Connections Essay
when work feels like home
Editor’s Note: the New Year is a time to look forward, but Connections is going to start off 2016 by taking a look back, instead. This essay by Kimberly Lombard originally appeared in the March, 2013 issue of Connections. It’s as relevant today as it was then, and we hope it will continue to be relevant for a long time.
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n September of 1992, after a summer in New Mexico, I returned to Buffalo and began looking for work. I browsed through the phone book, scanning for agencies I felt would be meaningful places to make a living. The listing for AIDS Community Services jumped out at me. I had done some sexuality work (take your own meaning), friends and I had volunteered a little with ActUP, and I had friends dealing with HIV and gay discrimination. I called,
and was told there was an opening for a receptionist, but I would have to come in right away. My interview the next day was with Financial Officer Al Parker. He asked how I would handle sexual education items and sexually explicit materials being visible around the office. I made plans to decorate the office with vibrators for Christmas, and was hired the next day. I was home. As the Administrative Assistant for the agency (about 20 people then), I sat behind a glass window, buzzed folks into the building, and answered the phone. I got to hang out with Carocci, wear my cool vintage clothes, and nobody yelled at me. I had single person health care coverage, but I remember management making sure that the agency offered family health insurance, because we had a single mother working
here who could not afford health care for her kids. Everyone understood that our mission was to care for the clients and the employees. I remember the Community Educators planning safer-sex parties, and trying to get condoms out to everyone, everywhere. As an Admin, and then more so as a Case Manager, I was blessed to be a witness, and be able to help a tiny bit, as some very ill people died. The intimate physical and emotional details of each person’s illness were unique, sometimes gruesome, and sometimes led to beautiful moments. We had to hand feed the dying like babies, and wipe mouths because we were there, even though it wasn’t our job, but it had to be done. All of us were greeted at one time or another at the door for a home visit by a naked client with dementia. Care Coordinators fill out paperwork
for entitlements, but they also, then and now, hold a client’s hand when they are scared, hug them when no one else will, sit with them during some pretty graphic medical appointments, and tell lonely people that they care. Evergreen has been humane and understanding of the personal stuff we all go through occasionally. In 1996, a long-time client I had worked with very closely, died. After three years of planning funerals, I needed a break. I took an unplanned vacation with Evergreen’s blessing. What a gift to know that your employer cares as much about you as they do the bottom line. Once, the agency was given tickets to see a free screening of the premiere of “Philadelphia” starring Tom Hanks. I sat in the theater with coworkers, and clients, and volunteers, some who had AIDS, many who had lost someone to AIDS, all with an understanding of HIV and the world we were living in. We sat together, silently, and watched and cried. Many of those people in the audience that night are no longer here, but we felt a collective connectedness that night. We were in this together. I was so fortunate to move to Jamestown and still be able to work for the place I loved. As Director of the Southern Tier office, I witnessed people caring for clients, and doing all the everyday stuff. There wasn’t (and isn’t) fundraising, PR, or facility management staff; all of the Case Managers and Educators helped with that stuff after doing their own jobs. Staff put on 6 Cause for Celebrations, 3 AIDS Walks, and now 9 Dining Out for Life events. Evergreen staff always tries to find a way to get the needs met, whether it’s in the job description or not. Evergreen has proven, again and again, to be the place I was meant to be. Over the years, and today, the employees, the consumers, the volunteers, the place, have had me in awe. We have a beautiful garden here because Chris Voltz started it, and others have continued to volunteer their time to make it a masterpiece. Volunteers started this place, and one of the first volunteers was Ron Silverio. Sally Burn’s client writes to her from jail, and I’m sure others do too. Why? Because we are some of the only support they get. When Brian Planty looks at budgets, he asks:
