TCRC Tri-Line Newsletter - Winter 2008 - Tri-Counties Regional ...

A Publication of Tri-Counties Regional Center | Winter 2008 

Cover Story 

01 One Mom’s Positive 

Message 

One Mom’s Positive Message 

Featured Articles 

03 A Community Works 

Together 

04 New Developments in 

Pharmacotherapy for 

Autism 

05 (Dis)ability through 

Education and Action 

08 “If You Want Happiness 

for a Lifetime, Help 

Somebody” 

09 Advocating for my Child 

and Others 

09 Think you are Getting 

Sick? How to Tell 

10 A Perfect Match 

Continued on page 3 

Vision: Persons with 

developmental disabilities live 

fully and safely as active and 

independent members of their 

community. 

Mission: TCRC provides 

person and family centered 

planning, services and supports 

for individuals with developmental 

disabilities to maximize 

opportunities and choices for 

living, working, learning and 

recreating in the community. 

Miah enjoys a book with her sister Morgan 

Miah and her mother Kerri 

As a parent of a child served by Tri Counties Regional Center (TCRC) and a staff member 

of a service provider for TCRC, Kerri Emmons has a unique and powerful perspective. In a 

recent interview, she explained her quest to demonstrate to other parents that learning of 

a child’s developmental disability can be an opportunity for an enriched family life. 

In her role as an early intervention specialist with Abbott and Burkhart Therapy, Kerri 

educates families about what to expect for the achievement of developmental milestones 

in early childhood. She teaches strategies for learning through play. To emphasize her 

positive and inspirational experiences as a parent, she often brings four year old Miah 

along with her. Parents have the opportunity to learn from Kerri through her instruction 

and observe her interactions with her own child. “Demonstrating for 

continued on pg 3 

Santa Barbara | Ventura | San Luis Obispo | www.tri-counties.org

From the Executive Director 

by Omar Noorzad, Ph.D. 

The end of the calendar year is 

a good time to celebrate results 

as well as review goals that 

require further work. The seven 

Focus Areas of the Tri-Counties 

Regional Center (TCRC) 2007- 

2009 Strategic and Performance 

Plan form the cornerstone for the 

achievement of the mission and 

vision of the organization. The 

plan, aligned with the Performance 

and Compliance contract with the 

Department of Developmental 

Services (DDS), guides staff and 

leadership to achieve strategic 

goals, ensure basic assurances such 

as health and safety and enhance 

quality of life for persons served by 

TCRC. 

The Focus Areas of the plan offer 

specific objectives that consider all 

of these efforts. For example, as we 

address Family Services, progress 

is being made around informing 

new families about regional center 

services and planning for treatment 

of autism. Dr. Steven Graff, Clinical 

Director, along with Autism 

Coordinator, Colleen Duncan is 

spearheading this work. 

Addressing the Health needs of 

the persons we serve has been high 

on our list of priorities. Concerned 

about the resources available for 

medical and dental services, we 

have increased our efforts around 

development of dental resources 

and have partnered with CenCal to 

provide information about available 

medical services. CenCal provides a 

semi-annual update to the provider 

list for Santa Barbara and San Luis 

Obispo Counties. Go to the TCRC 

web site for more information 

(http://www.tri-counties.org/ 

programs-services/servicegeneric/). 

TCRC’s Training and Development 

Plan addresses in-service 

education and orientation for 

new employees as well as more 

in-depth training for new service 

coordinators. Leadership training 

and development has become a 

core topic as well. Other efforts 

in this area have included TCRC 

hosting the first Southern California 

Gathering in partnership with 

East Los Angeles Regional Center 

in early October to promote 

learning around person centered 

thinking (PCT). The growth of the 

PCT initiative continues within 

the agency as well as through 

collaboration with other regional 

centers and service providers. 

TCRC staff introduced PCT to the 

regional center Chief Counselors 

Group this fall in an effort to 

influence state wide adoption of 

the principles. We are beginning 

to see a measurable impact of the 

PCT efforts. In response to the TCRC 

2007 Services and Supports Survey, 

persons served reported feeling 

more in control of the IPP and the 

plan for their life than ever before. 

Certain analysis suggests that this 

shift in outlook is linked to the PCT 

initiative. 

Much progress has been made 

in the development of efforts 

to support TCRC’s affordable 

Housing Focus Area. I am pleased 

to announce that Mr. Marc Belfortti 

accepted the position of Executive 

Director of the Tri-Counties 

Community Housing Corporation 

(TCCHC), a non-profit housing 

organization recently established 

by Tri-Countes Association for the 

Developmentally Disabled (TCADD). 

View the press release and the TCRC 

Five Year Housing plan at http:// 

www.tricountieshousing.org. This 

fiscal year, TCCHC will purchase 

two homes in Ventura County to 

be held in perpetuity for persons 

with developmental disabilities 

served by TCRC. These purchases 

will mark the beginning of the 

effort to secure 500 units of housing 

throughout the tri-counties area 

by 2013, benefiting approximately 

1500 people. 

Supported Employment 

service providers are working in 

collaboration with regional center 

staff to address the barriers to 

employment for persons served 

by TCRC, especially in the current 

economic environment. In an 

ongoing effort to enhance Life 

Activities, progress has been made 

toward defining alternative models 

for individualized 

day services, 

programs that increase choice and 

opportunities in the community. 

Need for effective Autism services 

continues to grow. One recent 

enhancement is the provision of 

in-home services to provide parents 

and families with education and 

training about effective behavior 

intervention strategies. This has 

given many families the additional 

tools necessary to keep their child 

at home. The Autism Taskforce will 

remain active in 2009 guided by 

recommendations from the Blue 

Ribbon Commission regarding best 

practices to support individuals 

with autism. 

In response to the proposed midyear 

cuts in the California state 

budget, actions around Advocacy 

are being taken. The TCADD Board 

of Directors passed a “Resolution 

of Solidarity”. This document is 

intended to serve as a call for action 

to advocates and advocacy groups 

to protect the rights of persons 

with developmental disabilities 

and to continue the promise of 

the Lanterman Act in spite of the 

current tough fiscal challenges 

facing the State. The resolution 

states that the proposed reductions 

“will jeopardize the safety, well 

being, civil rights, and freedom 

of people with developmental 

disabilities” and should be opposed. 

Additionally, The Leadership 

Project, a group of local selfadvocates 

and family advocates has 

also been re-established to organize 

advocacy efforts. View additional 

information on the budget at http:// 

www.tri-counties.org/news-events/ 

hot-topics.htm. 

As we reflect on the 

accomplishments of the past year, 

we look forward to meeting the 

challenges that lie ahead. In 2009 

we will be celebrating the 40th 

anniversary of the formation of 

TCADD. We will be acknowledging 

the history of TCADD and TCRC 

– with a glance back in time as 

there is much to celebrate about 

the progress made to help people 

we serve to live fully and safely as 

active and independent members 

of their community. 

