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| As we begin the new year, we
can reflect on a positive 1997 for the people we serve. Through
a major reorganization within the Agency, we have developed a strong, supportive
team approach that will have a long-standing impact on the quality of services
that we offer. Through the development of the new Community Advocate positions
a greater emphasis has been placed on Community Mapping and involving individuals
in more community experiences. The development of a new Quality Department,
which regularly assesses all Agency programs, has served to strengthen
not only the quality of services within Berkshire County Arc, but also
to enhance individual outcomes. Both processes have been very well received
by individuals and staff. Eight months into the process the initial results
are extremely positive.
During the fall the Agency was involved in a CARF Certification. This involved a team of professionals from throughout the United States |
reviewing our programs against nationally set standards.
The Agency was extremely successful, receiving a 3-year certification.
The Berkshire Arc self- advocates had a very exciting year, taking on a number of new projects. Of greatest significance was their advocating for traffic safety, which led to the installation of a cross-walk on a main thorough fare in the City of Pittsfield. They continued their speaking engagements, which culminated with a trip to the National Arc Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they participated with other self advocates in a number of forums. Our involvement in local communities has expanded through supported employment, as well as individualized recreational activities. This has put a greater demand on hiring qualified staff and finding ways to compensate them appropriately. The ongoing struggle to obtain funds to |
offset these issues continues. We have been extremely involved
in advocating state-wide through providers groups, as well as state committees.
The task of obtaining new monies continues to be a great challenge, and
while we have achieved small successes resulting in staff raises during
the past two years, the larger funding issues are ongoing.
We enter 1998 with a positive outlook. Our goal will continue to be to assist the individuals we serve to reach their personal goals and be further involved in their local communities. We hope you will assist us in making this a joint effort between families, friends, as well as our staff. We will work to maintain strong communication through our newsletter, monthly calendar, as well as our new Web Page. As we are committed to keeping our supporters well informed, we hope that you will feel comfortable in giving us ongoing feedback and join us in helping to make the coming year a success. Wishing you all a Happy New Year. |
