Su pp li s tie o h and adults with di s yout g abi rtin FOR In House OVER 60 YEARS A Newsletter to our Community November 2014 Inside: Page Two Employment Services Page Three Adult Education Page Four Volunteer Services Page Five Day Break Page Six LIFEworks 3 Page Seven Access Voluntarism Page Eight & Nine Christmas Cards & Party Page Ten LIFEworks 2 Page Eleven GPS Hutton House Foundation Page Twelve ARTworks Page Thirteen Skills Link Page Fourteen -Fifteen Passport Funding Stay Positve Page Sixteen Coming Events Employment Services Kevin was referred to Hutton House to help him find long term employment and to enhance his skills needed to be successful in the workplace. When I first met Kevin, I knew he should be working as he is very determined to work and he is willing to do what it takes to find work! Kevin is a very social guy, loves being around people and enjoys the retail environment. continued on page 2 www.huttonhouse.com Employment Services In knowing that, a visit was made to Buck or Two Plus in Cherryhill Village Mall. Met the manager; Corey Schaefer and talked with him about the skills Kevin could bring to his store. Kevin was hired 2 weeks later in May 2014 and he has not looked back since! Not only has Kevin benefited from employment, Corey was eligible to receive an Employer Training Allowance to assist Kevin in his training to become a company employee. Talking with Corey today, Kevin is an asset to the company. Kevin’s role is Stockroom/Receiving Manager which allows Corey to focus on the front cash and overall business. You will also see Kevin filling in as a front cashier when line ups get long. ‘Kevin is very professional, dedicated and has a strong willingness to learn and take on new challenges, says Corey. At one point, two customers stopped Corey in his tracks and mentioned to him, how much they liked Kevin in the store and he was doing a great job! Corey’s goal for Kevin is simply this; take what you learn and springboard with it and manage the store like you own it! Kevin is very happy at his job and one big reason is that he loves being around people and helping them when they need it. After being on and off of Ontario Works for the last 15 years, Kevin feels this is the opportunity he needed so he does not return to Ontario Works for financial assistance. Kevin is so happy to be able to succeed on his own, grow with a company he loves and really enjoy going to work! Define “Success” It was one phone call, and a local one at that. Did I believe it would change my life? Nope, not at all. It was just another item on my list of, “Dumb Things I Gotta Do Today,” and to be honest, it had been on that list for some time. I have to admit, I wasn’t filled with much hope; over the past decade plus, I’d grown rather accustomed to disappointment on the job front, and so when it came to finding employment, I had all but given up. I looked at that number and procrastinated for a solid three weeks. Finally, on yet another grey day in February this year, I picked up the phone and called Hutton House. In retrospect, I have to wonder why I avoided the call for so long. I truly needed their help. I needed to admit to myself that finding employment while living with disabilities was something I could no longer do alone. Page 2 Most importantly, I knew that in order to go forward, I had to let go of some old dreams. Most people grow up with pre-conceived notions of what it means to be successful. We are bombarded with various definitions of “success,” and given constant instructions on how to find it by our parents, our peers, our teachers, the media, even strangers on the street. “Success” equals money, fame, or popularity. “Success” is a family, a home, a couple of cars, perhaps a boat. “Success” is recognition from your peers, your neighbours, or your bosses. And as some are told, “Success” is only earned through passing it along to others. (It can be rather overwhelming not measuring up to everyone else’s expectations.) So let’s get personal: I’m now in my mid-forties. It’s safe to say that while growing up, my dreams were huge. They were larger than life. And at one point, they were possible. Now, some are not. In 2002, I was in a car accident that traumatized me severely, and left me with a mixed bag of physical and mental health issues including insomnia, interrupted sleep, and a whole lot of pent-up anger and grief. Physically, I live with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder and Trigeminal Neuraligia, both which affect the jaw joint and accompanying nerves in the face and head. This can make listening to loud noises and/or speaking for any length of time quite painful and difficult. (Customer service would be a nightmare.) These physical disorders, along with a few unresolved childhood issues and mental trauma from the accident, had over the years admittedly turned me into an angry and restless bundle of nerves. It made for some rough times on the job; I was often the snickered-at scapegoat for those who could not understand what I had been through, and couldn’t relate to me on a day to day level. (I’m a bit of an odd duck, really.) But let’s get back to those old dreams. As I’ve mentioned, they were within reach... until that accident. Afterwards, I was in denial for a very long time. My disabilities aren’t severe by any count, but I am now limited in my scope of career goals. Therefore, to make a long story short: No Air Force or RCMP for