RESPECT of Florida Implements Web-Based Meetings
Florida ARF Hosts Spring Quarterly Meeting
Florida ARF & RESPECT of Florida Celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Florida ARF & Members Say Thank YouTallahassee, FL (March 13, 2012) On Friday, March 9th, the 2012 Florida Legislative Session ended at 11:59 p.m. Florida ARF realized numerous successful outcomes for member agencies and the individuals they serve. Of major importance is the additional funding for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities waiver program, restoration of the Adults with Disabilities Fund within the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and revisions to reimbursement rate methodologies for ICF/DDs. As the Session closes, Florida ARF and its members say “thank you” to our Government Relations team led by Ron Book and Kelly Mallette and joined by Susan Goldstein. We also acknowledge the support of Representative Matt Hudson, Representative Denise Grimsley, Representative Will Weatherford, Representative Dean Cannon, Senator Joe Negron, Senator JD Alexander, and Senate President Mike Haridopolos who are truly Champions for individuals with developmental disabilities
Florida ARF Members Advocate for Individuals with Disabilities
Florida ARF Members, Families, & Self-Advocates Advocate During SessionTallahassee, FL (January 27, 2012) During the 3rd week of the 2012 Legislative Session, Florida ARF members, self-advocates, and families came to Tallahassee to advocate for the needs of individuals with disabilities. A number of advocates shared concerns on funding for APD as well as the system changes proposed in SB 1516 with their local legislators and the Governor. Individuals in attendance also provided compelling testimony before the Senate Health & Human Services Appropriations Committee and the Senate Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee. Florida ARF appreciates everyone sharing their views with the Florida Legislature and the Governor.
Florida ARF Staff Offer 2012 Greetings and Best Wishes!
Florida ARF Goes to Washington
Florida ARF Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month
In Florida, an individual receiving services from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) spoke before Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Cabinet on October 4 explaining the importance of including people with disabilities in the workforce. Attorney General Pam Bondi introduced the Cabinet resolution declaring October as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Florida. Florida ARF is pleased to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness month and recognizes all of our member agencies who work diligently to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their employment goals. Florida ARF & FADSP Celebrate Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition WeekTallahassee, FL (September 15, 2011) During the week of September 11-18, Florida ARF & the Florida Alliance for Direct Support Professional (FADSP) proudly celebrated DSP Recognition Week. DSPs across the state were featured who represent the backbone of our direct care service system. Their stories clearly communicate the loving attitude and dedication of so many DSPs who give so freely of themselves to serve others. Governor Rick Scott signed a letter recognizing the Association for raising awareness of the DSP profession during Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. Scott stated “direct support professionals provide invaluable assistance for many Floridians with disabilities. These dedicated professionals help citizens by increasing their independence, providing a means of communication to family and friends and offer support and encouragement on a daily basis.” We could not agree with Governor Scott more. To all the DSPs across Florida, we offer a hearty “Thank you for all that you do!”
