GivingTuesday

Easterseals Crossroads is excited to partner with eKeeper as our matching gift partner for GivingTuesday. This year, GivingTuesday will be on November 28. Any donations made on this day, to Easterseals Crossroads, will be matched by eKeeper up to $10,000. “eKeeper is a tremendous partner and advocate for Easterseals Crossroads. They truly went all in for ability with us this year as our GivingTuesday matching gift partner. Our agency is stronger when we work together with community partners like eKeeper to envision a more inclusive and accessible central Indiana community,” said David Dreith, President/CEO, Easterseals Crossroads.

GivingTuesday emerged as a response to the consumerism surrounding Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Established in 2012, GivingTuesday leveraged the power of social media and collaboration among diverse organizations to promote charitable giving. Over the years, GivingTuesday gained momentum worldwide, transcending borders and cultures. It has become a pivotal day for nonprofits, individuals, businesses and communities to come together, fostering a spirit of generosity and making a tangible impact on various causes and initiatives across the globe.

Who is eKeeper?

eKeeper is a leading provider of adaptable IT solutions. They strive to provide peace of mind with technology, extending their mission beyond business operations to positively impact the wider community. Their dedication to customer-centric values and strategic partnerships seamlessly aligns with Easterseals Crossroads’ mission to empower individuals with disabilities.

Rooted in technical excellence, security, efficiency and adaptability, eKeeper’s core values mirror the principles driving Easterseals Crossroads’ impactful work. Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement and community involvement, eKeeper and Easterseals Crossroads share values of empathy, compassion, diversity and sustainability. To amplify their support, eKeeper is matching gifts with a significant financial contribution, aiming to make an even greater impact on GivingTuesday. By supporting Easterseals Crossroads, eKeeper demonstrates its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, contributing to the well-being of communities and embodying the values that define it as a trusted technology partner.

For more information about eKeeper, visit https://www.ekeepersystems.com/.

2023-11-21T11:51:00-05:00November 21, 2023|Our Blog|

Chase Community Manager Shares Five Key Financial Literacy Tips

Carletta Clark, JPMorgan Chase, Community and Business Development Manager image

Financial health is an important foundation that helps build strong and resilient households, communities and economies. Being financially healthy better prepares you for life’s unexpected expenses.

The reality is, more than 50% of Americans across all income levels consider themselves financially unhealthy. That group includes many Black, Hispanic and Latino families in the U.S., who have less than 50 cents in assets for every dollar held by white families. Studies show that Black, Hispanic and Latino families also face the biggest gaps in access to banking and resources to help them manage their financial needs.

To help close the racial wealth gap, improve financial health and boost financial inclusion, Chase has hired 150 Community Managers to foster engagement in diverse communities. Community Managers host financial health workshops and community events, while developing close relationships with customers to help them achieve their financial goals.

Carletta Clark is the Community Manager in Indianapolis. Clark offers tips to develop healthy financial habits and take control of your financial future.

Build a Budget
It’s important to understand how much money is coming in and going out each month. Use online tools to help you track your savings and spending, and then break spending down into wants versus needs. Once you have an idea of where your money is going, it’s easier to make adjustments to your spending habits.

Start Saving
Even the smallest amount matters because there’s never too little to start saving! To help initiate a savings habit or stick with it, make it automatic. For example, Chase offers Autosave, which allows customers to create repeating transfers from their checking to their savings, set specific goals and even track progress. It’s a good idea to put aside several months’ worth of living expenses because no one is immune from facing unexpected expenses. Having some savings can help prevent you from facing a significant financial strain when those situations happen.

Know your Credit Score
Your credit score is a number that represents a snapshot of your credit history, and lenders use it to help determine how likely you are to repay a loan in the future. The higher your credit score, the more competitive you’ll also be for lower interest rates on major purchases like a home or vehicle, helping you save over the life of your loan. You can find your credit score for free at annualcreditreport.com, which is an official U.S. government website. You can also get your score through your financial institutions or at www.chase.com/creditjourney.

Pay down Debt
If you have a low credit score, pay down credit cards, loan balances and make bill payments on time to improve your score.

