Link to Spring Newsletter, 2015 - Casa Allegra Community Services

35 Mitchell Blvd., Suite 8
San Rafael, CA 94903
Return Service Requested
NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
SAN RAFAEL, CA
PERMIT NO. 150
by Chris Bonfiglio; Debbie Falvey Retires......................... 1
Dedication Makes A Difference Daily & in the Long Term
by Carrie Bossaller; Tom & Nicki......................................... 5
CACS Annual Financial Report;
Ready, Set, Go! Human Race May 9, 2015..................... 6
Meet Kelly Moritzburke, Bookkeeper.................................. 2
Holiday Party Memories 2014.............................................. 7
Possibilities Lead to Opportunities in Supported Living;
Bocce Memories 2014........................................................... 8
Big Changes for Josh by Eny Campos;
IOU Makes a Difference – Julia Pozsgai &
Tamar Mag Raine by Dale Dutton........................................ 9
40 Years of Innovation, Possibilities, Opportunities
Meet Jayne Verdon, Office Assistant.................................. 3
Out & About with CACS Folks............................................. 4
Volunteers................................................................................10
Grants & Donations, In Honor & In Memory....................11
2015 Vol. 11 No. 1 • [email protected] • www.CasaAllegra.org • (415) 499-1116
1975 seems like yesterday and at the same time very long
ago! Eileen Falvey and I, in 1975, with $1,000 in our pockets
and the help of some wonderful mentors and professionals,
opened the doors to our first “group” home in a record 3
months. The Vision for the 5 children who we lived with and
cared for in that home on Ridgewood Drive in San Rafael
was the same then as it is now: All people with intellectual
and other developmental disabilities (IDD) regardless of
the severity of the disability have the same basic human
right to lead meaningful lives with opportunities to
be self-reliant and productive citizens. Since that time,
Casa Allegra Community Services (CACS) has grown and
expanded to provide an array of individually designed services
and supports around community living, family, daytime
activities and employment opportunities to 50 adults with
IDD
Throughout our 40 year history, we have been innovators
and pioneers in providing services that are now considered
accepted practices and commonplace. We were among the
first in the state to support people with intensive physical
needs in the community rather than in larger congregate
settings. We opened the first community based day program
in the area. This enabled adults to experience and learn, for
example, to shop at the neighborhood grocery store or take
an exercise class at the nearby recreation center rather than in
the traditional classroom setting. We were the first agency in
Marin to support people to live where and with whom they
chose under the title of Supported Living. Supported Living
Chris Bonfiglio and Josh, December 2014
enables services and supports to be designed around and
brought to the individual rather than the individual going to
where the services are delivered. We embraced “Employment
for All” long before it was a federal and state mandate. And,
we were the first in our regional center catchment area to
give individuals a structured means of career building and
microenterprise development as an alternative to wage
employment.
I feel so fortunate to be able to lead an agency that is
governed by a board of directors who embrace and support
the vision. I, the service directors and staff also recognize the
importance of family. With the person being served as the
focus, we work as a team with family members to be creative
and flexible in meeting our Mission: To make a difference
in the lives of people with IDD one person at a time. We
are celebrating our achievements over the past 40 years and
invite you to celebrate with us.
~ Chris Bonfiglio, Executive Director
After 26 years, Debbie Falvey will retire from CACS on April 30. While Debbie’s current
title is Human Resources and Benefits Manager, her involvement with Casa Allegra goes
far beyond the title. A common comment around the office is “Ask Debbie, she knows
everything.” Debbie began working at Casa Allegra as an administrative assistant during
Chris’ maternity leave. Debbie’s daughter, Diedre was 6 months old at the time. Both Diedre
and her youngest daughter, Darcy, spent much of their growing years around Casa Allegra.
Debbie will join her husband, Michael, in retirement. Avid baseball fans, Debbie and Michael
plan to take it easy and spend time traveling in their motor home. Debbie has been a strong
staff advocate and an integral part of the success of Casa Allegra over the years. Her presence
will leave a hole and be sorely missed. Thank you Debbie for all you have contributed.
2
Casa Allegra Community Services
CACS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit,
based in Marin County, providing
individually designed services
and supports for people
with intellectual and other
developmental disabilities around
community living, family, daytime
activities and employment
opportunities since 1975..
Thank you to Celeste
Bonfiglio for a unique
and creative fundraiser handmade holiday pillow
sales with proceeds benefiting
Casa Allegra.
Tax ID #94-2775979
35 Mitchell Blvd., Suite 8
San Rafael, CA 94903.