Tallahassee, FL (August 29, 2011) Florida ARF is pleased to announce John McBride has been appointed as the RESPECT of Florida Executive Director. Mr. McBride comes to us from the Florida Department of Transportation where he was employed as a Senior Contract Auditor. John brings a strong management, business, communications, and administrative background to the RESPECT program and has experience working with government agencies, businesses, and professional associations. John also brings a strong entrepreneurial spirit, a life-long commitment to community service, and a desire to connect individuals with disabilities with employment opportunities. We look forward to many exciting new developments within the RESPECT program under John's leadership. RESPECT Employment Model Proves Successful for Participants Tampa, FL (July 25, 2011) Merle Vick began working at Panther Medical Company in July. While receiving day and employment services at MacDonald Training Center (MTC), a Florida ARF member and certified RESPECT of Florida Employment Center, he had tirelessly advocated for community based employment. Despite challenges, Merle has been adamant about his desire to work and live independently in the community. After training on the SUNPASS contract through RESPECT, Merle learned real work skills, had a credible resume, and was able to obtain a position at Panther Medical. After only a few weeks, his hours and responsibilities were increased and he received a substantial raise complete with benefits. Despite years of coming to MTC, Merle happily signed on to become a self-sufficient full time employee. Best of all, his competency and work ethic encouraged the firm to seek out and hire another person that had gone through the same training. Billy Jean West, “B.J.” to her friends, also was very motivated, and very interested in community based employment. Incredibly polite, despite being raised in a notoriously rough part of Tampa, B.J. is the first one to offer assistance when anyone around her needed help. She has an amazing recall of names and detail pertaining to persons, places, or things. She would often take people under her wing, making sure that they understood how to do a task. For many years, B.J. had been a part of the “Enclave” team that went out as a group to local firms on an as needed basis. B.J. was always the first one ready and willing to go wherever there was an opportunity to work. When a position opened at Panther Medical, B.J. asked for a chance and they gave it to her. Today, they both have their own independent work areas at Panther Medical. They are part of the team that packs and distributes sample kits that are sent to doctor’s offices throughout the Tampa Bay area. When doctors and their staff open the kit, they find alcohol wipes and small items, packaged with pride and precision. Each kit showcases many new items from Panther Medical and also highlights the many accomplishments of Merle and B.J. and their unwavering commitment to live and work independently.
Florida ARF Attends 13th Annual Family Café
Florida ARF Provides Input to Governor Scott’s Health and Human Services Transition Team
Florida ARF welcomes Governor Elect Rick Scott and looks forward to working closely with his administration to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the supports they need to live meaningful and productive lives. |
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Florida ARF Salutes Palm Beach Habilitation’s Connect for Health Initiative
Because people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) experience high rates of serious secondary health conditions related to obesity, including heart disease and diabetes, the program was designed to educate people with ID/DD about healthy nutrition and exercise habits. It also resulted in creation of a “Learning Community” for service providers and others to share experiences and promote best practices to encourage healthy lifestyles. To learn more about lessons learned from the Connect for Connect for Health was sponsored by United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities and the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc. |
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Florida ARF Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month
On October 1st, Florida ARF participated in a recognition event hosted by APD, Blind Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) where the state highlighted the contributions of people with disabilities to the work force. Seven companies were recognized for demonstrating an outstanding commitment to the employment of people with disabilities. Governor Charlie Crist said, "State agencies proudly lead the way as employers of Floridians with disabilities, offering opportunities for success, independence and respect. Persons with disabilities have expertise and talent that often goes unused and untapped, and all of Florida businesses and employers will do well in expanding opportunities for this important group of Floridians." APD Director Jim DeBeaugrine said, "Return on investment is what businesses are focused on, and investing in people with disabilities is one of the best investments they can make. Employers repeatedly tell me that individuals with disabilities are among the most reliable workers they have in their work force. So taking the step to hire someone with a disability is a smart investment of a company's resources." Florida ARF is pleased to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness month and recognizes all of our member agencies who work so diligently to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their employment goals. |
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Florida ARF Hosts 34th Annual Meeting On September 22-23, Florida ARF members gathered in Clearwater Beach to conduct the Association’s annual business, elect Board members and officers, and to recognize the accomplishments of their peers and the individuals served by community agencies. As always, the Circle of Champions presentation was one of the highlights. In addition to the awards ceremony and business meetings, participants benefitted by hearing program updates from the directors of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Children’s Medical Services representatives were also in attendance to provide updates on the CMS Provider Services Network. The next quarterly meeting of the Association is scheduled for January 25-26, 2011, at Clearwater Beach.
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During the week of September 12-19, Florida ARF proudly celebrated DSP week and featured DSPs across the state who represent the backbone of our direct care service system. Their stories clearly communicated the loving attitude and dedication of so many DSPs who give so freely of themselves to serve others. Governor Crist participated by signing a proclamation declaring September 12-19 as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. A special thanks goes to Member Services Manager Courtney Swilley for coordination of the DSP campaign. To all the DSPs across Florida, we offer a hearty “Thank you for all that you do!” |
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Florida ARF Hosts “Ins and Outs of Managed Care” Educational Seminar
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. |
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Florida ARF, Member Agencies & RESPECT of Florida Join 20th Anniversary Celebration of ADA
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Florida ARF Welcomes New Board Chair
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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.
