Welcome to The Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facilities!

Florida ARF is a 501(c)(3) organization and represents Community Human Service Provider Agencies making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities across the sunshine state.  Florida ARF does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates.

Transitioning to Community Employment: A Perspective that Works

In partnership with The Able Trust, Florida ARF developed this report to provide information and lessons learned on how to assist Employment Centers with development of programming activities that prepare individuals with severe disabilities for competitive employment.

Florida ARF Hosts “Ins and Outs of Managed Care” Educational Seminar

Clearwater Beach, FL (August 25, 2010) On August 24th and 25th, representatives from across the state attended the Ins and Outs of Managed Care Educational Seminar hosted by Florida ARF.  The seminar was arranged as an educational tool for DD Stakeholders to become knowledgeable on various managed care models being using to serve individuals with disabilities.  Expert presenters from Arizona, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin who are involved with managed care programs in their states that serve individuals with disabilities shared their experiences.  AHCA presented on Provider Service Networks (PSN), and Prestige and Children’s Medical Services shared their PSN models.  Carol Gormley from the House of Representatives presented on the proposed managed care legislation from the 2010 Legislative Session.  Bob Barrios from the Governor’s Office Policy Coordination Unit served as moderator.

Florida ARF has not supported transition of the DD service system to managed care.  However, based on the proposed language the House developed last year, the Association is of the opinion that our members need to be educated on the various models if such a transition is mandated.

Florida ARF, Member Agencies & RESPECT of Florida Join 20th Anniversary Celebration of ADA

Tallahassee, FL (July 26, 2010) Today, Florida ARF and RESPECT of Florida representatives attended the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act at The Capitol which was hosted by multiple disability organizations.  The March for Opportunity down Monroe Street and festivities in the Capitol Courtyard was attended by state agency representatives, self-advocates, and supporting Associations.  Speakers included disabled veteran Trueman Muhrer-Irwin and National Spokesman for Outback Steakhouse, Wayne Cook.   We note that 20 years ago, President George Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. This landmark piece of legislation made it illegal to discriminate against individuals with disabilities in employment, delivering public services, providing access to places of business and other public venues, and providing telecommunications services.  An editorial written by one of our member agencies describes very well the importance of this legislation and the numerous positive outcomes for people with disabilities.  We look forward to another 20 years of positive advancements for individuals with disabilities!

Florida ARF Welcomes New Board Chair

Tallahassee, FL  (June 2010)  The Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facilities is pleased to introduce Clint Bower, President & CEO of MACtown, Inc., as their new Board Chair.   For those who know Bower, his commitment to serving individuals with disabilities and his support of the Association are characteristics that will serve him well in his new role.  According to Bower: "I am pleased to accept this position because Florida ARF is at the forefront in advocating for the needs of persons with disabilities.  The information disseminated to members through the various forums and email updates/newsletters has proven to be an extremely valuable benefit of being a member of this organization.  However, the true strength of Florida ARF is its members who share the mission of creating opportunities and promoting independence for persons with disabilities."  Florida ARF welcomes Bower as the new Board Chair and looks forward to a long working relationship!  The Association also takes this opportunity to thank former Chair Barry Pollack for his leadership and wishes him well in his new career path.

A Picture Says a Thousand Words

Tallahassee, FL  (May 27, 2010)  If one picture says a thousand words, Florida ARF has quite a message!  We do hope our member agencies and stakeholders will stop by and view our new artwork that is now displayed in the Association’s lobby area.  The pictures tell a story as to who we are and what we do.  From the Florida ARF perspective you will see pictures of children from the Selby Preschool, an ICF/DD site, day programs, supported employment, and residential care.  From the RESPECT side, we have fantastic pictures of individuals with severe disabilities who are gainfully employed and proud to share stories about the jobs they perform with pride.  Thanks to all of the staff who assisted with development of this special project.

