite cuts threat | Sept 23, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
Article by By Pam Adams | GateHouse News Service
MARQUETTE HEIGHTS — The little boy jumping in the middle of the bed, screeching out his favorite song, “Play that Funky Music White Boy,” has congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, a gene mutation that causes his body to forget to breathe.
“There’s maybe 600 known cases worldwide,” said his father, Bill Thompson.
The rare disease is also the reason 5-year-old Alex has had a tube sprouting from his windpipe since he was 6 weeks old and a bedroom that doubles as a hospital room.
But right now, it is not the rarity of Alex’s disease that concerns his parents. It’s Illinois’ effort to reduce wide-ranging Medicaid costs, his father says, at the expense of children like Alex who rely on medical technology and round-the-clock nursing care to live at home.
Bill and Holly Thompson are among some 500 families throughout the state who depend on what’s called the MFTD waiver, or the Medically Fragile and Technology-Dependent Waiver program.
With the waiver, their children are eligible for Medicaid regardless of parental income. Without it, parents can’t afford the round-the-clock nursing care — at an average cost of $188,000 a year — their children require to avoid institutionalization.
Fighting the changes
MFTD-waiver families have popped up as one of the most vociferous grass-roots groups fighting specific changes in the state’s Medicaid reform package.
So far, families have played a role in blocking state plans to shift more of the costs to families, impose income eligibility caps and change standard-of-care definitions. They’ve cornered Julie Hamos, head of the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, at public forums and filed a lawsuit to stop the changes.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services stepped in, asking state officials to request a deadline extension so federal officials would have time to review the changes. An initial Sept. 1 deadline has been extended 90 days.
“About 100 families are on Facebook every night talking about strategies (and) which legislators we’ve harassed lately,” Thompson said.
Harassing legislators is nothing compared to sacrifices the Thompsons have made since Alex was born.
His tracheostomy tube is his airway, and he practically began life on one in a neonatal intensive-care unit. He was on a ventilator to keep him breathing his first few years. He’s still on one at night. His parents rely on private nurses at night and when Alex goes to school.
Both parents learned to suction the tube to prevent clogging and replace it if it comes out. Their 15-year-old daughter, Allie, also learned to care for her brother. If Alex pulls the tube from his neck, they’ve got 10 seconds to get it back in.
Concerted effort
When Holly Thompson’s maternity leave was up, Bill Thompson, 48, quit his job for a year. “I didn’t trust the nurse,” he said.
When Holly, 38, was laid off, they held onto $700-a-month COBRA payments. They both eventually took lower-paying jobs, mainly so they could be with Alex. Even so, they saved for Allie’s college education, though private nurses became part of their routine.
“I never dreamed there would be a cost I couldn’t take care of with my insurance or money I had saved,” Holly Thompson said. “The waiver program was a Godsend for us.”
If the MFTD waiver took effect as state officials intended, the Thompsons would pay 5 percent of their income, about $386 a month, to maintain the nurses.
But to the MFTD families, the income cap and changes in care standards are more worrisome than sharing costs. Families that earn above 500 percent of the official federal poverty level would not be eligible for the waiver. That’s about $95,000 for a family of three.
“Some people might say that’s a pretty good income,” said Larry Joseph, director of the fiscal policy center at Chicago-based Voices for Illinois Children. “But not when nursing costs average $188,000 a year.”
Families no longer eligible for the waiver would face huge out-of-pocket expenses with no transition plan. Some say they’d have to quit their jobs, work part time or divorce to make sure their children get the proper care. Or their children might be forced to move into a nursing home, which would cost Medicaid three times as much as the waiver program.
The Thompsons take Alex’s boisterous rendition of his favorite song in stride. Bill Thompson joins him on a few bars.
“Where he is today is because of concerted effort,” Bill Thompson said.
“We worked with him, and the nurses worked with him also. There’s no way they could do that in a hospital or a nursing home.”
http://www.rrstar.com/healthyrockford/x887150136/Program-for-medically-fragile-kids-holds-on-despite-cuts-threat?zc_p=1
MARQUETTE HEIGHTS — The little boy jumping in the middle of the bed, screeching out his favorite song, “Play that Funky Music White Boy,” has congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, a gene mutation that causes his body to forget to breathe.
“There’s maybe 600 known cases worldwide,” said his father, Bill Thompson.
The rare disease is also the reason 5-year-old Alex has had a tube sprouting from his windpipe since he was 6 weeks old and a bedroom that doubles as a hospital room.
But right now, it is not the rarity of Alex’s disease that concerns his parents. It’s Illinois’ effort to reduce wide-ranging Medicaid costs, his father says, at the expense of children like Alex who rely on medical technology and round-the-clock nursing care to live at home.
Bill and Holly Thompson are among some 500 families throughout the state who depend on what’s called the MFTD waiver, or the Medically Fragile and Technology-Dependent Waiver program.
With the waiver, their children are eligible for Medicaid regardless of parental income. Without it, parents can’t afford the round-the-clock nursing care — at an average cost of $188,000 a year — their children require to avoid institutionalization.
Fighting the changes
MFTD-waiver families have popped up as one of the most vociferous grass-roots groups fighting specific changes in the state’s Medicaid reform package.
So far, families have played a role in blocking state plans to shift more of the costs to families, impose income eligibility caps and change standard-of-care definitions. They’ve cornered Julie Hamos, head of the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, at public forums and filed a lawsuit to stop the changes.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services stepped in, asking state officials to request a deadline extension so federal officials would have time to review the changes. An initial Sept. 1 deadline has been extended 90 days.
“About 100 families are on Facebook every night talking about strategies (and) which legislators we’ve harassed lately,” Thompson said.
Harassing legislators is nothing compared to sacrifices the Thompsons have made since Alex was born.
His tracheostomy tube is his airway, and he practically began life on one in a neonatal intensive-care unit. He was on a ventilator to keep him breathing his first few years. He’s still on one at night. His parents rely on private nurses at night and when Alex goes to school.
Both parents learned to suction the tube to prevent clogging and replace it if it comes out. Their 15-year-old daughter, Allie, also learned to care for her brother. If Alex pulls the tube from his neck, they’ve got 10 seconds to get it back in.
Concerted effort
When Holly Thompson’s maternity leave was up, Bill Thompson, 48, quit his job for a year. “I didn’t trust the nurse,” he said.
When Holly, 38, was laid off, they held onto $700-a-month COBRA payments. They both eventually took lower-paying jobs, mainly so they could be with Alex. Even so, they saved for Allie’s college education, though private nurses became part of their routine.
