community opportunity center annual report - … opportunity center annual report issue: 35 winter...

Noted by Denise King, Executive Director

Throughout Community Opportunity Center’s (COC) history of offering housing opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, we have developed a reputation for quality that has grown from people being afforded choice and flexibility in a safe and caring environment. COC’s staff help to guide and support people to make good decisions and lead fulfilled lives. They are the backbone and heart of COC. In 2016, the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority (DWMHA) approved two, $1 increases to direct care personnel throughout Wayne County. These were unprecedented increases that were only afforded to direct care personnel in Wayne County. We are grateful to Tom Watkins, President and CEO of DWMHA, his Board of Directors and executive team for taking action to help resolve a direct care crisis in our county. Thereafter, a retroactive adjustment was made from DWMHA for unfunded expenses incurred by providers in fiscal year 2014/15. COC’s Board of Directors chose to share some of these unexpected funds with our personnel. The above noted monetary adjustments made a significant impact on the wages of our valued personnel. With our wage and benefit package better than most in the county, we hope to improve our retention rate and secure additional competent and caring members to our team.

This year the mortgage obligation for Plymouth Opportunity House (POH) was met. The home was built and occupied in 1975. The only remaining mortgage is that of Livonia Opportunity House (LOH), which will be fulfilled in 2020.

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Community Opportunity Center

Annual ReportIssue: 35 Winter 2017 Editor, Denise King Designer, Sue Deacon

What’s Inside:A Look Back at 2016 1–3In Loving Memory 3Quality Report Card 4COC Volunteers 5–6Alzheimer’s Info Meetings 7COC’s New Offices 7Home and Community-Based Services Program Transition 8Section 298 Initiative Update 92016 Income/Expense Summary 10MiABLE 10People on the Move 11COC Waiting List 12Personalized Enrichment and Community Services Program 122017 Membership Dues 13COC Annual Meeting 13On the Road Again/Camp 14-1518th Annual Golf Outing 16Donations, Honorary & Memorial Giving 17-19COC Board of Directors 20

Our MissionWe promise to help the people we serve lead fulfilled lives by providing quality, individualized support.

A Look Back at 2016

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Home improvements at POH included: updated air-conditioning, furnace and hot water system, exterior trim was replaced and painted, new gutter and aluminum trim installed as was new flooring in a few rooms. Interior doors and bathroom vanities have been replaced. New windows will soon be installed throughout the home.

The kitchen was renovated at Balmoral House, which is home to Robert and Greg. At LOH overhead lighting was installed in bedrooms and other parts of the home and new cabinets added in one of the offices. Landscaping was updated and a sprinkler system installed. LOH has been home to ten people, but when our dear friend Eddie Childress passed away in May, the COC Board of Directors agreed to lower the number of people living at LOH to nine. When this home opened in 1980, it began as a home for 16 individuals.

Replacement Reserve funds held by Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), where mortgages originated for POH and LOH, were used for the updates made to both of these homes.

COC leased six vehicles with financial support from CLS for persons living in unlicensed housing where staff were driving their own vehicles. Our fleet of vehicles is up to 19. The benefits are twofold, safer vehicles and an increased pool of personnel to select from as some applicants lack proper insurance or vehicles safe enough to meet COC’s safety standards.

COC hosted a legislative breakfast to educate our local legislators of concerns in the mental health systems and those issues of greatest relevance to COC. Attorney, Robert Stein from Michigan Assisted Living Association (MALA), and Steven Slayton, from Services to Enhance Potential (STEP), also presented at the breakfast. We are in the planning stage of hosting another legislative breakfast for the spring of 2017. A Staff Appreciation Committee was formed. A staff member is highlighted from each home on a monthly basis. A monthly newsletter intended for staff, titled “The Heartbeat”, is distributed. This enjoyable publication highlights staff for the extraordinary things they do, anniversaries and birthdays are acknowledged, and fun

and helpful information is shared. In the summer, a Staff Appreciation Luncheon was held in Rotary Park at which time presentations were made, awards presented, shirts provided to all personnel and gift certificates were raffled. We at COC are tremendously grateful for our employees who care so deeply and work so attentively to meet the needs and desires of those who have selected COC as their residential provider of choice.

Greg baking in his GCOM apartment.

COC Annual Report 2016

Howard and Denise at Staff Appreciation Luncheon.

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In COC’s quest to increase nutritional awareness and ensure that well balanced and nourishing meals are available to the men and women affiliated with COC, a recipe book was developed for use in each home. The book consists of healthy, yet easy to prepare meals. Personnel from the Michigan State University Extension Food and Health Program hosted two, eight-week nutrition classes, that were attended by persons living and working in homes supported by COC. Also, Nancy Holloway, a registered nurse and dietician, who is a member of COC’s Wellness Committee, offered nutrition classes, a six-week diabetes training for families and staff, and provided some one-on-one support to those in cooking positions in multiple COC homes.

We will continue to help people with developmental disabilities lead better lives wherever they choose to live, where they wish to work and how they wish to spend their days. All that we do would not be possible without the generous and loving support of families, friends, business associates and community partners, for whom we at COC are forever grateful.

In Loving Memory Edward (Eddie) Childress passed away on June 26, 2016, which is a tremendous loss for those who knew and loved Eddie. He was dramatic, lovable, funny, witty and sometimes devilish, yet always a charmer who enjoyed making people laugh. Eddie lived at Livonia Opportunity House since 1980. We at COC often spoke with him about trying different housing opportunities, but he remained con-sistent in his desire to remain within the home where he was comfortable and among those he knew as friends, even while receiving Hospice care. You can’t think about Eddie without smiling as he just warmed your heart and was a fun person to be with. Robert Chapman passed away suddenly on August 28, 2016. He was a happy man who often spoke of his many family members who were near and dear to him. Robert was a good friend to those who lived and worked with him at Redford Opportunity House, where he lived since the home opened in 1984. Robert was kind, inquisitive and he so enjoyed every meal and coffee. He was honest to a fault. When he noticed someone with a “fat belly”, without hesitation he would point and note his observance out loud, which was often embarrassing. As much as staff tried, this inclination to share this information never ceased, but his bubbly personality overshadowed some of the unique sayings for which he was known.