Florida ARF Hears “Sine Die” and Thanks Our Government Relations Team

Tallahassee, FL (April 30, 2010)  Today, the 2010 Florida Legislative Session ended.  Overall, the Association realized many successful outcomes for member agencies and the individuals they serve, and we are still addressing some decisions that need correction.  As the session closes, Florida ARF offers a hearty “thank you, thank you, and thank you” to our Government Relations team led by Ron Book and Kelly Mallette.  They worked tirelessly to achieve the goals of our legislative platform.  Also, we thank Susan Goldstein for her assistance and involvement in advocating for disability issues.  Finally, thank you to all of our member agencies for their support and assistance to ensure that we had a successful legislative session in 2010!

2010 Census Forms Arrive Across the Nation

Tallahassee, FL (March 29, 2010)  Florida ARF understands that as America has grown and become more diverse, it has become more challenging to get a complete count of the population.   The Census Bureau estimated that if every household completed and mailed back their census form, taxpayers could reduce the cost of taking the census by $1.5 billion.  Participating in the census is required by law for everyone living in the United States, and the public is encouraged to promptly mail back their 2010 Census forms once they are delivered.  Census data help determine how more than $400 billion in federal funds are distributed to tribal, state and local governments every year — including funding for schools, roads, health care and other critical programs.  So, we encourage everyone to respond as soon as possible.  For Florida specific census information, check out the newly launched website to help ensure that Floridians with disabilities are counted in the 2010 Census.

Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Jim DeBeaugrine Presents iBudget Concept at Florida ARF Quarterly Meeting

Clearwater Beach, FL (February 2, 2010) APD Director Jim DeBeaugrine attended the Florida ARF Winter meeting to present on the Agency’s iBudget proposal.  DeBeuagrine reported the Florida Legislature required development of an iBudget plan that was due on February 1, 2010, and APD has delivered a report that was developed with stakeholder input including representatives from Florida ARF.  If the legislature approves the plan and gives APD direction to move forward, federal approval for implementation must be obtained and a phase in would begin in the fall of 2010 with full implementation planned for 2011.  APD continues to work on an algorithm, a client evaluation process, and supporting policies. DeBeaugrine told Florida ARF members that the proposed Florida iBudget algorithm should distribute appropriations fairly and equitably.  To see Florida ARF’s position statement on the iBudget concept, click here.

Florida ARF Members Join Haiti Relief Efforts

Miami, FL (January 26, 2010)  On January 12, 2010, Florida ARF members MACtown, Sunrise Community, and United Cerebral Palsy of South Florida once again demonstrated their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing assistance to organizations in Haiti that serve individuals with disabilities.  Other member agencies, such as SCARC in Central Florida, collected items and sent checks to assist with the effort.  Collectively, these organizations shipped four truckloads of goods and supplies to Haiti in response to the massive earthquake that devastated parts of the country.  The trucks were filled with cases of water and non-perishable food items, medical supplies, clothing, blankets, and linens.  On Saturday, January 23rd, representatives from MACtown, Sunrise Community, and United Cerebral Palsy of South Florida flew to Haiti to deliver cases of medicine, medical supplies, and adaptive equipment to the Northwest Haiti Christian Mission which operates three homes for children, two of which serve children with disabilities.  Florida ARF commends these member agencies for their hard work and assistance to Haiti!

Florida ARF Spreads Holiday Cheer

Tallahassee, FL (December 18, 2009) Florida ARF staff members visited Tallahassee Development Center and shared Christmas gifts with individuals residing at the Center.  Individuals exuded with delight in response to the gifts that were provided from their wish lists.  All of the staff who attended were impressed with the obvious love and care shown at the Center.  Thanks to Administrator Billy Bull and the staff and management of the Tallahassee Development Center for the work they do and for allowing us to share a little bit of holiday cheer with the individuals who reside at the Center.  Florida ARF offers a special thanks to Loren Miner for sharing his beautiful artwork with us.

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