presents… spirit - rotary cheshire homes dbco symposium brochure.pdf · bapin bhattacharyya, a...

Photo courtesy of Natalie Schonfeld

presents…

Largest gathering of intervenors

anywhere in the world.

Register byFebruary 8, 2013

You Could Win a

SPAGift Certificate!

M A R C H 4 - 6 , 2 0 1 3 H I LT O N M A R K H A M S U I T E S

An Empowering, Motivational Program!

The Spirit of Intervenors:

UnlockingDoors tothe Future

Mark the Dates in Your Calendar!

This conference has been specifically designed for:

Intervenors who: • Work with persons who are deafblind • Work with adults, children or seniors • Work in the field of housing, service, education

or rehabilitation

Benefits of Attending:1. Insights - Obtain the latest information on key

issues from industry experts.2. Professional Development - Expand your

knowledge base now and into the future.3. Practical Strategies – Take away ideas you can use.4. Networking Opportunities – Talk shop and share

ideas and best practices.5. Become Empowered – Continue to grow and

be motivated for continued success.

Register Today!

2

Conference Program

The Deafblind Coalition of Ontario (DBCO) is proud to present the 6th conference for intervenors, “The Spirit of Intervenors: Unlocking Doors to the Future”. DBCO is a network of individuals and organizations dedicated to the sharing of information and raising awareness of deaf-blindness and intervenor services in Ontario.Please note the workshops offered in this program have been specifically designed to meet the needsof intervenors. The target audience will be indicated beside each workshop title.

MOnDay MaRCH 4, 2013

12:00 pm - 7:00 pm Registration Desk Open

2:00 pm - 3:45 pm Opening Message

Keynote Speaker: Bill Barkeley Life Without Limits

Bill Barkeley will share his life experiences that inspire and motivate people to build

a bold vision for themselves and not be defined by their disability but by their abilities. Through a pioneering adventuring mindset he will share a message of aspiration, inspiration, hope and faith that helps people move the mountains in their lives, communities and families.

Bill is one of 15,000 – 20,000 people in the United States and 100,000 people in the world with Usher Syndrome. Bill lost 85% of his hearing from birth and in his late teens began to experience night blindness and vision loss. Bill works with the Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Hearing Loss Association of America, Metro Health Systems, Foundation Fighting Blindness, and No Barriers USA. Bill completed a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa as a project on assistive technology for the deaf-blind. He has been featured on local, regional, national and international media such as Good Morning America. In 2009, Bill was awarded the No Barriers USA - James O. Goldsmith Pioneering Spirit Award. The award was created to recognize the individual or organization that passionately and selflessly works to break down the barriers that limit accessibility to life.

3:45 pm - 4:15 pm Networking Break

Guest Speaker: The Honourable John Milloy Minister of Community & Social Services (invited)

4:15 pm - 5:20 pm Plenary: How Intervenor Services Opens Doors

“To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.” Anonymous

Through intervenor services, individuals who are deaf-blind receive varying support both in their homes and communities, providing the visual and auditory information necessary to enable the person to interact successfully with other people and their environment.

During this presentation, two intervenors and two consumers will explain how intervenor services have opened doors to communication, understanding and independence.

angela Brown, IntervenorRonald Remon, IntervenorElio Riggillo, ConsumerJulia Seed, Consumer

5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Networking Reception

This is a great opportunity to meet other intervenors from across the province to share success stories and talk shop. Visit the agency tabletop displays and learn about a variety of services that support the deaf-blind community. Participate in the “Unlocking Doors to the Future” contest. Simply visit all the agency table top displays and have your passport stamped to receive a key. During the conference see if your key opens the treasure chest to win a prize!

TUESDay MaRCH 5, 2013

7:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration Desk Open

8:00 am - 9:00 am Networking Breakfast DBCO Agency Showcase

9:00 am - 10:15 am Keynote: The Power of Technology Leads to Self-Successanindya “Bapin” Bhattacharyya

Bapin Bhattacharyya, a technology expert/consultant who is deaf-blind, will share, from both a personal

and professional perspective, how technology provides independence, personal satisfaction, and professional success for many individuals who are deaf-blind.