Board of Directors
Pauline Basaran, President
Allen Peters, Treasurer
Jane Scurich, Secretary
Mia Brown
Dale Dutton
Cyr Miller
Mary Quinlan
Finance Committee
Allen Peters, Chair
Chris Bonfiglio
Al Farbstein
Michael Scurich
Development Committee
Mary Quinlan, Chair
Pauline Basaran • Theresa Eisenberg
Elsa Jimenez • Jeanne Santangelo
Belinda Sifford • Patti Somers
Consumer Advisory Committee
Mia Brown, Chair
Cathy Adams • Donna Celestine
Elijah Gonzalez • Caitlin Lannon
Scarlett Murphy • Kevin Peak
Gavin Reimer • Robin Sloan
Krystal Tremblay
INCOME
Program Services ..$3,174,675
Donations .......................$37,062
Special Events ..............$72,789
Grants ............................$20,899
Endowment ..................$36,390
Total ..........................$3,341,815
EXPENSES
Program Expenses $2,781,919
Fundraising Cost .........$56,666
Administrative.............$406,077
Total ..........................$3,244,662
NET: ................................$97,153
Note: Prior to depreciation and amortization
Income Program Services Dona5ons 1% Special Events 2% 1% Grants Endowment 1% 95% Expenses Program Expenses 2% Fundraising Cost Administra:ve 12% 86% Staff
Chris Bonfiglio, Executive Director
Eny Campos, Director Supported Living
Elsa Jimenez, Director Residential Services
Daniel Reichling, Director Day Services
Jeanne Santangelo, Development Director
Al Farbstein, Financial Advisor
Kelly Moritzburke, Bookkeeper
Carrie L. Bossaller, RN
Debbie Falvey, Human Resources
Jayne Verdon, Office Assistant
Socorro Gallardo, Consultant
Newsletter
Editor Jeanne Santangelo
Articles & Photos by Staff & Volunteers
Contact [email protected] to be
added or taken off our mailing list.
We respect your privacy. Your contact information
is not shared with outside agencies or businesses.
Y
ou may not see Kelly when you visit the office but the work
she does is critical to the everyday operations and long-term
success of Casa Allegra. As Al Farbstein, Financial Advisor and
Debbie Falvey, Human Resources look towards retirement, Kelly
is helping CACS with ideas for new systems in accounting,
bookkeeping and payroll.
Kelly lives in Larkspur with her husband Peter, and her
18-year-old twins Fisher and Molly. She recently adopted a
rescue dog named Kuiper, who has become fast friends with
Ziggy, CACS unofficial service dog. She enjoys mountain biking,
hiking, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
11
Vol. 11, No. 1, 2015
DONATIONS & GRANTS
We sincerely apologize
if we have ommitted or
misspelled any names.
GRANTS
Bank of America Fdn.
Michael Basso Memorial Fdn.
Charis Fund
The Carl Gellert &
Celia Berta Gellert Fdn.
George Lucas Family Fdn.
Turriseburnea Club
Union Bank Fdn.
Westamerica Bancorporation
GENERAL
DONATIONS
Susan Adams
Alcatraz Cruises
All Autos, Inc.
Elizabeth Halperin
Jacki Anderson
Shirley Anderson
Don & Nickie Andrews
Richard and April Angotti
ASF Electric
Asian Art Museum
Vivien Asleson
Sandra Bagnatori
Bank of Marin
Bernadette Baraty
Mitchell & Charlene Barnes
Vasfi & Pauline Basaran
Robert & Mary Basso
William Beck
Kimberly Belanga
Richard Benjamin
Beverlee Bentley
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Thomas & Suzanne Berns
Anke Betic
Felice Betlem
Mary & John Bianchi
Louise & Harvey Birch
Blue & Gold Fleet
Elizabeth Boland
Chris Bonfiglio
Celeste Bonfiglio
Gregg Chorebanian &
Carol Brandt
Jay N. Brown
Ron & Jeanette Bruciati
Burkell Plumbing Inc.
Alana Capozzi
Margaret Cavalli
Kim M. Chandler
Chevy’s Restaurants
Fred & Nancy Chiappe
Children’s Creativity Museum
Georgia Chourre
Paula Chumpitaz
Peter and Kathy Cimarelli
Linda Cimoli
Silvie Clerc
Shirley Clifford,
Training Wheels Preschool
Clipped Wings United Airlines
Steve Colombo
Carla Condon
Kay Conneely
Annette & Robert Corbolotti
John & Celeste Craemer
Stanley S. Crask
Janice Cumming
Mary Cummings
John Cunnie
Michael Cunnie
Mary Alam &
Jean Jacques Deshadarevian
April Debeauvernet
Mario & Juliana Del Piccolo
Paul & Theresa Descalso
Disneyland Resort
Timothy Doody
Jerome Draper
Kevin W. Dunlop
Dale & Donna Dutton
Lea Earnheart
David & Maxine Eichel
George & Theresa Eisenberg
Allan Farbstein
Rosemary J. Fellows
Fine Arts Museums of SF
Cole Kinney
Fiorenzo & Linda Gardin
Jennifer Gennari
John & Patricia Giosso
Dana Fehler
Golden Gate Pharmacy
Maureen Murphy Goldfarb
Robert & Kimberley Grant
Milton & Constance Greenfield
Evelyn and Robert Greenwood
Mary & John Grillo
Thomas & Kathryn Grossi
Diane & Victor Guinasso
Janice Haley
Arlene Halligan
James & Lynda Hampton
Linda Haskett
Michael & Teresa Haskett
Elia Haworth
Deidre & Robert Hayden
Sarah Hayes
Janice Hilsman
Christopher Holbrook
Holiday Inn Express
HopMonk Tavern
Amy Hosa
House of Prime Rib
Richard & Marilyn Hunter
RC & Lorraine Iavarone
Barbara Inwald &
Michael Harris
Iron Springs Pub & Brewery
Erin Kane
Mimi Katz
Kathy Kay, CTI Transcription Svs.
