RESPONDING TO THE RISE

IN AUTISM

GIVING FOSTER CHILDREN A

FIGHTING CHANCE

THE WAIT IS OVER: THOUSANDS OF ADULTS WITH

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES GAIN NEW SERVICES

2014Partnership

Dick MerrittRALLIES MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY BEHIND VETERANS

Partnerships • People • Purpose

Lately, I’ve noticed that the patter of footsteps in our hallways seems to be a little quicker, and conversations are filled with a few more exclamation marks

as staff bustle with the energy and responsibility of initiatives and opportunities to assist new clients and populations.

In reflecting on this high level of activity—and the momentum that continues to ignite our passion for the RMHS mission—I can’t help but feel an enormous sense of gratitude for the partnerships that make these accomplishments, and our goals for the future, possible.

Our partnerships are as diverse as our programs and constituents. Our nonprofit partners help us stretch resources and better serve our clients—partners like Craig Hospital, one of the nation’s leading rehabilitation hospitals, whose medical care complements our work with adults with traumatic brain injury.

We also benefit from the expertise, time and support of area business leaders and companies. From in-kind donations from Blackberry and Dell to ongoing sponsorship from dozens of philanthropic businesses like Burg Simpson and IMA, their involvement makes RMHS a stronger organization.

In addition, we can never forget our donors: individuals and foundations that generously provide us with financial support and trust us to create a better tomorrow for our clients. Those who have made transformative gifts to RMHS include Dob and Debbie Bennett, the Anschutz Foundation, the John and Maureen Hendricks Charitable Foundation and the Malone Family Foundation.

Lastly, our clients are our partners. They are, in fact, our most important partners. While we provide them with services, they do so much more for us. They remind us daily of the dignity that is inherent in each individual and of the true sense of community that can exist only through a partnership based on mutual respect.

Thank you for your partnership with RMHS—and for your dedication to a world of compassion and hope for all.

Stephen R. Block, Ph.D. Chief Executive Officer of RMHS

Enrolling hundreds of adults with developmental disabilities into services after years of waiting

Pg. 6

Carbondale

Grand Junction

Denver

Colorado Springs

Laying the groundwork for a comprehensive center for autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders

pg. 14

Continuing to expand services for Veterans with the opening of a new office in Carbondale

pg. 24

Rocky Mountain Human Services hosts a variety of social events for clients and their

families throughout the year, providing opportunities to feel connected to their

community, make new friends and have fun! Events include dances, craft projects, outdoor

activities, sporting events and much more.

People

1RMHS Celebrate

CONTRIBUTORSChelsea Barto

Stephen R. BlockJane Booth

Kelsey GibbonsAnn GiffordEmily Hobbs

Kathleen HomanMelissa Mascarenas

COMMUNICATIONS & DEVELOPMENT

Lauren Boone, Design EditorKatie Goulet, Content Editor

Annie Davies, Director

FEATURE ARTICLESThe Wait Is Over 6

Responding to the rise in autism 14

Giving Foster Children a Fighting Chance 20

STRONG PARTNERSHIPS

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3

12

Partnering for Greater Well-Being 9

Easing the Transition from Military to Civilian Career 10

Landing Her Dream Job 17

The Many Faces of RMHS 18

Colorado Hike for Honor 23

Bringing Hope & Healing to Veterans 24

Partnerships with a Purpose 25

11

gala2014

Military & Veteran Programs

CLINT ROMESHA FORMER U.S. ARMY STAFF SERGEANT,

MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTRomesha earned the highest honor for his conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty after his Army outpost was ambushed in the Afghan War. Repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire, Romesha risked his own life multiple times during the fight to fend off enemy fighters, resupply his fellow soldiers and protect wounded comrades.

COLORADO BAR ASSOCIATION

Recipient of our Community

Partner Award for their focus on Veteran support

through the dedication of the Colorado Lawyers for Colorado

Veterans group.

AWAR

D RE

CIPI

ENTS

KEYN

OTE S

PEAK

EROUR

SPECIALguests

PR

ESEN

TING

ARROW B ARCHITECTUREASCENT CAPITAL GROUP, INC.

LT. COLONEL DICK MERRITT, USMC (RET)

Recipient of our Loyalty Beyond

Service Award for his work to increase Veteran services in the

Roaring Fork Valley.

ATLANTIC TRUSTCRAIG HOSPITAL

DELTA DENTALEL POMAR FOUNDATION

JOHNSON MOVING & STORAGENATIONAL CINEMEDIA

thank you TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

GOLD

SILV

ERBR

ONZE

THEIR SACRIFICERESPECTING

HONORINGTHOSE WHO SERVED

Join Us!

Even

t Cha

irs

PETER AND SANDY BURG

STEVE AND SHARON BINDER

&

PURE INSURANCE / MARSHUNIVERSITY OF THE ROCKIES

celebrate PARTNERSHIPS...

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty engaged in friendly competition with RMHS employees to collect food for our Thanksgiving drive. More than 600 families received a basket filled with recipes and ingredients for a full Thanksgiving dinner delivered to their doorstep by a staff member or volunteer. Additional help was provided by local school children, and Lenz Farms donated potatoes.

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) employees collected and wrapped toys for needy children during the holiday season. Thanks in large part to VP of Community Relations Deb Dowling, KSE employees and other generous businesses, more than 500 toys were delivered to RMHS clients and families throughout the Front Range, bringing holiday cheer to families in need.

National CineMedia (NCM) is committed to employment opportunities for Colorado Veterans. Through the vision of CIO Chuck Fredrick and VP of People & Organization Lili Tran, NCM is developing a company-wide program to provide training and employment opportunities for clients in RMHS’ Military & Veteran Programs interested in technology careers.

Our partnerships play a key role in our ability to bring compassion and hope to vulnerable populations. RMHS has established relationships with hundreds of organizations in communities across the state to better serve our clients. Although we have highlighted just a few here, we are grateful to be able to share knowledge, resources and support with each of our community partners.

