March Newsletter

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News Topics

  • DD Awareness Month #DDAwareness19

  • Individual & Provider Highlight

  • DD Advocacy Days in Salem

  • Build A Movement on March 8th

  • Customer Survey on Gaming Events

  • Resources for Individuals & Providers

March is DD Awareness Month! 

Help us spread awareness about developmental disabilities this month and every month. Follow along with us on Facebook to help us support, advocate for, and empower individuals and families experiencing developmental disabilities in Oregon and beyond. Please use #DDAwareness19 and #support #advocate #empower in your own social media posts.

In honor of DD Awareness Month, we’re excited to be sharing the story of Chris and William, an individual and a provider team who volunteer together to collect and give hygiene products (toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, etc.) to people experiencing houselessness in Portland. Learn more about their community service by reading their story below.


Thanks for reading! Questions or comments? Let us know. Email Kristine at kolson@communitypath.org or call (503) 935-5243 ext. 228. We value your feedback.

Enjoy the rest of your week!
-Team Community Pathways


Image of artwork by Gary Murrel including the words #DDawareness19 and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Image Source: https://nacdd.org/ddam/

Image of artwork by Gary Murrel including the words #DDawareness19 and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Image Source: https://nacdd.org/ddam/


Feature Story: Individual and Provider Volunteer to Give Hygiene Products to Portland’s Houseless

Chris and William recently met with our staff to share their experiences as an individual-customer and support provider volunteering together to collect and give hygiene products to people experiencing houselessness in Portland.

William, who works as a direct support provider, explains that he started serving people living without a house in Portland by using his own money to buy hot meals for people who might not be able to afford one. With time, his attention shifted to hygiene products because he wanted to provide longer-lasting support to people. By providing people with hygiene products they are able to stay more clean and healthy despite not having direct access to basic amenities.

 Chris, who is involved in many service projects through his church, quickly joined William's efforts when he learned about them. The volunteer duo share that with the support of Chris’ church congregation they were able to collect enough hygiene products to fill over 100 small backpacks to create what Chris refers to as “hygiene packs.” Targeting areas around the Burnside Bridge and Pioneer Square, Chris says they were able to give most of the hygiene packs away in a short span of time. The pair note the high demand for hygiene products among people living without a house in Portland highlights the larger housing crisis the City is experiencing.

Asked if they are still collecting products, or interested in continuing this project together, Chris and William both say yes. They would like to continue providing support to their community in this way, and welcome donations and support in their efforts.

Asked if he’s working on other service projects, as well, Chris shares that he regularly volunteers with his church. Primarily, he helps sew and assemble sanitary pads that are donated by the church to an organization in Africa that provides support to women in need. As an aside, William points out that it would be helpful to include disposable sanitary pads in the hygiene packs they make for people living in Portland.

What products do Chris and William currently collect for the hygiene packs? In travel sizes, they collect: tooth brushes, tooth paste, mouth wash, floss, shampoo, soap, razors, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, bottles of water, and snacks. Q-tips, toilet paper, nail clippers and disposable sanitary pads are also appreciated. They are also open to suggestions.

If you would like to learn more about Chris’ and William’s service project(s), or would like to donate toward their cause, please let us know. Contact Kristine at kolson@communitypath.org or (503) 935-5243 ext. 228.


DD Advocacy Days in Salem

Image description: A group of advocates sitting around a conference room listening to a presentation on legislative advocacy at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem in February 2019./Oregon DD Coaltion at https://www.facebook.com/ORDDCoalition/photos

Image description: A group of advocates sitting around a conference room listening to a presentation on legislative advocacy at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem in February 2019./Oregon DD Coaltion at https://www.facebook.com/ORDDCoalition/photos

 

Join us at the next DD Advocacy Day in Salem on Tuesday, March 5th (10am - 2pm). Community Pathways is joining the Oregon Developmental Disability Coalition's GO! Project Advocacy Team and self-advocates to help support DD rights and services during the 2019 Legislative Session. Come learn about legislative advocacy and how you can make your voice heard!

Sign up to get the GO! Project Bulletin (newsletter) for the latest advocacy updates. Visit https://orddcoalition.org/go-project/


Upcoming Event: Build A Movement Meeting

Image description: Build A Movement event flyer.

Image description: Build A Movement event flyer.

Community Pathways is proud to help sponsor and support the next Build A Movement (BAM) meeting of self-advocates on March 8th. BAM participants are self-advocates living in the Portland area who work together to address issues related to DD Services, Housing, and Healthcare. To learn more about BAM and how to get involved, contact Jennifer Knapp at knapp@cvision.org or (971) 347-7825.


Customer Survey on Gaming Events

Do you like playing board games, video games, Virtual reality, etc.? Let us know by taking a short survey on gaming events.

Community Pathways invites individuals-customers to take a short 5 question, confidential survey to let us know if you’re interested in joining a gaming event or group. Our team would love to host a game night or gaming event here at Community Pathways. But, first, we need your feedback!

