In The News
OPARC in the news and other relevant published articles concerning legislation.
Stacey Proctor departing OPARC; interim CEO appointed
(MONTCLAIR, CA December 1, 2023) – OPARC has announced the departure of Stacey Proctor as President and Chief Executive Officer of the nonprofit organization, effective at the end of her contract, December 31, 2023. Chief Program Officer Andrea Wells will serve as Interim President and CEO, continuing OPARC’s leadership on behalf of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A member of OPARC’s leadership team for 6 years, Andrea has played a role in navigating OPARC through legislative changes impacting business services and the day program. Andrea brings over 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector.
“The OPARC community thanks Stacey for her service and wishes her well in her future endeavors,” said Scott Tremayne, Board Chairman.
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ABOUT OPARC
OPARC is a 501(c)(3) that serves the Inland Empire and Los Angeles County. OPARC serves more than 700 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southern California, by making available training, employment, and social opportunities. OPARCs mission is to ensure that all individuals are afforded the human right to be valued members of society regardless of their intellectual or developmental capabilities. For more information, please visit www.oparc.org.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Peggy Benson
Human Resources Director/Corporate Compliance Officer
pbenson@oparc.org
(909) 985-3116
PERSON CENTER PLANNING
Above is an example of a one page description of a participant “John Doe” after a Person Centered Plan has been completed. This page is a valuable tool for the participant (focus person) as well as all others who need to know how to best support him/her.
OPARC takes a person-centered thinking approach that offers flexible development programs designed to teach life, social and employment skills. Every OPARC participant is matched with a team of support professionals who advocate to help them identify and set their individual goals. A realistic plan is developed that confirms objectives to realize their goals, progress points and milestones. It is reviewed and finalized with approval from the participant.
THERE ARE MANY STEPS THAT GO INTO DEVELOPING A PERSON CENTERED PLAN FOR EACH PARTICIPANT AT OPARC.
PLEASE READ BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT THE DIFFERENT AREAS WE EXPLORE.
Relationship Map
The Relationship Map creates a picture of who is in the focus persons life, as well as their role and importance. It captures who a person knows, how they know them, who else in their circle knows them and how these networks and relationships can help a person to live the life they choose. This mapping feeds into support planning because it highlights those people who should be involved in planning and helps to discover which relationships can be strengthened and supported.
Like and Admire
This tool puts into perspective what people truly like and admire about the focus person, as well as what they like and admire about themselves. This section should include multiple perspectives from everyone in this person’s support team.
Example: Mother Sue – “I have always admired how John is just a very genuine and honest person. He has a good heart and is very giving and humble. I have always admired how kind he is and how he would do anything for anyone, just very caring. He is also creative; he enjoys building his Legos and is really skilled.”
Rituals and Routines
Rituals guide us through our days and bring consistency, comfort, and control. We create rituals or a way of going about our routines for many things. A good routine to start with is a morning ritual. We assist the focus person in writing down their morning rituals and routines.
Example: Alarm rings at 5:30AM. Usually snoozes alarm once or twice before actually getting up. “I’m not a morning person”. In the shower by 6AM, uses hot water, but showers quickly to leave enough hot water for mom. Brushes teeth, combs hair, and dresses in clothes that mom picked out the night before (Usually blue jeans and a printed t-shirt). Goes downstairs for breakfast by 6:30AM. “I like a big breakfast every morning. Mom makes whatever I want, which is usually pancakes, scrambled eggs, country potatoes, bacon, sausage or biscuits. Always with orange juice.”
Good Day/Bad Day
This tool helps to sort out and understand the important aspects of the focus person’s day to day living. It helps with understanding what is important to and for the person, to have the life that they want. We ask the person to think about their best day and then think about a bad day. What are the things that make you feel good? What are the things that are difficult for you? By looking at a bad day, this doesn’t necessarily mean there are things on there that we can fix; but it gives us information that we can look at to see if we can put actions into place to make the person have more good days than bad.
