12:56:36 No.
12:56:46 Ha You
12:56:55 And
12:57:17 No.

13:00:24 Good afternoon. My name is Lorraine Cordova. And I am, we're gonna get started in just a few moments here.
13:00:35 We'd like to welcome you to weaving colors. And autism in the native community.
13:00:42 And our weaving colors team is Linet. Penny and Jennifer.
13:00:49 And we'd like to, 1st start off with our indigenous people land and territory acknowledgement.
13:00:56 And founded in 1,989 the University of New Mexico sits on the traditional homelands.
13:01:03 Of the Pueblo Sandia. The original peoples of New Mexico. Pueblo Navajo and Apache.
13:01:11 Since time immemorial, have deep connections to the land. And have made significant contributions to the broader community statewide.
13:01:20 We honor the land itself. And those who remain stewards in this land. Throughout the generations and also acknowledge our committed relationship.
13:01:30 To indigenous peoples. We gratefully recognize our history.
13:01:39 So just a short message from us here at CDD, weaving colors is presentation series for Indigenous families dedicated to discussing important topics.
13:01:51 Strategies and practices regarding autism spectrum disorder. And how they are viewed and addressed within the culture. We are proud to be able to offer variety of presentations and perspectives from various organizations and professionals across New Mexico.
13:02:11 We'd like for you to please keep in mind. That all presentations in the weaving color series.
13:02:18 Represent the viewpoint of our speakers. And do not necessarily reflect the view of the Centre for Development and Disability or the University of New Mexico.
13:02:31 You'd also like to just make sure you have a few little notes here. That and be aware that this is a safe and welcoming environment.
13:02:41 And free of judgment. This session is presented in meeting format. So please be mindful to mute your microphones during the presentation.
13:02:52 The chat feature may be used to contact the host. And or submit any questions or comments that you might have.
13:03:00 To the presenters during the Q&A portion, which will be at the end of the presentation. We'll be sending a survey for today's presentation, so please look out for it out for the link in your mailbox.
13:03:14 And we always are welcome and we always welcome input and questions. So feel please feel free to contact us at HS See dash autism programs at salute.
13:03:29 And just another reminder that we are recording this session.
13:03:36 If you do need help, we actually do have closed captioning. And it is available throughout the presentation.
13:03:44 You can select the icon and choose the show subtitle and you can turn that off or on. And we have ASL interpretation as well.
13:03:53 And if you do need technical assistance, please email HSC, CDTS at salute. Okay.
13:04:05 If you need some resources. You can register for future presentations for waving colors. And you can use the scan.
13:04:17 You can scan the QR code below. Or visit us at our portal. And we also have access to the, you can also have access to the autism family and provider resource team.
13:04:27 And you can contact them through the (505) 272-1852 or a toll-free number if you need that, 1 800.
13:04:38 2 7 0 1 8 6 1 And again, you can email us at our. HSC autism programs at salute.
13:04:50 Unm.edu or you can scan the QR code below 2.
13:04:56 And we do greatly, greatly appreciate your feedback. So please, please take a few minutes to complete our survey.
13:05:03 And let us know your thoughts about today's presentation. As well as giving us any input that you might have for future presentations.
13:05:11 And we always welcome that in questions and you can contest. Contact us again. At HSC autism programs at salute.
13:05:23 Unm.edu attention weaving colors. And we'd like for you to please indicate if you're a family member on the survey.
13:05:30 And we also have a QR code that you can go to. One of our other programs that we do hold is our.
13:05:40 And it's a monthly program that's also offering trainings. It is geared towards those families whose their 1st language is Spanish and we meet every 1st Thursday starting in March.
13:05:56 So today's presentation of weaving is weaving connections and we do have a panel guests. We have Anita.
13:06:03 Marcelina, otana and then Penny Frost is our facilitator and welcome and thank you all for coming.
13:06:16 Thank you for getting us started, Lorraine. And thank you to all of our families.
13:06:25 And our self-advocates. And professionals that are present with us here today. I'm extremely excited and humbled.
13:06:35 To be here today. And to be chatting with our panel. Of experts from we have 3 vocational rehabilitation program experts.
13:06:48 From various. Parts of New Mexico joining us today. And I know we'll all learn. So much from our distinguished panel.
13:06:59 So let's get started. Yeah.
13:07:07 Would each of you please introduce yourself and the organization your representing today?
13:07:18 Yes, good afternoon. This is Hotona. Can you hear me?
13:07:22 Yes, perfect.
13:07:24 Awesome. So good afternoon. My name is Hatona Cicotero. I'm the program manager in area 2, which serves the real rancho in Farmington.
13:07:35 Area in the state of New Mexico. I. I can be reached by email or telephone, which is provided in the chat.
13:07:45 Our mission at New Mexico DVR is to that every New Mexican with a disability. Is empowered with the resources to contribute to their quality of life and the economic prosperity of the state.
13:08:00 We are committed to ensuring that every New Mexican with a disability achieves their employment goals and thrives in their community.
13:08:10 Just a bit about my organization and myself.
13:08:16 Thank you so much, Hotana.
13:08:20 Good afternoon. My name is Marlinsiachi. I am with the HIMS vocational rehabilitation.
13:08:27 Program here in our organization serves, an 80 mile radius. With. From the And we serve all.
13:08:43 In the. Literally, travel, recognize, members of the community. So we serve all the way.
13:08:54 Up to about Cuba and, but we don't serve any individuals on the, reservation.
13:09:04 We do have. An agreement with Navajo Nation to where if any individuals come from The Navajo reservation wants to receive services from us that.
13:09:15 We will refer them back to Navajo Nation, but we do serve other Navajo's that are not on the reservation.
13:09:24 That live in different areas such as, currently we serve, individuals from age 14 on up.
13:09:34 We do have transitional services as well. We also run our project hope program, which is, a new program and that's in place of project search.
13:09:48 That's about it right now and I can go more and that as we go along.
13:09:54 Thank you, Marcy.
13:09:58 Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Anita. I am the vote rehab counselor for Laguna Akima Connections.