me. Those tall ships sailed for me the moment I became physically and mentally less-than-100%. And yes, I was indeed in mourning for many years, once I realized I could not pursue that long-held dream of, shall we say, “wearing the uniform.” In fact, over the past decade, my larger than life dreams were quickly reduced to one solitary goal: Survival. Financially, I was in ruins as I tried to obtain Disability Support. Emotionally and mentally, I was a wreck. And physically, I was exhausted. And then, one day in February of this year – after a decade filled with depression and unsatisfying dead-end jobs - I took a look at a ragged piece of paper and picked up my phone. Hutton House was on the other end of the line, and they were there to help. When I made it in for my Intake appointment, I told them I had done pretty much everything but construction over the course of my employment years; from bartending to customer service, from industrial widget-making to answering multi-line phones for temporary agencies, (agony!) and that the one thing I had learned most about myself was: I love being a janitor. Seriously, folks, we are our own special breed. Of course, there are those who work in cleaning because they have to for various reasons, but there are also those of us who do it because we love it. It’s a job with many perks and benefits for the right individuals, and we know it. It’s quiet, and peaceful. We’re coming in as everyone is leaving. We generally get to sleep in, and we often work alone, jangling a lot of keys on our belts and feeling important. (And if one includes the safety shoes and the cargo pants, well... one could call that a uniform.) So when Hutton House heard that a custodial position would be a dream come true for me, they set about to make it happen. I interviewed for an In-House position, and much to my delight, got the job. I now clean the Hutton House Learning Centre five nights a week, and head over to the Main Building on Wednesdays and Fridays. So to wrap this up: Let’s get back to some personal definitions of success, and what it’s like to have a dream. Since becoming a janitor for Hutton House, there is a powerful feeling of stability and security in my life; a feeling that has been non-existent for years. Survival is no longer my main objective, and I’m now free to resurrect and pursue some (surprising!) old but new dreams that have surfaced once again. My mind is no longer filled with anxiety on how to exist. Rather, it is free to explore what is possible. Don’t get me wrong: Hutton House has not solved all of my problems. I’ve still some issues to deal with, and honestly, getting used to being in the workforce again has presented a few personal hurdles. But I know for certain that I’m at last in the right place. These folks get me. They understand what I’ve been through, because this is what they do. It’s now almost October, and fall is in the air, which smells delightful and full of promise. I’m coming up on six months employment, and I couldn’t be happier. I’m doing the work I love, for people I’ve come to care about, and for an organization which cares about ME. That’s “Success.” Tara Leigh Stevenson Adult Education Adult Ed had another productive summer. This year, the focus was on technology. Summer students and a placement student met with learners and their tutors to find out what kind of apps would be most useful to them, then they sought out the best apps. Our iPads are now loaded with dozens of educational apps. The students provided training as well. Many people had already used iPads or Smartphones so they were able to start using the apps right away. People who were new to this technology picked it up very quickly because it is so user friendly. The educational apps help learners practice their skills in a fun way. The apps give lots of positive feedback and help keep learners interested in their work. iPads are also a convenient way to access the Internet. Learners are gaining new computer skills while they work on other goals. Staff participated in training on our Mimio system over the summer. Mimio is an interactive whiteboard system. It gives the instructor the ability to project documents or 3-D objects on the screen, write on the screen and save the work, have learners vote on answers, and use interactive worksheets and software. The Mimio is being used in the group classrooms. Elsie enjoys working on the iPad Publications Mail Agreement 40069186 Page 3 Volunteer Services Hello Everyone! I’m Roberta Derikx, your new Volunteer Coordinator for Hutton House. I love working with people and seeing them reach their goals! I’ve worked as a Volunteer Coordinator and been a member of LAVA – the London Association of Volunteer Administrators for the past ten years. I believe one of the greatest feelings is achieving! That’s why I’m absolutely thrilled to join the Hutton House team and excited to work with our volunteers in support of individuals with disabilities through our learning and life enhancing programs. Thanks to our volunteers for helping others achieve their goals by sharing your time and talents to bring our programs to life and ultimately fulfill our mission. Your impact is huge - helping 750 individuals each year to build confidence, realize their potential, fulfill their dreams, and celebrate their successes! Our common goal is for your rewarding volunteer experience. Your communication – comments, feedback, ideas, questions – are