"September's Baccalaureate
A combination is
Of Crickets – Crows – and Retrospects
And a dissembling Breeze

That hints without assuming –
An Innuendo sear
That makes the Heart put up its Fun
And turn Philosopher"

Quote by Emily Dickinson

Confidence & Lifestyle Coaching with Joseph Rozell!

We want to welcome Joseph Rozell, and his program, "Confidence and Lifestyle Coaching" to our Eiros Group customers! Joseph Rozell is and Assessment Coordinator and Confidence Coach, Professional Scout, and provides Key Analysis for some of the top NFL and NCAA Athletes, in addition to having over 5 years of training and coaching clients with Special Needs.

In his 10 week curriculum based program, Joseph helps with focus on Mental, Social and Physical Health. Create meaningful and engaging relationships and keep accountability towards a lasting, healthy lifestyle.

If you are interested in working with Joseph, please contact KristenM@Eiros-Group.com. Joseph is offering this as a free service to all of our Direct Support customers (Eiros Group customers receiving CBS or IS).

Direct Support Professionals Support Group

Our next online DSP Support Group meeting will be on the 19th of September between 1 and 3pm.

If you are interested in participating, please reach out to be added to the invite list.

Please remember that you will be paid for your participation. I will be sending out a notice this week with the Zoom details to anyone who has expressed interest. You can reach me at sheldons@eiros-group.com or via text or voice at 269-330-2305

I am looking forward to connecting with more of you this month!

CoG Online Training Sessions

Culture of Gentleness Trainings continue...

This is a required training for Eiros Group employees, and must be complete by Jan. 2025.

Culture of Gentleness Training Sessions:

   Thursday, September 12 & 25 from 12pm-4 pm
   Wednesday, October 16 & 23 from 5pm-8pm
   Saturday, November 9 & 16 from 9am-1pm
   Monday, December 9 & 16 from 12pm-4pm
   Tuesday, January 14 & 21 from 5pm-8pm

**IMPORTANT** If you have already attended this course, please submit completion information to Sheldon at sheldons@eiros-group.com, or if you have any other questions or concerns.

Turning Dreams Into Reality

by Desiree Coyle & Jean Marie Hanna, Support Brokers

For those in the neurodiverse world, getting ‘out and about’ in their community can feel overwhelming. There may be so much to do and choose from that people may not know where to start looking for resources or opportunities that are available to them.

Community Mapping is a tool used by Eiros Group in which a Support Broker will assist their customer to ‘map’ resources in their community.

This mapping can assist and empower people to discover ways that they can be engaged in their community, along with opportunities for networking, and advocacy. Community mapping not only establishes various resources in the person's neighborhood but also supports people in finding and maintaining meaningful connections. These resources can include local services such as utility offices that assist with water, power, internet, and cable bills. They can also seek out other enjoyable and interesting activities such as gyms, arcades, music venues, and restaurants. In many instances, each resource can provide a connection with someone who has a plethora of information to share about the area in which they live. Overall, community mapping provides a more holistic view that helps people get engaged in the communities they live in.

A recent community mapping expedition with two people we support, Terri and Alina, revealed an opportunity to volunteer at a sculpture park in the Mercer County area that offers an engaging volunteer program. Terri and Alina had a chance to visit the park and see what it had to offer. Not only did Terri and Alina get to meet and socialize, but they also connected with various members of the sculpture park and were offered a tour to deepen their understanding of what the volunteer program was about.

Terri was excited about this opportunity, as she has a passion for the arts and venturing out within her community. When Grounds for Sculpture became a Goods and Services provider, Terri was thrilled to know this was an option for her new plan. With her passion for the arts and everything she learned about the sculpture park on the tour, she not only started volunteering but became a member as well. This is an amazing opportunity for Terri because of her interest in art and the fact that the park is in her own community.

Alina has a deep desire to serve and help people. She volunteers at a local soup kitchen and looks forward to working at a vacation bible school program in 2025. At this time, Alina did not feel ready to volunteer at the sculpture park, though she did enjoy the tour and connecting with the employees, volunteers, and Terri. Helping Alina discover new and exciting things to do in her own community would have been much more difficult had she not been involved in community mapping.

