CENTRAL VALLEY TRAINING CENTER
GAZETTE
September 2024
News from across our programs
For every day to be meaningful, inclusive and empowered.
COVER STORY · VISALIA
The Power of Friendship, Fitness, and Well-Being at CVTC Visalia
Pictured Above: Alex and Jesus at their daily gym session.
At CVTC Visalia, we spotlight the profound impact of social connections within our day program, and how these bonds have significantly enriched their lives.
For many participants these connections extend beyond mere friendship. They become a vital part of their emotional and mental well-being.
A common thread in these stories is the role of group fitness in fostering these connections. Whether it’s a yoga class, a morning walk, or a dance session, these activities not only promote physical health but also create opportunities for participants to connect and bond.
The friendships formed here are more than just social connections—they are lifelines.
The camaraderie experienced within the program has led to increased happiness, reduced stress and a stronger sense of community. Participants report feeling more motivated, energetic and positive about their lives. As we celebrate these stories of friendship and well-being, it’s clear that the connections formed within our day program are invaluable. They remind us of the power of human connection and the incredible impact it can have on our overall well-being.
IN THIS ISSUE
AROUND CVTC
Building Bonds and Growing Together
Pictured Above: Matthew S., David V., Henry B., Kenneth T.
Pictured Above: James P. & Benny R.
Pictured above: Ethan R., Yolanda A., & Syed A.
Benny R. and James P. have become close friends, supporting each other through tough times. Benny looks up to James, and they both value their daily time together. They mention program has helped them see things differently and take on a leadership role, adopting the “Getrdone” attitude that others have embraced. Benny’s growing circle of friends eagerly welcomes him, while James finds joy in helping and uplifting those around him despite his own challenges. Josh B. and Jacob M. wanted to share that their favorite things about the program are earning a paycheck and the friendships they've developed here. They both looked back on their time learning the Janitorial Work Program and the Food Truck Program and agreed that they lived their experience while gaining more skills and finding someone who shares the same sense of humor.
We love staying healthy and learning together! Each day, every classroom chooses a fun workout—nature walks, scarf dancing, or yoga with balls and mats. It’s a great way to stay fit, learn about exercise, and have fun!
“I like coming to program every day, It’s fun. I get to exercise and get stronger. I also have many friends.” – Kenneth T.
“Scarf dancing has been a staple in class. Everyone always gets a good dance and smile from it.” – Yolanda A.
“Geterdone” means “just do it and get it done”—an everyday motto. —James P.
Written by: Priscilla H., Choices and Voices Navigator
AROUND CVTC
Balance is Not Something You Find, It's Something You Create!
Pictured Above: Brian & Alycia
Pictured Above: Doug, Guadalupe, Brian, George, and Joseph
Pictured Above: Doug, Brian, George, and Joseph
Pictured Above: Christian, Tracy, Alycia, and Brian
Pictured Above: Tracy and Alycia
CVTC’s Fresno West team promotes having a well-balanced life to best support our participants and staff on their individual paths. Whether you are working, going to school, maintaining a social life, or learning new trades and skills, our team encourages all individuals to reach for the stars. One way to accomplish this is to make meaningful friendships and connections in our community. CVTC would like to shine a light on our one-of-a-kind versatile groups of individuals and their job coaches.
Brian and George gave their perspectives on working, volunteering, attending Fresno City College, going to job fairs, and creating friendships along the way while at CVTC Fresno West.
Brain wanted to take this opportunity to thank his two Job Coaches Guadalupe and Alycia for encouraging him to do his best as well as give back to his community by volunteering at the California Food Bank and Economic Opportunities Commission. Brian added, “I will miss working with Alycia because she is caring and always advocated for me whenever I needed help.” and “Thank you to Guadalupe for always ending a hard week of work with a special treat to a nice fancy restaurant!”
George also wanted to especially thank his Job Coach, Guadalupe, for seeing potential in him and advocating for him to work at a paid internship. George says, “Thank you, Lupe, for pushing for me to work and providing me with the opportunity to earn money.”
Job Coach Alycia shared a few words of advice which has helped her participants maintain balance in their lives, “Stay focused on what’s important to you, but most importantly do what makes you happy first.”
Job Coach Guadalupe Ramirez shared her perspective as a staff member on maintaining a healthy work-life balance: “Don’t take your work home. Enjoy your free time because work will always be there. Look forward to a new day, and choose something that you enjoy doing that will bring you happiness!”
Written by: Arlena M., Program Coordinator
Pictured above: left to right: Thomas, Shirley, Chloe, John, Mitchell, Andrew M., Conrada C.
