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Sixty-Second

Community Health

Advisory Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Weekly Message from the Executive Director

By the Numbers

I am so encouraged to report only two consumers and 1 DSP testing positive for COVID-19 this week. On "Tier Tuesday" we learned that while we did not advance in the tier system, and we are still in the red "Substantial" level, we are on track to move to the moderate levels soon, within weeks, in our largest counties (Stanislaus County is showing 7.8 new cases per 100k and San Joaquin County is reporting 4.9 per 100k). In addition, two of our counties (Tuolumne and Calaveras) are in the orange "Moderate" level and Amador County is now in the yellow "Minimal" level. We have currently vaccinated 72% of all of our seniors with developmental disabilities, and 30% of our consumers 16-49 years old. We just recently got approval for vaccinating children 12-15 years old and this month we held a clinic that got about 120 children vaccinated. Some of these were extremely difficult, but our BCBA Liz Knapp and professionals from BEST did an amazing job supporting children and families in helping to get almost every child through our clinic with the vaccination.

New From the Blue Print for a Safer Economy

"California is preparing to get back to normal. On June 15, capacity and distancing restrictions will be lifted for most businesses and activities. Large-scale indoor events will have vaccination or negative test requirements for attendees through at least October 1." Also, here are a few new standards from Cal/OSHA:

· Employers must exclude from work employees who are not fully vaccinated if they have a positive case or exposed to a positive case.

· Nonvaccinated employees exposed to a COVID-19 with symptoms can return to work after 14 - day quarantine, an exposed employee who does not develop symptoms of COVID-19 may return to work after 10 days have passed since the date of last known exposure.

· CDPH has provided guidance permitting health care, emergency response and social services workers to return to work after 7 days with a negative PCR test result collected after day 5 when there is a critical staffing shortage.

· Fully vaccinated employees exposed to a COVID-19 cases without symptoms of COVID-19, does not need to quarantine.

How is Valley Mountain Regional Center Going to Respond on June 15th

One June 15th the management of VMRC will come together to review the draft policy for returning to the building, which includes the gradual reopening of our of building to the public. The return to the building includes a modification of the work at home policy (including agreements for creating a performance based policy), safety protocols for hundreds of employees working closely together, and making sure we do everything we can to ensure the safety of our community coming into the buildings, and the safety of our staff engaging with the community in our buildings and throughout the community in consumer's private homes, day programs and care homes, etc.

Required Vaccinations

Recently, we have heard that employees and community groups think VMRC is requiring vaccinations for people to return to day programs, and for employees to return to work. They site examples from other regional centers. The California system is set up with each regional center being governed by a board of directors representative of their local region. Each center has taken a slightly different approach based on the priorities of that board. The approach for our region at this time is to exhaust every effort to get the vaccinations to our community, and to do it in a way that hopefully provides the highest comfort and confidence for our consumers, families, and providers. We want to make sure all resources have been provided for those who want the vaccine to get it. Second, we are doing everything we can to get our community the answers to the questions they have about the vaccines so those who are hesitant can get their questions answered and hopefully feel comfortable getting the vaccine.

Preventing the Nightmare Scenario

The nightmare scenario for us would be to have a nonvaccinated staff member infect people throughout the region in care homes, family homes, schools and court houses. To protect against this, we have provided every opportunity to get the vaccine, learn more about the vaccine, receive monthly voluntary testing, and implement their statutory obligations to the Lanterman Act and our contract with DDS by taking every other precaution with personal protective equipment (required masking, eye shields, reduced duration, PPE gowns, and more depending on the situation). Currently, outside of VMRC jurisdiction, we have yet to learn of providers requiring vaccinations, but we have learned of some families requiring staff to be vaccinated to serve them in their homes.

As a reminder, last month DDS issued a Directive reinstating the face to face visits:

“…the Department is directing regional centers to resume conducting, at least quarterly, face-to-face monitoring visits for consumers living in licensed residential facilities, Family Home Agency settings, and Supported Living/Independent Living arrangements as required by Article IX, Section 1(b) of the Department’s contracts with regional centers.”