Community mapping is a great tool that encourages self-discovery. It assists people to discover and build on shared interests in the community. It can inspire friendships, build social capital and inclusion, and promote independence. We find that it can be a great tool for building a good life beyond system-based services and supports, where meaningful connections are made in the community.

Eiros Group

Anniversaries & Birthdays!

September, we want to wish Happy Birthday to Gayleann G., Shamia G., Coby H., Aniyah I., Philip M., and Rhonda W.!

We also want to wish Happy Eiros Group Anniversaries to Lisa A., Floyd B., Jenn B., Henry C., Samantha D., Ed D., Marita P., Jodeline S., and Ashley W.!! Thank you for being a part of our amazing group!!

DSP is available!

Are you looking for a Direct Support Professional? We have a DSP that is in search of a new family to support!

To be connected to this highly recommended, and her references, please contact Kristen Mathews via email or call direct, 908-524-7939

Roommate Wanted:

Wayne, NJ to share 3 bedroom house with similar DDA. Female, mid-30's. Shared bathroom and living areas. Please contact Jen Jones, Support Broker via email at jeniferj@eiros-group.com or call 908-246-0936

Tenderly, Softly, and Flexibly Structuring the Day

By John McGee

Gentle Teaching envisions systemic change, but it starts with just you and me. The inner workings of Gentle Teaching exclude any idea of seeing if Gentle Teaching might “work” on someone. A culture of gentleness is going to be gentle no matter what. It is not primarily a question of working; it is a
question of expressing love in all of our interactions. Being kind transcends all other human interactions. It is not something that has to be proven. It is our duty to be gentle. A culture of gentleness also is communal in nature. We cannot treat one person kindly and then treat another person in a mean manner. We cannot embrace one person and then yell at another one. We cannot reach out lovingly to one person and then grab and take down another one. We cannot express love to one another and then punish another.

We have to carve out a structure in the midst of chaos and within the dark cloud of heavy, damaging memories. We have to find ways to enter into this chaos almost without being noticed with the simple idea of being near the person with, at least, a slight hint of being with the person. There are no fixed
tricks or recipes to do this. We need to formulate opportunities to present these gifts of feeling safe and loved. What the individual caregiver or the caring community needs to do is fit their interactions to the needs of the person in any given moment within a culture of gentleness and initially, our first
moments can be extremely fragile: We have to understand that our mere presence can be frightening and burdensome since it is often the case that the marginalized person simply sees us as just another caretaker who will be mean, devaluing, and bossy. Because the person might feel under attack, we have to enter into the person’s space slowly, quietly, and peacefully. We should avoid almost any demand and simply want to be as near as we can. In a way, we have to enter this frightened space like the most gentle and warmest breeze. We do not have to do anything else and we might whisper that we are not going to do anything but be near. As caregivers, we have to understand the initial fear that simply being near a brokenhearted person provokes. We are initially in a world in which we want to bring joy, but the person can only see us as mean and cruel like all the past caretakers. So, our first steps need to be tiny, soft, and non-demanding. We have to be acutely aware of any sign of fear such as increasingly labored breathing, the smallest of flinches, pulling away, and a cold gaze. These signs and others can be the body’s way of screaming to us “Do not pressure me or make me do anything. Just be near me without
pushing yourself on me.”

Our mere presence should be marked by a sense of profound peace and humility. We can be the most loving and gentle caregivers in the world, but the alienated person will see us as mean and cruel like everyone else in their memory. The person can often see a gentle caregiver as just another guard-like caretaker who will boss everyone around, be pushy, insist that the person do something, and treat brokenhearted persons as mere objects. Even though that perception might be the farthest from our mind, we are swept into these memories and we need to realize that the person sees us as an
amalgamation of past caretakers. The initial expectation is to quietly find a way to be near the individual. Our initial purpose is simply to be near the person and then to be with the person. The key word is “with” the person. This might seem to be a very insignificant purpose, but for a brokenhearted person, it is a major breakthrough. For those who are suffering, just being with them is a major first caregiving purpose. As the person then gets the feeling that the caregiver is not going to do harm or be bossy, the caregiver then might look for a way to further quietly enter into the person’s terrified space. This could happen almost immediately or it might take a long time. The slower we go, the faster we will get there. The more
peaceful we are, the less terrified the person will be and the less demanding. In a sense, we need to enter the person’s space with low expectations but the highest hope.