AROUND CVTC
Exploring Opportunities
A group of enthusiastic participants from CVTC Stockton West had the opportunity to visit San Joaquin Delta College, where they explored a wide range of programs and got a glimpse of college life. The day was filled with exciting activities, beginning with a warm welcome from college staff and an overview of the programs available, from healthcare and technology to business and the arts. Participants toured the facilities and interacted with faculty. They participated in an informational session regarding admissions, financial aid, and support services, leaving the participants inspired and well-informed about the educational pathways available. The experience not only broadened their academic horizons but also empowered them to make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.
Written by: Karla L., Program Coordinator
MODESTO
A Journey of Advocacy and Connection at CVTC Modesto
Pictured Above: Brianna D. (left) with her colleague and friend Victoria U. (right).
Brianna, a participant at CVTC Modesto, has found meaningful balance and purpose through both the employment and day program through CVTC. Splitting her time between working at Goodwill with her job coach and attending CVTC's day program, Brianna has built connections, developed her advocacy skills, and become an integral part of her community.
When Brianna first joined CVTC, she gradually got to know others in the program. “Some I got to know when I started program,” she shares. “I got to know them little by little and learned their story. I realized I wanted to be part of the change they wanted to make. And I wanted them to know they were not alone.” Her compassion and willingness to support others have made her a valued member of the CVTC community.
Brianna's journey in self-advocacy has been transformative. “Joining the self-advocacy group has impacted me in a positive way. I learned I am a good advocate for others,” she explains. Through her involvement, Brianna has been able to help not just one person, but many, something that has uplifted her and expanded her sense of purpose. "It let me help more than one person at a time," she adds.
Her advice for new participants is both insightful and heartfelt. “Learn to be a friend. Don’t be shy, we are all here for our own reasons, you're not alone here. When I first started, I felt alone, I learned I wasn’t being judged and I just needed to get to know other people.” Brianna’s message is a reminder that connection takes time, but it is available to everyone who opens up.
Through her work, both at Goodwill and at CVTC’s Day Program, Brianna has learned valuable lessons about communication and understanding. “It allows you to learn what others like and don’t like,” she says, demonstrating her empathy and desire to connect on a deeper level with those around her. Brianna’s story is one of growth, support, and advocacy.
Through CVTC, she has not only strengthened her own voice but has also helped others find theirs, creating an inclusive and caring community along the way.
Written by: Courtney K., Interim Program Director
AROUND CVTC
Forest Gump, Who??
Participants Armando E. and Alejandro P. did not have to go to China to be on an All-American team. They just love playing ping-pong with their Flexolite ping pong paddle (If you know, you know.) All puns aside, the Guardians team at Fresno East enjoys exploring new places such as Recreation Centers to interact with their peers. Participant Alejandro P. says he enjoyed playing ping pong because it worked up his appetite for his Friday Buy-Out but he also enjoyed being competitive as well. Thank you, Guardians team for explor- ing the city for new activities for our Participants!
Written By: Moriah G., Program Coordinator
Pictured Above: Armando E. and Alejandro P.
DISABILITY AWARENESS
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Each October, the United States observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges and contributions of workers with disabilities. Established in 1945, NDEAM highlights the vital role that individuals with disabilities play in the workforce while advocating for inclusive practices and equitable employment opportunities.
The 2024 theme, “Advancing Access and Equity: Ensuring Opportunities for All,” emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive workplaces where people with disabilities can thrive. During this month, businesses, organizations, and government agencies engage in activities to support diversity, such as hosting educational workshops, promoting accessibility initiatives, and recognizing the talents of disabled employees.
NDEAM not only celebrates the achievements of workers with disabilities but also encourages employ- ers to take actionable steps toward building more inclusive work envi- ronments. By fostering accessible and equitable workplaces, compa- nies can benefit from the diverse perspectives and skills that individu- als with disabilities bring to the workforce.
For employers and advocates, NDEAM is a reminder of the progress made, as well as the work still required to achieve full inclusion in the labor market for people with disabilities.
AROUND CVTC
Balanced Living
Pictured Above: Nathan P., Manuel R., Francisco D.
The social connections participants build during their daily interactions with each other helps them form meaningful relationships with their peers. Nathan, Manuel and Francisco started off as peers, and now formed a positive work environment for each other. As co-workers they support each other learning how to work as a team and rely on each other to complete their tasks.
Written by Elizabeth D., Program Coordinator
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Staying Healthy as Fall Weather Arrives
1. BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY
Fall is the season of colds and flu, so it’s important to support your immune system. Start by consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those that enhance immunity. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables like apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and squash. Vitamin C-rich foods, like oranges and spinach, are essential for keeping your immune system strong.