always welcome! Can I Help You? Our Social Worker can provide individual counselling to help with personal issues and in locating community resources. Support is also available to complete forms for various services including ODSP, housing, CPP and assistive devices. See what interests you! We would like to diversify! Join Now! Memberships at the Hutton House Fitness Centre are only $15 per month! Do you, or someone you know - have a particular interest, skill or hobby that you would like to share with an individual or within a group setting? We are always open to new ideas and would love to hear yours! Annual Volunteer Opportunities • Life Coaching For more information, contact: Lisa Havens, MSW, RSW at 519-472-6381 ext. 240 lisah@huttonhouse.com Anyone who would like to get involved in volunteering, or for those volunteers who would like to expand on what you’re doing please visit on our website www.huttonhouse.com. Click on “calendars and forms”, then check out the links under ARTworks, Fitness & Wellness, and Adult Education to see the wide variety of programs and volunteer opportunities currently available. • If you have some time to give for any of these fun activities – please contact me! roberta@huttonhouse.com 519-472-7083 ext 224. Looking forward to getting to know everyone at Hutton House! Thank you for brightening lives! Roberta - a.k.a Birdie During the holiday season Hutton House volunteers get into the festive spirit by assisting at the Gift Wrapping station in Cherryhill Village Mall between Dec 10 – Dec 24th. There are lots of time slots available day or early evening - you can schedule a shift and even get some holiday shopping done before or after. Our 19th Annual West Haven Charity Golf Classic for Hutton House is on Wednesday, July 15th, 2015! This is our largest fundraiser, and we would love your help! Page 4 Hello Everyone! I am the new Day Break Coordinator, Amy Schembri. I am a graduate of the DSW program with over 15 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities. Although I have not been here long, I have already seen numerous familiar faces from my previous work experience, and look forward to working with them again. I am lucky to being a part of such an amazing organization and can't wait to see where this new opportunity takes me. Day Breaking News Over the summer, we got out to enjoy the weather as much as possible. When the humidity allowed it, we went out for walks to Victoria Park and Gibbons Park, making a couple trips to the splash pad. We had a picnic in the park, where we enjoyed sub sandwiches, fruit and other treats. We played bocce ball, chatted and enjoyed each other’s company for the afternoon. As in past years, our garden produced a bounty of delicious (and giant) zucchini, tomatoes, red and green peppers, and of course, a beautiful assortment of weeds. We found lots of ways to enjoy the fruits of our labour, including homemade tomato sauce and zucchini lasagna. We made a trip out to the Byron dwarf tree orchard to pick apples for lunch. There were so many choices, but we settled on some delicious Jona Mac and McIntosh apples for our lunch. It was a beautiful day and everyone had a great time. Another outing that included fruit-picking, was our trip to Kusterman’s blueberry farm. We had a great time, even though we seemed to have picked the hottest day of the summer to go. We took our time picking the blueberries, and tried not to melt in the sun. We’re not sure what made us wetter, sweating in the sun, or Nev squirting us throughout the afternoon with her spray bottle. We picked a ton of blueberries that day, and none of them went to waste! In September, we welcomed our new Day Break Coordinator, Amy. She is fitting in great and brings a positive energy to the group. She is continuing to learn our routines, and getting to know the ins and outs of the program. We feel she is a great asset to Day Break, and we are glad to have her as part of the team. There were some days over the summer that kept us inside due to the humidity. We took advantage of these days to work on some crafts. We decorated an old CD holder, and repurposed it to organize all of our nail polish. We also used our time indoors to restart our bake sale to raise some money for outings. So far, we have made oatmeal raisin cookies, which were a huge hit, selling out in one day…with the help of Shakil, whose husband bought out our entire plate intended for the Learning Center. We don’t care where the goodies end up, as long as they are enjoyed! With the weather getting cooler, we made a few more outings indoor activities. One group took a trip to the library to see what kind of activities they have lined up for the fall. We also visited the mall a couple times to do some window shopping, as well as pick up some craft supplies. We went for a few walks to collect leaves for a craft. Adriana made some creative “hanging centerpieces” which we hung above our tables for Thanksgiving. Speaking of Thanksgiving, we had a delicious meal of turkey, rice and mushrooms, sautéed green beans with walnuts, roasted squash, and apple cake for dessert. There weren’t many leftovers after the meal. We are all thankful for our families, each others’ company, and of course for the food! As we say goodbye to the summer, we are gearing up for the busy couple of months ahead; Halloween in a few weeks, Day Break’s 15th Anniversary celebration in November, and Christmas in December. We know