Monday, December 24, 2012

The Power of Grandparents


The Partnership at Drugfree.org and MetLife present


The Power of Grandparents
Grandparents Play an Important Role in
Preventing their Grandchildren from Drinking
and Using Drugs

Grandparents can help keep their grandkids healthy and drug-free.  Find out how to better communicate with your teenage grandchildren; learn about the latest drugs; and discover how you can keep your grandchild healthy.

See the full article at the link below:

http://theparenttoolkit.org/images/uploads/toolkit/resource_files/grandparents_guide.pdf

or visit www.drugfree.org


ICMovement - Year End Giving


Equipping Youth for the Glory of God

In the past five years, ICMovement has impacted 500 youth and presented 99 productions to over 15,000 people. We remain committed to equipping young people with artistic training, spiritual mentoring, and to creating opportunities for youth to share their faith at The Overflow Theater through the powerful medium of the arts. ICMovement exists to raise up 7000 influential young leaders, as spoken of in Romans 11, who will bow only to Jesus Christ. Read what some of the youth are saying about their experience below.

“I love being at the Overflow Theater. God is in this place, you can just feel Him.”  -Jared, 14
 
“I love the Core because it is fun and it talks about the gospel.”  -Cece, 8
       
 “When I‘m here, I can hear music in my head. I get so inspired and have written several songs…I can’t believe 
I’m actually singing in front of people!”  -Shanice, 18
 
“I am a happier person now. I look forward to coming to ICM.  And I love my new Teen Study Bible they gave me.  I read it every day.”  -Christina, 18
 
“I’m happy that I take this class because it teaches me about Jesus and how to play an  instrument and how to sing.”  -Cynia, 9
       
“The Core has meant alot to me because it has helped me in school and teaches me a lot of things that I didn’t know about. I love The Core.”  -Alexis, 8
 
“I feel safe at ICMovement.”  -Alecycia, 10

The real life impact ICMovement is making in the lives of youth reminds us of the importance of keeping this movement readily available.  Can we count on you to help raise up 7000 “Youth Arts Messengers” at The Overflow Theater? I have highlighted several ways you can show your support.

*Acknowledgements will be made based on level of giving on plaque at theater, on website, and in other electronic media, unless otherwise noted.


Sponsor a YOUTH 

Your understudy needs you. Will you take a Lead Role in the Life of a youth today?
 

Sponsor a CHAIR

Want to help youth find rest in Jesus?  Help them Take a Seatby contributing towards the renovations of the Overflow Theater. 

Sponsor a SHOW

Want to bring hope to youth by makingChrist Center Stage

Donate any AMOUNT


A gift of any size will enable us to finalize our plans to help even more youth address their challenges in 2013.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Margo Davidson - Employment Center

 Looking for a job, visit the Emploment Center at

 http://www.pahouse.com/EmploymentCenter/?q=164

Preparation

Searching for a new job can be overwhelming, especially if you are looking for the first time in years. This page will help you brush up on the latest methods to market yourself and achieve results in an ever-evolving and increasingly competitive job search. Learn how to write a resume that will get you noticed, and project a professional image once you get the interview. Let's get started...

Finding the right job for you!

Interview Process

Resume Writing

Dress the Part

Job Search

 Sometimes you just need to know where to look. This page will help you find new job search websites that list all of the latest jobs on the market. You'll probably want to look at all of them to see which one feels best for you. You can also check out some of the hottest employers in the Southeastern Pennsylvania market to get an idea of who's hiring and if you'd like to be a part of their organization. If you're looking for an internship, there's a website for that too. Let's take a look...

Employment Resources

Transition/Training

Are you looking for a fresh start or new beginning? This page connects you with benefits and assistance that will help you while you're looking for that new job.

Starting your business in Pennsylvania

Public Transportation Options

You're all ready to go! This page will help you plan how to get to your interview or new job with ease, and maybe you'll find a couple ways to get where you're going.

SEPTA, AMTRAK, PATCO, NJ Transit, DART, Google Transit will all help you plan your trip.

