MCB REPORT

June 12, 2007

CSAVR & NCSAB SPRING CONFERENCES

The Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) and the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind (NCSAB) held their annual spring conferences in Bethesda, April 22-27. More than 400 administrators and professional staff from public vocational rehabilitation agencies throughout the country participated in the adjacent conferences which focused on a variety of current and upcoming issues affecting rehabilitation of people with disabilities. Following are some brief highlights of the conferences:

• John H. Hager, Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Edward Anthony, Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), and RSA staff updated conference attendees on how reorganization of RSA has helped to provide greater efficiency in their work and still effectively support state agencies. Despite the grave concerns raised by state agencies when RSA closed regional offices to centralize their monitoring and technical assistance services, the transition to centralization has been smoother than many had anticipated.
• Reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) was a frequent topic of conversation and CSAVR and NCSAB leaders predict that reauthorization of WIA is a long shot for this congressional session and some say it may not happen until 2009. There is also consideration on the feasibility of separating the Rehab Act, which is now Title IV of WIA, into a stand-alone statute which may facilitate more prompt reauthorization.
• Over 300 conference attendees were present at a preview showing of an independent movie, "The Music Within," scheduled to be released this fall. The film is based on a true story of the life of Richard Pimentel, a hearing impaired Vietnam vet who found new purpose as a brilliant motivational speaker and writer in his landmark efforts on behalf of Americans with disabilities, and who has been instrumental in changing the attitudes of hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world on how they view people with disabilities. Mr. Pimentel is the author of the "Windmills" disability awareness training program, designed to address the biases, fears, myths and stereotypes of what a disability is and what it is not. MCB Director Pat Cannon is a certified Windmills trainer who was trained by Pimentel in 1991 and who continues to provide Windmills training to employers and others.
• Dr. Fred Schroeder, NCSAB Policy Advisor, made a presentation on the federal rehabilitation program and congressional efforts under way which may change how Business Enterprise Programs are run in each state. There was particular focus on military dining issues and the "oasis" legislation which could permit states to open the door for private sector food service in the interstate highway system.
• A significant portion of the NCSAB Conference focused on residential training centers and the various approaches to orientation and adjustment training utilized by state centers. There was a panel discussion on "Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Options" with eight different presenters describing preferences and pros and cons of discovery learning approaches and traditional O&M training. NCSAB has formed a new standing committee on blind rehabilitation training centers which held its first meeting at the conference and proved to be the best attended of all the committee meetings.
• The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) provided an overview on several of their programs including the new website featuring "Senior Site" which offers a wealth of information and tips for older individuals facing sight loss and their families.

CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION TO HOLD DISABILITY FORUM

The Michigan Civil Rights Commission will host a public forum on disability issues on Monday, June 25 at 4 pm, following its general commission meeting, in the Regional Technology Center on the campus of Mott Community college, Flint. Linda Parker, Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, and Commissioner Mike Zelley, who will facilitate the forum, expect a large turnout for this event. There will be opportunities for speakers and members of the general public to share any concerns related to persons with disabilities and to participate in public comment or questions on disability or accommodation issues. Interpreting services and assistive technology and other technology will be utilized for display to the Commission and attendees.

The tentative agenda includes the following topics: Interpreter issues for people who are deaf or hard of hearing and a presentation by Representative John Gleason on the new Michigan Interpreter law he sponsored and introduced which should be signed by the Governor by mid June; voting accessibility issues; city sidewalk access issues (curb cuts); accessible courts; employer discrimination issues; blind/vision impaired issues; fair and accessible housing issues; special education issues; mental health issues.

MICHIGAN APPLES IN LANSING BEP FACILITIES

If you work in the Lansing area, you may hear a lot more crunching these days. That's the sound of people enjoying fresh Michigan apples, now available at about two dozen mid-Michigan Business Enterprise Program cafeterias and snack stands.

An April 19 press conference at the State Plate in Lansing across from the Capitol building announced the apples' debut, with a sticker identifying each apple as Michigan's own crisp, local produce. Those speaking at the press conference and distributing Michigan apples were MCB's BEP Manager Constance Zanger and mid-Michigan area Promotional Agent David Robinson, as well as Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Mitch Irwin, Michigan Apple Committee Executive Director Denise Yockey, and State Representative Paul Opsommer (R-93rd District). The press conference was covered by Lansing's WLAJ-TV ABC 53 and the Michigan Farm Radio Network.

