Rochester Rehabilitation Center News and Events RSS Feed

Rochester Rehabilitation to Hold Free Wellness and Recovery Program

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:45:57 GMT

Whether you live with a serious mental illness or care about someone who does, you probably know that recovery is an ongoing, lifelong process that is unique to every person and family. Rochester Rehabilitation's Mental Health Center will present A Journey of Wellness & Recovery a special educational program on Tuesday June 11th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Al Sigl gym at 1000 Elmwood Avenue (enter Door 1). Guest speaker Leland (Lee) Stephan, MA will present evidence-based practices that guide many people to achieve and maintain success during their recovery. Topics covered include:

Recovery plan elements
Establishing a recovery team
The role of medication in recovery
Accessing supportive treatments
Strategies for success

This program is designed to inspire people living with schizoaffective, and bipolar I disorder to take ownership of their mental health recovery journey so they can live meaningful lives. Lunch will be provided and there's no charge to attend, but reservations are requested by June 4th due to limited seating. Anyone interested may call 585.271.2520. Special thanks to program sponsor Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

About Lee Stephan

Lee Stephan has degrees in Psychology from Purdue University and Ball State University and an Indiana License in Clinical Social Work. Mr. Stephan has worked in various clinical and management positions in the Mental Health and Addictions service system over the past 36 years. He is currently the Director of Services for Adults with Serious Mental Illness for Community Health Network, a General Healthcare system with 5 hospitals, many satellite offices and 11,000 employees. In 2003, he was recognized as ‘Provider of the Year’ by NAMI-Indiana. He is also a principle with LL Stephan Associates, LLC, a mental health consulting firm.

About Rochester Rehabilitation

Founded in 1919, Rochester Rehabilitation (a 501-c-3 corporation) helps people lead more active, mobile, and independent lives with six innovative rehabilitative programs in the areas of adaptive sports and inclusive recreation (SportsNet), employment and job support (Employment Connection and OutSource), driver evaluation and training (DriveOn), and mental health (Mental Health Center and Ventures PROS). Working with a $10 million annual operating budget, the agency serves more than 3,300 people in the Greater Rochester area living with disabilities. Rochester Rehabilitation is one of the original founding members of the Al Sigl Community of Agencies – a collaborative network that provides high quality, cost-effective real estate and business services for nonprofits. Rochester Rehabilitation is also supported by the United Way’s Community Fund.

OutSource Team Tours Carestream Health; Awarded Certificate of Excellence

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 21:48:23 GMT

One of the varied and customized solutions tackled by Rochester Rehabilitation's OutSource facility at 1357 University Avenue is the hand assembly of four different versions of dental trays for Carestream Health. When Tom Mykins, director of dental finishing for Carestream toured OutSource he was amazed at the skill level of the team, all of whom have vocational challenges. When an individual asked, "what do you do with these things anyway?" Mykins replied by inviting the entire group to tour the plant and see firsthand what dental trays are used for in its dental imaging business.

Upon arrival at Carestream’s production facility on Lake Avenue on Tuesday March 19th, the OutSource team was greeted by Mykins and escorted to a conference room. To their great surprise, he presented the team with an "Award of Excellence."

"In my role, there are many things I have to worry about,” said Mykins. “The dental trays built by the OutSource team has never been one of them. The quality and on-time delivery has been exceptional, thanks to every team member's dedication and hard work."

According to OutSource Operations Manager Debby Herrmann, the time that her team spent at Carestream touring the facility was a significant and rewarding experience. They learned that dental trays are used to package x-ray film slides used in dental offices around the country.

“Producing a quality product that’s delivered on time is our main focus for all our customers,” said Herrmann. “We take great pride in our ‘Can do Attitude!’ To date, we have not failed to meet or exceed our customer's requirements.”

About OutSource

Rochester Rehabilitation’s OutSource provides employment to adults with disabilities by focusing on their abilities. This employment, training, and work experience division also generates revenue that supports other rehabilitative programs and activities. For more information, please visit theoutsource.org.

About Carestream Health

Carestream Health is a worldwide provider of dental and medical imaging systems and healthcare IT solutions; x-ray film and digital x-ray systems for non-destructive testing; and advanced materials for the precision films and electronics markets. For more information about Carestream products, solutions and services, please visit carestream.com.

