MovingForward

On e Step At A T ime

MovingForward

Camp Tumbleweed .................... 5 Way to go! ................................ 5 Supporting PC Schools ............. 5

My Heart’s Appeal .................... 6 Moms, Grads and Dads ............. 6Prism Place Promotions ............ 7

Spring Edition March 2016

Dale Rogers Training Centerquarterly

New website .............................. 3Workforce education .................. 4 Disability Awareness Month ... 4

Bla

zing

Tra

ils, P

rom

otin

g A

bilit

ies

Sin

ce 1

953

2

To survive in this economy of changes in the field of training and disabilities, you have to be creative and proactive. Dale Rogers was both.

There are reasons nonprofits like Dale Rogers Training Center and fast food franchises like Papa Murphy’s haven’t tried to combine partnerships and franchises before – we are not a natural match. Our hearts were in the right place; we wanted to support vulnerable adults and train high school teens to gain skills, speed and work experience. Kudos to all successful fast food franchise owners – it’s harder than it looks!

Our little store on NW 23rd and Pennsylvania wasn’t ever a great location for take and bake pizza. Soon after we moved into our little strip mall, with its little liquor store, we were joined by a Vape Lounge and started having difficulty with vagrants. Our priority is always to keep everyone safe. We have endured most any calamity a fast

food location can have, including a car through the front of the store and stealing; many of our teens came from disadvantaged homes, they were hungry or had no money for the bus ride home.

Our job expectations were basic for the folks with disabilities: show up for your shift; learn the basics (measuring out pepperonis for those who can’t count, picture menus for those who can’t read). Teaching folks with cognitive disabilities consistent hygiene and customer service was no small feat. We didn’t realize how much a difference the speed of production levels could create (our first pizza took 17 minutes instead of 6!).

On Monday mornings at weekly management meeting, we would discuss everything that went right and wrong at Papa Murphy’s that weekend – we called our little group (Papa) Murphy’s Law (Firm). It was not unusual to see any of us making pizza during a Friday night rush. I wrote a little Christmas song based on what actually happened over Christmas break during the holidays – goes something like this (loosely to the tune of The Twelve Days of Christmas).

Twelve Days Around Christmas

On the 19th day of December, OG&E took from me – all our power and el-ec-tri-ci-tee

On the 23rd day of December, weather looking pretty grim, three more staff can’t make it in

On the 24th day of December, Mother Nature gave to us, snow and ice, couldn’t find Uber or bus

By the end of December, Dale Rogers did decree – Store to close again!?# Are you seriously kidding me?

The dough wasn’t rising

A mixer part had broken

No food for the “make” lines

Roof leaks a leaking

Chunks of ice a dripping

Our accountant was snowbound

Kitchen keys were missing

Computer not taking credit cards

Walk-in fridge a-warming

Are you seriously kidding me?

By the way, sales WERE GREAT for the holidays and Super Bowl weekend. Don’t forget to stop by for yours!

Yes, I will keep my day job a little while longer! I foresee no Grammy’s in my future.

Connie Thrash McGoodwin, M.Ed Executive Director

Connie Thrash McGoodwin, M. Ed.

From the Director

Dale rogers training Center

Cheryl Moore DRTC Board President

Connie Thrash McGoodwin, M. Ed, Executive Director

Michael T. Jones PR/Marketing Manager, Staff Writer

James Helm PR Coordinator, Staff Writer

Brian Landreth Senior Graphic Designer

The only thing you can depend on is change

3

DRTC digitalHave you been to the new DRTC.org? We’ve updated our website with an easy-to-navigate layout and have accessibility features so more people than ever can enjoy the site.And it’s mobile friendly!Now, whether you’re at home or on the trail, you can logon to see the latest news and updates from your favorite nonprofit.The new design will allow DRTC to better tell its story digitally—highlighted with pictures and videos of the various programs and divisions.While you’re there, be sure to sign up for our email newsletters and be one of the first to know about new happenings in and around Utah Avenue.Our online Robin’s Corner Gift Shop has a new look, too! What are you waiting for? Pull up DRTC.org right now!

4

Students participating in Dale Rogers Training Center’s School-to-Work Transition Program are getting a well-rounded education outside of the classroom, while at the same time preparing for the future.The Moore Transition group recently spent time at DRTC’s Papa Murphy’s learning the tricks of the trade.“I did the dough, sheeting it and spreading it out,” said Shelden, “(and) meat, sausage, chicken, salami, cut onions and tomatoes.”“I like washing dishes,” said Derrick.Skills learned at Papa Murphy’s have already had an immediate impact on the students’ lives.“I know how to put up the dishes. It feels good,” said Will. “It’s my responsibility to do things around (the house) for (my mom).”

Shelden prepared dough

Derrick and Alex help label

Wor

kfo

rce

edu

cati

on

Before these students stepped foot in the door, they underwent the same training as Papa Murphy’s employees.“Students watch various job orientation videos in preparation of working at the store,” explained John Goodwin, DRTC Transition Coordinator. “When they are at Papa Murphy’s, they learn and develop skills like time management, food preparation and customer service.”Students, like Alex, plan on using their experience with DRTC and Papa Murphy’s to spring board themselves into a productive post-high school life. “(I want to) go to OCCC college and do reading, English, Spanish, science, math, music, PE, art, technology,” said Alex.Utilizing Papa Murphy’s as a training ground has proven successful for the Transition Program and is expanding into other programs at DRTC. Adults from the Vocational Services Program have started working at Papa Murphy’s and are learning and refining transferrable skills.Oklahoma City Public Schools students participating in the Transition Program will spend time at the store later this spring.

