Noel Mendes & Margaret Beringer at the workshop
On Saturday, July 17, the Direct Care Alliance held a Voices Institute Leadership Training Workshop in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, which I led with Brenda Nachtway. Eight direct care workers attended the workshop that included leadership self-assessment and modules on personal power, membership recruitment and building relationships with allies. The attendees were especially inspired to hear that the Direct Care Empowerment Act was about to be introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives and they practiced visiting with allies to gain support for the bill. On completion of the workshop, five participants – Clara Glenn, Margaret Beringer, Rolanda Crawley, Soon Hong and Noel Mendes – formed a Leadership Circle and are working together to build a chapter of the Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Association in the Philadelphia region.
It is a privilege to be able to support the leadership growth of a talented group of individuals committed to making a difference. The amount of work and collaboration during the training was incredible, and I’m inspired by these new worker-leaders. Thanks to the Valentine Foundation for providing generous support for leadership training and these workshops. Here’s what direct care worker and training participant Noel Mendes had to say about the workshop:
The Direct Care Alliance and the Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Association is working hard to bring standardization, dignity and respect to the industry, which is greatly appreciated by all of us who struggle to maintain the dignity, independence and self-worth of our clients. The opportunity provided to us at the recent leadership workshop will certainly benefit us both individually and collectively as we strive to make our value known on the national level, and as we endeavor to enhance the lives of all those that we serve.
Noel and Margaret,
Keep up the great work in Pennsylvania. The Voices Institute is such an empowering experience. I’m so glad that you both are now in the VI family of worker leaders across the country.
It was also so nice to meet you both at the workshop. Please stay in touch.
On Thursday, February 24, 2011 The Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Association Philadelphia Chapter meeting was a success. I would like to Thank everyone for their support to make this possible.Vera Salter was in attendance she gave a session and introduction of The National Direct Care Alliance Personal Care and Support Credential. Vera explained the benefit of Credential for the work force and how it will bring professionalism and recognition at a National Level. She said the Credential will bring a pool of qualified home care worker that will take pride in their profession it will potentially increase career opportunities She said it was developed with a generous support from THE FORD FOUNDATION. She said the exam cost is $140.00 for individuals and $ 125.00 for DCA members if employers are interested in registering a group of 100 or more employees they would get special group rate. She said to contact Helen Hanson for more information. Then we had a free training session giving by Emily Aufschaufer from Jevs Supports for Independence Human Services on the topic of understanding The Disability Culture and Effective Communication. Everyone received a Certificate of Completion. We had some refreshments Philly Style. The Philadelphia Chapter of The Pennsylvania Direct Care Workers Association would like to Thank the Valentine Foundation for their generous support