JFM Homes 40th Anniversary Magazine

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

1

VISIONS FULFILLED Dedication

By Muffett Dulac, Board of Directors

hy

A

John Murp

ll memorable achievements begin with an unfettered vision. In the early 1950’s our John F. Murphy Homes founding members challenged the status quo and revolutionized services for individuals with disabilities in the greater Lewiston-Auburn area. From the humble Garcelon School, the first local school for children with developmental disabilities, to our current myriad of program options, John F. Murphy Homes owes its success to the dedication and perseverance of those founding community parents and friends.

Their vision of recognizing and maximizing the potential in each individual remains an integral part of John F. Murphy Homes’ philosophy.

Margaret

Murphy

This year marks the 40th year of providing opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Our program growth and spectrum of diverse services unparalleled by others are a testament to the men and women who had a vision over sixty years ago. Their hard work and insight are commendable. As a member of the Board of Directors and the proud parent of an individual with special needs, I thank the founders of John F. Murphy Homes whose visions became reality.

This photo was published by the Lewiston Daily Sun on Thursday, June 30, 1977, announcing the John F. Murphy Foundation for Retarded Citizens had been formed.

Pictured here are the Founding Board Members for JFM: Front (l to r): Alberta Bonneau, secretary; James Collins, president; and Mrs. John (Margaret) Murphy, treasurer. Standing: Jeannine Pelletier, Mrs. James Collins, Mrs. John Fink, Leonard Tracy, Betty Clifford, Lee Sturtevant, and Frances Passalaqua. Not present for the photo were Elizabeth Keene, Helen Longley, Helen Isaacson, Robert Bourque, Raymond Charest, John Bonneau, attorney for the organization, and Richard St. Hilaire.

2

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Peter Kowalski, CEO & President | Photo by Heidi Sawyer

John F Murphy Homes, Inc. turned 40 this year. It is a time to celebrate. It’s a time to look back at where we have come from, to celebrate where we are today and to look forward to the future.

From humble beginnings, a group of people fishing through their pockets to come up with a hundred dollars to open a bank account, and armed with a vision of providing housing to folks living in the community and Pineland Center, John F. Murphy Homes has grown and prospered over the years.

DD services aren’t easy- always the first to be cut and the last to receive any increases - the combined team of employees, board of directors and families have had to be creative and work hard just staying alive, never mind growing and prospering. But grow and prosper we have done - with 800 employees and a $40 million budget we are a quiet force in the Lewiston-Auburn community.

Although our mission is to provide support services for adults and children with intellectual disabilities and autism in our community we have touched that community in many ways.

Over the years over 4,500 people have been employed at John F. Murphy Homes; some staying the course while many others went on to school and professional employment in the community. No matter their destination, all have been touched and have brought their skills to the broader L/A community.

Add to that the hundreds of folks that have received our services and their families - our reach into the community is broad and deep. We have as an organization looked to ways to give back to our community as well- whether through service to the local Rotary club, annual employee giving to various causes or the Whiting Farm. We have appreciated the support of our community and we have tried to return that support. After 40 years we are not content to rest on past achievements. We see the future as vital and vibrant and believe that it will offer experiences we cannot yet imagine for all who are part of our family. We hope that you join our family or join in with our family to celebrate this 40 year anniversary and the next 40 as well!

Sincerely,

Peter Kowalski, CEO & President John F. Murphy Homes, Inc. JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

3

CONTENTS JFM Homes 40th Anniversary Commemorative Magazine 2017

31

13

38

20

25

7

4

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

CONTENTS

Celebrating

FEATURE STORIES

35

13 John F. Murphy Homes Looking Back to Move Forward 20 Helping from the Heart The JFM Family 31 Roger’s Story at Pleasant Street JFM’s First Home 38 Margaret Murphy Center for Children – not one size fits all

QUICK READS 7 Our People Want What Anyone Would Want 25 Recreation at JFM Stepping Out in Style 35 Making a House a Home Long-term employees reflect

43

43 What’s Happening on the Farm A look at Whiting Farm 47 Coming Full Circle JFM’s Intermediate Care Facility 50 Creating Opportunity Through Job Placement 53 Community Business Partnerships Historic partnerships with Maine Businesses

53

On the cover: Tommy Ouellette & Nicole Seger at Whiting Farm choosing flowers for their planters that they were creating through the Life Center Program.

Read more about JFM’s community support and Whiting Farm within these pages.

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

5

40th Anniversary Commemorative Magazine PUBLISHER Jim Marston MARS Marketing LLC MARSmarketing2016@gmail.com CONTRIBUTORS Jim Marston Pam Ashby Dan Marois David Muise Michael Krapovicky Emily Chouinard Nicole Breton Heidi Sawyer

To get a copy of this commemorative 40th Anniversary JFM magazine contact: John F. Murphy Homes 800 Center Street Auburn, ME 04210 207-783-2726 www.jfmhomes.org Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher or JFM Homes. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this commemorative issue is accurate, and neither MARS Marketing nor any of its staff are responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine.

Copyright Š2017 John F. Murphy Homes. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission, in writing, from the publisher or JFM. Printed in Lewiston, ME, USA.

6

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Our People Want What Anyone Would Want

By Dan Marois

W

hen discussing its community support programs, John F. Murphy Homes staff often refer to “sameness,” the fact that the individuals they support are looking for activities like any other members of a community. And while the staff works with persons with intellectual disabilities, the goal of programming is to involve them in as many mainstream community activities as possible.

Michelle Roy, the administrator at the Navigators, serves a younger and more physically active clientele ages 22 to 30. “Sports and fitness are big with this group. They also like the social aspects of group activities,” said Roy, mentioning that her group participates in programs like Wolfpack Fitness, that builds strength and self-confidence.

Our population wants the same kind of opportunities for daily activities and recreation that any adult has.

– Patty Whitmore

“Our population wants the same kind of opportunities for daily activities and recreation that any adult has,” said Patty Whitmore, program director for the Life Center, a part of JFM Homes that provides services to young individuals.

Whitmore points out that building relationships in the community where the individuals can feel safe and engaged are important to the success of the work she does.

“We provide skill-building for greater independence including support for a healthy lifestyle, relationship building and volunteering, and improving the life skills needed for daily living.”

Donna Thibodeau, a 23-year employee is the administrator for Enrichment Services, a program designed for persons who have more intensive medical needs. Her population ranges in age from 55 to 80 who, much like the other age groups, thrive on activities that engage them in the community.

“For people without disabilities, it is usually quite easy to participate in daily living or recreational activities that bring meaning to their lives,” said Whitmore. “For our individuals, who may not have the social skills to integrate in these activities, they find comfort in activities when supported by our staff and their peers.”

At the core of programming is a life skills service that focuses on improving skills and independence in and around the home setting in activities such as meal planning, shopping, cooking, laundry, household chores, building maintenance, and money management. Programs are offered at individual locations often by members of the community who volunteer their time.

Away from the locations, the three JFM Homes staff members find volunteer opportunities everywhere and especially partner with organiJFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

7

Special Olympics Summer Games 2016 Officers Johnson & Griffin with Ryan Bouchard

Hard wo

rk, fundra

ork on art Rachel w & e rg o e G les. ll craft sa for the fa

8

projects

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

ising an d have fun saving allowed all to in Florid a with fr iends.

By Dan Marois | Our Clients Want What Anyone Would Want zations and businesses that are willing to open their doors to the people. Volunteer activities are most popular by allowing individuals a chance to give back service to the community in which they live.

Roy cites a partnership with Community Little Theatre in Auburn where individuals volunteer to distribute theater posters in the area. In return, they attend a CLT production dress rehearsal and enjoy the experience of live theater.

Another volunteer partner is the Good Shepard Food Bank, the state’s largest distributor of food to member food banks statewide.

“We let people dream and help them to accomplish the dream,” said Roy. For Roy, individual accomplishments can become very meaningful and personal.

“I had a young person who said that they wanted to get their driver’s license to operate a vehicle,” said Roy, who was, at first, thrown by the idea. People look forward to driving a car. Why should our clients be any different?” Roy connected this individual to The Driving School to arrange a safe driving experience.

“Individuals box food, place labels on cans, and do other volunteer tasks,” said Whitmore. “The experience gives them an education about food banks while helping to prepare goods to help reduce hunger in Maine.”

Other volunteer opportunities include helping to deliver Meals on Wheels to homebound elderly, providing social visits to Montello Manor, and caring for animals at the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society.

Whitmore said that volunteer experience gives her people a sense of belonging in a workplace where than can simply

Della Lippincott drives with an instructor, Doug Larrabee, at Fireman Field in Mechanic Falls.

Successes for all people come in very diverse ways.

Thibodeau sees the benefits to individuals having regularly scheduled activities that they can look forward to.

Tom participates in the parade at the Winter Olympics

be themselves. A byproduct of the experience is that many develop skills that translate to the workplace.

“Sometimes they develop such good volunteering skills that they end up landing a job,” explains Whitmore. “Many have morphed from volunteering to a paying job.

“We are also active in Special Olympics, where athletes participate in sporting events throughout the year,” said Whitmore.

All activities at the centers have one goal in mind; providing an experience for individuals that builds skills, allows for goal setting, and develops confidence for clients.

“We have bingo games every Thursday evening where we pack the place…they look forward to it all week,” said Thibodeau, noting that excitement runs rampant when someone takes home a prize for a winning game. “The bingo game just happens to be a way to have a great social event for all of them.”

For Roy, success comes when the community embraces people with disabilities rather than avoiding them or shying away from them.

“When I used to go with my group to a sandwich shop to place an order, the person behind the counter would often look at me rather than the individual to place their order,” said Roy. “People are beginning to recognize that a person with disabilities is quite capable of doing things for themselves. Now, when we go into a shop, the counter person talks directly to them. That’s encouraging.”

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

9

Ray Ma sse & M att A in the va ns that ta mero checking and refill ke us all ing fluid around s the com munity.

David Dulac & Sara Kidd play a game requiring a steady hand and serious concentration.