Wishing you a safe New Year, 

2009 is the 40th 

anniversary of 

TCADD. A special 

“Anniversary Issue” 

of the TriLine 

will celebrate 

staff, community 

partners and 

stakeholders 

who have helped 

TCRC maximize 

opportunities for 

individuals with 

developmental 

disabilities. 

Continued from the cover page 

Recurring Topics 

02 From the Executive 

Director 

06 Calendar of Events 

09 Health & Safety 

01 TCRC Staff News 

01 Greetings from the 

President 

2 | tri-line WINTER 2008

A Community Works Together 

by Dan Van Keuren, Service Provider II, Oxnard 

Residing on her own in South Oxnard, Pat Briden enjoys her independence. 

Her mobile home offers privacy and a great place to 

create arts and crafts. Pat is known for her wonderful crocheted 

blankets and scarves and 

regularly receives ribbons from 

the Ventura County Fair. The 

SAGE Supported Living Agency 

and Lynn Anderson RN from 

Arc Ventura County, help her 

out at home when she is not 

attending the Oceanview Day 

Program in Port Hueneme. 

Pat with weekly volunteer, Jack Levy When Pat transitioned to a 

four point walker last spring, the five steps leading up to her home 

went from a challenge to a hazard. It became evident that a ramp 

was necessary. According to contractors, the steps and front porch 

would have to be demolished. The cost of the project was estimated 

to be between $10,000 - $15,000! 

The three of us met at Pat’s home and it was determined that Pat 

qualified for assistance through Rebuilding Together. Mrs. Prince 

contacted a licensed contractor. She secured funds for the construction 

materials through a grant from the Changing Life Foundation. 

She also coordinated a volunteer work force from Calvary 

Christian Church in Westlake Village. 

On July 5th, 20 volunteers demolished the steps and porch and built 

a twenty-four foot ramp. The volunteers also made some minor 

repairs to Pat’s mobile home. Some of Pat’s neighbors came over 

and requested assistance with their home - - and some neighbors’s 

homes were repaired that day. A few volunteers even mentioned 

coming back in the future to paint Pat’s home, all free of charge. 

Thanks to collaboration and some outstanding volunteers, Pat now 

can enjoy safe access to and from her home. 

With primary income from Social Security, Pat could not afford the 

ramp that would enable her to continue her independent lifestyle. 

After appealing to a variety of community organizations including 

the Area Agency on Aging, the Action Foundation and Habitat for 

Humanity, I got a lead on another agency. I called Frances Prince of 

Rebuilding Together and was relieved to hear “of course, I think we 

can be of help”. 

Pat using her ramp 

Special appreciation to Lynn Anderson, RN consultant for ARC of 

Ventura County, Cindy Armstrong, Director of Oceanview, all the 

staff of the SAGE SLS Program, and Pat’s Service Coordinator, Dan 

Van Keuren. Their persistence and collaboration led to action which 

enhanced the quality of Pat’s life. 

One Mom’s Positive Message continued from pg 1 

by Heather Wennergren, Media Coordinator 

parents the positive realities of nurturing a child with a 

developmental disability is an important part of my work”. 

Kerri emphasizes the possibilities, rather than the potential 

disadvantages of living with a child with a developmental 

disability. 

Recalling the first moments she learned of Miah’s disability, 

Kerri reflects upon thoughts clouded by fears about the 

experiences that her daughter might have, or might not be 

able to have. Having now enjoyed four years with Miah, Kerri 

asks herself “what the heck was I thinking? I have hopes for 

Miah to do many things. She may live on her own some day, 

have the power to make her own choices, make her own 

mistakes - - and learn from them.” Kerri describes the impact 

that Miah has had on her family, “Miah has changed all of our 

lives. We all see the world very differently now. We enjoy our 

time together each day and have hope for our future.” 

The opportunity to observe Kerri and Miah provides a ‘reality check’ for many parents in terms 

of positive approaches to intervention. Miah has been part of Early Start services through TCRC 

and now participates in Special Day Preschool, a language based program offered through the 

public school system. 

Miah lives with her mom Kerri, dad Jacob, and two sisters, Mckenna age 8 and Morgan age 11. 

Kudos to Kerri on her enduring effort to raise awareness of the abilities of every child as she provides inspiration and guidance to families. 

WINTER 2008 tri-line | 3

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN PHARMACOTHERAPY FOR AUTISM 

by Dr. James O’Hanlon, Psychopharmacologist 

Research for developing safer and more 

effective treatments for developmental 

disorders is a constant, ongoing process. 

Current treatments were mainly developed 

to minimize disruptive symptoms 

but in the future a better understanding 

of innate deficits should lead to treatments 

that increase individual abilities. 

Emerging trends in research for achieving 

this goal are apparent in the list of ongoing clinical trials provided by 

National Institutes of Health (NIH) at their website, www.ClinicalTrials. 

gov. The list, stratified by sponsor, disorder and intervention, includes 

all federally funded clinical trials and most supported privately in the 

USA with a smattering of those in progress elsewhere. Trials concerned 

with autism have quadrupled over the last five years until now, 132 are 

in progress or completed but not yet reported. Most (74%) deal with 

testing the efficacy of particular treatments: 

• Pharmacological (42%) 

• Behavioral (10%) 

• Dietary restrictions or supplements (8%) 

• Acupuncture/acupressure (5%) 

• Hyperbaric oxygen (4%) 

• Other (5%) 

Pharmacological trials may be further divided between the majority 

dealing with well-established drugs like Risperdal and Prozac and a 

minority concerning novel agents that have shown promise in preliminary 

studies. Some among the latter may emerge as pharmacotherapy 

of the future and are discussed here for that reason. 

SOME INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES 

MINOCYCLINE 

There is evidence that an innate neuroimmune 

reaction causes chronic inflammation in the 

autistic brain. Investigators at National Institute 

of Mental Health (NIMH) are currently testing 

the effects of minocycline, an antibiotic with 

strong anti-inflammatory properties, in children 

with autism with the hope of achieving 

global behavioral improvement. 

INTRANASAL OXYTOCIN 

Intranasal oxytocin is being administered to 

children with autism in a trial at Mount Sinai 

School of Medicine. Oxytocin is a naturally 

occurring brain hormone that promotes social 

bonding in all mammalian species and a 

pilot study suggested that it might have the 

same effect in autism. 

D-CYCLOSERINE 

D-cycloserine was developed for treating 

tuberculosis. Then it was discovered that the 

drug attenuates excitatory neurotransmission 

in the brain. Preliminary studies have shown 

its benefit in schizophrenia and also autism 

where it reduced social withdrawal. Two trials 

with d-cycloserine, led by world-class experts 

in autism, Drs. David Posey and Chris Mc- 

Dougle, are underway at Indiana University. 