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Florida ARF Hears “Sine Die” and Thanks Our Government Relations Team
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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. |
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Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Jim DeBeaugrine Presents iBudget Concept at Florida ARF Quarterly Meeting
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Florida ARF Members Join Haiti Relief Efforts
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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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Florida ARF Congratulates Advocates on Autism License Plate Tallahassee, FL (November 5, 2009) Because of the efforts of advocates such as former Representative Susan Goldstein, the 2009 Legislature approved an Autism Specialty License Plate. The plate is now on sale at local, county, and private Motor Vehicle License Plate Renewal Offices throughout the State. Goldstein was on site to purchase the first Autism plate which is on sale now. Proceeds from the sales will be distributed to Achievement and Rehabilitation Centers to be used to provide funds and grants for service programs for autism and related disabilities throughout the State. The process will be overseen by the Autism (Specialty License Plate) Grants Council. Additional information about the process will be distributed as it becomes available. To order your plate, call 1-877-465-3824. |
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Members Meet with Social Security Administration and VR to Discuss Opportunities
O’Brien discussed the new regulations and enhancements to the payment process and highlighted post-employment Partnership Plus opportunities for EN’s working with VR, as well as sharing information on how to access resources to assist in developing these opportunities. Leslie Barrett from the SSA Outreach Team presented a brief presentation regarding assistance to entities wishing to become ENs and provided links to resources. Thornton discussed the process related to serving VR customers on the OOS list and discussed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will provide access to Social Security recipients placed by VR and in need of post employment services.
Florida ARF members who are already ENs were reminded that SSA sent out a revised contract to ENs in September for cleanup and |
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Key West Business and Florida ARF Member Monroe Association for Retarded Citizens (MARC) Recognized for Employing Individuals with Disabilities
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Florida ARF Celebrates Disability Employment Awareness Month
Florida ARF supports President Obama’s proclamation for NDEAM which states: “Fair access to employment is a fundamental right of every American, including the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. A job can provide financial stability, help maximize our potential, and allow us to achieve our dreams. As Americans, we possess a range of vocational opportunities to make the most of our talents and succeed in a chosen career; those with disabilities are entitled to the same opportunities.” During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recommit to promoting policies and practices that increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. |
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Florida ARF Announces 2010 Officers and Board Members
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Tallahassee, FL (August 20, 2009) Florida ARF is pleased to announce that effective September 1, 2009, William (Bill) Sandonato will begin in his official capacity as the Association’s Employment Issues Consultant. Bill brings many years of experience to the Association. In addition to being a former agency member representative, he served for approximately 30 years as President and CEO of Abilities, Inc., of Florida, a statewide organization that has assisted more than 100,000 individuals to become independent and productive members of their communities. Bill’s leadership has resulted in many milestones and successes in the employment arena including:
Bill is a nationally recognized expert who shares his knowledge by presenting at numerous state and national gatherings on topics that empower people with disabilities. He has served as an invited consultant on employment in the Peoples Republic of China, Mexico, and the US Virgin Islands and was the first chair of the Florida Rehabilitation Council. Bill also served as the Vice Chair of the Veterans Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation; as a member of local Workforce Investment Boards (WIBS); and, as a member of the Board of Directors of CARF: The Accreditation Commission. Bill is an active CARF surveyor which enables consultation on employment practices throughout the United States. Bill is retiring in September, 2009 from his years of leadership with Abilities and their loss is truly our gain. We look forward to Bill’s extended involvement with Florida ARF and are certain that the individuals our member agencies serve will benefit from his expertise and leadership. Feel free to contact Bill. |
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Florida ARF Recognizes Representative Kevin Ambler as 2009 Legislative Champion
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Florida Turnpike Acknowledges Partnership with RESPECT of Florida as New Milestone in SunPass Success
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Florida ARF says Thank You to Government Relations Team & Legislative Champions Tampa, FL (May 14, 2009) Today, Florida ARF members met to review the results of the 2009 legislative session. Florida ARF Board Chair Jean-Marie Moore thanked Government Relations team members Ron Book, Kelly Mallette and Susan Goldstein for their outstanding advocacy during the 2009 Legislative Session. Moore said: “On behalf of the Florida ARF membership, thank you so much for your hard work and advocacy on behalf of our membership. Had it not been for your efforts, several of our member agencies would likely have faced major cuts and perhaps closure within the year. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.”