Nowadays technology plays an important role in everyone’s life including the deaf-blind population around the globe; something never imagined

Who Should

Attend:This conference has been specifically designed for intervenors, or those in a supervisory role who work with people who are deaf-blind:

• acquired and congenital• children, adults or seniors• in the field of service, education

or rehabilitation

Benefits of Attending:1. Insights

– Obtain the latest information on key issues.

2. Professional Development – Expand your knowledge base from a variety of professionals from the field of deaf-blindness.

3. Practical Strategies – Take away ideas you can use.

4. Networking Opportunities – Talk shop and share ideas and best practices.

5. Become Empowered – Continue to grow and be motivated for continued success.

3



Intervenors – Register by February 20, 2013In order to accommodate as

many intervenors as possible,

intervenors are asked to register

by February 20, 2013. After this

date, registration will also be

open to others and registration

will be on a first-come, first-

served basis until maximum

capacity is reached.



during Helen Keller’s time. The presentation will focus on how technologies, i.e., computers and mobile devices such as iPhones with braille access, Global Positioning Systems, and communication devices have established a world on equal footing for disabled and non-disabled people. As well, discussion on how individuals who are deaf-blind are using these technologies to enhance their success and personal independence in terms of recreation, employment, and education.

10:15 am - 10:45 am Refreshment break

10:45 am -12:15 pm Concurrent Workshops (select one on registration form)

#1 Communication/Self Talk (Target: All)

Anne Shaddick, Life Management Instructor

Almost every minute of our conscious life we are engaging in self-talk – our internal thought language. Research has suggested that 77% of what we think is negative. So when we say something negative to ourselves we are more likely to follow that up with an action to support that thought, regardless if it is true or not. The first step to change is becoming aware. Changing our self-talk effects how we feel about ourselves. Thinking positively about our self will lead to higher self-esteem. When we are feeling stressed our ability to communicate well will often plummet. When we are content and managing our stress, we are able to communicate in a more positive way. When we feel that we are not going to be heard or that it might not be safe to express our views, we often come into a conversation with aggression or reluctance. By improving our self-talk and learning to communicate with others we create a workplace that works for us all.

• Understanding the connection and the effect our self-talk has on our physical and emotional body.

• Looking at distorted thinking patterns and the effect is has on us, and those around us.

• Developing strategies and techniques to change our self-talk.

• Examining how our style of communication affects our relationships.

• Developing strategies to create successful dialogue.

#2 Deaf-Blindness and Mental Health: Better Understand to Better Intervene (Target: All)

Guy Lefebvre, Deaf-Blindness Counsellor and Lynne Brissette, Deaf-Blind Program Manager, Institut Raymond-Dewar, Montréal

When aural and visual senses are both impaired, a person’s ability to access information, to communicate, and maintain social contacts is greatly affected. This condition can have severe psychological consequences. Some people with a dual sensory loss are successful in striking a new balance, while others are unable to cope. As psychosocial professionals working in a Montréal-based rehabilitation program, we believe that providing practical support, coupled with

rehabilitation services can have a positive impact on well-being, especially if it leads to increased self-determination and social opportunities. Our workshop will highlight some clinical experiences in working with adults having acquired deaf-blindness who have experienced some complex emotional difficulties.

#3 Introduction to iPad apps for Children with Visual Impairments and Special needs (Target: Congenital)

Eric Jerman, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Perkins School for the Blind, Massachusetts

This presentation will show how to become familiar with some of the best iPad apps currently available for working with children with cognitive and physical disabilities. Also discussed will be apps for children with no vision, as well as those with low vision, including Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Major areas of discussion will include categorizing apps; accessibility features built-in to the iPad; using apps to educate, communicate and to just have fun. The apps discussed will be targeted at pre-school and early childhood ages. Resources will cover over 90 apps, with a unique description of each app as well as how the apps can be classified into five important categories. An appsolutely engaging and educational session.

