Monarch Capabilities Brochure

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MONARCH www.MonarchNC.org 1.800.235.7525

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The Monarch Mission “Monarch is committed to supporting, educating and empowering people with developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or substance abuse issues to choose and achieve what is important to them.”

The Monarch Vision

At Monarch, we believe that each person

“Monarch will lead the way in the state to creatively support people with developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or substance abuse issues in growing toward their potential, reaching their dreams, and making their own informed choices about where they live, learn, work, play and worship.

Through partnerships and relationships within our community, we will offer a variety of innovative quality

is a unique individual with a personal dream.

services and supports and will promote advocacy, awareness,

For so many years, people with disabilities have been told what to do, where to go, what to eat, and how to spend their time. Daily and major life decisions were made for them. The people at Monarch know that people with disabilities have abilities and dreams - just like anyone else.

recovery, training, employment, and residential opportunities.”

We know that, with a little help, they can direct their lives and reach those dreams. We believe in recovery for people with mental illness.

We know that substance abuse is an illness that can be overcome with the right support and determination. We are here to listen to each person, to help them create a life that is valuable and meaningful to them. And a future worth fighting for.

To learn more about Monarch go to www.MonarchNC.org

Monarch is a nonprofit organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness, and substance abuse issues.

We work with individuals and their families to identify and overcome barriers to reaching their dreams. Everyone is welcome as part of the Monarch family – we are here to help people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. Our dream is your dream. To have your own home, to work in a restaurant, to start your own business. To get through tough times or control your temper. Whatever it is, the folks at Monarch will stop at nothing to help dreams take flight. Some people don’t even know how to dream or have forgotten. That’s okay.

We can help them too.

TH E DR EAM R EVOLUTION You are family to us. We define the Monarch Family as the people we support, their families, and the people who work for Monarch. We include volunteers, supporters and community partners as part of that extended family. We are all brothers and sisters given different roles in life. Each of us has something to give and each of us may receive something in return.

The perceived value may not be obvious to everyone, but a smile or a hug after a long day is well worth the extra hours for the people at Monarch.

We believe that the gift of helping a dream take flight is the greatest gift one can give. As we grow and evolve, we see a future where our efforts will help our family grow making even more dreams come true.

Be a part of the Monarch family and find a way to get involved in any way you can. Visit www.MonarchNC.org or call 1-866.986.1500 to become a part of the Dream Revolution at Monarch.

For true stories about Monarch Dreams go to www.MonarchNC.org.

The family of caring professionals at Monarch work hard to provide a safe and nurturing environment where we are able to work in a more meaningful way with each person.

Relationships are a priority. We involve the people we serve in the process of selecting those who will work with them or live with them.

Our people tell us they love their jobs – maybe that’s why so many have been with Monarch for decades.

At Monarch, our dream is to see the people we support live out their dreams. We are here to help make it happen, whatever it takes.

EVERYBODY DREAMS

Monarch Everyday Life People need people. Relationships add depth and value to life. Monarch understands the importance of community involvement and how it impacts a person’s well being. We help people learn to help themselves first. Then, we continue to assist them as they learn and grow and change, always looking for ways to build upon their skills and potential.

A community for everyone. We help people to build relationships, help others, go to school, fulfill their spiritual desires, find their dream job, enjoy their hobbies and make friends in the communities where they live and work.

Monarch understands that families sometime need support too. We offer the help needed to ensure that family is involved and educated.

The

Monarch Family

The caring professionals at Monarch provide exceptional personalized services to support people of all ages and from all backgrounds living and working in our communities.

We are progressive. Again, “good enough is not good enough.” We work hard to exceed industry standards. We think outside the box to come up with creative ways to solve problems where others have failed. We often staff beyond the required numbers to ensure the best care is provided for members of our Monarch family.

We hire experienced professionals. At Monarch, we train everyone who works for us, on all levels. And, we continue to educate ourselves on ways to constantly improve the way we operate. This means better service.

