CPI Newsletter: July 2023

Written By Jennifer Santiago

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

Greetings and Happy Summer!

Most customers have received a letter related to Service Group Levels (SGL). The Office of Developmental Disabilities (ODDS) started this change in 2019 but put it on hold due to the pandemic. ODDS, with feedback from various advocacy groups, has been working on developing service group levels related to the ONA for several years. What is now changing is that instead of the ONA producing a flat number, it will have a service group that is a range of hours. Experience has taught us that many people need varying amounts of support depending on circumstances in their lives. The service group range allows for more person centered conversations related to supports. For the majority of the people served by Community Pathways, there will not be any change.

One of my primary roles as Executive Director is to participate in workgroups that involve the services our customers receive. I have watched this process unfold and know that a lot of advocacy has gone into this. ODDS has assured that there will be an exception process for customers with higher support needs than their service group level. Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) is part of the same workgroups that I am a part of, and they are watching the process closely. It is important to me and Community Pathways that customers have adequate services. Please know that we will continue to work to ensure this remains true.

As a reminder, nothing is changing in 2023. Starting in 2024, when we come out to do the annual assessment, that assessment will result in a service group level. If that service group level offers more service hours, customers can access those services if needed. Everything will remain the same if the service group level results in fewer hours than you use.

If the service group level is lower than the number of hours used, we will have time to plan for an exception in 2025.

A lot can change between now and 2025! We will be here every step of the way to advocate for the services customers need. I encourage customers and families to continue working with their PA to plan and access what is needed. More information will come out in the coming years. The letter sent was the first step in letting people know so we can start these conversations.

As always, reach out if you have questions. Thank you for being part of Community Pathways! We appreciate you being here.

CALL FOR CUSTOMER PARTICIPANTS

CPI values the input of our customers when we hire new Personal Agents. If you are interested in this, we will add you to a list of people we will reach out to in the future to see who is available when we hire. Participation involves sitting in on the interviews, asking questions (if you are comfortable doing that) and providing feedback on the candidates. Please reach out to your PA if you’re interested.

UPCOMING CPI EVENT

BOARD GAME NIGHT

Check us out! We had so much fun playing games at our Board Game Night on May 18!

There were nine of us total and we played an UNO game and a Movie Trivia game. (Some of us really know movies!)

Come join us on July 20! RSVP to info@communitypath.org or through your PA.

CPI Website Update

Here at Community Pathways, we’re working to improve access to information for everyone. Our website will be down from July 24 to July 27 to facilitate the inclusion of languages other than English. Thank you for your patience.

RESOURCES

What is the Compass Project?

The Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) created the Compass Project to make Oregon's intellectual and developmental disabilities system more person-centered. We're refocusing on what each person needs to have a full life, based on their unique needs and goals. We call this effort the Compass Project.

Our goal is system that is easy to use, transparent and provides quality supports. We want people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to have a good life in their communities. The Compass Project is shifting the whole ODDS system to person-centered thinking and planning. This will enhance the lives of those who use and work in the ODDS system.

This website is for those who receive services, their families and guardians. It's also for those who provide services. Please use these resources to learn more about the Compass Project. 

 

Are you aware of the resources available through the Assistive Technology Lab at Community Vision?

The Assistive Technology (AT) Lab is a collaborative education and resource center that is open to the public. It is a program within Community Vision, a unique disability non-profit in Portland, Oregon. Community Vision wants more people to see, access, and feel comfortable with Assistive Technology! AT creates possibilities for people with disabilities and can change lives. Whether it is an individual and their family, a teacher and their student, a Speech Language Pathologist and their client – Community Vision’s goal is to help close the AT gap that exists in our region. The Assistive Technology Lab offers:

Loan Closet

Did you know you can borrow Assistive Technology from the Assistive Technology Lab free of charge?

The Lab has a growing inventory of AT equipment to loan over a 2-week period. This free Loan Closet is made possible by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and the Sidney & Lillian Zetosch Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation.

Pick-up and drop-off are in-person during Thursday Open Hours by appointment, at the AT Lab in Portland, Oregon. Free instructional support is provided at pick-up. 

Click here to go to the form to start the Loan process.

Click here to see items available to borrow.

The Lab is also happy to answer any questions you may have about assistive technology (AT). And if they can’t answer a question, they will look for someone who can!

Call them at 503-292-4964 or email them at atlab@cvision.org.

 

THE ODHS WEBSITE HAS BEEN UPGRADED

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) launched a redesigned website on June 27, 2023 to better meet the needs of the people who use our site. 

This means it is:

  • Designed around user needs

  • Mobile-friendly

  • Easier to navigate and find what you need

  • Simplified and easier to read

  • More accessible

  • More inclusive for non-English speakers, including more Spanish language content

This project only affects our public website.

Community Pathways has updated all of the ODHS links on the CPI website. Follow the ODHS Facebook page for tips and videos to help you use the new website.

QUESTIONS ABOUT MEDICAID CHANGES?

Get informed on our website here.

 

CRAFT - COLLAGE

Creating a collage is an excellent way to express yourself artistically and creatively. It allows you to combine different images, textures, and materials to convey your thoughts, emotions, or personal narrative. Here are some instructions to guide you in expressing yourself through collage:

Materials needed:

  1. Magazines, newspapers, or printed images

  2. Scissors

  3. Glue or adhesive

  4. Cardboard, canvas, or paper as a base

  5. Optional materials: colored paper, fabric, textured materials, natural materials, paint, markers, etc.

Instructions:

  1. Select a Theme or Concept: Before you start, decide on a theme, idea, or message that you want your collage to convey. It could be based on your emotions, a specific topic, or a personal experience. Having a central theme will help guide your creative process.

  2. Gather Materials: Collect magazines, newspapers, or any printed materials that contain images, colors, or textures that resonate with your chosen theme. You can also gather other materials like colored paper, fabric scraps, natural elements, or textured materials to add variety to your collage.

  3. Cut Out Images and Shapes: Begin by carefully cutting out images, shapes, or patterns from the collected materials. Look for visuals that capture the essence of your theme or concept. Experiment with different sizes and angles to add visual interest.

  4. Arrange and Experiment: Start arranging the cut-out images on your chosen base (cardboard, canvas, or paper). Play around with different compositions and placements. Don't be afraid to overlap or layer the images to create depth and texture. This step is about exploring different possibilities and finding the arrangement that resonates with you.

  5. Glue and Secure: Once you're satisfied with the arrangement, use glue or adhesive to attach the images to the base. Apply the adhesive evenly on the back of each image and press it firmly onto the base. Make sure the edges are well secured.

  6. Add Textures and Additional Elements: To enhance your collage further, consider incorporating other materials. You can glue on fabric, colored paper, natural elements, or textured materials to create tactile elements. Use paint, markers, or pens to add doodles, text, or additional details that complement your theme.

  7. Reflect and Refine: Step back and take a moment to reflect on your collage. Does it convey the intended message or evoke the desired emotions? Make any necessary adjustments or additions to refine the composition and ensure it aligns with your creative vision.

  8. Allow it to Dry: If you've used wet materials like paint or glue, let the collage dry completely before handling or displaying it. Follow the drying instructions of the materials you've used.

  9. Display or Share: Once your collage is dry, find a place to display it that allows you to appreciate and share your artwork. You can frame it, hang it on a wall, or even gift it to someone special.

Remember, the beauty of collage is that there are no strict rules. Let your creativity flow, and allow the process to be a form of self-expression. Explore different techniques, experiment with materials, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of creating a visual representation of your thoughts and feelings.

Holiday Closures

Labor Day - Monday, September 4th

Jennifer Santiago
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