Service Coordination, Inc.

Yesterday, had the pleasure of hosting Maryland State Senator Bill Ferguson at our monthly Leadership Meeting! During his time with us, President Ferguson spoke about the power of advocacy, leadership, and the vital importance of supporting people with disabilities and complex medical needs.

As a lifelong Maryland resident and former educator with Teach for America, Senator Ferguson’s deep connection to our community and his inspiring leadership continue to drive positive change.

His visit underscored the impact of case management services, advocacy, and the essential role we all play in championing the needs of those we serve.

We are grateful for his support and look forward to continuing our collaboration in advancing these vital issues.

! Today, we celebrate the incredible dedication and hard work that fuels our society. At , we deeply value every individual and their unique contributions because together, we create a tapestry of progress and growth.

If possible, take a break, recharge, and enjoy precious moments with family and friends. Labor Day weekend is the perfect opportunity to dive into all that Maryland has to offer. If you are looking for exciting activities, check out the events happening across the state at: https://www.visitmaryland.org/labor-day-weekend-maryland.

is all about , , and . Our mission is to connect the people we support to resources, services, and their communities. We recognize the importance of truly connecting with others and believe it has benefits—and so does the .

They published a study titled “The Surprise of Reaching Out: Appreciated More Than We Think,” which details various experiments testing the importance of social connections. Learn more: https://nicenews.com/culture/reach-out-friends-study/.

Friends Appreciate Contact More Than Expected: Study A study by the American Psychological Association suggests many people underestimate the power of checking in on friends.

We are back and happy to share this week’s final Life Domain by framework. Within this Life Domain are three subdomains: personal safety/awareness, public safety, and legal and financial.

Together, these subdomains form an essential part of a person’s life. At , we recognize that a person’s ability to feel safe has a major impact on their ability to choose and pursue their ideal life! By defining these characteristics as a Life Domain, Charting the LifeCourse creates a framework for organizations like SCI as we work to provide the best-case management services we can. Learn more: https://www.servicecoord.org/news/life-domains-safety-and-security/.

Some people say, “Home is where the heart is,” so shouldn’t every aspect of your home be accessible and inclusive to your needs? At , accessibility is one of the core values of our mission. We take pride in the and our Team Members provide to thousands of people in the community. We are thrilled by Pottery Barn’s work in creating a new accessible line that offers furniture for people with varying abilities.

After becoming paralyzed, architect and designer Michael Graves focused his designs on “improving all people’s lives, regardless of age or physical ability.” Now, the Michael Graves design team works hard to uphold his legacy and is proud to partner with Pottery Barn.

“It really became our mission to become the most accessible design brand,” said Rob Van Varick, Chief Design Officer at Michael Graves Design.

Watch the video below to learn more.

Michael Graves Design x Pottery Barn We partnered with Michael Graves Design, experts in accessible design innovation, to reimagine your home with new products created with access, beauty, and s...

Do you know someone or an organization that truly advocates for those with disabilities in Maryland? The Maryland Department of Disabilities has opened nominations for the Governor’s Disability Culture and Achievements Month Awards. Both awards allow you to nominate an individual or business that you believe “promotes equality of opportunities, access, and choice” for Marylanders with disabilities. Learn more below!

Calling for Nominations – Governor’s Disability Culture and Achievements Month Awards

The Governor’s Disability Culture and Achievements Month Awards highlight how individuals with disabilities live, learn, work, and play in the community.

The Governor’s Award for Disability Culture focuses on people with disabilities and the arts. This includes painting, sculpture, music, theater, performance, and other kinds of art.

The Governor’s Award for Disability Achievements focuses on people with disabilities who promote equal opportunity, access, and choice in their life or the lives of others.

Complete a nomination form to send us your nominee. You may nominate multiple people and must complete a separate form for each entry. Nominations are open through August 30, 2024.
https://forms.gle/jJQgSP2o5GusYsRf7

This quote from an SCI Team Member exemplifies how SCI’s mission is not just a statement – but a life-changing journey we take alongside the people we support. Apply to be a part of our award-winning organization today!

This week, we have openings for a Service Coordinator in Howard County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3624) and a Supports Planner in Howard County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3643). We also have a Companion Care Partner opening in Alexandria, Virginia (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3659). Apply today!