“I never dreamed there would be a cost I couldn’t take care of with my insurance or money I had saved,” Holly Thompson said. “The waiver program was a Godsend for us.”
If the MFTD waiver took effect as state officials intended, the Thompsons would pay 5 percent of their income, about $386 a month, to maintain the nurses.
But to the MFTD families, the income cap and changes in care standards are more worrisome than sharing costs. Families that earn above 500 percent of the official federal poverty level would not be eligible for the waiver. That’s about $95,000 for a family of three.
“Some people might say that’s a pretty good income,” said Larry Joseph, director of the fiscal policy center at Chicago-based Voices for Illinois Children. “But not when nursing costs average $188,000 a year.”
Families no longer eligible for the waiver would face huge out-of-pocket expenses with no transition plan. Some say they’d have to quit their jobs, work part time or divorce to make sure their children get the proper care. Or their children might be forced to move into a nursing home, which would cost Medicaid three times as much as the waiver program.
The Thompsons take Alex’s boisterous rendition of his favorite song in stride. Bill Thompson joins him on a few bars.
“Where he is today is because of concerted effort,” Bill Thompson said.
“We worked with him, and the nurses worked with him also. There’s no way they could do that in a hospital or a nursing home.”
http://www.rrstar.com/healthyrockford/x887150136/Program-for-medically-fragile-kids-holds-on-despite-cuts-threat?zc_p=1
'Adaptive Driving' Financial Assistance Options | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
By Guest Blogger Chris Miller, Director of Interactive Marketing, The Mobility Resource
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
State Programs
For Veterans
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
Government Programs
Medicaid: Medicaid is a jointly administered federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid benefits differ by each state, but Medicaid usually offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare. Most state Medicaid agencies do not have an exclusive list of covered medical equipment. Instead, any medical equipment, including newer technologies, is approved on a case-by-case basis when a request for funding is presented through a prior approval process. After being placed on a Medicaid Waiver list, Medicaid may pay for adaptive equipment. A list of Medicaid state offices is available at http://www.medicaid.gov/
Medicare: Medicare is a federal program, but Medicare health plans are offered through private companies that contract with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits to people enrolled in Medicare. Part A is hospital insurance, while Part B covers doctors and outpatient services, and some medical devices based on medical necessity. In some instances Medicare will pay for adaptive equipment following a specialty evaluation performed by a qualified practitioner. For more information, call 1-800-633-4227.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI eligibility and payment amounts are based on income and other resources. SSI offers a Plan to Achieve Self-Support program, or PASS, which helps those with disabilities pay for items or services needed to achieve a specific employment goal – to ultimately return to work. For more information, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Often sales-tax exemptions on equipment purchases and other out-of-pocket costs can qualify for tax deductions as medical expenses. If an adaptation qualifies as a medical necessity, it can be deducted from federal taxes. Contact a tax adviser or get literature from the IRS that outlines the tax code for medical equipment by calling 1-800-829-1040 and asking for publications with extensions 3966, 907 and 502.
State Programs
Some State Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc Rehab) Agencies may be able to assist with the costs associated with purchasing an adaptive vehicle (or adding adaptive equipment to an existing one) if the vehicle is necessary in order for a person to get to and from work. For more information, contact your state’s department of vocational rehabilitation.
Many nonprofit organizations offer programs that provide assistance paying for adaptive vehicles or vehicle modifications, especially if the vehicle is necessary in order to meet an individual’s work-related transportation needs. These programs include Pennsylvania’s “Ways to Work” program and Otsego County, NY’s “Wheels to Work” program. To learn more, visit Disability.gov or read the fact sheet, “Car Ownership Programs for Low-Income Earners”.
State Assistive Technology Loan Programs may also be able to provide assistance to help pay for modifications to your vehicle. Contact your state’s program for more information.
Your local Center for Independent Living (CIL) can provide additional information on programs that may be available in your state.
For Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a grant enabling veterans and service members to purchase a new or used automobile to accommodate certain disabilities that resulted from an injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. There are two components of the grant, each requiring a separate form, but some veterans could be eligible for both:
An automobile grant is paid directly to the seller of the automobile for up to $11,000 and is available once in the service member’s lifetime. Veterans who qualify for the automobile grant may also qualify for the adaptive equipment grant.
An adaptive equipment grant includes, but is not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats and special equipment necessary to assist the eligible person into and out of the vehicle. The adaptive equipment grant may be paid more than once, and it may be paid to either the seller or the veteran.
For more information on this program, call 1-800-827-1000 or read the VA’s “Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants” fact sheet.
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
Daimler Chrysler Corporation: buy or lease any new 2010, 2011 or 2012 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or Fiat vehicle from a participating dealership or FIAT studio, and Chrysler will provide cash reimbursement to help reduce the cost of installing the adaptive driver or passenger equipment on the vehicle. Leased vehicles must be leased for a minimum of 12 months to be eligible.
Ford Motor Company: the Ford Mobility Motoring adaptive equipment reimbursement offers up to $1,000, or up to $200 for alert hearing devices, lumbar support or running boards and is available on any new Ford or Lincoln vehicle purchased or leased from a U.S. Ford or Lincoln dealer during the program period. Maximum reimbursement per vehicle is $1,000. Major structural vehicle modifications to accommodate the installation of wheelchair lift or ramp must be completed by a Ford Authorized Qualified Vehicle Modifier to be eligible for reimbursement.
General Motors Corporation: through the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program, new vehicle purchasers/lessees who install eligible adaptive mobility equipment on their new Chevrolet, Buick or GMC vehicles can receive up to a $1,000 reimbursement for the cost of the equipment. Also, you can get two extra years of standard OnStar® service at no additional cost on all 2011–2013 Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar.
Volkswagen: Volkswagen will provide up to $1,000 toward the purchase and installation of lift equipment, carriers, hand controls, pedal extensions or other assistance equipment on any eligible model of new and unused Volkswagen models.
Audi: Audi offers $1,500 in assistance for hand controls or other approved assistance devices to anyone who purchases or leases a new Audi or CPO Audi vehicle. Contact an adaptive equipment retailer of your choice for information concerning the purchase and installation of such equipment. All payments will be made directly to the Audi owner approximately four weeks after submission to Audi.