13:10:08 We are an American Indian VR program. But just Hamas and we serve the communities of the Acima Pueblo and the Laguna Pueblo, which is located in the West Central Park.
13:10:22 Of New Mexico. I do apologize. I am in a very very rural area so right now our internet has crashed.
13:10:30 So I'm just gonna be speaking to you by phone and hopefully before the session is out. I'll be able to log on.
13:10:38 But that's. One of the situations we face here in rural Indian countries, of course. And so, I've been here for 27 years.
13:10:47 And we provide employment support services to Native Americans with disabilities. And so like, and the state.
13:10:57 We provide. A range of services to help assist. Our community members to obtain sustained. Or, advance in their employment.
13:11:10 And thank you everybody for having us.
13:11:16 Thank you. So much, Anita. We, we definitely all feel your pain. We've all experienced, internet issues, right?
13:11:27 So thank you so much for being a trooper and hanging out with us on the phone.
13:11:34 So. You've already touched a bit on this. But I would like to invite you to go into a little bit more depth in depth and share.
13:11:47 More details about how each of your programs support Indigenous individuals with a disability and their families.
13:12:01 So this is Hatona. New Mexico DBR, we serve participants from age 8, 14.
13:12:09 To adulthood. We says individuals with disability to help them gain employment through obtaining employment. Maintain employment or help them through an educational training so that they can get the skills to gain them their career.
13:12:27 That they're really interested in. Area 2, vocational rehabilitation counselor collaborates with Hamas Valley, Hamas Valley schools.
13:12:39 The Hamas vocational rehabilitation program. While a Toa Charter Schools, Cuba High Schools, Farmington High School, Petrovista High School.
13:12:50 Cleveland High School where Rancho High School and there are a various other schools that have a population of indigenous students with a disability.
13:13:01 That we serve as well, could be means of charter schools. And we do serve. Adult populations as well.
13:13:14 And we help individuals could be by means of you know helping them you know, get a job placement.
13:13:26 With the systems of a job developer. Could mean an educational training. Through maybe CNN or chosen school of interest that they they chose.
13:13:44 Helping with them you know tuition maybe room and board. Making sure that they they meet their need within that.
13:13:56 School school year.
13:14:01 Thank you for sharing that, Hotana. That's really good information for everyone to hear.
13:14:08 Because some individuals do prefer the college track or the vocational track and so your program supporting them with those extenuating circumstance needs.
13:14:23 I can imagine is very, very helpful. So thank you.
13:14:27 Okay.
13:14:32 Okay. So as I kind of mentioned before, our JVR program is a tribal vocational rehabilitation program.
13:14:42 We are federally funded. By a grant out of the Department of Ed and it is a 5 year grant.
13:14:53 So every 5 years we have to reapply for the grants. We do, Like I said, we cover an 80 mile radius and our algebra is a little bit different.
13:15:08 The individuals, must be like I mentioned. From a bitterly recognized, tribe, they have to be an enroll member.
13:15:19 They must have, live within the 80 mile radius. And they must have a documented disability whether it's physical.
13:15:28 Maybe mental health and behavioral disability or sensory like such as hearing. Loss or vision loss. So as long as the disability and then the 4th is the disabilities keeping them from obtaining employment.
13:15:45 And then the 5th is that you know JVR is gonna be able to assist them. And finding a job.
13:15:52 So the in, the end product of, you know, the whole services wants to complete it is that they're going to be employed and able to sustain, you know, themselves financially.
13:16:04 We also have project hope which we target.
13:16:11 Anywhere from H. 14 to 24 but the project hope centers around the ages of 16 to 24, but the project hope, centers around the ages of 16 to 21.
13:16:22 The reason being is that, we're juniors and seniors, in project hope.
13:16:28 They're able to work in the afternoons during the accident, like during the academic year. And So they work about 20 HA week.
13:16:39 We paid them a spiking of $15 an hour. And the whole purpose around that is, to make sure that our individuals with disabilities coming out of high school.
13:16:51 Leap High School with the resume, with some job experience. And have a feel of what it's.
13:16:58 Their interest may be in that paying employment. And they, they don't just stay in one at one job site.
13:17:06 They actually alternate, every 6 weeks. So one may work at. For example, library or as a library a or maybe helping in the transportation department at their local school.
13:17:20 As an assistant or we had in an individual that worked down. At a daycare. And by the time she graduated, you know, she was.
13:17:30 Hi, on, with the daycare center. So those are some of the the services we provide.
13:17:37 And. We also do, so that's project, with transition. We also do on the job training, we do.
13:17:49 The same as the state, we do vocational training if they choose to go into the, into school.
13:17:55 We do post secondary. Support. And then if they wanna go into self employment, which is a big.
13:18:04 It's We get the large numbers, going into self employment. So. That's kind of our, Our big hit right now only because individuals with disabilities have you know some sort of or some kind of skill or talent.
13:18:24 And rebuild on that, you know, if they're not able to go into the workforce. And, currently we have about 23 individuals, that went through our business, program with New Mexico community capital.
13:18:40 And they actually were able to help them with business plans, help them get started, help them with their financials, like such as taxes.
13:18:52 They help them with, like the square to improve. Purchases instead of just cash.
13:19:01 A number of things, you know, they help the individuals. So we have about 26 that are gonna be.
13:19:08 Completing the program but by the end of our fiscal year and then, those are like the 3 service on the job training job search.
13:19:18 And then vocational training or post secondary. And then, so. Self employment and then of course the younger ones is the transition service.
13:19:30 So those are the 4 services we provide.
13:19:34 Well, Marcy, thank you so, so much. That is some great information and I I love it really spoke out to me as an educator that your program builds on strengths of individuals.
13:19:50 And it's interesting and exciting to know that your program.
13:19:57 Helps individuals who are interested in self-employment. You know, fulfill that. That's, that's wonderful.
13:20:10 This is Anita. We do a lot of the similar services that the state and Hamas do.
13:20:17 We have the area of transition where I participate with the student success advisors at the school. Can start meeting with the students getting them to start to plan and think about what they want to do.
