Threshold`s 2007 Holiday Gathering
Transcription
Threshold`s 2007 Holiday Gathering
A Newsletter from Threshold, Inc. Winter 2008 Threshold’s 2007 Holiday Gathering D id you know that the planning of Threshold’s Annual Holiday Gathering begins during the summer! Many details, from promoting the event and making sure all who wish to are able to attend, to arranging for the transportation are ironed out well before the long time DJ, Denny McConnel, plays the first song of the day. The Holiday Gathering Committee is made up of at least a dozen people from Threshold who work together as a team to bring about this special event. This year’s committee again planned a wonderful event full of holiday cheer, good food and great fun. The Abe Lincoln, A Historic Wyndham Hotel, once again accommodated Threshold’s needs and provided a grand ballroom with covered chairs and sparkling lights. The many, community businesses and friends of Threshold who donated gift certificates and merchandise for the ‘auction’ outdid themselves as always. Listed below and on the next page is the complete list of those who gave generously to this year’s Holiday Gathering. Please be sure to check this list next time you need a gift, or a place to spend some time. Threshold thanks this impressive group of community members for their continued support. Above: Chad,Tim, Danny and Robert enjoy the party! Below: Janice and Tina dance to some holiday tunes. T H A N K YO U . . . Above the Crowd Adelphia Seafood Advanced Skin Care Air Graphics Alexandra’s Love Designs American Jewish History Museum American Male Anthony’s Barber Shop Arby’s Interior Design Arrow International Audrey Ann Florist Auto Spa of Wyomissing Hills Awards and More Baja Beach Tanning Club Bar-B-Q Pit Baubles & Beyond Bear Creek Candies Belden Jewelers-Fairgrounds Berkley Mid Atlantic Group Berks Chamber of Commerce Berkshire Health Bloomsburg Theatre Boardwalk Snacks Body Zone Bonfito, Inc. Brandywine River Museum Bucks County River Country Calvaresi Coffee & Tea Candle Wreath International Chapman’s Deli CHB Sports Inc. Chef Alan’s – Penn Avenue Chick-Fil-A-Broadcasting Rd Christmas Sportswear Choo Choo Barn Circle S Ranch House City Theatre Claire’s Cloud Nine Café Coastal Gas Station Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Concentra Medical Center Country Inn & Suites Crystal Cave Csencsits International CTCE Credit Union Curves - Wyomissing Cutting Edge Wood Designs Dave Fisher Denise Ebelhar Dimensions Acquisition DM&S Scents & Stuff Dunkin Donuts-Shillington Dutch Apple Dinner Threatre Dutch Deli East Penn Manufacturing East-West Ther. Massage Elsy Ruiz Elva’s Crafts Essick & Barr Insurance Fantastic SAMS Fleetwood Fixtures Four-4 Imprint Inc. Fred Astaire Dance Studio Friendly’s-Wyomissing Garden State Discovery Getz Crafts Giant Food Store #50 Glen Gery Corporation GMG Bakery Goodman Vending Goose Pond Green Valley Nursery H.O. Foose Tinsmith Hard Bean Café Hawk Mountain Hershey Bears Hockey Club Hershey Theatre Highmark Hollywood Tans-Fairgrounds Homewood Suites-Wyomissing Hummel’s Florist Home for the Holidays Inns at Doneckers It’s All the Rage Hair Design Jim Neidermyer Poultry Jody’s Crafts & Designs Judy Yeasted Just Creative KDM Hair Designs Kmart Pantry Department Kapp Advertising Kay Jewelers – Berkshire Kay Jewelers – Fairgrounds Kensington Tobacconist Keystone Instant Printing Inc. Keystone Software Solutions Kutztown Lions Club Lasting Image Leesport Financial Corporation M&S Crafts Magnum Manufacturing LLC Mandee’s Artistic Avenue Mary Santo Mimmo’s Restaurant New York Bagelry Office Depot Office Service Company Old Homestead Primitives O’Neil’s Custom Crafts Outback Steak House Ozzy’s Sport Fun Center Palmer Candy Panda Heaven Panera Bread Patricia Richter Paul’s Seasonal Wood Crafts Peco Energy & Light Show Penn National OTW Pennside Drive In People’s Light & Theatre Pepperidge Farm Outlets Philadelphia Flyers Philadelphia Phillies 2 Pizza Hut-West Lawn Please Touch Museum Pringles Country Craft Pumpernickels R&R Antiques Raylon Corporation Reading Consumer Products Reading Metro Taxicab Reading Phillies Baseball Reading Public Museum Red Lobster Reading Symphony Orchestra Ronco’s Pharmacy Rosa’s Place Rose Althouse Royal Bank Royer’s Flowers Salon Desiree Schell’s Foods, Inc. Seven Stars Inn Sheerlund Forest Sheraton Reading Hotel Shower Shop Shurfine Markets Sneaker Villa - Spring Sprecher’s Meats Steph Sprenkle Spring Glen Fresh foods Starbuck’s Coffee Stoltzfus Woodcraft Strasburg Railroad Co. Strawn Stained Glass Rice Markett Sturgis Pretzels Subway Sandwich Shop Super Cuts – Penn Avenue Superior Oxygen Medical Super Duper SuzieQ’s QT’s Tempstar Staffing The Glass Artist The Ringgold Band The House of Seven Gables Thank Silk Third & Spruce Café Tom McNelis True Value Hardware UGI Utilities Inc. United Concordia V&S Sandwich-Temple V&S Sandwich-Shillington Van Bennett Food Co. Van Reed Massage Verna Morris WalMart-Morgantown WalMart-Reading WalMart-Temple Ward’s Variety Shop Wegman’s Restaurant William’s Family Restaurant Wyndham Lincoln Hotel Wyo. Optometric. Center Yellow Submarine Commitment and Achievement Recognized at 28 th Annual Celebrate Abilities Gala ith 265 in attendance, the 2007 Celebrate Abilities Awards Gala marked another year of excellence and achievement in style. 46 awards were given to 16 of the amazing individuals supported by Threshold, 10 businesses who share our vision of an inclusive community, and 20 employees who have given their very best to Threshold, some for many years. W Outcomes achieved in education, employment, social capital and wellness highlighted the Outcomes Achievement Awards. Flexibility, innovation and commitment to individuals’ skills and abilities outlined the Employer of the Year and Distinguished Community Partner awards. Those receiving Excellence in Service Awards provided undaunting, creative supports to people in many outcome areas. The Beatniks, a local band, entertained an enthusiastic group of people after the meal and awards; a deserved night of fun and dancing! Listed below are the names of all the award recipients. Personal Outcomes Achievement Barry Beidler Jenney Boutikab Jane Dietrich Linda Hektor Ralph Hess Sandy Johnson Jeff Kalina Ellen Longaberger Marilyn Ray Polly Troutman Lois Scheidt Carla Spatz Barry Sterner Oscar Torres Cheryl Walters Spirit Jeff Neiheiser Distinguished Community Partner Associated Wholesalers, Inc. Lisa & Michael Conaway Donna Eisele ,Wyomissing Garden Apartments Distinguished Community Partner (continued) Jodi Readinger, Berks Community Action Program Adam Palmieri, Palmieri Barbershop Sheila Parvus, Pennsylvania Counseling Services Employer of the Year Albright College Ashley Furniture Industries Penn National Off Track Wagering Graphite Machining, Inc. Excellence In Service Quan Velez-Borrero Denise Ebelhar Peggy Guido Misty Koch Stephanie Marks Richard Mulgrew Kristen Livingood Robert Pew Lashana Williams President’s Award Kathy Bell 3 Years Of Service 25 Years Bronwen Evans 20 Years Melissa Butler Carole Hillard 15 Years Sharon Weyant-Muir 10 Years Juan Bonilla 5 Years Kathy Bell Carol Kessler Kristen Livingood Nicole Morgan Jermaine Thaxton BERKS PERSONNEL NETWORK WINTER REPORT T here was a flurry of activity at Berks Personnel Network (BPN) all winter long. In addition to the usual job placement services that have traditionally been provided, BPN explored new and innovative ways to offer a wider array of services and further the mission of Threshold. Following are some highlights of the new programs which are currently being offered at BPN: ACT Now is a program developed by the Berks County Transition Coordinating Council through a transition grant from the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council. The ACT Now Project provides young people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to make informed choices about their post high school goals. BPN is one of the sub-contractors in this project and facilitates job shadowing experiences for 33 high school students this school year. Based on the expressed career interests of the students, BPN staff set up job shadowing experiences at local companies to afford the students the opportunity to observe workers performing the position of interest, absorb the work environment, and interview one of the workers and ask questions such as, "What is a typical day like for you?",What skills do you need to perform this job?", and "What level of education do you need for this job?" Some of the more interesting experiences to date include exploring a Funeral Director's position at Lamm & Witman Funeral Home, an EMT position with Western Berks Ambulance, a Writer/Novelist's position with Charlie Adams at WEEU, and a Massage Therapist position at East-West