It all began when the Michigan Apple Committee approached Supplier Diversity Liaison Doug Spade for suggestions on how they could better work with business owners with disabilities. Doug Spade introduced the apple growers' group to Constance Zanger and Dave Robinson. Dave worked with the Lansing D.O.G. vendors (as the Downtown Operators Group likes to call itself). As a result, a Michigan grower has agreed to routinely deliver fresh apples at a reasonable cost to the Lansing area operators who have agreed to feature Michigan apples in their facilities.

FCC EXPANDS ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

According to a report from the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), June 5, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has extended the disability access requirements of Sections 225 and 255 of the Communications Act, which currently apply to traditional phone services, to providers of interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and to manufacturers of specially designed equipment used to provide those services.

Section 255 of the Communications Act requires manufacturers of "telecommunications equipment or customer premises equipment" and providers of "telecommunications service" to ensure that such equipment or service is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, if readily achievable. In adopting Section 255, Congress sought to ensure that all Americans, including people with disabilities, could benefit from advances in telecommunications services and equipment.

UPPER PENINSULA MINI-ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM A SUCCESS

MCB's third Mini-Adjustment Workshop of the year was held in the state's Upper Peninsula at Gladstone's Terrace Bay Inn, located near Escanaba, May 20-25, serving 27 consumers. MCB clients attending the Mini-Adjustment Program workshops are introduced to a variety of skills of blindness, such as cane travel, Braille, managing time and money, adaptive kitchen skills and other skills to enhance independence. MCB will conduct its next, week-long Mini-Adjustment Program in Ann Arbor, August 19-24, at the Holiday Inn, located at 3600 Plymouth Road, near the University of Michigan campus.

An Employment Readiness Seminar for job-ready consumers was held in conjunction with the Upper Peninsula Mini program on May 24. MCB seminar participants received information regarding social security benefits and work incentives, as well as information about Americans with Disabilities Act and how it relates to employment of persons with disabilities.

ANOTHER NATIONAL AWARD FOR WASHTENAW LBPD

The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) at the Library of Congress, April 17, presented awards to the Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH), Free Library of Philadelphia, and to the Washtenaw County Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled (LBPD) of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The Philadelphia library received the Network Library of the Year Award for outstanding accomplishments in 2006. The annual award, in its third year, carries a $1,000 cash prize.

The Washtenaw County LBPD received the first annual Network Subregional Library of the Year Award, which also carries a $1,000 cash prize. NLS presented the awards at a luncheon ceremony, April 17, in the Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

NLS Director Frank Kurt Cylke said, "The Philadelphia and Washtenaw County libraries have demonstrated excellence as regional and subregional libraries. They have raised the bar for providing community outreach and dependable service, and we celebrate their accomplishment."

LBPH in Philadelphia circulated more than 1,780,000 Braille, cassette and large-print books to more than 14,500 individual readers and 632 institutions. The regional library hosts several innovative programs, including the Adult Basic Education and General Educational Development program - possibly the only one of its kind in the country - that provides visually impaired adults with the opportunity to complete high school. The library's Voice Operated Public Access Catalog (VoPAC) allows readers to select books by telephone. The library's city-center location permits easy access, allowing patrons to walk in and browse the collection. These patrons regularly use the Talking Book Center - a collection of workstations equipped with assistive technology, a service that aids in forging stronger relationships between patrons and the downtown Philadelphia community.

The LBPD in Ann Arbor was recognized for providing excellent service. The facility also seeks to sustain the social, emotional and intellectual health of people who are blind or live with low vision. For example, the library's 10-year-old Book Lovers Club is a bimonthly forum allowing patrons to develop commonality and strengthen friendships. The library presents an open workshop, Braille Instruction and Blind Awareness, for people interested in learning Braille and about the lives of visually impaired people. In cooperation with University of Michigan students, the library developed the Many Ways of Seeing Workshop to help blind and visually impaired individuals create works of art. The Washtenaw County LBPD is a frequent collaborator with MCB as evidenced by the successful exhibition "Visions: What's New in Technology for the Blind and Visually Impaired" which has been a focal point for technology and service vendors, consumers and volunteers.

NLS at the Library of Congress administers the free program that loans materials to residents of the United States who are unable to read or use standard print materials because of visual or physical handicaps. Materials loaned include Braille and recorded books and magazines, music scores in Braille and large print and specifically designed playback equipment. The 131 network libraries - throughout the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands - provide direct service to eligible individuals and institutions. Eligible American citizens living abroad are also able to participate in the NLS program.