Toyota: the Toyota Mobility Assistance Program provides cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 of the cost of any aftermarket adaptive equipment or conversion, for drivers and/or passengers, when installed on any eligible purchased or leased new Toyota vehicle within 12 months of vehicle purchase or lease. The cash reimbursement will be provided for the exact cost to purchase and install qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for transporting persons with physical disabilities. The program also applies to purchasers of the Toyota Factory Installed Auto Access Seat, where the full $1,000 cash reimbursement will be paid directly to you. Only vehicles sold or leased and delivered to a retail customer by an authorized Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. dealer are eligible under this program.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
28 Eylül 2012 Cuma
How to File a Video Description Complaint with the FCC | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
As Posted by American Council of the Blind.
Video Described Television Programming: the Rules
FCC rules require local TV station affiliates of ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC located in the top 25 TV markets (http://www.stationindex.com/tv/tv-markets) to provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming. Live or near-live events may but are not required to provide video description.
Schedule of video described programming (https://docs.google.com/document/d/12HN-8UeDWGj1Y_NjHQxAsEwYjqNxq3sYHrgL5zrw3F8/edit?pli=1)
The top 5 non-broadcast networks - Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, TBS, TNT, and USA - must provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming.
If, after reading these FCC requirements for video description of television programming, you wish to file a complaint, use the information that follows as a guide in composing that complaint.
How to File a Video Description Complaint
is a step by step guide for filing complaints regarding the new video description requirements with the Federal Communications Commission, (FCC). Before filing a complaint you should make every attempt to work with your cable or satellite provider to resolve the situation to your satisfaction. You should keep records of your attempts to resolve the inability to receive descriptions and include that information in your complaint.
Prepare your complaint including the following information.
First Name and Last Name:
Address 1:
Address 2:
City, State, Zip Code:
Telephone Number:
E-mail Address:
Your preferred format or method of response to the complaint by the Commission
and defendant is: (Choices are: Letter; Internet E-mail; ASCII Text; Audio-Cassette Recording; braille; Facsimile (fax); Telephone (Voice); TRS (designate form of TRS and appropriate contact information); TTY.
Your complaint is about Video Description (audio narrated descriptions of a TV program's key visual elements)
1. Provide the name, address and telephone number (if known) of the company(s) involved in your complaint:
Name:
City, State, Zip Code:
Telephone number (if known):
2. Provide the following:
a. Television station call sign and network name (if applicable), or channel name (e.g., "WZUF, CBC," "WZUE-TV," "Sportingchannel West"):
b. Channel Number (e.g., "13"):
c. Station or subscription TV provider system location: City, County, State.
d. If you pay to receive television programming, name and type of subscription service (e.g., Comcast; DIRECTV; Dish Network):
f. Name of program(s) involved:
3. Provide a narrative for your complaint and include the resolution you are seeking.
What to Include in Your Narrative
Include enough information to demonstrate that the video programming distributor has violated or is violating the FCC’s video description rules, such as the name of the program or show; the date and time when it was shown; and a detailed description of the video description problem, including specifics about the frequency and type of problem (e.g., video description available during only part of the program or missing in its entirety – but remember that not all programming must be video described under the FCC’s rules).
Tell the FCC what specific relief or satisfaction is being requested;
Include any additional information that may assist in processing your complaint.
File your complaint
E-mail your complaint to dro@fcc.gov.
Mail your complaint to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20554.
Use the Disability Access Complaint Form 2000C at https://esupport.fcc.gov/ccmsforms/form2000!formSelection.action.
File your complaint by phone (888-225-5322)
Copyright © 2012 American Council of the Blind All content made available in publications, in any media on any web site domains administered by ACB, or as a broadcast or podcast on ACB Radio, archived or not, is considered to be the property of the American Council of the Blind. Those responsible for creative content may allow their materials to appear elsewhere with prior notification to the ACB national office and with appropriate attribution.
Video Described Television Programming: the Rules
FCC rules require local TV station affiliates of ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC located in the top 25 TV markets (http://www.stationindex.com/tv/tv-markets) to provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming. Live or near-live events may but are not required to provide video description.
Schedule of video described programming (https://docs.google.com/document/d/12HN-8UeDWGj1Y_NjHQxAsEwYjqNxq3sYHrgL5zrw3F8/edit?pli=1)
Local TV stations in markets smaller than the top 25 also may provide video description but are not required to do so. Check with your local TV stations.
Many Public Broadcasting System (PBS) stations also provide video description on a number of programs. Check with your local PBS station.
The requirement to provide video description is extended to local TV station affiliates of ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC located in the top 60 television markets beginning July 1, 2015 (http://www.stationindex.com/tv/tv-markets).
The top 5 non-broadcast networks - Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, TBS, TNT, and USA - must provide 50 hours per calendar quarter (about 4 hours per week) of video-described prime time and/or children's programming.
Subscription TV systems (offered over cable, satellite or the telephone network, including, but not limited to, Comcast, AT&T U-verse, Dish Network, DIRECTV) with 50,000 or more subscribers must carry video description.
Subscription TV systems with fewer than 50,000 subscribers also may provide video description but are not required to do so. Check with your subscription TV provider
If, after reading these FCC requirements for video description of television programming, you wish to file a complaint, use the information that follows as a guide in composing that complaint.
How to File a Video Description Complaint
is a step by step guide for filing complaints regarding the new video description requirements with the Federal Communications Commission, (FCC). Before filing a complaint you should make every attempt to work with your cable or satellite provider to resolve the situation to your satisfaction. You should keep records of your attempts to resolve the inability to receive descriptions and include that information in your complaint.
Prepare your complaint including the following information.
First Name and Last Name:
Address 1:
Address 2:
City, State, Zip Code:
Telephone Number:
E-mail Address:
Your preferred format or method of response to the complaint by the Commission
and defendant is: (Choices are: Letter; Internet E-mail; ASCII Text; Audio-Cassette Recording; braille; Facsimile (fax); Telephone (Voice); TRS (designate form of TRS and appropriate contact information); TTY.
Your complaint is about Video Description (audio narrated descriptions of a TV program's key visual elements)
1. Provide the name, address and telephone number (if known) of the company(s) involved in your complaint:
Name:
City, State, Zip Code:
Telephone number (if known):
2. Provide the following:
a. Television station call sign and network name (if applicable), or channel name (e.g., "WZUF, CBC," "WZUE-TV," "Sportingchannel West"):
b. Channel Number (e.g., "13"):
c. Station or subscription TV provider system location: City, County, State.
d. If you pay to receive television programming, name and type of subscription service (e.g., Comcast; DIRECTV; Dish Network):
f. Name of program(s) involved:
3. Provide a narrative for your complaint and include the resolution you are seeking.
What to Include in Your Narrative
Include enough information to demonstrate that the video programming distributor has violated or is violating the FCC’s video description rules, such as the name of the program or show; the date and time when it was shown; and a detailed description of the video description problem, including specifics about the frequency and type of problem (e.g., video description available during only part of the program or missing in its entirety – but remember that not all programming must be video described under the FCC’s rules).