RMHS Celebrate4

RMHS was one of four recipients of The Denver Post Community Foundation / Colfax Marathon's 2014 award. With this grant, RMHS started a walking club for our adult clients with developmental disabilities. The club, led by RMHS staff, met two times per week throughout the summer and focused on healthy initiatives, exercise and eating right. The majority lost weight and reduced their blood pressure.

“So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” Members of the Glenwood Springs and Aspen Elks Lodges have been instrumental in RMHS’ expansion on the Western Slope, while the Colorado Elks Association is helping RMHS spread the word in its programming throughout the state.

RMHS is fortunate to have KeyBank as one of our long-term partners, with annual support for an emergency fund that provides assistance to clients when no other resources are available. With Community Relations Director Debbie Trujillo leading KeyBank's efforts, RMHS has received funding for medical and dental services, food, housing security deposits, assistive technology, funeral services and much more. We also appreciate KeyBank Senior VP Kimberly Smith’s service as treasurer on our Board of Directors.

RMHS’ Homes for All Veterans Program has been collaborating with Volunteers of America (VOA) for the past two years to maximize resources and services for Colorado’s homeless Veteran population. Close coordination between RMHS, VOA, the Veterans Administration and other partners is proving effective. Colorado saw the second largest decrease in Veteran homelessness in the nation between 2012 and 2013 due to these coordinated efforts.

5RMHS Celebrate

anda Coleman wants what any parent does for their child who

has grown into a young adult: independence. Because Conor, her 22-year-old son, has Down syndrome, he needs a little extra help to strike out on his own. Unfortunately, the services and supports that would allow him to reach this goal have felt like only a distant dream, well out of reach—until this year.

Due to insufficient state funding for Supported Living Services (SLS), adults with developmental disabilities like Conor have historically aged out of school-based services at 21 years old, only to find themselves in limbo, stuck on a waiting list for the services they need to continue to build skills, engage with the community and increase their self-sufficiency.

Individuals with developmental disabilities can sign up for SLS and other state-funded services for adults on their 14th birthday. This is intended to assist the state in planning for

how many individuals will need services once they become adults. Despite this fact, the lack of funding meant an average wait time of eight years.

“I signed Conor up on the wait list the day he turned 14,” Coleman said. “Many times over the years we were told that the wait list was not moving, and in addition, we experienced several cuts in state funding. It was worrisome. I thought Conor would be at least 27 before he was offered services. It seemed possible he would never reach the top of the wait list.”

Thankfully, efforts in the Colorado Legislature to reduce or eliminate the wait list gained traction, with strong support from Rep. Jenise May, Rep. Crisanta Duran and Sen. Pat Steadman. House Bill 14-1336 authorized budget resources to eliminate the current wait list for Supported Living Services during the 2014-2015 fiscal year, and House Bill 14-1241 provided money to help service providers offset costs associated

with enrolling a large number of new clients into services.

“We are ecstatic to get these additional resources! Although the wait list will begin building again without a long-term solution, this legislation allows 2,040 adults to enroll into Supported Living Services throughout Colorado,” explained Brenda Whitlow, Director of Adult Programs at Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS). “We began offering these new resources to adults on the SLS wait list in April, and we expect to enroll several hundred adults in the Denver metro area into services by the end of 2014.”

To more efficiently serve the influx of new clients, RMHS hired more staff to guide families through the enrollment process and anticipates hiring additional staff to help clients effectively utilize their new services once enrolled.

For 39-year-old LaVon Noel, who signed up for SLS in 2005, the new services are helping

RMHS Celebrate6

how does it work? Supported Living Services (SLS) is one of several state-funded waiver programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

RMHS assists individuals with the eligibility process and helps enrolled individuals and families make the best use of resources.

her improve her health and opening up new possibilities for her. The mother of two, who has an intellectual disability, has received much-needed dental work, and RMHS Service Coordinator Susan Michalakes has been helping her understand her new service options and plan out her goals.

Michalakes has already connected Noel to several food banks and is assisting her in learning how to better navigate public transportation, making it easier to access community resources. Ultimately, Noel wants to go back to work, so Michalakes is working to identify options and training that will make that goal a reality. Noel is thrilled to have this new support after waiting nine years.

Thankfully, for the Coleman family, the wait was not nearly as long.

“It's a relief,” shared Coleman. “We, and other parents, are understandably concerned about the long-term welfare of our young adults. We are actively involved in their lives at this time, but we are aging as they are aging.”

Lance Wheeland, Legislative Liaison at RMHS, echoed that statement. “We have aging parents who have been getting no assistance in caring for their adult child. People are getting tired. In the last 20 years, people with developmental disabilities have been staying at home with their families, rather than being sent to live in institutions as was once common,” he explained. “We need to address the issues that come with an aging caregiver population, and this is a huge step in the right direction.”

Now that Conor is enrolled in Supported Living Services, he and his family are already experiencing the benefits. He has dental coverage, receives funding for public transportation and participates in a supported community connections (SCC) program.

7RMHS Celebrate

“The SCC program allows Conor the opportunity to interact with young adults his own age while participating in fun community activities,” Coleman said. “Also, with this funding I can expand Conor’s life by helping him stay active and giving him travel opportunities with The Wayfaring Band, a group designed for young adults with special needs.” Additionally, RMHS guided Coleman through the process of contracting with RMHS to act as a personal care provider (PCP) for her son. “As Conor's PCP, I am now paid to provide his personal care. The process was a bit confusing and overwhelming at the start, but RMHS has been helpful in walking me through it.”

Services like the ones Conor and other adults are now receiving through SLS provide a greater ability for each individual to participate in the community and live as independently as possible. “People with developmental disabilities want the ability to work, shop, play and be a part of the community,” Wheeland stated. “With these services, they’re able to do that in a way that wouldn’t otherwise be possible without that level of support. It greatly increases the probability that an individual can become self-supporting.”

