Publications
Fall 2009 Touchstone
On the Cover: Stone Belt will present Belt Out Laughing! an evening of comedy celebrating Stone Belt’s 50 years in the community. This fundraiser will feature comedian Josh Blue, winner of Last Comic Standing Season 4. Find out more about Josh and the event on Page 1.
Belt Out Laughing!
featuring Josh Blue, winner of "Last Comic Standing" Season 4
event details
Belt Out Laughing is an evening of comedy celebrating Stone Belt’s 50 years in the community.
Join us . . .
Thursday, October 15 @ 7:30 pm
Buskirk-Chumley Theater
114 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington
Opening Act by Local Comedy Favorite, Brad Wilhelm
A limited seating, pre-event dinner will be held . . .
Thursday, October 15 @ 5:30 pm
Uptown Cafe
102 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington
Tickets are $25 for the comedy show and $25 for the optional pre-event dinner. Tickets are now on sale @ the Buskirk-Chumley Box Office.
In Person: 114 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington
By Phone: 812-323-3020
Online: www.buskirkchumley.org
meet Josh Blue
Perhaps best known as the comedian who puts the cerebral in Cerebral Palsy, Josh Blue exploded onto the national comedy scene by capturing the attention and endearment of the country as the winner of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” Season 4, which aired May through August 2006. Having already established himself as one of the most sought after comedians on the college circuit, his weekly appearances on “Last Comic” in the summer of 2006 expanded his fan base exponentially.
Blue riveted audiences on the fourth season of the NBC reality series, usually garnering standing ovations after each brief set. Blue appeared on Last Comic Standing to “make people aware of the fact that people with disabilities can make an impact.” Possessed with an undeniable likeability and comedic timing that belies his youthfulness, Josh continues to break down stereotypes of people with disabilities one laugh at a time. He helps listeners laugh at their own stereotypes and corrects misconceptions about individuals with disabilities. His stand-up routine is in a constant state of evolution and his off-the-cuff improvisational skills guarantee that no two shows are exactly alike. Josh has also become a hit on the internet with his top two YouTube videos receiving well over 1 million plays.
“I have the common sense to know that my disability is what makes me stand out,” the 26-year-old explains. “But I don’t want to be thought of as just ‘the comic with cerebral palsy.’ I want people to think I’m funny, and to make them laugh. A lot of my set is about having CP, but it’s not like I can’t address it — plus, most comics do a lot of talking about themselves. If I didn’t talk about it, it would be uncomfortable and weird for everyone.”
Blue got his start in comedy doing open mic sets while attending Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington. Audiences reacted enthusiastically to his self-deprecating humor and Blue started making a name for himself on the comedy circuit.
Josh has appeared as a regular guest star on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia,” and his story has been featured on Fox, CBS, ABC, and MSNBC. He was the first comedian to perform stand-up on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” and was named Best Winning Reality Show Guest for his appearance on “Live with Regis and Kelly.” He became the first comic to debut a stand-up special on the big screen when “7 More Days in the Tank” was shown in theatres across the country. Portions of the performance also aired on Bravo Network as a half-hour comedy special. Josh has been featured in numerous print publications including “People Magazine” and “The New York Times.” Josh has also performed at the prestigious HBO-Aspen Comedy Festival and Comedy Central’s South Beach Comedy Festival. He also appeared in the 2009 low budget horror film, “Feast 3: The Happy Finish.”
Outside of comedy, Blue is also known for his skills in soccer, which included traveling to Athens in 2004 as part of the U.S. Paralympics soccer team. He also is an artist and has created several sculptures and paintings, which he currently sells. One particular piece he sells at an extremely high price, because, as he said on his appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, “I nearly died making it.”
Blue was born in Cameroon, where his father, Walter Blue, a professor of romance languages from Hamline University, was teaching in a mission. Blue grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota and currently resides in Denver with his wife, Yuko, and their baby boy, Simon.
what is cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development; before, during, or shortly after birth; or during infancy. Thus, these disorders are not caused by problems in the muscles or nerves. Instead, faulty development or damage to motor areas in the brain disrupts the brain’s ability to adequately control movement and posture.
“Cerebral” refers to the brain and “palsy” to muscle weakness or poor muscle control. Though cerebral palsy itself is not progressive, secondary conditions may get better over time, get worse or remain the same. Cerebral palsy is not communicable. It is not a disease and should not be referred to as such. Although cerebral palsy is not “curable” in the accepted sense, training and therapy can help improve function.
Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to fully control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination.
> To find out more about Cerebral Palsy log on to www.ucp.org or www.cerebralpalsy.org.