it will be hectic and seem to fly by, but we look forward to enjoying all that the new seasons brings. Page 5 LIFEworks 3 The LIFEworks 3 program has now been running for six months, we have eight amazing participants and things couldn't be going better. The group has really become close and each participant has made new friends and has been learning a lot about starting and building relationships. In a short time we’ve gone from 8 individuals to a very happy and hardworking team. We’ve also had the help of some great volunteers and students. We could not have done all we’ve done without Faye, Jean, Amy and our newest full-time Waterloo student Kaitie. All that and we’ve still kept up our daily morning brain and body workouts with our “Living The Good Life” program. For our brain we have been writing songs, practicing job applications, working with money and improving spelling and writing skills. For our bodies we’ve been hitting the gym for an hour each day and of course, every Monday we still make our signature healthy and delicious lunches. In the past couple of months we’ve made Thai Salad Rolls, Gluton Free Pizza, Roasted Fall Veg, Apple and Cheddar Pancakes and had Fun-WithQuinoa day! What a great six months it’s been. Can’t wait to see what we get up to next. In August we had a barbecue celebration where we helped make dinner for our families, we made pottery mugs, we built and painted birdhouses out of old palettes and continued our gardening behind the main building. We also went on some great field trips to Luke’s farm, Pioneer Village and the Art Gallery. Vacation time coming? In September we welcomed two new participants. With them we went apple picking, learned all about how the weather works, started another woodworking project, jumped into our new advocacy program and went bowling at Fleetway! Page 6 Why not put those small hotel toiletries to good use. We are collecting any brought home items to pass along to the Mission Services of London to use through their voucher program at the store. Volunteers from Hutton House have been active with the Mission Store for the past 14 years. Please drop your items off at the Learning Centre in the basket outside the Access Volunteer Office. Access Voluntarism The 16th summer of volunteering at Storybook Gardens has come and gone, but lots of fun memories were made. 52 hard working volunteers joined Brittany Thibodeau, Hutton House summer staff, to keep the park spic and span for visitors. Thanks to a colder, wet summer, this year did not see any cancellations due to heat, but a few days were cancelled because of rainy weather. We’d like to thank all of the volunteers and the Storybook Staff for their commitment to this program and hope to see you all out again next year. Volunteers Luke, Valentina and Maida having a great time at Storybook Gardens. I had the best time at Storybook Gardens this summer. All of the volunteers are some of the most hardworking and inspiring people I have ever met. Keep up the great work helping out the community! You make a positive difference. Brittany Thibodeau The Access Voluntarism Program held another orientation on October 3rd at the Learning Centre. Those who attended are now on our placement list to actively find a volunteer job in the community. The AV Program appreciates all of our community partners, your commitment to the volunteers is what makes our program such a success! RDSP Registered Disability Savings Plan The Registered Disability Savings Plan is a savings plan that was introduced by the Government of Canada in 2008 to help individuals and families save for the long term financial security of a person with a severe disability. To qualify you must be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, be a resident of Canada, be less than 60 years of age, and have a valid SIN. There are (2) ways the Government will help you with this savings plan. The first is the Canada disability Savings Grant where the Government of Canada will contribute a lifetime maximum of up to $70,000 based on the value of the contributions made by yourself or your family. Disability Savings Grant example: With this plan you are able to contribute for 2014 and every past year to 2008 as your Disability Tax certificate allows $500 contribution x 7 years (2008-2014) = $3,500 The government contribution would be $3,500 x 300% which equals $10,500 This would give you a total contribution of $14,000 The second way is through the Canada Disability Savings Bond. If your income is not more than $25,584 annually, you may qualify for up to $20,000 in Disability Savings Bonds. The government will contribute to this bond regardless of your contributions making an RDSP a worthwhile savings plan even if you are never able to pay into the plan. Disability Savings Bond example: If your income is not more than $25,584 you can qualify for a $1,000 Disability Savings Bond. Each year up to a total of $20,000 Bond and grant monies must remain in the savings plan for ten years to avoid penalties. RDSPs do not affect any government payments (ODSP, GST, CPP, OAS, GIS etc) For more information please contact Jeanette Dutot to arrange a consultation at no cost to you. RDSP Information Session Wednesday November 12th, 2014 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Hutton House 654 Wonderland Rd N please call Jeanette @ 519-472-6381 x 224 Page 7 Exclusive Hutton House Christmas Cards If you want to spread some festive