Ellen R. Kerr
Venus & Fereidoun Keyhan
Andrew & Jennifer Kirmse
Steven & Marlene Knox
Stephen & Mary Lamb
Law Office of Cecilla Lannon
Cecilia & Rick Lannon
Lawrence Hall of Science
Debbie Levy
Lise of Copenhagen
Diane Litchfield
MacLean Appraisals
Carol Maher
Marin Sanitary Service
Glen Mellinger
Tim & Tami Mock,
Marin Coffee Roasters
Jan Mettner
Paul and Rachel Markun
Larry Mason
Leon & Evelyn Mason
Matt & Jeff’s Car Wash
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Walter & Diane McClain
Eileen McCrystle
Theresa & Andrew McCullough
Joseph & Judith McGrath
Pat McGrath
Patrick & Kathleen Mcilroy
McLeran Roofing
Todd McPadden
David Merin,
Superior Coring & Cutting, Inc.
John & Regina Milavec
Cyr Miller
Rory Miller
John & Barboni Moore
Peter & Kelly Moritzburke
Mort Corporation
Mountain Play Association
Daniel & Caroline Murphy
Jane Murphy
Kathleen & Michael Murray
June 1, 2014 through Jan. 31, 2015
Maureen & Ron Nass
Gary Nelson
James & Theresa Nevin
Heidi Paul
Outerwall
Panera Bread
Robert & Linda Panico
Do Seo & Dana Kim Park
Margaret Partlow
Karen Partoyan-Holleran
John & Suzanne Peoples
Raymond & Priscilla Petersen
Thomas & Anna Philipps
Richard Picchi
Pier 39
Pizzalina LLC
Edward Pohlman
Laura Smith Polansky
Robert & Lynn Porter
Thomas & Mary Quinlan
Lorrie Ragozzino
John Robbins
Eric Roby
Julia Ross
Sterline L. Ross, Jr.
Laurie Roth,
Westside Therapy Associates
Karol Ruderman
Michelle Ruff
John Rumsey
Mary Sales
San Francisco Ballet Assoc.
San Francisco Opera
Judith Sanford
Jeanne Santangelo
SaveMart
Lauren Schryver
Michael & Jane Scurich
Stella Scurich
Montecito Market Place Assoc.
Alex Sifford
Benton & Saralynn Sifford
Belinda Sifford
Lexie Sifford
Ira Simon, DDS
William and Kathleen Sloan
Steven Snyder
Clara Solvason
Joelle Somers
Richurd & Patricia Somers
Sonoma Raceway
Barbara Stephens
Earl & Toni Stewart
Redwood Clipped Wings
Hal & Joan Strouss
John & Margaret Taddeucci
Cheryl Tanasovich
Laura Targgart
Faye Taylor
Gerald Tench
John and Cecilia Telles
Tims Treads
Gary & Nancy Towslee
Janice Tremblay
Peter & Karen Turnbaugh
Elilzabeth & Robert Turrini
Chancellor Hotel
Lorraine Urban
George & Linda Vaio
Kathleen & Arnold Valcour
Van Midde & Son Concrete
Juana Villacorta
Anne Voisinet
Barbara & Larry Walsh
Janice Wanigatunga
Frank & Sally Williams
B. Anne Zishka
IN HONOR
Chris Bonfiglio
Patty Garbarino
Mia Brown
James Brown &
Gaetan Rouleau
Bruciati Family
Sterling L. Ross, Jr.