Florida ARF members also acknowledged the following legislative champions for 2009: Senators Atwater, Haridopolos, Alexander, Gaetz, Rich, and Peaden. House of Representative champions are Representatives Ambler, Llorente, Weatherford, Rivera, and Zapata. |
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Tallahassee, FL (April 30, 2012) On April 24-26, Florida ARF sponsored its Spring Quarterly Meeting in Clearwater Beach. Our members benefitted from the collective knowledge shared by guest presenters from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) and the Department of Education - Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). APD Chief of Staff Barbara Palmer discussed APD strategic plan initiatives with members and responded to their concerns. Members also heard VR program updates and provided input on proposed provider scorecards. As discussed during the quarterly meeting, many service system changes are occurring at the State and National level and these changes will influence impact the lives of individuals with disabilities. Florida ARF is committed to helping its member agencies and the individuals they serve navigate the forthcoming changes in a manner that will result in positive client outcome!
Tallahassee, FL (March 20, 2012) On February 20th, Governor Rick Scott proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. In response to the proclamation, a celebration was hosted by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) on March 20th at the Florida Capitol. As part of the festivities, Attorney General Pam Bondi introduced a resolution at the March 20th Florida Cabinet meeting and proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Florida ARF attended the Cabinet meeting and Courtyard activities, and RESPECT of Florida exhibited on employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities on the 3rd floor of the Capitol. President & CEO Suzanne Sewell thanks Governor Scott for acknowledging the dozens of partner organizations and thousands of private sector and community providers who provide supports for individuals with developmental disabilities. Sewell said: "While the day was all about individuals with developmental disabilities, we are grateful the Governor and his staff remembered to acknowledge the efforts of those who work daily to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities."
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Tallahassee, FL (February 24, 2012) Florida ARF’s Government Relations Chair (Katie Porta) and I want to thank all of our member agencies, families, and advocates who traveled to Tallahassee during the 7th week of the 2012 Legislative Session. A number of you traveled many miles and shared concerns with your local legislators regarding funding for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) and the Adults with Disabilities program within the Vocational Rehabilitation program. Many of you also expressed your concerns about proposed APD program changes within SB 1516 and SB 1990. As the 2012 Session comes to a close, we are pleased that the Florida Legislature listened to and funded the APD Home and Community Based Services waiver at an appropriate level. Also, we are pleased to announce that the Adults with Disabilities program funding will continue. Florida ARF truly appreciates the fact that our members and the individuals they served, along with advocates, made the effort to Tallahassee to communicate your need and share your views with the Florida Legislature and policy makers. Because of your efforts, many individuals with disabilities will receive the services they need during FY 2012-13. Again, thank you for your efforts and all that you did to achieve successful outcomes for individuals with disabilities! ---Clint Bower, Florida ARF Board Chair
The staff of Florida ARF / RESPECT of Florida wish each of our member agencies, Employment Centers, and stakeholders a happy and prosperous 2012. Our staff are committed to assisting more than 100 agencies with achievement of their mission to provide quality services and supports to assist individuals with disabilities in achievement of their individual goals. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to represent your interests and we look forward toa great and prosperous 2012!
