40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
LEGACY TIMES
Honoring Our Past | Celebrating the Present | Building Our Future
SCLARC Celebrates Its History of Securing
Funding for Its Stakeholders
In July 1973, Central City Community Mental Health Center,
founded by Dr. J. Alfred Cannon, was awarded the contract to
provide a regional center in South Los Angeles. Thus, South
Central Los Angeles Regional Center for Persons with
Developmental Disabilities (SCLARC) was born, as was a 40year history of securing funding to improve the lives of South
Los Angeles residents diagnosed with developmental disabilities.
Over the years, SCLARC’s contracts and grant funded programs
have made a positive impact in the areas of developmental,
mental and oral health as well as parenting, nutrition, housing
and early developmental screening for children birth to fiveyears-old. As SCLARC celebrates its 40th year of service, it is
plain to see that the agency has always been driven to help
better address the challenges encountered by its stakeholders.
When SCLARC’s annual budget from the Department of
Developmental Services (DDS) cannot meet the ancillary needs
of its clients and their families, SCLARC has contracted and
developed proposals that would. Many of the grants and contracts awarded to the agency have been long-term.
Some have lasted more than 20 years, but all are a result of SCLARC’s desire to respond to the overwhelming
need of its families. The bulleted abbreviated history below demonstrates SCLARC's proven commitment to
empowering those we serve.
•
SCLARC officially opened its doors to its first clients, now called consumers, in February of 1974.
•
By June of 1975, there were 1059 active consumers and approximately 25 staff members under the
direction of Dr. Anna Smith. The budget that year was little over half a million dollars.
•
In 1976, Dr. Ruth V. Creary assumed the role of executive director for South Central Los Angeles Regional
Center. For nearly 10 years, SCLARC operated under the auspices of the Central City Community Mental
Health Center (CCCMHC) contract, all the while being moved forward in its mission by Dr. Creary.
•
In 1980, SCLARC was awarded a federal grant for Project FAMILY through Maternal and Child Health. This
flagship grant program would become SCLARC’s longest running grant program, sunsetting in 2000. It
provided services to thousands of infants deemed at high-risk for developing a disability.
•
On June 30, 1983, the state officially approved the 1983-1984 contract with SCLARC’s new Board of
Directors.
•
In 1988, SCLARC pioneer and founder, Dr. J. Alfred Cannon dies in Zimbabwe, Africa at the age of 59.
•
Spring 1990, SCLARC’s Perinatal Substance Abuse Pilot Project is funded through a grant from the L.A.
County Department of Health Services/Maternal and Child Health. The program’s mission was to provide
comprehensive case management to alcohol and drug abusing women who were also pregnant or parenting
their children. Over the course of 20 years, the program served thousands. These services were part of a
collaborative effort between residential, outpatient and intensive drug/alcohol programs that jointly formed
a service web for women on the road to recovery.
• In 1992, SCLARC hosted its first “friendraiser,” The Belles & Beaus Cotillion. Under the
leadership of SCLARC board member Bob Hopkins, the event celebrated the achievements
of the center’s consumers while raising funds and awareness about developmental
disabilities.
• On June 19, 1993, SCLARC establishes a Family Resource
Center. With funding from the Department of Developmental
CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
SCLARC Pioneer and Founder Dr. J. Alfred
Cannon, Crusader for Mental Health
By LAUREN ALEXIS JONES
Contributing Writer
During the
progressive
movements of the 1960s and
‘70s, parents of children with
special needs and other
concerned citizens were at the
forefront of a movement to
ensure proper mental and
developmental health care in
South L.A. One such trailblazer
was Dr. J. Alfred Cannon, whose
life’s mission was improving
mental health care for low
income, minority populations. In
1973, Dr. Cannon founded the
Central City Community Mental
Health Center, one of the first
comprehensive mental health
agencies to operate in South Los
Angeles. A year later, the agency
w a s aw a r d e d a c o n t r a c t t o
develop South Central Los
Angeles Regional Center
(SCLARC). Currently celebrating
40 years of service, SCLARC
would be remiss if it did not
honor someone so instrumental
in its founding.
The catalyst for Dr. Cannon’s
action came in 1965 as a result of
the Watts Riots. The riots exposed
what few resources were being
allocated to mental health issues in
the area which was largely African
American. With the passing of the
Community Mental Health Centers
Act a few years prior, Cannon
gathered a group of 22 fellow
black psychiatrists to begin
remedying the problem. Together,
the cadre built various medical
facilities in South Los Angeles
including the Kedren Community
Health Center and Drew Medical
School. These new resources
made it easier for residents of
South Los Angeles to seek
mental and developmental health
treatment. It should be noted
that Dr. Cannon was instrumental
in establishing the Frederick Douglass
Child Development Center because
infant development and mental
health was also very important to
him.
In 1969, Dr. Cannon was
named chairman of the Black
Psychiatrists of America. During
that same year, he
and other concerned
parents, professionals,
elected officials and
community leaders
formed the South
2
Central M e n t a l R e t a r d a t i o n
Association. His overall work in
the field of psychiatry was not
just admired by colleagues and
community advocates, Hollywood
and academia also appreciated
h i s b r i l l i a n c e. A c c o r d i n g t o
“Furious Cool: Richard Pryor and
the World that Made Him,” the
legendary comedian hired Dr.
Cannon as his private
psychiatrist.
Cannon was also hired by
UCLA and spent years as an
assistant professor of psychiatry.
He not only embodied the spirit
of “being the change you want to
see,” but he took it a step
further by influencing others to
effect change. It was while
t e a c h i n g a t U C L A t h a t D r.
Cannon met a young grad
student in one of his classes-Paul Amuchie.
C a n n o n’ s p a s s i o n a n d
commitment to mental and
developmental health convinced
the young student to take a
part-time position at South
Central Los Angeles Regional
Center. In 2013, 32 years later,
Dr. Paul Amuchie retired from
DR. PAUL AMUCHIE
SCLARC. While his mentee was
discovering the world of
SCLARC, Dr. Cannon moved to
Zimbabwe to continue changing
the world. Once there, Cannon
created a thriving mental healthcare system.
DR. J. ALFRED CANNON
Unfortunately, as is so often
with those who blaze trails, his
time was cut short and he
suffered a fatal heart attack.
Dr. Cannon died at the age of
59.
In honor of this
extraordinary man and his
impact on quality health care
and services for the
developmentally disabled
community, SCLARC created the
A l C a n n o n Aw a r d . I t i s
SCLARC’s highest honor given “to
an organization or individual
whose community activism has
had a resounding and positive
impact on individuals diagnosed
with a developmental disability
and the community.”
To date, there have only been
two recipients of the award—
O . V.
Smith
and
Fred
Washington. Ms. Smith was a
staunch supporter of individuals
diagnosed with special needs
and SCLARC for more than 30
years (see story on page 15).
Mr. Washington served four
n o n- c o n s e c u t i v e t e r m s o n
SCLARC’s Board of Directors,
three terms as its president
during economic down-turns.
Today, the reach and legacy
of Dr. Cannon lives on in the
services and supports that
South Central Los Angeles
Regional Center delivers to its
consumers and families
annually.
