At first glance, it may be hard to distinguish a connection between Oklahoma City and the West African nation of Liberia. However, the bond between the two could help change lives around the world.
My Heart’s Appeal (MHA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is hosting its 6th Annual Benefit Fundraiser Dinner Thursday, February 8, 2018, at Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City.
The event is designed to help raise funds to create a campus in Liberia, West Africa, where teenagers and adults with intellectual disabilities can train, work and be productive.
Attendees of the benefit dinner will enjoy food, friendship, information, as well as a gallery walk, donation drawing and special entertainment.
Lovetie Major, M.Ed. founded My Heart’s Appeal in 1996 to create more opportunities for people with disabilities like her sister Titema, who has Down syndrome. Major hopes to raise funds to sponsor 40 students at the Connie Thrash McGoodwin Vocational Center in Liberia, West Africa, for the 2018-2019 academic year and sponsorships for 70 clients in its Bigma’s Care Place Respite Center.
Who: My Heart’s Appeal
What: 6th Annual Benefit Fundraiser Dinner
Where: Church of the Servant, 14343 N. MacArthur, Oklahoma City
When: Thursday, February 8, 2018, 6:00-8:00pm
Tickets: $30/person or table of 8: $225 (RSVP by Monday, February 5, 2018). Register online
Founded in 1996, the mission of My Heart’s Appeal is to facilitate the establishment of quality training and employment to teenage and adult persons with disabilities in West Africa. myheartsappeal.org
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,000 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
Anytime you’ve been in a relationship for 15 years, you’re bound to have endured many good times while creating cherished memories. The relationship between Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) and Pelco Products, Inc. is no different.
The two partnered with one another in 2002, expanding DRTC’s Mobile Workforce Program, which sends a team of up to eight individuals with disabilities and a DRTC staff member to various locations to complete projects.
Hard at work
Gary displays a kit he assembled.
DRTC’s crew has helped package more than 100 various kits for Pelco’s traffic and utility products. These kits, comprised of anywhere from 2-48 pieces, are used to assemble street lights, stop lights and other products made at the traffic and utility hardware manufacturer’s headquarters in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Upon assembly, completed components assembled by DRTC’s skilled workforce are distributed worldwide. Pelco sells products to all 50 states and international markets as well.
Through the 15-year partnership, DRTC’s Mobile Workforce has produced 3.5 million kits for Pelco.
“I don’t know of one kit that ever came back wrong,” said Phil Parduhn, Pelco Co-Owner.
Pelco President & CEO Steve Parduhn added, “There’s been enough kits that every man, woman, child in the state of Oklahoma could have one of these kits.”
15-year anniversary
Steve and Phil Parduhn, of Pelco, Inc., display the poster presented during the 15-year partnership celebration.
During a 15-year anniversary celebration, DRTC presented Pelco Products a poster framed at DRTC Framing, a division of DRTC, with the words “You Make a Difference,” signed by members of the Mobile Workforce team.
“It’s a joy working with you guys, having you here,” said Steve Parduhn. “Being a part of the Pelco family has been wonderful and we really appreciate it.”
The feeling is mutual from Mobile Workforce participants.
“We are family,” said Chris.
“We do a good job and like working the kits,” said Bonnie.
“We are good employees and we get the kits done,” added Sandra.
“Pelco’s commitment to providing real job opportunities for people with disabilities is something that should be modeled in more places,” said DRTC Executive Director Connie Thrash McGoodwin. “They (Pelco) have included our individuals, making them feel welcomed and part of the team.”
New opportunities
Kathy installing reflective strips to Pelco’s traffic light borders.
While DRTC’s Mobile Workforce completes the kitting jobs at Pelco’s large facility, others on Dale Rogers Training Center’s main campus complete subcontract work, providing more work opportunities for people with disabilities.
Individuals in DRTC’s Vocational Services Program also help kit items up to 19 pieces. Another subcontracting job with Pelco creates jobs for people with disabilities by having them install reflective tape along the edges of massive traffic light borders.
Bright future
As we celebrate the success we’ve had in the past, we continue to look toward the future.
Dale Rogers Training Center is excited for what’s to come with Pelco and the exciting opportunities for those served to develop skills and earn a paycheck.
