Federal Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) Summit

News & Upcoming Events
Adult Caregiver Support Group
Career Counseling
Communicable Disease Information
New Worklife Resource and Referral Services

Recent articles:

  Post Incident Shooting and Reactions

Managing Stress, Terrorism and the Unknown
Coping with Violence

Need Help?

At certain points in our lives we can be overcome by life situations such as the death of a loved one, depression, serious illness, financial problems or marital and family related difficulties. Usually we can handle things on our own. However, sometimes these problems reach a level which could impair work, home-life or our general sense of well-being. When you are not sure where all the pieces of the puzzle go, or it seems like the problem or pain will never subside, the EAP counselors can assist you by helping you plan for a healthier and more productive life.

The Employee Assistance Program has experienced counselors that provide professional & confidential short-term counseling, information, support groups, management consultations, referrals and many more services to DOJ employees and their families.

Instead of letting challenges accumulate into crises, let us help you develop the skills to minimize or even prevent problems.

Contact Your EAP  -  DOJ has several EAPs that service a variety of DOJ components such as INS, EOUSA, FBI, US Marshals, and more. Make sure you call the correct EAP to ensure quick and proper assistance.

Return to the TOP

EAP Purpose and Mission

The Department of Justice, Justice Management Division (JMD) is dedicated to offering the highest quality Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services to its employees. The Mission of the EAP and its underlying principles are as follows.

1. Every employee who seeks EAP assistance will be treated with the utmost respect, dignity and consideration for their concerns, feelings and situation.



2. The goal of the EAP is to provide a quick response to all requests for services both for counseling and Information and Referral.



3. EAP counselors understand that employees may have problems at any time, thus the EAP provides for emergency after hour contact.



4. The JMD EAP acknowledges that all persons experience problems at one time or another in their lives. The act of seeking assistance to resolve personal problems is understood to be an act of strength, responsibility, purpose, and taking control of one's life.



5. Communication between the EAP and an employee is confidential and this understanding is the backbone of the EAP.



6. Employees are encouraged to seek assistance on their own initiative before problems affect their work. Early resolution of personal problems is in the best interest of the individual and the Department.



7. Participation in the EAP will not in and of itself, jeopardize an employee's job security or promotional opportunities.



8. While it shall always be the employee's choice to accept or decline the services of the EAP, it is the employee's responsibility to assess and maintain optimum physical and mental health.



9. The EAP staff will not get involved when a family member calls and complains about an employee - this would be considered an intrusion into the employee's private life. However, if a family member calls, the EAP will offer assistance to that family member when appropriate.



10. It is the responsibility of supervisors at all levels to offer a troubled employee assistance through the EAP in hopes this will correct performance, conduct or attendance problems, thus avoiding possible disciplinary action.

Return to the TOP

Confidentiality

Contact between an EAP counselor and a DOJ employee is considered confidential. Information regarding an employee's use of the EAP may not be shared with any other party unless the employee provides written permission. The EAP is compelled to keep client information private as required by Federal law and regulation, and prevailing State and local laws.

Confidentiality is excepted in those instances when the employee/client has been determined to be a danger to himself/herself, or to others, and in instances where child or elder, abuse is suspected, as may be required by State reporting requirements and/or Federal law.

All records are kept in the EAP Mosler® safe system and only EAP counselors have access to such. After three years of the date of last contact with a client, client records are shredded entirely. No written materials may be released to a third party without the client's written consent.

Using the Depression and/or Alcohol Screening phone or on-line services is completely confidential. No identifying information is required and the screening can in no way identify you to anyone.

Return to the TOP

Which EAP Can I Use?
Employee Assistance Program Directory

DOJ has several EAPs that service a variety of DOJ components such as INS, EOUSA, FBI, US Marshals, and more. Make sure you call the correct EAP to ensure quick and proper assistance.

To find the right person to contact, select your component from the following list:

• Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys,
  
• Federal Bureau of Prisons,
  
• U.S. Marshals Service,
  
• Drug Enforcement Administration,
  
• Federal Bureau of Investigation,
  
• Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, or
  
• All Other Components are serviced by the Justice Management Division Employee Assistance Program.

If you are not a Department of Justice Employee but you are trying to find your Federal agency's EAP phone number, go to the OPM site; enter your agency's name, click the box that says Employee Assistance Program, and click search.

Return to the TOP

Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys

Ed Neunlist, LICSW
Administrator, Employee Assistance Program
600 E St., NW, Room 6800
Washington, DC 20530

Local Phone Number: 202-514-1036
EAP Central Phone Number:  (888) 271-0381
FAX:  (202) 353-1722

Federal Bureau of Prisons
To contact an EAP counselor near your work or home call:
800-222-0364

Tracy Henderson, Ph.D.
EAP Administrator
Telephone:  (202) 514-4492
FAX:  (202) 616-3220
Federal Bureau of Prisons
Room HOLC-871
320 First Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20534

United States Marshals Service

To request a counselor near your work or home call 1-800 222-0364

Karen Ramey, LCSW-C
EAP Administrator
Telephone:  (202) 353-8338
FAX:  (202) 307-9461
United States Marshals Service
Room 750, CS#3
Washington, DC  20530

Drug Enforcement Administration

To request a counselor near your work or home call 800 275-7460.

