On November 7th Solano County Office of Education (SCOE) held their 5th Annual Inclusion Film Camp’s Red-Carpet Premiere in Vacaville! Inclusion Films was founded by Joey Travolta, who is a filmmaker, actor, and the older brother of John Travolta. These film camps provide individuals with developmental disabilities with the opportunity to learn the principles of film making. Applications for the next session will be available in Spring 2025. Visit https://bit.ly/solanocoefilmcamps to learn more!
New DDS Provider Directory launched on October 29, 2024!
On October 29, 2024, DDS’s Provider Directory launched. Its full capabilities will be released in phases. In the first phase, service providers and designated regional center representatives will be invited to create an account and collaborate to ensure accurate provider information is in the system. DDS will offer incentive payments to service providers through the Quality Incentive Program(QIP). Support, including on-demand training, is available now at www.dds.ca.gov/initiatives/provider-directory/.
Questions? Email providerdirectory@dds.ca.gov.
Public Board Meeting on November 6th in Napa!
The Next Board Meeting is on November 6, 2024 at 6:00 pm at NBRC’s Napa Office or via Zoom.
610 Airpark Road
Napa, CA 94558
Please click the link below to join the Zoom Webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89709687840?pwd=QjlIcTc0dzBBNXA2OEpLanVjOFltUT09
Or Telephone: 1 669 900 6833
Webinar ID: 897 0968 7840
Password: 912329
Please contact (707) 256-1224 for information or accommodations. Spanish & American Sign Language translation services are provided.
Se Habla Español
American Sign Language Interpretation Available
Master Plan Public Input Meeting – November 18th at 6:30pm
California’s Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) has initiated a process to develop a Master Plan for Developmental Services. The Master Plan will “seek to create and strengthen bridges that connect the developmental services system to other critical systems” and increase our system’s “ability to provide culturally responsive services and strengthen the accountability and standardization of the system so that it is easier for individuals and their families to navigate no matter where they live in California.” For more information about the Master Plan process, please visit https://www.chhs.ca.gov/home/master-plan-for-developmental-services/.
NBRC’s Board of Directors wants to make sure that people in our community have the opportunity to provide input to the Master Plan. Therefore, we have invited Victor Duron, the facilitator of the Master Plan process, to meet with our Board on November 18th from 6:30 to 8:00 pm on Zoom. Mr. Duron will provide an overview of the Master Plan process and gather input from our board members and community. We encourage people we serve and their families to attend.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84374801550?pwd=VXFJU1ovbVFoelNWVEcxK3J0T2c0QT09
Meeting ID: 843 7480 1550
Password: 470780
Opportunity for Community Training Topic Suggestions
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) invites members of the community to provide suggested training topics for mediators and hearing officers from the Office of Administrative Hearings who are involved in the Lanterman Act Eligibility and Service Appeal process. Training topic suggestions can be submitted using the online form linked HERE. We appreciate your input!
DDS-Early Start Family Outcomes Survey
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) wants to create the best possible experience for families participating in the Early Start Program! DDS has sent an annual Family Outcomes Survey to a randomized group of thousands of families for their feedback. Families who have or who are currently participating in the Early Start Program are encouraged to complete the survey by November 30, 2024. Please visit the following link to complete the survey: https://partcsam-dds.wa-form.com/f/41671409/72aa/
Michael’s Milestone: 25 Years of Advocacy and Care
We are delighted to celebrate Michael Ursini’s 25-year milestone at our regional center. As a Service Coordinator for clients aged 23 and older, Michael plays a vital role in empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their lives. His enthusiasm in enhancing the lives of these adults is evident in his daily interactions and the care he provides.
Michael’s journey with us began after earning his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Communications from the College of Notre Dame in Belmont, California. This educational background laid a solid foundation for his career, particularly when he transitioned from working in the mental health field where he gained 4 years of experience securing stable living arrangements for individuals in need.
In his role as a Service Coordinator, Michael thrives on the dynamic nature of his work. He finds joy in collaborating with clients and their legal representatives to explore and implement the best options available. The services offered by the regional center, such as providing available community living options, is an area where Michael’s passion shines brightly. The satisfaction witnessing the positive changes in the lives of individuals we serve is a driving force behind his work.
Outside of his professional life, Michael is equally vibrant. He is an avid cyclist, a guitar enthusiast, and an entrusted volunteer at his church. His two cats, Mr. Bigglesworth and Pap (short for Pappy, reflecting her cheerful disposition), are beloved companions that bring joy to his personal time.
Michael’s positive attitude and camaraderie make him a cherished colleague. His 25 years of service not only reflect his longevity but also his ongoing dedication. We are grateful for Michael’s contributions to our team and the individuals we serve and looking forward to many more years of his invaluable work!