Ninety-Nine Percent Effective

In this episode, Jen and Tesha were joined by a special guest, Priscilla Clark, Lumibility’s Grants and Donor Relations Specialist. Priscilla shares an in-depth overview of her responsibilities and contributions to the organization, such as securing funds for our Assistive Technology Program and our Kidsteps Birth to Three Early Intervention Program. Priscilla’s insights offer a glimpse into Lumibility's future, showcasing how her work drives positive change and creates new opportunities for individuals in our programs and organization. Show Notes:  Priscilla Clark, 860-399-1888 ext. 332 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 ext. 331 Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@lumibility.org call us at 860-399-1888 ext. 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect Lumibility’s 

In this episode, Jen and Tesha were joined by a remarkable guest, Jamie Martin, Assistive Technology Manager at SARAH Inc. They discussed about SARAH Inc.’s new Assistive Technology Program. Jamie shares how this program aims to help individuals achieve independence and lead a fulfilling life at home, in day programs, during transitions, and in the workplace. Assistive Technology allows individuals to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.  Show Notes: Jamie Martin, (203) 453-7592 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 ext. 331 SARAH Inc Assistive Technology Page: https://sarah-inc.org/assistive-technology-program/ Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext. 200. Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is filmed, recorded, and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode by hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

In this episode, Jen and Tesha were joined by a special guest, Julie Hall, Chief Program Officer of Children & Family Services at SARAH Inc. They discussed an exciting new summer experience for young adults with autism called Camp Connect! Julie Hall shared insights into how Camp Connect was developed and what campers can anticipate during their time there. Additionally, Julie Hall provided more details on how families who are interested in registering their young adult to this year’s Camp Connect! Show Notes:  Julie Hall, (203) 453-7592 x101 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 ext. 331 Camp Connect Registration: https://bit.ly/CampConnect2024 Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@sarah-inc.org call us at 860-399-1888 ext. 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

In this episode, Jen and Tesha welcomed a special guest, George Reid-Perry, Chief Program Officer of Adult Services at SARAH Inc. and former host, to discuss his role as well as the new and exciting updates coming to SARAH Inc. This episode serves a dual purpose: not only does it provide an insider's glimpse into the exciting updates on the horizon for SARAH Inc., but it also provides clarity surrounding the organization's future direction.  Show Notes:  George Reid-Perry, (860) 399-1888 ext. 330 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 ext. 331 Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@sarah-inc.org call us at 860-399-1888 ext. 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

In this episode of Parent Perspective, Jen and Tesha welcomed Riley Kokoruda, Riley's sister, Karleigh, and Riley's mother, Sharon, as special guests to talk about their experience with their brother and son, Jacob, during his time in high school. In the fifth episode of this series, Riley, Karleigh, and Sharon discuss Jacob's challenges during high school and explain how Jacob has changed his sisters' perspective on how they view interactions with people around them. This episode is an excellent and endearing resource for any family with a child with differing abilities starting high school.   Show Notes:  Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 x331 Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@sarah-inc.org call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

In our next episode of Parent Perspective, Jen and Tesha welcomed Christopher Marra as our special guest to discuss his experience with his son, Jonathan, during his middle school years. In the fourth episode of this series, Chris expresses Jonathan's struggles in Middle School, such as making new friends, going through puberty, and returning to school after the COVID pandemic. Overall, this episode is informative yet filled with resources for any family with a child starting middle school. Show Notes:  Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 x331 Learn more about SARAH Inc KIDSTEPS Early Intervention Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at Marketing@sarah-inc.org call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

In this episode of Parent Perspective, Jen and Tesha were fortunate to have our guest Paula Schaeffer as our guest discussing her experience as a parent during the elementary years. In the third episode of this series, she explains her experience bringing her son William from pre-k to elementary school. She expresses her struggles yet gives excellent recommendations to any parent with a child settling into elementary school. Show Notes:  Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Tesha Tramontano-Kelly, ttk358consultingllc@gmail.com Elyssa Tomczyk, 860-399-1888 x331 Learn more about SARAH Inc KIDSTEPS Early Intervention Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is recorded and edited by  Elyssa Tomczyk.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

In our next episode of Parent Perspective, Jen and Tesha were fortunate to have our return guest Danielle Gonyea, Autism & Special Needs Consultant, Certified Cruise Counselor, and Disney Expert, as our Parent Perspective guest representing the Birth to Three Program. In the second episode of the two-part series, she explains her experience exiting Birth to Three for her three children diagnosed with autism. She describes her point of view when departing the program and gives fantastic recommendations that everyone should hear if going through this process. Show Notes:  Danielle Gonyea email: Danielle@premiercustomtravel.com Visit the Premier Custom Travel website Premier Custom Travel: 281-301-5818 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Learn more about Connecticut Birth to Three  Learn more about KIDSTEPS Birth to Three Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is edited by Elyssa Tomczyk.    The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s. 

