02/13/1995 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 23, 1995 Wiedmann asked that this information be considered when the City Council makes it final funding determination. She encouraged the City Council to support this program. Jesse Ellingworth, North Suburban Consumer Advocates for the Handicapped, Inc. (NSCAH), (Request, $1,500.00) - Mr. Ellingworth explained that he taught school in the Anoka Hennepin School District and recently retired. He is active in disability issues such transportation, architectural barriers and housing. Mr. Ellingworth explained that he is currently working with an attitude awareness program. This program was started in the Coon Rapids Elementary Schools and was funded through a grant from the City of Coon Rapids. The program was an attempt to change attitudes toward persons with disabilities by bringing disabled persons to the classroom for interaction with the students. The program focused on fourth grade students. Mr. Ellingworth explained that NSCAH would like to expand this program into other elementary schools. Mr. Kelly, principal of Rice Lake Elementary School was very excited about the program and hoped that a grant could be secured so that the program could be presented there. The principal of the Lino Lakes Elementary School is also interested and asked for further information. Mr. Ellingworth introduced Mr. Erling Fugelso the Coordinator of the Program and Lyle Frerichs, the Lino Lakes Representative to NSCAH. Mr. Fugelso explained that he contacts the schools and distributes the Friends Who Care curriculum kit which is published by the Easter Seal Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House. A special attempt is being made to make educators aware of NSCAH's desire to help develop awareness among non -handicapped children about others who do have handicaps. Council Member Bergeson asked if any funding for this program comes from the school district. Mr. Fugelso said no, only from the City of Coon Rapids and that is why the program was limited to the Coon Rapids elementary schools. Council Member Neal said he was not aware of what is being done in the schools. Mr. Fugelso explained the Friends Who Care curriculum which helps children understand the limitations of persons with handicaps. Council Member Neal asked if Mr. Ellingworth had any problems getting into City Hall. Mr. Ellingworth said that it was slippery at the beginning of the ramp and he had help. He noted that the City Hall receptionist had told him that she can get in and out without problem. PAGE 3