Julie Krebaum passed away on December 31, 2016 after a long illness. Julie moved into Garden City Opportunity Manor in 1996. Three years ago she transferred to a four-person home known as Friendship House, which is also supported by COC. Julie was always happy and loved being among friends and family. She had many hobbies that kept her busy, but most of all she enjoyed bowling, watching Red Wing games and going to dances and other social activities. Julie was also a hard worker and a very conscientious employee. Julie had a big heart and a cheerful personality.

Anne and Greg enjoying time together at a Halloween party.

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Throughout the year, audits are conducted by the three Managers of Comprehensive Provider Networks (MCPNs); Community Living Services (CLS), Consumer Link Network (CLN) and Integrated Care Alliance (ICA), which are the mental health agencies that fund and ensure case management services for the men and women under COC’s care. The Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority (DWMHA) also conducts an Environmental Review. The Office of Recipient Rights completes a review to ensure compliance with their requirements. Furthermore, through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) for those homes that are licensed through the state, a programmatic and environmental review is conducted, as is a fire inspection. The results are as follows:

■ Of the 18 quarterly reviews conducted by CLN, all were met with full compliance.

■ Of the 17 areas reviewed in the homes supported by CLS, 100% compliance was met as it relates to staff records. The Supports Coordinators noted 100% positive reviews to the 60 questions on the audit, accompanied by very positive comments. The financial analyst review requested that resident fund reports are submitted more timely. As we have two people outside of our offices double checking the bank and resident funds reconciliations, we have made changes that will hasten this process in order to be more timely with submission of these reports. This Plan of Correction was accepted.

■ Integrated Care Alliance reviews demonstrated full compliance for the five homes reviewed.

■ Six Recipient Rights Reviews were conducted at homes that are licensed and supported by COC. These include: Plymouth Opportunity House, Livonia Opportunity House, Redford Opportunity House, Garden City Opportunity Manor, Milburn House and Curtis House. All received 100% compliance.

■ Licensing reviews through LARA at POH and GCOM met 100% compliance after the plan of correction was submitted for both locations.

■ Fire Inspections at four licensed homes met 100% compliance, with one home requiring a recheck before issuing 100% compliance.

■ The Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority Environmental Reviews of GCOM and POH met 100% compliance and the auditor took time to call and share with me (Denise King) how impressed he was with both locations and the staff at each.

While COC’s contractual obligations are of utmost importance, so too, are the survey reviews we at COC receive from the men and women we support. The survey conducted in 2015 focused on the satisfaction level of the type of housing, location, and those with whom people lived. In 2016, the emphasis was on social interactions, ability to make personal choices, community integration, satisfaction with the choice of work or vocational setting and satisfaction with personnel. The average rating was a satisfaction level of 96%. The survey noted that one person who is competitively employed wishes to work closer to his home, which staff are assisting him in achieving. The other concern noted is the issue of two or three people living together and only having one staff available to them. This may restrict activities when the apartment mate or housemates do not wish to engage in the same activity yet no one can be left alone. With proper planning, we can offer additional staffing or transportation support to help alleviate this concern. With the knowledge we received, improvements have been made to address noted concerns.

Quality Report Card

Tim and Jeff having fun at Dave and Busters.



Once again we have had the privilege of coordinating and working with dynamic volunteers. In 2016, more than 120 volunteers participated in nearly 20 projects, or engaged in ongoing volunteer activities, for which we are extremely grateful for each person’s valuable time. Volunteer activities included:

■ Two Eagle Scout activities, one which created a new patio area at Garden City Opportunity Manor and another painted the interior of the Milburn House garage.

■ Men from the Manresa Alhambra Caravan hosted a Clinton River Cruise for persons affiliated with COC, they grilled the meat for COC’s annual picnic and offered their support at the Plymouth Community United Way and COC golf outing.

■ The Plymouth Community United Way sponsored both a spring yard cleaning and fall leaf raking activity whereby employees of Keller Williams Relators, Canton Prep School Students and employees from Varroc Lighting were disbursed to homes supported by COC in the Plymouth and Plymouth Township areas.

■ Employees from Fiat Chrysler Automotive also engaged in leaf clean-up, a painting project and they applied blacktop sealer at two home locations.

A Year of Exceptional Volunteers and Volunteer Projects

Alhambra members gather before the grilling commences.

Wally, Jim and Cindy ready for cruising the Clinton River.

■ Ford Motor employees cleaned and painted the garage at Curtis House, another group from Ford painted five apartments at GCOM and others applied blacktop sealer at two home locations.

■ Many COC families assist with mailings and other activities throughout COC including volunteering at the COC/PCUW golf outing.

■ Scott Davidson, COC’s Aflac representative, and his wife, Kerry, have befriended Jim from Friendship House, which has enhanced Jim’s quality of life.

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Thank You, Volunteers!

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Norman AugustineMary BabcockTim and Julie Baechler familyBrandon BielickiDante and Gerri BorioLarry Boulton Cliff and Shelia DakeEmory, Bev and Lyle DanielsScott and Kerry DavidsonCarrie DawkinsSue DeaconJohn DeGeorgeDoc and Darlene DockeryJim EvansMegan GaleanaDanny GarrettJune HanleyPatricia HansenMary Beth HausmanHolly HeathBill HeatonJim and Nancy HollowayMike, Geneva and Patricia HuziakGeorge JagitschDiane JanesRichard and Patti KetelhutJennifer KingDoug and Kelli Mans familyDr. Sandra McClennenRob MooreMike and Terri Murray familyFrank NewardKurt and Jackie NorrisMaureen O’Reilly

How You Can Help■ Spend time with the

individuals we support ■ IT support for our office and

home computers ■ Lead walking or exercise

programs ■ Personal shoppers ■ Spring yard clean-up and

flower planting ■ Summer gardening ■ Fall leaf clean-up■ Occasional large mailings ■ Painting ■ Miscellaneous maintenance

■ Sue Deacon designs all public relations materials including the COC’s newsletter and this annual report. June Hanley and Paula Stemberger volunteer regularly by assisting with administrative and HR activities at the COC administrative office. Monthly, Mary Beth Hausman and Norman Augustine review Resident Fund sheets and

reconcile checking accounts of those supported by COC.