#4 Sighted Guide, Winter Travel and Working With a Walker or Wheelchair (Target: All)

Landra Berwick, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Canadian Helen Keller Centre, the Toronto District School Board, Mohawk College, Leader Dogs for the Blind and BC Guide Dogs for the Blind

Orientation and mobility encompasses not only sighted guide, travel with a cane and route knowledge, but also some more obscure skills such as self-protective techniques, using landmarks and clues, travelling in adverse weather, and teaching a person how to effectively use a walker or wheelchair for safe travel. If travelling by sighted guide, the precarious environmental conditions can cause travel to be that much more difficult as the guide is now responsible for herself as well as the traveler who is deaf-blind. Guiding with a walker or using a wheelchair includes using the aid correctly, not overextending the body, keeping the brakes on while approaching the walker or wheelchair, and properly transferring in and out of the aid. The purpose of this seminar is to teach and refresh the skills used by intervenors when working with a person who is deaf-blind in unusual circumstances, such as in winter conditions or using a wheelchair. The intervenors will have the opportunity to try hands on activities such as sighted guide under blindfold or practicing wheelchair transfers with dual sensory loss.

#5 no Barriers (Target: All)

Bill Barkeley is an adventurer & public speaker (storyteller) who is deaf-blind

This presentation will discuss and share a fleet of tools that help people build vision, skills, and support systems to master the challenges in one’s life.

Conference Program Cont’d

a few comments from previous

delegates:

3

Great speakers, loaded with inspiration

and positivity.

As a brand new intervenor, it was a wonderful learning

experience, and I learned a lot!




or rehabilitation






Register Today!

4

Conference Program Cont’d How to Register Registration is done online. Simply go to www.rotarycheshirehomes.org and click on the link that says “Register for 2013 DBCO Intervenor Conference”.

Fees: Full conference (if reside in Ontario)$350Full conference (if reside outside of Ontario) $450Note: Daily registration rates and/or shared registrations are not offered.

Registration fee includes the following:u All Educational Programming

u Monday Reception

u Tuesday Breakfast, Lunch, Banquet Dinner

u Wednesday Breakfast, Lunch

Tuesday Banquet Dinner additional Ticket only $75

Note: accommodations are not included. Please book your own reservations at the Hilton Suites Toronto/Markham Conference Centre.

#6 Techniques and Tips for Real-Time Oral Interpreting (Target: Acquired)

Kim Wrigley-Archer, Consumer and Consultant Julie Reid, Freelance Intervenor and Professor in the Intervenor Program at George Brown College

The ability to do real-time oral interpreting or “voiceover” for consumers who are deaf-blind can increase your versatility as an intervenor. Voiceover skills are in demand and in short supply. This fun, interactive session will give you the opportunity to learn some techniques and have hands-on practice in a ‘no pressure’ environment. Wonder if you can do it? Cast your doubts aside and join us. It is surprising to discover who has the potential to develop their voiceover skills.

12:15 pm - 1:45 pm Networking Lunch DBCO Agency Showcase

1:45 pm - 3:15 pm Concurrent Workshops (Select one on registration form)

#7 iPad apps for adults (Target: All)

Eric Jerman, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Perkins School for the Blind, Massachusetts

This presentation will educate on how to become familiar with some of the best iPad apps currently available for adults with no vision, as well as those with low vision. Discussion areas include categorizing apps (communication, accessibility, mobility, low visions/blind tools, information); accessibility features built-in to the iPad; using apps to educate, communicate and to just have fun. The apps discussed will be targeted at adults. Resource material will cover over 25 apps, with a unique description of each app as well as how the apps can be classified into important categories.

#8 Can you Hear Me now? (Target: All)

Kim Wrigley-Archer, Consumer, Consultant

Going through the process of receiving a cochlear implant (CI) is an experience unique to each individual. People are curious to know what it is like. The presenter is deaf-blind and offers insights gained during her CI journey. This interactive session will engage you through topics such as factors leading up to the decision, the sometimes emotional issues encountered (pros and cons), and the expected and unexpected outcomes.

