ACI Hosts First Core Advisory Group in New Jersey

On June 8th, ACI hosted the first Core Advisory Group (CAG) in New Jersey. Individuals with disabilities, FEMA, the Middlesex County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and interested organizations met to discuss the unequal treatment people with disabilities receive in disasters.

The intention of the Core Advisory Group (CAG) is to meet on a monthly basis and partner on solutions and recommendations for people with disabilities to be better prepared and respond to disasters. This is a great opportunity to make effective changes in how emergency services are provided in the event of a disaster. If you are a Middlesex County resident and would like to get involved, contact Carole at ctonks@adacil.org.

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Emergency Preparedness.

Laughter Yoga

Beverly Burns, Director of Prevention Education at Advancing Opportunities/CP of NJ presented a workshop on Drug and Alcohol prevention. After the class, Beverly led the group in a unique exercise routine called Laughter Yoga. Laughter Yoga combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing (Pranayama) which brings in more oxygen to the body and brain making one feel more energetic and healthy. Thanks Beverly for the laughs!

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Workshop, Health.

ACI Encourages Stress Reduction and Relaxation with Reiki Day

As part of our Health and Wellness Program, Carole Tonks and Salma Harris provided 20 minute Reiki sessions to ACI members. Reiki is a technique for stress reduction and relaxation that allows everyone to tap into an unlimited supply of "life force energy" to improve health and enhance the quality of life.

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Health.

Drum Circle for Kids

On May 28th, ACI held a drum circle activity for members of Miss Joy's Exceptional Dancers dance troupe. The children learned about ways to express themselves through music and drumming!

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Workshop.

ACI Participates in 32nd Annual Career Options Day

ACI participated in Career Options Day on April 29th. The event, sponsored by the Vocational Rehabilitation Department at JFK Rehabilitation Institute, drew hundreds of job seekers with disabilities and dozens of government agencies, businesses and non-profit organizations interested in filling vacancies.

Posted on June 18, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella.

Pfizer Provides Resume Writing Tips to People with Disabilities Seeking Employment

Representatives from the human resources department at Pfizer gave an informative workshop on resume writing and job search tips to a group of job seekers at ACI. Thank you to Janice Burke and Joel Knippel of Pfizer and to everyone who attended.

Posted on June 17, 2015 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Workshop.

NJ Considers Expansion of Casinos to Increase Casino Revenue Fund

Casino gaming and its expansion into northern New Jersey continues to raise questions from all corners of the state, with considerable discussion about the billions in private investment, thousands of jobs, and hundred of millions in state revenues. While these components are crucial, one issue that has not been discussed often enough is the impact gaming expansion would have in terms of aid to New Jersey's disabled and senior communities.

The Casino Revenue Fund (CRF), which as the name suggests receives funds from the tax revenues gained from New Jersey casinos, has a constitutional mission of directing valuable funding to programs that support low-income seniors and disabled residents.

As gaming revenue continues its declining trend, these necessary programs are put under increased financial stress. Paired with an increase in demand, the mission of the CRF and the vital services it provides, which assist individuals with disabilities and seniors who want to live independently in New Jersey, are being put into great danger.