Patrick, Egger, awardees Women find safe, New metric should

highlight 34th Annual loving home at focus on figuring

Convention & Expo Riverbook Residences out “what works”
Mission: Possible: PROVIDER PROFILE: EDITORIAL:
PAGES 4-7 PAGE 3 PAGE 8

THE PR VIDER
Vol. 30 - No. 9 The Newspaper of the Providers’ Council November 2009

Council celebrates sector, caregivers at annual convention

ore than 1,000 direct dent and CEO Michael Weekes

M service professionals,
nonprofit managers,
vendors, elected officials and
industry leaders came from
across Massachusetts to at-
tend the Providers’ Council’s
34th Annual Convention &
Expo at the Marriott Copley
Place Hotel on October 29.
The yearly convention is an op-
portunity for the Council’s
members and supporters to
connect with each other, to
network with legislators and
vendors, to participate in edu-
cational workshops, and to cel-
ebrate the sector’s work. This
year’s convention was held on
the same day that Governor
Deval Patrick was to announce
his plans to address the most
recent shortfall to the state’s
budget — a topic that loomed
Keynote speaker Robert Egger addresses a packed ballroom of over1,000 attendees at the Providers’ large among both the speakers
Council’s 34th Annual Convention & Expo “Mission: Possible.” For more from the Providers’ Council and attendees.
convention, please see pages four through seven. Providers’ Council Presi-
welcomed the crowd, explain-
ing that the convention’s
theme — Mission: Possible —
was chosen because it “encap-
sulates in two words the
actions and deeds of the
185,000-person workforce that
comprises the human services
sector. When regulations are
imprecise and cumbersome,
when workload demands ap-
pear unfathomable, and when
funding is limited…you, with
dedication and commitment,
rise to accomplish Mission:
Possible.” Weekes noted that
this past year has been “more
challenging to our sector than
any year in recent history.”
Governor Deval Patrick and
Health and Human Services
Secretary Dr. JudyAnn Bigby
also joined the convention, and
both spoke to the challenges of
the past year — and to the
MISSION, see page 4

Federal legislators seeking health care bill benefits for nonprofits

s debate over health care reform the Majority Leader. terparts.” The letter also laid out the which was released on October 29th,

A continues on Capitol Hill, non-

profits from across the country
are taking steps to advocate for their in-
clusion in the final bill. On October 22,
47 members of the House co-signed a
letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi
and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, urg-
ing them stand up for nonprofits. Rep-
resentative Betty McCollum (D-MN)
spearheaded the effort, circulating a
document that asked her colleagues to
sign onto the letter to the Speaker and
“A successful health care reform ef-
fort must guarantee affordable and ac-
cessible health care for all employees.
Nonprofit organizations are a vital and
significant part of the American econ-
omy” stated the letter. “Nearly all non-
profit organizations are struggling to
provide health insurance coverage for
their employees,” it continued. “These
mainly small employers experience the
same higher costs and limited options
as their for-profit, small business coun-
economic power of the not-for-profit
sector, noting that nonprofits represent
the fourth largest sector of the Ameri-
can workforce and generate approxi-
mately 12% of the Gross National
Product. Among the 44 legislators who
signed the letter to Pelosi and Hoyer,
three are from Massachusetts: Rep.
Michael Capuano (D-8), Rep. Bill De-
lahunt (D-10) and Rep. John Olver (D-
1).
The House Health Care reform bill,
however, did not recognize nonprofits.
The Senate will now present the two
bills that it has produced – the Senate
Finance Committee version and the
Senate HELP Committee version. Early
speculation indicates that the final bill
presented by the Senate will include
language from the Finance Committee
bill instead of the complete parity lan-
guage used in the HELP Committee ver-
sion. (The HELP Committee bill had
BENEFITS, see page 11

Human services sector cuts ‘Day of Action’ a success for People First!
not as dire as anticipated I
overnor Deval Patrick
n response to serious and
ongoing threats to the
state’s human services
vocating for their programs
while showing solidarity
around the need to protect all
the campaign was to organize
“A Day of Action to Put People
First.” On October 20, clients,
To resolve the shortfall, the

G
announced at the
Providers’ Council’s con-
vention on Oct. 29 that the
budget reductions to the human
services sector would not be as
large as anticipated, a message
he also delivered later that day
at a meeting with business lead-
ers in Worcester. While in
Worcester, he unveiled addi-
tional plans to fix the most re-
cent shortfall in the state’s
budget — this one totalling
$600 million.
Governor used 9C powers to cut
executive agencies by $277 mil-
lion. He also used several
sources of non-recurring rev-
enues to help fill the gap, in-
cluding $60 million from the FY
2009 budget surplus and $62
million from stimulus (ARRA)
funds. Governor Patrick is seek-
ing permission from the Legisla-
ture to make another $75
million in cuts in areas where
he does not currently have au-
CUTS, see page 11
budget, the Providers’ Council
has launched People First! — a
collaborative campaign to pro-
tect the safety net for the Com-
monwealth’s most vulnerable
residents. The Council has or-
ganized a coalition of human
service advocacy groups whose
members and constituents
represent the full spectrum of
human services and early
childcare education. With one
“banner” and many messages,
the coalition’s members are ad-
human services.
The campaign is dealing
most immediately with the 9C
cuts to the state budget. One of
the first orders of business for
consumers, caregivers, and
community members spent the
day calling and emailing the
Governor and the State Legis-
lature, urging them to “put
people first and find alterna-
tives to cutting vital programs
that support the most vulnera-
ble in our communities.” The
“virtual rally” resulted in over
5,000 phone calls and emails
on that one day.
“Human services and the
ACTION, see page 11

PR V I D E R S’ PRSRT STD ROUT ING SLIP

COUNCIL U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Board Chair
for caring communities BOSTON MA
Massachusetts Council of PERMIT 10185 Executive Director/CEO
Human Service Providers, Inc.
250 Summer Street • Boston, MA 02210
Chief Financial Officer
Address Service Requested
Human Resources Director

Development Director

Other
 PROVIDERS’ NEWS AND NOTES
Longtime ABCD
president Robert
Coard passes away
Robert M. Coard, the long-
time leader of Action for
Boston Community Develop-
ment, died on November 3 at
age 82. He had officially re-
tired from his post as the or-
ganization’s president and
chief executive only two days
prior. He was a longtime board
member of the Providers’
Council. Michael Weekes, CEO
of the Council stated, “Bob leader with an unparalleled porter Yvonne Abraham de- with an operating budget of
was an immutable ability to bring together scribed Coard: “He’s a brilliant $132 million and a staff of
force for progres- people from different politician whose name has nearly 1,000. Approximately
sive social change backgrounds to work never appeared on a ballot. 1,500 people, including Gover-
and I will miss his together on issues af- He’s a phenomenally success- nor Deval Patrick, attended
leadership and fecting the city’s poor ful CEO for an outfit that ABCD’s annual dinner on Oc-
sage counsel to the and disenfranchised. never turned a cent of profit.
tober 30, and watched a spe-
human services He was known not only He’s the center of the universe
community.” among clients and staff cial tribute to Coard, who was
for tens of thousands in a city
Coard held of social service agen- where most people never too ill to attend.“Boston with-
near-celebrity sta- cies – he was a promi- heard of him.” out Bob Coard is like the Pub-
tus in the social nent figure on the During his 45-year tenure lic Garden without the swan
services commu- political scene as well. at ABCD, Coard helped the or- boats,” former Boston mayor
nity in Boston; he Robert Coard In a September 2009 ganization become the city’s Ray Flynn was quoted as say-
was known as a charismatic story in the Boston Globe, re- largest anti-poverty agency, ing in The Boston Globe.