13:20:33 After high school trying to get them. Started at a young age so that they can be better prepared. Trying to help them navigate through if they're going to school to college or if a training center what what they need to do in order to apply deadlines during basic training so that they're aware of what needs to happen.
13:21:01 When they're ready to transition. So we work out with transition students. And we also do an array of services.
13:21:09 So it just is all dependent on what the individual. Employment outcome. Is and if you know what their strengths and of course their challenges are and how can them to get prepared so that they can not only obtain employment but that employment.
13:21:30 So we teach them those skills. We also focus a lot too on self employment. We have a lot of individuals here.
13:21:38 Honor Pueblo who are Who have these talent, their jewelry makers, their dress makers, their bay curves.
13:21:47 And so. With them, it could be a medical issue that they're not able to. Work for another employer full time part time.
13:22:00 Self-employment makes sense for them, maybe because they have some, a lot of challenges that they can work at their own pace.
13:22:09 So we support those things. It's hard to pinpoint what types of things we can, assist with because everyone is so individualized.
13:22:20 And so we always have to look at the individual top to them, see where they're at, what their circumstances are.
13:22:28 And how we can best, help them, to get, what they need in order to, achieve their employment or keep their employment.
13:22:37 We also partner with the workforce innovations opportunity at programs both in Laguna, Pueblo and Akimo Pueblo.
13:22:48 We also partner with the Higher Education Department as well. We also, our service area also runs as far east into the Albuquerque area.
13:22:59 And as far, west as the grants, township. That is, west of the Akima Pueblo and we have some land Hispanic communities that surround those areas as well.
13:23:11 So if we have any. Of Native Americans with disabilities who are there in those other surrounding communities we can also assist them as well.
13:23:23 So we have a broad area. And like I said, it's really hard to pinpoint what specific services we provide.
13:23:32 Just for a perfect example, you know, our self employment individuals. Their services can can be a range of things.
13:23:42 Maybe they need, some hearing aid or maybe they need equipment or supplies. And not everybody is the same.
13:23:52 We also provide them with. Assistance to get business licenses. They go through financial management training.
13:24:03 In order for them to prepare to for, to maintain their self employment. We have them do work site assessment so that we can actually see what they're actual work area is like and because we're very rural we have a lot of individuals who maintain their businesses in unsafe areas.
13:24:28 And so we're able to see, you know, we need to make sure that. Safety is a big part of you being able to sustain your employment.
13:24:36 So there's a large. Array of things that we do, and, and of course it's all individualized.
13:24:44 So that, not everyone, is approached the same way just because, you know, like with any disability, it affects people in different ways.
13:24:55 So we were very, cognizant of that.
13:25:03 Thank you. So much for that, that information, Anita. And it just really speaks to me that in all of our work.
13:25:15 Individualization is absolute key, right? Because we're all people and we're all individuals first.st
13:25:23 So thank you. And I, I absolutely love that you mentioned. That is huge.
13:25:34 So thank you for for saying that. And you all are so amazing and you've covered a lot of this, but.
13:25:43 To move on to the. One other high point is, are there any additional requirements to receive services?
13:25:54 Or any additional stipulations Marcy touched on this a bit and and you all have but are there any other stipulations or requirements?
13:26:03 That you would like to share or just highlight.
13:26:08 Or, New Mexico DBR, One of the requirements. Initially is for participants to fill out the referral form.
13:26:20 Which is on the New Mexico DVR website. After referrals are completed and intake appointments are scheduled participants are encouraged to participate in planning services with their assigned counselors.
13:26:36 Working, when working with schools and other VR programs like Hamas and Laguna.
13:26:43 We will continue to coordinate services. So we do not. Duplicate services. So for instance, in the past I've worked with the Hamas Pueblo with a participant that was going to school.
13:27:00 Individual was going to i believe it was black staff northern university there and the individual. We jointly partner with Hey Miss to determine which service services Hamas was going to cover.
13:27:21 And which New Mexico DBR was going to cover. And I believe DVR. Took the took on with tuition.
13:27:31 And Dorm and Hamas Pueblo might have taken on like books and supplies and other needs that the students may have.
13:27:40 So we do do that because we get the same funding and so we're not duplicating services.
13:27:54 That's really important information. Thank you, Hautana.
13:28:04 I don't think there's any other other restrictions on our end. Other than what I mentioned, as far as our
13:28:14 As our eligibility requirements that I mentioned earlier. But just touching up and, but, had mentioned, We do have.
13:28:27 Some consumers that want to be dual case with the with DVR. So In that case, you know, we always make sure that, you know, before we.
13:28:38 Move forward with any services. That are not on our IPE for that consumer. That we need up with the state and they're deemed algebra with the state.
13:28:51 And that's when the counselor the VR counselor from the state will come out. And we'll meet with the consumer and you know, make sure that our IPs are not duplicating services, making sure that They meet on, we have, it's not a requirement, but our, DVR representative, Okay.
13:29:14 She comes out and meets with, our counselors every, So, they make sure that they keep on top of those cases with those consumers that are dual cases.
13:29:27 And I also have dual cases with. We just met yesterday with 5 sandal. They do have an employment program there.
13:29:36 And they said they're willing to also. Share cases with us as well. Regarding some costs and so forth.
13:29:48 We also have, MRIs with. Some of the right now we have pending MLUs with some of the communities.
13:29:58 So we serve all the way up to So right now the communities that we're most focused on is of course Hayness.
13:30:07 Depogo said to Anna, the Polo of Zia. Sant, Domingo and Cochidi, but we have gone as far as San D.
13:30:19 And we do have some students when. That are in Santa Fe during the academic year that we do visit our transition transition.
13:30:31 Individual that in those transition she does go out there. Almost on a monthly basis to make sure that, you know, there following their IPE, following their IEP.
13:30:44 And she's always at all every IEP meeting to make sure that VR is included in the plans that they have for the students.
13:30:53 So, yeah, those are just some of the other things. We just make sure that we have all the paperwork in in place when we're doing dual cases.
13:31:04 So.
13:31:13 Thank you, Marcy. Anita, do you have additional information to share?