That’s what Monarch is about.

Services in the Community Services in Your Home Community Inclusion Early Childhood Services Interested in a career where you can help dreams take flight?

Go to www.MonarchNC.org.

Family Support Crisis Stabilization Crisis Team Volunteer Opportunities

Who we are. Our mission, goals and objectives were not written in an ivory tower of stuffed shirts. We are a grass roots organization created by the very people we serve, their families and community members with a passion for helping others. Both the staff at Monarch and the people we support are involved in many aspects of the planning and structure of the organization. We welcome their ideas, applaud their determination and thank them for their everyday passion for the work they do in helping dreams take flight.

Our goal is to enrich the lives of the people in our communities, one dream at a time. We are persistent in our community We are proud of the exceptional

awareness efforts and work

people who are part of the Monarch

every day to foster a better

team. We believe that the skills,

understanding of the people

training, service, compassion

For more information on

and dedication of our people

Monarch Everyday Life go to www.MonarchNC.org.

are second to none.

we serve.

Monarch Behavioral Services Life support. That’s a perfect way to describe what Monarch Behavioral provides to people everyday. Because we understand that life can throw a few curveballs that may be more than some can handle. We know that, with help, people can cope with stress or uncontrolled anger or find a way to make it through an emotional divorce. We believe that anxiety or depression should not determine whether or not a person can live out their dream.

David was considered nonverbal with severe mental retardation. Overall, his behavior was self-destructive. He would grab, kick, hit and pull hair if you got too close. The folks at Monarch did not see a hopeless case. We saw someone who needed and deserved a chance, and was trying to communicate to us through his behavior. We knew there was something special about David and that we could help him to direct his energy in a positive way.

In time, we learned that David really loved to eat. Maybe he would like to be around food all the time in a restaurant setting. No, he just wanted to eat. He also loved to play in the dirt.

Maybe he could work at a greenhouse?

No, the plants could not handle David’s firm grasp. Ironically, when we handed him a few seedlings one day, an amazing thing happened.

He cradled them gently in his bare hands and a broad smile crept across his face. He was calm and cautious as he walked about the greenhouse eager to show everyone the tiny plants that would one day become a garden. He saw something in those seedlings in the same way we saw something in David.

A future.

We are determined. Many people who have been helped

by Monarch tell us that we have succeeded in helping where others have failed. Maybe that’s because we hire people who are not just qualified, but committed as well.

Our services are extensive. We are here to help people with fears, anger issues, family problems, substance abuse issues, anxiety, depression and more. If it’s not on the list, call us anyway. We can certainly try to help. It’s what we do best.

We are growing. Our reach is changing constantly as we expand our service offerings in many counties.

For a complete list of Monarch Behavioral services and locations, please go to www.MonarchNC.org.

That was the start of a business venture that Monarch set up for David. One Monarch staff member bought him his first greenhouse and another connected David to a few farmers looking for a seedling supplier.

David even had his own roadside stand where he would take customers by the arm and show then his healthy new plants.

He had a loyal following.

Then, something incredible happened.

Mid-twenties is an age when someone like David has often reached his maximum vocabulary. Not David. He continued to grow and interact with people and as a result, David began to talk. Nicely. He was happy and enjoying life. His sense of humor kept us all laughing, even when he dared us to join him in the swimming hole near his greenhouse.

For many people, the dream can sometimes change.

Today, David is reaching out in many other ways. Thanks to his growth and development, he is actively working at a few different places and making new friends every day. He has mastered a favorite cookie recipe at the cafeteria where he assists with meal prep and catering. He is also helping to make a difference in his community by volunteering at the SPCA and at a children’s home. David has come a long way. We are privileged to be a part of this incredible transformation.

David’s Dream We have a sense of humor.

When David came to Monarch, he had about four words in his vocabulary – and they were not "G" rated. He actually

Jamie’s Dream A hopeless case. That’s how many people see a kid like Jamie. In trouble with the law, kicked out of school, using drugs and alcohol. When the courts sent Jamie to Monarch, all he cared about was getting out.

