Moving Forward - Casa Allegra Community Services

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Human Race
Sat. May 7, 7am to noon
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35 Mitchell Blvd., Suite 8
San Rafael, CA 94903
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SAN RAFAEL, CA
PERMIT NO. 150
16th Annual Benefit
Bocce Tournament
Marin Bocce Courts
Sat. Oct. 1, 9am to 2pm
From Top Left: At the 40th Anniversary Recognition Event – Pati Stoliar & Robin Sloan, Patti, Joelle & Richurd Somers; Ginny Wolff, Mia Brown, Carolyn Green; Jared Jordon hiking at Tomales beach
Inside: Moving Forward
Moving Forward by Chris Bonfiglio;
At Kaila’s Quincineara............................................................ 5
Al Farbstein Elected Board President;
Caitlin – An Artist’s Life; Donna In New Orleans;
Co-Workers, Friends, Good Guys! Elijah & Jesus........... 1
Meet Shaun Duncan, Day Services Manager................... 6
Welcome Anriette Brissaud-Kunst to Board;
Walk, Roll, Fundraise! Bay Area Human Race 2016 Insert
CACS Annual Financial Report............................................ 2
Gavin–Home Runs to Runway............................................. 7
Diane’s Journey from Hospice to Rehabilitation.............. 3
Bocce Memories 2015........................................................... 8
40th Anniversary Recognition Event................................... 4
Holiday Party Memories 2015.............................................. 9
Supported Life Conference 2015;
Dusty’s Puppets + Foster Children;.................................... 5
Volunteers................................................................................10
Grants & Donations, In Honor & In Memory....................11
2016 Vol. 12 No. 1 • [email protected] • www.CasaAllegra.org • (415) 499-1116
Moving Forward by Chris Bonfiglio, Executive Director
I
am proud to say that I believe we are
going into 2016 with a sense of renewal
and excitement. In 2015 we celebrated 40
years with recognition to our achievements.
Behind the scenes there were many
transitions in management including
key staff and directors’ retiring, moving
and changing positions. We moved to an
automated time and attendance payroll
system with a steep learning curve for all.
I am happy to say we survived. We have
an outstanding management team and
are financially stable in spite of painfully
inadequate funding
As we move into 2016 our goal is to
assure that CACS continues for the next
40 years. At the board level, work is being
done to prepare the agency for future
transitions and assure the committees are
relevant and functional. At the management
level our goals revolve around making sure
we are supporting people in our living
services in the most individual way possible,
looking at the needs of the seniors we
support, and assuring appropriate medical
oversight for those requiring close medical
monitoring. For those we support during
Al Farbstein,
Board President
A
Chris Bonfiglio & Al Farbstein 8.27.15
the day (and sometimes the night and
weekends) we want to make sure they have
an array of choices and are earning income
if they so desire, engaged in the community
through volunteerism, hobbies, and/or
classes.
In this newsletter you will read about
our celebrations since the last newsletter
and hear about staff and board changes.
You will read about Donna’s visit to family
in New Orleans, Dusty’s connection to the
Marin Foster Parents Association, Caitlin,
the artist, Gavin’s walk on the runway and
Diane’s amazing journey from Hospice to
recovery.
I look forward to working side by side
with you all in 2016.
llan Farbstein was recently
elected CACS Board President.
Al is CACS’ Financial Consultant
and has served on the Financial
Advisory Board for over 8 years.
Al is a San Francisco native and
attended St. Ignatius Prep and USF.
He and his late wife Mary moved to
Marin County in 1964 where they
raised 4 children. Al worked for 45
years in the international freight
transportation field and traveled
throughout the world. Terra Linda
residents fondly recall Farby’s Deli
and Ice Cream owned by Al and
Mary in the early 1980’s.
After he retired, Al came to
CACS to provide needed expertise
in the financial arena for the agency
that supported Scotty Murphy, the
son of close friends Peter and Jane
Murphy who were also CACS board
members and volunteers.
In addition to his four children,
Al has five grandchildren who attend
area schools.
Co-Workers, Friends & Good Guys! by Chris Bonfiglio
E
lijah Gonzalez (39) and Jesus Espinoza (37) first met in
2001 when Jesus began participating in Casa Allegra’s Adult
Community Services, a community-based day program. They
started out as acquaintances, became co-workers, and now
consider themselves good friends. The two men have had to
learn to get along since they are both members of Keep Marin
Green, a cooperative dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint
in Marin by collecting and preparing e-waste for recyclers. They
work together at the Holiday Inn in Mill Valley and side by side
at Water Components.
One would think they would get tired of each other,
but they don’t. When talking to them about this article, they
could find nothing negative to say about the other. Both were
laughing and smiling when talking about their friendship, jobs
and relationship. Elijah
said of Jesus, “He is a
good friend.” Jesus said,
“Elijah is not lazy. He is
a hard worker, nice and
funny.” Try as I did to
Elijah Gonzalez & Jesus Espinoza
get some good “dirt” on the other; I couldn’t. Edgar, one of
the facilitators, who supports them in their work much of the
week noted, “They are like brothers. They are playful and tease
each other a lot. Everyone likes them. They are both hard workers.”
Elijah and Jesus are just really good guys. It’s a true pleasure to
be in their company.
2
Casa Allegra Community Services
CACS Welcomes Andie Kunst to Board
C
ACS welcomes Anriette
“Andie” Brissaud-Kunst
of Novato to the board.
