Pathnotes Newsletter 2016 www.ptistl.org

Spring 2016

PathNotes Newsletter

Ben Discovers his Path to Success with PTI’s GAP ServicesHaving access to a structured environment is critical for Ben to discover what he is capable of and realizing the path to reach his goals. PTI’s GAP Services fits that need for him as it relates to socializing, improving employment and job-seeking skills or planning for his future. “I have a hard time getting motivated to go out and do things on my own” he says, “Pathways to Independence provides more of a structure for me.”

When he first came to PTI at the urging of his uncle four years ago, Ben says, “I wanted to have a social life, to do more stuff around St. Louis and get out of my shell a bit more. Being cooped up in my house, it’s bad for my psychological well-being.” By being involved with PTI, Ben says, “I’m more enriched by being able to go out and do things.”

On top of having more of a social life, one of Ben’s goals is to have a long-lasting career in information technology. He has worked seasonally for a software company, but wants to have a full-time, long-term career. He started working with Beth Gill in PTI’s new GAP (Growth and Potential) services program. For Ben, it includes 1:1 training on employment readiness, interview skills, job training and applications. A huge step forward for Ben has been discovering, applying for and being accepted into the LaunchCode program using his existing computer skills and the guidance and help of Beth.

The LaunchCode program is funded by private companies and provides training and later apprenticeships for people who want to get into the computer science field. It is a competitive program to be admitted to and Ben describes it as “an adapted course from Harvard and Yale that is aimed at people who come from a non-traditional background who want to learn computer science….I started on the wait list and then got into the class.” The LaunchCode apprenticeship program leads to jobs for 90% of their students.

The skills Ben has gained through PTI’s group social programming have already helped with the LanchCode class. He says, “There are a lot of group projects within the class that are discussion-based. It’s very gratifying to work with others and PTI has made me more confident to reach out and take initiative to join the conversation. I’ve been helped through PTI and now have the skills to work with others on projects in a group situation.”

While he says he still “struggles with consistency and follow-through,” he credits PTI with “connecting me with people and making me a fuller person.” Through the help of PTI’s social and GAP programs, Ben has developed his abilities and has a clear path to follow in order to achieve his goals.

DiscoveryDiscovery is the theme of this Pathnotes Newsletter. Learn how our participants have enhanced their lives and discovered their potential through the services PTI provides. Discover how our new GAP services have lead Ben on his career path. Learn how in only six months Christy now has a place she belongs in PTI. Find out how Safety National Corporation employees have dedicated years of service to PTI and enhanced the lives of our participants.

PATHWAYS TO INDEPENDENCE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Officers Bradford Werner President Steve Dedrickson Vice President John Finkenkeller Treasurer

Board MembersRachel BalbachDiana BoursiawRenau BozarthGary DeekenRandy GornbeinLaure HullversonLinda JohnsonBill KellerChristopher RobertsStephen Stanfill

Board Resource CommitteeSelma BalkRick BoalbeyJ. Scott ClarkDebbie EmmelkampGeorge FonyoDebby GordonArthur HoffmanCurtis Ittner, Jr. R. Troy Kendrick Linda NissenbaumJoan OliverTere Owens Jo Werner

BOARD BUSINESSBoard Meetings are held six times throughout the year. Please inquire to the office at 314-863-0202 x2 for more information.

Our Mission:Pathways to Independence supports the development of skills that positively impact the lives of adults with disabilities who seek greater independence and social success.

Our Vision: Adults with learning disabilities will enjoy a fullness of life through:• Living in a community which is

accepting and offers choice,• Attaining self-realization,

independent living, health and security,

• Engaging in healthy relationships and using good judgment, and

• Contributing to the community with a sense of purpose, passion and responsibility.

Programs are designed to assist participants to:

• Increase self-esteem • Develop a robust personal network

of friends and natural supports• Initiate self-advocacy• Enhance soft skills necessary for

vocational and employment success• Gain self-confidence • Enhance socialization skills and

social understanding• Integrate into and access their

community

Pathways Staff Craig Strohbeck Executive Director craig@ptistl.org Rose Piel Program Manager rose@ptistl.org Jessie Steinberg Program Manager jessie@ptistl.org Jamie Larson Project Monitor office@ptistl.org Beth Gill Program Specialist bgill@ptistl.org Kristen Azotea Program Specialist Ray Bozesky Program Specialist Beth Gartin Program Specialist Emra Okanovic Work-Study Student Brenna Whitehurst Work-Study Student Tamarah Patterson PR-Intern

