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(Baltimore, MD) The League for People with Disabilities, Inc. announced today that the organization received a Three-Year Accreditation from CARF International (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities). This is the first accreditation the international accredited body has awarded The League.
According to CARF, this accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows The League’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process and has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit that its programs and services are of the highest quality, measurable, and accountable.
Heralded for demonstrating excellence in Family Services, Employment Services and Community Integration, The League received CARF accreditation for their Day Habilitation and Vocational Services programs, along with the distinct honor of receiving accreditation for ASAP – the League’s Autism Services and Programs.
According to League President and CEO, David A. Greenberg, “Receiving CARF accreditation for the maximum three years was an incredible accomplishment. However, learning that we are the first organization in Maryland and one of only a handful in the country to receive accreditation for autism services was beyond thrilling. We are ecstatic!”
CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process that centers on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services.
Founded in 1927, The League for People with Disabilities, Inc. provides a range of services and programs developed to help individuals with disabilities gain independence, increase self-sufficiency and improve quality of life. For more information visit www.leagueforpeople.org and/or www.carf.org.
 
Spring 2005 & Winter 2010 covers |
The League for People with Disabilities, Inc.has joined forces with the publisher of I.D.E.A.L. magazine, to help distribute a new quarterly magazine covering information about and for the disability community.
The League’s print shop and bulk mail house, League Industries, will serve as the official printer and mail house for I.D.E. A. L. magazine which is an acronym for Individuals with Disabilities Express About Life.
According to the magazine’s CEO/Founder, Zarifa Roberson, “I.D.E.A.L magazine will create a new and positive image for young people with disabilities and, hopefully, help eliminate the stereotypes about people with disabilities in society.” Ms. Roberson states that she started the magazine so people can express their opinions on topics such as education, careers, sex, sexuality, love relationships, family, policies and more. She feels that expressions on these matters from people with disabilities are seldom communicated in a very public way and hopes that I.D.E.A.L magazine will become the “voice” of the disability community, “educating and bringing cultural awareness about our community to people at all levels of ability.”
The League’s President & CEO, David A. Greenberg, is very pleased to be working with Ms. Roberson and her staff on what is sure to be a big hit with League participants and their families. Greenberg states, “We currently serve over 2,000 individuals and families with various backgrounds and interests and opinions. It’s great that Zarifa is putting together so many voices and stories to show the diversity and extent of ideas and opinions within the community of people with disabilities. The possibilities for stories and articles are endless.”
“Ms. Roberson’s I.D.E.A.L. magazine will provide a needed educational voice to provide important information to strengthen the health, safety, and economic power of individuals and families in our Baltimore Community, “says Dr. Nollie P. Wood, Jr., Executive Director, Mayor’s Commission on Disabilities.
The magazine kicks off with a special reception at The League’s headquarters, located at 1111 East Cold Spring Lane in Baltimore, on Friday, January 15th, from 10:30am to 12:00pm. For subscription information and/or editorial queries email zarifaroberson@hotmail.com or call 215-200-8387.
The League for People with Disabilities, Inc. was founded in 1927 and provides a range of programs and services developed to help people with disabilities gain independence, increase self-sufficiency and improve quality of life.
An Autism Service's after-school program participant awaits his face-painting master piece. |
(Baltimore , MD) Amidst free flu shots administered by the Baltimore City Health Department, Osteoporosis and Blood Pressure Screenings, courtesy of Good Samaritan Hospital and Glaucoma tests provided by the Maryland Society for Sight, The League for People with Disabilities celebrated the importance of preventative care with a variety of healthcare providers and agencies at their annual Celebrate Wellness Fair on October 29, 2009 at their NE Baltimore location.
The crowd of about 200 community residents was treated to free health screenings and a limited supply of free seasonal flu shots, as well as information tables loaded with advice, tips and guidelines from organizations like the Asthma & Allergy Foundation, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, the Maryland Insurance Administration and Bravo Health. Senior Physical Therapist, JoAnne King from Good Samaritan was on hand to talk about physical rehabilitation and the work she does with patients in The League’s warm-water therapeutic pool, while Oram Fields, Manager of The League’s Wellness Center, spoke to attendees about the benefits of the League’s on-site fitness center & therapeutic pool, designed to serve people at all levels of ability.
No one left empty-handed thanks to the Healthy Snack Packs distributed by Whole Foods of Mt. Washington.
However, it was Annie The Clown who stole the show, providing comedic relief and masterful face painting for attendees – young and old - seeking a touch of whimsy to accompany their wellness.
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| Left to Right: Atwater's Executive Chef Nona Nielsen-Parker, James Dunn and League CEO David Greenberg | |
(Baltimore , MD) The pleasant and efficient soup server at Atwater’s in Belvedere Square had served. The League’s Paulette Pettit-Austrich on countless occasions, however, it wasn’t until he overheard that she worked at The League that he introduced himself. Ever professional, slightly serious and always focused on the task at hand, the Atwater’s employee, now beaming, took a short minute to step out of his role as soup server to convey his attachment to the League. He was a Camp Greentop camper! He really, really enjoyed his trip to Walt Disney World in Tampa (with the Assisted Travel program) and wanted to know if we (Camping & Therapeutic Recreation) had another Disney trip in store for the near future. Though filled with emotion, it was a brief exchange because James Dunn, who secured his position at Atwater’s 4 years ago through The League’s Vocational Services program, has a work ethic that would make any employer jump for joy.