From the CEO - A place where everyone knows your name
Most people would agree, and numerous studies have shown, that the quality of one’s relationships is more important to the quality of life than any other factor, including wealth. The value of relationships to oneself and one’s community creates social capital and it provides mutual benefit to all parties. The more relationships one has that are based on trust and reciprocity, the more social capital is attained. Social capital can be found in friendship networks, neighborhoods, faith communities, schools, book clubs, civic associations, and even bars. The motto in Cheers, “where everybody knows your name,” captures one important aspect of social capital. Our community is stronger when there are higher degrees of social capital amongst community members.
At Stone Belt, we believe strongly in the value of social capital. Many of our programs and services are aimed at supporting clients to build relationships and to make contributions to their community. As an organization, we also seek ways that we can strengthen social networks and therefore help the community to work together to address common needs while fostering inclusion. It is very exciting work.
In this issue you will read of several examples of social capital building. Many of our awards winners at this year’s 50th Anniversary Annual Awards Celebration have made positive impacts on the community, including Kelly Tate, who made a great deal of difference in the life of one elderly resident through simple acts of kindness; and also the
Mt. Pleasant Christian Church, which has included people with disabilities meaningfully into their congregation for many years. Stone Belt artists continue to beautify and delight the community with their art pieces, such as those recently installed in the Volunteers in Medicine Clinic. Employers and businesses continue to be strengthened by the contributions of employees with disabilities in their work place or by the outsourced work that client’s produce in our life sciences and manufacturing facilities.
Creating social capital is indeed a privilege and a responsibility that we take to heart. We are immeasurably fortunate that the communities in which we provide services are strong in so many ways because of the trust, reciprocity, collective actions and inclusion that is so abundant. Thank you for your support, which enables us to take part in this social wealth creation.
Together, we are all stronger.
Cheers,
Leslie Green, Chief Executive Officer
Join Stone Belt in Supporting this Year's Buddy Walk
October 4 @ Bryan Park, Bloomington. Meet @ the Woodlawn Shelter, near the pool • Registration opens @ 1 pm, walk starts @ 2 pm.
The Down Syndrome Family Connection in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society, invite the public to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month this October by participating in the Buddy Walk, a short, walk on an accessible route in which anyone can participate. This event celebrates the abilities of people with Down Syndrome. Whether you have Down Syndrome or know someone who does, or just want to show your support, please join us.
For more information: www.downsyndromefamilyconnnection.org / 812-720-9603
Quarterly Donors
Stone Belt extends appreciation to all our generous donors from June 1 to August 24, 2009. We are grateful for their continued support.
CORNERSTONE SOCIETY LEVEL GIFTS ($10,000 – $24,999): James & Joyce Grandorf.
LIMESTONE SOCIETY LEVEL GIFTS ($2,500 – $4,999): Don & Caroline Snyder.
BUILDERS SOCIETY LEVEL GIFTS ($1,000 – $2,499): Alexander & Virginia Buchwald; Charles & Rhonda Burch; Arthur & Kay Dahlgren; Tim & Mary Ann Hines; Don & Carol-Anne Hossler; Robert & Andra Klemkosky; Richard Sanders; Betty Underwood; Henry & Celicia Upper.
ADVOCATE LEVEL GIFTS ($500 – $999): Malcolm Brown; Dancing With the Celebrities; Phil & Margaret Hathaway; Gary & Helen Ingersoll; Ken Gros Louis; Office Depot Foundation; Richard & Susan Stryker; Kurt & Lisa Zorn.
STEWARD LEVEL GIFTS ($100 – $499): James & Shirley Abbitt; Hind Badi Albadi; Sarah Baumgart & Bill Lozowski; Ruth Chesmore; Roland & Susan Cote; Lawrence & Betty Davidson; John & Sara Davenport; Richard & Rosemary Dever; Paul & Karen Ficker; Joseph & Mary Gajewski; Henry & Alice Gray; David & Judy Haas; Marian Hoffa; James & Helen Houck; Kappa, Kappa, Kappa, Alpha Delta; Jillian Kinzie; Gregory Lloyd; Stuart & Ellen Mufson; Roberta Murphy; William & Phyllis Perkins; Jill Robinson; Jerard & Nancy Ruff; Malcolm & Ellen Stern; Charles & Sue Stillions; Gary & Kristin Stratten; Saundra Taylor; Cliff & Joan Travis; Ed & Donna Wenstrup; Paul & Charlotte Zietlow.
FRIEND LEVEL GIFTS ($1 – $99): Raymond & Carole Allen; Anonymous; Kathryn Davidson; Douglas & Pamela Hausmann; Carol Hudson, Ralph & Shirley Holstine; Jim & Kathie Lazerwitz; Catherine Smith; Don & Jane Summitt.
IN KIND GIFTS: Boston Scientific; Fields Environmental, Inc.