Pier Sciaroni
Michael Bruciati
Joy Laurie Allen
Anne M. Brooks
C.P. Sheetmetal
T.E. Carlson
Charles & Kathleen Cendak
William & Margaret Dale
Angelo Damante
Angelo Phyllis Sally Grimaldi
Catherine Jones
Donna Lemmon
Judith Mac Emehiser
Sherry McKean
Ignatius & Bonita Passantino
Joseph & Kay Sanchez
Pier Sciaroni
James J Sherry
Tim & Pam Sowerby
Robert Spano
Dieter & Reyna Vielhauer
Joseph C Sanchez
Jamie Burris
Thomas & Shane Burris
Casa Allegra
Irmelin Hafstad
Kim Chandler
Marilee Rocca Johnson
Tim & Martha Doody
Richurd & Patricia Somers
Dale Dutton Family
Donald & Mary Burden
The Dutton Family
Judith Donovan
Dusty Dutton
M.A & J.B. Dowty
Lois Goodall
Fellows Family
Rosemary Fellows
Kathleen Greene
Andrew & Mary Greene
Nicky Haskett
Linda Haskett
Kevin McCarthy
Frank Antonini
Bruce Carruthers
Kevin Costello
Terrence Costello
Patricia Gallagher
Deborah Lloyd
Patrick & Gina McCarthy
Kathleen McCarthy-Boyce
Tammy Miller
Jim & Carmen Ott
Jeffrey & Sharon Porter
Marian McCarthy Shaffner & David Shaffner
Thomas Spellicy
Nancy & Vincent Yalon
Jane & Mike Scurich
Michael Griffin
Robin Sloan
Carole Schwartz
Joelle Somers
Walter Jack Friesen
Gregory & Cathy Kohs
Joanne Linn
Jean & Charles Phillips
Betty & Wilfred Swalberg
Michael & Mary Somers
Richurd & Patricia Somers
Diane Scaccalosi
Armond Scaccalosi
Belinda Sifford
Justin Sifford
Debbie Sifford
William Cottrell
Elena Fitzpatrick
Alesa Tomsky
Robin Aitken-Bullard
Krystal Tremblay
Valerie Coleman
Joseph and Carol McCabe
IN MEMORY
Jan Alban, M.D.
Donna Alban
Michael Birch
Margaret Anthony
Larry Callan
Linda & George Vaio
Steven Douglas
Ray & Imelda Douglas
Liam & Florence Falvey
Bernadette Baraty
Raymond & Maureen Laval
Mary Far
Edward & Linda Kangeter
Mary Farbstein
Ruth & Michael Peregrin
Eileen Frain
Jacqueline Johnson
Rudolph & Theresa Keiser
Karla Rikansrud
Nancy Severson
Angelina Garbarino
Robert & Kathleen Carrasco
William Garibaldi
Barbara or James Jacques
Willie Garibaldi
Harvey & Louise Birch
Don Grant (Uncle Don)
Patrick & Kathleen McIlroy
George Jacques
Claudia Lewis
Lisa Jay
Judith Sanford
Eleanor La Franchi
George & Linda Vaio
Clifford George Martin
Karl Minges
Clifford Martin
Janice Marcham &
Ashley Macdougall
Mike Manick
George & Linda Vaio
Richard McRostie
Richurd & Patricia Somers
Kim Miller
Richard & Cecilia Lannon
Peter & Scotty Murphy
Marlene Avona
Arthur & Monika Cooke
Janice Haley
Mary & Gregory Whitfield
Peter & Scotty Murphy
& Family
Christine Bookmyer
John & Wendy Cozzi
Peter Murphy
Michael & Dorothy Callan
Robert Murphy
Barbara Northam
Robert Murphy
Peter Murphy
& David Stolich
Diana Stolich
Julia Peters
Kathleen Greene
Andrew & Mary Greene
Christine Grogan
Allen & Susan Peters
Dolly Reynolds
Lauren Schryver
Peggy Rolandson
Raymond & Maureen Laval
Rose Scotto
George & Linda Vaio
Walter Shaff
Florence Shaff
Mary “Pat” Slavin
Irmelin Hafstad
John Strain
George & Linda Vaio
Thank You!
10
64
Casa Allegra Community Services
Clipped Wings of Marin at Bocce
L to R Lorraine Urban, Jan White, Barbara Lee, Laura Richmond & Diane Bazler
We sincerely apologize if we have
omitted or misspelled any names.