cheer, why not purchase our exclusively designed Christmas cards produced by individuals in the Studio Artist Program. A package consists of 8 beautiful designs with “Happy Holidays” printed inside and costs $6.00 including HST. With a minimum order of 3 packages you may customize your message inside and select from a mixture of designs. To be sure of receiving your cards before Christmas, please place your orders by December 5th. 1. Hedgehogs 5. Bird 2. Retro 80's Toys 6. Mouse 3. Trees 7. Fireplace 4. Sponge Bob 8. Retro 90's Toys Christmas Card Order Form Place an order by Tel: 519-472-6381 Fax: 519-472-1051 Email: hhservices@huttonhouse.com Name: ______________________________ Phone No:______________________ Payment: Please select below. __ Visa __ Mastercard __ Amex Card#: _________________________ Expiry Date: ____ / ____ Signature: _______________________ __ Debit __ Cash __ Cheque (made out to Hutton House) Date Required: _____________________ Page 8 Cost per package $6.00 including HST. Package containing a mixture of the designs Qty:____ Package containing the selected designs Qty:____ (Only with a minimum order of 3 pkgs.) #:____ 1. Hedgehogs #:____ 5. Bird #:____ 2. Retro 80's #:____ 6. Mouse #:____ 3. Trees #:____ 7. Fireplace #:____ 4. Sponge Bob #:____ 8. Retro 90's Toys Message inside of cards: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ Celebrate the Holiday Season with Hutton House at the Four Points by Sheraton 1150 Wellington Rd. S. Wednesday - December 10, 2014 12:00 - 4:00 – Lunch at 1:00 pm Entertainment Provided By: The London City Police Band “Duty Calls” Advance Tickets Sales Only - $25.00 each ON or BEFORE December 3rd, 2014 Available at the Head Office on Wonderland Rd. and at the Learning Centre at Cherryhill Mall Please note: Tickets WILL NOT be sold after December 3rd. • Tickets sell out early, limited seating. • Please tell us if you have a special diet. • Maximum 1 guest per participant. May the holiday season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter. Page 9 LIFEworks 2 Craig was deliriously happy when he tried out the rope swing and the giant yellow pillow trampoline A visit to Bob’s trailer in June is always great kick off for our LIFEworks 2 gang. Pat demonstrated to Eunice and Jodi the correct stance (see below) to eating yummy, very drippy, watermelon. In July, we took a trip to Parks blueberry farm in Bothwell. It was an extremely hot day, so we found that by sitting down on the ground to rest (and pick) we could see a large quantity of blueberries on the underside of the bushes that all the tall people missed! Our travels in August, took us back to one of our favourite places; Clovermead Adventure Farm and Heritage Family Apiary in Alymer, Ontario. We were delighted to discover a number of new attractions at our favourite ‘bee’ farm. Casey drove a pedal cart around the track and Eunice showed us how strong she is by pushing a 4 person pedal cart, up the steep grade after the finish line! Page 10 was a popular hit with everyone! A goat with attitude was goofy too; who knew that they could stick their tongue out at you! Now at summers close, we decided that an Art collage all about summer fun activities would be a great way to place our memories of all the enjoyable summer things to do down on paper. All the places we went, and ever dream of going, together, in one place, for all to see. GPS (Goals, Preparation, Skills) A wonderful opportunity for employment bound youth. The 2014/2015 GPS program is officially running again! With great success in 2013/2014, the Federal Government's Youth Employment Strategy (YES) has granted Hutton House, the opportunity to help 49 youth with disabilities with employment readiness training. Youth that will benefit: • • • • ages 15 to 30 with barriers to employment who have not completed high school or do not have a high school diploma and who are not registered for school and/or a training program Participants are paid minimum wage to attend 3 weeks of workshops followed by 12 weeks of a paid job placement! How does GPS recruit employers for placements? The Work Experience Specialists staff in GPS work hard to develop connections within the community on a daily basis. Want to help? If you are, or know of an employer, who would like to become a placement host, Hutton House will reimburse the employers gross wages for 12 weeks at 24 hours per week. The employer will only be responsible for basic deductions (MERCS). The GPS program will host 7 sessions. All training sessions will take place at the Hutton House Learning Center at Cherryhill Village Mall. Questions about GPS or looking to get into the next session? Please contact Sarah, 519-472-1541 ext 232 or sarah@huttonhouse.com. Hutton House FOUNDATION Help youth and adults with disabilities reach their goals! To make a donation please use the following form or provide this information on a separate page along with your donation. Name: ______________________________________ Address: ____________________________________ City: ____________________ Province: __________ Postal Code: _____________ Telephone: ___________________________________ Email: _______________________________________ Donation Amount: $___________ I have enclosed a cheque payable to Hutton House Foundation. I prefer to use my: __ Visa __ Mastercard __ Amex Card#: _________________________________ Expiry Date: _____ / _____ Signature: ______________________________ I would