PTRC 2014-15 Annual Report

Piedmont TriadRegional Council Proudly Serving Local Governments in the Piedmont Triad Region of NC since 1968 Building Connections Across Our Communities 2014-15 Annual Report

Highlights of 2014-2015 ————————————————————- contentsChairman of the Board of Directors Message from the Our Regional Leaders.............. 3 Molly Leight, Board of Directors & Regional Leadership .......... 4 Winston-Salem City Council Finance & Budget ................................................. 6 National Recognition ............................................ 7Executive Director Regional Development Corporation ......................8 Matthew L. Dolge Reducing Energy Costs through Weatherization. 10 Safe, Affordable, and Quality Housing ............... 12Assistant Director Celebrating Aging in the Piedmont Triad............ 14 Matt Reece Putting the Piedmont Triad to Work.................... 18 Changing Criminal Behavior .............................. 20Division Directors Resilient Communities Plan Ahead..................... 26Area Agency on Aging: Blair Barton-PercivalCriminal Justice: Robin HowellFinance: Robin SheltonHousing: Michael BlairPlanning: Paul KronWeatherization: Reginald McCaskillWorkforce Development: Althea HairstonOffice Location1398 Carrollton Crossing Drive,Kernersville, NC 27284Numbers to knowMain switchboard line: 336-904-0300 Main Fax: 336-904-0301PTRC Website:www.ptrc.orgFacebook.comPiedmontTriadRegionalCouncilTwitter.com/PTRC_NC 2

It has been my pleasure to chair the Piedmont Triad Regional Council of Messages from our Regional Leaders Governments! I have been and remain in awe of the accomplishments of the tal- ented staff under the leadership of Matthew Dolge. Workforce, Aging, Weatherization, Planning, and all the other programs are a great resource for the counties that we serve. The PTRC is indeed a stellar organization of which I am glad to be a part. Molly Leight Chairman of the PTRC Board of Directors Winston-Salem City Council We are off to a good start with the Piedmont Triad RegionalDevelopment Corporation and are excited with the opportunitiesthat are developing. The Board has broad representation fromacross the Triad with members from both the public and privatesectors. We are getting to know each other and I see goodcooperation as we approach the new year.\"Darrell FryePresident of the Piedmont Triad Regional Development CorporationRandolph County Board of Commissioners The theme for this year’s PTRC annual report is “Connections Across Communities”. Our most important connection is with each of our local government members. Through collaboration, convening meetings, and facilitating discussions around core issues, our connection to you helps to pay dividends for your citizens. Other long-standing connections including partner- ships with community colleges, businesses, Goodwill Industries, and Job Corps through our Workforce Department, Habitat for Humanity and other non-profits through our Housing Department, and local hospitals, senior centers, and our regions network of care providers through our Aging Department help us bring the right resources to the issues that are most important to our region. We are grateful and honored to work with these, and a long list of other dedicated and competent organizations to have positive impact on people’s lives every day.Building Connections PTRC is working diligently to bring new resources to the table that will make Across Our our region stronger. This year, our Weatherization Department partnered with Communities Duke Energy in making more Piedmont Triad homes energy efficient. Our Criminal Justice Department saw an overwhelming response to an initiative withMatthew Dolge Wake Forest University and the Sawtooth Center for the Arts spotlighting talents of former offenders. Finally, we are pleased that this year we made major stepsExecutive Director in expanding our collaboration in economic development with the revision of thePTRC Regional Development Corporation. A new board of 35 community leaders — public, private, academia — are now working as a team to implement an economic development strategy that will promote resiliency in our region’s economy. We continue to look for new and innovative ways to develop programs and expand our services in cost-effective ways. As always, thank you for your support and guidance in making these connections possible. 3

Board of Directors & Regional Leadership Officers, 2014-2015 Chairman Vice Chair Treasurer Secretary Immediate Past Chair Molly Leight Nathaniel Hall Steve Yokeley Kevin Austin Darrell FryeWinston-Salem Caswell County Yadkin County Randolph County City Council Board of Commissioners Mount Airy Board of Commissioners Board of Commissioners City Council Board MembersALAMANCE COUNTY CASWELL COUNTY DAVIE COUNTY LINDA MASSEY* NATE HALL* JOHN FERGUSON* AC CC DCBC BC BCNAYDINE SHARPE ALVIN W. FOSTER* KENNETH RETHMEIER M P T ,T Y M ,T B RM P T ,V ARONNIE WALL* DAVIDSON COUNTY VM ,C B TC JOHN PETERSON DON TRUELL* WILL MARKLIN*A ,T E DC M P T ,T M BC CHIP TURNERC ,C G LARRY WARD FORSYTH COUNTY CARISSA GRAVES M ,T DC ,T G L TOBIN SHEPHERD WALTER MARSHALL*BUDDY BOGGS* C ,C L FM ,T HR NORMAN WILKES BC ED HOOKS M ,T M MICHELLE LEONARDC ,C M M P T ,T B JOE BENNETT* M ,C T MARY CAMERON C ,V C STEVE YOKELEY C ,T W* denotes member of the PTRC Executive Committee 4

FORSYTH COUNTY RANDOLPH COUNTY STOKES COUNTY (CONTINUED) TRACEY SHIFFLETTE DARRELL FRYE* ERNEST LANKFORD* A ,T K RC SC BC BC DAN PUGH* BERT LANCE STONE* JANET WHITT M ,T L M ,C A M ,T D JOHN MCDERMON DAVID SMITH DILLARD BURNETTE* C ,T R H M ,C A M P T ,C K BILLY MCHONE PERRY CONNER SHARON CONAWAY M ,V T C ,T W C M ,T F PEGGY LEIGHT TERRY CAVINESS C ,T W M ,T MOLLY LEIGHT* DANNY SHAW SURRY COUNTYC , C W -S M ,T R LARRY PHILLIPS* GUILFORD COUNTY MIKE DAWKINS SC A ,C R BC VACANT* V WAYNE ATKINS GC TS C ,T D BC DEBRA FRAZIER LESTINE HUTCHENS C ,C T M ,T E LEONARD WILLIAMS STEVE YOKELEY* M ,T G M P T ,C MA MARIKAY ABUZUAITER* ROCKINGHAM COUNTY DWIGHT ATKINS* C CG M ,T PM ZANE CARDWELL* LATIMER ALEXANDER* RC C ,C H P BC KEITH VOLZ* DARRYL CARTER* YADKIN COUNTY M ,T J C ,C E KEVIN AUSTIN* MIKE STONE BRENDA PLATT YC C ,T O R A ,T M BC WILLIAM PAUL BAITYC RON SURGEON JEFF BULLINS C ,T B ,T P G LAURENCE TODD M ,T M C ,T E B WAYNE MOORE* FRANK BRUNO JAY DONECKER C ,T J C ,T S M ,C R MONTA DAVIS-OLIVER C ,T Y TIM SESSOMS LORI ARMSTRONG M ,T S C ,T S MONTGOMERY COUNTY DENNIS PASCHAL III C ,T W JACKIE MORRIS* MC BC JIMMY BLAKE* M ,T B LAYTON BOOKER M P T ,T C BRANSON WEBB C ,T M G DAMON PRINCE C ,T T * denotes member of the PTRC Executive Committee 5

