The Independent Spring 2023

CHOICES: CHOICES: Making Inclusivity Making Inclusivity Possible Possible

DID YOU KNOW? DID YOU KNOW?

You can jump straight to your desired story from the table of contents below just by clicking on the title. Please watch out too for links within the articles for additional external resources. Click away!

CHOICES: MAKING INCLUSIVITY POSSIBLE CHOICES: MAKING INCLUSIVITY POSSIBLE

We are ecstatic to share our new interactive digital magazine! Be it reading, watching, or a little bit of both, our magazine's new format gives you the power to choose whenever, wherever, and however you wish to take in information. Filled with the same impactful stories of inclusion, access, and opportunity that you have come to rely on, our digital version now provides links for additional external resources, and more

importantly, features videos to complement the stories for a full sensory experience.

In this issue, we also share with you the choices Momentum continues to create. From making the first audience-inclusive NHL game possible, to adaptive tools enabling artists to choose for creative self-expression, to the new adult homes providing choices to their residents, we hope you enjoy reading and learning about the choices that makes inclusivity possible for the children, adults, and families we support

STRENGHTENING EDUCATION

Momentum expanded our alignment with USC OT Chan Occupational Therapy to create a facultypractice model at our pediatric clinics in Torrance and Long Beach. As part of this faculty-practice model, Professor Winny Soenaryo, OTD, OTR/L, an Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy, joined Momentum as a Senior Director of Professional Development and Clinical Research Coordination

NEW MOMENTUM HEADQUARTERS

At Momentum, we give people a chance to realize their dreams the hope, the confidence, and the resources for taking the next step and unlocking their full potential. We are there for them throughout their lives, to provide programs and opportunities to help them have the freedom to live the life they want

NEW HOMES

We are dedicated to leading the future of how people with disabilities should get to live. They deserve to be part of the communities in which they reside. You'll see how we are modernizing our homes and building new futures for the people we support.

MOMENTUM CELEBRATES!

Momentum is proud to announce our newest fundraiser Momentum Celebrates! taking place April 29. This casual gala will be held at our newest location, set with rooftop views, fabulous cuisine, inspired beverages, great entertainment, and more! While the event is being held in Thousand Oaks, the proceeds benefit our lifespan of program and services across 30 sites across five counties

M E S S A G E F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T & C E O

Director

Momentum Refresh makes historic first audience inclusive NHL game in the USA possible

by Karr Perez, Communications Manager

Momentum Refresh, the country's first mobile adaptive restroom made history as it debuted at the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks match at the Honda Center last February 17, 2023, making it the first audience inclusive NHL game in the USA.

Being able to provide truly accessible restrooms to people with mobility limitations and disabilities at the game was an opportunity that Bill Foltz, member of Momentum's Board of Directors, made possible with his tremendous support and endorsement. Foltz, who's also the Chief Executive Officer of ocV!BE a sustainable, mixed-use, live entertainment district anchored by Honda Center in the heart of Orange County promoted for the presence of Momentum Refresh at the Honda Center, along with Mr. Quinn Mackin, Vice President & Assistant General Manager of ocV!BE.

Photo by Dustin Klemann, Communications

"Going to the restroom may be something that most of us don’t really give much thought to. We think it’s just mundane but not to someone with mobility issues or a disability or a medical condition. When you struggle to accomplish even simple personal activities, the availability of an accessible restroom in a public place or event like a concert or a hockey game becomes a major factor in deciding whether or not you’ll go to such an event in the first place," said Lori Anderson, President of Momentum Refresh.

MAKING RESTROOMS INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE

With the simple but powerful belief that greater access to restrooms means greater inclusion and equity to the community and to the world, Momentum Refresh have been designed to respond to users’ individual needs. Refresh restrooms have height-adjustable sinks, adjustable grab bars, adult changing tables, and even a hoist that lifts people who utilize a wheelchair.

Momentum Refresh’s presence in the Ducks vs. Kings game came as a support to NHL’s “Hockey is for Everyone” campaign, which is designed to promote diversity and inclusion in the NHL community, regardless of ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability, or socioeconomic status

Venues can rent Momentum Refresh restrooms to provide a better experience to guests. For information about renting, visit MomentumRefresh.org.