Margo Davidson - Open House

 
 
 
 

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Volunteer Opportunity


One Step Away - Happy Birthday


 

Banner

Happy Third Birthday, One Step Away!

Winter 2012


 

 

In This Issue

Vendor Thoughts

Our History

Fundraising News

Our Future

Birthday Thoughts From Our Vendors

charles

"It means One Step Away is a success! One of the things I always want to point out, is that we couldn't have done it without people supporting us, our supporters. I always feel that One Step Away bridges the gap between the homeless community and the so-called real world, and slowly brings us back into the real world."

- Charles

 

Tony

"I would like to say that since I have been able to be a part of One Step Away it has helped build me up, especially during my trials and tribulations. And I am able to help myself financially through the contributions I receive.

 

That's why I believe this was created to bring about unity, love and culture. I have recently landed an apartment. And I would like to give my thanks to the people helping our struggles. I would like to give my thanks on this birthday anniversary."

- Tony

Calvin

"Congratulations One Step Away! This year has shown OSA's growth and prosperity not just for the organization but also for the vendor core and I wish continued success."

- Calvin

 

 

Resources for Human Development

RHD square

Learn more about RHD

 

Quick Links...

Join Our Mailing List

 

Emily Birthday photo

 

Director Emily Taylor celebrates One Step Away's 3rd birthday!

Greetings!

 

One Step Away is celebrating our third birthday-- that means we've had three years of service, offering those without shelter meaningful income and personal growth opportunities while raising awareness and advocacy for the homeless community.

A project of Resources for Human Development, our vendors better themselves and the places they live through their work with One Step Away.

 

 

A History of Service


 

first paper

Dainette Mintz, director of the Office of Supportive Housing in Philadelphia, gave a $1 donation to One Step Away and received the first copy of the city's first street paper in a press conference announcing One Step Away's debut at the Ridge Center shelter on

December 15, 2009.

 

One Step Away began operating almost entirely in the Ridge Center Shelter (which has since been closed) and the Woodstock Family Center, with 10 vendors who distributed 2,500 newspapers in our first month of existence.

 

Since that time, One Step Away has grown significantly. We now employ over 60 vendors from all circumstances (on the streets, in various shelters throughout the city, in transitional housing) who distribute 15,000 newspapers every month throughout the city of Philadelphia.

Over the last three years, One Step Away has helped hundreds become self-sufficient; this year alone,

15 OSA vendors have used the money they earned distributing our paper to attain housing and break the cycle of homelessness.

 

Our Recent Fundraising Success
Gerald's team

We had over

80 enthusiastic participants for our first ever "Spares for the Homeless" Bowling Tournament on Saturday, December 8th.

With their help, we not only had an afternoon of bowling fun with good food and drinks, we also raised $1,600 that will go directly to improving our vendor services. A big thanks to everyone involved, and we're looking forward to doing it all again next year!

 

Looking to Our Future Together

Papers On January 28, 2012, One Step Away editor Kevin Roberts will be speaking with the mayor and other sponsors citywide about Homelessness Has A Name, a successful film festival that One Step Away took part last October.

 

Also, make sure to mark your calendars for this year's "Knock Out Homelessness" event at Chickie's and Pete's on May 16, 2013 from 5-9 PM!

 

Why We Still Need Your Help

Dec 2012 cover With your support, One Step Away has made significant strides in helping to draw attention to, and eliminate, the problems of homelessness in Philadelphia.

 

Please consider helping us take action by becoming a Vendor for the Day, subscriber to our paper, or donor to One Step Away.


 

Thank you for your support.