In addition to the short-term relief, House Bill 14-1041 tasked the Colorado Legislature with developing and implementing a plan and a funding stream to permanently eliminate the waiting lists for SLS and other services for people with developmental disabilities. Although the planning is still in the early stages and isn’t slated to be completed until 2020, the promise of a long-term solution is on the horizon. “If we can enroll people into adult services when they’re still in school, they will benefit greatly as they ease their transition into adulthood,” said Whitlow.

For now, parents like Coleman are happy that the wait is over and their vision of a brighter future for their child has become more than just a dream. “Our goal for the future is to have Conor live independently,” Coleman shared. “RMHS and the state’s support are moving us closer to that reality.”

common services provided

Supported Living Services help individuals with developmental disabilities in various aspects of their lives. Services include:

Job coaching and on-the-job support for individuals in paid employment or volunteer positions

Instruction to develop daily living skills, such as cooking, grocery shopping or navigating public transportation

Participation in day programs that allow caregivers to work and provide social interaction and activities

ESTABLISHING REAL RELATIONSHIPS

AND REAL DIALOGUE

Eden Lifelong Living

The first sign that this meeting might be different was when Anita Liuzzi sat at the head of the table. Liuzzi wasn’t expected to lead the meeting; she was its focus. This was her annual service plan meeting, where 41-year-old Liuzzi’s parents, host home provider, residential program manager, employment coordinator and service coordinator would talk about her progress and establish goals for the next year. Normally, Liuzzi’s RMHS service coordinator, Emily Hobbs, would run the meeting, but this time, Liuzzi was in control.

In addition to the usual topics, Liuzzi focused on the issues that really mattered to her. “She wanted the tough topics covered, and she wanted us to know that this was her life, and that she was in charge of it,” said Hobbs.

This meeting is an example of the cultural change that is happening at RMHS, through collaboration with The Eden Alternative, to provide person-centered services. Dr. Bill Thomas, a geriatrician, founded The Eden Alternative in recognition of the powerful impact that loneliness and helplessness has on elders. He realized true quality of life has less to do with traditional medicine and more to do with community. Under The Eden Alternative, the person receiving care is valued as an equal member of the care partner team.

This year, RMHS and The Eden Alternative formed a unique partnership, taking the core values and practices established by Dr. Thomas and applying them to people with different abilities. “Both organizations understand that care based solely, or even primarily, on an individual’s medical needs will not create genuine wellness or well-being,” said Becky Miller, Facilitator of Person-Centered Services at RMHS. “But it is achievable by establishing real relationships among all members of the team and real dialogue with the person receiving services. Through our collaboration, we’re equipping care providers with the tools to achieve a higher level of care with individuals with different abilities.”

PARTNERING FOR GREATER WELL-BEING

Eden Lifelong Living’s principle-based philosophy empowers all care partners to create thriving communities where life is worth living.

FOR MORE ABOUT EDEN LIFELONG LIVING VISIT WWW.CTAT-TRAINING.COM/EDEN-LIFELONG-LIVING

We believe that people with different abilities can live secure, meaningful lives filled with growth and joy. Our extensive knowledge of disabilities and expert training experience allow us to offer education around:

• Strengths within diversity• Person-directed thinking• Motivational interviewing• Belongingness• Eden Associate training

ANITA LIUZZI (LEFT) WITH HER HOST HOME PROVIDER

9RMHS Celebrate

Transitioning from the Army to civilian life was not what Michael Evans had anticipated. “It was a rough time; it happened really fast,” he said. Evans, a three-time Purple Heart recipient, expected the medical discharge process to take months, giving him time to prepare, but to his surprise it took only weeks.

As an Army Veteran and former electrical engineer, Evans had excellent credentials and had earned numerous awards during his service, such as the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. However, he was no longer physically able to pursue electrical engineering due to his injuries, and despite his qualifications and best efforts, he struggled to find work.

After seven months of searching to no avail, Evans was referred to the ReHire Colorado Program at Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS). The ReHire Colorado Program was established by the State Legislature to provide employment services and transitional job placement for low income Colorado residents.

Mike Ometer, an employment specialist for ReHire Colorado at

RMHS, suggested Evans try a new line of work—assisting fellow Veterans through a job placement with the El Paso County Veterans Office. “With some of his health issues, including post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, and his familiarity with navigating the VA system, I thought this would be a good fit for him,” explained Ometer.

Evans jumped at the opportunity. “It was a great job for me; I got to see myself in the mirror every day because I was working with injured Vets just like me,” he shared. “It gave me a completely different perspective.” Ometer served as a mentor during the job placement period and could see Evans’s confidence steadily grow.

“The program gave me an opportunity to scramble back to my feet, regain my composure and carry on with a civilian life,” Evans said. “Also, the networking capabilities I learned through the job placement were a huge benefit.”

Evans, in turn, was able to help the program that had helped him when he was asked to testify before the State Senate about ReHire Colorado. Thanks to the compelling testimony he and others provided, ReHire Colorado was subsequently approved for a multi-year period, and Evans was present at the Governor’s signing of the program extension. “He has been a positive representative of the ReHire Colorado Program at RMHS from start to present,” Ometer stated.

Evans has since completed the ReHire Colorado Program, and his career has progressed quickly. He recently accepted a position with a private sector company, utilizing his top secret security clearance earned in the military. Now he and his wife are enjoying civilian life, saving to purchase their own home and looking forward to a successful, happy future together.

Easing the Transition from Military to Civilian Career

Your organization can

partner with RMHS to

help get Veterans like

Evans back to work!

Learn more about the

benefits for employers,

including subsidized wages

and tax benefits.

call (303) 636-3765 or visit

www.rmhumanservices.org/ves

Become an Employment Partner

Michael Evans not only benefited from ReHire Colorado but also played a role in Governor Hickenlooper’s extension of the program.

