I Linå' lå-ta (Our Life) A Newsletter For Individuals With Disabilities Volume 2, No. 3 June 5, 2009 Page 1 Guam Legal Services Corp. Provides P&A (GLSC Logo inserted at the beginning of article) Having to overcome barriers is a fact of life for most people with disabilities. Sometimes getting past the barriers is accomplished by simply making a request. Sometimes several follow-up activities are needed to get things done. And then there are times when the legal system must be accessed to protect individuals’ rights. For qualified individuals with disabilities, using the services of Guam Legal Services Corporation (GLSC) to overcome legal barriers is the way to go. GLSC is a private, non-profit corporation that was established in 1979. It began receiving U.S. congressional appropriations in 1981, which allowed the corporation to provide legal representation to people who meet the income requirements. GLSC is not a part of the Government of Guam or the U.S. federal government. It is governed by a board of directors consisting of attorneys and program-eligible persons. In 1981, GLSC expanded its programs to assist vulnerable populations including survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking. In 1999, GLSC was designated the Protection and Advocacy (P&A) System for Guam. This means GLSC is authorized under applicable federal and local laws to protect and promote the human, civil and legal rights of individuals with mental illness and/or developmental and other disabilities through legally-based advocacy. Thus, GLSC became the Disability Law Center. It should be noted that GLSC cannot provide representation in criminal matters or in matters where the client is seeking monetary compensation. Harold Parker, Esq., Executive Director of GLSC, oversees a staff of 17, which includes attorneys, advocates, and administrative personnel. The Protection and Advocacy (P&A) Programs. To qualify for any of the P&A programs, the person must have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the legal issue for which help is sought must be related to the disability. The issue addressed cannot be raised for financial gain and cannot be fee-generating. The issue must fall within certain priorities and may be limited by available resources. It may also be limited by the existence of other programs which address the applicant’s issue and by the potential affect on the person’s life, health, and safety. These factors apply across all P&A programs. In addition, there cannot be a conflict of interest with the parties involved. There is no charge to clients for legal services provided through the P&A programs. However, clients are responsible for paying fees associated with their case (for example: court-filing fees, notice publication fees, and document recording fees with government agencies). If a client is unable to pay these fees, GLSC can work with the client to determine if the fees can be waived. For specific information on the various programs that provide legal assistance to qualified individuals with disabilities, please refer to the chart below. For more information, please call Carol D. Cabiles, P&A Program Coordinator at 922-4571-4. Photo caption: Guam Legal Services Corporation Staff. (Front row, L-R) Sheila S. Cruz, Administrative Director; Matthew Wolff, Staff Attorney; Harold F. Parker, Executive Director of Litigation; Renita M. Taimanao, Staff Attorney; Christine Visosky, Bookkeeper; John J. Cruz, File Clerk/Runner; (back row, L-R) Carol D. Cabiles, P&A Program Coordinator; Jamela A. Santos, Advocate; Leslie E. Gatan, Advocate; Nora S.N. Cadag, Advocate; Christine A. Camacho, Receptionist; Vera G. Cruz, Legal Secretary; Chris Pangelinan, Management Information Systems Advocate; Not shown: Kathleen E. Maher, Staff Attorney; Cathleen L.G. Moylan, Legal Services Corporation/Legal Assistance Victim Program Coordinator; Lynnette M. Arriola, Advocate, & Teo Gogo, Legal Secretary. Page 2 Bulleted text in colored box: Guam Legal Services Corporation Disability Law Center Protection & Advocacy Programs ?PAIMI Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness which assists individuals who have been diagnosed with a mental illness or emotional impairment. The PAIMI program monitors and investigates abuse and neglect in facilities and group homes that care for or treat individuals with mental illness and provides representation at fair hearings for government benefits and adult legal guardianships. ?PADD Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities assists individuals who have a developmental disability. A developmental disability is a life-long disability that manifests itself before age 22 and is attributed to mental and/or physical impairments. The PADD program priorities include legal advocacy for appropriate special education services and care and treatment in the least restrictive environment. Many