Elyse Sharpe, LCSW-C
EAP Administrator
Telephone:  (202) 307-8160
FAX:  (202) 307-4705
Drug Enforcement Administration
600 Army Navy Drive
Room 2037 East
Lincoln Place 1
Arlington, VA 22202

Federal Bureau of Investigation

James Collins, Ph.D.
EAP Administrator
Telephone:  (202) 324-5244
FAX:  (202) 324-1410
Federal Bureau of Investigation
10th and Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Room 10190
Washington, D.C. 20535

Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
(800) 765-3277

Return to the TOP

Contact JMD EAP

Toll Free:
800-626-0385

Hearing Impaired (TDD):
(202) 514-6027

Call or email us directly:
Ted Schwartz, LCSW-C, ACSW
(202) 514-1846
EAP Administrator
theodor.schwartz@usdoj.gov

Dr. Leo Shea
(202) 307-1136
EAP Counselor
leo.s.shea@usdoj.gov

Staff Credentials

After Hours Emergency Calls: (202)532-3435 Or Page 877-924-0187

Visit Us:
Suite 1167
National Place Building
1331 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, DC 20530

Other convenient office locations by request/appointment:
Judiciary Center Building; Main; PHB; 1301 NY Ave.; & 810 - 7th Street.

If you are not located in the D.C. area, please call us so we can assist in providing free, confidential services in your local area.

JMD EAP Staff Credentials

The EAP staff is comprised of licensed mental health professionals ready to assist you in numerous ways with any life issue that you are experiencing.

Ted Schwartz is a licensed clinical social worker and the Assistant Director of the EAP and Worklife Group.

Dr. Leo Shea is a licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of clinical practice working with attorneys and law enforcement officers.

All contracted counselors are either master or doctorate level licensed counselors, social workers, or psychologists.

Return to the TOP

Services

We offer a wide range of services to DOJ employees and family members, no matter where you live or work. If an issue or service is not listed but you think we can assist, please call us.

1. We provide confidential, short-term counseling, information, referral, support groups, and other social services to help you with issues such as (but not limited to):
   
   
   • Emotional Issues
   
   
   • Mental Health
   
   
   • Disabilities
   
   
   • Alcoholism/Substance Use and Abuse
   
   
   • Stress Management
   
   
   • Time Management
   
   
   • Conflicts in the Workplace
   
   
   • Career Counseling
   
   
   • Parenting Issues
   
   
   • Family, Couple, or Marriage Issues
   
   
   • Domestic Abuse
   
   
   • Elder Care, and Related Services
   
   
   • Long-term/chronic illness
   
   
   • Traumatic Experiences
   
   
   • Grief and Loss
   
   
   • Debt Management
   
   
   • Stopping Smoking
   
   
   
2. Assisting managers and supervisors with employees who have performance, conduct, or attendance problems.



3. Enhancing teamwork by promoting a healthy and supportive work environment.



4. Providing educational training to offices on Stress Management, Conflict Resolution, Time Management, EAP Awareness, and more. If there is a topic you would like us to cover specifically for your office, let us know and we can develop a training to meet your needs.



5. Sponsoring free lunch time seminars in Washington, D.C. The seminars are open to all employees. They cover topics such as coping with stress, improving relationships, brain chemistry, anxiety and depression and more. If you would like to suggest a topic of interest, please contact us.

Return to the TOP

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will it really be confidential?
   
   Confidentiality is the backbone of the EAP and is mandated by both Federal and State laws and regulations. All contact with an EAP counselor is considered privileged and confidential. No information can be released without an employees written permission unless there is a real threat of harm to self or others.



2. Will using EAP services hurt my security clearance?
   
   No. Utilizing EAP services does NOT impact security clearances unless an employee poses a threat to national security. No information may be released for a background check without the employee's written permission.



3. What will it cost?
   
   Nothing! EAP services are free of charge to employees and immediate family members, whether you work in the immediate D.C. area or anywhere else in the country.



4. What kind of training do EAP counselors have?
   
   The DOJ EAP is staffed by licensed mental health counselors. Our contract counselors must be licensed in the State they practice in and have experience in dealing with substance abuse. Contract counselors usually are Ph.D. Psychologists or Masters level clinical Social Workers or Professional Counselors.



5. Isn't the EAP just for alcohol and drug problems?
   
   NO!! EAP helps people with any life or work related problem that is causing difficulty. See Services  for a full range of topics covered by EAP counselors.



6. Is my problem big enough to bring to EAP?
   
   No problem is too small, or too big. The earlier you seek assistance, the more likely you will keep your concerns from snow-balling into a bigger life issue. When you are not quite sure, pick up the phone and let us help.



7. How do I contact EAP?
   
   Find out which EAP you should contact.



8. When can I call for assistance?
   
   The EAP office is normally physically staffed from 8am - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. However, you can page us for emergencies at any time. You can also call and leave a message at any time. Contact us.



9. Who am I reaching when I call EAP?
   
   When you call the EAP you will either contact a licensed EAP counselor directly, be asked to leave a message so a counselor can return your call or invited to contact the counselor via the paging system and your call will be returned within 30 minutes.



