5048A Format For Alidz - The Arc of Prince George`s County

The Maryland Respite Care Coalition (MRCC)
HONORARY CHAIRPERSON
U.S. CONGRESSMAN ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS
Proudly Representing Maryland’s 7th District
12th Annual
CONFERENCE
October 26, 2009
MARITIME INSTITUTE CONFERENCE CENTER
692 Maritime Boulevard
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
410-859-5700
“RESPITE: STOP TALKING AND START DOING”
The theme for this year’s conference is a call to all of us to come together and to create a campaign of passionate advocacy action that will increase
public awareness of the need for quality respite for the caregiver. As a valuable and cost effective tool, respite has proven to be a source of wellness, a
provider of peace of mind, and an opportunity for the caregiver to receive an improved quality of life, even if it is only for a limited time.
2009 Conference Co-Chairs: Michelle Hart & Alidz T. Khachaturian
The Keynote Address: “A Dream Fulfilled.”
Biographical Sketch on Levi Watkins, Jr.
About the Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. is the Associate Dean of the Johns Hopkins University of School of Medicine and full Professor of Cardiac Surgery. He is the first
African American to achieve these positions at Hopkins. Dr. Watkins was the third of six children born to Dr. and Mrs. Levi Watkins of Montgomery,
Alabama. He received his elementary and secondary education from the Alabama State Laboratory High School where he graduated valedictorian.
Growing up in Alabama exposed him to widespread prejudice and to the early civil rights movement. He initially attended First Baptist Church of
Montgomery and became close friends with his pastor, Dr. Ralph David Abernathy and family; later he attended Dexter Avenue Baptist Church where
he was first introduced to Martin Luther King, Jr. and his family.
After graduating from high school, he attended Tennessee State University where he majored in biology and continued the development of his political
interests by becoming president of the student body.
In 1966 he integrated the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, becoming the first black ever admitted and the first black to graduate from that
institution. He was later honored by that institution by being selected to become a member of Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. In June 1998,
he was honored again being awarded the Vanderbilt Medal of Honor for outstanding alumni. Further recognition came in October 2002, when Vanderbilt established a Professorship
and Associate Deanship in his name because of his work for diversity in medical education. In October 2005 his portrait was unveiled at the School of Medicine, honoring his life’s
work and commitment to Vanderbilt. In October 2008, he received the university’s “Most Distinguished Alumnus Award.”
In 1970 he went to Johns Hopkins Hospital as a surgical intern and in 1978 became the first black chief resident in cardiac surgery at that institution. He interrupted his surgical
training between 1973 and 1975 to develop his research interest at the Harvard Medical School Department of Physiology. There he defined the role of the renin-angiotensin
system during congestive heart failure. This and other work led to the clinical use of angiotensin blockers in the treatment of congestive heart failure today.
After completing residency, he joined the full time faculty in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at Johns Hopkins. Since joining the faculty, Levi has pursued several different interests,
both professional and political. Professionally, he performed the world’s first human implantation of the automatic implantable defibrillator in February of 1980 and subsequently
developed several different techniques for the implantation of this device. To date, over 1 million devices have been implanted and the lives of approximately 2/3 of these patients have
been saved with this treatment. He has also helped develop the cardiac arrhythmia service at Hopkins where various new open-heart techniques are now being performed to treat
patients at risk of sudden cardiac death.
His interest in worldwide human rights led him to initiate the annual Martin Luther King commemoration at Johns Hopkins University. He has brought to the program many world
leaders among whom are Nobel Laureate Desmond Tutu, Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III, Mayor Andrew Young, Harry Belafonte, Maya Angelou, Benjamin Hooks, and
Zenani Mandela Dlamini, daughter of Nelson and Winnie Mandela. While the program honors King, it focuses attention on global humanitarian issues. Because of his work in
both medicine and human rights, the Sojourner-Douglass College conferred upon him the Doctorate of Humane Letters in July 1988. In May 1989 a second doctorate was
conferred by Meharry Medical College. In May 1996 he received a third doctorate from Spelman College. In May of 1997, he along with President William Clinton received
a doctorate from Morgan State University.