Prudent Stewardship of the Council’s Resources Finance & Budget The original PTRC budget for 2014-15 was $30,375,305. This was slightly lower than in previous years primarily due to decreased allocations and funding in the Aging Department. During the fiscal year, there were multiple budget revisions resulting in a final budget of $33,551,469, an increase of $3,176,164. The majority of the increase ($2,246,919) was in the Weatherization Department. The Weatherization program assumed the responsibility for two additional counties (Caswell and Alamance) which increased funding, and the program also received additional funding from Duke Energy. Budget projections for the upcoming year are slated at $34,365,706. This figure includes an increase in funding from the NC Division of Aging due to the restoration of block grant funds that the general assembly removed in the previous year. Our criminal justice budget is increasing as we expand our service area to meet state needs. The regional planning depart- ment is experiencing an increase in contract and grant based revenue. Our weatherization revenues are on the rise as our service area grows. Budgeted amounts for Workforce Development are smaller due to decreases in federal Workforce Investment Act dollars which pass through the state to the PTRC. Workforce funding continues to shrink as the economy improves. Four main program areas of the PTRC – Aging, Workforce, Housing, and Weatherization – account for 86% of the PTRC budget. The majority of the funding for those programs is then passed through to participants and service providers for the direct benefit of the citizens of the region. The member dues rate stayed stable at 21 cents per capita, and once again, PTRC used more than half of the dues paid by our members for the necessary match for aging and regional planning programs. The remainder of member dues was used to support Board of Delegates, Executive Committee, and City/County Manager’s meetings and functions. General membership dues comprise 1.6% of the annual budget at approximately $566,000 — an increase of less than one half of one percent from the previous year. In return for this investment in annual membership dues, area governments in the Piedmont Triad received over $23 million in pass though funding and grant assistance — a $40 return on each dollar invested in dues. For more information about the PTRC Budget or Finance Department, please contact Robin Shelton at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected] 6

PTRC Garners Four NADO Innovation AwardsFor almost 30 years, the National The PTRC is proud to Nationally Recognized ProgramsAssociation of Development Organi- be nationallyzations (NADO) has honoredmembers who have made significant recognized for ourimpacts on their regions through continuedinnovative projects that showcasecreative approaches to regional accomplishmentscommunity and economic develop- in regionalment through their Innovation AwardsProgram. The PTRC is proud to development.announce that four of our projectswere named Innovation AwardWinners for 2015 – more than anyother regional council or developmentorganization in the nation. NADO 2015 Innovation Award “GIS Tool for Targeting Housing force Development Division Winning Projects From The PTRC Rehab Programs” – PTRC GIS developed a model program in the Specialists created this analytical tool Winston-Salem area to provide Include: for Housing and Weatherization unemployed individuals and area Specialists to more effectively target college students opportunities for“CDBG Handbook” – The CDBG income need and eligibility for hands-on experience in technical orHandbook was developed by the housing rehab programs. This tool specialized skill areas such as non-PTRC in collaboration with the NC uses GIS technology to find and target profit management, e-commerce,Department of Commerce, the NC specific neighborhoods with a high software and web development,Department of Environment and density of potentially eligible house- accounting, marketing, and design atNatural Resources, the US Department holds. Through this technique, PTRC area small businesses. In the pastof Housing and Urban Development, has been able to save money and year, the program partnered with 40and local government partners to serve resources by reducing advertising small businesses, matching thoseas a practical, user-friendly guide to budgets, fuel costs, and drive times businesses with 60 participants. Thecommunity development block grant for site visits. The approval and Workforce Development Departmentfunding. The Handbook is now used evaluation process was also shortened, provided recruitment and screeningthroughout the State of NC to assist thus getting resources to eligible services and background checks at nolocal governments and sub-grantees in households faster. cost to businesses participating.the development, implementation, and Partners in this initiative included theadministration of CDBG funded “Survive, Thrive, Grow: Small Busi- Winston-Salem Chamber, Forsythprojects. ness Development Pilot Program”– Tech, area business incubators, and In seeking new ways to expand work private sector business development“HOPE Crew Project” – The experience programs and to connect coaches.Northwest Piedmont Service Corps talent to businesses, the PTRC Work-partnered with the National Trust forHistoric Preservation as part of a PTRC Service Crew Members, working with the National Trust for HistoricHOPE (Hands-On Preservation Preservation, work to repair and restore a wall at the Raleigh National CemeteryExperience) Crew working to repairand preserve the Raleigh NationalCemetery, a Civil War-era cemeterylisted on the National Register ofHistoric Places and owned by theDepartment of Veteran’s Affairs. Aspart of their work, PTRC ServiceCorps members repaired and restoredpanel sections of brick walls surround-ing the cemetery. In all, they repairedalmost 40,000 bricks – 8 ½ milesworth. Not only did Corps membersgain valuable preservation andmasonry skills, they also developed adeeper understanding and appreciationfor their work site and what it represents. 7

Piedmont Triad Regional Development Corporation Bylaws Revised In 2014, the PTRC Board of Delegates seized the opportunity to re-vision and re-purpose the Piedmont Triad Regional Development Corporation (PTRDC). The intent of the re-visioning process was to expand the work of the Development Corporation which had previously focused solely on the SBA Small Business Loan Program. In August of 2014, the PTRC Board of Delegates voted unanimously to adopt a revised set of bylaws for the Development Corporation with the intention of expanding the program of work to include operations and support for an Economic Development District while continuing its operation as a small business loan program. The process of revising the program of work for the Regional Development Corporation and seeking EDD designation began back in 2012 when PTRC planners began the development of a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the 12-county region known as Triad Tomorrow. The plan was completed and adopted by the Board in early 2014. With the strategy in place, the PTRC then began the process to revise the bylaws of the Piedmont Triad Regional Development Corporation and to establish it as a tax exempt non-profit entity designed to facilitate economic development activities across the region. Next, letters and resolutions of support of the EDD designation from PTRC member counties were obtained and submitted to the US Economic Development Administration (EDA). Thirty-five community leaders from both the public and private sectors were selected to the new Board of the Development Corporation. Finally, with the groundwork in place, the PTRC sought and received the support of the governor and the US Department of Commerce. The final paperwork was then submitted for designation as an Economic Development District. PTRDC New Officers: Board of Directors President: Darrell Frye, Randolph County Commissioner Vice President: Jim Matheny, Montgomery County Chairman Named Secretary: Derwick Paige, City of Winston-Salem Assistant Manager Treasurer: Andy Anderson, Senior Vice President, Yadkin Bank Assistant Secretary/Treasurer: Walter Denning, Executive Vice President, BB&T Latimer Alexander Councilman, High Point Andy McDowell Senior Vice President, Carolina Bank Gary Blake Don Martin County Commissioner, Forsyth County J. Douglas Brewer President, Blake Builders Harold Martin John Canosa Vice President, Allegacy Federal Credit Wayne Moore Chancellor, NC A&T State University William Cockerham Union Mark Moran Sharon Conaway Vice President, Surrey Bank & Trust Alan Murdock Councilman, Jonesville/Yadkin County Chair, Northwest Piedmont Workforce Jan Critz Development Board David Owen Senior Vice President, SunTrust John Ferguson Town Commissioner, Walnut Cove Larry Phillips Vice President of Economic & Work- Jeffrey Frederick Bonnie Renfro force Development, Forsyth Tech Craig Honeycutt Director of Economic Development, Scott Rhine County Commissioner, Caswell County Rockingham County Ed Hooks County Commissioner, Davie County County Commissioner, Surry County Robert Hyatt Chair, Guilford Co./High Point/Greensboro Phil Kemp Workforce Development Board President, Randolph County EDC Ernest Lankford County Manager , Alamance County Executive Director, Piedmont Authority Jim Lewis for Regional Transportation City Council, Mebane Mary Rittling President, Davidson County Community College County Manager, Davidson County Von Robertson Owner, Robertson Builders, LLC County Commissioner, Randolph County Lee Rollins Manager, Bermuda Run County Commissioner, Stokes County Mike Whitehead Senior Vice President, Bank of North Carolina Senior Vice President, Capital Bank Vacant Guilford County 8