Talk to your Children
The gift of financial literacy is priceless. Encouraging confidence and financial independence starts with having the conversation at home. By including your children in basic financial discussions, they’ll learn early about budgeting and saving. You can extend these lessons by opening a bank account like Chase First Banking, a great teaching tool for kids ages 6 and older that comes with their own debit card and parental control.

As you think about your long-term financial goals – such as buying a new home or starting a business – you can see how financial literacy can better help you achieve them. Visit one of our branches to learn about the tools available to help you.

For more information, contact Carletta Clark, Community & Business Development Manager, JPMorgan Chase, 3501 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis IN 46220

carletta.d.clark@jpmorgan.com  /  317.345.1780

 

2023-11-15T14:24:17-05:00November 15, 2023|Our Blog|

Veteran Services – All in for Ability

All in for Ability image with a photo of veteran Charles

 

 

Charles was a ship serviceman in the United States Navy where he felt responsible for the morale of the ship through the services he provided from the general store, barber, vending and more.

Once he was honorably discharged from the service, he found himself struggling with everyday life. His wife — for whom he was a caregiver ― was ill, he faced some legal issues and he battled drug and alcohol dependency. As many times as he tried treatment during this period, he never seemed to completely escape the addiction.

Things finally started to fall into place for Charles when he sought veteran services and completed his treatment program. He moved into transitional housing and was directed to the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program offered by Easterseals Crossroads. From there, he worked with career navigators and began the Compensated Work Therapy program offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Charles is now employed at the Veterans Administration as a supply technician.

“These programs opened a lot of doors for me. I have my own apartment now and I am moving forward. If you put your time in to make changes, Easterseals Crossroads will work with you. Believe me, you will get something out of it,” said Charles.

Contact us for more information about veteran services at Easterseals Crossroads.

2023-11-09T12:09:22-05:00November 10, 2023|Our Blog|

Why I Game

About Abby
Abby Dreith is a founding member of our esports team, Volt.

The topic of video games has been in the rotation of mainstream buzz since its inception. What makes the media of gaming so unique is that it’s everywhere. Consoles, computers, smartphones, and even public places. Although most of the world’s population has easy accessibility to video games, it’s the accessibility within these games that needs questions raised.

Growing up in the budding of widespread gaming mania, I played video games from an early age. I remember playing Peggle on the family computer, Pokémon on the DS that I saved up my well-earned money for, and finally outsmarting my dad on Mario Kart on our Wii. I also remember playing Tetris on my mom’s flip phone, and watching whichever kid I was babysitting at the time play Fruit Ninja or Temple Run on their iPad. Gaming was, is, and will be everywhere.

The concept of video gaming and online personas are such a monumental form of self-expression. Nowadays, with massive multiplayer online platforms, or MMOs, people are able to express themselves through conceptualized avatars and network amongst themselves without the pressure of physical-appearance perceptions. In my long tenure of gaming, I’ve met so many wonderful people I’ve found through gaming and common interests. From my own standpoint as someone with autism, gaming has been a truly positive aspect of my day-to-day life, helping me find new interests and friends, and optimizing my cognitive skills and intelligence.

However, there is by far so much more work that needs to be done. For people with physical disabilities, it’s an uphill battle for video game accessibility. Certain aspects of story and gameplay require controls that are not accommodating to players with physical disabilities and a lack of settings regarding controls and visual/audial sensory adjustments. Providing solutions for these issues, as well as incorporating proper disability representation in gaming will be key to dismantling ableism in one of the most popular forms of media on the planet.

I am beyond excited to provide a wonderful community, partnering with Easterseals Crossroads to enhance the gaming scene in the Indianapolis area. If you or someone you know is interested in Easterseals Gaming, the Crossroads gaming discord is here: https://discord.gg/K4ymTdCAVN. Our Discord server is for players 16+ at the present moment, but we are also developing other programs for gamers under the age of 16.

We are also starting our own esports team, Volt, very soon. If you are over the age of 18 and interested in joining Team Volt as a member, feel free to reach out to us!

2023-11-09T10:36:58-05:00November 8, 2023|Our Blog|

Assistive Technology Options

Assistive Technology Clinical Services

(fees and availability vary)
Overview
Since 1979, Easterseals Crossroads has been Indiana’s premier provider of Assistive Technology Services. These clinical services are the hallmark of our program and have been available for almost 45 years.