In 1986 he, along with Oprah Winfrey, was named Baltimore’s Best by then Mayor William Donald Schaffer. In April of 1993 his life and work were featured on national
television on PBS’ New Explorers program entitled “A Dream Fulfilled.”: In 1996 his life was featured again on Maryland Public TV. In June 1999, he was the recipient of the Johns
Hopkins University Alumni Association Heritage Award for exceptional contributions and devotion of the university. In May 2000, he was honored nationally by the Guidant
Corporation for his pioneering work on the automatic defibrillator. In December 2008, he was honored by the National Black Caucus of State Legislatures with the Nation Builders
Awards, along with President-Elect Barack Obama and James H. Meredith.
U.S. Congressman Elijah E. Cummings - Honorary Chairperson
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, where he still resides today. He obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in
Political Science from Howard University, serving as Student Government President and graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and then graduated from the
University of Maryland School of Law.
Congressman Cummings has dedicated his life of service to uplifting and empowering the people he is sworn to represent. He began his career of
public service in the Maryland House of Delegates, where he served for sixteen years and became the first African American in Maryland
history to be named Speaker Pro Tem. First sworn in as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996, Congressman Cummings has proudly
represented Maryland’s 7th District for seven terms.
The Congressman often says that our children are the living messages that we send to a future we will never see. In that vein, he is committed to ensuring
that our next generation has access to quality healthcare and education, clean air and water, and a strong economy defined by fiscal responsibility.
Congressman Cummings is a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where he sits on the Subcommittees
on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials and Aviation and serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation.
In his role as Chairman, Congressman Cummings oversees the implementation of the U.S. Coast Guard’s FY2009 $9.6 billion budget. He has made it a
priority to ensure that the Coast Guard has the infrastructure and resources to successfully balance its critical homeland security missions with other crucial missions, including
interdicting drugs before they reach America’s shores and conducting search and rescue missions and ensuring the safety of the U.S. maritime transportation system. He has also been
working to increase diversity within the Service and the Coast Guard Academy and strengthen the acquisition management process to ensure that our taxpayer dollars are used
effectively and efficiently.
Congressman Cummings is also a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. As the main investigative committee in the House of
Representatives, Oversight and Government Reform has jurisdiction to investigate any federal program and any matter with federal policy implications. Congressman Cummings is
committed to and has played an active role in eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in, in order to fully and responsibly utilize every taxpayer dollar. He sits on the Subcommittees
on Domestic Policy and on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia.
The Congressman is also a member of the Joint Economic Committee and the House Task Force on Health Care Reform. He is a former Chairman and current member of the Congressional
Black Caucus, and is a co-founder and Chairman of the Congressional Caucus on Drug Policy. He is also a member of the Progressive, Port Security, and Get-out-of-Iraq Caucuses.
Congressman Cummings serves on numerous boards and commissions. He is spearheading an effort to strengthen the Maritime curriculum at the Maritime Academy in Baltimore.
MRCC Board
Alidz T. Khachaturian, President
Patrice R. Wamsley, Vice President
Elizabeth Weglein, Treasurer, Elizabeth Cooney Agency
Michelle Hart, Secretary, Family Caregiver
Dorinda A. Adams, MD/DHR
Felicia French, MD/DOA
Karen Oliver, Arc of Prince George’s County
Linda Ramsey, Friends of Family
Advisory Council
Paul Brylske, Kennedy Kreiger Institute
Karen Hoffman, CPA, Kahler and Associates, PC
John Kardys, formerly MD/DHR
Ara Khachaturian, Ph.D, KRA, Inc.
Eric Levey, MD, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Amy Meyerl, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Constance L. Urquhart, MD/DHMH/DDA
Conference Planning Committee
Co-Chairs: Alidz T. Khachaturian and Michelle Hart
Amy Meyerl, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Connie L. Urquhart, MD/DHMH
Dorinda A. Adams, MD/DHR
Elizabeth Weglein, Elizabeth Cooney Agency
Eric B. Levey, MD, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Felicia French, MD/DOA
Janet Kurland, Jewish Family Services, Inc.
Janice Palko-Jenkins, Bello Machre, Inc.
Joseph Anastasio, The Arc of Baltimore
Karen Oliver, ARC of Prince George’s County
Karen Imhoff, Bello Machre, Inc.
Kim Bennardi, MD/DHMH
Linda Ramsey, Friends of Family
Lisa Shenkle, Verb! Communications
Mary Anne Kane-Breschi, Maggie’s Light Foundation, Inc.