School of Massage Therapy. BPN is the lead agency in the Berks County Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Employment Transformation Project, an interagency collaborative effort. Various resources and technical assistance are available through the project to support the design and implementation of consumer/family member-driven, recovery-oriented service systems. BPN and other stakeholders in the county meet monthly to further the initiatives of the project in accordance with the Final Report of the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health. Some of the initiatives include specific trainings for professionals who support people in recovery, providing supported employment services in line with evidence-based practices, providing employment opportunities for people in recovery, and publicity for the project. In November, BPN was awarded a seven month Medicaid Infrastructure Grant for their proposed Transition Aged Youth Accessing Work Incentives Program. Through this program, BPN staff support working youth and their families in understanding work incentives available through Social Security, and guide them in accessing and managing the work incentives. Some of the work incentives include Student Earned Income Exclusion, Impairment Related Work Expenses, Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities, and Plans to Achieve Self Sufficiency. The goals of the program are to promote continued employment, increase self-sufficiency, increase earned income and savings, and ultimately, an increase in the control that youth have over their benefits and finances. These new programs and services provide BPN the perfect opportunities to further employment initiatives and collaborate with various agencies and employers in Berks County. continued on top of next page... 4 A Special Note — Threshold is pleased to announce that all BPN staff attained national certifications in supported employment through the Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE) in October, 2007.These certifications were awarded after the completion of 40 hours of training through Virginia Commonwealth University. BPN has the distinction of being the only staff group in Berks County, as a whole, that holds national certification. For more information on any of the programs discussed in this article, please contact BPN at 610-288-1448. CHIPP Update Threshold’s CHIPP (Community Hospital Integration Projects Program) continues to support individuals within the community through various services. People receive housing support, supported living, and clinical support. CHIPP staff assists individuals with appointments, budgeting, learning independent living skills, community integration, etc. The CHIPP program also offers diversion and respite services to divert people with behavioral health issues from being admitted to the State Hospital. Mary Lou Guntz, NAMI, and Martin Baiada, Mental Health Association of Reading and Berks County, conducted a two hour training on Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) on March 13, 2008 as one of the initiatives of the OMHSAS Employment Transformation Project.This project is an interagency collaborative effort being led by Berks Personnel Network in Berks County. staff as the key to recovery. Our setting is the opposite of a clinical model; instead we focus on day to day experiences where everyone in the clubhouse pitches in with the work to make the clubhouse run smoothly. Staff and members work side by side, cook lunch, answer phones, vacuum floors, and complete attendance on the computers; anything it takes to keep the clubhouse running. In the process we learn about each other and gain confidence in our work abilities. One new member, Danielle H. wrote a poem that describes the second chance a setting like Mosaic Clubhouse can bring to our members. Community Connections Threshold’s Community Connections program is the newest addition to Behavioral Health. This program began in November 2006. Since its inception, Community Connections has served 10 people and is currently serving our maximum number of 4. One person has received a Transitional Employment position through Mosaic House. This TE is at TRS Wood Products. The Community Connections manager is Lori Schermerhorn. The Community Rehabilitation Specialists are George Anthony and Bob Shuman. I have seen through the years what I have been doing The Lord gives us a chance to be ourselves and never give up There is always a second chance Wherever you have been There is always a way Believe in yourself And others will see The Lord will give you All that you need I have some new friends Their lives will go on More things will last The knowledge I have learned The experience I have Clubhouse Update Mosaic House follows the Fountain House Clubhouse model of rehabilitation for people dealing with mental illness. Mosaic House focuses on work and relationships between members and - Danielle H. 5 New Training Workshop Promotes Community Involvement “If you belong to no groups and join one, you cut your chances of dying within the next year in half (Putnam 2000, Bowling Alone). This quote among others, is highlighted in Social Capital: Join Today, Live Tomorrow, which has been regularly on Threshold’s training schedule since the summer of 2007. Other quotes remind us to be good neighbors, to create change, to cure the terrible disease of loneliness, and to have the courage to share our dreams. One year ago, Verna Morris, Director of Employment and Community Development and Karin Allmendinger, Sales and Marketing Manager, attended a seminar in Philadelphia at which Dr. Al Condeluci spoke. Dr. Condeluci, Ph.D., is the Executive Director at UCP Pittsburgh and made a dynamic presentation to close to 100 people using his book, Cultural Shifting ( TRN Press, 2002) as a basis. He used creative methods like music and poetry to convey the point that people need to be included, empowered, and fully supported to increase their social capital in order to be healthier, and live longer. He challenged the group to consider a more personalized approach to supporting individuals to build their social capital, as opposed to outdated, more medically based models of treatment. Verna and Karin returned to Threshold motivated to bring this concept of Social Capital to our community. Its precepts of community, trustworthiness, value and reciprocity of relationships meshed perfectly with Personal Outcome Measures. They developed a workshop, more than just a training, in which participants learn the basic concepts of community and social capital, and have opportunities to make plans and share ideas about supporting the individuals with whom we work to increase and maintain their social capital. Baseball Game a Home Run as Usual A clear night in August brought 150 members of the Threshold Community to First Energy Stadium for a picnic dinner and a hometown baseball game. The atmosphere on the picnic deck in left field was buzzing with conversation, good food, friends and a watchful eye for that home run ball. The picnic style seating for everyone on the deck is very enjoyable especially when Screwball makes his rounds! Linda Hummel gets into the game with Screwball 6 Small groups are asked to list their own personal social capital and document how those relationships, be they with neighbors, churches, civic groups, or other groups, were established. This self-examination helps the participants to then seek out situations with those they support that will fulfill their personal outcomes and build their social capital. Verna and Karin have presented this training several times at Threshold and have also presented to a large group of other human services professionals from Service Access and Management, The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Berks County Transition Coordinating Council. This training is open to all Threshold Community members, family members, and providers. Please contact Carol Kessler, Director of Training to find out when it’s being offered. Social Capital with Capital ‘C’ TJ Reilly and George W. Bush (yes, the President of the United States) have something in common. Their brother-in-laws are brothers! TJ’s sister, and our President’s sister married brothers and it is through this family connection that TJ’s family was invited to the White House at the holidays to see the beautiful Christmas decorations. What a thrill to see the many decorated Christmas trees and get to see a little bit behind the scenes at the White House. There were visits to the Cabinet meeting room, and the Oval Office. Doro Koch, George W’s sister, at one point in the visit however, excused herself to “check on something”. TJ meets his brother-in-law’s brother-in-law! President George