MHSACM changes name to
better reflect services
The Mental Health and Substance
Abuse Corporations of Massachusetts
(MHSACM) announced that it has
changed its name to Association for Be-
havioral Healthcare (ABH). The Natick-
based organization works with 91
member organizations that treat indi-
viduals struggling with mental health
disorders and substance abuse issues.
The new name reflects changes in pub-
lic perception of the broader range of
disorders for which the member organi-
zations provide care and treatment.
“Our new name will help bolster aware-
ness of our organization and the issues
we work on every day with our members
and consumers, as well as legislators
and state agencies,” said president and
CEO Vic DiGravio.
###
Riverside Community Care
and The Guidance Center
merge
Riverside Community Care, a Coun-
cil member and Dedham-based organi-
zation that provides a range of services
to more than 15,000 people each year,
has merged with The Guidance Center,
which provides family services in Cam-
bridge and Somerville. The organiza-
tions will continue to operate in their
respective geographic areas, and both
agencies will retain their names. The
Guidance Center’s senior management
will assume leadership roles in River-
side’s newly created Child and Family
Division, while Riverside’s president
and CEO, Scott Bock, will remain in his
position: “This strategic partnership,
which combines the two organizations’
expertise, resources and longstanding
traditions of providing high-quality care
to children and families is mutually
beneficial for our organizations,” he
said. “Not only do we have similar mis-
sions, business models and work cul-
tures, but this new relationship will
allow us to expand the reach and influ-
ence of our programs in the Common-
wealth.”
###
Community Care Services
gets grant to reduce
homelessness
Taunton-based Community Care
Services was recently awarded
$342,183 in federal funding to address
the needs of families and individuals
who are homeless or at risk of home-
lessness. Community Care Services’
grant is one of 16 such awards to Mas- and rights.
sachusetts nonprofits; the total award Nominations will be accepted from
is close to $15 million, and comes November 20 through December 1. To
through the Department of Housing learn more about how to make a nomi-
and Urban Development. “We are de- nation, visit www.rfkchildren.org.
lighted to be part of the solution to one
of society's most vexing problems,” said ###
Tom Fisher, president and chief execu-
tive officer of CCS.
Providers’ Council
Welcomes New Staff
###
Member
Kathryn Petrikonis (Kati) has joined
RFK Children’s Action the Providers’
Corps seeking award Council as its
part-time adminis-
nominees
trative assistant.
The Robert F. Kennedy Children’s
Kati is currently a
Action Corps, a child welfare organiza-
student at the
tion based in Boston, has launched a Graduate College
nationwide search for the next recipi- of Education
ents of its Embracing the Legacy UMass Boston,
Awards. The awards honor individuals pursuing a mas-
whose work reflects the late Senator’s ter’s degree in edu-
belief that the public has a responsibil- cation with a
ity to all of its members, and that last- certification in
ing contributions to society are made school counseling. Kathryn Petrikonis
by improving the lives of children and Prior to her studies at UMass Boston,
their families. Award nominees will be she worked for the Connecticut Depart-
leaders of nonprofit organizations, au- ment of Children and Families, provid-
thors, politicians, professors, journal- ing case management services. In 2007,
ists, public servants, private citizens, she graduated from the University of
corporate executives, or athletes who Connecticut with Bachelor of Science
are dedicated to and advocate for chil- degree in human development and fam-
dren’s health, education, protection ily studies.

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,8

PAGE 2 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009

 PROVIDER PROFILES
RIVERBROOK RESIDENCE, INC.
4 I CE G LEN ROAD ● S TOCKBRIDGE , MA 01262 ● 413-298-4926
About the Women find safe, secure residence at Riverbook Executive
Agency iverbrook Resi- Director

R
iverbrook Residence, Inc. has
been part of the Berkshire com-
munity for more than 50 years,
providing residential, placement and
community-based supports to women
with developmental disabilities.
In a historic cottage in the town of
Stockbridge, Riverbrook is home for 22
women with varying degrees of autism,
blindness, cerebral palsy, Down Syn-
drome and other challenges. It is the
oldest single-sex residential community
of its kind in New England. Riverbrook
is managed by an executive director,
program director and residence man-
ager, as well as a staff of 30 full- and
part-time professionals.
Riverbrook’s operations are sup-
ported through a combination of private
and public sources — the operating
budget is $1.5 million. This year, the
organization’s annual fundraising cam-
paign will highlight the “Riverbrook
Goes Green” initiative. The project
began with an energy assessment by
the Center for Ecological Technology,
which identified areas in which River-
brook’s environmental efficiency and ef-
fectiveness could be enhanced.
Women living at Riverbrook enjoy a
highly social atmosphere, deep friend-
ships and the support of respectful and
caring staff. Families and volunteers
visit often to engage the residents in
many activities. Riverbrook’s commit-
ment to its residents is evidenced by re-
cent renovations — a wing to help
accommodate its aging population.
“We want to keep this community —
these residents — in their home for as
long as we can,” Executive Director
Joan Burkhard explains.
R dence is home to
22 women with
varying degrees of devel- J
oan Burkhard’s career has
spanned a period in history
that has seen deep and wide
opmental disabilities. changes in the lives, roles and level
For many of the women, of social acceptance of people with
it is the community they developmental
have known for most of
disabilities. She
their adults lives. Resi-
has been the ex-
dents come from across
ecutive director of
the country and range in
Riverbrook Resi-
age from 21 to 64.
dence for more
The goal at River-
than 30 years,
brook is to provide com-
leading the way
passionate, stimulating
community-based care in for the integra-
tion of the residents of Riverbrook
a safe, secure and loving
environment. Riverbrook into the broader community. In
2002 she was honored by the
achieves this goal by offer- Riverbrook Resident Tanny Labshere (center) is joined
ing its residents varied pro- by Gov. Deval Patrick (left), Riverbrook music educator Stockbridge Women’s Project. She
was also a finalist for the Women’s
grams and services and Jessica Roemischer (right) and Paula Labshere (far right).
Venture Fund of New York City’s
social experiences primarily under the large, cooperative umbrella of
Highest Leaf award. Her nomina-
in community settings. Some portions many local arts and civic organizations.
of the day programs are housed at the The program showcases the remarkable tion acknowledged Riverbrook’s
newly renovated Town Center in Stock- talents of the women as they play duets leadership in providing “excep-
bridge, a comfortable walk from the res- with the program’s creator and director, tional opportunities for exceptional
idence. There, the women enjoy a wide performing piano music they have com- women.”
variety of programs that include inter- posed and refined themselves, as well as Burkhard holds a Bachelor of
action with local seniors, as well as vis- favorites that the entire group can Science degree from the University
its to the library, bank, post office and share. of Connecticut, a master’s degree
The program, “Flying Free:
local stores. The residents also have vo- Music Without Limits” has moved on to in education from Westfield State
cational experiences at the nearby Red gain wide recognition with performances College and an MSW from Adelphi
Lion Inn, the Marion Fathers, and St. at many houses of worship, Clark Uni- University. Burkhard is certified
Paul’s Nursery School. They deliver versity, a conference in New York, a con- as a Licensed Independent Clinical
mail within the Town Center and run a Social Worker and is also certified
cert honoring Daniel Pearl and a special
small vending machine business. They in elementary education, special
performance for Gov. Deval Patrick.
create and sell products at the Williams education and administration.
In addition to carefully planned pro-
Country Store on Main Street. On “The residents teach me life lessons
gramming, Riverbrook prioritizes health
Thursdays, some residents take a dance every day – about patience, about
care for its residents. They are accom-
class at Kripalu, then enjoy lunch before struggle, about love,” says
panied on their medical visits by a
spending the afternoon working at the Burkhard. “It’s a privilege to work
knowledgeable staff member who re-
yoga center. with them. I started out thinking I
ports all pertinent information by means
Riverbrook’s music program was had something to offer — but now
of a computer system which allows for
launched in December of 2008 with a know I have received much more
communication across programs and
performance at the Taft Recital Hall, than I have given.”
three shifts of staffing.

