First Steps Program Updates - How You Can Become Involved

First Steps Update - March 26, 2007 - Work Group Prioritizes Audit Recommendations
On March 21 a small work group of two parents, an independent provider, a representative of INARF, and John Dickerson of The Arc of Indiana used the collaborative work lab at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community to refine the parameters for a programmatic audit of the First Steps program.

Following are links to the workgroup's final report:
First Steps Audit Committee Work Session, March 21, 2007 - PDF Format
First Steps Audit Committee Work Session, March 21, 2007 - Text Format

The final report from this workgroup has been submitted to Peter Bisbecos, Director of FSSA's Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services. The recommendations are organized into four topical areas, and are listed in priority order within the topical areas.

We are working with FSSA to identify next steps regarding how this process will move forward.

If you would like to comment on any of the areas mentioned, or any you feel have been missed, please contact John Dickerson at: johndickerson@arcind.org

First Steps Public Hearing – Please remember that families, providers, therapists, and LLPC’s and SPOE providers are urged to attend an open public hearing on First Steps, Saturday, April 14, 2007, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., St. Lukes United Methodist Church, 100 West 86th Street, Indianapolis. Each person will have five minutes to speak on what is working and what needs to be improved with First Steps. We plan to have a court stenographer present to capture all comments. Written comments will also be accepted, and can be e-mailed to: kdodson@arcind.org We hope the hearing will provide a public record from people most directly involved in First Steps. The comments will be given to FSSA and whoever is selected to do the First Steps audit; and will be posted on our web site.

Directions to St. Lukes United Methodist Church