Joe Madrid
CEO/Executive Director

   This fiscal year includes Tobosa’s 27th year of providing services in Chaves County. In January 2006, Tobosa lost a Charter Member of the Board of Directors. Baudelio “Bobby” Ramirez was one of the originating members of the Board of Directors who created Tobosa from the Chaves County Association for Retarded Citizens in 1978. Bobby served on the Board from 1978 until the time of his death: a little over 27 years. I highlight his passing in this message because Bobby, through his 27+ years of Board service, very seldom missed a Board meeting. He was always available for whatever project or activity Tobosa was conducting, often arriving before the designated time. He truly believed in Tobosa: its mission and its services to people in need. Bobby was around to see the differences we made as we progressed from deinstitionalizing the Villa Solano (and later Fort Stanton and Los Lunas) state institutions to the closing of our own sheltered workshop to current services emphasizing complete community integration and personal determination. Bobby was proud to be a founding and continuing active member of the Board of Directors. We certainly miss his ready smile and chit chat. He was quite a guy and a model board member.
   2005-2006 also saw Tobosa staff actively beginning some interesting and exciting work on changing the concept of provision of adult day services. We took a long hard look at how one Rhode Island agency was providing services and decided to incorporate some of their innovative ideas into our service models. This led to the closing of our group day service facility in 2007 (the Clubhouse) which had more or less became a gathering place for clients and staff prior to travel into the community for services. In turn, the change made us delve deeper into the concept of client choice and associated client rights and responsibilities. We continue to expand those efforts in the 2006-2007 year.
   As a balance, and for the sake of historical note, we cannot fail to mention the continuing problems we experienced in delayed reimbursements due to the billing system and process. It negatively impacted our service delivery, development and staff morale. Inadequate rates, unfunded mandates, low pay for service personnel, continuing rising costs, and no raises for staff for the third straight year also carried a burden. We managed, but I, from time to time, wish things were a little smoother.
   Yet we continue to persevere and continue our commitment as we look to 2006- 2007. We have begun to realize our efforts to fully support and integrate those we serve into the Chaves County community. We have, in my opinion, one of the best administrative and direct service staff in the State who are willing to do whatever it takes to see individuals served succeed…and a Chaves County community who have proven their cooperation with our efforts. We are indeed grateful for their support and commitment.
   This 2005-2006 annual report is a mere reflection of that work and commitment. It does not, however, show much of the progress seen in many of the individuals we serve, the feeling of togetherness seen in team meetings, the joy and laughter I hear on a daily basis from my little corner of the Tobosa world. A better annual report would be a video of those many moments which motivate all of us here at Tobosa.

    To prepare for the eventual goal to discontinue facility-based day services, Tobosa began to plan differently for day hab and community membership services in 2005- 2006. Individualized schedules were developed to incorporate activities meaningful to each person and common interests were then identified to determine who would most enjoy spending their days together. We began to look for opportunities for people to pursue and expand their interests in community settings rather than offering those opportunities in a segregated facility. For example, Tobosa began to support aspiring artists to take classes at the Roswell Adult Center rather than to provide classes at its day hab facility. This approach has resulted in true community membership for many people and enhanced opportunities to develop acquaintances and make friends. In November 2005, Tobosa embarked on a pilot program to transition from facility-to community-based day services. It was then that the first team of people involved began to come and go from their own homes rather than using the facility as a drop-in point.
   During the fiscal year, Tobosa continued to support people to develop volunteer roles, recognizing that volunteerism is an avenue for building relationships, contributing to the community, and creating employment opportunities.
   Through its day habilitation and community membership services, Tobosa continues to promote true inclusion where people supported by the agency enjoy status in the community that is not defined by their association with Tobosa or the stigma of disability. These efforts were recognized by the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) Southeast Regional Office when it acknowledged Danny Zangara in the summer of 2005 for meaningful contribution to and participation in our community. Danny is a longstanding Kmart employee, Dallas Cowboys fan, Kiwanis club member and campaign volunteer for the Republican party. DDSD also awarded staff member Bryant Tabor for “Direct Support Professional Achievement in Meaningful Day” for treating people with disabilities as people first and valuing their gifts and capacities.

“Celebrate and serve one another, rejoicing in our diversity.” True community inclusion can’t happen without community members and organizations who “recognize that shared need and vulnerability . . . [are] the ‘glue’ of a supportive community.” The Roswell Christian Center clearly espouses this principle and values that “we are fashioned uniquely. . . To worship freely the One who has given us life.” They are appreciative of Kathy Alderman’s novel form of worship, sometimes offering her a tambourine as she dances at the front of the church. The Roswell Christian Center also has found ways for all members to participate in church activities. Fayerene Kiper has been supported to develop an important role at the church serving baked goodies to the kids in Sunday school. Church leaders have found “appropriate ways to increase knowledge and understanding among the members” about Fayerene’s form of communication, explaining to the children that her communication device is in essence her voice.