■ Rob Moore, who along with his wife Terri, were some of our first home administrators. Upon retiring from a career in teaching, Rob is now helping COC with maintenance projects.

■ COC also works with the local court systems with those who have minor infractions who can assist with supervised maintenance activities as they acquire necessary community service.

Brian and Elaine PearsonConnie QuinnPat RyanAmanda ScroggsPaula StembergerGloria SmithDick SosinKathy UhligJim VellaBrent WoodruffAlhambra-Manresa Caravan DTP Walking and Running Group Fiat Chrysler Automobiles VolunteersFord Motor VolunteersPlymouth Rotary Club VolunteersPlymouth Interact StudentsPlymouth Community United WayPlymouth Canton High School StudentsPlymouth Kiwanis Club

Cole, Newton and Duran, Certified Public Accounts, currently employ two people from COC. In addition they gratuitously completed 53 tax returns for 2015 for the men and women associated with COC. They have offered to do 2016 returns as well. Pictured are:Doug Cole, Dan, Art Cole, and Jean Ann.


Exceptional Volunteers continued.

Brian and Chris relaxing at the Friendship House family and friends picnic.

Michelle cheers on her beloved Spartans.


Alzheimer’s Disease Informational Meetings

In 2016, COC collaborated with the Alzheimer’s Association to host six informational meetings on Alzheimer’s disease. Due to the number of people supported by COC in varying stages of this disease, and the desire by family and staff for more training, we will again offer these same informational meetings. The last meeting will be slightly longer and cover two topics. The dates and titles of each training are as follows:

Monday, April 3, 2017, 10 a.m. to noon Developmental Disabilities and Dementia

Monday, April 10, 2017, 10 a.m. to noon Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease Monday, April 17, 2017, 10 a.m. to noon Coping with Changing Behaviors

Monday, April 24, 2017, 10 a.m. to noon Activity Planning for Person with Alzheimer’s Disease

Monday, May 1, 2017, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Communication and Environmental Safety

The meetings will be held in COC’s new conference room which is handicapped accessible and located at 14147 Farmington Road in Livonia (the building is located north of the Looney Baker Donut Shop which is on the northwest side of Schoolcraft and Farmington Road). Please RSVP by calling Joyce at 734-422-1020 or email her at [email protected]. This training is open to anyone wishing to attend.

COC’s New AdministrativeOfficeAfter seven years in the current office location, the COC administrative office will move to a larger and more suitable office suite. This move will take us north of Schoolcraft Road and west of Farmington Road (between The Looney Baker and Christ of Savior Church). The planned move date is Monday, March 6, 2017, and the new address is 14147 Farmington Rd., Livonia 48154. The main telephone phone number will remain the same (734-422-1020), as will the numbers assigned to each administrative staff member.

Through a COC Strategic Planning initiative, technology upgrades will be made when the move occurs. These upgrades include shared data storage, improved technology safety and will allow for remote conferencing. To slightly lessen the cost of additional office space, COC has signed an agreement with Family Care Network to share the cost and use of the conference room, which will be accessible to each office suite. Two people who are widely known and admired for their work with adults with developmental disabilities (Walter Horlings and Cheryl Betz) are respectfully the President / CEO and Vice President of Programs at Family Care Network. We are looking forward to the collaboration this will afford both organizations.

The COC Board of Directors and personnel extend our sincerest gratitude to Dan West, President/CEO of the Livonia Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber staff and Board of Directors for permitting COC personnel and Board of Directors to frequently use their conference room and equipment when we outgrew our meeting space.

Tim enjoys the Alhambra river cruise.

Thanks to the Detroit Tiger’s Organization and Lisa Lindner, COC Program Manager, who solicited game tickets, we graciously received 62 tickets to games, of which all were used.

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The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently published a new set of rules for the delivery of Home and Community Based Services through Medicaid waiver programs. Through these rules, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aim to improve the experience of individuals in these programs by enhancing access to the community, promoting the delivery of services in more integrated settings, and expanding the use of person-centered planning.

Statewide Transition PlanThe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services developed a Statewide Transition Plan (STP) for bringing Medicaid waivers into compliance with the new rule. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services submitted the first version of the STP to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on January 16, 2015.

The Departments revised STP is based on feedback from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. MDHHS concluded the comment period for the revised plan on January 3, 2017. The revised STP has not received approval yet from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. They have raised some issues about licensing, including such matters as resident care agreements and leases, visiting hours and house rules.

Survey Tools and ProcessAs part of the transition process, the Department must determine whether settings under these

Home and Community-Based Services Program Transitionwaiver programs have “home and community-based” characteristics. For this purpose, the Department has developed a set of “survey tools” to assess individual settings for compliance to the new home and community-based characteristics.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is partnering with the Developmental Disabilities Institute of Wayne State University to conduct the statewide assessment process for the Habilitation Supports Waiver.

In April of 2016, phase one of the statewide assessment began and concluded on August 4, 2016. Only one person affiliated with COC was part of the first assessment process. The second phase was to have begun on November 18, 2016. There were 1,798 surveys completed in phase one and 2,640 are to be completed in phase two of residential providers.

Provider owned or controlled settings, of which those affiliated with COC are: Plymouth Opportunity House, Livonia Opportunity House, Redford Opportunity House, Garden City Opportunity Manor, Curtis House and Milburn House, will each be under greater scrutiny under these new rules. As such, if the homes and services provided through these homes fail to become compliant with necessary regulations by March 17, 2019, they will be removed from the provider network and will not receive Medicaid reimbursement for those living in the homes. Throughout COC, every effort is being placed on ensuring compliance with all aspects of these new rules.

Version 3.0 of Michigan’s Statewide Transition Plan for Home and Community Based Services is on COC’s webpage under “NEWS” (www.cocliving.com).