10. What are the benefits of calling?
    
    You will be given quick, free, reliable and confidential services to aid you in dealing with what ever concerns you, by caring staff that are professionally trained.

Return to the TOP

Helpful Links

The information on this Web site is presented for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for informed medical advice or training. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a mental health problem without consulting a qualified health or mental health care provider.

This Web site provides links to other sites not owned or controlled by DOJ that we think might be useful or of interest to you. The Web has an abundance of sites with information on wellness and mental health issues. Some sites are informative and based on good authority, others are merely entertaining. While we have been careful to research each site in hopes of providing you credible and accurate information, DOJ EAP does not endorse or guarantee references or sites listed and is not responsible for the content or privacy practices used by other site owners.

However, none of these sites is a satisfactory substitute for professional help. When people face serious personal problems that defy easy solutions, it usually is time to seek the services of qualified professionals. With that limitation in mind, the following Web sites may be of interest:

Addiction Information



Drug and Alcohol Treatment Facility Locator www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov A national database of substance abuse treatment services, including, inpatient, outpatient, partial treatment, half-way houses. Call the DOJ EAP for additional assistance 800-626-0385.




• Adultchildren.org  www.adultchildren.org  Adult Children of Alcoholics: A 12-step program of men and women who come from an alcoholic or other drug-affected home seeking solutions to their problems.



• Al-anon / Alateen  www.al-anon.org  Al-Anon's helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. Similarly, Alateen is their recovery program for young people. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members. Find a Al-Anon support group near your home.



• Alcoholics Anonymous  www.aa.org  Official website of Alcoholics Anonymous - Locate meetings and times for AA groups in your area.



• Alcoholism In The Workplace
    www.opm.gov/employment_and_benefits/worklife/officialdocuments/handbooksguides/alcohol/index.asp   An OPM site offering a A Handbook for Supervisors.



• Blood Alcohol Level  pathwayscourses.samhsa.gov/aaap/aaap_3_pg4_pop1.htm  This site can quickly estimate if you have had too much to drink. Based on your weight and amount of alcohol you have consumed, you can determine your Blood Alcohol Level. Never drive while under the influence. Almost every State has made .08 BAL the point at which an individual will be arrested for driving while under the influence. Stay safe!



• Deaf Addiction Resources   http://www.rit.edu/~257www/national_directory/nat.directory.htm  The National Directory of Alcohol and Other Drug prevention and treatment programs accessible to the deaf.



• Families Anonymous (FA)  www.familiesanonymous.org offers a Twelve-Step, self help, recovery and fellowship of support groups for relatives and friends of those who have alcohol, drug or behavioral problems. The group's purpose is to provide mutual support, and to offer a safe place to share experiences and concerns. Attending meetings helps members adopt an honest and consistent approach towards the addict. With group support, members are able to come to terms with the problems in their lives. Experience has shown that help for the family and friends means help for the addict. FA is a non-profit fellowship requiring no dues or fees and is not affiliated with any religion or institution.



• Gamblers Anonymous  www.gamblersanonymous.org   is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling. There are no dues or fees for Gamblers Anonymous (GA) membership. GA is self-supporting through its’ own contributions. Gamblers Anonymous is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any cause.



• Gam-Anon  www.gam-anon.org  The self-help organization of Gam-Anon is a life saving instrument for the spouse, family or close friends of compulsive gamblers. We come into the group feeling alone, frightened, helpless, desperate and ashamed. We hesitated to share problems and failures, fearing none could understand. The Gam-Anon group is warmly accepting and it offers the new member identification. The message we receive is: "Come join with us, we too were alone, afraid and unable to cope with the problem; we will share with you a new and fulfilling way of life". Gam-Anon's purposes are three-fold: To learn acceptance and understanding of the gambling illness; to use the program and its problem solving suggestions as aids in rebuilding our lives and, upon our own recovery, to give assistance to those who suffer. To find a local chapter click on Meeting Schedule at their home page.



• Lawyer Assistance Programs  www.abanet.org/legalservices/colap/lapdirectory.html  Attorneys at one time or another may suffer great stress, emotional turmoil and physical reactions to the pressures of work, family and uncontrollable life events. Few occupations are as stressful as the practice of law. Some times alcohol and drugs are the remedy of choice to relieve the pain and sense of depression many people experience. Unfortunately, what appears to be relief often leads to devastating and destructive consequences. Attorneys in need of substance abuse assistance can contact a local ABA Lawyer Assistance Program chapter for direction and assistance or the contact the DOJ/JMD EAP at 800-626-0385.



• Narcotics Anonymous  www.na.org  The official listing for Narcotics Anonymous International, a community-based association of recovering drug addicts.



• The Office of National Drug Control Policy  www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/drugfact/index.html  offers information on drugs of abuse as well as National and State policy and activities.



• SoberRecover  www.soberrecovery.com  is a constantly updated library for natinal drug rehab, residential treatment, sober living houses, alcoholics anonymous, eating disorder and teen wilderness program



• Tobacco Information and Prevention  www.cdc.gov/tobacco/index.htm  This is a CDC site offering information on tobacco and how to quit.



• Working Partners for an Alcohol - and Drug Fee Workplace  www.dol.gov/dol/workingpartners.htm  This is a U.S. Dept. of Labor site specializing in workplace related alcohol and drug information. This site also has information on creating partners and research databases.



