RELATIONSHIPS MAKE EASTERSEALS SHINE February 2017

Opening the Door Easterseals works with HCV program to find housing for those in need

For the first time in two years, the Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) opened the waitlist for their Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), formerly known as Section 8. When CMHA opened the wait list in December 2014, over 17,000 pre-applications were submitted in four days. With over 20% of Hamilton County residents currently living below the poverty line, equal if not a greater number of submissions were anticipated this year.

In alignment with its mission of breaking down barriers to self-sufficiency, Easterseals opened its Walnut Hills location to the public for three of the four application days.

Easterseals Outreach Manager Lauran McHaffie described the barriers that some applicants face in accessing computers, internet, and even reading the forms. She stressed the importance of being one of several community organizations to offer “a site to open up to the public, so that folks can come in and use our computers, basically, to make

it accessible.”

More than 65 applicants received access to free computers and internet, as well as in-person support to walk through the application process.

62-year-old Finneytown resident Michelle Patterson confessed to struggling with using computers. She expressed her gratitude for receiving assistance with the application process, saying, “I’m so grateful that you opened up this day for me to be here to apply.”

Special thanks to Marsha White and Lauran McHaffie for identifying the need in our community for in-person assistance with the application process, and for putting everything together to make it happen.

“I’m so grateful that you opened up this day for me to be here to apply.”

A Guest Sees the Real Easterseals YOU are Easterseals

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We’ve talked about how everyone is an Easterseals Ambassador and that in every interaction with individuals, family, or partners, you represent the heart of Easterseals to other people. We are overjoyed to share this one example of people who are excelling at making Easterseals look great!

A guest recently visited the Gilbert location, and her experience was so positive that she emailed Pam Green to describe how she was “super impressed by the culture.”

The guest admitted to showing up very early to a meeting. She had planned to wait and answer emails in the lobby, expecting to be a largely unnoticed presence.

However, the guest was immediately welcomed by the front desk staff member, who was “so helpful and accommodating.” He assured her that she was in the right spot and took care of all her questions and concerns.

The next kind face was that of Babsi Arn, the Executive Assistant and Manager for the Customer Experience team. The guest said that “She [Babsi] came over to help

and was incredibly gracious. She was hugging it out with people in the lobby, [and] wanted to make sure I was all set.”

The guest was so impressed at the warm welcome, she wrote, “You have a truly positive, energetic, friendly, helpful team.” The guest ended her email by saying “Wow- This type of culture does not happen on accident.”

Thank you for letting your enthusiasm for your work be reflected in the kindness given to visitors. Thank you to all Easterseals members at every location who put your best feet forward every day. Thank you for being Easterseals!

“You have a truly positive, energetic, friendly, and helpful team.”

Actions for Excellence: Compassion Recognizing Lois Drizin

It’s February, a month when many people will be celebrating love, so Compassion is this month’s highlighted action. We are recognizing Lois Drizin.

“Lois was the first co-worker that came to me with gifts in hand [for the Staff Relations call for Christmas gifts to be donated to a local veteran’s family]. She went above the normal of just handing over a few dollars in cash to put towards the gifts. She went out and personally shopped for the three young girls and the mom and dad on our list. So, you say, what's so compassionate about this as other co-workers have done similar? Lois doesn't celebrate Christmas in the ways of most of her fellow co-workers. She is

Jewish and celebrates Hanukkah with her family. Her compassion for the Veteran's family broke down the wall of religious beliefs and has made me honored to work with such a special woman. “

Thank you, Lois! We encourage all staff to let Lois’ act of compassion inspire you to spread Love and Compassion not only in February but every day!

Compliance Corner: Safety Data Sheets Safety is a sure sign of affection February is the time where all hearts turn to…safety? You bet! What better way to celebrate our tremendous affection for our co-workers than making sure we all have a safe environment in which to work? Let’s talk about Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that all businesses make SDS available to all staff for any products that staff may come into contact with that could cause them harm. For example, if Easterseals purchases spray bottles of Lysol All Purpose Cleaner for staff to use to clean with, then Easterseals must make available an SDS. An SDS provides 16 different points of information about the product including the active ingredients, what to do if the

product in ingested or sprayed, flammability information, storage information, etc. The idea is that if there is an emergency, staff can easily access the information and find the appropriate steps to take to ensure safety.