The survey asks 5 questions and takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. You can take the survey online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FPWPD9Z

Request a paper copy to be mailed to you, with a stamped return envelope, by emailing Kristine at kolson@communitypath.org or calling (503) 935-5243 ext. 228. You may also contact your PA who can request the survey be mailed to you.

Deadline: April 15, 2019

We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!


Resources for Individuals and Providers

Please let us know if you have additional recommendations for resources Community Pathways can share with individuals-customers and providers online. Thank you! Call (503) 935-5243

Find a Provider (or individual to support)

OHCC Registry and Referral System: https://or-hcc.org/Welcome/Login?serviceGroupId=2

Food and Shelter

211 Info: http://211info.org/

Oregon Food Bank: https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/

Health and Safety

Additional Needs Registry: https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/article/586275

Arts and Culture

The Gallery at Seven Corners Collaborative (2475 SE Ladd Ave, Portland, OR 97214)

Public Annex: http://www.publicannex.org/

PHAME Academy: https://www.phamepdx.org/

Activity Groups and Recreation

Off the Couch Activities: http://www.offthecouchevents.org/

Adventure Without Limits: https://www.awloutdoors.org/tripcalendar

Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation (City of Portland): https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/39830

Tech and Gaming

Guardian Games: http://www.ggportland.com/calendar/

Free Geek: https://www.freegeek.org/

Fidgetech: http://fidgetech.org/


Do you have more resource recommendations? Please help us share them with the community.
Contact Kristine at kolson@communitypath.org or (503) 935-5243 ext. 228. Thank you!

February 2019 Newsletter

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February 2019

With the rain pelting down in true Oregon fashion, we hope you're all staying dry and warm. A friendly reminder that our office will be closed this coming Monday, 2/18, in observance of Presidents' Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, 2/19, at 9 AM.

Continue reading for our latest news and updates. Have a wonderful weekend!

-The CPI Team

Questions or comments about the newsletter? Call Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228

Topics Inside

DD Advocacy

Art Around Town

Calling All Gamers - Take Our Survey

Food & Shelter Resources

NWDSA’s DS + Autism Workshop

Survey on Case Management


Group image of self-advocates, support providers, advocates, and legislators at a Build A Movement (BAM) event in Portland. Courtesy of Jennifer Knapp.

Group image of self-advocates, support providers, advocates, and legislators at a Build A Movement (BAM) event in Portland. Courtesy of Jennifer Knapp.

DD Advocacy

DD Advocacy Days in Salem: This past week, members of our team joined the Oregon Developmental Disability Coalition's GO! Project Advocacy Team at the State Capitol in Salem to participate in the DD Advocacy Day on 2/12 and show support to people testifying on behalf of DD services at the Ways and Means public hearing on 2/13. We invite you to join in advocacy during the 2019 Legislative Session to share your story and help support funding for DD services in Oregon. Your voice and story matter to legislators!


Save the Date! Build A Movement (BAM), an advocacy initiative organized by Self-Advocates Taking Action, will be holding an event and training on March 8th. Self-advocates, support providers, and advocates are all welcome to join. Please stay tuned for full event details. We'll post them on our website and Facebook page soon. Questions? Contact Jennifer Knapp at jknapp@cvision.org. C

Acrylic painting on canvas hanging in the reception area of Community Pathways’ office. Courtesy of CPI.

Acrylic painting on canvas hanging in the reception area of Community Pathways’ office. Courtesy of CPI.

Art Around Town

See the Field of View 2018 Residency Exhibit at Wollf Gallery before it closes on February 24th. The exhibit is a collaboration between Wollf Gallery and Public Annex. It features works by Alma Bate, Job Erickson, John Griffiths, and Michael Sherman. Free and open to the public. All are welcome! 

You're invited to Multnomah County I/DD's Art Show and Reception on February 26th from 1to 4 PM. It will be held in the Pine Room of the 5 Oak Building at 209 SW 4th Avenue in Portland. Free and open to the public, the art show and reception will feature works and performances by developmentally diverse artists and musicians.

White Sony Ps4 dualshock on wood table. Stock image from Pexels.

White Sony Ps4 dualshock on wood table. Stock image from Pexels.

Gaming Opportunities in Portland Metro area

Calling all gamers! At Community Pathways, we know many people who share a passion for games, whether they play board games, video games, or virtual reality games.

We’re curious to know if the individuals we serve and their support networks would be interested in attending game events at Community Pathways. Let us know by taking this online survey.

If you would like the survey emailed to you, or a printed copy mailed to you, please call Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228. Thank you!

We recommend checking out Guardian Games’ Calendar for upcoming gaming events in Portland.