Patrice Wamsley, MRCC
Rebecca Rienzi, Pathfinders for Autism
Shayna Street, Montgomery County HHS
2009 MRCC Conference Sponsors and
Community Partners
ABC Printers • The ARC of Baltimore • The ARC of Prince
George’s County • Bello Machre, Inc. • The
Coordinating Center • Developmental Disabilities
Administration • Elizabeth Cooney Agency • Friends of
the Family • Jewish Family Services, Inc. • Kennedy
Krieger Institute • Kahler and Associates, PC • KRA, Inc.
• Maggie’s Light Foundation, Inc. • Maryland
Department of Aging • Maryland Developmental
Disabilities Council • Maryland Department of
Disabilities • Maryland Department of Education/Early
Intervention Services • Maryland Department of Health
and Mental Hygiene • Maryland Department of Human
Resources • Maryland Department of Juvenile Justice •
Montgomery County Department of Health and Human
Services • Office of Genetics and Children with Special
Health Care Needs • Pathfinders for Autism • Verb!
Communications
Maryland Respite Care Coalition
12th Annual
CONFERENCE
“RESPITE: STOP TALKING AND START DOING”
October 26, 2009
Conference Agenda
8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
Registration/Continental Breakfast/Exhibits
8:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Opening Remarks
MRCC President Alidz Khachaturian
U.S. Congressman Elijah E. Cummings
Conference Honorary Chairperson
(Invited Speakers)
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr.
10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Break/Exhibiting/Networking
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Morning Workshops
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch
1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Afternoon Workshops
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Break/Exhibiting/Networking
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Closing Commentary
“Laughing is the Best Medicine”
Nira Berry, President of Laughing Rx
3:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Awards/Evaluations • CEU’s • 3 Super Door Prizes (must be present)
“RESPITE: STOP TALKING AND START DOING”
Morning Workshops
10:45 – 12:00
A-1 and *P-1
“A Workshop on Sexuality”
Presenter: Joseph Anastasio, The Arc of Baltimore
Moderator: Michelle Hart
Session Description:
This is a two hour workshop. Through a formal presentation and some experiential exercises, this session will provide participants the
opportunity to hear about and discuss sexuality and socialization resources related to people with disabilities. This is a sensitive and
delicate topic & this session will allow for an open dialogue, and help guide individuals in accessing community resources.
Learning Objectives:
1. Acknowledge what parents and caregivers can offer in terms of guidance related to sexuality and people with disabilities.
2. Describe key components of a sexuality training program related to people with disabilities.
3. Identify helpful community resources related to sexuality issues and people with disabilities.
About the Presenter:
Joseph Anastasio is currently the Assistant Executive Director with The Arc of Baltimore, overseeing The Family & Children’s Division. For over 12
years he was the residential director for the same agency. He has facilitated training sessions in the area of conflict resolution for the last 16 years.
He has facilitated groups around the area of “grief and bereavement.” Joseph is a trained mediator and volunteers in this capacity in Baltimore for
The Community Mediation Program. Joseph also currently works part time as a psychotherapist with school aged children.
A-2 and *P-2
“Keeping Active is the Key to Quality Dementia Care”
Presenter: Gail E. Sonnesso, MS, Founder and Executive Director GEM Adult Day Services, Inc
Moderator: Dorinda Adams
Session Description:
This is a two hour workshop. Difficult behaviors exhibited by people with dementia can be successfully addressed by: 1) Knowing the person; 2)
Knowing the disease process; 3) Working collaboratively with caregivers: both family and professional; 4) Matching the person’s current abilities
with appropriate tasks; 5) Knowing the disease is progressive. Learn about our day respite program that cares for both the caregiver and the
person with dementia. Learn skills that give families better choices and a higher quality of life for both caregiver and the person with dementia.
Learning Objectives:
1) The effectiveness of behavioral interventions in treating the psychological and behavioral disturbances associated with dementia – and how to
address/avoid psychosis and agitation/aggression.
2) Know why behavioral disturbances affect patients and caregivers as much as memory deficits and that may influence quality of life, and the
need for institutionalization, mortality, and caregiver.
3) Know the basic tools/interventions to address the behavioral disturbances that are associated with dementia.
About the Presenter:
Gail Sonnesso, MS has worked with older disabled adults since 1984. Her background includes clinical physical therapy, Occupational Therapy,
and Recreational therapy. Gail is the Founder and Executive Director GEM Adult Day Services, Inc. Developed and Taught “Caring Effectively” to
family caregivers, professional caregivers, student nurses, GEM staff & volunteers, Dare Respite Care directors and the community at large.