Governor Snyder’s proposed 2017 budget, under Section 298, called for carving in behavior health benefits to the Medicaid health plans by the end of fiscal year 2017. More simply put, this would privatize mental health care. This created an outcry of concern from consumers, advocates, families and professionals who opposed our public mental health system being turned over to Medicaid HMO’s.

Over the last year, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched the Section 298 Initiative in response to the legislative language in the Fiscal Year 2017 approved budget. The language, known as Section 298, called upon MDHHS to form a workgroup “to make recommendations regarding the most effective financing model and policies for behavioral health services. The intension is to improve the coordination of behavioral and physical health services for individuals with mental illnesses, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders.”

Under Section 298, MDHHS and the “Workgroup”, known as the 298 Facilitation Workgroup, are to produce a report with recommendations for the Michigan Legislature. The final version of the report will include recommendations on policy changes, models, pilots and benchmarks for implementation. MDHHS and the Workgroup have hosted a series of Affinity Group meetings to obtain input from individuals, families, providers, payers and advocates from which ideas and feedback from these discussions are to help in the development of the final recommendations.

These Affinity Group discussions and strong advocacy efforts across the state were effective in deterring privatization of mental health services, thus the originally proposed language to privatize community mental health has not been supported. Rather, an Interim Report for the Section 298 is in the process of finalization and was to have been sent to the Michigan Legislature in January. We at COC will remain optimistic that such things as uniform and consistent standards for the provision of behavioral health and physical healthcare service will be improved, that an independent statewide infrastructure to facilitate the resolution of grievances, appeals and rights issues will be established, an improved appeal process is established, access to

Update on Section 298 Initiative current providers will remain in place along with the provision of other necessary and desirable improvements.

The 298 Facilitation Workgroup has approved 70 policy recommendations for inclusion in the interim report, which address the following policy issues:

1) Coordination of Physical Health and Behavior Health Services

2) Access to Services and Continuity of Services3) Administration of Complaints, Grievances, and

Appeals4) Protections for Mental Health and Epilepsy Drugs5) Self-Determination and Person-Centered Planning6) Governance, Transparency, and Accountability7) Workforce Training, Quality, and Retention8) Peer Supports9) Health Information Sharing10) Quality Measurement and Quality Improvement11) Administrative Layers in Both Health Systems12) Uniformity in Service Delivery13) Financial Incentives and Provider Reimbursements

The second phase of the process will involve the development of: (1) models and pilots; and, (2) benchmarks for implementation, to build upon the policy recommendations that were proposed in the interim report. MDHHS and the 298 Facilitation Workgroup will incorporate recommendations for models, pilots and benchmarks for implementation into a final report, which will then be submitted to the legislature by March 15, 2017.

The entire Interim Report of the 298 Facilitation Workgroup and future updates to the Section 298 Initiative has been posted on the COC website under the section titled, “NEWS”.

Gerry returns from biking.

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Michigan became the fifth state to open a savings program for people with disabilities on November 1, 2016. The MiABLE (Michigan Achieving a Better Life Experience) program allows qualified individuals who become disabled before the age of 26 to save up to $14,000 a year in a tax preferred savings account. Tax preferred means that qualified distributions are not taxed. ABLE accounts provide self-empowerment and improved quality of life for people with disabilities and their families by allowing them to save and supplement disability-related expenses such as personal support services, housing and education.

Individuals receiving public benefits, such as Supple-mental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, are only allowed a maximum of $2,000 in assets. Similar to special needs trust accounts, the ABLE accounts may allow individuals to save money and not jeopardize their eligibility for public programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.

The maximum allowed in a MiABLE account is $500,000. If the account exceeds $100,000, the beneficiary’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is suspended, however, they may remain eligible for Medicaid. Funds remaining in the account upon the death of the participant will go to the state to repay the individual’s Medicaid costs.

MiABLE Opened November 1

Income and Expense Summary for 2016

MiABLE has an annual fee of $45 as well as a low asset-based investment fee between 0.5 and 0.78 percent depending on the account investment option. There are five different investment options available for MiABLE accounts ranging from Conservative to All Stock Aggressive. Debit cards are expected to become available February 1, 2017.

The feature that sets the MiABLE program apart from other ABLE programs (currently offered in Ohio, Tennessee, Nebraska and Florida) is the public profile option. Participants may choose to create a public profile that friends and family can make contributions to. The public profiles are available and searchable on the MiABLE website. Anyone may contribute to an individual’s public profile account.

Cash Received 2015/2016 Fiscal Year(Subject to Audit)

Cash Received & Expensed 2015/2016 Fiscal Year(in thousand dollars)

*The Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority (DWMHA) provided a one-time retroactive adjustment to all residential and vocational providers throughout Wayne County. COC’s share of the undesignated adjustment was $179,000. The COC Board of Directors approved the use of $117,000 of these funds for household updates, furniture, resident’s unfunded dental expenses, staff appreciation activities, personnel training, IT updates and a staff Christmas bonus. The balance of the one-time retroactive adjustment has been set aside for future needs. NOTE: These figures may or may not tie to the 2016 Financial Statements or 2015 Form 990.

Operations Actual FYESubject to Audit

Cash ReceivedCash ExpensedNet CashOne Time Retro Adjustment*Net Cash Effect

2016$5,974

6,014($40)

179-117= 62$22

Program Monies from Fiduciaries & MCPNs, Home Help & Food Stamps

Cost of Care from Social Security & Semi Independent Housing Income

HUD Housing Assistance & MSHDA Capital Reimbursements

Donation, Fundraising, Rental Income

Dollars in thousands


MiABLE Informational MeetingsCOC is hosting two MiABLE informational meetings on Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The meetings will be held at the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center Library, 32777 Five Mile Road, Livonia. Each session will last approximately 90 minutes which includes time for questions and answers. Please R.S.V.P. by contacting Joyce Franks at 734-422-1020 or [email protected]. Also, for more information on ABLE accounts or to enroll in MiABLE go to www.miable.org, or you can speak with someone by calling 844-656-7225.