In Memoriam - Clients Had Great Zeal for Life
The lives of two extraordinary members of Stone Belt’s community are remembered.
ERNIE HAMM
Ernie Hamm passed away on June 19 at Monroe Hospital in Bloomington, at 60. Born December 20, 1948 in Bloomington, he was the son of Ertie Eugene and Otilla (Tucks) Hamm. His is survived by one sister, Aloma Billings of Bloomington, and many friends from Stone Belt, Options and Indiana University. Ernie was known for his infectious smile and peaceful manner. He was hardworking and well-liked by all who came in connection with him.
He worked for many years at Indiana University: first at Residence Halls and for the past 8-years at the IU Police Department, where his friendly personality and enthusiasm for his work earned him high regard from his supervisors and co-workers. Even when off-duty, he was often seen in his uniform, which he wore proudly. In addition to supported employment, Ernie also participated in the Work Services program part-time at Stone Belt’s 10th Street location in Bloomington.
FRANK PORTER
Frank Porter, long-time Stone Belt client, died Friday, August 21 at Bloomington Hospital. He was 62. Born in Louisville, KY on November 21, he was the son of William and Martha (Washington) Porter. He was supported by his guardians Dwight and Cathy Coffman and hundreds of other friends at Stone Belt and within the community.
He will be remembered for his enthusiasm for life and his ability to create friendships with a broad array of individuals. He was an active and well-loved member of the Apostolic Bible Church and Monroe County Self-Advocacy group. He loved to bowl and was an avid IU Basketball, Indianapolis Colts and WWE fan. He has been affiliated with Stone Belt since 1996.
With positive supports, Frank was able to live the past 13 years in his own apartment that he shared with Victor Sarno. Frank was recently awarded the Elbert Johns Self-Advocacy award because of his involvement in the local group and for voicing his own wants and needs regarding his health condition. He will also be remembered for his touching and humorous monologue performance at Stone Belt’s “I Am You” performance this past November. Frank’s voice and passion will be long-remembered by many.
Of Note
Art Blooms
At Left: Kathleen Oliver (left) co-owner of Oliver Winery, Carolyn Abbitt, Stone Belt client artist (center), and Elizabeth Sturgeon (right) Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine, stand with one of the five pieces of art that the Mary Morgan Oliver Foundation provided for the new Volunteers in Medicine clinic.
At Right: A portion of one of Stone Belt's new 3 x 5 foot mosaics that will hang in the lobby of IU's new Life Sciences Business Incubator.
Stone Belt artists have been busy this Summer spreading their creativity across the City of Bloomington.
The first place brightened by art was the new Volunteers in Medicine Clinic located at 811 West Second Street. Stone Belt artist Carolyn Abbitt created five original mixed-media mosaics that will hang in patient examination rooms. The pieces were donated by the Mary Morgan Oliver Foundation.
The mission of the foundation is to help make the health care community more aesthetically appealing through art, music, gardens and other creative installations that enhance health care facilities in Monroe County. This year’s recipient was Volunteers in Medicine, which recently opened a new clinic. Bill and Kathleen Oliver, trustees of the Foundation, worked with Elizabeth Sturgeon, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine, to help select the chosen artwork. The Olivers heard about a recent art exhibit by Stone Belt artists and thought the pieces were exactly what they were looking for.
“We love the whimsical, feel-good look of the art being created by Stone Belt clients. It was a natural choice,” said Kathleen Oliver.
Another building in town where mosaics are on display is the new IU Innovation Center, an incubator for information technology and life sciences strategies, located across from Stone Belt’s Bloomington headquarters at 10th and the Bypass. Two 3 x 5 foot, embellished mosaics housed in shadow box frames will hang in the lobby of this new $10 million, 40,000-square-foot building. The pieces feature a variety of organisms and biology equipment.
Messer Construction, the Incubator building contractor, commissioned and donated the pieces to showcase the great partnership between IU and Stone Belt over the years. Bruce Tumlin, Messer Construction Project Manager, facilitated the commission and donation of the art pieces, and expressed his appreciation for all that Stone Belt did to support Messer during the many months of construction. “Stone Belt has been a great neighbor to Messer, and will be a great neighbor for the Incubator.”
> To find out more about Art & Craft, contact Business Development Director Larry Pejeau at 812-332-2168, ext. 229 / lpejeau@stonebelt.org.
50/50 Weight Loss Challenge
In May, Stone Belt kicked-off an internal competition, the “50/50 Weight Loss Challenge,” to encourage staff members to lose weight and get healthy this summer to mark Stone Belt’s 50th Anniversary. The activity was run from May to August by the Human Resources Department.
190 staff members participated in the competition. There were 38 teams made, up of 5 people each. Staff members were required to weigh-in weekly with a Stone Belt nurse to gauge their progress. Participants initial pre-competion weight was compared with their ending weight to calculate the total ending weight loss.