W. Bush. Returning with Doro a few moments later, directly from his workout, was President Bush himself! TJ immediately put out his hand and said “’W’, how are you?” and eagerly shook the Commander in Chief’s hand. Everyone was introduced and visited together for a short time. TJ, who has had many opportunities to build his social capital will certainly recall this event fondly. Imagine it, a simple extended family connection that leads to a very special connection. Building social capital is not difficult, but it is important in everyone’s lives to have as many opportunities to build upon it as possible! Above: TJ and other members of his family in the Oval Office.. Left: TJ Reilly with Doro Bush Koch, President Bush’s sister.. Above Left: TJ poses in a Cabinet seat. 7 Contract Services Threshold offers businesses and industry a wide variety of services, performed in a timely manner at a reasonable price. We specialize in PACKAGING, SHIPPING AND FULFILLMENT, ASSEMBLY, SORTING AND INSPECTION & SHRINK-FILMING. Karin Allmendinger Sales and Marketing Manager Threshold, Inc. 1000 Lancaster Avenue • Reading, PA 19607 Phone: 610-777-7691 ext. 109 • Fax: 610-777-1435 E-mail: [email protected] Hi, my name is Susan. I live at Moselem Springs. A lot of you have probably seen me around Berco and Threshold. POSSABILITIES is a publication of . . . I want to share with everyone my amazing vacation that took place this past July. By the way, it was my very first vacation ever! We went to the beach. 1000 Lancaster Ave., Reading PA • 610-777-7691 President Ronald L.Williams Editors Karin Allmendinger,Verna Morris Associate Editors Priscilla Kiefer, Tom Haley, Mary Rita Weller and the BPN staff. It was exciting. I went to the movies, on rides, and strolled the boardwalk. I even went to the Casino and learned how to gamble! I went to the pool for a few days and the beach. That was the best. I could hear the waves and people laughing and having fun. I put my toes in the ocean and it felt great. Later, on the boardwalk I had my picture taken with my staff, Kathy Auchenbach; we’ve been together over four years now and she believes I can do whatever I set out to do. A United Way Participating Agency Threshold is a 501 (c) (3) organization. The official registration and financial information of Threshold may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. -Susie Miller 8 Holidays with Family,What Could be Better? Robert ‘Bob’ Sowers and his Lifesharing Provider, Nancy Whitacre, hosted a party for Bob’s family in January to chase away the winter doldrums. Bob’s brother Ron and sister Peg warmed the crowd with hot chili. Karen, another sister, and her husband Russ brought the appetizers. Bob’s niece Barb had the highest score playing Uno and everyone was smarter than a 5th grader! Bob’s family plans to party together on a monthly basis. Bob is certainly meeting his outcome of having more time with his family, whom he loves with all his heart! Bob, holding the puppy, is surrounded by his loving family. United Way Success Story has worked with Community Specialists doing a variety of work, including delivering “The Women’s Journal” in the local neighborhoods and businesses, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels. Todd has done a great share of volunteer work, but also participates in Transitional Employment Opportunities, where he is paid to work in community integrated environments. This includes Reading Electric on a packaging assembly line, and Briggs Hardware, where he repackages sinks and hardware packs into boxes to be shipped. Featuring Todd Koch Todd Koch has made a great stride over the past year for himself, his work, and the community.Todd has had a positive effect on all the people he comes in contact with. His upbeat attitude and perseverance to communicate, has helped him to establish lasting working relationships. Using sign language, Todd has the ability to communicate with his vocational staff, and is able to express his wants and needs comfortably, which is why he has become a success within Threshold Rehabilitation Services. With Todd’s positive outlook, work attitude, performance, and the ability to communicate more confidently and effectively, he has become a great asset and success to Threshold Rehabilitation Services and to the community. Todd has expressed his desire to continue to expand his vocational skills, learning and excelling at any new job. He has taken his vocational skills and expanded them into the community. Todd 9 Berks Personnel Network Recognized for Participation in Transition Project Berks Personnel Network has just completed participation in the first year of a transition grant from the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council. This project, entitled ACT Now (Assess, Choose,Tryout) was administered by the Berks County Transition Coordinating Council and served 100 students from five Berks County school districts. The goal was to provide high school students with disabilities the knowledge, skills and opportunities to make informed choices about their post-secondary goals. The interests, skills, aptitudes and preferences of participating students were assessed and students were supported in researching related careers. BPN’s role was to develop two job-shadowing experiences for each of 33 students in an occupational field identified by their assessment and research. From January through June, BPN employment specialists facilitated these jobshadows at an extensive array of area businesses including a funeral director, travel agent, architect, veterinarian, chemist, nurse, photographer, lawyer, commercial pilot, emergency medical technician, sporting goods store manager, auto repair technician, massage therapist, landscaper, fitness trainer. This year’s ACT Now program culminated with a celebration dinner at RACC on May 28, 2008. BPN was recognized, along with participating students, parents, school districts and other community agencies. In his keynote address, State Representative Dante Santoni spoke about the increased funding proposals in the Pennsylvania legislature in support of individuals with disabilities. The ACT Now program will continue into the 2008-2009 school year servicing another 100 students from six area high schools. As an Alvernia College senior I was required to do an internship as part of my studies. Berks Personnel Network was suggested to me by my internship professor. Being able to do an internship with Berks Personnel Network was an incredible learning experience. Through my experience with BPN, I was able to experience the wonderful services that Threshold has to offer. I got to see what was done in the workshop and meet some of the workers there. I also was able to meet a lot of wonderful people and learn a lot about myself and about the human services field in general. I was able to visit Mosaic House also, which taught me about the clubhouse philosophy and the events which take place at the clubhouse. I was able to explore the jobs available in the human services field and have decided that working for an agency like Threshold is definitely something that I would be interested in doing as a career. I would like to thank everyone at Berks Personnel Network for this amazing experience and for teaching me so much. Mark Your Calendar! Threshold Night at the Reading Phillies Tuesday, August 19, 2008 • Reading Vs. Bowie Baysox as seen from the Coors Light Deck Picnic Area. More information available in July. Celebrate Ability Awards Gala Tuesday, October 21, 2008 • Sheraton-Reading Hotel With the unique, local, musical entertainment of John Bressler 10 Annual Report 2007 President’s Message Dear Friends, On behalf of Threshold, I take great pride in presenting this annual report. As always, we remain continuously grateful to everyone who has provided encouragement and support throughout the years. The information contained in this report reflects our ongoing efforts to fully involve the people we support, to understand their needs, and enable them to realize their individual personal outcomes. Providing people with community-based options to experience living, and working in natural and integrated environments continues to be an organization priority. Threshold’s beginning as a service provider was largely devoted to transitioning people from state psychiatric facilities, to community living environments. Today, our behavioral health services continue to represent a large and expanding segment of Threshold’s operations. This year, growth was particularly notable within our supported living services area assisting people to maintain their community independence. A total of 103 people benefited from supported living services during 2007. President Ron Williams Another area of growth for behavioral health