CACS lists volunteer opportunities at
volunteermarin.org
Kerry Minekheim &
Isabelle (Izzy) Gardner, Miss Marin, at Bocce
Debbie Falvey & helper pick Bocce raffle winners
BOCCE TOURNAMENT
Debbie Falvey
Michael Falvey
Al Farbstein
Michael Feno
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Jane Murphy
Steve Murphy
Chuck Podesta
Daniel Reichling
Jeanne Santangelo
Patti Somers
Linda Vaio
George Vaio
National Charity League San Rafael Mission Belles
Christine Downs
Amelia Downs
Ellen Minami
Elise Minami
Michelle Minami
Brynnagh Gallagher
Cindy Gallagher
Ninon Pallavacini
Kaelin Pallavacini
Carolyn Robello
Francesca Robello
Marin Catholic High School
Kerry Minekheim
Clipped Wings of Marin
Diane Bazler
Jack Bazler
Joan Burgarella
Ray Burgarella
Susanne Kepford
Barbara Lee
Lorraine Urban
Jan White
Keven Aleman, Luis & Kaila Campos - Holiday Party
Marin Catholic HS Students - Holiday Party
National Charity League – San Rafael Mission Belles mothers & daughters at Bocce
THANKSGIVING PIES
Thanksgiving Pies is made possible by
the CVNL’s Holiday Gifts of Love
Shirl Ackeret
Olivia Bonifacio
Ameial Downs
Laurie Martinez
Ruth McDaniels
Emily Muller
Allison Salzer
Becky Sarlatte
Rae Jean Smith
Cameron Sullivan
Vicky Welisch
Julie Will
HOLIDAY COOKIES
Holiday Cookies is made possible by
the CVNL’s Holiday Gifts of Love
Shirl Ackeret
Marsi Atkinson
Jenna Benyon
Skye Benyon
Tina Davis
Amelia Downs
Joanna Ellis
Abby Frazee
Suzy Gibson
Catherine Greene
Sasha Greeneschmitz
Danielle Hirsch
Madison Hirsch
Charlie Johnson
Denise Louie
Laurie Martinez
Kathleen Minor
Allison Salzer
Lily Wyle
Sarah & River
Glenwood Elementary Junior Girl
Scout Troop 31705
CASA ALLEGRA HOLIDAY PARTY
Reina Araujo
Luis Campos
Monica Fernandez
Larry Mason
Mary Ellen McCarthy
Anne Newman
Jim Santangelo
National Charity League San Rafael Mission Belle
Allison Bainbridge
Carly Bainbridge
Audrey Chaddick
Gina Chiarolla
Liz Chiarolla
Caddie Grenier
Jenny Macphail-Weller
Maggie MacPhail-Weller
Grace Martinez
Laurie Martinez
Cindy Noble
Sally Noble
Diane Shearin
Katie Shearin
Natalie Sparks
Marin Catholic High School
Mark Abrams
Sam Abrams
Kristen Bell
Lindsey Bell
Jack Brubaker
Alyssa Gikkas
Lisa Salvas
Terra Linda High School
Kevin Aleman
Kaila Campos
HOLIDAY CARDS
Mt. Tam School 6th Grade Class
VALENTINE CARDS
National Charity League –
San Rafael Mission Belles
OFFICE ASSISTANCE
Caroline Noble, NCL
COMPANIONSHIP ACTIVITIES
Alison Falvey
Marin Catholic High School
Kristen Bell
Jack Brubaker
Peter Brown
Toula Falvey
Alyssa Gikkas
Emily O’Farrell
Jake Olson
Taylor Powers
Kaleigh Sinnott
Gianna Sullivan
National Charity League - Holiday Party
3
Vol. 11, No. 1, 2015
C
asa Allegra Community Services welcomed four
young adults, Jonathan, Nicole, Josh and Graham to
Supported Living in the past year. Before Socorro Gallardo
recently retired, she worked with families to find locations
and set up homes with staff support. She continued to
assist Eny Campos as Eny transitioned to her new position
as CACS Director of Supported Living. Josh Lyons and
Jonathan Holbrook may be familiar to many readers as
CACS Day Services participants. We are so pleased to be
getting to know Nicole Sykes and Graham Saltonstall.
by Eny Campos
L
ast December, Josh
Lyons moved in with
his good friend Graham
Saltanstall. They moved into
a three-bedroom, two-bath
apartment in Larkspur that
Graham’s dad found. Graham
and Josh have been friends
for a while and now they are
housemates.
Josh and Graham met at the 3rd Friday dance at Hall
Middle School in Larkspur. Josh had been living at home
with his mom in Half Moon Bay and was taking the bus to
Marin County to visit with his friend Graham. Graham’s
parents would pick him up at the Marin Airporter so that
Josh and Graham could go to the dances together. Josh
usually spent the night at Graham’s on the Friday of the
dances. They developed a good friendship, so becoming
roommates and moving into their own apartment seemed
like a good match. They continue to go to the 3rd Friday
dances, take the ferry to San Francisco and do other activities
together. They each have support staff which enables them to
do their own activities as well.
When we met with Josh last year to talk about
Supported Living, he was very excited. We asked him who
would he like to have as staff and he said “I would like
Javier & Josh
Monica to be my staff.” Monica used to support Josh in
his day program when he previously participated in Casa
Allegra’s Day Services (ACS). We could not hire Monica as
Josh’s support staff since she is already supporting another
client, but we were able to hire Javier, Monica’s son and Josh
was very happy about that. He and Javier have developed a
good relationship. Josh loves playing video games. He wanted
to buy an Xbox game console but was not able to, so Javier
gave his own Xbox to Josh as a Christmas gift. Josh was very
happy with his new video game device.