A-3
“Advocacy: Learn to Master the Grassroots Game”
Presenters: Sue F. Ward, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Director of Grassroots, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare;
Michael Lachance, Legislative Liaison, Maryland Department of Aging;
Michele Douglas, Long-time Advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association
Moderator: Alidz T. Khachaturian
Session Description:
Advocacy for a cause requires persistence, patience, and knowledge of the facts. Unpaid family caregivers need temporary, adequate, affordable
and easily accessible community based respite care services. To maximize your effectiveness as a spokesperson seeking support and leverage for
greater respite care services, attend this workshop led by experienced professionals with long-time advocacy credentials to better understand the
tools of communication in speaking to legislators and policy makers as well as the general public.
Learning Objectives:
1) How to prepare for a meeting with your representative.
2) Targeting your questions to three or four key speaking points.
3) What action to take after your meeting.
About the Presenters:
Sue F. Ward is the Grassroots Director, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare. Prior positions include Secretary, Maryland
Department of Aging, Director of the Department of Family Services and Director of the Department of Aging for Prince George’s County,
Maryland. She was president of both the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) and the National Association of State Units on
Aging (NASUA), a Commissioner of the American Bar Association Commission on Legal Problems of the Elderly (now the Commission on Law
and Aging), Chair of the Board of Hospice of Prince George’s County and a founding member of the Maryland Intergenerational Coalition. She is
the immediate Past President of the Maryland Gerontological Association and a member of Southern Prince George’s Business and Professional
Women. She serves on the Advisory Board of the National Catholic Center on Global Aging, the Boards of Directors of Nexus Health of Top
Banana, the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center and OWL (formerly the Older Women’s’ League.) Sue studied government at the College of
William and Mary and the University of Beirut, Lebanon, and majored in social work at McGill University, Montreal, receiving a Masters Degree
in Social Work from the University of Utah, Salt Lake City in 1961. Sue is a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, a Licensed
Certified Social Worker (Maryland), and a Board Certified Diplomat in Clinical Social Work by the American Board of Examiners.
Michael (Mike) Lachance currently served as the Legislative Liason to the Maryland Department of Aging’, a position he has held for over
twenty years. Mike also provides staff support to the Commission on Aging, the Oversight Committee on Quality of Care in Nursing Homes and
Assisted Living, and the Council on Quality of Care at End of Life. Earlier positions at the Department included: Principal Planner; Legal Services
Developer; and Planning Specialist, with a concentration in health insurance and consumer education. Mike has worked in the field of aging
services for three decades. Direct service positions included establishing food cooperatives in Senior Citizen High Rise Housing in Baltimore City
for the Urban Services Agency and Directed the “Campaign Against Crime for Older Baltimoreans”, which included Crime Prevention Education
and Victim Assistance Services for the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education. He is a graduate of Towson State University
(Magna Cum Laude), where he majored in Psychology and Sociology. Mike is also a decorated combat veteran who served in the 101st Airborne
(Airmobile) Division in Vietnam.
Michele Douglas, the most recent partner of Public Policy Partners, an Annapolis firm, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in
government relations, legislative and regulatory strategy, and coalition building. Michele has worked for over 20 years, both in government and
the non-profit sector, successfully advocating for funding, policies, and programs across a wide-array of issues. Michele’s successes have spanned
both fiscal and legislative initiatives across health, aging, disability and human services, and education. Most recently, Michele served as the State
Policy Director for the Maryland Chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association, where she was recognized on both the state and national level as a
leader for her work to expand access and ensure quality in the growing long-term care industry. She successfully championed a change in the
state’s Medicaid policy to provide necessary access to the state’s long-term care program for individuals with cognitive impairments; opening
access for individuals with dementia that had been denied for the previous thirteen years. Michele also led the effort that resulted in an
additional $2 million for local jurisdictions to help offset costs related to the implementation of the Medicare Part D drug program. She served as
the Chair of the Maryland Senior Citizens Action Network, the statewide coalition dedicated to advocating for Maryland seniors. Michele served
as the Director of Public Policy for the AIDS Administration, in the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where she led efforts to
support policies and programs to treat and prevent HIV and AIDS. During her time at the state AIDS Administration, Michele was responsible for
overhauling regulations, crafting and passing legislation to develop statewide programs for individuals with HIV/AIDS, and preserving the agency’s
funding from budget cuts. In addition to her expertise in health and human services, Michele has a long history of successfully advocating for the
civil rights of individuals. As an independent lobbyist, Michele’s clients included the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and the AIDS
Legislative Committee. During this time, she successfully worked to pass the Thornton funding plan for K-12 public education and was
instrumental in acquiring supplemental state funds for new and emerging drug therapies for individuals with HIV/AIDS. She worked for over
six years for Planned Parenthood of Maryland, helping to lead the statewide efforts in women’s reproductive health issues and winning
national recognition for her efforts. Michele brings decades of experience and positive relationships with legislators, key staff, and members
of the executive branch. She is well-respected for her expertise, integrity, and skill in government relations.