Remember, professionals from Community Care Licensing and Valley Mountain Regional Center are NOT considered to be visitors, and therefore are not part of any licensed program's visitor policy. These individuals are statutorily required to ensure the health and safety of people with disabilities in licensed programs and homes licensed by the state of California and governed under Title 22 and Title 17 in the CA Code of regulations. VMRC Service Coordinators and Quality Assurance Community Services Liaisons will be following strict guidelines that we have established in our Face to Face Meetings policy that are meant for the safety of our community and for all our staff.

And Finally…

As many of you in our community are aware, during this global pandemic almost every one of our consumers in school was not able to attend school as a protection against spreading this deadly COVID-19 virus. The response from VMRC was to connect with each student and family and amend the IPPs of thousands of consumers who had their life circumstances changed and they and their families needed a different individualized person-centered plan. As the regular school schedule ends and the summer months are ahead of us, these plans will obviously change to reflect the changed season in life for most students in school. Since these IPPs were modified at a rate never seen before, the adjustments back to summer schedules will take VMRC a little more time than usual to complete, so please bare with us as we make it back to each consumer and family to accomplish these addendums to person centered IPPs. If the state actually fully reopens on June 15th this will represent a major change in circumstances for so many consumers and families, and our already overloaded caseloads are going to be asked to respond again to an unprecedented level of change. However, while difficult, your regional center is up to the task, and together with all community partners, we will meet the needs of our consumers.

Tony Anderson

Executive Director

Case Management Update - Children

Self-Determination

The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) revealed proposed changes to the Self-Determination program last week. In the next few weeks, the State Council on Developmental Disabilities will be releasing its report on how to make the Self-Determination program successful. These proposals are a starting point for discussions with the Department, the Legislature and the Governor about how to improve the program in this year’s state budget.

Here is what you should know:

July 1, 2021, the Self-Determination program will be available to all eligible individuals on a voluntary basis with no limit on the number of participants.

To be eligible for the program, you or your family member must:

1. Have a developmental disability and currently be receiving services from a California regional center, or be a new client of a regional center; and

2. Be over the age of three or, if under, be qualified for services through the Lanterman Act; and

3. Live in the community.

The next Self Determination training will be held on June 29^th from 9:00AM - 12:00 PM. Register here.

Save the date for the following trainings, Registration links coming soon!

June 17^th from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

August 9^th from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

September 30^th from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Tips for Making the Transition to Summer

Check out these tips from Autism Parenting Magazine:

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/tips-for-making-the-adjustment-to-summer/

Save the Date! Quality Counts California Region 3 is happy to present the upcoming series, E.Q.U.I.T.Y. with Dr. Rosemarie Allen. Registration for this series is now open. Please note, due to the length of the series, and the time between each event, each webinar has a separate registration. Registration will be released soon.

Dates and Time: 10:00 AM -12:00 PM

Webinar 1 - June 11, 2021

Webinar 2 - June 18, 2021

Webinar 3 - September 17, 2021

Webinar 4 - September 24, 2021

Webinar 5 - November 5, 2021

Webinar 6 - November 19, 2021

The Importance of Engagement with infants and toddlers. Check out this blog for important facts and tips!

https://www.earlylearninginstitute.com/blog/whos-smiling-back

Thought Leader Conversation Series Resources

NCSI’s Thought Leader Conversation (TLC) series brings together experts in the fields of race and disability in education to discuss how we can systematically improve the educational outcomes and conditions for Black students with disabilities or those who may be identified as needing special education services. This series highlights the importance of the intersection of race and disability to increase awareness of the underlying beliefs, policies and procedures, and practices that contribute to long-standing racial inequities.

To date, NCSI has hosted four sessions, including the foundational session, data literacy, stakeholder and family engagement sessions, and our most recent equitable research-informed practices on May 18. Recordings and PowerPoint presentations from each session can be found on the Pursuing Equity page of our website. Additional resources and materials provide further information around session topics and allow for participants to dig deeper in the subject matter.

Tara Sisemore-Hester

Director of Consumer Services- Children

Case Management Update - Adults

It’s been an exciting first week. Thank you for the warm welcome and invitations to talent shows, proms and meetings. Case management is busy with their in-person visits for people who live in licensed residential facilities, Family Home Agency settings and Supported Living. Remember to wear your mask and practice safety when your Service Coordinator meets with you for a quick visit.

