Success Stories
Seniors and People with Disabilities
Fulfilling Work Brings Meaning to Her Days
His Work in the Community Is Valued, as He Overcomes Challenges
Help With Housing and a Specialized Van Transform One Life
Friends and Things to Do: A Simple Recipe for Health
Alone, Confused and Overwhelmed by Bills…No More
Respite Changed Their Lives In Different, But Critical, Ways
A Volunteer Becomes More Than Just a Set of Eyes
Life Can Be Overwhelming For the Elderly Living Alone
Two Very Vulnerable Lives Are Strengthened
Beating Drugs and Alcohol While Coping with AIDS
Winning the Depression Battle
Seniors, Sunshine and a Chance to Dance!
In Difficult Cases, Respite Saves the Entire Family
Outstanding Care Allows a Daughter to Work without Worry
Peace for an Apprehensive Caregiver
Professionalism and Kindness at Every Turn
For Many, Traveling the County Requires Help
A Simple Ride Changes a Life in Many Ways
Fulfilling Work Brings Meaning to Her Days
Career Development Services for People with Disabilities (Employment Horizons)
"Sharon" was referred to Employment Horizons with a long-standing severe disability. She received a vocational evaluation that indicated that she had excellent manual skills and was recommended for job placement in the community. Within a few months she was placed at a pharmaceutical packaging warehouse where she labeled bottles. Sharon worked there for three years until the firm had a general layoff.
Employment Horizons then assisted Sharon with finding a job at a nearby grocery store where she works as a bagger three days per week. With a wonderful personality and excellent customer service skills, she became a "favorite" with all the customers.
During her placement at the grocery store, Sharon was living at a sub-acute rehabilitation facility. Sharon has taken remarkable steps toward independence and during the last two years has moved out of the facility and into her own apartment.
Sharon's new life has not been without hardship. She was recently stricken with cancer, needed emergency surgery, has endured many doses of chemotherapy and had to take a leave from work. The staff at the store was fantastic, and supported Sharon during her cancer trial. They frequently visited her during her recovery bringing food and gifts.
Good news came this month: Sharon is cancer free! The store management has accommodated her schedule to fit her need to return to work at a gradual pace. She is delighted to be back with her friends at work. Sharon continues to be visited by her Job Coach who ensures that both she and the store maintain their satisfactory employment relationship.
With support from United Way, Employment Horizons has helped to make Sharon's life fulfilling and stable.
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His Work in the Community Is Valued, as He Overcomes Challenges
Vocational Rehabilitation Services for People with Disabilities (Employment Horizons)
"Gerald" was referred for services and training after having been out of the work force for over 20 years, which included a long period of institutionalization. He was polite but very withdrawn, unkempt and would frequently fall asleep while working. He had difficulty concentrating on work assignments and frequently was unable to complete tasks assigned to him.
When his counselor advocated for a complete medical evaluation, it was determined that Gerald had a significant, yet correctible, vision problem. Glasses were obtained and it was almost like a different person materialized. He started to be better groomed, was more alert and able to perform many diverse tasks. After about a year of intensive services in the Employment Horizons training facility, Gerald stated that he wanted to work in the community.
Transitional work experiences were set up through temporary job assignments. Gerald's confidence and skills improved and an opportunity was offered in a local supermarket. He started part-time and eventually was hired as a regular. Gerald continues to receive on-site follow-along services from our staff. Whenever we see him at work, he always has a smile for us, just like he does for the customers. He reports being very happy and says that he is looking forward to getting his own apartment in the near future. His life has been totally changed and he is a productive member of our society.
With the support of United Way, Employment Horizons helps people like Gerald in remarkable ways.
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Help With Housing and a Specialized Van Transform One Life
Information and Referral for People with Disabilities (DAWN)
"Beth," 58, is a resident of Morris County with osteoarthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia. She first received assistance from DAWN in relocating from a rural county to this county, with staff helping her identify a low-income housing complex and filling out the necessary documentation. According to Beth, Morris County has access to many more medical professionals, greatly increased socialization, a good library, and a better Personal Assistant program. As a result of the move to the housing complex, her housing costs were decreased from 50 to 70% of her income to 30%. These savings allowed her to buy a car and after a year of more savings she was able to replace her car with a van. The next step is having her van adapted with a lift for her wheelchair. She has gone through many obstacles while selling her previous home and because of DAWN's staff, who helped with referrals and a supportive, listening ear, she was able to overcome those obstacles and set and achieve her goals.