The PTRC Received Designation as a FederalEconomic Development District on August 17, 2015 Region Designated as an Economic Development District by EDA Dignitaries on hand for the presentation of the EDD designationfrom left: Matthew Dolge, PTRC Executive Director; Molly Leight, PTRC Chair; Nick Wilkinson, Triad Regional Representative for US Senator Thom Tillis; Earline Parmon, Outreach Coordinator for US Congresswoman Alma Adams; Darrell Frye, PTRDC President; Philip Paradice, EDA Southeast Regional Director; & Trent Cockerham, Chairman of the Northwest Piedmont Workforce Development Board.  What’s in Store Key Strategies of “Triad Tomorrow” - For the Future? the CEDS plan for the RegionWith the designation as the EDD for  Competitive Advantage & Leverage –the region, we are now poised to Build on and Improve Authentic Economic Sectors in the Regioncontinue our efforts in coordinatingregional planning, regional economic  Regional Infrastructure -development, and regional workforce Build on and Improve the Fixed Assets of the Regiondevelopment.The PTRDC will serve as a clearing-  Vibrant Communities –house to receive federal EDA grants Support a High Quality of Lifethat promote economic growth. TriadTomorrow will provide the blueprint  Talent Strategies –for making sound economic invest- Invest in the Region’s Human Assets and Support Systemsments across the Piedmont Triadregion. EDA funding will enable the The PTRC is honored toPTRDC to help communities apply formalize our longstandingfor grants and coordinate efforts to relationship with EDA to helpimplement key elements of the the communities of theregional CEDS in support of multi- Piedmont Triad and to leveragejurisdictional projects, workforce the assets needed to forge aheaddevelopment, and community college and strengthen theinitiatives. region's economic vitality.For more information on the Regional Development Corporation, please contact Matthew Dolge at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 9

Weatherization Assistance ProgramReducing Energy Costs & Improving Energy Efficiency Improper insulation of a home can cause extreme energy loss and increase utility bills throughout the year. Properly weatherizing a home helps save homeowners up to 28 percent on their energy bills. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a free energy efficient program which results in hundreds of extra dollars per year to the homeowner. Units Completed Our Weatherization by Year Assistance program has seen remarkable growth since its inception in 2012-13. In just three short years, the weatherization assistance program has expanded into multiple counties and more than tripled the number of units weatherized. Weatherization Intake Specialists work satellite offices in the seven counties served — Alamance, Caswell, Davidson, Forsyth, Guilford, Randolph, and Rockingham — to assist customers with the application process. The Intake Specialists also perform home visits for those customers that are unable to come to the office. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS—FY 2014-15  PTRC Weatherization was awarded the Duke Energy Helping Home Fund to provide energy-efficient measures that include home energy assessments, weatherization upgrades, heating and cooling system replacements, appliance replacements, health and safety upgrades, and information on home energy use and energy saving strategies.  In the past year, the Weatherization Program completed 97% of Weatherization Units to be completed and exceeded our goal for heating and air conditioning (HARRP) units at 105%.  Expanded our service area into Alamance and Caswell Counties. Units Completed in 2014-15 by County 10

to PTRC staff members Jo McAninch and Anna Leonard for earning their Quality Control Inspector (QCI) Certifications.A Quality Control Inspector is a residential energy efficiency professional who Jo McAninch, Anna Leonard Weatherization Highlightsensures the completion, appropriateness, and quality of energy upgrade work by PTRC Inspector/ PTRC Inspector/conducting a methodical audit/inspection of the building - performing safety anddiagnostic tests, and observing the work. The guidelines for the certifications were Auditor Auditordeveloped by the US Department of Energy as a way for Weatherization AssistancePrograms across the nation to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge, practicalskills, and technical proficiency.LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY COLLABORATION PTRC Weatherization is represented on the North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program Policy Committee. PTRC Weatherization Assistance Program was featured in The Chronicle, Greensboro Times, and AC Phoenix newspapers. PTRC Weatherization Assistance Program hosted a Weatherization Day at Hanes Mall in Winston Salem and at Four Seasons Mall in Greensboro. Partnership and collaboration with the S.G. Atkins CDC to identify customers and distribute information. Partnership and Collaboration with Power-Up NC to distribute information door-to-door about the Weatherization Assistance Program as an available resource in the region. Exhibited at the Bright Leaf Hoedown, Reidsville Jubilee, Asheboro Craftsman Guild, and the Burlington Carousel Festival. “I was definitely satisfied with the weatherization program. The auditor was available to answer questions and was in contact throughout the entire process. The crew that worked on my home was excellent! … I want people to know what a wonderful program this is - you can’t beat it! It keeps your house just like it should be. There was work“Please let me thank you for all your assistance that enabled me to get the completed that I couldn’t affordhelp I needed in being blessed with a new heating/air system and insulation but I really needed, like insula-of my house. I survived the Ice Age with a quartz infrared heater, but I tion and bath fans. I can’t thankdon’t believe I could have survived this summer’s 100 degree weather with you enough!” Veronica Rousseau,my COPD. You will be pleased to know that my Duke Energy and Winston Salem NCPiedmont Gas bill has shown a goodsavings in cost which is helping me “The weather-keep current with my monthly ization programexpenses. Our Commitment to Quality did a fantastic job! My utilityThe companies that did this work We select the highest quality bill hasdid a great job !” contractors in the region. decreased and that is certainlyGary D. Scoggins, Graham NC We have two certified Quality notable. The Control Inspectors on staff. workmanship was high quality work and was done quickly.” We have initiated a Quality Control procedure to foster accurate records. The Reverend Benjamin F. Humphrey, Jr., Winston Salem NC For more information on the Weatherization Assistance Program, please contact Reginald McCaskill at (336) 904-0338 or [email protected]. 11

HousingSafe, Affordable, and Quality Housing The Piedmont Triad Regional Coun- Summary of 2014-15 Surry Housing Wesley CDC, Yadkin County cil’s Housing Department currently has Consortium accomplishments: Completed the Hollows multi-family seven employees administering five Mount Airy Habitat for Humanity apartment units in Boonville. Also related but separately funded housing Completed four units – on Gilda Drive, fully closed out Willow Pond, a programs that provide decent and safe Galloway Street, and Newsome Street multi-family apartment complex in housing for eligible low-income in Mount Airy. All are homeowner Mocksville. families, the elderly, and persons with occupied structures. disabilities in Alamance, Davidson, Hope Homes of Davie County Davie, Guilford, Randolph, Stokes, Completed two rental units – one on Surry, and Yadkin Counties. Programs S. Salisbury Street and one on Main administered include the HOME Street in Mocksville. Hope Homes has program, State CDBG/home repair transitioned from very low income programs, NCHFA Single Family homeownership to rental units. Rehabilitation programs, Urgent Repair grants in various counties, and Section 8 rental voucher assistance in Davie, Stokes, Surry, and Yadkin. The HOME Program is administered Above and below: Willow Pond on behalf of the Surry County Housing Apartment Units in Mocksville, NC Consortium (Davie, Stokes, Surry, and Yadkin Counties). Each year, the Surry PTRC/Miscellaneous County Housing Consortium receives Completed two homeowner occupied an allocation from HUD to be used for rehabilitation units in Stokes County. home repair or construction, direct Another three rehab projects in homebuyer assistance, or rental Stokes County are underway. development. A board with individuals 2014 RFP funding of $300,000 was appointed from each Consortium awarded to a 55 unit Low-Income member county oversees the Housing Tax Credit project in Mount distribution of funding in the program, Airy – Whistler’s Cove. The so decision making on the best and development will contribute to the appropriate use of the funds remains a housing stock and revitalization of local decision. Each county that is a a historically African-American member of the Consortium gets a voice residential neighborhood. in the distribution of funds. Construction will be completed in 2016. During the past fiscal year, the PTRC Hope Homes of Davie County rental units Housing Department administered approximately $600,000 of HOME Stokes County Habitat for Program funding in Davie, Stokes, Humanity Surry, and Yadkin Counties. Altogeth- Completed one unit on Highway 66 in er, six new homes for low-income King. The unit is now homeowner citizens were constructed by Habitats occupied. and other nonprofits, a 55-unit apart- ment complex was finished, and a 24- unit apartment complex was rehabilitated for low-income senior citizens. 12