His parents gave up a long time ago. His grandparents were doing everything they could. It was not enough.

had some sign language as well – use your imagination.

That didn’t shake us.

Jamie came to his counseling sessions angry and bitter.

He continued to spiral downward.

His Monarch counselor would not quit. She met with his grandparents again and again, talked with the school and with his court appointed lawyer. Jamie got arrested.

When Jamie didn’t show up for a session, she tracked him down to reschedule.

She met with him at home, school and detention centers.

Jamie got into a fight at school. She looked for creative ways to talk to him and things that would pique his interest. Jamie was put into a group home.

Then, finally, when Jamie couldn’t stand where he was any longer, he finally admitted, “Maybe I have a problem.”

He asked his Monarch counselor for help. She was there, unwavering in her commitment to help him.

All of that persistence might pay off after all.

Through many tears, Jamie worked with his Monarch counselor day after day.

She helped him and his grandparents mend their relationship. Then, she helped to connect them to natural supports within their community. Countless phone calls and letters followed.

Monarch never stopped believing in Jamie. He was not going to become another statistic.

At Monarch, we don’t believe in hopeless cases. We believe in people.

Today, Jamie is doing well in school. Actually, he is on the A/B honor roll. He spends his spare time releasing stress at the gym and has found comfort in his spirituality.

He often writes to reflect on his experience – about why he turned to drugs and how he plans to stay away. His grandparents continue to be a source of love and faith.

His new circle of friends has been supportive as well. The future looks bright for Jamie.

We feel privileged to know this amazing and strong young man and see a bright future for him.

LIFE SUPPORT Counseling Services Sometimes, we all need a little help to get through tough times. Divorce. Depression.

DWI. Anger. Impulsiveness. Substance Abuse.

Monarch counseling services are for anyone in need of help. We start with a comprehensive assessment to best determine an individual’s specific needs. We then work with the person and their family when appropriate to construct an individual plan to achieve their goals. We offer services in traditional clinic settings,the school system, and we provide individual, group and family counseling.

Community Support We put the dream in reach. The people at Monarch strive to help those with mental illness get what they want out of life. Using a person-centered planning process, we focus on individuals and help them access the services and supports in the community that will allow them to lead a fulfilled life. We provide services in homes, communities and schools. We assist with developing coping skills, independent living skills, parenting skills, recovery skills, symptom monitoring, financial skills, and behavior management skills, among others.

Monarch Supported Employment

Monarch Small Business

Monarch Skills Enhancement

We will teach skills, help with resume preparation and filling out of applications, set up interviews, provide interview skills training and do whatever we can to help people get the job. Once they are employed, we are there to continue to coach them as long as they need it. We collaborate with vocational rehabilitation if appropriate, or other agencies that may be of assistance, such as local employment security commission offices.

We help each person come up with the idea that works for them, set up the business, and manage the business.

Maybe they could carve out their own niche? Like the gentleman who opened a coffee kiosk in the local hospital. Or, the lady who sells purses and jewelry and makes enough money to take great vacations. Whatever their dream, Monarch is there to help make it happen every step of the way. We also help them to find the right professionals, such as an accountant, to assist them along the way.

We provide environments for those in need of particular skills used in the community or the workplace. We work closely with each person to ensure understanding of the skill set required for the job.

This includes an emphasis on communication skills, responsibility, attire, attendance and many other useful tips for the workplace. We work with each person to help them spread their wings as they enter the workplace.

Psychiatric Care The doctors at Monarch use evolving technology to reach out to those in need in our communities. When they cannot be there in person to talk, consult and diagnose, they are able to meet with people in our office using telemedicine technology. Our doctors provide a complete psychiatric assessment and are able to monitor medication effectiveness as needed.

