In-Facility Service Update

For the health of our staff and visitors, we are continuing to suspend our in-facility services through May 15, 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our staff members are working from home when possible and many staff members are continuing to provide appointments through telehealth when this is possible.

If you need to contact a staff member, please do so through this form. Your message will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member and you will be contacted.

Please check back for updates.

If you would like to sign up for our newsletters, please complete this form.

2021-06-29T12:51:38-04:00April 28, 2020|Our Blog|
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Grandparenting a Child with Autism

Story contributed by a grandparent of a child with autism

My name is Linda and I have been a volunteer at Easterseals Crossroads since 2009 with both the autism support group and the Guild. My oldest grandson Nathan was diagnosed with autism in 2004 when he was around eighteen months old. Nathan was nonverbal until the age of four, but did communicate with sign language and an augmentative communication device. I’m proud to say that after years of intense therapies, Nathan is now an honor roll student in high school. Several years of ABA (applied behavioral analysis) therapy along with many other services helped Nathan become a fun and outgoing individual. Yes, he still has autism and always will, but his disability is overshadowed by his good traits and quirky personality.

I’m sure most grandparents would agree that becoming a grandparent is one of the most wonderful and rewarding experiences imaginable. All grandparents desire a loving and gratifying relationship filled with special bonding and friendship, but what if a grandchild has special needs? As a grandmother of a child with special needs, I was devastated hearing the diagnosis of autism. I grieved for that beautiful toddler, and especially his parents, but life happens, so self-pity was put aside, and work began.

Throughout the years, I learned Nathan could navigate a large hospital setting, guiding me to his therapy offices without uttering a word. I learned he was fascinated by traffic lights, green arrows made him laugh, and elevators were the best thing ever, especially the talking ones at Easterseals Crossroads. Nathan has grown and matured since his early therapy days and enjoys school, his friends, and family. He is an advocate for autism awareness and acceptance, and willing to educate others about his disability. He enjoys playing video games and traveling. Nathan also loves sports, which is his favorite topic of endless conversation, so I make sure my homework is up to date on his favorite teams. We both love Butler University Basketball, and it’s not unusual for Nathan to call me late at night to report the latest team stats. I love those phone calls!

My grandson’s disability is a part of Nathan, and I choose to focus on his abilities and positive attributes. My family is blessed with four grandchildren, all with different personalities and skills; however, autism will always be a segment of my family. It hasn’t been easy, as behavioral issues and meltdowns were numerous and overwhelming, and sometimes difficult for me to understand.

If I were to share anything about my experiences as a grandparent of a child with autism, it would be the following:

  • Educate yourself. Educate yourself about the disability! Share information with extended family and friends. Take advantage of workshops and seminars. The Autism Family Resource Center at Easterseals Crossroads was a lifesaver for me. I checked out, free of charge, countless books and DVDs. I wanted to learn everything I could about autism and how to help my grandson. I learned a multitude of valuable information from reading, from other parents and grandparents, from Nathan, and lots of trial and error.
  • Do not blame anyone. Parents often feel guilty after a special needs diagnosis, and second guess themselves with lots of what-ifs. Autism is a neurological disorder, so no one is to blame for the disability. Stay positive, encourage one another and always be a good listener.
  • Support your adult children emotionally – with time and if possible, financially. Be available for after school pick-up, transportation to activities, weekend babysitting or fund a summer camp or an extra therapy.
  • Give a heads-up. Routines and schedules are important for kids on the autism spectrum. Allow time to transition to a new activity or setting. Nathan’s meltdowns were improved as I learned to use timers and social stories for transitioning.
  • Simplify holiday celebrations and family gatherings. As a toddler, Nathan wasn’t interested in unwrapping Christmas or birthday gifts, so my son suggested removing the toys from the packaging and using gift bags instead. Sensory issues are often exaggerated at family gatherings, creating an uncomfortable situation. Help eliminate anxiety by providing a designated spot for some quiet time if needed. Nathan still retreats to Gran and Papaw’s office if he needs alone time.
  • Spend time with the child’s sibling. Life at home is often focused on the child with special needs, and the neurotypical child sometimes feels overwhelmed and neglected. Schedule one-on-one time with the sibling, plan a favorite outing, have a weekend sleepover and allow the sibling to vent if needed. Nathan’s twenty-one year old sister loves her brother very much, but sometimes still needs her “just me time.”
  • Teach your grandchild to be independent and encourage responsibility. People sometimes think kids with special needs are totally dependent on their parents, grandparents or caregivers. Though this is true for some kids, many are able to share family responsibilities. I once asked Nathan what chores he did at home, and he responded “I don’t do chores, I do the computer.” Needless to say, several days later he was on trash detail and now has a list of household jobs.
  • Most importantly, please accept what you can’t change about your grandchild with special needs. Love and enjoy that unique individual for the person he/she is becoming!
2021-06-29T12:51:39-04:00April 15, 2020|Our Blog|
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Stay Grateful

Easterseals Crossroads has been a constant in the Indianapolis landscape for over 80 years. Established by a small group of parents to meet the needs of their children with disabilities, today Easterseals Crossroads offers an expansive variety of programs and services specifically designed to meet the needs of persons with disabilities throughout the life span.  Our services touch the lives of over 88,000 individuals;  we are the “go to” resource for people of all  ages, regardless of disability. That will not change.