The State asked RMHS

to place 50 veterans within 6 months.

RMHS over-delivered, placing 72.

RMHS Celebrate10

THE SUCCESS OF OPERATION TBI FREEDOM

BATTLING THE INVISIBLEWOUNDS OF WAR

From the outside, retired U.S. Army Sergeant Adrian Nuñez looks rough and tough. Inside, however, he has battled the invisible wounds of war and demons from his past.

After returning from his third deployment as a combat engineer, Nuñez suffered from constant pain, migraines, night sweats, depression and flashbacks—symptoms of his traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

He tried to cope with his symptoms but ended up using alcohol as a way to escape his pain and was arrested twice for driving under the influence (DUI) within a very short period of time.

Recognizing his combat trauma, his chain of command allowed him to medically retire from the Army, rather than receive a less than honorable discharge, and connected him to Operation TBI Freedom (OTF).

Fearing the consequences of his DUIs, Nuñez fled Colorado after retiring. In California with his family, he thought he would find safety to decompress, but instead he took a downward spiral.

Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, OTF Military Support Specialist John Lenz patiently but persistently reached out to Nuñez, persuading him to come back to face his responsibilities. After four months, Nuñez chose to be accountable for his mistakes and move back.

Once back in Colorado Springs, Lenz and Nuñez mapped out a path to recovery. “Adrian needed a lot of help at first,” Lenz explained. “We worked together to develop a vast accountability system for him in collaboration with the Veterans Treatment Court, the VA, the Army Wounded Warrior Program and his spiritual supports.”

RMHS Military Support Specialists are Certified Brain Injury Specialists, have military experience and become a trusted mentor for their clients, providing everything from resource referrals and assistance with VA benefits to acute crisis counseling and intervention that can mean the difference between life and death.

As overwhelming as it was, the two battled through the highs and lows

together. In lieu of going through traditional court proceedings for his DUIs, Nuñez entered the Veterans Treatment Court program, which gave him the opportunity not only to be accountable for his mistakes but also to get the help he needed.

Lenz served as a steady source of support throughout every phase of Nuñez’s treatment for PTSD and substance abuse, encouraging him to stay the course and leveraging the resources needed to facilitate his recovery.

This included advocating for the benefits he was entitled to, connecting Nuñez to RMHS’ Homes for All Veterans program for safe, affordable housing and providing bus vouchers to ensure he had reliable transportation to attend medical appointments and court appearances.

Nuñez has taken advantage of all Operation TBI Freedom has to offer, attending OTF’s educational classes and joining an OTF-led support group for combat Veterans. “Adrian has made beyond amazing progress,” Lenz stated. “He is one of the most

resilient, accountable and positive combat Veterans I have ever worked with in OTF.”Nuñez has been substance free for more than a year now. He is a model participant in the Veterans Treatment Court program and is close to successfully graduating.

Now Nuñez is attending school to earn his personal trainer certification, the first step toward his new goal of working with fellow Veterans struggling with combat trauma and substance abuse through physical fitness and mentorship.

Nuñez has reflected on his difficult journey through poetry, writing, “Sometimes in life you may fall short. Just close your eyes and pray for support. These moments in life you have no control. So letting go now becomes your goal.”

Nuñez has experienced immense personal growth, but he knows that the fight is still not over. He will continue to struggle with PTSD and TBI. Yet, with his strong faith and the constant support of OTF, he has forged a new vision for his life.

50% OF CLIENTS ENROLLED IN SCHOOL OR FOUND A JOB

19 FAMILY MEMBERS RECEIVED JOB SUPPORT WHEN THEIR LOVED ONE WITH A TBI WAS UNABLE TO WORK

11RMHS Celebrate

Creative Partnerships to Help Children and Families

When The Home Depot says, “Let’s do this,” they apparently mean, “Let’s really do this.” More than 75 Home Depot employees volunteered their time to build fencing, pour a patio, plant flowers, assemble yard furniture, paint walls and more for wounded Veterans served by RMHS. The thousands of dollars of materials required to do this? All contributed by The Home Depot under the leadership of Store Manager Jason Culpepper. Additional Home Depot employees joined us at this year’s Ice Cream Social, assisting children with disabilities to construct their very own mini tool boxes. Thanks, Home Depot, for doing it all!

A special thank you to

Lehman Disability Planning

and Laura A. Mathews Law,

P.C. for their sponsorship

of this year’s Ice Cream

Social, which provided sweet

treats and prizes for children

with disabilities and

their families!

RMHS Celebrate12

WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN CHANGE LIVESThrough your generosity, children with developmental disabilities receive therapy, families struggling to break the cycle of poverty obtain support and job training, adults who sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) acquire the tools and connection they need to rebuild their lives and Veterans struggling with TBI or homelessness are not abandoned. DONATE TODAY

by using the enclosed postage-paid envelope or visiting

www.rmhumanservices.org/support-us

Play & Learn LibraryThe Play & Learn Library at RMHS makes

learning fun! We have toys and books for

therapists to use to help children with

developmental needs learn communication,

balance, movement and more.

Thanks to a grant from CenturyLink, our Play

& Learn Library now includes new assistive

technology devices and adaptive equipment

as well. Some of the newest items available

for loan include:

Learn more about the Play & Learn Library at www.rmhumanservices.org/pll

Walkers and positioning seats

Communication boards

Switch-controlled toys

GPS tracking units

Weighted vests and blankets

And more!

Rise in Autism

RESPONDING TO THE

In 1980 the estimated number of children being born on the autism spectrum was 1 in 2,500. Now, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the prevalence of diagnosing a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is 1 in 68 children.

ASD is an everyday, everywhere occurrence affecting all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. It is five times more common in boys (1 in 42). Additionally, 1 in 6 children in the United States have some type of developmental delay or disability. In Colorado, approximately 1,000 children a year will be identified on the autism spectrum in addition to 10,000 children with a neurodevelopmental disability or delay.