Kaitlin Whitney Gallagher, an Atwater’s supervisor who works with James, gives a glowing report. “Not only does he take great pride in his work – he is really great at planning his day. That is a skill that is very helpful and shows maturity.”
Sue Italiano of The League’s Vocational Services department is James’ job coach, who visits him once a week. According to Sue, “James is a fabulous employee. He’s always smiling, is very conscientious and has a very good manner with his customers. He’s also become very independent. He’s a success!”
Manager of Employment Services, Jennifer Curran, explains that Vocational Services staff “make an effort to place participants in jobs that suit their interests, instead of trying to fit them into any available position, which results in success stories like James Dunn.”
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| Dress for Success Fashion Show | |
(Baltimore , MD) On Friday, July 31st, The League for People with Disabilities’ Vocational Services participants took to the catwalk for the very first time in The League’s “Dress for Success” fashion show, mentored and directed by the founder of Sunshine Models on Wheels – a modeling troupe of women and men with spinal cord injuries.
Sunshine King, the founder and CEO of Sunshine Models on Wheels, and “the first-ever model with a disability to participate in Baltimore’s illustrious Fashion Week,” worked with the League’s Vocational Services participants in an effort to support their desire to secure jobs in this extremely difficult economy. The “Dress for Success” fashion show highlighted the program’s emphasis on job readiness and interview preparation. “Looking the part and feeling food about yourself is an important aspect of making a positive impression on a prospective employer,” says League CEO, David Greenberg.
In addition to the practical aspects of the show, League participants – including those in the show and in the audience - expressed jubilation and excitement over the glamour-tinged event. According to Stephen Freeman, Senior Vice President of the League, “for many participants, these are highlights in their lives that are long remembered.”
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Congressman Elijah E. Cummings & Ms. Wheelchair America - Juliette Rizzo |
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(Baltimore , MD) The League for People with Disabilities will honor Maryland Congressman Elijah E. Cummings, Good Samaritan Hospital and Ms. Wheelchair America Juliette Rizzo during The League's annual advocacy and awards dinner, “The Toast to the League,” on May 2, 2009.
According to Chief Executive Officer David Greenberg, The League is paying tribute to Cummings and Rizzo for their outstanding advocacy for people with disabilities. “Their accomplishments in the health care and education arenas have helped improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Maryland and across the country,” says Greenberg who also commended Good Samaritan Hospital for their advocacy and support. “Our relationship with Good Samaritan's Outpatient Rehabilitation staff has grown over the years as they continue to utilize our therapeutic pool with their physical therapy outpatients, while providing a wealth of information and expert advice on cutting-edge rehabilitative therapies."
As the Congressman representing Maryland 's 7 th District, Cummings has sponsored initiatives to promote access to quality, affordable healthcare, provide seniors with affordable prescription drugs and ensure a high quality of life for disabled veterans. He also serves on several House Committees and is a member of the House Task Force on Health Care Reform.
States Cummings: “I am incredibly honored to receive this award from an organization whose programs have been so critical in helping people with disabilities gain independence and live a comfortable and fulfilling life. The men and women in our community with disabilities are one of the most vulnerable groups in our population, and we must do everything we can to ensure that they have access to quality and affordable healthcare and services.”
Noted as one of 2008's Top 100 Women in Maryland , Rizzo is the Director of Exhibits, Events Planning and Agency-Wide Outreach for the U.S. Department of Education. She is also serving her second governor-appointed term on the Maryland Commission on Disabilities. A nationally-known speaker, spokesperson and event hostess, Rizzo travels all over the country sharing her experiences with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and fibromyalgia.
According to Rizzo, “participation is more than having a physical presence in your community. It is about finding your identity through your involvement in and personal contribution to community life.”
In addition to the awards, the evening – aptly titled, “The Toast to The League” – will feature wine tastings, wine and food pairings, and an opportunity to bid on silent auction items. The event will benefit The League's highly popular, deep-heated therapeutic pool, which is used by people of all abilities as well as the Baltimore Special Olympics Swim Team. The “Toast” will take place at The League's headquarters, 1111 East Cold Spring Lane , Baltimore , 21239.
Founded in 1927, The League for People with Disabilities offers individuals the opportunity to gain independence, increase self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life through a variety of services and programs including: day habilitation and medical adult day care programs, vocational training and employment, camping and therapeutic recreation, autism services, and fitness and wellness programs. For more information about The League for People with Disabilities or “The Toast to The League,” call 410-323-0500.