SALUTING OUR P RO F E S S I O N A L W O R K F O RC E
Key receives education on the job at ECCGS Helping people runs in the family for Ralph
hen you meet Alicia Ralph, it’s

W
ver the last 11 years, Beverly

O Key has worked her way up the

ranks of the Early Childhood
Centers of Greater Springfield. In
1998, she started as a teacher’s assis-
tant. She quickly became a teacher, and
then a lead teacher/supervisor, before
moving into her current role as preschool
wing supervisor. When she joined ECC,
Beverly had minimal formal education —
but that was about to change. Beverly
began attending college in the evenings,
and in 2003 she received an associate’s
degree in early childhood education from
Springfield Technical Community Col-
lege. She then enrolled in the Saturday
program at Bay Path College and is due
to receive her bachelor’s degree in
human services in 2010. Beverly also
regularly attends training sessions on
topics such as curriculum development,
supervision, regulatory issues, and be-
havioral challenges. She is not only an
example of the power of professional de-
velopment through education – she is an
advocate as well. She consistently en-
courages her staff to attend trainings
and college courses to better themselves
personally and professionally.
ECC of Greater Springfield provides
early education, care and family support
services to low- and moderate-income
families with children between the ages
of one month and five years. As the pre-
school wing supervisor, Beverly is re-
sponsible for the operations and
management of up to 40 staff people who
care for and provide educational experi-
ences for up to 260 children in 13 class-
rooms. In addition to her role overseeing
those who provide care for the children,
Beverly is part of the education team at
ECC. She manages – and sometimes
leads – staff development and training in
areas such as curriculum design and
Beverly Key started by learning on the
job, but next year, she plans to earn a
bachelor’s degree in human services.
implementation, policies and proce-
dures, licensing and regulation.
Beverly’s immediate supervisor, Di-
rector of Education Paula Perrier, de-
scribes Beverly as well-respected by both
those she supervises and by those who
supervise her. “Beverly is someone who
knows both child and staff development.
She is level-headed and fair when mak-
ing the many decisions for which she is
responsible. Beverly is a key component
of a well-run preschool program.” Bev-
erly’s colleagues note that she is sup-
portive and encouraging to her staff,
nurturing to children and respectful of
parents and peers.
“I believe you really ought to love
what you do each day at work. That is
why I chose the field of early education
and care,” says Beverly. “I enjoy working
with the staff people who care for the
children we serve. It gives me great joy
to see the children’s academic achieve-
ments. I’m honored to be an important
part of this process.”
easy to see why clients and
staff hold her in such high re-
gard. She has an infectious smile, an
easygoing personality, and an unwa-
vering commitment to her clients. Ali-
cia is part of a team that recently
received an award from the Vinfen
board of directors for its outstanding
work on behalf of individuals with psy-
chiatric disabilities at a Vinfen program
in Jamaica Plain that is home to 12 in-
dividuals with psychiatric disabilities.
The people living at the program where
Alicia works strive to create an atmos-
phere of family and home. The resi-
dents, in collaboration with staff, work
Alicia Ralph is a second-generation staff
to achieve hope by utilizing community
member at Vinfen and loves her work.
resources and cultivating new relation-
with individuals with severe and per-
ships in the community, as well as by
developing the skills necessary to re- sistent mental illness.
cover and gain control of their lives. “The best part of my day is spend-
Alicia’s team received the board’s ing time with each of the unique per-
Team Award because they have signifi- sonalities in the program,” said Alicia.
“I love seeing the joy on the faces of
cantly improved the lives of the individ-
clients when they are doing an activity
uals in their program, even while the
they love.”
team was in the midst of transitioning
A typical day for Alicia includes tak-
from its previous care model to the
ing clients to day programs, doctors’
Community-Based Flexible Support
appointments, administering medica-
(CBFS) model of care. The transition to
tion and taking clients out for social ac-
the CBFS model was a great success
tivities. Alicia is currently enrolled at
due to the team’s dedication. Their in-
fectious spirit and energy allows them Curry College and has two years left be-
to achieve the Vinfen mission of “help- fore graduating from the nursing pro-
ing to transform lives.” gram. A native of Boston, Alicia
Alicia is a second generation Vinfen graduated from Natick High School.
staff member. Her Aunt Paulette has “Alicia has a real compassion for our
had a long career with Vinfen. Paulette clients and actively engages them on a
thought that working with individuals personal level every day,” said Program
with psychiatric disabilities would be a Director Chris Dodge. “She encourages
great experience for Alicia, who plans to clients to be independent as much as
become a nurse. Alicia began her ca- possible and shows a tremendous com-
reer as a relief worker at her aunt’s pro- mitment to the program. She is truly a
gram in the Longwood area, working star.”
NOVEMBER 2009 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ PAGE 3
MISSION: Human service organizations celebrate sector at convention
Continued from page 1
challenges that lie ahead. (See page five
for the full story on remarks from Gov-
ernor Patrick and Secretary Bigby.)
This year’s convention keynote
speaker was Robert Egger, founder of
the DC Central Kitchen and one of the
50 Most Powerful and Influential Lead-
ers, according to the NonProfit Times.
Egger entered the stage through a wall
of fog — accompanied by the theme
music from “Mission: Impossible” —
and spoke to the crowd about not only
the importance of the work of the
human service sector, but also its im-
pact and potential. Right now, he said,
our business “relies on extra” — extra
funding, extra media space, extra time.
It’s time, he said, to harness the power
of the nonprofit sector, and to demand
that it be recognized: “Far from non-
profit, we produce some of the best
profit in the world. We need to own
that.” He encouraged organizations
from across the diverse fields of non-
profit to come together to find common
ground, and to elect leaders who have a
plan to partner with and strengthen
nonprofits. Egger noted that 10% of the
workforce in Massachusetts is com-
prised of people who work for nonprofit
organizations. “What we do is smart
business,” he said.
The annual Awards of Excellence
ceremony honored 13 individuals, or-
ganizations and programs for their con-
tributions to and accomplishments
within the private provider industry
over the last year. The Peer Provider
Awards ceremony, which recognizes
five member organizations for their
work over the course of the year, was
hosted by FOX25 News Anchor Maria
Stephanos. (See pages six and seven for
more on these awards.)
In between awards and speeches,
the attendees broke into smaller groups
to attend informational workshops,
with topics ranging from how to man-
age challenging employee behaviors to
informal chats with state secretaries
and commissioners. Over lunch, the
group enjoyed a musical skit by Lyrical
Edge Productions, featuring human
service worker “Delores Dogood” and
legislator “Senator Meanswell.”
“All the feedback I have gotten
about the convention is over the top —
really, really outstanding,” said
Providers’ Council Board Chair Randal
Rucker.
Michael Weekes agreed: “This was
our 34th convention — and I am still al-
ways amazed by the amount of enthu-
siasm that our speakers and our
participants bring to the event. It
proves that our sector, even in the face
of a seemingly impossible mission, will
always rise to the challenge.”

Attendees could receive complimentary massages on the conven-

tion floor throughout the day to help them relax.

Stacey Zelbow from the Nonprofit Finance Fund discusses “The ABCD Executive Vice President John Drew (right) accepts a caricature of the late ABCD President &
Power of Partnerships: Mergers and Alliances in a Changed Econ- CEO Robert Coard from Providers’ Council President & CEO Michael Weekes.
omy” during a workshop at the Providers’ Council Convention.

Musicians from Rhythm Room Live used drums, harmonicas and other instruments to entertain and wake up attendees in the morning and performed on stage to kick off the day.