Andie attended College of
Marin and San Francisco
State. She has a BS in
Marketing/International
Business from SFSU and
is a co-owner of Terra Nova Trading, Inc. in Oakland.
Her background includes export shipping and accounting
management.
She and her husband Tom Kunst have two sons, Allan
(22) and Paul (18). Andie has a connection with Board
President Al Farbstein that goes back to her first job at Farby’s
Deli owned by Al and his wife Mary. Andie was born in
Colombia and moved to the US at the age of 12. She likes to
travel the Americas and Europe with her family and is fluent
in English, Spanish and French.
When asked why she chose to join the CACS board
Andie said, “I was approached by Al Farbstein about being part
of the board of Casa Allegra and when I saw the website and
went to visit the houses in Terra Linda and Santa Venetia I felt
very honored that Al asked me to be part of such a supportive
organization. The services it provides for people with intellectual
and physical disabilities impressed me very much. I know it
will bring challenges, but I hope that my business experience
and skills will contribute to continue moving this organization
forward in the future.”
Annual Financial Report July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015
INCOME
Program Services...$3,457,827
Donations.......................$32,483
Special Events..............$81,012
Grants.............................$14,000
Endowment.............................. $0
Total...........................$3,585,322
Income Program Services Dona6ons 1% Special Events 0% 2% Grants Endowment 0% 97% Expenses EXPENSES
Program Expenses..$2,907,241
Fundraising Cost..........$59,689
Administrative............ $455,415
Total...........................$3,422,345
Program Expenses 2% Fundraising Cost Administra;ve 13% NET:..............................$162,977
85% Note: Prior to depreciation and amortization
CACS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit,
based in Marin County,
providing personalized services
and supports for people
with intellectual and other
developmental disabilities around
community living, family, daytime
activities and employment
opportunities since 1975.
Tax ID #94-2775979
35 Mitchell Blvd., Suite 8
San Rafael, CA 94903
Board of Directors
Al Farbstein, President
Allen Peters, VP & Treasurer
Mary Quinlan
Andie Kunst
Finance Committee
Allen Peters, Chair
Chris Bonfiglio
Al Farbstein
Kelly Moritzburke
Michael Scurich
Consumer Advisory Committee
Mia Brown, Chair
Cathy Adams • Donna Celestine
Elijah Gonzalez • Caitlin Lannon
Scarlett Murphy • Kevin Peak
Gavin Reimer • Robin Sloan
Krystal Tremblay
Carrie L. Bossaller, RN
Hollie Jones, Human Resources
Jayne Verdon, Office Assistant
Socorro Gallardo, Consultant
Jeanne Santangelo, Consultant
Fundraising & Communications
Dale Dutton, IT Consultant
Staff
Newsletter
Chris Bonfiglio, Executive Director
Eny Campos, Director Supported Living
Elsa Jimenez, Director Residential
Services
Shaun Duncan, Day Services Manager
Kelly Moritzburke, Financial Manager
Al Farbstein, Financial Advisor
Editor: Jeanne Santangelo
Articles & Photos by Staff & Volunteers
Contact: [email protected] to be
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We respect your privacy. Your contact information
is not shared with outside agencies or businesses.
11
Vol. 12, No. 1, 2016
DONATIONS & GRANTS
We sincerely apologize
if we have ommitted or
misspelled any names.
GRANTS
Bank of America
Charitable Foundation
DNA Foundation
Michael Basso Foundation
George Lucas
Family Foundation
Microsoft, Inc.
The Outdoor Art Club, Inc.
Sidney Stern
Memorial Foundation
Turriseburnea Club
GENERAL
DONATIONS
Anonymous
Thomas Altenreuther
Robert & Barbara Amore
Linda Anderson
Shirley Anderson
James & Leone Andrews
Seascape Golf Club
Andrew S. Ferrari - ASF Electric
Marlene Avona
Sandra Bagnatori
Theresa Aman
KHN Solutions, Inc.
Richard Benjamin
Beverlee Bentley
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Tom Berns & Suzanne Kanner
Felice Betlem
Louise Birch
Elizabeth & John Boland
Frank & Catherine Bondanza
Chris Bookmyer
Jay Brown
Gaetan Rouleau
Ron & Jeanette Bruciati
Burkell Plumbing Inc.
Ronald & Maureen Burtnett
Alana Capozzi
Margaret Cavalli
Maria Hilda Chumpitaz
Chancellor Hotel
Peter & Kathy Cimarelli
CNA Insurance
Vivienne Collett & Bradley
Goldstein
Steve A Colombo
Kay Conneely
Randy & Donna Cookston
Scott Crask
Mary Cummings Cummings Transport
Michael Cunnie
D&M Equipment
Rusell C. Davis DPM
Ralph & Margaret DeRango
James F. Dietz, DPM
Disneyland Resort
Donate for Charity
Jerry Draper
Kevin Dunlop
Dale & Donna Dutton
David & Maxine Eichel
George Eisenberg VANTREO Insurance
Estates Wines Ltd
Allan Farbstein
Rosemary Fellows
Michael Feno
Denise Flaherty
Brynda Foster
Joni Frasson
Robert & Carole Giachino
John & Patricia Giosso
Golden Gate Bridge District
Maureen Goldfarb
Greenwood Electric
Evelyn & Robert Greenwood
Thomas & Kathryn Grossi
Kathy Grossi
Tom & Kathy Grossi
Janice Freitas Haley
Arlene Halligan
Debra Hanson & Daniel
Shimabuku
Linda Haskett
Michael Haskett
Elia Haworth
Sarah Hayes
Philip & Susan Henry
Allan Herzog
Janice Hilsman
Lu Hoadley
Christopher Holbrook
Jack Durkin
Sharon Hunsaker Adams
Romolo & Lorraine Iavarone
Indian Valley Golf Club
Brian Jeffrey & Juli Jeffrey
Jerry Tench State Farm Insurance
Kanbar Center
for the Performing Arts
Phyllis Kaplan &
Michael Ballingall
Mimi Katz
Kathy Kay - CTI Transcription
Mike & Louise Bruce La Chris Connection
Lagunitas Brewing Company
Mary & Stephen Lamb
Giuseppe Llaneve
Law Office of Cecilia Lannon
Cecilia Lannon
Richard & Cecilia Lannon
Left Bank
Eileen Lepera
Deborah Levy
Joanne Linn
Lise of Copenhagen
Susan MacMillan
Marin Brewing Co.