Evaluation
A qualified Assistive Technology professional meets with an individual or organization to evaluate their specific accommodation or assistive technology needs. This service typically takes 4-6 hours and results in a detailed and structured report that includes recommended equipment, training or other services.

Consultation
Like an evaluation, but typically shorter in nature and less comprehensive, this service allows for brief interventions by a qualified Assistive Technology professional. Reports typically take the form of a memorandum and focus on a single aspect of an individual or organization’s needs.

Training
Our staff provides a wide variety of individual and small class trainings designed to teach the user how to use their assistive technology on the job, at home or in school. In 2012 we expanded our training services by offering comprehensive on-line instruction as well.

Digital Literacy
We provide proctored digital literacy assessments to vocational rehabilitation clients, evaluating their current computer and software skills as well as their ability to use technology in daily life. Based on assessment results, we offer tailored training to address any skill gaps identified.

Web and Document Accessibility
We offer web and document accessibility services to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, has access to information. Our team is well-versed on Web Accessibility Content Guidelines (WCAG), Section 508, and other accessibility standards.

Home Modification Services
We offer home modification evaluations performed by a qualified healthcare professional independent from the contractor to ensure individuals receive appropriate modifications to maximize function in their home.

Potential Funding Sources for Clinical Assitive Technology

  •  Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Medicaid, Medicaid Waiver, Medicare, Choice
  • Social Security Work Incentive programs (PASS, IRWI, BWE)
  • Employers
  • Schools (K-12 or Higher Ed)
  • Veterans Administration
  • Individuals or organizations often private pay for services and technology

For More Information

 

Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA) Services

(no charge for these services)

Overview
In October 2007, Easterseals Crossroads was awarded the Assistive Technology grant, which consists of state and federal funding targeted to increasing the availability of Assistive Technology to Hoosiers with disabilities. There are 56 programs of this type in the United States and US territories. These services are available statewide at no charge.

Information and Referral
Anyone with questions about assistive technology may call our Information & Referral/Funding Specialist to learn more about available services and funding options.

Alternative Financing Program
Although there are several available funding sources for Assistive Technology equipment and services, there are times when an individual does not qualify for a traditional funding source. INDATA works with a lending partner to offer low interest and extended term bank loans as an alternative funding source for assistive technology equipment and services.

Device Demonstration
Many individuals benefit from experiencing a basic Assistive Technology equipment demonstration. These demonstrations are available statewide and typically allow an individual to spend 10-20 minutes with an Assistive Technology Specialist who demonstrates the basic features of the Assistive Technology Device or software. (Does not result in recommendations.)

Device Loan
INDATA has a growing library of Assistive Technology Devices that can be loaned for 30 days. The library has over 2500 items at this time and continues to grow.

Equipment Reutilization
INDATA operates an equipment reutilization program in which we accept video magnifiers and other assistive technology devices. These items are sanitized, repaired and given to individuals with disabilities in Indiana for free.

Recycled Computer Program
Donated computers are picked up from a donor, wiped of all previous data, refurbished and provided, at no charge, to individuals with disabilities who live in Indiana and have no other means of obtaining a computer.

Full Day Trainings
INDATA hosts free trainings on various aspects of assistive technology. These trainings are held at our Indianapolis facility and streamed via the Internet. Continuing Educations Units (CEU’s) are also offered. CEU’s are only available to those who attend the training in person.

Podcast/Blog
Weekly Podcasts a Daily Blog provide persons with disabilities, AT professionals and general enthusiasts with latest developments and up-to-date information from the world of assistive technology.

For More Information

2023-11-06T14:22:35-05:00November 1, 2023|Our Blog|

Pathways to Opportunity Program Creates Employment Opportunities

Pathways to Opportunity is a program designed to provide intensive services for individuals with disabilities who want to create their path to a good future with a promising job. The program is funded by the Lilly Endowment’s Enhancing Opportunity in Indianapolis. Career navigators guide candidates through individualized steps toward economic independence. Candidates must have a disability, live in Marion County and meet income level requirements.