Office AddressPathways to Independence200 South Hanley, Ste. 103

Clayton, MO 63105314-863-0202 Phone

314-863-7865 Faxoffice@ptistl.org

Like us on Facebook!http://www.facebook.com/ptistl.org

Visit us online at:

WWW.PTISTL.ORGSearch “Pathways to Independence Impact” on Youtube.com or visit our webstite at www.ptistl.org to watch

videos on PTI Programing

Jeff Improves Independence through CoachingNavigating the complex nuances of different social situations can be difficult. Jeff joined Pathways to Independence twenty years ago when he was looking for friends who were like himself. “I was out of school and wanted to develop friendships with others who have difficulties like I do. I’m a stutterer, which makes making friends even harder,” Jeff says. The staff at PTI has helped Jeff come out of his shell and develop the confidence to initiate conversations, discover shared interests and make friends.

Now, he says, “I have more confidence to talk with other people, but still have to worry about using my speech techniques so they can understand me.” The PTI staff has helped Jeff with this over the years. He says, “I feel like I can count on them [PTI staff]. They are always respectful and

willing to give me tips on how to be polite in certain situations.” PTI staff purposefully builds skill-building opportunities into community activities so participants can develop and practice the skills needed in other areas of their lives.

Despite the struggles Jeff has experienced with his speech, he has been able to develop friendships and plan independent activities with others he met through PTI. He says, “I am a part of a group of guys from PTI that get together and play cards...I’m also part of another group [from PTI] that practices cooking skills. After we cook something, we eat together.” Transferring the skills learned through PTI to initiate planned activities of their own is one of the ultimate goals of Pathways to Independence. Jeff continues to utilize PTI’s services and programming to improve on his social skills. The PTI staff is there to help participants understand the details to be successful.

PathNotes Newsletter PathNotes Newsletter

Upcoming Events in 2016

May 3: Give STL Day. Online day of giving at www.givestlday.org. PTI will also hold an open house and social on this day of giving at Inspiration Point at 200 S. Hanley, Suite 102.

May 14: BIS Washers Tournament benefiting PTI at Creve Couer Park. Teams of two, more information to come.

June 18: Pitch for D.D. at Busch Stadium. See the back page of this newsletter for more details.

July 23: Hollywood Dash at Streets of St. Charles. One-mile run and entertainment to benefit organizations who support people with disabilities living in St. Charles County.

Jeff, left, at the 2014 PTI Holiday Party

Safety National Corporation has been a invaluable resource for Pathways to Independence(PTI) for a few years. Founded by a PTI participant’s grandfather, Safety National provides financial, in-kind and person-to-person support to Pathways to Independence. The company first became involved with Pathways to Independence six years ago when their employees volunteered at PTI’s Annual Picnic. Mike Williams from Safety National said, “Rather than just write a check, we wanted to have our employees personally participate in the activity. Consequently, we provided the food and volunteers for PTI’s fall picnic at Tilles Park...On another occasion we partnered with PTI clients at the Color Run downtown. On a grander scheme, we hatched the idea of hosting the PTI holiday party at Safety National’s offices.”

The Annual PTI Holiday Party at Safety National is an event the participants look forward to all year. Every year, Safety National manages to top the year before coming up with even better decorations, activities and food for the participants to enjoy. Mike Williams stated, “For the 2015 party I made it a goal to make it the best holiday party yet....[We] wanted to make sure that people didn’t just sit at a table and not interact, so we brought in the holiday trivia game, along with bringing a photo booth...to allow [participants] to take home a memory of them and their friends.”

Safety National has also “sponsored PTI clients to attend the Theatre, attend a Cardinal game or two, and we’ve donated towards the purchase of new computer equipment [for Inspiration Point],” Mike says. Safety National’s employees truly understand the value of inclusion for our participants and their commitment to continually support PTI year after year is incredibly appreciated.

Safety National Corporation Steps up to the Plate for Pathways

2015 Holiday Party, left. Safety National Employee, John, and PTI participant, Melissa, at The Color Run, right.

Contributions and Tributes August 24, 2015-February 15, 2016

Our deepest gratitude goes to all those who continue to support Pathways to Independence. Please note: every attempt was taken to ensure accuracy in this list and any error or omission is unintentional. Please

contact the office if you locate any error.