N-ACETYLCYSTEINE 

Posey and McDougle are also conducting 

a study with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which 

increases glutathione, the body’s primary 

defense against toxic free radicals (‘oxidative 

stress’). The causes, effects and extent of 

oxidative stress in the autistic population are 

a matter of hot debate but there is reasonable 

evidence that it causes immune abnormalities, 

associated with deficient glutathione, in 

a sizable proportion. 

ARICEPT, RAZADYNE AND EXELON 

Drugs that increase the acetylcholine neurotransmission in the brain by inhibiting the enzyme 

that inactivates the transmitter – Aricept, Razadyne and Exelon – are 1st-line therapy for Alzheimer’s 

disease. Small scale studies with each of the drugs have provided an indication that they improve 

receptive and expressive language in children with either autism or Down syndrome. The 

manufacturer of Aricept has now launched an extensive trial series with the apparent purpose of 

registering the drug for the indication of cognitive dysfunction in children with Down syndrome. 

Controlled trials with Aricept and Razadyne for autism are also being conducted at NIMH and the 

University of Medicine, New Jersey, respectively. 

PERSON CENTERED THINKING 

TRAINING 

“Introduction to Person Centered 

Thinking” is a 10-hour training that 

teaches a set of ideas, skills and 

strategies to assist individuals who 

use services to achieve greater control 

and influence over their lives leading 

to positive community participation 

and value. There are several upcoming 

opportunities to attend this 

training. Trainings are hosted by 

different agencies and all trainers use 

a standard curriculum that has been 

approved by the Learning Community 

for Person Centered Practices. 

*Training dates, times and locations 

are subject to change. 

Training Dates* 

(Must attend all 

dates in series) 

Time Location For more information and to 

register contact: 

2/4, 2/11, 2/18 1:00pm-4:00pm TCRC, San Luis 

Obispo Office 

2/12, 2/19, 2/26 9:30am-1:00pm Santa Maria, 

Grogan Park 

Assembly 

2/17, 2/24, 3/3 9:30am-12:30pm Santa Maria 

(location to be 

announced) 

4/9, 4/16, 4/23 9:30am-1:00pm Santa Maria, 

Grogan Park 

Assembly 

3/6, 3/13, 3/20 9:30am-1:00pm Ventura County 

(location to be 

announced) 

Karen Moore 

805-782-8890 ext 16 

karenmoore@pathpoint.org 

Lauren Connelly 

805-489-9472 ext 201 

Karen Moore 

805-782-8890 ext 16 

karenmoore@pathpoint.org 

Lauren Connelly 

805-489-9472 ext 201 

Vi Nguyen 

805-884-7206 

vnguyen@tri-counties.org 


(Dis)ability Through Education and Action 

by Jennifer L. Dwyer, Peer Advocate, San Luis Obispo 

Being a participant in Partners in Policymaking®, is a little like looking 

at my favorite painting. At first, as people from all over central 

California file into the large conference room of the Bakersfield 

Inn and Suites, the larger picture remains 

out of focus; if looked at too closely, it 

appears to be a mass of unconnected, 

slightly dizzying dots. However, over 

time, the people that began the journey 

as virtual strangers, have, through the 

experience they shared, gained a little 

perspective. United in a common purpose, 

like any family, we gathered for a weekend 

that, while challenging, felt an awful like a 

Sunday in the Park. 

“Partners in Policymaking has given me 

the practical tools to use to speak up for 

those who cannot speak for themselves,” 

Esther Bautista, mother of 5-year-old 

Bethany, a person served by Tri-Counties Regional Center, Santa 

Maria, said. “It’s high time that someone speaks out for the injustice 

they have suffered and work to promote a more accessible 

world.” 

Partners in Policymaking (PIP) is an internationally recognized 

training program designed to empower people with disabilities, 

their families, and other members of their immediate support 

network. Through a series of eight weekend-long seminars, 

participants learn about the contemporary lives of the one in five 

Americans that, like their loved one, find themselves disabled in 

some way. They also learn about the historically discriminating 

treatment that spurred the earliest disability rights’ activists into 

action. Like those who came before them, it is believed that Partners 

in Policymaking graduates, once armed with the educational 

tools, will actively work to change the perception of a “life with a 

disability.” 

The program, funded by a 2006 State Council on Developmental 

Disability grant, is intended to teach those with disabilities—and 

the people who love, live, and work with them—how to advocate 

for individual, social, and legislative change. 

“Half of our participants are ‘self-advocates’, or those who have 

disabilities themselves,” Linda Landry, of the Family Resource 

Centers Network of California (FRCNCA) said. “The other half is 

made up of those who love and [emotionally and physically] 

support them.” 

Jennifer Dwyer receives Graduation Certificate 

time in 13 years, on October 18, the 40-member class of 2008 

graduated from the program. Parents, personal assistants, and selfadvocates 

received diplomas and lapel pins as a symbols of their 

collective achievement. 

“Through education, we have become more 

aware of how to properly demonstrate respect 

toward people with disabilities,” 

Denise Martinez, a self-advocate from San 

Luis Obispo, said. 

Monthly, participants—affectionately 

dubbed “PIP peeps” by me—converged 

upon the Doubletree. Coming from as far 

away as Madera and San Mateo, participants 

did everything from learning about the appropriate 

use of assistive technology devices, 

to staging a mock legislative hearing at the 

state Capitol. With over 100 hours of learning 

behind the newly graduating class, the energy in the room was 

one that, thanks to the knowledge gained, removed the ‘dis’ in 

“disability”, and shifted the focus to abilities, instead. 

“This graduation represents another class of advocates ready to 

act on issues important to the disabilities community,” Jim Lockwood, 

coordinator of PIPCA, said. “Next year, Partners in Policymaking 

California will be training our third class of advocates in 

the southern California region,” he said. “This will mean that, in 

three years, PIPCA will have trained more than 100 advocates 

from across the state of California.” 

Participants’ expenses-about $8,000 each-included lodging and 

attendant care costs, if needed. The California State Council on 

Developmental Disabilities funds the entire cost of the program 

through a grant to the aforementioned members of the California 

Collaborative. The Collaborative organizations commit staff 

time and resources to the oversight and implementation of the 

Partners in Policymaking program. 

Originally modeled after a curriculum generated by the Governor’s 

Council of Minnesota 21 years ago, Partners California has 

not had an easy road. Thanks to the dedication of many organizations 

— including People First of California, the American 

Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, and the 

Family Resource Centers Network of California— for the second 

Partners in Policymaking Graduating Class 


calendar of events 

Parents helping parents - family resource CENTER 

email: php@ucp-slo.org 

San Luis Obispo Office Atascadero Office 

800.456.4153 x3277 805.461.7415 

805.543.3277 

PHP SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM 

August 2008 – May 2009 

For families of children with a developmental disability who currently receive 

services from San Luis Obispo’s Tri-Counties Regional Center. Attending a specialized 

conference or training can help further parenting skills, knowledge and 

confidence when raising a child with special needs. With prior approval, up to 

$300 of the conference registration fee may be reimbursed. For an application, 

Contact: Parents Helping Parents, 543-3277 

Parents Helping Parents’ Educational Playtime Resource Library for your children 

with special needs. To inspire your child’s senses, stop by and check out a toy! 