Every eight hours a child is born in Colorado who will be diagnosed as having autism, and every hour of the day a child will be born with developmental delays or other neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, spina bifida, anencephaly, fetal alcohol syndrome and Tourette syndrome.

Every 8 hoursa child is born in Colorado

who will be diagnosed

as having autism

RMHS Celebrate14

Written by Stephen R. Block, Ph.D.

Amy Ross's twins,

Henry and Harry, both

diagnosed with austism,

playing in the backyard.

If we include the less populated states that comprise the Rocky Mountain region, there are approximately 4,500 children born each year and later diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum and 16,000 additional children born with a developmental disability or delay.

Research has not had the breakthrough necessary for understanding the causes of ASD. We cannot cure it; we cannot prevent it. However, there are treatment methods that help to improve some of the symptoms, such as a child’s impaired social interaction, unresponsiveness to his or her parents or being overly fixated on particular objects or activities.

Of course, not all children are alike. There are many different symptoms a child with ASD might display, such as not responding to their name, engaging in repetitive movements, delayed speech, loss of language, head banging and self-abuse, avoiding eye contact, not responding to social cues and lack of creative play.

In addition to ASD, there are other childhood neurodevelopmental disorders or developmental delays with similar difficulties of language and speech, motor skills, behavior, memory, learning or other neurological functions.

A correct identification of these separate problems requires special diagnostic expertise. To diagnose a child with ASD versus a different neurodevelopmental disorder requires advanced training in comprehensive diagnostic methods and keen clinical skills.

“When people are helping your children, there’s nothing better.

You’re just grateful that someone’s there to help. You’re grateful that someone has the knowledge to help you.”

15RMHS Celebrate

Parent, Amy Ross

For this reason, eleven years ago, RMHS formed the Assessment & Consultation Team (ACT). The team has grown over the years to include experts in all areas of childhood development, including psychologists, speech and language therapists, educators, a developmental pediatrician, occupational therapists, physical therapists and behavior analysts, among others.

We are proud that ACT has become recognized nationally for operating as

a model program, working in multidisciplinary teams and matching the type of specializations required to complete a thorough developmental assessment that is appropriate for each individual child.

For the last two decades, RMHS has dedicated resources to ensure that approximately 1,600 infants and toddlers each year have outstanding service coordination, access to a remarkable group for assessments and treatment recommendations and

experts to provide Early Intervention services and consultation to families and other providers.

With the range of state-of-the-art and multidisciplinary services offered to meet the needs of infants, toddlers and their families in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, we are proud to announce the RMHS Center for Childhood

Autism, Developmental

Disabilities & Delays.

This RMHS Center serves as a hub for professionals in

the region for educational forums, case conferences, mentoring, collaboration on grant funded research projects and opportunities for interns and residents in medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, early childhood special education, psychology, behavior analysis and social work.

RMHS Celebrate16 Learn more about our Children’s Clinical Services and ACT by visiting www.rmhumanservices.org/ccs

Diagnostic assessment services for infants, toddlers and older children to evaluate ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders and developmental delays

Comprehensive written reports to inform families of evaluative results and treatment recommendations at home, school or other settings

Service coordination and support services to help families adjust to their child’s diagnosis

Social skills development groups for children and adolescents

Workshops and support groups for siblings

An array of early intervention clinical services, including early childhood education, applied behavior analysis, infant mental health, nutrition and feeding and speech, occupational and physical therapies, among other appropriate services tailored to each child’s situation and family

Some Services offered by the Center include:

The development of the Center for Childhood Autism, Developmental Disabilities & Delays is one more way that RMHS demonstrates its ongoing commitment to its Mission and Values:

Amy Ross is the proud mother of twins Henry and Harry (photographed on page 14).

Amy, like all parents, was filled with hopes and dreams for her children when they were born.

“You want the best for them. You want them to have every opportunity in life. You want them to be happy and healthy.”

But when doctors diagnosed both boys with autism, Amy was stunned and unsure how to move forward.

“The first thing they recommended is getting help. That help came in the form of Rocky Mountain Human Services,” she said.

“When people are helping your children, there’s nothing better. You’re just grateful that someone’s there to help. You’re grateful that someone has knowledge to help you.”

Inspired by the support her family received, Amy now serves on RMHS’ Board of Directors.

A Parent's

Perspective

Rocky Mountain Human Services serves humanity, provides opportunity and encourages a world of

compassion and hope.

We utilize our human services expertise to improve the health, self-sufficiency and overall quality of life

for individuals who face challenges from developmental delays, cognitive and intellectual impairments,

brain injuries, aging or social conditions.

Providing resources, care coordination, direct services and technical expertise for individuals, families,

nonprofit organizations and government agencies, we deliver unsurpassed human services to the

western region of the United States.

Amy holding

Harry a few

weeks after

giving birth to

her twin boys.

This year has been monumental for Vanessa Luna because she landed a job—but not just any job—her dream job. If you had asked Luna a couple years ago about working at a preschool, she’d tell you that it was just a dream. She didn’t used to think someone like her could achieve such a goal.

Luna’s success story begins in a very dark place. She suffered a personal tragedy like none she had ever experienced. Shortly after finding out she was pregnant, she had a miscarriage. She mourned her lost child and felt she’d never rise out of the pain and depression. Just when Luna began to think she had little to live for, her sister-in-law asked for a favor.

Luna’s niece was having a very hard time in preschool, so Luna’s sister-in-law asked her to volunteer at school to give her niece extra support from a familiar face. Luna agreed to give it a try, but she didn’t think she could make a difference. She worried she would be judged because of her intellectual disability. Besides, she thought, why would she have any more success than the teachers?