Training Opportunity to Learn More About Programs and Services Available to Families

Special Needs in my City presents:

Live Interview with Maitria Moua, JD

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy

Thursday, June 10, 2021, 4:00-5:00pm on Zoom

On June 10th, we'll be speaking with Maitria Moua, an experienced OCRA advocate about programs and services available for families with special needs. Don't miss it!

The Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy (OCRA) is part of Disability Rights California. OCRA provides free legal information, advice, and representation to regional center clients. OCRA serves clients of all 21 regional centers throughout California. The OCRA helps protect regional center clients' rights.

OCRA advocates can assist families with:

Regional Center Services

School Services

Abuse/Neglect

Alternatives to Conservatorship

Discrimination

Guardianship

In-Home Support Services (IHSS)

Medi-Cal

Mental Health

Social Security

Voting

About our guest speaker: Maitria Moua:

Maitria Moua is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Central Valley Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities and their access to necessary services. During her time with OCRA, Maitria has particularly enjoyed the opportunities to train clients, their families, and staff on various topics from Clients’ Rights to Early Start and Lanterman Eligibility. Maitria finds most rewarding the chance to witness clients develop strong self-advocacy skills and empower their peers to do the same.

Maitria previously worked for a legal non-profit organization in the health unit. Maitria holds a J.D. from the University of California Los Angeles School of Law, a B.A. in Political Science and Asian American Studies from the University of California, Berkeley, and is licensed to practice law in the State of California.

Thank you.

Meena & the Special Needs In My City Team

Email: [email protected]

As We Leave Mental Health Awareness Month, You Can #HopeForChange Any Time of the Year!

To stay connected to this work, follow San Joaquin County Behavioral Health on social media. If you don't know where to start, call our 24/7 Access Line at

209-468-9370.

CONGRATULATIONS

Andrew Settergren was our tablet winner from the Stockton Transition Fair! Thanks for participating in the Transition Fair.

R & D Transportation Services Inc – May be Calling!

R&D Transportation Services Inc is now the broker for transportation services and VMRC has asked them to coordinate our transportation services, except for the public buses.

One of their jobs is related to the Covid-19 pandemic and the alternative services that our transportation providers can offer. They are calling people to find out what support they need during this time.

After that they notify the Regional Center about each person who is interested in received an alternative service, they will create an individual transportation service plan and send it to you and to your Service Coordinator with a follow up letter. The plan will say what will be provided and the contact information for your Service Coordinator and their supervisor.

From the First Edition of the NEW Gold Country Peer Support Advocates Newsletter!!

Hi I’m Jessica, the co-editor of the Gold Country Peer Support Newsletter! It is so exciting to be involved with this project. I live on my own in Calaveras County and love it here! I love cooking, movies, shopping, and great vacations. Feel free to contact me at [email protected].

Hello I’m Cameron, the co-editor of Gold Country Peer Support Newsletter. I’m very happy to be co-editor of our peer support newsletter!

I live on my own in Amador county, Ca. I love the rural community life here. My loves include art, music, antiques, especially old TVs and radios. You can reach me at [email protected].

Christine Couch (she, her, hers)

Director of Consumer Services - Adults

Clinical Update

Saving lives one vaccine at a time!! 😊

In our effort to continue supporting our community in going back to some sense of normalcy, we have another vaccination clinic to address the need of the 12 – 15 year old individuals. To clarify, this vaccine clinic is not just for them, it is open to anyone 12 y/o and over. And because we cover all 5 counties, anyone from these counties can come to any of our vaccine clinics. We also have a BCBA on site to help our consumers who have anxiety or behaviors. Please feel free to register. Below are the details and the link.

