Disability Movement in Maryland 2020

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September 15,
OUR VOTES MUST COUNT
W.E.A.N. is a mentoring program servicing women with a varying degrees of dis-ABILITIES. The mission is to “wean” women with dis-ABILITIES from having their limitations be their focal point, thus having them live with their ABILITIES!
May 11,
From: Maryland Department of Health - Developmental Disabilities Administration
If you missed the DDA Appendix K Guidance webinars held May 5-7. Below are the topics and links to the recorded webinars.
May 5, 2020
Webinar on #1 - Retainer Payment Guidance ,#2 - Residential Day Time Shared Service Hours Authorization, #3 - Personal Supports Authorization and Exceptions, and #7 - Increased Rate for Supporting Person with COVID-19 Virus
May 6, 2020
Webinar on #4 - Exceptions to Pre Authorization and Service Requirements, #5 - COVID-19 New Services Authorization Request Process, and #11 Self-Direction Provisions
May 7, 2020 Webinar on #6 - Staff Training and On-boarding Flexibility, #8 - Service Delivery in Alternative Settings and Out of State, #9 - Site Capacity (Exceed License Maximum), and #10 - Exceed Group Size and 1:1 2:1 Exception Request

Jan, 26,
In Maryland - please spread the word. Action Alert! Need testimony for next Wednesday 1/29 hearings on election law Disability accessibility Bill’s HB140 and 142. I also need everyone to contact Members of the Judiciary Committees to bring HB33 up for discussion and vote. This is the bill that criminalizes emotional abuse towards vulnerable adults. 4108413793 or michele.guyton@house.state.md.us

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Announcements Events and Opportunities in Maryland 2020

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Jan, 30,
The IMAGE Center of Maryland
Applications are now being accepted for this years Youth Leadership Forum!

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Disability Movement in Maryland

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Oct. 22,
VIA: @MdDDCouncil
Request for Public Comments on the Development of the 2021-2022 IACC Strategic Plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee wants your feedback on seven specific issues. They want to decide if federal programs and activities and/or partnership with community organizations may help address those issues.

Oct. 14,
VIA: @MdDDCouncil
Training Curriculum: Law Enforcement and People with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities

Recently revised by the Ethan Saylor Alliance Steering Committee, this downloadable curriculum is available to train law enforcement and first responders on how to appropriately and effectively interact with people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

Oct. 4,
Baltimore County to unveil plan requiring landlords to accept tenants with subsidized housing vouchers
It really is not fair living in HUD housing and watching new development going up all around the place you have to live since it is the only thing you can afford. Some Land Lords/managers just make it worse when they do not put moneys back into the buildings and act as you should be grateful for what you have.

Oct. 3,
The Association for Positive Behavior Support is sponsoring an online “Family Chat” on Oct. 15 at 8:30 pm. Cohosted with Parenting Special Needs, the chat will focus on improving family-school partnerships with a parent panel.

Oct. 1,
The Hospital Patient's Bill of Rights goes into effect October 1, requiring hospitals to inform patients of a list of their rights as patients MD hospitals, which are now uniform across all hospitals in the state. Read the rights here: http://marylandpatientrights.org

Sept. 26,
I wonder if this will decrease the willingness to hire PWDs since employers always are looking to get more for less. The other thing to point out to employers is that we already have insurance. I wonder of other regulations will change too, because the more income a PWD has other services decrease and rent goes up. It is just an unless cycle of never being able to get a head.

June 21,
Baltimore Metropolitan Region Fair Housing Survey
The Baltimore region is currently conducting a study about residents’ housing needs and experiences living, working, or going to school in the region. 
This survey is an important part of improving housing choices. It is not associated with a ballot issue or political poll. It is expected that the survey will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete. At the end of the survey you can enter a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card!   

 Jan. 29, 2018.

MD PROMISE Lessons Learned

Lessons Learned is a day long opportunity to hear about the initial results from this 5 year statewide research effort to improve education and employment outcomes for youth on SSI. 

Dec. 5,

SDAN has an upcoming meeting:

When: Thursday, December 6^th at 11am-1pm

Where: Severn Library; 2624 Annapolis Rd, Severn, MD 21144

The Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland (SDAN) is a support and advocacy resource for the nearly 1100 people self-directing their services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). SDAN welcomes all community members who have an interest in fostering the self-directed services option and works to connect people who are currently self-directing 

to the community around them.

Oct. 25,

You can VOTE! Learn all about overcoming voting barriers for people with disabilities with @Tuesdaywithliz. Liz discusses how to get to the polls and how early voting might be the right option for you. #policy4all #DisabilityVote18

Sept. 18, 

Announcements: Events and Opportunities in Maryland 2019

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The deadline for speakers has been extended to Jan. 3, 2020.
Are you a Marylander with an intellectual or developmental disability and have a story to tell? The Maryland Department of Disabilities, Special Olympics Maryland and the DDA are looking for speakers to share their stories at the First Lady of Maryland's Brave In The Attempt Talks.
For more information and to submit an application, visit www.bitatalks.com.