Luna was pleased to be wrong. Soon, her niece was adjusting well and feeling better about school. Other children were responding to her as well. Luna hadn’t felt this useful in a long time. Eventually, her niece no longer needed to rely on her, but because she loved helping the kids, she stayed on through the end of the school year.

LANDING HER DREAM JOB

Having an intellectual disability, Luna never thought she was good at anything, but she soon realized she was really good at this! Kids wanted her help; she even thought, “I could get paid to do this.” That was the moment she discovered her dream job. However, she still felt working at a preschool was out of reach, and the thought of taking higher education courses was daunting.

Still, Luna started exploring the idea. She was afraid of failing and almost didn’t sign up for classes at all. Luckily, her family was behind her 100%,

and her support team at Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS) and Mosaic helped her research a practical career path and financial aid. Luna started with one class, just to see if she could do it.

School had always been scary for Luna. She was petrified at the thought of having to ask questions in class and afraid of what other people would think of her if they knew she needed help. She had been called stupid before.

Then one day in class, someone asked her for help. She thought

he was teasing at first, but he wasn’t; he also invited her to join a study group. This seemingly small event was actually a turning point for Luna and how she saw herself. It gave her confidence to ask more questions and participate more in class discussions. She realized most of her classmates had questions, and she learned not to be embarrassed about asking for help.

Luna passed her first class and continued to take more. After a little more than two years, she’s nearly earned her certificate. Luna says she struggled along

the way with certain classes, but unlike before, she won’t hesitate to ask for help. Her goals became clear, and she could tell her team of providers when and what she needed help with. She became unapologetic and confident.

This spring, when Luna heard that a preschool nearby was hiring, she applied—and was hired! “I’ve never been so proud of myself,” she said. She started her dream job the following week, before even finishing school.

" I ' v e n e v e r b e e n s o p r o u d o f m y s e l f "

17RMHS Celebrate

Larry, an Army Veteran, had been working as a bookkeeper

in Grand Junction, but he abruptly lost his job when the owner of the small business unexpectedly closed shop. With the sudden loss of income, Larry fell far behind on rent at the senior community where he was living. Learn how our Homes for All Veterans Program helped him avoid becoming homeless at Facebook.com/RMHSMVP

D

Carol, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor, was

no stranger to receiving case management services, but working with RMHS Brain Injury Support was her first experience with a case manager who is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist. According to Carol, having a professional who knows and understands TBI opened up new doors for her and provided access to much-needed resources. “It feels good knowing there is someone who is concerned about my needs and is willing to help me meet them,” she shared.

Stephanie has always been a fighter. Raised by her

strong-willed grandma, she learned how to be an independent thinker and overcome any obstacle—including her intellectual disability. But when things hit rock bottom, Stephanie turned to the RMHS Behavioral Health Team. With their help she learned how to manage her stress and anxiety and why accepting help is important in times of significant need. With a lot of hard work, a resilient spirit and help from RMHS, Stephanie has built a happy life with her own apartment and a job she loves.

Since early 2012, our Hops for Heroes events have been a fun, casual way to raise

awareness and funding for Operation TBI Freedom in Denver. This summer we hosted

our first "Hops" event in Colorado Springs. The event sold out and raised more than $2,700 in proceeds, with more than 100

attendees enjoying drinks, tacos and prizes. Colorado Springs, we'll be back!

THE MANY FACES OF RMHS

Hops for Heroes

See more photos from this event at Facebook.com/OperationTBIFreedom

RMHS Celebrate18

Irving struggles with medical and emotional challenges. Over

time he gained considerable weight and registered out-of-control blood sugar levels—detrimental to his diabetes. Life Skills & Support helped Irving develop his own health goals, and his host home providers encourage him to stay active and help him monitor his diet. With positive support, Irving has lost more than 45 pounds, reduced his blood sugar and decreased his insulin dosage! Now he enjoys a more active lifestyle, taking walks, working and participating in community activities.

Reggie’s smile is bigger than life, the outward

manifestation of a happy and productive life. With the assistance of RMHS, Reggie has a secure place to live with a host home provider who helps him overcome anxiety and pursue an active lifestyle. He’s worked at Goodwill for almost 20 years and has volunteered at the VA weekly since 2009. Because Reggie is also an advocate for others with disabilities, RMHS nominated him to be recognized for his efforts in an upcoming e-book—just one more reason to smile.

Brent has been working at RMHS for more than three

years and says he’s honored to be here. Brent smiles when he recalls the moment he was hired. “I got a call about this position and that I was being offered the job. That call was a god-send!” Brent is a familiar face on our Facilities Team, helping to keep our Denver building clean and well-stocked. Learn more about Brent at Facebook.com/rmhumanservices

D

“At 27 weeks and 4 days, I delivered twin boys who were each 2 lbs. 3 oz. Their skin stretched over their skeleton frames. Their bodies were each crisscrossed with wires hooked to monitors. As their hearts struggled to beat and their lungs struggled to breathe, so did mine. I was at a loss for hope, joy and faith,” said their mother, Laura Lyon-Ebert. Read in Lyon-Ebert’s own words about how our Early Intervention services helped her boys grow and how RMHS helped her family regain their hope, joy and faith.

The Unexpected Gifts

Read the Inspiring story at www.rmhumanservices.org/unexpected-gifts

19RMHS Celebrate

Would you be willing to take a child you’ve never met into your home? The thought no doubt stirs up many emotions, questions and envisioned scenarios. The idea of providing foster care might be intimidating for some, but for Pia*, it was her calling.

She was first introduced to the idea of providing foster care when she was living in California. In addition to her own three children, many of the neighborhood children often saw Pia's house as a home away from home. “I’ve always been a caretaker,” Pia said. “I’ve raised nieces and nephews, taken care of my mom and sisters, taken kids off the street.”

Pia’s friend, who happened to be a foster parent, noticed her passion and willingness to care for children, whether her own or someone else’s. “She said, ‘Do you know you can get paid for that?’” recalled Pia. At first, she was against the idea of receiving money to care for children, but, knowing Pia was unable to work at the time due to a medical issue, her friend insisted she deserved to have help for the type of care she was already providing.