Marin Coffee Roasters
Marin Independent Journal
Pau & Rachel Markun
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Walter & Diane McClain
Eileen McCrystle
J. McGrath
Patrick & Kathleen McIlroy
McLeran Roofing, Inc.
Glen Mellinger
David Merin
John & Regina Milavec
Kate Miller
Cyr & Mary Miller
Rory & Kristin Miller
Susan & Thomas Monahan
Jane Moriarty
Peter & Kelly Moritzburke
Jeffrey Moss
Mountain Play Association
Moylan’s Brewery & Restaurant
Daniel & Caroline Murphy
Jane Murphy
Joan Murphy
Kathy Murphy
Steve & Stephanie Murphy
Kathleen & Michael Murray
Robert Nave
Patricia O’Brian
Outerwall
Gregory Percy
Gary O. Phillips
Rita & Giovanni Puccinelli
Ted & Patricia Pullen
Thomas & Mary Quinlan
Nikolina Radonic
Denise Ragozzino
Andrea Ewing
July 1, 2015 through Jan. 31, 2016
Lonnie Rice
Julia Ross Artworks
Sterling L. Ross, Jr.
Louis A. Rossi
Richard & Michelle Ruff
Mary Sales
Merry Sales Co.
San Francisco
Conservatory of Flowers
Eileen Sanchez
Jeanne Santangelo
Savemart
Armond & Deanna Scaccalosi
Carole Schwartz
Michael & Jane Scurich
Seagate Properties
Marc Selvaggio
John Shea & Patty Saunders
Belinda Siifford
Sin Fronteras:
Reina Araujo Eny Campos Hilda Chumpitaz Kim De Leon Elsa Jimenez Manuel Jimenez Maria Melendez Jaqui Quintanilla
Ed & Jan Slevin
William & Kathleen Sloan
Rocio Smith
Rocio & Carl Smith
Clara Solvason
Richurd & Patti Somers
Sonoma Raceway
Dawna Lyn Stebbins
Barbara Stephens
RDW Clipped Wings
Pati Stoliar
Barry & Julie Stricker
Lonnie Suhrke
Superior Cutting & Coring, - David Merin
Margaret Taddeucci
Cheryl Tanasovich
Laura Targgart
Therese & Thomas Thompson
Tim & Alison Falvey
Tim’s Treads
Tin Barn Winery
Patricia Tunnard
Karen Turnbaugh
Lydia Tuveson
Wes Tyler
Lorraine Urban
George & Linda Vaio
Arnold & Kathleen Valcour
Van Midde & Son Concrete
Jayne Verdon
Janice Wanigatunga
Westamerica Bank
Mary & Gregory Whitfield
Peter & Candace Wood
IN HONOR
Chris Bonfiglio
Yann d’Argencé - All Autos
Debbie & Michael Falvey
John & Michele Rumsey
Michael Bruciati
Joan & Louis Aliventi
Angela & Daniel Fass
Catherine Jones
Joseph & Yolanda Machi
Woods Memory
Ignatius & Bonita Passantino
Thomas & Laurie Sebesta
Dieter & Reyna Vielhauer
Bruciati Family
Pier Sciaroni
The Bruciati’s
Robbert Spano
The Dale Dutton Family
Donald & Mary Lea Burden
Dusty Dutton
M & J Dowty
Michael Feno
Chris Beckman
Betty Fellows
Rosemary Fellows
Betty Mary Fellows
Rosemary Fellows
Kathleen Greene
Andrew & Mary Greene
Mason Carter Hafstad
Irmelin Hafstad
Nicky Haskett
Linda Haskett
Michael Haskett
Kevin McCarthy
Deborah Lloyd
Thomas & Anna Philipps
Lynne Trump
Bette Woodward
Family of Peter &
Scotty Murphy
John & Wendy Cozzi
Scarlett Murphy
John & Celeste Craemer
Our Beloved Clients
Theresa Eisenberg
Lisa Reynolds
Catherine Mueller
Sifford Family
Anonymous
Debbie Sifford
Abraham Baksht
Dr. Penny Baron &
Dr. Robert Baron
Barbara Bradlee
Tina Brubaker
John & Rebecca Burgess
Elinore Cottrell
William Cottrell
Jami Davis
Kristin Davis
Ann Einstein
Abigail Field
Sue Files
Franklin Zia
Diane Glew
Jill Hallinan
Thomas & Margaret Harriman
Gordon Hirano
Greg Johnson &
Harriet Goldberg
Judy Jonas
Amy Kaplan
Bruce Kaplan
Amy Kaplan
Aaron Karasik
Law Office of Matthew Kumin
Arthur & Anne Mitsutome
Eileen Moskowitz
Matthew Mynsberge DDS
Elizabeth McGee
& Mark Pecker
John Pruett
Claudia & Andrew Quacinella
Lucy Quacinella
Margo Feinberg & Fred Ross
Roberta Rubinstein
John Rumsey
Michael Santana
Sergio & Muriel Schilardi
Alex Sifford
Alexis Sifford
Benton & Saralynn Sifford
Belinda Sifford
Justin Sifford
Carol Stewart
Peter Wurtz
Glara Yi
Joelle Somers
Shirley Blaul
Rudy & Linda Fernandez
Jack & Patricia Friesen
Joanne Linn
Krystal Tremblay
Valerie Coleman
Laura DiStasi
Joseph & Carol McCabe
Susan Sanders
Ryk & April Tanalski
Clean Solar, Inc.