CONSUMER SERVICES REPORT

Over the last few months, the staff of the Consumer Services Division has focused on finalizing transition activities for youth summer programs. They have also been actively engaged in dialogue with various community agencies in the promotion of MCB's programs. The Consumer Services staff are diligently working with employers within various communities as well as with Michigan Works! agencies to assist MCB in employment endeavors. The intermediate school districts (ISD) and MCB continue to collaborate on program expansion for visually impaired (VI) students as well as ways to include all VI students in ISD and MCB programs.

The Consumer Services staff was instrumental in developing additional summer programs and expanding opportunities in the Macomb Summer program, STAGES (STudents Achieving their Goals, Empowered and Self-Confident), offered by the Michigan Commission for the Blind and the Disability Network of Mid-Michigan, in Pinconning. The Macomb summer program will add an employment component to its program during the summer. This will provide an opportunity for consumers to gain some valuable work experience in their community. A number of the cash match participants have expressed an interest in gaining employment and this is a great addition to this program. Genesee County has joined the summer program activities. MCB's office in Flint is working collaboratively with the Genesee Intermediate School District and Goodwill Industries of Mid Michigan to develop a program for youths 14-21. The Summer Employment Excursion (SEE) will allow students to have the opportunity to explore career possibilities, develop resumes, and work with mentors in the community who have disabilities, discuss adult daily living skills, improve socialization skills, job shadow and gain valuable work experience. This will be an eight week program. Other summer programs, Summer in the City in Grand Rapids and the Detroit Summer Youth program, are continuing to expand the types of services that they will provide transition students this summer. These two programs will provide additional opportunities for students to participate in a variety of activities along with an employment component.

The Governor's Executive Directives have had an impact on some of the staff outreach activities; although the staff has been remained involved in outreach activities that are directly related to client services and employment activities related to improve outcome for MCB's consumers. Tina Hoy presented to the Region VII Area Agency on Aging which included persons with visual impairment. The theme for Older American Month was "Making Choices for a Healthier Future." Tina and Holly Mahony-Bierlein will be presenting at the Marie Davis Center, a senior residential center in Saginaw. As a result, they will be receiving referrals from these facilities. This will afford an opportunity to provide teaching instructions to a large group of seniors in a central location. Debbie Wilson presented at a diversity conference sponsored by Oakland County Employment Council to discuss worksite accommodations and MCB services.

The Job Readiness Seminar was held in Gladstone, Michigan the week of May 20, 2007 with ten individuals in attendance. This seminar is in conjunction with the Mini Adjustment program and provides job ready consumers with information regarding conducting an effective job search and other valuable information. One of the highlights of the seminar was Jim Beauchamp, from First Step, Inc., a division of the Michigan Small Business Development Center. He shared with the participants the importance of entrepreneurial opportunities. The participants were able to obtain information regarding establishing a small business in lieu of other employment activities which are limited in the Upper Peninsula. Some of the West Region staff are working in conjunction with Training Center staff on the development of the curriculum for the Quest for Success program. This program will provide camping experience for youth age 14-18. Referrals should be made to Faith Meadows at the Training Center from counselors and teacher/counselors throughout the State.

Again, this year, some of the Consumer Services staff will participate in the Michigan Youth Leadership Forum. This is a one-week program where high school juniors and seniors with a variety of disabilities participate in activities that enhance their leadership skills and abilities. The program is housed at Michigan State University the week of June 17, 2007.

MCB provides another opportunity for youths to bridge the gap between high school and college. For several years, MCB has sponsored a college preparatory program in conjunction with Western Michigan University. This program is for eight weeks where youths will have an opportunity to participate in academic courses as well as be introduced to college life through the residence halls on Western's campus.

Some MCB staff are working cooperatively with the Michigan Works! navigators to provide information and resources regarding services to persons with visual impairments. Through the Navigator program at the Michigan Works! office, MCB staff is developing meaningful relationships that will enable them to receive job leads that are appropriate for their consumers. MCB continues to encourage staff to participate in activities at the Michigan Works! office in order to facilitate opportunities for the consumers to benefit from some of the training programs that are sponsored by Michigan Works!

The Detroit office is working with one of the local gaming facilities to obtain jobs for their consumers. Contacts were made with the personnel office of MGM to discuss employment opportunities and the ways that MCB can assist them in meeting some of their employment needs. At this meeting, the personnel director requested information regarding job ready consumers and she shared some of the job titles that they anticipate filling in the fall. The meeting also afforded MCB staff an opportunity to discuss various types of accommodations and adaptive technology that can assist persons with blindness and visual impairments to perform their job duties.