VMRC Modesto Office In-door COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Pfizer Vaccine

First dose: June 4, 2021

Second dose: June 25, 2021

Registration link: https://mhealthcheckin.com/covidvaccine?clientId=1617382490806&region=NorCal_-_9&urlId=%2Fvcl%2FMVRCMODESTO

VMRC Stockton Office Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Pfizer Vaccine

First dose: May 25, 20201

Second dose: June 15, 2021

Registration link: https://mhealthcheckin.com/covidvaccine?clientId=1617381210836&region=NorCal_-_1&urlId=%2Fvcl%2FMVRCSTOCKTON

For age 12+: During non-school hours, we will need the company of a parent, guardian, or non-custodial adult in addition to signing the consent form for all 12-15 years old to vaccinate. During school hours, signed consent form from parents and guardian is sufficient.

For 16-18 years old, we will need just the signature of parents or guardian on the consent form

**IMPORTANT REMINDERS for all Participants**

· Complete and bring printed copy of consent form (attached in English and Spanish)

· Bring completed CDC Vaccination Card for Dose 2 Patients

· Bring picture ID e.g. Drivers License or Passport (parent’s ID OK)

· Bring a copy of medical and prescription insurance information

· Wear a mask

· Be in good health on day of vaccination

Safeway Billing: COVID-19 Vaccines will be offered to all eligible individuals regardless of insurance and/or citizenship status. However, we do ask all insured participants to bring their medical and prescription health card to their appointment. Safeway will bill individual health plan for the COVID-19 Vaccine administration fee.

Successful Vaccine Clinics

Fist dose COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Stockton office went well last May 25^th, especially for the 12-15 year olds. This was made possible because of the tireless efforts of our volunteers who show up on each of these vaccine clinics. Enormous “THANKS!!!” to our volunteers: VMRC staff, Board of Directors, and community partners: DRAIL, B.E.S.T., SCDD North Valley Hills Office, FRN, SAC6, DRC, UCP, ICC, CLASP, Therapeutic Pathways, Gamaliel of California and Fuerzas Unidas, who helped make it possible. As always, VMRC is grateful to Safeway Pharmacy (Albertson’s Companies) and their staff who served as our vaccine provider and partnered with us during the COVID-19 Vaccine Drive-thru Clinics at our Stockton Office! We vaccinated a total of 124 individuals 12-year-old and over for their first dose last Tuesday. We are expecting to see them back on June 15^th, for their second dose.

SANDIS COVID-19 Tracking Data:

Community Resources

Online safety for teens and adults with ASD by Dr. Paige Raetz at the Southwest Research and Resource Center https://autismcenter.org/ in Phoenix and funded by Next for Autism.

Relationships Decoded: Social-sexual education for people with developmental disabilities: https://relationshipsdecoded.com/ This was done by Dr. Pedgrift, PsyD through MHSA grant and the curriculum is now available to the public.

The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is world-renowned for providing evidence-based social skills treatment to preschoolers, adolescents, and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and other socio-emotional problems. First developed at UCLA by PEERS® Clinic director, Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, the program has expanded to locations across the United States, has been translated into over a dozen languages, and is used in over 80 countries across the globe. https://www.semel.ucla.edu/peers

Please continue to stay safe and healthy.

Claire B. Lazaro, MSN, RN, NP, PHN, FNP-C

Director of Clinical Services

PDF Version of Processing Big Changes Flyer Here

Tips for Caregivers for Vaccination Day

Age 12+ Consumers- VMRC Drive-Thru Vaccination Clinic

What to Expect at the VMRC Vaccination Clinic:

· Upon arrival the driver of the vehicle will be asked to check-in and if those getting the vaccine have pre-registered.

· You will be asked to provide the first and last name of those in the vehicle who will be getting the vaccine, identification, proof of age, and possibly insurance or Medi-Cal information.

· If you have not completed a consent form you will be asked to pull your vehicle to the side and complete before being directed back into the vehicle line.

· You will be provided with a CDC Vaccination Card, for the first dose. For the second, dose, you will be asked to show the CDC Vaccination Card. This will be given back to you for your records.

· Once check-in is complete, including providing/completing the consent form, you will wait in your vehicle before being directed to a tent with an available Pharmacist to administer the vaccine. The wait may take 5-10 minutes depending on your appointment time.

· When it is your turn, you will drive to the vaccination tent and a Pharmacist will take your vaccination consent form and CDC Vaccination Card through the window of your vehicle.