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Meet South Central Los Angeles Regional
Center’s 40th Anniversary Legacy Honorees
Legacy Spirit Award
Mireya Romero
Mireya Romero is a dedicated community
activist and a fierce warrior parent for her
daughter Christy. Now in her second term of
service on SCLARC’s Board of Directors, Mireya
became involved with the regional center after
Christy, a SCLARC consumer was diagnosed with
Down syndrome. Mrs. Romero has been extremely
active by also serving on
the board of Friends of
SCLARC, Inc. and
SCLARC’s
Family
Resource
Center
Advisory Board. Her
activism embodies the
spirit of the Lanterman
Act as she advocates on
behalf of children and
families with special
needs.
As an 18-year-old new
mom, Mireya had not
long been with the
regional center before
volunteering to to speak MIREYA ROMERO
to SCLARC legislators.
She spoke eloquently on
behalf of the agency at
the Association of
Regional Center Agencies
(ARCA)
annual
Grassroots Days held at
the state capital. She
also speaks often in the
community at various
support
groups,
workshops and trainings.
"Before I came to
regional center, I was
depressed because I
TOM DE SIMONE
didn't know where to get
answers. I felt helpless.
But once my daughter had a diagnosis and I went
through the parent orientation, I felt better
because I knew how to help Christy. SCLARC has
been a guiding light.”
She now serves as a mentor to parent
advocates making sure they are aware of the
resources available to them, explaining how to
navigate the myriad of agencies and systems to
secure proper services for their children and
creating opportunities for families to socialize and
bond through the various parent groups in which
she is involved.
Legacy Community Partner Award
Tom De Simone
Tom De Simone is responsible for overseeing
Genesis LA's (GLA) operations and business activities.
Mr. De Simone has sourced, structured and/or closed
more than $100 million in direct lending and New
Market Tax Credit investments for Genesis LA. He
has helped to grow Genesis LA's capital resources and
designed innovative investment programs that have
helped Genesis LA to become a unique financing
entity in the Los Angeles community.
Prior to joining Genesis LA, Mr. De Simone was a
John Gardner Fellow in the Office
of Mayor James K. Hahn, where
he worked on policies and
programs to alleviate
homelessness. Mr. De Simone is
committed to improving the
social, economic, and physical
character of inner city
neighborhoods in Los Angeles
through new and innovative
partnerships. As a real estatebased investor, Tom and GLA
were integral to the process of
securing the financing necessary
MALCOLM BENNETT t o m a k e S C L A R C ’ s n e w
headquarters—Legacy Plaza—a
reality.
Tom was also a driving force in
the development of Friends of
SCLARC’s portfolio of homes. In
2009, former governor
Arnold Schwarzenegger ordered
the closure of Lanterman Developmental Center. At the time, the
state hospital had been home to
individuals with developmental
disabilities for more than 70
years and housed 38 SCLARC
consumers. Mr. De Simone’s team
ILONA HENDRICK
was a major financial and real
estate resource in developing
Friends of SCLARC’s portfolio of homes which
SCLARC’s consumers now call home. Helping to
purchase and substantially renovate 12 homes located
throughout SCLARC’s catchment area, Genesis LA
assisted in guaranteeing permanent housing for
SCLARC consumers.
Legacy Vanguard Award
llona Hendrick
Ilona Hendrick is the owner/operator of Hendrick
Homes. She has provided exceptional care for adults
ranging from the age of 18 to 59 years old with
developmental disabilities in the residential care
community for more than 30 years. Ms. Hendrick was
in the first graduating class of the South Central Los
Angeles Regional Center’s
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
3
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Arc Mid-Cities: It’s a Family Affair
60 Years of Stellar Service to the Special
Needs Community of South Los Angeles
By LAUREN ALEXIS JONES
were running
the program.”
After years
A r c M i d- C i t i e s h a s b e e n
of
the
addressing the needs of people
p r o g r a m
diagnosed with developmental
being parentdisabilities for an impressive six
run,
the
decades. With a mission to
board
of
encourage, assist, and support
directors
the maximum personal
determined
development in people with
they were
special needs ages 18-70, Arc
unable to
Mid-Cities primary goal is to
continue to
“promote the general welfare of
manage it
the mentally retarded and other
and sought
developmentally disabled
n
e
w
persons.” Predating the regional
l e a d e r s h i p.
center system, Mid Cities was a
The program
parent-run organization and one
was taken
of the organizations that joined
over
b y IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR—John Wagoner Sr. and Jr. smile for
Dr. J. Alfred Cannon in helping
C o m p t o n the cameras with Shirley Day, former SCLARC Director of
to establish South Central Los
S c h o o l Consumer Program Services, at the agency’s 35th Anniversary
Angeles Regional Center.
District on a celebration hosted in 2009.
“Arc Mid-Cities was influential
t r i a l b a s i s.
in establishing SCLARC,” said
That lasted
going through the halls at 8, 9,
Irma Wagoner, Senior Program
for a brief stint, then the board
10-years-old,” said John.
Coordinator for Arc Mid-Cities.
of directors for Arc Mid-Cities
Upon earning a degree in
“We worked alongside
nominated fellow board member
Cognitive Psychology and
committees to set up the regional
John B. Wagoner Sr. to become
Technology and working in those
center and elect the first
the Executive Director.
Almost
respective fields for a number of
executive director, Dr. Anna
five decades later, the Wagoner
years, John Jr. returned home to
Smith.”
family continues to be the
Arc Mid-Cities in order to shore
Mrs. Wagoner has been with
driving force behind Arc Midup operations and help out
Arc Mid-Cities for 40 plus years
C i t i e s, e n s u r i n g t h a t t h i s
where he could. “I came b a c k
in various capacities. Although
program continues to thrive.
i n t h e m i d- 9 0 s working partshe modestly introduced herself
“We’ve used our own credit to
time to help because there were
as Senior Program Coordinator,
buy things and do things. For a
so many staff members who
she is more affectionately known
long time, we didn’t get paid,”
d i d n’ t h av e t e c h n o l o g y o r
around the office as “The
said Irma. “In many instances,
marketing backgrounds. Then
Mother” of Arc Mid-Cities. Her
consumers ended up coming
about three years ago, I really
late husband, John B. Wagoner
home with us and became apart
had a feeling I needed to come
Sr. served as the Executive
of
our
back to work closely with my
Director of the program for
family and
father.”
43 years.
The husband
still are.”
At that time, John Wagoner
and wife team came to the
It is indeed
Sr.’s health was deteriorating.
program as volunteers
a family
This realization was coupled with
seeking a program in
affair. John
the fact that Arc Mid-Cities was
which to enroll John’s
B. Wagoner
bracing for a tough financial
sister who has a
J r.
now
storm that almost resulted in
developmental disability.
serves as
having to close their doors.