10

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

roving his

Jesse Ja

g on imp mes workin

ills.

cooking sk

• Accounting • Bookkeeping Services • Auditing • Consulting Services • Tax Services • Business Valuation 1111 Lisbon Street, Lewiston 207-786-03289 www.oacpas.net

JFM has provided a stable, caring living situation for my ward since he left Pineland. This agency has stayed with him through his ups and downs over all of those years. I am especially grateful for everything that this agency has done to support him over the last 3 years as he has dealt with a number of issues and seen so many changes in his life.

– Guardian

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

11

G.M. Morin Enterprises Inc wishes

John F. Murphy Homes a Happy 40th Anniversary!

Your commitment, quality of care and compassion for the people you serve is unsurpassed.

Thank you from all of us.

G.M. Morin Enterprises Inc General Contractor

Commercial & Residential Construction & Maintenance 1638 Main St. Lewiston • (207) 783-6242 Email: morinent@aol.com

12

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

John F. Murphy Homes Looking Back to Move Forward

By Dan Marois

J

ohn Bonneau was recruited to be a volunteer by his mother at a young age.

“My mother, Alberta Bonneau, was a strong supporter of children and adults with developmental disabilities; what we used to call the mentally retarded,” said Bonneau, whose sister, Pauline, had Down Syndrome. “She and many other parents and friends of the “mentally retarded” started the Garcelon School in the 1950s as a place for challenged children who weren’t allowed in public schools at that time.”

While there were other more qualified candidates, Peter had the vision of what this place could become. Hiring Peter was a game changer for us and for what we do.

– John Bonneau

“At the age of 12, my mother volunteered me to be the school’s janitor,” said Bonneau, who has been involved in service to people with disabilities since then. “After I become an attorney, she volunteered me to do the legal work to establish the John F. Murphy Homes non-profit corporation in 1977. She’s definitely the one who started me in this service.”

The road to 40 years of service for John F. Murphy Homes has had its challenges along the way.

In the 1950s, public schools were not obligated to provide any education or training to the developmentally disabled.

It fell into the hands of the parents of children with disabilities to lead efforts to provide for their children.

“Even in the public eye, there was a stigma from the greater community,” said Peter Kowalski, the CEO of John F. Murphy Homes for the past 33 years. He cites a municipal meeting attended by many parents advocating for new options for their children. “A well-known physician in the area at that time dismissed the discussion urging parents to ‘send them to institutions and get on with your life,’” said Kowalski.

“It was the parents who made things happen,” explains Bonneau, citing the Garcelon School (at the site where Elizabeth Ann Car Wash sits today) that started with about a dozen students and eventually expanded to a school location on Madison Street that accommodated almost 80 students.

Bonneau agrees with Kowalski that one of the biggest challenges in the early years was the stigma about disabilities. The first organization to rally around disabilities was the Lewiston/Auburn Association of Retarded Children.

“Back then, we called them retarded and it was acceptable,” said Bonneau. He notes that even when JFM Homes started, it was called the John F. Murphy Foundation for the Mentally Retarded. This new Maine non-profit corporation was created in July, 1977. It took its name from John F. Murphy, a controller of a large local business who had served for many years on the Lewiston Finance Committee and as a City Councilor. He had recently passed away at the time and, in commemoration of the years of support he and wife Margaret had devoted to the cause, the organization was named after him.

hool

eaning the sc

Key Club cl

“We purchased a house on Pleasant Street in 1978,” recalls Bonneau. “After overcoming neighborhood resistance, it became the home for 6 disabled individuals. Staffing consisted of two house parents and one relief staff. The first year’s budget was about $65,000. The program was able to function on such JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

13

meager resources because of the hard work and dedication of the initial board of directors who had their hands in all aspects of the group home.”

In that same year, as part of a nationwide movement to close large institutional settings and provide housing in smaller residential-type settings, the Maine US District Court issued what was called the Pineland Consent Decree. It would be a great development for group homes because it also offered operational funds to operate these community based programs which began to flourish.

and Kowalski admits that it is a challenge for his job because he can’t possibly know everyone.

Kowalski’s arrival brought changes in the structure of the organization, positive for some and difficult change for others.

“We transitioned from an organization where the board of directors was involved in everything to a more staff focused operation,” said Bonneau. “It was a change that helped us grow to be more professional.”

Kowalski Hired

John F. Murphy Homes CEO, Peter Kowalski was raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts and received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Maine.

After a brief stint in Washington state after graduation, he returned to Maine and took a position with Tri-County Mental Health Services. Seven years later, he was hired at the first chief executive of JFM Homes.

“While there were other more qualified candidates, Peter had the vision of what this place could become,” said Bonneau. “Hiring Peter was a game changer for us and for what we do.”

Kowalski recalls that on the first day on the job he was handed a box of things to do. And the tasks ran the gamut.

“There were things that needed to be cleaned up and plans to put in place,” remembers Kowalski. “There were only two other employees and myself. I did payroll by hand and shoveled snow when needed. There were few resources.”

Today, JFM Homes has 800 employees 14

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Names / caption need

ed

By Dan Marois | Making a House a Home Another pivotal moment for JFM Homes came in the spring of 2000, when two staff members proposed purchasing the old Promenade Nursing Home on Charles Street and Western Prom in Auburn so that it could be renovated into a preschool program that would serve children with autism, many who had severe behavioral disorders.

don’t know how to do it? There is a subtle difference in how they approach the world,” said Kowalski. “Acceptance of these folks can go a long way in their lives.”

The board moved forward to purchase the building and to fund the cost of renovations. It was a $1 million commitment with no assurance that it would succeed. Over time, it was very successful and was the start of a thriving program now known at the Margaret Murphy Center for Children. Today, the program provides preschool, elementary and secondary services to 130 youth and young adults in six schools.

“Since many of our efforts are centered on finding employment for clients, that is our major focus,” said Kowalski, who seriously looked at the idea of buying a franchise operation to enhance their employment options. While the franchise idea was not financially doable, JFM Homes did end up purchasing the Whiting Farm in Auburn as a support venue for their programs. (See story on Whiting Farm in this publication.)

“The schools all have the same goal to maximize the potential of each child,” said Kowalski.

In 2012, Kowalski and his board of directors set a vision to build a recreational complex behind the popular, Marden’s retail store. The idea was to have a community recreational facility used for JFM Homes purposes but open to all who wanted to participate. When completed, the complex would spread across 65,000 square feet including a lap pool, a gym, and a cardiovascular area. It would also have a large commercial kitchen and a banquet hall.

Learn to Dream

There’s passion in his voice when Peter Kowalski talks about the achievements of the past 40 years, but he remains well focused on the mission of JFM Homes; the purpose to serve others.

“It is about their life and what we can do for them as board, staff, and community people,” said Kowalski. “I have always believed in people first and diagnosis second. Our clients are people with the same hopes, dreams, and desires that everyone has.”

“It is hard to understand the plight of these individuals. In many ways, they are faceless in society and can’t speak like others. How can they develop social skills when they

His vision has taken him in directions no other such agency has considered.

The plan would have cost JFM Homes some $17 million, including cost for construction and operating expenses.

At the time of the proposal, there were other organizations planning similar programs in the area. To date, none of the projects have materialized.

“I still have the project in mind,” admits Kowalski. “It will be a part of our future.”

A rendition of a proposed community recreational complex. The idea is to use this facility for JFM Homes and be open to all who wanted to participate. A 65,000 square foot facility including a lap pool, a gym and a cardio area. It would also house a large commercial kitchen and a banquet hall.

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

15

Peter Kowalski with Mike Michaud, former U.S. Representative greet at an annual DSP Week

16

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

By Dan Marois | Making a House a Home

Forty Years and Counting

While 40 years is a lot to celebrate, there are hurdles ahead that must be tackled.

Bonneau credits much of the JFM Homes success to the work done under Kowalski’s guidance.

“In celebrating 40 years, the first thing that comes to mind is that we are all still here,” said Kowalski. “We are definitely not a fly by night organization. We are here to stay.”

“I have been a mentor to Peter, though he doesn’t really need one anymore,” said Bonneau. “He has been the driving force to move forward. His contributions have been many.”

Kowalski is pleased that John F. Murphy Homes has launched people into very successful careers that have had a major impact on the community of clients.

Kowalski said that the agency success is on the shoulders of many who came before him and to those who have supported the JFM Homes through the years.

“We have grandparents, parents and their children working here,” notes Kowalski. “We are a real part of the community in a significant way.”

“I see the task at hand is to look forward to keeping alive in our mission and remaining financially sound,” said Kowalski, who cites a staffing labor shortage as the most immediate threat to the organization. “We can have the programs in place for our clients but we need to have the staff to run them. There is a shortage nationally and it has hit us here in Maine.”

Bonneau, who has often seen the programs from a business side view, is cautiously optimistic.

“No matter what reimbursement program we have in place, our resources are shrinking and our need is increasing,” said Bonneau. “We are always concerned about state funding and we will soon see the impact of the minimum wage law.”

“We have taken people out of institutions and we are no longer led by the philosophy of out of sight and out of mind,” said Bonneau. “However, there is still a long way to go. The consent decree set the vision of bringing these folks into the community at all levels. There is the lingering social shortfall that we have not entirely lived up to that promise. There is more work to be done.”

Bonneau is most proud of the advancements that have taken place in the care of people with disabilities. He’s also pleased that the public perceptions of the disabled have changed by becoming more thoughtful and understanding of what it is to have a disability.

“Attitudes are changing and it is nice to see,” said Bonneau. “If my mother could see the advancements today, she would be happy. Very happy.”

Bonneau is also concerned that the same passion that drove the efforts many decades ago might not be as vibrant in today’s world.

“Every great social movement suffers from a loss of enthusiasm about the mission and begins to assume that the programs and facilities that are in place will continue to exist and will be here without the effort from supporters,” said Bonneau, with a serious tone to his voice. “We can’t get complacent. Parents need to volunteer to work to maintain programs that we have and to create better programs.”

Peter taking part in the annual DSP Week JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

17

A locally owned, full service oil & propane gas dealer serving Central Maine, Southern Maine and Southeast NH for over 40 Years.

1-800-491-3194 Fieldingsoil.com

JFM was the answer to our prayers in 1983. Our daughter went to live at a JFM home. We are very grateful for the care and support that JFM has provided for our daughter and for us. – Parent

18

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Brian Torsey waits to play a game of UNO while dinner is in the oven.