· The Pharmacist will retain your vaccination consent form and give back the CDC Vaccination Card for your records.

· If there are multiple individuals in the vehicle getting the vaccine, you will be asked who wants to be first.

· If there are multiple consumers in the vehicle getting the vaccine, we ask that you identify any consumer that has had history of behavioral issues during medical procedures, or may be less receptive to vaccine administration, so the vaccine can be administered to them first.

o Note: It may be beneficial to schedule separate appointments for these consumers with a reduced number of individuals in the vehicle.

· The Pharmacist will have you roll down the window where the consumer is seated and will then approach the vehicle with the vaccination needle, bandage, and cotton swab with alcohol for sterilizing the injection site.

· The Pharmacist will ask in which arm the consumer would like the vaccine and ask them to roll their sleeve up, if necessary.

· Through the rolled down window, the Pharmacist will sterilize the area with the swab, place a bandage, and administer the vaccine.

· Once the vaccine is administered, the driver will be directed to an empty parking spot and asked to wait 15 minutes to confirm there are no adverse reactions to the vaccine.

o Note: The Pharmacist may ask you to wait up to 30 minutes, depending on medical history.

· During this time VMRC Staff and Community Volunteers will provide you with free masks and hand sanitizer as a thank you for attending our vaccine clinic (while supplies last).

o For First Dose administration on May 25^th a VMRC Staff or Community Volunteer will also assist you with scheduling your second dose (June 15^th) during this time.

How to prepare for Vaccination Day:

· Preregister for the vaccine clinic and complete a vaccination consent form

· Plan to have the consumer dressed in clothing that makes vaccine administration quicker and easier.

o Examples: Tank top where sleeve doesn’t have to be rolled up or t-shirt that can be quickly rolled up prior to administration.

o Note: Sweaters, zip up hoodies, and long sleeves make administration more difficult and could lengthen the process.

· If the consumer benefits from social stories, please create and use a social story the days leading up to Vaccination Day.

· Bring preferred items in the vehicle to aide in distracting/redirecting attention away from needle during vaccine administration.

o Examples: Favorite videos/movies on tablet device, headphones, toys, or manipulative items that can be held in hands (ex: play-doh, fidget spinners, sticker books), favorite snack or treat that can be opened and consumed during vaccine administration.

· Bring activities to occupy time during waiting periods.

· If the consumer is known to have issues with compliance during medical appointments, or you suspect potential non-compliance during administration, try to have an additional family member or familiar individual sit in the back seat next to the consumer to assist with prompting and redirecting.

· If the consumer can tolerate outings of longer durations, plan a preferred destination for after successful vaccine administration.

o Examples: Favorite drive-thru restaurant, ice cream parlor, park, store, etc.

Vaccination Day Considerations:

· Have completed vaccination consent form with you and easily accessible in your vehicle (THIS WILL REDUCE YOUR WAIT TIME ONCE YOU ARRIVE TO THE VACCINE CLINIC).

· Have consumer’s preferred items loaded in vehicle prior to leaving for appointment.

· Have activities available to engage with during wait times while at the clinic.

· Have all necessary documents easily accessible upon arrival (e.g., Identification Cards, Insurance Cards, Social Security Numbers, completed vaccination consent form, CDC Vaccination Card if second dose).

· If you are planning a special/preferred outing after successful vaccine administration, and the consumer can tolerate delays, let them know where you will be going after the vaccine clinic.

· If possible, have the consumer seated in the backseat behind the driver.

· Have consumer dressed in tank top or t-shirt. If wearing a sweater or long sleeve, have consumer’s shoulder easily accessible prior to check-in.

· If possible, have a preferred family member, staff, or other preferred individuals seated next to the consumer.

· Because you will remain in a running vehicle, please utilize all safety features including safety locks, seatbelts, or any additional safety devices typically used for transport.

· Have preferred items/activities easily accessible to use as a distraction during vaccine administration.

o As the Pharmacist approaches to administer the vaccine, prompt, and direct attention away from the needle and toward the preferred item or activity.

· Provide verbal praise, attention, and reassurance before, during, and after the vaccination process.