Tell the FCC what specific relief or satisfaction is being requested;
Include any additional information that may assist in processing your complaint.
File your complaint
E-mail your complaint to dro@fcc.gov.
Mail your complaint to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20554.
Use the Disability Access Complaint Form 2000C at https://esupport.fcc.gov/ccmsforms/form2000!formSelection.action.
File your complaint by phone (888-225-5322)
Copyright © 2012 American Council of the Blind All content made available in publications, in any media on any web site domains administered by ACB, or as a broadcast or podcast on ACB Radio, archived or not, is considered to be the property of the American Council of the Blind. Those responsible for creative content may allow their materials to appear elsewhere with prior notification to the ACB national office and with appropriate attribution.
Illinois Program for 'medically fragile' kids holds on despite cuts threat | Sept 23, 2012
To contact us Click HERE
Article by By Pam Adams | GateHouse News Service
MARQUETTE HEIGHTS — The little boy jumping in the middle of the bed, screeching out his favorite song, “Play that Funky Music White Boy,” has congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, a gene mutation that causes his body to forget to breathe.
“There’s maybe 600 known cases worldwide,” said his father, Bill Thompson.
The rare disease is also the reason 5-year-old Alex has had a tube sprouting from his windpipe since he was 6 weeks old and a bedroom that doubles as a hospital room.
But right now, it is not the rarity of Alex’s disease that concerns his parents. It’s Illinois’ effort to reduce wide-ranging Medicaid costs, his father says, at the expense of children like Alex who rely on medical technology and round-the-clock nursing care to live at home.
Bill and Holly Thompson are among some 500 families throughout the state who depend on what’s called the MFTD waiver, or the Medically Fragile and Technology-Dependent Waiver program.
With the waiver, their children are eligible for Medicaid regardless of parental income. Without it, parents can’t afford the round-the-clock nursing care — at an average cost of $188,000 a year — their children require to avoid institutionalization.
Fighting the changes
MFTD-waiver families have popped up as one of the most vociferous grass-roots groups fighting specific changes in the state’s Medicaid reform package.
So far, families have played a role in blocking state plans to shift more of the costs to families, impose income eligibility caps and change standard-of-care definitions. They’ve cornered Julie Hamos, head of the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, at public forums and filed a lawsuit to stop the changes.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services stepped in, asking state officials to request a deadline extension so federal officials would have time to review the changes. An initial Sept. 1 deadline has been extended 90 days.
“About 100 families are on Facebook every night talking about strategies (and) which legislators we’ve harassed lately,” Thompson said.
Harassing legislators is nothing compared to sacrifices the Thompsons have made since Alex was born.
His tracheostomy tube is his airway, and he practically began life on one in a neonatal intensive-care unit. He was on a ventilator to keep him breathing his first few years. He’s still on one at night. His parents rely on private nurses at night and when Alex goes to school.
Both parents learned to suction the tube to prevent clogging and replace it if it comes out. Their 15-year-old daughter, Allie, also learned to care for her brother. If Alex pulls the tube from his neck, they’ve got 10 seconds to get it back in.
Concerted effort
When Holly Thompson’s maternity leave was up, Bill Thompson, 48, quit his job for a year. “I didn’t trust the nurse,” he said.
When Holly, 38, was laid off, they held onto $700-a-month COBRA payments. They both eventually took lower-paying jobs, mainly so they could be with Alex. Even so, they saved for Allie’s college education, though private nurses became part of their routine.
“I never dreamed there would be a cost I couldn’t take care of with my insurance or money I had saved,” Holly Thompson said. “The waiver program was a Godsend for us.”
If the MFTD waiver took effect as state officials intended, the Thompsons would pay 5 percent of their income, about $386 a month, to maintain the nurses.
But to the MFTD families, the income cap and changes in care standards are more worrisome than sharing costs. Families that earn above 500 percent of the official federal poverty level would not be eligible for the waiver. That’s about $95,000 for a family of three.
“Some people might say that’s a pretty good income,” said Larry Joseph, director of the fiscal policy center at Chicago-based Voices for Illinois Children. “But not when nursing costs average $188,000 a year.”
Families no longer eligible for the waiver would face huge out-of-pocket expenses with no transition plan. Some say they’d have to quit their jobs, work part time or divorce to make sure their children get the proper care. Or their children might be forced to move into a nursing home, which would cost Medicaid three times as much as the waiver program.
The Thompsons take Alex’s boisterous rendition of his favorite song in stride. Bill Thompson joins him on a few bars.
“Where he is today is because of concerted effort,” Bill Thompson said.
“We worked with him, and the nurses worked with him also. There’s no way they could do that in a hospital or a nursing home.”
http://www.rrstar.com/healthyrockford/x887150136/Program-for-medically-fragile-kids-holds-on-despite-cuts-threat?zc_p=1
MARQUETTE HEIGHTS — The little boy jumping in the middle of the bed, screeching out his favorite song, “Play that Funky Music White Boy,” has congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, a gene mutation that causes his body to forget to breathe.
“There’s maybe 600 known cases worldwide,” said his father, Bill Thompson.
The rare disease is also the reason 5-year-old Alex has had a tube sprouting from his windpipe since he was 6 weeks old and a bedroom that doubles as a hospital room.
But right now, it is not the rarity of Alex’s disease that concerns his parents. It’s Illinois’ effort to reduce wide-ranging Medicaid costs, his father says, at the expense of children like Alex who rely on medical technology and round-the-clock nursing care to live at home.
Bill and Holly Thompson are among some 500 families throughout the state who depend on what’s called the MFTD waiver, or the Medically Fragile and Technology-Dependent Waiver program.
With the waiver, their children are eligible for Medicaid regardless of parental income. Without it, parents can’t afford the round-the-clock nursing care — at an average cost of $188,000 a year — their children require to avoid institutionalization.
Fighting the changes
MFTD-waiver families have popped up as one of the most vociferous grass-roots groups fighting specific changes in the state’s Medicaid reform package.
So far, families have played a role in blocking state plans to shift more of the costs to families, impose income eligibility caps and change standard-of-care definitions. They’ve cornered Julie Hamos, head of the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, at public forums and filed a lawsuit to stop the changes.