Alesa Tomsky
Robin Aitken-Bullard
Lori Tomsky
IN MEMORY
All Deceased clients
Cyr Miller
Michael Birch
Margaret Anthony
Sylvain & Lorraine Borel
Barbara & James Jacques
Claudia Lewis
Nancy Chandler
Roger Peters & Stephanie
Moulton-Peters
Margaret Crain
Don & Nickie Andrews
Steven R. Douglas
Raymond & Imelda Douglas
Liam & Florence Falvey
Tim & Alison Falvey
Mary Farbstein
Joe & Judy McGrath
Cary Haworth
Elia Haworth
Lisa Jay
Judith Sanford
Kay & Mike McCarthy
Marianne Ruch
Jane Morehouse
Don & Nickie Andrews
Peter & Scotty Murphy
Marlene G. Avona
John & Wendy Cozzi
Jan Haley
Sharon Murphy
Diana Stolich
Robert Murphy Jr.
Peter Murphy
Barbara Northam
H & J Strouss
Ray Perkins
Mary & Noel McCarthy
Julia Peters
Christine Grogan
Allen & Susan Peters
Ray Petersen
Raymond & Priscilla Petersen
Stella Scurich
Michael & Jane Scurich
Robert Somers
Richurd & Patti Somers
John Thomas Sherman
Ellen Grant
Deborah Maynard
The Shermans
Diane McCurdy
William H Sherman,
John Thomas Sherman,
Eileen Mary Sherman
Gregory & Allison Pike
Judith Ann Sherman
Joan & Jeffrey Smythe
Thank You!
t
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64
VOLUNTEERS
Clipped Wings of Marin at Bocce
L to R Bob Johanson, Diane Bazler, Kim Schifrin, Judy Carico
Thank
You!
We sincerely apologize if
we have omitted or misspelled any names.
YOU make a difference!
Veronica Zelaya, Christian Gramajo, Kaila Campos
Lorrie Narcisse & Lonnie Suhrke
40TH ANNIVERSARY
RECOGNITION EVENT
Mary, Cate & Ana Gorski
Gabby Carrade
Mina Anderson
Theresa Eisenberg
Elia Haworth
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Anna Philipps
Mary Quinlan
Robin Sloan
Joelle Somers
Patti Somers
Pati Stoliar
BOCCE TOURNAMENT
Nickie & Don Andrews
Chris Bonfiglio
Luis Campos
Shaun Duncan
Hollie Jones
Al Farbstein
Michael Feno
Justine, Kyle & Jaime Leinen
Guiseppe “Joe” Llaneve
Larry Mason
Jane Murphy
Chuck Podesta
Jeanne Santangelo
Patti Somers
Lonnie Suhrke
Linda Vaio
Beyond Differences
Lorrie Narcisse
Roxy Silva
RDW Clipped Wings
Diane & Jack Bazler
Casa Allegra Community Services
July1, 2015 through Jan. 31, 2016
National Charity League – San Rafael Mission Belles mothers & daughters at Bocce, Michael Feno in Back
Dan & JJ Bastien
Carol Blachley
Susanne Kepford
Georgie Kepner
Barbara Lee
Laura Richmond
Kim Schifrin
Ginny Sheahan
Lorraine Urban
Jan White
National Charity League San Rafael Mission Belles
Alison Bainbridge
Carolyn & Ellie Bednarz
Carolyn & Francesca Robello
Lorna & Charlotte Ackley
Jackie & Beatrice Astle
Cathy & Jacqueline Bondanza
Monika & Lucy Farrar
Marin Catholic High School
Ry Goodwin
Lauren McCormick
San Rafael High School
Kevin Vincente
Aidan Jimenez
Erik Jimenez
Josue Jimenez
Miguel Cordova
Veronica (Jasmin) Zelaya
Terra Linda High School
Kevin Aleman
Mina Anderson
Gabby Carrade
Kaila Campos
Cristian Gramajo
THANKSGIVING PIES
CVNL-Holiday Gifts of Love
Kim Juarez & Friend
Taylor Boyle
Justine, Kyle, Jaime & Kerra
Leinen
Julianna Jochumson
Larissa Weingart
The Students & Families of
Hall Middle School
Jen Reise
Julie Muller
HOLIDAY COOKIES
CVNL-Holiday Gifts of Love
Marsi Atkinson
Debra Baker
Shirley Brass
Mark Butler
Jane Cunningham
Jami Davis
Angelina Duff
Laurie Etheridge
Debra Flaum
Hannah Fliegal
Suzanne & Sylvia Gibson
Atashi & Akash Janzen
Marek Macievich
Zamira Solari
Amy Torrano
Melanie Traub
Tamal Family Dentistry
Debbie Castagna
Cristy McDowell
Affie Rahimi Larijani
Joan Serra
HOLIDAY PARTY
Luis Campos
Justine, Kyle & Jaime Leinen
Guiseppe Llaneve
Larry Mason
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Anne Newman
Tracy Rivkin
Jim Santangelo
MAHS
Ingrid De Leon
National Charity League San Rafael Mission Belles
Carly & Allison Bainbridge
Kristen, Charlotte & Claire
Brockman
Novato High School
Gabe Garcia
Erick Salgado
Marina Sidlow
San Rafael High School
Xenia Delcid
Josue Jimenez
Vanesesa Leon
Cindy Peraza
Karla Rodas
Kevin Vicente
Elaine Zhou
Terra Linda High School
Kevin Aleman
Kaila Campos
Gabby Carrade
Amanda Evens
COMPANIONSHIP
ACTIVITIES
Alison Falvey, Leader
Students from St. Isabella’s &
Our Lady of Lorretto
Thea & Ikaria Falvey
Anna Shreader
Georgia Vollert
Blyth Paraga
Nikki & Nolan Steil
Grace Augusto
Ava Olson
Addie Priest
Lynsey Bell
Kailah Sarganis
Katrhyn-Rose Fegan
JV Marin Catholic HS