The weight loss for all staff participants totaled 1,623 pounds (an average of about 8 pounds a person). Of the 38 teams that originally signed up, 14 reached the goal to lose 50 pounds or more over the 12-week challenge. The members of these
teams each received 8 hours of paid vacation time.
There were two teams that received individual prizes. “50 Weights to Lose Your Blubber” received the prize for the best team name. Each member of the team, consisting of Earl Isom, Sheryl Myers, Melanie Hays, Kenny Hays and Katie Floerke, received
$25 gift cards to Dick’s Sporting Goods.
The overall winner of the competition, the team that lost the highest percentage of weight (11%), was the “Tutti Fruitti’s on the Move,” consisting of Stella Mills, Ilese Sabelhaus, Lora Vanosdol, Nathan Sankpill and Cricket Rea. The team lost a grand total of 144.5 pounds over the 12-week competition. Each member of the team received a $500 gift card to the clothing store of their choice for a new wardrobe.
People Make the Difference
Stone Belt has welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors this fiscal year. Their term of service will be 3-years, begun on July 1. Find out more about these individuals below:
TRISH IERINO
Trish is Assistant Vice President of Sales and Services Branch Network at the IU Credit Union. She has been involved in banking since 1976 and moved to Bloomington in 2006 from Northwest Indiana. She is the sister of Cheryl Thompson, who receives Stone Belt services in Bloomington. Trish is a graduate of Leadership Bloomington, attends Faith Lutheran Church, and is a member of Toastmasters.
NOLA BLOEMENDAAL
Nola has lived in Bloomington since 2005 with her children, Evan and Blake, and husband, Randy, who coaches the IU Tennis Team. Nola also serves on the board of Down Syndrome Family Connection, which she and other parents started in 2006. Nola’s son, Blake, was involved with Stone Belt’s First Steps services.
MICHAEL FOX
Michael is the manager of Lennie’s Restaurant, where he has provided support for Stone Belt’s Art & Craft Studio, hosting two successful exhibits over the past two years. He graduated from Leadership Bloomington in 2009, and is on the committee that organized the Get Involved Bloomington Expo in March 2009.
ELIZABETH DAVIDSON
Betty is a recently retired special education teacher from Monroe County. At one point in her career, she substituted at
Stone Belt when it was a school. She is originally from Michigan, is married and has two children. She is involved in the Council for Exceptional Children, Tri Kappa, and early inclusion programs.
Regional Updates
Stone Belt boasts a wide range of programming across 4 counties in south central Indiana. This month Touchstone launches a new column to keep readers in sync with the many happenings throughout the agency. Read on to find out what’s new.
EAST
We are happy to announce our programs and services have moved into a new space in Columbus. Located in the United Way building, the space is shared with more than 30 other community agencies, creating increased opportunities to collaborate and network with various community partners. The new contact information is:
1531 13th Street,
Columbus, IN 47201
812-376-7149
By more than doubling our space to 9,000 square feet, we now have more appropriate program space for Day Services. In addition, the extra space will be used to grow Milestones’ programs. Psychiatrists will visit monthly and additional counselors and behaviorists will be hired. Stone Belt Employment Services also has new offices in the building increasing its visability and accessibility.
Our former space, which we had occupied since 2002, had become inadequate to support the numbers of clients and staff that were in the office. Susan Russ, Director of East Regional services said, “The move at the end of July went very smooth and the clients adjusted quickly to the new space. We are all pleased to have the needed facilities to appropriately support clients and expand our services.”
> Future events are planned to share our new space to the public. Watch for announcements @ www.stonebelt.org.
MILESTONES
Meet Dina the Dinosaur, Molly and Wally (above). They are puppets used in Milestones Dino Club Social Skills & Problem Solving Group for children. Thanks to a generous donation from Bloomington Anesthesiologists, the puppets, DVDs, and training materials used in The Incredible Years Program were purchased. This fall Milestones will be conducting a Dino Detective Club groups for children aged 4-6. The group will promote the use of self-control strategies, strengthen social and play skills, and reduce behavioral challenges. Milestones is presently seeking funds to purchase the remaining Incredible Years curriculum.
> Find out more @ www.milestonesclinic.org.
Awards Ceremony Celebrates 50 Years
Marking 50 years of providing exceptional supports in our community, this year’s Annual Celebration took on a new format.
The event began with a catered reception, followed by an auditorium-style awards ceremony during which excellence in staff, clients, volunteers and community partners were recognized. In addition to the awards, there were also several surprises throughout the evening.