4 + 1 Questions
This tool is used when working with anyone who is earning sub-minimum wage, as well as on an individualized basis for all other program participants. The 4 + 1 questions tool is powerful when used to look at a particular aspect of someone’s life. It helps the focus person learn from their efforts and focus on next steps. It is used to evaluate a specific process and plan next steps.
It focuses discussion on four main questions:
What have we tried?
What have we learned?
What are we pleased about?
What are we concerned about?
These questions lead to the “plus 1”:
What do we need to do next?
Important TO & Important FOR Sort
This is a way to organize the information that is collected when using other tools and provided through meaningful conversation. By sorting what is learned, a deeper understanding of the person is gained, while working towards a good balance. Perspectives from the family or other members of the support team are welcomed and should be noted.
Communication Chart
This tool is used to record how people communicate, prevent information loss during staff turnover, give new people a quick reference guide, and reduce the need for behavior plans that arise from people not being listened to. It helps staff and support team understand what a person in trying to tell us and what those who support the person need to do in response. It is useful both with people who are very articulate as well as for all people who do not communicate with words.
Example:
When This Happens:
I am told that we are behind schedule
I Do This:
Don’t say very much and rush through my tasks
It Usually Means:
I am overwhelmed or feel like I am in trouble
And I Want You To:
Tell me that it is okay and offer to help me complete tasks so I won’t feel overwhelmed
Matching
Matching provides a structure to look at important “people characteristics” that the focus person desires in his or her support staff. Interests, as well as what skills and supports make for good matches are also detailed in this skill.
Matching helps managers and supervisors to identify staff and potential employees that are likely to work best with people served. It also identifies shared interests and personality characteristics that the focus person would like to have in common with their match.
Decision Making Profile
The Decision Making Profile creates a clear picture about how a person makes a decision and how they want to be supported in decision-making. It can be used alongside the decision-making agreement to help people to have a choice and control in their lives.
It is broken down into five categories
How I like to get information
How to present choices to me
Ways you can help me understand
When is the best time for me to make decisions?
When is it a bad time for me to make a decision?
Important To & How to Best Support
Now that information regarding what is important TO and what is important FOR the focus person has been gathered, sorted, and analyzed a foundation is established. This foundation consists of “the balanced” outcome of what is important To and For the focus person, as well as what others need to know to best support him/her.
This information is then used to create the One Page Description.
Other Things to Still Figure Out
How do I want my life to be?
What do I bring? (Skills, Resources, Connections)
What are my hopes and dreams
What do I want to change in my life
What are my places and community
What are our ideas?
You Can Make a Difference
First established in 1950, OPARC offers trusted programs to individuals with I/DD.
OPARC has been championing and advocating for diversity, equality, and inclusion for Adults with I/DD. We’re committed to supporting individuals in our various programs and empowering them to reach their full potential. Let’s continue to work together towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Thank you
In the month of July, Americans with disabilities celebrate Disability Pride Month across the United States. Disability Pride Month (which is not limited to just a month) is an opportunity for people to embrace their disabilities and recognize the history, experiences, achievements, and hardships of the disability community. July is also the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark legislative act that transformed the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities.
The Flag
The design of the Disability Pride Flag has undergone changes to embrace a greater sense of inclusivity towards diverse disabilities. The updated flag now incorporates stripes that symbolize solidarity among different communities. These stripes are arranged in a straight diagonal pattern, serving as a representation of overcoming the barriers that disabled individuals encounter. Additionally, this arrangement aims to evoke the concept of light piercing through darkness, symbolizing hope and progress. The parallel stripes start from the top left, known as the Canton or place of honor, and extend to the bottom right corner, known as the Fly, representing the broader world. This diagonal placement serves as a contrast to the vertical walls and horizontal ceilings that often isolate disabled people, emphasizing the flag’s message of breaking down those barriers. The design was created to include all 6 international colors, demonstrating that disabilities are far reaching and affect people across the globe. The colors are also muted and arranged to accommodate those with certain disabilities.
