News and Updates
Community Pathways
CPI Newsletter: July 2023
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.
Online training: Sign up for trainings. Learn about improved features. You can also watch recordings of past trainings.
Resources for individuals and families: Find resources about how the Compass Project is making the system clearer and easier to navigate.
Resources for case managers and providers: Use these infographics, guidebooks, updates and other resources to inform your work.
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:
AT Lab & Regional Calendar to keep you up to date on events
Loan Closet, Open Hours & Social Groups for exploration & information
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:
Magazines, newspapers, or printed images
Scissors
Glue or adhesive
Cardboard, canvas, or paper as a base
Optional materials: colored paper, fabric, textured materials, natural materials, paint, markers, etc.
Instructions:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
CPI Newsletter: April 2023
Greetings,
Spring has finally arrived, bringing with it a sense of hope and new possibilities.
As we enter this revitalizing season, we find ourselves in a significantly improved situation regarding COVID-19 compared to the last three years.
While the virus still lingers and can cause long-term health issues for some individuals, vaccination efforts have successfully contributed to better control and reduced risk of severe outcomes. As a result, many aspects of life are fully returning to their pre-pandemic state, including the regulations that govern our program and services. On May 11th, the federal government will terminate the public health emergency (PHE) status, and as a result, many allowances will also end. I want to shed some light on these anticipated changes. As we navigate these changes, our team remains committed to maintaining flexibility and retaining the improvements that emerged during the pandemic. We will continue to utilize virtual meeting platforms like Zoom for certain gatherings, while transitioning back to in-person attendance for specific plan-related matters. Our primary focus is on providing quality services in a manner that best meets the needs of those we support. As always, we will strive for a seamless transition. Please see below for some changes we are expecting to take place starting in May.
Here is a list of pandemic-related allowances that we know will end on May 11th:
Remote video calls for assessment meetings, like the level of care and Oregon Needs Assessment. These will need to be completed in person, although they can be completed at a distance.
Ability to refuse a home visit when receiving paid supports in the home.
Verbal consent to authorize services (plans and service agreements). These will again need to be signed. Oregon Developmental Disability Services is working on a plan to allow the use of DocuSign. We will provide updates as we learn more.
Redetermination of Medicaid services without a formal meeting and required documentation. Everyone who is receiving Medicaid and Medicaid services (like the services in the ISP) will need to go through a Medicaid Redetermination through the state. Even if you just went through this, after May 11th, you will again need to go through the process. *Keep reading for more detailed information later in the newsletter.
Additionally, wearing face masks will no longer be required l starting April 3rd, unless a customer pr guardian requests that we wear one or if staff chooses to continue doing so.
We will add updated information to our website. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
Jennifer Santiago
Executive Director
Medicaid Redetermination - What you need to know
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members kept their medical and other benefits even if they had a change in their life, such as a temporary change in income, or if they did not respond to a renewal request. This was because of temporary policy changes under the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), which will now be ending on May 11, 2023. In preparation for these changes, Oregon will start reviewing eligibility of all people receiving OHP/Medicaid benefits and will be sending out renewal notices to recipients. The letters will tell you the next steps that you will need to take to keep your medical benefits. *Reminder that for many people the services you receive from Community Pathways are tied to your OHP medical benefits.
For some people, the state may need more information to see if you still qualify for OHP or other benefits, including services and supports for people with disabilities and older adults, and help paying Medicare costs. If the state can’t reach you, you could lose your benefits, even if you still qualify.
This redetermination process will happen for everyone on OHP even if you recently went through a redetermination process. Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has warned that some people may end up going through this process twice.
This is what you can do to prepare for your upcoming OHP/Medicaid Redetermination:
• Keep your contact information up to date – Make sure ODHS has your current mailing address, phone number, email or other contact information using the link below. This way, the state will be able to contact you about your benefits. Find options for updating your contact information online, by phone, or in person at Oregon.gov/OR-benefit-changes.
• Check your mail – The state (ODHS) will contact you by mail if they need more information from you. A letter will let you know if you need to complete a renewal form to see if you still qualify for OHP or other benefits.