With United Way support, DAWN helps people improve their lives in a wide variety of ways.
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Friends and Things to Do: A Simple Recipe for Health
Recreation and Socialization for People with Disabilities (DAWN)
"Jerilyn," a 32-year-old long-time resident of Parsippany, NJ, with limited mobility, accesses DAWN's recreational programs on a regular basis. This woman lives alone in a senior housing complex, which does not afford her access to many individuals her age. DAWN's program provides her with an opportunity to regularly socialize with her peers. She has expressed her gratitude and appreciation for Dawn's recreation program: "It helps me to get out, meet new people, and experience new things. It also gives me a chance to meet with my existing friends." In addition to attending social events, she also attends many DAWN sponsored workshops, and has donated her time in the office.
DAWN keeps Jerilyn active and healthy and United Way is proud to support their efforts.
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Alone, Confused and Overwhelmed by Bills…No More
Senior Cents Money Management Program (Family Service of Morris County)
"Janet," 84, suffers with multiple physical ailments including significant visual impairment. She lives alone in a studio apartment cluttered with piles of mail, overdue bills, soiled laundry, and uncollected garbage. Her case manager had been unable to provide in-home supportive services immediately due to the long wait lists. Janet has two daughters who live out of state with whom she has little contact.
An initial assessment by Senior Cents staff revealed that Janet did not have adequate income to pay monthly bills and was behind on her rent, pending eviction. She also had shutoff notices for her electricity and telephone, and her cable had been shutoff for six months. Janet expressed sadness that her only connection to the community was her AM radio. She once enjoyed reading the daily paper, but because of her limited mobility, she could not walk down the stairs to get the paper from her mailbox. Janet's mail was delivered to her post office box downtown where she had to depend on neighbors to pick it up at their convenience.
On the first visit, a budget was established which enabled her to have sufficient income to pay her monthly bills, although it did not leave her any additional funds for spending. Senior Cents contacted other local service agencies on behalf of Janet to obtain assistance with paying her overdue rent. This help not only paid her rent, but also gave Janet additional funds to pay her overdue electric, telephone, and cable bill.
Janet was matched with a volunteer who visits weekly, and provides her with a great sense of relief. The volunteer picks up her mail, reads it to her and pays her bills on time. She contacted the newspaper and arranged to it to be delivered to Janet's back door where she can easily pick it up each day.
Janet's family was also contacted to inform them of her need for their support. They now have weekly telephone contact and plan to visit regularly. Most importantly, due to the actions of Senior Cents, she now has the resources and ongoing support she needs to maintain her apartment, independence, and improved quality of life.
With United Way support, the Senior Cents program reaches out to people like Janet every day.
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Respite Changed Their Lives In Different, But Critical, Ways
TIME OUT Adult Care Centers (Family Service of Morris County)
"Martin," 88, contacted Time Out at the suggestion of the Morris County Division on Aging. He was physically and emotionally exhausted from caring for his beloved wife Fannie, 83, who suffers with dementia, and is also wheelchair bound from a compression fracture of her spine. She had not been out of the house in the two years, except to see the doctor. The Director of Time Out suggested that Martin bring Fannie to the center for a trial visit appointment.
Once at the Center, the Director arranged for Fannie to stay that same day for a few hours. Martin warned staff that Fannie was very demanding and could not sit still at home. He explained that she would alternate between sitting in her wheelchair, the bed and the sofa multiple times a day. He was physically exhausted from constantly re-positioning her.
While at the day center, Fannie was talkative and happy. She had a lively sense of humor. She said, "I haven't been out with people in so long I'm surprised I know how to talk!" Although Fannie has a diagnosis of dementia, the staff was able to use humor with her and cajoled her into painting during craft time and asked her to help another participant play bingo. Fannie was hooked. When Martin came to pick her up later that day, she said, "I have to come back tomorrow…they need me to help Mary play bingo!" Martin could not believe that his wife had a smile on her face. The staff also reported that Fannie only asked once to be moved from her wheelchair onto the sofa.