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

19

Helping From The Heart

By David Muise

“T

hanks for helping us have a voice”. This is the hand-written message under a drawing that hangs in the lobby of John F. Murphy’s central office. It was written and drawn by one of the many people for whom JFM provides support. It’s a simple message, but one that proves to be a cornerstone in the story of JFM’s 40 years of service to its community.

In 1954, John F. Murphy was instrumental in the development of a program allowing the use of Lewiston’s Garcelon School as an educational facility for people with developmental disabilities. The school opened in 1956 and Murphy became the administrator of the school in 1960. He served there faithfully, meeting the needs of the community and even shepherding the acquisition of the Dr. Clark Miller Home to replace the deteriorating Garcelon School.

Murphy was, by all accounts, a champion of the underserved population of those suffering from developmental disabilities. His work at the school, which lasted until he retired in 1973, saw the program grow to 12 full-time and 8 part-time employees serving and supporting 45 young people. He passed away in 1976, just three years after his retirement. The same year he became the posthumous namesake of the John F. Murphy Foundation for the Mentally Retarded which honored his work and set out to build upon his goal of providing safe homes and life skills to those with developmental disabilities. One year later, in 1977, the John F. Murphy Foundation received funding and acquired its first home for people with developmental disabilities.

JFM has grown to provide a dynamic array of services; schools, homes, programs and activities. This growth has increased staffing levels through the years, though many prefer to call it the growth of the JFM “family.”

The JFM Family

Five members of the John F. Murphy Homes family, each of whom has been with the company for over 20 years, agreed to be interviewed. When asked exactly how many years each had been at JFM, there was some laughter and these folks began asking each other what their employee ID number was. The JFM employee ID number is like the carbon dating of tenure; the longer you’ve been there, the lower your ID number. Those being interviewed had numbers 22, 33, 39, 90 and 232, the latter being Scott, a 20

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

“newbie.” For reference, the newest members of the JFM family receive employee ID numbers in the 5000+ range.

Those interviewed included: Dawn Ward, Administrator and Director of Adult Residential Services (Employee #22) “A friend invited me to work here.

That’s how I came on board,” says Ward. “There’s a loyalty here and everyone feels some level of ownership over what they do.”

AJ Alexander, Behavior Services Coordinator (Employee #33) “Here, at JFM, my personal values match those of the JFM team,” says Alexander. “This place is like the Cadillac of agencies and who wouldn’t want a Cadillac for their children?”

Carol Cook, Administrator (Employee #90, though she did have a lower number before leaving and coming back, she stresses.)

“My friend Laurie worked here and said that I should apply,” says Cook.

“I had two small children and JFM was so family oriented. They were flexible with me and really cared for everybody.”

Ann Bentley, Director of Development (Employee #39) “I really do feel valued here and that gives me value in my life,” says Bentley. “Any of us could be stuffing envelopes or working in an office somewhere else, but here we are impacting lives every day.”

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

21

Scott Parsons, Administrator (Employee #232)

port their ward or their children,” says Alexander. “Many of those folks ended up becoming board members and helped steer the growth of our initiatives.”

“My favorite thing about this job has to be the people we support,” says Parsons. “You can’t help but get attached.

This is a special situation. Everyone mentioned how important it is that the board of directors includes people whose children are receiving support from JFM. It fosters an environment that keeps the focus on the child or ward first.

The theme heard loud and clear from this group was one of family values. They are constantly striving to treat all the those whom they support as family members, but what’s also interesting, is how they seem to treat all their co-workers in the same way.

“It’s the people,” says Alexander about JFM’s success, “Our staff, the parents, the people in our programs. We’re like a family here.”

“It’s the people. Our staff, the parents, the people in our programs. We’re like a family here.

– AJ Alexander

Ward says more about this, “There’s something we do called ‘Nothing About Me, Without Me’. It helps our people become more involved in their own lives.”

“Instead of doing laundry for someone living in a group home while they are at work or a day program, we might suggest when they get home that the laundry basket is getting a little full and that maybe they’d like some help doing their laundry,” said Ward. “We basically say that anything that involves one of our people doesn’t get done just by staff, but rather together with the person. We support them in the challenges they face in life.”

This concept of encouragement, support, and inclusiveness seems to be a thread that runs through the entire JFM organization. Cook loves to tell the story of her boss, Ted Hussey, and how he encouraged her to “step outside of the box” and supported her in doing so.

She really means this. When asked about success, many would point to internal decisions, business models, customer relationships as examples. At JFM, among those who work in the “West Wing,” the part of the central office that houses those with more than 20 years of service, the reason that JFM has continued to be the leader in their field is because of every person is invested in the work.

Alexander explained that JFM really started to grow when Pineland closed its doors for good in 1996. Many of the people living at Pineland needed a place to go. The parents of those living there needed a place they felt was safe and comfortable for their children.

“We had a good reputation in the community. So, many of those people came to us and asked if we could help sup22

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

“Ted was an admin here. When I started working here he saw something in me. He said, ‘You’re smart and there’s more you can do here’. He encouraged me to go to school and take on more responsibilities at work,” Cook recounts.

“Ted once asked me to call three contractors to get a price for a project,” Cook says. “It was hard for me because I was very quiet. He helped me get through it, really supported me. Now, I’m just like, ‘I’ll call the Senator!’, I don’t care.”

Both Ward’s and Cook’s stories seem to weave a single tapestry. They are both stories where caring is the heart of the matter and where support and encouragement are the tools given. They are operating the same way a family would. Everyone at JFM is seeking compassion and understanding for those around them; from the board, the executives, the staff, all the way to the end users, the people for whom they provide support, and they are empowering

By David Muise | Helping from the Heart them to meet challenges that face them every day.

The family atmosphere extends beyond just the way folks at JFM treat each other. Many people at JFM actually are family members, have family members who use the services, or came from families with developmentally disabled children.

“I came up in the system,” says Parsons. “My brother was 10 years older than me and he was developmentally disabled. He lived with us until he was 18, then he went to live at Pineland. That’s how I initially ended up working at Pineland.”

dynamic. There’s no laurels to be rested when people dedicate themselves to this work. John F. Murphy Homes and its companion agency, Margaret Murphy Centers for Children, have proven themselves to not be just leaders, but also innovators. They are constantly striving to better meet these changing needs.

“Kids are coming through our schools now and they are more independent, more prepared. They want to work and succeed,” says Bentley. “Our services are changing to meet the level of desire our people have.”

Parsons there for about a year before, then Maine Governor, John McKernan, announced he would be closing the facility for good. Having no seniority there, Parsons was included in the first round of layoffs.

JFM offers a Life Center program as well as a Navigators program. These programs are designed to help people live a more independent lifestyle. People with developmental disabilities at JFM receive support in building healthy lifestyles, with finding volunteer opportunities, connecting with the arts and, in some cases, even working.

“I had a friend who was working here at John F. Murphy and suggested I apply,” says Parsons. “Turns out the lady I interviewed with was a unit manager for my brother while he was at Pineland.”

“This could be where a lot of future growth lies. In creating a pipeline for our kids to come through our schools and into our homes,” says Parsons. “Maybe even attend college.”

Parsons spent 16 years in direct support before becoming an administrator at JFM. He is proud of his time here and he’s proud to have recently seen his nephew surpass the 20-year mark of employment at JFM and his daughter, her third.

There’s also the growing population of children on the autism spectrum that are being supported at Margaret Murphy Center. They are now graduating classes of kids whose needs are completely different from those who came from Pineland 20 years ago.

Our board of directors and our executive director are not bean counters, but rather heart counters.

“I see maybe specialty group homes that are directly supporting the autism community,” says Bentley. “This group is growing in number and will be in need of specialty services and support from us. Providing these kids with the ability to succeed in the life that’s right for them will really be something we’ll see in our future.”

– Ann Bentley

Ann Bentley is the Director of Development and you can tell that she’s incredibly proud of the care everyone at JFM has for one another. She credits the Board’s desire to not just “run” homes but to provide homes.

“Our board of directors and our executive director are not bean counters, but rather heart counters,” says Bentley.

“We strive to provide a middle-class lifestyle to those we support,” says Bentley. “We have very nice homes. We work hard to make sure that our homes, our programs, and our seven schools are in good shape and are comfortable places to be, where people can take pride in their surroundings.”

The Next 40 Years

The needs of those with developmental disabilities are

The needs in this community of developmentally disabled and those on the autism spectrum are not going away. The staff at John F. Murphy Homes knows this and is dedicated to taking ownership of their role in meeting those needs.

Alexander talks of how every employee feels that, regardless of what function they serve, they still feel an ownership over all the initiatives at JFM. Ward constantly talks of encouraging the kids in her home to, “own what they do”.

Cook spoke about, “being a person,” and seeing those she supports with the same eyes.

What will guide JFM’s success in the future? The employees shared a clear answer.

“We authentically care. And we won’t quit caring, because you just don’t quit on family.”

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

23

Prayer of St. Francis Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me bring love.

Where there is offense, let me bring pardon.

Where there is discord, let me bring union.

Where there is error, let me bring truth.

Where there is doubt, let me bring faith.

Where there is despair, let me bring hope. light.

Where there is darkness, let me bring your Where there is sadness, let me bring joy.

O Master, let me not seek as much to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love, for it is in giving that one receives, it is in self-forgetting that one finds, it is in pardoning that one is pardoned, it is in dying that one is raised to eternal life.

24

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Recreation at JFM Homes Stepping Out In Style

By Dan Marois

W

hen the work day is done, people love to unwind and simply do things that are fun, engaging, and interesting.

The same holds true as part of the recreation programs offered at John F. Murphy Homes from its location on Minot Avenue in Auburn.

We offer activities for our clients at JFM Homes. But we open the programs to anyone in the area who lives with an intellectual disability.

– Donna Thibodeau

Beth Baril is the activities director at the site responsible for filling the calendar with an array of recreational opportunities.

Donna Thibodeau supervises Baril as the administrator for Enrichment Services for JFM Homes.

“In a way, it is like the Red Hat Society where women gather for fun and socializing,” said Thibodeau. “The same happens with our women’s group.”

Thibodeau estimates that the recreation programs have been in place for about 15 years.

The staff is always looking for new and varied activities as well as long time favorites.

After a full day involved in programming, activities in the early evening offer a chance to expand horizons and to offer opportunities to gather with friends.