The Housing Department also Housing work with the Rehab Program The largestcompleted Scattered Site Rehabilitation includes new heating and air condition- programCommunity Development Block Grant ing units and new insulation administeredPrograms in Surry, Randolph ,and by the PTRCDavidson Counties. Counties were Housingeligible to receive funding to repair Departmentowner occupied homes for households is thewith income below 50% of the area Section 8 rentalmedian income. assistanceThe PTRC housing staff boasts almost program in Surry, Stokes, Yadkin,100 years of collective experience in and Davie Counties. The tenant-administering housing programs and based Section 8 Voucher Program iscan be relied upon to professionally authorized to fund and administer aand fairly administer federal and state maximum of 842 vouchers or homesrehabilitation funding. for low-income families. At the endIn addition to the CDBG Rehab of this fiscal year, the voucherProgram, the PTRC applies directly to program supported 770 families.the state Housing Finance Agency The average housing assistance paid(NCHFA) for available Single Family each month for the period wasRehabilitation (SFR) funding. Counties approximately $390 per family.are deemed eligible to receive funding The total rental assistance providedon a rotating basis to rehabilitate owner during this year was over $3.5occupied homes for households with million.income below 80% of the specificcounty area median income. The PTRC HUD requires that those in housingbecomes the recipient of that funding to must recertify each year as tobe used in eligible counties. income, family status, and conditionNCHFA SFR funding was awarded to of the house. The PTRC hasthe PTRC and nine properties have been housing inspectors who average 30or will be rehabilitated in Stokes re-certifications each month. PTRCCounty, as well as four rehab projects also has housing specialists whoeach in Guilford and Davidson assist customers with the applicationCounties. In addition, the PTRC was process and gather informationawarded a 2015 Urgent Repair grant in needed for qualifying. In additionStokes and Surry County which will to the almost 800 vouchersrepair up to 10 homes. administered in the four-county region, another 750 families have2015 NCHFA SFR funding was been qualified for the program andawarded to the PTRC for Rockingham, remain on a waiting list. It is aAlamance, and Surry County in April continuous and labor intensiveof 2015. These three grants will be process to continually seek to helpunderway in November of 2015. out those who are in need of housingApproximately 4 units will be repaired assistance and weed out those who(12 total) in each of these new SFR no longer qualify for the program.counties in FY 2015-16. Last year, PTRC housing staff logged more than 1,600 calls from persons seeking housing assistance or needing additional information about the process. PTRC Housing Department staff members continue to work hard and remain dedicated to ensuring that safe and affordable housing options are available to qualified families and deserving individuals in the region. For more information on PTRC housing programs, contact Michael Blair at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 13

Area Agency on Aging 50 Year Anniversary of the Older American’s ActAging With Choice in the Piedmont Triad In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson President Lyndon Johnson signs the Older American’s Act in July of 1965 signed three landmark pieces of legislation that have shaped the lives functions. The Act also provides for waiting lists for services and untold of generations of Americans: advocacy services for residents in thousands more who are not receiving Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older long-term care facilities through the services critical to maintaining them- Americans Act (OAA). While Ombudsman program. The OAA was selves in their residences. Medicare and Medicaid extended amended in 2000 to include services The largest generation in U.S. history – health insurance coverage, the OAA and supports for family caregivers “Baby Boomers” born between 1946 created the foundation for a system of who provide countless hours of care and 1964 – continues to age into services and supports that enables for our nation’s older adults. eligibility for OAA programs, repre- millions of older adults to live The aging network across the country sented by more than 325,000 adults age independently as they age, assisting is waiting for the OAA to be 60 and better in the twelve counties of adults age 60+ to remain active, reauthorized with additional elements the Piedmont Triad Regional Council. independent and secure in their that include an elder justice The Area Agency on Aging continues to retirement years. The vision of the component and a correction in the foster relationships and partnerships OAA is to maintain the dignity and federal funding formula. In North forged over the past 50 years to ensure independence of older adults and Carolina, the growth of the age 60+ that older adults, persons with dis- sustain their connections to their population has drastically outpaced abilities, and their caregivers have the homes and communities. the funding, resulting in a conserva- opportunity to live and age with dignity, Under the authority of the OAA, the tive estimate of 16,000 persons on the purpose, and respect. PTRC Area Agency on Aging receives federal and state grant funding for an array of community- based services and supports for older adults, which include maintaining proper nutrition, accessing trans- portation, participating in senior center activities, or receiving aide in their home for assistance with basic AAA’s Funded Partners Deliver Services Across the Region In spite of a state budget cut of more than $960,000 for SFY2015, the 64 agencies of Region G provided services to 11,433 caregivers and older adults age 60+ residing in the twelve-county region, many of whom received multiple services. According to the prioritization of assistance established by each county’s volunteer planning committee for aging services, the top six services that empower older adults to “age with choice” include home-delivered meals, medical transportation, in-home aide, adult day care, congregate meals, and general transportation. Across the region, more than 1.255 million units of support services were provided, including: The “older-old” senior adults, those age 85 Home-delivered meals 700,256 meals and older, are particularly frail and vulnera- ble. Although they represent the smallest portion of the age 60+ population served Congregate meals 245,539 meals at group (9%) in the region, they utilized one-third of nutrition sites the total services provided, nearly 414,000 In-home aide 125,595 hours units. They also utilized the majority (42%) General transportation 103,024 one-way trips of the total in-home aide services and the majority (39%) of the total home-delivered meals. Using home- and community-based Medical transportation 29,642 one-way trips services maintains the dignity, independence, and autonomy of older adults for as long as possible at far less expense than placement in Adult day care 16,854 hours of care and long-term care facilities. transportation For more information on the Area Agency on Aging, please contact Blair Barton-Percival at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 14

AAA Supports Residents in Long Term CareCongratulations to Jennifer Harriss, L-R: Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page; Tara Tucker, Center Point Human Services;PTRC Long-Term Care Ombudsman Jennifer Harriss, PTRC LTC Ombudsman; Sharon Neville, Center Point Human ServicesJennifer Harriss received the 2015 CrisisIntervention Team (CIT) Trainer of the YearAward from the NC chapter of the NationalAlliance on Mental Illness at the annualconference held February 2015 in Raleigh.The award acknowledged her work in trainingemergency and crisis response personnel inRockingham County to use interveningactions appropriate for the elderly. Thisincludes awareness of confused or agitatedbehaviors that indicate dementia or a chroniccondition. Training the CIT members helpsconsumers manage and resolve their crisissituation within the community, avoidingunnecessary hospitalizations and ensuringthey receive the longer-term services that theyneed after the crisis has passed.  Long-Term Care Ombudsman Ombudsmen Activity SFY Activities for FY 2014-15 Facility Visits 2015 In-Service Trainings for LTC Facility Staff 1,560The regional long-term care ombudsmen fulfill Community Education Presentationstheir federal and state mandates to serve as the Technical Assistance 71 gatekeepers for more than 18,000 individuals Closed Cases 84 Closed Complaints 2,465 residing in one of the 336 Nursing Homes, (each case may have multiple complaints) 382 Adult Care Homes, or Family Care Homes in the region. The number of closed cases 763 increased by 53% and the number of closed complaints increased by 45%.Warren Wilson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman Selected for Virtual Dementia Tour Certification Warren Wilson was one of 20 candidates selected from across the nation for the 2015 Virtual Dementia Tour (VDT) certification, receiving the designation as Certified Facilitator Trainer and North Carolina Liaison. The ombudsman team offered five Virtual Dementia Tour training sessions across the region, including one hosted for PTRC employees. A product of Second Wind Dreams, an organization that makes dreams come true for long-term care residents across the nation, the VDT simulates physical limitations and conditions that are experienced by the elderly and those dealing with dementia. It is a life-changing experience: the participant can enter the world of someone dealing with dementia and respond better to the behaviors and reactions from a basis of understanding and insight.L-R: Warren Wilson, LTC Ombudsman;   For more information on the Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman PK Beville, Second Wind Dreams and Long-Term Care Services, please contact Kim Johnson Founder and CEO at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 15

