Inside Networks

Positioning Matters!
By Tracy Lapreziosa, MA, OTR/L

Did you ever visit someone’s home and they have this huge comfy couch that they direct you to sit on?
Looks comfy, so you sink yourself down onto the cushions. You sink down in and your hips are slightly below your knees and your back is not against the back of the couch. You feel like you are sitting in a bit too much of an alert posture so you push yourself back in search of the back support. However, as you move backward, the back of your knees hits the end of the seat so unless you want your legs sticking straight out like a child, you are kind of stuck. So you lean back to rest against the back of the couch. Now you find yourself in an awkward uncomfortable position of having the top of the pelvis tilted back and the bottom forward causing you to slouch big time.
Of course, now your host offers you a drink or snack. Do you stay in this position or wiggle your way back to the hyper-alert position? If you stay in the slouched position, you may end up having difficulty swallowing your food or drink and of course you can’t reach anywhere to set your items. You wiggle forward to the very front edge of the seat so your knees are lower than your hips and you can refrain from slouching and hopefully have access to a coffee table to set your beverage. More importantly, you may need the table to push yourself back up to standing when it’s time to leave!
Does this sound familiar?
Why does posture matter?
Positioning is so important for our comfort, physical health and ability to function at our best. Recently, we have all been reading and hearing about how sitting too much increases our risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, so we now are focusing on the need to get up and move and take breaks. However, there are a number of things to keep in mind when choosing a seat that we need to sit on for longer periods of time to complete activities, work tasks or even relaxing with a friend.
First, we need to consider the height of the seat. If our feet can rest flat on the floor, it will provide a strong base of support for greater stability for maintaining appropriate posture and using our hands to do work. Our knees, hips and ankles should be at approximately 90 degrees. Have you ever sat on a higher stool type chair with no rung to stabilize your feet? It gets quite fatiguing and you begin to feel the pinch of nerves on the back of your thighs. Do you remember having that seat in grade school where your feet didn’t touch? What did you do? Most young children who are not given appropriate seat heights are either wiggling all around due to fatigue or have their legs and feet wrapped around the chair legs to give them a stable base.
Next we need to think about the depth of the seat. If the seat is too deep like the comfy couch, we will not be able to rest our feet on the floor for support and have access to a back support at the same time, which will promote slouching and poor posture and all the difficulties that develop with malalignment of the spine when trying to complete basic life activities, work tasks or leisure pursuits. Our hips/ backside should touch the back of the seat while feet are flat on the floor. When we are in the proper position, our arms and hands have greater stability and control to complete work or fun leisure activities.
Our body should always be directly facing and aligned to whatever activity we are doing. If using a work surface, it should be below chest level and materials placed where we can best see them without flexing our head forward too much. If we try to complete our daily activities with poor posture, it can lead to health issues, aches and pains, limited mobility, attention and energy to get through the day. Posture does matter during work, school, everyday life activities, and play!

Can it be??!!

Unbelievably, yes, Networks is now 25 years old!

While it’s certainly time to celebrate, it is also important to remember all those who have traveled with us, helped us, challenged us, cheered us on, & joined with us over these amazing 25 years.  You helped us realize our vision & assisted us to become more of who we are today.

Together we have

• fought injustices & discrimination
• encouraged others to find & raise their voices
• re-imagined schools, workplaces, communities, & lives
• assisted groups to coalescence around important issues
• found solutions (or at least some parts of solutions) to change the world to embrace ALL people.

We are still going strong & look to the next 25+ years of hard but exhilarating work.

But first, we will be taking time each month this year to look back, honor, & celebrate.

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This month we offer…

Networks’ Community and Organizational Development Services: What It’s All About

“Ours is a blend of business savvy and giving back to the world.”

This tagline has been part of our Community and Organizational Development service description for many years, but what does it really mean?

Since Networks’ beginnings way back in 1992, we quickly learned the importance of not only applying best practices within our organization, but also passing them along to others. And more than 25 years later, as we continue to evolve and learn more about this ourselves, we share these often-tough lessons with others. In a sense, herein lies the core of our work.