Bloomington Mayor Mark Kruzan and United Way Director Barry Lessow spoke passionately of Stone Belt’s impact on the greater community. Stone Belt CEO Leslie Green led the event and reminded attendees of Stone Belt’s rich history and future endeavors. Past President of the Stone Belt Board of Directors Phil Meyer and his Dancing With The Celebrities partner Mary Alice Powell were also on hand to perform a dance from their award winning number. The winning team of Stone Belt’s 50 for 50 Weight Loss Challenge was also recognized. To top it all off, the Stone Belt wrapped City of Bloomington bus also made a special appearance.
Thank you to all who joined us for this wonderful opportunity for our entire Stone Belt community and many other friends, to celebrate our achievements throughout the past year.
THE SELF DETERMINATION AWARD - BILLY SETSER AND SHANNON GILBERT
Self Determination is an expression of independence, confidence, and a desire to direct one's own life. It is a core principle for Stone Belt, and our belief in it guides all of the important work that we do.
THE POSITIVE SUPPORTS AWARD -- DENISE HILLENBURG AND JANNA BANKS
Supportive words, unspoken encouragement, a cheerleader behind the scenes and an advocate on the front lines. All of these are expressions of positive supports that enable an individual to reach his or her full potential.
THE EMPOWERED LEARNING AWARD -- PHILLIP SMITH AND MEGAN FOLLEY
We learn through traditional models, we learn through experience, and we learn from others. We become empowered learners when we choose learning to help us grow as individuals, and then use that learning to help others reach their fullest potential.
THE SELF-DIRECTED HOME LIFE AWARD -- ARCHIE HERRON AND DEBRA HIGHAM
A happy home -- what could be more important at the end of a long day? Home is the place where we each have the opportunity to take control; to create a space that brings us joy, comfort, and security. Home Life must be self-directed.
THE OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS AWARD -- KELLY TATE AND DEB MISHLER
Each one of us has skills, talents, interests, passions and time to contribute to making our community a better place. Stone Belt believes in the power of helping people discover the ways that they can make outstanding contributions.
THE EMPLOYMENT AWARD -- MIKE GRIFFITH AND PATTI ROCCO
Employment is a fundamental part of adult life. In our society, our identities are often tied to our careers. We believe that all adults have the right -- as well as the skills and talents -- to be employed, to earn a wage, and to contribute to teh building of the economy.
THE QUALITY OF LIFE AWARD -- BETTY JO TERRILL AND PATRICIA SEBREE
Many things go into creating our quality of life. Although there is not one singular way to evaluate the quality of life someone experiences, it is possible to recognize when quality supports enable others to develop and maintain fulfilling, independent relationships.
THE VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD -- LARRY PEJEAU
Presented to an employee in a management position who embodies the spirit of Stone Belt's mission, empowers thos around him or her, has made exceptional contributions toward the leadership agenda and has gone above the call of duty.
THE COMMUNITY PARTNERS AWARD -- LENNIE'S, MT. PLEASANT CHURCH, PEGGY WELCH, RURAL TRANSIT
Were it not for the community that embraces our purpose and joins us in promoting our principles, truly we could not be as successful as we are in supporting individuals with disabilities to fully participate in the life of the community.
THE ELBERT JOHNS AWARD -- FRANK PORTER, IN MEMORIAM
Presented to a client who has demonstrated commitment to advocating for him/herself or others to receive the support needed for success in life. This award was named to honor the memory of Elbert Johns, Stone Belt's second Executive Director.
THE VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD -- PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY
Volunteers add a special touch to all we do -- they bring energy, dedication and social opportunities to our clients in ways that truly touch lives. This award is presented to an individual or group that has made outstanding contributions during the previous year.
THE THOMAS MIDDLETON AWARD -- LINDA ELLIOTT SHAW AND CINDY ELLIOTT ALBRIGHT
Presented to an individual or group who has demonstrated a high level of compassion, caring and volunteerism. This award was named to honor the memory of Thomas Middleton, a physician who gave generously of his time and talent to Stone Belt.
First Person: I Am... Rebecca Zimmerman
By Rebecca Zimmerma, Stone Belt Employment Client
My name is Rebecca Zimmerman. I was born in Hong Kong and I lived overseas for twenty years. My mother and father were both from America and my father had a job overseas in Germany working on an American military base. My mother went to visit my grandmother who lived in Bloomington. When she returned from her trip my brother David and I were told we were moving to America in six months.
I have been living in Bloomington and have been with Stone Belt for about two years. I started out looking for my job through Vocational Rehabilitation Services. My mother was asked what program she thought was the best program for me. We were told Stone Belt had good opportunities so we decided to go with them. It took several tries to find a job and I was starting to become discouraged. My job coach helped keep me motivated. Finally, a position came open at Cyber Café working at the Freshens stand making smoothies.