DRTC, its clients, and their families are eternally grateful for the partnership, and relationships formed over the past 15 years.
About DRTC: Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,000 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), Oklahoma’s oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities, received the Oklahoma City Mayor’s Committee on Disability Concerns’ 2017 Employer of the Year Award.
The annual award honors employers for outstanding hiring practices and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Dale Rogers Training Center also operates a Transition School-to-Work program, working with high school juniors and seniors at 17 schools in the Oklahoma City metro to equip them not only with work skills, but also personal and self advocacy skills.
As an entrepreneurial nonprofit, DRTC runs DRTC Awards (awards, trophies and promotional items division), as well as DRTC Framing (custom picture framing division), and holds custodial and food service contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, FAA and other locations.
About DRTC: Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,000 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
The Oklahoma Governor’s office recognized the hard work and dedication of both employees and employers in the 2017 Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence.
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) nominated several people and companies for the annual awards. DRTC contracts with the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitative Services (OKDRS) to find jobs for people with disabilities throughout the state.
DRTC-nominated award winners
Employees receiving the 2017 Governor’s Award of Excellence:
Carl Allee
James Brown
Ashley Rader
Dale Thornton
Amber Treese
Businesses receiving the 2017 Governor’s Award of Excellence
Dale Rogers Training Center’s (DRTC) AMP-300 Facility Services Staff, which is the building and maintenance division at the nonprofit’s FAA contract, was honored with the 2017 Keller-Sullivan Award.
The National Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees with Disabilities (NCFAED) presents the award annually to honor employees or supports who go, “above and beyond their expected responsibilities to achieve unique hiring, promotion or advancement results for those who struggle daily with a physical or mental disability.”
Carrie works at DRTC’s FAA Work Project
Approximately 36 of DRTC’s 50 FAA contract employees have a documented disability, and they earn above minimum wage while receiving excellent benefits. The team is responsible for cleaning 88 buildings at Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center.
The award presented to contract staff was made at DRTC Awards, a division of Dale Rogers Training Center specializing in customer acrylic awards, plaques, trophies, medals, promotional items and more.
About DRTC: Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,000 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), Inc., a nonprofit agency that provides training and jobs for people with disabilities in Oklahoma, earned a Three-Year Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International.
The Three-Year Accreditation, which is the highest level awarded by CARF, is DRTC’s third consecutive certification at the three-year rating since 2011.
“The results of our latest CARF survey are a testament to our commitment to person-centered philosophy, as well as to the hard work and dedication of the staff at DRTC who ensure quality services for those served by the agency,” said Connie Thrash McGoodwin, M.Ed., DRTC executive director.
Surveyors visiting DRTC witnessed the agency’s commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable and of the highest quality. In their report, they mentioned strengths in many areas, including customized services for clients, a high level of satisfaction from the parents & caregivers of those served, and an engaged and dedicated Board of Directors.
“This was one of the most thorough CARF surveys DRTC has ever been part of and we are absolutely thrilled with the results,” added Thrash McGoodwin. “The latest accreditation further solidifies DRTC as a champion of promoting the unique capabilities of people with disabilities whom we help gain independence through employment and work opportunities.”
About DRTC: Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,100 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
About CARF International: Founded in 1966, CARF International is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. Through accreditation, CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services, demonstrating value, and meeting internationally recognized organizational and program standards. Learn more about the accreditation process at CARF.org.
Aaron Peck. left, and James Helm, right, with their Achievers Under 40 awards.
James Helm, public relations coordinator at DRTC, was inducted into the Journal Record’s 2017 Class of Achievers Under 40. The newest group of inductees was honored for their professional and community achievements.
Helm, who joined the DRTC team in 2015, coordinates DRTC’s community fundraisers and maintains the agency’s online presence—from websites to social media and beyond. He also spear-headed the research and implementation of accessibility tools to ensure people of all abilities can experience the various websites DRTC offers.
Lillian Hobbs’ position as chief financial officer of Dale Rogers Training Center is vital, but not just in terms of money.
Dale Rogers Training Center has trained or employed roughly 1,100 people a year with disabilities who average more than $5.3 million in total annual wages. In her role as CFO, Hobbs has developed a true partnership with the executive director and board to step out of her fiscal comfort zone to resolve issues to help grow the nonprofit organization.