In the earlier years, this work took the form of things like: Assistance with systems planning, our popular (and often required) Trainers’ Training Series on various topics, and such hallmark courses as The Basics of Supervision and The Communication Mentors’ Course.  And as our audiences have challenged us in many ways to offer more, we have tried our best to rise to the occasion. For some, this has meant offering a customized curriculum on-site. For others, it was exploring remote offerings like our current “Think-In” format, which are regularly-scheduled conference calls on various topics.  And at times, offering our expertise with those involved in forming their non-profit, or providing “incubator” services to new start-ups.

Not only have the style of some of our events changed, but also the topical areas as well, in order to directly reflect the changing times. All of this, while staying true to our organizational mission. Within our Community and Organizational Development service area, we assist groups of varying sizes – from a small team or a board, to a large group, or a whole system. We do not set limits on our potential to impact our important work.

As the cliché goes, “be the pebble in the pond that creates the ripple for change.” And while Networks’ is small in number, our ripple effect has brought about meaningful change and growth amongst hundreds, if not thousands over our organization’s history.  Perhaps that pebble is an innovative training series. Or a retreat. Or a workshop on a needed topic. Or even assistance with a long-term strategic plan or initiative.

And as we continue to grow, we look forward to offering more innovation, more creativity, and most importantly, relevant learning opportunities.

Can it be??!!

Unbelievably, yes, Networks is now 25 years old!

While it’s certainly time to celebrate, it is also important to remember all those who have traveled with us, helped us, challenged us, cheered us on, & joined with us over these amazing 25 years.  You helped us realize our vision & assisted us to become more of who we are today.

Together we have

• fought injustices & discrimination
• encouraged others to find & raise their voices
• re-imagined schools, workplaces, communities, & lives
• assisted groups to coalescence around important issues
• found solutions (or at least some parts of solutions) to change the world to embrace ALL people.

We are still going strong & look to the next 25+ years of hard but exhilarating work.

But first, we will be taking time each month this year to look back, honor, & celebrate.

This month we are overjoyed to bring you some thoughts from a few more of Networks’ folks…. their perspective on what Networks is! ♥

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What is Networks to me?

Wow! So many thoughts come to mind – and memories. I first became involved with Networks while “looking for another way” to do things. I knew there had to be better ways to interact with, teach, and support people than I was being shown. At Networks I found people with similar values, passions, and beliefs. All people should be valued, and be fully included in their communities, and are deserving of respect. I came to as many Networks’ trainings as I could.

 When I was approached about coming to work at Networks I was ecstatic… Unfortunately, events in my life made it impossible for me to accept at that time. The folks at Networks understood, and I was thrilled to be able to join them a year later. I started out helping those who were moving out of Embreeville State Hospital to envision and plan for lives in their new communities. It was a privilege to be part of this project.

When surgery resulted in my losing the use of my voice for some time (a little over a year) my friends / colleagues stepped up to help me find a way to have a voice. They also stood by me while I explored new areas of expertise, and began working with the technology at Networks. As a result of these experiences I discovered a new passion – ensuring the accessibility of technology for all users. Networks supported me as I explored this new passion, and secured my Masters degree (with Networks’ help and support) in Information Technology in Education.

This October it will be 22 years since I came to Networks. I have not only found like-minded colleagues, but I have also found friends and family. We have worked and played together, sharing smiles, laughter, and tears. Thank you Networks for not only providing a place to support people the way they should be, but also for providing an environment where people are encouraged to learn, grow, and explore new experiences / passions, while working together to make our communities welcoming to all!  

(Diane Kehoe: Director of Technology Services)

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Networks is…  creating opportunities for everyone to be the best version of themselves. I first learned of Networks when I was an intern with the Philadelphia Department of Intellectual disAbility Services. Initially, this internship was supposed to last two months. However, thanks to Networks’ programming and support, I was able to stay on and work in the department through graduation. 