13:31:19 Yes, and I'm online. Hi everybody. Okay.
13:31:23 Oh, that's so good. Good to see your face.
13:31:26 Okay. Again, we require the individuals to provide us with their of Indian blood or we also have tribal identification cards.
13:31:41 One of the things that we do as well is we also accept individuals who are descendants or naturalized tribal members of our Pueblos and those are for individuals who do not either meet the blood quantum.
13:31:59 For, to become a regular enrolled tribal member. Or they did not establish whatever documentation they needed in order to meet that criteria.
13:32:12 So we've put it in our grant that will not only enroll tribal members but naturalized or descendant tribal members.
13:32:22 So as long as they can provide that. Documentation, then they've met that criteria.
13:32:28 Of course, the documentation regarding the reported disability by any individual professionals licensed. Medical documentation, therapists.
13:32:40 Notes or letter. Diagnosticians, different, professionals. We accept that information. And then of course the application, we asked them of that.
13:32:58 So there's not really too much that we ask of them to provide. Again, a lot of our.
13:33:06 Services where we try our best to streamline them. Because we've recognized that a lot of our individuals when they do come to our office or any office for supports.
13:33:19 Chances are they've gone to many, many offices. Talk to many, many people. And so we try and not make the process so.
13:33:31 Cumbersome or lengthy for them. So we're very mindful of that. But, I think, you know, that's What basically what what other things that we need and it's just just confirming the disability.
13:33:46 And confirming the tribal membership or naturalization or descendant.
13:33:58 Thank you, Anita. And, and thank you all for this really important information. It's So good to know the stipulations and and the requirements.
13:34:10 It's just so helpful and Hotana mentioned. The intake form that's on their website.
13:34:19 And I'm peaking at chat a little bit here and there and I see that Linet is putting information about all of your organizations into chat for for folks.
13:34:30 So thank you for, doing that, Linet. And thank you all ladies for highlighting the importance of.
13:34:38 Ensuring that services aren't duplicated, but I loved. What you said, Anita, that you know you do that in a supportive way with the understanding that folks come to you having told their story many times and shared information.
13:34:56 Many times and just being respectful of that. And keeping that to to a minimum. So to move on, and this is just such great information.
13:35:10 But to move on, We've all we've all talked about it and we know that, you know, disability is not.
13:35:19 Reliable predictor of an individual's aspirations. And a national study that I was made aware of some time ago was actually conducted with with young people in high schools.
13:35:34 And it was a national study. And the study found that over 94% of youths with autism.
13:35:43 And other diagnoses expect to have a job. After graduation. And I was really blown away by that.
13:35:55 By that information and it touched my heart very deeply. And I know in my own experiences, use.
13:36:04 And even other older adults with various disabilities. Although they may want to work. They don't know how or they don't know what they want to do.
13:36:18 And or how to pursue that. And so it's just been so wonderful to hear. You all touch on how you help.
13:36:29 Individuals pursue that but Can I ask you to go a little bit deeper into how you support individuals who don't really have a sense of employment opportunities and who are unaware of what their options are.
13:36:49 Or, New Mexico, TBR, counselors will meet with participants to complete a comprehensive assessment.
13:36:58 To ensure that employment goal is appropriate and suitable. With participants unique strength resources. Their needs. Concerns, abilities, other capabilities.
13:37:13 Interest and keeping their disability in mind. If further assessment is needed, then we will request a vocational assessment.
13:37:22 To determine a career path. For participant who is, not sure about their vocational employment goal.
13:37:32 So we, typically will start with. Guidance and counseling with an individual and determine what that need and strength is and build on that.
13:37:45 And getting to know this individual. Kind of like a centered person centered. You know, follow-ups with these individuals because we get, we want to get to know strongly how we can help.
13:38:02 These. Participants that come through our doors.
13:38:12 Okay, with JVR. Especially the young individuals. Like I mentioned, we have the project Hope Program.
13:38:21 And what the project hope. We have a career development coordinator. Her name is Yolanda Toya.
13:38:29 Basically what she does is a lot of job coaching. She works with them, you know, on their resume.
13:38:37 She helps them. By doing interviews. She teaches about professionalism and then she does like.
13:38:48 How to go to an interview just professionally if they're not able to, you know, or if they don't have clothing, like professional clothing.
13:38:58 To go to an interview, we provide that. And she also does, a lot of, what the project hope they meet on a weekly basis.
13:39:08 And they pretty much have similar classes that the state has with their transition program. So we have like a career and job exploration.
13:39:20 And we have the work based learning. Post secondary training workplace readiness. And self-advocacy.
13:39:30 So those are some of the areas that she covers with every transition student that comes through our doors. Just to ensure that they get a wrap around training on what they'll need once they enter the workforce.
13:39:46 And I think our biggest one is advocacy, you know, we'll advocate for them. But what we want by the time they exit the program is for them to be able to advocate for themselves.
13:39:58 When it comes to like a situation on a job. Or anything in society that where they're gonna need to speak, you know, for themselves.
13:40:09 So that's kind of our, driving point right now. Even if they're not transitioned, even if you know what the other consumers we have coming through our doors.
13:40:21 A lot of times we have you know individuals that may have a disability, but you know, we're stuck at home, maybe taking care of an elder themselves.
13:40:32 And never, you know, into the workforce. And that's where we come into play too if they don't wanna go to school or learn a vocation or.
13:40:41 They don't wanna go into self-employment. Then that's where we step in and say, okay, we have a job coach, you know, and she'll find.
13:40:51 Do this assessments and everything find out where, what kind of jobs will work best for the individual.
13:40:58 And set them up with on the job training. And boy put a person in on the job training we actually paid their wages for them during the time during that training.
13:41:11 So the work site is not paying their wages. We actually pay their wages. And if that's something that the individual enjoys, if they like.
13:41:21 You know, the job site, if your employer likes the way they're grasping new skills.
13:41:28 You know, the lot of times they'll hire them right, you know. After the on the job training.
13:41:34 Is completed. Also if it doesn't work as well, you know, she'll find something else.