2. STAY ACTIVE OUTDOORS
While the temperatures may be dropping, fall is one of the best seasons to enjoy outdoor activities. The cooler weather makes it perfect for brisk walks, hikes, or bike rides in the fresh air. Staying active outdoors can improve your mood, reduce stress, and keep you physically healthy.
3. PRIORITIZE SLEEP
With the days getting shorter and nights longer, the natural shift in daylight can disrupt sleep patterns. The reduced daylight can also affect your body’s production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. To counter this, establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
4. DRESS FOR THE WEATHER
Fall weather can be unpredictable. Mornings may be chilly, but afternoons can warm up. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable throughout the day. Start with moisture-wicking fabrics to keep sweat away from your skin, then add a warm, breathable layer and top it off with a windproof jacket for outdoor activities.
5. MANAGE STRESS AND MENTAL HEALTH
With the transition into fall comes the beginning of busier schedules—back to school, work projects, and holiday planning. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, which can negatively affect your mental and physical health. Take time to manage stress through mindfulness practices, like meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises.
6. GET A FLU SHOT
With the arrival of cooler weather comes flu season. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is by getting a flu shot. It’s a simple way to reduce your risk of contracting the flu and prevent its spread to others. Many healthcare providers offer flu vaccinations throughout the fall, and it’s particularly important for those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.
7. STAY HYDRATED
As temperatures drop, many people forget to drink as much water as they do in warmer months. However, hydration is just as important in fall as it is in summer. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and weakened immunity. Carry a water bottle with you and try to sip throughout the day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
2-1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1⁄2 teaspoon ground cloves
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1-1⁄2 cups white sugar
1⁄2 cup butter, softened
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing:
2 cups confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two cookie sheets.
To make the cookies: Combine flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a medium bowl. Cream together sugar and butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add pumpkin, egg, and vanilla; beat until creamy. Mix in flour mixture until combined.
Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets; flatten slightly.
Bake in the preheated oven until centers are set, 15 to 20 minutes, switching racks halfway through. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the icing: Stir together the confectioner's sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth. Add milk as needed, to achieve drizzling consistency.
Drizzle icing over cooled cookies with a fork.
AROUND CVTC
CVTC's Cultural Liaison Program Enhances Communication for Deaf+ Participants
CVTC has introduced an innovative Cultural Liaison program designed to enhance communication between deaf+ participants, their staff, and peers at our Stockton and Modesto sites. This initiative empowers participants by ensuring their unique communication needs are met through tailored support and resources. Cultural Liaisons at CVTC facilitate communication by teaching sign language to staff, conducting team-based classes to improve engagement with deaf+ par- participants, and developing iPads specifically adapted to individual communication preferences.
The program extends beyond internal support by fostering relationships with the deaf+ community through outreach, networking, and training initiatives. By building these connections, CVTC aims to create a more inclusive environment and strengthen ties within the broader community, benefiting participants and staff alike.
This program demonstrates CVTC's commitment to accessibility and cultural inclusion, offering a model of proactive engagement that empowers deaf+ individuals and enriches the entire organization.
Pictured Above: Cultural Liaison Purnima teaching ASL class to Modesto’s Launch team.
AROUND CVTC
Daniel and Feenix's Journey of Friendship, Teamwork, and Growth at CVTC
Pictured Above: Feenix and Daniel.
While there are many unique and wonderful friendships here at CVTC, one that truly stands out is that of Daniel and Feenix. Daniel and Feenix met at program several years ago and quickly became great friends. They joke with one another frequently and are quick to pair up at program for assignments and activities.
They share a love for video games, movies, different foods, and more. Both Daniel and Feenix are on the Satellite Team and spend most of their day on outings where they practice life skills in community. They especially enjoy going to the gym, where Daniel states, “We just give each other a glance, and both start working out as much as our arms and legs can handle.”
Daniel and Feenix have also worked alongside one another in an internship opportunity with the local Goodwill – an opportunity they both look back on fondly. Daniel and Feenix remarked that they worked great together, and that, “When one of us needed help, we always helped the other.”
Overall, their friendship is remarkable and shows the positive impact that CVTC can have on creating life-long relationships.
Written by: Ben W., Program Coordinator
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Easy Recipe of the Month: Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew
Easy Recipe of the Month
Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered
2 cups sliced red onion (from 1 red onion)
3 medium carrots, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces
6 garlic cloves, smashed
1 cup dry red wine
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups beef stock, divided
1 bundle (tied with kitchen twine) thyme sprigs (about 4 large sprigs) and flat-leaf parsley sprigs (about 2 large sprigs)
2 bay leaves
12 ounces baby gold potatoes (cut any larger potatoes in half)
10 ounces frozen pearl onions (about 1 3/4 cups), thawed
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh chives
Directions
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high. Sprinkle beef with pepper and one teaspoon salt. Add half of the beef to the Dutch oven and cook until well browned on two sides, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned beef to a plate. Repeat with the remaining beef. Set the beef aside.
