Redwood

Toyota Production System

Wed, 15 May 2013 07:00:10 -0400

The Toyota Production System (TPS) is a management philosophy for streamlining work processes to preserve resources and eliminate waste as a means of creating value for the customer. When Toyota offered Redwood the opportunity to implement TPS, we jumped at the chance. Special thanks to our good friends at Toyota for helping us improve our work processes.

A Community that Works Together

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 02:00:32 -0400

A community that works together, stays together. For 60 years, passionate people have donated time to Redwood in miraculous ways. Our giving volunteers contribute to Redwood’s vibrant campus, clean and colorful classrooms, and exciting fundraising events. They celebrate birthdays, and research and construct new playgrounds, like the new toddler playground completed last year! Special thanks to GE Aviation, Jack J. Smith, Jr. Charitable Trust, PNC Bank and Karen Wachs, Co-Trustees, Western Southern Financial, Ethicon Endo Surgery, P&G, Arts Rental, United Way, and the Cincinnati Tool Bank, along with Walnut Grove Playgrounds, for this amazing community wide collaboration for our children. Both Redwood’s children and adults will benefit from volunteers like these for years.

Equal Opportunities for All

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 07:00:13 -0400

DHL Helps Adults Soar

DHL is committed to providing equal opportunities for all. To that end, DHL Express has entered into a unique partnership with Redwood to employ up to 40 individuals with severe disabilities.

How it all began

Redwood was initially contacted in 2011 by DHL’s upper management about this partnership opportunity. Subsequently, DHL and Redwood staff toured each facility, observed various work tasks, and identified specific job possibilities in DHL’s Gateway and Operations areas, which requires data entry work or packing, shipping, and sorting, respectively. Job opportunities ranged from full- and part-time positions, complete with benefits, to casual employment with flexible scheduling.

Making it happen

At DHL’s request, Redwood provided training to DHL’s management team on best practices to support the success of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. Concerns regarding the hiring and orientation process were identified. DHL immediately addressed them by making recommended accommodations. DHL also provided security access to specialized software screens so that Redwood could create a five-week computer-based training program at Redwood for the Data Cleanse and Classification process.

Getting to work

Since launching the partnership in March 2012, approximately eight candidates have been referred for employment at DHL, resulting in employment of six individuals to date, with others in the process.

Jill Deck is a shining example of someone realizing her potential through this important partnership. Jill possesses many qualities that are easily overlooked – unless you are an employer. She is highly motivated and a hard worker. Above all, she is reliable. DHL’s management team took an immediate interest in Jill after meeting her during their tour of Redwood.

“This was a very positive move for Jill,” states Stacey Meyer, Jill’s Employment Specialist. “Her positive qualities,” adds Stacey, “such as her work ethic and her dependability, more than make up for any challenges presented by her disability.”

“It is a good fit for me because I get to meet new people and complete satisfying work,” says Jill, adding that the best part of the job is the sense of independence that comes from earning her own money. She also appreciates finding a job in her community that is close to home and near family and friends.

DHL has established itself as a leader within our community on many levels. Recently, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation recognized DHL with the Employer Recognition Award for its corporate commitment to look beyond a person’s disability and not only discover but empower their abilities.

Independent Living

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 07:00:16 -0400

An important aspect of independence is the ability to complete essential tasks, such as preparing meals, washing dishes, doing laundry, or simply relaxing on the couch with a good book. Children and adults can now practice these tasks through the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Room. This interactive learning environment features a working kitchen, laundry center, living room, and library where individuals can develop their independent living skills while performing everyday tasks.

Special thanks to the Kloenne Foundation, Fifth Third Bank and Narley L. Haley, Co-Trustees, for the grant that made the renovation and refurnishing of the Activity of Daily Living Room possible.

Adult Services

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 10:11:14 -0400

The Work Activity Center recently partnered with Chef Dennis Umburg for a restaurant simulation event. Chef Umburg worked with a group of eight adults to prepare, cook, and serve a spaghetti luncheon to everyone in the Work Activity Center program.