SportsNet to hold Adaptive Sports Expo Tuesday April 9th

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:17:55 GMT

SportsNet is holding a free Adaptive Sports Expo on Tuesday April 9th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Al Sigl gym at 1000 Elmwood Avenue (enter at door # 1). Guests of all abilities are invited to explore and enjoy the variety of adaptive sports programs offered by SportsNet.

According to SportsNet's Anita O'Brien, expos like these are helpful to physical and occupational therapists, service coordinators, teachers, families, and caregivers. Skilled therapeutic recreation staff and volunteers will assess individual ability levels and demonstrate basic sports maneuvers, such as cycling, golf, and basketball. Specific program information will also be on-hand.

SportsNet Adaptive Sports EXPO 2011.

This short montage highlights several popular adaptive sports offerings by SportsNet. Held two to three times per year in Rochester, NY, SportsNet's Adaptive Sports EXPO is an event where people of all abilities can sample a menu of popular adaptive sports activities. Participants in this video try out golf, basketball, cycling, outrigger, and sled hockey. Skilled recreation therapists and volunteers are on hand to help coach and pair guests with adaptive equipment. This event is especially useful for physical and occupational therapists, rehabilitation specialists, service coordinators, teachers and caregivers to explore the variety of programs, services, and competitive team offerings.

For more information, please contact: Anita O’Brien, SportsNet Manager at 585.271.1894 x1742 or aobrien@rochesterrehab.org.

Paralympian and SportsNet Friend Ryan Chalmers to Push Across America

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 15:40:08 GMT

Local Paralympian and SportsNet friend Ryan Chalmers pushes off Saturday April 6th for a 71-day, 3,500 mile trek from Los Angeles to New York in his wheelchair to raise awareness of people with disabilities. He'll be pushing about 11 miles per hour to log 60 miles every day, which requires an incredible amount of upper body strength and mental toughness. (Have you seen his arms?) The event, run by Stay Focused, a non-profit organization based in the Cayman Islands that offers young adults the opportunity to develop leadership and gain independence through scuba diving. It will help both raise awareness for the Paralympic Movement in America, as well as funds for Stay Focused.

According to Chalmers, his push is not about being different. "It's about coming together to be active," says the 24 year-old, who got started in adaptive sports with SportsNet's Rochester Rookies track and field – a program that offers children with physical disabilities to participate in recreational and competitive wheelchair and ambulatory sports.

Chalmers' former coach Jo Ann Armstrong, Paralympian and founder of the Rochester Rookies said that not only was Ryan driven as a child, he was also “aggressive, competitive, social, and approachable.”

In addition to the Rochester Rookies, Chalmers also joined junior recreational wheelchair basketball team the Rochester Rockets, which gave him a firm foundation in wheelchair basketball skills and techniques. Eventually he joined the more competitive wheelchair basketball team, the Rochester Wheels. Both teams are also part of SportsNet. Collectively, they've had a positive impact on Ryan’s training, discipline, and motivation.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity I've been given," said Chalmers. “I eventually would have found sports, but it helped me to have people I could compete against and get to the next level.”

Chalmers "next level" will push him both physically and mentally. "Everything will hurt," said Chalmers. His biggest worry? The hills. At one point, Chalmers estimates that he'll climb 10,000 ft. when he passes through the Rockies. To train for this, he climbed stadium ramps at his alma mater University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, and trained with a scarf over his face to simulate pushing in the thin, mountain air. Regardless of all his hard training, Chalmers is looking forward to seeing America. He will pass through 14 different states, as well as Champaign, IL and Washington DC. He'll finish in New York’s Central Park on June 15th.

You can follow and support Chalmers, by visiting pushacrossamerica.org. To cheer him on via Twitter, fans are already using the hashtag #HelpRyanPush and following @PushUSA.

Watch this video interview with Ryan Chalmers on Good Morning America!

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Employment Connection Recognizes Eight Area Employers

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:18:35 GMT

Recognized for supporting or employing Employment Connection’s job seeking clients are: Adecco Staffing, Career Start, Cheesecake Factory, GCA Services, Strong Staffing, Tandoor Restaurant, Wal-Mart, and Wegmans. Event attendees will enjoy a hot breakfast and learn about the program’s candidate screening process, coaching supports, and tax benefits and advantages for businesses. While the event is free, a reservation is required. Anyone interested is invited to call 585.263.2690 as soon as possible.

Employment Connection helps adults with disabilities and other disadvantages successfully find and keep the job they want. In 2011, the program served 912 people: 68 found employment and 208 were placed in internships in Rochester.