Did you know that implements the framework in its case management services? The framework is designed for ALL people and was led by the Institute for Human Development at the University of Missouri—Kansas City in partnership with various stakeholders nationwide, including SCI.

It’s a holistic way of ensuring everyone can live a healthy life, and SCI is committed to it! Read more at our blog! https://www.servicecoord.org/news/life-domains-healthy-living/.

is honored to work alongside on the Go of Maryland, aligning our shared visions through a series. Starting on August 29th, join us as we explore essential resources for people with disabilities and their families, focusing on communication, support, and self-advocacy. Together, we’ll keep breaking down barriers by implementing best practices in communication, team dynamics, resource management, and more! Learn more about this partnership and our upcoming Lunch and Learn series at: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/MYjndUc?fbclid=IwY2xjawEsQ3JleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHR_8nu9o529CoJrLNi64Ld6PyoQAq8l3iGahS8fqA7k9zBjHu3n1Elt9dg_aem_9XOj4NCyiL5cEH_TmzKCDQ.

twitter.com

Every day, we're inspired by the stories of transformation we witness, and it's all thanks to our incredible team and the heart they put into their work. As a Team Member noted, our commitment and care for our team are our priority! It creates a balanced and supportive work environment that reflects our dedication to promoting work-life harmony and understanding the diverse needs of our workforce.

Join our team, where our commitment to valuing everyone shines through. This week, we have openings for a Service Coordinator in Baltimore County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3605), a Supports Planner in Anne Arundel County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3604), and a Companion Care Partner in Washington, DC. (https://montcordia.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3590)

Congratulations, Lawrence Sapp, for making Team USA and representing the U.S. at the in Paris. We celebrate your achievements and look forward to following your journey. Join as we wish him luck and learn more about Lawrence below:

Paralympic Swimmer Lawrence Sapp: Defying Expectations About IDD - The Arc Lawrence is the first male Paralympic swimmer with autism & intellectual disability to make Team USA's National A team.

Did you know August is ? Together, we can treasure small moments, from morning coffee to heart-to-heart chats. Let's weave a tapestry of joy this month, whether dancing indoors, cooking new recipes, or basking in nature.

To those facing hurdles, know you're resilient, and better times await. Reach out to your support system for an extra sprinkle of happiness. wishes you days filled with happiness, laughter, and heartwarming moments.

SCI is proud to partner with and implement the framework. The framework is driven by the core belief that ‘all people have the right to live, love, work, play and pursue their life aspirations. At , we genuinely believe in creating A World for Everyone!

This week, we share another part of the framework - Life Domains- aspects and experiences that change as we grow and age. Like Advocacy and Engagement, these Life Domains are interconnected and can help people determine their needs to build their ideal life. Read more: (https://www.servicecoord.org/news/life-domains-advocacy-and-engagement/)

At , we are dedicated to the important work we do each day. We are tirelessly working toward our vision of a better world, where people have the quality of life they choose and have access to safe supports and services tailored to their unique wants and needs.

Through our Coordination of Community Services (CCS), we helped Ashleigh advocate for herself and her safety. She expressed her desire for a new living situation closer to her father, with whom she spends weekends for comfort. Her diligently found a suitable residential location just miles from her father.

This process has empowered Ashleigh to advocate for herself, fostering newfound confidence and ensuring her safety and well-being. PEOPLE FIRST IS OUR PROMISE!

We firmly believe that a community thrives when it's made up of diverse voices and perspectives. At , we are dedicated to nurturing your growth, well-being, and success. As noted by our Team Members, we ensure our team is supported and valued.

Our commitment is to provide an inclusive and diverse space where all ideas and contributions are celebrated. You'll have the chance to collaborate with a team that believes in the power of innovation to drive positive change as we work to build a world for everyone. This week, we have openings for a Service Coordinator in Carroll County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3553), a Supports Planner in Harford County (https://servicecoord.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3577), and a Companion Care Partner in Washington, DC. (https://montcordia.acquiretm.com/job_details_clean.aspx?ID=3582).

continues to recognize the wonderful work that can be done through the framework. These principles are designed to help everyone achieve their ideal life. They dovetail with our vision of A World for Everyone, which is a world of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Part of Charting the LifeCourse is the Life Domains. This week, we share a domain about personal relationships and spiritual enrichment. Read more: https://www.servicecoord.org/news/life-domains-social-and-spirituality/.