The event gave adults the full restaurant experience, from cooking with a chef and serving meals, to selecting items from a menu and paying a cashier for their orders with “Redwood Bucks.”

The spaghetti luncheon was a deliciously engaging way to teach service industry skills, money recognition, and appropriate social interaction – all while enjoying a great meal! Redwood thanks and appreciates County Market in Alexandria, KY for their generous support of this initiative.

Redwood has a fresh new logo and tagline to better reflect our...

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 09:00:31 -0500

Redwood has a fresh new logo and tagline to better reflect our brand position and mission. The new logo distinguishes Redwood as a vital, unique community service that makes an important difference in the lives of children and adults with disabilities. Our new tagline, “Where abilities grow,” captures the core purpose of our many services that enable individuals to reach their potential and lead more fulfilling lives. In the months ahead, you can expect to see and hear even more great things about Redwood, where abilities grow!

Redwood has a fresh new logo and tagline and we wanted you to be...

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 09:00:27 -0500

Redwood has a fresh new logo and tagline and we wanted you to be one of the first to see it. Watch for it in the months ahead, in your annual campaign letter and 2013 Express invitation. Please be on the lookout for these mailings as they will feature our new logo and design.

Over the years, Redwood has seen significant growth – from several expansions to our facility to the increasing number of programs and people served. This growth has been possible thanks to the support and commitment of donors like yourself.

To better reflect the spirit of our mission and the unique services that Redwood provides for persons with disabilities, a new logo has been developed. It suggests a tree and leaf, as well as the letter “r.” The shades of green symbolize growth, optimism, and healing while also reflecting the colors, strength, and longevity of a redwood tree. The tagline – Where abilities grow – describes the belief that we at Redwood have had in serving our clients for almost 60 years.

Tips on Effectively Using Volunteers

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 08:00:30 -0500

Tips for Effectively Utilizing Volunteers:

 Volunteers are never to be left alone with a child or adult

 Volunteers are told not to bring any outside food into program areas. As a role model, please follow the same policy

 Volunteers are not permitted to administer medication, provide personal care, or feed any individual (unless they are CPR Certified and specifically trained to feed a client)

 Volunteers are reminded not to use cell phones while they are volunteering. Please remember to follow the same policy.

 Volunteers are not allowed to surf the web or use a computer (especially a staff computer) unless their work assignment specifically requires one (i.e. data entry, board maker, etc.)

 Volunteers are a great means to assist with activity planning and preparation (e.g., organize supplies, make copies, cut-outs, laminate, prep materials, etc.)

 Volunteers are a great resource for maintaining a healthy learning environment. During downtime they can wipe down and disinfect regularly used items or common areas

 Volunteers are a great medium for providing a little extra one-on-one for individuals who need extra encouragement and attention during group activities

 Volunteers are permitted to take pictures during their service, if approved by staff and/or the client and the client has a signed HIPAA agreement/photo release

 Volunteers have potential to be a future staff member, advocate, parent, or family member. Remember to support them in a manner that leaves them with only a positive impression

 And finally… volunteers are a blessing. It is how Redwood began and it is what we need to continue to thrive. Thank your volunteers often and treat them with respect like any fellow employee

"Aerodynamically the bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn’t know that so it..."

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 07:00:09 -0400

“Aerodynamically the bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn’t know that so it goes on flying anyway.”

- Mary Kay Ash

A Job Well Done Leads to Community Collaboration!!! Have you...

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:00:32 -0400

A Job Well Done Leads to Community Collaboration!!!

Have you heard the exciting news? Redwood’s children are getting a new playground thanks to community and organization wide effort! A group of Redwood staff started the initiative by forming an ad hoc committee to discuss ways the playground could be improved. This group included Katrina Murphy, Peggy Farmer, Lyda Eagle, Jenn Weiss, Kayla Worthington, and Telly McGaha. Soon after, Michelle Rummel at United Way received a call from GE employees wanting to volunteer. She steered them in Bridgette’s direction. This team of engineers adopted our playground makeover project, which started out as a request to help us replace the flooring in our toddler playground. However, once they visited Redwood and met our children, the project took an amazing turn. Lisa Moloney, the team leader at GE and mother of a toddler, told Bridgette she felt compelled to do more! Soon after, GE asked to completely replace the entire playground!