Food & Shelter Resources

A reminder that February SNAP benefits were allocated in January and participants, including customers of Community Pathways, are being advised to carefully budget their benefits for the rest of this month. We recommend visiting www.211info.org or calling 2-1-1 and using the Oregon Food Bank's Food Finder to locate food pantries and shelters during these cold winter months. Check out our Facebook page for regular resource updates.

Volunteers preparing to deliver food boxes to individuals in need of assistance. Courtesy of CPI.

Volunteers preparing to deliver food boxes to individuals in need of assistance. Courtesy of CPI.

NWDSA’s “We All Belong: Dual Diagnosis Down Syndrome/Autism” workshop on February 21st

The Northwest Down Syndrome Association (NWDSA) is holding a We All Belong: Dual Diagnosis Down Syndrome/Autism workshop on Thursday, February 21st from 6 to 8:30 PM. The workshop will be held in the Multnomah Education Service District’s Auditorium at 11611 Northeast Ainsworth Circle in Portland. This event is aimed at individuals and families experiencing Down syndrome and Autism, as well as professionals who support individuals with a dual diagnosis. The workshop provides, “community, research, tools and tips to support families and help build life-long learners.”

Registration is required. Families, please register using this link. Professionals, please register using this webpage. Both links provide access to registration information in English and Español.

Oregon Survey on I/DD Case Management - Your Feedback Matters!

Individuals and their families are encouraged to take the Oregon Survey on I/DD Case Management Roles and Responsibilities.The survey is confidential and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Take the survey online at https://healthmanagement.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cNhb2rfSnFNeJwh

See the original message from Lilia Teninty, Director, Office of Developmental Disabilities Services on  Oregon DHS' website. The DHS Office of Developmental Disabilities Services is, "seeking participants in a voluntary, confidential survey about the functions of I/DD case management--what is working well, and what could be better."

2019 DD Advocacy Days - Make Your Voice Heard

Join the Oregon DD Coalition GO! Project Advocacy Team in advocacy during the 2019 Legislative Session. They are available to give you information, training, and support on Advocacy Days in Salem.

The Oregon Legislature meets in Salem each year for the purpose of lawmaking. The Oregon DD Coalition and Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities organize a DD Advocacy Day for each month during the legislative session to provide an opportunity for people with disabilities, family members, advocates and others to travel to Salem and talk with legislators face-to-face about critical issues that affect their lives. When you attend a DD Advocacy Day, you are encouraged to:

  • Schedule visits with your legislators.

  • Wear something yellow to show unity on advocacy.

  • Stop by before and after your visits for important advocacy updates!

Before you go, find your State Senator and State Representative at www.oregonlegislature.gov

2019 DD Advocacy Days, 10AM to 2PM

Tuesday, January 22: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court Street NE Salem), Room 167A

Tuesday, February 12: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court Street NE Salem), Room 167A

Tuesday, March 5: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court Street NE Salem), Room 167A

Tuesday, April 30: Oregon State Library (250 Winter Street NE Salem), Room 103

Tuesday, May 7: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court Street NE Salem), Room 167A

Tuesday, June 18: Oregon State Capitol (900 Court Street NE Salem), Room 167A

For more information about DD Advocacy Days visit, https://www.ocdd.org/legislative-advocacy-the-go-project/

Sign up for the GO! Project Bulletin for critical advocacy updates: https://orddcoalition.org/go-project/

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January 2019 Newsletter

Image of a digital drawing of a robot in a silver frame next to a succulent plant.

January 2019 Newsletter

Happy 2019! We hope everyone’s year is off to a good start.

As Community Pathways heads into its 11th year as a support services brokerage, we're excited to be reviving our newsletter.

For a recap of 2018, we invite you to read our December 2018 Newsletter.

We'll be sharing our newsletters in print (available at our front desk), via email, on our website, and on Facebook. Stay updated by joining our mailing list at www.communitypath.org and follow and like us on Facebook.

Our goal is to feature a different topic and person-- whether an individual we serve, a CPI staff member, or a self-advocate--in each newsletter. Included will be information about upcoming events, changes to DD services, and opportunities for individuals and their support providers to meet and grow in community.

Questions? Ideas? Call (503) 935-5243 ext. 228

Topics:

  • Feature: Tech Support

  • Outreach & Events

  • Art Around Town

  • 2019 Advocacy


Collage image of computer code. Stock images.

Collage image of computer code. Stock images.

Tech Support

Featured Story

Interest in tech is big in Portland, and customers of Community Pathways are no different in their pursuit of opportunities to learn about and network in the field of tech and robotics.

 Many people choose to pursue their interests through activities provided by tech and maker groups. Some of these groups in the Metro area include Free Geek, PDX Node, PDX Hackerspace, and Fidgetech.

Some individuals also choose to pursue their interest through community college, taking classes that interest them and working with the campus disability services to arrange for necessary accommodations.

While community college can be a great way to learn for some individuals, the prerequisites and formal requirements can also be frustrating to people who prefer a more hands-on, application-based approach to learning.