A-4
“Not Just for Women Anymore: The Role of the Male Caregiver in Today’s Society.”
Presenters: John Stewart, Executive Director, Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education
Ralph Rizzo, President of R&R Events
Moderator: TBD
Session Description:
Men have taken on the traditional role that was previously relegated to women. This workshop will focus on the unique experiences and perspectives of men taking care of loved ones in their families on a day to day basis.
Learning Objectives:
1) The Significance of the Role of Male Caregiver in Today’s Society.
2) The Challenges of Being a Male Caregiver.
3) Resources For Male Caregivers.
About the Presenters:
John Stewart is currently the Executive Director of the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education. He is helping to reshape
present thinking about how cities can meet the needs of older citizens. As founder of the Baltimore based think-tank on aging, John has helped
to create a blue print for how cities can best meet the wide-range needs of older Americans.
Ralph Rizzo, President and CEO of R&R Events has been a leader in the high-end event design and production industries. His work in this arena
is greatly respected by his clients and peers. He was the sole caregiver for his mother who was diagnosed with multi-infarct dementia beginning
in 1990 till her death in 1998. What began as a few hours a day turned into 12 to 16 hour days with some round the clock days as well. As her
sole caregiver, Mr. Rizzo received occasional respite from his sister. He continued to ensure that his mother receive the best of care when he
finally had to place her in a nursing home against his best intentions. He visited her daily during the last six months of her life in the nursing home.
Mr. Rizzo will be sharing his experiences of being his mother’s caregiver for eight years
A-5
“Latinas as Caregivers-The New Face of America”
Presenter: Jose Jimenez is Program Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Maryland Chapter
Moderator: Felicia French
Session Description:
An overview of the Latina/Hispanic community will be given including the challenges faced with the migration of Latinas from other countries
coming to Baltimore and what they deal with in trying to give care to their loved ones and in trying to access services within their communities.
Learning Objectives:
1) Overview of the Latina/Hispanic Community in Baltimore.
2) Challenges faced by population in giving care to loved ones.
3) Challenges in serving this community to help access services for their loved ones.
About the Presenter:
Jose Jimenez was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and relocated to the United States at age twelve. He completed his formal
studies in Maryland, having attended University of Baltimore and Coppin State University. He is married to Judith Jimenez and is the father
of two sons, Jared 14 and Jeremy 10. He has spent most of his youth and adult life watching his mother and all of his aunts’ work as
caregivers for the elderly in the Hispanic community in New York City. This inspired him, as well as, directed his career choices towards the
human services field. Prior to working for the Alzheimer’s Association, he worked as a Program Manager for the Baltimore City Commission
on Aging & Retirement Education (CARE) Family Caregiver’s Program. There he worked with Baltimore City caregivers and kinship caregivers
in providing and developing services to enhance their lives and the lives of their loved ones. Currently, Mr. Jimenez is the Program Director
at the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Maryland Chapter, where he is responsible for the services and programs that the chapter provides to
thousand of Maryland families who call for assistance throughout the State of Maryland.
A-6 ROOM Auditorium “Developmental Disabilities Administration-Explaining Respite”
Presenter: Kimberly D. Gscheidle, Director, DDA Eastern Shore Regional Office
Moderator: Kim Bennardi
Session Description:
Understand how the Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) is one state agency that provides funding to support people with
developmental disabilities and their families to access supports, including respite care. The DDA system and how it administers support to
families will be explained so that caregivers can gain a bigger picture perspective on how respite for people with developmental disabilities
is funded and obtained.
Learning Objectives:
1) Understand how funds for respite for people with developmental disabilities are administered through the Developmental Disabilities Administration.
2) Know about other state agencies that provide funding for respite.
3) Be provided with examples of how respite care may be obtained via local resources for persons with developmental disabilities.