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services stepped in, asking state officials to request a deadline extension so federal officials would have time to review the changes. An initial Sept. 1 deadline has been extended 90 days.
“About 100 families are on Facebook every night talking about strategies (and) which legislators we’ve harassed lately,” Thompson said.
Harassing legislators is nothing compared to sacrifices the Thompsons have made since Alex was born.
His tracheostomy tube is his airway, and he practically began life on one in a neonatal intensive-care unit. He was on a ventilator to keep him breathing his first few years. He’s still on one at night. His parents rely on private nurses at night and when Alex goes to school.
Both parents learned to suction the tube to prevent clogging and replace it if it comes out. Their 15-year-old daughter, Allie, also learned to care for her brother. If Alex pulls the tube from his neck, they’ve got 10 seconds to get it back in.
Concerted effort
When Holly Thompson’s maternity leave was up, Bill Thompson, 48, quit his job for a year. “I didn’t trust the nurse,” he said.
When Holly, 38, was laid off, they held onto $700-a-month COBRA payments. They both eventually took lower-paying jobs, mainly so they could be with Alex. Even so, they saved for Allie’s college education, though private nurses became part of their routine.
“I never dreamed there would be a cost I couldn’t take care of with my insurance or money I had saved,” Holly Thompson said. “The waiver program was a Godsend for us.”
If the MFTD waiver took effect as state officials intended, the Thompsons would pay 5 percent of their income, about $386 a month, to maintain the nurses.
But to the MFTD families, the income cap and changes in care standards are more worrisome than sharing costs. Families that earn above 500 percent of the official federal poverty level would not be eligible for the waiver. That’s about $95,000 for a family of three.
“Some people might say that’s a pretty good income,” said Larry Joseph, director of the fiscal policy center at Chicago-based Voices for Illinois Children. “But not when nursing costs average $188,000 a year.”
Families no longer eligible for the waiver would face huge out-of-pocket expenses with no transition plan. Some say they’d have to quit their jobs, work part time or divorce to make sure their children get the proper care. Or their children might be forced to move into a nursing home, which would cost Medicaid three times as much as the waiver program.
The Thompsons take Alex’s boisterous rendition of his favorite song in stride. Bill Thompson joins him on a few bars.
“Where he is today is because of concerted effort,” Bill Thompson said.
“We worked with him, and the nurses worked with him also. There’s no way they could do that in a hospital or a nursing home.”
http://www.rrstar.com/healthyrockford/x887150136/Program-for-medically-fragile-kids-holds-on-despite-cuts-threat?zc_p=1
City of Chicago Offers Free Medallion To Cabbie Who Wins Award For Service To Disabled | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
CHICAGO (CBS2) — The City of Chicago is offering a major reward to cabdrivers who serve disabled passengers – a free medallion.
As WBBM Newsradio’s Nancy Harty reports, the city is soliciting nominations for this year’s Taxicab Driver Excellence Award, and says those who have seen a driver go above and beyond in service to passengers – both able-bodied and disabled – should suggest that person.
The winner will receive a taxi medallion, which is worth, on average, $320,000.
The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection says there are currently 6,665 active cab license holders in Chicago.
To be eligible for the contest, drivers must be in compliance with city laws, and have been driving a licensed Chicago taxi cab for at least three consecutive years. They also must have proof that they have driven a wheelchair-accessible cab for at least 250 days within the last year, and served wheelchair-bound passengers at least twice per 12-hour shift.
Drivers cannot be nominated by themselves, relatives, or current medallion holders. The winner of the medallion must put it on a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
Reporting Nancy Harty - CBS2 Chicago
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2012/09/22/city-offers-free-medallion-to-cabbie-who-wins-award-for-service-to-disabled/
As WBBM Newsradio’s Nancy Harty reports, the city is soliciting nominations for this year’s Taxicab Driver Excellence Award, and says those who have seen a driver go above and beyond in service to passengers – both able-bodied and disabled – should suggest that person.
The winner will receive a taxi medallion, which is worth, on average, $320,000.
The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection says there are currently 6,665 active cab license holders in Chicago.
To be eligible for the contest, drivers must be in compliance with city laws, and have been driving a licensed Chicago taxi cab for at least three consecutive years. They also must have proof that they have driven a wheelchair-accessible cab for at least 250 days within the last year, and served wheelchair-bound passengers at least twice per 12-hour shift.
Drivers cannot be nominated by themselves, relatives, or current medallion holders. The winner of the medallion must put it on a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
Reporting Nancy Harty - CBS2 Chicago
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2012/09/22/city-offers-free-medallion-to-cabbie-who-wins-award-for-service-to-disabled/
'Adaptive Driving' Financial Assistance Options | Sept 2012
To contact us Click HERE
By Guest Blogger Chris Miller, Director of Interactive Marketing, The Mobility Resource
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
State Programs
For Veterans
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
Americans love their wheels. Whether it’s a leisurely drive through a beautiful countryside, hitting the highway for a quick get-away or simply going to work, people look forward to the freedom of mobility. Many individuals with disabilities, however, require varying types of vehicle adaptions to enjoy that sense of freedom. Unfortunately, they often face prohibitive costs when it comes to purchasing the proper equipment for their transportation needs.
The good news is that funding assistance to purchase new adaptive vehicles or to retrofit existing vehicles is becoming increasingly available. Through these programs, people with disabilities have access to rebates and incentives for new vehicles adapted for their specific needs. In some cases, assistance is available for adaptive equipment installed through upfitters – vehicle modifiers or adaptive equipment installers – who will ensure vehicles are adjusted to suit individual needs and are compliant with federal and state guidelines. Adaptations can include driving devices and equipment, hoists and carriers, seat modifications and power seats, ramps and running boards and other necessary equipment.
Whether you prefer vans or sedans, trucks, SUVs or crossovers, there are a variety of government programs and automaker rebates, as well as private and association-based funds, that can make adaptive mobility equipment more accessible and affordable.