Restroom accessibility is just as important as venue accessibility. When you have mobility limitations, the availability of an accessible restroom in a public place or event becomes a major factor in deciding whether or not you’ll go in the first place.

Lori Anderson, Momentum Refresh President

PROVIDING A LIFESPAN OF SUPPORT

Momentum showcases Array of Choices at the LA Abilities Expo '23

by Karr Perez, Communications Manager

After an incredibly successful participation last year, Momentum returned to the Abilities Expo last March 10th to 12th, 2023 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, to showcase an array of choices for persons with disabilities, their families, and caregivers.

One of those choices pertain to how a person with disability could express themselves through art. This was made possible with the wide array of adaptive tools that Momentum made available, which allow persons with disabilities to maximize the use of their physical faculties to create art

Aside from adaptive tools for creative selfexpression, Momentum also showcased adaptive tools that can assist in activities of daily living, as well as in recreation activities like biking One example was the 3D-printed soles and foot straps that enable kids to bike.

"We continue to create innovative and individualized 3D-printed adaptive tools to the people we support, as guided by our mission, vision, and purpose. We know that one of the ways for them to be able to choose how they can live and have a full life is precisely that by having a choice," explained Momentum President & CEO Lori Anderson

Dr. JJ Levenstein, Momentum Board of Directors Chair, watches as one of the Momentum Creative artists paints with his foot using an adaptive tool.

Momentum President & CEO Lori Anderson led the Momentum team as they provide an array of choices at the Abilities Expo.

Catch a glimpse of the amazing experience

Momentum had at the '23 Abilities Expo with this wrap-up video!

SHOWCASING RESTROOM EQUITY

Meanwhile, the Momentum Refresh mobile adaptive restroom was also made available at the Abilities Expo to provide the choice to stay longer at the event without having to worry about the need to go to the restroom.

“Coming to an event is a process You have long lines from parking to entrance to food shops, but even more so for restrooms, especially for people like me who have mobility limitations,” Natalia, a Momentum Refresh user, shared “That’s why I’m so glad that Momentum Refresh is here. I was able to drink as much water as I wanted because I knew there was a restroom that I could go in and out really quick like I was just another able-bodied person."

“In many ways, Momentum Refresh showcases what restroom equity looks like," said Dr. JJ Levenstein, retired pediatrician, and Chair of Momentum's Board of Directors.

A SPIRIT OF VOLUNTEERISM

Momentum's presence at this year's LA Abilities Expo was a showcase of the unbelievably strong sense of volunteerism, shown by our dedicated Momentum staff who volunteered to staff the booths and sacrificed their time to be at the event. Special thanks goes to the community volunteers who likewise shared their time and resources to help make the event the tremendous success that it has been. 'Til next year! We have a robust slate of volunteer opportunities, contact us here.

Video by Dustin Klemann, Communications Director

From L-R: (1) Momentum employee volunteers made the event a huge success (2) Momentum Creative artist Seong Chon with Momentum Chairman of the Board JJ Levenstein and Momentive Adaptive Design Manager Aragna Ker (3) Watch what Momentum Refresh end-users have to say about the USA's first mobile adaptive restroom!

Advancing Independence and WellBeing through Self-Expression

by Karr Perez, Communications Manager

There may be no right as essential to wellbeing as the freedom to create and express oneself Not only does it facilitate imagination and explore the intricacies of one’s mind and emotions, the freedom to express oneself through art also manifests independence, productivity, and full citizenship—the very mission Momentum sets out to accomplish with its wide array of programs and services.

Click here to watch Momentum Creative Art Instructor Guillermo Estrada talk about how he's striving to advance breakthroughs in their the art courses.

EMPOWERING POTENTIAL THROUGH INNOVATION

This is the reason Momentum Creative, the creative platform services of Momentum, continues to provide services and opportunities that highlight creative self-expression among persons with disabilities and medical conditions.