• Respond to information requests and submit renewal forms right away, if you get them – Responding to information requests and filling out and submitting renewal forms right away will help you avoid a gap in your benefits. If you need help and would like someone else to be able to talk with ODHS about your benefits, you may assign an authorized representative who can be a family member or friend you choose to help you.
• Understand the timelines for renewing your OHP/Medicaid benefits –
Initial Renewal Notice mailed out between April 2023 and January 2024.
Reminder Notice mailed out 60 days after Initial Notice.
Second Reminder Notice mailed out 30 days after first Reminder Notice.
Renewal period will end 30 days after Second Reminder Notice was mailed out if you have not responded to any of the notices.
60-day period of continued benefits begins where you will still keep your benefits but need to respond to the renewal notices you already received.
OHP/Medicaid benefits end after the 60-day period of continued benefits concludes.
90-day reconsideration period begins where you no longer have benefits, but you do not need to complete a new application if you contact ODHS to start your OHP/Medicaid benefits up again.
After this, a new application will need to be submitted if you want to receive medical benefits again.
The simplest and easiest way to make sure there are no delays or loss of service is to respond to the requests from Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) as soon as possible. Remember, you can contact your PA if you have any further questions about how to complete the redetermination of your OHP/Medicaid benefits. We are here to help!
Customer Satisfaction Surveys
To those of you who have returned your completed customer satisfactions surveys, thank you so much! If you haven't filled out your survey, it's not too late. After completing the survey, put it in the self-addressed stamped envelope and send it to us by April 11th. We value your feedback. This information is used to let us know how we're doing and what we can do better.
PA Profile: Alexa Bazzi
Can you tell us about your journey with the I/DD field?
My journey into the I/DD field really stemmed from a desire to pivot toward helping folks in the community and pulling from my earliest experience in Human Services and trying to find my way back to it in one way or another. I worked as a DSP with a couple kiddos when I was in college and it was the thing that convinced me that social work was the right field for me. In college, I pivoted more toward work within the criminal justice system and that was the area I found myself starting my career in. I got my first position inside the Department of Corrections teaching parenting classes to dads at Columbia River Correctional Institution. During my time in the prison system, I held a variety of roles mostly centered around case management for incarcerated parents and their kids, as well as release and transition planning as they were getting ready to reunite with their families. I loved my job, but prison is intense and I desperately needed a change. Working in conjunction with systems that have a bunch of red tape is frustrating but rewarding when you can help people navigate it, and being back in the community assisting folks with I/DD live fulfilling lives felt like the right “full circle” kind of fit.
If you could have dinner with any famous person (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
Oprah Winfrey. Hands down. End of story. My friends and family know I have a borderline concerning love for her. In fact, one of the most thoughtful and funny gifts I’ve ever received was from my partner this last Christmas. He Photoshopped & forged her signature on a picture and framed it for me so I could have an autographed picture of her in our new apartment. I may or may not have cried when I opened it. I have no shame about it.
What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?
I really love to get outside and get together with friends. I would love to find more outside winter hobbies because I tend to hunker down, but in the spring/summer/fall I am always out paddle boarding, hiking, wine tasting, swimming, etc. I also really enjoy playing pickup basketball with anyone that’ll join me, planning out road trips and listening to some favorite podcasts.
What are some things you’re looking forward to right now?
Speaking of spring, I am really looking forward to the change in seasons and the fun summer plans that I have. I also have a new baby nephew that was born just a couple days ago so I’m really looking forward to snuggling my new little buddy.
What is one non-work related goal that you want to achieve in the next year?
I want to start enjoying cooking and get better at it so I want to try a new dinner recipe once a week. I’m so lazy about cooking and get so bored with it. So spicing it up by trying new yummy things might help kick start cooking into becoming a new hobby.
Board Game Night at CPI on Thursday, March 23rd
We had our first Board Game Night since the pandemic and we had a great time! We played Cards Against Profanity which is like Cards Against Humanity, but rated G. There were nine of us total and we’re hoping even more of you will join us for the next Board Game Night on Thursday, May 18th. The flyer is below. Just RSVP to your PA or to info@communitypath.org. There will be snacks!