Girls Volleyball Team
Nicole Collier
Kristin Bell
Toula Falvey
Gianna Sullivan
Kristin Bell
Taylor Powers
Anna Oliva
Michaela Thawley
Alison Schultz
Kaleigh Sinnott
Ashleey Thompson
Keeley Randall
Alyssa Gikkas
Kathryn-Rose Fegan
Gabby Carrade
Front: Jaime, Justine & Kyle Leinen, Back Row: Gabe Garcia
Luisito Campos, Cindy Peraza, Ingrid De Leon, Kevin Vicente, Kaila Campos, Kevin Aleman, Erik Salgado
Vol. 12, No. 1, 2016
Diane’s Journey From Hospice to Rehabilitation
3
By Carrie Bossaller, RN
L
ast summer Diane
Scaccalosi, 71, faced a
life threatening situation
when she became very
ill and spent over two
weeks in the hospital on
life support. After a long,
difficult ordeal, Diane was
able to discharge home
with the assistance of
hospice and embarked on
a new journey. Diane was very weak and tired, unable
to speak well or live the way that she had previously.
Diane came home not knowing what her future would
hold. Hospice provided ancillary services for Diane
through this time of unknown.
Staff, family and friends surrounded Diane with
love and support and Diane began to champion a new
idea. Diane wanted to become stronger and better than
she was before! She wanted to choose and direct her
path.
Diane successfully “graduated” from hospice in
three months as she not only healed, but became
determined. She was not yet finished with life’s journey.
During this time Diane began slowly with short outings
to the mall or to a movie. She then went to bigger
shows and parties and began taking an art lesson every
week. Diane continues to work with an art instructor
and has space to do her art projects in her room,
common space or outdoors when the weather is nice.
Diane also makes the choice to work in her room when
it gets too busy or loud in the house.
Diane’s hobbies began her rehabilitation and
continue to be an integral
“...Diane’s inner strength
part of her life. Diane has
and drive to rehabilitate
also made the choice to
and dream into the future
become stronger so that
is amazing and certainly
she can walk better, with
plays a part in her
the ultimate goal of safely
continued recovery.
walking on her own. She
often speaks of being as
Diane exemplifies
determination and
independent as she can be.
provides a great example
Currently Diane is working
to those around her...”
with different therapy
services to help improve
her physical function.
Diane’s spirit to improve continues to endure and is
apparent almost every time there is a conversation with
her. Diane knows she has been given a second chance at
life and is embracing it with the gusto that many people
can only classify as something that they had when
they were younger. Diane’s inner strength and drive to
rehabilitate and dream into the future is amazing and
certainly plays a part in her continued recovery.
Diane exemplifies determination and provides
a great example to those around her, showing that
the power of the mind is a strong force that traverses
all people despite their age, physical or intellectual
challenges.
Diane is supported by CACS Residential Services and lives in the Devon Drive long-term care home with 5
housemates and 24/7 RN oversight. She participates in Casa Allegra’s Specialized Day Services. She has
recently begun to work with CACS-IOU consultant and artist Grace Rosario Perkins.
6
4
Casa Allegra Community Services
40th Anniversary Recognition Event 8.27.15
O
Dr. Erik Schten, Marin Community Clinic
Katrina Paulsen,, Seagate Properties & Joan Lubamersky
for Assemblymemberr Marc Levine
Pauline Basaran, CACS Board President emeritus, Chris
Bonfiglio, CACS Executive Director were presented with a
certificate of Assemblymember Marc Levine’s & Senator Mike
McGuire’s joint California Legislature Assembly Resolution
commending CACS
n August 27, 2015, Casa Allegra held
a small afternoon recognition event in
the office courtyard in celebration of our 40th
Anniversary.
Among the awards given, two California
State Assembly Recognition awards honored
a non-profit and a business that consistently
support CACS in extraordinary ways to
make a difference in the lives of people with
intellectual and developmental disabilities in
Marin County. Joan Lubamersky, representing
Assembly Member Marc Levine presented
these awards.