PHP Family Resource Center Library: New arrival: On the Spectrum, a Film by Jeff 

Grinta, is a documentary about people successfully coping with Asperger Syndrome 

and Autism. Parents, doctors, therapists, psychologists and children talk 

about Asperger’s and their challenges and victories. Meet Jonathan, voted out 

of class by his classmates, and beaten up daily, he is now a successful professional 

bass player. Meet Matt, a 29 year old who struggled with Asperger’s through 

high school and is now a highly sought after peer support counselor for children 

with Asperger’s and Autism. 

Parents of Children 0-10 years Down Syndrome Support Group 

Coming soon! Contact PHP for details. 805.543.3277 or email php@ucp-slo.org. 

HOUSING OPTIONS FOR YOUNG ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES 

Would you be interested in learning about future housing options for your 

young adult children with special needs? Please contact the Parents Helping 

Parents Library to place your name on an interest list for this upcoming event, 

time and date to be announced. 

Contact: PHP 805.543.3277 or email php@ucp-slo.org. 

UCP KIDS CLUB, 6 – 12 YEAR OLDS OR TEEN CLUB FOR 13 – 17 YEAR OLDS 

Community recreation for kids or teens with special needs, including transportation, 

supervision and fun activities. Contact: Tessa 543-7102, youthservices@ 

ucp-slo.org 

UCP SLO LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS WEEK EVENTS 

April 29, 2009: Adult Employment Open House 

April 30, 2009: Abilities Fair 

May 2, 2009: Paul Wolf Access Advocacy Awards 

Contact: Karl Winkler 541-8751 or kwinkler@Ride-On.org. 

ONGOING: 

SAN LUIS OBISPO County 

NORTH COUNTY AUTISM SPECTRUM SUPPORT GROUP 

3rd Friday of every other month, 7 - 9:00 pm, Paso Robles. 

Contact: Becky: 471-1354 or ncautismsupportgroup@charter.net or contact@ 

autismspectrumcenter.com. 

SOUTH COUNTY AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP 

2nd Tuesday of every month, 12 – 1:30 pm, Grover Beach 

Contacts: Leslie 904-9212 or sweeters@digitalputty.com. 

INDEPENDENT LIVING RESOURCE CENTER’S PEER SUPPORT MEETING FOR INDI- 

VIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES 

1st Monday of every month, 1:30-2:30, SLO, Contact: Denise Martinez 593-0667. 

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP 

2nd Saturday of the month, 9 - 10:30 am, Cost: $20, Contact: Joan Fusco, LCSW, 

phone: 801-3127. 

THIRD SUNDAYS AT THE PASO ROBLES CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 

3rd Sunday of the month, 10 am – 12 pm, For families of children with special 

needs, Paso Robles, Cost: $7 for Adults; $6 for children 1 – 13 years; $5 for Seniors 

aged 65 and over 

Contact: 238-7432. 

6 | tri-line WINTER 2008 

SANTA BARBARA County 

ALPHA RESOURCE CENTER - Family Resource Center 

email: info@alphasb.org / www.alphasb.org 

Santa Maria Office Santa Barbara Office 

805.347.2775 877.414.6227 

805.683.2145 

SAVE THE DATE 

Feb 18th - Early Start 

Call Alpha for details 

Alpha Resource Center offers a wide variety of services and supports to encompass the needs 

of individuals with disabilities of all ages and at all stages of life. 

Children & Family Services ~ Family First assists parents of children with special needs 

to gain the knowledge and skills to enable their children to be all they can be. Parentto-parent 

and family support, parent-professional collaboration, resource meetings and 

workshops, information & referral, transition, future planning, and much more! 

Resource Libraries ~ offer over 2000 titles on developmental and other disabilities. 

Located at Tri-Counties Regional Center offices in Santa Maria and Santa Barbara. Mobile 

library services are available. Call for hours or specialized assistance. 

Katie’s FUNd ~ provides social and recreational opportunities for teens with developmental 

disabilities. Contact: Amy Buesker at 683-2145 x127 or abuesker@alphasb.org. 

Alpha Adult Services ~ provides a broad spectrum of services for adults with developmental 

disabilities. Each participant assists in the development of individualized services 

tailored to achieve his or her personal goals. 805.964.3547 

Parent-to-Parent Support 

Sponsored by Special Needs Network. Meets third Thursday of every month, 

9:00 am at Coffee Diem, 505 S. McClelland Street in Santa Maria. 

Contact: Diana 805.937.8756. 

City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation Department 

Check out what they have to offer. Contact: Adapted Programs 805.564.5421. 

Family First at alpha resource connections 

A family resource center and parent network. Provides parent-to-parent and 

family support, parent-professional collaboration, parent and family workshops, 

and information and referral. Contact: North County 805.347.2775 / South 

County 805.683.2145. 

Something for the Siblings 

The Special Needs Network is a new club for the siblings of individuals with 

disabilities. The club will consist of several fun activities and will be a chance to 

get away and relax with others who also have siblings with disabilities. Contact: 

Laura King, 805.344.1403. 

Santa Maria Special Education & Support Information 

Kathy Rowley has started a Yahoo Group for parents of children with special 

needs who live in Santa Maria. To join go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ 

santamariasupport. 

Autism Society of America - Santa Barbara Chapter (ASASB) 

Contact: Marcia or Sandy at 805.560.3762 or info@asasb.org, www.asasb.org. 

Santa Maria Autism Support Group 

Has an online support group for parents of children diagnosed with autism. 

There is also a weekly playgroup that meets at a local park. Contact: 805.714.1187 

or email begeasykr@yahoo.com. 

Lompoc Autism Support Group 

A support group for parents and other caregivers of children diagnosed with 

autism. Contact: Polly Bleavins 805.347.2775 or email pollyb@alphasb.org. 

P.O.S.E. Parents of Special Education 

This parent support group meets the third Wednesday of every month at 9:30 

a.m. The group also fundraises to provide additional educational materials for 

special education programs in Santa Barbara. For meeting locations and fund 

raising events, contact Jennifer Griffin, 805.967.0371 (jenagrif@verizon.net) or 

Cathy Abarca, 805.448.6431 (cat736@aol.com). 

TALK ABOUT CURING AUTISM (TACA) 

Meets 3rd Saturday of the Month, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm “The Loft” Above Sur La 

Table in Paseo Nuevo. This is a support group meeting for caretakers for those 

with special needs. Contact Kathleen_reish@tacanow.org, www.tacanow.org. 

SBATA@YAHOOGROUPS.COM 

Online group for parents of special needs children, email hosseini58@cox.net.