MCB staff is working diligently with National Telecommuting Institute (NTI) to assist consumers in obtaining employment. This agency provides employment opportunities that will allow individuals to work from their homes. A concerted effort on the part of MCB is needed to make NTI's worksites accessible to make employment available to all MCB consumers.

Counselors see the need to develop relationships with municipalities within their areas. A counselor has established a working relationship with the City of Dearborn where she receives job leads on a regular basis. This counselor is in discussion with this municipality in regards to the way that their job announcements are being disseminated.

Further discussions with counselors revealed that contact was made with Wal-Mart and the counselor discovered that they are hiring. A number of candidates were referred to this company for possible jobs. As a vocational rehabilitation agency, the Consumer Services staff recognizes the value of assisting consumers to become independent, both economically and personally.

The Consumer Services staff continues to work with the various intermediate school districts to develop Career Day programs to provide visually impaired students with the opportunity to explore careers and to talk to mentors in a variety of occupations. As a result of the Career Day program, the staff has been able to develop cash match agreements that will provide more opportunities for youths to be exposed to pre-employment activities during the year.

MCB received the American Printing House (APH) count from the Michigan Department of Education Low Incidence Outreach. This count provides MCB with the number of students that are legally blind in the school districts throughout the State. The staff uses this information to contact the visually impaired teacher consultants to begin working with the students to develop individualized transition plans and employment objectives.

MCB has completed the revisions of the State plan and its attachments for FY 2008 and has submitted the plan to Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) for their approval. MCB continues to work with the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) in the development of the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) for the provision of assurances, action plans and principles of governance for independent living services for FY 2008-2010.

TRAINING CENTER REPORT

On May 31, 2007, Jim Baird began his new life as a retired person. MCBTC staff hosted an outstanding send-off celebration for Jim on the evening of May 9, at the Fetzer Center in Kalamazoo. The evening truly reflected upon Jim's character and highlighted the many talents and traits that will be missed so much. Jim has taught most of the subject areas at the training center, including orientation & mobility, communications, adaptive cooking skills, and industrial arts. He has covered most of the state, working with consumers in job-in-jeopardy situations, helping them not only to keep their jobs, but to excel in them. Jim has been half of the team that plans and delivers four to six Mini-Adjustment programs annually throughout Michigan, and for the past several years, served as coordinator of the Quest For Success summer program co-sponsored by the Commission and Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind (OUB).

The MCB training center will continue to benefit, at least occasionally, from Jim's expertise and enthusiasm. He will return on occasion, to assist with substitute teaching and special projects. Jim Baird's belief in the abilities of people who are blind is sincere and complete. Because of this, his confidence has inspired his students and energized his colleagues. The staff of the MCBTC congratulates Jim on an outstanding career, that has touched the lives of countless blind people across Michigan, assisting them in achieving excellence.

The MCBTC's April report indicated that, following the March 31 retirement of Peggy Jackson, the Center was moving forward on filling the position of a rehabilitation supervisor 14. The person in this position would supervise the Support Services and dietary departments, and act as an assistant director. On June 7th, the Center was advised that the position can be posted after completion of a selection plan, however, this job opening has not yet been posted.

The Training Center is also moving forward on posting openings for one rehabilitation teacher, and one occupational therapist. These positions were vacated by Jim Baird and Lynne Hall respectively.

The Training Center cafeteria has been under staffed for several years, resulting in the need for considerable overtime work. The Center recently received approval to contract with an assistant cook, who will work approximately 20 hours per week, and fill in when staff are on leave. An MCB client has accepted this contracting position as a work experience, and this is working out very well.

Following the April Commission meeting, which took place at Leader Dog for the Blind in Rochester, Dave Greenwald worked with Harold Abraham to plan and present a training to all Training Center staff and students. The training session began with morning presentations by several Leader Dog instructors who shared excellent information about a number of different Leader Dog programs. After lunch, staff and students enjoyed the opportunity to participate in two hands-on experiences. They were able to spend some time learning to walk with a dog guide and using some basic commands; and/or to travel out of doors, using the Trekker GPS system. The entire training was outstanding, providing a lot of new information for staff and students alike.

Several staff members from the Training Center attended this year's annual conference of the Michigan Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (MAER) in April. Jim Baird, Mary Zemlick, Dave Greenwald and Bonnie Betz delivered a presentation on the Center's College Assessment program. The session was well attended, and staff had the opportunity to speak with a number of Teacher Consultants who plan to send blind high school students to Kalamazoo this summer to participate in the college assessment.