• The White House's Youth Anti-Drug Campaign site  www.TheAntiDrug.com  is an online drug and alcohol abuse prevention resource for parents. Besides providing facts about a large number of substances abused by youth, this site gives parents an excellent set of tips for how to talk with your children about drug abuse. The teen drug use news and archives can keep parents up-to-date. Parents and youth can elect to tell their stories, so that others may benefit from their experience and how they coped. Parents so inclined can have their children access a similar, but youth-oriented, anti-drug site.  www.Freevibe.com



• Links to other addiction programs  http://ncadd.org/links/index.html  This is a Natinional Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence site with a great other link list.

Return to the TOP

Adoption Resources
• AdoptUSKids.org  www.adoptuskids.org  This is a national photo listing service for children awaiting adoption across the United States. You may "Meet the Children" without registering, to learn more about the child and to contact the case worker.



• American Academy of Adoption Attorneys  www.adoptionattorneys.org   The American Academy of Adoption Attorneys is a national association of approximately 330 attorneys who practice, or have otherwise distinguished themselves, in the field of adoption law. The Academy's work includes promoting the reform of adoption laws and disseminating information on ethical adoption practices.



• Child Welfare Informatin Gateway  www.childwelfare.gov  Formerly the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information and the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse, Child Welfare Information Gateway provides access to information and resources to help protect children and strengthen families. A service of the Children's Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.



• The Joint Council on International Children's Services (JCICS)  www.jcics.org  Joint Council on International Children's Services (202-429-0400) is the oldest and largest affiliation of licensed, non-profit international adoption organizations in the world. Our membership includes adoption agencies, child welfare organizations, parent support groups and medical specialists with an interest in intercountry adoption.



• KIDSAVE  www.kidsave.org  Kidsave (202-237-7283 or 1-888-543-7283) works to move older children out of foster care and orphanages and into permanent loving families or long term mentoring relationships. Kidsave sponsors Family Visit Programs in which caring adults host a child in their home and work with Kidsave to help that child find an adoptive family. Kidsave helps these older children meet people who often end up adopting, mentoring or staying connected to them.



• The National Adoption Foundation (NAF)  www.nafadopt.org  The mission of the National Adoption Foundation (203-791-3811), is to provide financial assistance, services and support to families, before, during and after their adoptions are finalized. The Foundation's programs are available to any family whether they are adopting an infant, a child from abroad or a child from foster care! In addition to providing financial assistance, NAF seeks to educate policy makers and the public about the financial barriers to adoption and the unmet needs many families have. The Foundation's presence on Capitol Hill and in the media assure that the interests of adoptive families are being promoted and protected.
  
  The National Adoption Foundation is the only national resource dedicated exclusively to providing financial support, information and services directly to adoptive families.



• North Americian Council on Adoptable Children  www.nacac.org/howtoadopt.html  How to Adopt…..Information providing an overview of the steps involved in adopting a child from the United States foster care system.

Return to the TOP

Aging Resources
• Adult Day Care, Virginia, Search Engine  http://www.dss.state.va.us/facility/search/adc.cgi  Adult Day Care, Virginia, search engine http://www.dss.state.va.us/facility/search/adc.cgi To locate an Adult Day Care Centers in Virginia, visit this site. For other states contact the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) at 1-800-677-1116 for the AAA in your area, or search for them online www.eldercare.gov .



• Aging Solutions  www.aging-parents-and-elder-care.com/index.html  Advice, comprehensive checklists, and links to key resources ...designed to make it easier for caregivers to quickly find the information they need ... and avoid missing things that are important in the care for their loved one. Providing care for our aging parents or elder spouse can often be very frustrating, with new surprises almost every day. Whether you care for aging parents in your home, or manage elder care plans from a distance, most of us don't know where to go for reliable answers ... or even what questions to ask. Here's help "



• Area Agency on Aging (AOA) Eldercare Locator  www.eldercare.gov  The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide toll free service that provides older adults and their caregivers information about local services for seniors without charge. The U.S. Administration on Aging provides this service available online so that consumers can easily link to the information and referral (I&R) services of their state and area agencies on aging. These I&R programs can help you identify appropriate services in the area where you or your family member resides.



• Alzheimer’s Association  www.ALZ.org  is the largest national voluntary health organization supporting Alzheimer research and care. On this site, you'll find information about the disease, their programs and services, and advocacy efforts.



• American Association of Retired Persons  www.aarp.org  AARP is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to addressing the needs and interests of persons 50 and older. Through information and education, advocacy and service, AARP seeks to enhance the quality of life for all by promoting independence, dignity and purpose.



• Benefitscheckup  https://ssl1.benefitscheckup.org/ Developed and maintained by The National Council on Aging (NCOA), BenefitsCheckUp is the nation's most comprehensive Web-based service to screen for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources. BenefitsCheckUp includes more than 1,550 public and private benefits programs from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.



• Caregiving  www.caregiving.com   This site offers information, support and information about care giving. Directs you to local support groups and provides other interesting information.



• Careguide  www.careguide.com  CareGuide is a website featuring a full range of services, articles and resources for elder care. Visitors can explore the site via the Resource Guide below, or find content by taking our elder situation assessment.