Government Programs
Government Programs
Medicaid: Medicaid is a jointly administered federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid benefits differ by each state, but Medicaid usually offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare. Most state Medicaid agencies do not have an exclusive list of covered medical equipment. Instead, any medical equipment, including newer technologies, is approved on a case-by-case basis when a request for funding is presented through a prior approval process. After being placed on a Medicaid Waiver list, Medicaid may pay for adaptive equipment. A list of Medicaid state offices is available at http://www.medicaid.gov/
Medicare: Medicare is a federal program, but Medicare health plans are offered through private companies that contract with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits to people enrolled in Medicare. Part A is hospital insurance, while Part B covers doctors and outpatient services, and some medical devices based on medical necessity. In some instances Medicare will pay for adaptive equipment following a specialty evaluation performed by a qualified practitioner. For more information, call 1-800-633-4227.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI eligibility and payment amounts are based on income and other resources. SSI offers a Plan to Achieve Self-Support program, or PASS, which helps those with disabilities pay for items or services needed to achieve a specific employment goal – to ultimately return to work. For more information, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Often sales-tax exemptions on equipment purchases and other out-of-pocket costs can qualify for tax deductions as medical expenses. If an adaptation qualifies as a medical necessity, it can be deducted from federal taxes. Contact a tax adviser or get literature from the IRS that outlines the tax code for medical equipment by calling 1-800-829-1040 and asking for publications with extensions 3966, 907 and 502.
State Programs
Some State Vocational Rehabilitation (Voc Rehab) Agencies may be able to assist with the costs associated with purchasing an adaptive vehicle (or adding adaptive equipment to an existing one) if the vehicle is necessary in order for a person to get to and from work. For more information, contact your state’s department of vocational rehabilitation.
Many nonprofit organizations offer programs that provide assistance paying for adaptive vehicles or vehicle modifications, especially if the vehicle is necessary in order to meet an individual’s work-related transportation needs. These programs include Pennsylvania’s “Ways to Work” program and Otsego County, NY’s “Wheels to Work” program. To learn more, visit Disability.gov or read the fact sheet, “Car Ownership Programs for Low-Income Earners”.
State Assistive Technology Loan Programs may also be able to provide assistance to help pay for modifications to your vehicle. Contact your state’s program for more information.
Your local Center for Independent Living (CIL) can provide additional information on programs that may be available in your state.
For Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a grant enabling veterans and service members to purchase a new or used automobile to accommodate certain disabilities that resulted from an injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. There are two components of the grant, each requiring a separate form, but some veterans could be eligible for both:
An automobile grant is paid directly to the seller of the automobile for up to $11,000 and is available once in the service member’s lifetime. Veterans who qualify for the automobile grant may also qualify for the adaptive equipment grant.
An adaptive equipment grant includes, but is not limited to, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats and special equipment necessary to assist the eligible person into and out of the vehicle. The adaptive equipment grant may be paid more than once, and it may be paid to either the seller or the veteran.
For more information on this program, call 1-800-827-1000 or read the VA’s “Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants” fact sheet.
Automakers Rebate Programs
A number of automobile makers are stepping up to provide persons with disabilities a wide range of rebates and incentive programs. Many of these programs cover not only new and leased vehicles, but also third-party adaptive equipment installation. Below is an overview of some programs from auto manufacturers offering rebates or reimbursements for people who require adaptive equipment.
Daimler Chrysler Corporation: buy or lease any new 2010, 2011 or 2012 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or Fiat vehicle from a participating dealership or FIAT studio, and Chrysler will provide cash reimbursement to help reduce the cost of installing the adaptive driver or passenger equipment on the vehicle. Leased vehicles must be leased for a minimum of 12 months to be eligible.
Ford Motor Company: the Ford Mobility Motoring adaptive equipment reimbursement offers up to $1,000, or up to $200 for alert hearing devices, lumbar support or running boards and is available on any new Ford or Lincoln vehicle purchased or leased from a U.S. Ford or Lincoln dealer during the program period. Maximum reimbursement per vehicle is $1,000. Major structural vehicle modifications to accommodate the installation of wheelchair lift or ramp must be completed by a Ford Authorized Qualified Vehicle Modifier to be eligible for reimbursement.
General Motors Corporation: through the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program, new vehicle purchasers/lessees who install eligible adaptive mobility equipment on their new Chevrolet, Buick or GMC vehicles can receive up to a $1,000 reimbursement for the cost of the equipment. Also, you can get two extra years of standard OnStar® service at no additional cost on all 2011–2013 Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar.
Volkswagen: Volkswagen will provide up to $1,000 toward the purchase and installation of lift equipment, carriers, hand controls, pedal extensions or other assistance equipment on any eligible model of new and unused Volkswagen models.
Audi: Audi offers $1,500 in assistance for hand controls or other approved assistance devices to anyone who purchases or leases a new Audi or CPO Audi vehicle. Contact an adaptive equipment retailer of your choice for information concerning the purchase and installation of such equipment. All payments will be made directly to the Audi owner approximately four weeks after submission to Audi.
Toyota: the Toyota Mobility Assistance Program provides cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 of the cost of any aftermarket adaptive equipment or conversion, for drivers and/or passengers, when installed on any eligible purchased or leased new Toyota vehicle within 12 months of vehicle purchase or lease. The cash reimbursement will be provided for the exact cost to purchase and install qualifying adaptive driving or passenger equipment for transporting persons with physical disabilities. The program also applies to purchasers of the Toyota Factory Installed Auto Access Seat, where the full $1,000 cash reimbursement will be paid directly to you. Only vehicles sold or leased and delivered to a retail customer by an authorized Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. dealer are eligible under this program.
And the list goes on…
In addition to those above, there are myriad funding opportunities available through trade organizations, nonprofit entities and other private sources. The most comprehensive listing of these entities can be found at The Mobility Resource handicap van financial aid directory (The Mobility Resource does not sponsor or endorse any organizations exclusively). Search for assistance by state by visiting http://www.themobilityresource.com/financial-aid/financial-aid-map-portal.
For anyone who enjoys the freedom of mobility and requires vehicle modifications or adaptive products, seeking out the appropriate funding opportunities for your individual needs might take a little time, but it could pay off in years of comfortable mobility.
Chris Miller is the director of interactive marketing for The Mobility Resource. Born with a mild case of muscular dystrophy, he is an advocate for disability rights and mobility freedom. His team has worked closely with several government agencies, non-profits and associations to make it easier for people with physical disabilities to acquire mobility freedom. A graduate of The University of Akron, he holds a bachelor of arts in public relations and organizational communication.
Chris will be attending the National Forum on Disability Issues with his team on September 28 and will serve as a member of the media panel. During this event, teams from both presidential campaigns will discuss their plans for issues surrounding the disability community. Do you have a question for a candidate? Please send it to cmiller@themobilityresource.com.
AS Posted by Disability.gov blog:
# http://usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/09/26/adaptive-driving/
Illinois: EEOC Sues Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center for Disability ...