After a year of intensive study, the MCB Ad Hoc Committee on Training Center Services completed its work in March and provided a comprehensive report to the Commissioners and the Training Center. That report is attached and its distribution is encouraged. The MCBTC is moving forward with several of the eleven recommendations that the Committee provided. The Training Center Director will report periodically on programs and initiatives at the Center, relating to the report and its recommendations.

The Training Center hosted the latest training class for facility operators in the Business Enterprise Program. This was the first class to include a hands-on experience in the kitchen for each of the trainees, which took place in the Center cafeteria. This aspect of the class was well received and will be made a standard part of future curriculum.

This year, the Training Center will be closed to students during the week of July 4th. Staff will continue to report as usual during the day, but support services will be staffed only from 8 to 4. Second and third shifts will not be filled during the week, and meals will not be served in the cafeteria.

The Training Center remains without a back-up generator. Given the present financial condition of the State, we will not be able to procure a generator now, unless another funding source can be found. Additionally, the Training Center's storage building will not be constructed now, as the only bid received on the project was unreasonably costly. The Center will request rental of a small storage trailer to be placed in the front parking lot. This will alleviate some of the current building overflow.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES REPORT

The budget through May 31st is in overall good shape. The total funds expended and encumbered are $12,840,871 which is sixty-four percent of the budget at sixty-six percent of the way through the fiscal year. So far this fiscal year MCB has received $252,090 for Social Security reimbursement claims.

DLEG Director Keith Cooley sent out information stating that no temporary layoffs would occur in DLEG for the remainder of FY 07. He also announced that several layoffs were occurring in the Bureau of Construction Codes. The bumping chain for these layoffs has been figured out by OHR and it does not impact MCB. The legislature and the Governor's Office are now working on resolving the FY 08 anticipated budget deficit.

MCB had the privilege of being asked to participate in the First Gentleman's imitative to explore corporate sponsorship for the State of Michigan. Representatives from the Departments of Education, Management and Budget, Treasury, Transportation, Labor and Economic Growth and Lottery were given a presentation by General Sports Entertainment as to possible revenue opportunities provided through sponsorship and naming rights. While many cities have successfully secured additional revenue for sponsorship and naming rights no state has yet pursued this avenue for funding. The Director of DMB, Lisa Webb-Sharpe, has convened the meetings and assured everyone that this would not be a quick process and that the state would explore all options and road blocks and follow the policies and procedures that are in place before proceeding with this project if it is found to be a viable funding solution. Some of the ideas posed by General Sports Entertainment would be obtaining exclusive beverage contracts for the state, naming paths in state parks, providing sponsor logos on driver and/or fishing licenses. The committee was informed that some of the BEP operators already have exclusive agreements for beverage contracts. Ms. Webb-Sharpe was very sensitive to BEP operator needs. Ms. Webb-Sharpe's focus for MCB was to ensure that funding received for any contracts that involved food service in state of Michigan locations would benefit operators and/or BEP locations.

Requests have been submitted to the Office of Human Resources (OHR) seeking exceptions to the hiring freeze for a couple positions within MCB - the Promotional Agent in BEP and the secretary in Kalamazoo Regional.

The Michigan Rehabilitation Conference (MRC) is scheduled for October 24-26 at the Amway Grand in Grand Rapids. A ‘call for presentations' has been sent out and at this point it appears that two breakout sessions at the conference will be presented by MCB staff. Hopefully, the moratorium on training and travel will be lifted by then so staff will be able to attend the conference.

The Region V Community Rehab Program (CRP) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is offering a series of telephone conference training sessions focusing on job placement. There is no cost for these sessions so MCB staff is coordinating with the RCEP staff to determine what has to be done in order for MCB staff to participate.

MCB is maximizing its use of communications and outreach methods that disseminate information without incurring additional costs. These include facilitating media stories, distributing information on MCB through other state departments and partner agencies, and increasing use of email distribution in lieu of postal mailings when possible. These are several current projects:

• The MCB website (www.michigan.gov/mcb) has a new online Press Room, where members of the media can access national and state statistics on blindness as well as information about MCB including contact information, press releases, a commission meeting schedule, current stories in the media, consumer success stories, a summary of programs and services, agency history, board member and director biographies, and more. The Press Room can be accessed from the MCB home page by clicking on Press Room, which is the last item on the main menu.
• Links to MCB's online publications and website have been sent to the Library of Michigan for distribution via email to librarians throughout the state for use as resource links on the libraries' websites.
• Updated link information has been sent to all websites found to have an outdated link to the MCB website. In addition, websites with links to Michigan Rehabilitation Services but not MCB have been contacted and requested to include MCB as well.
• For MCB's annual fall mailing to Michigan optometrists and ophthalmologists, an email contact list is being assembled to replace the postal mailing with an email distribution. (The purpose of the mailing is to ask doctors how many MCB brochures they would like for distribution to their patients. The brochures are eligible to be sent via U.S.P.S. Free Matter for the Blind.)