“We offer activities for our clients at JFM Homes,” said Thibodeau. “But we open the programs to anyone in the area who lives with an intellectual disability. People from other programs or group homes can attend and there is a wide community of folks who participate.”

Activities run the gamut. Popular times are spent with a bingo night, a women’s group, karaoke night, and other opportunities to socialize. Participants make friendships at the events and really look forward to them as a part of their lives.

“With the people we serve, it is very important to have regular structure to our programs,” said Thibodeau, noting, for instance, that bingo is always on a Thursday evening.

“They really look forward to that evening. If something like a snowstorm cancels it, our people can be really disappointed. It is a very important part of their social life.”

Thibodeau cites lots of connections made with the women’s social group.

According to Thibodeau, a longtime favorite recreation is the Special Olympics program.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This gives them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, especially with other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

The Special Olympics mission remains as vital today as it did when the movement was founded in 1968.

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

25

By Dan Marois | Recreation at JFM - Stepping Out In Style Special Olympics strives to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people.

“We have many people who treasure their experience with Special Olympics,” explains Thibodeau.

Another popular sport is a bowling league that inspires lots of involvement.

“We have 115 people who participate in a bowling league at Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston,” said Thibodeau. “It is rewarding to see so many involved in this activity.”

The highlight after a season of bowling is the annual bowling banquet. Thibodeau says that there is lots of excitement for the event.

“We recognize everyone for their achievement and they all receive a trophy for their accomplishments,” said Thibodeau. “You wouldn’t believe how excited some people get when their name is called and they receive an award. The smiles on their faces is very rewarding.”

Thibodeau often uses the word “sameness” to describe the array of programs the JFM Homes offers. The philosophy is that people with intellectual disabilities simply want what everyone else wants in daily life.

“We concentrate on what people can do rather than on what they can’t do,” said the administrator who has worked at JFM Homes for 23 years. “We support the entire person and give them the support they need to engage in daily activities. Interacting with peers and making friendships is vital for them. We create opportunities for those things to happen.”

26

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

I started to explore JFM as a resource for my child when he was only 16. It took nearly 10 years before the right fit for him opened. In the past 18 months, I have had such peace of mind. I know he is well cared for, his needs are met and I never worry. When I left the first team meeting right after placement I had tears in my eyes, knowing that if something happened to me, he would be able to continue to thrive. That was the first time in his nearly 8 years living out of home that I have felt that way. – Parent

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

27

John F. Murphy Homes Time-line 1975 Madison Street School becomes Pathways

1976 John Murphy passes away on 2/23/76

1954 Lewiston-Auburn Association for Retarded Children formed; John Murphy motioned that city of Lewiston operate the Garcelon School as a school for children with ID

1963 John Murphy becomes the Director of the Garcelon School

1977 John F. Murphy Homes Foundation for the Mentally Retarded is incorporated on 2/23/1977

1955 September 1st: The Lewiston-Auburn Association for Retarded Children (LAARC) incorporates 1956 February 28: The Garcelon School opens with Florence Hodgkins as teacher

1969 Madison Street School takes the place of the Garcelon School

1959 Betty Keene begins teaching at the Garcelon School

28

The journey of JFM begins

The move to the Madison Street School for the Lewiston-Auburn Association for Retarded Children was made with the help of the Lewiston Exchange Club. That cemented a relationship between the Exchange Club and the School which further developed over the next several years.

1950s

1960s

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

1978 First home opened on Pleasant Street, home purchased on 1/17/78, opened 3/78. Fire at home Sept. 1978

1979 Community Respite program opened

John Murphy as part-time administrator for Garcelon School found out it would be more than “part-time” – he wanted no compensation, but then agreed to accept an amount that was within the allowable standards for social security; $1,600 a year.

1970s

1980 Lillian Caron hired as director of John F. Murphy Homes

1990 The Shop opened, first located on the Rotary in Auburn by Roy’s and then relocated to 1512 Minot Avenue, its current location. Formally Wayside Furniture and also served as a dance hall historically. (JFM did not purchase this property until 2014).

1991 Opened the house on Maple Street in Mechanic Falls. Also, Teakwood Knoll, an ICF-MR Group Home opened in Lewiston.

1984 Peter Kowalski hired as director of John F. Murphy Homes on 1/23/84.

Home located at 170 Ash Street in Lewiston opened 4/9/84

1986 John F. Murphy Homes, Inc. is founded, 6/18/86 1987 Ownership of Main Street, Mechanic Falls ICF-IID Nursing Home 10/21/87 1988 Opened 168 Old Lisbon Road in Lewiston, a licensed respite house 11/23/88

1989 Opened boarding located at 283 Turner Street in Auburn, 1/21/89

1993 Opened Harris Road in Minot.

Opened Bradman Place (first using HUD funds to build a home).

2001 Central Office was renovated to become what it is today! Also purchased a duplex on Hotel Road in Auburn.

1994 Second HUD home opened at 1092 Hotel Rd in Auburn.

Opened home in Mechanic Falls on Marshall Street and bought a home on Raiche Street in Lewiston.

2002 Opened house on Young’s Corner Road in Auburn.

2003 Purchased and opened a home on Colby Street in Auburn.

2004 Took over a program in Auburn on Pride Road. Also opened a home on Rita Avenue in Lewiston. The second special purpose school opened in Lewiston on Main Street.

1995 Pineland Center closes. Two homes in Minot were purchased, Morgan Brook and Mt. Prospect. The folks moving in to those houses all previously lived at Pineland Center.

2005 Opened home located on North Main Street in Mechanic Falls.

2006 Here they grow again! The Life Center was so popular that it expanded to the Navigators program on Broad Street in Auburn.

1996 Two homes built in Auburn as a result of the closure of the institution; Northern Ave. and Old Danville Rd. Also opened a home on Lewiston Street in Mechanic Falls.

2008 Purchased a duplex in Auburn on Rochelle Street. Second time working with HUD resulted in a development for 10 individuals, two building housing 5 one bedroom apartments on Main Street in Lewiston. Licensed as PNMI. Also opened a house on Kilsyth Street. And they purchased the “Gray House”, located next door to their main office. It provided more parking and little did we know training space and housing for the “nurses”.

1997 We purchased home in Hebron. This home was a first look in detail at adults with autism and was “run” using the principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis.

1998 Opened a home in Mechanic Falls on Winterbrook Road for two men and also opened a home on the Pownal Road in Auburn for three individuals.

1999 We opened a house on Poland Spring Road in Auburn and built a home on Sargent Avenue in Lewiston.

1980s

1990s

2000 With the passing of Margaret Murphy, JFM was the benefactor of her home located on Sylvan Avenue.

They opened this home with two apartments. Also purchased another home on Pownal Road, called Country Way, right next door to the one opened in 1988. They also opened a home in Minot, called Morgan Brook. Also this year the Life Center was born - supporting 4-6 young adults. This program was located at the Shop on Minot Avenue, then relocated to Poland Road. This was a big year for JFM - branching out into the education forum. They opened their first special purpose school in Auburn on Charles Street, occupying a nursing home that was there.

2009-11 Purchased several homes and several HUD projects to continue their growth through these 3 years. Speaking of growth, the Margaret Murphy Center for Children made a major expansion to Rodman Rd. in Auburn. Broadening the opportunities for kids and provided day care to community members and teachers at the schools.

2012-13 Expanded schools on Falcon Drive in Auburn and Mt. Auburn Ave. An additional HUD funded home on Montello St. in Lewiston and razed home on Marshall St. in McFalls and built new home.

2014-15 Purchased property at 1512 Minot Ave (The Shop), razed it and built new. Purchased Whiting Farm. Purchased property on Memorial Ave. with hopes of building a rec center. MMCC expanded to Saco, renovating a warehouse to a beautiful school.

2000s JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

29

Margaret Murphy 5K Trot for Autism 7.30.16

JFM has been a godsend and the best living situation he has ever had. – Guardian

30

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Roger’s Story

By Emily Chouinard | Photography by Heidi Sawyer

O

n a rainy afternoon in Lewiston, I walked into a home on Pleasant Street and was greeted by the smell of fresh coffee. I immediately felt welcomed as I was offered a seat at the table and introduced to everybody. Roger was enjoying an afternoon snack with his roommates. I quickly learned that Roger communicates through facial expressions, limited verbalizations, and adaptive sign language. Despite our varying methods of communication, it was a pleasure to spend the afternoon with Roger and company.

JFM is a good company filled with what I call angels on Earth.

– Joe (Roger’s brother-in-law)

At 71 years old, Roger is a very happy and healthy man.

He has been in his John F. Murphy (JFM) home for forty years, making him one of the longest living residents within the company. His brother-in-law confidently informed me that, “he is in tremendous shape, and these folks here

Roger Raymond, with JFM for 40 years

have seen to that.” His family and staff all describe him as a sociable man, and expressed a deep pride in Roger’s accomplishments. His charisma has led him to become wellknown throughout the Lewiston-Auburn community. Roger is consistently looking to meet new people. He’s always fit to greet them with a smile on his face and a hand ready for shaking. Aside from meeting new people, he greatly values his family. Regular contact with his relatives is important in his life, whether it be in person or over facetime is inconsequential. Before her recent passing, Roger’s sister, Jeanne, was instrumental in his care. She had assumed a motherly role during Roger’s time at JFM. The day I spoke to Roger, he was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Joe, who has filled his wife’s shoes as familial support. He keeps regular contact with Roger and the Administrator of Roger’s home. Throughout the interview, Joe only spoke highly of the staff here at JFM. In Joe’s words, “this is a good company filled with what I call angels on Earth.”

A few of those angels he described are the incredibly dedicated staff members who have worked enthusiastically with Roger for much of his time at JFM. Some of the Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at Pleasant Street have worked there for many years. While he has many staff members who work with him, on this day, Roger was in the company of Judy and Sally. Judy Corkum transitioned with Roger from a previous day program to JFM, and has now been working with him for 37 years. The Administrator at the Pleasant Street home, Sally, has been working with the company for 32 years and with this home for seven.

Judy,Sally and other DSPs who work in the home, have developed a strong rapport with Roger and have solidified their methods of communication. They work hard to improve Roger’s quality of life, and that is evident upon seeing this well-oiled machine in action.