That initial trial day led to Fannie enrolling at the day care center. Fannie continues to be an active member of the Time Out Center and her husband Martin reports that she is calmer and less demanding at home. While Time Out provides transportation several days a week for Fannie to come to the center, Martin enjoys bringing Fannie to the center once a week since all the staff and fellow participants make a big fuss when he enters the building. When Martin tells Fannie he is leaving she laughs and exclaims, "I don't know why you're in such a rush, you could stay here and have a great time!"
With the support from United Way, Family Service's Time Out Center helped Martin and Fannie get their lives back; they are blossoming in this care.
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A Volunteer Becomes More Than Just a Set of Eyes
Friends of the Blind Program (Family Service of Morris County)
"Mary" is an elderly retired woman, with little social support. Up until recently, Mary was working part time and drove to work. She suffered a very sudden onset of vision loss and was completely overwhelmed by the new circumstances. As a result, she became isolated and depressed. In addition to Macular Degeneration, Mary has diabetes and needs support when walking. Mary felt she had "no one to talk to" and did not know how she would manage her daily tasks like reading the mail and getting bills paid. No longer able to drive, Mary also worried about getting to the bank and grocery store.
Though Friends of the Blind, Mary was matched with a volunteer and the two became fast friends. The volunteer visits Mary weekly and takes her to the grocery store and bank, reads her mail and assists her with bill paying. Mary was also referred to the VIP support group for people who are blind and visually impaired. Mary feels less isolated with the social support of others in similar circumstances in addition to her weekly visits with the volunteer, whom she often refers to as her "lifesaver." The Friends of the Blind Program Coordinator also provided Mary with a large button phone and low vision writing paper. Mary's depression and anxiety have lessened as a result of the interventions provided by the Friends of the Blind program.
Thanks to the support of United Way, the Friends of the Blind program ensures Mary's happiness and independence.
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Life Can Be Overwhelming For the Elderly Living Alone
The Chore Program (Hope House)
On a cold February day, a local rabbi called Hope House, looking to find a caring Chore Assistant to help "Chistine," a vulnerable elderly woman who wished to remain in her home.
Acting quickly, a Chore Assistant was assigned, and today, this soon to be 95 year-old still remains in the home she loves, receiving weekly housekeeping and laundry assistance.
It is often a lonely life for a frail widow who has no children of her own, and no family nearby. The help and companionship of her Chore Assistant has not only improved Christine's living environment, but has offered the social contact she requires. Mentally sharp and blessed with a vibrant, positive attitude, this remarkable client and caring worker have developed a close bond and respect for each other.
In addition, the Chore Assistant also monitors any changes in the Christine's health and mental status and reports any changes directly to the program coordinator. The Chore Coordinator has also referred Christine to other services including the Hope House Fix-It program, which helps her with minor home repairs, gutter cleaning and lawn service.
With the Chore Program, Christine's life is running more smoothly, and she has a valued new friend. United Way's support helps to keep this program running.
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Two Vulnerable Lives Are Strengthened
Hope Connection (Hope House)
A care management organization referred a priority mother/son situation to the free Hope Connection Program at Hope House. The 86-year-old mother, "Estelle," who suffers with severe osteoporosis and bone cancer, cares for her quadriplegic son who is completely wheelchair and bed bound.
The vulnerable pair experienced a troubling situation when the Estelle fell and was helpless on the floor for 8+ hours because the son couldn't get to the phone for help. Hope House was able to install a complimentary Hope Connection system, providing both mother and son immediate access to help. Estelle now wears a pendant activator around her neck while the son has a wrist activator allowing him to use his chin or nose to push the button.
With the help of United Way, The Hope Connection not only provides the "peace of mind" this loving mother and son deserves, but a service they would not otherwise be able to afford.
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Beating Drugs and Alcohol While Coping with AIDS
The AIDS Center (Hope House)
"Amelia," 65, has been HIV+ since April of 1992. She was raised by her adopted parents in South Jersey. She reports having an unhappy childhood, describes herself as someone who needed love, but was instead identified as being needy and unruly. She states that she never felt safe and was constantly being thrown in and out of the system, which seemed to have made matters worse.