As the goodness of our mere presence takes root, we can then perhaps move closer, maybe touch the person’s shoulder, smile warmly, look into the person’s eyes lovingly, and try to create a cycle of this “approach.” Our voice and manner should be soft, tender, non-demanding, and calming. We need to
see the person from the very first moment as our brother or sister who is suffering and scared. So, as we approach the person, we must see someone whom we love. This takes a tremendous amount of moral imagination on our part. It helps us to “see” the person’s sorrow and the possibility of joy. The
first approach might involve just being near the person. But, as time unfolds, we will find ways to slowly enter into this fearful space more closely perhaps with a smile, a whispered phrase, or a light touch.

This initial approach, almost presenting ourselves invisibly, is the first structure that eventually unfolds into various dimensions such as increased participation, seeking our caregivers, sharing, and participating in the caring community. As we enter more and more into the person’s space, we then
look for non-intrusive and non-demanding ways to be with the person for longer periods of time.

These interactions might be simple, but vital, such as talking about the person’s goodness, reaching a handout, and doing something together.

If there is a focus on doing anything, it should be doing an activity or chore with the person or even for the person. The focus must always be on the person’s goodness, not an activity.

We are growing! We have a number of open positions throughout New Jersey. Want to learn more? Click here and apply today!

Please Welcome Our New Regional Coordinators of Direct Support!

Garryan Bowers and Victoria Betrix have joined us as our new Regional Coordinators of Direct Support. They will be overseeing our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) throughout New Jersey and working closely with the people we support and their families.

Victoria Betrix is a familiar face, having been an integral part of our Eiros Group family within the Supports Brokerage side. She brings an extensive background in person-centered work, helping people identify staff, secure housing, and community mapping identifying resources across New Jersey. Victoria will be covering the Northern NJ area.

Garryan Bowers is a new and exciting addition to our team! He comes with a wealth of experience working with people with developmental disabilities in Toronto, Ontario and across New Jersey. Garryan has enhanced and expanded traditional programs by developing new ideas to provide better support. Garryan will be covering the Central  and Southern NJ areas.

In the coming days, Garryan and Victoria will be reaching out to the people we support, their families, DSPs, and Support Coordinators to introduce themselves personally. We are truly excited about these two, and all of the talent and expertise they bring to Eiros Group!

Eiros Group's Kristen Mathews is presenting at Gentle Teaching International Conference!

Kristen Mathews, COO, along with several others from Eiros Group will be heading to the Gentle Teaching International Conference, October 1-3 in Saskatchewan, Canada! We are especially excited, as Kristen is  presenting, "What Are Your Homes & Dreams?"

The 2024 Gentle Teaching International (GTI) conference is the premier gathering of people from around the world committed to providing positive and proactive support in health, mental health, disability and educational sectors. This event will mark the 23rd anniversary of the conference and will bring together 400+ participants over three-days from October 1-3, 2024. This conference presents a unique opportunity to learn about the research, best practices, case studies and lessons learned on creating and sustaining a culture of support for vulnerable populations in varied environments. To learn more about the conference, visit gti2024.com or learn more about the Gentle Teaching philosophy and program at gentleteaching.com

42nd Annual

Autism NJ Conference

October 24 & 25, 2024
Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center | Atlantic City

We are excited to be attending this year’s Autism NJ Conference promises to be an outstanding experience, uniting top experts, professionals, caregivers, and advocates from diverse backgrounds.