After listening to individuals to better understand their specific needs, goals and dreams, we then work together to determine the best course of action to get them going on the road

Intensive In-Home Services When a family feels they have come to a point of crisis with a child suffering from mental health problems, Monarch will go to them. A team of professional staff go to their home to work with them to create an environment designed for success. We help in managing children’s behavior and assist and empower families in developing problem solving skills and accessing community resources. We are available around the clock to work with the entire family. We will do whatever it takes to prevent out-of-home placement for a child with a mental health diagnosis.

to employment.

Peer Support People who really understand. They have been there and done that. And now they’re here to help others. Adults with a minimum of five years of personal experience with mental illness provide excellent role models and sources of support to their peers. They not only teach recovery skills, but provide examples of how to create a social network, develop self-help skills, get settled into housing, be one’s own advocate, and get information about schools or jobs. They know about system advocacy and understand crisis support. They also know what recovery feels like and that it’s worth fighting for.

Let nothing stop you. Some people dream of working with children, at the police department, at a hotel or supermarket. Others hope for a chance to do their own thing in a small business venture. And some don’t even know where to start. Then there are those who long for days filled with exploration and fulfilling experiences such as volunteering, fishing or tending to gardens.

At Monarch, we don’t think in terms of what you can’t do, we think in terms of what you can and want to do. We know that the people we support can be full of surprises, and we are not in the business of underestimating their potential.

Monarch Residential Options Monarch Vocational Options

Home at last. Whether home is an apartment downtown or a group setting in a neighborhood, it should be the most comfortable place for a person. At Monarch, we believe that a person’s home should reflect their personal taste, interests and style. When people live together, the relationships with housemates should be positive and healthy. Everyone should feel safe, relaxed and happy in their own home.

Dreams are for everyone. So many people with developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse issues have never been given the chance to dream, let alone reach their dreams.

At Monarch, we are committed to helping people’s dreams take flight. We do not believe “good enough is good enough” for anyone.

Our dedicated staff all believe that we can help make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.

What is your dream? We start by listening to each person’s ideas, interests and passions.

We help them focus on their strengths and respect their opinions. We involve their family, if they wish. With perseverance, dedication and creativity, Monarch finds ways to help them help themselves. The truck driver who couldn’t read maps or street signs. With the help of a GPS system, he can do cross country deliveries. The young man who went to work in a cafeteria setting, but needed constant reinforcement. Our employment specialist worked with one of the cooks asking her to make eye contact with him about every 15 minutes or so and nod her head or smile.

He was thrilled. Amazing, what a smile can do for someone.

To find out how your company can work with Monarch to help dreams take flight go to www.MonarchNC.org.

Personal attention. We maximize staff at Monarch homes ensuring that all safety, health and comfort needs are met. We strive to exceed expectations. We pay close attention to the very specific preferences of each person. “Don’t like broccoli? That’s okay, how about fried okra instead?” Some people like to be tucked in at night, others prefer their privacy. We respect those differences in people that define who they are. After all, not everyone likes broccoli.

The good life. We try to give everyone a sense of belonging and freedom. Sitting at home, doing nothing every night is not our idea of “the good life.” Monarch homes offer the chance to take in a movie at the theater, try a pottery class, go shopping, or simply take an evening walk with family through the neighborhood. Many people supported by Monarch regularly enjoy day trips and vacations, such as cruises, as the result of their own efforts at working and saving.

Life is good.

HOME AT LAST Monarch ICF/MR Homes These group home settings offer nursing, physical and occupational therapy, physician oversight and any other services that may be required for people who live here. Monarch direct support professionals are there 24 hours a day. Everyone has their own room and has the option to decorate as they wish. Monarch provides ICF/MR Homes for children and adults.

Monarch Supervised Living Homes These homes are ideal environments for individuals seeking to spread their wings. Monarch direct support professionals work with people who live here to maximize their potential in all areas of life. Whether it is guidance on how to make pancakes or how to dress on a cold day, we are there to help every day, all day and night.