“When I got my first foster kid, I was so honored to be able to help him,” Pia said, smiling at the memory. But with the initial joy also came difficulties. Her own kids were jealous of the attention she gave to the foster children, and the dismal circumstances that brought those children to her home were sometimes hard to comprehend.

GIVING FOSTER CHILDREN

ChanceFighting

*The last names of Pia and family are not disclosed due to privacy

a

RMHS Celebrate20

Julie Bansch-Wickert, who manages the foster care program at Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS), knows all too well the trauma that foster children deal with—being separated from the only family they’ve ever known, trying to cope with the effects of abuse and neglect, bouncing from place to place, never having somewhere to truly call home and feeling out of control of their own lives.

“When I first started, it was so emotional for me,” Pia said. “I couldn’t understand why they had been treated like that or why they had to go back to that same family again.”

Still, Pia and her family drew strength from each other to overcome the initial struggles. “We grew together, and eventually my two older kids even began stepping in to help.” Pia also learned to balance her attachment to her foster kids with the satisfaction of knowing she could be a bright spot of stability, structure and happiness in their lives, even if only for a short time.

“If all they’ve known is bad experiences, and they’ve only had bad people in their life, I can do something to make it a little better,” she realized. “Then they can say, ‘I know one person who made me feel like there is good in the world.’”

Pia relished giving her foster kids positive experiences and seeing them enjoy new things. “Some kids had no clue about sitting down to dinner together; they never had someone get up before them to get breakfast ready, or they had never been in a restaurant or even a McDonald’s.”

After many years, Pia left foster care behind to take another job and move to Denver. Her three children have grown into young adults—Raul is 26, Casey is 23 and Mariah is 17. So why does Pia want to go back into foster care now? “I needed to get back to who I am, my purpose,” she explained. “Not being home with my kids, I was miserable; that job wasn’t where my heart was. I was making more money, but I got no gratification from it.”

After learning about the new foster care placement program at RMHS, Pia worked with Bansch-Wickert to go through the rigorous approval process of becoming a foster parent again.

Bansch-Wickert has been spearheading RMHS’ recent efforts to find nurturing homes for foster children with intellectual, physical or emotional special needs in the Denver metro area, and she recently worked with county officials to place a 4-year-old boy in Pia’s home.

“We communicate as much as possible before and during the process of placing a child in a foster provider’s home to ensure they feel equipped to care for that child and his or her particular needs,” Bansch-Wickert explained.

Pia is excited to be a foster parent again, but she is also wise to the challenges she’ll face. “A lot of people go in blind thinking they’re going to make a child’s life better and that it’s so easy, but it’s not; you have to be ready for anything to happen—you can’t control the child’s emotions or reactions,” she explained. “You have to be ready for all the policies and rules and know your house is open to workers.”

Close-knit Family Pia credits foster parenting with ultimately bringing her family closer together. Her daughter Casey (left) and Casey’s own young daughter live with Pia while Casey is attending college. All have welcomed Pia’s new foster child, a 4-year-old boy, into their home with open arms.

Supporting Foster Kids

Thank you to Colorado Business Bank for its $5,000 grant to help foster children settle in to their new homes. Funds will provide clothing, supplies, sibling education

and other necessities.

21RMHS Celebrate

MENTORING SERVICES

TRANSITIONING TO GREATER INDEPENDENCEThrough our Life Skills & Support Program, we offer a variety of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including:

In the end, though, the challenges are well worth the opportunity to have a positive influence on a child’s life. “Sometimes people have a negative view of the system and foster care, but I wish someone had stepped in for me as a child. What I can do now is to be there for someone else.”

With more than 5,500 children in out-of-home placements statewide, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services, there are many more children in need of stable, family-like living arrangements than there are foster homes.

For children with disabilities in Denver County—the children RMHS is working to find foster homes for—this shortage means that they are often sent to surrounding counties for services, far from the neighborhoods, friends, schools and family members they know. For any child, such an uprooting would be difficult, but having a disability only adds to the turmoil.

Become a Foster Care Provider

Visit www.rmhumanservices.org/fcs

to learn more about the qualifications and

application process, or call Julie Bansch-Wickert at

(303) 636-5643.

Support on the job or at volunteer sites and skill building

Representative payee services and help with Veteran benefits to securely manage finances and guard against exploitation

24/7 family-like living arrangements and in-home support for those living independently or with family

Support to build life skills and achieve personal goals

Assistance with personal care like eating and hygiene

Help with the Section 8 wait list for rental assistance and voucher management

In-home and out-of-home care for children and adults

RESPITE SERVICES

BENEFIT MANAGEMENT

RESIDENTIALSUPPORT

HOME HEALTH CARE

HOUSING CHOICEVOUCHER PROGRAM

JOB COACHING

LEARN MORE AT WWW.RMHUMANSERVICES.ORG/LSS

Pia organizes her granddaughter’s toys while sharing her excitement for becoming a foster parent again.

“Since RMHS has served children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for more than 22 years, we are uniquely positioned to ensure these foster children receive the proper diagnosis, treatment and support they need to heal and reach their fullest potential,” stated Bansch-Wickert.

The overarching goal for RMHS’ foster care program is to provide a nurturing setting for these children in the short term and a seamless transition to adult services, continuing the relationship they will already have built with RMHS staff—ultimately giving these children a desperately-needed chance at a happier, healthier future.

RMHS Celebrate22

We had beautiful weather for our Colorado Hike for

Honor (CH4H) on September 14 in Golden. With nearly

200 attendees hiking two trails, there were many

smiles! CH4H benefited Operation TBI Freedom (OTF),

a program of RMHS that serves post-9/11 Veterans

and active duty military with traumatic brain injuries

(TBI). We raised more than $46,000 for OTF while

increasing awareness about the seriousness of TBI.