Side-by-Side

Join the conversation!#sidebysideDD16

Important datesDevelopmental Disability Awareness & Advocacy Day (OK State Capitol) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 14Oklahoma Nonprofit Day . . . . . . . . . . . March 24People with Disabilities Awareness Day (OK State Capitol) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 5

OU Big Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 9Tax Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 15Mother’s Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 8Memorial Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 30

A new social media campaign is kicking off in March in conjunction with National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

It’s called Side-by-Side, and it’s aimed at showing the diverse communities of people, with and without developmental disabilities, living together.

At DRTC, this is not a new concept—individuals taking part in the Mobile Workforce are continually making a difference for businesses as well as other nonprofits by way of volunteering. Their efforts, in turn, benefit others in need throughout the OKC metro. That’s just one example of how people with developmental disabilities are building stronger communities throughout Oklahoma, the nation and the world.

Learn more about the Side-by-Side campaign at nacdd.org

5

Camp Tumbleweed combines the traditional elements of a camp – field trips, crafts, and outdoor activities - with opportunities to develop independence and advocacy skills and start to learn about potential job opportunities after high school.Oklahoma City Public Schools begins the academic school year on August 1st, 2016; as a result the last day of Camp for those students is July 29th, 2016. Camp runs M-F 8am-4:30pm and is located at the DRTC campus – 2501 N. Utah Ave. in OKC.Before & after camp extended care is available at an additional charge.Space is limited and campers are enrolled on a first come, first served basis.Questions?Call John Goodwin at 405-946-4489, #1504; email camptumbleweed@drtc.org; or visit us online at DRTC.org.

CAMPTumbleweed

Supporting PC Schools

Way to go!Darrell is making the most of his position at the DHS Kelly Building for Goodwill Industries. Darrell has been working there since April 2015 and is trying to become a supervisor.“I love my job and getting to know people,” said Darrell. “That’s why I like my work.”So far, Darrell has received an award for perfect attendance and has never been late to work! Great job, Darrell!

SCHEDULE

Session I: June 6-30

Session II: July 5-29 (OKC)

August 5

(Other Districts)

Dale Rogers Training Center is a proud supporter of Putnam City Schools! Recently, Prism Place and Wyman Frame made custom recognition products for retiring Putnam City Boys Basketball Coach A.D. Burtschi.

Built for Success(ories)Did you know DRTC is on Successories.com?You can find select Prism Place acrylic awards on the Florida-based motivational & recognition site—just search Dale Rogers Training Center.Looking for a motivational poster? Wyman Frame can showcase it! We offer framed versions of the Classic Motivational Posters found on Successories.com.

Darrell, Employment Services participant

6

& DadsMoms Grads

My Heart’s AppealDRTC sister agency My Heart’s Appeal (MHA) is closer to reaching its goal of helping provide job opportunities to people with disabilities in Liberia, West Africa.The North Oklahoma City Rotary Club presented MHA Founder and CEO, Lovetie Major, a $3,000 check during the 4th annual benefit dinner held in February. Jill Harrison, Executive Director of Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma, was the guest speaker for the event.Last year, DRTC donated two of its box trucks to help MHA in its efforts to secure funds to purchase 100 acres of land in Liberia to begin construction of its campus in Liberia.

Past meets future at Wyman Frame

“I like working with nice people.” – Cody

Framed Oklahoma Territory Map

DRTC.org/shop

CORNERROBIN’S

SHOP FOR A CAUSES U P P O R T P E O P L E W I T H D I S A B I L I T I E S

Wyman Frame, through a partnership with the Oklahoma History Center, is framing images through our state’s history. From maps, to historical images, to posters, the skilled hands at Wyman Frame can help history come to life! Download our State Contract Catalog at WymanFrame.org to see more examples.

7

_____1) Baseball Cap

_____2) USB Drive

_____3) Coffee Mug

_____4) Writing Pen & Flashlight

_____5) ? Other (email us at: sales@prismplace.org)

Available

Now!

Like us, share us!

Prism Place, a division of Dale Rogers Training Center, has taken an exciting new step in helping provide more jobs for people with disabilities.Known for manufacturing awards and trophies, Prism Place is proud to announce it now provides promotional items.Products range from wristbands to pens to hats and beyond! The possibilities in promoting your business group are virtually endless.Our professional staff can help you complete the order process and get you on track to getting the word out about your company/organization.Go to PrismPlace.org and click on Promotional Items in the menu.

Promotional Favorites

What is your favorite

Prism Place Promotional

Item?

Schmooze with DRTC!How can our abilities make a meaningful impact for your business? Find out at SchmoozaPalooza! DRTC will be at the biannual event, hosted by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. Start Schmoozing today with #SchmoozaPalooza.

SchmoozaPalooza April 5th, 2016 4-7pm

State Fair Park, Oklahoma Expo Hall $10 admission Free parking!

You like us on Facebook. Now what?Share our posts!Help us tell the DRTC story and show how people with disabilities are working and giving back to the community.We’re also on Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest!

8

Find Us! Like Us! Follow Us!

oklahoma nonprofit sinCe 1953

You may have heard of...

But did you know about...

CORNERROBIN’S

SHOP FOR A CAUSES U P P O R T P E O P L E W I T H D I S A B I L I T I E S

Quality Picture Framing

Which supports people with disabilities!

NW 23rd & Pennsylvania, OKC

ONLINE @ DRTC.ORG

Dale Rogers Training Center2501 N. Utah AvenueOklahoma City OK 73107405.946.4489 - TTY 405.947.3872 Video 405-445-7314DRTC.org

Blazing TrailsPromoting Abilities

Our MissionTo provide training and

employment opportunities for people with disabilities.