PathNotes Newsletter

Leadership GiftAnonymousKevin and Betty BeckmannJohn and Kathryn DubuqueJohn and Marti Finkenkeller

Millennial SocietyMr. and Mrs. Gary DeekenDuane and Joy HerculesJim and Laure HullversonRichard and Lesa JohnsonDon and Fran McDanielGeorge and Susan NewmanJoanna WernerJoseph and Laureen Wilder

SustainerBlair and Selma BalkDiana BourisawLori BrennanScott ClarkMr. and Mrs. Edmond A B GarescheCurt and Molly IttnerBrian S. MalinStephen and Jennifer StanfillGreg and Annie Willard

SponsorSteve DedricksonGeorge DiederichGeorge FonyoJames and Natalie GemignaniGail HolzhausenDennis KillianLet’s Build Hope, LLCDr. Alan LeviLee and Lois MillerJeffrey and Diana MorrisPhilip and Sima NeedlemanThomas and Patricia O’TooleMr. and Mrs. Keith RabenbergLinda and Richard SmithTransitional Life Solutions LLC Craig and Jenifer StrohbeckWendy TorriMarc and Wendy Vander TuigBill WahlThe Walther FamilyJason WatersThomas and Patricia WiltschMarlene D. Zafft

FriendAlonzo and Yolanda AcklinMr. and Mrs. Chuck AndertNesher and Carrie AsnerArthur AuerTim BalkRyan BauerDon and Sue Berg

PathNotes NewsletterPartially Funded by:

Foundations and GrantsAon August A. Busch, III Charitable FoundationBland Family FoundationThe Grainger FoundationJST Charitable FundMillstone Foundation

In Memory of Jeanne BarryEd Barry

In Memory of William “Chief” BozzayDon and Fran McDaniel

In Memory of Robbie FingerElliot and Lynda Sharpe

In Memory of Peggy GoldfaderRachel BalbachPenny Robiner and David Miner

In Memory of Marilyn K. HebenstreitJoseph Hebenstreit

In Memory of Margaret (Nancy) KoenigBlair and Selma BalkThomas and Sharon KircherThe Walther Family

In Memory of Zohar RosenblithBetty Berger

In Memory of Linda SanfordRalph and Angela GrondaThe Earl C. Jones FamilySteve and Kathy PriceWilliam and Doris Sanford

In Memory of Alberta SlavinDr. Raymond G. Slavin

In Memory of John SullivanRobert J. ScullinDebbie Sullivan

In Memory of Karen SullivanKaren M. Sullivan Foundation

In Honor of Brian AkinsElisabeth Boone

In Honor of Blair and Selma BalkMyron and Prisella Grodsky

Christy Embraces her Asperger’s Diagnosis

Christy has the somewhat unique experience of being diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS), a form of autism, in her 30’s. She says the diagnosis has “empowered me to ask for help if I need it and learn more about Asperger’s Syndrome.”

In the six months Christy has been a Pathways to Independence (PTI) participant, the program has become an important part of her life. She moved to St. Louis City in January of 2014 to live with her brother. Soon after, “I met someone who helped me discover I had characteristics of AS.” She was diagnosed soon thereafter. “As a result, my family and I actively sought out groups to help me socially.”

Feeling like she is a part of a community is important for Christy. Joining PTI is one of the ways Christy made an effort to improve herself. “I hope to gain independence and be better integrated into the community,” Christy said. By throwing herself into the PTI program a few times each month, she has increased her awareness of and become an active participant in her new city.

With PTI, “I feel like I have a social group. Even though it is still early, I see that expanding the more I get involved.” Christy says, “I’m naturally a soft-spoken person. Through PTI, I’ve learned to

speak up so that people can hear me. My confidence has grown and my ability to participate in conversations and initiate them has improved tremendously.”

In just a few short months, Christy has embraced her diagnosis, joined a group where she feels she belongs and is well on her way to strengthening the tools necessary to live with AS. She says, “I don’t feel any different now that I have a diagnosis, it’s just who I am.”

New Board and StaffMembers

Beth Gill: New Program Specialist with Inspiration Point

Beth is a Certified Yoga Instructor, graduating from the Prana Yoga Center in La Jolla, CA. Beth brings with her several years of experience as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. This combination of knowledge is ideal to respond to every participant in the class and adapt PTI’s

new Relaxation/Anxiety response classes to the needs of those in attendance.

Gary Deeken: New Board Member Gary Deeken is a new member of PTI’s Board of Directors. In his professional career, he was the President/CEO of Central State Bus Sales. He is also the owner of Deeken Properties. Since Gary’s

retirement, he is actively involved with Ronald McDonald House Charities and mentors with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives).