13:41:41 She has many businesses. That she works with that are willing to work with our consumers. She does get weekly, weekly reports from the employer or the person who supervising the individual.
13:41:56 So there's any problems, you know, she's, you know, right there, she's gonna be able to visit them on the work site.
13:42:02 And actually help and see where they can. Do you any kind of adjustments or you know, to have her talk with the individual, maybe the individual didn't know, you know, certain etiquette in the workplace or didn't understand a part of what the policy procedures were at the work site.
13:42:26 So she does a whole wrap around and she's been, a great asset to the program as far as, putting individuals placing them in employment opportunities or at least on the job training.
13:42:42 Thank you. Thank you so much. Marcy, I have to say I as I for for one, am so glad that this is being recorded because I have to go back and listen to all of this great information.
13:42:58 One of the things that One of the many things that spoke out to me was that you mentioned advocacy and self-advocacy.
13:43:08 And I love to circle back around that. Your this program actually pays the individual so that I just think that that would be a wonderful way for employers to see the strengths that individuals bring.
13:43:28 And then without. Maybe some of.
13:43:36 Some of the worry that they have for costs, for example, and then the fact that the end result for so many ends up being gainful in employment.
13:43:47 And I I hope it's all right with you all if I put a plug in because Marcy when you said advocacy and self-advocacy I thought of a wonderful program that I'm honored to be a part of here at U and M, the Thrive Program.
13:44:04 And it's actually it it could really support. The work that you all are doing as well for individuals and it's for young adults.
13:44:14 Who I have a diagnosis of autism and the program teaches self-advocacy.
13:44:23 Self-advocacy skills. So that might even augment some of the that you're speaking of and you can anyone that's interested in the Thrive program here at U and M.
13:44:36 Contact the family resource team. And I know Linet is is putting our information in chat. So thank you for for making me think of that little plug, Marcy.
13:44:47 And Anita, I'll hand it over to you and stop talking.
13:44:52 Okay, so there's such an Iran things that you can do to help assist an individual. Who doesn't really have an idea of what they want to do.
13:45:03 And it's not only our youth that have that challenge, a lot of our adults who have had those challenges as well.
13:45:21 They have an actual taste of what that job entails. So it could mean, going for. Vocational assessment or work, you know, a work experience.
13:45:35 Doing something hands-on that they can see for themselves if this is really something that is, you know, that they want to do.
13:45:44 So always making that. Exploration, piece available to them all, not just our youth, but to our other individuals.
13:45:54 So talking and building that personal or that relationship that we are relationship with. Whomever comes through our doors is very important to so that they start to know who we are.
13:46:09 They begin to become more comfortable because we also have to teach our parents advocacy as well and self-advocacy and also to get them used to what happens after they transition out of that special education arena.
13:46:30 How things change and how the student is more in the driver's seat. And have to how they have to become more.
13:46:41 Comfortable with communicating I know a lot of times our youth or even some of our individuals when we meet with them they tend to look at mom or grandma 1st and then That's basically, you know, them not really comfortable enough to get.
13:47:00 Them to the point where they can come into an office, they can ask the question. Or even it's just to say I've never done this before what do I need to do and sometimes we tend to think that it's easy for anyone to do that and it really isn't.
13:47:18 So always opening the door. Whatever they are formal or informal. And it's like I said, it's all individually based and not everyone is going to get a specific assessment all the time.
13:47:32 That maybe one will work for this person and then one will work for the other. So. You know making sure we keep that door open as to how how we can get.
13:47:43 What we need to help the individual in the way that they work best.
13:47:54 Thank you, thank you, thank you. I was. Taking notes. And as I'm as I'm taking notes here, I just want to say thank you, Anita, for reminding us that everything we do in all of our work.
13:48:11 And in our all of our relationships with our community members really starts with relationships. It's and it's individualized.
13:48:20 And that's that's what I keep writing in my notes here is just individualization and relationships and it's It's a wonderful theme.
13:48:30 And to kind of move, move right along. I know we're all aware that in Western culture, We often measure what is considered good outcomes.
13:48:45 For individuals by by employment rates, right? And community living and educational opportunities. Like we've all discussed.
13:48:58 But we we also know that when we take a closer look at a more desirable life, That is also being connected to one's heritage.
13:49:11 And having a sense of purpose. Being valued and needed. Having self-direction and being in touch with one's spirituality and faith.
13:49:26 And you've all touched so beautifully on this. But if you have any additional information, I'd love to hear more about what steps.
13:49:38 You take to increase inclusion and community involvement. And I'd love for you to share also how the community can support your efforts.
13:49:56 I couldn't agree more with. Anita and Marci in in regards to every case is different and very individualized.
13:50:09 So. I think we experience that throughout VR. Nationwide and for New Mexico DBR, we partner.
13:50:22 With the Department of Health's developmental disabilities, which provides services and support to children and adults.
13:50:32 With intellectual and developmental disabilities. The, this division looks at home and community base programs such as Mivia.
13:50:46 Support. Services, medical, fragile waiver, developmental disability waivers. With with this in mind We always take in consideration that our agency works with various.
13:51:04 You know, private job developers and agencies that will assist with job development, job placement, job coaching.
13:51:14 We, we also have on the job training. For individuals who need formal and informal training for the purpose of acquiring skills to a specific job.
13:51:27 And so, as much as possible we like to gather all the resources for an individual. Create that comprehensive assessment.
13:51:42 And figure out what that individual needs are and provide that support. I think for us, we like to.
13:51:54 Taylor our services based on the needs and abilities of the participant.
13:52:10 Okay, so as far as the, Well, it makes our DVR program a little bit different than the state, which, was a part of the amendment in 1974 was.
13:52:24 Including the Native American services. So we have Native American service written into our And what that means is we provide.
13:52:41 Assistance if they need holistic healing such as maybe. Hiring a medicine man. Doing any like ceremonies that they feel.
13:52:49 Are needed, you know, I can't go a little more. Too much in depth in that, but.
13:52:57 You know, if they need a medicine in, to feel. Spiritually, in a good place, and we do hire that person and we do, pay for that assistance.
