Today is voting day across the country, and polling stations around the nation and across our region are bustling with activity! Given the work that we do, and the hundreds of people and families we actively support, civic engagement is obviously core to our culture and mission. The work we do has a profound and positive impact on our communities!
Just a reminder that if you’re a registered voter and intend to vote today in Massachusetts, polls will be open until 8 PM and you can easily determine your polling location on the Massachusetts website. I know that a number of you have already voted, either through early voting or by mail, and you can check the status of your mail-in ballot here.
Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the intense passion that the election cycle has generated across the political spectrum. But Incompass Human Services is a 501(c)(3) organization, meaning that our organization will never engage in politics, endorse a candidate, or support a campaign. I just want you to know that the act of voting itself is not a partisan issue, and I support your right to participate no matter which candidates you may support.
Two of the greatest aspects of this organization are our diversity and our unwavering commitment to the people we serve. We’re #CareChampions for crying out loud! And because of that, I think – no, I know – that nothing will get in our way of delivering on our mission. You have exemplified the #ForEachOther mindset that has enabled us to continue to be there for those who need us most – when they need us most.
Also, let’s not forget we’re still in the midst of a pandemic! As Dan pointed out in our bulletin on Friday, both Chelmsford and Lawrence are classified as “high-risk” communities. Governor Baker announced new restrictions just yesterday aimed to slow down the spread, as COVID-19 numbers continue to rise. So if you are voting today, please be sure that you are doing so safely. Wear a mask. Social distance. Wash your hands.
It’s an honor to lead such a talented and passionate group of Care Champions. Keep up the great work, everyone!
Employment has continued to be a hot topic throughout the pandemic – whether it be layoffs, furloughs, transitioning to remote work, or lack of opportunity. Though mainstream media tends to exclude persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities from their discussions, they too have been hit especially hard by these same challenges. It seems fitting to start this conversation during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
The U.S. Department of Labor announced that the 2020 theme for NDEAM would be increasing access and opportunity.
“People with disabilities are experienced problem solvers with a proven ability to adapt,” said Office of Disability Employment Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Jennifer Sheehy. “Now more than ever, flexibility is important for both workers and employers. NDEAM celebrates the ingenuity people with disabilities bring to America’s workplaces.”
That is where the Incompass Employment Services program comes in. Meet Charlie, who started on the path to employment nearly four years ago. Our specialists helped him find his place in the Hannah Duston family, and the rest is history. Charlie’s favorite part of working is kitchen duty where he is tasked with unloading and loading the dishwasher and delivering food within the healthcare facility. He does his job with pride and his supervisor has nothing but high praise for Charlie.
Unfortunately, for those who live in group home settings, increased COVID-19 protocols have created a barrier to employment. In order to ensure the continued safety of not only the individual but their housemates, many are restricted from returning to work. Using guidance from the Department of Developmental Services, human services agencies and families have made the decision to err on the side of caution to reduce exposure. But that doesn’t make it any less disappointing. Aldrin, our employment specialist, is dedicated to finding suitable employment where individuals can remain safe but fulfilled. Charlie is a shining example of such a possibility.
Did you know that about one in every 800 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome?
Eight years ago, Peg Ricardo learned that she was going to be welcoming a sweet baby boy into the world. With a prenatal diagnosis, she knew what she and her family would be up against. What she did not know, however, was that her son would be born prematurely at 33 weeks old. There is nothing that can prepare a mother and her child for a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Recalling the moment when she learned that her son would have Down syndrome, Ricardo spoke about how she had initial concerns for her child’s future – just as any mother would. But when he was born prematurely, all of those worries were overshadowed by a new fear. That her son would not survive.
It was in her darkest moments in the NICU, that a calling sparked within Ricardo. With intensive, round-the-clock care, she was able to take her baby boy home. A debt she felt could never be repaid, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t going to try. Just when you think being a super mom to two young boys and a Family Support Specialist at Incompass Human Services isn’t enough – she proved us wrong! Ricardo is also a coordinator for the Southern New England division at Project Sweet Peas, “a national non-profit that provides support to families of premature or sick infants and to those who have been affected by pregnancy and infant loss.”
You can find Ricardo delivering the hats that her mother hand knits, care packages, and holiday gifts to families that have children in the NICU. Anything to put a smile on their face. And you know the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress makes the delivery list too!
Our hope in sharing this story is to show that a Down syndrome diagnosis isn’t a be-all-end-all. That living a full, meaningful life isn’t far-fetched. Rather, it is tangible and right at the tips of our fingers. In the spirit of Down Syndrome Awareness month, we strive for more than just awareness. We strive for advocacy, inclusion, and opportunities. Every single day of the year.
Ricardo making deliveries for Project Sweet Peas with her little helpers!
We are so thrilled to finally share our secret! Monday, October 19 was the official launch and unveiling at our main location in Chelmsford. We are overwhelmed by the love we’ve received from our Care Champions, the folks we are honored to support, and their families. Let’s not forget our incredible community partners! The LifeLinks CLASS community has embraced Incompass, and for that, we are very grateful.
Monday’s unveiling ceremony wasn’t the only thing we have up our sleeves (come on you know us better than that). There are lots of exciting projects in the queue, so stick with us and we promise that you won’t be disappointed!
We were thrilled to have our very own Anibal, Scott and Fernando featured in a photoshoot series that spotlights the lives of everyday people living through the pandemic. This social movement began with two Boston-based photographers who launched The Front Steps Project,and soon it swept the nation.
Adjusting to the “new normal” has been especially difficult for the residents in our group homes. The drastic change in their routines can lead to heightened feelings of isolation. What better way to counteract that than with some good ol’ socially distant fun! A few of the shots from the photoshoot are included below – keep your eyes peeled for the rest.