About the Presenter:
Kimberly D. Gscheidle is the Eastern Shore Regional Director for the Developmental Disabilities Administration, a position she has held for the
past ten (10) years. Prior to assuming this position she was the Director of Family Services and Advocacy for the Arc of Southern Maryland along
with other leadership positions during her 20 year tenure with The Arc of Southern Maryland which included serving as the Director for St. Mary’s
County Services and Director of Community Education and Family Services. Under her direction, the agency won national and international
recognition for the quality and innovativeness of their family support services. Kim was recognized by The Arc of Southern Maryland in 1993 as
the first recipient of the Jerry D. Kiracofe Leadership Award. She came to community based services early on as a live-in staff person for the
Montgomery County Association for Retarded Citizens from 1978 to 1979. She began her career in 1977 at the Lynchburg Training School and
Hospital in Lynchburg, Virginia. Kim has a BA in Psychology from the University of Florida.
RESPITE: “STOP TALKING AND START DOING“
Afternoon Workshops
1:00 -2:15
*P-1
Second Hour of A-1 – Refer to the morning sessions
*P-2
Second Hour of A-2 – Refer to the morning sessions
P-3
“Community Works”
Presenter: Mary Anne Kane-Breschi, Co-Founder & President Maggie’s Light Foundation, Inc
Moderator: Michelle Hart
Session Description:
Join us! Learn how “Community Works” can help you to find college and graduate students studying Occupational Therapy, Special Education,
Nursing, Speech Therapy and other related fields, to work as caregivers with your children and young adults with developmental disabilities.
Learning Objectives:
1) Parents / Providers will recognize the benefits to employing students studying in related fields. Specifically when the benefits are experienced
by the child or young adult with developmental disabilities the parents and the extended family, and the student as well as the university in
which the student is enrolled will better understand how the dynamics of interaction can further advance awareness.
2) How to write and post and ad on the “Community Works” website page.
3) How to obtain funding for respite and ongoing support services.
About the Presenter:
Mary Anne Kane Breschi has work in the field of disability for eleven years in both local and statewide capacities. She is currently the President/Cofounder of the Maggie’s Light Foundation, a foundation on a mission to help families caring for children and young adults with special needs
thrive! Mary Anne and her husband Michael have four children. Their youngest, Maggie, has multiple disabilities. For years, they struggled to
obtain family support services, and once they did, “they went from being a family that was barely surviving to one that is thriving.”
P-4
“What about me? - Leave No Sibling Behind!”
Presenter: Brooke Kaiser is the Respite Services Director for Easter Seals Greater-Washington Baltimore Region.
Moderator: TBD
Session Description:
Is your child impacted by having a sibling with a disability? Typically developing siblings often feel left out, neglected, angry, and burdened. Respite
is not only important for the caregiver and the child with special needs, but also for the sibling. We will discuss inclusion respite benefits for the whole
family, the emotions a sibling may feel and how to help them, and how to determine which type of respite is most beneficial for your family.
Learning Objectives:
1) Understand the toll of having a sibling with a disability and how you can help turn a toll to a benefit for the typically developing child.
2) Gain insight on what you can offer the typically developing child.
3) Know and understand the benefits of respite for the whole family.
About the Presenter:
Brooke Kaiser is the Respite Services Director for Easter Seals Greater-Washington Baltimore Region. She has been with Easter Seals for 3 years
and has expanded the Respite Program in new and innovative ways to include different types of respite services which benefit the family as a
whole and the community. Brooke believes in inclusion respite for the typically developing sibling and the child who has a disability or
special need. Brooke is also a part of Easter Seals National Panel on Autism training which designed and implemented a six module Autism
training curriculum.
P-5
“Baby Boomers and Seniors as Caregivers: Dealing with Stress”
Presenter: Annette Butler: Facilitator, Motivational Speaker and Senior Leisure Coordinator.
Moderator: Felicia French
Session Description:
How to stop talking about the stress of caregiving and start doing some of the small things that can help to alleviate your stress. Learn how to make
changes to reduce stress in any caregiving situation.
Learning Objectives:
1) How to identify themselves as caregivers.
2) How to identify their stressors.
3) How to make changes to reduce their stress.