“There were no programs
the current
“Everyone just came together
for people who were
executive
and wanted to make sure that
developmentally disabled,”
director of
we’re here to do our job and
remembers Irma. “We
Arc Midserve the consumers like we’ve
became more involved
Cities while
been doing for the past 60
because they were very
his
two
years,” said John. In the midst
short-staffed
s i s t e r s
of the financial crisis, John
at the time
Tammy and
Wagoner Sr., passed away. “It
and parents
Sharon are
was sudden, but it made sense
who
had
a
l
s
o
John Wagoner Sr.
children with
employees.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
dis-abilities
“I remember
Contributing Writer
4
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Building SCLARC’s Legacy of Fund
Development Benefitting Its
Stakeholders
By MAURA GIBNEY
SCLARC Fund
Development Manager
In the late 1960s, a group of
concerned parents, professionals
and community leaders formed the
South Central Mental Retardation
Association (SCMRA), spurred into
action by Dr. J. Alfred Cannon.
This organization was geared
toward addressing the disparity in
services available to those with
developmental disabilities living in
South Los Angeles. At the time
this area had the highest incidence
of mental retardation, but was
receiving the lowest level of
services. In July 1973, in response to
a grant application, Central City
Community Mental Health Center,
founded by Dr. Cannon, was
awarded the contract to provide
regional center services in South
Los Angeles. And thus, South
Central Los Angeles Regional
Center for Persons with
Developmental Disabilities Inc.
(SCLARC) was born.
Since its inception, SCLARC has
a long tradition of supplementing
its primary service mission with
other grant activities in order to
meet the overall needs of the
families we serve. The organization
has successfully implemented
federal, state and county grants
for more than 30 years. SCLARC
has a demonstrated history of
administering funding to facilitate
lasting positive change for the
community it
serves.
While SCLARC
provides many
services to its
consumers, strict
funding guidelines
limit
the
o r g a n i z a t i o n’ s
ability to provide
for the wide range
of other needs, which have grown
exponentially over the years.
SCLARC’s families need access to
living basics services such as food
and housing. But they also need
emergency support, school
supplies, and much more. All of
these services fall outside of the
parameters of the money currently
provided by our contract with the
State of California.
As we embark on settling into
SCLARC’s new home, Legacy Plaza,
we feel compelled to take our fund
development to a new level.
SCLARC will create a fund
development apparatus which will
enhance and sustain our
traditional services while spearheading innovative funding
mechanisms for new programming
and initiatives. Our first priority
regarding bringing these initiatives
to fruition is creating a Fund
Development Office which will
seek funding for:
•
Important
s u p p o r t
programs such
as sibling
s u p p o r t
g r o u p s ,
expanded
outreach,
m o b i l e
screening,
and
an
evaluation clinic.
•
Expansion of the Family
Resource Center and its
parent education and
advocacy programs.
An additional goal
of the new Fund
Development
Office
is
to
institute a Capital
Campaign
to
further develop
SCLARC’s presence
in
the
local
community, and to
facilitate easier
access to s e r v i c e s
for
c o n s u m e r s a n d f a m i l i e s. A
planned capital campaign will
take SCLARC above and beyond,
making it easier for families to
access services. SCLARC’s Board
has tentatively approved future
plans to seek an additional office
site to support the southern
portion of our service area.
The location would offer
families an immediate resource
for support, education and would
help to build sustainable, trusting
relationships with our
stakeholders, via the Family
Resource Center.
The satellite location would
also feature a large meeting room
in which to host seminars, annual
town hall forums, and playgroups
for children. Finally, this additional
office and meeting space will
reduce the impact of the large
number of visitors to the main
Legacy Plaza site as
SCLARC continues
to grow in the
years ahead.
We believe our
capacity-building
fundraising
initiatives, as well
as our future
Fund Development
Capital Campaign
will fundamentally
improve the lives of the clients
we serve while establishing a
permanent sustainable
CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
5
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
New Headquarters at Historic Golden State
Mutual Life Insurance Building Joins
Legacies of Service Together
By MARSHA MITCHELL-BRAY
SCLARC Director Community Service
& Family Supports
On August 23, 2013,
Community Impact Development
II (CID II) and Friends of
SCLARC (FoS) hosted more than
175 community stakeholders and
partners who witnessed the
groundbreaking of Legacy Plaza,
the future headquarters for
South Central Los Angeles
Regional Center (SCLARC).
Today, the project is more than
85% finished with an estimated
completion date of March 17,
2015. The construction project
forever joins SCLARC’s legacy to
that of Golden State Mutual Life
I n s u r a n c e C o m p a n y ’ s. B o t h
organizations, past and present,
served the South Los Angeles
community well. With the new
Legacy Plaza campus, SCLARC
will continue its service to the
community well into the future.
FoS was established in 1984
by a concerned group of
SCLARC’S LEGACY BUILDING
volunteers, lead by Burnistine
McClaney, who joined together to
promote public
aw a r e n e s s a b o u t
developmental
disabilities and raise
funds for SCLARC
6
and its consumers.
CID II was formed
in 2009 and started
as a partnership
between Friends of
SCLARC, Genesis LA
and Morgan Stanley.
T o g e t h e r,
the
organizations
acquired property
w i t h i n S C L A R C’ s
service area that
would allow the
LEGACY PLAZA—The construction project
forever joins SCLARC’s legacy of serving
agency to create a
the community of South Los Angeles to
self-contained camthat of the Golden State Mutual Insurance
pus environment
Company’s.
with adequate space
for SCLARC’s 250
space for SCLARC’s present and
employees, 100 consultants and
future staffing and service needs.
more than 12,500 consumers and
Legacy Plaza will also feature
their families.
state-of-the-art video conferencing
“Friends of SCLARC’s mission
capabilities and meeting rooms,
is to support South Central Los
training rooms, a large reception
Angeles Regional Center. I can’t
area, a wellness center, and a
think of any better way to do
s e m i- s u b t e r r a n e a n p a r k i n g
that than through Legacy Plaza,
structure.
SCLARC’s new headquarters. We
This very important economic
are proud to be an integral
development helps SCLARC’s
partner in this project and a
long-range goal of reducing its
supporting partner to everything
overall operational expenditures,
SCLARC is accomplishing in our
thereby ensuring that additional
c o m m u n i t y,” s a i d M a l c o l m
dollars will be allocated to
Bennett, Friends of SCLARC
address direct case management
Board President.
and specialty service needs.
As planned, Legacy Plaza will
A d d i t i o n a l l y, S C L A R C w i l l
encompass the historic Golden
institute capacity-building
State Mutual Life Insurance
initiatives and a capital campaign
Building (GSM), designed by Paul
in order to facilitate its effort to
R. Williams, the first African
secure funds that will be used to
American Fellow of the American
improve the lives of its
Institute of Architects (FAIA).
consumers and families through
Legacy Plaza will also feature a
the next 40 years.
brand new office building which
SCLARC’s Leadership Team
will be called the SCLARC Legacy
invites you to partner with them
Building. Together, the dual
as they fund future initiatives.
structures will provide more than
100,000 square feet of office
See page 5 to see how
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
SCLARC Celebrates Its History
OCTOBER 2014
… Continued from Page 1
Services, the FRC staff now serves annually more than 1,000 families via orientations, play dates,
family support group meetings, workshops, seminars and mailings.