services was evident by the number of individuals engaged in community jobs, and work experience. Seventy individuals were able to achieve this goal. Our psychiatric rehabilitation services continued to expand during the year. Our member driven Mosaic House Clubhouse had a total membership of 529 individuals compared with 482 the previous year. During 2007, we supported 140 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in a variety of community settings. Growth was experienced within our family living/lifesharing services with a total of 35 people living with Berks County families. In keeping with our organizational priorities, Berks Personnel Network, our community job support entity, assisted 180 people during the year. Berks Personnel Network also established 85 new job placements. Several years ago,Threshold was awarded the Standards for Excellence certification from the Pennsylvania Association of Non-Profit Organizations. PANO is a statewide membership organization advancing the charitable non-profit sector through leadership and programs and services, which promote ethical practices and accountability for non-profit organizations. In 2007,Threshold was recertified for a five-year period. Each year in October we hold our Celebrate Abilities dinner. This tradition takes on added importance each year as we recognize the contributions from our many community partners. Most importantly we recognize the achievements of the people we support. 2007 marked the 28th year for this event. With this annual report, some of the people who have achieved their individual personal outcomes are featured. I hope you will take a moment to read about their success as they exemplify Threshold’s true essence as an organization. d 2008 promises many new opportunities as well as challenges. We anticipate another successful year promoting dignity and personal achievement with the people we are privileged to support. 42 YEARS OF Ronald L.Williams, President Promoting Dignity and personal achievement 11 VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT Training Community Employment/Berks Personnel Network Established in 1992, Berks Personnel Network (BPN) is the division of Threshold which provides comprehensive community-based employment services. The array of services includes vocational counseling, assessments, job development and placement, on-the-job training, service coordination, follow-up and job retention supports. Based on personal need, people may receive any or all of the services. A total of 180 individuals received employment services throughout the 2006-2007 fiscal year. BPN provides employment services to individuals through a variety of funding streams and programs. BPN subcontracts with The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), Service Access and Management (SAM), and United Way. Throughout the year, BPN staff continued to strengthen their partnerships with community businesses and agencies to promote employment opportunities and self employment ventures for people we support. BPN staff conducted numerous outreach efforts in the Berks County community through presentations to Life Skill Classes at various school districts, BPN representation at booths at transition fairs and other key community events. BPN continues to be an authorized Employment Network for the Ticket to Work and Self Sufficiency Program operated by the Social Security Administration in Berks and surrounding counties, as well as the state of New Jersey. In June, 2007, the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association for Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) held its first conference in Pittsburgh, PA. As a member of the Board, BPN was instrumental in planning and executing the 2 day conference. Threshold/BPN, on behalf of Berks County, submitted a proposal for a technical assistance grant through The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) to transform employment for individuals with mental illness. Berks County was awarded the grant and Threshold/BPN has become the lead agency in the OMHSAS Employment Transformation Project, an interagency collaborative effort. Various resources and technical assistance are available through the project to support the design and implementation of consumer/family member-driven, recovery-oriented service systems. BPN and other stakeholders in the county meet monthly to further the initiatives of the project in accordance with the Final Report of the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health. These new programs and services provide BPN the perfect opportunities to further employment initiatives and collaborate with various agencies and employers in Berks County. During 2007, a total of 85 individuals supported by BPN were successful in attaining employment in the community. Intensive Vocational Training Individualized development and prevocational training services are available for people in need of additional supports. Participants acquire skills in activities of daily living, socialization, communication, basic work routines, and prepare for other community-based employment options. Overall, 18 individuals were supported during the year. 12 Volunteer opportunities are arranged when appropriate. This year 10 people were assisted with volunteer opportunities. Industrial Operations/Transitional Services Subcontracts with business and industry are utilized to provide work experience and training options for individuals preparing for competitive employment. Paid work experience and training in jobs such as assembly, sorting, inspecting, heat sealing, shrink wrapping, and packaging are available. Transitional Employment Opportunities have been ongoing during the year, placing individuals in community employers’ work sites on a part time, temporary basis. This year 51 individuals received this opportunity. Through our community vocational partnerships with employers, 16 individuals received the opportunity to gain work experience in the community through volunteerism at such locations as French Creek State Park, Meals-on-Wheels, BARTA, Hopewell Village and several churches. Individuals who are competitively employed or who have expressed an interest in job seeking benefit by enhancing their strengths, talents and employability through the use of innovative curriculum, technology and community involvement in our Kaleidoscope program. Services have been offered to all individuals with 29 people participating during the past year. Mailing/Office Services Threshold’s Mailing/Office Services division provides paid work experience and training for individuals who are preparing for competitive employment. These services are marketed to local business and industry and provide work for persons interested in this alternative. Custodial Services Training For the past 25 years, Threshold has contracted with local companies and organizations to provide custodial service. Supervised mobile work crews are on site daily and persons desiring to enter this occupation receive on the job training and paid work experience to enable them to achieve competitive employment. Contracts were increased this year Photo Licensing Centers Pennsylvania Industries for the Blind & Handicapped (PIBH) contracts with Threshold/BPN to manage the Reading, Lebanon, Lehigh, Schuylkill Haven, Pottstown, Norristown, and Dublin Photo License Centers. Approximately 50 License Technicians are trained and employed at these sites. In September, 2006, Threshold/BPN expanded their current contract to include staffing for one additional position at the Lehigh Valley Photo Center. This position is a Customer Service Facilitator position whose duties include greeting and directing customers to the appropriate stations within the building. Threshold/BPN also maintains the contract with PIBH to clean the Reading Photo License Center. A Threshold employee who works at the Reading Photo License Center was honored as runner-up for the Nettie Mann Award at the PIBH Annual Dinner. BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES Health Access Partial Hospital Threshold’s ACCESS Partial Hospital Program provides creative, therapeutic services and supports, which empower and enable adults with mental health challenges to increase their personal, social, and economic self-sufficiency. Treatment modalities include medication management, group therapy and individual therapy as indicated. Highly individualized, outcomes-based approaches are utilized in a supportive, therapeutic milieu by the disciplinary treatment team comprised of the person supported, primary therapist, psychiatrist, residential treatment providers, family members, and other agencies involved in the person’s life. During 2007, 105 people were served in the ACCESS partial