 Over the course of my two and a half years at IDS, I had the chance to participate in disability rights workshops, help develop employment and Lifesharing PATHs, and create written and video spotlights on a number of self advocates. These work experiences have had a lasting impact on my life. In fact, after leaving IDS I worked for a Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) in Philadelphia for three years. If I had not worked at IDS or worked with Networks, that would not have happened.

 Without Networks, and the incredible people I’ve met through the organization, I wouldn’t be who I am today. When the Networks team comes together to solve a problem, they do so with a level of creativity, thoughtfulness and understanding that is par to none. Because of my experiences with Networks, I make a conscious effort to always use inclusive language and strive to include everyone – regardless of ability – in conversations and in projects. They have truly left a positive impact on my life that has made me a better person, employee, wife, sister and friend.

Networks is working to make the world a better place. I consider myself lucky to be a part of the organization – and am thankful for everything they do to support individuals with disabilities, like my brother, Arik. Here’s to 35 more years of groundbreaking work! 

(Alyssa Shaffer: Wise Guide and Board Member)

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Years ago, I visited the Valley Forge office and noticed the lovely collection of wands on Rosa’s desk.  Of course, a wand is often associated with magic, which is easy to associate with the work of Networks, but there are other definitions of the word “wand” that I think work too.

When a wand is a device admitting a beam, Networks supports you in finding your path.

When a wand is a target in archery, Networks is a place that people have grown to know as a place to come for answers and support.

 When a wand is a security device, Networks will listen fully and respectfully.

 When a wand is a beauty tool, Wholistic Practices provides centering, physical and emotional healing through reiki and other types of bodywork.

 When a wand is a stick giving length or leverage, Networks’ many training opportunities give our communities confidence and knowledge to live fuller lives.

Networks is a place to go with a question, and to be empowered to find answers. Networks is wands.   

(Gerry Arango: Longtime Friend, Supporter, and Consultant)

Networks is comforting, loving, joyful, and easy….. and yet also struggling, demanding, hard, and sometimes riddled with gut-wrenching questions.  Networks is a kaleidoscope of shared dreams.  Networks is swirling blurry visions and crystal-clear pointed direct steps. Networks is hand-holding and hugging, while also kicking-in-the-butt to action.  Networks is outspoken and humble, shining examples and always most comfortable in the background.  Networks is an amazingly 25 year old ride of truth.  Networks is my family, my home, my history, my present, and my forever future. 

(Rosa McAllister, Co-Founder and Organizational Advisor)

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Networks is more than a job. It’s family. I have been connected with Networks since 2000. I was looking for work at the time. OVR got me in contact with Networks and I started looking for work. There were quite a few times that I almost was able to get a job but for one reason or another it didn’t work out. There were many trials and tribulations but one constant was always Networks.  

 It took over four years to finally get my job.  Getting my job changed my life. Before my job I didn’t really do anything except watch TV and movies. It gave me purpose and I felt like a productive citizen. It made my life complete. Getting my first paycheck felt amazing. The most important part of Networks are the people. The people at Networks are what makes it what it is.   

(Andrew Vizuete: IT Support and Service Specialist)

—————–

So what is Networks?  As I sit here writing, I am just about to leave an inclusive surfing event in North Wildwood. While at this event, I really saw what Networks is……..

 Networks is about dreaming to live life to its fullest, whatever that may be.  This came to me as I stood in the water, watching and listening to a young lady waiting for her turn to surf.  She says to her mom that she wants to be alone in the water.  Her mom says no, she will stay together.  The look of sadness was evident on this young lady’s face.  A few minutes later, it was her turn to surf. Finally, she got a wave and for those few seconds, as she rode the wave in, she was in the ocean on her own.  Her smile was contagious.  There was a moment of pride when she said, “I did it, I did it by myself!” and the smile on her mom as she said, “Yes, yes you did!” Networks is about EVERYONE living the life of their choice.  Living with whom they want, living where they want, and working where they want.   

(Joe Murphy: Supports and Technology Coordinator)

Can it be??!!

Unbelievably, yes, Networks is now 25 years old!

While it’s certainly time to celebrate, it is also important to remember all those who have traveled with us, helped us, challenged us, cheered us on, & joined with us over these amazing 25 years.  You helped us realize our vision & assisted us to become more of who we are today.