“Did we feed people? Did we house them?” Only the bizarre finance staff would welcome Mike Hamann (CFO) back with a giant Britney Spears poster. We know he LOVES her! The admin desk on the 4th floor has had wonderful volunteers to answer the phone in their friendly way. Several of them, including Angie and Nancy, had sons who died of AIDS. James Hill offers to clean up messes he didn’t make and doesn’t have responsibility to clean up. Teams of staff worked together without complaining (too much) when we moved our office to South Elmwood, when we purged all our old outdated and deceased files, when we got eMDs and Penelope, and when we switched to unique identifiers. Big projects, and great teamwork! Kim Harding and Lucille Venezia let me call them 80 times a day without really complaining too much. But they did put me on a ration system. 12 or more clients meet monthly in the Partners Group. They love what we do and want to help. I have gotten my flu shot and my ppd (yes, I know I’m overdue!) from EMG when it is convenient for me, not them. They know I need it, and I travel a distance, so they go out of their way for me. Every workplace has problems. We wouldn’t be human if we didn’t find things to complain about, and Evergreen is far from perfect. We can always do better at living out our values. My older sister always told me, “It doesn’t matter what your work is. You can have your dream job, and if you work with jerks, you’ll hate it. You can flip burgers, and if you work with people who care, you will be happy.” I know I only mentioned a few people by name, but by working on all of our grants and funding sources now, I get a taste of what each of you do. I may not be next to you while you fulfill those work plan projections or enter the data, but I know you are doing it. When I fill out a report, I see past the numbers. I see that you are caring for the sick, lifting up those who have been made to feel unworthy, getting crap done that the person next to you needed by yesterday, and taking pride in even mundane tasks. I have stayed here because I see us together trying to make it better. This place still remains for me what I was looking for twenty years ago, a place to earn a living that I could be proud of, with meaningful work, and with the right people. You are the right people. — Kimberly Lombard
Birthdays Ventense Hollins................................... January 3 Tasheri Artis.......................................... January 4 Andon Ticco.......................................... January 5 James Thompson.................................. January 5 Nicole D’Addario................................... January 8 Quentin Page........................................ January 8 Tracy Eichelberger................................. January 8 Martha Sawicki..................................... January 13 Lynn Grucza........................................... January 13 Richard Smiley....................................... January 17 Michael Hamann................................... January 18 Sarah Smith........................................... January 20 Murray Wire.......................................... January 20 Samantha Gaerte.................................. January 21 Barbara Poff.......................................... January 22 Brandon Josephs................................... January 23 Angel Steele.......................................... January 24 Gianna Batt........................................... January 30 Lindsey Soroka...................................... January 31 James DeGarmo.................................... January 31
Anniversaries Fallah Kassar............................................1 year Jeffrey Santiago....................................... 1 year Angela Carr..............................................1 year Carly Kane................................................1 year Rebekah Bongiorno................................. 1 year Heather Maloney.................................... 1 year Deanna Ellis.............................................1 year Sarah Smith..............................................1 year Grant Rogers............................................1 year Martha Sawicki........................................ 1 year Salvatore Sciandra................................... 1 year Harold Colburn........................................1 year Michelle Santos.......................................2 years Ezekiel Goodwin...................................... 2 years Lynn Grucza.............................................2 years Lynda Jarmusz.........................................2 years Lavine Corp..............................................3 years Lolita Tramel............................................3 years Anna Ihle..................................................3 years Magali Maldonado.................................. 3 years Derek Miller.............................................3 years Victoria De Leon...................................... 5 years Andrew Kiener.........................................5 years Nichole Frank...........................................7 years Damian Mordecai.................................... 7 years Terresa Aughtry.......................................7 years Andrew Mattle........................................8 years Wanda Jimenez.......................................14 years Kevin Bidtah.............................................16 years Cheryl Brunetti........................................16 years Sheila Stephens....................................... 18 years Ron Silverio..............................................27 years