Ventura County 

Rainbow Connection - Family Resource Center 

email: rainbow@tri-counties.org 

Oxnard Office 

Simi Valley Office 

800.332.3679 800.517.2524 x2325 

805.485.9643 805.823.2325 

Rainbow Connection provides many activities for children and families. Here is 

a list of on-going support groups: 

SIBCLUB 

First Friday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00 pm 

Games, Fun, Activities, for 5 - 14 years old siblings of children with 

developmental disabilities in Oxnard. 

CEREBRAL PALSY SUPPORT GROUP (ENGLISH & SPANISH) 

Third Monday of the month, 9:30 - 11:00 am 

Groups meet separately in English and Spanish 

Join other parents to talk about issues related to raising children with cerebral 

palsy and share resources and information. 

SPECIAL PARENTS NETWORK (ENGLISH) 

Third Wednesday of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard 

Third Thursday of the month, 9:30 - 11:00 am, Simi 

Come and join us for a cup of coffee, learn about our resources and talk about 

issues related to raising children with special needs. 

DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP (ENGLISH) 

Second Thursday of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard 

Families have open discussions about raising children with Down syndrome. 

DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP (SPANISH) 

Second Thursday of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard 

Families have open discussions about raising children with Down syndrome. 

AUTISMO SUPPORT GROUP (SPANISH) 

Second Thursday of the month,10:30 - 12:00 pm, Oxnard 

First Thursday of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Oxnard 

Families have discussions on issues related to raising children with autism. 

RAINBOW MOMS CONNECTING - OXNARD (SPANISH) 

Third Friday of the month, Oxnard 

Come and enjoy time with other mothers of children with special needs and 

have a relaxing time. For more information or to RSVP please call Rainbow. 

CONNECTING WITH RAINBOW - FILLMORE (SPANISH) 

Third Friday of the month, 5:00 - 7:00 pm, Dr. Neil Schmidt Family Resource 

Center. Families of children and adults who receive services from TCRC are 

assisted in navigating the healthcare system as well a variety of other issues. 

They can also make an apt. in advance to make a Health Care Notebook. 

TEDDY BEAR BRIGADE 

Third Saturday of the month (except for summer) 1-3:00 pm, Thousand Oaks 

For children 3 -13 years old with special needs and their siblings. It includes 

stories, sensory themes, crafts and music. Visit www.bearsandcompany.com 

to register. Parents meet separately for social and networking time. 

SANTA CLARA SUPPORT GROUP (SPANISH) 

Third Monday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences they’ve 

had with their children with special needs and learn about resources. 

SANTA PAULA SUPPORT GROUP (ENGLISH) 

Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with 

special needs and learn about resources. Meets 4th Monday of the month. 

SANTA PAULA SUPPORT GROUP (SPANISH) 

Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with 

special needs and learn about resources. Meet 1st Monday of the month. 

RAINBOW MOMS CONNECTING - FILLMORE (ENGLISH) 

Third Monday of the month. Moms of children with special needs meet to 

share and learn new information. 

RAINBOW MOMS CONNECTING - VENTURA COUNTY (ENGLISH) 

Meeting dates and times vary. Come and enjoy a night out with other mothers 

of children with special needs. 

NICU SUPPORT GROUP (ENGLISH & SPANISH) 

Third Wednesday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00pm, Oxnard 

Groups meet separately in English & Spanish. Meet other families and share 

ideas of coping, photos, info, joy and triumphs. Pizza will be served! Families 

with babies in the NICU and NICU grads welcome. 

G-TUBE/J-TUBE/NG-TUBE NETWORKING (ENGLISH & SPANISH) 

Third Thursday of the month, 6:30 - 8:00 Oxnard 

Does your child have a G-tube, J-tube, or NG-tube? Has it been suggested that 

your child get a tube? We look forward to sharing our stories of frustrations, 

fears, and successes (large and small). 

SOCIAL TIME FOR ADULTS SERVED BY TCRC 

Last Saturday of the month (RSVP a must), 12:30-2:30 pm, Oxnard 

Come and join other adults for refreshments, conversation, browsing in the 

library, and enjoy a movie and popcorn at Rainbow Connection in Oxnard. 

Direct care or supervision is not provided. 

OTHER COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS: 

MEETUP GROUP FOR FAMILIES WITH KIDS WITH ASPERGER’S 

NEW GROUP, ages 5 - 12 years. RSVP at the link to the MeetUp site: http:// 

parents.meetup.com/636/ 

BRANDON’S BUDDIES (ENGLISH) 

First Saturday of the month, Calabasas. A free play date for children of all 

abilities. To RSVP call Dina Kaplan 818.222.8118 or brandonsbuddies@pacbell. 

net. 

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) PARENT SUPPORT GROUP (ENGLISH) 

Second Wednesday of the month at Rainbow Connection, 7:00 - 9:00 pm, 

Oxnard. For more information contact Tera Marquez or Karen Bobo at 

asdparentsupportgroup@gmail.com. 

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS OF KIDS WITH AUTISM 

Last Monday of the month, 6:30 pm 

We provide child care. The address is 2697 Lavery Ct., Suite 17 Newbury Park. 

Contact Leila Silva at 805.480.9039 or 805.341.3089. 

SPECIAL PARENTS CAFE 

Third Saturday of each month. Spanish speakers welcome, Silvia, 805.530.0315. 

LET’S GO HIKING 

First Saturday of the month, Bob Charney and his son Michael, who has 

Autism, invite other dads and their sons with developmental challenges to go 

hiking. If you’re interested in participating, call Bob Charney at 818.735.7331 or 

818.789.1586 x223. 

MOM’S NIGHT OUT THOUSAND OAKS (ENGLISH) 

Third Tuesday of the month. For contact information call Rainbow. 

DAD’S NIGHT OUT THOUSAND OAKS (ENGLISH) 

Fourth Tuesday of the month. For contact information call Rainbow. 

VENTURA COUNTY AUTISM SOCIETY (ENGLISH) 

For more information call Ventura County Autism Society at 805.496.1632. 

HAPPY FRIENDS CLUB 

Alternate Tuesdays, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Camarillo 

Support group for adults & teens with mental/physical challenges. Speakers, 

games, arts & crafts, round table discussions, occasional community outings. 

Contact: Jean McGuire 805.816.2319 or email: bobbyjean2@mac.com. 

With each issue of the Tri-Line, we provide information on some of the resources 

available to families within the Tri-Counties area. Please call to confirm dates 

and times of events. Check with your service coordinator for information on other 

resources available to you in your area. 


TO OUR VOLUNTEERS 

THANK YOU 

FOR BRINGING THE HOLIDAYS TO 

THOSE WHO MAY NOT HAVE HAD 

THEM WITHOUT YOUR HELP 

Angels Bearing Gifts Staff 

Mary met Evelynn at a support group for parents 

of special needs children that Evelynn, a licensed 

therapist, was facilitating and is grateful that Evelynn 

founded “her Angels group” as it is “clearly one that is 

needed in the community.” Angels Bearing Gifts serves 

beneficiaries from Carpinteria to Paso Robles. 

