Indiana Family to Family

TO: Consumers, Families, Providers and Advocates FROM: Peter Bisbecos, DDRS Director DATE: February 1, 2008 RE: Sheltered Work It has come to my attention that there is a rumor being spread that the State is planning to limit, or eliminate, sheltered work. Let me be clear—this rumor is false. While it is not my practice to address rumors and speculation, I feel we must address this issue based on numerous emails and calls expressing fear and frustration on this subject. I am deeply concerned that this particular rumor is causing distress to the many people who rely on sheltered work and their families. The origins of this rumor rest with a conversation that the State began with some providers and advocates regarding the future of day programs, including sheltered work. Our intent is to ensure flexibility, opportunity and maximum use of funds so that we may serve more people with the money entrusted to us by the Indiana Legislature. Part of that d

• Autism Society of Indiana • IN*SOURCE • The Arc of Indiana • Learning Disabilities Association of Indiana • About Special Kids • Reliable Alliance In Special Education, Inc • National Alliance on Mental Illness of Indiana • Indiana Hands & Voices • Down Syndrome Family Support and Advocacy Group • ATTIC, Inc. • The Fifth Freedom Network • Governor's Council for People with Disabilities • H.E.L.P. Our Kids • Hamilton County Autism Support Group • Autism/Asperger Family Support • HBM Choices • Northwest Indiana Chapter of the National Autism Association • NICE • Power Program • Indianapolis Special Needs Moms Writing Group • Better Than Ordinary • Children's Mental Health Advocacy Project • Applied Behavior Center of IN for autism • Philpot Law Office LLC • The Curlin Law Office • Family Action Network of Lake County • Families Reaching for Rainbows, Inc

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