Throughout our history, we’ve adapted our approach whenever the needs of people with disabilities have changed; with COVID-19, we have felt drastic changes within a matter of a few weeks. This pandemic has created upheaval for our community and those we serve.

  • People who depend on our in-facility services such as adult day, early childhood programs and respite are temporarily struggling to make their days meaningful.
  • People with autism who often depend on routine and stability as a framework for successfully achieving their goals have had their worlds turned upside down.
  • Families of children with disabilities who rely on therapy services for continued healthy development are at a loss.
  • Homeless veterans and job seekers with disabilities are finding it almost impossible to find employment and/or maintain current employment.

Now more than ever, Easterseals Crossroads is needed in this community. But we have been affected; we are facing challenges ourselves. Our staff does not have access to the traditional means of delivering services and are learning new ways through technology. Like many other nonprofits, our organization is taking a significant financial hit as we continue to support our employees so that they can be there for the people who need us.

  • Our therapists are rapidly adapting to the provision of telehealth as a temporary solution for physical, occupational and speech therapy.
  • Our direct support staff are providing in-home adult day services so that family members with essential jobs can continue to work.
  • Our school to work staff are helping our students with disabilities stay on track for graduation and eventual employment.

Many of you have asked us what we need. It is critical for us to gather our community partners, our donors, our friends and our staff in an effort to continue to be the resource that any one of us could need at any point in our lives. Our world may have changed – and it will continue to change – but our purpose, dedication and adaptability will continue to evolve and respond. You can help!

  • You can join in on our social media campaign #StayGrateful. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and share! Let’s share the good news about how we are adapting, staying relevant and thriving.
  • If you’re able, you can donate via our website so that our staff can be there for others in this time of need.
  • And you can check on your friends and neighbors who have disabilities. Social distancing shouldn’t mean social isolation.
  • Thank you for your ongoing support of this organization.

Let’s stay close across the distance, and let’s stay grateful.

2021-06-29T12:51:39-04:00April 8, 2020|Our Blog|
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In-Facility Service Update

In this very difficult time, we are so grateful to our staff members, our consumers and our community for working together to make service delivery possible for those who need us. This ever-changing environment has brought out the best in community creativity as we all explore alternative methods of service delivery including telehealth.

At this point, we have decided that it is best for us to temporarily suspend the provision of services at our Kingsway Drive and Thompson Road locations through April 30.

We are not closing and we are not ceasing the delivery of services. In many cases, our staff members are continuing to provide services in person or virtually as necessary. Our staff members are continuing to concentrate on those tasks that are possible working from home. We can still answer phone calls and emails; and we can respond to requests for information from our website and social media platforms. We are still here for those of you who need to contact us.

We are continually monitoring our situation and we will continue to update our community when new information is available. If you have any questions, please contact us.

2021-06-29T12:51:39-04:00April 2, 2020|Our Blog|
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COVID-19 Resources

During this extremely challenging time, we are all looking for ways to maintain our health and our mental health. Here our some resources that may be helpful to anyone in our community as we learn to navigate the changes in our daily lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

General Information

Basic Needs

Undocumented Communities

Pet Care

Education/Leisure

Mental Health

  • Ten Percent Happier offers mental health resources in the form of meditation and mindfulness practices through their app and website. They have several free podcasts, guided meditations, and livestreams available in their Coronavirus Sanity Guide linked below.  https://www.tenpercent.com/coronavirussanityguide
  • Mental Health is especially critical during this time of social distancing. If you are in crisis, text MHA to 741741 to reach a trained Crisis Counselor 24/7.

Legal

Additional Resources

2021-06-29T12:51:39-04:00March 27, 2020|Our Blog|
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Celebrating Patrick Sandy

As part of Disability Awareness Month in Indiana, INARF (Indiana Association of Rehabilitation Facilities) recognized our (outgoing April 3, 2020) President/CEO with the 2020 James M Hammond III Executive Leadership Award. This award is given to an outstanding executive or administrator in the human services industry. Patrick represents the outstanding entrepreneurial spirit, acumen, ethical demeanor and professional posture that the award embodies.