Gary was first introduced to Pathways to Independence by Diana Bourisaw, a fellow PTI board member, through SCORE. His management, accounting, sales, marketing, human resources and business operations experience are valuable assets to the Pathways to Independence Board.

Betty L. BrandMr. and Mrs. Osmond ConradDebbie Emmelkamp- Decision Point ConsultingSam and Marilyn FoxMrs. Judith GallZora S. HankoJohn and Lynne HebrankThe W. Hizer FamilyJohn HonerkampPatricia KillianJoe and Janet LaniusRoberta LondoffDave McNaughtonTerrence PearmanEric and Christy PolkMrs. Dolores ReisMr. and Mrs. Stuart SlavinJoe Vaccaro

ContributorRich AkinsJoseph AuteberryFlorence BeckwarRobert and Julie BianchiMr. and Mrs. Richard BriggsJeri L. BrossDaniel and Janet DesnoyerKara DialSandra M. FerranteJoseph and Phyllis FrestaJerry and Elizabeth GibbsAdam GoffsteinJim and Chris GormanHelen Caplin HellerDavid Holtzman and Shauna FeelyDonald HongJ & E Office CityMichelle KandonskyThomas and Sharon KircherJim and Julianne KrekelerMr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. LangsamMerle and Donald MillerJudith MoellerAlan and Betty MorganCharles and Leslie PolokonisBarbara PratterKaren PreusserDavid and Annie RowanDavid and Karen SchusterJerome ShenJim and Diane SlatteryAndrew SurberAaron and Mary WitherspoonGerald and Judith Zafft

Matching GiftsAmeriprise Financial

In Honor of John FinkenkellerMichael and Martha Hogan

In Honor of John, Marti and David FinkenkellerWilliam and Lois Leslie

In Honor of Debbie GoldfaderNancy M. Greenberg

In Honor of Dr. Jeffrey GordonStephanie Schlamb

In Honor of Shannon MorrisKaren M. Sullivan Foundation

In Honor of Meredith RothMr. and Mrs. Michael Roth

In Honor of Brad WernerJack Skay

In Honor of Cindy WernerAnonymousKaren H. Crebs

In Honor of Ben WilderMichael and Christine Normile

On Occasion of ChristmasThe Hellwege Family

Merry Christmas Aunt Nancy and Uncle MickScott, Tricia, Stephanie and Emerson Hackett

Toast to Independence Event PartnersBartels & Missey ConstructionBowersox Insurance AgencyBrittani Schlager Graphic DesignDesign & Detail Markway Construction Co.Mesa CyclesAnthony and Jane ShortUrban Chestnut Brewing Company

Lodging Hospitality Golf Tournament Corporate ParticipantsAffinity Law GroupAmerican Electric and Data

Continued on next page

Christy (front, right) at a PTI small group event

A-Mrazek Moving SystemsAONByrne and Jones ConstructionCharter CommunicationsClifton Larson AllenCorporate Flooring GroupEagle BankEnterprise Bank and TrustEnvirotech, Inc.First BankFixture Contracting Co., Inc.Frederic RoofingGraingerLHM Hotels

Metro Electric SupplyMurphy PTC, Inc.Musick ConstructionParic CorporationPFGSerta Mattress CompanySP ArchitectsSt. Louis BankThe Lawrence GroupTrane Commercial SystemsUnited Fire ProtectionUS BankVoorhees International

Contributions Continued

PathNotes Newsletter PathNotes NewsletterFiscal Year 2015 Annual Report Fiscal Year 2015 Annual Report

Foundation/Corporate Support

In addition to public funding through local Senate Bill 40 Boards and individual giving, the following foundations, businesses and organizations contributed financially during FY ‘15:Ameren CorporationApple, Inc.August A. Busch Charitable FoundationAutism SpeaksBartels-Missey Construction, Inc.Behavior Intervention ServicesBland Family FoundationCornelsen Charitable FoundationEnergizer Charitable TrustEnterprise Holding FoundationFavazza’sFirst Unitarian Church of St. LouisGalanis Cataract & Laser Eye CenterThe Grainger Foundation

Hillside Animal HospitalLet’s Build HopeLodging Hospitality ManagementMaster Auto RepairThe Mildred, Herbert and Julian Simon FoundationMillstone FoundationNeighbors Credit UnionPeoples National BankPettus FoundationStinson, Leonard, StreetTaylor Jordon, LLCTheodore A. Keinstra FoundationUnited Way of Northern New JerseyThe Wellington Group, Inc.Winfield HomesVarious private family trusts