Some customers of Community Pathways find it most helpful to work with support providers who can assist them with self-directed learning.

One such support provider is Scott Sheldon. In describing his role providing support to tech-interested individuals with a disability, Sheldon explains that he tries to support their learning style by finding information that is presented in a way that is accessible to the individual.

Image of a Gigabyte motherboard. Stock image.

Image of a Gigabyte motherboard. Stock image.

During a recent meeting with a customer of Community Pathways, Sheldon and the individual explained that the key to their success in learning about tech and robotics has been to work directly on the computer rather than read about computer programming in the abstract.

For certain individuals it is easier to process information when they are able to see clear, concrete (and often visual) examples of what they are learning, whether those examples are presented in person or on a screen.

Sheldon and the individual share that instructional videos can be a great learning tool. They note that Lynda, which provides instructional videos in many areas including web development and software development, can be accessed at no cost through Multnomah County Library.

Not all learning has to be solitary or computer-based. Sheldon and his tech-interested clients also explore local groups such as PDX Hackerspace, explaining that visiting these groups is a great way to learn about the different areas of tech.

Tech is a broad area. It includes database programming, robotics, web coding, soldering, and more. Groups in the Portland area provide opportunities to explore everything from robotics to java scripting. There are many ways for people to discover what they are passionate about.

Image of computer hardware. Stock image.

Image of computer hardware. Stock image.

To find tech and maker groups, Sheldon and customers of Community Pathways recommend using Calagator, a Portland area tech community event calendar.

It is also possible to find groups that are specifically organized with developmental diversity in mind. One such group is Community Workshop, a provider agency with in-house tech activities.

Another resource is Fidgetech, a local group organized by people with autism for people with autism. Their mission is to create a purposeful, supportive community for young adults on the autism spectrum to learn technologies, uncover interests and talents, develop technical skills, and achieve educational, work, or personal goals.

Participating in groups and events with the support of a provider can help individuals with a developmental disability learn how to handle unfamiliar expectations, navigate social interactions, and effectively advocate for their needs and goals in a group setting.

We are glad to see individuals and customers of Community Pathways pursue learning—whether it’s self-directed or through school—with the support of their providers to gain knowledge and skill sets that will be useful to them in every day life and employment.

Image of smartphone modules. Stock image.

Image of smartphone modules. Stock image.

To learn more about tech and maker groups and events in the Portland area, check out these resources recommended to us by individuals and their support teams:*

  • PDX Hackerspace is a membership based organization that provides space for makers, tinkerers and hackers. Visit one of their open houses to learn more.

  • Free Geek aims to ‘create digital equity through environmental sustainability’ by recycling and refurbishing donated technology and givingit back to the community at no or low cost.

  • PDX Node is a Node.js user group in Portland that organizes meet ups twice a month.

  • Fidgetech is a community for young adults with autism to learn technologies, discover their interests, develop technical skills, and work toward achieving their goals.

  • Lynda provides instructional videos in many areas including web development and software development. (Access to these videos is free through Multnomah County Library.)

  • Calagator is a unified event calendar for the technology community in Portland.

  • Community Workshop: Ray Flores, General Manager.

Email: ray@communityws.org

Phone: 805-279-9000

  • Scott Sheldon: Provider and Provider Agency.

Email: scott@outboundls.com

Phone: 503-289-7889

*Please note, this list is based on the recommendations of customers of Community Pathways and their support providers. If you are a PSW or provider agency and would like to share about your services with Community Pathways, please call our provider specialist at (503) 935-5243 ext. 245. Thank you!


Community Outreach

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December 2018 Toy and Food Box Delivery

On Saturday, December 22, 2018 several members of the CPI team and their families volunteered to deliver food and toy boxes to individuals and families in need of assistance during the holiday season.

Leading our team was PA Arlen who volunteers with DDAC (Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee), helping to provide feedback to the Portland Police Bureau on issues affecting individuals with disabilities in the community. 

For the last four years, DDAC has partnered with Sunshine Division (Portland Police Bureau) and Toy and Joy Makers (Portland Fire and Rescue) to collect and deliver toy and food boxes to families in need of assistance.

These organizations and many more do great work all year round. We hope you check them out!

Contact your PA if you would like assistance signing up for a delivery in December 2019.

Upcoming Event

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Clackamas CME Informational Open House

When: February 6th, 5-7pm

Where: Clackamas County ESD (13455 SE 97th Ave.) in the New Era/Spring Water Room.

Who: Anyone interested in learning more about case management entities (CME) and support services available to adults with a developmental disability living in Clackamas County.

Why you should come: Learn about eligibility, funding, and more about brokerage support services available to adults with a developmental disability.

Meet with representatives from Clackamas CDDP and five Portland area brokerages serving Clackamas County. Ask questions. Get informed.

For more information, visit the Facebook event page or call Community Pathways at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228.


Art Around Town

Image of the the Art Gallery at Seven Corners Collaborative visible from SE Division Street. Courtesy of CPI.