SMRO- Governors Transitioning Youth Initiative - December 10, 2019
Transitioning from high school to adulthood is an exciting time for young adults and their families as they consider options for the future. The DDA offers services to help youth and their families navigate a path towards a good life.
On December 10, the Southern Maryland Regional Office is hosting an information session to discuss Transitioning Youth Initiative opportunities. Get a jump start on preparing for the future by attending the event.
For more information and to register, visit

Oct. 16,
ART & REGENERATION SHOW BY ROBERT FLORIO

Oct. 14,
Build Your Career - 2020 NextGen Leader Applications are now open!

AUG. 7,
The Maryland State Department of Education is hosting an Autism Waiver Prospective Provider Workshop for anyone interested in learning more about Maryland's Autism Waiver and/or how to become an Autism Waiver provider. Please use the following link for more information and to register for the event:


AUG. 4,
INSIGHT ON disABILITY
Tonight, Karen hall will be joining us on the show. Karen is the director of The Adventure Amputee Camp, a great experience for children who have experienced some sort of amputation. We will also be joined by Alyssa rhine, a young lady who has attended the camp and is one of the most amazing young people I have ever met. Noah will be joining us as well for this great show. We also have a big surprise for Alyssa as well. 7 pm tonight on WCBM AM 680.


May 8,
Low Intensity Support Services (LISS)

May 1,
During the month of May the DDA will continue to conduct weekly webinars to inform and educate all stakeholders related to DDA's service delivery system.

 
August 8, 2018
WEBINAR - Pre-Employment Transition Services in Inclusive Higher Education Settings: The What, Where, and How of Good Collaboration - August 9, 2018 - 3:00 PM (EST)

May 22,

TICKETS ARE GOING FAST!! Get yours soon!
Maryland Department of Disabilities is partnering with V-LINC, Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration, and Special Olympics Maryland to bring you this incredibly cool event!! BRAVE in the Attempt is a great evening of TED-style talks by self-advocates sharing their "Transform" stories!
Join us on June 6th at Towson University! Tickets are FREE!

https://conta.cc/2KiYR2V

May 22,

Stay informed about what's happening with the DDA by reading our transformation newsletter. Click below to see the latest updates! Maryland

 
May 2,

Assistive Technology Fair

 April 25,

"What I Wish For My Child" Request Apply By April 30, 5pm.

Apply By April 30, 5pm.  Tell us your custom "wish" for a child with special needs (ages 2-21) to live and play more independently.  (We also welcome referrals from educators, social workers, & medical professionals).  Our volunteer engineers work hand-in-hand with medical professionals to make dreams come true!  Five winners will be selected in July for a FREE custom solution.  All other requests become part of our year-round Custom AT Program.

April 13,

Please join Creative Chance TOMORROW at the World of #Possibilities #Expo in Rockville! You have the opportunity to take home a piece of artwork from local Baltimore #artist, Helen Edwards! Here are just a few lovely pieces by Helen!

April 12,

Through our differences we are united. Through our diverse powers we are strong. In a world where being different is too often seen as flaw, our tolerance and acceptance for all things fandom are an undeniable force for good. In a time when casting labels is easy, we are the seekers of truth. We are fans and this is Universal FanCon. Join us in stepping out of the shadows, because equality does not need to wear a mask. www.universalfancon.com 

I have seen Fancon pop up in a number of my feeds on disabilities, but that is not the theme of these event. In my readings, what I can assume this event is more about inclusion and acceptance no matter what and just have fun. If this is the case, these type of event should happen weekly.

April 11,

APR14, Disabilities Expo - World of Possibilities - Hosted by Caring Communities

Rockville, Maryland Annual World of Possibilities disAbilities Expo, for individuals with disAbilities and those who serve and love them.

World of Possibilities Disabilites Expo will provide an opportunity for you to enhance your knowledge and to explore the latest and greatest products, services, technology and resources that include: Assistive and Adaptive Devices, Durable Medical Equipment, Computer Software, Instructional Materials, Mobility Products, Adaptive Learning Tools, Disability Law Resources, Recreation/Travel Resources, Adapted Bikes/Adapted Exercise Equipment, Personal Care Products, Communication Devices, Products for the Visually Impaired and/or Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals, Local Agencies and Support Groups.

Fair Housing Act-50th Anniversary, Hosted by Baltimore Neighborhoods, Inc. Maryland

Please Save-the-Date and join Baltimore Neighborhoods, Inc. (www.bni-maryland.org) mark the 50th Anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act (Civil Rights Act) of 1968!

Information and services on:
-Housing discrimination
-Tenant & Landlord rights
-Legal advice
-Criminal record expungement
-Home weatherization and energy efficiency
-Renters and homeowners tax credits
-Senior housing opportunities
-And more!

April 10,

Creative Chance ANNOUNCING!!! Here is the lineup of artists for next week's expo!