We are excited to announce that our SARAH Solutions podcast is re-launching with a brand new look! We are kicking it off with a very informative series about the parent perspective and navigating each stage of life as you care for a loved one with differing abilities. In our first episode of Parent Perspective, Jen and Tesha were fortunate to have Danielle Gonyea, Autism & Special Needs Consultant, Certified Cruise Counsellor, and Disney Expert, as our first Parent Perspective guest representing the Birth to Three Program. In this first episode of a two-part series, she explains her experience throughout the Birth to Three Program for not just one child but three children, who are all diagnosed with autism. Not only is this episode informative, but it is also an incredible resource filled with wisdom and inspiration. Show Notes: Danielle Gonyea contact information: Danielle@premiercustomtravel.com Visit the Premier Custom Travel website Premier Custom Travel: 281-301-5818 Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Learn more about Connecticut Birth to Three Learn more about KIDSTEPS Birth to Three Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is edited by Elyssa Tomczyk. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

In this episode, Jen and Tesha were fortunate to have Brian Smith, Assistant Regional Director of Individual and Family Support DDS, back again for another informative session covering what the level of need (LON) is and all of the factors that go into determining an individual’s LON.  This episode covers several facets of the process, such as who is involved in completing the LON, how often it is reviewed, and what different levels mean. If you have questions about the DDS level of need, this is your resource! Show Notes: DDS Portal Website DDS Case Management DDS Transition to Adulthood Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Learn more about SARAH Inc. Videos to review: DDS Video Resource Library Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James Hodgdon. Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is edited by Elyssa Tomczyk. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

In this episode, Jen and Tesha were fortunate to have Barbara Poplawski, Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Transition Advisor, and Brian Smith, Assistant Regional Director of Individual and Family Support DDS, join in for a very informative conversation about the overview of what DDS does, whom they serve, and their primary goals. This episode covers several topics, such as who is eligible, the case management process, various services they offer, and valuable resources for individuals and families needing or receiving support from DDS. This is filled with incredible knowledge, guidance, and resources you do not want to miss! Show Notes: DDS Portal Website DDS Case Management DDS Transition to Adulthood Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Learn more about SARAH Inc. Videos to review: DDS Video Resource Library Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

This holiday season, we are excited to share our recent podcast featuring a local business partner, Shayna B’s By The Sea located in Westbrook, CT.  Shayna B’s is a dedicated vegan and gluten-free bakery serving delicious meals to the shoreline area. This episode features Christine Reed, the owner of Shayna B’s and SARAH Inc. supported worker, Gianna Catalano. From a young age, Gianna discovered her passion for the culinary arts. In this episode, she discusses her journey of following her dreams and obtaining gainful employment with the help of SARAH Inc. and loyal community partners with our Employment Services Program. Be sure to check out their holiday menu posted on their social media. Show Notes: Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 Visit Shayna B’s By The Sea Website  Shayna B’s By The Sea Facebook  Call Shayna B’s By The Sea to order for the holidays, 860-339-3144 Learn more about SARAH Inc. Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced by George Reid-Perry and edited by Chrissy Racho. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), which celebrates the success stories of employment and the disability community. We are excited to share our most recent podcast, featuring SARAH Inc.’s Jen Kostek, Intakes and Special Projects Coordinator. With over a decade of experience in our employment programs, Jen is just the right person to help us understand the immense value that people with differing abilities bring to businesses that employ them. In this episode, Gaining Independence: Tips for Stepping into the Workforce, she also gives a detailed look into how SARAH Inc. helps individuals identify their scope of capabilities, establish a career plan, and lead them toward gaining newfound independence. Show Notes: Jen Kostek, 860-399-1888 ext. 311 CT's Department of Labor: The Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities U.S. Department of Labor: Workers with Disabilities Eliminating 14(c) & Subminimum Wage Learn more about NDEAM and SARAH Inc. Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

In this episode we are introduced to Ashley Hickey, a Potty Training Specialist and Owner of Successful Potty Training. Ashley is a graduate of Northeastern University and was clinically trained in Applied Behavior Analysis at Emory Autism Center post-graduation. Ashley specializes in Potty Training autistic children but has also trained hundreds of kids with differing abilities. The goal of Ashley’s program is for the child to be able to wear underwear fulltime, utilize the potty, and independently self-initiate. Ninety eight percent of the children achieve these goals by the end of the program; most in as little as four days. We hope you enjoy listening to Ashley and Tesha as much as we did.  Take a seat and get ready to learn some fool proof tips! Show Notes: Successful Potty Training "Ashley's Guide for Potty Training" by Ashley Hickey "The Best Potty Chairs for Little Ones Who Are Ready to Ditch the Diaper" by Julie Evans and Katrina Cossey "9 Best Potty-Training Seats and Chairs for Toddlers Who Are Ready to Ditch the Diapers" by Kate Bayless "Top 10 Potty Training Step Stools for Kids" By Michele Tripple Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