At first, my job was hard for me because I didn’t know the ropes. Later, I found that it was much easier when someone was there to help me learn. This was my first time having someone at my job to help coach me. It helped me a lot in many ways. I liked having a job coach to help me learn how to do my job because they were there to help explain things better. My job coach practiced with me on how to do my job and broke it down in steps because I learn better when I can see what I’m supposed to do. I have had many jobs and this is the first job I have been truly successful at. I have been working there for a year and a half.
While working at Freshens I have learned to make 19 different kinds of smoothies and several different kinds of frozen coffees. In one day I serve a lot of customers. It gets very busy but I do my best to make each smoothie good. One day a customer came through and told one of my supervisors that I made the best smoothie she had ever tasted. That made me feel really good. I always make sure that my work area is very clean and I try to be very polite to the customers and help them the best I can.
My goal for the future is to work my way up and someday become a supervisor. Working with my job coach from Stone Belt has given me the confidence I need to succeed and I want to keep moving forward to make a career for myself.
Help Make a Difference by Donating Today
Every gift to Stone Belt makes a huge difference. Contributions go directly toward achieving excellence in client supports, innovation in staff training and the creation of substantive programs that impact thousands of lives.
Our community is stronger when every individual experiences success. Visionary donors help empower people with disabilities to form meaningful relationships, live independently, experience professional employment, and contribute to the building of community.
Help Stone Belt make our community a better place. Make a gift to our Annual Fund today by visiting www.stonebelt.org.
The Jewel Society -- Planned Giving Program
Stone Belt’s Jewel Society is an honorary society that recognizes those who have named Stone Belt as a beneficiary in their estate plans. The Jewel Society provides visionary donors with the opportunity to create a lasting legacy in support of individuals with disabilities. Jewel Society members are listed in Stone Belt publications, according to the wishes of the donor.
You can join the Jewel Society through several planned giving options, including: bequests, certificates of deposit, charitable gift annuities, private retirement plans, gifts of insurance, charitable lead trusts, and charitable remainder trusts. Stone Belt encourages donors to speak with a professional estate advisor when making decisions about planned gifts.
> For more information on the Jewel Society or to apprise Stone Belt of your planned gift arrangements, contact
Amy Jackson, Development Director, at 812-332-2168, ext. 314 / ajackson@stonebelt.org.
NAP Campaign is Completed
Stone Belt is pleased to announce that we have already completed our 2009-2010 NAP Tax Credit campaign. Through the generosity of donors, we raised close to $33,000 in one week! The dollars raised provide needed therapy hours at Milestones: Clinical and Health Resources for underserved individuals who would otherwise not have access.
NAP tax credits are credits awarded to non-profits from throughout the state. Agencies may pass these along to donors, who then receive 50% of their gift back as a credit on their Indiana State tax return. This outstanding program allows donors to more than double the value of their gift, which in turn provides opportunities for greater generosity.
Stone Belt looks forward to continued participation in the NAP tax credit program. We will share when more tax credits become available in the future. Thank you to all of the wonderful donors who helped us to reach our goal so quickly!
Create Opportunity with a Donation to United Way!
Stone Belt is honored to be a member agency of the United Way of Bloomington and Monroe County. Through our partnership we are able to provide essential supports to individuals with disabilities in our communities. Stone Belt receives a generous annual allocation from the United Way general fund, providing us with unrestricted dollars that we can utilize in the creation of the very best resources possible.
When you donate to the United Way campaign, you are helping create opportunity for people in Monroe County, including Stone Belt clients. United Way focuses resources on the building blocks for a better life – education, earnings, and essentials. With your help, United Way can invest in 25 certified member agencies, including Stone Belt, and also in collaborative initiatives that help local residents make lasting improvements in their lives.
> United Way of Bloomington and Monroe County has just kicked off it’s 2009 campaign. You can find out more information about making a contribution through your place of business or by visiting www.monroeunitedway.org.
National News: Bedford Client Employer Wins National Honor
The Dunn Hospital and Stone Belt team include L/R: Dunn Employee Tony Harris; Stone Belt Employment Consultant Sheryl Myers, Dunn Hospital Director of Environmental Services Max Medlock; Stone Belt Employment Consultant Patty Rocco; Dunn Employee Caroline Wells. (Client Nick Parsley is not pictured.)
Max Medlock, Director of Environmental Services, at Dunn Memorial Hospital in Bedford, needed productive, reliable workers. Sheryl Myers and Patty Rocco, Stone Belt Employment Consultants, were seeking jobs for individuals with disabilities.
When they found each other it became the start of a wonderful, long-term relationship between the two companies.
Five years later the group celebrated their successful partnership with a trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to receive the 2009 Large Employer Award (given to a company with 25+ employees) at the 20th Annual Association for Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) National Conference on July 1. Dunn Memorial Hospital currently employs three individuals with disabilities, Tony Harris, Nick Parsley and Caroline Wells, hired through Stone Belt’s Bedford Employment program.