•
In 1997, SCLARC created the “Oral Health and Wellness Project.” This was the first oral health/wellness
grant from DDS. It helped develop a local dental task force comprised of representatives from the dental
professional community, University of Southern California Dental School, University of Pacific Dental
School, Martin Luther King/Drew Medical Center and the University Affiliated Program at Children’s
Hospital of Los Angeles. The grant also funded a statewide conference focusing on treating individuals
with special needs The conference featured both dental and the lay community in order to address issues
or barriers people with developmental disabilities encounter when accessing dental care.
•
Additionally, SCLARC received a grant from the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) for
$404,382 in 1997 to develop a forensic project focused on outreach, education, training and collaboration
with community partners such as the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, the District Attorney’s Office, the
Los Angeles Police Department, the Department of Mental Health and Probation and Parole. The forensic
grant was funded during a period where the incidence of judicially involved consumers coming into contact
with the court system, law enforcement or being detained or incarcerated was escalating. The grant
funding, allocated by SCDD, afforded the regional center the opportunity to form a Multi-Agency Advisory
Board and a Forensic Assessment Team.
•
February 20, 2003, L.A. Care Health Plan grants South Central Los Angeles Regional Center (SCLARC)
$122,000 in order to help improve access to dental services for persons with developmental disabilities
living in South Central Los Angeles and neighboring communities.
In 2005, L.A. Care gave SCLARC
“continuation” grant funding to assist with the costs of general anesthesia, sedation and transportation so
that individuals with special needs would have better access to oral health care in the community. More
than 500 consumers were served under this grant.
•
August 2004, Friends of SCLARC hosted its first golf tournament benefiting SCLARC consumers and
families. Now in its 10th year, the tournament has raised more than $750 thousand dollars to help with
emergency housing and crisis intervention and has helped hundreds of stakeholders during times of dire
need.
•
April 2005, with a generous donation from the Concepcion Group, “Friends of SCLARC” (FoS) was able to
move from being a small, internal funding stream within SCLARC to become a free standing, incorporated,
non-profit entity—separate from, but still in support of—the regional center’s consumers. Today, Friends of
SCLARC, Inc. continues to provide funds to South Central Los Angeles Regional Center consumers and
families in emergency situations and for crisis intervention. But more importantly, FoS spearheads
SCLARC’s funding initiatives by soliciting charitable organizations, foundations and individuals for grant
money and donations on behalf of the developmentally disabled community residing in South Los Angeles.
•
In 2006, L.A. Care Health Plan and First5 LA awarded SCLARC with grant funding for the “Early Start
Oral Health Promotion” Project at SCLARC. The program focused on training parents, regional center staff
and Infant Development Program staff on oral health promotion and prevention as well as complete oral
health screenings on children 0 to 5 years of age.
•
In 2007, Friends Housing, a second support organization for SCLARC, was created through a grant from
the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Friends Housing, Inc. seeks safe, stable, and affordable
housing opportunities for SCLARC consumers through a collaborative of housing professionals that includes
both established housing developers and housing advocates who work on the behalf of various regional
center consumers.
•
SCLARC was also awarded the Oral Health Community Award by Blue Cross of California in 2007. This
community support award served more than 500 SCLARC consumers via specialized dental supplies and
oral health educational materials given to parents to reduce tooth decay in young children.
•
The “Early Start Oral Health Web-sBased Project” was also created in 2007 through a $151,000 grant from
the Department of Developmental Services. The technology assisted training materials were developed and
disseminated statewide focusing upon the promotion of oral health and wellness for children 0 to 5 years
of age. The materials included a web-based training module along with a post-test. Over 320 staff, parents
and vendors were trained during the project and the results were highlighted in a breakout session at the
DDS/UCSD Wellness Conference.
•
In 2009, Friends of SCLARC, Genesis LA Economic Growth Corporation and Morgan Stanley came together
to acquire the Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Building in order to create a self-contained campus
environment with adequate space for SCLARC’s 250 employees, 100 consultants and more than 12,500
consumers and their families. (See full story on page 3.)
•
Most recently, in October of 2013, SCLARC was selected by First5LA as a
grant recipient in order to increase developmental screenings in underserved
CONTINUED ON PAGE
14
7
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Karen and Eugene Washington: A
Dynamic Duo of Advocacy
By DESIREE BOYKIN
SCLARC Consumer Advocate
Eugene and Karen Washington have been members
of the regional center system for over 20 years.
Currently, both hold leadership roles on the SCLARC
Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) board. Eugene is
vice-president of CAC and Karen is its secretary.
Karen is also a member of SCLARC’s Board of
Directors.
They value their participation with SCLARC and
credit the organization for its assistance in their lives,
particularly in helping them with important
paperwork that they may not otherwise be able to
manage
on
their
own.
“SCLARC
helps
the
developmentally and intellectually disabled become
more independent,” Eugene stated.
The Washingtons were among SCLARC’s honored guests
at the Legacy Plaza Groundbreaking Ceremony.
The assistance
from SCLARC, which includes providing aid in using
the bus, transporting them to and from doctors’ appointments, and providing opportunities for safe and affordable
housing has helped them immensely.
Both credit their service coordinator, Adrienne McCarty, for making sure
that their needs are always met.
The Washingtons are proud to be part of a system that is very involved with the health, safety and welfare
of those diagnosed with special needs. And they advocate not only for their rights, but for the rights of others.
In response to past cuts to the state budget and the impact on the regional center system, Eugene came up with
this slogan: “It can happen to you.” When asked about the significance of the slogan, Eugene responded that he
wanted others to know that “in life, anything can happen to anybody.”
SCLARC’s CAC is proud to point out that Eugene’s slogan was used as a rallying cry when speaking to
legislators in 2012. “I want the non-physically disabled and non-mentally disabled community to know that during
birth, you never know what can happen. Your child could end up with cerebral palsy, autism, Down Syndrome,
epilepsy, or an intellectual disability.
Thinking about all of these conditions resulted in my coming up with this
slogan,” Eugene stated.
Eugene and Karen met at the Los Angeles Braille Institute in l993. Their relationship was a friendship which
turned into marriage.
The couple married a year later, and it is a union in which both are very happy. The
happily married couple has found the secret to a long lasting relationship.
“It is important to communicate, to laugh together, and not to go to bed angry,” Karen stated. Eugene added,
“You have to know yourself before marriage and after stating ‘I do,’ you must put your partner’s needs before
your own.”
They agree it is also important to support one another.
Every two months, in her role as a member of the
SCLARC Board of Directors, Karen gives a report, along with the CAC President, regarding the progress of the
CAC and the topics presented by guest speakers.
Eugene is ever present at these meetings, providing ongoing
support to his wife.
When they are not doing their community work, the couple attends Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church where
they sing in the choir. Eugene also provides some pulpit responsibilities. The twosome also enjoys traveling to
museums, malls, and places of recreation by way of the Metro transit system.
increases their mobility and joy for living.
8
This independence
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
The Traveling Friends: Thomas Pitts and
Harold Mogul Find Fun, Adventure and
Independence
By DESIREE L. BOYKIN
SCLARC Consumer Advocate
Mr. Thomas Pitts and Mr. Harold Mogul have
known each other for more than 10 years. In fact,
they have lived in the same residential facility these
past several years. Over time, they developed the
same passion: traveling. Each also has his
distinctive hobbies. Thomas likes model trains and
World War II memorabilia.