Image of the the Art Gallery at Seven Corners Collaborative visible from SE Division Street. Courtesy of CPI.

Image of a pencil color drawing. Courtesy of CPI.

Image of a pencil color drawing. Courtesy of CPI.

Members of the Community Pathways team feel fortunate to be surrounded by works of art made by the talented artists and individuals we serve. We're excited to be assisting more artists experiencing a developmental disability to connect with the arts community in Portland. Below are a few current and upcoming exhibits we recommend you check out:

Seven Corners Collaborative (2475 SE Ladd Ave) exhibits feature works by artists who experience a developmental disabilities and rotate throughout the year. Questions? Call 503-292-4964.

Wollf Gallery (2804 SE Ankeny St) collaborated with Public Annex to exhibit Field of View 2018 Residency. See the exhibit before it ends on February 24th. Learn more at www.wolffgallery.com

Multnomah County I/DD Art Show and Reception is seeking art submissions from customers of CDDP and Brokerage services in Multnomah County. Registration closes February 7th. The opening reception is on February 26th. Questions? Contact a PA, or call Natasha at Multnomah County at (503) 988-6273.

Image of event flyer for the Multnomah County I/DD Art Show and Reception on February 26, 2019, 1-4 PM, at 209 SW 4th Avenue. Courtesy of CPI.

Image of event flyer for the Multnomah County I/DD Art Show and Reception on February 26, 2019, 1-4 PM, at 209 SW 4th Avenue. Courtesy of CPI.

Questions or comments about Art Around Town?

To get updates about community-based events, follow and like Community Pathways on Facebook

Contact Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228 or email kolson@communitypath.org


2019 Advocacy

Image of Kaaren, a Portland area self-advocate named 2018 Self Advocate of the Year by OSAC.

Image of Kaaren, a Portland area self-advocate named 2018 Self Advocate of the Year by OSAC.

Image of DJ Lamar, a Portland area DJ and self-advocate.

Image of DJ Lamar, a Portland area DJ and self-advocate.

Join self-advocates throughout Oregon in advocating for the rights of adults with developmental disabilities to live self-determined lives in the community. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

DD Advocacy Days

The Oregon DD Coalition's GO! Project is hosting DD Advocacy Days at the State Capitol in Salem. Join self-advocates speaking to legislators.

Oregon Self Advocates Coalition

OSAC is accepting new members. Learn more at www.askosac.org/membership/

Build A Movement

Started in 2017, BAM is organized by Self Advocates Taking Action with the support of Community Vision, Community Pathways, UCP, Mentor, Independence NW, Inclusion, and SDRI. Join self-advocates in addressing issues faced by adults with developmental disabilities living in the Portland area, including Housing, Health Care, and DD Services.

Contact Jen Knapp at jknapp@cvision.org or call Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228.


Questions or Comments?

We want to hear from you.

Contact a PA, or contact Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228 or kolson@communitypath.org.

Happy New Year

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Friends of CPI,

Happy last Friday of 2018!

Please note that Community Pathways' office will be closing at 3 PM on Monday, December 31st and will be closed on New Year's Day.

We will reopen at 9 AM on Wednesday, January 2nd.

We wish you a fun and safe start to 2019!

Happy New Year,

The CPI Team


 
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Review us on Google Maps

1) Google Search "Community Pathways, Inc."
2) Click the button "Write a review".
3) Rate us how many stars you'd like.
4) Write a brief review about your experience of us.         
5) Click "Post" and you're done!

Review us on Facebook
1) Login to Facebook and search @Communitypathways
2) Click on "Reviews".
3) Answer "Do you recommend Community Pathways?" Click "Yes" or "No".
4) When prompted "What do you recommend about Community Pathways?" write a brief review about your experience of us.
5) Click "Post" and you're done!

Contact us or Share your story through our website.

 
 
 

Happy New Year!

December 2018 Newsletter - Happy Holidays!

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As December comes quickly to an end, we are reminded to take a moment to reflect on the past year as we think ahead to the new year to come. 2018 was a special year for Community Pathways, highlighted by several milestones and important changes:

  • We moved to the Seven Corners Collaborative in June.

  • We launched a new website.

  • We celebrated CPI’s 10th anniversary as a support services brokerage in July.

  • The Grand Opening of The Seven Corners Collaborative in September was a hit.

  • Info fairs and self-advocacy events helped us to connect with more people and resources in the community and share what Community Pathways does as a support services brokerage.

  • Several new staff members were added to our growing team.

  • The introduction of the Oregon Needs Assessment (ONA) led to the creation of three new ONA Assessor positions on our team. We are grateful that two of these positions were able to be filled by existing staff members.

  • Over the course of the past year, we’ve gained over 60 new followers on Facebook, helping us to connect with more people and to make more resources accessible online.