The Roswell Christian Center is an example of a truly supportive community and because of this was recognized as the state’s “Best Community Organization” by the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division in the summer of 2005. Quotes from “That All May Worship,” National Organization on Disability (2005).

ON THE JOB...

   Tobosa has embraced the “employment first” philosophy and facilitates a continuous process of discovery, exploration and risk to achieve the best fit for each individual who has a desire and is able to work. The ultimate goal of employment services is to obtain community employment for everyone.
   In 2005-2006, Tobosa supported four (4) individuals to obtain and keep jobs in the community. Several others gained work experience through jobs that, while they didn’t endure, served to help them further define their true career desires. There are another nine (9) whose approximate average length of employment in community jobs is four (4) years. Tobosa is beginning to explore the possibility of entrepreneurship for individuals whose experience in traditional work environments has not been successful.
   Two of the jobs obtained in the past fiscal year were at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC) in Artesia. Employees Tim Covert and Jesse Moore enjoy competitive wages and benefits. Tobosa also negotiated a contract with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to provide transportation for other locals who work at FLETC.
   In the summer of 2005, Tobosa Developmental Services was awarded “Best Supported Employment Provider” in the Southeast Region the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division Regional Office. Tobosa was recognized for innovative practices and successful outcomes in employment for people with developmental disabilities. Job coach Carman Martin was also recognized by the Regional Office for her consistent support and optimism that has resulted in long-term community employment for Daniel Madrid.

Lawrence Moncada works at Westlake watering the plants and straightening merchandise on the shelves. Lawrence has developed a great relationship with the general manager, Phillip, and Mr. Lorton, the assistant manager. He always greets Phillip with a handshake and a thumbs up and Mr. Lorton with a high five and a smile. Both of his bosses state that Lawrence is a hard worker and they like the fact that he always has a smile and seems to be in a good mood. Lawrence is also very meticulous with straightening the shelves and will not leave until he gets the job done. Lawrence is currently working on learning how to utilize their computer system to independently clock himself in and out.

   A thrust of Tobosa’s efforts in the fiscal year was dedicated to empowering people in their homes. Support staff worked to identify and nurture opportunities for choicemaking, skill development, communication and self advocacy to promote ownership and control for people receiving support in their homes. Others were assisted to make desired home improvements.
   Randy and Charlyce have lived as husband and wife for several years. They own their own home in a nice neighborhood in the Roswell community. Randy, like a lot of guys, is a regular at Home Depot, where he and Charlyce have purchased many of the materials needed to improve their home. In the past year, they’ve installed new tile, countertops, a vanity and blinds.

A 2005-2006 survey indicated that 100% of adult survey respondents were highly satisfied with the support they received to:

Stay healthy
Make choices
Pursue interests
Have privacy
Get places & connect with people
Become the person they want to be
Respect values & culture

94% to 97% responded they were very pleased with Tobosa’s efforts to keep them safe, respect their rights and values, involve them in the community, help learn new skills, encourage them to do things independently, help to live the lives they want, and nurture self-esteem.

Over 90% of families responding strongly agree that Tobosa supports their loved ones to:

Be safe & free from abuse
Maintain dignity
Exercise rights
Maintain privacy
Make choices
Be included in the community
Develop & maintain family relationships
Pursue interests
Learn new skills

One hundred percent (100%) of family members responding to a survey say Tobosa respects the values and culture of their loved ones. In fact, Tobosa has been increasingly thoughtful about supporting people to connect to and celebrate their culture.

Staying Healthy. . .

Family members are extremely pleased with Tobosa’s efforts to help their loved ones stay healthy. Some of those efforts include expansion of the Certified Medication Aide (CMA) Program during the fiscal year to include 29 CMAs, whose responsibility it is to administer medications. In the spring of 2006, Tobosa campaigned to get all staff up-to-date in health related training by offering evening and weekend sessions. With the invaluable assistance of consulting pharmacist, Charles Shannon, the Health & Safety Program staff weathered the Medicare Part D switchover and has learned to be vigilant so that people don’t experience a gap in health care coverage.

Children ’s Services
Home Awa y From Home. . .
   Play and care giving experiences offer opportunities for young children to learn in a warm, rich environment at Los Pasitos Learning Center. Moms and dads have peace of mind knowing their children’s needs are met due to high staff-to-child ratios and small group sizes. The kids enjoy and thrive under the attention. Carefully designed indoor and outdoor environments facilitate easier supervision of children, enabling teachers to interact with children more consistently, observe and assess their ongoing development, and develop individualized teaching and support strategies. Parents rest assured that their kids are safe. The children just know they’re having fun.
 
   Los Pasitos participates in AIM HIGH, a project of the Office of Child Development to improve the quality of child care services. The learning center reached Level 2 by the fiscal year’s end, having met high quality standards related to staff qualifications and physical environment.