 

OSA

Sincerely,

 

Emily's signature

Emily Taylor

Director

One Step Away

 

Resources for Human Development | 4700 Wissahickon Ave | Suite 126 | Philadelphia | PA | 19144

   

 
 
 
 

Jobs with PHEAA Call Center, Seaport Location

Public Workshops - Delaware County Community College

 
Career Development and Employment Search Workshop Descriptions

Career ConneXions - Don’t let the job search get you down! Join us for eight sessions of topic-oriented material to kick your job search into high gear and keep your focus! Connect with other jobseekers to share ideas and strategies that have worked for you. Sessions can be attended in any order and we’ll help you keep track with a punch card system. See calendar for topics and schedule.
NNNEEEWWW!!!!!!!!! Career Planning in Contemporary Times –
Thinking of a career shift? Discover your values and interests and how they impact your career decision making in today’
Employer Panel – Meet with hiring managers face to face!
Human resource professionals provide information about what they are looking for in a candidate like you and will answer your questions. Learn how to make a good impression and ace an interview.
Federal Jobs I - Ten Steps to a Federal Job In - depth information on the fundamentals of identifying your career path, searching for job openings that interest you and the process of applying for a job with the Federal Government.
Federal Jobs II - Federal Resume and Accomplishment Writing –
An opportunity for you to begin writing a Federal resume and list your accomplishments in the preferred format for Federal applications. Bring a copy of a current resume and a print-out of a federal job posting that interests you. NOTE : Federal Jobs I is a pre-requisite.
Identifying Your Transferable Skills –
Under the guidance of a facilitator using the Skillscan® system, you will identify and name your key skills and qualities that are essential for your resume development, career decision making and successful self-marketing.
Interviewing Techniques –
Job interview success depends on how well you are prepared to sell yourself! Learn what hiring managers want in a candidate, what questions may be asked and how they should be answered. Learn about "behavior-based" interviewing, how to ace a phone interview and how to manage the post-interview experience to ensure a positive outcome.
Job Search Strategies –
Learn how to search for jobs using JobgatewaySM, the latest on-line system in the PACareerLink®. Learn about organizational, networking, and research skills that are essential for a successful job search in today’s job market.
NNNEEEWWW!!!!!!!!! LinkedIn Live!
Social media has become a highly effective and some say necessary tool for networking, career development and job search activities. This interactive session will provide a general overview and information regarding profile development and the networking capabilities that are available free of charge and will lay the foundation for each participant to begin using LinkedIn.
Personal Computing (PC) Workshop –
Nine hour three- day class introduces you to the basics of personal computers. You will learn how to use email, basic file management and how to navigate the Internet to access job seeking resources such as PA CareerLink®.
Resume I – The Basics –
Intended for beginning resume writers or those who haven’t written a resume in over a year. Learn the basic elements of resume, cover letter and professional portfolio development, as well as different presentation styles for providing your resume and portfolio to potential employers that reflect you in the best light possible.
Resume II – Self-Marketing -
Intended for those who have completed a basic resume or Resume I, and are ready to apply self-marketing concepts. A series of exercises are provided to help you more fully develop your professional profile, write effective accomplishment statements, and identify key words.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Equal Opportunity Employer/Programs
 

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

National Association of Social Workers - Domestic Violence with Teens


NASW-PA Brandywine Division Event


“In their Shoes:  Understanding, Intervening in & Preventing Domestic Violence with Teens”

Presented by Katie Kenyon

 Friday, February 1, 2013
Registration 8:15am Program 9:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Grace Chapel Church
1 West Eagle Road
Havertown, Pa 19083

3 CEs – includes presentation, certificate fee
Cost: Members of NASW - $25
Non-Members of NASW - $35
Program Fee with No Certificate - $25
To register 717-232-4140 or visit online website
**************************************************************************************
To register visit www.nasw-pa.org click on the calendar button or complete the section below and mail to:  NASW-PA, 425 N. 21st St., Suite 401, Camp Hill, PA 17011

Name: ___________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________

E-mail: ____________________________________________________

Name of event _Brandywine: February 1 – “In their Shoes: Understanding, Intervening in and Preventing Domestiv Violence with Teens”

Apartment - 1 Bedroom - Folsom, PA - Near Bus Route

Independent Support Systems has a nice 1 bedroom 1st floor (3 steps) apartment for rent ($600 per month) in Folsom, PA (DELCO). It is 1 block to the bus route etc. Please help find a tenant (person with disabilities) to rent. This is the link to look at the apartment, etc.http://www.redfin.com/PA/Folsom/225-Ridley-Ave-19033/home/40409002. Your help with finding a tenant would be greatly appreciated. ISS could put a portable ramp to help with the steps.   