  • Our capacity has grown from serving 450 to 475 individuals.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make 2018 an extra special year for Community Pathways. We are grateful for the individuals and community we serve and look forward to connecting with more of you in 2019.

Happy Holidays!

-The CPI Team


2018 News Recap

website launch & online resources

Earlier this year, Community Pathways redesigned and launched a new website to help us make the information and resources we connect people with more accessible online. We are also excited to be connecting with more individuals, families and providers through our website and Facebook page. The update was guided by feedback from individuals, providers, and members of our staff and board. This feedback also informs our use of Facebook, which has helped us gain over 60 new followers this year!  Please, leave a comment or review to share your experience of us and help more people get to know us better. Thank you!

We Moved!

Visit us at the Seven Corners Collaborative

 
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Come visit us at our new location in the Seven Corners Collaborative in southeast Portland. We moved to this new building in June. It is designed to be universally accessible. We are grateful to be sharing this building with our partners Community Vision, FACT Oregon, and the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities. Visitors are welcome to tour the Assistive Technology Lab and test out the accessible kitchen. Just ask!

Our new location and address:

2475 SE Ladd Avenue, Suite 220, Portland, OR 97214

10th anniversary celebration

 
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Community Pathways' celebrated its 10th anniversary as a support services brokerage in July. We hosted a party and invited the individuals we serve, their families and providers, our staff members, board members, and partner organizations to celebrate with us. It was a fun and meaningful opportunity for the community to gather and create fun memories together. We are grateful for the individuals and community we serve. Thank you to New Seasons-Seven Corners for donating food toward the event. We are glad to have neighbors that want to partner with us and support our mission of assisting people with disabilities to live empowered, self-determined lives through community connections. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this celebration!

Grand Opening of Seven Corners Collaborative

 
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The Grand Opening of the Seven Corners Collaborative building in September was a success. Over 200 people attended the opening, including some of the individuals we serve, their families and providers. We’re grateful to Teote for generously donating delicious food toward the event. The Grand Opening was a wonderful opportunity to get to know our neighbors, community partners, and the individuals and families we all serve. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Changes to our staff - New Hires & New Roles

 
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Admin Staff:

This fall, Olivia joined our team as the full-time Administrative Assistant. She is the first person many people connect with when they contact and visit our office. Kaaren, who was recently named Self Advocate of the Year by OSAC, just started her position as Front Desk Support and helps greet people and answer calls when Olivia is away from the front desk. Tracy has returned to our team after living abroad for a year. She provides much appreciated help with filing. Meet our team.

ONA Assessors:

The introduction of the Oregon Needs Assessment (ONA) this year led to the creation of three ONA Assessor positions on our team. We are glad to have filled two of the three roles with existing staff members. All three ONA Assessors bring diverse experience and compassion to their positions. More information about the ONA will be provided in 2019. Meet our ONA Assessors. If you have questions, ask a PA or contact us.

Info Fairs & Outreach

 
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Community Pathways attended several info fairs and advocacy events this year and looks forward to connecting with more individuals and community partners this coming year. Our goal is to educate more people about support services brokerages, the process of entering into brokerage services, person-centered approaches to support services, the principles of self-determination, and self-advocacy.

The info fairs and events we attended in 2018 include:

Multnomah County Information Fair for I/DD on May 1, 2018 was well attended by families and individuals experiencing I/DD who live in Multnomah County. Learn more about Multnomah County DD services.

Clackamas County Support Services Info Nights provide an opportunity for ‘transition age’ individuals to learn about adult support services that will become available to them when they turn 18. We also welcome individuals who are 18 years of age and older who want to learn more about brokerage support services. Info nights are held at Clackamas Education Service District.
 
OHSU’s 5th Annual DD Transition Fair: A Passport to a Healthy Future.  The event was organized by The Institute on Developmental Disability (IDD) at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and held at Mount Hood Community College. The event, “emphasized a holistic approach to adolescent transition for young people (ages 12-26) who experience disability.”
 
2018 Division/Clinton Street Fair and Parade. Community Pathways helped sponsor this event and partnered with the Oregon Council on Developmental Disability to staff a booth. We enjoyed connecting with our new neighborhood in southeast Portland, sharing about available support services and self-advocacy opportunities. 8,000 visitors attended this event. Join the fun next summer at the 2019 Division/Clinton Street Fair and Parade!

We look forward to participating in these events and more in 2019. Questions? Call Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext. 228 or email us.

Advocacy & volunteer service

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Throughout the year, members of our team volunteer with different organizations that advocate for and assist individuals with a developmental disability to live full lives in the community. Among the organizations and events that our staff members volunteer for are:

Build A Movement is an initiative led by Self-Advocates Taking Action and supported by Community Vision and support services brokerage staff. BAM helps self-advocates organize, focus on key topics, and prepare to speak with legislators about issues addressed in their planning meetings. To get involved, please email Jennifer Knapp at jknapp@cvision.org

2018 All Ability Tri4Youth organized by FACT Oregon was a major success. Two members of our staff volunteered and had a great time cheering on kids of all abilities in their events. Save the date for the event on August 10, 2019 at the Tualatin Hills Athletic Center in Beaverton. SAVE THE DATE for the 2019 All Ability Tri4Youth will be held on August 10, 2019.