Linda is a recent Pathways to Opportunity participant. In fact, she is the first person who started the program in November 2021, as well as the first person to complete all aspects of the program in August 2023.

Linda learned about the program from our partner organization Circles. Her goals stretched beyond simply finding a position, as she has had success as an employee in various service fields. Her goals stretched more towards an occupation – a career in a field where she could see growth and longevity.

“I started the Pathways to Opportunity program because I knew I wanted to make changes, but I did not know where to begin. The staff – the career navigators – had resources and they knew how to help me with my goals towards a better future,” said Linda.

Linda obtained employment at OneAmerica as a support representative. She scans information, checks for accuracy and assigns the documents to the appropriate location. She is part of a team and she is excited to learn and work with new computer programs. She looks forward to attending workshops to further her learning. Linda knows that she is a dependable, hardworking team player and she hopes to move up within the company when the time is right.

Crediting the Pathways to Opportunity program and its staff members, Linda feels that circumstances worked together to help her build connections and gain confidence. Beyond her professional goals, she also worked to obtain a better credit score, find a more suitable apartment and purchase a dependable car. She knows that the program helped her learn to hold herself accountable and make her push herself to get things accomplished.

“The Pathways to Opportunity program was created to fill a need in our community for individuals with disabilities who are ready and committed to making positive changes in their lives. The program focuses on creating meaningful, individualized paths that will lead to careers that can enhance and elevate quality of life for participants,” said Marjorie Duryea, who oversees the Pathways program.

Linda still has goals, but she is more confident about achieving them now that she is employed in a position that she loves. At some point, she hopes to return to school and she is working towards a routine that will allow for better overall physical health.

“Changes don’t happen overnight. The program raises awareness and helped me do things that I did not know how to do. I learned how to understand the workforce better, and I learned more about budgeting my money and the importance of saving. Most important, though – I have learned to be confident in myself. I can do whatever I put my mind to; it just takes hard work and dedication,” said Linda.

Amicia Ramsey from WISH spoke with Linda during October to learn about her career journey. Watch the video below.

2023-11-01T11:24:51-04:00October 24, 2023|Our Blog|

All About Children’s Therapy Services

Goals

The main goal in our children’s therapy program is to provide children with outstanding occupational, physical, speech and developmental therapy services. We offer options for services in our clinic for all children regardless of insurance/financial situation and we are one of approximately 40 agencies throughout the state who offer First Steps services.  First Steps is the state program for children birth-age two who demonstrate a need for services in a home or community based option.

Our  clinics are currently serving approximately 150 people per week and we hope to provide over 7,000 therapy sessions and evaluations throughout the year. Our First Steps therapists provide over 200 therapy sessions per week.

We exist to for families to support their children’s growth and development so that they can be as successful as possible in life.

Who is Eligible for Services

For families who are interested in First Steps services, an assessment team will determine if a child meets eligibility criteria. Easterseals Crossroads is an agency who can accept referrals and provide therapists within Marion and Hamilton counties for First Steps Services and parent/caregivers can choose us as their provider. First Steps services are available for children from birth through age two.
For our clinic services, we can see children who demonstrate a delay in their fine motor, gross motor, feeding, sensory or speech and language skills. Our therapists perform evaluations to determine if therapy services would be appropriate for a child and then recommend a course of action/treatment. Our clinic provides options for children who are generally 18 and under but can see individuals who are 22 or younger if they are in school and our materials are appropriate.

What Makes our Children’s Therapy Services Unique

At Easterseals Crossroads, we grow with a child in our ability to provide therapy and options for families. Not only do we offer occupational, physical, speech and developmental therapy, we also provide augmentative and alternative communication assessments/treatments as well as specialized treatment for individuals with feeding challenges. If a child can benefit from an augmentative communication device, our assistive technology department offers a lending library option so that parents/caregivers can try a device to see if it meets a child’s needs before purchasing.

Our wrap-around options include our extensive summer camp program with six different camps from an overnight, week-long option for individuals with autism to several day-camp possibilities. On a weekly basis, we offer respite options for families who want to explore an evening (or day) out activity. We are dedicated to our families, and we take great pride in offering meaningful opportunities that make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

More Information

For clinical services at our north (Keystone Avenue) location, parents/caregivers can call 317.466.1000 and ask to speak to our clinic admissions specialist for our Keystone location. For the south (Thompson Road) location, please call 317.782.8888. Those interested in First Steps should call 317.557.BABY.