With attendance numbers expected to exceed 1,200, the Annual Autism Conference has a long-standing reputation for being a vibrant and engaging gathering. You definitely won’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! Learn more and register today>>

This year’s program will feature:
2 keynotes; 50+ top-notch workshops; with evidence-based information for all ages and support needs; 100+ exhibitors
from across the state and beyond. Countless networking opportunities to build relationships; CEUs for behavior analysts, psychologists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists

No matter your connection, our conference is for you!
Questions? Email conference@autismnj.org

A special shout out to our incredible administrative team for their efforts in implementing our new billing system, Therap. Your dedication and hard work are greatly appreciated!

Thank you Paulina, Kaylee, Shannon, and Diane—we couldn't have done it without you!

Transition Tuesday Group Led by Eiros Group's Founder Jenn Brown

At the end of October, we are excited to be a part of "Transition Tuesdays", a support and information series led by Eiros Group's founder and CEO, Jenn Brown. The intention of this group is to help assist youth who are approaching the transition into adulthood. The kick off meeting will be at the Page One Resource Center on Tuesday, October 29, led by and facilitated by Eiros Group. If you have any questions, or would like to participate, please contact Kristen Mathews at kristenm@eiros-group.com or Kelly Milazzo at kelly.lee.milazzo@gmail.com

Upcoming Changes, Payments & Questions About SSI

There have been questions about SSI checks and irregular payments scheduled for the next few months. Overall, SSI recipients may receive two payments or none in certain months

Explanation:

SSI payments occur on the first weekday of the month. However, if that first day is a holiday or a weekend, then the payment occurs on the last weekday of the month prior.

As an example:

Monday, September 2 is a holiday (Labor Day); therefore, 2 payments were made in August (August 1 and 30). This means there is NO payment in September.

Remaining months of 2024 are as follows:

Tuesday, October 1, payment will be issued as usual. Friday, November 1 payment will be issued as usual; however, due to Sunday, December 1 being a weekend, that payment will happen on Friday, November 29. NO payment in December.

Word of Caution:

SSI recipients should make sure their resources remain under $2,000 in September and December.

Access Nature Goes Statewide & How to Get Involved!

The Nature: Accessible for All campaign is a collaborative effort by individuals, public agencies and nonprofits to ensure that people with disabilities, their families and allies can enjoy New Jersey’s extraordinary natural places. The campaign is looking for interested individuals and organizations to become partners. There are two ways to get involved in the Nature: Accessible for All campaign. You can sign up to join a working group or groups (there are four to choose from) or apply for a stipend. There are two stipend programs, organizational and individual, and are intended to support the undertaking of any activities that advance the mission of the campaign.

To read the article click here for more info

Summer Memories: From Vacation to Destination Wedding

By Coby Hurd, Support Broker

An unforgettable vacation that I went on was my trip to the Dominican Republic with my fiancé. We stayed at the Riu República Resort and had such an amazing time. We
enjoyed the delicious food, culture and the beautiful sights of the beaches and rainforests. We enjoyed our stay so much that we decided to have our wedding there. We are very excited to go back to this beautiful destination to get married. It holds so many special memories, and we are ecstatic to create more memories as newlyweds.

Oh, The Possibilities!

An Eiros Group Success Story with Brandon C.

By Victoria Betrix, Support Broker

“Starting with Eiros Group 2 years ago, has gradually been changing my life, and is giving me more opportunities than I have ever had since I was born. Growing up, and even
today, I have limited independence and accessibility in my homes wherever I have lived." tells Brandon C., a customer of Eiros Group.

"I have been working with Eiros Group to get Direct Supports to help me live on my own in an apartment. The way the housing market has been in recent years has made that a challenge, however, now that I have my eyes set on living on campus in a school in South Jersey, it is giving me that chance to live on my own like I have always wanted, and we are currently in the process of finding the perfect Support Person for that.

I plan to stay in the South Jersey area after graduating because it presents a lot more apartments that are affordable with Section 8 housing, and are more ADA approved than apartments up here in Sussex, Morris and Warren Counties.”

