ANNUAL REPORT FFY 2022
Published November 15, 2022
The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (the Council) is part of the Minnesota network of programs funded under P.L. 106-402, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act). The DD Act also funds the Minnesota Disability Law Center (the designated protection and advocacy agency for the state) and the Institute on Community Integration, a University Center for Excellence located at the University of Minnesota.
The Council's business is to provide information, education, and training to increase knowledge, develop skills, and change attitudes that will increase the Independence, Productivity, Self-Determination, Integration, and Inclusion (IPSII) of people with developmental disabilities and their families.
This Annual Report summarizes the results of the 2022-2026 Five Year Plan program goals for FFY 2022.
CURRENT COUNCIL MEMBERS (November 2022)
Michelle Albeck
Jenny Arndt
Wendy Berghorst
Jason Blomquist
Dupree Edwards
Lisa Emmert
Kay Hendrikson
Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson
Amy Hewitt
Lesli Kerkhoff
Mary Martin
Abdi Matan
Katie McDermott
Chris McVey
Jillian Nelson
Garrett Petrie
Kate Quale
Connie Rabideaux
Dan Reed
Jenny Santema
Reid Scheller
Lee Shervheim
FEDERAL OUTCOMES (IPSII)
The DD Act charges each state council to promote the development of a consumer and family-centered comprehensive system to assist individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve:
Independence: Personal freedom to make choices and have control over services, supports, and other assistance the individual receives.
Productivity: Meaningful income-producing work or volunteer work that contributes to a household or the community.
Self-determination: Authority to make decisions, control resources, and develop personal leadership skills.
Integration and Inclusion: Full participation in the same community activities as people without disabilities.
The Council measures success in the goals it funds relative to the degree each program contributes to the IPSII outcomes.
RESULTS
The Council received $1,120,136 from the Office on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (OIDD). Of that amount, 70% ($784,095) was allocated for grants and contracts to fulfill the goals of the Council's Five-Year Plan approved by the federal government.
SELF ADVOCACY
Self-Advocates of Minnesota (SAM), the statewide self-advocacy network, operates in six regions in the state. Through local self-advocacy groups and a leadership circle comprised of regional representatives, SAM strengthens the personal empowerment of self-advocates, increases disability awareness through public education, and works towards systems change. Self-advocates have been actively involved in the implementation of the Minnesota Olmstead Plan, which is a cross-disability effort.
Training sessions were attended by 66 individuals (unduplicated count) in the Central and Northwest regions on topics including disability equality training and the Olmstead Academy. The Council funds the Central and Northwest regions.
Self-advocates evaluated training sessions on a 5-point scale, with 5 being the highest. Across both regions and on average, knowledge gained was 4.6, usefulness was 4.8, and quality of presentations was 4.9. The self-advocates assessed their own independence at 4.8; productivity at 4.9; self-determination at 4.7 and integration and inclusion at 4.9 (5-point scale).
Olmstead Academy
Advocating Change Together, Inc. (ACT) created an Olmstead Academy in FFY 2014 and has continued offering the Academy on an annual basis. The Academy includes training sessions on disability rights, leadership skills, the Olmstead decision, and Minnesota's Olmstead Plan. Field work consists of community projects that promote full community integration. Participants are selected through an application process.
Testimonial:
"I learned a lot of skills, first by asking for help when you need it. It's ok to ask for help, asking for help is a good thing to do because it helps you to grow and learn in the self-advocacy movement."
Supplier:
Advocating Change Together, Inc.
1821 University Avenue, Suite 306
St Paul, MN 55104
https://www.selfadvocacy.org/
Ambassadors for Respect
During FFY 2022, PeaceMaker Minnesota sponsored Ambassadors for Respect (A4R), an anti-bullying program that supported 77 self-advocates to become trainers for 4th grade students. There were seven teams of self-advocate trainers from The Next Step Transition Program, Focus House, Career and Life Transition Program, Merrick, Choice, Inc., Focus Beyond, and In Step Transition Program. All trainers were certified to be Ambassadors. In FFY 2022, 45 trainings were provided to 19 elementary schools, reaching 878 4th graders along with their teachers and principals. Ambassadors also created A4R messaging cards and videos.
After the training, 98% of 4th grade attendees could list three ways to include others, 94% could list three ways to advocate for themselves and others, and 95% indicated they learned how to use Person First Language. Ambassadors also benefited from the program. 93% of Ambassadors reported that, due to participation in the Ambassadors for Respect Program, they are increasing their advocacy. 94% of Ambassadors reported they are better able to say what they want, and what is important to them [self-determination].