To contact us Click HERE
St. Louis, IL - An East St. Louis, IL, non-profit social service agency violated federal law by subjecting an employee to disability discrimination and retaliation, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a discrimination lawsuit filed today. The EEOC charged that Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center (CBHC) refused to provide a reasonable accommodation to a disabled employee and then failed to rehire her after she was laid off because of her disability, and in retaliation for complaining about the lack of accommodation.
According to the EEOC's suit, Pamela Perry, a 23-year employee with CBHC, requested permission to wear athletic shoes to work in June 2002 because her disability, multiple sclerosis, caused numbness, pain and tingling in her feet. CBHC allowed her to wear athletic shoes until March 2010 when it disciplined her for wearing the shoes in violation of the dress code. Shortly thereafter, Perry made a written request for reasonable accommodation to help her complete paperwork required by her job. The MS made her hands and arms cramp and it had become increasingly difficult for her to complete paperwork in a timely fashion. Perry also again requested permission to wear athletic shoes. CBHC refused to meet with Perry to discuss possible accommodations and denied her requests. On Aug. 29, 2010, Perry wrote a letter to CBHC complaining about its refusal to accommodate her. When she was laid off on Aug. 31, 2010, she then applied for a vacant position that she had held previously for 11 years. CBHC instead hired a less qualified applicant, the EEOC said.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits employers from refusing to provide applicants and employees with reasonable accommodations unless to do so would be an undue hardship. It also protects employees from retaliation based on the exercise of their right to request accommodation and their complaints about violations of the law. The EEOC filed suit (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center of St. Clair County, Inc.) in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois, Civil Action No. 3:12-cv-01031-WDS-SCW, after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process.
"It is shocking that an organization like Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center, whose mission is to help those in need, would deny reasonable accommodation to a disabled 23-year employee and then refuse to rehire her in a job that she had performed in the past," said Barbara A. Seely, regional attorney of the EEOC's St. Louis District. "Employers may not cast off disabled employees who want to and can work with accommodations without running afoul of the law."
CBHC, a non-profit corporation that provides emotional, rehabilitative and social support services throughout the Illinois cities of East St. Louis, Belleville and Fairview Heights.
# as posted by 'infoZine' : http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/53236/
Social Service Agency Refused to Accommodate Long-Term Employee With Multiple Sclerosis And Denied Her Rehire, Federal Agency Charges
St. Louis, IL - An East St. Louis, IL, non-profit social service agency violated federal law by subjecting an employee to disability discrimination and retaliation, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a discrimination lawsuit filed today. The EEOC charged that Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center (CBHC) refused to provide a reasonable accommodation to a disabled employee and then failed to rehire her after she was laid off because of her disability, and in retaliation for complaining about the lack of accommodation.
According to the EEOC's suit, Pamela Perry, a 23-year employee with CBHC, requested permission to wear athletic shoes to work in June 2002 because her disability, multiple sclerosis, caused numbness, pain and tingling in her feet. CBHC allowed her to wear athletic shoes until March 2010 when it disciplined her for wearing the shoes in violation of the dress code. Shortly thereafter, Perry made a written request for reasonable accommodation to help her complete paperwork required by her job. The MS made her hands and arms cramp and it had become increasingly difficult for her to complete paperwork in a timely fashion. Perry also again requested permission to wear athletic shoes. CBHC refused to meet with Perry to discuss possible accommodations and denied her requests. On Aug. 29, 2010, Perry wrote a letter to CBHC complaining about its refusal to accommodate her. When she was laid off on Aug. 31, 2010, she then applied for a vacant position that she had held previously for 11 years. CBHC instead hired a less qualified applicant, the EEOC said.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits employers from refusing to provide applicants and employees with reasonable accommodations unless to do so would be an undue hardship. It also protects employees from retaliation based on the exercise of their right to request accommodation and their complaints about violations of the law. The EEOC filed suit (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center of St. Clair County, Inc.) in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois, Civil Action No. 3:12-cv-01031-WDS-SCW, after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process.
"It is shocking that an organization like Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center, whose mission is to help those in need, would deny reasonable accommodation to a disabled 23-year employee and then refuse to rehire her in a job that she had performed in the past," said Barbara A. Seely, regional attorney of the EEOC's St. Louis District. "Employers may not cast off disabled employees who want to and can work with accommodations without running afoul of the law."
CBHC, a non-profit corporation that provides emotional, rehabilitative and social support services throughout the Illinois cities of East St. Louis, Belleville and Fairview Heights.
# as posted by 'infoZine' : http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/53236/
27 Eylül 2012 Perşembe
Museum Day in USA, free admission - Sept 29, 2012 - Museum Day Ticket Link, info.
To contact us Click HERE
In the spirit of Smithsonian Museums, who offer free admission everyday, Museum Day Live! is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian magazine in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Ticket...for free
View the list of 2012 participating museums:
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/
Check with the Museum for Accessibility related questions.
In Illinois participating museums are:
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum
Springfield
Adler Planetarium
Chicago
Aurora Regional Fire Museum
Aurora
Balzekas Museum of Lithaunian Culture
Chicago
Barrington History Museum
Barrington
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Collinsville
Clarke House Museum
Chicago
DuSable Museum of African American History
Chicago
French Heritage Museum
Kankakee
Glessner House Museum
Chicago
Graue Mill and Museum
Oak Brook
Great Lakes Naval Museum
Great Lakes
Hinsdale History Museum
Hinsdale
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
Skokie
Illinois State Museum
Springfield
Illinois State Museum Chicago Gallery
Chicago
International Museum of Surgical Science
Chicago
Intuit The Center for Intuitive and Ousider Art
Chicago
Joliet Area Historical Museum
Joliet
Kankakee County Museum
Kankakee
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden
Rockford
Kline Creek Farm
West Chicago
Krannert Art Museum and Kinkead Pavilion
Champaign
Lincoln Heritage Museum
Lincoln
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Elmhurst
Loyola University Museum of Art
Chicago
Mayslake Peabody Estate
Oak Brook
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Chicago
National Great Rivers Museum
East Alton
National Hellenic Museum
Chicago
National Veterans Art Museum
Chicago
Parkland Art Gallery
Champaign
Smart Museum of Art
Chicago
Spurlock Museum
Urbana
Swedish American Museum
Chicago
Wabash County Museum
Mt. Carmel
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Champaign
Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Glen Ellyn
View the list of 2012 participating museums:
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/
Only an official Museum Day Live! ticket is eligible for free entry. Official tickets can be found here on the Museum Day Live! Website.
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/
One ticket per household, for two people.
A ticket will gain entry to only one of the participating museums, excluding parking and special events and exhibits.
