The Southern Tier Independence Center (STIC), a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, is a community-based advocacy and service organization for children and adults with all types of disabilities. A key partner in Tioga and surrounding counties, STIC\u2019s mission is to help shape a world in which people with disabilities are empowered to live fully integrated lives in their communities.<\/p>\n
STIC\u2019s role as coordinator is a critical element in the success of many disabled individuals and their families, and is also vital for educating the public.<\/p>\n
Established in 1983 with a single grant of $100,000 through the State Education Department, STIC\u2019s early history started with a staff of four. Today, STIC has diversified their programs, services and funding, and employs about 400 people under 30 different funding sources.<\/p>\n
STIC funding comes via multiple state contracts, fee-for-service, corporate event sponsorships, project-specific-foundation grants and private individual donations.<\/p>\n
All of the programs and services offered through STIC share common themes, and primarily those that promote independence, inclusion and community integration.<\/p>\n
One program, Community Habilitation, pairs a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with an individual with a disability to assist them to lead a self-directed life, and where participation in the community is promoted to enhance community inclusion. <\/p>\n
One STIC success story is that of 51-year-old Lisa Loveland, a long-time Tioga County resident who moved into her very own Waverly apartment a little more than two years ago. Lisa had previously lived in local residential group homes that house individuals with varying disabilities.<\/p>\n
During a visit at her home, Lisa was busy with household chores, and then pointed out that she had already set up her Christmas tree and introduced Blackie, her pet guinea pig. <\/p>\n
Lisa said, \u201cI love living in my apartment,\u201d and remarked that, although she misses friends at the group home, the aspect of living on her own is more appealing. <\/p>\n
Kathy Scanlon, STIC Habilitation coordinator, explained that Lisa has a moderate intellectual disability, and shared, \u201cShe has thrived in the short amount of time since she relocated to the Waverly neighborhood.\u201d<\/p>\n
Scanlon was one of Lisa\u2019s DSP\u2019s in the past, and today, DeDe LaMont, Lisa\u2019s current DSP, helps Lisa for several hours during the week. Also involved with Lisa\u2019s progress is a care manager who meets or calls Lisa at least monthly. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe focus on three goals a day,\u201d LaMont said, and explained that the goals range from doing laundry to getting groceries, cooking and healthy living choices, and incorporating other routine life skills.<\/p>\n
In addition, LaMont accompanies Lisa to various extracurricular activities, such as art classes at her former residence home, and where she can visit with friends. Pottery is a favorite art, and now several pieces Lisa has made decorate her kitchen window. Lisa is also a talented painter, and was eager to share a koala bear painting she had recently completed.<\/p>\n
For Lisa, volunteering time at Stray Haven in Waverly is one way she participates in the community. Lisa holds a job at a local fast-food restaurant too, and where she has worked limited hours for six years. She is currently working with a career coach to pursue additional opportunities.<\/p>\n
Program growth has, in turn, increased the need for DSP staff. Scanlon announced that STIC is hiring part-time and full-time positions, and where a number of the jobs are in Tioga County. STIC employs approximately 150 DSP\u2019s.<\/p>\n
Applicants must have a high school diploma or G.E.D., have a valid driver\u2019s license and their own vehicle, as well as commit to multiple background checks.<\/p>\n
LaMont shared, \u201cYou will enjoy this type of job if it is in your heart to help people with disabilities,\u201d adding, \u201cMy reward has been watching Lisa flourish.\u201d<\/p>\n