#9 Sensory Input Disorders (Target: Congenital)

Paula Aquilla, Director of Aquilla Occupational Therapy

Sensory processing is a function of our nervous system that happens smoothly in most of us. It enables us to make sense of the information we receive from our bodies and from the environment. When sensory processing does not occur smoothly, we can have difficulty making sense of information we receive and as a result, we can have difficulty moving our bodies in a coordinated fashion, tolerating textures of our clothing and food, and attaching the correct meaning to instructions spoken by the teacher. These are a few of the challenges of sensory

processing disorder. Find out about our marvelous nervous system and how the nervous system processes sensation. Discussion will cover the effect of anxiety on the function of the nervous system and how sensory processing disorder can elevate levels of anxiety. Learn how to identify sensory processing disorders and how to support people with sensory processing disorders through the environment, our approach and specific activities.

#10 Foundation of Stress Management (Target: All)

Ann Shaddick, Life Management Instructor

When we are stressed our focus becomes much narrower, and the smallest thing can set us off. It’s very much “one foot in front of the other” survival mode. In this session we cover the basic foundations of what is the stress response, “Flight or Fight” and how it impacts our lives physically, mentally and emotionally. By identifying what our particular reactions to stress are, we can become more aware of when we need to change our behavior and manage our stress. Using a number of techniques we learn to activate the relax response thereby lowering our stress level.

• What is the stress response and why it is necessary for survival.

• Explore how each of us responds to stress. Covering the physical, emotional, and mental aspects.

• Exploring how we at present handle stress, and if this works to our advantage.

• Looking at new ways to lower our stress.

• Understanding of how our own body/mind copes.

• Learning techniques to use to counter, or switch from, the stress response, to the relax response. This will include what we can do physically, mentally, and emotionally.

#11 Fundraising 411 – Unlocking the Secrets to Fundraising Success (Target: All)

Jennifer Allen, Senior Development Coordinator, DeafBlind Ontario Services

Susan Manahan, Manager of Community Development, DeafBlind Ontario Services

In recent years, proposed changes to funding models for deaf-blind services have challenged the sector to look to fundraising to fill revenue gaps. For many, fundraising is a “necessary evil”, but think of how much could be accomplished if fundraising was also a joyful part of your work? This workshop is designed to empower you to create a fundraising plan and fundraise with greater confidence and efficacy. Addressing the practical side of fundraising, you will learn the fundraising process with a focus on what steps are critical for success with limited resources. Anyone can become a great fundraiser with the right keys to unlock their potential.

Meeting mentors has impacted my life.

I always come away from the symposium

refreshed, rejuvenated and with new

enthusiasm after 20 years in the field.

5

Special NeedsDo you have any special needs

or requirements to attend this

conference? If yes, please indicate

this on the online registration form.

We will do our best to meet your

needs. If you require an accessible

hotel room please notify the hotel

when making your reservations.

CancellationsCancellations will be accepted for

compassionate or medical grounds

up until Monday February 25,

2013. After that a refund cannot be

issued. You may send a substitute.

#12 Technology Empowers People who are Deaf-Blind (Target: Acquired)

Bapin Bhattacharyya, a deaf-blind technology expert/consultant

Technology has given many people who are deaf-blind the tools to gain personal independence, access to educational and employment opportunities, as well as break barriers to be a part of their community on equal footing like everyone else. Topics discussed will cover refreshable braille displays, braille notetakers, global positioning systems (GPS), communication devices, accessible mobile phones such as iPhone/iPad and phones of other operating systems along with many accessible apps, PC- and Mac-based screen readers and magnification programs, as well as many useful independent living aids.

In addition, the presentation will cover effective ways to obtain training to meet the needs of people who are deaf-blind. Training will be discussed in the following areas: A) options for selecting adaptive technology, B) various ways in accessing telecommunications via different means, C) establishing communication/interaction with the general public with the assistance of communication devices, D) traveling with GPS and other devices, and E) role of adaptive technology in accomplishing educational and vocational goals.