After many years of struggles, she began using drugs and alcohol as a way of coping. When her addiction took over her life, she realized she was powerless, and she decided to enter substance abuse treatment. There she learned she was HIV+, yet another issue to work through. Amelia began to make a commitment to herself and her treatment. She found Hope House and started using the Case Management, Substance Abuse Counseling and Group services. She became involved in her treatment and AA/NA meetings; she has remained clean and sober for 13 years.
She has been relatively healthy, and she manages her health by working with her treatment providers. With the support of Hope House, she has learned to practice healthy coping skills.
After getting her life on track, Amelia was able to secure housing and maintains a job, working five to seven days a week. She continues to make a commitment to herself to grow in a positive direction.
Amelia is truly a success story. Through United Way's support of Hope House programs, she faced many challenges and continues to work through each barrier that comes her way.
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Winning the Depression Battle
Community Mental Health Education & Consumer Empowerment Service (Mental Health Association of Morris County)
"Susanna" is a 55 year old who suffers from depression. Susanna struggled with her depression for many years and as a result had a difficult time communicating with others causing her to isolate herself from social activities.
Susanna was lonely. One of her few friends attended the Mental Health Association's Consumer Advocacy Program and encouraged Susanna to go with her. Susanna finally got the courage to go although she was nervous about what to say and what others would think of her. At first, she felt overwhelmed but as the meeting went on she began to feel comfortable.
Susanna began going weekly to meetings and became a CAP member. She also started going to the Social Club, a program that introduces consumers to low or no cost activities. Susanna liked the Club because it gave her a chance to do new and fun activities she normally couldn't do on her own. Over time she no longer felt scared to talk and began to open up to others.
After being active in CAP for several years, Susanna decided that she wanted to do more for others. The Peer to Peer Support Line had just started where consumers provided telephone support to other consumers, and Susanna thought that this was something she could be good at. She began working on the Peer Line and felt like she was making a difference.
If you ask Susanna today what helped during her recovery she will tell you that it was the support of the MHA staff and consumers, working on the Peer Line, and being involved in the programs at the MHA. These life-changing programs are supported by United Way.
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Seniors, Sunshine and a Chance to Dance!
"CORAZONES CONTENTOS" (Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs)
This year MCOHA held a picnic for our seniors, at a local park on a weekend. Attendance was close to 30 seniors plus the staff of MCOHA. A fun filled day where everyone ate food, socialized, and the highlight of the day: the seniors dancing salsa and marengue! They enjoyed themselves very much, and the event raised the enthusiasm of the group. They share a special bond amongst themselves. Hispanic Affairs is proud to have them.
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In Difficult Cases, Respite Saves the Entire Family
Caregiver Respite (United Cerebral Palsy of Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey)
"Ricky" and "Marcus" are brothers diagnosed with multiple disabilities including behavior disorders. Their main caretakers are their grandparents who both are suffering from numerous medical conditions themselves. Despite the fact that providing for Ricky and Marcus has been an extreme financial strain, the children receive the best that the grandparents can give.
Both boys are bright but their behaviors can be very challenging, and they lose control easily. In addition, they both have demanding care schedules, including a rigorous physiotherapy schedule four times a week. At home the siblings often have altercations with one another which distress their grandparents. If this responsibility were not enough, these grandparents also care for an elderly mother, who is in her nineties and suffers from cancer. The grandmother is the only caretaker for her mother at this point
Ricky and Marcus come to respite on an ongoing basis, which gives their grandmother her special time to visit and care for her mother on a consistent basis. During this time, the grandfather enjoys just a little time to rest and be alone. Both grandparents are extremely grateful for the respite they receive through the United Cerebral Palsy programs.
Thanks to United Way's help, programs like this one help hundreds of people every day.
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Outstanding Care Allows a Daughter to Work without Worry
County Respite Care (Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey)
"I want to thank Respite & VNANNJ for all of the help and assistance that was given to me in finding an aide for my mother. It allowed her to stay at home for the last year and a half.
In addition, I cannot say enough good things about my mom's aide, June. June is a true asset to your organization. To have lasted 30 years in this type of occupation, you know that June truly likes her job and cares for people. To be able to care for physically and mentally handicapped people on a daily basis is a true gift.
My mom grew to love June, as did I. I can still hear my mother saying what a big help June is to her and how June took such good care of her. I always knew when I was at work, that my mom was safe with June. Anyone would be fortunate to have her care for them. She is one of the best." – Sincerely, Ms. L.