To Marin Community Clinics and Erik
P. Schten, M.D., for treating everyone with
dignity and respect and for working as part
of a team with family, staff and individuals
with disabilities to advocate for the most
appropriate treatment.
Linda Tavaszi, MCC CEO said, “We are
honored to care for the residents of Casa Allegra
- and delighted they have chosen to honor Erik
Schten, MD, our Novato site medical director
and physician to many of our Casa Allegra
patients.”
On receiving the award, Dr. Schten said,
“…When I see someone from Casa Allegra
it is a bright spot in my day. This organization
is fantastic, their talented and caring staff and
clients have taught me so much…”
Marin Community Clinics, a nonprofit,
is Marin County’s largest provider of primary
medical care and dental care to Marin’s lowincome population. A federally-qualified
health center, its clinicians, other staff and
volunteers serve close to 35,000 individuals
per year at six sites across Marin.
To Seagate Properties, Inc., Montecito
Plaza, Willis K. Polite, Jr. Principal; and
Katrina Paulsen, Property Accountant, for
their friendship and support. Their event
sponsorship helps sustain the work of the
agency. As one of the first business contracts
with Keep Marin Green, a CACS-based
consumer-owned cooperative, their ongoing
support has been integral to their success.
Katrina Paulsen said, “It’s been a delight
to watch the progress and development of Keep
Marin Green and its partners. I look forward to
the weekly visits from the team when they come
to collect our used toner cartridges and other
electronic waste. They operate with purpose and
over time continue to develop their self-esteem,
presence, and pride. This is such an important
service and development we share.”
Seagate Properties, with offices in San
Rafael, is a real estate investment, leasing and
management company and a certified Green
Business. The efforts of Casa Allegra-based
Keep Marin Green co-op members helped
Seagate become the first LEED Gold Certified
property in Marin County. As Montecito Plaza
at 3rd and C Street in San Rafael, owned and
operated by Seagate Properties, they sponsor
Casa Allegra fundraising events that help
sustain the agency.
Special Thanks ~ Event Co-Chairs Mary
Quinlan and Theresa Eisenberg; greeters Joelle
Somers and Robin Sloan, and Elia Haworth
for the new photo portraits of clients in our
offices. Thank you sponsors for making this
and other 2015 events possible.
Several families and individuals were presented with placques in recognition of their extraordinary support and making a difference for people with disabilities. L to R: Al Farbstein, Theresa Eisenberg for George & Theresa Eisenberg,
Jane & Joan Murphy for the Peter & Jane Murphy Family and In Memory of Peter and Scotty Muprhy, Dale Dutton for the Dutton Family and Allen Peters for the Allen & Sue Peters Family and In Memory of Warren & Julia Peters
95
Joelle & Richurd Somers, Joanne Linn, Patti Somers, Hugh Linn
Peter Afflerbach, Graham & Maryanne Saltonstalla
Holiday Party 2015
O
n Saturday December 14 we brought a joyous
close to Casa Allegra’s year of celebration in
honor of its founding 40 years ago by Chris Bonfiglio
and Eileen Falvey. From small beginnings supporting
five children, CACS has grown to provide direct support
to 50 adults and indirect support for more than 100
family members each year.
Reynolds Family
Jonathan Holbrook, Eny Campos
It was quite a crowd with more guests than ever
attending! During the course of the evening, Chris
introduced Al Farbstein as CACS’ incoming Board President.
Baritone Michael Valcour, visiting from Sacramento,
surprised us with a popular song. DJ Jay Fresco and dancing
continued after hours!
We are grateful to Casa Allegra family members who
underwrote the evening. Special thanks to Holiday Party
coordinator Eny Campos with her family Luis, Kaila,
Luisito and crew of volunteers; CACS staff Secret Santas;
Anne Newman for gingerbread house supplies; Mary Ellen
McCarthy & Jim Santangelo, bartenders; volunteer recruiter
Justine Leinen; volunteers from Beyond Differences, National
Charity League - Mission Belles Chapter; students from
Marin Academy, Catholic, Novato, San Rafael & Terra Linda
High Schools.
Catering was by Tagliaferri’s Deli of Novato.
The Saturday date proved so popular that we’ve decided
to do it again next year - same time, same place at the Marin
Catholic High School cafeteria, Saint John Paul II Student
Center in Kentfield!
Save the Date! Holiday Party Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016
Mimi Katz & Gavin Reimer
Elijah Gonzalez & Dusty Dutton
Jessica Bergman, Karli Cowman, Chris Bonfiglio,
David Cowman, Alie Simpson
Lucy & Josh Lyons
Mary & Tom Quinlan
Bruciati Family – Italia, Giovanna, Dominga, Michael, Jeanette, John & Ron
Kevin McCarthy, Theresa & George Eisenberg
8
8
Casa Allegra Community Services
1st Place Team Vito Bocce – Bob & Carole Giachino, Rich & Val Lucchesi (not pictured: Ted & Pat Pullen)
2nd Place Team Capisci: Teresa Toscanini, Rita Sumaruk, Elaine & Pete Casey
15th Annual Benefit
Bocce Tournament 2015
Jack & Diane Bazler
On Saturday October 3rd, a record breaking 200+ players, 28 teams and
spectators enjoyed a gorgeous fall day, round-robin bocce, delicious catering,
silent auction, raffles, wine and Lagunitas beer to benefit the work of Casa
Allegra. “Longest Distance Travelled” was Alex Sifford from Oregon!