Area Agency on Aging, continued When an older adult is faced with chronic health issues or acute illnesses, recovery often includes understanding and proactively Extended Health Community managing their health situation. This self-management includes Programs (EHCP) learning how to prevent falls or how to manage conditions such asAAA Promotes Education, Training, and Awareness diabetes, COPD, hypertension, asthma, arthritis, or a combination of illnesses. Older adults are often overwhelmed with the challenges of new physical conditions, new medications, and new care instructions. The sooner they learn to self-manage their circumstances, the sooner they can get their life back on track and see improvements in their health and their lives. With funding from Title IIID of the Older American’s Act, the AAA’s Extended Health Community Programs (EHCP) provide evidence-based training that helps people regain control of their lives. In FY2015, EHCP worked in partnerships with hospitals, health care providers, long-term care facilities, senior centers, local businesses, recreational facilities, and the faith community throughout the twelve-county region to offer 63 workshops for A Matter of Balance™, Living Healthy™, and Living Healthy With Diabetes™. The workshops were attended by 588 A diverse group attends a chronic disease self-management consumers. Fifty-one new leaders were trained to facilitate the program class in the region workshops, with a current roster of more than 120 coaches who are trained to lead the courses. In addition to these three core programs, EHCP offers additional health and wellness education support for senior adults across the region, including health fairs, wellness presentations, and instruction in other evidence-based programs. AAA Outreach & Education The staff of the AAA is charged with bringing the latest information, best practices, data, and trends to its partners in the aging network of Region G. Members of the AAA team provided more than 85 sessions of education and outreach at a variety of venues, including national, regional, state, and local conferences; civic groups; faith communities; community colleges, colleges, and universities; associations affiliated with the aging network; health professionals; forums promoting diversity within the community; volunteerism; and long-term care facilities. Transfer-Discharge: Getting It Right! The threat of transfer or discharge from a nursing or adult care home can be both frightening and stressful for residents and Attorney Steven Arrington of Guilford County brings information about their families. In order to make the transfer or discharge as advance directives and guardianship to a sell-out crowd. seamless as possible, it is important for nursing and adult care home staff to understand the pitfalls and the right methods. This year the AAA ombudsmen hosted a conference designed to educate long-term care facilities on appropriate processes for transferring or discharging residents out of their facilities. In April 2015, more than 100 long-term care professionals attended Transfer-Discharge: Getting it Right!, an all-day conference that offered essential information for all long-term care providers, including how to comply with and implement transfer and discharge rules and regulations; guardianship and alternatives to protect residents and facility assets from non- payment; and how to handle the appeal process and hearings. The long-term care facilities of Region G were equipped to ensure best practices with the transfer-discharge conference. 16

Supercharge Your Marketing Nearly 100 professionals in the aging network attended AAA Promotes Education, Training, and Awareness Conference the second annual Supercharge conference, with this year’s focus on Marketing. In the face of funding cutsThe afternoon session on fundraising received high scores and donation decreases, non-profits and small businesseson conference evaluations. need to learn how to find alternate sources for revenues, from corporate partners to private-pay services. Registrants from the region’s funded partners joined representatives from AAAs across the state, healthcare professionals, hospice providers, and a variety of aging network employees for the day-long conference. Guest speaker and bestselling author Barbara Hemphill shared how her international productivity company started with a $7 ad in a New York City newspaper. Additional topics covered included a session on using social media; fundraising and proven methods for raising contributions; and how to price services for entry into the human services sector.Gary Barg, publisher of www.caregiver.com and caregiverspeaker and advocate, partnered with the AAA to present theFearless Caregiver Conference in June 2015. More than 200people attended the two conferences held in Clemmons andYanceyville. The format featured panelists representinghospice, elder law, adult day care, family caregiver, long-termcare ombudsmen, senior services, and the faith community. Allcaregivers face extreme physical and behavioral changes in their care recipient. Those attending the conference had anopportunity to discuss openly strategies for getting the car keys from someone who no longer should drive, moving fromcombative states to cooperation, and handling personal hygiene issues, among other topics unique to caregiving. Every decade since the 1960s, the White House has held a Conference on Aging to identify and advance actions to improve the quality of life of older Americans. This year’s White House Conference on Aging was a one day event that was streamed live across the country via the internet, allowing more people than ever before to participate in the discussions on issues affecting older adults now and in the future.The Area Agency on Aging and many senior centers across We have to work to do more to ensure that every olderthe Piedmont hosted WHCOA “Watch Parties” to engage American has the resources and the support that theycommunity members in the panel discussions, which need to thrive. That challenge -- protecting our seniors,included the topics of caregiving, financial security, healthy dealing with the rising costs of an aging generation,aging, elder justice, universal design, and technology. The ensuring we have enough home care workers looking outArea Agency on Aging will pattern corresponding topical for our family members -- maximizing the contributionspanels with its Regional Advisory Council on Aging on an that older Americans can make to our country -- theseongoing basis to inform the planning process for aging challenges are just becoming more urgent.services at the local level through the county PlanningCommittees. Statement from President Barack Obama during the White House Conference on Aging, July 13, 2015. 17

Putting the Piedmont to Work Our workforce development professionals continue to develop innovative, resourceful programs to bridge skills gaps and meet the needs of both employers and job seekers. Read more about some of our initiatives. Annual Performance Report from the NC Division of Workforce Solutions 28,539 Adults Served (693 with intensive services) 262 Youth Served For more information on any PTRC Workforce Development initiative, please contact Althea Hairston at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 18

Labor Secretary Perez and Congressional Representative Foxx visit Forsyth County Career CenterThe NCWorks Career Center of Forsyth Commerce, Division of WorkforceCounty was honored with a visit from Solutions, Triad Works, and NorthwestSecretary Thomas Perez from the US Piedmont Service Corps on site for the eLink Youth Program HighlightsDepartment of Labor and Representative visit so they could discuss how ongoingVirginia Foxx from the 5th NC District partnerships better serve the citizens of  262 youth ages 16-21 enrolledon June 30, 2015. Will Collins, NC our region.  120 youth employed through theDepartment of Commerce AssistantSecretary of Workforce Solutions, and In addition, our strong alliances with the summer employment programLes Range, Regional Administrator for business community shined on the visit.  Partnered with Winston-Salem/DOL, accompanied the delegation from Businesses, large and small, includingWashington DC on the visit to the career PepsiCo, Evo Corp. Environmental, Forsyth County Schools for the “Nocenter. Triumph, Hospice of the Piedmont, Staff- Parent Left Behind” Conference. The Mark, Reynolda Manufacturing, Mind conference featured workshops thatDuring the visit, the delegation was able Body Institute Beyond, Herbalife, Action included topics such as the newto meet with members of the Northwest Coach, and ONE Source Marketing were Common Core curriculum standards,Piedmont Workforce Development on hand and spoke highly of the Work cyberbullying, college and careerBoard, PTRC workforce staff, NCWorks Experience and On-the-Job training pro- readiness, and classroom technologyCareer Center staff, members of the busi- grams from the NCWorks Career Center. The conference goal is to ensure thatness community who access services at These were cited as real cost-saving parents are up on the latest trends inthe career center, partner agency staff measures for many of these companies. education which will help them makemembers, and customers who have been the most of each student’s education.successfully served at the NCWorks Secretary Perez and Representative Foxx  eLink program participants had theCareer Center of Forsyth County. also got to meet some inspiring young opportunity to tour Liberty Hardware people who are in our eLink Youth Manufacturing Corporation inSecretary Perez and Representative Foxx Programs in Forsyth and Surry Counties. Winston Salem. The youth learnedgot a first-hand view of the services Students were on hand to talk to the how the company’s logistical teamavailable to customers in the NCWorks delegation about their hope and dreams communicates with their suppliers toCareer Centers in our region. They had as they become engaged in the work- purchase material, communicate withmany questions about service delivery force. customers to receive their orders,and about demand occupations in our communicates internally to make aregion. We were fortunate to have The visit finished up on the Mobile finished product and finally ship outrepresentatives from partner agencies Career Center, where we were able to to the specific customers. Participantsincluding Forsyth Tech, Forsyth County offer a little home grown North Carolina also had the opportunity to learn aboutDepartment of Social Services, Goodwill hospitality to Secretary Perez, a dozen specific jobs and the educational back-Industries of NWNC, Vocational Krispy Kreme Doughnuts….. Original ground needed for such positions.Rehabilitation, eLink Youth Programs, Glazed of course!  Hosted a Career Day at Rockingham Community College in April of 2015.Job Corps, Veteran’s Services, NC  Twenty youth from our local area attended the NC Youth Summit heldTammy Johnson, was the first hire at PepsiCo through Pepsi Achieving Change Together. Here is in Greensboro.Tammy posing with Department of Labor Secretary Thomas Perez and NC Representative Virginia Foxx  In April of 2015, the eLink Youthon their visit to the Career Center. Also in the photo is Ricky McGrath, HR Manager for Pepsi; Selma Program held the largest Real World event in the nation with over 440 Graves, NC Works Center Manager; Tracey Reid, Counselor in Charge-NCDHHS-VR. participants! The event was a one day simulation that addressed education and employment decisions that youth make in combination with lifestyle choices. Participants were given an occupation based on an employment/ education assessment. They were then challenged to take their salary and develop a budget based on every day needs. This event was made pos- sible through a partnership with the Department of Social Services, Financial Pathways of the Piedmont, eLink Youth Program, Northwest Piedmont Workforce Development Board, and Goodwill Industries of NWNC. 19