OSHA also requires us to complete a one time training with all staff on what SDS are and how to read them. Easterseals provides that training upon hire through a Relias Learning class entitled “Hazardous Chemicals.” Also, each new staff person should be shown where the SDS are stored during their new employee Safety Orientation.

Currently, SDS at Easterseals are stored as paper copies in brightly colored binders at each location. Depending upon the size of the location, there may be 1–3 copies of the binder for easy accessibility.

The Safety Committee Representative for each building is responsible for maintaining the binder. It became apparent during our CARF survey that many Easterseals staff aren’t aware of where their SDS binder is. If you aren’t sure, contact your Building Safety Committee Representative:

Gilbert – Greg McGruder Harrison – Christina Albert Morgan – Lindsay Johnston Rossplain – Nicole Boreing Symmes – Stephanie Wilson Building Value – David Daniels

Contact these representatives with any further questions involving safety issues.

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Mission Moment: HUB Helping Hands

The Clifton Neighborhood HUB volunteered at the Freestore Foodbank. All participants enjoyed stocking the shelves, but Jesse’s enthusiasm for helping others was especially apparent. A man with a significant limp walked in, and he was running into things—he clearly needed assistance. Without prompting, Jesse walked over and began to help him. Jesse guided the man through the store, told him what was on the shelves and asked what he wanted. The gentleman was very appreciative towards Jesse as he headed out with his groceries. HUB staff member Briana said this

brought tears to her eyes, and when she made sure to recognize Jesse and tell him what he did was very gentlemanly, he smiled from ear to ear and said, “I like to help people who are in need.”

Jesse (pictured left) is a Clifton HUB participant

Happy February Birthdays Be sure to tell everyone that you know they are getting older. They will love it!

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Briana Dilbert 2/1

Stephanie Walker 2/1

Madeleine Crenshaw 2/4

Dioncia Black 2/5

Kristy Bachnivsky 2/5

Sean Link 2/6

Daniel Dennis 2/7

Stanley Warrenhuffman 2/9

Kizma Durham 2/10

Lorenzo Reynolds 2/10

Will Underwood 2/10

Mary Lou Doran 2/11

Lauran McHaffie 2/12

Brian Ramsey 2/14

Holly Harris 2/14

Bob Benzing 2/14

Charlie Landis 2/15

Israel Campbell 2/15

Floyd Hayes 2/16

Mushay Davis 2/18

Kelly Dukes 2/19

Duana Lewis 2/20

India Wilks 2/20

Brian Losekamp 2/22

Laura Evans 2/24

Eric Hemphill 2/26

Renee Russell 2/27

Karen Wallen 2/29

Congrats to Transition Coordinator Bruce Reller! He and his wife welcomed Adeline Grace Reller into the world on December 7, 2016. She was born 7 pounds and 12.6 ounces. Welcome to the Easterseals family, Adeline!

Making the Most of Your Health Insurance Humana offers wellness rewards with Go365 program

Easterseals is now insured through Humana, and representatives are excited to share with us the Go365 wellness rewards program.

Members and their families can earn points for various activities including completing a health assessment, yearly health screenings, preventative exams, flu shots, exercising at a partner health club, wearing a fitness device, working with a health coach, participating in Weight Watchers, and more. Every point equals a dollar, and members can earn up to $300 in gift cards and fitness gear!

Humana team members will be available at the Feb 20th All-Staff Retreat to answer questions and assist members with registering, complete the health assessment, connect their fitness devices, register for 6 months free of Weight Watchers, and more! Humana and Easterseals will be sending out emails detailing how to register, how to earn points in the Go365 program and providing tips on how to get engaged.

Any member who completes their Health Assessment by 2/20/2017 will be entered into a drawing for Humana wellness bags or FitBits!