For more information contact John Saulino at 610-278-4950 or learn more about ISS at http://www.independentsupport.org


Food Pantry Opens in Chester

                           
http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs068/1102727622598/img/105.jpg

Better Living Center Food Pantry Opens




Thursday, December 13, 2012, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
And Every Thursday from 11:00 am - 12:30 pm thereafter

Families Must Pre-Register by Filling Out Application

Applications are available at the Better Living Center
Every Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

For More Information call: 610-497-1082
1917 W. 6th Street (rear)
Chester, PA 19013





Apartment - 1 Bedroom - Handicap Accessible


A large one bed ($830) on fourth floor that has a totally handicap accessible bathroom that will be ready for a Feb. 1 move-in.   The bathroom was done by county money for the previous resident whom was in a wheelchair.  Has a roll in shower.

Have a very Merry Christmas.

Christine Lotkowski,
Property Manager
Merion Trace Apts.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Free Parking in Upper Darby

Mayor Thomas N. Micozzie of Upper Darby Township Announces:

In the name of Holiday Spirit, Upper Darby Township will suspend the enforcement of the Parking Meters beginning Sunday, December 23rd, 2012 at 12:00 A.M. until Wednesday, December 26th, 2012 at 4:30 P.M.

Mature Job Seekers - Tips on Interviewing

Job Interview Coming Up? Nail the Age-Related Questions!

Mature job-seekers encounter special challenges when it comes to interviewing. But the good news is that many of the negative, age-related stereotypes can be dispelled through your nonverbal messages. As the interview books suggest, a firm handshake, good eye contact, energetic responses and a friendly face can go a long way to exude confidence in your abilities and enthusiasm for the position.
Nevertheless, there are two frequently asked questions that can prove difficult to answer and often act as stumbling blocks to your success. That is... unless you consider your responses ahead of time and plan to highlight your strengths and positive attitude.
Here are a few tips to help you frame your own answers to these troublesome interview questions:
What do you plan to be doing in five years?
This question is asking about your career goals and it can be particularly difficult for older applicants, because you may well wish to be retired in five years. However, that would not be your wisest choice of answers -- no humorous replies about rocking chairs, golf or sitting on the beach holding a drink garnished with little, colorful umbrellas. I always suggest that applicants "think politician!" Be positive and a bit vague at the same time, saying something like:
I like what I do and think I'm good at it. I'm sure a position such as this would provide me with many enjoyable challenges. I look forward to enlarging my skill set and taking advantage of any career opportunities that come my way. (Think: grow with the company/grow with the position.)
Aren't you overqualified for the position?
Actually, this question is asked far less frequently than you might think. You've already been screened as to your suitability for the position by your resume. So if this comes up during an interview, it might be a signal that someone on the hiring team may be feeling threatened by you. It's best to respond to this question in a positive and vague manner, much like the suggestion above:
My work gives me great satisfaction. I'm certain that working in a firm such as this will afford me many exciting challenges and opportunities for growth. Each organization is different and I look forward to learning new ways of doing my job and acting as a supportive member of your team.
--or--
I'm looking for a position where my skills and experience can contribute to the bottom line. Because of my years of experience, I'm sure I can hit the ground running and make a real difference to your team.
If, in fact, you've decided to step down a bit and take a job with less responsibility, you can say something like:
I've enjoyed my role as a manager but, at this time in my career, have come to the realization that I prefer doing the hands-on work myself. I get a real boost by seeing a tangible result from my efforts, so this position should be a perfect fit for me and my current career path.
So plan ahead, recognize these types of questions will be asked and be well-prepared. Above all, anticipate success. Nothing beats a confident candidate with a winning attitude!
Mary Eileen Williams is a Nationally Board Certified Career Counselor with a Master's Degree in Career Development and twenty years' experience assisting midlife jobseekers to achieve satisfying careers. Her book, Land the Job You Love: 10 Surefire Strategies for Jobseekers Over 50, is a step-by-step guide that shows you how you can turn your age into an advantage and brand yourself for success. Recently updated, it's packed with even more information aimed at providing mature applicants with the tools to gain the edge over the competition and successfully navigate the modern job market. Visit her website at Feisty Side of Fifty.com and celebrate your sassy side!