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM REPORT

The April 2007 BEP report announced the commencement of the Spring 2007 BEP Manager Training. On 8 June, seven students are graduating from the classroom portion of that training class. Over the ensuing nine weeks, the students will each participate in four weeks of on-the-job experience in a vending machine facility, and four weeks in a snack bar type facility. The seven students hail from all over the state: Muskegon, Oakland County, Detroit, Gaylord and Grand Rapids. The program currently has eight vacant facilities and no operators to fill the vacancies. These seven energetic and highly motivated students will have jobs waiting for them in late August, provided they are willing to relocate. A second BEP Manager Training for 2007 will take place in October of this year, as long as there are at least four students registered.

The military dining project at the Alpena Air National Guard Base is fully under way. The BEP operator is busy preparing meals for deploying troops. The first deployment of 70 troops arrived at the base on 29 April 2007. She has been busily preparing meals for deploying troops for 5 of the 6 following weeks. The operator has been doing well enough that base management has asked her to assume additional functions under the terms of her contract.

BEP continues to work on the agreement for vending services in Michigan's post offices. Stephen Leavey, BEP's liaison in Washington, has initiated a survey of Michigan's postmasters to determine the status of current vending contracts in Michigan. Once the survey has been compiled and the status been ascertained, staff will proceed with the contractual process. Needless to say, operators are anxious to see this contract finalized!

BEP has two projects coming up in Grand Rapids. Because DMB money is reserved and available for this project, plans are underway to develop a coffee shop type operation in the One Division Building in Grand Rapids. Staff are delighted this match money is available to maximize federal dollars. And, DMB has notified MCB that the new Kent County Human Services Building currently in the design phase, will house primarily state employees. BEP is particularly excited about this project as DMB brought staff into the project while it was still in the design phase.

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Michigan Commission for the Blind

Continuous Improvement Opportunities Identified by the Ad Hoc Committee on Training Center Services

I.     InTRODuction

The Ad Hoc Committee on Training Center Services (AHC-TCS) began its work on March 9, 2006.  The charge to the group was to:

1.                Assess the quality and range of services being offered at the training center and

2.                Make recommendations to enhance the services being provided

The AHC-TCS used two processes, Dialogue and Appreciative Inquiry, as they assessed current strengths and focused on creating new capacities for the benefit of future customers.  Many subgroups were formed to explore all elements of training center operations, including customers' interests, programs, services, facilities, resources, and increasing demands.  The AHC-TCS looked at internal dimensions and environmental aspects.  It explored new technology possibilities.  Partner collaboration was assessed and the growing customer demographics were factored into the List of Continuous Improvement Opportunities which follows. 

What began as an investigation of short-term problems soon shifted to an exploration of long-range growth possibilities for the future.  Based on early assessments, the AHC-TCS realized it was essential to develop a solid directional framework that could be used as a guide for future development opportunities. 

The AHC-TCS created a design that captures a vision of the future that is inclusive of consumers and providers.  It responds positively in the face of a whole series of impending challenges facing the agency.  Some of these challenges are:

·                    Many people retiring soon

·                    Statewide budget cuts

·                    Limited training center facilities

·                    Lack of space for a new technology center

·                    Need for equipment upgrades

·                    Space for BEP expansion, and

·                    The growing numbers of blind youth, seniors and consumers with multiple disabilities that are eligible for agency services

          Based on a year-long analysis and the above factors, the AHC-TCS recommends that the commission board and the agency in general begin to systematically take action on the following:

·                    Recognize the overwhelming demands being placed on the training center and the agency.

·                    Celebrate current successes and recognize staff accomplishments in the face of these critical demands.

·                    Notice the current progress being made at the center and reinforce it positively.

·                    Acknowledge that the new Training Center Director, in partnership with staff and consumers, is appropriately handling the short-term issues.

·                    Engage alumni, consumers, and parents as partners and allies in future resource development.

·                    Identify the critical challenges that must be met and alert state government that new capacities are needed to serve blind citizens of Michigan.