About Rochester Rehabilitation

Founded in 1919, Rochester Rehabilitation (a 501-c-3 corporation) helps people lead more active, mobile, and independent lives with six innovative rehabilitative programs in the areas of adaptive sports and inclusive recreation (SportsNet), employment and job support (Employment Connection and OutSource), driver evaluation and training (DriveOn), and mental health (Mental Health Center and Ventures PROS). Working with a $10 million annual operating budget, the agency serves more than 3,300 people in the Greater Rochester area living with disabilities. Rochester Rehabilitation is one of the original founding members of the Al Sigl Community of Agencies – a collaborative network that provides high quality, cost-effective real estate and business services for nonprofits. Rochester Rehabilitation is also supported by the United Way’s Community Fund.

SportsNet's Luticha Doucette featured in Henrietta Post

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:20:35 GMT

SportsNet's Luticha Doucette talks advocacy, volunteerism, and volcano-climbing with Henrietta Post's James Battaglia. She also aspires to become a fencing champion. You can read the entire story online or download and read the pdf under Helpful Resources.

For information on SportsNet's Wheelchair Fencing program and other programs, check out SportsNet's adaptive sports offerings here.

Free "Dialogue on Disability" Film Screenings Monday, January 14th

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:44:21 GMT

Al Sigl Community of Agencies and WXXI are pleased to announce two free screenings of the film Shooting Beauty in conjunction with the Dialogue on Disability program. Both screenings are open to the public and take place at the Little Theatre on Monday, January 14th at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Guests should arrive early to ensure a seat.

Shooting Beauty is a documentary that tells the story of an aspiring fashion photographer, Courtney Bent, whose career takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a hidden world of beauty at a center very much like our own CP Rochester.

Shot over the span of a decade, the film puts the viewer in Bent's shoes as she begins inventing accessible cameras which snowballs into an award-winning photography program called Picture This, which becomes the backdrop for an eye-opening story that challenges perceptions of living with a disability — and without one.

Adding to the fun, Bent will participate in a Q&A session via Skype after the 6 p.m. screening at the Little.

Other TV programs and films remaining in this year’s Dialogue on Disability:

Second Opinion: Autism airs Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD, discusses the signs that can help with an early diagnosis of autism, and the treatments that can make a difference.

Second Opinion: ALS airs Saturday, January 12 at 3 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD. In this episode, Gary Temoyan talks about his ALS diagnosis and the treatments, progression, and symptom management.

Going Blind airs Sunday, January 13 at 3 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD, is a film that increases public awareness of sight loss and low vision issues profoundly affecting the lives of more and more people and those who love them.

A full program guide can be found at alsigl.org

Each January for the past 11 years has been a special time to celebrate the amazing lives of people with disabilities. WXXI in partnership with Al Sigl Community of Agencies has been delivering stories to the Rochester community through Dialogue on Disability. This year's week-long initiative beginning Monday, January 7 and running through Monday, January 14 is designed to stimulate dialogue about abilities and the importance of inclusion. Dialogue on Disability is broadcast on WXXI-TV/HD, AM 1370/FM-HD 91.5-2, Reachout Radio, and Community Cinema.

Rochester Rehabilitation is a proud member of the Al Sigl Community of Agencies and is pleased to participate in a variety of radio program segments highlighting themes such as work, wellness, and independence.

Dialogue on Disability Celebrates the Amazing Lives of People with Disabilities

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 10:27:44 GMT

For a complete list of programs and schedules, please visit the Dialogue on Disability page here.

Rochester Rehabilitation Appoints Gregory A. Wolfe to Vice President of Operations, OutSource

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 18:30:26 GMT

Rochester Rehabilitation is pleased to announce the appointment of Gregory A. Wolfe to Vice President of Operations of OutSource, Rochester Rehabilitation’s employment, training, and work experience division. OutSource employs approximately 100 people with disabilities at its University Avenue location where workers perform a variety of services for government and local businesses ranging from customized assembly, packaging, and fulfillment to scanning and digitizing documents, and janitorial services.

Wolfe brings more than 25 years of operational expertise from the military, retail, and manufacturing industries in a variety of markets including glass, plastics molding and assembly, and high tech safes.

“Greg’s knowledge and understanding of operations, coupled with his strong leadership skills will help improve OutSource’s position in providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities in our community,” says John Olsan, President/CEO. “Part of Rochester Rehabilitation’s core business is to produce well-trained people who can do the jobs our customers need.”