Be sure to watch your email for further instructions.

February Anniversaries Thank you for your dedication!

Debbie Smith 26 years

Jennifer Michna 15 years

Theresa Ferguson 10 years

Troy Woodlawn 9 years

Kathy Woodall 8 years

Mark Hamblin 7 years

Tom Moore 7 years

Laura Winans 6 years

Janeene Kirsch 5 years

Babsi Arn 4 years

Bruce Reller 4 years

Adriana Zambrano 3 years

Kimberly Burton 2 years

Brianne Riffle 2 years

Kyle Haynes 1 year

Brenda Hunter 1 year

Zachary Philpott 1 year

Joshua Shanor 1 year

Mario Thomas 1 year

Melinda Shryock 1 year

Fearghal Reid 1 year

Barbara Reckers 1 year

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Lindsay Johnston, Instructor for Veterans Services, had her book published! Check out Tatyanna: Light and Darkness on Amazon, iTunes, or at Barnes and Noble.

Easterseals Reads

No-Bake Heart Shaped Granola Bites Try something new!

Ingredients:

1/4 cup coconut oil 1/4 cup honey 1/4 tsp salt 1 cup rolled oats 1 cup chopped nuts and/or seeds (I use almonds, cashews, and hemp hearts) 1 cup chopped dried fruits (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt coconut oil, honey, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. When the mixture starts to

bubble and foam, adjust the heat to low and add the oats and nuts/seeds. 3. Stir to coat; fold in the chopped dried fruit if using. 4. Cook on low for a couple minutes, stirring to distribute the ingredients. 5. Line a small baking dish with parchment paper or plastic wrap. NOTE: This step is unnecessary if using a silicone mold. 6. Use your hands or a flat surface to pack the granola tightly into your mold. If using small shapes like mine, use the back of a small

measuring spoon. 7. Bring to room temperature and store in the fridge for at least two hours, preferably overnight. 8. Remove the granola block if using a baking dish and cut into bars, or simply pop out of your silicone molds.

You can store these at room temperature for a few days, or in the fridge for two weeks–perfect for throwing into the lunchbox, to top some yogurt, or to feed the kids as a mini breakfast while you catch a few more minutes of precious sleep!

Staff Spotlight: Ryan Maloney, Building Value Standing up for others

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Ryan Maloney has been a staff member at Easterseals’ Building Value for nearly five years. In that time, he has taught a variety of classes and skills to his numerous students. His personal favorite classes are the Bobcat and forklift training. His favorite event each year is ReUse-apalooza-he believes it is the “greatest work” of the year.

Ryan currently lives in Clifton with

his girlfriend Jennifer, her son Jacob, and their 2 dogs, Randy and Jax. Ryan and Jennifer believe strongly in standing up for others, so they recently attended the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. “It was amazing to see so many people come together to stand up and speak out,” said Ryan. “I participated because I firmly believe in human rights, equality, and the continuous fight for social justice.”

One of Ryan’s greatest passions is music. Ryan is actually in a band

called Talk, which performs throughout the city. They have a new album dropping this spring that he can’t wait to debut. He also loves motorcycles, puzzles and woodworking.

If Ryan could go anywhere, he would go back to New Zealand. He spent six months in the country and cannot wait to visit again! Having studied abroad there in college, a lot of great memories keep him dreaming of going back.

Ryan loves his job. The rewarding feeling he receives when helping individuals break down barriers that have held them back for so long has been a very positive experience. “Easterseals means hope,” said Ryan. “We are a stepping stone for people to help them get to where they want to be.”

“Easterseals is a stepping stone for people to help them get to where they want to be.”

Ryan with Bella, the official store cat at Building Value

Mission Moment: Signed, Sealed, Delivered Hamilton HUB volunteers in the community

The West Chester - Liberty Chamber Alliance (WC-LCA) has been a great friend to Easterseals, providing our individuals with many opportunities for growth. Recently, the Hamilton Neighborhood HUB volunteered to help WC-LCA with one of their annual mailings. They needed assistance with organizing and sending out mailers from their organization. The Hamilton Neighborhood HUB worked alongside WC-LCA for several days, stuffing envelopes, addressing and stamping more than 900 mailings! HUB volunteers appreciated the opportunity to give their time to such a great community of support.