“For us it is more than a success. It has enhanced our workplace. Workers are happy to be here, show up on time and seldom do they ask for anything,” said Medlock. “Not only are they dependable, they touch the lives of our customers in ways other workers cannot.”
Bitta DeWees, Stone Belt Director of Community Employment, first nominated Dunn Memorial Hospital at the State level for their excellence. Based on her nomination they were awarded the State of Indiana’s APSE Award for Employer of the Year. This recognition allowed them to be nominated for the National APSE Large Employer of the Year award and in June they were notified that they had won this prestigious honor.
“Dunn Memorial Hospital has made a commitment to making every employee a success and to make sure those with disabilities are included in their hospital family equally,” said DeWees. “Their wonderful attitude and support are unmatched.”
In addition to their personal commitment, Dunn Hospital has made a concerted effort on the local, state and national level to encourage other employers to hire individuals with disabilities. Dunn Hospital CEO, Mike Cooper, has spoken to area Chambers of Commerce and other groups about these hard-working members of Dunn’s diverse workforce. Dunn Hospital also supports work-study programs through Bedford North Lawrence High School, with the hope of employing individuals after graduation. They have called Stone Belt of Lawrence County when they have job openings to see if there are any candidates available to fill the position.
On the job, Dunn Hospital has made several accommodations for their employees with disabilities. They have shortened shifts as needed, supplied mentors, and have provided special trainings for staff members to ensure an effective working relationship between supervisors and employees with disabilities.
What truly makes the relationship between Dunn Hospital staff members and their jobs special is that way they have folded themselves into the larger Dunn family. Nick, Tony and Caroline find time for the important social aspects of their job without getting behind in their work. They attend the annual staff picnic and holiday party, and they routinely participate in staff appreciation day activities.
Stone Belt Employment Consultant Sheryl Myers applauds Dunn Hospital for their commitment to client workers. “All we are asking for is a chance. We want to help good people find jobs. Our clients want to work and be part of the community. Dunn Hospital is an excellent example of a successful relationship.”
> If you would like to learn more about Stone Belt’s Community Employment program, contact Bitta DeWees at 812-335-3507, ext. 273 / bdwees@stonebelt.org.
Artists-in-Residence: Classes Encourage Clients' Inner Creativity
Stone Belt South Photo student Crystal Pitts and Stone Belt Central Guitar student Robert Pate show off their new talents during respective clases this Summer. New classes are slated for the Fall.
On a Wednesday afternoon in the Main Conference Room of Stone Belt’s Bloomington Headquarters, a group of individuals have become a human ice cream machine, each person acting as one piece of a conveyer belt, creating his or her own distinct sound and movement. With giggles and huge smiles, the machine hums along as the final product — an imaginary double dip cone — is passed along to the recipient waiting by the door.
This moment describes just one of the myriad creative experiences in the artist-in-residence class that was offered this summer at Stone Belt by drama educators David and Hannah from Theatre of the People. More than a dozen clients spent 10 weeks learning creative expression through drama, utilizing models such as improvisation, role-playing, and story writing.
The Theatre of the People class is one of several that have been included in Stone Belt’s new artist-in-residence program. Funded through two grants that Stone Belt received in recent months totaling more than $16,000, the artist-in-residence program provides Stone Belt clients with the opportunity to express themselves creatively, to explore their identities and to gain new skills.
“The artist-in-residence program really enables Stone Belt to put its Principles of Service into action. Using the performing arts, our clients are empowered through learning and they have the chance to build social capital by experiencing art in partnership with community artists,” said Leslie Green, Stone Belt CEO.
The goal of the artist-in-residence program is to connect community artists with individuals with disabilities, to share their talents and encourage creative exploration. “Exploration begins with curiosity, but can end quickly with lack of confidence or the confusion of overwhelming possibilities and technical requirements. I think the classes have addressed both these hurdles,” said Pat McManus, videography and photography instructor. “I believe the classes have opened doors in people’s lives and opened new horizons for creative exploration by offering a starting point and the confidence to step through those doors and explore what lies beyond them.”
Stone Belt envisions “the arts” very broadly — including visual, performing and culinary arts — with a diverse offering of experiences so that there is something that will appeal to just about everyone. Classes offered to date have included videography, photography, drama, guitar and cooking. Upcoming classes include ballroom dancing, cartooning and line dancing. Classes are currently being offered at Stone Belt’s facilities in both Bloomington and Bedford, with the goal of expanding the classes to include Columbus clients, as well.