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| Left to Right: Jason Watt, Oram Fields, Manager of The Wellness Center at The League; Patrick Rummerfield |
The Wellness Center at The League recently welcomed two phenomenal sports figures, Patrick Rummerfield, the first fully functioning quadriplegic in the history of medicine and Danish born champion race car driver, Jason Watt.
The two were being filmed for a Danish television documentary about Jason and his quest to overcome some of the physical problems he struggles with, though he continues to successfully race cars. With a 100-mega Watt smile, one would never guess the affable Jason has any worries, yet he is currently traveling all over the world visiting doctors and researchers and institutes that may help him “gain a better life.”
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| Top: Danish Television Station TV2 filming interview between Jason Watt & Patrick Rummerfield; Bottom: TV2 filming Rummerfield using fitness equipment |
While at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, exploring training techniques to find new connections in the spinal cord, Jason met Patrick, who trained himself and serves as a Kennedy Krieger spokesman, and advisor. The documentary will show the two working out at The League's Wellness Center, which is the only fitness center accessible for people at all levels of ability. Though Jason is in a wheelchair and Patrick is not – though amazingly Patrick cannot feel anything below his knees – the two were able to work out side-by side.
Patrick Rummerfield, the world's first fully functioning quadriplegic in the history of medicine, is an amazing real-life example of beating the odds and as his website attests, is literally a walking miracle. At age 21, a car accident left him paralyzed from the neck down and he was told he would not live out the week. However, possessing an unbelievable will to live and more, Patrick, after 17 years of care and intensive therapy, completed the rigorous IronMan triathlon in October of 1992, followed by a string of other amazing feats and victories, including a 155-mile foot race across China's Gobi Desert.
In 1992, Danish born Champion Race Car Driver Jason Watt's career was curtailed by a motorcycle accident which left him paralyzed from the waist down. However, he continues to race successfully in specially modified touring cars. He won the Danish Touring Car Championship in 2002 and in March 2008 formed his own touring car team. The documentary on his life is being filmed by TV2 in Denmark.
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| Left to right: David Greenberg, President & CEO - The League; Tyeisha Jones, Director, Autism Services - The League; Vince Ancona, COO - AMERIGROUP; Jesus (Nano) Sierra, Manager, Risk Management - Constellation Energy & League Board Chair; Click here to view more photographs |
(Baltimore , MD) On Thursday, October 23, 2008 The League for People with Disabilities unveiled the newest addition to their Autism Services department, a Therapeutic Sensory Room, thanks to the support of The AMERIGROUP Foundation. The unveiling and room dedication took place during a special reception for the parents and families of young people enrolled in The League's program for youngsters with autism, who celebrated alongside board members, donors and staff. The reception was a special gathering held during The League's annual Celebrate Wellness Fair, a free event that offers free health screenings and flu shots to members of the surrounding communities.
“The AMERIGROUP Foundation is pleased to support the League's innovative efforts and initiatives, including the new Therapeutic Sensory Room for children with autism,” said John E. Littel, AMERIGROUP Foundation Chairman. “Our partnership with The League for People with Disabilities, whereby AMERIGROUP sponsors such events as the Lunch and Learn series and community health fairs, is a collaboration that works for the communities we all serve. AMERIGROUP applauds the mission of The League as it continues improving quality and independence to hundreds throughout the Baltimore area every day.”
In addition to free health screenings, flu shots and the unveiling of the sensory room, guests had an opportunity to meet the star and subject of the academy-award winning documentary, “King Gimp,” artist Dan Keplinger, who exhibited several pieces at the Celebrate Wellness Fair's special art exhibit, showcasing works of art by individuals with disabilities.
According to League CEO, David Greenberg, “It's a wonderful opportunity to have the parents and families of our participants with autism meet our partners and supporters, The AMERIGROUP Foundation, and get a chance to meet accomplished individuals with disabilities like Dan. Add to that mix, our board and members of the surrounding community taking advantage of free health screenings for diabetes and glaucoma and high blood pressure, plus flu shots and the art exhibit, and it truly is an event to celebrate wellness and efforts to improve the quality of life for everyone. You can't go wrong with that equation.”
JOIN BALTIMORE CASH CAMPAIGN IN EFFORT TO HELP PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES APPLY FOR ECONOMIC STIMULUS CHECKS
On Monday, August 18th, at 11:30am The League for People with Disabilities will host an event for Comptroller Peter Franchot, Congressman John Sarbanes and the Baltimore CASH Campaign to announce an effort to help people with disabilities, retired seniors, disabled veterans and others who don't normally file tax returns, receive their Economic Stimulus payments.
Over 35,000 Baltimore City and County low-income individuals will lose their federal economic stimulus payments if they don't file tax returns before October 15 th . That's why The Baltimore CASH (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) Campaign is providing free tax preparation for people with disabilities, seniors and disabled veterans.
“With the price of everything from a gallon of gas to a gallon of milk on the rise, folks, now more than ever, should take advantage of the millions of dollars in available Federal relief, “said Comptroller Franchot.
Congressman Sarbanes adds that “The Economic Stimulus comes after a bipartisan effort in Congress to assist people trying to make ends meet in these hard economic times.”