Right to left, the colors represent:
- Green: Sensory Disabilities
- Blue: Emotional and Physical Disabilities
- White: Non-visible and Undiagnosed Disabilities
- Gold: Neurodiversity
- Red: Physical Disabilities
Disability Pride Flag
The Celebration
Disability Pride Month was first celebrated in 1990 – the year that the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law. Signed into law by George H. W. Bush , the ADA prevents discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life including: jobs, schools, and all places, public and private, that are open to the general public. The purpose of the ADA is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Accessibility is a paramount topic and a core principle that OPARC operates on.
In 1950 a group of mothers in the Inland Empire with children that had disabilities teamed up to form OPARC. They believed that their children deserved the same opportunities as everyone else. Since then, OPARC has been supporting families and the community to help adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities reach their full potential.
Today, OPARC remains committed to the core principles of the ADA, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Building on the work of those mothers in 1950, we continue to work tirelessly in advocating for the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through our wide range of programs and services, we seek to empower these individuals, helping them integrate into the community, and providing them with the tools they need to achieve their fullest potential. By doing so, we honor the legacy of the ADA and the brave individuals who fought for its creation, and reaffirm our commitment to a world where disability does not limit opportunity.
Join OPARC in celebrating Disability Pride Month and the 33rd Anniversary of the ADA. Learn more about Disability Pride Month and the Americans with Disabilities act below
What is Williams Syndrome?
Williams Syndrome is a rare and genetic developmental disorder affecting about 1 in 10,000 individuals. Williams Syndrome is present at birth and can affect anyone and affects men and women equally. Some of the medical problems that can arise from Williams Syndrome include cardiovascular issues and developmental/learning delays. People with Williams Syndrome are often very social, friendly, and endearing. Although it affects individuals for life, early childhood diagnosis can greatly improve outcomes for people with Williams Syndrome.
There is no standard course of action for individuals with Williams Syndrome, every individual’s journey is different and unique. 80% of children who have Williams Syndrome suffer from cardiovascular issues. Other common issues that are occur in people with Williams Syndrome are gastrointestinal and kidney troubles. Treatment for these problems is ongoing and very costly. Despite these challenges, those with Williams Syndrome often demonstrate resilience, warmth, and friendliness that can inspire those around them. With the right support and medical care, they can lead meaningful lives.
Learn more about Williams Syndrome by visiting: http://williams-syndrome.org
Kristen’s Perspective: Living with Williams Syndrome
Kristen, OPARC’s Ambassador, was the first who reminded us that May is dedicated to raising awareness for Williams Syndrome. Kristen became part of the OPARC family in 2016 and has since been instrumental in various roles within the organization.
When questioned about her experience living with Williams Syndrome, Kristen distilled it to a single word: “Rollercoaster”. Among the physical challenges often faced by individuals with Williams Syndrome, Kristen grapples with cardiovascular issues. Kristen mentioned that there are times when she wishes she did not have to live with Williams Syndrome, but she is committed to not let the condition define her. Instead, she chooses to emphasize the various roles she fulfills in the lives of others: a co-worker, a cherished friend, a cousin, and an aunt. These roles bring meaning and purpose into her life.
Kristen is a lover of music, animals, and baking. She has a dream to establish her own bakery one day, intending to employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is determined to be mindful of her customers’ needs, planning to offer pastries that cater to a variety of lifestyle requirements, similar to the requirements some of her friends at OPARC have.
Kristen’s message about Williams Syndrome is a powerful one: she believes that individuals with the syndrome should be recognized and appreciated as complete individuals, not treated with bias or differentiated because of their condition.
Kristen, OPARC Ambassador
MEET NATHAN!