Highlights and Outcomes for 2005-2006
Growing Up . . .
   Julio is a toddler who loves his mom and – like lots of young children – had it tough when it came time to be dropped off at day care. Not having been around other children a lot, he had typical difficulty with sharing and playing with others. Over time, Julio became more secure in his relationships with the nurturing staff at Los Pasitos, so that he eventually was able to say goodbye to mom without anxiety when dropped off. Julio also received the attention he needed to learn about interacting positively with other children. He now shares and enjoys playing alongside his peers at Los Pasitos, where he has discovered the pleasure of being a kid!

Responding to the Community. . .
   Julie Donahue, a developmental specialist with Los Pasitos, started a “twins group” in February 2006, creating an opportunity for families with twins to share information and support.
   Showing their commitment to families in need, the employees of Tobosa and Los Pasitos joined with other community members in a “Secret Santa” campaign. For the Christmas holiday 2005, a group purchased gifts for several children in the community.

Highlights and Outcomes for 2005-2006
Growing Together. . .
When Ed and Laura Carpenter heard their grandchildren were in foster care in California, they initiated efforts to gain custody. When the children, ages one and two-years, came to live with the Carpenters, they had lived in several foster homes. Laura sought support from the Los Pasitos Early Intervention Program and both children were qualified to receive services. Laura diligently pursued knowledge of child development from the family’s developmental specialist and, as a result, she and her husband have learned how to best support healthy growth and development for the children, as well as to build positive relationships with them. Through support from Los Pasitos, Laura has become empowered to advocate on behalf of her grandchildren. Effectiveness & Satisfaction 96% to 98% of parents responding to a 2005-2006 survey indicated they were highly satisfied with the early intervention program’s efforts in the following areas: Support positive interactions between parents & children Contribute to a positive view of the future Offer options, ideas, resources & information to meet the families’ needs Communicate with therapists and other professionals Understand their child’s development Help children participate in community activities Inform parents of their rights 91% to 92 responded they were very satisfied with the early intervention team’s efforts to: Help their child function in daily activities Help their child learn new skills 100% of the parents who responded said they were satisfied overall with the services they received.

2005 Annual Banquet Award Recipients
2005-2006 Board Members
Individual Achievement Award: Daniel Madrid
Employee of the Year: Roberta Jackson
Board of Directors Helping Hand Award: United Way of Chaves County
Employees with 5 years of service:
Denise Romero-Rhein, Paula Weaks, Lorenzo Lizcano, Teresa McFarlene, Carmen Ruiz, Harry Brown, Bonnie Lasiter, Scott Lasiter, Cecilia “Cissy” Montoya, Michael Harvey, Courtney Ikard, Manuel Marin, Steve Kane, Melinda Olivas, Krista Quiroz Employees with 10 years of service: Roberta Jackson, Deborah Warner, Tami Orona, Henry Orona
Years Participating in Program: Tim Appel, 5 years; Fayerene Kiper, Daniel Madrid, 10 years; Randy Garcia, Denise Hanes, Bonnie House, Charles Thompson, 20 years
Community Supporter of the Year: Spring River Zoo
Los Pasitos Volunteer of the Year: Jackie Males

2005-2006 Board Members
Doris Callaway, President
Baudelio Ramirez, Vice-President
Cecelia Solis, Secretary
Suzanne Berry, Ph.D, Treasurer

David Chavez
Lynn Daugherty, Ph.D
Vernon Dyer
Tom Dunlap
Rachel Durand
Ivan Hall
 

Larry Holland
Bonnie House
Irene C. Johnson, CPA
 Joe Vargas
Freddie Washington
 

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Joe H. Madrid, Executive Director
Gloria Perry, Programs Administrator
Joan Blodgett, Executive Secretary
Karolyn Anderson, Program Director

Michelle Lyon, Program Director
Lois Harmon, Health and Safety Program Director
Carrie Bartlett, Early Childhood Program Director
Rosy Rubio, Operations Administrator
 Kay Lilley Bhakta, Programs Administrator

2005-2006 Revenues & Expenditures

2005 - 2006 Revenues: $6,621,373.86

2005 - 2006 Expenditures: $6,390,048.38

2005-2006 Revenues & Expenditures
Revenues and Expenses
by Program Component

Revenues

In Memory of...
Charter Board Member:
Baudelio “Bobby”Ramirez
On January 25, 2006, Tobosa lost a great friend when Bobby passed from this life. Bobby was a board member since Tobosa’s inception in September 1978. He served as President of the Board for many years and then as Vice-President. Bobby prided himself on hiring the right staff to run the program and was very proud that he was involved in hiring our current Executive Director, Joe Madrid, in the spring of 1979. Bobby was not only involved in improving the lives of individuals supported by Tobosa but was also involved with other programs in Roswell. In his twenty-eight (28) years of services as a Tobosa Board Member, Bobby only missed a handful of Board meetings. His attendance and commitment to Tobosa were exemplary. Bobby was always glad to see you with a ready smile on his face, and always took a few minutes to chat. He was proud of his family as well as his years spent as Municipal Judge. Bobby made a difference in a lot of peoples’ lives, especially those at Tobosa. We were sad to lose such a great friend but his memory lives on at Tobosa. Well done, Bobby! We were proud to have been a part of his circle of friends.