“Our goal of expanding options for each person receiving services required, first and foremost, that each person had more opportunities to express their thoughts, dreams, opinions, and feelings readily so that those around them could

follow their lead,” said Stephani Anderson, Momentum’s Vice President of Strategy and Innovation

Out of this goal and true to Momentum’s purpose of empowering potential through innovation Momentum Creative Gallery (MCG) was born. From providing visual arts training and holding art classes and workshops 12 years ago, Momentum Creative did expand its options, which now include local, national, and international art exhibits that showcase the work of the talented artists that it serves.

Video by Dustin Klemann, Communications Director

“Each exhibit aims to explore the times that we are living in, like concepts derived from social and historical contexts Sometimes these come up through artists’ dialogues or in peer-to-peer critiques,” explained Aragna Ker, Momentum Creative’s Curatorial and Adaptive Design Manager Artists' pieces have been celebrated nationally, with artwork from six artists recently on display at Make Studio in Baltimore.

A PLATFORM FOR EQUITY

The perfect melding of potential, opportunity, creativity, and self-expression makes Momentum Creative impactful. “Art sparks responses and interaction from others very effectively, without directly disclosing the particulars of the artist,” said Stephani. “This, in my opinion, makes it a platform of equity.”

And equity Momentum Creative does promote and advance, as it continues to explore techniques and mediums that were not previously offered, on top of developing tools and creating environments that empower the people it support to unleash their potential and talents in the creative arts

As Momentum Creative continues to innovate in its services and programs, it also “continues to carry forward the message that all people should be considered for their unique abilities and experiences rather than limited by “typical” ways of doing and being,” Stephani shared

Momentum Creative is the culmination of the passion, vision, and connection of artists and art lovers across our community. It demonstrates that ability is individually defined—and knows no limits.

Stephani Anderson, VP of Strategy and Innovation

Carl Tyler, one of Momentum Creative's artists, poses with his brother in front of his Spock-inspired artwork.

Momentum Creative gives artists like Julianne Huang the opportunity to creatively express herself through painting.

Momentum strengthens alliances with USC, UCLA for OT profession development

Our sensory-integrated services at our pediatric clinics in Torrance and Long Beach continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families During the past year, Momentum strengthened our alliance with the University of Southern California (USC) Our faculty-practice model makes it the only pediatric clinic of its kind aligned with the #1 ranked Occupation Therapy School in the country.

Winny Soenaryo, Assistant Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy at USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy is a Senior Director at Momentum directing professional development for our therapists and staff and coordinating clinical research at Momentum PTN in Torrance.

We likewise aligned again with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) working with

Lauren Clark, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Dean of Academic Programs; Shapiro Family Endowed Chair in Developmental Disabilities Studies in the UCLA School of Nursing During Winter Quarter 2023, Momentum supported the experiential learning portion of the course Care Work: Disability Justice & Health Care. Students were paired with Learning Leaders to see first-hand the challenges and opportunities for advancing integration in our communities and across

professions This undergraduate course considers intersections, interdependence, and complexities in formal and informal care webs and care economies Exploring the relationships between caregivers and receivers, which includes advocates, disability communities, and health professionals.

PAYING TRIBUTE TO OUR OT TEAM

This month of April, Momentum pays tribute to its wonderful OT team with a month-long celebration of the OT appreciation month

From featuring profiles of our beloved OT team members, to sharing informational bits and pieces about OT, our month-long celebration shows our deep appreciation for the impactful work that our own OT team does, while aiming to increase people's awareness of what Occupational Therapy is and what it does for people who need it.

Stay updated on our OT appreciation month celebration by following us on facebook, instagram, and linkedin!

Julia has been amazing! My daughter Alana has been with PTN for 9 years and Julia has been so helpful loving kind and passionate. Alana loves going to OT and Julia has helped Alana so much with confidence in herself and reaching some of her milestones. I am forever grateful to All the PTN staff and All of the OT that has helped my daughter through all these years.