Josh and Javier are working together on making healthy
life style choices. Josh is learning to cook healthy meals and
to stay active. He is also learning to pay his bills and manage
his money.
N
ext time you are in the office be sure to say, “Hi!,” to
Jayne. She is helping to bring efficiency to a new level
for all of us in the office! She is the cheerful voice on the
phone on weekdays between 9am and 4pm.
Jayne lives in San Rafael with her husband, Phil, and
daughter, Kelly. She loves to visit family and friends in
England. She has many hobbies and likes movies, reading,
knitting, outdoors and her dogs Sophie and Happy.
Jayne on the job at the CACS front desk with Julia Pozsgai’s art behind her
64
Casa Allegra Community Services
Dinner at the Mall – Debbie Sifford & Cathy Adams
History class - Mia Brown & Ginnie Wolff at College of Marin
Leighandra Gordley & Jennifer Walsh, owner COMAAT (Changing One Mind At A Time)
assisted the Community Living Campaign at the SF Connected Technology Swap Meet.
COMAAT encourages working toward inclusion and high expectations for all people, comaat.biz
Conditioning Class – Gavin Reimer & Krystal Tremblay at College of Marin
CACS Halloween Party - Andy Woo, Dusty Dutton & Dusty’s Puppets, & Caitlin Lannon
Caitlin Lannon, Jesus Espinoza, Gavin Reimer & Andy Woo with Holday Cards for all made by National Charity League volunteers
Elijah Gonzalez & Dusty Dutton hold card made by CACS folks
to say “Thank YOU!” to volunteers
9
Vol. 11, No. 1, 2015
I
by Dale Dutton
Julia Pozsgai, Butterflies, acrylic painting (portion)
Tamar Mag Raine, Joy of Leaves, fabric collage on board (portion)
A
While preparing for the KPFA Crafts Fair at the end of
last year, paintings and handmade clay jewelry spread across
the kitchen table, looking like Santa’s workshop, Tamar made
a grand gesture referring to all the action and exclaimed, “My
Dad would be over the moon about all this!”
Since the establishment of her business “Tamarmag’s
Unique Creations” Tamar feels she has “really been stretching
her wings and learning a lot.” She is living a happy,
productive life and knows that
A display of art from all
her deceased father, who dabbled
five artists – Mia Brown,
in painting and photography,
Day Morrow, Vanessa
would share her joy.
Castro, Julia Pozsgai &
Out in public at Art Fairs,
Tamar Mag Raine – is
poetry open mics, online, and
open to the public in
our office lobby at 35
on the radio, she has delighted
Mitchell Blvd., Suite
in the opportunity to share her
8, in San Rafael. Open
inspiration with others. You can
daily through April. We
see all her unique creations; her
hope you’ll drop by and
art, jewelry, poetry, and prose, as
see some of their work
well as hear her recent interview
first-hand. (PS – It is
on the KPFA Radio Show
also for $ale!)
entitled “Pushing Limits” by
visiting her website at tamarmagsuniquecreations.com.
IOU is not an art program – it is not a “program” at
all. It is the application of individualized business and career
development structure added to the passions, talents, and
determination of entrepreneurs with dreams!
For more information about IOU microenterprises, call
Dale Dutton at 415-891-8374 or visit CasaAllegra.org.
s a part of our 40th anniversary celebration, Casa
Allegra is focusing attention to specific activities which
indeed “make a difference” in someone’s life. One of them
is an innovative business support service called Income
Opportunities Unlimited (IOU), launched in 2007.
5 artists presently receive business/career development
support services by IOU. One is our own Mia Brown, about
whom much has been written here in past issues. Others are
located around the bay in Petaluma, Oakland, Alameda, and
Hayward. We have also featured Day Morrow (Hayward),
and Vanessa Castro (Alameda) in articles here in the past.
Today, we introduce the most recent additions – Julia
Pozsgai of Petaluma and Tamar Raine of Oakland.
Julia Pozsgai
You have seen some of Julia’s work already – her
painting was selected from several entrants for the front
of 2014’s CACS Holiday card! Julia was recently accepted
as “Artist in Residence” at the Art Without Labels gallery
in Petaluma (AWOL). She launched Pansy Creations, and
occupies her own studio space at AWOL. With IOU business
development support, she is emerging as an active member of
the art community in Petaluma, as well as in Sonoma where
she lives.
Since the birth of Pansy Creations Julia has begun to
identify herself as a business owner, painter, seamstress,
and ceramicist. She loves her business and the increased
opportunities her earnings have allowed her. She has been
able to buy herself an iPad, a nice camera, enjoyable business
lunches, and many fun new art supplies. She has also had the
opportunity to gain one-on-one instruction
to further her artistic skills. She apprenticed
with a seamstress to create her own line of
handmade dolls and this spring she will
begin a new artistic pursuit as she learns
jewelry making. Stay tuned on her website,
pansycreations.com, to see her soon to be
created whimsical jewelry line.