like to become a Monthly Donor. I hereby authorize Hutton House Foundation to arrange automatic withdrawals from my bank account for the following amount. I understand that I may cancel this authorization at any time with written notice. __ $5 __ $10 __ $20 __ $25 __ $30 Other $_____ Signature: _____________________________ *Please include a cheque marked VOID. Withdrawals will take place on the 15th day of each month. I have named Hutton House Foundation as a beneficiary in my will. Please mail your donation to: Hutton House Foundation 654 Wonderland Rd N, London, Ontario N6H 3E5 Charitable Registration (BN) No. 87136 9328 RR0001 Our records are confidential. We do not share our donor lists. Thanks for your generosity! Page 11 Lessons Learned Late In Life The Ukulele 2014 I heard about an organization called S.O.U.P. Southwestern Ontario Ukulele Players. And, I've been meaning to learn something new and fun; an exercise to keep the mind sharp, and prove to myself that I am still teachable. I purchased an instrument, a tuner, a leash and pick. Also important, a chart showing chords and how to play them. After 3 lessons, I brought my Ukulele to my friend's house; all set to show off what I could do. I tuned the instrument the best I could, with the chords and lyrics in front of me. NOW, either my 'Uke' wasn't in tune or I played very badly; perhaps both. When I started playing, both Marilyn's dogs ran to the door and scratched frantically to get out! When I told Marilyn's sister Diane (who had dropped by for a visit), what had happened with the two dogs, we all had a good laugh, But I didn't expect what Marilyn said: She said "I wanted to get out too!!" There are many things to learn in life. • All the enthusiasm in the world does not make an expert in 3 weeks. • You do not subject your friends to your ear-splitting 'growing pains'. Your very best friend will only tolerate you to a point. • Laughter and good friends are good for your health. E. Jane Morley Page 12 ARTworks Art Works On The Move The summer, what there was of it, has left the building along with the sounds of so many people having fun. To no one’s surprise all enjoyed their groups. They left everyone involved asking for more. The B.B.Q. was hot and grilling anything from moose to ribs along with all the different salads, sides and desserts. Oh my I can still taste it. “ Yum Yum”. Theatre Games was a new experience every session. You never knew what was going to happen next. Such great fun. Participants have commented how nice it was to spend a day in the park. Going for a nice walk and feeling a little closer to nature. The personal storytelling group resulted in one of the stories being published in the London Free Press it was titled “See The Person Not The Wheelchair”. Way to go Amber.! New this fall 2 Men’s Clubs and 2 Ladies Clubs plus bowling both Monday and Friday as the Artworks Team strives to provide more services for more people in the community. Registration for all of these new groups is at it’s capacity this session. The Theatre Troupe is writing and rehearsing the second episode of B.S.T.V. to be ready for performance in last part of January. We hope to perform this for 2 nights in a row. Please plan to come you will laugh till your sides ache. I don’t think you will be disappointed. The songwriters and storytellers will be performing their 18 new works on Dec. 12 at 2:00 pm in the mango room at the main building. All are welcome. Skills Link Marilyn Neufeld, Steve Cordes, Wendy Lau and Susan Truppe MP The federal government is investing nearly $1 million to help over 130 youth in London get jobs. On Tuesday (Oct. 14), London North Centre MP Susan Truppe, the parliamentary secretary for status of women, announced support designed to equip young Canadians in London with the skills and work experience needed to get jobs in high-demand fields. “Since 2006, the government has helped more than half a million young Canadians develop the skills they need to help them succeed in the job market,” Truppe said. “I am pleased to announce that young Canadians in London will benefit from our initiatives to connect young people with jobs.” LEADS Employment Services, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, and Hutton House are receiving nearly $1 million from the Skills Link program to help youth facing barriers to employment get the skills and knowledge they need to find jobs. Skills Link helps youth facing barriers to employment — including youth who are single parents, youth with disabilities, young newcomers and youth in rural and remote areas — to develop the skills and gain the experience needed to find a job or the confidence to return to school. Since 2006, the Skills Link initiative has helped over 179,000 youth get jobs or return to school. “This federal investment in high demand occupations will be transformative for the youth participating in the project in helping them get a foothold in their careers,” said Steve Cordes, executive director Youth Opportunities Unlimited. “The investment also demonstrates to the community that we do care about these issues and we can respond to the challenges.” Wendy Lau, CEO LEADS Employment Services, said preparing youth to enter the labour force, or return to school to gain more skills, “is crucial to ensuring a more prosperous future for themselves as well as strengthening the economy in our community.” Marilyn Neufeld, executive director Hutton House, said