Jessica Castro from Community Resources for Justice introduces keynote speaker More than 1,000 attendees joined the Council for the day’s events, and the ball-
Robert Egger and tells attendees her own personal story as well. room quickly filled up for the Peer Provider Awards and luncheon entertainment.
PAGE 4 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009
 Governor Patrick, Sec. Bigby address human service
providers, give thoughts on the state budget and discuss cuts

Governor Patrick addressed the attendees of the Providers’ Council Annual Convention & Expo, discussing the state budget and informing them that cuts to the Execu-
tive Office of Health and Human Services would be smaller than many originally feared.
overnor Deval Patrick total cuts to Health and

G and EOHHS Secretary

Dr. JudyAnn Bigby
joined the Providers’ Council’s
34th Annual Convention &
Expo to thank the sector’s
members for the work they do
on behalf of the state – and
also to address the Common-
wealth’s budget woes. Both the
Governor and the Secretary
spoke at the convention only
hours before the Governor
publicly announced his latest
cuts to the FY ’10 budget. (For
the full story on the most re-
cent cuts to the budget, see
page one.)
Secretary Bigby opened her
remarks by applauding the
work of the attendees, offering
thanks for “the contributions
you make, the ideas you share,
your thoughtful discussion
and your willingness to tell us
how we can…make the human
services sector vibrant and im-
pactful.” But the main focus of
her speech was the budget,
and how the private provider
industry and the state can
work together to protect the
needs of the Commonwealth’s
most vulnerable people, de-
Human Services will be less
than 1 percent. Total cuts to
human services — excluding
Mass Health — will be less
than 2 percent.”
Patrick also used his time
at the podium to thank the at-
tendees for their work on be-
half of the people of the
Commonwealth: “We gather in
anxious times,” he said. “Be-
lieve me, I share your con-
cerns, because I appreciate the
work you do. Whether you
work to secure the dignity of
housing for a family down on
their luck, or to help a recover-
ing addict stay sober one more
Awards of Excellence winners join Providers’ Council President and CEO Michael Weekes (left) and
Board Chair Randal Rucker (right) on stage to present a gift to Gov. Deval Patrick (center). Patrick re- day, or to feed a single mother
ceived a signed copy of “Begging for Change,” a book by convention keynote speaker Robert Egger. and her children, or just teach
spite shrinking dollars: “Our am counting on you for this, Governor Patrick also a child to look up rather than
mission today is to maintain and the people we serve are spoke at length about the state down, your work matters. It
our commitment and our focus counting on all of us.” budget. In fact, during his matters to your clients, your
and draw on our ability to Of the budget cuts them- speech at the convention, he communities and to me. Each
think creatively and embrace selves, she acknowledged their announced that despite fears
of you here has answered a call
change. We cannot in good impact on the human services that human services would see
that you hear in your hearts.
conscience keep doing things community, but stressed that additional budget cuts of up to
the same way we have always the administration has “made 15 percent, “that’s not going to Your blend of compassion and
done them. We know we can decisions after much delibera- happen. While some areas of professionalism inspires me
do better. I know you care. I tion. None of these decisions government are being reduced and the countless number you
want you to know that I care. I are easy.” by as much as 6.5 percent, the help.”

The Joan Newton Memorial Scholarship Fund

To honor the memory of Joan Newton, who masterminded the rejuvenation and
expansion of the Providers’ Council Annual Convention and Expo, the Providers’
Council has established a scholarship in her name.This fund will provide financial
assistance to deserving caregivers who otherwise would not be able to attend the
annual convention.
Joan Newton Memorial Scholarship Fund
generously sponsored by:

And with support from:

• Delta Projects • Michael Ripple
• HMEA • E.J. Smith & Ron
• Justice Resource Institute Trial
• The Key Program • Michael Weekes Providers’ Council President and CEO Michael Weekes thanks
• Dr. David & Ruth Newton • Pamela Whitney EOHHS Secretary Dr. JudyAnn Bigby after she welcomed event
• North Shore Arc • Vinfen attendees to the morning session of the convention.
NOVEMBER 2009 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ PAGE 5
 Awards of Excellence honorees
ach year during its annual convention, the Providers’ Council presents

E Awards of Excellence to deserving individuals and organizations for out-

standing contributions and accomplishments within the private provider
industry. These individuals and organizations set the standards of excellence for
the human services sector.

• Richard J. Bond Award

Awarded to an executive and a supervisor for their outstanding contributions to
serving those in need.

Executive Award
Gary Lamson
Vinfen
(nominated by Seven Hills Foundation)

Supervisor Award
Robert Gervais
Justice Resource Institute Awards of Excellence winners pose for a picture after the ceremony with Providers’ Coun-
(nominated by Justice Resource Institute) cil President and CEO Michael Weekes (sixth from left), keynote speaker Robert Egger
(eighth from left) and Providers’ Council Board Chair Randal Rucker (seventh from right).

• Gerry Wright Direct Service Employee Award • State Employee of the Year
Awarded to direct service employees to fully recognize outstanding dedication Awarded to a state employee who has significantly contributed to the advance-
ment of the sector.
and performance.
Robert Hebda
Leola McGinnis Department of Developmental Services — Fall River
Lena Park Community Development Corporation (nominated by People, Inc.)
(nominated by Lena Park Community Development Corporation)

Jeanne McNeil
• Legislator of the Year
Awarded to a state senator and a state representative for outstanding contribu-
Seven Hills Foundation tions to the industry.
(nominated by Seven Hills Foundation)
Senator Steven C. Panagiotakos
• Volunteer of the Year Award (nominated by Mental Health Association of Greater Lowell)
Awarded to a person for exemplary volunteerism. Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo
(nominated by Vinfen)
Vanthomas Straughter
Mission Hill Buccaneers Pop Warner • Municipal Official of the Year
(nominated by Boston Partners in Mentoring) Awarded to a municipal official for outstanding contributions to the industry.

• Ruth M. Batson Advocate of the Year Award Denise Jordan

Awarded to a person who has exemplified excellence in advocating for the Office of the Mayor (Springfield)
human services sector. (nominated by Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services,
Inc. and Partners for a Healthier Community, Inc.)
Jodi Rosenbaum
More than Words Bookstore • Business Partnership Award
Awarded to a business industry vendor or individual who has made extraordi-
(nominated by Worcester Comprehensive Child Care Services, Inc.) nary contributions to an agency.

• Innovator of the Year Award Gregg Jordan

Innovative business models and practices can promote greater value and Gregg Jordan & Associates
increase social impact. Awarded to an organization that has excelled with inno- (nominated by Community Resources for Justice)
vation.

Abundant Table
• Media Award
This award honors media organizations, reporters, photographers or anchors
Pine Street Inn who endeavor to bring important human service issues to the public.
(nominated by Bay Cove Human Services)
The Salem News
(nominated by North Shore Arc)

Thank you to all of our exhibitors, especially our premier

exhibitors, who made Mission: Possible such a success!

Premier Exhibitors
• Accounting Management Solutions • Hill Associates Healthcare England
• ARBOR Associates, Inc. Management Systems • Riverbend Furniture
• Boston Medical Center HealthNet • Interior Resources • Sequest Technologies, Inc.
Plan • Justice Resource Institute
• Seven Hills Foundation
• CBIZ Tofias & Mayer Hoffman • Newbury College
McCann P.C. • Pine Street Inn • Staples Advantage
• Eastern Bank • Providers’ Council • TD Insurance
• Enterprise Fleet Management • Ricoh Business Systems of New • Walden University
PAGE 6 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009
 Five human service agencies receive prestigious Peer Provider Awards
n behalf of the agencies that nominated them,

O the Providers’ Council presented five of its

member organizations with the prestigious
Peer Provider Awards during the 34th Annual Con-
vention & Expo at the Marriott Copley Place Hotel.
Fox25 anchor Maria Stephanos hosted the ceremony
and presented the awards to the winners.
The Peer Provider Awards are presented to mem-
ber agencies that have made significant contributions
to the human services sector. The awards are partic-
ularly special because each recipient organization has
been nominated by another member organization in
the Council network, and because the awards recog-
nize the work of an entire organization over the course
of the year. This year’s winners, like recipients before
them, have all made substantial contributions to the
field of human services across Massachusetts, and
were recognized in a significant way by their peers.