program. The average length of stay in the program continues to decline as people progress toward their personal recovery and do not require the intense support of the program. An electronic billing system was implemented for participants receiving Medicaid funding, which is managed by Community Care Behavioral Health Organization (CCBHO.) The program continues to be licensed by the Pennsylvania Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services and is credentialed by the primary funding source, CCBHO. Community Residential Rehabilitation Threshold provides Full Care Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR) Services in a group home and apartment programs. The program is intended to serve adults with mental health challenges to reintegrate into the community from state hospitals, community mental health inpatient units, homeless shelters and various other community settings. Skill training necessary to obtain and maintain independent living is emphasized. Services also include coordination of clinical, vocational, educational and healthcare services. Many of those supported in the CRR Program also participate in vocational training, day treatment and psychiatric rehabilitation programs such as Mosaic House clubhouse and/or volunteer or are 13 gainfully employed in community jobs. During 2007, forty-five people were served in the CRR Program. The Full Care CRR Apartment Program was relocated from Berkshire Gardens to Wyomissing Gardens Apartments in February and March of 2007.The move resulted in a significant physical site improvement for the residents. Supported Living/Mobile Psychiatric Rehabilitation Threshold provides a full array of supported living/mobile psychiatric rehabilitation services to adults with mental health challenges in order to assist them to maintain independent living. Services are provided on an individualized basis in the community and/or in a person’s home. The key support elements include use of community resources, development of independent living skills, financial and medical insurance assistance and access of physical healthcare services. Services are flexible and can change as the individual’s needs and circumstances change. During 2007, 103 people were served in the Supported Living/Mobile Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program. Services continue to assist individuals to locate safe, affordable housing and maintain independent living options of their choice. Mosaic House Clubhouse/Site Based Psychiatric Rehabilitation Threshold provides site based psychiatric rehabilitation services through Mosaic House clubhouse. The clubhouse is an innovative program for adults with mental health challenges based on the original standards of Fountain House, the first clubhouse, which opened in New York City in 1948. The clubhouse is designed to help individuals achieve social, educational and vocational goals through a structured workordered day in the club. All activities and decision-making in the clubhouse are accomplished through consensus between all members and staff. Work units within the house are organized around clerical, education, food services, custodial and member services. Social programs are available for members on evenings and weekends. The clubhouse model is based on voluntary participation. It focuses on members’ abilities, not disabilities, and fosters initiative, cooperation and personal growth. Every member has access to Transitional Employment Placements, which are part-time entry-level work situations and typically last six to nine months after which another member fills the position. Mosaic House also supports members in supported and independent employment. During 2007, the membership of Mosaic House grew from 482 to 529. Mosaic House continues to maintain licensure from the Pennsylvania Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and accreditation by the International Center for Clubhouse Development (ICCD.) Several staff & members traveled to Gateway House, one of the ICCD training centers in Greenville, South Carolina. Gateways’ training program helped Mosaic House develop an aggressive plan to increase the opportunities for transitional employment for the members. Mosaic House remains actively involved with the Pennsylvania Clubhouse Coalition. (CHIPP) Community Hospital Integration Projects Program Threshold provides assistance to people transitioning out of state hospitals and into the community. The program currently serves twelve people. CHIPP provides a full complement of clinical support services including the coordination of psychiatric and medical services. In addition, residential supports are provided in the community and in a person’s home. The program also offers psychiatric respite and diversion services to assist individuals with avoiding hospital admission. Community Connections Community Connections is designed to assist participants to transition out of Berks County Prison and back into the community. Threshold received the first funding for this program in 2006.Ten individuals have been served in the program since its inception.The people involved in this program must have a major mental health diagnosis. The program provides housing in an apartment program supervised by staff seven days a week. The program works closely with casemanagement services from SAM and the Berks County adult probation office. 14 COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES Support The provision of residential and community living arrangements for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a major portion of Threshold’s services. Individuals are provided assistance to reside in houses and apartments throughout Berks County and they are supported to live as independently as possible within the community. There are a variety of models utilized including livein supervision to minimal support, depending upon each person’s needs. Threshold has four different types of services that fall within the Community Support Services. Community Support Services assisted a total of 118 people within the various programs throughout the past year. Community Residences Essentially, everyone living in community residences receives support with a variety of needs. All also require support with regard to independent living skills, i.e., medication, nutrition, meal planning and preparation, comparative shopping, housekeeping, home safety, budgeting, personal hygiene, physical health, community orientation, socialization, and use of leisure time. The goals and objectives of this service are for people to develop or increase their self-care skills and independence, to live in the least restrictive and most independent arrangement, and to become involved in the community. Some people have more independence skills than others and the services reflect the differences among people within homes and different locations. For instance, some individuals maintain their own house keys and come and go based on their own schedules. Most participate in some formal day program during traditional business hours. Their day program may consist of competitive employment, Senior Center activities, Adult Day Care, or vocational services. There are several people who do not have or only partially participate in formal day programs. Some people are retired, while others could not find a formal program that meets their specific needs. Also among the people that are supported in community residences, there are differences within their needs for supervision. Some require 24-hour supervision, while others have more flexibility in spending time alone. There is always a need for improved accessibility within the residences. Continuous efforts are made to insure that the structural layout of the residence is compatible with the physical needs of the people living there. Over the years, homes with steps were eliminated, while first floor living residences were secured as replacements. All of the residences are equipped with computers with Internet access. The use of computers is twofold: improve communication and training accessibility. Lifesharing Threshold’s Lifesharing program supports thirty people that have a primary diagnosis of intellectual disability; this is an additional six people since last year’s report. Those in the Lifesharing program are matched for compatibility with the provider family (one or two individuals per family). Presently, there are twenty-one host families; this is an increase of five families since last year’s report. There are other host families that provide a respite leave service to Lifesharing individuals. Similar to the individuals of community residences, the individuals of Lifesharing may have a variety of medical and/or behavioral issues. The goals and objectives are to promote