In her wallet, Mary keeps a Chinese proverb which concludes with 

the line “If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.” (Volunteers 

seem to instinctively know this.) 

“If You Want Happiness for a Lifetime, Help 

Somebody” 

by Jill Davis, Angels Bearing Gifts 

Volunteers—what would we do without them? Not nearly as much 

as we can do with them. One passionate volunteer is worth more 

than a dozen clock-watchers someone once said. This may have 

been the same person who said if you want something done give 

it to a busy person. 

Mary Watts and Holly Sherwin, two working moms in Santa Barbara, 

for whom a 24-hour day surely can’t be enough, are living 

examples of this viewpoint. Interestingly enough, working mothers 

with school-age children volunteer more hours than any other 

demographic in America according to U.S News & World Report. 

“I have done it all my life. It was instilled in me by my parents and 

in my husband from his parents,” says Mary. “So it is sort of second 

nature to us.” 

“It is so easy to get 

caught up in our 

everyday routines 

and forget about or 

just put off doing 

something for others,” 

says Holly. 

Both women chose 

Angels Bearing Gifts 

to introduce their 

children to volunteering 

and to the 

Mary with her son Ben 

lessons that volunteering conveys. Mary’s son, Ben, and Holly’s son, 

Alec, have special needs (as does Angels founder Evelynn Smith’s 

daughter, Michelle) so it is a match that works well on several 

levels. 

“It was an eye-opening experience for Alec,” says Holly. “A bit scary 

at first, but I think he got it. We were able to have a great discussion 

about the importance of helping our fellow human beings.” 

And she adds: “Volunteering as a family made the experience so 

much richer.” 

Holly and Lanny with their son Alec 

“I don’t always live up to it the best that I can,” says Mary, “but it is 

something I usually strive for.” 

Volunteering as a family and, at this time of year, as a family 

holiday tradition, is what feels right to so many in our community. 

It’s giving back. It’s making a difference. It’s an “active lesson” in 

compassion for children. 

“As Alec gets older, I hope the extent of our volunteering grows 

and through it, we also will continue to grow as a family and a 

community,” says Holly. 

Both the Sherwin and Watts families are hands-on volunteers for 

Angels Bearing Gifts, wrapping and delivering holiday gifts to individuals 

with developmental disabilities who don’t have families. 

They also sponsor beneficiaries through financial contributions, 

ensuring that they are remembered on their birthdays, Valentine’s 

Day as well as Chanukah and Christmas. 

Volunteers, we need you. We can’t do much without you, and we 

appreciate everything you do. 

And if you want to know more about Angels Bearing Gifts and 

the ways you can help developmentally disabled people without 

families celebrate the holidays, please call 884.7222 or email info@ 

angelsbearinggifts.com. It’s not too late to volunteer! 


Advocating for My Child and Others 

by Linda Miyahira, M.S, Service Coordinator, Simi Valley team 

The word “advocacy” is thrown around more than ever these days. As 

parents of children with special needs, we are advised to become an 

advocate by every doctor and therapist we meet. So, what exactly 

does it mean? 

Advocacy, according to the dictionary, is the act of pleading or giving 

verbal support for a cause. To be an advocate means you must 

become that voice. This is easy enough if you have been trained to 

speak or have a natural gift for speaking up. For 

many parents, this is not the case, and it is a 

scary role that we are suddenly expected to 

step into immediately for our children. 

Generally, you are not alone in this process 

if your child is born with a condition that 

requires the assistance of doctors, therapists, 

and service coordinators. However, if your 

child has a condition that is not immediately 

obvious to anyone but family and friends, 

a parent’s world can feel like a dark chasm 

swirling with a myriad of possible diagnoses 

(thanks to the Internet) and professionals 

without names. For those of us involved with the regional center 

system and our local school districts, some of that confusion has been 

eliminated, but that does not end our advocacy. It is a lifelong role for 

many parents. So, where can a parent learn more? 

Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center is a wonderful support 

network that is run by parents of children in the Regional Center 

system. They have a lending library and a number of support group 

Think you are Getting Sick? How to Tell. . . 

By Louis Cassano, RN Nurse Specialist 

affiliates, provide regular trainings for parents and caregivers (which 

include the development of effective advocating with your regional 

center and school district), as well as a basic understanding of your 

child’s rights on both state and federal levels. 

It is necessary for parents to know when they are ready to advocate. 

Sometimes a parent must jump in and learn along the way when 

there is urgency. However, as a service coordinator and a parent, I 

have seen a number of parents with good intentions 

create huge rifts with the very people their 

children need in their lives. They burn bridges 

where there needs to be a smooth path for children 

to receive every necessary service to reach 

their potential. 

We all go through the grieving process (denial, 

anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance), 

and it is important to know where you are in 

that process before going about the business 

of advocating for your child or someone else’s 

child. It is also important to make sure that what 

is being advocated for is in the best interest of 

the child and not to satisfy a parent’s personal need (or subconscious 

vendetta). It requires much self-reflection and introspection, which 

is a brave act in itself. By doing this exercise, we can see more clearly 

and take a more objective approach. 

Advocacy is about building bridges and forming links that will give 

parents and their children appropriate support and access to every 

service that will help them both on their journey to a fulfilling life. 

health & safety 

If you have developed a few symptoms, but are unsure if 

you have a cold or allergies, the matrix below may help. It 

lists the symptoms of cold, flu, sinusitis and allergic rhinitis. 

symptoms COLD FLU SINUSITIS ALLERGIC RHINITIS 

FEVER 

Rare in adults and older 

children, may be high 

in infants and small 

children 

Usually high (102-104) 

and can last for 3-4 days, 

fever and chills 

HEAD ACHE Rare Sudden Onset, may be 

severe 

MUSCLE ACHES 

Possibly mild 

Yes, often severe 

TIREDNESS / WEAKNESS Mild Yes, may last two or 

more weeks 

EXHAUSTION Never Sudden onset, may be 

severe 

NASAL DISCHARGE Watery to thick, cloudy Sometime watery to 

or white 

cloudy or white 

Spotlight on the Web 

Not usual, fever may 

indicated infection 

Yes, may have facial or 

eye pain 

Not usual 

Mild 

Never 

Thick yellow-green sinus 

congestion 

Not usual, fever may 

indicate infection 

Possible 

Not usual 

Not usual 

Never 

Thin, watery, itchy eye 

SNEEZING Often Sometimes Sometimes Sometimes 

SORE THROAT Often Sometimes Not usual Often 

COUGH / CONGESTION Mild hacking, a lot of clear, Usual, may be severe. Especially at night Possible 

yellow or green phlegm A lot of clear, yellow or 

may indicate infection. If green phlegm may indicate 

infection. If wheez- 

wheezing, notify your doctor. 

If cough lasts 14 days ing, notify your doctor. 

or more, see your doctor. 