From 2001 to 2016, the agency’s annual budget increased from $5 million to $19.5 million due to federal contracts and new business models set up under Hobbs’ expertise.
“I have reviewed this agency’s books and computer records for many years, and I have rarely seen books, fiscal policies and reports as well-organized and cohesive as those of Dale Rogers Training Center,” said Carl Hamilton, president of the Dale Rogers Board of Directors.
In addition, Hobbs has written and handled the oversight of all fiscal policies and procedures, including both financial and information technology. She set up all the fiscal procedures for Dale Rogers’ businesses that include DRTC Awards awards and gifts, DRTC Framing, Robin’s Corner Gift Shop and a Papa Murphy’s Take & Bake pizza franchise along with the federal contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, the Oklahoma City downtown GSA buildings and FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center.
“Flawless audits, operational efficiency, cost reduction and cash flow efficiency indicate success in overwhelming business challenges, all of which contribute to the company’s reputation and demonstrated commitment to fiscal integrity and accountability,” said Connie Thrash McGoodwin, executive director of Dale Rogers Training Center.
“On the personal side, Lillian’s positive attitude, high level of integrity and dependability is unparalleled. She believes strongly in the mission of training and putting people with disabilities to work. She is caring, but at the same time, the consummate professional,” McGoodwin said.
“Lillian models professional behavior for other staff, they know she will always do the right thing,” she said. “Don’t be misled by her quiet demeanor. Behind that unflappable façade is a backbone of steel.”
Lillian and her spouse, Myra, have three children – Matthew, who recently graduated from Oklahoma State University, and Robyn and Marshall, who are both students at OSU. Lillian is a member of Civitan International and the Sierra Club, and volunteers for the ecologically minded organization Pando Populous.
How do you tell someone they no longer have a job? What about thousands of people?
How do you tell a person they won’t have necessary support at his/her group home and may end up homeless?
What would you say to people with disabilities who may not understand why these things are happening, but are suddenly thrust into a position no fault of their own?
These questions, and many more, loom as state agencies face the unenviable task of slashing budgets in the midst of the current funding shortfall in Oklahoma.
Since 1953, Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) has provided more than training and jobs for people with disabilities. DRTC has, among other things, offered a chance for those served to connect with one another, to grow personally and professionally, and to learn to advocate for themselves. The added benefit helps create hundreds of tax-paying citizens every year, who also contribute in many other ways in the community.
However, the funding well continues to pump ever so slowly in a state that hangs its hat on the oil and gas industry.
Countdown to zero
The most pressing concern now is funding the last two months of the current fiscal year. Without supplemental funding, agencies like the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) will have zero dollars to provide necessary programs and services to people, many of them vulnerable, statewide.
Funding measures are currently working through the legislature in an attempt to close the FY17 gap.
Contributing Oklahomans
A DRTC Employment Training Specialist helps an individual through the job search process.
Dale Rogers Training Center, Oklahoma’s oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities, serves 1,100 people every year. Last program year, the people with disabilities in its programs earned $5.3 million, paying taxes and not relying on government subsidies. They work in the community with you. They volunteer at many of the other nonprofits you’ve heard about. They are contributing Oklahomans.
Of the 1,100 people DRTC serves, 123 people work on the nonprofit’s main campus—located within six miles of the Capitol where costly decisions are being made. The rest of the individuals work in the community and on federal contracts.
Funding levels
State funding—which applies to 60 people at DRTC—provides opportunities in the Vocational Services Program, before and after hours care, and group training classes.
In Home Supports Waiver (IHSW)—impacts 32 people at DRTC —provides opportunities in DRTC’s Employment Services, Mobile Workforce, Special Needs and Vocational Services Programs, while also allowing for job coaching and services, transportation and additional areas of support that promote training and employment. These waivers receive federal matching dollars (approximately 60 cents for every 40 cents Oklahoma contributes), based on a review of the previous three years. Adults on IHSW receive just $20,671 a year to spend on all services (including vocational training and supports).
“Terrible to unthinkable”
The response to Oklahoma’s budget shortfall has already taken its toll.
Agencies have been asked repeatedly to slash budgets, make adjustments, and find ways to continue providing services with less and less money.