The self-advocates assessed themselves in terms of IPSII:
- Independence = 4.3;
- Productivity = 4.1;
- Self-determination = 4.3; and
- Integration and Inclusion = 4.4.
Testimonials:
"Yes, today inspired me to be kind to others and step up for others." -4th grade student
"The Ambassadors sharing their stories was so meaningful, and my students loved the shredder activity and hanging stars." -4th grade teacher
"It was a good time. We did really good at telling our stories." -Ambassador
Supplier:
PeaceMaker Minnesota
2131 Fairview Avenue North, Suite E
Roseville, MN 55113
http://www.peacemakermn.org
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
In FFY 2022, Class 39 of Partners in Policymaking® (Partners) graduated 22 self-advocates, and parents. Participants evaluated themselves at the beginning of the program year on the federal outcomes of IPSII and again at graduation. The following IPSII changes were reported:
- Independence increased from 4.28 to 4.67
- Productivity increased from 3.83 to 4.61
- Self-determination increased from 4.17 to 4.56; and
- Integration and Inclusion increased from 3.31 to 4.00.
The national Disability Policy Seminar was designated as a graduate workshop and a second graduate workshop was held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Council on October 13-14, 2021.
PARTNERS FACEBOOK GROUPS
Partners in Policymaking graduates are taking advantage of social media to stay in touch with each other and share updates on policy issues during the program year and after graduation. Several of the past Minnesota Partners classes have started their own Facebook pages and information is disseminated through liaisons for each graduating class.
LONGITUDINAL STUDIES
During FFY 2022, Dr. Nancy Miller conducted a follow-up survey of Partners graduates from Class 38 and a longitudinal study of Years XXXV through XXXVII (Classes 35 through 37).
Class 38 Follow-up Survey
Class 38 respondents assessed their IPSII at: 4.3; productivity at 4.0; self-determination at 4.4; and integration and inclusion at 4.0. The graduates actively engage with public officials through emails, phone calls, office visits, and letters. 92% expressed satisfaction with the Partners program. All respondents indicated they were increasing their advocacy and they were better able to say what they wanted or what services and supports were important to them. 67% are now participating in advocacy and 42% are serving on a cross-disability coalition, policy board, advisory board, governing board or in a leadership position.
Testimonials:
"Partners provided me with the courage and confidence to share my story in a safe environment and then publicly. Great insight into the proper format to deliver testimony."
"The connections I have made are life changing. The ability to go into meetings and know that I no longer have to stand alone, and I have a support system that stands behind me is priceless."
Classes 35, 36 and 37
The average IPSII scores over the three previous classes were:
- Independence = 4.25
- Productivity = 3.92
- Self-determination = 4.67
- Integration and Inclusion = 3.83
The Longitudinal Study respondents identified significant changes in the areas of education, employment, housing, family support, services or supports, legislative, and other areas that they attribute to their Partners experience.
The satisfaction level with the program was 97%. Ninety-three percent of respondents indicated that they were better able to say what they want or what services or supports were important to them while 47% are now serving on a cross-disability coalition, policy board, advisory board, governing board, or in a leadership position.
Testimonials:
"I have returned to school for a new career path in advocacy."
"I feel a lot more empowered to advocate for what is in our children's best interests rather than just accept what is being told to us. I also help other families."
Supplier:
The Odyssey Group
1730 New Brighton Blvd, Suite 104 - #237
Minneapolis, MN 55413
https://www.theodysseygroup.com/
EMPLOYMENT
During FFY 2022, the MSS employment project assisted transition students and adults with developmental disabilities. The Discovery Process, an information-gathering strategy that involves seven stages of learning about interest areas and skills, was used to identify individual vocational themes, better match or shape employment opportunities that would be successful and productive and help them prepare for informational interviews with potential employers.
Eleven students and 22 adults with developmental disabilities were employed during the grant year; working an average of 19.16 hours a week at average wages of $14.72 per hour.
Through the Discovery Process, 343 businesses were contacted to match with job seekers based on their vocational themes. The impact of this approach can be seen with both transition students and adults with developmental disabilities. They have found jobs of their choosing, increased their hours or wages, retained jobs, or changed jobs to expand their skills and work in other fields of interest.
The ratings for IPSII were:
- Independence = 3.6
- Productivity = 3.9
- Self-determination = 3.9; and
- Integration and Inclusion = 3.5.
Success Story:
After her third interview, Phoebe was offered and accepted a position at Paws Unleashed as a dog daycare attendant. Phoebe felt comfortable and confident beginning her new job on her own without any job coaching on site. Phoebe has learned her job tasks and is enjoying her employment at Paws Unleashed while interacting with co-workers and managers.