Baltimore CASH Campaign Director, Joanna Smith-Ramani says that “Many people haven't claimed their Economic Stimulus payment because their incomes were too low for them to file. We hope that free tax preparation will encourage people to file for their payments.” To address the issue Baltimore CASH Campaign will host several free Economic Stimulus Payment clinics with partner organizations.
A free tax clinic for people with disabilities and seniors will take place at The League for People with Disabilities in mid-September. Check www.leagueforpeople.org for an update on the exact date and time. Smith-Ramani adds “In the Baltimore area alone, over $11 million of payments could be lost if people don't file right away.”
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( Baltimore , MD ) Nearly 16,000 gallons of water will tumble along more than 85 feet through massive boulders before disappearing into a hidden underground reservoir in the therapeutic sensory garden of northeast Baltimore 's League for People with Disabilities when the non-profit unveils the newest addition to their Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Campus on Tuesday, August 5, 2008.
The “White-Water Mountain Stream” water feature is being installed by The Savio Water Feature Institute as part of a National Pond Expo and Conference, taking place at the Radisson Plaza August 1 st through 7 th . Looking for a location to install the officially titled “Pondstruction Event” conference sponsors, The National Association of Pond Professionals, were eventually steered to The League's location by the TKF Foundation who funded the League's therapeutic sensory garden, used by The League's participants with disabilities, staff and members of the surrounding community. The TKF Foundation typically funds projects that turn inner-city spaces into wonderful meditation gardens referred to as “Sacred Spaces”. “This amazing stream that Rick Bartel is creating at The League greatly enhances the already existing tranquil garden just steps from the traffic and noise of the city,” says Mary Wyatt, TKF Executive Director.
Once the White-Water Mountain Stream water feature is installed by Certified Master Water Feature Specialist, Savio's Rick Bartel, the completed garden will likely qualify as a wildlife refuge and sanctuary under the guidelines set forth and administered by the National Wildlife Federation and their Wildlife Habitat Program.
According to League CEO, David Greenberg , “We are so grateful to the TKF Foundation, The National Pond Expo & Conference and Savio's Rick Bartel for selecting The League as the site to receive this incredible water feature which not only benefits our participants and staff but also benefits members of our local northeast Baltimore community. Enhancement of our sensory garden is particularly beneficial to our participants and community members who use our Wellness Center . After exercising in our gym or therapeutic pool, participants will appreciate and take advantage of this beautiful, peaceful space to come for respite or meditation. It's a wonderful addition to The League's Weinberg Campus. We are beyond grateful!”
To celebrate this incredible gift, The League is holding a Ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:00am, Tuesday, August 5, 2008 with League board members, staff, participants, Wellness Center members and neighboring residents for the official unveiling of the League's new White-Water Mountain Stream. For more information call 410-323-0500 ext. 304 or visit www.leagueforpeople.org .
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( Baltimore , MD ) Jesus “Nano” Sierra, Director, Risk Management for Constellation Energy Group, was voted in as Board Chair of The League for People with Disabilities. Sierra, whose official term began with the July fiscal new year, had been serving as Secretary of the Board , helping to oversee business and financial matters affecting the northeast Baltimore non-profit agency. He also serves on The League's Safety Task Force.
Sierra, who joined BGE/Constellation Energy in 1978, received an MBA with a concentration in Finance from Loyola College and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from The Georgia Institute of Technology. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico . In respect to his involvement with The League, Sierra states, “It's been a pleasure for me to serve on the Board and to be part of an organization committed to providing services to people with disabilities.”
Also coming on board are Lori D. Frazier, Vice President of Susquehanna Bank in Owings Mills; Arlene Blumenthal Kelly, Ph.D., a professor at Gallaudet University's Department of American Sign Language & Deaf Studies and Erin Young, Advertising Director at Maryland's Daily Record.
According to League CEO, David Greenberg, “This is an exciting time at The League, particularly due to the energy and passion of our Board – which is known for its commitment and devotion. We are quite fortunate in that we continue to attract top-notch business professionals with loads of talent and diverse expertise. Nano Sierra has the respect of the Board, staff and participants and we are confident in his ability to lead the governance of The League. The addition of Lori Frazier, Arlene Kelly and Erin Young will only strengthen our knowledge and depth of understanding in the areas of finance, deaf services and advertising.”
The League proudly salutes outgoing Board Chair, Wendy Shiff, whose mastery at the helm guided the League through the successful transition of CEO's in 2007. Greenberg adds, “Wendy set the stage for positive growth and innovation. She kept us on course and managed to keep us moving forward while raising the bar. We've implemented several new very successful programs and services under Wendy's leadership. She will be missed, but fortunately has agreed to remain on several key committees.”
Shiff, a partner with Salsbury Clements Bekman Marder and Adkins, LLC served as a key board member, officer and chair from 2002 to 2008.
( Baltimore , MD ) The League for People With Disabilities' annual awards & advocacy dinner, newly re-named, “Toast To The League”, will honor long-time volunteer/donors, Marni & Phil Wetzler and Amerigroup Community Care, on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at a multi-faceted event at their headquarters, located at 1111 E. Cold Spring Lane in Baltimore .