Summer is sailing by and we at 99 Percent Effective hope you have been able to stop and enjoy some summer fun. Speaking of fun, this week’s Weekend Tea with Gabby and Amanda is all that and more!  Gabby will put a smile on your face and give you a good chuckle as she shares the details of her for her 40th birthday celebration.  You don’t want to miss this episode! So take a break, relax and listen to how Gabby enjoys a good time with family and friends. Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

Obtaining a drivers license is an exciting time in a person’s life that can contribute to greater independence. Persons who are on the Autism Spectrum or other delays oftentimes face different and increased challenges when they are trying to obtain their drivers license. This month George and Tesha are pleased to introduce you to Andrew Arboe, founder of Driving With Autism, a company that prepares individuals on the Autism Spectrum to get their driver’s license. Andrew used his personal experiences as an adult with Autism to develop driver readiness content. This content reviews the expectations that come along with obtaining a driver’s license as well as how to overcome the challenges adults with Autism face when trying to do so. A few of the beneficial topics Andrew covers in his webinars are sensory needs, police interactions, and parent perspectives.  So buckle up and listen to how Andrew is helping individuals on the Autism Spectrum obtain their driver’s license and gain their independence. Show Notes: Contact Andrew Arboe: andrew.arboe@autismdriving.com https://autismdriving.com/ Driving with Autism Facebook "What Sensory Tools You May Need As An Autistic Driver" CT DMV - The Blue Envelope CT Department of Aging and Disability Services - Driver Training Program Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

Join George and Tesha this month to discuss nutrition with none other than Kara from Nourish + Nosh Nutrition. In this episode Kara discusses where you can start in terms of eating healthy, adjusting your lifestyle, and answering the "why's" behind the connection between what we eat and how we feel. A great place to start is knowing that everyone is different and everyone needs something different when it comes to their diet. Take the first step in redefining your relationship with food and listen to this great episode.  Show Notes: Contact Kara: kara@nourishandnoshct.com Nourish + Nosh Nutrition Serve It With SARAH Cookbook "Differences Between a Dietitian and Nutritionist" Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

We are excited to introduce Vicki DeVeau onto this month's episode of Ninety-Nine Percent Effective. Vicki is a licensed clinical social worker, a part-time instructor for the University of Kentucky, an outpatient therapist, and a Doctoral candidate!  She is joining us to discuss Connecticut's Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings. Do you how to prepare for your child's PPT? Are there forms and documents you should bring? How often should this group meet? These are just a few of the questions answered in this month's episode - listen here for the rest. Show Notes: A Parent's Guide to Special Education in Connecticut 2021 A Guide to Supporting Peer Interaction for Students who Use AAC Connecticut's Individualized Education Program (IEP) - Planning and Placement Team (PPT) Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) Connecticut's Planning and Placement Team (PPT) Processes and Individualized Education Program (IEP) Forms Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

This month George and Tesha sit down with Shannon Taber, the Director of Inclusion and Accessibility at United Cerebral Palsy of Eastern Connecticut. Assistive Technology has been around for years, but has recently become more prevalent in our communities. Listen to this episode to find out the key AT takeaways are in Connecticut including: what is AT, what are the costs involved, and what are your options. Show Notes: Shannon Taber Contact Information: staber@ucpect.org UCP's Assistive Technology Center Oak Hill Assistive Technology Connecticut Tech Act Project (CTTAP) ATECH, Assistive Technology in Action CT Assistive Technology = https://portal.ct.gov/DDS/General/AssistiveTechnology/Assistive-Technology The Life-changing Power of Assistive Technologies Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced and edited by Stephanie Cona Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to hosts and speakers do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.’s.

Connecticut is right in the middle of its legislative session and SARAH Solutions is using this opportunity to re-release our legislative episode featuring Quentin "Q" Williams, previously known as Q Phipps. Q is a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives from the 100th district in Middlesex County. Representative Williams discusses the importance of being involved in the legislative sessions and how best to have your voice heard. In this episode you will learn how you can truly make a positive impact in your community. Show Notes: Serve It with SARAH Cook Book Q William's Phone Number - 860-830-5407 Equity CT Connecticut Voices for Children How to find your Connecticut Legislators National Disability Rights Network - Information on voting The ARC CT Connecticut Secretary of the State - "Voters with Disabilities Fact Sheet" "Tips for Communicating with Legislators" - American Battlefield Trust Have a question or want to leave us feedback? Email us at sarahsolutions@sarah-inc.org or call us at 860-399-1888 ext 200. Intro music composed by James F. Hodgdon.  Ninety-Nine Percent Effective is produced by Stephanie Cona  *At the time of the recording Q Williams went by Q Phipps. We rerecorded the beginning of the episode but there may still be references to his previous name.* Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed during this episode belonging to Quentin Williams do not necessarily reflect SARAH Inc.'s.