EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR's Annual Report 2010

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Executive Director's Annual Report

September 29, 2010

When the Council comes together for the 2010 annual meeting, it will mark not only the end of 2010, but also the end of the current State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) 2008-10. This annual meeting presents the opportunity to review the events of the closing year and prepare for the changes taking place in 2011.

The Council's focus in 2010 was the development and writing of the new SPIL 2011-13, in collaboration with the Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS) and the Centers for Independent Living (CILs). During its development, Liz Graves, Chairperson, and several Executive Committee members met numerous times with ORS to negotiate the RISILC’s new budget. At the same time, the federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) was called on for clarification. The end result was a narrow interpretation of the federal regulations regarding SILC’s activities and expenditures and a substantial reduction in the Council's new three-year budget.

 What does this mean going forward?  The Leadership Development and Advocacy Committee (LDA) will change to the Needs Assessment Committee. This Committee’s focus will be to gather the needs of Rhode Islanders with disabilities. The Council’s most important work, the development and writing of the SPIL, is driven by the compilation of these needs. This new committee will be co-chaired by Mary Wambach and Anna Liebenow. With their leadership and your help, I know this committee will see great accomplishments.

Other changes include moving the office to Warren and renting space at the Corliss Institute. In addition, the Executive Director's position has been eliminated, but I have agreed to stay on in a limited capacity, offering technical support for 10 hours a week.

Yes, there are changes and challenges ahead, but the RISILC’s mission remains steadfast – to improve the lives of people with disabilities and advance Independent Living. I am confident that through your continued hard work, commitment, and dedication, you will embrace the changes and overcome the challenges and continue to advance this most important mission. Here’s to all of you and to 2011.

Respectfully submitted,

Camille L. Pansa

Executive Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Respectfully submitted,
Camille L. Pansa
Executive Director