Finance Committee Agenda and Packet 2013 12 16

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families at the local, state, and federal level by: a. Acting as a conduit for information between our constituents and the systems that provide services and supports regarding changes and the potential impact they will have on people's lives. b. Educating and supporting people with I/DD and their families to advocate for themselves. c. Advocating independently and in partnership with others to improve Colorado's developmental disability system. d. Raising awareness among legislators, state and local departments and the general community about the contribution people with I /DD and their families make to our communities and the inequality and daily challenges they experience. e. Supporting Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SAGE) to define and pursue their public policy agenda and community building initiatives. c) Planned activities to accomplish goals The ACL has a long history of providing advocacy, training and information to our constituents and we will continue to provide these services in 2014. We have recently launched a structured volunteer program to allow us to expand services to people who need support to connect with their community and maintain a healthy lifestyle but who do not need advocacy. We are requesting an increase in funding for 2014 to ensure we can respond to the needs of an increased number of people who will become eligible for Medicaid services in Louisville but who will be waitlisted for many years, to support expansion of Caminando Juntos to other communities, and to resource our expanding Volunteer Advocate and community outreach program. ACL Activities: • Conduct an intake/needs assessment with individuals and/or families to identify their goals, strengths, needs, existing resources, additional resources needed, any education and support required. • Meet with the person/family as needed to assist with problem solving, decision making and crisis management. • Attend meetings to advocate for children and adults with I /DD in the public school and adult service delivery systems. • Provide group training and support to parents/caregivers and self - advocates. • Provide technical assistance, information and referral via phone, email, newsletters, and website. • Help people plan for a transition in care giver. • Provide crisis support to people with I /DD and /or their family. • Assist with completing applications for public benefits, monitor progress of applications and appeals. • Provide support to access health care, and mentorship and support to address health issues. • Provide support to access employment and benefits planning services to balance work income and Social Security benefits. • Encourage participants to attend ACL classes and social activities. • Administer Financial Aid fund based upon the organization's budget. • Plan and host community social events, • Continue to collaborate with others on public policy advocacy. • Continue to communicate with our constituents and collaborative partners about public policy matters that impact people's lives. 3. Describe the population and geographic area targeted for service by your program /agency. The ACL provides service to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. The ACL serves all of Boulder and Broomfield Counties. Funding from the City of Louisville will support Louisville residents with I/DD. 14