Already, agencies have been asked to submit budget proposals factoring a 14% reduction in services.
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services recently submitted its proposal for Fiscal Year 2018—with cuts described by OKDHS Director Ed Lake as, “…ranging from the terrible to the unthinkable.”
Slashing OKDHS services up to 14% would reduce the agency’s operating budget by an expected $147 million and force tough decisions to either reduce or eliminate entire programs including State funded community services and the IHSW.
Statewide, OKDHS serves more than 3,100 children and adults with disabilities with these two programs alone.
These proposed cuts could lead to an even greater number of those without a job—the people who care for people with disabilities through IHSW and the caregivers who may have to quit work to care for their loved ones.
Waiting in line
Additional state agencies that help people with disabilities are also feeling the effects of the failing budget.
Oklahoma’s Department of Rehabilitation Services (OKDRS), which contracts services with DRTC’s Employment Services Program, set up a waiting list in January 2017 for two groups of applicants with less severe disabilities due to rising costs and state budget cuts. Two months later, the agency expanded its waiting list to all new applicants for vocational rehabilitation and employment services.
These people are now “in line” to receive services to find work in Oklahoma. OKDRS will release those on the wait list, making them available for services, as funding becomes available.
According to OKDRS, staff helped 2,125 people find jobs in FY16. These individuals each paid, on average, $3,144 in taxes, reducing their need for disability benefits and social services.
Advocates needed
As DRTC helps promote self-advocacy skills to people with disabilities, the same is needed from you.
Research legislation making its way through the legislature
Bottom line: cutting services for people with disabilities will further hurt the state’s bottom line.
Advocate early. Advocate often. Advocate for the people of Oklahoma.
About Dale Rogers Training Center
Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) is the oldest and largest community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs more than 1,100 people with disabilities per year. Visit us online: DRTC.org.
The Northwest Chamber Hall of Honor is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated significant achievement and service over time. Examples include outstanding community service of many years’ duration, career achievement deserving of state or national recognition, or community service in only one or two areas that is unique, and has made a significant or substantial impact on the community.
Connie Thrash McGoodwin is receiving this distinct honor for her vision and leadership that has helped Dale Rogers Training Center grow to staff of 85 and provide meaningful employment opportunities for more than 1,100 individuals across the state. Through contracts with more scores of private and government organizations, the organization now generates 83% of their own revenue and the combined workforce generates $5.5 million a year.
Thrash McGoodwin, executive director of Dale Rogers Training Center, reflected on the success and endurance of DRTC.
“Today, I have a nearly $20 million annual budget to balance, up from only $90,000 from my first year on the job. Then, we had no state appropriations and only help from the school district and United Way. Today, we generate 83% of our own revenue. Half the payback is being around folks and seeing all the wonderful things that are happening here.”
With degrees from Oklahoma State and Texas Women’s University, her credentials, awards, recognitions and honors are what led her to receive this prestigious honor. The Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber recognizes Connie Thrash McGoodwin for the vision and leadership she has shared with Dale Rogers Training Center, our State, and the Northwest Oklahoma City community for 33 years.
Past inductees to the Northwest Chamber Hall of Honor include: John Shugart, Caroline Gist, Dr. Kent Shellenburger, Jane Haskin, Mayor Mick Cornett, Larry McAtee, Glenn Coffee, Wally Key, John Martin, J.D. Johnston, Ron Mercer, Chris Pierce, Ray Melrose, Albert Gray, Gary Unruh, Cecil Mendenhall, Howard Hendrick, Loren Gresham, Dr. Shannon Lucid, Prebble and Herman Beaver, Eldon Lyon, Phil Cowan, Duane Cory and Fred Floyd.
The mission of Dale Rogers Training Center, Inc. (DRTC) is “to support people with disabilities through paid vocational training, in-house programs and work opportunities as well as competitive community employment.”
Its philosophy is that “The citizen who has a disability is an individual human being, deserving of opportunities for learning, for development and for contribution. DRTC places the person first, focusing on their interests, skills and abilities, while always treating the individual and their family with dignity and respect.”
My Heart’s Appeal (MHA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is hosting its 6th Annual Benefit Fundraiser Dinner Thursday, February 8, 2018, at Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City.