Nathan is an outgoing participant at OPARC and joined our Job Development program in 2020, just before the COVID pandemic. During the pandemic, Nathan took OPARC Job Development classes online and participated in mock interviews, how to apply for a job, fill out an application, customer service and more.
At OPARC, we collaborate with each participant to determine a person-centered plan which defines their individual goals and desires. We learned that Nathan’s main goal was to find a job, be successful at work, and work his way up to become a cashier. He also has his sights set to obtain his driver’s license.
Through OPARC’s work development program, Nathan interviewed at Sprouts in Rancho Cucamonga in January 2023 and was hired the next day as an Individual Placement. Nathan earns a competitive wage, and recently was honored with Employee of the Month!
Nathan stated that, “I like the support that I’m receiving from OPARC and my job coach, how friendly everyone is, and thankful that OPARC has helped me get employed”. On the job, Nathan has learned how to stock shelves, collect carts, bag groceries, put away go backs, and wants to eventually learn to be a cashier. His family is incredibly supportive and encouraging and are so proud of his decisions and work ethic.
Nathan’s co-worker at Sprouts said, “Nathan is a fast learner, friendly, has great customer service, and always wants to improve on his job tasks. He is a hard worker.”
In his free time, Nathan likes to go to the gym, enjoys morning runs with his dog, and attends Muay Thai (kick boxing classes) twice a week. He also loves to play video games and collects anime.
The future is bright for Nathan! He continues to receive training at Sprouts and is working on his goal to become a cashier in an industry he enjoys. And hopefully one day soon, he’ll be able to drive himself to work.
You Can Make a Difference
First established in 1950, OPARC offers trusted programs to individuals with I/DD.
OPARC has been championing and advocating for diversity, equality, and inclusion for Adults with I/DD. We’re committed to supporting individuals in our various programs and empowering them to reach their full potential. Let’s continue to work together towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Thank you
Web accessibility holds crucial importance for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Everyone deserves equal access to the internet’s information and services. The first step toward achieving this involves ensuring not just easy access to websites and their content but also safety for those with specific disabilities. Here is where companies like accessiBe step in. The top priority for accessiBe is to facilitate internet accessibility for all, irrespective of their abilities. They streamline the process of website compliance with accessibility laws through an easy-to-install widget that improves site accessibility. You can find this widget at the bottom left of your desktop screen or the left side of your mobile screen on the OPARC site.
Claude Foster, OPARC’s very own Director of Program Operations, appeared on accessiBe’s Spotlight Sessions. These online shows invite individuals/organizations who have significantly impacted the disability community and improved lives. OPARC earned the interview spot because of its deep history within the human services industry. Since its establishment in 1950, OPARC has emerged as an industry leader, continually pushing the boundaries to provide the best programming to the individuals it serves.
Discover more about accessiBe at: https://accessibe.com/
READ ABOUT ERIKA’S JOURNEY AND SUCCESS STORY.
Erika came to OPARC in December 2019 for assistance in finding a job and entered into our Job Development program. Because Erika lacked job experience, she was not very successful in landing interviews or getting past an initial one.
At OPARC, we work with each participant to determine a person-centered plan which defines their individual goals and desires. Erika’s goal is to get the work experience she needs to obtain competitive employment. Upon working with her, OPARC’s Integration Facilitator learned that a site preference for Erika was working at an ice cream shop. This was great since a partnership had already been developed with Daniel, the owner of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Rancho Cucamonga. Arrangements were made by our Business Services Manager and Erika’s Department of Rehabilitation counselor for her to participate in the Adult Work Experience (AWE) program through OPARC. This plan provides Erika with the opportunity to work at a business, earn a competitive wage, and add new skills to her resume.
Through AWE, Erika started paid work at Bruster’s Ice Cream. She faced some challenges when it came to divulging personal and health information to the people she worked with, and she was concerned that customers wouldn’t like her. Daniel encouraged Erika to ask for what she needed, for example, if she felt tired or didn’t understand a task. Erika learned to communicate her needs clearly and that it’s OK to ask for a break if she felt tired. Daniel wanted Erika to stay focused on her abilities rather than her challenges.