Lisa and the team at GE immediately reached out to Walnut Grove Playgrounds, who sent a representative, Ken, to meet with us. Ken toured Redwood and helped choose new equipment and features that best meet our needs. GE’s foundation provided a $15,000 grant to help cover the cost of the equipment. An additional grant was received from the Jack J. Smith Charitable Trust with PNC Bank. Still short, GE agreed to provide an additional $10,000. This amazing act of generosity helped secure nearly 95% of the necessary funding.

Since then, recent volunteers at Redwood have decided to help facilitate this project. Scott Dinius at Western Southern Financial is submitting a proposal to his company’s foundation to cover the remaining costs. As so many hands are needed for this project, volunteers from Ethicon Endo Surgery and Fed Ex have offered to bring teams out for a day of service to install the new playground.

From people busily working and managing the programs taking the time to create and serve on ad hoc committee to the support from and coordination of United Way and area corporations, this is an amazing collaborative project for Redwood and those we serve. The project would not be possible if all of us, within our different roles throughout Redwood, were not working collectively towards our common mission of guiding children and adults to achieve independence and reach their full potential throughout their lives. We are doing amazing things for the people we serve — and it shows.

George Clooney Takes Aspiring Actor with Cerebral Palsy Under His Wing

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 10:00:07 -0400

George Clooney Takes Aspiring Actor with Cerebral Palsy Under His Wing

Come out this week and see for yourself what Prescribed...

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 08:44:18 -0400

Come out this week and see for yourself what Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) at Redwood is all about! Meet our doctors, nurses, onsite therapists, and certified child care staff during our PPEC Open House.

Times of the Open Hou

se are scheduled for Tuesday, October 30 (8 - 11 am), Wednesday, October 31 (12 - 3 pm), or Thursday, November 1 (3 - 6 pm). For more information about PPEC, contact Jaime at jmclaughlin@redwoodnky.org or (859) 331-0880, ext. 351.

Physical Therapy Month

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 07:00:28 -0400

Did you know October is Physical Therapy Month? The goal of physical therapy, a service that Redwood proudly provides, is the (re)training of the body to do functional activities to the best of its ability. The physical therapist examines, evaluates, and develops treatment plans and treats patients who have conditions that affect an individual’s ability to move freely without pain.

Happy Physical Therapy Month to Redwood’s star PT, Debbie Listerman!

Redwood is proud to announce that we are now offering Prescribed...

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:09:10 -0400

Redwood is proud to announce that we are now offering Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) services in Northern Kentucky. Our Open House is this Friday, October 26.

United Way Bold Goals

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 10:18:40 -0400

Redwood is proud to be a part of bringing our region together to create lasting change in the building blocks for a better life — education, income, and health. The Bold Goals awareness campaign is about how we achieve this and how we build a stronger community. You can help drive change by donating your time, resources, or simply sharing your story.

Every action counts.

Redwood is one of more than 200 businesses, civic, education, income, and health institutions and nonprofits that have endorsed teh Bold Goals. For more information on how Redwood is supporting #BoldGoals and how youc an get involved, please contact Bridgette Hightower at bhightower@redwoodnky.org.

GIVE

Participate in food and clothing drive to ensure local families can meet their basic needs.

Make a personal gift to support the region and our Bold Goals.

Donate your time, energy, and resources to help build a stronger community.

ADVOCATE

Let your school board members know that having children prepared for school and ensuring ALL children are successful in school is important to you — a voter.

Promote access to work support benefits as a mans to stabilize struggling families and help them sustain attachment to the workplace.

Promote access to the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to ensure all children have medical coverage.

VOLUNTEER

Participate in improvement projects at schools, recreation centers, or residential facilities for kids.

Organize a Community Care group volunteer project for your coworkers.

Help transport low-income or elderly people or cancer patients to appointments.

Vote for Redwood!