Supplier:
MSS
900 Ocean Street
St. Paul, MN 55106
https://www.mssmn.org/
CULTURAL OUTREACH
In FFY 2022, the Cultural Outreach program provided training programs to a total of 20 participants. Two training programs were held for the Latinx and Somali communities. One individual applied for a waiver while other participants chose other services such as PCA and adult day services.
IPSII Scores for Individuals:
- Independence increased from 1.8 to 4.9
- Productivity increased from 1.6 to 4.62
- Self-determination increased from 2.0 to 4.77; and
- Integration and Inclusion increased from 1.54 to 4.77.
IPSII Scores for Families:
- Independence increased from 2.0 to 4.57
- Productivity increased from 2.14 to 4.43
- Self-determination increased from 2.57 to 4.57; and
- Integration and Inclusion increased from 2.0 to 4.43.
Success Story:
Sandra attended the training program that was held February 14th - 16th 2022. She has a little boy who is 4 years old, who has Down Syndrome. Sandra said that she was grateful for the opportunity to meet and talk to other parents who have children with disabilities. She was especially grateful they were able to connect. SCRS is currently assisting Sandra through the waiver process.
Supplier:
Somali Community Resettlement Services (SCRS)
4020 Minnehaha. Suite 2070
Minneapolis, MN 55406
https://somalcrs.org/
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
During the past reporting year, MH Consulting Group focused on several projects: the "Treat People Like People – Abuse Stops With Us" Campaign, verifying the Council's FY2021 Business Results, assisting with the preparation of the 2022 Program Performance Report, and beginning the design work of a new 245D Bill of Rights project.
"Treat People Like People – Abuse Stops With Us" is a high-profile state advertising campaign designed to raise awareness of abuse of adults with disabilities. The campaign was initiated by the Minnesota Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (OMHDD) and the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD). MH Consulting Group convened customer panels to review and provide feedback for continuous improvement of the campaign and during this fiscal year, the improvements were made.
The GCDD reports annual business results to be shared with council members and posted on the GCDD website. The report provides annual business results as well as a 10-year trendline on key indicators. MH Consulting assisted the Council by verifying the data and making recommendations about continuous improvement of the Business Results.
Enacted in 2010, the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act (GPRAMA) requires federal agencies to set performance goals that deliver results for the American people, establish management processes to review progress, and regularly communicate progress being achieved against those goals. MH Consulting assisted in preparation of this federally required report.
Testimonial:
"The videos of self-advocates are the best, because you hear from the people directly and that's what really matters."
Supplier:
MH Consulting Group
1111 3rd Street N
Stillwater, MN 55082
TRAINING CONFERENCES
The Council co-sponsored 11 training conferences during FFY 2022. The total number of attendees was 564 and 87% reported they were satisfied with the conference they attended. On a ten-point scale, the respondents rated the conferences 9.2 by individuals with developmental disabilities and 8.4 by family members.
These training events are also opportunities for organizations that are awarded co-sponsorship funds to promote and help recruit applicants for the Partners in Policymaking program.
IPSII Scores for Individuals:
- Independence was 4.2
- Productivity was 3.9
- Self-determination was 4.3; and
- Integration and Inclusion was 4.3.
IPSII Scores for Families:
- Independence was 4.2
- Productivity was 4.5
- Self-determination was 4.5; and
- Integration and Inclusion was 4.6.
Testimonial:
"Self-advocacy helped me write, I learned skills and I learned about disability rights. Self- advocacy helped me get better at writing." - Cow Tipping Press training participant
Suppliers:
Accord, Inc.
Advocating Change Together
Autism Society of Minnesota
Choice Inc.
East African Community and Health Initiative
L'Arche
Minnesota Autistic Alliance
Partnership Resources, Inc.
Sacred Grounds
Sounds Powerful Productions
Special Olympics Minnesota
PUBLICATIONS, WEBSITES, ONLINE E-LEARNING
The Council's Publications, Websites, and Online Learning Courses Goal is to provide information, education, and training that increases knowledge, skills, and abilities of end users through a broad range of multiple media formats by:
- Promoting accurate historical archiving of resource materials.
- Continuing to adopt the latest technological advancements in communications that may include social networking.
- Showcasing the positive roles and contributions of people with developmental disabilities.
- Increasing marketing efforts to ensure accessibility, language translations, and wide dissemination of Council products.
- Exploring new technology that is focused on the individual and saves the user's preferences and choices and suggests additional resources or learning courses based on those preferences and choices.