About the Presenter:
Annette Butler has affected the Baltimore City community for over 40 years in professional and private life. As a visionary leader for the Wings
of Wisdom Senior Ministry at New Psalmist Baptist Church, her focus is on the plight of family caregivers and older adults. While heading this
devoted group, she develops programs that offer resources, services, and respite for overwhelmed family caregivers. Ms. Butler’s impact extends
to the Baltimore City Health Department’s Senior Companion Program. As an original founding member of the Baltimore City Caregiver Coalition,
Annette has influenced the training, curriculum development, linkage of resources, and supportive networks for caregivers in the Baltimore
Metropolitan area. A recipient of the 2006 Dr. Wilma Mae Kilkenny Gerontology Award from Morgan State University, Annette Butler was part of
the Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame 2007 induction class. The Fullwood Foundation also recognized her as a Valued Hours Volunteer in
January 2008 and is the winner of the 2008 MRCC Adams Presidential Award.
P-6 ROOM Auditorium “Respite and Mental Health Promotion”
Presenter: Lisa Palmer, Respite Program Coordinator, Mental Health Association of Maryland.
Diane Megargel, Director of the “Mental Health Players” for the Mental Health Association of Maryland.
“The Mental Health Players” for the Mental Health Association of Maryland.
Moderator: TBD
Session Description:
The session will consist of 3 skits that will be designed to promote the mental health benefit of respite for caregivers and other family members.
Because of the stress and demands of providing care for a child or adult with mental illness a caregiver can struggle with their own feelings of
loss, grief, depression or anxiety. Since many of these concerns apply to caregivers across age groups and disabilities this workshop would be
appropriate for anyone interested in the overall mental health benefits of respite. The skits will be informational, while also engaging the audience
in an interactive and skill building process.
Learning Objectives:
1) Understand the mental and emotional toll of caregiving.
2) Learn ways that respite can promote good mental health.
3) Recognize the mental health benefits of respite across the lifespan.
About the Presenters:
Lisa Palmer is the Respite Program Coordinator for the Mental Health Association of Maryland.
Diane Megargel has been involved in all forms of theater since the 1950’s. She has appeared as Miss Diane “Romper Room,” has worked with an
international group of actors, produced a debating show on TV, and taught acting to kids for B’nai Brith. In addition, she has worked for the
American Management Association, traveling and conducting seminars on the topic of communication. She currently acts as a docent for the
American Visionary Arts Museum, performs as a “standardized patient” as part of trainings for interns at area hospitals and has volunteered with
the Mental Health Players as an actor and director since 1999.
“The Mental Health Players” is a program of the Mental Health Association of Maryland that for over 20 years has helped a variety of
organizations educate and enlighten their members. Using role play and facilitated lively audience participation, the actors address issues tailored
to meet the needs of each group.
Closing Commentary
2:30 – 3:30
“Laughing Exercise Seminar”
Presenter: Nira Berry, President of Laughter Rx
Session Description: : Laughter Yoga is an ideal exercise that helps one to accept challenges and provides relief from negative feelings.
About the Presenter
Nira Berry is a certified Laughing Yoga Leader and Teacher Trainer. She believes that living and caring for someone with a disability is a huge challenge
and at times hard to deal with – one might have to make certain adjustments in his or her life and find alternate ways to fulfill goals without slipping into
realms of depression and frustration.
“Visit the Massage Clinic”
Our Mission
The Maryland Respite Care Coalition (MRCC)
The mission of the Maryland Respite Care Coalition is to promote and support quality respite care that enhances and strengthens family unity
throughout the lifespan. MRCC is an influential voice for increasing public awareness of the escalating need for quality respite care. Through its
sponsorship of the Annual Awareness Day Conferences in the State of Maryland, MRCC has established a successful, ongoing forum for individuals, caregivers, providers, advocates and policymakers to share information, experiences, and training in creating effective programs to assist and
empower families with respite requirements.
Our Values
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Persons receiving and providing respite shall be treated with dignity, respect and sensitivity.
Services shall be inclusive across the lifespan.
Services shall be consumer driven and individually chosen.
Competent respite services shall be affordable, reliable and flexible for both planned and unplanned needs.
Care shall be available in the individual’s community.
Collaborative efforts shall be promoted and nurtured.
Our Vision
All families needing respite care receive individually designed quality service that is affordable and accessible.
MRCC is making a difference! Working on behalf of all caregivers,
MRCC added it’s strong support to a statewide initiative in 2001 that
resulted in the successful passage of legislation by the Maryland
General Assembly which created the Maryland Caregivers Support
Coordinating Council.