Hoarding - Is this you or someone you know?

Hoarding Fact Sheet
This Fact Sheet is Published through the Courtesy of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, Older Adults Services Division.

Hoarding is the excessive collection and retention of things or animals until they interfere with day-to-day functions such as home, health, family, work and social life. Severe hoarding causes safety and health hazards.
The collection of newspapers, magazines, old clothes and other items may cause fires while animal hoarding can spread contagious diseases. It is estimated that older adults represent a significant number of people who hoard.

Bullet Why do People Hoard?

The behavior of hoarding is seen in various illnesses. Because of that, it has been difficult to place in a diagnostic category. Time and/or age of onset are variable and the behavior differs from person to person.
Frequently, older adults have been found to hoard for the following reasons:
  • Items are perceived as valuable
  • items provide a source of security
  • Fear of forgetting or losing items
  • Constant need to collect and keep things
  • Obtaining love not found from people
  • Fear others will obtain their personal information
  • Physical limitations and frailty
  • Inability to organize
  • Self neglect
  • Stressful life events

Bullet Intervention

Hoarding is recognized as both a mental health issue and a public health problem. It is typically not an immediate crisis. The hoarding behavior usually has been occurring for a long time and hasty interventions will not resolve it. in addition, interventions without the older adult's cooperation can lead to the development of dangerous behaviors. Careful assessment of the individual situation is essential for a successful outcome.
Therefore, it is recommended that intervention be collaborative involving the older adult, family and other agencies, i.e. mental health, adult protective services, code enforcement, building & safety, animal control and criminal justice.

Bullet Tips

DO contact the older adult face-to-face
DO use a soft, gentle approach and let the older adult tell his/her story.
DO treat the older adult with respect and dignity.
DO respect the meaning and attachment to possessions by the older adult, which may be as intense as human attachment.
DO remain calm and factual, but caring and supportive.
DO evaluate for safety.
DO refer for medical and mental health evaluation.
DO go slowly and expect gradual changes.
DO reassure the older adult that others will try to help and work with him/her.
DO involve the older adult in seeking solutions.
DO work with other agencies to maximize resources.
DON'T hospitalize unless there is a clear plan for what this is to accomplish.
DON'T force interventions.
DON'T be critical or judgmental about the older adult's environment.
DON'T use the older adult's first name unless he/she gives permission.
DON'T press the older adult for information that appears to make him/her uncomfortable.
DON'T make negative, teasing or sarcastic comments.
DON'T talk about the older adult to others as if he/she is not present.

Bullet Resources

  • Department of Mental Health - ACCESS Center
    (800) 854-7771
    Information & referral to local mental health system of care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Adult Protective Services
    (800) 992-1660
    Investigation & crisis intervention for elder and dependent adult abuse including self-neglect, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Infoline
    (800) 339-6993; TDD (800) 660-4026
    24-hour information & referral to human service agencies.
  • Self-Help and Recovery
    (310) 305-8878
    Referrals to hoarding and other self help support groups.
    May be recorded messages.

Bullet Websites

Bullet Recommended Readings

F.Neziroglu,J.Bubrick,J.Tobias "Overcoming Compulsive Hoarding" New Harbinger Publication, 2004
A well written and easy to understand book about the causes of Hoarding and treatments for Hoarding.
Damecour, L. & Charron, M.
"Hoarding: a Symptom, Not a Syndrome."
Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 1998
Frost, R. & Hartl, T.
"A Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Compulsive Hoarding."
Behavior Research and Therapy, 1996
Patronek, G.
"Hoarding of Animals: An Under-Recognized Public Health Problem in a Difficult-to-Study Population."
Public Health Reports, 1999
Thomas, D.
"Hoarding" Eccentricity or Pathology: When to intervene?"
Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 1998