• Children of Aging Parents  www.caps4caregivers.org  is a nonprofit, charitable organization whose mission is to assist the nation's nearly 54 million caregivers of the elderly or chronically ill with reliable information, referrals and support, and to heighten public awareness that the health of the family caregivers is essential to ensure quality care of the nation's growing elderly population.



• Doctors Guide - Arthritis information  www.docguide.com  Offers the latest medical news and information for patients or friends/parents of patients diagnosed with arthritis.



• Elder Care Handbook   http://www.feddesk.com/freehandbooks/1014-4.pdf  Free handbook on issues related to caring for the elderly. Ten articles of interest.



• ElderWeb  www.elderweb.com  This site provides thousands of reviewed links addressing long term care information, a searchable database of organizations, and an expanding library of articles and reports, news, and events addressing eldercare. This site is designed to be a research site for both professionals and family members looking for information on eldercare and long term care, and includes links to information on legal, financial, medical, and housing issues, as well as policy, research, and statistics. ElderWeb has been used extensively by journalists and students doing research, and by professionals looking for Internet resources, as well as by family members looking for help for their elderly relatives.



• Five Wishes Document  www.agingwithdignity.org/5wishes.html  An Aging with Dignity resource. The Five Wishes document helps you express how you want to be treated if you are seriously ill and unable to speak for yourself. It is unique among all other living will and health agent forms because it looks to all of a person's needs: medical, personal, emotional and spiritual. Five Wishes also encourages discussing your wishes with your family and physician.  Five Wishes lets your family and doctors know:
  1.Which person you want to make health care decisions for you when you can't make them.
  2. The kind of medical treatment you want or don't want.
  3. How comfortable you want to be.
  4. How you want people to treat you.
  5. What you want your loved ones to know.
  
  The document is valid in all but 15 states. The 15 that Five Wishes is not legally valid in, either require a specific state form or that the person completing an advance directive be read a mandatory notice or "warning." Residents of these states can still use Five Wishes to put their wishes in writing and communicate their wishes with their family and physician. Most health care professionals understand they have a duty to listen to the wishes of their patients no matter how they are expressed.



• Geriatric Care Managers  www.caremanager.org  GCM is a non-profit, professional organization of practitioners whose goal is the advancement of dignified care for the elderly and their families. With more than 1,500 members, GCM is committed to maximizing the independence and autonomy of elders while striving to ensure that the highest quality and most cost-effective health and human services are used when and where appropriate. A geriatric care manager (PGCM) is a professional, such as a social worker, counselor, nurse, or gerontologist who specializes in assisting older people and their families to attain the highest quality of life given their circumstances. A GCM can; conduct care planning assessments to identify problems, and provide solutions; screen, arrange and monitor in-home help or other services; review financial, legal, or medical issues and offer referrals to geriatric specialists to avoid future problems while conserving financial resources; provide crisis intervention; act as a liaison to families at a distance, overseeing care and quickly alerting families to problems; assist with moving an older person to or from a retirement complex, assisted care home, or nursing home; provide consumer education and advocacy; offer counseling and support. Some PGCMs also provide family or individual therapy, finance management, and conservatorship or guardianship assistance and/or caregiving services. PGCMs have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality, and availability of resources in their community. One call to a PGCM will connect you to the appropriate services.



• Granddriver  www.granddriver.info  While most older drivers may be good drivers, the physical changes associated with aging can ultimately affect our ability to drive safely. That's why the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators and its partners in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, have created "GrandDriver", a pilot program that provides information about aging and driving.



• HHS - Administration on Aging  www.aoa.dhhs.gov  This site provides you access to information about the agency, its mission, budget, and organizational structure. In addition you can learn more about the Older Americans Act, the federal legislation establishing the AoA and authorizing a range of programs that offer services and opportunities for older Americans and their caregivers.



• LifeCare  www.usdoj.gov/jmd/ps/lifecarenet.htm  Provides information addressing Elder Care services. Will locate licensed day care providers, nursing homes, alternative living resources and other services in the U.S. per your needs and determine cost and availability. This is a DOJ supported service and is offered free to DOJ employees. Call 800-873-4636 or TDD 800-873-1322.



• Medical Alert Services:  Provide medical monitoring service to provide 24/7 monitoring and family peace of mind. The user wears either a necklace or a wrist band with a panic button attached. If the user needs assistance they can press the button, which alerts the medical monitoring vendor who has the capacity to alert a previously designated person, or depending upon the circumstances 911. Below are several vendors that offer such services. The Department of Justice does not endorse these companies and encourages users to fully research vendors and other medical alert vendors to determine reliability and to make cost comparisons.
  • American Medical Alarms  www.americanmedicalalarms.com/?source=google
  • American Senior Safety Agency  http://seniorsafety.com
  • LifeFone  www.lifefone.com/index2.html
  • Lifeline  www.lifelinesys.com/content/get-service-now/index.jsp



• Medicare  www.medicare.gov  This site offers information about Medicare Eligibility, Enrollment, and Premiums. It also directs you to other sites such as nursing homes, prescription drug assistance plans, a Participating Provider Directory and other sites of interest. This is a nice site to visit if you are in need of understanding Medicare and looking for resources.