¨ Reminder: VMRC Staff, Community Volunteers, and Pharmacists administering the vaccine cannot physically redirect, physically prompt, or physically restrain the consumer during the vaccine administration. VMRC Staff, Community Volunteers, and Pharmacists can distract and redirect attention from the needle during that time, but any physical touch or guidance must be provided by family member and/or familiar individual who arrived in vehicle with the consumer.

¨ If you have additional concerns that the consumer you are bringing to the Vaccination Clinic may engage in problem behavior during vaccine administration, or you need further guidance on how to prepare for Vaccination Day at the VMRC Vaccination Clinic, please contact VMRC Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Liz Herrera Knapp, at (209) 955-3652.

Additional Resources to Prepare for Vaccination Day:

https://scdd.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/33/2021/04/Tips-for-Family-Advocates.pdf

https://informingfamilies.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Vaccination-Day-Tips-for-Family-Advocates-Spanish.pdf

Liz Herrera Knapp, M.A.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

YOU’RE INVITED TO A UNIQUE VIRTUAL EVENT

It’s smart to have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. Now it’s time for answers.

June 2^nd, 2021 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

You’ve still got questions about COVID-19 vaccines? We get it. It’s smart to ask questions - especially when it comes to your health.

That’s why we’re inviting you to this unique virtual event where you can ask questions directly to an international infectious disease expert.

Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis (biography attached) is a respected television medical contributor with a passion for connecting to marginalized communities. She will join us Wednesday, June 2, to break down the basics behind COVID vaccinations and take your questions.

It’s an opportunity that doesn’t come along often. Dr. Davis is a brilliant physician who delivers her advice with a quick sense of humor you won’t soon forget. This special online session will educate, enlighten and entertain!

If you are ready to get real answers to real questions, this is your chance.

Community Services Update

Weekly Service Provider Informational Zoom Session hosted by VMRC’s Community Services Department EVERY FRIDAY at 9:00 AM.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/92136846701

Meeting ID: 921 3684 6701

It is only May, Spring is ending, and Summer is coming fast!

Prepare for the HEAT!

Helpful tips and resources to prepare for the upcoming increase in temperature. Be prepared!

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/Extreme%20Heat%20Pages/BI_Natural-Disasters_Extreme-Heat.aspx

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/heat

Please see our RFP page on our website as we have recently posted a new RFP for "Swim Lessons and Water Safety Training for Children and Families"

On May 20th, Community Care Licensing (CCL) released Provider Information Notice (PIN) Summary 21-07-CCLD regarding PREPARING FOR EXTREME HEAT, PUBLIC SAFETY POWER SHUTOFFS, AND WILDFIRE EMERGENCIES.

Brian L. Bennett

Director Of Community Services

New Self-Determination Employment Partner Zavikon

It is exciting to introduce our new community employment partner, Zavikon. Zavikon works with neurodivergent individuals and those with disabilities. This partnership will provide our Self-Determination consumers with a unique employment option.

I had the privilege to meet with CEO Rebecca Beam, and COO Hilary Kokenda about how our agencies could partner together to increase Competitive Integrated Outcomes for our individuals. Self-Determination stood out to be the best option alongside direct referral.

Self-Determination Program Manager Elizabeth Diaz provided the details on how we could move forward with this exciting new partnership. Elizabeth was instrumental with her knowledge of Self-Determination and mapping out a path to allow Zavikon to provide their information to our consumers in VMRC's Self-Determination Program.

I want to thank Rebecca and Hilary from Zavikon for reaching out to partner with VMRC and Elizabeth Diaz for guidance with Self-Determination.

Here is a link to Zavikon press release and website:

https://www.einpresswire.com/article/539832223/zavikon-launches-recruitment-firm-for-disabled-and-neurodivergent-job-candidates

https://www.zavikon.net/

Enos Edmerson Jr.

Employment Specialist

North Valley Hills Update

Dena Hernandez, Regional Manager (209) 473-6930

Join SCDD and Anthem Blue Cross for a series of

Healthcare Workshops

for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

You do not need to be a member of Anthem Blue Cross to participate.

All are welcome and sessions are Free!

Bring your questions. Let's learn together!