Look at these card sharps! I couldn’t resist changing the setting of this photo to an old-timey saloon. Don’t they look right at home?
Upcoming Information Fair
CPI will be there.
Zoe’s Favorite Oatmeal Cranberry Cookie Recipe
From www.modernhoney.com
Soft chewy brown sugar oatmeal cookies with sweetened dried cranberries. A chewy and hearty oatmeal cookie that everyone will love!
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 9 mins
Servings 24
Equipment
1 mixer
1 baking sheet
1 parchment paper baking sheets
1 measuring cups and spoons
1 turner
1 spatula set
1 cookie scoop
Ingredients
1 cup Butter (cut into cubes)
1 cup + 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
⅔ cup Sugar
2 large Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla
2 ¼ cup Flour
1 ½ cup Rolled Oats
½ teaspoon Cornstarch
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
½ teaspoon Salt
2 cups Sweetened Dried Cranberries
Instructions
Preheat oven to 365 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 4 minutes or until light and fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure even mixing.
Add eggs and vanilla and cream for 1 minute longer.
Stir in flour, rolled oats, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Fold in dried cranberries.
Drop onto a light-colored baking sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until edges starts to turn a light golden color. Don't overbake.
Holiday Closures
Memorial Day - Monday, May 29
Juneteenth - Monday, June 19
November Newsletter
Hello!
As we head into the holiday season, we want to remind everyone that our office will be closed on Monday, November 11th in observance of Veterans Day and will reopen on Tuesday, November 12th at 9AM. We will also be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 28-29th for Thanksgiving. We will reopen on Monday, December 2nd at 9AM.
Please see our resource list below for Thanksgiving meals being provided for individuals & families in need of assistance. We hope you all enjoy this day.
We are grateful for all of the individuals we serve and the people who make up our community.
Jennifer Santiago
Executive Director
Changes at Oregon Health Plan
If you live in Multnomah, Washington, or Clackamas County, there will be an additional CCO (Coordinated Care Organization) available to you in 2020.
For some time now, Health Share has been the only Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) operating in our area, and you may have been accessing your medical insurance (Care Oregon, Kaiser, or Providence) through this CCO. Starting in January, a new CCO, Trillium, will also be serving OHP customers in our area. OHP mailed out letters in mid-October describing this change, and in some cases may have matched you with this new CCO. It is important to read this letter carefully to make sure you are happy with the CCO that you have been assigned to. Changes in your CCO can affect which doctors, dentists, hospitals, and pharmacies that you have access to. If you want to choose a different CCO, you should do so by November 17th, otherwise any changes explained in the letter will take effect on January 1st. If you need help understanding your letter, you can contact your Personal Agent at Community Pathways.
Thanksgiving and Holiday Meal Assistance
Salvation Army
You can get a regular food box during November that will have what is available at that time. They try to add as many items as possible for the holiday season. Some Christmas assistance is available as well, you can find more information on their website:
https://portland.salvationarmy.org/portland2/christmas-assistance/
Sunshine Division
Sunshine Division partners with Portland police and other law enforcement to distribute emergency food and holiday food boxes. To learn more, check out their website:
https://sunshinedivision.org/programs/
Oregon Food Bank
The Oregon Food Bank has free food markets, mobile pantries, and senior mobile pantries. For information about various programs: https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/our-work/programs/food-access/community-programs/
To find a program in your area: https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/find-help/find-food/
Upcoming Events
CPI November Game Night
Thursday, November 14th, 4-6PM
2475 SE Ladd Avenue, 4th Floor, Portland, OR 97214
Come hang out and play games!
Questions? Contact us at (503) 935-5243 or info@communitypath.org
October Newsletter
Message from the Director
Greetings from Community Pathways! I hope you all have had an enjoyable summer and a good transition into fall. As always, we're keeping busy around here, but we'd like to take some time to answer a common question we get that is at the core of who we are at Community Pathways.