• National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information  www.longtermcare.gov  This is a new web site developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide information and resources to help you and your family plan for future long-term care (LTC) needs.



• National Council on the Aging (Benefits CheckUp)  http://www.benefitscheckup.org  BenefitsCheckUp helps thousands of people every day to find programs for seniors that may pay for some of their costs of prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other essential items or services. View this site to fill out their simple questionnaire to find programs that can assist you or your loved ones.



• New LifeStyles  www.newlifestyles.com  New LifeStyles offers information and referral services on senior residences and care options. This information is available, free to all that need it. New LifeStyles referrals are to service providers who advertise with their company. They put out a listing publication for various cities in the USA. To see if they have one in your city or to get free copies for yourself or your office you may request it on line.



• Nursing Home Guide   http://www.feddesk.com/freehandbooks/1216-4.pdf  Offers information on how to choose a Nursing Home.

Return to the TOP

Anger Management
• Southern Poverty Law Center  www.tolerance.org/hidden_bias  Do you have racial, religious, or other biases deeply hidden in your psyche? Two social psychologists funded by the National Science Foundation - Anthony Greenwald, of the University of Washington, and Mahzarin Banaji, of Yale University (now at Harvard University) - have developed a unique and statistically powerful tool to identify and quantify either hidden or unconscious attitudes. To learn more, and to test yourself, visit this site.



• American Psychological Association (APA)  www.apa.org  If Anger Management is an issue for you this APA site is a good place to start. Anger is a completely normal, usually healthy, human emotion. But when it gets out of control and turns destructive, it can lead to problems-problems at work, in your personal relationships, and in the overall quality of your life. And it can make you feel as though you're at the mercy of an unpredictable and powerful emotion. This APA site is meant to help you understand and control anger.

Return to the TOP

Care Giving


• Cancer care giving http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/When-Someone-You-Love-Is-Treated This booklet, When Someone You Love Is Being Treated for Cancer, from the National Cancer Institute, offers information taken from many caregivers about things they wish they had known early on. They have collected their tips in this booklet. Some of the tips seem simple, but they may not always be easy to do. Use this booklet in whatever way works best for you. You can read it from front to back. Or you can just refer to different sections as you need them.



• Care Giving  www.caregiving.com  This site offers information, support and information about care giving. Directs you to local support groups and provides other interesting information.



• Careguide  www.careguide.com  CareGuide is a website featuring a full range of services, articles and resources for elder care. Visitors can explore the site via the Resource Guide below, or find content by taking our elder situation assessment.



• Geriatric Care Managers  www.caremanager.org  GCM is a non-profit, professional organization of practitioners whose goal is the advancement of dignified care for the elderly and their families. With more than 1,500 members, GCM is committed to maximizing the independence and autonomy of elders while striving to ensure that the highest quality and most cost-effective health and human services are used when and where appropriate.



• LifeCare  www.usdoj.gov/jmd/ps/lifecarenet.htm  Provides information addressing Elder Care services. Will locate licensed day care providers, nursing homes, alternative living resources and other services in the U.S. per your needs and determine cost and availability. This is a DOJ supported service and is offered free to DOJ employees. Call 800-873-4636 or TDD 800-873-1322.



• Medicare/Medicaid  www.cms.hhs.gov/home/medicaid.asp  Centers for Medicare and Medicaid... Offers information on many topics including information booklets titled Medicare Basics and When Employees Become Caregivers.

Return to the TOP

Child Care and Parenting


• A Child Care Primer - If this is your first time searching for child care read this section first.



• Boys & Girls Club of America  www.bgca.org  In every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them. Boys & Girls Clubs offer that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow - all while having fun. They are truly The Positive Place For Kids. To find a club in your neighborhood visit this site www.bgca.org/clubs .



• Child Safety and Protection  www.ncjrs.gov/html/ojjdp/psc_english_02/intro.html  Concerned about how to talk with your child about safety and protection measures? This site is a pamphlet by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. It is designed to help you talk with your children (including teens) about how to help protect themselves against abduction and exploitation.  You may also find the following related site of help: www.amberalertnow.org .



CHILD CARE REFERRAL RESOURCES


• National listing of GSA Child Care Centers 13235 Visit this site to find centers near your work or home.



• Childcareaware  www.childcareaware.org  (National) Childcareaware is a non-profit initiative committed to helping parents find the best information on locating quality child care and child care resources and referral agencies nationwide, and by connecting parents with the local agencies best equipped to serve their needs. Know what to ask and look for when picking a child care facility.



• Children's Defense Fund  www.childrensdefense.org  Offers resources specifically for grandparents and other relatives raising children. Topics include health care and insurance, raising children with disabilities, child care and early education programs and food and nutrition programs. as well as state-by-state information.



• Day and Summer Camps
  • Allensguide  www.allensguide.com  Kids and Teens National listing of summer camp referrals.
  
  
  • American Camping Association  http://find.acacamps.org/finding_a_camp.php  The American Camp Association (formerly known as the American Camping Association) is a community of camp professionals who, for nearly 100 years, have joined together to share our knowledge and experience and to ensure the quality of camp programs. Because of our diverse 6,700 plus membership and exceptional programs, children and adults have the opportunity to learn powerful lessons in community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living - lessons that can be learned nowhere else.
  