of the same services with PAIMI are available for PADD clients. ?PAIR The Program for the Protection and Advocacy for Individual Rights assists individuals with disabilities who are not eligible for services under the PADD or PAIMI programs, such as those with physical disabilities acquired as an adult. Services include advocacy in regards to personal decision making powers and assisting in delegating these powers when appropriate. ?PAAT Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology assists individuals with disabilities in accessing technology devices and assistive technology services through advocacy and legal representation, ?PATBI Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury provides information, referral and advocacy services to individuals who face a loss of legal rights as a direct result of TBI. ?PABSS Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security assists beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) with issues related to securing or regaining gainful employment. This includes information and referral, consultation and legal representation when necessary, and advocacy related to the Ticket to Work and Work Incentive Implementation Act (TWWIIA). ?PAVA Protection and Advocacy for Voter Access is meant to ensure that individuals with disabilities can have full participation in the electoral process. This includes registering to vote, casting a vote, and accessing polling places. The priorities under the PAVA program include educational outreach and advocacy. Other Programs: GLSC also has two additional federally funded programs: ?LSC The Legal Services Corporation Program provides legal services to the low-income community ?LAV The Legal Assistance for Victims Program provides comprehensive legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Page 3 Guam Consumers Receive Individualized TeleWork Training Guam residents who wanted to learn more about the world of telework recently had the opportunity to attend customized training on the subject. Ben Servino, a vocational rehabilitation counselor from the University of California, East Bay, and former UOG CEDDERS staff member, was on Guam on March 30-31 to conduct group and individualized training for consumers interested in setting up their own businesses at home . The training, which was the culminating event of a series of activities related to assistive technology during the month of March, was welcomed by the twenty participants who attended. The workshop, titled, “AT Access and Utilization in the TeleWork Environment: An Assistive Technology Training for Consumers,” covered topics ranging from benefits of teleworking, Home Office Ergonomics, legislation, regulations, policies, opportunities, and skills required. Ben provided individual vocational counseling sessions with participants to address specific concerns in developing action plans. Some of the topics addressed during these one-on-one sessions included recommendations relating to telework goals, recommendations for assistive technology assessments, identifying local resources, resume’ enhancement, “working with the system,” and accessing legal services. Bulleted text in colored box on the right column of the article: “AT Access and Utilization in the TeleWork Environment: An Assistive Technology Training for Consumers” Agenda * Definition and benefits of tele-work * Assessing if Tele-working is right for you * Status of Tele-Work in Private/Government Sectors * Tele-Work Legislation/Policies * Tele-Work Job Opportunities and Skills Required * Challenges * Tele-Work Home Office System Considerations * Impact of Tele-Work on SSI/SSDI Benefits * AT Utilization in Tele-Work Environments * AT Access and Funding * Local/Federal Resources * Taking Next Steps Photo with caption: “AT Access and Utilization” training participants are all smiles as they look towards their prosperous futures. (Front, L-R) Bill Fuppul & Evelyn Duenas; (Back row, L-R) Andrew Tydingco, Ben Servino, presenter, Lee Cruz, Marilyn Crisostomo, Candice Perry, Erlinda Tydingco, Dolores Palomo, GSAT Center Assistant, Carla Torres, GSAT Assistive Technology Specialist, & Lisa Ogo. Page 4 OPENING DOORS: Perk Up Your Summer with Guam PIRC (Photo of C.P. Cruz at the beginning of the article) Summer is a great time to get an early start on gaining and fine-tuning skills that will help you help your children get the most out of school. When the doors of the Guam Parent Information Resource Center, also referred to as “Guam PIRC,” are opened, you will discover a world of possibilities for your children, from birth to 21 years. Tutoring, internet access, computers, printers, skills development training, and even construction paper, poster boards, glue, scissors and tape, are some of what you can expect to find at Guam PIRC, which is located at the Ada Commercial Plaza Complex, Bldg. C, in Hagatña. When you visit, you will be greeted with a friendly smile and people with a willingness to help. They do not have electric doors but they will open the doors for you. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Customer service-oriented staff members are on hand to meet and assist you at the center. If you are a person with a disability, let them know if you need any reasonable accommodations. Guam PIRC’s mission is to help you. Make sure you visit them soon! For more information please call the Guam PIRC office at 477-7472 or visit their website at www.guampirc.org. For more information please call the Guam PIRC office at 477-7472 or visit their website at www.guampirc.org. Photo caption on the right column: The Guam PIRC Staff. (Standing, L-R) Jenielle Meno, Patricia Tomlinson, & Tasha Coffiel, Staff Support/Secretaries; Louise Camacho & Marie Wusstig, Parent Mentors; (Sitting, L-R) Pauline Camacho, Director, Iosindo Fuppul, Parent Mentor, & Akemi Camacho, Resource Coordinator are ready to assist parents at the Guam PIRC Center. Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Photo with caption: Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2009. Manuel Cruz, Executive Director of the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, presented the Proclamation by the Governor of Guam designating March as Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, to the GDDC during its regular meeting on March 11. Attending the meeting were (front row, L-R) Thomas Manglona, Evelyn Duenas, Meriam Peredo, Moses Puas, Josephine Cortez; (middle row, L-R) Vangie Cepeda, Elisabeth Cruz, Mark Peredo, Claire Duenas, Susan Guero, Manuel Cruz, Jodie Pizarro, Lisa Ogo, Esther Arca, Kristina Perez, Marie Libria, Rosanne Ada, & June Perez. (back row, L-R) Jesse Pangelinan, Daniel Cobb, Shirley Lujan, Ella Cruz, Raymond Salas, Terrie Fejarang, Joseph Manibusan, & Albert San Agustin. Page 5 Full page ad: Would you like to learn more about Self-Advocacy? UOG CEDDERS invites you to learn more about self-advocacy and practice the skills to become a good self-advocate. This just might be a like changing event, and we think you’ll be glad you chose to come. Two Sessions: Saturdays, September 19 and October 3, 8:30 a.m. to 12 Noon, GSAT, House 19 Dean Circle, University of Guam For more information, contact Ginger Porter at 735-2369 or email at ginger.porter@guamcedders.org. Self-Advocacy is… * Speaking up for your rights * Doing your own thing * Telling people what you want * Sharing problems * Making choices * Taking responsibility for your own life * Enjoying the same rights as everyone else * Getting rid of disrespectful words * Being part of a support group * Not letting others run your life * Coming and going when you like Watermark Guam Seal with photo of Clinton Mesa, Erlinda Tydingco, and Marlon Molinas on the right side of the ad. Page 6 Problems with Hand Control May Be Minimized with AT Multiple Sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune condition, affects the ability of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to communicate with each other. As a result, symptoms such as muscle spasms, muscle weakness, blurred vision, dizziness, loss of balance, impaired thinking, and speech problems can occur. MS offers a variety of challenges for individuals who have this condition, but it doesn’t have to stop them from being productive or enjoying life’s simplest pleasures. With assistive technology, also know as AT devices, individuals with MS can maintain their independence and productivity. Because the symptoms of MS vary from person to person, AT needs are individualized. The Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) helps determine the right product and services for an individual’s needs and situation. Here are some examples of Assistive Technology Devices that can help individuals affected by Multiple Sclerosis or other conditions that impact hand movement: Comfort Keyboard The Comfort Keyboard is ergonomically designed with sections that separate and are totally adjustable into an infinite number of positions to meet the unique needs of each individual. Each section rotates and tilts to any position, therefore each user can type in their own most comfortable hand and wrist posture. TADI Talking Personal Digital Organizer TADI uses a keyboard and voice recording for input and speech for output. It has a sophisticated phone book, appointment diary, notepad, calculator, alarm clock, timer, five hours of recording time, and more. TADI measures 5.75 x 3.5 x .5 inches and weighs about 6.7 ounces with batteries, making it very portable. Magnetic Jewelry Clasp Converters Magnetic Jewelry Clasp Converters will change a standard necklace, bracelet or chain clasp to one with a magnetic clasp, making it simple and easy to close. Dexterity Kit The Dexterity Kit combines five items