People sometimes ask “what’s a Brokerage?” or “what are the differences between a case management entity (CME) and a Brokerage? Don’t you do the same thing?” The answer to these questions is both simple and complex. Community Pathways is a private non-profit that provides “case management” services to adults with developmental disabilities. However, we don’t like the term “case management” and don’t see that as the work that we do.
The services we provide are individualized and really depend on a person’s goals, aspirations, and dreams. We connect people to other organizations, resources, and care providers. That means our mission is never to “manage” people, and that people aren't “cases” to us.
The way we operate really separates us from the "old" way of doing things. Community Pathways is guided by a philosophy of individual self-determination. We believe that CME is an out-of-date term that needs to change all over the country. Language matters and we want people to know that Brokerages are so much more than case management. To start, we are more personal than that. At CPI, we get to support people to live full and whole lives; it's the very reason why we were created!
For those with more questions on this topic and others, please visit our website at www.communitypath.org. It's full of great information! Another good place to find info about various Brokerages around the state is to visit the My Brokerage My Choice site at www.mybrokeragemychoice.com.
Have a question you want spotlighted?Send it to info@communitypath.org
Provider Update: FAQs about EVV System
As providers know, a new system called Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) was implemented on July 16th. If you're a provider and still have questions about PSW EVV, please let us know. You can find a quick list of answers to frequently asked questions on our website here: https://www.communitypath.org/psw-evv-system
IMPORTANT: Please note that the EVV system was not created and is not managed by brokerages, such as Community Pathways. It was created as a part of a federal law and was implemented by DHS. For more information and to register for an orientation session, visit https://www.oregon.gov/DHS/SENIORS-DISABILITIES/DD/PROVIDERS-PARTNERS/EVV%20Docs/How-to-Register-for-PSW-EVV-Orientation-Session-iLearn.pdf
Self-Advocacy Resources
How to ask for what you need and want:
· Talk with your personal agent about learning how to advocate for yourself at home and in the community.
· Contact the Oregon Self-Advocacy Coalition to learn how to advocate for yourself and get introduced to other self-advocates and networks of support.
How to get involved in a self-advocacy group in the community:
· Ask your personal agent to learn more about Build A Movement and Self-Advocates Taking Action, a group of self-advocates in the Portland Metro area who meet monthly and quarterly to discuss their top priorities: Housing, Healthcare, and DD services.
· For more information about BAM and SATA, contact Jennifer Knapp at jknapp@cvision.org
How to advocate at the political level and speak with your legislators:
· Visit the GO! Project website https://orddcoalition.org/go-project/ to learn more about the joint efforts of the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Oregon IDD Coalition to lead individuals and group in self-advocacy at the State Capitol in Salem.
Upcoming Events
LGBTQ+ Night
· Wednesday, November 6th, 4 - 6PM
· 2475 SE Ladd Ave., 4th Floor, Portland, OR
· Come hang out and meet people in an inclusive, safe space
· Questions? Contact us at (503) 935-5243 or info@communitypath.org
CPI November Game Night
Thursday, November 14th, 4-6PM
2475 SE Ladd Avenue, 4th Floor, Portland, OR 97214
Come hang out and play games!
Questions? Contact us at (503) 935-5243 or info@communitypath.org
Build a Movement (BAM)
Build a Movement welcomes Portland self-advocates working for change in improving the lives of Portlanders with disabilities.
Organized by Self-Advocates Taking Action
Planning session Friday, October 11th, 10AM-2PM
Legislative dialogue Thursday, November 7th, 5:30PM-7:30PM
Located at Rose City Park UMC at 5830 Alameda St, Portland, OR 97213
Ongoing Events
The Multnomah County Library has many inclusive events including crafts and games and a Celebracion del Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead Celebration in Spanish.
· Learn more about crafts and games at https://multcolib.org/events/crafts-games
· Celebracion del Día de los Muertos is Thu, Nov 07, 2019
3:30 to 5:00 in the Gregory Heights Meeting Room. Learn more at https://multcolib.org/events/celebracion-del-d%C3%ADa-de-los-muertos-day-dead-celebration/109396