3:15 pm - 3:30 pm Refreshment Break

3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Concurrent Workshops (Select one on registration form)

#13 Deaf-Blindness and Mental Health: Better Understand to Better Intervene (Target: All)

Guy Lefebvre, Deaf-Blindness Counsellor and Lynne Brissette, Deaf-Blind Program Manager, Institut Raymond-Dewar, Montréal

When aural and visual senses are both impaired, a person’s ability to access information, to communicate, and maintain social contacts is greatly affected. This condition can have severe psychological consequences. Some people with a dual sensory loss are successful in striking a new balance, while others are unable to cope. As psychosocial professionals working in a Montréal-based rehabilitation program, we believe that providing practical support, coupled with rehabilitation services can have a positive impact on well-being, especially if it leads to increased self-determination and social opportunities. Our workshop will highlight some clinical experiences in working with adults having acquired deaf-blindness who have experienced some complex emotional difficulties.

note: this session is a repeat of workshop #2

#14 Training Guide Dogs for People who are Deaf-Blind (Target: Acquired)

Landra Berwick, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Canadian Helen Keller Centre, the Toronto District School Board, Mohawk College, Leader Dogs for the Blind and BC Guide Dogs for the Blind

Today, most guide dogs are typically employed, active in their communities, socially involved, and capable of just about anything. The blind population who use and benefit from the aid of a guide dog is estimated at 2%, worldwide. Over the years, there has been a growing trend for people who are deaf-blind to get a guide dog. Before this, they were turned away as training and independent travel was not thought possible. Although there are no studies on the numbers, the estimate is that guide dog users in the deaf-blind community are less than 1%. This seminar will explain how guide dogs for people who are deaf-blind are trained, the training process, and how to become a successful guide dog user in the community.

#15 Does Deaf-Blind Culture Exist? (Target: All)

Jasmin Simpson, Mental Health Counselor, CONNECT Counselling Service , Canadian Hearing Society

This workshop will outline the differences between hearing culture, deaf culture, and deaf-blind culture. Characteristics of each group such as language, values, beliefs, social habits, etc. will be discussed and compared answering the question… “ does deaf-blind culture really exist?”

#16 Sexuality (Target: All)

Fran Odette, Consultant

We live in a world that makes talking about sex and sexuality feel challenging and daunting even at the best of times. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We know however, in the work that we do with people with disabilities, having access to sexual health information increases their ability to make informed decisions about their sexuality and sexual expression. But where do we begin?

Come join us for a workshop that is designed to support you in being able to do your job in a safe way, to understand your boundaries, and to get some answers to common questions people have about sexuality. Fran Odette has been working in the violence against women movement for approximately 20 years, with a particular focus on issues impacting women with disabilities and Deaf women.

#17 addressing Conflict in the Workplace (Target: All)

Dr. Trish Spindel, Consultant

Conflict is inevitable. How we handle it can mean the difference between a harmonious workplace and one that can become toxic. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn the underlying reasons for conflict, identify their own conflict resolution styles, and develop new methods of handling workplace conflict, especially on small teams. How supervisors can manage conflict and negotiate solutions that support employees as well as use the legislative requirements to prevent psychological harassment will also be discussed.

Conference Program Cont’dInvaluable resource,

highly valued!

This symposium is vital to my job as

an intervenor.

Even after over 25 years in this field, I still find I learn something

new by being able to network with my

colleagues! Ultimately, it is the people who are deaf-blind that we all support who benefit from these events.




or rehabilitation






Register Today!

6


#18 Educational Initiatives (Target: All)

Unlocking the Doors to the Future with Online Training (45 minutes)

Sue Hall, Director of Training and Consultation, Canadian Deafblind Association Ontario Chapter Cheryl Ramey, Professor, Intervenor for Deafblind Persons Program, George Brown College

This session will outline CDBA Ontario’s development of online training courses as part of the organization’s Capacity Building initiatives. We will outline the rationale behind the project and the process that was implemented to develop the courses, including how the topics were determined and how input from potential participants was gathered. We will provide a summary of the different online training platforms that were considered and some of the pros and cons of each. A key component of the presentation will be a discussion of the differences between online and face-to-face training, focusing on the efforts made to ensure that the online training is engaging and able to meet the needs of adult learners. Preliminary results of the piloting of CDBA Ontario’s first online course will also be shared.