Tallahassee, FL (November 2011) In late October, Florida ARF Board Chair Clint Bower, President & CEO Suzanne Sewell, and Government Relations Consultant Susan Goldstein visited more than 15 Congressional House members in their Washington, D.C. offices. The Florida ARF team discussed the need for continued Medicaid funding, the need for state flexibility in providing Medicaid services to individuals receiving residential supports, and the importance of continuation of commensurate wages to ensure that individuals with severe disabilities continue to have employment options. The Congressmen were responsive to the issues and were interested in hearing about the needs of their constituents.
Orlando, FL (June 3, 2011) Florida ARF is pleased to have attended the 13th Annual Family Café’ conference in Orlando, FL, on June 3-5. Thousands of families and self-advocates participated in this year’s event. Our Government Relations Consultant Susan Goldstein hosted a very successful Friday evening advocacy program. Goldstein was joined by Florida ARF Government Relations Consultant Ron Book who inspired participants to become actively involved in the legislative process. The audience also heard from distinguished panel members including Senate President Mike Haridopolos, Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, House Appropriations Committee Chair Denise Grimsley, Justice Appropriations Chair Rich Glorioso, and Dan Marino Foundation President and CEO Mary Parton. A special thank you goes to Lori Fahey, Family Café Executive Director, who encouraged Florida ARF members to participate in the 13th annual Family Café.
(Tallahassee, FL) On December 8, 2010, and on behalf of the membership and the individuals our member agencies serve, Florida ARF President & CEO Suzanne Sewell provided testimony to Governor Elect Rick Scott’s Health and Human Services Transition Team. Sewell offered the following:
(November 2010) Congratulations to member agency Palm Beach Habilitation Center for successfully implementing the Connect for Health program in partnership with the Human Services Research Institute with funding from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council! During the past 18 months, over 35 participants from Palm Beach Habilitation met regularly to learn about nutrition, exercise, and accessing health and fitness resources in the community. The participants set individual health goals; developed action plans to reach their goals, and supported each other. As a result, several people improved their exercise and eating habits to lose weight, reporting more energy, better sleep, and feelings of wellbeing. 
Health project or simple changes that can be made to promote the health of individuals served, Contact David Lin at (561) 965-8500 or 
Tallahassee, FL (October 7, 2010) Each year, Congress designates October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. To kickoff this year’s campaign, President Obama issued his annual 
Florida ARF Celebrates Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition Week
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.
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 
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.
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!
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, 
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
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Tampa, FL (October 23, 2009) Today, Florida ARF members were given the opportunity to participate in an interactive session regarding the opportunities presented by the new Social Security Ticket to Work regulations in a meeting co-hosted with the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. The meeting featured presentations by Dan O’Brien, Associate Deputy Commissioner of the US Social Security Administration and Harold Thornton, SSA/TTW Program Administrator for VR. Opportunities for community rehabilitation programs to take advantage of the 2009 changes in the Ticket to Work regulations, especially in light of the new Partnership Plus provisions and VR’s Order of Selection (OOS) process were shared.
clarification purposes. If you haven't received it and accepted it, you need to do so now in order to remain an EN, you are urged to partner with VR by completing the MOA. Members seeking additional guidance are encouraged to contact .jpg)
Tallahassee, FL (October 5, 2009) On October 1, 2009, state agencies in Tallahassee honored eight businesses from across the state for their commitment to hiring people with disabilities. The ceremony was part of the 2009 Disability Employment Awareness Celebration and was titled REACH! HIRE! The award, known as the Florida Exceptional Employer Award, recognizes the commitment of businesses to hiring and retaining people with disabilities and initiative in creating unique employment opportunities. One of the 2009 recipients, Fausto’s Food Palace of Key West, has employed six individuals with developmental disabilities who have been referred by member agency Monroe ARC (MARC) over the last 20 years. One employee worked with Fausto’s until reaching retirement age and another has been employed at the business for 15 years performing various jobs, such as working at the deli counter, stocking shelves, and bagging groceries. Fausto's has also hired MARC mobile work crews to perform landscape maintenance at both of their stores twice per month. Florida ARF applauds Fausto’s Food Palace and Monroe ARC for all they do to provide meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities.