Lisette Barajas, mother of OT student Alana

KARIN LARSON: Breaking Barriers for Inclusion

by Tena Yatroussis, Senior Director for Development

As a young woman, Karin Larson had big plans. While her mother and father did manual labor to earn a living, she was determined to have a professional career. Although no one in her family had ever been out of the United States, Karin graduated in 1963 with a degree in international relations and business from the University of Minnesota’s University College and a plan to go into the foreign service

“It’s the great American dream story,” said Larson in a 2005 interview with Minnesota Public Radio “My father worked in a warehouse and my mother worked in a laundry. I was the first college graduate in my family. I've been so fortunate, blessed really.”

BREAKING BARRIERS

Karin spent her career in the financial services industry working for the Capital Group. With a gift for numbers she rose through the ranks from secretary, to statistician, to the first female research director, to chair of Capital International Research, Inc. No small feat for a woman in the 1970’s.

FINALDRAFTINPROGRESS

Never one to be stopped by obstacles, when Karin was denied entry to a company analyst meeting at a male only “Club” in Los Angeles she attended the meeting via telephone … calling from the kitchen! She was known by all for her determination and graciousness that was contagious, and spurred everyone around her to do and be their best

NO OBSTACLE TOO BIG

A genetic disease caused her to lose her ability to walk. The wheelchair became her ally and she never slowed down. In the most respectful way possible she would say, ‘So what? I’m in a wheelchair I’m a woman in a traditionally male industry So, what?’ She had an attitude where there may be barriers, but barriers are made to be broken And she did it with respect and kindness

MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MOMENTUM

Karin was first introduced to Momentum by her friend Karen Craig over 30 years ago when it was known as UCPLA. Working side-by-side with Board member Marianne Younkheere, Karin jumped right in using her networking skills to raise funds. Later she worked with Ron Cohen on getting two Independent living apartments open, and even got the Capital Group Foundation and colleagues to raise the funds to furnish the Santa Monica apartments so they were ready for individuals to move in – for many it was the first time they were able to live independently

In 2019 the Momentum Board of Directors honored Ms. Larson for her exceptional generosity of her resources, network and her wisdom with the Inaugural Ronald S. Cohen Inclusion Award recognizing her as the embodiment of inclusion and acceptance for individuals of all abilities in our community.

Karen passed away peacefully in April of 2021, but she wasn’t done giving She left her legacy for Momentum secure with a planned gift of financial support for years to come This transformative gift will make a continuing impact in advancing the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of the children and adults we support.

Like Karin Larson, you can create a planned gift that amplifies your impact on future generations. There are many different gift planning methods to suit your financial goals, tax benefits, & wealth planning for your family.

What does your vision for a more inclusive and accepting future look like? We can help you find a way to make the difference you want to see in the world

FINALDRAFTINPROGRESS

Did you know that Karin also provided consultation for Momentum Refresh through her valuable insights? Watch the video below to know more!

Clockwise from top left: (1) Momentum President & CEO Lori Anderson with Karin Larson. (2) Karin receives the Ronald S. Cohen Inclusion Award. (3) Karin with Momentum Project Management Consultant Mirza Patail inside the Momentum Refresh mobile adaptive restroom.

Video by Dustin Klemann, Communications Director

DEVON STERN:

A Legacy of Family and Friendship

Here’s how the family and friends of Devon Stern created a unique legacy that comes straight from the heart and the power of friendship.

In July of 1999 Shel Sandman, a veteran NBC Editor, invited his three best friends, Rob Schiller, Ian Toporoff, and Rick Stern, to play a round of golf. He suggested they each kick in $25 and donated $100 to Momentum, specifically the Devon Stern Children’s Endowment Fund. Each year, four generations of the Stern family come together to keep the unique legacy of this tournament that comes straight from the heart and the power of friendship

By 2002 the golf outing had grown to a full tournament with 144 golfers and over the past 22 years has raised over $1 5 million dollars

PLANNED GIVING PLANNED GIVING

PREPARE A LEGACY THAT WILL PREPARE A LEGACY THAT WILL IMPACT FUTURE GENERATIONS IMPACT FUTURE GENERATIONS

Join

JUNE XX

Click here to know more about how Momentum can help you with Planned Giving.