independence by increasing self-care skills, incorporating the individual into the provider's family and integrating the individual into the community. Four staff, one full time Lifesharing Coordinator and one Lifesharing Program Specialist, and two Team Coordinators share the Lifesharing Program supervisory responsibilities. Many people take vacations independent of their Lifesharing Provider families. Some take time with their natural families, while others take tours through private arrangements with a travel agent or an agency that schedules vacations specifically for people with disabilities. Others vacation with the host family. During the past year, the training curriculum for the provider families has been expanded. Providers received more training about healthcare issues that effect individuals they support. The staff has worked closely with Providers to develop better monitoring 15 techniques for medication administration. The supervisors developed an additional training curriculum for Providers that refined their skills and understanding in supporting people with intellectual disabilities. Supported Living Supportive Living Services supports twenty-one people residing in their own homes or apartments; the number of people supported has increased by one since last year’s report. The main focus of this service is to assist individuals with intellectual disabilities in securing and maintaining safe, affordable housing in the community. The array of support services offered are individually designed and driven by those who receive services. They choose, to the greatest extent possible, their support person and the areas in which they desire support or assistance. The designated times and frequency of supports are developed around their needs and preferences. This service is available to people that do not require more than thirty hours of support each week and have been referred with an authorization for services. Support services can be provided anytime,day or night, during the week or weekends and are flexible enough to change as the individuals' needs and situations change. In-Home Services Threshold provides support to individuals who reside with their families of origin. Family members and/or the person themselves may request in-home support based on their preferences. In some cases, families may ask for supervision, support for their family member with disabilities until they return from work. Family members may request recreational supports in order to provide additional outlets for the family member with disabilities. In other instances, families want in-home respite Threshold participated in the United Way Days of Caring in September of 2007. services when they are away from the area. Threshold is capable of supporting individuals at the level that they request. The individual and their family, prior to the service provision, approve staff support. Back-up staff is also preapproved by the families prior to their use. Medical Support Services Our team of Medical Caseworkers, led by a Certified Developmental Disabilities Registered Nurse, functions as a liaisons between the individual and community health care providers and work with the individual, their families, and their direct care staff to navigate the healthcare system. Whether it is attending a medical appointment, reviewing a specialized diet or medication, teaching alternative feeding methods, or supporting end-of-life care at home, Medical Support assists the team in dealing with acute and chronic illnesses, in promoting prevention of disease, in maintaining health and well- being, and in promoting positive health practices in individualized ways. Individuals supported by Community Support Services range in age from 19 to 96 years old. As with age, the variety of health concerns in this population covers a large spectrum. Decreased hospital length of stays necessitate home environments where more intensive medical supports for individuals are available and Threshold recognizes that special knowledge and clinical skills are needed to support each member of the team in order to ensure quality, comprehensive care and maximize psychosocial, developmental, cognitive, and affective strengths in connection with physical well-being. Medical Support staff has increasingly become involved in employee development providing training forums which range from large classroom to oneon-one individual focused sessions. Whether working with the individual in 16 communicating with local physicians or providing training to the staff that supports the person, medical support services remains dedicated to maximizing psychosocial,developmental,cognitive,and affective strengths in connection with physical well being. BUSINESS OPERATIONS Business TRS WOOD PRODUCTS A division of Threshold, TRS Wood Products was founded in 1984 as a free-standing, integrated employment industry. Wooden reels are manufactured and supplied to the wire and cable industry, wire rope and welding wire industries, tube and conduit manufacturers, and cordage industry. TRS Wood Products provides excellent training and work experience for thirty challenged individuals each year. Precision Micrographics/Digital Imaging A division of Threshold, Precision Micrographics/Digital Imaging was founded as an affirmative industry in 1985 and, since the beginning, has provided reliable, cost efficient, permanent document retention solutions and employment for persons with disabilities. Precision saves documents to compact disk to provide a secure, confidential way for businesses to retain information but save space. Two individuals were provided work opportunities in this business during 2006. The Holiday Gathering was a big success! Jeff Neiheiser, ‘07 Spirit of Threshold Award Winner This year’s “Spirit of Threshold” Award was presented to an individual who has been dealing with an array of healthcare related issues during the past several months. His healthcare needs require a variety of invasive interventions. Jeff has bravely approached each hurdle with amazing strength and optimism. In the past, Jeff was very apprehensive of receiving assistance from Threshold’s Medical Support Staff; now Jeff readily allows staff to provide him with assistance and guidance all along the way. This has not been an easy adjustment for Jeff as he has always been so independent in controlling all aspects of his life; now he has accepted assistance in order to be able to more effectively deal with his healthcare issues. Throughout his medical procedures, Jeff continually demonstrated strength and courage in his approach to each new challenge put before him. Additionally, his staff, Peter Dietrich and Tracey Schaeffer, have provided Jeff with much support and guidance to navigate the healthcare maze. Congratulations to Jeff for embracing each step along his trail to stability. 17 Awards PERSONAL OUTCOME ACHIEVEMENT Barry Beidler arry Beidler has been supported by Berks Personnel Network for over a year with funding from the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. Barry’s Personal Outcome goals was to get a part time job as a machine and tool designer. He has an Associate Degree from Penn State and over 30 years experience in the machine and tool design field. Barry also has some physical barriers. Graphite Machining hired Barry as a machine and tool designer because he was the most qualified candidate. He has been working at Graphite Machining for almost a year and has become an asset to their company. functions that could help her improve her quality of life. As a music lover, Jane created and ordered her own CD and utilized email to have more frequent contact with her family. She also began to make her own cards and letters complete with graphics. During the last 12-18 months Jane also pursued competitive employment and worked at a small office keeping the common and kitchen areas clean. This opportunity is no longer available but that didn’t stop Jane from trying other new opportunities like the Transitional Employment Opportunity at AWI, Inc. in Robesonia. B Linda Hektor inda Hektor has participated in a variety of Threshold programs since 1996. After moving to her own apartment in 1999, Linda attended Berks Technical Institute and Reading Area Community College to increase her clerical and business administration skills. Linda began volunteering at the Reading Public Museum in 2001. She has been involved in the museum’s program and has assisted in the gift shop as well as participating in a variety of presentations and their annual gala. Linda began volunteering at Women in Crisis in the spring of 2007 where she assisted with computerized record keeping. She is an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Church she attends. Linda is a member of their