“I have many trains. I like collecting the ones
with the old steam engine,” he says. “I like the
sound they make.” He also enjoys watching Alfred
Hitchcock on the TCM movie channel.
Mr. Pitts works at Ability First; his job is
shredding documents and important information. He
says, “I like what I do. I also know to keep quiet.
After all, loose lips sink ships. I just do my job, and
I’m not nosy.”
Mr. Mogul attends Willing Workers. There, he
colors and counts pieces. Sometimes, he and other
participants visit the Westfield Mall in Fox Hills. “I
like going to Willing Workers; the activities keep me
seeing Pearl Harbor in Honolulu. “That was the best
part of the trip,” he acknowledged.
What was the best part of the trip for Mr. Mogul?
“I enjoyed everything about Hawaii--the beaches, the
hotel and going shopping,” Harold said. “I had a
good time.”
This year the two plan to visit San Francisco, Las
Vegas, and with the fun had on their previous visit,
Hawaii. Harold and Thomas share the same Service
Coordinator, Barney Brown.
Both agree that Mr.
Brown has been helpful. “Barney is funny; he
always makes me laugh,” says Thomas.
Harold added, “Barney is easy to get along with.”
What was the best part of
the trip for Mr. Mogul? “I
enjoyed everything about
Hawaii--the beaches, the hotel
and going shopping,” Harold
said. “I had a good time.”
The two both say they love South Central Los
Angeles Regional Center. They lived together at
Eva’s Residential Facility for many years, but have
been in their current residential home since 2011.
“We love living here; it’s better than a nursing
home,” Harold Mogul says. “In a nursing home,
there are a lot of rules. For example, everyone has
to be in bed at a certain time. We stay up later.”
THOMAS PITTS & HAROLD MOGUL
busy during the day,” he says.
The two men enjoy traveling together. They have
been to San Diego, Oklahoma City, Kansas City,
Portland, Tucson, and Phoenix. “We are brothers,”
they said in unison. Last year, they spent Christmas in Hawaii.
Fascinated with WWII, Mr. Pitts looked forward to
Do you want to keep up
with all the SCLARC
news?
Visit us at www.sclarc.org or visit
our Consumer Advisory
Committee’s (CAC) facebook page
at www.facebook.com/SCLARCCAC.
9
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
60 Years of Stellar Service
…
continued from page 4
for me to kind of step in since I had been his right hand for
the two years prior to his passing. He was my mentor.”
The dedication of the staff was truly put to the test,
according to Irma Wagoner. “With the employees that we had, it
was either you are going to be able to do this and do it with
care or you’re not,” said Irma.
Betsog Jugo is one such employee. He has been with Arc
Mid-Cities since 1991.“I love the people I work with, especially
the Wagoners. It’s like being at home. I feel comfortable here
with all the people and the consumers.”
Arc Mid-Cities has continued to find innovative ways to
promote awareness and the full inclusion of people with
disabilities. They have created work programs that have
allowed the organization to forge partnerships with companies
like Sears and the Los Angeles Unified School District in order PAVING THE WAY—ARC Mid-Cities has created a
landscape paver business where SCLARC consumers
to place consumers in the workforce. They have also
manufacture beautiful tile pavers that can be used
incorporated a landscape paver business within Mid-Cities day
in both residential and corporate projects. In fact,
program where SCLARC consumers manufacture beautiful tile Arc Mid-Cities will supply the pavers to be used in
pavers that can be used in both residential and commercial SCLARC’s new headquarters—Legacy Plaza.
projects.
In fact, Arc Mid-Cities will create the pavers that will be
utilized in SCLARC’s new headquarters—Legacy Plaza.Mid-Cities
has also changed its transportation fleet from the traditional
“short buses” to newer, greener vehicles that not only are
kinder to the environment, but that also give consumers “a
greater sense of autonomy and self-worth.”
Proud to be celebrating its own legacy of service, Arc MidCities has remained steadfast in its mission to provide
services to consumers and their families. “It’s about family-loving, supporting and advocating on behalf of our families.
It’s the feeling you get and it’s something money can’t buy,”
Irma said with a deep passion. “You can come in and you can
look absolutely terrible, but a consumer will tell you earnestly,
GOING GREEN—Arc Mid Cities Green Fleet is
‘oh, you’re so beautiful’ or ‘I’m so happy you’re here’ and ‘we
expanding with the addition of new Toyota Prius
love you.’”
Hybrids.
Fund Development …
continued from page 5
development effort to guide SCLARC through the next 40 years. SCLARC
invites
your
community
recommendations
resources
who
to
might
corporations,
be
interested
foundations
in
or
other
underwriting
its
fundraising initiatives. With your support SCLARC continues to educate,
advocate
f o r,
and
empower
individuals
diagnosed with developmental disabilities well
into the future.
For more information about how you can help
support the regional center’s fundraising efforts, please contact
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center’s Fund Development
Manager Maura McGinnis Gibney at 213-743-3206 or
[email protected].
10
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Using People First Language Promotes
Awareness and Respect
Nationwide, approximately
4.6 million Americans have been
diagnosed with a developmental
disability. South Central Los
Angeles Regional Center
(SCLARC) is one (1) of 21
p r i v a t e, n o n- p r o f i t c e n t e r s
contracting with the State of
California, specifically with the
Department of Developmental
Services (DDS), to provide
d i a g n o s i s, e v a l u a t i o n , c a s e
management and life-long
planning services. Currently, the
agency serves over 12,500
people who have been diagnosed
with a developmental disability.
Many times, the first part of
the regional center’s job is
explaining “What is a
developmental disability?” Our
Erik Estrada, SCLARC staff and
consumers strike a pose at the 2003
Belles & Beaus Luncheon which
celebrated the many accomplishments
of the participants.
hope is that through education
and support, many fears and
false public assumptions can be
r e p l a c e d w i t h aw a r e n e s s,
u n d e r s t a n d i n g, a n d g r e a t e r
inclusion. It is, after all, often a
lack of knowledge or perception
barriers that result in isolating
people who have developmental
disabilities. Many of the barriers
can be directly attributed to the
hurtful language used to
marginalize those served by
regional centers.
Using people first language can
go a long way in tearing down
those barriers. "People First"
language is a reflection of how
people see each other. It is also
why responsible communicators
are now choosing language which
reflects the dignity of people with
disabilities--words that put the
person first rather than the
disability. For instance you can
s a y, " a w o m a n w h o h a s a
disability" rather than "a
disabled woman." Avoid words
like “unfortunate," "afflicted,"
and "victim." Also, try to avoid
casting a person with a
disability as a superhuman
model of courage. People with
disabilities are just people, not
tragic figures.