Tallahassee, FL (October 2, 2009) Florida ARF is pleased to acknowledge National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and celebrates the accomplishments employees and employers have made in the employment of individuals with disabilities. This year’s national theme Expectation + Opportunity = Full Participation challenges us to focus on the advancements the disability community has made as a whole to empower individuals to find employment. As an Association, members of Florida ARF and RESPECT of Florida are providing over 4,000 individuals with disabilities employment services across the state.
Tallahassee, FL (September 22, 2009) Florida ARF is pleased to announce its new Board of Directors and Officers for Fiscal Year 2009-2010, including: Chair Person Barry Pollack, President & CEO of UCP of East Central Florida; Vice Chair Clint Bower, President & CEO of MACtown; Treasurer Shirley Balogh, President & CEO of Alliance for Independence; and Secretary Gary Morin, Corporate Assistant Director of Resources for Human Development. Jean-Marie Moore, Director of Human Services Operations for Goodwill Industries Suncoast will now serve as Past Chair and Jon Fisher, Deputy State Director of Florida Mentor, will serve as Parliamentarian. The membership also elected the following individuals to serve as board members: Dayle Olson, President of Brevard Achievement Center; Sue Buchholtz, President/CEO of PARC; Katie Porta, President/CEO of Quest; Troy Strawder, Executive Director of ARC Marion; and Patricia Varner, President of Pensacola Care, Inc. The newly elected members join current Board members Peggy Connell, Executive Director, Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities.; Dr. Jim McGuire, Executive Director, Ann Storck Center; Keith Muniz, Executive Director, ARC of Martin County; Tina Philips, President/CEO, Palm Beach Habilitation Center; Dr. Jim Weeks, VP Corporate Secretary/Treasurer, Sunrise Community; Jim Freyvogel, President, MacDonald Training Center; and, Diana Flenard, Executive Director, Monroe Association for Retarded Citizens. Rich Gilmartin, Vice President, Lakeview Center; Dr. Sherry White, President/CEO of UCP Northwest Florida; and Jon May, Executive Director, Pine Castle rotated off the Board after serving six-year terms. “Florida ARF is indeed fortunate to have such prestigious and dedicated leaders who guide and direct our Association. Because we are a member driven Association, the Board’s leadership and the involvement of our member agencies truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of individuals with disabilities. We look forward to a great year,” said President and CEO Suzanne Sewell.
Florida ARF Welcomes William (Bill) Sandonato as Employment Consultant.jpg)
Clearwater Beach, FL (July 9, 2009) During the Summer Quarterly Meeting, Florida ARF members recognized Representative Kevin Ambler (Tampa) for his advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals with disabilities during the 2009 legislative session. Florida ARF President & CEO Suzanne Sewell said: “On behalf of the Florida ARF membership, we thank you for the impact your efforts have made in the lives of Florida’s citizens with disabilities. Through your support, thousands of individuals with disabilities have achieved a better quality of life.” Representative Ambler was instrumental in the 2009 session to eliminate rate cuts and service eliminations to individuals with disabilities served in Intermediate Care Facilities for the Developmentally Disabled (ICF/DDs). Without Ambler’s advocacy on behalf of the individuals served, many individuals would have lost services and community agencies would have been faced with the decision of having to reduce their programs and services.
(June 2009) Florida ARF is pleased that our RESPECT of Florida program was recently acknowledged in the Florida Turnpike Enterprise’s SunPassages newsletter as a successful partnership between community agencies serving individuals with disabilities and a government entity. Earlier this year, Florida's Turnpike reached a new milestone when the four millionth SunPass transponder was activated. Helping achieve this significant accomplishment was RESPECT of Florida, a non-profit agency who has provided SunPass transponder packaging services to Florida's Turnpike since 2007. RESPECT of Florida helps disabled Florida citizens reach their potential through gainful employment. This program provides members an opportunity to earn income and learn new skills, empowering them to become more independent and lead more fulfilling lives. All government entities within the State of Florida are encouraged to contact RESPECT of Florida to learn more about potential partnerships that meet government’s needs while employing individuals with disabilities. 
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