Erika’s Adult Work Training was structured around 100 hours of paid work and her family was able to transport her to and from Bruster’s. She had an OPARC job coach on site for support in learning and performing assigned tasks. Her responsibilities included prepping toppings, scooping ice cream, greeting customers, and how to take responsibility for her own timecard by signing in and out.
The owners and staff at Bruster’s enjoyed working with Erika so much that they look forward to bringing her back part time (if she’s available) in the Spring when the weather is warmer, and business picks up. “Erika learned so much and has been a great fit into our work culture and team”. On Erika’s last day of work, they had a party to thank her, let her know how much they enjoyed working with her, and they look forward to hopefully working with her again.
In her free time, Erika enjoys hanging out with her older sister, doing make-up, dancing to Salsa, listening to Spanish music and eating out! One of her favorite things to do is go out for ice cream, at Bruster’s, of course.
The future is bright for Erika! The ongoing training and paid work experience adds to her skills and enhances her resume in seeking competitive employment in an industry she enjoys.
Behind the Scenes
Erika with Bruster’s owner, Daniel
Prepping ice cream for the day
The team gifted Erika a “SquishMallow”
Gifts from Bruster’s – Great Job Erika!
The Bruster’s Team in Rancho Cucamonga
Daniel gifting Erika the official Bruster’s pins as keepsakes
You Can Make a Difference
First established in 1950, OPARC offers trusted programs to individuals with I/DD.
OPARC has been championing and advocating for diversity, equality, and inclusion for Adults with I/DD. We’re committed to supporting individuals in our various programs and empowering them to reach their full potential. Let’s continue to work together towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Thank you
Dale and Judy Briggs | 2023 Founders Award Recipients
Dale and Judy Briggs are being recognized for their long-standing dedication and support of OPARC, an organization that has been transforming the lives of adults with disabilities for over 70 years. Mary H. Boyd, one of OPARC’s founders, introduced Judy to the organization more than 30 years ago. This introduction led to a long-lasting friendship and a commitment to volunteering and supporting the organization.
Judy spent countless hours volunteering at OPARC, serving on special committees, and eventually became a member of the board of directors. She even served as board president. One of Judy’s most memorable moments was the groundbreaking ceremony for OPARC’s facility in Montclair on September 26, 2003. She recalls the outpouring of support from the community and OPARC participants. One participant even donated aluminum cans he had collected to help raise money for the new building.
One special fundraising event that Judy remembers was a breakfast where people could “buy a door”. By making a donation, your name would be placed next to one of the doors in the new building. Today, as you walk down the halls of the OPARC offices, you see the names of those who made a donation that helped build the new facility. At the center of the building’s interior on the second floor, there is a very special room, the Briggs Room. This multi-use space overlooks the employment activity area and is used for meetings, conferences, staff events, and more. It is forever dedicated to the Briggs family in recognition of their support and friendship with OPARC.
Dale and Judy continue to be vital supporters of OPARC and are members of the Leadership Circle, in recognition of their lifetime giving. Their generosity and commitment to OPARC have helped the organization to provide life-changing services and programs for adults with disabilities.
The Founders Gala on April 29 will be a chance to recognize the outstanding contributions of Dale and Judy Briggs. OPARC’s mission is to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their fullest potential, and the Briggs’ unwavering support has been a significant factor in the success of that mission.
The story of Dale and Judy Briggs is a testament to the power of volunteerism, generosity, and dedication. They have been instrumental in the growth and success of OPARC, and their tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals with disabilities. Their commitment to OPARC serves as an inspiration to others to get involved and make a difference in their communities. We congratulate them on receiving the OPARC Founders Award, our highest honor, and thank them for their unwavering support.