If museum reaches capacity, museum has the right to limit the number of guests until space becomes available.
Check with the Museum for Accessibility related questions.
In Illinois participating museums are:
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum
Springfield
Adler Planetarium
Chicago
Aurora Regional Fire Museum
Aurora
Balzekas Museum of Lithaunian Culture
Chicago
Barrington History Museum
Barrington
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Collinsville
Clarke House Museum
Chicago
DuSable Museum of African American History
Chicago
French Heritage Museum
Kankakee
Glessner House Museum
Chicago
Graue Mill and Museum
Oak Brook
Great Lakes Naval Museum
Great Lakes
Hinsdale History Museum
Hinsdale
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
Skokie
Illinois State Museum
Springfield
Illinois State Museum Chicago Gallery
Chicago
International Museum of Surgical Science
Chicago
Intuit The Center for Intuitive and Ousider Art
Chicago
Joliet Area Historical Museum
Joliet
Kankakee County Museum
Kankakee
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden
Rockford
Kline Creek Farm
West Chicago
Krannert Art Museum and Kinkead Pavilion
Champaign
Lincoln Heritage Museum
Lincoln
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Elmhurst
Loyola University Museum of Art
Chicago
Mayslake Peabody Estate
Oak Brook
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Chicago
National Great Rivers Museum
East Alton
National Hellenic Museum
Chicago
National Veterans Art Museum
Chicago
Parkland Art Gallery
Champaign
Smart Museum of Art
Chicago
Spurlock Museum
Urbana
Swedish American Museum
Chicago
Wabash County Museum
Mt. Carmel
William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Champaign
Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Glen Ellyn
Disability History should be on the school curriculum | article
To contact us Click HERE
Teaching children how disabled people were treated in the past could reduce discrimination
From "The Guardian" | article by Sarah Ismail | Sept 26, 2012
Did you know that during the Holocaust, the Nazis ran a euthanasia programme, known as T4, that began as a way of cleansing Germany of "undesirable" disabled children?
In mainstream secondary school history lessons about the Holocaust, no teacher ever told me this. The only clue I got about the Nazis attitude towards disabled people was when I was told that in a concentration camp, I would have been sent straight to the gas chambers, because I couldn't have done any physical work.
Considering everything I had been told about the Nazis, I wasn't surprised. I do wish the T4 programme had been mentioned at school, though. Because no teacher ever hesitated to tell me that the Holocaust was about killing Jewish people.
Did you know anything about how disabled slaves were treated? I had never even thought about this until I heard a speech about it last year. Yet when my teachers told me about the slave trade, they never hesitated to tell me it was about white people owning black people who were made to work in their houses for free.
Did you know that King George VI had a very serious stammer? I didn't, until I watched The King's Speech. Yet no history teacher ever hesitated to tell me that King George VI was the father of the present Queen, Elizabeth II.
Did you know that Prince Philip's mother was born deaf? I didn't, until I watched a very good recent documentary about her life, The Queen's Mother In Law. This programme also revealed that she had severe mental health issues.
After the possible discovery of the skeleton of King Richard III and the revelation that he had scoliosis (curvature of the spine), I was informed by someone who has read Shakespeare's play Richard III that his disability is mentioned often throughout the script, but I had never been told about it in a history lesson.
This made me realise that mainstream secondary schools teach children hardly anything about the disability links in history. As a disabled person, I believe that this should change.
Just as lessons about the Holocaust were aimed at reducing religious discrimination, just as lessons about slavery were aimed at reducing racial discrimination, I believe that teaching children how disabled people were treated in important periods of history, or that historical figures were disabled, might just reduce disability discrimination, or maybe even disability hate crimes, in the future.
That's why I have recently launched a campaign called Old Is Gold to get disability links taught in history lessons in schools. I have started up an e-petition on the government website. If it gets enough support, I hope the idea might get debated in parliament.
If this campaign interests you, you can also follow it on Facebook at Teach Disability Links in History Lessons – Old is Gold.
This article is published by Guardian Professional. Join the social care network to receive regular emails and exclusive offers.
http://www.guardiannews.com/
If you know of an important historical figure who was disabled, please leave a comment below.
From "The Guardian" | article by Sarah Ismail | Sept 26, 2012Did you know that during the Holocaust, the Nazis ran a euthanasia programme, known as T4, that began as a way of cleansing Germany of "undesirable" disabled children?
In mainstream secondary school history lessons about the Holocaust, no teacher ever told me this. The only clue I got about the Nazis attitude towards disabled people was when I was told that in a concentration camp, I would have been sent straight to the gas chambers, because I couldn't have done any physical work.
Considering everything I had been told about the Nazis, I wasn't surprised. I do wish the T4 programme had been mentioned at school, though. Because no teacher ever hesitated to tell me that the Holocaust was about killing Jewish people.
Did you know anything about how disabled slaves were treated? I had never even thought about this until I heard a speech about it last year. Yet when my teachers told me about the slave trade, they never hesitated to tell me it was about white people owning black people who were made to work in their houses for free.
Did you know that King George VI had a very serious stammer? I didn't, until I watched The King's Speech. Yet no history teacher ever hesitated to tell me that King George VI was the father of the present Queen, Elizabeth II.
Did you know that Prince Philip's mother was born deaf? I didn't, until I watched a very good recent documentary about her life, The Queen's Mother In Law. This programme also revealed that she had severe mental health issues.
After the possible discovery of the skeleton of King Richard III and the revelation that he had scoliosis (curvature of the spine), I was informed by someone who has read Shakespeare's play Richard III that his disability is mentioned often throughout the script, but I had never been told about it in a history lesson.
This made me realise that mainstream secondary schools teach children hardly anything about the disability links in history. As a disabled person, I believe that this should change.
Just as lessons about the Holocaust were aimed at reducing religious discrimination, just as lessons about slavery were aimed at reducing racial discrimination, I believe that teaching children how disabled people were treated in important periods of history, or that historical figures were disabled, might just reduce disability discrimination, or maybe even disability hate crimes, in the future.
That's why I have recently launched a campaign called Old Is Gold to get disability links taught in history lessons in schools. I have started up an e-petition on the government website. If it gets enough support, I hope the idea might get debated in parliament.
If this campaign interests you, you can also follow it on Facebook at Teach Disability Links in History Lessons – Old is Gold.
This article is published by Guardian Professional. Join the social care network to receive regular emails and exclusive offers.
http://www.guardiannews.com/
If you know of an important historical figure who was disabled, please leave a comment below.
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