People on the Move Four people moved to different homes affiliated with COC. Connie, who lived at ROH since 1984 moved to Illinois to be closer to her family. We also welcomed three people from the COC waiting list into homes supported by COC.

Milburn Home Welcomes Rosemarie HardyJust over a year ago Rosemarie Hardy joined the three ladies living at Milburn House. Rosemarie lived in an apartment with minimal support prior to joining our COC family. Her brother, Kevin, has been very involved in Rosemarie’s transition to Milburn House. Rosemarie has a job at Services to Enhance Potential (STEP) where she works five days a week. She enjoys going to movie theaters with her housemates, bowling on Saturdays and colorful things. Red is her favorite color.

Welcome John Norton to Rocker HouseJohn joined our COC family in May 2016. Prior to moving to COC he lived at home with his mother and brother. Although John’s initial application to live in a COC supported home was submitted in 1986, it wasn’t until 2015 that his family began to actively seek alternative housing options for John. John grew up in Wayne and he continues to work at the Wendy’s restaurant in Wayne, a job he has held for 20 years. He especially enjoys the camaraderie of his co-workers. John has bowled on the same Thursday night bowling league for 20 years which lends itself to

his participation in Special Olympic Bowling. He loves time spent at his family’s cottage on Mullett Lake where he enjoys several water sport activities. John has acclimated well to his new home.

Garden City Opportunity Manor (GCOM) Welcomes Stephen WiraStephen moved into GCOM in January of 2017. He previously lived with his parents who have been supportive throughout his transition. Stephen currently attends Burger Transition Center which is not far from his new home. Stephen is enjoying his new independent living environment and is making new friends at GCOM. He enjoys summer camps, playing computer games, walking and vacationing in Florida with his family. Stephen has an extraordinary memory and ability to recall dates and details of activities.

A Dream RealizedRaymond and Tim were dismayed each time a new lease was signed as it meant another year away from their beloved town of Plymouth. Availability and affordability, as well as the timing of identifying the right housing to coincide with the end of their lease, became a daunting task. To complicate matters, Mickie, Tim’s dog, had to find a welcoming landlord, which they did. This November everything fell in place and the men moved just after Thanksgiving. The move was the highlight of their holiday season. Jim, the gentleman who manages the property, eagerly welcomed the men and worked diligently to update the duplex to their liking. The men now walk into town and utilize the library, eateries, local stores and enjoy living in a neighborhood.

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COC Waiting List for Residential Services and Supports The COC Residential Waiting List consists of those who are actively seeking a residential alternative, and those who wish to be on the waiting list, but do not wish to be notified of currently vacancies. Those not currently interested in a residential alternative are on the “Deferred” list.

Ninety-four people are on the COC waiting list, 40 of which are females and 54 are males. • 14 women are on the Active Waiting List and

26 are on the Deferred List• 23 men are actively seeking a residential

opportunity, thus on the Active Waiting List, and 26 are on the Deferred List

• 5 people have not responded to inquires about their choice or desire to remain on either list.

If you wish to learn more about a residential opportunity affiliated with COC or receive an application for residency, please contact Kathryn DeGeorge or Glen Hearn at 734-838-0538. The application is also on the COC website, under the section titled “Homes We Support”.

Personalized Enrichment and Community Services ProgramCOC has been exploring ways to expand services for individuals with developmental disabilities, living with their families. Board Treasurer, Tom Salapatek, and Denise King, Executive Director, visited a L’Arche community in Ohio and met with a family member who is also on the Board of Directors of Intentional Communities of Washtenaw County in Michigan. Both of these organizations, while unique, provide housing and supports to persons with developmental disabilities. Thereafter, in an effort to gain a deeper understanding of the needs of individuals living with their families, members, Board Secretary Holly Heath and Vice President Marge Mitchell, orchestrated three focus group meetings. Survey data was generated through discussions during these meetings, which revealed the needs and priorities of each group.

The most desired service noted by families is having the ability to find motivated community living support staff who will help their adult child become engaged in the community through work, volunteer, leisure and social activities.

COC’s Board of Directors approved the use of some investment funds for further exploration of this program and its implementation, which COC will pilot with a small group of people. A consultant, Tom Leger’ has been engaged to secure grant dollars for this program, notwithstanding the use of COC funds to move this program along. Mr. Leger’ is also working on employee relations, HR system improvements and will assist with the development of a Planned Giving program. If you have not attended one of the focus group meetings and wish to learn more about this proposed project, please call Denise King at 734-838-0530. Special thanks extend to board members Holly Heath and Marge Mitchell for the efforts they are putting toward the implementation of this service.

COC Administrative Staff.


2017 Membership Dues The 2017 membership dues are requested by February 28, 2017. Family members, friends, guardians, Durable Power of Attorneys, and personal representatives of the men and women supported by COC are asked to pay the annual $25 membership dues. Membership is required to vote at the COC Annual Meeting and ensures that you are on our mailing list for all important correspondence. The dues help defer the cost associated with mailings that take place throughout the year, cost associated with the Annual Meeting, annual COC Picnic and other functions open to family and friends. Please use the enclosed envelope for your membership dues.

Special Envelope Has Many Uses The envelope inserted in this newsletter can be used for several purposes: to make a donation, to extend a memorial or honorary gift, submit annual membership dues, and to support our annual appeal.

Thank You.

Please visit our website by going to: www.cocliving.com

We’re on the MOVE! Come visit us at our

new location. Effective Monday, March 6,

you’ll find us at:Community Opportunity Center

14147 Farmington RoadLivonia, MI 48154

734-422-1020

Join us for the Community Opportunity CenterAnnual Meeting & Awards Celebration

Wednesday, April 26, 2017 Business meeting at 6:00 pmDinner at 6:45 pm

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church39020 Five Mile Road, Livonia MI

This special evening will include: • Brief Business Meeting• Complimentary Catered Dinner• COC Update• Awards Ceremony• Door Prizes

Please RSVP by April 10 by calling Joyce Franks at 734-422-1020 oremail [email protected]

Thanks to the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club who sponsored a Christmas party for the men and women affiliated with COC. Pictured are Shannon and Larllene.


A lovely day in Frankenmuth.