- - AND - -

VIDEO : Visual Individualized Device that can be used to Educate and Observe (45 minutes)

Christine Sauvé Guindon, Consultant

In this session, we will examine how VIDEO can be utilized in our field of work as an educational tool used in assessments or documentation. Clients can be recorded in natural settings, and the video can be a visual reference that can be seen by professionals or specialists. It can help in identification and educational programming. VIDEO is an indispensable tool that specialists in the field of deaf-blindness use to better educate, intervene, explain, and document. The presenter will give examples on how VIDEO has been a valuable tool in her consultations, evaluations, and during transitions.

7:00 pm - 11:00 pm Banquet Dinner “Dancing Through the Decades”

A fun filled evening designed to allow you to meet and network with fellow colleagues in an informal atmosphere. Enjoy a three course dinner followed by dancing to the greatest hits from the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s to today’s top 40 hits. Of course there’s a costume contest. Guests are encouraged

to dress up in costumes from their favourite decade or even dress as a famous rock star. Competitions will take place throughout the evening for prizes. Unwind, relax and make connections throughout the evening to help unlock doors to the future in your career as an intervenor. Cash bar.

WEDnESDay MaRCH 6, 2013

7:30 am - 2:30 pm Registration Desk Open

8:00 am - 9:00 am Breakfast and DBCO Agency Showcase

9:00 am - 9:45 am Keynote: Pierre Beaudin Melodie’s Song

Prognosis of newborn girl: deaf-blindness, severe brain malformations, cerebral hemorrhage at birth, multiple handicaps, possibly vegetative. If your child was born in this condition would you hold any hope for the future? Amidst the dark recesses of despair, light can emerge for a brighter future. Learn how one family overcomes the challenges of day-to-day life with their daughter who is deaf-blind and their autistic son. Discover how total unconditional love can transform an impossibly dire future into one of constant learning and light, with unexpected consequences!

Pierre Beaudin M.Ed., husband, father and Deafblind Resources Consultant.

9:45 am -10:15 am DBCO Agency Showcase

10:15 am - 10:45 am Networking Break

10:45 am - 12:15 pm Concurrent Workshops (Peer to Peer presentations)

The following sessions are intended for all audiences (Select one on registration form)

#19 Communication is the KeyDeaf-Blind Communication around the World (45 minutes)

Catherine Kistner, Intervenor, Rotary Cheshire Homes

This presentation will explore some of the various communication systems used by people who are deaf-blind in other parts of the world.

- - AND - -

advocating for Change: Unlocking the Story of Deaf-Blindness to Create Impact (45 minutes)

Jennifer Allen, DeafBlind Ontario Services

The intent of the presentation is to enlighten intervenors on how to share the story of their organization and their personal commitment to their work to advocate for systemic change in government, purposes of fundraising, etc. Outcomes are to enhance leadership and communication skills, learn emotional connection and creative expression techniques to confidently unlock the story of deaf-blindness.

COnFEREnCE GOaLS:

1. FOCUS — The conference will be focused on the needs of direct service staff. Also to touch on issues for experienced intervenors and supervisors. All events and activities will be designed to address their specific needs and issues. The education will have a practical focus and provide tools to help intervenors do their job better.

2. DIVERSITy — the conference will establish a common foundation based on a shared commitment, yet will also be inspired by the unique needs of each individual direct service provider and its consumers.

3. EnERGIzE — The conference is an opportunity to share our mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s time, skills and dedication to consumers.

4. EnGaGE — The conference will strive to both inspire and challenge all participants through programming that is interactive, innovative and relevant.

The topics covered have given me added

information on various subjects that I will be able to apply to

consumers.

Totally impressed with the workshops,

speakers, presentations and colleagues from around the country!

7

#20 Personal PerspectivesUnderstanding the Impact of Intervenor Services: The Family Perspective (45 minutes)

Tracey Riggillo

Everyone knows intervenor services changes lives. Ever wonder the impact you have behind closed doors? Join us for a humorous, heartwarming, at times frustrating description of intervenor services from a spouse and family perspective.