Information for any service can also be accessed by contacting us.

2023-10-09T11:27:39-04:00October 9, 2023|Our Blog|

All About Employment Services

We have several different employment programs within the Employment Services Division including our Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) funded employment program which has been around approximately 40 years; our Family Opportunity Program which will enter its fourth year in October; and Pathways to Opportunity, which started its third year of a 5-year grant. We also offer Benefits Planning (BINS) services to compliment all three programs. We have a College Internship Experience program in its eighth year and Project SEARCH Indiana at Community Hospitals East (since 2007) and  Community Hospital North ( since 2011).

Program Goals

  • Employment services through VR referrals assist individuals with significant disabilities with career exploration, benefits planning, job placement, job coaching and long-term employment supports. This is funded by the State of Indiana, FSSA / DDRS / Bureau of VR. Eligibility requires participants to apply and be approved by VR, and then referred to Easterseals Crossroads. This program is available for those who are 16 years of age or older.
  • The Family Opportunity Program is a two-generational approach providing an array of services for children with disabilities, as well as workforce development assistance and the ability to connect with community resources and benefits for adult caregivers. We serve approximately 40 families per year. This is funded by the United Way Family Opportunity Fund. Entry into the program is a child with a disability who can benefit from and be enrolled in any programs offered through Easterseals Crossroads. If the adult caregiver will also benefit from services as noted, we can enroll the family. The adult caregiver does not have to have a disability. Families must reside in the United Way of Central Indiana seven- county service area. Children must be ages birth to 18 (or 22 if they are in school under an IEP) and adults must be ages 18 and up.
  • Pathway to Opportunity is a five-year grant with an enrollment goal of 150 individuals over 5 years. We serve individuals with disabilities who reside in Marion County and are living at or below 185% of poverty level. The goal is to move participants out of poverty through employment and high-touch, intensive services to address all barriers to achieving this goal. The program is funded by the Lilly Endowment Enhancing Opportunities in Indianapolis fund. To be compatible with the program goals, a participant must be willing to discontinue public entitlements and benefits and move to self-sufficiency through full-time employment. This program is available for those who are 17+ years of age.
  • Benefits Planning (BINS) services are available for participants in all three of the employment programs. We complete approximately 85 BINS per year. To be eligible, an individual must be receiving SSI, SSDI or Medicaid and participating in one of our employment programs. This program is available for those who are 16+ years of age.
  • The College Intern Experience program provides college students with autism with an internship in their field of study. It is funded through our Lilly Endowment Autism grant and the goal is to provide 22 internships over a two-year grant cycle. To be eligible, participants must have a diagnosis of autism and be actively enrolled in one of our nine partnering colleges. This program is available for college students who are 18+ years of age.
  • Project SEARCH Indiana is a work emersion program for transition age youth with developmental disabilities. We partner with three school systems (myIPS, Lawrence Township, Warren Township), VR and Community Health Network. We serve an average of 22 – 24 students each school year. Participants must have a developmental disability, be under 22 years of age and be eligible to be enrolled in VR services. We do accept some young adults (over 22 years old and out of school) when circumstances allow us to do so.

Our Staff

Our staff members who provide services within the above program areas come from an array of backgrounds. All of our employees are highly skilled in job readiness training and employment procurement. Our staff are dedicated and committed to working with individuals with disabilities.

“We have the distinct privilege and honor to help people with disabilities change and enhance their lives everyday through our employment programs and services,” said Marjorie Duryea, Director of Employment Services.

Who Benefits from these Programs

Our employment programs benefit the participants and their families by gaining employment and earning wages. In the broader sense, our program benefits our community by adding to the workforce and tax base, diversifying the workforce with individuals with disabilities and helping individuals with disabilities reduce dependence upon public assistance.

Pathways is the only Lilly Endowment LEI funded grant that focuses on disability.  We are one of a few FOF funded programs that focus on disability. Our Project SEARCH is the only one remaining in central Indiana.

Who to Contact for More Information

Contact us for more information about any of the above options within our employment services area.