April 5

MusicCare Fundraising Event - Hosted by Karina Cafe and Karina Association

https://www.facebook.com/events/219321068634316/

April 4,

What are your summer plans? How about some Mad Science?! Join us at the Mary Salkever Inclusive Summer Camp! Spaces are limited! Sign up today! https://www.v-linc.org/summer-camp

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Maryland DDA Wants to Use A National FMS for Self-Directed Services

Well this sucks, because this could mess up Budgets. I picked my FMS based on what they charged since that had to worked into my budget. If my new FMS charges more will Maryland DDA increase my budget, or make me redo my budget to cover the new FMS cost?

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region takes great pride in playing a role in Maryland's self-directed services program, which offers unparalleled choice, authority and flexibility for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We've had the distinction of serving as one of two Fiscal Management Service (FMS) providers for the program for over 10 years.

At this time, the Request for Proposal (RFP) is forthcoming from Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). A Request for Proposal is the process DDA will use to award a contract for a FMS provider for the self-directed services program. While the RFP has not been made public as of this writing, during recent state-wide waiver information sessions, DDA has made it clear that they will contract with a sole source national vendor for FMS services going forward. As a long-time vendor for the program, this was challenging information for us to process, but it was helpful to our understanding of the intentions of DDA and their trajectory for Maryland's self-directed services program.

After thoughtful consideration, we will honor DDA's plan for advancing self-direction and will respectfully transition with grace and excellence. We've made the tough decision not to respond to the RFP when it is posted. We will, instead, focus our efforts and resources on providing quality services to our program participants and other stakeholders to help ensure a successful transition to a new FMS vendor. We look forward to partnering with DDA in transition planning when the time comes, which will likely be for FY'19.

The Arc Central Chesapeake FMS team thanks you for your support and continued patronage. If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to reach out to us.

Your FMS Team

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region

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A Journey to Self-Directed Services

So I finally decided to switch from the Community Pathways Waiver to the Self-Directed Services. I thought about doing this before when it was the New Directions Waiver, but something in my gut told me not to. At that time there were too many unknowns and it seemed a high percentage of the budget still went to admin. stuff. Some people are surprise, I waited this long to make this change witch only makes since given that I am so independent.

Let me fall back to January to when I started this process, I had a meeting of the minds with my Coordinator from Service Coordination and a couple other people from my inner circle.  At that meeting it was decided this was right course to take, from there my Service Coordinator filed papers with DDA to request to transfer waivers.

I received my approval letter from DDA within 5 weeks; from there I went to information meeting on Self-Directed Services in February. At this meeting I learned that I would be acting as Incorporation, but also need a Support Broker and a FMA. The Support Broker helps you carry out your plan and keeps track of the budget. Where the FMA acts as the bank, they hold the money and cut the checks. The Support Broker is a volunteer, or paid position, but the FMA gets their cut right off the top of one’s budget.

In six months we had two meetings with my team and really you only have six to complete the transfer process from when I received the approval letter. In reality this is not reasonable, my friend Iyana agreed to be my Support Broker. In order for Ayana to be my Broker, she has to attend training and get a certification. This is only offered ever few months.  I also had the idea of picking a Support Broker off the list. From my emails I either got no response, or they were to busy too help me.

This brings us to current day, Ayana has been at the two days training. So far we learned after we submit my Individual Plan, DDA has 6 to 8 weeks to review it and if we have submit changes they have another 4 to 6 to review that too. So the goes my six months timeline, will I need to reapply to transfer waivers?

Also they said every new client to the Self-Direct Service gets start money to make modifications to there home, or buy stuff to be more comfortable. This sounds too good to be true, I am there is a catch.

December 27

OMG, signed my life away again to the state of Maryland in order to submit my plan for the Self-Directed Waiver. I must of signed 15 things just to submit this first draft to DDA and hope it gets approved the first time around.

I think it is interesting that you can hire a family member to be either the Support Broker, or your stuff. I feel as this is a step forward for me and Wifey, so we can be more open about our marriage. 

Kind of ironic that other services are not catching up on this, but it has to start some ware.
Just as I figured there was a big catch in order to be able to use the start up money. This can only be tapped into for a first time transition from your family home, or hospital/institution and I am way past that. Of course I could keep appealing it, but it would hold up the whole process and to me it just is not worth it.

 

May 4, 2017

I met with FM, I went with The Arc of Central Chesapeake Region. we were handed a big binder of documents and applications. There was a lot of forms for me and my staff to fill out.  Just because I start my waiver with the FM does not mean my staff is hired automatically and can start billing that day. So there is a gap of when your staff can get paid and there is no retroactive pay. One just has to hope they have a dedicated team as I do.  I turned in the applications on Monday, today Thursday and we are still waiting to hear back of the applications have been processed.

May 5, 2017

All is good, I just received the all clear from my FM that my staff can start their billing.  It only took two days to process the applications and background checks.

July 29, 2017

I have been on the Self-Directed Waiver now for about two months and surprisingly l got a statement that lets me know the status of my budget. When I was on the tradition waiver, the only time I heard about my budget was when I was using it up too fast. Even when I had my yearly IP meetings, nobody  offered to let me know if my budge even changed, or not

November 7, 2017

To be continued…