specifically designed to enhance hand function: 3 EZ Key Turners, 3 slide on pen and pencil cushions, 2 lamp switch enlargers, 2 spoon and fork holders, 1 zipper and button puller. Packaged together, these items meet some of the most common daily household challenges. Page 7 14th Annual AT Fair Highlights Useful Devices Door levers, portable ramps, swivel chairs that lower and rise into a vehicle, screen reader software. The list goes on. These are just a few of the hundreds of “gadgets,” also known as “assistive technology” or “AT” for short, that were featured at the 14th Annual Assistive Technology Fair held at the Guam Premier Outlet on March 21. Various venders and non-profit organizations that provide support to people with disabilities and their families set up displays during the event that is sponsored annually by the University of Guam CEDDERS’ Guam System for Assistive Technology, better known as the GSAT Center. If you missed the Fair and wish to learn about the various assistive technology that may help you improve your quality of life, visit the GSAT Center located at House 19, Dean Circle, at the University of Guam campus. They may also be reached via telephone at 735-2490. Photos with the following captions: 1. Accessible Van Display. Atkins Kroll, a local car dealer, showcased their accessible van during the Fair. 2. Household Aid Display Table. Various types of kitchen gadgets help make cooking a pleasure rather than a chore. 3. Mobility Aids Display Table. GSAT Advisory Council Members Evelyn Duenas and Bill Fuppul helped man the display tables. 4. Visual Aids Display Table. (L-R) Andrew Tydingco, Sophina Taitano, ____________, JJ Mendiola, Lee Cruz, and Kathy Milhoff were ready to answer questions regarding access to the Internet by people who are blind or have low vision. Page 8 Half page: Self-Advocacy Workshop Photo with caption: Self Advocacy Workshop. Twelve individuals with disabilities attended a 2-day workshop at the University of Guam GSAT Center that focused on rights and responsibilities of people with disabilities under various federal legislation, and how to ensure that these rights are not violated. Ginger Porter, Guam CEDDERS’ Consumer Leadership and Systems Change Initiative Area Coordinator, facilitated the training which culminated with each participant engaging in a special project that involved using self-advocacy skills. Another session of the workshop will be offered in September (see advertisement on Page 6). For more information on how to register for the next Self-Advocacy Workshop scheduled for September 19 & 26, please call Ms. Porter at 735-2369 or send an email message to ginger.porter@guamcedders.org. Quarter page ad: 15th Annual GSAT Assistive Technology Conference “In the World, a Person; In a Person, a World: A.T. UNLOCKS it ALL!” Westin Resort Guam Wednesday, July 8, 2009 from 8am-2pm Special Conference Sessions for: * Teachers, Related Services Personnel and Parents – “A World of Inclusive Schools: Universal Design for Learning (UDL), UDL and Assistive Technology (AT), and AT and Communicative Success” presented by Anne Denham, University of Kentucky and Jennifer Noxsel, Speech Language Pathologist * Persons with Disabilities – “A World at Home,” “A World on the Road,” “A World at Work,” “A World of Fun,” “A World of Faith,” and “A World of Fashion” To pre-register and to request for reasonable accommodations please contract GSAT by July 3 at 735-2490 (V), 735-2491 (TDD, TTY), 734-8378 (Fax) This event is supported by Grant No. H224A080053 from the Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education. The University of Guam is an equal opportunity employer and provider. I Linå'lå-ta is a quarterly publication published and funded through a Tri-agency collaborative partnership between the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, Guam Legal Services Disability Law Center, and the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS). Comments may be sent to: Guam CEDDERS Office of Academic & Student Affairs University of Guam, UOG Station Mangilao, Guam 96923 Phone: 735-2480/1 Fax: 734-5709 TTY: 734-6531 Email: terrie.fejarang@guamcedders.org Guam DDC Executive Director: Manuel Cruz GLS-DLC Director: Harold Parker, Esquire Guam CEDDERS Director: Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D. Editor: C. P. Cruz Assistant Editor: Terrie Fejarang Layout & Design: Margaret Johnson This issue of I Linå'lå-ta was made possible by contributions from the following individuals: Carol Cabiles, Lee Cruz, Terrie Fejarang, Ginger Porter, & Carla Torres. Alternative formats (e.g. Braille, large print, or audio tapes) of I Linå'lå-ta will be made available upon request. Please contact Margaret Johnson at 735-2477 (v), 734-6531 (TTY), or 734-5709 (fax) for more information. The University of Guam is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider.