by Jim Copeland

The Legislative Session ends on March 21, 2009 at noon.  What will be the outcome?  Has anyone found the crystal ball that would tell us what is going to occur?  I have been to the Roundhouse several times this session.  I have spoken with legislators about the current situation.  As the session continues, it is amazing to me the attitude of those elected to represent us.  They continue to show up for work in what has got to be the most difficult of times in recent memory.  They continue to want to hear from the folks back home.  (It might be more the “misery loves company” adage than anything else.)

I am continually impressed with the overall compassion and caring that these men and women show for all the citizens of New Mexico, not just their constituents.  Times are tough.  People are hurting, homeless, and hungry.  The legislature knows there is little money, but they keep showing up for work.  They keep listening to people, lobbyists, organizations, and everyone else asking for help, support, or assistance with each and every one of the needs.

Believe it or not, there are situations more pressing than those of the families that Alta Mira supports.  There are situations that have the potential to impact the very world we live in.  The environment that we will leave to our children and grandchildren is being constructed with today’s financial crisis.  The infrastructure; streets, highways, and schools are being impacted by the current economic situation. 

I have stated before that the current system of services to the families Alta Mira supports is not sustainable.  Revisions are going to be necessary to all services.  It is my hope that Alta Mira can take a lead role in the input into what those revisions will look like.  We see the service delivery system from a unique perspective.  Alta Mira provides supports in all of the program areas for people with developmental disabilities.  We provide early intervention (Family Infant Toddler – FIT), developmental disability waiver, and state general fund services.  Our staff have a composite view of the needs of people we serve in the Albuquerque metro region. 

There will be changes coming to these programs.  It is incumbent on all of us, people receiving services, people on the waiting list, and people who aren’t even born yet who will need these services, to develop a service delivery model that will be sustainable.  We are looking at developing sustainable energy, green buildings and jobs, and reducing global warming all toward the idea of being around for years to come.  We should do no less for services for people with developmental disabilities. 

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.  I may be reached by direct phone line at 366-2117 or by e-mail at jcopeland@altamiranm.org.