Devon’s late Grandpa, Larry Stern, created the Devon Stern Children’s Endowment Fund in her honor to ensure that children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities have the resources to unlock their potential and transform their quality of life

We’ve expanded the tournament into a true family affair and now include our subsidiary Momentum WORK, Inc. The net proceeds from the joint tournament will be supporting programs at Momentum WORK, Inc. as well as the Devon Stern Children’s Endowment Fund.

SAVE THE DATE: The tournament returns July 16, 2023 at Los Robles Greens. Click here to be a sponsor or buy tickets today!

Momentum offers more choices with new adult residential homes

Momentum is adding three new adult residential homes this spring to provide new choices to the people we support

The new homes, located in Ranch (exact location here), Northridge (Shirley Ave.), and Woodland Hills (Redwing St.), show thoughtful planning and construction. Not only are they built with high-quality materials and finished with contemporary design, the residential homes are also fitted-out with the latest assistive devices to ensure that residents get the needed support in their daily activities.

With activities and programs that enhance selfdetermination, the new adult residential homes provide opportunities for independence, self-empowerment, and the choices for the people we support to design how they can live and have a full life

Video by Dustin Klemann, Communications Director

Momentum Wheels for Humanity Teams Up with Ukraine's Health Ministry to Transform Rehab Care

Momentum Wheels for Humanity and the Ukraine’s Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Understanding last February 7, 2023 to take concrete steps needed in Ukraine to provide long-term quality rehabilitation services and assistive technology

We will continue to work tirelessly to improve Ukraine's available rehabilitation services, ensuring that more people in need across Ukraine are able to access the services and products they need to recover from injury and to live as independently as possible.

Kate Selengia, Executive Director

TRANSFORMING REHABILITATION CARE. Members of Momentum Wheels for Humanity conduct trainings on rehabilitative care for Ukrainian health professionals.

Through this new agreement Momentum Wheels for Humanity will provide training and products to establish AT clinics within health facilities throughout western and central Ukraine. This includes establishing an assistive product distribution and training hub in Lviv that will address the unmet need for assistive products.

Momentum Wheels has worked in Ukraine for over 25 years, and since 2014 has supported the Ministry of Health in trainings, policy advisement, and in-depth capacity building within health facilities As a result, 363 Ukrainian health professionals have been trained and 1,385 assistive products have been procured to provide services throughout the country.

Momentum WORK, Inc. launches Culinary Arts & Career Program

Move over Chef’s Table!

Coming this June, Momentum WORK, Inc is launching a new Culinary Arts & Career Pathway Program to include 6 months of kitchen and food service training for job seekers with disabilities.

Open to individuals 16 years or older, participants will learn a set of complex skills and then put those skills into practice in ways that could lead to a real career. Learning pathway will include cooking, time management, customer service, menu planning, kitchen safety skills, and much more. After training completion, students will practice their interview skills and apply for employment at the agency’s new small business, Momentum4Lunch, where they will prepare and sell quality boxed lunches to the Santa Barbara community

There are always elements of art and self-expression in planning and preparing food for others. Not to mention the fact that learning to efficiently prepare beautiful and nutritious food on a budget may be the best thing participants can do for their own health.

Kevin Smith, Director of Program Services

Students of Momentum WORK Inc.'s Culinary Arts and Career Pathway Program get lessons in cooking, time management, customer service, menu planning, kitchen safety skills, and other culinary-related courses to teach them and help them become employment-ready.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2023

Join

Celebrate the freedom of mobility in an entertaining and inspirational evening benefiting Momentum Wheels for Humanity’s life-changing work around the world

JULY

Swing easy and have a great round playing golf, in support of programs at Momentum WORK, Inc. as well as the Devon Stern Children’s Endowment Fund.

CAMP

ESCAPADES

Kids aged 5-14 get an unforgettable summer experience, with the same fun and engaging activities as a traditional camp, but one that is inclusive of everyone's needs, regardless of abilities

SUMMER 2023

SUMMER 2023

MOMENTUM COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR

Our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support to Momentum! To show your continued generosity that makes every impactful story of inclusion, access, and opportunity possible, please donate here.