“Over the past two years, Brandon and I have navigated various challenges together, from struggling to find affordable housing to exploring educational opportunities." Victoria shared,  "A major turning point came when Brandon decided to pursue his studies at a 4-year University. His acceptance into the program is a huge milestone, and I am thrilled to see him thrive in this new environment. Following his acceptance, we began a staffing search and are now supporting him through the onboarding of two Self Directed Employees! One of which is a student at the same University! Watching Brandon step
into this new chapter, full of growth and opportunities is the best! I can’t wait to see what’s next for him!”

Upcoming events throughout NJ

Below are upcoming fun things to do throughout New Jersey! If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like it included in our newsletter, please send to info@Eiros-Group.com

*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks!

NORTH JERSEY:

Sparta Renaissance Festival
September 14-15 21-22

Riverdale Carnival
September 11 through September 15

Randolph Country Fair
September 14: 11am-5pm

Montclair Jazz Festival
September 14

Elmwood Community Day
September 14: 11am-5pm

Latin Festival
September 15: 12pm-7pm

Newark Porchfest
September 28: 12pm-6pm

Oktoberfest
September 28 and 29: 12pm-9pm

CENTRAL NEW JERSEY:

Princeton Scavenger Hunt

Chapel Princeton

ISLAND Conference- Inclusion in Science Learning a New Direction
September 12 and 13: 9am-5:15pm

VIVA Bradley Beach
September 14: 2pm-8pm

Central Jersey Jazz Festival
Sat. September 14: 6:30-9:40pm

Stangl Road in Flemington

also on Sun. September 15: 1:20pm-5:40pm
Somerset County Courthouse
E. Main and Grove Streets Somerville

Festival Cultural Latino
September 15: 1pm-5pm

Access for Reel- Fishing without Barriers
September 21: 1pm-7pm

Red Bank Oktoberfest
September 21: 1pm-5pm

2024 DisABILITY Expo and Job Fair
October 5: 1pm-3:30pm

Music Fest Sundays
October 6, 13, 20 and 27: 1pm-4pm

Disability Connections: Information and Resource Fair
October 9: 10am-1pm

SOUTH NEW JERSEY:

Boots on the Beach

September 13 and 14

11th Annual St. Anthony’s Italian festival
September 14: 2pm-10pm

Haddon Township Fall Fest
September 14: 12pm-9pm

Bark in the Park
September 14: 10am-5pm

Medford Oktoberfest
September 20: 5pm-9pm

F.I.S.H Night
September 27: 5pm-7pm

Woodstown Fall Festival
September 28: 10am-4pm

If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like  it included in our newsletter, please send to info@Eiros-Group.com

*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks! Please note, we are relaying information found on other websites or through other organizations, and doing so as a service. Please confirm event details and information directly.

Free events in New Jersey:

Sayen Botantical Gardens
155 Hughes Drive Hamilton Township

Princeton University Art. Museum
Elm Drive Princeton
Tuesday-Sunday

Howell Living History Farm
70 Wooden Lane Hopewell Township

Drumthwacket
354 Stockton Street Princeton
Reservation can be made for free guided tours.

Mercer County Library- Museum Passes

New Jersey State Museum
205 W. State Street Trenton
Admission free- fee for planetarium

Art and Coffee Break
Second Thursdays 5:30-7:30pm
Annex Gallery-Historic Smithville
803 Smithville Road Eastampton

Cape May Zoo and Park
707 Route 9 N. Cape May
Free- donation’s accepted

Heritage Glass Museum
25 E. High Street Glassboro

The Center for Contemporary Art
202 Burnt Mills Road Bedminster Township
Admission free- suggested $5 donation, fee for classes

Twin Lights Historic Site
2 Light House Road Highlands

The All-Star Sports Museum
8 Burt Street Bridgeton

Presby Memorial Iris Gardens
474 Upper Mountain Ave Montclair

Empty Sky, 9/11 Memorial
Liberty State Park
1 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City

Please be sure to click the links in the above to verify days/times prior to planning your day. These listings may have specific limitations, and are provided for informational purposes only. Be sure to confirm prior to attending.