2018 TASH Conference. Community Pathways, FACT Oregon, Community Vision, and OCDD helped serve on the Local Host Committee for the 2018 TASH Conference held in Portland in November. Community Pathways sponsored two advocates (one self-advocate and one parent of an individual with a developmental disability) to attend the three-day conference.

DDAC Holiday Food and Toy Box Delivery. For the past four years, staff members have volunteered to help IDDAC (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee), Sunshine Division (Portland Police Bureau) and Toy and Joy Makers (Portland Fire and Rescue) deliver food and toy boxes to individuals we serve.

Want to get involved? Call Kristine at (503) 935-5243 ext 228 or email us.



2019

Upcoming Advocacy Events

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Build A Movement

Join self-advocates in building a movement to address issues faced by adults with developmental disabilities living in the Portland Metro area, including housing, health care, and DD services. Questions? Email Jennifer Knapp at jknapp@cvision.org

DD Advocacy Days

Join the Oregon Developmental Disability Coalition's GO! Project Advocacy Team and join in advocacy during the 2019 Legislative Session, starting January 22nd. 2019 GO! Project Schedule


We want to hear from you - share your story

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We want to hear from you. Please consider sharing your story to help others live a more empowered, self-determined life in the community.

Please take a few minutes to leave a comment or review about Community Pathways on our Facebook page. Your reviews and comments help people visiting our page learn about who we are and what we do as a support services brokerage to assist individuals with disabilities to live empowered, self-determined lives through community connections.

Please remember: Community Pathways is a case management entity (CME) and support services brokerage. We are neither a provider agency nor the employer of direct support providers, such as personal support workers. We do assist individuals to enroll the direct support providers they choose to help them meet their needs and goals.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your PA or call our executive director Jennifer Santiago at (503) 935-5243 ext. 244. We appreciate your feedback!     


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Happy Holidays!

-The CPI Team

Kaaren Londahl, Self-Advocate of the Year

Recently named Self Advocate of the Year by Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition (OSAC), Kaaren Londahl is known throughout the community for the important work she does to advocate for the rights of individuals with a developmental disability in Oregon.

Photo of Kaaren Londahl in northeast Portland.

Photo of Kaaren Londahl in northeast Portland.

Within minutes of meeting with Kaaren, it’s clear why she’s been named Self-Advocate of the Year. Her experience and network are as robust as her enthusiasm for self-advocacy is infectious.

Kaaren is an active board member at OSAC and Independence Northwest, and a member of the PHAME Arts Leader program. She also works at OCDD and PHAME.

“I am a strong leader,” Kaaren states matter-of-factly, smiling as she hands me her OSAC business card and points out her title: Advocate at Large.

Self-determined but not self-important, Kaaren recognizes that by sharing her story she is able to encourage more people to become advocates—“and strong leaders too.”

What or who motivated you to become a self-advocate?

“My mom,” says Kaaren. "In the 1970s, my mom noticed there weren't services for people with disabilities." Kaaren's mother, Pauline Londahl, responded to the lack of support she encountered by establishing an organization called Exceed Enterprises in Milwaukie. “She started a workshop for people [with disabilities] to learn life skills,” Kaaren says, explaining that her mother wanted individuals with a disability to have an opportunity to learn life skills, like cooking and cleaning, as well as to participate in creative and social activities, like playing music and going bowling. Sharing more about her mother's advocacy work, Kaaren notes: “Mom was on the board that closed Fairview.”

 
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Why is it important to be a self-advocate?

“We don’t want programs to go away,” she says, noting that funding for support services can change.

Aware of this possibility, Kaaren emphasizes that, "people need to speak with their legislators," to advocate for the services and programs that assist them in living a full life in the community.

When asked what topics she and other self advocates address with legislators, Kaaren shares that, "we attempt to educate legislators about issues that matter to us," including: housing, employment, relationships, and transportation.

In her call for more self advocates to attend Legislative Sessions in Salem, Kaaren points out that some people who would like to attend these sessions are unable to because of limited access to transportation. “If anyone from [Community] Pathways wants to drive people to Salem, that would be great,” Kaaren says, using her network to attempt connecting people with the support they need to achieve their goals.

As Advocate at Large, what are your main responsibilities?

Kaaren shares that she recently joined the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) on a trip to Pendleton, Oregon where they met with individuals to learn about their experiences with support services. Their trip, she explains, is a part of a statewide effort to learn about support services from the perspective of individuals with a developmental disability in Oregon.

What have you learned from individuals about their support services?

"A lot of people find it difficult to ask for help," Kaaren says. “You have to ask to get ahead.”