Roger previously held the position of assistant associate at Staples, and wore his uniform with pride. While there, he was treated very well by administrators and co-workers.

He enjoyed his work and would help keep the store tidy and in appropriate shape. During this time, he attended his day program four days a week. He has since made the decision to retire, which has allowed him to commit to his day program, The Social Learning Center (SLC), full time. At his day program, Roger participates in a diverse collection of activities. The people at the SLC use concentration games and other activities to work on cognitive skills such as long and short-term memory and alphabet JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

31

By Emily Chouinard | Our Clients Want What Anyone Would Want time where Roger seemed to no longer have an interest in painting. It was not long before the SLC art program swooped in and presented him with an opportunity to rekindle his passion. A simple offer to paint from someone who had no idea of his past with it, and he picked up a paintbrush once more. He started painting again as if he never stopped.

Roger feeds his fish

memorization. He is also a part of their Health Awareness weekly group, where he especially enjoys riding the bike daily. Additionally, he has participated in a Native American Drumming group. In the past Roger has done a lot of volunteer work with the Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, and delivering shredded paper to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (S.P.C.A).

Even though he has transitioned to the SLC for his day program, Roger still enjoys many of the social opportunities offered at The Shop, the “dayhab” program he used to attend in Auburn. The Shop hosts many nightly events during the week such as dances, bingo and karaoke.

These events gather folks from many other homes in the area, not just residents and staff from JFM. Being the charismatic guy he is, Roger thrives in this environment.

According to Sally, “he is Mr. Popularity.” He always makes his rounds to say hello to all his friends and peers.

Art is a big part of Roger’s life. He has a true profound passion for painting. He creates wonderful pieces of art with use of bold colors. These abstract paintings have become a huge hit with some of the people in his life. As Joe says, “He seems to be most at peace when he is making his art.” Over the years his art has appeared in many showings in the community, such as the L/A Art Walk, Tri-County Dinner, and SLC’s own art show, to name a few. His art has been sold often and is now displayed in the homes and offices of many people, including friends, family, and even strangers. For a while, the walls of SLC were covered with a lot of his work. There was a brief period of Sally Wotherspoon 32

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Joe has described Roger’s story as one of success. JFM strives to provide Roger the opportunity and the support system needed but his personality is what truly makes him thrive, making his life full and enjoyable. In our interview, Joe said, “You are looking at a very pleased brother-inlaw. Things are good here and that’s not always the case in these types of situations.” The purchase of a home on Pleasant Street in 1978 has been so influential on this man’s life.

s to paint

Roger love

l photo

Sun Journa

Since that fateful day in 1978, JFM has grown tremendously. Initially, the company had only one home. The pleasant street house being the second one to be purchased. When Sally first started in the company there were only 11 employees. Now, over 800 individuals are working hard every day to ensure that more people can have the same opportunities as Roger. The home on Pleasant Street has served as a trailblazer for the company. The paved trail has led to the purchase of many more homes. These homes are scattered throughout Central Maine. Some of Joe’s closing words in our interview were, “it feels good to go home at night and sleep well, knowing [Roger] is being taken good care of here. I have no doubt in any of the staff he has had here in the time that I have known them.” These are the family reactions that JFM strives for.

I only spent a brief time here on Pleasant Street but I’ve been welcomed back anytime. Being a DSP myself I felt immense pride as I walk out of this home today. I am reminded of the impact our work can have on these people and their families. The people at John F Murphy homes are dedicated to providing support and are always presenting endless opportunities. As a result, Individuals are able flourish in their community and are encouraged to be as independent as they can be. Roger’s story is a prime example of the kind of success possible here.

Judy Corkum & Roger smile for the camera JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

33

TAKING PRIDE

Frank Michaud, of Ash Street, Lewiston, works to keep the sidewalk clean in front of his home.

Kevin A. Lamarque/Sun Journal photographer

34

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Making a House a Home Long Term Employees Reflect

By Dan Marois

S

pending some time with long term employees from the group homes at John F. Murphy Homes, one quickly discovers that the folks work there, not because it is just a job, but more because it is a mission.

“Working here has been a rewarding career for me,” said David Wilbur, a 27-year employee who is currently a group home administrator. “I switched careers twice and was educated in other paths that didn’t work out.”

Lori Lyons is a home administrator at JFM Homes who has been with the company for 25 years. She’s most proud of the employee recognition that the company offers recognizing workers for their great work.”

“I continue to work here because of the people we support,” said Lyons, who admits that in the early years of the agency she knew everybody who worked there. “There were fewer of us. Now there are 800 employees.”

At one time, he considered being a long-haul truck driver, responding to the call of the open road. “Then I thought about it and decided that I am supposed to be here.”

“On the first day on the job, I almost walked out because it was not what I expected,” recalling her nervousness of that time. “But I came back to meet the challenge. It was the best decision I ever made.”

He’s most proud of the quality of life that his work gives to disabled people. “They are well taken care of by our employees.”

A twenty-year employee, Danielle Garneau, has been a direct support provider for her entire career. She’s worked in the same group home for all that time.

On the first day on the job, I almost walked out because it was not what I expected.

But I came back to meet the challenge.

It was the best decision I ever made.

– Lori Lyons

“You simply do a good job here and people are well cared for particularly around health and family issues,” said Garneau. “I’ve seen growth and improvement with people who have high medical needs. It is good to see that people are still here and enjoying life.”

Garneau often deals with end of life care for her clients, a subject that softens the tone of her voice when talking about her work. One her fondest memories was when she

25 Year JFM veterans: Diane McDougall, Cindy Klonowski, Lori Lyons & Martha Howard

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

35

By Dan Marois | Making a House a Home was a caregiver for Margaret Murphy, a pioneer of JFM Homes programming, leading up to her death.

“Margaret became ill and as a tribute to her, I went to her home and cared for her to the end of her life,” remembers Garneau. “Margaret gave so much to JFM in the early years and people were always happy to work with her.”

“I still have one original client that has been with me in all the time I’ve worked here,” adds Garneau. “I’m also the fourth person in my family to proudly work at JFM Homes and I also met my husband here.”

Diane Clukey is a 33-year employee who began as a direct support professional, became an administrator, and then went back to support work and the hands-on care it provides. She was one of the first three original employees.

“When I first arrived on the job, there were lots of improvements to be done and I could help make them happen,” recalls Clukey. “Everything about JFM Homes is great.

We all look out for each other whether it is staff, board of directors, or clients. All of the growth through the years is simply amazing.”

Clukey said that she loves the people she works with and they do great things together. Summing up her more than three decades on the job, she simply says, “I love my job.”

Diane McDougall is another employee who has been a direct support provider for 25 years at the agency.

“I come to work because of the folks I’ve worked with for all these years,” said McDougall. “Here there is unconditional love and they brighten up your work day.”

She says that the work is all about helping people.

“It is rewarding to bring joy into the lives of our clients,” said McDougall. “We are able to bring accomplishment to their lives.”

As they look to the future, this select group of employees are aware of the various challenges ahead. They cited the need for more jobs for their clients and wished for an employee daycare for people who work on off shifts.

They look to a time when CEO Peter Kowalski might retire.

They said that he has been such a driving force at the agency that they worry about finding someone who could lead the agency as well.

They worry about staffing, especially for direct service providers, approaching retirement.

“Staff are afraid to leave the people (we care for),” said the entire group. “We recognize that there is lots of knowledge in our seasoned staff; there’s lots of passion and compassion. Who will replace these employees?”

Looking back on their accomplishments, these employees had highest praised for the organization in its 40th years.

“If I had a child with a disability this is where I would want them to be,” said McDougall, with her fellow employees nodding in agreement.

Diane McDougall, Lori Lyons, Danielle Garneau, Diane Clukey & David Wilbur

36

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

It has given us peace of mind that he is being taken care of and his needs are being met in a way better than we could possible do ourselves. – Family member

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

37

Margaret Murphy Center for Children

By Michael Krapovicky

A

Facebook review of the Margaret Murphy Center for Children read; “I can’t even put into words what MMCC did for our son. He is turning into the wonderful young man he is today because of the tremendous programming, nurturing and support that the staff gave him in his years there.”

Testimonials such as this expound on the value of the Margaret Murphy Center for Children’s diverse services to the Maine community at large.

Physcial development area at the school

The Margaret Murphy Center for Children provides assistance to parents of children with autism and other developmental and behavioral challenges. Their goal is to help all people coping with these struggles learn, and assimilate and interact with their peers. Currently in their seventeenth year of operation, Margaret Murphy Center for Children supports 175 students from age 2-20, with 7 discrete facilities, providing one-on-one support for nearly every student. Margaret Murphy Center for Children is a source of inspiration and hope for families all over Maine, and their reach is widening with expansion plans and new state-of-the-art training methods.

Dr. Michelle Hathaway, Director of the Margaret Murphy Center for Children, was one of the originators of the MMCC. Dr. Hathaway explained the ethos on which the MMCC is based. “We use the science of applied behavior analysis to provide comprehensive and individualized programs; in a manner that recognizes the importance of relationships between the staff and our students, and 38

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Our program is not a one-size-fits-all program; it’s designed to meet the individual needs of every student who walks in the door.

– Dr. Michelle Hathaway

inter-student relationships as well.” Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as defined by autism-speaks.org, is a process of studying and modifying behavior. It changes the environment and monitors changed responses from the person, to result in changed behavior or learning of life skills. “Our program is not a one-size-fits-all program; it’s designed to meet the individual needs of every student who walks in the door.”

Evolving from in-home programs; and the need to pull everyone into a centralized location, The Margaret Murphy Center for Children opened in May of 2000, on Charles St. in Auburn. Dr. Hathaway explained, “The original proposal was a small school for 10 children. MMCC has continued to expand in order to provide comprehensive services to children with special needs.” Ann Bentley, Director of Development at John F. Murphy Homes, described the history of the MMCC and its evolution since its inception.

“School systems needed some assistance with kids with severe behavior challenge/autism and other related disorders,” explained Bentley. “This was our first “special purpose school”- the name under which our schools

Lunch time!

school. Special Ed. classrooms intrigued me, recognizing that these students learn in a different way. Margaret Murphy Center for Children offers the endless opportunity to help people learn in different ways. Our students are being increasingly accepted and integrated into society, very different from how it was when I was in public school.”