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 07:18:20 -0400

Vote for Redwood!:

We’re participating in a competition from Safeco and could use your help! Now through July 27, you can vote for Redwood in Safeco’s Make More Happen competition. The top four vote getters will win $7,500. You can vote once every 24-hours on your smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers, etc. Voting resets after 24 hours so that you can vote again. Please spread the word! Thank you!

Estate tax law uncertainty: Keeping your plan on track

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 09:17:59 -0400

During these uncertain times, it’s also important to regularly review your estate plan.

If Congress allows current rates and exemptions to expire at the end of 2012 as scheduled, your family could lose significant amounts of wealth to gift, estate and generation-skipping transfer (GST) taxes. But Congress may extend current exemptions and rates or take other action.

Because of this uncertainty with estate tax laws, you need to make sure you’re on the right track. If your estate exceeds $1 million — or you and your spouse’s estates combined exceed $2 million — consider whether you should make gifts this year.

As long as you don’t exceed your $5.12 million exemption (less any taxable gifts you’ve previously made), you won’t owe any tax on the gifts. This likely will remove the assets from your taxable estate and, at minimum, will remove their future appreciation. Note, though, that in certain circumstances gifts made in the past might be included in your estate. So it’s important to understand the consequences of making the gift. And, before making a gift, be sure that doing so won’t jeopardize your own financial security.

During these uncertain times, it’s also important to regularly review your estate plan. Make sure it takes maximum advantage of current estate tax law, and yet still has the flexibility to adapt to future estate tax law changes.

For example, if your estate plan includes a credit shelter trust to protect both you and your spouse’s estate tax exemptions, make sure the plan allows you to take maximum advantage of the available exemption while still providing the surviving spouse sufficient assets to maintain his or her lifestyle.

Minimizing taxes is only one aspect of estate planning, but it can help you achieve other goals as well — such as providing for loved ones or supporting charity. That’s why it’s important to make the most of available tax breaks and be prepared for future estate tax law changes.

Let's Go Krogering!

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 12:06:56 -0400

Let's Go Krogering!:

Redwood is now enrolled in the Kroger Community Rewards Program! By shopping at Kroger and using your Kroger Plus Card, a portion of your grocery bill can benefit our children & adults!

To register, visit the Kroger site (click the above title) and register your card. You can search for Redwood by name, zip code, or our organization number: 83036. Thanks!

Last year, Redwood’s Assistive Technology Resource Center...

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 13:30:36 -0400

Last year, Redwood’s Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC) put on an iPad conference. Since then, the presentations have been posted online at slideshare.com/redwoodat. One of the presentations, A is for Apps, presented by Peggy Farmer, Director of Therapy & Technology Solutions, and Jennifer Weiss, Development Interventionist, has had over 320 views. Want to learn how to teach your preschoolers with an iPad? Then, check out our presentation.

Walgreens Launches National Initiative to Create More Job Opportunities for People with Disabilities

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 09:40:58 -0400

In a May 14, 2102 press release issued in the Wall Street Journal’s MarketWatch, Walgreen has announced the launch of its national Retail Employees with Disabilities Initiative (REDI). The in-store training program helps people with disabilities gain retail and customer service skills, and works closely with community organizations and providers. A similar initiative at Walgreens distribution centers resulted in 10 percent of the workforce composed of people with disabilities at all levels.

In 2010, the drugstore chain piloted REDI in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, partnering with store managers and job coaches. After more than 66 percent of REDI graduates were recommended for hire, the program grew to more than 150 stores throughout Texas, New York and Connecticut.

“We are committed to helping customers live well, stay well and get well, and to do that you need team members who are dedicated to excellent customer service,” said Mark Wagner, Walgreens president of operations and community management. “This program highlights ability and gives candidates the tools to be successful in any retail setting.”

The first phase of REDI will begin in parts of Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington and Wisconsin, with plans to reach all states by the end of 2013.

According to the Disability Scoop, Walgreens’ efforts to expand disability employment have become a model for other employers. Last year, Proctor & Gamble said it would follow in the drugstore’s footsteps when they announced that at least 30 percent of employees at a new packaging facility in Maine would be people with physical or developmental disabilities.