A developmental disability is
n o t a d i s e a s e. D o n o t u s e
Former SCLARC Consumer Advocate
Juan Mendoza
" s y m p t o m s, " " p a t i e n t s, " o r
"treatment," unless the person
you are describing has an illness
as well as a disability. Use
common sense. Avoid terms with
obvious negative or judgmental
connotations such as "crippled,"
"deaf and dumb," "lame," and
"defective." If you are not sure
how to refer to a person's
condition, ask. And, if the
disability is not relevant to your
conversation, why mention it at
all? Never refer to a person as
"confined to a wheelchair."
Wheelchairs enable people to
escape confinement. People with
mobility impairments "use" a
wheelchair. Also, describe people
without disabilities as "typical"
rather than "normal."
11
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
SCLARC’s Board of Directors Brings
Together Proud Parent Advocates
BY LAUREN ALEXIS JONES
Contributing Writer
As members of the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center’s Board of Directors, parents
like Ana DaSilva, Alfredo Farfan, Mark Grimes and Veronica Moser offer a unique perspective to
the board. They are parents who have committed their time to ensuring that not only do their
children lead healthy and productive lives, but that all SCLARC consumers with special needs
are given the necessary resources to be successful members of society. A results driven professional with solid experience in the social services community,
Mark Grimes has worked for more than 10 years as a K-12 educator. He has sound
knowledge of community-based programs serving persons with
disabilities. And, as the father of a SCLARC consumer, he has first
hand knowledge of how special needs impacts our stakeholders
entire family. Since 2011, Mark has worked as a parent partner
providing peer to peer support, advocacy and system orientation to
families in need of intensive group support. In this capacity, he
collaborates with teams and families in the development of client
treatment plans. He brings his professional expertise to bear on
SCLARC’s board as the agency creates and implements new
MARK GRIMES
initiatives.
Ana DaSilva is a resident of Downey, where she has spearheaded
efforts to create more community dialogue and partnerships. Her
dedicated work as a steadfast advocate for people with
developmental disabilities has led to a more informed community
that understands the issues affecting those with autism.
ANA DaSLIVA
“I try my level best to educate everyone I come into contact with about
issues surrounding developmental disabilities,” said DaSilva. “I am so
proud to represent an agency that makes advocacy and selfempowerment a priority.”
Ana
also works closely with organizations like Fiesta Educativa and
Special Needs Network where she mentors other parents regarding the
myriad of systems they must traverse in order to secure the services
needed for their children.
Alfredo Farfan is a proud parent of a SCLARC consumer who was
diagnosed with Down syndrome. Mr. Farfan is a committed advocate for
ALFREDO FARFAN
his son making sure he is receiving all the necessary services due him as
it relates to his disability. He is passionate about acquiring knowledge
regarding how to care for his son in order to give him the best life possible. Alfredo takes
advantage of the trainings, play dates and events through SCLARC's Family Resource Center and
VERONICA MOSER
has actively networked with other parents. With his participation on SCLARC's Board of
Directors, Mr. Farfan would like to bring awareness to the larger community about Down
syndrome and other disabilities. In the past, he has participated on the Human Services Association (HSA) board and he
is a member of the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA).
Veronica Moser is a SCLARC parent with extensive organizational and administrative experience. Having more
than 20 years of management experience, Ms. Moser demonstrates her proven ability to effectively meet goals and multitask as a member of the Board’s Fund Development Committee. She also brings her outstanding training, leadership,
negotiation, and communication skills to bear at SCLARC as the Board’s current Treasurer. In her role, she assists in
long-term planning and strategic assessments that focus on strengthening services to SCLARC families. Our current
board members continue a strong tradition of excellent parent partners who have served on SCLARC’s Board of
Directors.
If you would like more information on developmental disabilities
or South Central Los Angeles Regional Center, please visit
www.sclarc.org.
12
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Portraits in Service: South Central Los Angeles
Regional Center’s Dedicated Staff
Through South Central Los Angeles Regional Center’s Customer Service Awardee program,
SCLARC regularly shines a spotlight on events or activities that its employees carry out on
behalf of consumers, families or other staff members. These portraits in service are just a
few examples of how South Central Los Angeles Regional Center is making a difference in
the lives of those whom the agency serves.
Service Coordinator Nirsia Gray has been recognized for providing excellent customer
service to a fellow SCLARC staff member when she was unexpectedly asked to attend a
parent meeting involving a complicated and detailed IPP. Although the
meeting was filled with tension, Nirsia was patient and willing to
provide support to her coworker. In the end, the time and attention she
gave the family and the assistance lent to her fellow service coordinator
went
a long way in demonstrating that no matter where the need exists,
CARLOS SALAZAR
SCLARC employees are willing to help find a solution. The service
coordinator she supported said it best, “It’s great to know I can count on Nirsia for anything
when asked. Thank you to her managers for helping cultivate a great team player who has
such a wonderful work ethic and amazing personality.”
Service Coordinator Carlos Salazar exhibited exceptional customer service skills during a
recent home visit. Carlos was attentive to the needs of both the consumer and his spouse and
NIRSIA GRAY
responsive to their questions. Carlos made every effort to ensure that the consumer remained
an active participant in the meeting, and that he understood what was being discussed.
Additionally, Carlos helped a consumer reunite with his father after 11 years of being out of touch. The consumer
was placed in a residential facility when he was very young. For years, the consumer had asked Carlos to help
him find his family. This was a tall order because the consumer only had first names. Then, out of the blue, the
father contacted the regional center. After repeatedly canceling and rescheduling appointments to meet, the
consumer was reunited with his father. Carlos persevered in his efforts to reunite the family where many others
would have given up. The best part is the consumer is now able to go home during the
holidays and can celebrate his birthday with his family.
JAI LONG
Service Coordinator Jai Long was recognized for his exemplary customer service skills when
working with a family assigned to his caseload. The parent wrote Jai’s supervisor to express
her gratitude for the care and support Jai offered during several difficult situations. “Jai
responded in objective, professional and understanding ways;
following up with a plan that best met our family’s needs.” The
parent especially appreciated that when Jai did not immediately
have a solution, he would communicate effectively to let her know
the status of the issue. “That let me know he follows the direction
of leadership and he's a humble man that doesn't have to know
everything.” Ultimately Jai’s willingness to listen to the parent and
the family’s concerns demonstrated his understanding of good
customer service.
Service Coordinator Rosario Saldana was recently recognized for her commitment and
dedication to one of the families on her caseload that was going through a particularly
ROSARIO SALDANA
difficult time. Recently, Ms. Saldana was working with this family when the consumer’s
mother passed away. The father was literally like a fish out of water. Grief-stricken, angry
and overwhelmed, the father who was struggling to deal with his wife’s passing took out his anger on his child’s
service coordinator and requested his child’s case be closed. Rosario understood the father was grieving and
decided not to close the case. She understood the needs of the family and our consumer. She also knew the
consumer was about to make the difficult transition from public school to adulthood. After waiting 60 days to give
the father some time to grieve, she called him back. She found he was in a better place emotionally and was able
to focus on his child’s needs. Together, they were able to schedule a meeting and create a plan for the consumer
to exit high school. Rosario’s supervisor writes, “She has always exhibited an extraordinary zeal for the clients
and the families she serves. I really appreciated her looking beyond getting rid of a case and actually looking at
the needs of this young man.”