When asked about how the staff brings about the best in students with special needs, Turgeon answers, “We really establish their strengths and interests of the student and build on that.” Dr. Hathaway concurred. “We try to stress that each one of our kids is their own unique individual. ‘If you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism.’ We try to figure out what their strengths arewhat things they love, what excites them- and incorporate that into their education every day.” Turgeon qualifies, “Knowing that the interests of the student might change is part of relationship-building; you have to really be in tune with what isn’t as motivating, what might not be a strength that particular day.”

This flour feels so soft.

are licensed. In 2004 we opened our school on Main Street, out of necessity. These kids were growing up and were just too big to be integrated with small kindergarteners. Also this building housed our first day care (in another wing) for children of teachers, employees, and a few community members.” Dr. Hathaway reiterated the value of the various facilities, and the need for further expansion. “Our reputation within the state has allowed us to grow. We are known for taking very needy kids and providing them with excellent clinical and educational services. One of the things that strikes me every day; whether it’s our direct teaching staff or clinical staff, all are really driven to be the best at what they do, with one of the toughest populations of students in the state. They come in passionate about their work; really strive to better themselves professionally.”

Sara Turgeon is the site administrator for the Mt. Auburn middle and secondary programs at Margaret Murphy Center for Children, which was established in 2013. She worked previously as an ed tech in the public school system, and came to Margaret Murphy in 2001. “MMCC was a very nurturing and supportive environment, one-onone with kids,” said Turgeon. “I moved up to becoming a case manager, special education teacher; went back to school for a Masters degree at USM. Being a teacher was something I’ve always wanted to do, since elementary

“One of the reasons Margaret Murphy Center for Children has such a great reputation in our region is that we are really committed to providing the best practices for students - relying on the most current research.” said Dr. Hathaway. “All our clinical and educational staff are committed to a tremendous amount of professional development. We have now 10 doctorate level clinicians

Read to me, Annie!

on staff, dozens of master level clinicians. For us, it has been important to attract, develop and retain some of the most brilliant clinical minds in New England; that has been critical in our success.”

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

39

The Margaret Murphy Center for Children’s vocational transition staff have developed dozens of partnerships.

The students volunteer at Good Shepard Food Bank to help fill care packages, at Shaker Village in New Gloucester they assist with gardening, and Whiting Farm in Auburn they maintain the chicken coops and other agrarian tasks. Paris Farmers Union, SPCA, Meals on Wheels, Shaws Supermarkets, and Orange Circuit Fitness also maintain internships for MMCC students.

The one-on-one care and commitment from MMCC staff that Dr. Hathaway details has lead to some truly remarkable success stories. “Success looks so different for our students based on who they are; success is defined in different ways. We’ve had students diagnosed with autism, who weren’t able to talk, years behind, at three years of age were developmentally one-year olds.

Two years later those kids walked in the front door of

Happiness is MMCC 40

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

kindergarten...the progress they’ve made is astounding.

We have a student who is now fifteen. He came to us when he was twelve, in a wheelchair, never taken a step, he had no form of communication; he engaged in a lot of self-injurious behavior. Fast-forward 3 years: he now walks, uses pictures to communicate, no longer hurts himself... This student will never attend a regular classroom, but his successes are just as meaningful as the first story... We have everything in between, kids graduating MMCC and going on to college and doing well; that speaks to the different students and range of services, and how we celebrate individual successes of the kids.

We had a student came to us at two, identified with autism, didn’t have any language; we had her for three years. And the progress that she’s made is phenomenal; we’re recommending she attend a regular kindergarten classroom without support.”

Turgeon described a similar experience with a developmentally-challenged student able to attend public school. “It was a slow transition; a lot of reassurance and collaboration with the public school, and he transitioned fully - making honor roll and playing basketball.” But equally gauged as achievement are the smaller strides the children make daily. Turgeon said, “Handling having to come in from a 15 minute recess without incident, being able to walk to the kitchen and make their own snack, these are all successes we encounter.”

Having a unique familiarity with the students at Margaret Murphy Center for Children is rewarding, and strong bonds are formed between teacher and student. “Every single day you are with that person; it’s kind of like family.

That’s another great thing about this job; we work so closely; it’s working as a team for a common goal.” Yet Turgeon acknowledged that the dichotomy of a familial atmosphere while still providing clinical support can be a delicate balance. “We have to remind ourselves to keep that boundary, so you can remain professional and you can provide them with that perspective, and that feedback, modeling and coaching from the outside world, even though every single day you are with that person; like family. We work so closely, sharing, working as a team for

By Michael Krapovicky | Margaret Murphy Center a common goal; it’s very difficult.” Dr. Hathaway agreed that the staff maintaining emotional stability is “...one of the hardest thing about doing this type of work. We commit to providing the very best care and direction that we can; we have to let go sometimes of the things we can’t control.

We are a school, with kids from varying environments and safety levels at home. We plan for their future, we keep their goals for the future in mind, and that’s something you have to mature into. At the end of the day, if the teacher has done the best they can, they need to leave and have peace to come back the next morning, or they burn out.

50% of special educators burn out within 5 years. That’s something we recognize; we support our staff - it’s tough.”

The Margaret Murphy Center for Children has significant plans to augment their ministrations to developmentallychallenged young people moving forward. “We’d like to expand our services on the continuums we have; early intervention services.” Dr. Hathaway said. “We have a tremendous wait list. We would like to be able to expand regionally where young kids with developmental disabilities can get services. We would also like to add assistance for the 18-25 year old range. The plan is for the two middle and secondary programs to join, and establish a campus and a vocational center - with access for community members. We’re hoping to foster entry level skills for our school body so that community members can access the students as a resource.” Community awareness about autism is growing because it’s more prevalent,” Dr. Hathaway explained. “When we opened in 2000, 1 in

10,000 kids were diagnosed with autism. Now the statistics are more like 1 in 68 kids are diagnosed. There is so much more awareness, more mainstream, television and movie characters with autism, magazine articles describing what to look for. I wish that our community better understood the value of the money that they spend on education and intervention. I wish not only that there was more acceptance and tolerance of people with challenges, but there was more value being put on the services we provide... As a human services agency we have to lobby continuously for money to sustain our programs.”

When asked what the community at large can do to assist the Margaret Murphy Center for Children (in addition to/ aside from direct donations) Dr. Hathaway answered, “Supporting legislation for better funding for programs for decent wages for human services agency support staff would be a big help. Get educated on the field, what autism is. A great online resource is autism-speaks.org. If you know people looking to get into this field, refer them.

We are always happy to talk to college students; we host dozens of interns and practicum students committed to growing the job force. Be patient and supportive of your neighbors who may have developmentally challenged children. The families of our students live under incredible stress; parenting is a round-the-clock job, and if you throw in additional needs, any support is huge for them. We urge people to commit to global community awareness and support.”

Michelle Hathaway

Sara Turgeon

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

41

Phenomenal service provided to my sister that has enhanced her life and provided her with a home of her own.

Josiah and a friend at

42

rner

Nezinscot Farm in Tu

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

– Family member

George worki ng hard on a can project at the Good S hephard Food Bank

What’s Happening On The Farm

By Dan Marois

N

o one was really surprised when John F. Murphy Homes CEO, Peter Kowalski, brought forward the idea to buy a farm. Ann Bentley, Director of Development, simply shrugged her shoulders at the idea.

a week,” said Finnerty. “It will also become a resource for anyone in the community who wants to learn about gardening and agriculture. We are so pleased that we are able to continue the legacy started by the Whitings by keeping the property as a working farm.”

“I thought it was a bit odd, but I’ve come to trust his ideas.”

The farm in question is Whiting Farm, an iconic local institution in Auburn founded some eighty years ago, in 1937.

The Whiting family owned and operated the farm for many years mostly under the watchful guidance of brothers, Elmer and Buster.

And the work is plenty. Of the 127 acres, 10 acres were planted to supply the farm stand in 2015 and 25 acres in 2016. This year, Finnerty plans to cultivate 35 acres.

Finnerty became familiar with the Whiting Farm when she first brought her chemistry students from the high school there with the goal of teaching chemistry through agriculture.

We are so pleased that we are able to continue the legacy started by the Whitings by keeping the property as a working farm.

“I simply used the farm as a classroom in the model of Maine Agriculture in the Classroom, a program that uses farming as a teaching resource,” said Finnerty. “Just about every operation on the farm, whether planting seedlings, maintaining crops, or harvesting can be connected with chemistry.”

– Kim (Whiting Farm Director for JFM)

Elmer Whiting closed the farm in the spring of 2013 following the death of his brother and after a medical condition worsened in his right hand. No family members stepped forward to continue the family farm.

Because of debts, Whiting was faced with having to sell the farm to buyers who would have developed the land rather than use it as a working farm. John F. Murphy Homes literally “bought the farm” and saved it from extinction.

The new owner is a nonprofit that houses, educates and supports people with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Murphy Chief Executive Officer, Peter Kowalski, said that the agency purchased the farm with its 127 acres in December of 2013 for about $600,000.

Kim Finnerty, a former chemistry teacher at Edward Little High School, now serves as Whiting Farm Director for JFM Homes. She says the farm is an opportunity to continue the mission of the organization and to keep farming alive in the area.

“The farm will provide jobs and developmental programs for Murphy clients. Right now, we have two clients that are employees working in the greenhouses and farm stand and we have eight students from the school that visit once

Kim Finnerty along with Elmer Whiting Russ Dillingham/Sun Journal photo

In her first year offering the program at the high school, she had 18 students participate. In the second year, 108 JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

43

By Dan Marois | What’s Happening On The Farm? students signed up for the farm learning experience.

When JFM Homes acquired the farm, Finnerty left her teaching position to become the full-time leader of the farm and resident visionary of what might happen there. She’s been fortunate to learn from Elmer Whiting who volunteers at her side in just about every venture. She says that everything she’s learned about farming comes from Elmer.

As for other plans for the farm, the Auburn native, who earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from West Virginia University, is in high gear with enthusiasm.

Plans are on tap for the Busy Bee Boxes program. The concept is simple and convenient. Customers can go online and place an order from the food stand at Whiting Farm and pay for it online. “Then all people have to do is to drive to the stand and everything will be packaged for them in their own box and ready to go,” said Whiting.