Featuring wine tasting, food & wine pairings, a jazz trio and a live and silent auction -offering a fabulous stay in France and a romantic weekend get-away to the Ritz Carlton complete with a brand new Saab Convertible - attendees will also get an opportunity to be entertained by funny man, Lonnie Shorr, whom many might remember from his gigs on The Tonight Show and the Merv Griffin Show, among others. Shorr, a former City College grad attended school with honoree Phil Wetzler and is flying in just to regale Wetzler's awards event attendees.
The Wetzlers have a long history with The League, particularly Phil Wetzler, who as a youngster, accompanied his mother and grandmother to the facility when they served as volunteers. A former marine, Phil is The League's volunteer aquatics therapy coach, utilizing the League's unique, warm therapeutic pool to coach and train League participants, neighboring residents and Baltimore 's Special Olympics swimming team.
AMERIGROUP Community Care, a healthcare company that works with federal and state governments to promote proactive, preventive care and good-health awareness for its members will receive an award for sponsorship of The League's accredited Lunch & Learn Series. The luncheons offer updates on health and human services on a variety of topics while offering an opportunity to earn continuing education credits.
According to League CEO, David Greenberg, “It is an exceptional honor to have volunteer/donors like Marni & Phil Wetzler, whose tireless dedication and energy bring so much to The League. We are also very excited to have the support of partners like AMERIGROUP Community Care that help us extend our reach through the community. We are proud to recognize these wonderful League Advocate awardees.”
For more information about The League For People With Disabilities or “The Toast to The League,” visit www.leagueforpeople.org or call 410-323-0500.
( Baltimore , MD ) The League for People with Disabilities will pay tribute to the organization's most outstanding advocates at their annual advocacy and awards dinner, June 14, 2008, naming AMERIGROUP Community Care one of three 2008 awardees. The healthcare company supports The League's accredited Lunch & Learn series, which updates and informs individuals in health and human services on a variety of topics while offering an opportunity to earn continuing education credits.
Based in Virginia Beach , Va. , AMERIGROUP Corporation and its subsidiaries – including AMERIGROUP Community Care in Maryland – serve approximately 1.7 million members in 11 states. The company works with federal and state governments to promote proactive, preventive care and good-health awareness for its members, which include the financially vulnerable, seniors and people with disabilities.
According to League CEO David Greenberg , “We are so honored to have the support of partners like AMERIGROUP Community Care that help us extend our reach throughout the community with programs like our luncheon seminars. Not only are they helping us educate a sector of the health and human services community, they're helping us bring people to The League who might otherwise never have the opportunity to learn about our various programs. They provide a very valuable service. We are proud to recognize them as a League Advocate awardee.”
The dinner which will be held at the organization's renovated facility and garden, will also salute longtime donor/volunteers Marni and Phil Wetzler for their tireless support.
AMERIGROUP Community Care COO Vince Ancona feels privileged to be honored alongside the Wetzlers. “The League's supporters and volunteers are well-known for their dedication to the community of people with disabilities,” Ancona said. “This community represents an integral element of our membership, and we appreciate the opportunity to join others in making a difference in the lives of those we serve. We at AMERIGROUP Community Care salute the Wetzlers and The League for People with Disabilities for their efforts to enhance the lives of people with disabilities in Baltimore and the surrounding counties.”
In addition to the awards portion of the event, the evening – aptly titled, “The Toast to The League” – will feature wine tastings, wine and food pairings, an opportunity to bid on a week's stay in Paris, a live jazz trio and the comedic wit of the beloved, Baltimore-bred Lonnie Shorr.
Founded in 1927, The League for People with Disabilities offers individuals the opportunity to gain independence, increase self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life through a variety of services and programs including: day habilitation and medical adult day care programs, vocational training and employment, camping and therapeutic recreation, autism services, and fitness and wellness programs.
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| Click on image to view invitation details |
( Baltimore , MD ) Wine tastings, wine pairings, music, comedy, fine art, great food, a trip to Paris and much more heralds the re-naming of The League's upcoming annual advocacy awards dinner. The new name, Toast to The League not only immediately calls to mind the fact that this annual fund raiser is a salute to our top notch volunteers, donors and sponsors, but it also gives a nod to the fact that, for many, The League for People with Disabilities is a lively, sparkling gem of a find. From clients, to volunteers, to staff members, daily life at the League is full of enthusiasm, energy and the promise and thrill of celebrating countless breakthroughs and milestones.
On Saturday, June 14, 2008 The League is proud to honor volunteer/donors extraordinaire, Marni and Phil Wetzler and The League's Lunch & Learn series sponsor, AMERIGROUP Community Care. An extra special thank you goes out to Constellation Energy and Johns Hopkins Medicine for signing on as early bird sponsors and we can't say enough about our special guest, Lonnie Shorr, whom many will remember from his TV appearances on The Tonight Show, the CBS Morning Show and the Merv Griffin Show, among others. Did you know that Lonnie and Phil went to school together? Small world!