Workforce Development Success Stories Aspen Carter is a Nora Gann was a 30 typical youth. She loves year old single mother, the color blue, listens to receiving food stamps, hip hop music by Niki Pell Grant assistance Minaj, and keeps a stash with college education, of twizzlers and nerds in and working part-time her pocket or car. One as a bartender while of Aspen’s friends was attending Rockingham on the way to eLink Community College to and Aspen decided to obtain a degree in ride along. Aspen met Criminal Justice. the eLink staff and felt Nora’s prior work she should be a part of experience was in the program. restaurants and retail sales. Nora was Upon meeting her, staff noticed that she was not very successful in the class- accepting to constructive criticism which may have room but needed hands-on experience in her field of study. contributed to her struggles. Before joining the program, PTRC Career Facilitators worked with the criminal justice she had graduated from high school but could not find work. department to set up an internship working with the Treat- When Aspen first enrolled in the eLink program, she was ment for Effective Community Supervision (TECS) and facing multiple barriers like behavior challenges, lack of Project Re-entry programs. work experience, and no transportation. The additional Nora applied herself wholeheartedly to be successful in the support provided by PTRC eLink staff began to motivate her assigned work experience agreement. Nora worked one on to commit to a career path. one with the offender population. She maintained colla- She enrolled in 2014 and almost immediately was on a fast boration with county probation officers, district attorneys, track to success. Stokes County eLink contributed by fund- and resources in the county to assist the offender population. ing her education and providing work readiness training. In Nora did a great job with keeping records, entering data, just a few months, she has completed 10 trainings including organizing workshops for former offenders, and conducting earning her Career Readiness Certificate, CPR & First Aid, workshops in prison. While in the Work Experience assign- SIDS, and EDU. All of the forenamed credentials opened the ment, Nora attended training related to the TECS and Project door to her current position as a Teaching Assistant at First Re-entry programs. She received certifications in Moral Step Child Care. Recognition Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and PREA Aspen is looking forward to transferring to a four year (Prison Rape Elimination Act). She also worked and volun- college to further her education in early childhood or teered with the Project SAFE Rockingham County (PSRC) Elementary Education. She is currently enrolled at Forsyth through Project Re-entry. Project SAFE Rockingham County Tech while maintaining a job she really enjoys. is a partnership between community and law enforcement Devita, Youth Coordinator for Stokes County eLink says, and is designed to reduce gun and gang related crime. While “Aspen is personable, friendly with the kids at the daycare, assisting with PSRC, Nora has assisted eight offenders in and really works hard.” When eLink staff asked Aspen who obtaining employment. has inspired her, she said,” I look up to my mother and Nora’s passion and hard work has been recognized and grandmother they are resilient. They will not let me quit. I received many compliments by elected officials and think all youth should have people that won’t let them quit.” co-workers for all her hard work. As Nora’s work experience assignment came to an end, the PTRC Criminal Justice PTRC Workforce Development eLink Youth Program offices Program recognized Nora’s abilities and accomplishments. are located in Madison, Mocksville, Mount Airy, Walnut Cove, She is now a self-employed contract worker for Project Re-entry and TECS in Caswell and Rockingham County. Winston-Salem, and Yadkinville. Nora is also continuing her education to achieve a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. 20

Tee’Corria Burns is Tony Gibson a 26 year old female first came to the from Winston-Salem Forsyth County who came to the Career Northwest Piedmont Center seeking Service Corps for a assistance in second chance. Ms. obtaining his Burns was homeless commercial and in desperate need driver’s license. of employment and Tony was an ex- training because she offender with a wanted to improve her number of quality of life. felonies. In his youth he had spent 15 years incarcerated. Ms. Burns began While incarcerated, he used his time wisely and learned how coming to soft skills to weld. Upon his final release from prison, he found work training classes and as a welder, but was laid off from that job. technology skills lab Since Tony demonstrated initiative and perseverance,classes -- determined to complete whatever she started with a PTRC Career Facilitators assisted him in enrolling inpositive attitude. Ms. Burns did complete both classes, and also trucking school. He completed his training and was hiredreceived her OSHA certification. After an impressive interview, by Cooke Trucking. The company’s Safety and HR Directorshe began working out in the field with the Northwest Piedmont says that since he was hired, Tony has become one of theirService Corps, doing landscaping and debris clean up. Ms. better drivers. He is hardworking with an excellent on-timeBurns was one of the first individuals willing to work on the record. Since starting two years ago, Tony has had zeroweekends cleaning Bowman Gray Stadium. driving violations and has obtained a monetary bonus for hisThrough her hard work and dedication, Ms. Burns currently has clean driving record.her own apartment, her own transportation, and is one of themost reliable crew members in the Service Corps. Ms. Burns Tony states it best:most recently took part in Professional Development Day which “If a man truly wants to change his life around, it can begave her an opportunity to purchase professional work attire and done with grit and determination. I mean, look at me andto dine at an exclusive five star restaurant. She is now working what I have been through, and now I have a great job—toward enrolling in higher education courses and finding one that I am proud of, and I am taking care of my family”.permanent employment.Business Success Story: PepsiCoPepsi Achieving Change Together (ACT) is a formal partnership betweenPepsi North American Beverages (NAB) and Disability Solutions @ AbilityBeyond, an organization that specializes in corporate disability recruiting pro-grams.Pepsi ACT is dedicated to proactively recruit, train, and hire individuals withdisabilities nationally. The Forsyth County Career Center Staff have beeninvolved in the outreach, recruitment, screening, and training of potentialcandidates with disabilities for employment in customer services positions attheir Winston Salem location.Job fairs are held periodically at the Forsyth County Workforce Center. Candidates are prescreened by staff and resumes aresubmitted to Disability Solutions. Candidates are then selected to participate in soft skills training provided by the ForsythCounty Vocational Rehabilitation staff. These training sessions assist applicants with preparing for the interview and withskills needed for successful placement. Participants can also receive additional one-on-one coaching if needed to help themwith a successful interview.Post hire, Pepsi provides more in-depth training at their facility. Newly hired employees have a starting salary of $26,000per year with an opportunity for other company incentives based on their performance. We are proud to report that to date,26 people have been hired and more are in the pipeline. The company has expressed their complete satisfaction in the processand the caliber of workers that have successfully gained employment. For more information on PTRC Business Services, please contact Jeff Mosley, Assistant Director of Workforce Development at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 21