You, too, can make a difference! By becoming a member and actively
contributing to a number of MRCC standing committees, you will add
your voice, your skills, and your experiences to a growing Coalition
focused on respite care needs of caregivers. The Coalition is engaged
in a number of proposals aimed at improving communications with
caregivers and providers. It is a fact that family caregivers delay and
prevent costly institutional care. With that in mind, you can help by
becoming a supportive advocate for quality respite care.
For more information on MRCC, please call 240-453-9585
www.respitecoalition.org
MRCC is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit. • Fed. Tax ID #52-2212341
REGISTRATION
Please detach and mail completed
Registration Form
with enclosed check made payable to:
Deadline: October 16, 2009
MRCC
Registrations with full payment must be received by October 16.
451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 119, Box 166
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Walk-In or late registrations will be charged an additional $25.00
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CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
(Please print all information)
Name
Title
Company/Agency
Address
City
State
Email
Zip
Phone
WORKSHOP CHOICES
(Please check one per session. Be sure to select an alternate in the event your first choice is full.)
❑ A1
❑ A2
❑ A3
❑ A4
❑ A5
❑ A6
❑ alternate
Afternoon Session: ❑ P1
❑ P2
❑ P3
❑ P4
❑ P5
❑ P6
❑ alternate
Morning Session:
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FEE CATEGORIES
• Professional
(Category One CEU’s will be made available)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $155.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . $
• Family Caregiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $60.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
TOTAL DUE . . . . . . . . . . $
PLEASE NOTE:
* Closing date for registering by mail with full payment is October 16, 2009
* Late payments and late registrations will be charged an additional $25 * Your cancelled check is your receipt!
Register and WIN one of the 10 MRCC Gift Certificates for Respite Valued at $125 each!!!
Plus an added chance to WIN one of three major Door Prizes!!! (Must be present)
Visit the MRCC BOOTH for more FREE prizes and General Information.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON:
Financial Assistance for conference fees for family caregivers • Special Accommodations • MRCC Membership
Please call MRCC at 240-453-9585, or e-mail
Michelle Hart ([email protected]) or Alidz Khachaturian ([email protected])
Conference Co-Chairs
MRCC is a 501c3 non-profit • Fed. Tax ID 52-2212341
Blank Page for the Back of Registration Page
Directions to the 12th Annual Respite Awareness Conference
Maritime Institute of Technology (MITAGS)
692 Maritime Boulevard
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
Building: 3, North Academic Building
Parking Lot: A
1. Southbound (from Baltimore):
3. From Eastern Shore:
Take Baltimore/Washington Parkway South (MD 295) to West
Nursery Road exit. Turn left at stoplight onto West Nursery Road. Go
to the first accessible light and turn left onto International Blvd. Go to
the first street and turn left onto Aero Drive. Proceed 2 blocks and
through gate onto MITAGS property (turn right onto Maritime Blvd).
Conference Center is approximately 200 yards ahead on the left.
Make a left through parking lots C and B and into lot A.
Take Rte. 50 West to I-97 north to MD 100 West to the
Baltimore/Washington Parkway North (MD 295). Proceed as in #2
above.
2. Northbound (from Washington area):
Take the Baltimore/Washington Parkway North (MD 295) to the
West Nursery Rd. exit, (just after BWI exit.) Bear right at end of ramp,
onto Nursery Road. Go to the first accessible light and turn left onto
International Drive. Go to First Street and turn left onto Aero Drive.
Proceed two blocks and through gate onto MITAGS property (turn
right onto Maritime Blvd). Conference Center is approximately 200
yards ahead on the left. Make a left through parking lots C and B and
into lot A.
4. From Western Maryland:
Take 70 to the Baltimore Beltway South (695) to exit 7, Baltimore
/Washington Parkway (MD 295). Proceed as in # 1 above.
5. From Southern Maryland:
Take MD 301 North to MD-100 West to the Baltimore/Washington
Parkway North (MD 295). Proceed as in #2 above.
6. From North via I-95 Using the Fort McHenry Tunnel:
Head South through Ft. McHenry Tunnel, stay on I-95 South to third
exit after tunnel. Take MD-295 Baltimore/Washington Parkway
South. Proceed as in #1 above.
Check us out on the web:
www.respitecoalition.org
Maryland Respite Care Coalition, Inc. (MRCC)
451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 119
P.O. Box 166
Rockville, MD 20850
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage Paid
Easton, MD
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