·                    Endorse the following list of Continuous Improvement Opportunities, including Goals, Provocative Visions, and Talking Points as a long-term direction for the agency.

·                    Begin to develop strategies in partnership with all stakeholders to accomplish the goals.

Introduction to the Provocative Vision Statements:

          The members of the AHC-TCS believe that long term capacity building remains an important over-all priority at the Training Center.  The Provocative Vision Statements presented with each recommendation are not intended to be short "to do" lists for implementation.  Rather, they represent areas that generated excitement and were explored by the Committee using the 5 D's of appreciative inquiry (Dialogue, Discover, Dream, Design, and Deliver).  These eleven Provocative Vision Statements are presented to MCB Commissioners, Training Center staff, field staff, consumer groups, clients and other stake-holders in the hope that  they will generate excitement and enthusiasm for the work ahead, as we work in partnership to establish the MCBTC as a model of excellence for Michigan and for the nation. 

We recognize that the implementation of all of the Ad Hoc Committee's recommendations and priorities depends upon the availability of funds and other resources, and that long-term budgeting, grants and capital projects will be necessary to the ultimate success of these recommendations and priorities. 

II.              Continuous Improvement Opportunities

Provocative Vision 1: Growing to Meet Changing Needs

Goal 1 - Expanded facilities

A.      Off-campus development

·        Different locations/satellites (community based), meeting the needs of residents throughout the state who cannot go to the TC; people with multiple disabilities; dependent on client needs.

·        Apartments

B.      BEP development (increase capacity)

(Current TC actions: The Center is working jointly with the BEP program to provide hands-on experiences in the MCBTC cafeteria and kitchen.)

C.      On campus development

(Current TC actions: The Center is updating the physical plant of the building; there is little visibility from the street.  The Center is working on improving building security.)

Talking Points

a.       Consider satellite apartments in various community settings throughout the state.

b.      Assess needs of the market.

c.       Survey:   What do we need?  What is the goal for having apartments?  What will we do?  How many apartments?  Where will they be located?

d.      Real estate developers - we may be able to negotiate to use an empty apartment.

e.      Explore partnership with MSHDA to explore possibilities.

f.       BEP increased capacity - increase training area to have snack bar and sinks.  May offer training to other states.  We'll see how the students going into the cafeteria will help.

g.      Beautification committee.

h.       Security - need to update and retrain staff.

i.        Sign Committee - all signs outside and inside.

j.        Security recommendation to fence in courtyard makes lots of sense. There is an alternative high school next door.  Need generator, new storage building and fence.

k.       Technology Center space.  Need state-of-the-art facility and equipment.

l.        Permanent space at college or school.

m.     Freecycle.com - giving things away.  Need to check whether items we need may be available at no cost.

n.       Companies like General Motors/Pfizer are closing offices.  They are getting rid of lots of furniture and equipment.  Identify contact person.

Provocative Vision 2: Building Bridges to Expand Understanding

Goal 2 - Mentoring programs

A.      Clients and community

(Current TC actions: Use of role models - blind persons working in non-traditional careers are invited to speak during weekly seminars.)

B.      In-depth family services

C.      Staff to staff job coaching

D.      Positive attitudes

Talking Points

a.       Explore partnerships with consumer organizations to identify possible volunteer mentors.

b.      Staff to staff job coaching and succession planning, (e.g. Zingerman's training program).

c.       Current students at training center mentor new students.

d.      Keep list of people interested in blindness field.  It is difficult to hire someone before predecessor leaves.

e.      Family services - families and significant others of consumers - leverage our training.  If family members could spend a week with us, they could reinforce cane travel skills.  Training for the family, so the family supports independence. 

f.       Family corner on the website.  AFB-family has frequently asked questions.  Link to existing conferences.  Staff participation in conferences.  Teach parents to teach their children. 

g.      Mini adjustment program for families.

h.       New training center employees could spend time in the field.  When field staff spends time at the training center, it helps to build relationships.

i.        We invite parents to events/weekends, etc.  Program at center, activities for the kids, training for parents; at mini adjustment programs, staff talks with family members.

j.        Open house for families - expectations and immersion into blindness.

Provocative Vision 3:  Promote Continuous Learning

Goal 3 - Promote continuous learning for staff, consumers, partners and community to achieve universal understanding regarding Blindness and Blind People

A.      Positive attitudes about adapting to blindness

B.      Professional development opportunities increased

(Current TC actions: The Center is enhancing its basic computer class; instructors have the opportunity for training.)