Add mushrooms to the Dutch oven and cook, stirring often, until browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Add red onion and carrots to the Dutch oven. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to brown, for about 5 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add red wine; cook until the liquid has almost evaporated, 6 to 7 minutes, stirring and scraping to loosen browned bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven.
Whisk together flour and 1/2 cup of the stock in a small bowl; whisk into the mixture in a Dutch oven until incorporated. Stir in beef, herb bundle, bay leaves, the remaining 2 cups of stock, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until beef is tender when pierced with a fork, about 50 minutes. Add potatoes; cover and cook until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Stir mushrooms, pearl onions, mustard, and red wine vinegar into the beef mixture. Cook, uncovered until pearl onions are tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat; remove and discard the herb bundle and bay leaves. Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with chives.
AROUND CVTC
Welcome Doug, CVTC’S New Executive Director of Operations!
I am very happy to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of Operations here at Central Valley Training Center (CVTC). I’ve worked with CVTC in my previous positions at Valley Mountain Regional Center (VMRC). I am now proud to say that I work for CVTC as of 07/08/24. In my first month, I was able to get out to all our locations and meet our wonderful staff. I also had the opportunity to interact with our program’s participants, which is always a great time!
I look forward to working with the Executive Team, the administration staff, the Regional Directors of Operations, and all the site employees...both management and instructors. Everyone has been so helpful to me as I onboard, and for that I am very thankful! Providing exceptional services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is my number one goal.
I was born and raised in Stockton, CA, and I still call Stockton my home. I live very close to our corporate office. I also spent 3 years in Fresno while in college, so I enjoy that I will get to travel to the Central Valley in this role. I’m hopeful that my years of experience working within the California Developmental Services system will be an asset to continue the great work that CVTC does to make every day meaningful, inclusive, and empowered for the individual participants at each of our programs.
Written by: Doug B., Executive Director of Operations
AROUND CVTC
Cheers to 33 Years!
Pictured Above: Judy J.
Being new to CVTC, one of the things I find exciting is how long employees choose to stay with the company. I took this opportunity to catch up with one of our long-term employees, Judy Johnson, to find out some of the reasons why she has been with the company for so long. In September, Judy will have been with CVTC for 33 years. Judy started as an Office Assistant at our Fresno West site and has worked in various administrative positions, most recently as the Accounting Coordinator at our Administrative Office in Stockton. Judy cites that her favorite thing about CVTC is the people. Some of her favorite memories at CVTC include the Summer and Winter events the company has hosted as well as the 40th anniversary. Judy loves to celebrate each person - it is the "little things" she says that mean the most. CVTC's Mutually Shared Expectations is one of the reasons she has chosen to stay at CVTC for 33 years. CVTC's Mutually Shared Expectations are guiding principles to employees to help achieve our mission of "supporting people in achieving their potential." Those Mutually Shared Expectations are: Providing Leadership throughout the organization, Striving for organizational quality and customer satisfaction, providing clear and consistent communication, participating in the development of our culture and facilitating change, maintain fiscally responsible management, and actively networking and building relationships. These principals, the passion our company has to serve, the opportunity for growth, and the vision that our President/Founder, Ray Nylen has instilled, are just some of the reasons Judy has stayed over the years. Judy has worked alongside Ray Nylen for 33 years and has seen firsthand his passion and dedication to all those we serve and the people providing the services. Judy shares that CVTC has so much to offer in services from Employment Training, Self-Advocacy, and Program Activities (to name a few), and she encourages others to join our team-oriented culture. At CVTC you will be surrounded by those that genuinely care about you and your growth - plus it's fun!
Written by: Christina H., HR Director
CRAFT CORNER
Fall Craft Idea: DIY Door Wreath
Fall Craft Idea
Come September, we start thinking about cooler weather, fall leaves, and seasonally appropriate front door wreaths and porch decor. This grapevine and bittersweet wreath only requires a few supplies and will hold up all season long.
Materials needed:
- One, 18–to-24 inch grapevine wreath form
- Brown-wrapped floral wire
- Wide plaid scarf or ribbon
- Dried or artificial bittersweet branches
Instructions:
- Snip several vines from the wreath form all the way around.
- Wriggle the vines free from the wreath form.
- Shape the loose vines into circles and tuck the cut ends back into the wreath form, holding them in pace with brown-wrapped floral wire.
- Next, wrap the scarf or ribbon around the wreath form.
- Tuck sprigs of bittersweet into the grapevine wreath until desired coverage is achieved; hold the sprigs in place with hot glue if needed.