13
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
After 25 Years of Dedicated Service, SCLARC’s CEO is
Still Committed to Forward Thinking and Progress
BY LAUREN ALEXIS JONES
Contributing Writer
In order to run an agency
c h a rge d w i t h t h e m i s s i o n o f
providing services and resources to
individuals with developmental
disabilities, it takes a person with
passion, empathy, compassion,
commitment—as well as a continued
dedication to forward thinking and
progress. Dexter A. Henderson
embodies all of these qualities. After
GROUD BREAKING LEADERSHIP—Pictured
from left are: Malcolm Bennett, Friends of
SCLARC Board President, Rosario Marin, former
U. S . T r e a s u r e r a n d S C L A R C p a r e n t ,
Assemblyman Reggie Sawyer Jones, Lisa M.
Sanchez, SCLARC Board President, state Senator
Rod D. Wright and Dexter A. Henderson, CEO &
Executive Director of SCLARC.
27 years as the Executive Director
and Chief Executive Officer of the
South Central Los Angeles Regional
Center (SCLARC), his work on
behalf of those with developmental
disabilities is unmatched in South Los
Angeles. His entire adult career has
been dedicated to those with special
needs and has encompassed various
roles that led him to his current post.
He has worked with consumers,
families and staff members to bring
awareness to South L.A. regarding
special needs to the community.
Henderson began as a Deputy
Director for Mayor Tom Bradley in
The Office of Human Resources. His
six years with the city were spent
creating public and private
initiatives that focused on affirmative
action economic development and
community enhancement programs
fo r u n d e r r e p r e s e n t e d g r o u p s
including youth, persons with
disabilities and the aging. His ability
to advocate was put to the test as he
was tasked with garnering millions of
dollars in federal and state grants
that put multiple disability related
initiatives in place. The scope of
Henderson’s reach expanded vastly
in his next position as the statewide
coordinator for employees with
disabilities in the Chancellor’s Office
of the California State University
system (CSU). Because of his proven
diligence, he later served as
systemwide coordinator for the CSU
system’s benefit programs totaling
$25 million. He branched out yet
again, spreading his entrepreneurial
SCLARC Celebrates Its History …
wings, and began consulting with the
City of Los Angeles.
Acting as a consultant for the City
of LA, he helped to develop a city-wide
compliance program for the disabled.
This work provided a seamless
transition as he joined SCLARC at the
top spot. His extensive background in
education, business, community
relations and programs designed to
provide support for persons with
disabilities prepared him to be at the
h e l m o f t h e r e g i o n a l c e n t e r.
Continuing to hone that skill set
during his tenure, Mr. Henderson has
partnered with community organizations and financial institutions in
order to bring his long held vision of
South Central Los Angeles Regional
Center owning its headquarters to
f r u i t i o n . L e ga c y P l a z a i s t h e
manifestation of his hard work,
diligence and dedication.
PARTNERING WITH THE COMMUNITY—
SCLARC’s Executive Director, pictured far
left, celebrates at the ribbon cutting
ceremony of a one-of-kind day program
with actor John Amos, music mogul
Russell Simmons, long-time SCLARC
vendor and owner of the program Renee
Tims and super music producer and
musician Teddy Riley.
Continued from Page 7
communities, create access to intervention services and to provide educational and awareness materials regarding
typical development.
As SCLARC looks back over 40 years of service, it is clear that the agency has been able to focus on its
mission to assist persons with developmental disabilities in reaching their highest quality of life by
accessing supplemental funding and programs that strengthen and support SCLARC’s families and
consumers.
14
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
O.V. Smith—A South Los Angeles Icon
By MARSHA MITCHELL-BRAY
SCLARC Director, Community Services & Family Supports
On Friday, March 14, 2014, the Society of California Care Operators (SOCCO) announced with great sadness that
O.V. Smith, president and founder of SOCCO and longtime advocate passed away. For more than 50 years, Ms. Smith
was committed to ensuring quality care to regional center consumers and protecting the rights of residential facility
providers. As one who was always dedicated to forward thinking and progress, she will forever be celebrated as a
champion for her many efforts in establishing the rights of those diagnosed with a developmental disability and
changing the standards of their quality of life to reflect more positive outcomes.
O.V. was a relentless advocate for quality care for those with special needs who stayed at the vanguard for
creating much needed resources within the community. It should be noted that O.V.’s Willing Workers is one of the
oldest adult day programs in the state of California. Started in 1969, Willing Workers offers job training and
vocational rehabilitation to SCLARC’s adult consumers.
The program encourages and supports participants in
acquiring motor, communicative, emotional, social, cognitive, vocational and independent living skills in order to
foster greater independence.
Her leadership and activism led to sweeping changes
in the kinds of services provided to those diagnosed
with an intellectually disability in South Los Angeles in
the late ‘60s and early 1970s. Ms. Smith had a
resounding and positive impact on the community as
she worked with Dr. J. Alfred Cannon, the founder of
Central City Community Mental Health Center
(CCCMHC), on the first contract to provide Regional
Center services to South Los Angeles. Once Central
City was given the contract by the state, Ms. Smith
became a key figure on SCLARC’s landscape. In
October of 2008, Ms. Smith and Willing Workers
hosted a memorable building dedication ceremony at
their iconic edifice to commemorate their 40 years of
AN ICONIC WOMAN—O.V. Smith was the first recipient of the
Dr. J. Alfred Cannon Award (see story on page 2). Above she
is pictured (from left) with former DDS Director Denny
Amundson, former SCLARC Board president and fellow Cannon
Award recipient Fred Washington, Congresswoman Maxine
Waters, former DDS Director Cliff Allenby (back row), Friends
of SCLARC Board President and 2014 Legacy Trailblazer
Awardee Malcolm Bennett, former director of the Association of
Regional Center Agencies (ARCA) Bob Baldo, SCLARC Executive
Director Dexter Henderson and former U.S. Treasurer and
SCLARC parent Rosario Marin.
committed service.
“During this milestone, we are grateful to look back
and witness the countless numbers of individuals we
have helped that are now living independently and
at their highest potential,” said Ms. Smith of Willing
Workers’ 40th anniversary event, which was aptly
entitled, “The Moving Forward Building Dedication.”
Ms. Smith was instrumental in creating legislation that
called for home care operators (residential facility operators) to maintain continuing education credits in order to
become licensed providers which was one move that took the quality of care to a new level. With the support of
then state official Maxine Waters, she wrote AB 2701 which was the first bill of its kind. A licensed residential
provider for SCLARC for three decades, O.V. was also the President of the Southern California Carehome Operators
(SOCCO) for more than four decades. O.V. was without a doubt a determined trailblazer and her passion and
tenacity is sorely missed.
15
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
SCLARC 40th Anniversary Logo
Designed by Diana Ugalde-Lara
By MARSHA D. MITCHELL-BRAY
SCLARC Director, Community Services & Family Supports
In October 2014, South Central Los Angeles Regional Center celebrates 40 years of service. To
memorialize this milestone event, the center wanted to design a commemorative 40 th Anniversary logo.
