Valley Mountain Regional Center NEWSLETTER
November 2024
Leinani Walter, Executive Director
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Valley Mountain Opens The Tracy Office with Over 200 Community Members & Staff!
October 29, 2024
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On October 29, 2024, Valley Mountain Regional Center proudly opened its doors to over 200 remarkable individuals, including those we serve, their families, service providers, community partners, local government officials, and our dedicated staff, for a truly momentous occasion—the VMRC Tracy Office Open House. This celebration not only marked the unveiling of our newest VMRC Tracy Office but also highlighted the unwavering commitment of our community leaders, board members, and staff to building an inclusive environment for all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each person who attended, as your presence not only strengthened our bonds but also illuminated the path forward for our community. Together, we look forward to many more years of compassionate support and exceptional services that empower individuals with developmental disabilities in the Tracy community. Let us continue to engage, collaborate, and advocate for one another, ensuring that our shared purpose thrives and our voices are heard in this vital mission.
Aloha, Leinani
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VMRC Cultural & Disability Resources Fair Brings Talented Artists, Delicious Food
& Lots of Fun!
October 12, 2024
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On October 12, 2024, VMRC Cultural and Disability Resources Fair in Stockton drew hundreds of people from the community to learn, dance and have fun! With over 100 families, vibrant microbusinesses, and delightful food vendors in attendance, the atmosphere was alive with connection & collaboration. We enjoyed amazing performances from The Advocates, Ballet Folklorico, Nkauj Suab Ntxhees Yees (Hmong Dance Group), and the Filipino-American Stanislaus Youth Dancers, each showcasing the rich tapestry of our diverse cultures and the incredible talent within our community. It was a heartwarming day filled with laughter, joy, and empowerment, as individuals with developmental disabilities and their families came together to share stories, resources, and a profound sense of belonging. This event was not just a gathering; it was a vibrant celebration of inclusivity, highlighting VMRC's unwavering commitment to fostering connections and supporting every member of our community. Let’s continue this journey together and stay engaged to uplift and unite all of us. | |
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Engaging with Native American Leaders and Tribal Families at the 3rd Annual Native American Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Symposium at Pala Reservation
October 9-10, 2024
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Acorns to Oak Trees, San Diego Regional Center and California Department of Developmental Services hosted the 3rd Annual Native American Intellectual and Developmental Disability Symposium in San Diego at the Pala Reservation. This annual event underscores the critical need for collaboration between tribal communities and regional centers providing a platform for sharing vital resources and enhancing access to essential services for Native American families. Leinani was honored to speak and serve on a panel to share VMRC's efforts to engage with and support local tribes in Tuolumne, Amador and Calaveras Counties. California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, Katie Kinnamont, Associate Executive Director of SDRC and Sara Rogers, DSS Chief of System of Care shared their unwavering commitment to advocate and support individuals with developmental disabilities within tribal communities. Gathering together each year for the Native American I/DD Symposium reminds us that it truly does take a village to make an impact! | |
Case Management - Adult Services | | |
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Described as, ‘An absolute gem!’, by one of our service providers, Nicole Sanchez has been a wonderful addition to our VMRC family. Nicole began her work as a Service Coordinator at Valley Mountain Regional Center in November 2023. Since that time, we’ve received several compliments about her work ethic, dedication, and her positive collaborations with the individuals we serve. Nicole is also a PCT Trainer, and her PCT skills are apparent with her interactions with the individuals she serves. A common compliment is how easily she is able to connect and make someone feel comfortable. Thank you, Nicole!’
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October 4, 2024 - VMRC hosted the 2024 Health Fair in Modesto and appreciated the terrific community and staff participation in the vaccination clinic. We are thankful for the support from the dedicated VMRC staff and service providers! It was a true community effort which showcased our commitment to public health. Our dental screening station was also a hit! A big shout out to Stanislaus County for generously providing an abundance of dental kits for children, teens, and adults. With our proactive approach to health initiatives, we’re ensuring everyone in our community has access to the resources they need. Stay engaged with VMRC’s ongoing health initiatives, and keep an eye out for future events designed to protect your health and privacy. Together, we can create a vibrant, healthy community! | |
Respiratory Virus Season: How to Protect Yourself and Others
As we welcome fall, it is a great time to make sure you and your family are taking steps to prevent respiratory diseases, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV. CDC’s respiratory virus guidance can help you stay healthy so you can continue to enjoy all the things you love to do this time of year.
We recommend that everyone use these core prevention strategies:
You can also choose any or all of these additional strategies to further protect yourself and others: masks, physical distancing, and tests.
Every year, respiratory diseases such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season. There are more tools than ever to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from these diseases.
Request your 4 FREE COVID-19 at home test kits.
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Community Events/Resources | | | | |