book club and assists with the annual auction, preparation of their newsletter and assorted church mailings as needed. Linda is a strong, respected woman who provides a positive role model to others. L Jenney Boutikab enney Boutikab has been supported by Berks Personnel Network in obtaining employment at the Wyndam- Abe Lincoln Hotel in Reading. With effort and a lot of determination, Jenny has proven to be a dedicated professional employee. Recognizing that it was a career that Jenny was interested in, not just a job, she has advanced from Housekeeping manager to the Accounting Department within the Wyndam Hotel. Jenny has been focused on creating a career life that works for her even when confronted with the tasks and responsibilities of everyday life. J Jane Deitrich hrough the regularly scheduled Kaleidoscope classes, Jane Deitrich developed an interest in enhancing her computer skills. She improved her skills with the computer and became familiar with T 18 Ralph Hess alph who was recognized a few years ago for his exceptional work at Evergreen Coatings, has again achieved a number of outcomes. after falling a few steps behind, literally. A fall a few years ago kept Ralph from going to work but that didn’t stop his physical progress. He worked hard to rehabilitate his broken hip and after several months anxiously returned to work to learn the new tasks that were available. He quickly learned to assemble the valves from Goodwest Industries, and although requiring some extra help sorting hangars, has been able to master that job as well. Ralph has also become more communicative with the encouragement of his friends and supervisors. His vocabulary has increased quite a bit. Ralph continually goes to Reading Electric and is doing a great job. He did an exceptional job working on valves when they were available. Ralph was having a problem separating and turning hangers properly. He finally accomplished this and is doing well. Ralph has delivered journals. He can frequently be seen doing volunteer activities such as Meals on Wheels and French Creek. Ellen Longenberger ver the past several months, Ellen has demonstrated much strength and energy towards improving her health and mobility. Ellen really devoted herself to losing weight and participating in physical therapy. She started with a fairly heavy schedule of physical therapy and stayed with it; not only did Ellen graciously stick to her physical therapy schedule and gain improved movement, she lost a significant amount of weight to enhance her therapeutic goals. Overall, Ellen demonstrates improved ability to transfer, stand, and move. Congratulations to Ellen, Logan St. staff, Eileen Swoyer, and Misty Koch in furthering mobility skills. R O Jeff Kalina eff Kalina has accomplished many of his outcomes. Through hard work, he graduated near the top of his class at Albright College in Physics and went on to earn a Master’s Degree from University of Pennsylvania in Material Science and Engineering. For several years he worked as an engineer in lucrative markets. For more than fifteen years after that Jeff has worked at another very demanding job – stay at home Dad. He has raised two children. A son, who had many special needs, died tragically at the age of 13. His daughter is sixteen years old and attending high school. Jeff began attending Mosaic House in September of 2006 with the goals of getting a job and improving his social skills. He said that during his years of raising his children he became somewhat isolated. After months of working in the Administration Unit, helping others, completing attendance, and working on the newsletter, he started a TE position with Sovereign J Sandy Johnson andy Johnson worked on her personal outcomes by working on the grieving process through her scrap booking. She devoted her whole book to her son, who she lost. She shared her scrapbook on the life of her son and how creating this book helped her with her grief with staff in the training of scrap booking. Sandy has exhibited strength, courage, knowledge and touched many lives through her grieving process. S continued on next page 19 Bank as a Mortgage Clerk in January 2007. He proved to be a valuable employee, opening mail and filing mortgage satisfactions in a complicated filing system. He successfully completed his six month TE assignment in July 2007 with perseverance, overcoming a major obstacle towards the end of his TE. Often achieving one outcome leads to achievement in others. Jeff ’s credits his success at Sovereign Bank with helping him reach his social goals. Jeff is more social now, talking to people more often in the administration unit and at Mosaic House as a whole. Recently, Jeff has taken a big step towards achieving his goal of permanent employment. He has been accepted into a two week all expense paid training to become a Certified Peer Specialist. He intends to help others deal with their mental illness by sharing his experiences and encouragement with them. home, to staff taking a real interest in him to make his life better. Congratulations to Oscar and his staff at Lancaster Pike, and Andy Reese in making such amazing improvements in living a life of happiness and more adventure. Marilyn Ray arilyn Ray, over the years she has participated in Threshold’s programs and has achieved many personal outcomes. Not only has she been working as a member of the team at TRS Wood Products for several year, Marilyn has a fulfilling personal life as well, performing many social roles. As a volunteer with ARC of Berks County, Marilyn visits with other participants during interviews, introducing herself and explaining the process and helping to create a comfortable environment. Marilyn, who lives with her family, is an active member of her church, enjoys vacationing and is an avid sports fan supporting Notre Dame, the Phillies and NASCAR. Marilyn’s natural supports network has also supported her to attend several concerts, including The Rolling Stones and John Mellencamp, and to see a few theater productions. M Oscar Torres scar has for many years engaged in maladaptives behaviors. He also had a tendency to avoid most community outings, especially places that can become crowded such as stores. In the past several months, Oscar has gone on numerous community outings, such as Wal-Mart, the mall, the Reading Hospital Garden Party, and various other places of business and recreation. Additionally, he has demonstrated improved coping skills to the point of having a significant decrease in behaviors. Oscar has demonstrated an increase in his ability to be patient and wait for things; his impatience often led him to hurting himself. These days, Oscar smiles a lot, whereas in the past he often wore a frown. Overall, he seems much happier. These positive changes most likely are linked with some of the significant changes in his life that include roommates that he seems to really like and bonded with, to a decreased amount of time at his day program with more time at O Lois Scheidt ois Scheidt has been a member of Mosaic House since August, 1999. She has faithfully attended and is always working. She cleans, does receptionist, greeter, takes out the trash and works on her math skills. Lois also achieves her personal outcomes by being independent. Lois shops on her own, attends church services, gets involved with her community. Lois exemplifies what it means to overcome her mental health issues. L 20 Polly Troutman olly Troutman encountered a huge obstacle this year when she fell and broke her hip. She underwent surgery and spent several weeks in the hospital. Polly was then discharged to a rehabilitation facility for several more weeks. While rehabilitating, the doctors, nurses, and therapists were astounded with her fast recovery and good spirits. Polly’s physical and occupational therapists stated that they had never seen someone recover as quickly as Polly had. Once she was discharged to return home, the doctors ordered occupational and physical therapy through visiting nurses. Polly’s recovery went so well that therapy was discontinued soon after she returned home. Polly never got discouraged and remained positive. She continues to recover at home where she Carla Spatz arla has faced many difficult struggles in her life. Within the last year Carla has taken significant steps in her progress for improving the quality of her life. She has overcome barriers that prevented her from a quality life she had desired. One of Carla’s successes was losing 50 pounds by attending Weight Watchers and participating in an exercise program at the Mosaic House. As Carla’s health and mobility began to improve, she felt more confident in herself. This resulted in Carla’s desire to re-enter the work field. Carla successfully obtained a TE at Family Guidance