Special thanks: Co-Chairs Al Farbstein (also first time MC), Michael
Feno & Linda Vaio; Overall Event Coordination – Jeanne Santangelo; Patty
Basset and Chuck Podesta of the Marin Bocce Federation; Bocce Committee
members Jane Murphy, Patti Somers, Lonnie Suhrke, Chris Bonfiglio, Hollie
Jones, Shaun Duncan, Jayne Verdon; Volunteer recruitment – Eny Campos
and Justine Leinen; volunteers from Beyond Differences, National Charity
League Mission Belles Chapter, Redwood Chapter Clipped Wings, students
from San Rafael, Terra Linda, Marin Catholic High Schools.
Alex Sifford, Daniel Reichling, Belinda Sifford
Thank You Sponsors
Roma
Tuscany
Team Sarah’s Symphony – Doug Storkovich,
Sarah Hayes, Sydney Reed, Joni Frasson
Lucca RAVIOLI COMPANY, INC.
Ron, Jeanette & Michael Bruciati
Law Office of Cecilia Lannon • Maysie Tift, MFT
Milano
Palermo
Team Rodney’s Rollers: Brian O’Connor, Suzanne &
Scott Peoples, Carmen O’Connor
Kathy & Dylan Kay
Court Sponsors
As of 9/28/15. We sincerely apologize if we have omitted or misspelled any names
Ron & Jeanette Bruciati
Mary Cummings, Cummings Transport
Estate Wines Ltd.
Al Farbstein
Sue Files
Kathy & Tom Grossi
In Memory of CACS Clients
Kathy Kay, CTI Transcription Services
CW from top: Mary Ellen McCarthy, Mary Sales,
Anna Philipps
Lagunitas Brewing Co.
Marin Coffee Roasters
Daniel M. Murphy, Morgan Stanley
Peter Murphy Family
James P. Nevin, Sr. Attorney at Law
Julia Ross Artworks
Jane & Michael Scurich
Jason Sherman, DDS
Lexie Sifford
Joelle Somers
Nancy & Gary Towslee
Transcon Shipping Co., Inc.
Linda & George Vaio
Mary & Greg Whitfield
D&M Equipment
Kristin Davis
SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2016
16th Annual Bocce Tournament
Caitlin & Cecilia Lannon, Elaine Black
5
Vol. 12, No. 1, 2016
Dusty’s Puppets + Foster Children
by Donna Dutton
n January 2015, Dusty Dutton celebrated the 10th
anniversary of her business, “Dusty’s Puppets.” In addition
to performing shows, she sells Folkmanis & Gund puppets,
especially at Christmas time.
The Marin Foster Parents Association found Dusty and
invited her to perform for the kids at several of their large
celebratory events for families and their foster children. So for
this past Christmas, Dusty remembered the foster kids. She
offered her puppet customers an option to purchase and donate
a puppet, and delivered a basketful of donated puppets to the
Association. They maintain a resource center where families can
choose from among donated items for their foster children. Life
is better when people help people… For more info and to order
puppets: dustyspuppets.com
I
At Supported Life Conference L to R Front Row: Larry Mason, Mia Brown, Lupe Rodriguez, Eny Campos; Back
Row: Jacqui Quintinilla, Josh Lyons, Reina Araujo, Krystal Tremblay, Cindy Vasquez
Supported Life Conference
On Oct. 8 to 9, 2015, CACS Supported Living participants
accompanied by Eny Campos, Director of Supported Living
and support staff attended Supported Life 29th Annual 2-Day
Conferance in Sacramento. Workshops topics included personal
safety, housing planning, customized employment, health
issues, skill development and more. Josh and Mia attended
many workshops including one on emergency preparedness.
Opportunities were available for socializing with peers from all
over California. Lupe and Krystal went “camping” with new
friends. Larry attended a workshop and then became very busy
with friends. “The Place to Train Your Staff In an Inclusive
Environment” was presented by the Supported Life Institute
and SCDD - Sacramento Office.
Dusty receives services through CACS Supported Living and business support through CACS-IOU. Pictured
below: Dusty and Barbara Sabido, former Director of Marin Foster Parents Association holding donated puppets.
At Kaila Campos’ Quinceañera
Following a ceremony on August 1st at the Mission San Rafael Arcángel, Kaila’s extended family and friends including CACS
clients and staff celebrated at the San Rafael Community Center.
Above: Yesenia Zerate, Kevin McCarthy, Christian Dominguez
Below: Luis & Eny Campos, Toni Tresco, Elsa Jimenez
Above: Lupe Rodriguez, Kaila Campos, Krystal Tremblay, Scarlett Murphy
Below: Luis Hernandez, Kaila Campos, Kevin Aleman
6
Caitlin – An Artist’s Life by Shaun Duncan
S
oft-spoken and gentle, Caitlin Lannon (41) was born and raised in Marin
County and became a part of Casa Allegra’s family over 16 years ago. Caitlin is a
remarkable artist who has been featured in several shows throughout the county. Her
art has been selected for invitationals and art competitions at the College of Marin,
Marin County Fair and in private art shows throughout Marin. A few years ago,
when the Marin County Fair chose four artists to win an Honorable Mention Award
out of hundreds, Caitlin was one out of the four chosen!
Anyone who has danced with Caitlin at the CACS Holiday Parties will not be
surprised to learn that in addition to being a renowned artist, Caitlin is a very gifted
and graceful gymnast. Caitlin and two other close friends were chosen some years
ago to perform a floor routine with the US Olympic Gymnasts Team!!! Caitlin says,
“It was a dream come true.”