She envisions the Crock Pot Club where customers can pick up vegetables all cut and processed for crock pot cooking. “People can simply add their own protein to the mix.”

Whiting sees a time when aromatherapy will be offered onsite as well as yoga, year-round gardening, classes on food storage and preparation, and various forms of children’s gardens.

“It would be nice to have our own café,” adds Finnerty. “I can see a farmer in training summer program and an annual scavenger hunt with a barbecue and cook off competitions.”

Opening Day

“Elmer is like a father to me and his wife is a mother,” explains Finnerty. “He shares his knowledge and keeps the farming tradition alive.”

At the core of her visions is still a commitment to what Whiting Farm has done so well for so many years. “We want to introduce and encourage good, nutritious, fresh food and education to many people,” said Finnerty. “Or maybe some people will simply want to come out and walk around the farm.”

The farm will become a combination of the old traditions from year’s past and new ventures to herald its reopening.

“We’ll have mums in the fall. Poinsettias in the winter,” said Finnerty. “In the greenhouses, visitors will find vegetable seedlings, tomato, basil, mint, cabbage and lettuce. There will be the array of hanging flower baskets, tables full of bright red geraniums, marigolds, asters, petunias and pansies.”

Finnerty will continue to teach, but her students will be of all ages and backgrounds. Eventually, “the farm will have a very large educational aspect,” she said, with visions that the community with thrive at the Whiting Farm.

“The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteers program provides participants with at least 40 hours of in-depth training in the art and science of horticulture,” said Finnerty. “In return, trained Master Gardeners volunteer their time and expertise in many ways for community programs and activities. The farm will be one of their volunteer locations.”

Another project will involve the Somali Bantu Community Organization of Lewiston-Auburn, with members growing their own vegetables. “They come from a farming culture and will be working on 10 acres.”

44

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Annualsin the Greenhouse

Farmer Whiting taking a break to pay attention to his chickens

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

45

Michael in the

ster

age in New Glouce garden at Shaker Vill

Kaleb and a co

uple of feathe

red friends at

JFM has given my sister a quality of life that being home wouldn’t have! I’m very pleased with JFM and how they care for my sister!

– Family member

46

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Whiting Farm

Coming Full Circle JFM’s Intermediate Care Facility

By Nicole McGovern

T

he home at 146 N. Main Street in Mechanic Falls is located about a mile from the center of town on a tranquil wooded lot. Here, 12 people with intellectual and/or physical disabilities reside and are cared for by a diverse staff. Of the 54 residential facilities under the John F. Murphy umbrella, this establishment is the only Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID) that offers 24-hour nursing care to its residents. Other area ICF/IID homes provide care to folks who require 8 hours of less of nursing care per day, making 146 N. Main Street one of the few establishments of its kind in the state.

The goals are specific to the needs of the individual and are based on a collaboration between the team and the person being served.

House administrator, Cindy Klonowski has been employed with JFM for 26 years, starting in 1991 as the director of day services. In that role, Klonowski started her journey by meeting the folks at 146 N. Main Street as most attended day services. For the next several years, she worked in various roles throughout the agency and feels that she has come ‘’full circle’’ by accepting the role as house administrator, working again with some of the same folks she started with.

person being served. It could be daily living skills, volunteering at the library or local school, contributing to the animal shelter, making baked good for the police and first responders in town and also participating in activities at area day-treatment facilities, Klonowski explained.

There are currently 2 open beds at the house. To be eligible for this particular ICF/IID program, a person must require 8 or more hours of direct nursing care per day and be diagnosed with an intellectual disability. Further consideration is made between the individual, caregivers, and the team as to whether active treatment is of interest and could be of benefit to the individual, as well as if the setting would be a proper fit for the candidate.

Prior to joining the program, Klonowski said, some of our folks were either being cared for at home and due to an increase in their medical condition, could no longer be supported at home, while others have come from other facilities.

Cindy Klonowski

The well-rounded, dedicated staff consists of 24-hour charge nurses, the director of nursing, CNA-certified developmental training assistants, dietary aides, an activates coordinator, housekeeping and laundry, a social services designee, an administrative assistant, maintenance, and two qualified intellectual disability professionals who oversee each individual’s clinical program to ensure cohesiveness.

Klonowski explained that in addition to having their medical and physical needs met, residents at 146 N. Main Street also receive continued, active, hands-on treatment by way of working toward achieving goals and objectives with the idea that some folks may get the care they need and progress to qualify to live in an accelerated environment.

The goals are specific to the needs of the individual and are based on a collaboration between the team and the JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

47

By Nicole McGovern | 146 N. Main Street, Mechanic Falls The house offers a social room/dining area with a café-esque chalkboard announcing the meals of the day. On the day I visited, one of the folks was enjoying visitors in the social room while another was more than eager to chat.

Another was taking a midday nap. The two wings that house the living quarters are separated by a shaded outdoor patio. A common room lies just off the right wing with ample room for socializing. On my visit, the sound of big band music was streaming through the room.

The administrative offices are on either side of the social room and the handicap accessible whirlpool tub is just down the hall.

The home has 2 vans that are used for transporting folks to day treatment facilities and appointments and a larger bus used for day trips like the one the folks attended last year on the Songo River Queen in Naples.

While talking with staff about their varied roles, I was moved by their longevity with the agency. Klonowski has been with JFM for 26 years while another of her colleagues boasts 27 years of service and another reported 14 years of service. Another started out as a CNA at age

N. Main Street Intermediate Care Facility 48

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

seventeen and is now one of the charge nurses on duty.

The secret to staff retention and satisfaction is the celebration of watching folks progress and the bonds that are forged during this process, Klonowski said, making our folks and our staff rich on the inside.

Klonowksi is happy to see programs and facilities come alive. She recalls an older day-treatment facility from her earlier years which was housed in an uninviting concrete building with no windows. While the premise and intent for good was there, the atmosphere was utilitarian. The newer facilities are bursting with energy and light, she said, with more of a regard of the folks taking part in the programs offered.

Back in the 1950’s and early 60’s, the medical model for folks who were disabled was for them to be institutionalized, heavily medicated and subject to punitive, adverse treatment, in some cases, Klonowski said. That is one of the attractive things about JFM. They are always one step ahead looking for ways to offer the best care and the most innovative programs. They don’t settle for the status quo.

Instead, they are constantly looking to improve the services they offer.

JFM has provided our son with the support needed for him to live a full life. It has given us, his parents and his two sisters, peace of mind that he is in a caring and respectful environment with staff who are committed to his well-being.

My son has been in many homes…

JFM has by far been the best home for him. I know he is safe and that gives me peace! Thanks for a good job.

– Family

It has given me peace of mind to know that when I am gone she will be cared for.

– Parent

To our family, the JFM organization and staff is like an extended family which has provided services to our loved one which includes quality of care, safety, opportunity to gain personal growth in home and in the community.

– Family

– Parent

JFM has totally changed our son’s life, making every day purposeful, exciting and a life filled with friends and activities.

– Parents

He has blossomed into a wonderful person as he has been allowed to be himself ! He is well taken care of and his staff is WONDERFUL!

– Parent

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

49

Creating Opportunities Through Job Placement

By Dan Marois

J

ob hunting can be a challenge for many. Developing a work history, writing a resume, and surviving the nervousness in an interview can take its toll.

For people with intellectual disabilities, the challenge can be even greater as they try to find their way in a world that might see a person with disabilities as less capable to do a job.

By getting to know the client, we can expand their possibilities... We can discover some skills and possibilities that the clients didn’t even know they had.

– Laurie Crane-Turton

John F. Murphy Homes Employment Services is changing attitudes and finding meaningful employment every day for those seen as disabled.

“We have tried to offer employment services two times before,” said Laurie Crane-Turton, Chief Operating Officer for JFM homes.

“This time, we’ve gotten it right.”

Employment Services provides support and helps adults with intellectual disabilities find gainful employment that matches their skills and abilities to succeed as an employee working in the business world. To ensure a smooth transition to this world, they provide pre-employment training to help adults with important job and workplace skills.

Crane-Turton supervises the program with Sarah Ouellette, a certified employment specialist, who handles the day to day programming. Together, the duo expands the possibilities of what disabled people can do.

50

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

“We allow our clients to dare to dream,” said Ouellette, leaving aside any negative attitudes. “We look at the bigger picture of what we are doing and find the right opportunities and positive attitude that can help our clients succeed.”

In previous attempts to develop the jobs program, staff would often make an assignment based on simply knowing what someone liked. If someone enjoyed being outdoors, the person might have been placed with an employer doing gardening tasks.

“Now, we don’t jump on the first thing that they like. We still assess the person to determine their interests, and we consider many different environments that might work,” said Ouellette, noting that job placement staff carefully evaluate both the employee and the job to ensure that each person’s abilities and skills are matched to specific employer needs.

“By getting to know the client, we can expand their possibilities,” adds Crane-Turton.

“We can discover some skills and possibilities that the clients didn’t even know they had.”

Ouellette recognizes that there are challenges in placing clients depending on their ability. She said that some can handle the demands of a worksite, independently, and come and go freely with their work assignments. Others need greater support including more intensive oversight at the worksite.

“For those with more challenges, we are there at the job site to answer any questions or intervene as needed to keep the client focused on the job task,” said Ouellette.

The other challenge the program faces is the stigma attached to people with disabilities.

By Dan Marois | Creating Opportunities Through Job Placement “Some employers focus on what a person can’t do as opposed to what they can do,” said Ouellette. “When we show them that these folks can be productive and dependable employees, they usually embrace having them as employees. New relationships begin to form where they are treated as co-workers and they are respected for the work they do.”

“Another client is able to mow lawns and has developed a client base for his own business,” said Crane-Turton. “The sky is the limit as to what these folks might do.”

The jobs at JFM Homes vary as much as the individuals that do them.

“Employers are being more open to working with us and providing work for clients,” said Ouellette, who has worked for JFM for 17 years.

Ouellette and Crane-Turton believe that their success comes most from the high expectations they have for their clients and employers.

“This program works because there are no barriers and we are looking at everything we do with a fresh set of eyes,” said Crane-Turton, a 30-year veteran at the agency.