When searching for graphic designers, SCLARC did not have to look any
further than its very own Family Resource Center (FRC) to their volunteer
Diana Ugalde.
Ms. Ugalde has assisted the FRC staff for the past three years with data
entry. She also brings her expertise in graphic design to projects developed
by SCLARC Consumer Advocacy Committee (CAC). Diana’s amazing work
ethic and attention to detail are the hallmarks of her work.
“Having cerebral palsy has helped me set my goals and given me a
strong desire to attain them. I consider myself as an individual who is
able to successfully overcome obstacles in life. My
disability keeps me from being able to walk and
speak, but on many occasions, people have said I
am a role model because I never give up,” Ugalde
types.
Diana came to the United States from Mexico
when she was just 15-years-old. Once here, she
learned English and caught up academically. “I
DIANA UGALDE-LARA
knew how to read and write only in Spanish,
however there was so much I wanted to learn. At
SCLARC 40th logo Ugalde
the first school I was enrolled in, nobody saw me as a smart student. Due to
created.
my physical condition, I was placed in a classroom for students with severe
intellectual disabilities. There, the most challenging book I read was at the
first grade-level.”
Fortunately, Diana was able to make her teachers and administrators recognize her abilities and
intelligence. Six years later, she participated in commencement at Warren High School with a g.p.a. of
3.8. She attended college and earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Marketing.
Ms. Ugalde recently established a graphic design business called Projecting Personalities. She hopes to
develop business partnership with companies to create their business cards and other public relations
and marketing materials.
40th Anniversary Legacy Honorees …
(SCLARC’s) Residential Services Specialist Training
Course held at Compton Community College in the
early 1980s. Currently, she holds the office of
president of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of
California Care Home Operators (SOCCO). She is also
the statewide treasurer for the organization. SOCCO
constantly strives to advocate on behalf of Care
Providers and their consumers. Ms. Hendrick is also
an active member of SCLARC’s Vendor Advisory
Committee.. Her dedication not only impacts the quality
of service within her facilities, but within our
community as well.
Legacy Trailblazer Award
Malcolm N. Bennett
Malcolm N. Bennett is the president and founder of
International Realty Investment Inc. Since 1975, he
has brought his vast experience in real estate to this
16
continued from page 3
venture. His contributions to the business community
have only been matched by his commitment to
bettering the lives of Los Angeles residents as a realtor
and as a SCLARC board member.
“Because of my background in real estate and
finance, I was very interested in working with the
developmentally disabled who are able to live in the
community with assistance. I also feel it is important
for those of us with strong political ties to work with
legislators to make sure our funding is not
disproportionately reduced.”
After having served more than 18 years on
SCLARC’s Board of Directors, Mr. Bennett was selected
to serve as the Chairman of the Board for Friends of
SCLARC, Inc. He has worked tirelessly to support the
regional center’s work to build its new headquarters—
Legacy Plaza.
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Back Down SCLARC Memory Lane
South Central Los Angeles Regional
Center's former headquarters from
the 1980s to 2000.
South Central smiles from former
Director of Children & Adult Services
Beverly Morgan (left) and former
Chief of Community Services Phyllis
McClean.
Reuben Lee, Director of the Department
of Children and Adult Services (DCAS),
and Jesse Rocha, Assistant Director of
DCAS celebrate their promotions.
SCLARC stakeholders meet with CA
Senator Holly Mitchell at the capital.
SCLARC’S current headquarters. In
Spring of 2015, the agency will
move into Legacy Plaza—its new,
permanent home.
SCLARC Leadership Team welcomes
former Director of the Department of
Developmental Services (DDS) Denny
Amundson and Laker great James
Worthy to its 25th Anniversary.
SCLARC’s Consumer Advisory
Committee (CAC) members raise
awareness about developmental
disabilities.
SCLARC staffers take time to say
cheese at a SCLARC hosted conference.
Former Chief of Clinical Services
Carolyn Jackson.
Former SCLARC Executive Director Ruth
Creary (center) with her daughter (far
left) Bridgette Harper, SCLARC Staffer
Jeri Lewis, SCLARC receptionist Delores
Woods and a SCLARC stakeholder.
SCLARC’S dedicated service providers
joined in the fun at the Legacy Plaza
Groundbreaking held in August 2013.
SCLARC Consumers at the Association of
Regional Center Agencies Grassroots Day.
17
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Back Down SCLARC Memory Lane
18
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Promoting Advocacy and Awareness
in the Community for 40 Years!
¿Si nosotros no hablamos de ello y nosotros no nos enteramos de ello...
cómo hacemos nosotros jamás aprendemos a reconocer autismo?
Important Baby Milestones
By 9 months your baby should be able to:
Respond to his name.
Get into a sitting position and sit up by
himself.
Make lots of babbling sounds.
Play games like peek-a-boo
By 18 months your baby should be able to:
Point to things that interest her.
Walk on her own.
Say a few words.
Play pretend, such as feeding a doll or
talking on a toy phone.
¿Conoce a un niño quién puede tener una incapacidad de desarrollo o es en
peligro para desarrollar uno? Si eso es el caso, contacta por favor SCLARC y
pide hablar con un Coordinador.
By 2 years your baby should be able to:
Know names of familiar people and
body parts
Say sentences with 2 to 4 words
Follow simple instructions
Begin to sort shapes and colors
Climb onto and down from
furniture without help
If your child can’t do some of these activities, or
if you are worried about the way they talk, move,
or learn, call SCLARC today.
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
213-744-7000
650 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007
Para más información, la llamada 213.744.8872 o nos visita @ www.sclarc.org
If we don’t talk about it and we don’t hear about it ... how will we ever learn
to recognize autism?
Let’s Talk
SCLARC Town Hall Meeting
2013 POS Disparity Series
In 2014, SCLARC will host a new series of
stakeholder meetings to discuss how services are
purchased for our consumers and their families
(Purchase of Services (POS). We will again look at
how SCLARC decides what services are purchased
and how those choices impact you.
Do you know a child who may have a developmental disability or is at-risk
for developing one? If so, please contact SCLARC and ask to speak to an
Intake Coordinator.
We will also present a follow-up discussion regarding
customer service, intake, assessment, service
provision and quality of services as it relates to last
year’s Disparity Town Hall meetings. Follow-up
meeting topics will include:
!
• Updates to SCLARC Website
• Advocacy for consumers and families
• Frequently asked questions/general facts When: January 23, 2014
Where: SCLARC
650 W. Adams Boulevard Los Angeles, CA, 90007
1st Floor Megaroom
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
For further information or questions, please contact M
aria
Figueroa, Community Relations Specialist at 213-744-8402
For more info, call 213.744.8872
or visit us @ www.sclarc.org
213 744 - 8415
19
40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION
OCTOBER 2014
Congratulations South Central Los
Angeles Regional Center on Your
40-Year Legacy of Service!
Yesterday * Today
*
Tomorrow
!
Honoring your past, celebrating the
present and building your future!
SCLARC’s New Headquarters
Legacy Plaza opens in April 2015!
!
Do you know a child who is at-risk of developing a
developmental disability? If so, contact a SCLARC Intake
Coordinator at 213.744.7000.