Statements of Activities for years ended June 30, 2015 and 2014

“I’ve seen how Pathways to Independence helps open doors and build confidence and skills of its clients. This is an under-served population that often falls through the cracks. [PTI] gets a lot of good things done with modest resources and a genuine human touch. I’ve witnessed this group help my nephew a lot.” -Michael

“My daughter has a ‘sense of belonging’ that she did not have before.” - Parent of PTI participant

2015 2014Unrestricted Support and Revenue Contributions Contributions 305,281 201,986 Grants MO Senate Bill 40 Boards -PLB—St. Louis County 0 13,759 -DD Resources—St. Louis City 10,033 8,296 -DDRB— St. Charles County 25,663 18,665 Special Events 60,223 27,147 Investment Income 1,225 1,037 Participant Fees 41,576 44,667 Miscellaneous 456 3,742 Total Unrestricted Support and Revenue 447,376 319,299

Expenses Programs 221,063 204,596 Supporting Services Management and general 58,202 47,346 Fundraising 27,981 31,765 Total Expenses 307,246 283,707 Increase in Unrestricted Net Assets 140,130 35,592 Net Assets at Beginning of Year 387,351 351,759 Net Assets at End of Year $527,481 $387,351

Program Highlights Survey ResultsParticipant Goal

Tracking• 131 participants received 7123.75

hours of face-to-face support across all program areas.

• 175 Social Growth group opportunities were presented and attended for skill generalization, community participation and progress towards goals.

• 128 Social Focus small groups were initiated with staff support to help participants progress towards goals in planning, building relationships and overcoming anxiety.

• 61 Social Focus individual supports assisted participants in identifying goal areas and receiving focused training toward those goals.

• 29 Social College classes were held covering 11 topic areas. Social College supports participants in better understanding the etiquette of

specific social topic areas that are commonly difficult for participants to manage independently.

• Attendance was 2171 across 332 activities, averaging 6.5 people per event.

In the past year:

• 79% of respondents reported feeling more confident doing things for themselves.

• 75% reported feeling better about themselves since joining PTI.

• More than 75% of respondents reported improvement in the

ability to: make new friends, maintain and nurture friendships, and understand how to respond in social situations.

• 71% report improved knowledge of events or resources in their community.

• 64% report improved self-advocacy skills (speaking up for their wants and needs).

• Respondents reported the primary obstacles to participation are time, money and transportation.

The following reflects information gained from 46 participant respondents to our 2015 survey.

Strategic Plan

The data below is from observations at PTI events.

• Participants showed progress towards their individual goals at an average of 81% of events they attended.

• Participants observed or stated strengthened relationships or natural supports at 87% of events they attended.

• Participants advocated for their own wants or needs with others at an average of 91% of events they attended.

PTI held 332 activities in Fiscal Year 2015. That’s

almost an activity every day.

A review of the strategic plan adopted in February 2013 reveals progress on all four goal areas. • 57% of all tasks were completed by

June 30, 2015 and will continue to be monitored.

• 33% of all tasks showed progress or require ongoing monitoring, but are in line with expectations.

• The remaining 10%, (3 items) 2 tasks are priority items for FY ‘16 and one item was determined not to be a current priority.

• For a more complete summary of the Strategic Plan, visit our website at www.ptistl.org.

Out of over 10,000 nonprofit organizations in the region, PTI is

proud to be 1 of only approximately 230 Better

Business Bureau Accredited Charities.

How PTI Participants Access ServicesDD Resources

DDRB

EMAP

Private Pay, Grants,Individual Donations andFundraisers

200 South Hanley, Suite 103Clayton, MO 63105

Cardinals vs. Texas RangersJune 18, 2016, 3:15 p.m. at Busch Stadium

• Tickets: $30 for general public, $24 for PTI participants• Cost includes admission, a voucher for a hot dog and soda to

be redeemed the day of the game AND a T-shirt, if purchased by May 15th.

• It is Purina Pet Day at the ballpark. (See St. Louis Cardinals website for more information.)

• Purchase your tickets at: http://ezregister.com/events/16354/ or call Jamie at 314-863-0202 x4.

Pitch for Developmental disAbilities is an event to bring awareness to the abilities of the members of our community diagnosed with Developmental Disability. Join us for this opportunity to interact inclusively and show just how involved people with developmental disabilities are in our daily lives. From the workplace, our neighborhoods and in our spare time, we support each other every day.