OutSource is ISO 9001-2008 Certified, having recently passed its second recertification flawlessly. In August, OutSource was honored by NISH for achievement on the Quality Work Environment (QWE) Initiative, in recognition of its commitment to employees with disabilities by completing a self-assessment and submitting a strategic action plan.

“I’m pleased to be associated with an organization that understands the value of teamwork and accountability,” says Wolfe. “My goal is to create a great experience for employees and give them the latitude and training to contribute to their highest potential.”

Prior to Rochester Rehabilitation, Wolfe founded and ran a successful, specialized lumber business, which he sold earlier this year. A veteran of Desert Shield/Storm, Wolfe served as 2nd Lieutenant, Captain/Platoon Leader in the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania and is working towards his Master’s degree. Wolfe resides in Victor.

About Rochester Rehabilitation

Rochester Rehabilitation is one of the original founding members of the Al Sigl Community of Agencies – a collaborative network that provides high quality, cost-effective real estate and business services for nonprofits. Rochester Rehabilitation is also supported by the United Way’s Community Fund.

For more information, please visit our websites at rochesterrehab.org and theoutsource.org.

Channel 13's Bright Spot Shines on Generosity of Rob Tortorella's Gift to SportsNet

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 12:21:55 GMT

From Channel 13 News – "Our bright spot shines on the generosity of local business leader Rob Tortorella. He recently presented a $5,000 check to SportsNet for their adaptive sports and recreation program through Rochester Rehabilitation over at the Al Sigl Center. Rob has participated in adaptive sports and felt SportsNet was an ideal match for a challenge grant from his foundation. Our bright spot today."

A Journey of Wellness & Recovery

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:45:57 GMT

Rochester Rehabilitation's Mental Health Center will hold a free lunchtime educational program: A Journey of Wellness & Recovery Tuesday June 11, 2013 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Al Sigl gym at 1000 Elmwood Avenue (enter Door 1). Guest speaker Leland (Lee) Stephan, MA will present evidence-based practices that guide many people to achieve and maintain success during their recovery. Lunch will be provided and there's no charge to attend, but reservations are requested by June 4th due to limited seating. Please call 585.271.2520 to reserve your spot today. Special thanks to program sponsor Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

SportsNet Adaptive Sports Expo 2013

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:17:55 GMT

Don't miss SportsNet's Adaptive Sports Expo May 21, 2013 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm in the Al Sigl gym.

SportsNet Adaptive Sports EXPO 2011.

Join us in the Al Sigl gym at 1000 Elmwood Avenue (enter at door # 1) for the first of two Adaptive Sports Expos held by SportsNet this year. Guests of all abilities are invited to explore and enjoy the variety of adaptive sports programs offered by SportsNet during the year.

SportsNet's Adaptive Sports Expos will showcase such sports as wheelchair basketball, sled hockey, adaptive cycling, outrigger canoeing, adaptive golf, power soccer, track and field, sailing, and wheelchair fencing. Skilled therapeutic recreation therapists and volunteers will assist guests in basic sports maneuvers, assess their abilities, and guide the use of adaptive sports equipment. Program details available on site.

Expos are a great resource for:

Occupational therapists
Physical therapists
Rehabilitation specialists
Service coordinators
Therapeutic recreation specialists
Physical and special education teachers
Volunteers and family members

For more information, please contact: Anita O’Brien, SportsNet Manager at 585.271.1894 x1742 or aobrien@rochesterrehab.org.

Stroke Support Group Meeting

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:24:06 GMT

Stroke Support Group Meeting

All are welcome to join the conversation during our monthly Stroke Support Group meetings. Free and open to the public, all Stroke Support Group meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at Rochester Rehabilitation, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620. Please note our new conference room location at Door #9 (you can follow the signs to the Girl Scouts entrance at the back of the building). The conference room is immediately to your right just inside Door #9. Visitor and Accessible parking spaces are adjacent to the door and additional spaces are nearby. Please view the PDF under Helpful Resources to the right.

For more information, please call 585.271.1894. You can also email Julie Cataldo, LMSW Stroke Support Group Facilitator at: jcataldo@rochesterrehab.org.