  
  • Campfire USA  www.campfire.org/go_to_camp/  Camp Fire USA's mission is to build caring, confident youth and future leaders. This is done through progressive, age-appropriate, small-group activities in a variety of settings, including at our many camps across the nation.
  
  
  • Camppage.com  www.camppage.com  Resources for finding Summer and Day Camps throughout the USA.
  
  
  • Children's Museums National Site  www.childrensmuseums.org/visit/us_members.htm  Find the children's museum in your state to research what activities fit your child's age, needs and schedule.
  
  
  • Montgomery County Parks and Recreation  www.mc-mncppc.org/parks/activities/summer_camps.shtm  Camp referrals and other recreational resources.
  
  
  • National Association for Gifted Children  http://nagc.org/index.aspx?id=1103  CAMPS listing throughout the United States.
  
  
  • PG County Parks and Recreation  www.pgparks.com/things/things.html  Camp referrals and other recreational resources.
  
  
  • Summercamps.com  www.summercamps.com  Assist in finding camps throughout the USA.
  
  
  • YMCA  www.ymca.net/  There are more than 2,400 YMCAs in the United States, and each one offers different programs and events. For more information on any U.S. YMCA, start your search here. Please note: If you are looking for a YMCA outside the United States, click here http://www.ymcaworldservice.org/ys/intrnlysonweb.aspx .
  
  
  • YWCA  www.ywca.org  Find your local YWCA and research activities held in your area. YWCA reaches all around the world, connecting women, providing a voice to their concerns and needs. Programs may include support groups, shelters, breast cancer recovery groups, fitness classes, business coaching and much more.
  
  
  
• LifeCare  www.usdoj.gov/jmd/ps/lifecarenet.htm  Provides child care search services, including "Backup Child Care." LifeCare will locate any licensed day care provider or center in the U.S. per your needs and determine cost and availability. Backup Child Care - Access through ChildrenFirst backup care centers around the country (you pay only $35 per child per day, plus a one-time $39 registration fee per family) is available by contacting LifeCare.
  This is a DOJ supported service and is offered free to participating DOJ components. To find out if your component is participating click here http://www.usdoj.gov/jmd/ps/lifecarenet.htm, or contact your personnel office to make sure the list is current. Visit on-line or call 800-873-4636. Let LifeCare do the research for you!



• Maryland Childcare Resource Network  www.mdchildcare.org/mdcfc/network/mainnumbers.html  Find child care and other helpful information in the State of Maryland.



• Nannies Services
  • Cherub Nannies  http://members.tripod.com/CHERUB4U/onlinerequest.html   CHERUB Nannies is the premiere nanny service for fine families of the Washington, D.C. metro area.
  
  
  • 4nannies.com  www.4nannies.com  helps families locate nannies without an expensive nanny agency.
  
  
  • All-American Nanny  http://allamericannanny.com  Our specialty is placing quality Nannies into homes nationwide. All-American Nanny is the number one choice of families who have the means to provide the very highest quality of care for their children. Locating qualified candidates and matching your family's requirements to the right Nanny is what All-American is all about.
  
  
  
• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)  www.naeyc.org/accreditation/center_search.asp  Offers a search engine to find NAEYC accredited childhood programs in your state and neighborhood. This list includes the names, address and contact information for all early childhood programs currently accredited by NAEYC. It is provided to help parents and others identify individual programs that have successfully demonstrated compliance with the Academy's Criteria -- the current consensus of the early childhood profession as to what makes a high quality program for young children.



• N. Va. Child Care Referrals   This site offers phone numbers to obtain child care services in northern VA.



• The Washington Child Development Council (WCDC)  www.wcdconline.org  Offers referrals to child care providers in DC.  Once at the site, click on "Services" on the left side of the screen. WCDC has been committed to promoting the accessibility of quality services for children and families living in the District of Columbia. Services include information regarding Center or Nursery Schools, Family Child Care, Before & After School Care, Financial Assistance, Assistance to Providers.



• Washington Parent  www.washingtonparent.com  Serving parents in the Washington Metropolitan Area since 1982, providing family enrichment through education and support...first in print and now online.  Summer Camp information for the DC Metro area at this site.



Other links of interest providing resources for parents, children and teens......


• American Library Association Resources for Parents, Teens, and Kids
  
• Child Care Action Campaign
  
• ERIC Clearinghouse on Elementary and Early Childhood Education



• Federal Office of Child Support Enforcement State and Local Child Support (IV-D) Agencies  www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/extinf.htm#exta  This site lists the various state offices available throughout the USA.



• HHS - Administration for Children and Families
  
• HHS - Office of Child Support Enforcement
  
• I Am Your Child
  
• Kids Count
  
• La Leche League
  
• National Fathers Network
  
• National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care
  
  
• Parent Encouragement Program  www.PEPparent.org  Offers information and training for parents on subjects such as issues with toddlers and effective discipline to mention a few. Classes offered in Kensington, Gaithersburg and Silver Spring, Md.; and Herndon and Vienna, VA.