📣 Big News! We are thrilled to welcome Craig J. Zucker as our new Senior Vice President of Strategic Development and Government Relations! With over 27 years of experience in government, healthcare, business development, and public service, Craig is set to drive our mission forward and enhance our impact within our communities. Join us in celebrating this exciting addition to our team! Learn more: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/craig-j-zucker-joins-service-coordination-inc-as-svp-of-strategic-development-and-government-relations-302214480.html.

Genet was a proud homeowner living in Silver Spring, Maryland. She thrived in the dynamic field of IT as a senior professional. Outside of work, Genet enjoyed pampering herself by visiting salons, attending social events, and gathering with her family. She loved spoiling her nieces and nephews with gifts and taking them to parks and other fun places.

In the spring of 2022, Genet began experiencing unusual symptoms, and her health began to deteriorate. Renata, her Supports Planner, explained the work of and recommended the family contact to get community-based services for Genet. She helped her receive the services and resources needed to lead a more independent life. She also assisted Genet in getting back on track with one of the things she missed the most: her self-care regimen. Learn how: (https://www.servicecoord.org/impact-stories/genets-story/).

At , we’re continually enhancing our service delivery and systems for Maryland residents, for example, applying the Charting the LifeCourse framework. This framework empowers people – and we are proud to use it in the context of the case management services we provide to the people we support, their families and supporters.

Part of the framework is the Life Domains, which are aspects and experiences that change as we grow and age. Like Community Living, these Life Domains are interconnected and can help people determine their needs to build their ideal life. Read more: (https://www.servicecoord.org/news/life-domains-community-living/)

Happy ! Today, we celebrate this important milestone and the people who helped make it happen - over 34 years ago! At , we strive to build a world where everyone belongs, differences are celebrated, and everyone can pursue their ideal life. We do this with our community, supporting partners, and the people we support; it would not be possible without the progress made by those who came before us.
The ADA National Network has provided insightful resources from A to Z to celebrate today. (https://adaanniversary.org/countdown/).

Also, in case you missed it, Governor Wes Moore signed the Maryland Plain Language Executive Order. Learn more at (https://governor.maryland.gov/Lists/ExecutiveOrders/Attachments/61/EO%2001.01.2024.25%20Maryland%20Plain%20Language%20Initiative%20%281%29.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawEQlVRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRdPFSJWiHJcTKFuCC-zWfrp8A_S4998LkhN9flzlvQG9stWfYjRDbK4Mg_aem_KO5b_RB3QvE4p5Gc8noVaQ).

Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order creating the Maryland Plain Language Initiative supporting Marylanders having equal opportunities to engage with government-based communications, services, and supports in ways that are clear, understandable, and easy to use.

"This Executive Order is based on a simple idea: It shouldn’t have to be so difficult for Marylanders to access the programs and services they need," said Gov. Moore. "Our administration's Plain Language Initiative will help ensure that every piece of writing that comes out of our administration – in print and online – is simple, accessible, and easy to read. This is what it looks like to leave no one behind."

Thank you, Governor Wes Moore and Disabilities Secretary Carol A. Beatty, for your incredible leadership, ensuring that people with disabilities and all Marylanders can thrive! View Initiative: https://governor.maryland.gov/Lists/ExecutiveOrders/Attachments/61/EO%2001.01.2024.25%20Maryland%20Plain%20Language%20Initiative%20%281%29.pdf.

A deeply ingrained commitment to our core values lies at the heart of SCI's mission, guiding every decision we make. We empower individuals through education and support them in making choices to lead fulfilling lives as the authors of their own stories. The 2024 Top Workplaces Award from The Washington Post reflects our dedication to positively impacting the communities we support, as well as Team Members carrying out the mission by creating pathways to education and choice, both in communities and at home. Learn more: https://ow.ly/hixO50SIytP.

is proud to celebrate and ! We firmly believe that the inclusion of people with disabilities enriches and strengthens the entire community. Thanks, National Recreation and Park Association, for sharing more inclusive and accessible equipment for all to enjoy!

As you continue to enjoy the summer season, join us as we unite in our mission to make a positive impact and advocate for a society that celebrates differences. Learn about this year’s theme, “Where you Belong," at https://ow.ly/Ou8050SGnta.