13:53:08 And including in that as well is. Providing information in the native time. So in our staff, right now on our staff right now, we have.
13:53:24 Our counselors, all the counselors, the administrative assistant, the VR coordinator and the career development coordinator.
13:53:34 They all speak Tola. So when they have individuals coming from Hamas, they do come in and they if they're elder or they prefer, information in toa, then they can provide the information in TO.
13:53:49 And we have any individuals that do speak Navajo, then I can do a little bit of interpretation and I am, so, I'm able to provide that.
13:54:02 And then also, if we go into the communities. Usually the person who does the referral or the program that does a referral.
13:54:13 We ask them, you know, does this person need an interpreter, you know, to be for the information to be related in their language.
13:54:22 If so, then we usually ask them or they'll find someone that can interpret the information. In their native tongue.
13:54:31 We've had that situation that did occur in one of the communities. And the recurring agency was able to, do the interpretation for us.
13:54:41 So that's kind of what makes us a little bit different and We also do a lot of home home visits.
13:54:49 If they can't come to the office, we go to them. We provide, intakes, applications.
13:54:59 Even doing IEP, IPEs over the phone. And then going to their home and going over the IPA with them to make sure that everything that they want in their IP is correct.
13:55:10 So. We make sure that we try to make sure that we there's no barriers. Right now we do have.
13:55:20 This the Pueblo, who's really willing to let us use their office spaces if we need to meet with consumers.
13:55:28 So, we also do that. Just a lot of, Personal lies.
13:55:39 Services, the individual, we want to make sure that we, are able to reach every person.
13:55:48 So those are some of the things that we do. And then we also make sure we do outreach in every community.
13:55:55 We've done several once all the communities. We're open back up post pandemic.
13:56:02 We were able to go out. And do outlet share information with them because a lot of these communities didn't know we provided service to them only because when the grant was awarded to us we were in the middle of the pandemic so we were able to go out and start.
13:56:23 Sharing our service information with everyone out there that in our service area. So, you know. Just one of the things that we do.
13:56:33 Make sure we're in the communities, make sure we show, you know, that war, we're there.
13:56:45 People are beginning to know who we are, before they had no idea who were. And then just, you know, it's, I see it as a success because You know, we've only had maybe 20 between 25 and 30 individuals that were, active.
13:57:01 Applicants, you know, in our program. Participants in that program. And now we have I believe we were at 99.
13:57:12 So we have 99 active applicants that we had come through our doors right now. So. It's making a big difference.
13:57:22 A lot of people are benefiting from our program, so. Especially the native community because they were like I'd rather go to your program than the state, but.
13:57:34 You know, we talk to them about how the state is involved with us and how we work together. And they get a little bit different perspective on, oh, okay, you know, they're not bad.
13:57:45 You know. And then that's where we a lot of times in the having dual cases with the state.
13:57:51 So, you know, just breaking that, stereotype. You know, the state not working with them when, in actuality, they're willing to work with them as well.
13:58:02 So, those are some of the things we do as far as cultural inclusion, you know, being in the community just making it.
13:58:12 Very personal. I guess that's just kind of like the way that, Native American community in this area, how they really, benefit from that and how they.
13:58:25 Like that and how, you know, they're constantly thanking us, you know, or actually going out to the communities and providing our services to them there.
13:58:36 So that's just a little bit about what we do and how we do.
13:58:49 Thank you so much. Anita, I see you. Have unmuted.
13:58:55 Yes. Like Marcy, you know, providing those interpreter services if they choose to have.
13:59:03 The VR process in their language, the Akama and Laguna people speak what is known as the Keras language.
13:59:11 So while we do speak the same language, we share the same borders. A lot of our community members live on both of our communities.
13:59:22 We also have a lot of differences. So one of the things that I do as the BR counselor, I have 2 offices and right now as we're here I'm in my Akima office here.
13:59:36 On the west side and so even though we are very similar we can understand one another when we speak our language.
13:59:45 We have a lot of differences and I think one of the things is for a lot of, especially, the individuals who are.
13:59:58 Doing self-employment it's very interesting because everyone is so immersed in their culture and tradition and a lot of times they they function through the traditional calendars.
14:00:13 I can't do this. I can't go to training because this week we have this. Ceremony going on or I have an obligation to my husband who has a leadership role in our in our traditional customs.
14:00:31 And so we have a lot of those things and Well, I'm very glad about is we have, you know, our employers on the Pueblos.
14:00:42 That have written into their employee. Policies and procedures, those accommodations that they can make. For individuals who are involved in ceremony, traditional customs.
14:00:58 They've made that a point to do that. Even in our local Laguna Department of Education and Akama Department of Education.
14:01:08 They've made They've made it to where, it's culturally sensitive. People are able to participate.
14:01:17 And do those things and you know, so we we Have a we help them by respecting whatever their role is or whatever their, their obligations are to their community and to things that are traditional that they are either obligated through birth or obligated through appointment and so we always keep that in mind and say okay.
14:01:45 While this is important and while we're looking at employment as well, you know, employment is our outcome.
14:01:52 Of course through rehab services administration. We got to get those numbers. We got to get people employed. But in a way, we also have to be very sensitive to those others things that are a factor of how is it going to impact your employment outcome?
14:02:11 How is it going to impact your your ability to work for an employer outside. The Pueblo.
14:02:19 So, We're very mindful of those things. So I think that's, you know, that's our 1st approach because not only do we have those individuals who are very immersed in their responsibilities in the community.
14:02:33 We also have those individuals who are not. So we don't make assumptions that everybody is on that very.
14:02:42 Stringent or obligation to do those things. So we have to be mindful of that as well and be sensitive to those individuals as well.
14:02:51 So in regards to culture, you know, where we put put it in the forefront, we, are, I think what the good thing about it is that, in, I know in Hamas and in Laguna Akima.
14:03:07 The, the entire staff is, is native, which is helpful. And of course, you know, you know, having an individual at the state level like Tony who's also native is very helpful.