As a result of intense and prodigious efforts, outputs exceeded expected targets with 494,039 visitors and over 1.9 million downloads. Outcomes also exceeded expectations with the range of website additions covering federal and state priorities such as the pandemic, Treat People Like People - a public awareness campaign on the prevention of abuse and neglect, person centered planning, and legal and human rights. The overall satisfaction rating was a 10 out of 10 across all publications by a small sample of end users.
The Council has built a solid reputation by providing information, education, and training through this goal. In addition to its main website, the Council administers several websites including: Partners in Policymaking® website; Minnesota Project SEARCH website; Disability Justice Resource Center; and the one-stop Disability Minnesota website.
The Council also provides free online courses through the Partners website to increase the knowledge, skills, and abilities of visitors who take advantage of this learning experience. All five online courses were updated and streamlined during both FFY 2021 and FFY 2022. Spanish translations of the courses were tested at the end of September 2022.
Council Website Additions
During the past year, the Council made the following updates or additions to the main website: The Olmstead Subcabinet Chronology, the Jensen lawsuit docket, Partners in Policymaking resources, two customer research studies on attitudes and intersectionality, the 35th Anniversary of Partners in Policymaking, the debut of the mobile museum depicting history from 1905 through 2021, KFAI radio interview with Partners in Policymaking graduates, March DD Awareness Month featuring the Governor's Proclamation, Alex Junge reciting poetry and Brittanie Wilson in a national video, the updating of the Project SEARCH website, the announcement of a new collaboration with the Minnesota Disability Law Center about the COVID-19 and vaccination clinics, and a short documentary about the impact of the pandemic on Minnesotans with developmental disabilities.
50th Anniversary
In October 2021, the Council released several products including a monograph, Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities: 50 Years of Empowering Advocacy, Expanding Capacity Building, and Envisioning Systems Change; another monograph featuring photos from 1905 through 2021 entitled Invisibility; a documentary entitled The New Stargazers: 50 Years of Bold Achievements; and 30 posters of self-advocacy quotes. Over 500 copies of both monographs were distributed in the past fiscal year.
Disability Justice Resource Center
The Disability Justice Resource Center is an online collection of statutes, regulations, case law, and commentaries intended to help the legal community better understand the many complex justice issues related to people with disabilities, particularly individuals with developmental disabilities. The Resource Center was made possible with the cy pres fund from the Jensen Settlement Agreement. In 2021 the website was updated with new videos featuring supported decision-making by Bud Rosenfield, Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities and a recording of the 12th Annual Disability Justice Seminar entitled "Britney Spears and How One Celebrity Changed the Conversation about Guardianship."
Supplier:
Mastcom
5775 Wayzata Boulevard, #700
St Louis Park, MN 55416
www.mastcom.com
Treat People Like People
The Treat People Like People public awareness campaign to prevent abuse and neglect was updated and enhanced. During FFY 2022 over 7,500 Treat People Like People buttons and over 5,000 Treat People Like People posters were distributed during the 2022 State Fair and other conferences.
Supplier:
Russell Herder
275 Market Street, Suite 319
International Market Square
Minneapolis, MN 55405
https://russellherder.com/
CUSTOMER RESEARCH
In FFY 2022, the first research study was a repeat of the attitude survey first conducted in 1962. The "Minnesota General Population Survey of Attitudes Towards People with Developmental Disabilities" has been completed at five-year intervals since 2007. The results of this study illustrate strong support for people with developmental disabilities living in the community and for funding of direct support professionals. The second study conducted was entitled, the "Impact of the Intersection of Developmental Disabilities and Other Population Profiles on Experiences with Discrimination." This study focuses on the intersectionality of developmental disabilities, race and ethnicity, gender identity, geographic location, and other marginalized attributes. Intersectionality leads to disparities across delivery systems. The first year of this planned multi-year study included a literature review, qualitative interviews, and narrative research groups.
Quote from the Intersectionality Study:
"We have so much to teach the world because we are forced to survive in a way that is different, because our access needs aren't met every day, because we have to fight to live. And that leads to a special kind of insight and a special kind of knowing and understanding and navigating the world that others won't experience. And yet, it's still so hard to find information about disability because it's often left behind and invisibilized."
Supplier:
MarketResponse International
https://marketresponse.com
For more information, please contact:
Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities
370 Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar Street
St Paul, MN 55155
https://mn.gov/mnddc and https://mn.gov/mnddc/pipm
Phone: 651-296-4018
Toll free: 877-348-0505
Email: admin.dd@state.mn.us
This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by contacting the Council office at the address above. Please call 651-296-4018 or through preferred telecommunications provider. Or please use the email address admin.dd@state.mn.us
Disclaimer:
This Annual Report was supported in part by grant number 1901MNSCDD-01 from the US Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington DC 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, represent official ACL policy.