In addition to enjoying a night of comedy, great food and new and established wines from vintners near and far, participants will also have an opportunity to bid on silent and live auction items including: fabulous accommodations at a lovely house in Paris, France, a beautiful Persian Rug from Alex Cooper, private and group Ballroom Dancing Lessons, your own Casino Night Party personal event planner, and much more. It's a night not to be missed!
Come out and celebrate 81 years of success at the Toast to The League . We look forward to seeing you there. Call Sara Plescia at 410-353-0500 ext. 311 for more information
Click here to read about our corporate honoree: AMERIGROUP Community Care
( Baltimore , MD ) The League for People with Disabilities, a leading provider of rehabilitative services for the Baltimore community, has received one of the largest gifts in its 80-year history, a one million dollar contribution from an anonymous donor.
The gift will fund a new endowment designed to ensure the continued health and well-being of The League, a non-profit organization. “The contribution is a vote of confidence,” notes The League's President and Chief Executive Officer David A. Greenberg. “We are excited to receive this endorsement of the quality and effectiveness of our programs for Baltimore area residents. A donation of this size reaffirms that The League's work is recognized as important by the community at large.”
The donor made the gift through a donor-advised fund at the Baltimore Community Foundation. “By providing income in perpetuity, endowments sustain non profits over the long term,” explains BCF CEO Tom Wilcox. “This gift will help The League to continue its important work for people with disabilities now and in the future.”
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(Baltimore, MD ) The League for People with Disabilities is excited to announce the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer, David A. Greenberg. Mr. Greenberg's unique experience in the healthcare and nursing system will provide a fresh approach to The League as it celebrates 80 years of putting ability first.
David A. Greenberg comes to The League with almost 30 years of experience in nursing and administration from highly regarded hospitals in the Baltimore Washington metropolitan region. Most recently, Mr. Greenberg served as Vice President of Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Greenberg also worked as an administrator for The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, where he expanded and renovated a 130-bed pediatric rehabilitation and transitional care hospital.
Mr. Greenberg is also an active member of respected healthcare organizations including the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE) and the Maryland Association of Healthcare Executives. Greenberg has also served on the Board of Trustees of several agencies including the Group Health Association and the Consumer Health Foundation. He has distinguished himself both academically and professionally, winning the award for Excellence in Graduate Education from George Washington University and The ACHE Regent's Award for Excellence in the DC region.
Educated locally, Mr. Greenberg holds a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from American University and a Masters in Business Administration from Loyola College. He is also a licensed, registered nurse in the state of Maryland and District of Columbia. He resides in Baltimore County with his wife and two children.
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| All images provided by Valentini Professiona lPhotography. Click here to see photos from this event. |
“Jackpot!” along with the sound of laughter filled the The League on June 2, 2007 as guests arrived to celebrate The League's 80th Anniversary with a Casino Night fundraiser. This exciting Vegas-style night came complete with a red carpet, table games, raffles and a silent auction.
Guests walked into The League amazed to find a lighted archway, candlelit terrace, live music, and over 14 gambling tables including an impressive 14 ft. craps table. 140 attendees received the VIP treatment with gourmet buffets, faux paparazzi and gift bags.
Thanks to generous contributions from committee and board members, several lucky individuals left with some spectacular silent auction prizes including a hot-air balloon ride, the complete James Bond DVD collection, a NASCAR prize package and a trip to see a taping of the Colbert Report.
The League would like to thank all 80th Anniversary sponsors. With their support we look forward to celebrating another 80 years of Putting Ability First.
A special thanks to all our committee members for their help and contributions to this event. We would also like to thank Valentini Professional Photography for making this night so memorable.
Camp Milldale, the Jewish day camp in Reisterstown, has offered quality programming to Baltimore area children for over 40 years. This year, their services to campers with disabilities have expanded to include therapeutic aquatic exercise with professionally trained instructors from The League for People with Disabilities' Wellness Center.
Since the beginning of the camping season, instructors Gail Williams-Glasser and Linda Tisdale have been working with 15 teenagers with disabilities every Monday and Friday. These sessions provide a fun exercise opportunity for these children with qualified instructors that are trained in aquatic instruction, as well as working with special populations.
“They (Gail and Linda) have been fantastic; seeing the kids experience this is just thrilling.” states Camp Milldale Director, Jodi Fishman. And according to Oram Fields, the Assistant Director of the Wellness Center at The League, the kids really love the music, and the instructors make it so much fun that anyone who can sneak some time away gathers around the pool to watch the session.
This program is supported by an inclusion grant received by Camp Milldale to better serve campers with disabilities.
(Baltimore, MD) The League for People with Disabilities is pleased to announce that the following individuals were newly elected to its volunteer Board of Directors in June:
Bruce Brooks is President - Construction Tools in the Industrial Products Group of The Black & Decker Corporation's Power Tools and Accessories business. Bruce earned a B.S. degree in marketing from The University of Virginia and is a 2002 graduate of the Greater Baltimore Committee's Leadership Program.