Caitlin has an October birthday and she embraces Halloween celebrations. We
all enjoy seeing her wear her unique and often elegant costumes.
Donna in New Orleans by Eny Campos
L
ast Thanksgiving Donna Celestine,
52, traveled to New Orleans to visit
with her sister Darlene. Accustomed to
visiting her sister at least once a year, she
was unable to in 2014 because she had
a seizure on her way to the airport and
had to be hospitalized. Her neurologist
recommended that she not travel alone
anymore due to the seizures. Thanks to
CACS support staff Sandra Garcia who
volunteered to travel with Donna, she
was able to enjoy spending time with her
sister and going out at night to listen to
music.
Donna receives services through CACS Supported Living and lives in an
apartment in Novato with a housemate. She is a breast cancer survivor.
Donna at CACS Holiday Party December 2015
Pictured below: Darlene & Donna at Darlene’s home.
Meet Shaun Duncan, CACS Day Services Manager
B
orn in Iwakuni, Japan, Shaun lives in Sonoma where she grew up and went to Catholic
schools. Shaun attended SFSU with Social Work major and Early Childhood Education
minor. A friend who worked with people with intellectual disabilities introduced her to
clients.
“I immediately felt a huge love and passion for these people and thought, I want to work
with these inspiring men and women! I took a job at a small agency back then called OFI, where
I met a client, Joe Moist, who became my very best friend. He spent the following 15 years at my
house celebrating his birthdays and holidays. He became a part of my family, we all adored him!”
Shaun has worked with people with developmental disabilities for over 25 years – at
OFI for 9 years as Day Program Manager and Lifehouse for 16 years as Supported Living
Manager.
“I’m now here at Casa Allegra as Day Services Manager. I feel so blessed, happy and grateful to be a part of such a kind, caring
and supportive team of people who really have love in their hearts and great passion for the work they do with the people we serve!”
Shaun loves animals and is passionate about dogs and cats. She currently has a cat and three dog companions. She adores
being an aunt to her younger brother’s two sons and daughter.
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Vol. 12, No. 1, 2016
Gavin – Home Runs to Runway by Jeanne Santangelo, photos courtesy Ana Pinto
G
avin Reimer, 25, is a muti-talented guy. His friendly smile
and genial nature are familiar to all of us at Casa Allegra
through his participation in Casa Allegra’s Day Services and as a
member of CACS-based Keep Marin Green Co-op which picks
up and processes eWaste from local Marin businesses. What
is less well-known is that Gavin is a solid athlete who can also
walk the runway with charisma and style.
Ana Pinto is a friend of Gavin’s and one of his Special
Olympics softball coaches. Gavin and his softball team El
Niños, won an August 2015 tournament in Walnut Creek and
received first place gold medals in 100 degree weather. Ana said,
“It was a long day that required patience and stamina for all
the Special Olympics athletes. Gavin was a champion for the
team. He showed up to every practice, gave it his best, was an
enthusiastic team player as well as a great hitter – scoring several
home runs! Sugaree my golden retriever was our lucky mascot
and joined us for the championship games.”
Ana is also the stylist and curator for Melange Productions,
Inc., an annual celebration of human rights & diversity through
fashion and art. Ana collaborates with designers from all over
the world to tie together the best runway ready looks for over
100 models and seamless execution of the fashion show.
Gavin was invited to walk the runway for Melange 2015
on October 3rd in the Regency Center in San Francisco.
Madeline (Maddie) Stuart, Barry Schneider, Ana Pinto, Gavin Reimer
Gavin’s day in SF began early.
Gavin Reimer led
softball team El Ninos to
Ana said, “Gavin and I had a fun
Marin Special Olympics
time in San Francisco. He has great
Gold and walked the
style and loves to dress up. He was
runway for Brazil in the
wearing a suit jacket and slacks
2015 Melange Fashion
with a fun Garfield tie and looked
Show tribute UNESCO’S
very professional! I took him to see
70th Anniversary
Lombard Street and for lunch with
Maddie Stuart, Australian fashion model, and Barry Schneider,
Co-Coach of El Niños.”
The fashion show took place in the evening and was a
tribute to the 70th Year Anniversary of The United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Ana said, “It was a pleasure having Gavin participate in the
Melange Fashion show. He did a great job as part of the production
– walking down the runway, meeting other models and joining in
all the excitement.
The show segments featured different countries and Gavin
walked the runway for Brazil. There were lots of dancers and
drummers who followed along playing traditional drums of
Brazilian carnival. Gavin wore a costume in a traditional design
from Salvador, Bahia, the Eastern part of Brazil. He looked like an
angel wearing the white lace shirt of the “Baiana’s!”
Ana Pinto, Gavin Reimer backstage at Melange
Making a difference for people with intellectual & developmental disabilities
Sat. May 7, 2016
Help Us Walk, Run & Roll to the Finish Line!
DONATE TODAY!
Casa Allegra has been providing personalized services for people
with intellectual & developmental disabilities for over 40 years
We provide supports around
• Community Living
• Family
• Daytime Activities
• Income Earning Opportunities
YOUR DONATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
!
Your gifts are Tax Deductible – Tax ID 94-2775979
Mail to: CACS, 35 Mitchell Blvd. Suite 8, San Rafael, CA 94903
[email protected] • 415.499.1116 • CasaAllegra.org
D O N AT I O N F O R M
MAIL TODAY or donate online at CasaAllegra.org
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the Bay Area Human Race.
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