I am very excited to announce my employment with Independence Empowerment Center as an Independent Living Advocate. Having previously been with the same company for 11 years, I was hesitant to try something new, but I have been warmly welcomed and accepted by all.
Continue reading the New Beginnings by Stephanie George article
I’m Mary Mannhardt and I have been working at IEC for the past two months. I have enjoyed learning the many facets of this job including advocacy, peer counseling, and providing consumers with information on community resources. My background includes working in the mental health arena as both a public speaker and an individual counselor for women with eating disorders and depression.
The deadline to sign up for Medicare Part D without penalty is fast approaching. If you join after May 15, 2006 (and only during the open enrollment period between November 15 and December 31 of each year) you will have to pay more for the entire time that you have part D. Since private companies are setting up the plans for Medicare, each plan will be a bit different. Some may use certain pharmacies and others may cover only certain drugs. The costs also may vary, so it is important to pick one that meets your needs. Medicare has information that can help you compare the plans. You can get the information at www.medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE. Another place to receive help is the State Health Assistance Program, known as (SHIP).
Continue reading the Medicare Part D by Mary Mannhardt article
With only four months under my belt, I can still get away with calling myself the new kid on the block, but I don’t know how long I will be able to do that! I have been making my way around our service area, and to places like Richmond and Winchester, and have even made a trip or two up to Washington, DC and to Maryland. I’ve met a lot of people including the consumers who drop in, local business, non-profit and chamber people and local politicians. I was fortunate enough to meet and exchange words withour now departed, Delegate Harry Parrish. (What a beautiful and kind man he was.) I have a lot to learn, however, so I think I’ll still be safe calling myself a new Director until November rolls around and I have my first anniversary.
Continue reading the From the Executive Director by Mary D. Lopez, Ph.D. article
If you are looking for a computer to use, come to IEC! If you are looking for a computer with Internet Access, come to IEC! If you need a magnifier to read your prescriptions, newspaper articles, documents, or applications, come to IEC! If you are deaf or hard of hearing and want to use ASL to speak to a friend via computer, come to IEC! IEC has a computer with internet access, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc. for our consumers to use as needed. We also have a Sorenson Video Relay, Window Eyes, and a Smart View Screen Reader available. Contact IEC office for more information.
from Spring 2006 Newsletter
IEC, Inc. has Service Facilitators for the EDCD Waiver. This is a wonderful program that allows persons with disabilities the ability to receive personal care in the comfort of their own home. It is administered by DMAS (Department of Medical Assistant Services) and people who meet nursing home criteria and have Medicaid are eligible for the program.
Continue reading the What is a Service Facilitator? by Gretchen Fox article