Amherst Survival Center Bedford Youth & Family Services

Cheryl Zoll, CEO Sue Baldauf, Director
Nominated by: Nominated by:
Center for Human Development Eliot Community Human Services

Community Work Services Martha’s Vineyard Community Services Project Cope

Serena Powell, Executive Director Julia Burgess, Executive Director Mark Kennard, Executive Director
Nominated by: Nominated by: Nominated by:
NuPath, Inc. Community Connections Bridgewell

Thanks to the sponsors who helped us celebrate

Mission: Possible at our 34th Annual Convention & Exp

Platinum
Sponsors

Gold
Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors Benefactors Friends

• Delta Dental of • Advocates, Inc.
• Bay Cove Human Services
Massachusetts
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of
• Seven Hills Foundation
Mass.
• Vinfen
• Community Resources for
Justice
• Family Service of Greater
Boston
• HMEA
• Justice Resource Institute
• Key Program
• Krokidas & Bluestein
• Massachusetts Behavioral
Health Partnership
• NFI Massachusetts
• ServiceNet
• The Association for Community Living
• Boston Private Bank & Trust
• Centro Las Americas
• Communities for People
• Community Care Services
• Community Work Services
• Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
• Philadelphia Insurance
• Worcester Comprehensive Child Care
Services

NOVEMBER 2009 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ PAGE 7

 EDITORIAL
Michael Weekes
President / Publisher
Smart or dumb... a new metric?
ission: Possible was more
M than just a clever theme
for the Providers’ Coun-
cil’s 34th Annual Convention &
Expo — it encapsulated the dy-
namic forces of possibility within
the human service sector. In these
incredibly difficult times, when the
economy has created both a
greater demand for service and a
declining capacity to fulfill it, our
missions can be easily derailed.
Employment support services dis-
appear and so do the jobs for
clients and consumers. Some local
group home programs, offering our
youth an alternative to large resi-
dential facilities or struggling on
the streets, disappear. The co-
nundrum created by more service
needs and less money was in
sharp relief on the stage of the
convention as Governor Patrick
announced more cuts to human
services. While service reductions
are hardly ever good news, many
were relieved that the cuts were
not as draconian as originally
feared. The Governor held human
service cuts to around 1% — many
had feared cuts of more than 15%.
Regardless of the actual percent-
age, each cut will soon become a
very real and painful obstacle in
someone’s life.
Convention keynote speaker
Robert Egger had earlier in the day
suggested that nonprofits and
their supporters use a new metric
when considering funding and
programs, leaving behind value-
heavy measurements like “good
and bad” or “right and wrong” and
instead thinking in terms of “smart
or dumb.” His remarks evoked re-
flective thinking and challenged
the perspectives of the audience.
Egger said that it may be more
helpful to think of our social in-
vestments as smart or dumb
rather than as good or bad, or
right or wrong. He posited that
“smart or dumb” may help narrow
the range of polarization that im-
pedes our society’s ability to re-
solve its problems. This resonated
with me.
Many of us would agree that
our nation is far too polarized. We
characterize ourselves and each
other — and our ideas — as red or
blue, right wing or left wing, liberal
or conservative, Democrat or Re-
PAGE 8 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009
publican. Rarely do we explore the
important nuances among the
shades of gray between the black
and white. It is a framework that
locks us into camps of division
ready to battle in the name of our
sense of “right” — but never armed
with the full truth. We are unable
to listen or to engage in civil dis-
course, because the “team” we are
on has become more important
than the idea itself. It is a perspec-
tive that is rather — to put it
bluntly — dumb. It suggests that
the thoughts and deeds of “others”
are deserving of castigation — that
they are inferior or dangerous. It
has paralyzed our progress as a People First! helps in advocacy efforts
country. Dear Providers’ Council, programs! I strongly believe that this
In 2004, Barack Obama mes- As a small nonprofit agency, we strong advocacy saved our programs.
merized the nation with a riveting were spared in this most recent round Thank you for all you do with your
of budget cuts. As a member of the strong advocacy for providers. We have
speech to the Democratic National
Mass. Clubhouse Coalition, we joined been a longtime member of the MCHSP
Convention suggesting that “there with them to rally both at DMH and at but I think, for all, this is the worst year
is not a liberal America and a con- the State House on Tuesday, October yet.
servative America — there is the 27. We also participated in the People
United States of America.” This First! campaign. Approximately 50 leg- Kathleen O’Keefe
islators signed a letter that was sent to Executive Director
statement is fundamental to
the Governor to save our clubhouse Mental Health Resources Plus, Inc.
Egger’s encouraging us to “leave
behind what divides us.” We Do you have story ideas for The Provider or
should avoid the partisanship and
would you like to write a Letter to the Editor?
prejudice; they serve no purpose.
Blowing out another’s candle does- Contact The Provider Editor Caitlin Gallagher at
n’t make our own any brighter. In- 617-428-3637 or e-mail her at cgallagher@providers.org.
stead, let’s focus on what works.
If “what works” becomes the
universal standard of effectiveness
PR VIDERS’ COUNCIL
— instead of “right and wrong” or 250 Summer Street • Suite 237 • Boston, MA 02210
“good and bad” — we may be able Telephone: 617.428.3637 • Fax: 617.428.1533
to silence the voices of divisive- Email: info@providers.org • Online at http://www.providers.org
ness. It is a divisiveness that we 2009 Officers Staff
know too well here in Massachu- Chair President and Publisher
setts. The Governor could have Randal Rucker Michael Weekes
yielded to political pressure and Chair-Elect Director of Operations/Cartoonist
taken an axe to programs and Sheri McCann Michael Ripple
services for the most vulnerable.
Vice Chair Director of Strategic Development
Instead, the governor listened to Andy Pond Carly Burton
those who know what works. As
Treasurer Communications and Development Manager
part of the People First! campaign, Gary Lamson William Yelenak
the human service sector flooded
Assistant Treasurer Fiscal Coordinator
the Governor’s office with over Sue Stubbs Tracy Jordan
5,000 emails and phone calls. He
listened to our calls, emails, let- Clerk Membership Development Associate
William Taylor Kevin Gilnack
ters, and tweets. In his remarks at Sara Morrison Neil
the convention, he thanked us for Assistant Clerk
Dora Robinson Administrative Assistant
“bringing each line item to life.” Kati Petrikonis
The Governor has asked for our Past Chair
John Larivee Provider Editor
continued assistance in helping Caitlin Gallagher
him understand “what works” — Chair Emeritus
Gerry Wright Convention Planner
what is smart. It is imperative that
Jill Moran
we accept this mission and help
him to make that which is consid-
ered smart even smarter. It may be
a new metric for moving forward.
 VIEWPOINTS FROM ACROSS THE STATE
Education reform is necessary Correctly diagnosing autism
by James Major
he Massachusetts Association of
T 766 Approved Private Schools
(maaps) represents 91 private
schools that have been approved by the
Commonwealth’s Department of Ele-
mentary and Secondary Education
(DESE) to enroll publicly funded stu-
dents who have special needs. Our
members provide highly specialized ed-
ucation and treatment to approximately
6,000 public students with special
needs.
The students in our schools are the
most challenged children in the Com-
monwealth. School officials seek out an
approved private school only when the
public school cannot provide an appro-
priate education for a student. Our stu-
dents are required to pass MCAS to
receive a high school diploma. They are
expected to perform at the same level as
their non-disabled peers, and yet these
students do not benefit from the same
level of educational resources as stu-
dents in public schools.
In 1993, the state legislature passed
the Education Reform Act and has since
appropriated billions of dollars in addi-
tional state aid for public schools to pay
for the cost of complying with education
reform. Our member schools have also
been responsible for implementing the
Education Reform Act, and yet until
2007, they received no additional fund-
ing to pay for the cost of compliance.
Compounding the problem is the fact
that since 1993, tuition inflation adjust-
ments set by the Operational Services
Division (OSD) have not even kept pace
with inflation. OSD sets tuition rates
well below what it costs our member
schools to educate Massachusetts’ pub-
lic students. In FY ’08 alone, our
schools were required to raise over $26
million to subsidize public education.
Since 1993, that number is nearly $200
million. Our member schools raise
money through private donations,
fundraising, and charging higher costs
to private pay and out-of-state students.
Our members bring over $169 million
per year in out-of-state tuition payments
into the Massachusetts economy.
So, while our schools have been con-
tributing to the state economy and sub-
sidizing public education, they have
been expected to meet the education re-
form requirements with little additional
funding from the Commonwealth. As a
result, our members cannot pay staff
salaries that compete with those offered
by traditional public schools. The aver-
age salary of a teacher in a traditional
public school was $64,169 in FY ‘08,
compared to $41,563 in our member
schools – and our teachers work with a
more challenging group of students. It
is important to note that our teachers
and other staff work an average of 205
days of the year, compared to 180 days
in public schools. Many of our schools
operate 220 days. In other words, our
school staff work longer hours for less
pay and it’s the students who pay the
real price. Our schools are only able to
retain 68% of their teachers each year,
compared to a retention rate of 86% in
public schools. Even more troubling –
the average rate of teacher licensure in
our schools is only 54%, compared to
95% in public schools.
We are happy to be able to report
that we have begun to resolve these dis-
parities. In November of 2006, the OSD
adopted a new pricing policy: Special
Circumstances for Salary Upgrades.
This policy has allowed schools to apply
for tuition rate adjustments that provide
more competitive salaries to teachers
and other staff. As a result, both our li-
censure and our teacher retention rates
have shown some improvement. How-
ever, we clearly have a long way to go,
which is particularly steep challenge
given that salary upgrades were frozen
this year by the legislature.
All of the public students in Massa-
chusetts deserve the teachers and edu-
cational resources they need to pass
MCAS, graduate from high school and
become productive citizens. The new
OSD policy is a step in the right direc-
tion, but it is not even written into regu-
lation. It can be revoked at any time, for
any reason. Assistant Majority Whip
Patricia Haddad has filed legislation H.
415, which would require OSD and
DESE to consider teacher licensure and
retention rates and educational re-
sources in our member schools when
tuition rates are set. We ask the legisla-
ture to support H. 415 and ensure an
equal education opportunity to all stu-
dents.
James Major is the executive director of
the Massachusetts Association of 766
Approved Private Schools (maaps).
early more important than ever
by Walter P. Christian
While autism-related data released
in October by the journal Pediatrics and
the Centers for Disease Control and Pre-
vention were not entirely unanticipated,
the increase in the number of children
diagnosed with autism spectrum disor-
ders (ASD) is cause for profound con-
cern and a renewed call to action.
New statistics place the prevalence
rate of ASD at one in 91 children. This
further emphasizes the critical need in
this country to effectively tackle this
public health crisis on multiple fronts –
research, information and treatment.
Many in the scientific community be-
lieve that an intensive and ongoing com-
mitment to research is the best place to
begin to seek solutions to this national
challenge. The Obama administration
has proposed a more coordinated na-
tional strategy to address the challenges
of ASD, including a significant increase
in funding for autism research. But re-
search, however critical, is only one
piece of the equation.
Families grappling with the complex-
ities of autism often have more ques-
tions than answers. Accurate
information, particularly at key mo-
ments requiring important decisions,
can literally change the trajectory of the
life of an individual with ASD. What are
the early warning signs? How and when
do we diagnose a very young child?
What treatments are most effective?
How do we best support a loved one with
ASD across the lifespan? While we have
not yet discovered a cause or cure, we
do know a tremendous amount about
autism. It is imperative that we focus on
providing information about ASD to
families who need it. And one of the
most critical areas involves treatment.
Parents, educators, and service
providers are inundated with claims of
“new and improved” treatments, most of
which have little or no evidence sup-
porting their effectiveness. Without ac-
curate information, significant time,
energy and money may be wasted on
“fad” treatments – thereby postponing
the intensive early intervention that
holds the most dramatic promise for
children striving to reach their potential.
The National Standards Report re-
leased in September by the National
Autism Center, a Massachusetts-based
nonprofit founded by May Institute, of-
fers the most comprehensive informa-
tion available to date about treatments
for individuals under the age of 22 with
ASD. It identifies a number of treat-
ments that are effective in addressing
core symptoms of autism. May Institute
is proud to have joined with experts
from around the country to complete the
National Standards Project. The next
goal for the National Autism Center is to
broadly disseminate the report so that
families and others can use the findings
to inform their treatment decisions.
Accurate information about treat-
ment is useless, however, without both
available and affordable services. Lack
of access to essential services has pro-
found and long-term ramifications for
children and adults with ASD. Appro-
priate, research-based services signifi-
cantly impact the lives of these
individuals, in terms of their skills de-
velopment, personal growth and ability
to live as contributing members of soci-
ety.
Not only do these treatments offer
these individuals the best hope for
reaching their maximum potential –
they are cost-effective as well. It is well-
documented that effective interventions
can significantly reduce long-term costs
of caring for people with ASD. According
to a Harvard School of Public Health re-
port, applied behavior analysis (one of
the “effective treatments” identified by
the National Standards Project) has
been shown to reduce the percentage of
individuals with ASD requiring lifelong
care by almost half, and to reduce the
costs of lifelong care by two-thirds.
While the debate continues about who
should bear the costs associated with
treating these individuals, it is short-
sighted to not factor in the long-term
savings. In the meantime, too many in-
dividuals are not receiving the care they
need today.
Massachusetts has a long history of
supporting its most vulnerable citizens.
We must continue to work at identifying
and diagnosing children on the autism
spectrum as early as possible, educat-
ing families, and providing effective, ev-
idence-based treatment for every child
and adult who needs it. We are very en-
couraged by the number of legislators
who are currently supporting a broad
range of legislative bills that tackle many
of these issues related to ASD.
Walter P. Christian is the president and
CEO of May Institute.