Tamar Mag Raine
Tamar Mag Raine has pursued art and
poetry as a serious hobby for some time, and
is now moving into the realm of becoming a
known professional for her work.
IOU particpants, friends and staff at the KPFA Crafts Fair, Richmond CA 2015 L to R front row: Vanessa Castro, Mia Brown; middle row:
Steve Howell, Jenna Lee, Meghan Dunn, Jaquii Quintarilla, Anna Dow, Kefalew Eticia, Day Morrow
8
Casa Allegra Community Services
1st Place Team Holy Rollers – Front: Betty & Wil Swalberg; Rose Gee, Sharon Adams; Back: Ned Adamson
Co-Chairs Al Farbstein, Linda Vaio, Michael Feno
2nd Place Team No Name: L to R Clara Solvason, Mark Bassett, Judy Gronski, Marie Waters
10/4/14, Marin Bocce Courts, San Rafael
Over 175 players and spectators enjoyed round-robin bocce, delicious
catering, silent auction, raffles, wine and Lagunitas beer to help raise much
needed and appreciated funds to support the work of Casa Allegra. “Longest
Distance Travelled” was Joan Murphy from Chicago!
We thank the many who helped to make our tournament a stand out
and put the fun in fundraising.
Courtside appetizers and luncheon of chicken breast, sausage, pasta and
Ceasar salad was catered by Lucca Ravioli Deli of SF. IPA keg was donated
by Lagunitas Brewing; Estate Wines Ltd. and Linda and George Vaio donated
wine. CACS families, local businesses, museums and event venues donated
wonderful silent auction items and raffle prizes. Volunteer help included
bartenders from Clipped Wings of Marin, food service by mothers and
daughters of National Charity League Mission Belles chapter, set-up by Marin
Catholic High School students. A shout out to Steve Murphy our MC and his
sister, Joan, who helped mom, Jane, with Raffle Baskets and food shopping.
Thank you Co-Chairs Al Farbstein, Michael Feno & Linda Vaio, and the
Bocce Committee - Debbie Falvey, Jane Murphy, Daniel Reichling, Patti
Somers and Jeanne Santangelo.
Team Rolling Stones: Dan Zimmerman, Lorrie
Ragozzino, Kathy & Tom Grossi
Thank You Sponsors
Steve, Nate, Jane & Joan Murphy
Felice Ludington, Vasfi & Pauline Basaran
Roma
Tuscany
Lucca RAVIOLI COMPANY, INC.
Law Office of Cecilia Lannon • Maysie Tift, MFT
Milano
The Sifford Family
Tom & Jenny Berns
Palermo
Vasfi & Pauline Basaran
Team Burkell Plumbing
George Eisenberg
(415) 493-2504
Court Sponsors
As of 9/29/14. We sincerely apologize if we have omitted or misspelled any names
Michael Basso Memorial Foundation
Mary Cummings
Al Farbstein
Kathy Kay
James Nevin, Attorney at Law
Jane & Michael Scurich
Joelle Somers
Jane Scurich & Dusty Dutton
The Peter Murphy Family
David Merin - Superior Coring & Cutting Inc.
Alex & Sara Sifford
John & Margaret Taddeuci
Gary & Nancy Towslee
Linda & George Vaio
Yoga Center of Marin
SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2015 • 15th Annual Bocce Tournament
The Towslee Family
5
Vol. 11, No. 1, 2015
m
By Carrie Bossaller, RN
A
s Casa Allegra
approaches its 40th
anniversary of service, it is
interesting to compare a
business anniversary to a
wedding anniversary. The
celebration of each year
of service (and marriage)
marks how much has
been endured and worked
towards to achieve a
strong partnership. A
successful marriage involves an infinite amount of
dedication, time, love and understanding. These same
qualities have also been the key to the success of Casa
Allegra’s relationship with their clients.
Dedication is apparent in Casa Allegra’s two licensed
long-term care residential homes. Tom, who lives at
the Devon house, has had the opportunity to learn and
grow with Casa Allegra’s support since his teenage days.
He was among the first to receive support from Casa
Allegra’s Residential Living Services. His housemate
Nicki has also been at the Devon house since he was a
young child. At the Adrian house Jamie and Mike are
also long time residents who each moved in as young
children. These four men all have different activities and
schedules. Tom and Mike work most days at different
locations, while Jamie goes to a day program and
Nicki has a program at home. Each person’s individual
preferences have been taken into account and are
reconsidered frequently to help create a comfortable life.