Melissa Kelly is the Senior Vice President, Finance Division and Director, Investor Relations for Provident Bank. Melissa earned a B.A. in political science from the University of South Carolina and M.B.A. from Loyola College in Maryland.
Arnie Wallenstein is the President and Owner of Wallenstein Construction Inc., which specializes in high end residential remodeling and additions. Arnie earned a B.A. in psychology from the University of Rochester and Masters in Urban Education from Towson University. He also is a member of the House Committee at Chizuk Amuno Congregation which oversees all maintenance and construction for the entire facility.
A late spring downpour, an air conditioner on the fritz, the looming three-day holiday weekend—nothing could dampen the delight of the special guests, staff and capacity crowd who celebrated the re-opening of The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Campus of the League for People with Disabilities on May 26, 2006.
An exultant Janice Frey-Angel, Chief Executive Officer of The League, danced to the podium and pumped her fists in the air like the head coach of a Superbowl-winning football team as she kicked off the morning ceremony. Honored guests included Maryland Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. and Donn Weinberg of the Weinberg Foundation.
The re-opening marks the completion of a $5.8 million renovation of The League's headquarters on Cold Spring Lane, originally built in 1964. The building has been transformed into a model of accessibility, safety and hospitality for participants, staff and community. The new therapeutic garden provides opportunities for people in the neighborhood to interact with our participants, while the Silberman occupational therapy kitchen offers activities of daily living experiences to our Adult Day participants. The revamped Meyerhoff multi-purpose room will host a brand-new after school program for children with autism beginning in September 2006.
“The new League is good,” said Ricky Gnibus, a participant in the Medical Day program for six years. “I like the colors,” he said of the citrusy hues used in the renovation. “It's a lot brighter and happier in here.”
Attendee Nan Waranch also praised The League's sunny, light-filled spaces and sense of airiness coupled with increased accessibility. “It says volumes that so many people are here the day before Memorial Day weekend,” she noted. “When I first drove to The League, I missed it by three blocks. Now it is the focal point of the community.”
“This building is so much more than the light, the flow, the access,” enthused Frey-Angel in her opening remarks. “This building represents putting people first. Everything is possible here—work, wellness, rehabilitation, sailing, trips, and most important, independence. Without adding any new space, the renovation means we can serve 30 percent more people annually, which translates into nearly 400 clients.”
A relaxed Governor Ehrlich gave a keynote speech, after being lauded by Frey-Angel as “a champion for people with disabilities.” “The smiles we see here today complete this picture,” he noted. “There is so much good news at The League to celebrate today. This renovation was needed and the dollars were well spent. This renovation will empower people—and that is what it is all about. The easiest thing to do in government is create an agency—big deal. We are about empowering people.”
Governor Ehrlich went on to commend how The League and his administration have been working together to get more people with disabilities into the workplace. “We now use technology to train people who might have been discarded in the past—and The League is in the forefront of this,” he said. “I wanted to come here today to convey my excitement, my sense of pride, and my advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities. This is near and dear to my heart.”
Donn Weinberg, of the Weinberg Foundation, was equally enthusiastic, saying “it is not easy to give away money wisely, but this was a no-brainer. We saw the old League and it was a pretty good place. But now—wow!—it is a completely renovated, revitalized place.”
Perhaps participant Vera Waters gave the most rousing speech, with her heart-warming, funny and personal comments about The League. Waters, who suffered a stroke while in Disneyland in 1993 and was given three days to live, came to The League for aqua therapy and is now out of a wheelchair and driving, and only using a cane for assistance. “I urge everyone to look beyond the canes, the walkers and the wheelchairs and see the people,” she said. “We have angels here and miracles happen on a daily basis.”
Want to know more about The League's renovations and its various programs? Contact Emily Mann, Director of Development and Marketing, at (410)323-0500, ext. 304 or ehmann@leagueforpeople.org.
The League for People with Disabilities is “on the grow” more than ever with the unveiling of
the new therapeutic sensory garden. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in September, introducing to its participants and the community a resource designed to promote independence and accessibility in a life-giving garden setting.
The sensory garden has transformed a neglected, woebegone corner in Baltimore City to an urban oasis that features a relaxing rain curtain fountain, wide, gentle graded wheelchair accessible paths and entrances, raised beds and containers, sensory-stimulating areas chosen for fragrance, texture, and color, and adaptive tools to make this garden one that empowers people of all abilities to work, learn, and relax together.
“The garden is an extension of The League's mission of providing opportunities for both the disabled and non-disabled communities to interact in natural settings,” says Janice Frey-Angel, CEO at The League. “We worked so hard to include people from the neighborhood in the planning process, so that they will have ownership of the garden and use it.”
Input from the neighborhood and particpants was instrumental in the design of the therapeutic, sensory garden. “Everyone was so helpful in educating us about what would be welcoming, but would also give the users of the garden a sense of security and comfort,” says Frey-Angel. “That is why the gates and fences are closed, but provide a visually hospitable perspective from the outside.”