Governor Patrick, state leaders must remember to put People First!

by Bill Taylor entire sector. and families, the residents of never needed government as- need. Human services will al-
he People First! cam- As an internal challenge, Massachusetts – yourselves sistance before are turning to

T
paign is a challenge to
our state’s leaders to put
People First! — to put the peo-
ple of the Commonwealth at
the forefront of their decision-
making processes. While it is
an obvious message, it has
many implications. People
First! is both a public cam-
paign and an internal chal-
lenge for our sector.
As a public campaign, Peo-
ple First! has developed a
broad coalition of human serv-
ice and early education
providers that will work under
one banner and deliver their
unique mission-driven mes-
sage. The campaign’s October
20th “virtual rally,” for exam-
ple, generated thousands of
emails and calls to the Gover-
nor and the Legislature and
made a big impact on the 9C
deliberations. The calls came
from all across the human
services sector – because the
campaign itself will benefit the
People First! is a call to identify
ways to streamline and make
more efficient the costs of con-
tracting and delivering serv-
ices. The state budget is
under siege. While the first
round of 9C cuts was not as
devastating as had been antic-
ipated, there were some signif-
icant cuts to human services
nonetheless. There is specu-
lation there could be another
round later in the year, and no
one is optimistic about the
budget being developed for FY
2011. People First! will be
working diligently to translate
any potential cuts into very
human terms.
Massachusetts’ taxpayers
are some of the most generous
in the nation. As a result, the
Commonwealth has one of the
most progressive human serv-
ice delivery systems in the
country. As we work hard to
provide the best possible serv-
ices to our clients, consumers,
included – deserve thanks and
praise for their uncommon
generosity to date. From a
fundraising perspective, tax-
payers are our most important
donors. Please tell your story
in every possible venue so that
the taxpayers know where
their dollars are going and so
that they understand their im-
pact on our communities.
That said, our taxpayers
are struggling, and they don’t
want to see their hard-earned
dollars going anywhere but to
the people who need services
the most. Their scrutiny is in-
tense and their message is
clear: don’t spend one dollar
on administration where it is
not needed. Taxpayers want
to see their dollars go towards
the people and the programs
that they were intended to
reach.
This economy is putting
more and more people in deep
jeopardy. People who have
it today. Our responsibilities
have been broadened and
deepened by this fiscal crisis.
The Governor and EOHHS are
asking us to respond to this
request: how can we all work
more effectively and efficiently
to make sure that we meet the
needs of our friends and
neighbors throughout the
Commonwealth – even as they
increase in numbers?
We are in an economic cri-
sis like no other. It is not the
average business cycle down-
turn. Our fiscal foundations
have been fractured, and we
will all be asked to find new
ways of meeting our missions.
When we emerge from this era,
we will likely not return to the
world the way it was. The un-
derlying plates of the human
services community are shift-
ing.
Putting people first means
making sure the taxpayers’
dollars make it to those in
ways be labor-intensive and
hand- delivered, but the tech-
nology that is available to
move information has broken
wide open the old ways of
doing things — and that’s just
a start. We have been invited
to the table to offer up our
ideas and we must accept the
opportunity.
Let’s look hard at our-
selves, and let’s look hard at
all the systems of care that
have been developed over the
past 40 years. How do we
serve people and fulfill our ob-
ligation to our supporters?
People come first! That is how
it all began. It is what we do
with pride and it is what we
must work to achieve in these
new times.
Bill Taylor is the president &
CEO of Advocates, Inc.