Thank you to our hikers, our sponsors and our very

special community partners: MillerCoors, National Bank

Holdings Corporation and Nick Stevens from Regency

Business Solutions for making sure our inaugural hike

will become an

annual tradition!

COLORADO HIKE FOR HONORFirst annual hike supporting OTF

The causes behind Veteran homelessness are as varied as the individuals themselves. Steve, a 72-year-old Air Force Veteran, suddenly found himself homeless after the small country home he was renting in Ridgway burned down.

For Katie, failing health brought her and her 12-year-old son to the brink of homelessness. The Army Veteran had been juggling demanding roles as a licensed nurse and single parent, but after falling ill and being laid off from her job, her resources quickly dwindled.

Help for both Steve and Katie, along with many other Veterans facing homelessness on the Western Slope, came in the form of a feisty social worker with a passion for Veterans and the backing of an organization equipped to provide holistic care.

Lydia DeLaRosa, a Veteran Support Specialist with Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS), has a track record of success. The work that she is doing, in collaboration with her colleagues, other nonprofits, Veteran advocates and public resources is making a dramatic dent in the number of homeless Veterans in Colorado. Between 2012 and 2013, Colorado found housing for 827 homeless Vets, posting the second largest decrease in Veteran homelessness in the country. DeLaRosa lives in Grand Junction, but with support from the new Western Slope Veterans Coalition (WSVC), RMHS now has an office in Carbondale to better serve Veterans in the area.

What developed into the WSVC began as the vision of retired Lt. Colonel Dick Merritt. “The Colonel,” as he is affectionately known, believed strongly in the responsibility of the community to care for those who served our country. He and other residents of the Roaring Fork Valley were introduced to RMHS. They explained their need for strong organizational support to bring together local resources and create an umbrella to share best practices in addressing the spectrum of mental and physical health, housing and employment needs that Veterans can face. The intersection of local support and RMHS’ organizational capacity resulted in the Western Slope Veterans Coalition. The WSVC has grown steadily to include collaboration with the Disabled American Veterans, support from area human service agencies and Veteran Service Officers and collaboration with area nonprofits. The WSVC’s Carbondale office now provides a one-stop shop for Veterans and their families to connect with local services.

As for Steve and Katie, both Veterans are back on their feet and no longer worrying about where they will spend the next night. With help from RMHS, Katie and her son were able to avoid homelessness and Steve found a new home. It's this type of community collaboration and support that ensures the WSVC will bring hope and healing to many more Veterans like them.

Bringing Hope And Healing to

VeteransLearn more about the WSVC and how you can get involved by visiting www.rmhumanservices.org/wsvc

RMHS Celebrate24

G O L F C L A S S I CV a l o r

Thank you to our sponsors and

supporters for joining us at our second

annual Valor Golf Classic, which raised

$57,000 for Operation TBI Freedom

(OTF). Attendees enjoyed a day of

golfing, prizes and refreshments,

as well as an opportunity to learn

more about how OTF helps Service

Members and Veterans with traumatic

brain injury. R. W. Baird and Grease

Monkey sponsored our event this year. Although there may be some overuse of the word “partnership” in today’s collaborative society, reviewing the dictionary definition reinforces the closeness, shared vision, responsibility and joint interests that underscore the true meaning of the word. RMHS takes our partnerships seriously, continually reminding staff that without true partners we would not exist, let alone thrive and grow.

In the RMHS Communications & Development Department, often our focus centers on the business sector—one of the many important constituent groups for RMHS. Some of our business partners engage for a particular event that piques their interest or to support a friend who is passionate about our cause—and we greatly appreciate their generosity. Others, however, have become a part of our family, intertwining missions, goals and reputations for joint benefit. And no one exemplifies this intersection—or partnership— better than our friends at Robert W. Baird & Co.

Baird is a unique company in many ways; as one of the nation’s premier financial investment firms, it prides itself on a business model that respects the 100+ year history of the company. Baird is privately and employee owned, and this direct connection to its founders and heritage ensures it is governed by a compass that stays true to the highest ethical standards. Working alongside Partner and Director of Colorado Steve Binder and other Baird employees provides an opportunity to experience the private sector at its finest. Binder is an experienced businessman who has mastered his craft; he is unendingly curious and creates a ripple of influence wherever his interests, passions and dedication take him.

Lucky for us, Binder’s passion for Rocky Mountain Human Services is also contagious. His wife Sharon joined him as a co-chair for the 2014 Gala, and Baird staff—from the headquarters office in Milwaukee to the Boulder outpost—are involved with the cause. In fact, in 2014 alone, Baird staff will be involved with every special event at RMHS, serving on committees and our Board of Directors and assisting with new connections in the community. We realize a partnership goes two ways, and we strive to provide meaningful benefit to Baird through unique sponsorship benefits and by creating opportunities for their staff and clients to connect in ways that further Baird’s business objectives. Thank you, Binder, for opening the door to Baird and to everyone at the firm for your ongoing support and partnership!

Please feel free to get in touch. I look forward to brainstorming creative options to help your company stand out in the marketplace, while creating opportunity for the most vulnerable members of our community.

Interested in creating a partnership with RMHS?

Annie Davies, Director of Communications & Developmentadavies@rmhumanservices.org | (303) 636-5918

Partnerships with a purpose

Find out how your business can become a sponsor for the upcoming

Valor Golf Classic at www.rmhumanservices.org/golf

or call (303) 636-5918

Steve BinderDirector Colorado Markets

Robert W. Baird & Co.

Written by A

nnie Davies, D

irector of Com

munications &

Developm

ent

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Celebrate is published annually by Rocky Mountain Human Services, a nonprofit organization that serves vulnerable populations throughout the Rocky Mountain region.

For questions about Celebrate, email editor@rmhumanservices.org.

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Kim Smith

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