C.      Knowledge about blindness and choices involved

(Current TC actions: Teachers at the center are attending ISD regional meetings, "swap meets" and the MTSA and MAER conferences to make presentations regarding the college assessment and the training center.)

Talking Points

a.                 To provide a continuous forum for consumers to have input.

b.                Continuous opportunities for training and development tailored to the evolving needs of staff and consumers.

c.                 Ongoing interactions among blind consumers and staff.

d.                Ongoing public education through use of the media to promote positive images about blind people.

e.                Continuous modeling and mentoring.

f.                   Continue agency's presence at consumer and professional conferences.

g.                Continue advocating for community agencies to work directly with blind individuals.

h.                 To engage families in the learning process.

Provocative Vision 4: Rock Around the Clock

Goal 4 -   Expanded services, hours and options for maximum learning

A.               Independence

B.               Self advocacy (philosophy)

C.               Self directed learning

D.               Enrichment workshops

Talking Points

a.                 More staff.

b.                Open computer lab.

c.                 Students helping students.

d.                Volunteer coordinator.

e.                K-12 students could help older students.

f.                   Rehabilitation Services Coordinator - when position is filled, get someone with blindness experience.

g.                Flexible schedules.

h.                 Self-advocacy.

i.                    Self-directed learning - resource evaluation (send to Training Center for evaluation).  Centralized place for evaluation of learning, etc.

j.                    Look for who else might be doing things in the community.  Empty Bowls, financial literacy, wellness, etc.

Provocative Vision 5: Plan for Success

Goal 5 - Entry level readiness

A.      Customer needs and interests

B.      Requested services

C.      Informed consent packet for parents of minors

D.      Expectations and requirements

          (Current TC actions: Teachers at the center are attending ISD regional meetings, "swap meets" and the MTSA and MAER conferences to make presentations regarding the college assessment and the training center.)

Talking Points

a.                 Teleconference between training center staff, students, field counselor and family.  Planning conference - use person centered planning.  What are the expectations?

b.                Key people - Corda receives referrals; Therese schedules, etc.

c.                 Each field person could have a video camera to video home situation, person, travel skills, etc.  Transmit electronically to training center regarding living situation, work situation, etc.

d.                Portfolio of what is done by the student at the training center.

Provocative Vision 6: Paving the Two-Way Street

Goal 6 - Reports and referrals

(Note - there is an MCB sub group already working on this.)

A.      Field staff referrals

          (Current TC actions: Tightening the referral process: Therese Andrews is reviewing intakes with teaching staff before a student arrives.)

B.      Training Center reports - improved intra-agency communication

Talking Points

a.                 Field staff needs to send more pertinent information, expanded referral information.

b.                Improved communication between training center staff, schools, families, etc.

c.                 AHC-TCS looked at reports.  Some wanted this - others wanted that.  Committee decided to leave it alone.  Timeliness is important.

d.                Confidentiality and privacy issues.

Provocative Vision 7: Leave No Consumer Behind

Goal 7 - Expanded programs and improved services for all blind

A.      Youth

B.      Seniors

C.      Consumers with multiple disabilities

          (Current TC actions: The Center is updating its Braille curriculum - electronic Braille note takers to be included.)

          (Current TC actions:  Exploring the expansion of children's programs, summer programs at MCBTC, as staff and funding permit. No time at present, due to college assessments and large summer student population. We recognize the need for high school students to have the opportunity to improve O&M and RT skills.  The Center is involved in the Quest for Success summer camp program.)

          (Current TC actions: The Center is working jointly with the BEP program to provide hands on experiences in the MCBTC cafeteria and kitchen.)

Talking Points

a.                 Use joint committees that engage all stakeholders to identify needs and multiple disabilities.

b.                Identify specific training opportunities that will broaden staff knowledge about special populations.

c.                 Assure that all programs and facilities are accessible.

d.                Expand youth programs that target the gaps that keep them from success and tailor programs to help them succeed.

e.                Target our efforts to expand programs to the underserved populations listed in the Rehab Act (e.g., Native American, Hispanic, Latino, African-American, Seniors, etc.).

f.                   Create various learning options and alternatives for consumers with unique health needs.

g.                Explore cooperative agreements and networks with employers to create employment opportunities through co-op work experiences.

h.                 To establish community based work experience programs.

i.                    To expand vocational choices and options through meaningful exploration of trades and other careers.

j.                    To provide more options through a career exploration process that includes job shadowing, career and job interviewing, career fairs, etc.

k.                 Find creative way