July is not only Park & Recreation Month, it's Disability Pride Month🌟

We wanted to thank all the park and recreation professionals who are pushing for more inclusive ways to play! The sensory tents and kits, therapeutic recreation programs, and adaptable playground equipment you offer your community make a BIG impact.

Everyone deserves to play, thank you for making that possible!

The City of Merriam shared this wonderful photo with us for our 2024 Park and Recreation Month Cover Contest. The photo features Anna Sarol of Lenexa, Anna was the first person to test out We-Go-Swing – the first in the world!

The swing allows people who use wheelchairs to swing without having to transfer out of their wheelchairs. Having this piece of equipment at one of their parks makes the Just Right city more inclusive to all.

Learn more about Park and Recreation Month: https://tinyurl.com/ydneera4

Support the advancement of parks and recreation: https://tinyurl.com/a22687jk

SCI’s dedication to fostering a healthy work-life balance ensures that our Team Members thrive personally and professionally. From flexible schedules to comprehensive wellness programs, we empower our Team Members to lead fulfilling lives beyond the office.

As noted by a Team Member, our hard-working team is driven by purpose and works hard to make a difference! Interested in pursuing an opportunity to make the with an organization that prioritizes a people-centered culture and gives Team Members a voice? Apply for our featured positions: Service Coordinator in Frederick County (https://ow.ly/RSSV50SFspW), Supports Planner in Howard County (https://ow.ly/qoBK50SFspV), and Companion Care Partner in Loudoun County (https://ow.ly/GLp750SFspX).

Exciting news! In addition to recently being honored in The Washington Post Top Workplaces list, SCI is also being recognized for excellence in all five Top Workplaces Culture Awards categories for 2024:

-Purpose and Values
-Work-Life Flexibility
-Innovation
-Leadership
-Compensation and Benefits

Earning a Top Workplaces award is a significant achievement, as it reflects Team Member perspectives. Learn more: https://ow.ly/3cUI50SEL2I.

At , we believe in A World for Everyone – a world of , , and . To achieve this, we’re continually enhancing our service delivery and systems for Maryland residents, for example, applying the Charting the LifeCourse framework.

Part of the framework is the Life Domains, which are aspects and experiences in our lives that change as we grow and become older. These Life Domains – like Daily Life and Employment – are interconnected and can help a person determine what they need to build their ideal life. Read more: https://ow.ly/G8QQ50SCG3w.

Excited to kick off our first Leadership Meeting of the new fiscal year with nearly 200 mission-driven Service Coordination leaders! Together, we’re ready to support our communities and look forward to a year of growth and success in service! The start of the fiscal year gives us an opportunity to clearly communicate our strategic direction, recommit to our vision, mission, and SCI’s core values. At SCI People Come First, We drive Solutions, We build Connections, and We Educate.

In case you missed it, SCI is excited to announce winning another Top Workplace Award, this time from the prestigious Washington Post! We are honored by this achievement and extend our congratulations to our dedicated Team Members.

At , through our mission, we drive solutions and create opportunities, helping to make possibilities a reality. This recognition reflects our commitment to putting people first and providing top-tier services to our communities. Congratulations to our hard-working team, this award is for all of you! Learn more: https://ow.ly/KaCf50SyLLQ.

Welcoming New Team Members is always a celebration! Every month holds two training sessions a month for new Team Members. We are pleased to welcome the July 8th team alongside our People & Culture team and CEO & President, John Dumas. SCI provides extensive dedicated to nurturing their growth, holistic well-being, and success. We look forward to seeing their contributions and talents towards our mission to create a world where everyone belongs! Welcome to the award-winning SCI team!

Join us as we extend heartfelt gratitude and farewell to Jody Luttrell for her seven years of service on our as a Compensation Committee member and Nominating Committee Chair. Her leadership, unique knowledge within the healthcare field, and unwavering commitment have been invaluable to the communities we support.

“I have so appreciated the opportunities to connect with SCI Team Members to see first-hand the deep commitment each person across the organization has to SCI's mission and vision,” said Jody. Seeing this commitment reflected through so many Top Workplace awards is truly wonderful and fulfilling.”

We wish Jody all the best in her future endeavors! Learn more about her most memorable moments with SCI: (https://ow.ly/FTP550Sxn2F).