Healthy Habits Tips for a healthy Valentine’s Day

Step away from the bread basket

If you’d like a roll, grab one and move the rest beyond your reach. The same goes for chips. Grab a small handful and then stay away from them the rest of the night.

Meal modifications are key

Ask the waiter if they can put the sauce on the side, or substitute veggies. Find out if your meal can be made without butter, oil or salt, anything that could cut down on calories. Remember: in terms of calories, grilled is better than fried and baked is better than braised.

Start out healthy

Order a light salad or soup to kick things off. This will help to fill you up before you dive into the big meal. Consider splitting an entrée.

Practice portion control

Remember: Restaurant sizes are often larger than normal. Consider eating half of your meal and taking the rest home.

Avoid all the bells and whistles

Don’t add a bunch of extras to your meal. When it comes to a salad, avoid topping it off with croutons, cheese, bacon or high-fat dressing. The same goes for burgers, baked potatoes and other entrees.

Think red

Red bell peppers, radicchio, cherries, strawberries, red beans, red onions and tomatoes are all packed with vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and protein. In addition, a daily glass of red wine is believed to help reduce the risk of blood clots and keep the cardiovascular system in shape.

Consider dining in this year

It’s a great way to save calories, money and avoid crowds. Find an easy healthy meal you can cook with or for your significant other at home. Rent romantic movies and make a healthy dessert, like strawberry shortcake. Enjoy!

Do not completely deprive yourself

Valentine’s Day is a time for laughter, fun and food. Having a small slice of cake or a two truffles will not lead to weight gain. Moderation is key. If you do open that box of chocolates this Valentine’s Day, don’t feel guilty. Research indicates chocolate is full of healthy compounds and may help prevent heart disease, enhance immune systems and give us a feeling of well-being!

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Save the Date Don’t miss exciting Easterseals events!

February 20: All Staff Retreat All of Easterseals comes together at Cooper Creek Event Center and renews our commitment to our purpose.

March 4: Designer Challenge Show off DIY skills by creating something amazing out of salvaged materials from Building Value.

March 21: Easterseals Advocacy Day Join other Ohio Easterseals in the state capitol and speak with legislators about issues that matter.

May 19: ReUse-apalooza! A fun and funky fundraiser with live music, food and drink, and Designer Challenge creations up for auction.

Most important to remember: Easterseals.

One word. No space. No “GC” – that’s for website and social media handles only. If you want to use “Greater Cincinnati” you must use the full phrase “Easterseals Serving Greater Cincinnati.” But situations in which that is called for are rare.

Get to know our Local Positioning Statement

We break down barriers to employment for people with disabilities, people facing disadvantages, and veterans.

It describes what makes Easterseals such a vital resource to the Greater Cincinnati community. Knowing it will help you identify someone who could benefit from Easterseals’ services.

Email Signatures

Everyone should have updated and brand-compliant

signatures. The instructions can be found in the folder “2016 New Brand,” which can be found on any common drive or in Office 365 SharePoint. If your signature does not look incredibly similar to:

Kate Elliott

Communications and Marketing Specialist

2901 Gilbert Ave • Cincinnati • OH • 45206

P 513.475.6795 • C 513.919.5710

eastersealsgc.org

Please update it as soon as possible. Be sure to copy the template exactly (font, color, etc). If you have any difficulty, reach out to Kate Elliott.

Branding Beat: We are Easterseals Clearing up some confusion

Welcome New Hires Be sure to say hello!

Kimberly Carlin, Direct Support Aide - Symmes

Jarren Curtis, CCMEP Case Manager - Morgan

Sean Link, Scripps Howard Communication Intern - Gilbert

The new brand has been around for almost three months, and we are making great progress in the transition. But as can be expected, some confusion remains. Here are a few things to review.