through the Mosaic House. Carla is also active in the Mosaic House Education Unit. As a part of building her self confidence and speaking skills, Carla attends the Pennsylvania Clubhouse Coalition where she assisted in presenting at the seminar. While there, Carla also shared her recovery story at a luncheon. Carla has persevered over many roadblocks in her life. She is truely a person who is continuing to make positive changes in her life. P C Cheryl Walters heryl Walters has been a part of the Lifesharing program and has lived with the same provider, Mr. and Mrs. Amenu, since 1994. Additionally, she has worked consistently at Prospectus/Berco Industries, Inc. and has received recognition and acknowledgement for her hard work and productivity. Cheryl is a very independent young lady and keeps herself active in the community. She is able to use public transportation and get around the community with little or no assistance from anyone. Cheryl belongs to a bowling league and meets up with her friends every Saturday morning for breakfast followed by bowling a few games. Her provider reports that she is extremely helpful and dependable at home. She assists with household chores and also looks out for her roommate in a very caring and loving manner. Cheryl was being recognized for her independence, her kind gestures and her ability to make good choices that lead to her having a full and active life. C Barry Sterner arry Sterner had achieved his personal outcome by pursuing a job on his own. Barry works for the Mental Health Association. He leads an ICAN (Involved Consumer Action Network) socialization group for patients at Wernersville State Hospital with the help of an assistant who is a patient at Wernersville. He leads various activities and encourages patients to socialize. Barry’s performance and attendance have been excellent and he really enjoys his job. This summer, Barry attended the Pennsylvania Health Consumers Association Conference as the ICAN Wernersville State Hospital Representative. The topic of the conference was Recovery and Barry really enjoyed the conference. B 21 Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc. Statement of Revenue and Expenses Year Ended June 30, 2007 Revenue Berks County Mental Health/Mental Retardation ............................................................................................$8,246,800 Contract Revenue ...................................................................................................................................................... 5,269,300 Room and Board............................................................................................................................................................ 624,600 Community Care Behavioral Health ........................................................................................................................ 304,035 Medical Assistance........................................................................................................................................................ 265,300 Office of Vocational Rehabilitation .......................................................................................................................... 190,600 United Way .................................................................................................................................................................... 109,800 Cafeteria ..............................................................................................................................................................................66,700 Interest................................................................................................................................................................................ 12,432 All Other Revenue ........................................................................................................................................................ 105,200 Total Revenue ...................................................................................................................... $15,194,800 Expenses Salaries,Wages, and Benefits....................................................................................................................................$8,676,700 Raw Materials and Supplies ...................................................................................................................................... 3,219,400 Rent and Utilities .......................................................................................................................................................... 859,300 Contracted Services and Professional Fees ............................................................................................................ 768,900 Program Supplies and Expenses ................................................................................................................................ 723,200 Program Services and Physicians Fees ...................................................................................................................... 404,400 Travel and Transportation ............................................................................................................................................ 326,200 Depreciation .................................................................................................................................................................. 144,300 Repairs and Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................ 100,900 All Other Expenses............................................................................................................................................................ 6,000 Total Expenses .................................................................................................................... $15,229,300 Increase (Decrease) to Net Assets .................................................................................................................... $ (34,500) 22 Threshold BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2007 Chair Robert I. Rhoads Jr. Vice Chair Forest Crigler Jr. President Ronald L.Williams Treasurer Gregory L. Portner Secretary Thomas W. McNelis Edward Bohlander Anne Carroll John Fredericks Tony Grimm Daniel B. Kimball Matthew W. Rappleye Patricia Richter Carol A. Sztaba Paul Walter Connie Bashore Threshold MANAGEMENT TEAM 2007 Chief Executive Officer Ron Williams Chief Financial Officer Greg Portner Vice President, Program Operations Tom McNelis Vice President, Administration Tom Haley Human Resources Director Heidi Rupert Community Support Services Director Mary Rita Weller Behavioral Health Director Linda Groff Employment and Community Development Director Verna Morris Funding: Berks County Mental Health/Mental Retardation United Way of Berks County Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Pennsylvania Office of Blind and Visual Services Donations and Charitable Contributions Community Care Behavioral Health Network of Pennsylvania Affiliations: Council on Quality and Leadership Threshold is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc. 1000 Lancaster Avenue Reading, PA 19607-1699 Phone (610) 777-7691 Fax (610) 777-1295 Web www.trsinc.org Pennsylvania Association of Rehabilitation Facilities Pennsylvania Industries for the Blind and Handicapped The Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce & Industry Pennsylvania Community Providers Association American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities American Association of Psychosocial 694 Reading Avenue West Reading, PA 19611 Phone (610) 288-1448 Fax (610) 374-9920 520 Willow Street Reading, PA 19602 Phone (610) 372-0334 Fax (610) 372-4234 Rehabilitation Services Pennsylvania Clubhouse Coalition International Center for Clubhouse Development Pennsylvania Association of Non-Profit Organizations Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association for Persons in Supported Employment 1000 Lancaster Avenue Reading, PA 19607 Phone (610) 374-7100 Fax (610) 777-1435 Mosiac House 525 Franklin Street Reading, PA 19602 Phone (610) 375-7840 Fax (610) 375-7845 Our Mission The Mission of Threshold is to enhance the quality of life of persons with disabilities and the economically disadvantaged by providing opportunities to achieve total integration into their community through vocational rehabilitation, employment and residential services. Our Vision Threshold envisions a world where all people are valued and supported to lead fulfilling lives. Our Motto Promoting Dignity and Personal Achievement in the Community. 1000 Lancaster Avenue Reading, PA 19607 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 628 Reading, PA