Each session is from 1:00-2:00PM. Hear from Anthem Health Educators and Self-Advocates at each session.

June 7, 2021 Coping with Stress during the Pandemic https://bit.ly/3w2vI3I

July 12, 2021 Let's Learn to Manage Diabetes https://bit.ly/3smCqQ8

August 2, 2021 Keep Your Heart Healthy https://bit.ly/3tRVrdq

September 13, 2021 Let's Smile - Oral/Dental Health https://bit.ly/31wL42N

October 4, 2021 Accessing Your Health Care Plan - How to call your doctor or get medical care! https://bit.ly/3w2u568

See flyer in English and Spanish at www.scdd.ca.gov/sacramento

Workshops will be offered in English with simultaneous Spanish translation and Closed Captioning will be available. If you need an accommodation, please contact Sonya Bingaman at least 5 days in advance of the training at [email protected] or 1-916-715-7057.

This series is a collaboration between Anthem Blue Cross and the North State, North Coast, and Sacramento Regional Offices of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Update from Family Resource Network

Lisa Culley, Executive Director

Family Resource Network will open the Toy Lending Library at the Office in Stockton for limited use by families who have children in the Early Start program, and live in VMRC’s service area. The FRN Toy Lending Library offers developmental toys appropriate for children 0-3 years old. The Toy Lending Library is open Tuesday-Friday, from 9am-3pm.

COVID-19 Protocols:

*Appointments must be made to check out toys. Walk-ins will not be allowed. One family will be allowed in at a time, and library will be cleaned between visits.

*Masks must be worn at all times while in the office. If you do not have a mask, one will be provided. Temperature checks, screening, and contact log will be completed before entry to the office.

*All toys are stored in plastic bags once cleaned and sanitized. Borrowers will be unable to open bags before checking out toys.

Please call the FRN office at 209-472-3574 to schedule an appointment to check out the Toy Lending Library. You can also email to [email protected]. The FRN office is located in Stockton, at 5250 Claremont Ave, suite 148, Stockton, CA 95207.

Tikes & Tunes, FRN’s music play group, is currently taking place on Zoom, the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays each month, from 9:30-10:30am. June sessions are June 1st & 15th. Tikes & Tunes is open to children who receive services through Early Start (0-3 years old) and their families, and live in VMRC’s service area. Sessions are led by a certified Music Therapist, who shows how music can enhance development in children. Sessions are very interactive, and fun for children and their grown up! Registration is required, please call FRN at 209-472-3674 or email at [email protected].

Self-Advocacy Council 6 (SAC6)

Weekly Virtual Chat

Let’s Check In with each other!

WHEN: Friday May 28, 2021

TIME: 11:00 AM -12:15 PM

WHERE: ZOOM - computer, tablet, cell phone

Join Zoom Meeting

Join SAC6 for a discussion with VMRC about Inclusion of All – where everyone belongs!

How Does VMRC Spend its Money

Annual Purchase of Service (POS) Disparity (looking at differences) Meeting

Join SAC6 and Gabriela Lopez– VMRC Cultural Specialist to talk about

HOW VMRC spends its money on services and WHO the money is spent on.

VMRC wants to know what YOU think!!!!

https://zoom.us/s/92061650799?pwd=WUVZazVtM2JkeHNmTVBiWEgwYXVwZz09

Meeting ID: 920 6165 0799

Passcode: 187914 (MUST ENTER PASSCODE) OR you can call in:

TOLL FREE NUMBER TO CALL IN 877 853 5257 US Toll-free

PDF Version of the SAC6 Flyer Here

Update from the Self Determination Advisory Committee

PDF Version of Flyer Here

May is National Drowning Prevention Month

Disabilities caused by near drowning include central nervous system damage contributing to varying levels of brain damage, resulting in loss of memory, seizures, learning disabilities, paralysis, and sometimes coma.

https://bit.ly/39TRzRJ

May is National Drowning Prevention Month

The best way to reduce drowning deaths is by reducing risk. Take swimming lessons. Learn lifesaving skills. Always have adult supervision and wear a life jacket when near, on, or in water. Water can overcome even the best swimmers.

https://bit.ly/3g6Z4sb