- - AND - -

Interview With a Family (45 minutes)

Cheryl Ramey, Professor, George Brown College, Intervenor Program Interviews David and Kim Walker

Join David and Kim Walker as they share their story about their daughter Katie who is deaf-blind and medically fragile. This interview style workshop will answer questions such as: what accommodations, financial support and medical supports were needed? Also, the impact on the family having a child who is deaf-blind and medically fragile, and the role of the intervenor in the home will be shared. Personal insights and advice, progress, successes and set-backs will be highlighted. This workshop is guaranteed to pull at your heart-strings.

#21 Winning Strategies for Unlocking the Doors of the Future for Students who are Deaf-Blind in the Classroom (90 minutes)Suzanne Piquette-Lachapele, Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est Centre Jules-Léger and Annie Duchesneau Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est Centre Jules-Léger

Presenters will share their personal experiences with a multisensory and total communication approach. This includes strategies that are visible to the eye when entering the classroom. Integrating the senses of touch, taste, vision and hearing, this enhances a better understanding of the environment. As well, technology plays a key role in stimulating and opening minds to new experiences. We believe that we are creating a classroom setting that builds motivation to explore and respond to the environment. This presentation will include success stories, videos and tactile cues with Snoezelen and dark rooms, and Satalight and computer programs. Come share your successes and learn from each other.

#22 Preparation is the KeyEmergency Preparedness (45 minutes)

Tammy Taylor, CNIB

What is an emergency? Are consumers prepared for an emergency? What items are necessary to have in a bag near the door in case of an emergency? This information session will discuss ideas and strategies for being prepared for an emergency and to allow for consumers to maintain some level of independence during this time.

- - AND - -

Preparing For an Initial Psychiatric Consultation (45 minutes)

Lorraine Simpson and Shannon Girard, DeafBlind Ontario Services

This presentation will unlock the challenges in preparing for the first psychiatric consultation with an individual who is deaf-blind. What is the doctor looking for? What medical information do you need to bring with you? How do you describe what you see? How do you rule out other medical problems? The importance of collecting data prior to the appointment and having all appropriate questions written down will also be discussed.

#23 Keys to Successful Team Building and MentoringLeading your Team to Success (45 minutes)

Michelle James, Natalie Manneh, Vera Mota-Polaco, Jennifer Closs, Annette Piggott, DeafBlind Ontario Services

This session will focus on the tools implemented for effective communication and team building. Tips and techniques on how to be inclusive with all team members regardless of gender, age or culture will be discussed. Specific examples will be given regarding how each role within a team can complement and support each other. Speakers will share both challenges and success stories and how to overcome any difficulties that can impede a team.

- - AND - -

Pay it Forward – Intervenor Mentorship (45 minutes)

Janine Tucker, Recruiter/Trainer, Intervenor Apprenticeship Program, CNIB Deafblind Services

During this session, we will discuss the importance of mentorship and provide useful tools to help you establish mentorship opportunities within your own organization. As the “pay it forward” philosophy implies, we can support a fellow intervenor by passing on knowledge that we have acquired along the way. This will help improve the skills and knowledge base of our fellow intervenors who will one day pass on this same knowledge to the next generation. It only takes the commitment of the agency, management and seasoned staff members. We have an irreplaceable resource for professional training; our own intervenors. Let them “pay it forward”.

#24 Keys to Meaningful RecreationThe Importance of Orientation and Mobility in Lawn Care (45 minutes)

Gordon Johnston, Canadian Helen Keller Centre

The purpose of this workshop is to demonstrate how someone who is deaf-blind is able to independently maintain lawn care and landscaping. The necessary skills to make this possible however, differ from the sighted community because they cannot navigate

Register online today at

rotarycheshirehomes.org


I really enjoyed the international element

of the conference.

This symposium is vital to my job as an intervenor. The topics covered have given me added information on various subjects that I will be able to apply

to consumers.




or rehabilitation






Register Today!

8

the environment as easily. Everyone needs to have the foundation skills of orientation and mobility, the ability to know where one is in space, to have a sense of where objects are in space, and to be able to move within the space. Together we will review various techniques in O&M and how they can be applied to lawn-care and landscaping with the deaf-blind population.