With the support of United Way, this valuable respite program improves lives every day.
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Peace for an Apprehensive Caregiver
Friendship House Adult Day Care Center (Visiting Nurse Association of
Northern New Jersey)
For more than five years after her husband, "Frank," was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, "Maria" cared for him by herself. Fueled by her love and devotion for her husband and memories of their wonderful life together, she dismissed the concerns of family and friends who worried about "burn out." In May, she finally conceded that it was time to at least consider a day care alternative that would provide a much-needed and long overdue respite. Once she found Friendship House, she grew much more comfortable with the concept.
"The Friendship House staff help both the client and caregiver. I am amazed by the amount of personalized attention that they consistently provide," Maria observed. "I am at peace for the first time in a very long time. Before I found Friendship House, I was constantly worrying about my husband and rushing home to make sure he was alright. Now, I am even able to work part-time at my son's office to keep my own mind sharp."
Although the activities he participates in at Friendship House are a far cry from the work he once performed as an educator, 75 year-old Frank is happy to go to Friendship House. Furthermore, his wife believes that he has more moments of lucid conversation since he has been attending the center. "Friendship House has been a blessing for both of us," Maria said.
United Way is proud to support the important accomplishments of Friendship House.
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Professionalism and Kindness at Every Turn
Home Health Care Program (Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey)
"After returning home to my apartment from the hospital I was worried and, yes, frightened, not knowing how I would get along alone. Then you sent me an angel – Barbara. As soon as I opened the door, I knew that everything would be OK. Barbara pleasantly and professionally attended to my needs, I am writing because I want you to know how much Barbara has helped, but, also that she is such a warm, caring, calming, sincere, and nice person." – Rhoda L.
"When nurse coordinator Judy arrived to begin my mother's program, her first words were, "What can we do for you?" As a full-time caregiver, 24/7, words like those give me hope and encouragement.
Professionals like Judy give VNANNJ the high reputation it has…Mary Luz, our home health aide, is a highly trained and motivated professional. If all of your home health aides are like Mary Luz, your vision statement of being ‘a leading provider of innovative community health services has and will always be met." – William K.
With United Way support, Visiting Nurse Association professionals make all the difference in the lives of those who need help at home.
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For Many, Traveling the County Requires Help
Transportation for Seniors and People with Disabilities (American Red Cross – NWNJ)
Dear Friends at the Red Cross,
I cannot thank you enough for your transportation services over the past year. My closest relative lives in the Philadelphia area, and since I am no longer able to operate a car I am left without transportation to essential doctor's appointments. However, the Red Cross has enabled me to make my visits to the East Orange VA through the use of their transportation services. The Armed Forces and Emergency Services Staff at the Red Cross consistently go above and beyond in accommodating to my schedule. Your friendly drivers are always a welcome companion as well as a source of transportation. Again, I thank you for the commendable service with which you provide. You are truly a lifesaver! – excerpt from thank you letter – American Red Cross client
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A Simple Ride Changes a Life in Many Ways
Transportation for Seniors and People with Disabilities (American Red Cross – SE)
"Shirley" recently moved to the chapter's service area and resides in a group home for persons with neurological and physical disabilities. Shirley, who uses a walker, first contacted our Transportation Program for assistance in August. She quickly came to rely on our service for transportation to her numerous medical appointments.
The transportation staff was very impressed by Shirley's friendly manner and optimistic outlook. Before long, Shirley mentioned to the Transportation Director that she had been previously employed in an office setting. She inquired if there was some way she could use her skills to help Red Cross.
Shirley became a volunteer staff aide at the chapter. In addition to fulfilling her duties during her regularly scheduled weekly shift, Shirley is eager to provide additional support when other volunteers are absent.
This is certainly a "win-win" situation for Shirley, her family, and Red Cross. Shirley's brother (her only relative nearby) is relieved that Shirley has an additional outlet for stimulation and socialization. The transportation support we provide increases Shirley's independence and saves her money. Most importantly, Shirley feels she is "giving back" to those who help her. Her determination and spirit are an inspiration to all of us.
With help from United Way, transportation by the American Red Cross makes life easier for people like Shirley.
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