14:03:20 Our other VR counselor in Gallup Marcy Shatima, her and I have worked together for years so I know it's helped the community there knowing that she's from, you know, native country and the sensitive.
14:03:33 Like her counterpart, Ella Keene was. Who I believe retired. So you know it's it's good that we're having those individuals that are sensitive to the differences and nuances.
14:03:48 With individuals who come from. Native American communities.
14:04:01 Thank you. I I have to give a shout out. I have to circle back around and give a shout out.
14:04:10 To you, Marcy, in your program. I was I was making notes that I'm no math magician.
14:04:17 But I believe your numbers have a grown by 2 thirds. So that's certainly wonderful and worth a shout out.
14:04:27 And I just have to say thank you all for highlighting how you provide. Respectful, culturally relevant mind, you know, mindfulness.
14:04:40 In your work, how that is, how that is weaved into your, into your services and an individual being served who is being served and coached.
14:04:54 By someone who speaks their own language, how powerful. And as you said, Anita is aware of all of the cultural nuances that the rest of us wouldn't know.
14:05:06 So thank you so much for sharing.
14:05:11 We know that individuals with disabilities are disproportionately at risk. For social isolation. And it's so powerful to hear and learn about all of the good work that you all are doing to alleviate that reality.
14:05:32 Yeah. For so many. And so.
14:05:37 To move on. I made a note here that that came to mind Dr. Joshua Burbank who is a researcher and a speech language pathologist.
14:05:50 For the center of Indigenous health, he came to mind he has guest presented for us several times. And has shared very clearly some of the inequities that the Denny people that he work with continue to face.
14:06:08 And he's shared the consequences of those inequities. Higher dropout rates. In school and and teen higher teen child rearing rates and what have you and I know for myself up here in the 4 Corners area where I reside and have worked in education for many years.
14:06:34 The Navajo reservation is vast and beautiful and Many of the families that I have had the honor to work with.
14:06:44 Have varying degrees. Of access to internet. Transportation. And traveling long distances into town.
14:06:58 Can be a challenge for many. And so in terms of your work, I would just like to ask you to share.
14:07:08 What do you see as barriers for supporting the indigenous? Communities that you serve.
14:07:18 In working with. Indigenous communities. I think the biggest. Barriers that I've seen.
14:07:29 Our transportation. And internet access.
14:07:37 And I believe that, you know. If We could have. A better internet access, especially in.
14:07:50 The rural areas that would. Provide a vast majority of important communication with our participants. And they're so behind on.
14:08:08 In many ways on having access to. To the internet access and transportation has always been an issue.
14:08:19 Even in the metro areas. And in leading it into other areas of the metro area can be an issue.
14:08:31 That's something that we see here. And, and in the. In indigenous communities that I work with.
14:08:45 I think we have the same issue. However, During the pandemic, I know.
14:08:54 I understand the Navajo part of, how big in How rural things can be and how people have limited access.
14:09:06 But one of the things because I did live out there for many years and I moved. About 5 years ago, and working with the Pueblo communities, they're small and they're able to do a lot more.
14:09:20 For the communities, And so I know of course. I know for a fact that Hamas does have their tribal council, the tried the governors and the IT all work together during the pandemic and every person.
14:09:39 Was hooked up with, internet services. So everyone. Was able to get access only because of school and you know some people for work.
14:09:50 And then. Some of the other communities talked about what they did as well. Like bars I know for sure sent to Anna had connect to every home with the internet as well.
14:10:04 Only because they want it. To have communication with every household. That was that was within their community.
14:10:15 So a lot of the communities I know they had access to the internet during that time. So now that is, you know, not a barrier anymore, you know, they're able to, like Zoom Meeting with the counselors that they need.
14:10:34 They're able to do a lot more. Like job search at home and so forth. So that barriers coming down a little bit, not to say that it's gone.
14:10:45 You know, there are some people within the metro area like Hotel, I mentioned that don't have that access.
14:10:51 As far as transportation. We try to make sure that it's not too much of the barrier.
14:10:58 We, like we pride ourselves in going out to the communities that we need to go into their home if we need to.
14:11:07 I'm going to 5 Sandalo where we have an M. You know, they told us we can use their office anytime.
14:11:15 So if the consumer can at least make it to bystandable, that's good. We can meet with them there.
14:11:21 On the, Pueblo on their Pablo we are able to use the health center usually one of the departments will give us an office and we're able to meet with consumers that are from that community.
14:11:38 The tribal administrator actually let us use their tribal office to meet with them. We actually had Coach who, one of their programs as well, the governor, was able to let one of the programs open their doors to us.
14:11:54 In case we need to have a meeting with our consumers. So those are some of the ways we overcome the transportation part and then also if the consumer must come to our office.
14:12:07 Or is just beginning a job and they have a vehicle. What we try to do is look at their whole transportation, you know, situation.
14:12:19 Is the vehicle and good running. Condition, you know. Is there 2 nut that's needed?
14:12:27 Maybe they need new tires because we don't want them to get an accident on their way to work.
14:12:32 You know, some of the things that we look at is it registered, you know. Those kind of things or you know, or did they just make gas money, you know, to start them out until they get their 1st paycheck.
14:12:45 You know, so those are just. Just some of the ways that we try to break down those barriers.
14:12:54 But other than that, those are the 2 things that we. Try to be creative and making sure that they're not barriers.
14:13:02 Of course there are some to where we actually have to go out to their. Home pick them up maybe and take it maybe to an interview.
14:13:11 Or
14:13:14 Set him up with the bus service. Or one thing that we haven't then that we want to do is train individuals on how to use the rail runner.
14:13:25 Only because you know if they get a job further in town or towards Santa Fe. At least they know how to use the railway and that'll be source of transportation for them. So that's.
14:13:38 A work in prompt. Progress right now, so working process, you know, we're getting trying to get the This schedules and everything together.
14:13:49 So. We can educate the individuals on how to use that source of transportation.
14:14:08 I will say it gives me hope that some barriers are being at least partially aeviated. And I want to thank you, Marcy, for highlighting relationships with other organizations and Hotana and Anita, you've done this as well.