NOVEMBER 2009 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ PAGE 9

 A VIEW FROM THE HILL
A commentary from a
legislator on human services
NORCs can be helpful to seniors & retirees
by Sen. Cynthia Stone Creem
am so pleased to be able to speak di-
I rectly to the human service providers
of Massachusetts and to say “thank
you” to all the people who work with —
and on behalf of — our most vulnerable
residents. Our state is fortunate to have
an extensive safety net of services and
programs for the disabled and elderly —
and an outstanding group of caregivers.
I am particularly proud that the Gover-
nor and those of us in the Massachu-
setts legislature have made advances
toward the “Community First” policy, al-
lowing the elderly and people with dis-
abilities to live with dignity and
independence in their communities.
With the help and support of caregivers
who work with people in their own
homes, at day programs, and in small
residential settings, we will continue to
promote programs that adhere to the
Community First agenda. One simple
but effective model of Community First
service provision is working within Nat-
urally Occurring Retirement Communi-
ties (NORCs).
NORCs are apartment complexes or
clusters of homes where most of the oc-
cupants have lived for many years, and
in which the residents find themselves in
need of services because they have “aged
in place.” NORCs are identified through
census data, and often house frail and
isolated seniors. Many of these elders
need some community supports, but do
not yet need full-time care in a nursing
home setting. Bringing supportive serv-
ices to these people is an effective way to
help elders remain independent for as
long as possible.
NORC programs bring social work-
ers, nurses and other services to clients
at their homes, where the residents are
then able to participate in evaluations
and receive individualized assistance.
Apartments can be assessed for risks —
like area rugs that are easy to trip on, or
hot water that is set at too high a tem-
perature — and residents can be evalu-
Council to lead SEA chapter creation
by Anne Wunderli
eflecting a growing interest in so-
R cial enterprise, momentum is
building toward the creation of a
Massachusetts chapter of the Social
Enterprise Alliance (SEA). The Social
Enterprise Alliance is the only member
organization in North America that is
bringing together stakeholders from
across the diverse
fields of social en-
terprise. SEA
serves as an ad-
vocate for the
field, a hub of in-
formation and ed-
ucation, and a
builder of a vibrant and growing com-
munity of social enterprises.
The formation of local SEA chapters
is an important next step in helping ful-
fill the organization’s mission. Accord-
ing to SEA President Kris Prendergast,
“SEA chapters promote a supportive
‘ecosystem’ by offering learning, net-
working and information exchange op-
portunities for enterprising leaders and
providing a new forum for collaboration
between nonprofits, corporations, foun-
dations, investors and government to
advance social enterprise in communi-
ties.” There are already four local SEA
chapters; they are located in San Fran-
cisco, Chicago, Baltimore and St. Louis.
The Providers’ Council is playing a
lead role in launching the Massachu-
setts SEA chapter. Council President
Michael Weekes and the Council’s In-
novation and Social Enterprise Com-
mittee chair, David Jordan, are
passionate advocates of social enter-
prise and innovation in Massachusetts,
and are confident that the creation of a
state chapter will help support and ed-
ucate those interested in the field. The
chapter will not be limited to Council
members, but rather will welcome all
who are interested in social enterprise.
“The Massachusetts chapter of the
SEA will provide a forum for funders,
PAGE 10 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009
ated and matched with programs and
services. They can be linked with re-
sources that match their level of need, as
well as transportation for shopping and
doctors’ appointments, Meals on Wheels,
and other appropriate programs. Onsite
nursing staff can
also monitor gen-
eral health to pre-
vent unnoticed
health issues from
becoming a crisis.
NORC pro-
grams around the
country are suc-
cessfully prevent-
ing hospitalizations
and injuries that
can cause elderly
residents to be- Sen. Cynthia Stone
come patients in Creem
nursing homes prematurely. NORC pro-
grams also offer important social oppor-
tunities for residents by using shared
space in the building — as happens in
my district in Brookline — for exercise
classes and other community activities.
Studies have shown that providing
home care services can delay or prevent
seniors from being placed in nursing
homes. And this model of delivery is the
one favored by seniors themselves. We
know that people overwhelmingly wish
to remain in their homes as they age,
and we know that NORC programs are a
cost-effective and successful way to or-
ganize the services that seniors need.
Right now only about a thousand people
in Massachusetts are receiving support-
ive services in areas that have been iden-
tified as NORCs — but thousands more
could benefit. I look forward to the ex-
pansion of these programs in the future,
as the public learns more about the ben-
efits in quality of life and in cost savings
of the onsite NORC programs.
Senator Cynthia Stone Creem represents
the first Middlesex and Norfolk districts,
which include portions of Newton, Brook-
line and Wellesley.
lenders, investors, students, academ-
ics, professionals and consultants who
see value in the application of market
strategies as a means to generating so-
cial value. At the Providers’ Council we
see a state chapter of the SEA as an-
other important resource for our mem-
bership,” Weekes said.
In the process leading up to the cre-
ation of a local chapter of the SEA, a
group of like-minded professionals has
organized the Massachusetts Social En-
terprise Networking Group. The net-
working group has sponsored activities
similar to those that a local SEA chap-
ter might organize — such as a gather-
ing at Seven Hills Foundation in
Worcester, hosted by Seven Hills Presi-
dent David Jordan. (Jordan is also the
social entrepreneur-in-residence at
Clark University.) In August, the net-
working group met to hear more about
new legislation around “L3C” — a type
of limited liability company (LLC) that
combines the best features of the LLC
with the social conscience of a non-
profit. In September the group hosted
“Building Sustainability Through Social
Enterprise,” a panel discussion featur-
ing social enterprise leaders from
around the state.
A chapter organizing committee will
meet later this month to file the paper-
work that is necessary for the group to
be designated a provisional SEA chap-
ter. Next steps toward full chapter des-
ignation will include the creation of a
strategic plan and an activity calendar.
If you are interested in being added
to the mailing list for updates about
chapter organizing and future events,
email anne.wunderli@pinestreetinn.org
or join the Massachusetts Social Enter-
prise Networking Group on LinkedIn.
Anne Wunderli is the director of Facili-
ties & Social Enterprise at Pine Street
Inn. She also serves on the board of
directors of the Social Enterprise
Alliance.
ACTION: Camapign generates calls, e-mails CUTS: Some providers hurt by budget cuts
Continued from page 1
residents we serve have shouldered the
burden of this year’s budget cuts, with
individuals losing crucial services and
countless caregivers losing jobs,” said
Providers’ Council President and CEO
Michael Weekes. “With the possibility of
more cuts on the horizon, it’s impera-
tive that the human services commu-
nity present a unified voice.”
The campaign will soon begin focus-
ing on the development of the 2011
state budget and the subsequent antic-
ipated budget hearings to be held by
EOHHS.
To get involved in the People First!
campaign, please visit the Providers’
Council website: www.providers.org.
See below for a list of the People First!
campaign’s members as of our publish-
ing date:
• Action for Boston Community
Development
• Association for Behavioral