On the Road Again

Julie enjoyed her visit to Pennsylvania.

GCOM enjoyed a Pink Jeep tour through Sedona, Arizona. Robert and Greg enjoy DisneyWorld.

2016 was a big year for several trips, many of which were out of state. COC is thankful to staff members who take time away from their families for overnight journeys.

POH spent a few days at Mr. & Mrs. Huziak’s cottage in Houghton Lake. Spooky weekend at Cedar Point.


Linda, Pam, and Cheryl visit Dollywood in Tennessee.


Russell, Marc, Tim, Ken and Jeff enjoyed the Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo.

Happy CampersCOC camp is always a summer highlight for many of our folks. This year two of our home administrators, Ashley and Howard, took on the task of planning and organizing the four day/three night stay at Somerset Camp. Nearly 50 people affiliated with COC enjoyed beautiful weather, good food, boat & tram rides, zip-lining, crafts, manicures at the Glitz and Glamor Salon, a scavenger hunt, music and dancing. The success of this outing is a direct reflection of the awesome volunteers and staff who attend each year. A special thanks to Mrs. Borio who has attended each of the 13 camp outings. Not only does she head up the craft activity each year, she has always assisted with all the pre-planning, grocery shopping and all finance issues involved.

Congratulations!

Brian receives award for 15 years of employment at Taco Bell.

James receives award for 10 years of employment at Waltonwood.

Patty and LeAsia at the CLN Christmas party.Dorothy admiring her manicure. Sara shows off her catch of the day.


18th Annual “Tee Off for a Friend” Golf Outing For the past 18 years Community Opportunity Center (COC) has been fortunate to partner with Plymouth Community United Way (PCUW) for the annual “Tee Off for a Friend” Golf Outing. Once again, all four courses at Fox Hills Golf and Banquet Center were full to capacity (380 golfers), the weather was great, breakfast, lunch and dinner were delicious, and volunteers were exceptional. All this combined with the generosity of the COC donors made COC’s largest fundraiser a huge success.

Ms. Bonnie JarlockMr. Stephan KanyoDr. and Mrs. Stanley KatleinMr. and Mrs. Glen KatleinWill Khanafer - Dial DrugsGrand Knight Patrick C. Maher Council 2690 Knights of Columbus Ms. Julie Krebaum Gerard KreinerMs. Barbara LeonardMr. Peter McGrathMr. Jeff McGuffMr. Dennis McGuireKevin Mislevy - MeijerMr. and Mrs. James MitchellDr. Kenneth Mydlowski, DDSMrs.Loretta O’LearyMr. James O’ReillyMs. Maureen O’ReillyMr. and Mrs. Michael Parkinson

Mr. and Mrs. Brian PearsonMrs. Josephine RandallMs. Renee SayeghMr. and Mrs. Mark ScarrMr. Fred SigmonMr. Edward SponsellerMr. Orville StaschkeMr. and Mrs. Brian StembergerMs. Kristen VandyneMr. and Mrs. James WhiteJohn and Terry WhiteheadBusch’s Fresh Food MarketCCS Business Machines Inc.KrogerMarch Tire Company Inc.National Block CompanySalon AwesomeSanofi Foundation for North AmericaThrivant FundsUnited Way of Greater Milwaukee

This event continues to be a critical source of income for COC, as it has been for several years. A BIG thank you is extended to the following individuals and businesses that contributed generously to the success of the event. COC’s portion of the proceeds raised from this extraordinary fundraiser was just over $76,000.

Anonymous DonorsMrs. Shirley AbarMr. Daniel BakerMr. Wally BerryBill and Rod’s ApplianceMr. and Mrs. Dante BorioMs. Diane Browning Mr. and Mrs. Bernard BullerMr. and Mrs. Carl CantrellMr. Robert Chapman Mr. and Mrs. Thomas ClarkCommunity Foundation SE MichiganMrs. Jean CrawfordCummings, McClorey, Davis, and Acho P.L.C.Mr. and Mrs. Emory DanielsScott Davidson - AflacMr. and Mrs. Stanley DurstPatrick Donnelly - Farmington Insurance Agency, LLC Mr. and Mrs. Philip ErnzenAndrea Faught - Dick Scott ChryslerMr. Richard FerenceMr. and Mrs. Andrew FicaraDr. and Mrs. James FlynnMs. Michelle FowlerMr. and Mrs. Marvin GansMr. Timothy GrzywacMr. and Mrs. Gerard Hausman Mr. and Mrs. Paul HaydonMs. Holly HeathMr. Edward Hibner and Barb KrasieckoMr. and Mrs. Charles IngersollMr. and Mrs. Larry Janes


Donations, Honorary and Memorial Giving to COCCOC is committed to providing the best possible living situation for the men and women we support. A critical factor that contributes to achieving this goal are contributions of all kinds. Donation of time and money are greatly appreciated. (Donations made December 1, 2015- December 31, 2016.)

Thank You to Our Generous Donors

General DonationsMr. Robert AbarMrs. Shirley AbarMr. and Mrs. Faud AjlounyMr. and Mrs. Ronald ArambulaMs. Kathleen Aubuchon-RuthMary BabcockMr. and Mrs. James BakerMr. and Mrs. Rodney Beckwith IIIMr. and Mrs. Garland BerryMr. Wally BerryMs. Eileen BerryMr. Brian BinderMr. Andy BischoffMr. and Mrs. Dante BorioMr. and Mrs. Lawrence BoultonBrown and Brown InsuranceMrs. Louise BumbMr. and Mrs. John BurdziakMr. Harry Cendrowski and FamilyMr. and Mrs. Thomas ClarkMr. and Mrs. William ColeJoan CotterMrs. Jean Crawford Ms. Linda CunninghamMr. and Mrs. Richard DahlkeScott Davidson - AflacMr. and Mrs. Timothy DiamondMr. David DiegelMr. and Mrs. Milan DockeryMr. Craig DominiakMr. and Mrs. Patrick DugganMr. and Mrs. Stanley DurstMr. Daniel DurstMr. and Mrs. Martin EisensteinMr. and Mrs. Steven ErlMrs. Mary FeenyMr. Richard FerenceMr. and Mrs. Andrew FicaraDr. and Mrs. James FlynnMs. Kathleen FlynnFord Volunteer CorpsMr. and Mrs. Edward FowlerKathy FreeseMr. and Mrs. Marvin Gans