The people we support learn to care for their own home, help with household chores and build relationships at home and in the community. Monarch staff help individuals find jobs, manage their money, take classes, volunteer, get out to a movie or go shopping.

We provide living arrangements for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness or both.

If they have the desire to live on their own, we do everything we can to make that dream happen.

Monarch Apartment Complexes Much like our Supervised Living Homes, the individuals who live in these apartments have access to support staff as needed 24 hours a day.

Monarch offers many of the same services but in a more independent setting than a group home.

Madeline’s Dream A little girl abused so severely she suffered from blindness and mental retardation as a result. Resilient is an understatement.

Madeline joined Monarch in her early twenties with a desire for independence.

To find out more about Monarch Residential Options in your community go to www.MonarchNC.org.

Monarch Supported Living For those individuals who are ready to be on their own, but still need a little bit of support, Monarch can help. Our trained professionals will work out a plan and schedule visits according to specific needs. Our services are available to people who reside in their family homes, apartments, or houses. Money management, shopping tips, cooking advice or help setting up a phone directory of family and friends are among the many ways we can help foster the dream of living independently.

Monarch Respite Services We understand that everyone needs a break. That’s when Monarch will come to you. Whether you wish to go out for the evening for a quiet romantic dinner, or take in a show at a local theater, we can help. We know that a night or afternoon out is healthy for everyone in the family. You can go, with peace of mind that your loved one is in good hands.

The folks at Monarch saw potential in this spirited young woman.

We found her a home with two housemates as a start to life on her own. Not what Madeline had in mind. She refused to cook, help with housekeeping, or pitch in on household projects. She simply put her foot down. After all, they can do their own dishes. She wanted her very own place and that was that.

Madeline moved into her own apartment soon after. She had a blast decorating and setting up her very own home. Funny thing.

Madeline now likes to cook, clean and keep her apartment looking its best. She loves to show it off when she has guests. She is a great hostess and friend – generous and loving and full of life. When Madeline laughs, the whole room laughs with her.

We took Madeline seriously.

Maybe she could strike out on her own. Monarch gave her a chance others might not have.

We taught her industrial cleaning skills and independent living skills.

Our executive director found her a job at a church. Other Monarch staff took her to and from work and helped her manage her money.

Despite her visual limitations and her lack of interest in cleaning at home, she was fantastic at cleaning the church. Maybe that’s because it was “her thing.” She made lots of great friends at the church and even met someone extra special.

Madeline decided that maybe she would take on a housemate after all. But, not just anyone. Remember that special person we mentioned?

Well, Madeline and Sam are now married. Her Monarch family helped plan the wedding from the menu and cake to the flowers and guest list. A Monarch staff member even bought Madeline’s wedding dress.

She looked absolutely beautiful.

Now that’s happily ever after.

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The Monarch Mission “Monarch is committed to supporting, educating and empowering people with developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or substance abuse issues to choose and achieve what is important to them.”

The Monarch Vision

At Monarch, we believe that each person

“Monarch will lead the way in the state to creatively support people with developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or substance abuse issues in growing toward their potential, reaching their dreams, and making their own informed choices about where they live, learn, work, play and worship.

Through partnerships and relationships within our community, we will offer a variety of innovative quality

is a unique individual with a personal dream.

services and supports and will promote advocacy, awareness,

For so many years, people with disabilities have been told what to do, where to go, what to eat, and how to spend their time. Daily and major life decisions were made for them. The people at Monarch know that people with disabilities have abilities and dreams - just like anyone else.

recovery, training, employment, and residential opportunities.”

We know that, with a little help, they can direct their lives and reach those dreams. We believe in recovery for people with mental illness.

We know that substance abuse is an illness that can be overcome with the right support and determination. We are here to listen to each person, to help them create a life that is valuable and meaningful to them. And a future worth fighting for.

To learn more about Monarch go to www.MonarchNC.org

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MONARCH www.MonarchNC.org 1.800.235.7525