- - AND - -

accessing Recreation in the Community (45 minutes)

Sarah Darlucio, Kim Setzer and Gwen Sheridan, CNIB Deafblind Services

Deaf-blindness has been described as the most isolating of all disabilities. In this session we will work together to unlock the social and recreational barriers faced by people who are deaf-blind. This interactive session will explore recreational opportunities within our community and how we can make these experiences meaningful to our consumers. Participants will be asked to share their challenges, strategies and experiences of providing intervenor services in a social and recreational setting.

12:15 pm - 2:15 pm Lunch Closing Keynote: Meg Soper Wit, Fit and Balance: Unlocking Doors to the Future

This keynote is a combination of stand up comedy and a

motivational presentation, that will offer a light hearted look at the stresses of everyday life. It will demonstrate how shifting our perspective and using humour will help us effectively cope with the day-to-day stresses of home life and the workplace. It will demonstrate how we create our own positive environment by how we communicate with ourselves and the people we work with. The understanding is that we are in a position to support each other and that we have control over the attitude we bring with us to work. Through laughter and interactive energy people will come away with a better understanding of each other’s challenges and unique qualities. Improve internal communication for a healthier, happier and more productive workplace environment while maintaining your sense of balance.

Thanks to the Planning Committee

Thanks to the Planning Committee for organizing this program and the Ministry of Community and Social Services for partially funding this event.

• Jennifer Robbins, Co-Chair, Rotary Cheshire Homes

• Renée Toninger, Co-Chair, Rotary Cheshire Homes

• Paulette Bédard, Centre Jules Léger

• Joan Brintnell, Lions McInnes House

• Shari Chantler, DeafBlind Ontario Services

• Sarah Darlucio, CNIB Deafblind Services

• Laurie Marissen, Lions McInnes House

• Josie Quinn, DeafBlind Ontario Services

• Kim Wrigley-Archer, Consumer and Consultant

• Cindy Accardi, Rotary Chesire Homes and Canadian Helen Keller Centre

• Roxanna Spruyt-Rocks, DeafBlind Ontario Services


Register Early You Could Win a

SPAGift Certificate!

The Deafblind Coalition of Ontario presents…





Register online today at

rotarycheshirehomes.org

All registrations received by February 8, 2013 will be

entered into a draw to win one of two complimentary signature

manicure and pedicure treatments. (Value $105 each).

Draw will be made Monday, February 11, 2013 and the appointment can be booked to enjoy your prize

while at the conference. Winner will be notified via email.





Intervenors are often scattered across this province and, despite

the technology available today, nothing beats a face to face meeting to share ideas and learn

from each other!

I will share all information with my

other staff and try to change different

aspects at the house.

Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre8500 Warden Avenue, Markham, Ontario, L6G 1A5

Please book your hotel room as soon as possible to assist us in meeting our contractual room night obligation. Accommodations at this AAA Four Diamond hotel include two-room suites, fitness facilities and The Spa at Hilton Suites. Conveniently located only 25 minutes from downtown Toronto and easy access from major highways (DVP/404, 407, 401).

Room rate for Executive Suite is $125 + tax for single/double.

Please call 905-470-8500 or toll-free at 800-593-9223 and indicate you are with the Deafblind Coalition of Ontario Conference.

Individual guests will be required to guarantee their reservations with a credit card. The hotel will accept cancellation of a guest reservation up to 24 hours prior to arrival and any deposits taken refunded for those rooms for the full night’s stay. Any reservation which fails to materialize and has not been cancelled a minimum of 24 hours prior to arrival will be charged one night’s room and tax to the credit card provided.

Parking – overnight and day visitor parking is available at $5.00 per vehicle per day.

Check-in time is 4:00 pm and check-out time is 12:00 noon.

Organized by the Deafblind Coalition of Ontario: Mark the Dates in Your Calendar!



or rehabilitation






Register Today!

The Deafblind Coalition of Ontario presents…





Register Today – Limited Space!

DBCO delegates who wish to book spa services will receive a discounted rate of 15% off all services from March 3-6, 2013. Offer is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Advance booking is required – please call 905-470-8522 and indicate you are with the DBCO Conference to receive the discount.

SPA

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