Skills Link funding will allow her organization to deliver “innovative employment training in partnership with local businesses.” Through this program, Neufeld said, young people facing significant barriers gain the skills and practical experience they need to obtain jobs. Minister of State (Social Development) Candice Bergen, said the government is committed to creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity all across Canada. “Initiatives like Skills Link will help connect youth with jobs while ensuring that Canada’s economy benefits from the skills and talents of young Canadians,” Bergen said. “By investing in youth today, we are making sure they can contribute to our long-term prosperity.” London Community News Hutton House Best Buddies Program Best Buddies will now be partnering with Kings University College at UWO. The Chapter president has been busy recruiting students to make a new club at her school. We look forward to a new year of making new friends. To sign up, click on the ‘Get Involved’ link at www.bestbuddies.ca and use University of Kings College as the school. If you have any questions, please call Jen Bate at 519-472-1541 x 239. Page 13 Passport Funding Updated Passport Program Guidelines - Effective October 1, 2014! Any adult who is eligible for developmental services and supports funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services, including young adults who are 18 years of age and still in school, may apply for funding through Passport. Access to funding under the program is subject to available resources. If you have not already been approved, you must contact the Developmental Services Ontario office (DSO) in your region to request these services. For more information about applying for developmental services for adults with a developmental disability contact the local DSO office or visit www. dsontario.ca On October 1, newly updated guidelines for the Passport program came into effect for developmental services. These guidelines talk about how people can apply for the funding, and what kinds of things they can spend it on. For a copy of these guidelines and for a copy of "Passport Funding: What Can I Use It For?" go to www.dsontario.ca or contact us at 519-472-6381 and we can provide you with copies. If you are already approved and receiving Passport Funding, Hutton House can help you in a variety of ways. 1. Use funding to attend an existing program including Access Voluntarism, Adult Education, Employment workshops, ARTworks, LIFEworks, Day Break and Fitness. If an individual needs one to one support to participate in a program this may also qualify for Passport funding. 2. Use funding to attend one of our new programs! • LIFEworks 3 - Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s from 9am to 4pm. • Saturday’s ROCK! - Saturday’s 10 am to 4 pm with a focus on healthy fun! • Discovery Saturday’s - Saturday’s 10 am to 4 pm with a focus on learning with technology! 3. Hutton House can assist to: • Recruit, hire and supervise a support worker to attend Hutton House programs and/or community programs. • Manage your funds. • Develop a plan of activities. Administrative fees apply for option 3. Page 14 Passport Information Session Wednesday November 26th, 2014 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Hutton House 654 Wonderland Rd N please call 519-472-6381 We would like to hear from you about what types of services or programs you are interested in and also let you know about our current programs. If you are unable to attend the information session and you don’t see a program in our calendar, website or brochures that interests you, talk to us and we can help to create a plan for you! Call 519-472-6381 x 224 for Passport specific inquiries. Passport Funding: What Can I Use It For? These tips suggest how Passport funding can help adults with a developmental disability participate more fully in the community. For a complete list of supports and expenses covered under Passport, please see the Passport Guidelines at www.dsontario.ca Community Participation And Activities Of Daily Living • Programs, classes and supports that help develop independence, social and life skills (e.g., literacy, cooking, managing money, computer skills, assistance with personal care needs). This includes fees and supplies. • Participation in community activities and events (e.g., recreation, club memberships, admission to festivals and museums, sports). • Pre-employment and employment supports (e.g., skills training, resume development and job coaching). • Transportation for activities (e.g., transit, mileage, taxis). • Paying a support worker to help with community participation and daily living activities. This includes a support worker’s expenses while providing support (e.g., meals, transportation and activity fees, expenses for accompanying the individual during trips). Caregiver Respite Caregiver respite is temporary help to provide a break to primary caregivers. This can be during the day, evening or weekend, and can be in-home or out-of-home. Respite includes supervising or providing supports for individuals with daily living activities such as personal care, while caregivers get a temporary break. Person-Directed Planning Passport funding (up to $2,500) can be used to develop a person-directed plan that builds on the individual’s strengths and interests and identifies supports to help them achieve their goals. These supports can be purchased from independent planners, facilitators or developmental services agencies. Administration Passport funding can cover some employer costs (e.g., Canada Pension Plan contributions, Employment Insurance and Workplace Safety and Insurance Board premiums, vacation pay).Passport recipients can also use up to ten per cent of Passport funding for administrative supports such as bookkeeping, bank fees, payroll and scheduling support workers. 