Changing Criminal Behaviors Criminal Justice Initiatives… OUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROGRAMS MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY  Changing Participants’ Lives  Saving Money and Jail Bed Days  Reducing Recidivism Program Participants by County Surry County 257 Davidson County 270 Areas Served by the PTRC Criminal Justice Program Forsyth County 414 The PTRC Criminal Justice Division continues to expand Yadkin County 147 and now serves 23 counties across NC, up from 20 in 2013-14. Our state and nationally recognized programs — Rockingham County 138 Project Re-entry, PreTrial Release, and Treatment for Effective Community Service (TECS) — served 2,505 Stokes County 113 participants in 2014-15, a 10% increase from the previous Davie County 98 year. Programs are operated by PTRC staff, contractors, and partner agency staff who are assigned to and managed Guilford County 49 under the Criminal Justice Department. Region G Prisons 243 Non-Region G Prisons/ 776 Counties Criminal Justice Collaboration with Wake Forest The Sawtooth School for Visual Arts in Winston Salem University and the Sawtooth Center for the Arts— featured successful graduates of Project Re-entry this Art Exhibit Highlighting Talents of year in an exhibit titled “From Stigma to Acceptance.” This student-curated exhibition was a collaboration of Ex-Offenders an Overwhelming Success Wake Forest University Public History Course students and made possible in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and support from Wake Forest University. Through documented interviews with Wake Forest students, six formerly incarcerated men from Project Re-entry had an opportunity to share the personal challenges they face re-entering society: adjusting to life outside, finding employment, and learning to believe in themselves again. These experiences were shared through writings, visual art and live music of their creation. The event was even catered by yet another successful Project Re-entry graduate. The goal of the show was for viewers to release their preconceived notions about former offenders. What was unexpected was the effect this experience had on the students. In recounting their initial experiences at the prison, where they met the participants for the first time, some students expressed their initial fears and inhibitions about meeting who many would consider “dangerous criminals,” only to have those fears fade away shortly after meeting the men. “How could it be that within a few minutes of talking with supposedly ‘dangerous’ deviants, my body had collapsed into a state of calm?” one student asked. Wake Forest reported this event had one of the largest community turnouts the school had ever had for the six weeks the exhibit was on display. 22

Treatment for Criminal Justice Program Areas Effective Community Supervision (TECS) TECS provides two core services to offenders who are currently on state adult probation or under post-release supervision: cognitive behavioral instruction (CBI) and substance abuse treatment. These are evidence-based programs that been proven in research studies to reduce probation/post-release supervision violations and eventual recidivism. TECS also provides caseProject Re-entry is one of the most successful programs of its managementtype in the country — so successful that the National and linkagesCriminal Justice Association has recognized Project Re-entry to community-as one of the Outstanding Criminal Justice Programs in the based supportUS. Among the biggest reasons for that recognition: services in the areas of only 13.9% of Project Re-entry participants have employment, returned to prison within three years of their education, release, compared to a national recidivism rate of housing, and 67.5 % across the US. transportation available Successful TECS participants Project Re-entry has saved taxpayers almost $19 million dollars since its inception in 2003 by keeping in local former offenders from returning to prison. settings. Our TECS services were available in fiscal year 2014-15 in Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Rockingham,Project Re-entry was founded in 2003 and now serves 13 Stokes, Surry, Wilkes, and Yadkin Counties.prisons and 23 counties in NC stretching from Asheville toRocky Mount. The program is supported by multiple funding In the past year, the TECS program servedsources and partners with a variety of community service 924 ex-offenders, with a successful/activeagencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, foundations, participation rate of 70%.and faith based groups. Pretrial Release ServicesIn the past fiscal year, Project Re-entry worked with 530offenders prior to their release from prison and 499 followingtheir release. Staff assisted 242 participants in findingemployment following their release. Pretrial Release Services prevent local jail overcrowding by providing non-incarcerative monitoring of defendants who are unable to post bond for release prior to trial and/or considered appropriate for community supervision. In FY 2014-15, PTRC’s Pretrial Release Services served 384 participants in four counties with a successful/active participation rate of 78%. Pretrial Release Services saved 41,320 jail bed days, providing a baseline savings of $2.27 million dollars to participant counties.Project Re-entry Graduates, Forsyth Correctional Center For more information on any PTRC Criminal Justice initiative, please contact Robin Howell at (336) 904-0300 or [email protected]. 23

Criminal Justice Program Areas - Impact & Success Stories James Scales began Project Re-entry pre-release classes for the first time at Dan River Prison Work Farm in 2007, but he was not fully committed to the program or himself. He was released in 2008, and after bouncing from job to job and falling back into old patterns of destructive behavior, he committed new crimes and ended up back in prison in 2011. James had the opportunity to rejoin Project Re-entry’s pre-release classes for the second time in 2014 at Forsyth Correctional Center. This time, he graduated with a different frame of mind, admitting that he needed structure on the outside. In addition to the pre/post-release curriculum and case management support, Project Re-entry was able to link James to transitional housing with a local partner, Eureka House Ministries. Once settled, James quickly secured temporary employment with an employer who works with Project Re-entry as a guest presenter in pre-release classes. He also worked diligently in his off hours to seek full time employment. In 2015, James was hired as a full time, permanent employee with the City of Winston-Salem as a Department of Trans- portation Field/ Road Assistant. James’s story reminds us that sometimes it takes more than one try for some- John Royall was ordered one to successfully reinvent themselves and embrace a life free of crime. We to PTRC’s TECS program are proud of James and grateful to the City of Winston-Salem for recognizing in Yadkin County as part his readiness for change! of his probation super- vision for multiple felony larceny by employee Below is an actual letter written by a convictions. While completing intake for the married couple who successfully TECS program, John cited graduated from the TECS Program: substance issues when discussing patterns in his criminal history. John had been prescribed narcotic pain medication for a previous surgery, and he eventually found himself using more, needing more, and finally buying it on the street. He was finally able to address his problem with help from his physician and family, but says the TECS program’s Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) cognitive behavioral instruction classes gave him unique insight and helped him stay focused on recovery. “MRT helped me realize that if I didn’t stay on the right track, I’d end up where I was before.” John is currently employed as a truck driver for a company in Jonesville. He re- cently earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Surry Community College. John says to be successful you have to “keep your eye on the prize.” We are proud of John’s accomplishments. 24