“Patrick has dedicated his entire career – spanning four decades – to improving the lives of people with disabilities. He is highly respected among his peers and known as a compassionate advocate and ally of all people with disabilities,’ said Bruce Schnaith, Vice President, Easterseals Crossroads.

2021-06-29T12:51:40-04:00March 23, 2020|Our Blog|
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COVID-19 Notice to our Staff, Consumers and Families

We are revising and updating this message on an as needed basis.

The daily news about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been of utmost importance to us as an agency. We are – and have always been – concerned about the health and safety of those whom we serve and with whom we interact, as well as our staff and community. 

Because this is a rapidly evolving situation, we are following the information as it becomes available from our national organization Easterseals and from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We recommend that our staff, consumers and all those who visit our facilities do the same. We are following the guidance from our state and national authorities, as well as our medical director, Chuck Dietzen, MD. As the messaging of these authorities evolves, ours will, too.

It is important to remember that we all play an active role in trying to control this unusual situation. We wholly believe that what we can do together will allow us to overcome this unprecedented pandemic.

At this point, our facilities are open and operating as normal with the following exceptions

  • We have suspended rental of our conference spaces to community partners until April 17, at which point we will reassess the situation.
  • We have suspended our respite programs including Parents’ Night Out, Parents’ Day Out, CHEER and Teen Night Out until April 17.
  • We have postponed our autism support group meetings and awareness series until a later date.
  • We have postponed all trainings and conferences scheduled through April 17.

We are doing the following for those individuals and families whom we see in our service areas

  • We are utilizing temporal thermometers to check temperatures as individuals enter the building. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or above will be asked to return home and advised to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • We are frequently cleaning and disinfecting areas and equipment including computers, toys and therapy items that are commonly used.
  • We have reduced the visitors to our facilities by suspending rental of conference room space and suspending tours to new potential consumers.
  • We have suspended community outings in those program areas that participate.
  • We have suspended volunteer activities in all facilities.
  • We are requiring our staff to be keenly aware of their own health and stay home if ill.

 Here is what you can do to maintain safety and health if you come to our facilities for appointments

  • Stay home if you or any family member has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Stay home if you or a family member is sick or if you are uncomfortable keeping an appointment. Call us and we will reschedule your appointment.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick or who appear sick. This virus is passed by contact or droplets in the air.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as this is how the virus spreads. 
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.  
2021-06-29T12:51:40-04:00March 23, 2020|Our Blog|
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Be Counted!

Easterseals Crossroads is committed to ensuring that every one of us in our community is 100% included and 100% empowered. This is critically important when considering public policy and social representation.

Census 2020 counts every person living in all 50 states, District of Columbia and five US territories. Information collected from the 2020 census will inform the allocation of more than $675 billion in federal funds for states and communities. The census informs funding for services that assure people with disabilities have access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities, transportation, accessibility services and so much more, including Medicaid and Medicare for the next decade.

Important Dates in Regard to Census 2020
March 12 – 20  |  Census forms become available by mail and online
April 1  |  Official Census Day 
April 31  |  Census representatives will visit homes of people who have not completed the census and will continue to do so through July

Easterseals Crossroads is available to assist individuals complete the 2020 census beginning in March; if you need assistance, just let us know. 

Learn more about the 2020 census.

2021-06-29T12:51:40-04:00March 11, 2020|Our Blog|
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Embracing Change

contributed by Tracy M. Gale, PsyD, HSPP and
Emmaleigh Badeaux, MA, LMHCa, Easterseals Crossroads

As adults, we can often anticipate and accommodate changes to our routine. Unexpected changes may lead to feelings of discomfort and agitation. Ideally, we control the expression of those feelings, but our children may not. Children are still developing the executive functioning skills necessary to sequence events, as well as plan and inhibit emotional responses, which can make their reactions to change unpleasant. Here are some strategies to encourage flexible thinking in your child:

  • When possible, change your routine in small, pleasant ways, such as stopping at the park or making a favorite dinner. This allows children opportunities to practice adapting to change in a positive way.
  • Prepare your child for discomfort. Changes are not always pleasant, and children need strategies for dealing with discomfort. Your child may benefit from taking deep breaths, tensing and releasing muscles, or focusing on something fun happening later that day.
  • Remind your child of the sequence of events by using “First, Then” language. Try saying, “First we will stop at the grocery store, then we will play at home.” This reminds the child that the unexpected occurrence is temporary and that better things will follow.
  • Prepare your child for changes to routine. Tell your child about the change and what your expectations are for behavior. Be sure to explicitly state your expectations. For example, “We have to pick up your sister at gymnastics. I know you were planning to stay at home, but we need to go together. You can hold my hand and walk into the gym with me, stand quietly while we get her, and then we can play when we get home.”
  • Praise your child when he/she shows flexibility with changes. Acknowledge the difficulty faced and the demonstrated success at managing a challenging situation.