Clients like Joe Marchiano also gave insights and suggestions. “We talked about all sorts of ideas and came up with a great plan, like planting beds at different heights so that everyone can use them,” he says. “I never thought that I would be involved with something this cool.”
The garden is one aspect of the $5.4 million renovation currently underway at The League. Upon completion in the spring of 2006, The League will increase its capacity to serve by nearly 30 percent while making its facility a model of accessibility.
“Horticultural therapy is a new discipline, which enhances the lives and rehabilitation for people with disabilities,” says Frey-Angel. “This garden is the next step in allowing us to use these innovative approaches with our clients, as well as serving the community at large.”
back to topOn July 13 th at 10:30 A.M., The League will celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of this newly renovated program with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The remodeled space features a re-designed check in area, locker rooms that are a model of accessibility, a new aerobics room and more natural lighting. The Honorable Anne Marie Doory, as well as two stars of the NCAA championship Hopkins Lacrosse team, Kyle Harrison and Benson Erwin, will join us to celebrate the re-opening of this vital community resource.
The Wellness Center at The League has been serving the Baltimore community for over 40 years. First built in 1968, the gymnasium has provided recreational opportunities for the disability community, as well as the community at-large. The League continues to meet its mission by offering these services to all community members, resulting in the natural integration of people with disabilities into the community at-large.
In addition to state-of-the-art Cybex strength training equipment, cardio machines and specialized equipment for wheelchair users, The League offers a therapeutically heated pool and whirlpool spa that is perfect for those who want to continue physical therapy after an injury or simply take an aqua aerobics class to get into shape.
The League is committed to being an invaluable resource not only to the disability community, but also to our entire surrounding community. The League has invested $800,000 into this project, which is the first major renovation to the Wellness Center since its construction in 1968. The Wellness Center serves nearly 800 individuals and families by providing affordable and accessible services to people with disabilities, as well as the community at-large.
The League is pleased to announce the election of five new members to it's volunteer board, Miles Harrison, Jr., Nataraj Iyer, Judy Levy, Rosemary Meyer and Nanno Sierra. We look forward to the fresh ideas and insight they will bring as The League launches it's 78th year of service to the Maryland disability community. We also would like to thank our retiring members, Susan Palmer, Audrey Leviton and Andy Levy, for their outstanding service and commitment over the past several years. We are so grateful for our volunteers that provide guidance, direction and energy to every aspect of our organization.
“There’s no place like the League in the world,” raves Barbara Young, an 82-year-old psychiatrist, author and photographer who swims in the League’s therapy pool six days a week. “There’s a warmth and spirit here that I’ve never encountered anywhere else.”
Young has put her praise into print. Her new book, “Tales of Courage: Recovering Life After Catastrophe” was published by Bay Media, Inc. in September. The book is a valentine to the League, filled with Barbara’s compelling color photographs and 24 vivid first-person stories about the people here who push through pain and adversity to make better lives for themselves.
Barbara is no stranger to adversity herself. She started coming to the League in the late 1990s, when bursitis in her hip inhibited her daily walking regimen. “What brought me to the League every day was not just the healing waters and the swimming—it was the people,” she said. “Everything is done here with such grace and love.”
In January of 2003, Barbara had emergency hip replacement surgery and the resulting pain, depression and sense of disorientation rocked her world. “Now I too fully understand the shock of having my life cut away from under my feet without a moment’s warning,” she writes in the book’s introduction. “I too understand the fear, the pain, the sense that my mind was disintegrating; followed by a period of incapacity in which I struggled to regain a sense of meaning to my life.”
She is well on the road to recovery, which has allowed her to work on the book this spring and summer. “I think of the book as our book—it is about the people who work here and are served here, and the support we’ve received. All the stories are different, but they are similar in that they are all about courage.”
Shortly after graduating from Johns Hopkins medical school in the mid-1940s, Young decided to concentrate on psychiatry and psychoanalysis. She has been in private practice since 1952, and still sees patients in her home office, which is outfitted with the requisite psychiatrist’s couch. “I’m obviously very interested in people with mental disabilities and it was a natural outgrowth for me to gravitate toward those with physical disabilities,” she says.
She first became interested in photography in 1957, during a trip to Harbour Island in the Bahamas. Using a Brownie camera her brother gave her for Christmas, Barbara took 72 pictures of the local villagers and children. “When I sent them to my brother, who worked for Eastman-Kodak, to be enlarged, he said ‘Barbara, you have the eye.’ And he got me a better camera.”
Her work is in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Yale University Art Gallery and many private collections. “I paint with a camera. My work has been likened to the stillness of Zen. I like that,” she says.
Young sees “Tales of Courage” as a celebration of the League. “Tragedy can happen to anyone at anytime,” she says. “I hope the stories in this book will give others the courage to hang onto life again. The people in the book may have despaired at one time or another, but they never gave up hope.”
“Tales of Courage” is available for purchase at the League. The book costs $25, plus tax. Call Sara Patterson at 410-323-0500, ext. 311 for more information.