A Perfect Match 

by Athena Meisheid, Associate Director, Community Options, Inc. (COI) 

Some people with developmental disabilities have never had the 

opportunity to benefit from the many rewards family home life 

brings. Others desire to participate in family home life again. For 

the past thirteen years, Community Options, Incorporated (COI -An 

Adult Family Home Agency - AFHA ) has offered unique opportunities 

for adults with developmental disabilities to live in a home in their 

community with a family carefully matched to meet their needs and 

preferences. The culture that they are accustomed to is carefully 

considered. 

Estela doesn’t need medication to sleep any more. Best yet - - Estela 

is often laughing and smiling! She is invited and participates in all the 

Dela Vega’s large extended family events and is an integral part of the 

family holidays and traditions. When Kahlia was born, Estela was there 

at the hospital with all of the family. There are weddings, showers, 

birthdays with piñatas, and Estela is there for it all! 

Family Home Provider, Jessica says, “I don’t know how you figured out 

the match, but Estela really fits with our family, she really feels like a 

part of my family.” 

Estela near her bed 

Estela and her home life situation is just one example of many 

wonderful matches that have occurred through COI. For the past 

four years, Estela has lived with the Dela Vega Family in Santa Maria, 

which includes Family Home Providers Jessica, Carlito, their daughter 

Vanessa, and two year old granddaughter Kahlia. The Dela Vega 

family became certified to provide care, supervision, and support 

through COI, completing a rigorous process that includes information 

gathering about their family, on-going training, background 

clearances, and maintenance of their home according to COI 

standards. 

Estela previously lived in a care home that did not meet her cultural 

preference. Although good quality care was delivered, Estela 

appeared frustrated. She would sometimes cry and hit her head with 

her hand to express her unhappiness. Specialized care and cultural 

considerations were difficult to accommodate at this home due to 

regulatory restrictions that impede the ability to customize care and 

support. For example, growing up in her family home, Estela was 

accustomed to sleeping on the floor and often crawled out of her bed 

to do so. It was common for Estela and her family to sleep on the floor 

together. At her previous care home, Estela slept in a high hospital 

bed and was in danger of injury on nights when she attempted to lay 

on the floor. Due to these “nocturnal behaviors”, Estela was treated 

with medication to deter her from leaving the bed at night. 

The previous care provider suggested that the quality of Estela’s life 

may improve if she lived with a family who spoke her native tongue 

and could more readily accommodate her cultural and physical living 

preferences. 

Through a regional center referral to COI, Estela was able to move into 

a Spanish speaking home, where foods she was accustomed to were 

lovingly prepared and familiar music was heard. Accommodations 

and adaptations to the environment were made to meet Estela’s needs 

and preferences. The Dela Vega family welcomed Estela with her own 

specially made bed, one that fit her petite frame, was cozy, and had 

modified legs to lower the bed. The Dela Vega family home also had 

soft carpeting and padding on the floor to accommodate Estela when 

she preferred to sleep there. 

10 | tri-line WINTER 2008 

Estela with Jessica Dela Vega 

In addition to the Dela Vega family, Estela also receives the support 

of Community Living Coordinator, Kim Burt, who helps to coordinate 

medical and other supports, oversees quality assurance for the 

home, and helps to provide whatever Estela needs to be successful at 

home and in the community. Respite supports are also provided by 

COI to the Dela Vega family. This provides a break for the Dela Vega 

family and provides Estela with 

opportunities to do fun activities 

at home or in the community with 

an additional member to her circle 

of support. COI contracts with 

consultants that provide practical 

and technical expertise in helping 

her become as independent as 

possible. 

Ingrid Rushing, COI President/ 

CEO states, “When it comes to 

the process of creating a home 

for ourselves and building our 

circle of people we want to share 

our home and personal life with, 

that process is a very thoughtful, 

unique, and intimate one. What 

may be defined as the “comforts 

Estela with Kahlia 

of home” for one person will certainly be different for the next. This 

is why at COI we believe that facilitating, developing, and matching 

supports with one person at a time is what quality service is all about. 

Thoughtful considerations, watching, listening, and collaboration are a 

part of the success!” 

For more information about becoming a state certified Adult Family 

Home Provider or to inquire about COI’s services, please contact 

Athena Meisheid at (805) 481-7329- ext. 201.

awards 

TCRC staff news 

Please note that the Fall 2008 TriLine included a misprint in the Awards section. The correct information for all Spirit of 

Excellence Award winners is printed below. 

In our continued commitment to recognize employees for outstanding work, some exciting changes have 

been made to the Spirit of Excellence award program. The award acknowledges employees who demonstrate 

teamwork, good citizenship, service to the people we serve, morale building, quest for quality and 

above and beyond dedication to their work. The new program will be instituted the fourth quarter of 2008. 

Employees are nominated quarterly by their colleagues. Two quarterly winners are selected from each of the 

larger Oxnard and Santa Barbara offices and one from each of the remaining offices. A nomination committee 

comprised primarily of TCRC employees selects the quarterly winners. All nominees receive a $20 gift 

certificate. Quarterly winners receive an award certificate, temporary possession of the lovely, stone Dolphin 

Award and a chance to become one of the two annual winners. 

At the end of the year, the accomplishments of all quarterly winners are reviewed by the Director’s team and 

two employees are selected to receive the Annual Spirit of Excellence award. Annual winners receive a $300 

gift card, public acknowledgement, and a Dolphin Award engraved with their names. 

SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS 

3rd Quarter 

2007 


4th Quarter 

2007 


1st Quarter 

2008 


2nd Quarter 

2008 

DENISE rENNA 

Service Coordinator II, Atascadero 

Summer Beasley-Hoffman 

Service Coordinator II, San Luis Obispo 

Cynthia Camacho 

Service Coordinator II, Santa Maria 

Rosemary Rice 

Service Coordinator I, Santa Barbara 

darcy bishop 


bruce powers 

Psychologist, San Luis Obispo 

karen wissig 

Service Coordinator II, Santa Barbara 

matt lorden 

Human Resources Associate, SB 

David mulvey 


Andrea Schacht 

Service Coordinator II, San Luis Obispo 

Genevieve soto-berry 

Service Coordinator II, Santa Barbara 

Vi Nguyen 

Organizational Development Associate, SB 

Alisa Welsch 


Shilo Freer 

Service Coordinator I, San Luis Obispo 

Sally Mendoza 

Service Coordinator I, Santa Barbara 

Cathy Berry 

Executive Assistant, Santa Barbara 

Phil Stucky 

Controller, Santa Barbara 

Anabelle Cordero 

Service Coordinator II, Oxnard 

Danielle Gonzalez 

Secretary III, Simi Valley 

Lars Eacott 

Service Coordinator II, Simi Valley 

dan van keuren 


violeta pulido 

Secretary III, Oxnard 

gary riewer 


Megan Bovenzi 


Zeke Vargas 


Uvence Garcia 


Dalia Ruiz 

Service Coordinator II, Santa Maria 

San Luis Obispo 

County 

Atascadero 

Hotel Park Business Center 

6005 Capistrano, Suite E 

Atascadero, CA 93422-7219 

805.461.7402 

FAX 805.461.9479 

San Luis Obispo 

3450 Broad Street, Suite 111 

San Luis Obispo, CA 

93401-7102 

805.543.2833 

800.456.4153 

FAX 805.543.8725 

Santa Barbara County 

Santa Barbara 

520 East Montecito Street 

Santa Barbara, CA 

93103-3278 

805.962.7881 

800.322.6994 

FAX 805.884.7229 

Santa Maria 

1234 Fairway Dr. 

Santa Maria, CA 93455 

805.922.4640 

800.266.9071 

FAX 805.922.4350 

welcome 

new employees 

Jessica Osuna 

Service Coordinator II 

Rebecca Luden, Service Coordinator II 

Regina Kentner, Psychologist I 

promotions 

Anne Baltzer 

from SC II to Early Start Manager 

Megan Bovenzi 

from SC II to SC II with Masters 

Alison Forsyth 

from SC II to SC II with Masters 

SUMMER BEASLEY 

from SC II to with SC II with Masters 

COLLEEN DUNCAN 

from Resource Developer to Autism 

Coordinator 

Ventura County 

Oxnard 

2401 Gonzales Road, Suite 

100 

Oxnard, CA 93030-2119 

805.485.3177 

800.664.3177 

FAX 805.988.9521 

TCCHC 

TCCHC ANNOUNCES NEW 

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Tri-Counties Community Housing 

Corporation (TCCHC) Board of Directors 

is pleased to announce that Marc 

Belfortti has accepted the position of 

Executive Director. 

Mr. Belfortti brings to this new position 

over twenty years of experience 

in banking and financial services, project 

feasibility and affordable housing. 

Prior to joining TCCHC, he served as 

First Vice President and CRA Officer 

for IndyMac Bank, Pasadena. 

TCCHC’s mission is to enhance the 

quality of lives for people with 

developmental disabilities served 

by Tri-Counties Regional Center by 

creating quality, affordable housing 

options in inclusive communities. 

For more information, visit www. 

tri-countieshousing.org. 

Simi Valley 

1900 E. Los Angeles Ave. 

Simi Valley, CA 93065 

805.522.8030 

800.517.2524 

FAX 805.522.8142 


Tri-Counties Association 

for the Developmentally Disabled 

520 E. Montecito Street 

Santa Barabara, CA 93101 

NONPROFIT ORG. 

U.S. Postage 

PAID 

Santa Barbara 

CA 93101 

Permit No. 359 

The Tri-Counties Association 

for the Developmentally 

Disabled Inc. (TCADD) Board 

of Directors is comprised of 

volunteers, including business 

people, professionals, family 

members and persons served. 

Many board members wear 

multiple “hats” – for example 

one may be both a professional 

and have a family member 

who is served by Tri-Counties 

Regional Center (TCRC). Board 

members bring a dedicated 

and informed approach 

to their work, especially 

in their activities in board 

committees. This year has 

been particularly challenging 

for the Administration and 

Executive Committees around 

monitoring the impact of the 

delay in the passage of the 

State budget in California, 

which affects delivery of 

services and supports by 

TCRC. Of equal import, we 

have been vigilant around the 

Call for Volunteers for the TCADD Board 

Greetings from the President 

By Stan Deakin, TCADD Board Director 

potential impact on our staff 

and management. I am proud 

of our leadership and how they 

are handling the continuing 

fiscal crisis. Funds have been 

well managed, resulting in little 

or no impact on persons served 

as well as staff. We know that 

there is much work ahead 

and expect a state budget 

for the remainder of this fiscal 

year and next that will most 

likely be further affected by 

economic conditions. We will 

not pause in our continued 

advocacy efforts to ensure the 

best outcomes for our regional 

center’s fiscal health. 

Monitoring the progress 

for the TCRC Strategic and 

Performance Plan is a critical 

duty of the TCADD Board. 

We support the efforts of our 

Executive Director, Dr. Omar 

Noorzad and the TCRC staff 

as they work hard to meet the 

objectives in the plan. A copy 

of the plan can be accessed 

on the TCRC web site at 

www.tri-counties.org/abouttcrc/strategic-performance/. 

I want to in particular note 

the great strides that have 

been made in the area of 

housing this year. TCADD 

board members and staff have 

played important and integral 

roles in the development of 

the Tri-Counties Community 

Housing Corporation (www. 

tri-countieshousing.org), a 

non-profit housing corporation 

set up by our regional center 

to focus solely on affordable 

housing for persons with 

developmental disabilities. 

TCRC’s 40th anniversary is 

upon us! It is a time to reflect 

upon the history of TCRC, to 

appreciate and learn from 

the early beginnings of the 

regional center’s work and to 

acknowledge the progress 

made in the delivery of 

services and supports. We are 

so pleased to be part of the 

work of our regional center 

and we are sure that despite 

daily challenges faced by staff 

and the roller coaster ride of 

state budget crises, we will all 

work together to maximize 

opportunities and choices for 

living, working, learning and 

recreating in the community 

for those with developmental 

disabilities. 

Have a wonderful holiday 

season! 

Potential members have business management, public relations, education or other business 

or non-profit experience. Family members of persons served by TCRC are encouraged to apply. 

Make a rewarding contribution to TCADD and help improve the quality of life for persons with 

developmental disabilities. Please contact Nancy Kavin at nkavin@mwdh2o.com for more information, 

or visit our web site: http://www.Tri-Counties.org/tcrc4/about-tcrc/tcadd/membership/ 

Cover Design: Heather Wennergren | Editor & Design: Heather Wennergren 

Translation: Carlos Cerecedo | Photography: Wendy Guerrero 

Tri-Counties 

Regional Center 

Headquarters 

520 E. Montecito Street 

Santa Barabara, CA 93101 

805.962.7661 Tel 

800.322.6994 Toll-Free 

www.tri-counties.org 

Board of Directors 

Stan Deakin 

President 

Sandra Aldana 

Secretary 

Robyn Adkins 

Justine Blevins 

Bob Cobbs 

Charles Devlin 

Cathy Farrar 

Nancy Kavin 

Julie Kahn 

Donna Moore 

Shanti Nadiminti 

Kathleen Redmond 

Kathy Reed 

Board Meetings 

in Santa Barbara 

Jan 30th ..................... 6:00 pm 

March 14th................. 9:30 am 

May 2nd ..................... 9:00 am 

Town Hall Meetings 

Scheduled for 2009 

Jan 21st ...... San Luis Obispo 

April 15th....... Santa Barbara 

May 20th............... Simi Valley 

July 15th............. Santa Maria

TCRC Tri-Line Newsletter - Winter 2008 - Tri-Counties Regional ...

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