Mr. Danny GarrettMr. Dellore GoodreauMrs. Irene GrzywacMr. and Mrs. Jim GusfaMichele L. HalloranMs. Barbara HalsteadMr. and Mrs. Gerard HausmanMr. Craig HausmanMr. and Mrs. Paul HaydonMs. Susie HayesMs. Elizabeth HerlihyMr. Edward Hibner and Barb Krasiecko Ms. Dixie HibnerMike HibnerMr. Douglas Holloway Mr. and Mrs. Michael HuziakMr. and Mrs. Larry JanesMr. Carl KandilianMr. Stephan Kanyo Mrs. Virginia KanyoDr. and Mrs. Stanley KatleinMr. and Mrs. Richard KetelhutRyan KingMr. Keith Kirkpatrick Mr. and Mrs. Jack KirkseyFr. Victor J. Renaud Council 3292 Knights of Columbus 3292Ms. Jean KrammerMr. and Mrs. Robert KrebaumMr. George Kriese Mr. John LawrenceMrs. Dana LaymanMs. Barbara LeonardMr. and Mrs. Gary LeyMr. Thomas LittleMrs. Joanne LoniewskiStephen and Joanne MackenzieMr. and Mrs. Kenneth Marshall Mr. and Mrs. John MartinoMrs.Phyllis McCaffreyMr. and Mrs. Douglas McClennenMr. and Mrs. James MiesMr. Edward Mies Mr. Jerry MiesMs. Mary MiesMs. Lina Mikuleviciene


Mr. and Mrs. James MitchellMr. and Mrs. Robert MooreMs. MoserMr. and Mrs. Matthew MunnMr. and Mrs. Kurt Norris Mrs. Betty NultyMrs. Mae Yong Ogletree Mrs. Loretta O’LearyMr. James O’ReillyMr. and Mrs. Brian PearsonChristina PernaMr. and Mrs. Richard PytlakMs. Felice ReaMrs. Mary ReedMrs. Denise ReeseMs. Patricia Ryan Mr. and Mrs. Mark SabudaMs. Renee SayeghMr. and Mrs. Thomas SchillingMr. and Mrs. Gary SchlabachMr. and Mrs. Terry SchleicherMs. Pat SchoenbergMr. and Mrs. Thomas SheehanMr. and Mrs. Jim SiroisMrs. Marie SnyderMr. Edward SponsellerMs. Jean StegenMr. and Mrs. Kevin Stemberger Judge Michael TalbotMs. Kristen VandyneMr. Gary WheelerMr. and Mrs. James WhiteJohn and Terry WhiteheadRoger WhitleyMs. Joyce WickmanMr. and Mrs. Mark WiraMr. Stephen WiraMs. Carol ZagoAlly Financial Inc.Alpha Delta Kappa Theta ChapterBusch’s Fresh Food MarketCommunity Financial Credit UnionCommunity Foundation SE MichiganGE FoundationGoldbrick Properties, LLCKrogerSlippers For Mom OrganizationPlymouth Community United WayThrivant FundsTRUISTUnited Way of Greater MilwaukeeUnited Way Quad CitiesUnited Way Southeaster Michigan


Honorary DonationsMrs. Loretta O’Leary for John O’LearyMr. Dellore Goodreau for Debbie GoodreauMr. and Mrs. Martin Hansen for Frank MarinoMs. Sandra Jergens for Terry JergensMr. and Mrs. Gary Jergens for Terry JergensMr. Carl Groth for Zachary GrothMr. and Mrs. Richard Ketelhut for Brian NorrisMr. and Mrs. Robert Krebaum for Julie KrebaumMs. Patricia Ryan for Gregory NeschichMr. and Mrs. James Baker for Danny BakerMs. Kimberly Rodgers for Julie DombrowskiMr. and Mrs. Philip Ernzen for Diane JanesMr. Carl Groth for Maybelle MunnMs. Jean Krammer for James AshleyMrs. Denise Reese for Linda HofmanMs. Maureen O’Reilly for Everyone In Memory of Peter NagrantMr. and Mrs. Martin Jackson

In Memory of Ken MadsenMr. and Mrs. Richard Madsen

In Memory of Helen and Maureen Sheen ObercMr. Frank Oberc

In Memory of Billie BedroRon and Mary Jo Bedro

In Memory of Wilson MunnMrs.Loretta O’Leary

In Memory of Will, Margaret and Bill NordbeckMrs. Margaret Yogi

Honorary and Memorial Donations

In Memory of Jim and Kay BakerMr. and Mrs. James BakerMs. Linda Baker

In Memory or Violet BarnhartMr. and Mrs. Edward DiegelMr. and Mrs. Gerard Hausman

In Memory of Jean McGrathMr. and Mrs. Larry Janes

In Memory of Danny O’LearyMrs. Loretta O’Leary

In Memory of Marie NewardMr. Craig NewardMr. Michael Neward

In Memory of Marie SnyderMr. and Mrs. Larry JanesMrs. Loretta O’LearyMs. Jean Stegen

In Memory of Carol McGrathMr. and Mrs. Edward Diegel

In Memory of Marcie LairMs. Bonnie Jarlock

In Memory of Maybelle MunnMr. and Mrs. Faud AjlounyMr. and Mrs. Lawrence BoultonIrene and David CainMr. and Mrs. Paul CarlsenMr. and Mrs. Daniel CollinsMr. and Mrs. Edward DiegelMs. Jeannette DusseljeeMr. and Mrs. Marvin GansMr. Carl GrothMr. and Mrs. Larry JanesMs. Bonnie JarlockMrs. Virginia Kanyo Mr. and Mrs. John KingMrs.Phyllis McCaffreyMr. and Mrs. Frederick McMasterMr. and Mrs. James MiesMs. Thelma MooreMr. and Mrs. David MunnMr. and Mrs. Donald MunnMr. and Mrs. James MunnMs. Patricia O’GormanMrs.Loretta O’LearyMs. Mary Jane ParkinMr. and Mrs. Jim RickliMr. and Mrs. Mark Scarr