So many things I’d like to see, but I wouldn’t want to live in those times. I’m happy living in this century. We still have a long way to go, but it’s much more tolerant now than it was in the past. — Susan Buck M I’d say the 1960s. As one of the most transformative periods in America, the music, the social and political movements, and the culture in general would be an incredible experience. — Sean Tulumello M I would like to travel back to the time I was born, and witness my birth... I think it would be cool. — Steve Sanders M I would go back 20 years, when all of my elders were alive and healthy. I miss those times, and cherish the moments I have with those still in my life. — Tatesha Russell M I would see Michael Jackson, live in concert, the first time he did the moon walk. I think he is the best artist of my generation. — Michele Ogden M If I could travel back in time and see the Grateful Dead play the Egyptian pyramids in September of 1978, I would love that... or to see Jerry Garcia live at any point, period. — Shaenna Kelly M The creation of this universe and planet, because it’s something I’ve always wondered about. — Jasiel Guzman M I would love to go back and participate in the fight for a woman’s right to vote. Suffragists were some strong women, withstanding beatings, police harassment, imprisonment, and general hate. I would love to have been part of a rally, standing strong with a sea of women who believe in change. — Lindsay Zasada
Winter means dry, flaky, cracked skin. Experts advise using moisturizing skin products during cold weather to avoid these problems. Before you invest in high-priced products, head to your pantry. Many common foods — almonds, oatmeal, and even chocolate — can make your skin feel like you’re in the tropics. Note: as with any skin product, don’t use these recipes if you’re allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients, or if you have very sensitive skin. In case of a rash or reaction, discontinue use immediately, and seek medical advice promptly. Oats and Honey Facial Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliant, with anti-inflammatory properties, as well. This face scrub can also be used as a mask. 1/2 cup oats, any variety 1/2 cup honey Blend oats and honey in a blender or food processor until smooth. Apply to clean, dry skin in small circular motions, covering the entire face, neck, and decolletage areas. Rinse with warm water, or, for a mask treatment, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. Double Almond Body Scrub Your skin will reap the moisturizing benefits of almond oil, and the exfoliating properties of almond meal with this scrub. To make almond meal, toss a handful of raw almonds, with skins, into your blender. Blend for a few minutes until the almonds are the consistency of whole wheat flour. 6 tablespoon almond meal 6 tablespoon honey 3 tablespoon almond oil (or enough to bring mixture to desired consistency) Mix ingredients in a shatter-proof bowl. In the shower or tub, massage the scrub into your skin in circular motions (after washing with soap), concentrating on rough or dry areas of the skin. Rinse with warm water. Allow a residual layer of almond oil to remain on the skin. Pat dry. Oatmeal Bath An oatmeal bath benefits the whole body. Place a few cups of old-fashioned, uncooked rolled oats in a blender for at least two minutes, until the oatmeal is a very fine powder. When placed in bath, the powder should disperse itself, making the water cloudy. Soak in the tub as long as you like, rinsing only as much as necessary to remove stickiness from your skin.
Sweet Almond Body Scrub Almonds are packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, which nourish your body inside and out. Try this recipe to exfoliate and moisturize your skin. 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup almond oil 2 tsp honey 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Mix ingredients in a shatter-proof bowl. In the shower or tub, massage the scrub into your skin in circular motions (after washing with soap), concentrating on rough or dry areas of the skin. Rinse with warm water. Allow a residual layer of almond oil to remain on the skin. Pat dry. Chocolate Face Mask Once regarded as a bane to our health, new research has shown that dark chocolate is healthy — and not just to eat. Compounds found in chocolate can benefit the skin when applied topically. 1/3 cup cocoa powder 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoon cream or plain yogurt or sour cream 3 teaspoon (old-fashioned or quick-cooking) Place ingredients into a blender, and blend until smooth. Apply to clean, dry skin, and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Pat dry. ONE FINAL NOTE Products which contain cranberries are gaining in popularity, because cranberries may reduce the risk of skin cancer, and slow the breakdown of collagen. Because of their acidity, cranberries are also a very effective exfoliant. But, this is one skincare recipe you should probably leave to the professionals, as cranberries can stain your skin.
Connections JANUARY 2016
PUBLISHER/LAYOUT
John Carocci
COPY EDITOR
Martha Sawicki
CONTRIBUTORS
Melissa Lorenzo Martha Sawicki David A. Haefner, Esq. Michele Ogden Jakob Willoughby Connections is a monthly newsletter for employees of the Evergreen Association (that’s you). Send suggestions, photos, story ideas, or a friendly hello to John Carocci.
Connections is pleased to present monthly safety/security messages from the Facilities team. Staff are encouraged to discuss these topics at division/center meetings. For more information, or to suggest future topics, don’t hesitate to contact the Facilities team.
AS
the colder temperatures arrive, it becomes especially important to do everything we can to curtail the spread of seasonal illnesses. According the CDC, the most effective way to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands regularly. A recent study at Michigan State University found that only 5% of Americans wash their hands long enough to kill most infections. It seems silly to have learn how to do something as simple as washing our hands, but you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you get it right: Wet your hands completely with lukewarm water and apply soap. Rub your hands and lather the soap, making sure to get between your fingers, the back of your hands, and nails. Continue this for at least 15-20
seconds. If you’re unsure about the time, hum “Happy Birthday,” or “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” twice. Rinse your hands well under running water. Dry using a clean paper towel, or air dryer. Shut taps with a paper towel. Any soap will work, as it’s been found that antibacterial soaps are no more effective than normal soap. In a pinch, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used to supplement regular hand washing. It should not be considered a replacement, however, as many germs aren’t affected by it. It also won’t clean anything soiled, like washing with water will. You should make every effort to wash your hands thoroughly whenever: • When dealing with a sick client, or co-worker • When preparing or eating food
• • • • •
Before and after treating a wound After using the restroom After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing After handling an animal After contacting any garbage
Along with proper hand washing, it’s important to note that a large number of illnesses enter the body via the T-Zone. This includes your eyes, nose, and mouth. Try to limit contact with these areas, especially if you haven’t washed your hands recently. It will greatly help to prevent potential sickness. As always we strive to keep all staff happy and healthy, so that we can in turn pass that along to our clients. C
My goal for the new year is to finish nursing school and become an RN! [Gloria Kornowski] This year I plan on enrolling in night school to finish my degree, joining/forming a chamber ensemble, and learning the coding language Python. [Lindsay Zasada] I’m looking forward to getting married next year! [Kimberly Buchner] Watch my daughter grow, and to continue to grow into the person I want to be. [Jasiel Guzman] Getting my Associates degree then hopefully getting into Nursing school. [Shaenna Kelly] Looking forward, I’m going to train to be a chocolatier and open a new business venture… it’s already in the works! [Michele Ogden] This is the perfect opportunity to thank CBH for all of your support. You all have definitely encouraged me and kept my spirits up when school got rough! Being a full time employee and a full time student is not easy, but I can honestly say that you all motivated me to keep going! I am looking forward to graduation in May of 2016. All the stress, sleepless nights and early mornings will be worth it! [Stephani Miranda] In the coming year I hope to start a Women’s Empowerment Group for minority women, travel, and develop a plan to start my own business! [Tatesha Russell] Looking forward to a tour of the White House in February. [Steve Sanders] I plan on reading fifteen books this year. I will also take this time to promote Goodreads, since it’s a really great app for tracking them! [Sean Tulumello] I’m so organized at work, and I wish I could apply that to home, but I guess I need some “down” time. LOL. [Susan Buck]
Join us for a Wellness at Work program! Healthy eating and physical activity are paramount in reaching and sustaining good health. The 5-5-5 Challenge provides the perfect opportunity to begin a new start to the new year by eating healthier and exercising regularly. The 5-5-5 Challenge is a 5-week program that challenges participants to eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables, and be physically active 5 days a week. This will be a great kickstart to your wellness goals for 2016! Program Begins: January 11, 2016 Program Ends: February 15, 2016 Registration Deadline: Email or call Melissa Lorenzo to sign up by January 8, 2014 (mlorenzo@evergreenhs.org or extension 3107) Submission of weekly program participation form enters all participants into raffles for weekly prizes!!!
Congratulations go out to the following staff members who were recognized for their length of service at staff lunch! Kimberly Harding (5 years), Nicole D’Addario (5 years), Julie Vaughan (5 years), Kelly Craig (5 years), Corinne Henderson (5 years), Tara Monaco (5 years), Jessica Lehsten (5 years), Cecil Sutton, (5 years), Lindsay Zasada (5 years), Nicole Coonly (5 years), Stephanie Vroman-Goodrich (5 years), Norma Bocanegra (10 years), Dr. Gbadamosi (10 years), Keisha Leavy (10 years), Rosalind Townsend (10 years), Jason Rein (10 years), Cheryl Brunetti (15 years), Kevin Bidtah (15 years), Elisa Luciano (15 years), Richard Smiley (15 years), Carolee Corbitt (15 years). Not shown: Carrie Sentz (5 years).
THERE’S $500 FOR YOU IN THE EMPLOYEE REFERRAL PROGRAM. THAT’S A LOT OF EXTRA MONEY. WITH $500, YOU COULD BUY... $...........62.5 Delicious Chocolate Mousse ..............Desserts at Buffalo Proper $...........153 Rice Pudding Desserts at the Towne $...........250 Raspberry Cloud Pastries from ..............Carriage Trade Bakery $...........58 Vanilla Creme Brulee Desserts ..............from Buffalo Chop House ..............It’s easier than ever to earn ..............$500 from Evergreen’s ..............Employee Referral Program!
Here’s How: 1............Refer a qualified friend 2...........Rack up your rewards! ..............$100 after referee is ..............employed for 30 days ..............$150 after referee is ..............employed for six months ..............$250 after referee is ..............employed for one year
Don’t Forget! $...........Tell your friend to write ..............your name on their application $...........Fill out the Employee Referral ..............Form, and return it to HR $...........Sit back and enjoy 250 espressos ..............at Perk’s Cafe and Market