“The work can be difficult at times, but we expect the program to grow in the coming years,” said Ouellette, reflecting on the progress in her program.

Agency staff admit that there is no greater reward for them than in that moment when a client first gets paid for their work.

“They are so happy when they get that first paycheck,” said Ouellette, beaming with pride as she remembers these occasions. “Whether someone worked three hours or twenty hours, they have that feeling of accomplishment.

They earned it and it is their money.”

And what is her wish in the future for the program?

“I’d love to see employers reach out to me asking us if we can help them,” said Ouellette. “We have clients who want to work, not 40 hours a week, but as little as 5 or 10. No job is too small for us to handle.”

“One client really likes working with children so she has a job at L/A Daycare. Another enjoys being in an office setting and cleans the office for a residential mortgage company,” said Ouellette.

A longtime client has been Jim Marston, owner of Uncle Andy’s Digest. “Our clients regularly deliver copies of the digest to area businesses. It is a task they enjoy doing.”

The arrival of the Whiting Farm project at JFM Homes offers jobs with hands on practical experiences in maintaining the farm including planting, harvesting, handling, and selling of food products.

With the dare to dream attitude, the jobs program is expanding possibilities by making some of their clients business owners.

“We have a client who enjoys designing and making jewelry and we are helping her to sell her products,” said Ouellette.

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

51

Jeff get a visit from his brother and the family pet

JFM has always been involved in many things during the holidays – they make sure staff is able to go – and they do a lot with the folks. This means a lot to our loved one to be able to do these things.

– Family member

52

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Community Business Partners

By Michael Krapovicky

“W

ithin each of us we are two people, the at John F. Murphy Homes. “The Navigators have develperson we are today and the person oped great relationships in the community, volunteering we can be tomorrow. Nothing reflects at United Ambulance, the Auburn Fire Department, Trinity this more than experiencing firsthand Jubilee, Camp Tall Pines and Auburn Rec. Department. the dedication and commitment to all associated with the Life Center,” said Stephen Pray, Eddie from Trinity Jubilee provides testimony to the value manager of Hammond Lumber Company. Pray is neighbor of the Navigator’s service. “Without the Navigators we to John F. Murphy Homes Life Center on Poland Road. wouldn’t be able to feed the people that we do. We receive He and his employees witness daily interactions between about 85% of our food from Hannaford’s. Without JFM the staff and the residents of volunteers delivering the John F. Murphy Homes, and I urge you to spend a little time in getting to donations there would be consider this a great priviover 125 people who would know the wonderful people of Life Center lege. “I urge you to spend a go without eating. Without and their staff. Get involved if you can and JFM volunteers we wouldn’t little time in getting to know the wonderful people of Life be who we are. share your support.

Center and their staff. Get – Stephen Pray, Manager of Hammond Lumber involved if you can and share “Some of the people who your support. This truly is a attended the Life Center do wonderful organization, doing great things, and making tasks like stuffing goodie bags, assisting with bulk mailing, real changes to better the lives of the men and women distributing posters, delivering meals on wheels, “ continthey so truly care for.” ued Bentley. “Four young men who attend the Margaret Murphy Center for Children give their time to Whiting John F. Murphy Homes has a forty-year tradition of serFarm, Shaker Village and Good Shepard Food Bank- makvice, with historic partnerships with Maine businesses. ing their community a bit better day by day. There are a Their volunteer programs foster a spirit of community, and number of folks who volunteer at the Greater Androscogis mutually beneficial to all who participate. “As we look gin Humane Society, providing many different types of to our next 40 years at JFM, we wanted to wrap up the support to them... dog walkers, shredding paper for their magazine with some stories of giving back, how the kids cages, feeding the animals and providing love to the pets and adults we support ‘return the favor’ to the Greater L/A dropped off.” community”, said Ann Bentley, the Director of Development

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

53

By Michael Krapovicky | Community Business Partners with intellectual disabilities can be viable members of the communities that they serve; and are truly worthy of respect. Through this joint endeavor. I have made lifelong friendships, and I can’t imagine conducting these presentations without them.”

In 2001, Uncle Andy’s Digest became the first company to partner with John F. Murphy Homes, having the JFM residents assist in delivering their monthly publications. Jim Marston spearheaded the collaboration. “In the beginning we had three volunteers from JFM delivering — today we have seven!” said Marston. “We really appreciate and value this partnership and look for it to continue for many years to come. It gets the JFM clients out into the community; interacting with people, gaining a little independence, making new friends, all while putting a little money in their pocket!”

Each volunteer receives delivery staff training, as well as a new Uncle Andy’s logo T-shirt uniform each year. For their foresight in choosing to partner with John F. Murphy Homes, Uncle Andy’s received the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President’s Award in 2015. Adding to this prestigious accolade, John F. Murphy Homes gave Jim Marston and Uncle Andy’s Digest JFM’s first Community Business Partner Award in 2017.

Ronald Gastia, former Chief of Police of Bangor, related the benefits he experienced working with the John F. Murphy Homes Navigators program. “As part of my role as the Director of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Maine, I have been extremely fortunate to have had Navigator athletes accompany me to the Maine Criminal Justice Academy for the purpose of educating new law enforcement officers about Special Olympics and the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Their presence has helped to remove stigmas, and encouraged people with intellectual disabilities. Because of these athletes, all Maine police officers have been introduced to the reality that people 54

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

A similar story to Chief Gastia’s is shared by Geoffrey Low, Chief of the Auburn Fire Department. “Almost ten years ago, what began as a relationship based purely on professionalism and social responsibility has evolved into what might be described as an alliance and a friendship with the Navigators,” said Low. “In addition to the maintenance activities they perform at the station, the Navigators have become an instrumental part of preparation for our fire prevention activities every October. Their willingness to prepare over 1300 takehome packets for school children frees up invaluable time for our staff members to focus on other areas of preparation. We appreciate all the Navigators do for us; they’ve become part of our family.”

Bonnie McHugh of Gleason Media described the assistance she received from the John F. Murphy Homes volunteers as vital to the annual events she plans.

“If it were not for the help of the wonderful people at JFM’s Life Center and Navigators helping distribute posters and flyers, we would not have had the manpower to go to so many local businesses and organizations. Ultimately the hours they spend donating their time resulted in the success of our events and translated into an increase in the funds we raised.”

What I didn’t know is how much I would get in return. The time I’ve spent getting to know these extraordinary young men and women has enriched my life beyond measure.

– Luke Robinson, Wolfpack Fitness Not only do those who employ the volunteers at John F. Murphy Homes reap benefits. Those who offer their help to John F. Murphy residents have also felt they have been equally rewarded. Cindy Dubois of Central Maine Adaptive Sports said, “I feel the Navigators and Life Center are very special to me. These two programs have the greatest

staff. They support the clients in so many ways -whether it be emotional or physical. I value my relationship with them with all my heart and will continue to do so through the years to come.” Luke Robinson, founder of Wolfpack Fitness, echoes this sentiment. “As the owner of an outdoor fitness facility, I thought hosting a weekly workout for the Navigators would be a great way to give back to the community.” said Robinson. “What I didn’t know is how much I would get in return. The time I’ve spent getting to know these extraordinary young men and women has enriched my life beyond measure. We share stories, we laugh, we dance, we celebrate life. They never cease to amaze me with their abilities, their passion, their spirit, their support of one another, and their gratitude to those who support them. I just hope they know I am grateful for the joy and happiness they bring to my life.”

Ann Bentley and John F. Murphy Homes are beyond grateful for these interactions with area businesses and folks, and their testimony of experiences. “Thank you to our community for 40 years of acceptance, for embracing us, for nurturing us, supporting us... We hope that we have touched your lives in some small way and made a difference that counts.”

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

55

Simple love beyond the call of duty, care, and outstanding staff who strive to help their clients succeed to the best of their ability! A big thank you!

– Parent

JFM has given my parents comfort in knowing that their adult child is part of a “happy” home. My sister has had a few other placements but none she called “home” as she does today.

– Sister

Her level of independence has grown, she loves her home and did not take too long to get adjusted. It has been great for me; I feel she is secure and safe, and that give me great comfort.

56

– Guardian

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

JFM has done a magnificent job, through many challenges, to support my loved one beyond all expectations! This is the one agency, among many, that has successfully served her during her lifetime!

– Guardian

The Murphys’ had a vision of care but surely did not recognize the long term impact. Today that vision has only been enhanced as JFM moves forward while respecting the Murphys’ wishes.

– Guardian

We praise highly the JFM Family to all our friends and family. Your cooperation is superb. May you celebrate another 40 years!

– Guardian

JFM Board of Directors

tein & John Directors Gisela Golds

Bonneau

Givana Bernice Palmer, Hanin D Sue Tym gton, Adminis SP; tra oczko, B oard me tor; mber

ncrede & Joe

m Ta Directors Nor

O’Connor

Directors

John Cli fford V & Chris Crowley ougall, DSP; ; Diane McD on gt in ber an H e Bernic s, Board mem Cyndy Paradi

el Drouin

ha Directors Anita & Mic

Muffett Dul ac, Board member; D DSP; Patty ave Whitmore, LC; Kim Red Boucher, Sara Kidd mun, DSP;

Morris Directors Barbara & John Clifford IV

Absent: Deb Mailhot

Steve Shave

r, Board m

ember; Bet sy Bricker; Lawrence Picard, DS P

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

57

This page is dedicated to everyone who works and has worked directly with the children and adults in our care. Your unselfish support, caring and compassion has made JFM what it is today! Thank you for all you do each and every day and night!

Celebrating

58

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years

Pettingill Prayer

At first glance, You may only see dollar signs; But look into my eyes deeper, You’ll see a beautiful soul inside.

A soul in search of compassion, A loving, helping hand; Someone with a little patience, Who wants to understand.

These things I cannot do myself, Although I wish I could; What others take for granted…

If they only understood.

How I wish to get them all To see my life the way I do; I wonder how they would feel Having people walk out on you.

I may not use my words To tell you what I need, But take the extra time And I will show you… by my lead.

So God, only send me your good And willing persons, ready to heal; Someone eager to learn to better my life And who can fathom what I feel.

– Mary Santamaria, DSP

JFM Homes | The Past, The Present & The Next 40 Years

59

60

John F. Murphy Homes | Celebrating 40 Years