Healthcare
• Central Mass Provider
Confederation
• Children’s Health Access
Coalition
• The Children's League of
Massachusetts
• Disability Policy Consortium
BENEFITS: Healthcare bill benefits debated
Continued from page 1
offered a health care subsidy to non-
profits meeting certain criteria. The Fi-
nance Committee Bill includes no such
language.) The National Council of Non-
profits (NCN) is working with other
coalitions to determine the human
service sector’s options and what the
ultimate “ask” will be in the Senate.
After the Senate presents its final ver-
sion of the bill, it will then fall to the
Conference Committee to work out any
differences.
Tim Delaney, president & CEO of
the National Council of Nonprofits,
said: "Every dollar nonprofit employers
pay in higher insurance premiums is
another dollar taken away from deliver-
ing essential food, shelter, clothing, and
other vital services that people need in
this devastating economy. Individuals
employed by nonprofits should not be
• Family Service of Greater Boston
• Health Care for All
• Human Service Forum
• Lynn Nonprofit Business
Association
• Mass. Alliance on Teen Pregnancy
• MASSCAP (Mass. Association for
Community Action)
• maaps (Mass. Assoc. of 766
Approved Private Schools)
• Mass. Coalition for the Homeless
• Mass. Council for Home Care
Aide Services
• Mass. Early Intervention
Consortium
• Mass. Family Planning
Association
• Mass. Home Care
• Mass. Law Reform Institute
• Mass. Organization for Addiction
Recovery
• Mass. Psychiatric Society
• Mass. YouthBuild
• National Alliance on Mental
Illness of Mass.
• National Alliance of Social
Workers
• Project Able
• Providers' Council
• Strengthening Families Coalition
• Western Massachusetts Service
Providers
penalized because they work for public
good rather than private gain." Delaney
added, "We hope that the White House
will now step forward to join this grow-
ing chorus in the House and Senate
who recognize that nonprofits are vital
employers who cannot be left behind on
health care reform."
Providers’ Council President and
CEO Michael Weekes stated: “The non-
profit sector is a vital part of the na-
tion’s economic engine. Ninety-three
percent of all nonprofits are small with
revenues of $1 million and under. We
are employers facing the same chal-
lenges as private businesses — and de-
serve the same benefits from
long-awaited reform. We will continue
working with NCN and others to see
that we are fairly treated by our Con-
gress.”
Continued from page 1 Annual Convention & Expo, and
thority to do so. In total, the human serv- thanked attendees for helping bring the
ice budget was cut by $82 million; there individuals and families behind each line
was some relief that this amounts to less item “to life” through advocacy efforts
than 1% for human services, which is during this difficult budget year: “Each
not as drastic as had been anticipated. of you here has answered a call that you
Although the cuts were less severe hear in your hearts. Your blend of com-
overall than some had feared, they passion and professionalism inspires me
nonetheless hit some areas particularly and the countless number you help.” He
hard – including child care ($11.6 mil- acknowledged the pain involved in clos-
lion) and services for the homeless ($2.7 ing an $8 billion budget gap since he
million). Lyndia Downie, president of took office. He also said that “We need to
Pine Street Inn — New England’s largest take the next step together. That means
provider of services to the homeless — reaching for solutions – together.”
worries about how the cuts will impact There is continued concern that if the
those served by her agency. “Pine Street economy does not begin to recover soon,
additional cuts could occur later in the
Inn is the place of last resort for many
year; it has been reported that $575 mil-
homeless men and women in Boston
lion in unanticipated spending demands
who have nowhere else to turn,” she
could arise this year. Further, there are
said. “With these budget cuts, we are ex-
indications that balancing the FY ’11
tremely concerned that, for the first time
budget will be even more difficult than
in our history, we may be unable to ac-
commodate everyone who comes to our balancing this year’s budget.
door. We were prepared to bear our Michael Weekes, president and CEO
share of the burden, but this cut dispro- of the Providers’ Council stated: “The
portionately affects the most vulnerable challenges before us continue to be im-
men and women among us.” mense. We will be working tirelessly
The Governor described the process with the People First! campaign through
of cutting the budget as values-based. our members and the entire coalition to
“We should be just as concerned about keep the face of the people we serve be-
our commitment to our values as we are fore the Governor and the Legislature, to
about the value of our commitments. communicate the value of the work we
Those values — creating good jobs at do to the communities we serve, and to
good wages, offering a world-class edu- find every dollar that can be used to
cation to our kids, delivering quality af-
fordable health care to our residents,
meet the needs of the people we have
sworn to protect — our most solemn re-
protecting and supporting the most vul- sponsibility.”
nerable — those are the values to which
we as a Commonwealth are committed,” Material for this story was taken from
said Governor Patrick. State House News Service and the
Earlier in the day, the Governor Massachusetts Budget and Policy
spoke at the Providers’ Council’s 34th Center.
Visit the Providers’
Council website and:
• See high-resolution video from
our Convention & Expo,
including Gov. Patrick’s speech.
• Post a job on our free job board!
• Register and pay for events and
trainings online.
• Explore the Members Only
section and the info just for you!
w w w. p rov id e r s .org
NOVEMBER 2009 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ PAGE 11
 CALENDAR OF E V E N T S • N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009
DATE: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 DATE: Tuesday, December 15, 2009
What: Webinar – Simplify Your Life: How to Stay Organized What: Applications due for Providers’ Council/Simmons
Where: At your computer! College Dean’s Leadership Award
When: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Where: Visit www.providers.org for more information

DATE: Thursday, November 12, 2009

DATE: December 16, 2009
What: Emerging Leaders Network
Where: JRI Training Center, 354 Waverly Street, Framingham What: Online Social Networking Tools
When: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Where: At your computer!
When: 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
DATE: Wednesday, November 18, 2009
What: Human Resources Roundtable DATE: December 16, 2009
Where: NFI Massachusetts, 26 Howley Street, Peabody What: Webinar: How to Attract Supporters Using Online
When: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Social Networking Tools
Where: At your computer!
DATE: Wednesday, November 18, 2009
When: 10:30 a.m. — 12 p.m.
What: Webinar – 7 Effective Facebook Advertising Techniques
for Brands and Direct Marketers Cost: $25 for members, $55 for non-members
Where: At your computer!
When: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

DATE: Friday, November 20th, 2009 Pre-registration for all of these events is required unless other-
What: Form 990 Webinar: More than Just the Numbers wise noted. Online registration is available for most events.
Where: At your computer! No login or password is required. Simply visit
When: 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
http://www.providers.org and look on
the page’s left-hand side for the event you wish to attend.
DATE: Monday, November 23, 2009
What: Webinar — If No One Sees your Content, Does it Really
Exist? How to effectively distribute conference recordings Questions? Email Sara Morrison Neil at
Where: At your computer! smorrison@providers.org
When: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. or Carly Burton at cburton@providers.org.

Endorsed Vendor

PAGE 12 ■ THE PROVIDER ■ NOVEMBER 2009