14:14:30 So thank you because you know, it just speaks to the to the fact that not one of us is an island, none of our organizations are an end all and be all for consumers and for families.
14:14:46 It takes it takes all of us, right?
14:14:50 I need, did you have something?
14:14:54 You know, when we talked about transportation, of course that has been an issue for for a lot of individuals.
14:15:03 Not just a rule but of course like a Tomo mentioned even in the in in the cities that can be.
14:15:12 Our internet improved, our situation improved during the pandemic. Because internet was needed so that our students would be able to access.
14:15:27 Their classes via zoom. So that improved, or now back to in person. Going to different places.
14:15:36 So, I found that a lot of our community members who no longer got assistance through the COVID funds, or letting their internet lapse.
14:15:50 So it's kind of a hit and miss now. Those that have used it on a regular basis continue to keep up with that.
14:16:00 I think one of the barriers that we have in our communities is We're a gaming tribe both Laguna and Akimo Pueblo are gaming tribes.
14:16:12 So every four-profit business on either Pueblo is managed by 2 organizations. The Laguna Development Corporation.
14:16:25 They own all the for profit, gas stations, casinos, restaurants, grocery stores. The same thing with the Pueblo of Achaema Business Enterprises.
14:16:37 Owns the gas stations. The casino, the hotel. And so sometimes we have gotten individuals who have pretty much burned their bridge with either either organization or corporation or both.
14:17:00 And so. Our only other options right now in regards to employment would be through tribal programs. Which turnover is few and far between.
14:17:14 So for us, one of our challenges is if an individual cannot work for one of the for profit enterprises.
14:17:25 Which owns all the for profit businesses. Then, what do we do at that point? Must they transfer, you know, get transportation to go to the town of grants, which Yes, you know, to the west side of us or commute to the city of Albuquerque.
14:17:46 So for us, that can be a challenge. In regards to what are our options for employment. If the individual does not wish to seek.
14:18:00 Relocation or does not have an interest in doing self-employment so that can be a challenge for us is our employment opportunities right now on on both Pueblos.
14:18:20 Wow, that's very, very interesting and You unique and thank you so much. This has been such a rich conversation.
14:18:31 I'm keeping an eye on the time and we're running out. But although The definition of success is unique for each individual.
14:18:44 I would love to take this last few minutes to invite you to share share a success story.
14:18:55 So in. Under New Mexico TBR, we have, several project search. Sites. One of the project search sites is at Russ Medical Center.
14:19:08 We have a growing number of indigenous students. With disability that are coming into the metro area.
14:19:20 Cleveland High School, Real Rancho High School. Even those that are surrounding APS schools and so the numbers are increasing.
14:19:31 I have one. Individual tribal member she's has Graduated from Cleveland High School.
14:19:45 She just graduated from the project search. Cohort Russ Medical Center may. Of this year, 2 24.
14:19:59 She has a obtained an immense. Amount of skill development and marketable skilled skills. Just by being in the cohort.
14:20:10 As an intern with working with teachers, working with job developers, job coach, in within. Russ Medical Center.
14:20:23 She's ready for job placement and is working with Adalante. From the start of this program, she was very quiet, very shy, very very reserved.
14:20:39 It was amazing to see her in different rotations to see her grow. And develop and her advocacy right now for herself.
14:20:51 Is incredible. And her parents drove many miles. From their tribe.
14:21:04 To support her. Advocate for her as well. And so I don't wanna mention tribes or I don't wanna mention.
14:21:14 Too much about her but Beautiful young lady. She's just a very good successful story.
14:21:22 So she's ready for that next step in getting and I'm plain obtaining employment. And then she's ready to, to be successful in this world.
14:21:37 That's a beautiful story. Thank you so, so much.
14:21:46 We had many successful stories, but like Hatona said, if I say too much, our communities are so small, they'll know who I'm talking about.
14:21:56 But, I'll just, you know, touch on like, for example, our project home.
14:22:04 Program when it 1st came out as a pilot program, we still kind of follow some of the students that were on there.
14:22:12 And A lot of them have. Gone on to hold at least one of the jobs that they.
14:22:21 Or had experience working with. And some have gone and then bigger things you know that I'm not going to mention because it's gonna identify the person.
14:22:31 But you know, just seeing them out there in the workforce, you know, able to. Advocate for themselves and apply for jobs.
14:22:40 You know, apply themselves that their job is, you know, as such a success, you know. And then also, you know, just the individuals here in the area and the communities that we serve.
14:22:54 I mean the 23 individuals that I spoke about earlier. That are in self employment are doing so well.
14:23:03 And I'm gonna mention that one person. Got invited out to take their product. Out to, you know, another state back east, you know, so they could showcase.
14:23:17 The work that that person is doing with their, So, you know, that's like a big.
14:23:25 Acknowledgement and you know, appreciation for the work that this person is doing. And this person came up to me and he was so excited.
14:23:37 It was like, you know. This is what's happening. This is who compact me. This is what they want me to do.
14:23:43 And he was like in all I was trying to do is make a living with myself employment but they see My product and they see they appreciate it and they want to showcase it in.
14:23:54 You know, so I told him. You know, good things happen when you, you know, you don't know.
14:24:01 What's ahead of you, you know, until you get the support and now you're on your own.
14:24:05 Now you're, you know, close to closure, you can do it. Go for it, you know, I told him and cause he was like he was so excited though and they it's an all paid trip and so you know things like that you know So this person may be seen, you know.
14:24:24 Their products, you know. Up there with other other indigenous peoples on jewelry, you know, that we see on the market right now.
14:24:33 And he does do beautiful work. I have to say that. We do, we did with him.
14:24:41 We did actually.
14:24:44 Provide a workshop. Because there was no room in the home. To actually have a self employment so, you know, what the safety of the tools he uses that, The other my chemicals and whatever he uses to to make his jewelry you know we had to have a separate workshop for him because So now he's going to be producing and selling out of his workshop as
14:25:14 well. So. That's 1 of our success stories and there's, there's many others, but I'll just choose him for now.
14:25:27 Thank you for sharing. That's beautiful.