3 Ways to Stay Positive While Looking for Work It can be difficult to stay positive with news of high unemployment rates, and plant closures in the news. If you allow yourself to focus on these negative stories, you can scare yourself into inaction. Don’t let this happen to you! If you give up on your job search and no longer take steps to find a job – then you won’t. Instead focus on the positive and use these tools and techniques to stay positive. Build your confidence. Hutton House Customer Service Commitment Our most important customer is YOU. In a safe, supportive and respectful environment We will work together With open and honest communication to enable you to discover and achieve your goals. Set goals for yourself each day. Write them down. Choose goals that you can achieve and celebrate when you have completed them. They may be goals such as “I will get up and be dressed before 9am each morning.” Or “I will apply to 10 jobs this week.” Be prepared for rejection. Searching for a job is not easy. There will be times when you are not selected for an interview or not hired for a job. Recognize that anyone looking for a job will experience rejection. If you recognize that this is a normal part of the job search process it will be easier to stay positive. Surround yourself with support. Hockey Tickets Anyone!! The London Nationals Junior B Hockey Team has donated some flex tickets to Hutton House. Tickets can be used for 1 game but you choose the date! Tickets are for current participants of Hutton House programs and a friend or family member. Limit 2 tickets per person. Call Kathy if interested at 519-472-6381 or in person at the Main Building at 654 Wonderland Rd N. Thank you London Nationals Junior B Hockey Team! Make a note of which friends and family are supportive of your job search. Focus on their positive feedback. Build a specific job support network. Attend job search support groups to meet others who are also looking for work. It can be very reassuring to know that others are facing challenges finding a job as well. For example, in the Hutton House Job Networking group that meets each week, participants talk about the frustrations they are experiencing. Often others in the group have experienced the same obstacles and can provide suggestions on how to overcome these. Most importantly – remember that there are jobs out there! We continue to place individuals in jobs each month! For more information on the FREE services provided by Hutton House Employment Services visit our website www.huttonhouse.com or call 519-472-1541 x 232. Page 15 Coming Events RDSP Information Session Hutton House (654 Wonderland Rd N) November 12, 2014 (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm) Passport Information Session Hutton House (654 Wonderland Rd N) November 26, 2014 (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm) Hutton House Christmas Party Hutton House is a Scent Free Environment Scented products can cause allergic reactions and respiratory distress. Staff, participants, volunteers and visitors are encouraged not to wear or use any scented products while at Hutton House locations. Thank you! 4 Points by Sheraton (1150 Wellington Rd S) December 10, 2014 (12:00 pm - 4:00 pm) Hutton House Funders MINISTRY OF Visit www.huttonhouse.com for Events & News updates TRAINING, Ontario COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES COMMUNITY Ontario AND SOCIAL SERVICES MINISTRY OF MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND Ontario LONG-TERM CARE Hutton House FOUNDATION PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada Foundation We have your next great employee! Contact Gord Fansher via phone 519-472-1541 ext. 250 or email Gord@huttonhouse.com Our Mission: Hutton House promotes and supports persons with disabilities through learning and life enhancing programs that focus on each individual’s strengths, abilities and interests. Vision: Persons with disabilities have equal access to participate in all aspects of community life. “In House” “In House” Board of Directors: Paul Coulter - President, Carmen Sprovieri - Vice President Sue Barnes - Past President, Susan Mrnik - Treasurer Marilyn Neufeld - Ex-Officio February 7, February 7, 2015 2015 June 12, June 12, 2015 2015 October 9, October 9, 2015 2015 Directors: Claudia Bayona, Peter Holland, Jean Knight, Philippe Morin, Gordon Nudds, Eric Riley, and Nancy Van Spronsen. We gratefully We gratefully accept accept articles, articles, personal personal stories, stories, and and photos photos involving participants involving participants of of Hutton Hutton House. House. Please submit Please submit information information directly directly -- and and early early -- to to Lori Bardy Lori Bardy 519-472-6381 519-472-6381 ext. ext. 232 232 Charitable Registration (Bn) No. 10807 1861 RR0001 Next Publication Next Publication Deadlines Deadlines Photos can Photos can be be hard hard copy copy or or e-mailed e-mailed to to Lori@huttonhouse.com Lori@huttonhouse.com Page 16