Change can be difficult, but with practice and support, children can learn valuable life skills about being more flexible and managing unexpected changes in their lives.

Contact us for more information about children’s services at Easterseals Crossroads.

2021-06-29T12:51:40-04:00February 25, 2020|Our Blog|
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Meet Angie and Cindy

An employment success story written by Employment Consultant
Angie Tarr, Easterseals Crossroads

For the past two and a half years, I have worked in Employment Services as an employment consultant. The people who are referred to me are all very different and have different needs. I am often paired with consumers who are in science and healthcare fields because I worked as a registered nurse for 11 years as both a clinical nurse educator and as a critical care nurse. My supervisor Marjorie Duryea puts a lot of careful thought and time into which consumer she matches with which employment consultant.

Sometimes people need to reevaluate how they perform their jobs, secondary to the changes that a disability has caused with their bodies and/or cognition. I help evaluate and practice different skill sets that are necessary for a person to continue in a specific job field. Creative solutions can make all the difference to someone who is terrified about the thought of no longer performing a loved job. When an employee and an employer learn that the tasks of a job are possible with some accommodations, everyone is so happy and relieved. Sometimes I even work with people who are young and starting college, but they know that they want to work in academia, medicine or social sciences. Helping these people transition to college, select course loads and get engaged with the services provided by the university often sets the stage for future success.

Cindy had been a neonatal intensive care RN for over 23 years working in a PICU. She has worked at St. Vincent’s Hospital that entire time. During the last five years, Cindy suddenly began losing her vision. She was diagnosed with Stargart Macular Dystrophy, which is a hereditary disease that causes progressive, permanent macular degeneration. Cindy was absolutely devastated that her vision loss could end her career as a bedside nurse in the PICU.

When I met Cindy, she had been involved with vocational rehabilitation in our state for three years. Her vocational rehabilitation counselor happened to be a woman who is also blind; she helped Cindy navigate through a lot of things that prepared her to work with an employment consultant.

Cindy and I met in May 2018. During our time together, I learned that Cindy’s vision was failing and coming to the point where she could no longer perform bedside nursing and direct nursing care. She very much wanted to remain in the healthcare field working for St. Vincent’s and Ascension Health so that she could share and utilize all of her invaluable knowledge to improve the lives of others. Cindy and I talked, practiced and assessed her skills. She came to realize that if she wanted to continue in her field, but could no longer be in direct care, then she would need to hone her computer skills so that she could either assume a role in administration or in patient advocacy. 

Cindy and I found some free classes at the Glendale branch of the Indianapolis Public Library where they offer a computer lab to teach basic MS Office classes for those with visual disabilities. Cindy attended all of the classes that she could. She worked tirelessly with Anna Leung in our Assistive Technology Center to learn screen magnification software and other technology programs. Cindy really honed her skills. 

Cindy and I practiced interviewing and focused on body language recognition and usage. We added her newly acquired skills to her resume and then began the long and arduous process of internal application for jobs. It took a long time and a lot of patience, but finally in July 2019, Cindy went through a three-stage interview process and was hired as an RN Health Partner through Ascension Health. Cindy absolutely loves her job and is thrilled to put her prior skills to such great use. Our assistive technology center has been invaluable to Cindy’s journey; Anna’s hard work, knowledge and care greatly contributed to this successful outcome.

After Cindy found her dream job, she really did not need me at her place of business. They are aware that she works with vocational rehabilitation, but she hasn’t needed me. She worked so very hard to gain the needed skills prior to being employed in this position that she doesn’t need my coaching now. She has all the important clinical knowledge from the years she has spent working in the PICU; she just needed help with the transition.

I’m forever grateful for the extraordinary kindness, patience and professionalism that Angie Tarr extended to me as she compassionately walked my long career-search journey. I struggled with grief over the loss of my vision and the loss of my 30-year career as a Newborn Intensive Care Nurse. Angie was compassionate and in-tuned to my grief. She was encouraging and creative to ultimately assist me in finding a new career as a case manager/nurse navigator that highlights my passion and skills for helping and educating people.  

Cindy

I love my job especially when one of my consumers reaches a goal previously thought to be impossible.  I have the honor of working in a field where I get to help people change their lives though increased independence because of employment. I can’t think of anything that I would rather be doing! I am so proud to be part of what we do at Easterseals Crossroads for those in our community.

For information about how Employment Services can help you find qualified employees, contact us.

2021-06-29T12:51:40-04:00February 6, 2020|Our Blog|
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4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205
P: 317.466.1000 • F: 317.466.2000

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