Plymouth, Ind.—Members of the Plymouth chapter of Indiana Professional Management Group’s Powerful Parents and Consumers Network recently came together to bring the spirit of Christmas to 16 needy Marshall County children. The group worked in collaboration with the Plymouth Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge to locate area children in need of sponsorship.

IPMG’s Powerful Parents and Consumers Network provides accurate information and rich resources for individuals with developmental disabilities, including those receiving an Autism, Developmental Disabilities, or Support Services Waiver from the State of Indiana. More than 12,700 Hoosiers currently receive waiver support for autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and other disabilities. Medicaid waivers assist individuals with meeting their needs and moving the person toward a more meaningful life.

According to Florence Hobby, a case management professional with Indiana Professional Management Group (IPMG), chapter members decided during a recent monthly meeting that they wanted to reach out into the community and find a way to help others. “This is an opportunity for each of these individuals to show they care for others in their community who are in need,” said Hobby.

In September 2006, IPMG became the sole provider of case management services to participants in the State’s Medicaid waiver program. The Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services, a department of Indiana’s Family and Social Services Administration, administers the Medicaid waiver program.

The FOP will be distributing the toys prior to Christmas, ensuring a brighter holiday for the 16 Marshall County families. “These children would probably go without Christmas if not for the efforts of these individuals,” said Hobby.

The group spent a morning shopping, then enjoyed pizza together prior to wrapping the gifts. Each of the 16 children sponsored will receive several presents, from basketballs and dolls to dinosaurs, books, and needed clothing. “This was a lot of fun, and it felt good to help,” said Susan Renz, a PPCN member.

As part of IPMG’s commitment to provide person-centered case management services to all waiver recipients statewide, the organization currently has 18 chapters of PPCN across the state.
For more information on Powerful Parents and Consumers Network, visit www.gotoipmg.com/pp-welcome.

For more information on Plymouth’s Fraternal Order of Police, visit www.plymouthfop.com/index.html.

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