Through the years the needs of the clients have
changed. As they have gotten older, they have moved
from youth into mature adulthood. Family, social
activities, jobs and medical appointments have taken
precedence. From learning to help care for themselves
Nicki at age 5 in 1978
Tom at age 17 in 1975
and communicate
“...Each person’s
to holding a job and
individual preferences
participating in the
have been taken
community, the agency
into account and are
continues to grow and
reconsidered frequently to
adjust with the clients.
help create a comfortable
With this drive, the agency
life...”
has been able to assist
and empower people with
disabilities and continues doing so to provide a longterm commitment that ensures stability and support.
Interestingly, the ruby is the traditional gift for a
40th anniversary symbolizing the enduring flame of
love. As this celebration nears, it is obvious that the
fire behind the passion for serving is burning strong
and bright. The people supported by Casa Allegra’s
Residential Living service benefit greatly from the
dedication that Casa Allegra provides for them daily
and in the long term.
Tom O’Donnell, 57, and Nicki Haskett, 42, relax at home at Devon Drive. Tom has been suported by CACS
for 40 years since he was 17, Nicki has been supported by CACs for 37 years since he was 5-years-old, .
2015
Marin
Human
Race
Support Casa
Allegra Community Services
at www.marinhumanrace.org
The Marin Human Race is a certified 5K & collaborative fundraiser
Sat. May 9, 7am to noon, Marin Civic Center Lagoon, San Rafael
Help us in our work to make a difference
for people with intellectual & other developmental disabilities
one person at a time
Donate online or register to race at www.marinhumanrace.org
CACS contact [email protected] or (415) 499-1116 ext. 142
40 Years of
Innovation
Possibilities
Opportunities
www.casaallegra.org
Casa Allegra Community Services (CACS) is a 501c3 nonprofit Tax ID 94-2775979
Mail to: CACS, 35 Mitchell Blvd. Suite 8, San Rafael, CA 94903
!CASA ALLEGRA 2015 MARIN HUMAN RACE DONATION FORM
MAIL TODAY with your donation or donate online at www.marinhumanrace.org
❒I
2015
Marin
Human
Race
Solicited by:
NEWSLETTER
_______________________
Fundraisers print your name here
support Casa Allegra Community Services in the Marin Human Race. Make check payable to Marin Human Race.
would like to donate directly to Casa Allegra Community Services. Make check payable to CACS.
Donation is ❒ In Honor of ❒ In Memory of __________________________________TOTAL $__________
❒I
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
❒ Bill my: ❒ Visa ❒ Mastercard Credit Card #
Exp. Date/CVC # (3-digit code on back of card)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Name as it appeaars on Credit Card
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Address
City
Zip
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Email
Phone
75
Vol. 11, No. 1, 2015
Bruciati Family – Front: Italia, Giovanna, Jeanette & Ron; Back: Michael, John & Dominga
Mary, Mary Ellen, Kevin & Noel McCarthy, Maria Ramirez
12/14/14 Marin Catholic High School, Kentfield
W
Ana, Krystal Tremblay
Front: Robin Sloan, Evan Kirmse
Back: Jennifer Kirmse, Pati Stoliar
Reina Araujo, Debbie Sifford
e danced the night away to pop music and
holiday classics provided by fabulous DJ Jairo
Torrez. The people we support through our various
services enjoyed meeting up with each other and visiting
with family members who drive in from all over the SF
Bay Area and Sacramento.
One of the joyful highlights of the evening was
when everyone, including volunteers and those who use
wheelchairs, danced together in the middle of the room.
The Holiday Party was coordinated by Eny
Campos and made possible with the help of many and
the donations of Casa Allegra family members. We
especially thank the Holbrook family for underwriting
catering by Tagliaferri’s Delicatessen and Café of
Novato; Daniel Murphy for beverages and the Lannon
family for DJ. CACS staff Secret Santas provided gifts
for each of the people we support.
Volunteers helped create the magic. Their kindness,
bright smiles and big hearts brought great cheer to
everyone who attended. Ever popular, gingerbread house
making was organized by Anne Newman, as she has for
many years now. Thank you Mary Ellen McCarthy &
Jim Santangelo, for your cheerful beverage service.
We thank the many volunteers who donated
baked treats through CVNL’s annual Holiday Gifts of
Love program. National Charity League mothers and
daughters, Marin Catholic & Terra Linda High School
students, CACS staff and family members helped in
many ways. They decorated the day before, welcomed
guests, helped adults and kids build gingerbread houses,
passed appetizers, served buffet dinner, assisted people
to their seats with their full dinner plates. Then, at the
end of the evening, they accomplished the most efficient
take-down ever.
Lillian Jeffries, Nicole Sykes
Diane Scaacalosi & Ana Ramirez
Bobby Ingles & Sharon Halstrom
Save the Date: Holiday Party Saturday. Dec. 12, 2015!
Lorrie, Denise & Connie Ragozzino, & Lisa Reynolds
Patti, Joelle & Richurd Somers