She explains that when asked about their experience with support services, individuals expressed that they do not always know what questions to ask in order to receive the support they are seeking. With this observation, Kaaren pinpoints a frustration many people, regardless of their abilities, face when seeking help: Not knowing who to ask for help, or what questions to ask, in the first place. Kaaren says that more clarification about what to expect from support services would be helpful to individuals and their family members.

 
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What other obstacles do individuals receiving support services face?

"Parents," Kaaren notes. “Parents can sometimes get in the way of their kid.” Even when the 'kid' is an adult, Kaaren explains, a parent or family member can become an obstacle to the individual's support services, “because they think their kid isn’t able to do certain things.” 

When asked what advice she has for parents and family members of individuals with a developmental disability, Kaaren says: “Let your kids do what they want to do.” She pauses before adding, “In a safe way. But let them do it.They have to learn."

From meeting with individuals across the state, Kaaren notices that the number of individuals who attend these meetings is quite small. Asked why this might be, Kaaren says that individuals do not show up to events because they either do not know about them, their providers do not take them, or they lack accessible transportation.

What would you suggest be done to address these concerns and help improve services?

Kaaren notes the following ways brokerages can help improve the experience of support services for individuals and their support networks:

  • Host Brokerage 101 events to educate people about brokerage support services, so they learn what questions to ask.

  • Educate providers about support services, as well as self advocacy groups and events.

  • Promote programs like RideWise, which trains individuals to ride public transportation.

How would you describe the support services you get through Community Pathways?

“I like my services. They're great. They help me. They really help me,” Kaaren says. "You have to navigate things," she continues. "They help me grow. They help me learn about what's out there in the world."

When asked what she values the most about her support services, Kaaren says it's the communication she has with her PA. “It’s nice having another person to talk to,” she shares.

“If you complain,” she adds, “[support services] won’t work. You have to speak up. I may not get everything I want, but I have to work with [Community] Pathways, with my PA Sarah, to get what I do get. It’s important to speak up.”

Photo of Kaaren Londahl standing next to an orange biketown bicycle in northeast Portland.

Photo of Kaaren Londahl standing next to an orange biketown bicycle in northeast Portland.

How would someone interested in self-advocacy learn more about it?

"They should contact me,” Kaaren says with a smile, pointing to her business card.

"OSAC is seeking new members," she adds. [Learn more at www.askosac.org]

What would you say to individuals who want to get involved in self-advocacy, but are shy or anxious about attending meetings and events?

“They should contact me,” Kaaren says, pointing to her business card again. “Joining a group gives people a chance to get to know more people who have self-advocacy experience," she adds. "We will cheer lead them on to use their own voice."

Of course, some individuals may still find it difficult to attend self-advocacy meetings for different reasons. When asked if individuals can attend meetings and events with the support of a family member, friend, or provider Kaaren says, "Yes, that's fine," but stresses that, "self-advocates need to speak up for themselves. The provider or parent should not speak up for them. We need to speak up."

What is your advice for self-advocates preparing to speak with legislators?

  • Stick to one question or topic per speaker.

  • Stay on topic.

  • Only speak for a few minutes. "If you speak for too long, people will stop listening."

  • Meet with your team afterwards to discuss what went well and what did not go well, and make the necessary changes to improve.

[Join the 2019 DD Advocacy Days to gain more information, training, and support. Learn more at www.oregoniddcoalition.org]

Recently named Self-Advocate of the Year, what are you working on now?

With the midterm elections on November 6th drawing near, Kaaren says she is busy volunteering with Disability Rights Oregon (DRO) to help educate individuals with a disability about their right to vote and the supports available to help them fill out and cast their ballots. [Easy Voting Guide]

“We want people to live an everyday life like anyone else without a disability,” Kaaren says about her experience volunteering with DRO to get out the vote. “I want to follow in my mom's footsteps, because I’m a strong leader.”

Throughout our interview, Kaaren makes the mission and motivation underlying her work as a self advocate clear: “I want people to live the way they want to live.”

Kaaren lives independently in Northeast Portland with her dog. Her sister Dolly and nieces are an important source of support in her life and motivate her to advocate for her own rights and the rights of all people who experience a disability.

Congratulations on being named Self-Advocate of the Year, Kaaren!

-The Community Pathways Team

2018 TASH Conference is Coming to Portland

The 2018 TASH Conference is coming to Portland on November 28-30. Community Pathways is glad to be serving on the Local Host Committee, along with our Seven Corners Collaborative partners: Community Vision, FACT Oregon, and Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities.

We invite self advocates, educators and students, professionals in the field of developmental disabilities, and community leaders to join us in being a part of this wonderful opportunity.

Register to be an Attendee, Volunteer, and/or Sponsor. A few Registration Scholarships are still available to Oregon residents (self-advocates and family members).

Questions? Email Kristine at kolson@communitypath.org

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