Ms. Jean StegenJohn and Terry Whitehead

In Memory of Eddie ChildressBell Creek Community ChurchMr. and Mrs. Dante BorioMs. Dixie HibnerMs. Bonnie JarlockMr. and Mrs. John KingMs. Patricia MarshallMr. and Mrs. Robert MooreMrs.Loretta O’LearyMr. Gary ThrogmortonJohn and Terry Whitehead

In Memory of Ed VereshMr. and Mrs. Dante BorioMr. and Mrs. John King

In Memory of Jennifer StefaniakMs. Bonnie JarlockMr. and Mrs. Bill Stefaniak

In Memory of Lillian CeravoloMs. Betty Smith

In Memory of Lela DanielMr. and Mrs. John DeGeorgeMr. and Mrs. John King

In Memory of Margaret KemianMr. and Mrs. John King

Memorial and Honorary Donations help support the general needs of COC and the men and women we support. Call us at 734-422-1020 and we will deliver memorial envelopes to a funeral home or to your home. Also, anyone who desires to remember COC through their memorial giving can send a donation to COC in memory of an individual. Consider an Honorary donation to honor someone special for their birthday, anniversary, or just because you care. Whether remembering or honoring someone, a recognition letter is sent to the recipient and the donor. Your donation will make a difference!


James enlightens his housemates with words of wisdom.

James McBride and Marie BridenMr. and Mrs. Michael McGreevyMs. Gerry McIsaacMr. Patrick MiesMr. and Mrs. Richard MooneyMr. and Mrs. Robert MooreMr. and Mrs. Matthew MunnMrs. Maybelle MunnMs. Maureen O’ReillyMs. Mary PhillipsMr. and Mrs. John PorthMs. Sandy RogusJames Ryan FamilyMr. and Mrs. Chris RyanMr. and Mrs. Thomas SarafinMr. and Mrs. James SchemanskeMr. and Mrs. Walter SchemanskeMs. Pat SchoenbergMs. Judith ShimpMr. and Mrs. Robert SitkauskasMr. and Mrs. Daryl SoperMs. Kathleen SouthersMs. Mary SweetenMark and TerriMr. and Mrs. Thomas WagenerSusan WagnerMr. and Mrs.George WardMr. and Mrs. Timothy WilcoxMr. and Mrs. Ed Wozniak

In Memory of Julie KrebaumMs. Bonnie JarlockMr. and Mrs. John KingMr. and Mrs. Robert KrebaumMr. and Mrs. Lyle Nustad

In Memory of Ken MarshallMr. and Mrs. John DeGeorgeMr. and Mrs. John KingMs. Felice Rea

In Memory of Virginia KanyoMr. Stephan Kanyo

In Memory of Bill TraceyMr. and Mrs. Brian Stemberger

In Memory of Bill NordbeckMr. Daniel Durst

In Memory of Wally BerryMr. and Mrs. Zana Easton

In Memory of Stella M. GrothMr. Carl Groth

In Memory of John LairMs. Bonnie Jarlock

In Memory of Josef SabudaMrs. Margaret Sabuda

In Memory of Audrey AshleyMr. James Ashley

In Memory of Jean G. SigmonMr. Fred Sigmon

In Memory of Katie CollinsMr. and Mrs. Robert BochyMr. and Mrs. Daniel CollinsMr. and Mrs. Phil CoxMr. Trevor MantkusFr. Paul A. NobleMr. and Mrs. Daniel M NobleMr. and Mrs. Peter NobleMr. and Mrs. Peter NobleMr. Daniel M NobleMr. Jimmy ThompsonMs. Mary K. WimsattMr. and Mrs. Patrick DuddingMs. Kathleen PicanoMr. and Mrs. Shane Bowser

In Memory of Jim TurnerMr. and Mrs. David Greene

In Memory of Pat MiesAnonymous DonorMr. Alex AloeMs. Sandra ArranceMr. and Mrs. Robert BlamerJuanita Booker

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel BrennanMs. Sharron BrownMr. and Mrs. Kevin BurkeMr. and Mrs. Daniel CollinsMs. Joan CotterMs. Darlene CzarnikMs. Edith DavisEileen DayMr. and Mrs. Edward DiegelMr. and Mrs. Patrick DugganMr. and Mrs. Gerald DuncanMr. and Mrs. Gerald ElmgrenMs. Mary Ann FullerMr. and Mrs. Jesse FultzMs. Janet GentnerMr. and Mrs. John GilhoolyMr. and Mrs. Charles Grimshaw, JrMr. and Mrs. Gerard HausmanMr. and Mrs. Ron HildebrandtMr. and Mrs. William HillMr. and Mrs. Thomas HomingaMs. Ruth HughesMr. and Mrs. Larry JanesMs. Bonnie JarlockMr. and Mrs. Robert JenkinsMs. Jacquelyn JeruzalMr. and Mrs. Timothy KingMr. and Mrs. John KingMr. and Mrs. Donald KnoerlMr. and Mrs. Alan KopackMr. and Mrs. Charles Kvasnovsky JrMs. Diana LangloisMr. and Mrs. Morton LevineLogo Brands Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Lukasik


Community Opportunity Center2016 Annual Report14147 Farmington RoadLivonia, MI 48154

COC Board Members

Mike Mies, President Marge Mitchell, Vice President

Thomas Salapatek, Treasurer

Emory DanielsMary Babcock Larry Boulton Ed Diegel Kristin Haydon

Holly Heath,Secretary

Bill Heaton

Diane Janes Dan McCulloch Reese Serra Jan Plas, Emeritus Mark Scarr, Emeritus Dr. Sandra McClennen, Emeritus

Effective Monday, March 6,

you’ll find us at:14147 Farmington Road

Livonia, MI 48154734-422-1020

community opportunity center annual report - … opportunity center annual report issue: 35 winter...

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