Together we have

• fought injustices & discrimination
• encouraged others to find & raise their voices
• re-imagined schools, workplaces, communities, & lives
• assisted groups to coalescence around important issues
• found solutions (or at least some parts of solutions) to change the world to embrace ALL people.

We are still going strong & look to the next 25+ years of hard but exhilarating work.

But first, we will be taking time each month this year to look back, honor, & celebrate.

——————————

At Networks, we’ve done a lot of innovative, creative, and what some might consider “off the wall” things over the years.  I think we kind of pride ourselves on that. 😉

One of the more recent “off the wall” areas of exploration has been getting into offering our newest service area, “Wholistic Practices”.

I am sure there was talk consisting of, “What in the world are those hippy tree  huggers doing now?” when we first started openly advertising these new activities.  We’re not all hippy tree huggers at Networks, but some of us are… some of use like to wear tie dye, Birkenstocks, run wild and free among the country side… sit around campfires and sing songs while playing a guitar… play in the ocean, connect to the community, embrace and believe this world is for everyone, make change, push boundaries, hug, laugh, eat good food, touch and connect with others, hmmmm… well then maybe we are hippy tree huggers (without the tie dye and Birks on everyone)!

We are a fun group of marauders, no doubt.  And we also believe deeply that everyone is connected and relationships are vital to our existence.  Touch is as important if not more so… those who we’ve had the honor to walk with over these 25 years live in a desert of touch – and, in turn, a desert of loneliness… and potentially a desert of (un)wellness.  We want to change that.  We want to show communities and systems that “alternative” modalities (such as massage, meditation, energy work, breathing techniques, aromatherapy, sound healing, and more) can be real and viable options for everyone – to increase our place in this world.  And our wellness in life.

In a time when the world is swirling and feeling (at times) tumultuous and uncertain, we want to show there is a small light.  There IS a way to explore different.  There ARE additional ways and considerations to support ourselves and those we are honored to support.  The beauty of it all?  It’s not hard.  Wellness, however that exists for a person, should be a true and viable option.  People shouldn’t have to go to a “special” center for massage or seek treatment from a practitioner “specially certified to work with [insert the condescending terminology of your choice]”…  We want to create a lasting change.  Bodywork practitioners can (and do!) adapt their practice.  Can’t get in an anti-gravity chair to get reflexology?  No problem.  We’ll lay on the floor to get a good angle to hone in on those pressure points on your feet.  Supporters don’t think she/he would like to get a massage?  Come on… let the person decide for themselves!

Let’s gently (or maybe not so gently) push the norm and status quo of what we think “wellness” should be.   The person you support lost 5 pounds in the last month, hasn’t had any “aggressive behaviors” in the last 2 weeks but concurrently, takes 15 medications a day, doesn’t have a job but attends a social group 3 times a week, is ostracized by their family, lives with a history of trauma, has no “FRIENDS” (other than the folks who are paid to be with him…) – but they’re happy, you say?  Their doctor gave them a good bill of health.  But, is this person living well??  It’s all in terms of what we view as living well and being “well.”  Did we every ask this person what they think living well looks like?  Or how they would like to live???

Let’s dance more… laugh more… sing together and eat good food – together.  Let’s work together to explore what it means to be well and how we can assist others to live their lives well and in how THEY WANT.

Let’s stop making decisions for others, let’s stop putting the brakes on trying something new (“Massage?  But she/he HATES to be touched!” …do they, really?).

Let’s stop dictating what someone else’s life looks like and is formed into being.

Let’s ask more questions.

Let’s try more things.

Let there be more responses of “HELL YES!” instead of… “Nope, that won’t work for ‘my’ person.”

Let’s connect.

Let’s do this…. now!!

“In many shamanic societies, if you came to a medicine person complaining of being disheartened, dispirited, or depressed, they would ask one of four questions: “When did you stop dancing? When did you stop singing? When did you stop being enchanted by stories? When did you stop being comforted by the sweet territory of silence?”
–Gabrielle Roth