2023-10-02T09:36:38-04:00September 28, 2023|Our Blog|

Followers, Lurkers and Posters: Don’t Overshare!

Orange bar with colorful circles and words Cyber Chat with Jane Harper Information and Security Risk Expert along with her photo
About Jane
Jane is an information and risk security expert as well as a member of our Easterseals Crossroads Board of Directors and a published author. Additionally, Jane serves on the board of the National Cyber Security Alliance, and she works actively with them to help everyone stay safe online. She is passionate about information security for all and she is excited to share some tips to help keep us safe online, compliments of NCSA. Every other month, Jane will share some key facts, stories and tips regarding online security.

Posts are Like Ghosts

Even though many of us have been on social media for a decade or more at this point (maybe even most of your life!), it bears repeating that you should think about everything you post, message or say online because it can live forever. Posts are like ghosts; you don’t want what you say to haunt you. This is true even for apps that automatically delete posts like Snap. Someone who sees it can screenshot or screen-record what you post.

Be Choosy about Friends and Followers

Remember that not everyone who requests to follow you has friendly intentions in mind. Depending on the information you have visible on your profile, someone who friends or follows you might know your contact info, general location, age and other data. This is why you want to think twice before accepting a request or invitation to connect from just anyone. Many social media networks have tools that allow you to manage the info you share with friends in different groups. If you’re trying to get your influencer hustle going, create an open profile or fan page that encourages broad participation but limits personal information. Use your personal profile to connect with your real friends – typically ones you know IRL.

Block the Bullies

While cyberbullying is often framed as an issue for children, anyone can be a victim. When it comes to the bullies of the 2020s, social media is now the unsupervised playground for us all. We recommend that you just block them – there’s no need to give them more of your time and energy. Every platform has simple ways you can block and report users engaged in bullying behavior. There’s no shame in having a strong blocking game!

Don’t Take the Bait

Phishing‚ is when cybercriminals use fake emails, social media posts, or DMs with the goal of luring you to click on a bad link or download a malicious file. If you click on a phishing link or file, you might hand over your data to hackers. A phishing scheme can also install malware onto your device. If you get suspicious, typo-ridden, or too good to be true messages from someone you don’t know on social media, assume its phishing – delete it! You can usually report such messages to the social media platform, too. You might get a message or post from someone you know that seems like phishing (“when did Bill get into selling designer sunglasses?”). Assume it is phishing and delete. Use another method to contact the sender and let them know about the weird message.

Remember, you aren’t alone online! You have the power to stop cybercriminals!

2023-09-28T13:33:56-04:00September 28, 2023|Our Blog|

All About Autism and Behavior Services

Our Autism and Behavior Services consist of an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, including licensed psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, board-certified behavior analysts and registered behavior technicians, who provide diagnostic and behavior intervention services for those with autism.

Program Goals

Our goal is to provide client centered, family focused services to those who need this service. Since 2012, we have been offering autism and behavior services for families with children who range in age from toddlers to young adults. Our staff members go above and beyond to serve our families and we partner with them to provide services that meet individual family goals.

Who Benefits from Autism and Behavior Services

We know that families and individuals who are living with autism benefit from this program. In a broader sense, we also know that central Indiana benefits from our ability to provide resources and assistance to schools, families, businesses, partner organizations and the community as a whole.

How Families Access this Service

Diagnostic appointments must be referred by a physician. Individuals who participate in ABA services must have diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Individuals interested in services can reach out to our admissions specialist regarding services. Our services are not limited to individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

What Makes this Program Unique in our Community

Easterseals Crossroads has the unique ability to offer a variety of services within the agency. Families who use our autism services often find that their child might benefit from speech, occupational or physical therapy. Our ability to offer services that cross disciplines can be extremely beneficial to our families who need multiple services.

“Our interdisciplinary team of autism experts are here to provide services that are individualized and collaborative in order to best serve our consumers. We hope to create a safe and supportive environment that also feels like home to our consumers,” said program director Karrie Veteto.

How to Obtain More Information

Contact us for more information about autism and behavior services at Easterseals Crosroads.

2023-09-25T09:50:52-04:00September 25, 2023|Our Blog|
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