Amy Jackson, Stone Belt’s Development Director, recently shared the story of the new artist-in-residence program with a group of visitors to the agency. “There is such immense talent in the communities where we operate. Our hope is to cultivate the skills, talents and community spirit of local educators and artists. The generous gifts we’ve received from two visionary foundations have given us the opportunity to pilot this program. We look forward to finding the funding to continue and also to expand this meaningful project.”
Stone Belt has received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from class participants, who view the experiences not only as something fun, but also in many cases as a chance to gain valuable new skills that may be translatable into future personal and professional opportunities. Mary Jane Smith and Doug Davis, graduates of the inaugural videography class, shared their filming skills at Stone Belt clients’ November sold-out performance of “I Am You” at the Bloomington Playwrights Project Theatre. Because of the knowledge they acquired in their artist-in-residence class, Mary Jane and Doug were able to capture the monologue performance for distribution on DVD.
“I really enjoyed learning how to use all of the features on the video camera, as well as learning how to compose the scenes and the action for the video,” said videography student Davis. “I felt very professional when we got to film the “I Am You” production. I enjoyed watching friends in the video. Pat was a patient and fun teacher and I would like to make use of my skills again with another video.”
> To learn more about Stone Belt’s Artists-in-Residence program and about future funding needs, contact Amy Jackson at 812-322-2168, ext. 314 / ajackson@stonebelt.org.
Life Sciences: Stone Belt's Revamped 10th Street Manufacturing Facility Opens to Great Fanfare
More than twenty years ago, Stone Belt began a relationship with Cook Medical, a local, emerging life sciences company. Who could have guessed that more than two decades later the relationship would continue, and that Stone Belt clients would participate in the manufacturing of hundreds of thousands of life saving devices every year?
Stone Belt clients began subcontracted manufacturing for Cook Medical in 1989. For the majority of the past two decades, this work has taken place in a donated facility in Owen County operated by the agency. In the summer of this year, Stone Belt had the unique opportunity to expand its life sciences program through the installation of an environmentally controlled space at its 10th Street facility in Bloomington, more than tripling its capacity to provide high-quality, professional subcontracting for the burgeoning life sciences industry of Monroe, Owen and surrounding counties.
“Through our expanded life sciences initiative, many more individuals with disabilities are now able to learn valuable skills and be a part of growing the economy,” said Stone Belt CEO, Leslie Green. Stone Belt’s Life Sciences Manufacturing Area currently employs 66 clients, up from 45 who previously worked in the Owen County facility.
The new Life Sciences Manufacturing Area features four thousand square feet of environmentally controlled space divided into four rooms, including two production areas, a gowning area, and a quality inspection area. Clients are involved in all areas of production, and are competitively compensated based on the quantity of work they produce. “Each individual is able to work at his or her own pace here. It’s exciting to see people expand their production as they become more familiar with the work,” said Karen Freeman, Manufacturing Director for Stone Belt. “The transition to our new facility, including the training of client personnel, has gone very smoothly.”
Stone Belt inaugurated its new Life Sciences Area with a ribbon cutting and reception in July, attended by dozens of individuals from the community, including life science leaders from Indiana University, Ivy Tech, and local industry. Attendees were welcomed by Bloomington Mayor Mark Kruzan, Monroe County Commissioner Iris Kiesling, and staff member Jason Carnes from Congressman Baron Hill’s Office. All three spoke of the tremendous economic and social impacts that Stone Belt has made on the community during its 50 years of service.
Barry Lessow, the Executive Director of the United Way, also spoke. “With the expansion of its life sciences production, Stone Belt represents the cutting edge of business in our community. We all want to know what successful economic development will look like in our future – well, this is it.”
In addition to the environmentally controlled rooms, Stone Belt operates 30,000 square feet of manufacturing space between its Bloomington and Lawrence County facilities, readily available for projects both within and beyond the life sciences field. Larry Pejeau, Stone Belt’s Director of Business Development, is excited about the potential for manufacturing growth. “With this new expansion we have already seen an increase in demand from our current business partners, and we have begun to establish new relationships with corporations searching for quality, cost-effective subcontracting.”
The creation of greater professionalized work opportunities for individuals with disabilities has been the driving force behind Stone Belt’s life sciences expansion. A trip to the facility provides visitors with a first-hand glimpse of the power of putting people to work in meaningful and productive ways.
BY THE NUMBERS
37+ years in subcontracted manufacturing
25+ years in the life sciences industry
30,000 square feet of manufacturing space
4,000+ square feet of environmentally controlled space
$150,000 capital investment in facility improvements
150+ individuals with disabilities employed in 2 facilities
60,000+ hours worked on medical products in ‘08
$200,000 total payroll for medical manufacturing in ‘08
certified “Dock to Stock” vendor for local businesses
> For more information on Stone Belt’s business development opportunities, contact Larry Pejeau at 812-332-2168, ext. 229 / lpejeau@stonebelt.org.