When Shataysha Webb was referred to the Rockingham County TECS Program in 2014 Criminal Justice Program Areas - Impact & Success Storiesfor a Felony Assault conviction, she soon became an example of how hard work and genu-ine commitment to change can produce great results. While in TECS, she completed the“Moral Reconation Therapy” (MRT) cognitive behavioral instruction program and begantaking GED classes and employability skill classes at Goodwill. Shataysha also enrolledin the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) program.As a result of her progress, the court reduced Shataysha’s probation from a two-year to aone-year term. She was also named “Probationer of the Month” for the month of August2015 and will receive an award at an upcoming ceremony in District 17A court. Shataysha recently said, “I am committed to changing my life for the better. In order to do this I must continuously do the right thing to improve myself.” We are very proud of Shataysha’s success!Edward Childress, was ordered to PTRC’s TECS program in SurryCounty after many years of involvement with the criminal justicesystem. This time, however, Edward made up his mind things weregoing to be different, and he was committed to bettering his life.While in TECS, he rode a bicycle back and forth from Mount Airy toDobson 90 minutes each direction in order to report to his probationofficer and complete the TECS program. Many of Edward’s trips werein temperatures at the freezing and below marks, and he endured beinghonked at and cursed and having things thrown at him due to theimpatience of motorists.Despite these challenges, Edward persevered, maintaining a positiveattitude and putting a great deal of effort into understanding andcompleting TECS requirements. Since completing the program, he hasobtained full time employment with Applied Polymeric and is planningto purchase a personal vehicle and secure his own residence. Edward’sstory is an inspirational example of true determination to change, regard-less of barriers and free of excuses!James Thomas was court ordered to complete Cognitive Jason Hemphill graduated from PTRC’sBehavioral Instruction (CBI) classes through PTRC’s Project Re-entry pre-release class in 2014“Treatment for Effective Community Supervision” (TECS) while serving prison time at Davidsonprogram in Davidson County. When he initially began Correctional Center. Prior to release, heclasses, there was a concern that he could not make it was mandated to complete Cognitivethrough the program because he could not read and strug- Behavior Intervention (CBI) classes oncegled with comprehending homework assignments. back in the community under post-releasePart of the CBI curriculum PTRC TECS uses requires that supervision. Upon completion of theeach participant complete a total of 20 hours of helping classes, he would be allowed to apply forsomeone in the community, without getting anything in an unrestricted barber’s license.return. James’ classmates rallied together and collectively Jason came home with nine months on post-release anddecided to earn their hours by taking turns in assisting immediately started the classes under PTRC TECS inJames with homework reading and Davidson County. During his participation, Jason maintainedcompletion. They also read for him a determined and positive attitude and showed strong leader-in class. Because of the help provid- ship skills in his class. He successfully graduated the TECSed by his classmates, James stayed program within his post-release supervision period andfocused and refused to give up. He successfully completed his post-release requirements. He iswas able to successfully graduate the now working a full-time position and has applied for hisTECS program, but more important- barber’s license. One of his goals is to start his own business.ly, he and his classmates formed last- We are very proud of Jason for all he has accomplished.ing bonds that can only come from selflessness and team work. 25

Resilient Communities Plan Ahead Regional Planning Stormwater SMART Planning staff work with member governments, local officials, Stormwater SMART staff strives to and the public to address a wide range of local and regional provide fun, hands-on activities for all planning issues related to the economic, environmental, and ages that inspire watershed stewardship social well-being of communities throughout the region. and inform citizens about water quality. In 2014-2015, Stormwater SMART Our Neighborhood Plan: The Waughtown/MLK Initiative reached 7,388 citizens, business owners and public officials through direct This 12-month community revitalization initiative identified community- education. This included 4,617 students supported, tangible actions to improve and revitalize the Waughtown from 28 different schools in the Triad. community in Winston-Salem. The strategic planning process was facilitated In addition to school visits and teacher by the S.G. Atkins Community Development Corporation (CDC) in partner- trainings, we provide educational ship with Winston-Salem State University and the Piedmont Triad Regional programs to civic clubs, scouts and other Council. Community-wide recommended goals include: groups, set up booths at fairs and festivals  Develop a congress of Waughtown neighborhood stakeholders and develop education materials.  Actively partner with S.G. Atkins CDC to leverage funding opportunities  Encourage participation at community events “I always learn something  Build a stronger sense of community in Waughtown from your school visit. That is  Improve community mobility why I schedule your programs  Improve community health & safety  Explore the creation of a maker space to train & encourage entrepreneurs year after year.” - Triad Teacher Water Resources Funded by a NC Clean Water Manage- ment Trust Fund grant, the Water Resources staff completed the Elkin Water Supply Protection & Restoration Plan in February 2015. This plan plots a long-term strategy to protect and restore the best conditions possible for each The PTRC Planning Department received a 3-year, town’s water supply. $600,000 EPA Brownfield Assessment Coalition Grant lasting through September 2016. In partnership with its local government members, the NC Brownfields Program and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PTRC is building a regional brownfields assessment and redevelop- ment program for the Piedmont Triad. The Program facilitates the redevelopment of brownfield sites in communities across the region to bring them back to productive use; improve quality of life, increase tax base and create jobs while protecting public health and the environment. Initial program efforts are focused on coalition communities along the Bus-85 Corridor. Top priority sites may receive funding for environmental site assessments. Eligible sites with the greatest potential for redevelopment may also receive funding to conduct clean-up and re-use planning and assistance with the development of a Brownfield Agreement with the NC Brownfields Program to remove liability from non-contributing prospective developers. Riparian buffer along Elkin Creek 26

Rural Transportation Planning: Streetscape Assessments Streetscape Before & After RenderingThe Piedmont Triad Rural Planning Organization (PTRPO) and the Northwest PiedmontRural Planning Organization (NWPRPO) is offering a new streetscape assessmentprogram to strengthen transportation networks, economic vitality, and the aestheticappeal of each member community. RPO staff will tailor each assessment to the needsof the community while evaluating existing conditions, recommending improvements,and providing funding opportunities. Initial assessments have begun in eachcommunity. Clean Fuel Advanced Technology (CFAT) The CFAT project, funded by the NC Department of Trans- portation, is focused on reducing transportation related emissions in 24 counties that do not meet national air quality standards. Counties in nonattainment status for the Piedmont Triad include: Forsyth, Guilford, Davidson and Davie. The project covers three broad areas: education and outreach, project funding, and recognition of exemplary activities (Mobile CARE). CFAT can provide up to 80% of the costs for alternative fuel refueling infrastructure, idle reduction technologies, diesel retrofits, and for alternative fuel vehicles and eligible hybrid electric vehicles. Over $4,000,000 will be provided to emission reduction technology sub-award funding through the 2013-2015 CFAT project.Local Technical Assistance  Archdale Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment - The needs assessment will provide a roadmap for making decisions regarding new programs, park sites, greenway facilities and capital investments; a frame- work of data and information to inform future investments and an opportunity for citizens to share their desires for additional recreational opportunities in their community.  Candor Peach Festival and Farmers Market Facilities Master Plan The master plan will identify and prioritize key design elements of proposed Peach Festival facilities improvement and provide a vision for how to best meet economic and community development needs and interests of the Town. East Bend Zoning Ordinance Update Haw River Zoning Ordinance Update Randolph County Strategic Plan - This planning process is underway to identify long-term strategic issues impacting the Randolph County community. Goals and strategies will be developed by multiple individual Task Forces giving the opportunity for citizens to be involved in identifying solutions and focusing limited resources on key strategic issues. Wallburg Town Hall Park Master Plan- The master plan will provide a vision for how to best meet the needs and interests of the community, local civic groups, and citizens in addition to enabling the Town to be competitive for PARTF Grants.Current Grants (July 2014-June 2015): Dan River Corridor Plan—CWMTF Southwest High Point Restoration Plan—CWMTF Brownfield Assessment Coalition Grant - EPA Eden Area Watershed Restoration Plan—NCDENR Clean Fuel Advanced Technology - NCDOT Swearing Creek Restoration Plan - CWMTF 27

The Piedmont Triad PTRC Program Areas Include: Regional Council Aging is a voluntary association of local governments—urban and rural— Criminal Justice authorized by state law to: Housing Make and implement joint regional Management Services decisions Regional Planning Weatherization Provide management, planning, and technical services to local governments Workforce Development Identify and solve short and long-term problems best addressed at the regional level Bring together local elected officials on a regular basis, giving them an opportunity to form working relationships, and Promote regional issues and cooperation among membersPiedmontTriadRegionalCouncil Find us online at Piedmont Triad Regional Council www.ptrc.org PTRC_NCPiedmont Triad Regional Council1398 Carrollton Crossing DriveKernersville, NC 27284Proudly serving local governments in the Piedmont Triad Region since 1968. 28