Reviewed and updated the resource list which will be finalized in the next couple of weeks by our NSCC student intern.
Cheryl discussed that trainings on hoarding sensitivity will take place in April and May for selected, contracted homecare agencies' supportive aides. This is through the Lifetime Association - a coalition of 6 ASAPs and will be presented by Merrimack Valley Elder Services.
The group had a good discussion about two training tracks:
1) direct service homecare providers and
2) clinicians
As part of further planning, it would be helpful to determine what the desired outcomes of training (i.e. trained facilitators for support groups, homemakers who are sensitive in effecting progress with hoarders) might be.
Laurie passed around information from Pink Sneakers Productions. They are looking for clients who are willing to share their story for a documentary series on hoarding for TLC Network. The group is now offering $500 in compensation. contact casting@pinksneakers.net for more information.
Teri spoke about Debbie MacGregor, Director of Community Awareness and Prevention Team for the Essex County District Attorney's office. We all agreed that Debbie's role is an important one and that it would be a good idea to partner with her and that the resources she could bring to the table would be very valuable. Debbie will plan to attend our next task force meeting, but some ideas discussed were: expanding/regionalizing the task force to include other North Shore communities; hosting a workshop to help raise awareness and educate first responders, direct service providers and other professionals about compulsive hoarding; copying and distribution of the resource list and/or brochure.
The group briefly discussed the idea of a fundraiser event - possibly a screening of the documentary film, "My Mother's Garden." http://www.mymothersgardenmovie.com/pages/trailer.html and hosting a support group for individuals who hoard and also family members.
Laurie will be presenting at the MassHousing/Lynn annual breakfast on how our task force works on Friday, April 3, 2009.
Committees will be a discussion at the next group meeting.
The next meeting will be held at the Beverly Council on Aging on May 14th at 9:00 a.m.