Employment Connection Networking and Recognition Event

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:43:25 GMT

Rochester Rehabilitation’s employment and job support training program Employment Connection, will recognize eight area businesses during its Networking Breakfast event Wednesday, February 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at 1000 Elmwood Avenue, on the Al Sigl campus in the gymnasium (enter at Door 1 and look for signs). Businesess recognized for supporting or employing Employment Connection’s job seeking clients are: Adecco Staffing, Career Start, Cheesecake Factory, GCA Services, Strong Staffing, Tandoor Restaurant, Wal-Mart, and Wegmans.

Event attendees will enjoy a hot breakfast and learn about the program’s candidate screening process, coaching supports, and tax benefits and advantages for businesses. While the event is free, a reservation is required. Anyone interested is invited to call 585.263.2690 as soon as possible.

Wheelchair Basketball Drop In and Try-It Clinic

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 22:25:34 GMT

Come on out and join us for Monday Night Basketball!

See wheelchair basketball in action during our very special drop in and try-it clinic on Monday January 28th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.in the Al Sigl gym. 1000 Elmwood Ave. Enter at Door #1. See flyer under Helpful Resources for more details. A nominal fee of $2 is payable at the door.

SportsNet partners with the Rochester Wheels, wheelchair basketball team to offer instructional clinics teaching the basic skills of wheelchair basketball including pick and roll, passing, shootings, lay ups and free throws. A recreational wheelchair basketball drop in program is held at the Al Sigl Center gymnasium, and players who are interested in joining the team have an opportunity to participate in regional competitions.

Wheelchair Basketball Drop Ins (Winter 2013 Session) will continue from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. – February 4, 11, 25 | March 11, 18, 25 | April 15, 22, 29 | May 6, 13, 20.

Questions?

Call 585.271.1894 ext. 1742 or aobrien@rochesterrehab.org

Fencing and More Expo

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 02:11:21 GMT

Join us for our Fencing and More Expo on on Saturday February 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Pieters Family Life Center.

Learn about wheelchair fencing and standing fencing during this collaborative event, where you'll also find a range of community offerings by local businesses and organizations committed to creating access to adaptive sports and inclusive recreation. Hosted by SportsNet and the Adaptive & Inclusive Sports Network. A nominal fee of $2 is payable at the door.

For more information, please contact Anita O'Brien, SportsNet Manager by Thursday, February 7 at 585. 271.1894 ext. 1742 or aobrien@rochesterrehab.org

"Shooting Beauty" at Little Theatre

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:44:21 GMT

Al Sigl Community of Agencies and WXXI's Dialogue on Disability are pleased to announce two free screenings of the film Shooting Beauty. Both are open to the public and take place at the Little Theatre on Monday, January 14th at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Arrive early to ensure a seat!

Adding to the fun, Bent will participate in a Q&A session via Skype after the 6 p.m. screening at the Little.

Other TV programs and films remaining in this year’s Dialogue on Disability:

Second Opinion: Autism airs Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD, discusses the signs that can help with an early diagnosis of autism, and the treatments that can make a difference.

Second Opinion: ALS airs Saturday, January 12 at 3 p.m. on WXXI-TV/HD. In this episode, Gary Temoyan talks about his ALS diagnosis and the treatments, progression, and symptom management.

A full program guide can be found at alsigl.org

Dialogue on Disability Features DriveOn

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 15:01:13 GMT

Beginning at 1 p.m. today on WXXI AMAM 1370/FM-HD 91.5-2 you can hear our own Pam Gabryel with DriveOn discuss adaptive technology with host Bob Smith. Former DriveOn client Luticha Doucette joins the conversion.

Tune in to WXXI for Dialogue on Disability, a week-long initiative beginning Monday, January 7 and running through Monday, January 14. Dialogue on Disability is designed to stimulate dialogue about the perspectives and abilities of people with disabilities. It's broadcast on WXXI-TV/HD, AM 1370/FM-HD 91.5-2, Reachout Radio and Community Cinema.

For the past 11 years, WXXI in partnership with Al Sigl Community of Agencies has been delivering stories to the Rochester community through Dialogue on Disability. For a complete list of programs and schedules, please visit the Dialogue on Disability page here.

Dialogue on Disability Features DriveOn Today

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 10:27:44 GMT

Tune in to Dialogue on Disability

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 10:27:44 GMT

Beginning at 1 p.m. on Thursday on WXXI AMAM 1370/FM-HD 91.5-2 you can hear our own Pam Gabryel with DriveOn discuss adaptive technology with host Bob Smith. Former DriveOn client Luticha Doucette joins the conversion.