• StepFamily Association of America  www.stepfam.org  This organization is a national, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to successful stepfamily living. This site provides educational information and resources for anyone interested in stepfamilies and their issues.



• YMCA  www.ymca.net  Find the Y nearest you! Interested in a YMCA? There are more than 2,400 YMCAs in the United States, and each one offers different programs and events. For more information on any U.S. YMCA, start your search here.
  

Return to the TOP

Conflict Resolution
• National Association for Community Mediation  www.nafcm.org  A site containing general information about mediation and links to community mediation centers.



• Community Relations Service  www.usdoj.gov/crs   A Department of Justice website devoted to assisting to resolve community conflicts and tensions arising from differences of race, color, and national origin.


• Southern Poverty Law Center  www.tolerance.org/hidden_bias  Do you have racial, religious, or other biases deeply hidden in your psyche? Two social psychologists funded by the National Science Foundation - Anthony Greenwald, of the University of Washington, and Mahzarin Banaji, of Yale University (now at Harvard University) - have developed a unique and statistically powerful tool to identify and quantify either hidden or unconscious attitudes. To learn more, and to test yourself, visit this site.

Return to the TOP

Consumer Protection and Consumer Education Information


• Federal Citizen Information Center offers a wide assortment of informaton and educational material visit any of the four sister listed sites and find a treasure of information; http://www.Pueblo.gsa.gov;   http://www.FirstGov.gov;   http://www.ConsumerAction.gov;   http://www.Kids.gov.



• Better Business Bureau  www.bbb.org  File a complaint. If you think that a company or charity has treated you unfairly, file a complaint online. The BBB will contact the organization to help resolve the issue. Local BBBs across the US and Canada serve the consumers and businesses in their areas and you can find a local BBB through this site. There is much more information about consumer ratings, identity theft and more.



• Consumer Protection Offices  www.consumeraction.gov/state.shtml  Find your local State and County offices. City, county and state consumer protection offices provide consumers with important services. They might mediate complaints, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate a variety of professionals, promote strong consumer protection legislation, provide educational materials and advocate in the consumer interest. City and county consumer offices are familiar with local businesses and local ordinances and state laws. If there is no local consumer office in your area, contact your state consumer office. State offices, sometimes in a separate department of consumer affairs or the attorney general's or governor's office, are familiar with state laws and look for statewide patterns of problems. Consumer protection offices in the U.S. territories also are included in this site. This list is arranged in alphabetical order by state name. State, county and city jurisdictions and TDD numbers are in bold type.

Return to the TOP

Dieting and Nutrition
• BMI And Calorie Calculator  http://www.bcm.edu/cnrc/caloriesneed.htm   Find your BMI (Body Mass Index) and how many daily calories you need to maintain your weight.



• Create a Diet Menu  http://www.nhlbisupport.com/chd1/create.htm   Create a menu based on your health needs and to lose weight. Automatically determines fat, calories and cholesterol counts based on your selections.



• Nutrition  http://nutrition.gov/index.php?mode=homepage  Users can find practical information on healthy eating, dietary supplements, fitness and how to keep food safe. The site is kept fresh with the latest news and features links to interesting sites.

Return to the TOP

Disabilities
• EEOC  www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/accommodation.html   EEOC Enforcement Guidance on Reasonable Accommodation and Undue Hardship Under the Americans with Disabilities Act.



• Federal Employment of People with Disabilities (Schedule A)  www.opm.gov/disability/mngr_3-13.asp  Federal agencies fill jobs two ways, competitively and noncompetitively. Persons with disabilities may apply for jobs filled either way. Jobs filled competitively are advertised through vacancy announcements. Jobs that are filled noncompetitively do not have to be advertised. Instead, a selecting official can select a person with a disability who has Schedule A certification and is qualified for the job. People who are selected for jobs must meet the qualification requirements for the jobs and be able to perform the essential duties of the jobs with or without reasonable accommodation. People who are disabled and have a certification letter from a State Vocational Rehabilitation Office or the Department of Veterans Affairs may apply for noncompetitive appointment through the Schedule A hiring authority. Applicants with certification letters may apply directly to agencies' Selective Placement Coordinators or their equivalent to be considered for jobs. Managers can contact the agency's Selective Placement Coordinator or human resources office or their equivalent to obtain more information about sources for applicants with disabilities. Selective Placement Program Coordinators can be reached for many Federal Agencies by going to this site: http://apps.opm.gov/sppc_directory/



• Deaf and hard of hearing peresons health resources.   http://clerccenter.gallaudet.edu/InfoToGo/health.html   This resource list identifies healthcare programs and initiatives designed specifically for deaf and hard of hearing persons. Communication accommodations include not only a variety of devices, such as text telephones, but also qualified American Sign Language and oral interpreters as appropriate, and medical and allied personnel with sign skills and sensitivity to the varied communication needs of individuals with hearing losses.



• VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION STATE OFFICES  http://www.jan.wvu.edu/SBSES/VOCREHAB.HTM  By contacting your local vocational rehabilitation office, you will tap into a wealth of resources related to employment options for people with disabilities. Vocational Rehabilitation, a state-supported division of services, assists individuals with disabilities who are pursuing meaningful careers. VR assists those individuals to secure gainful employment commensurate with their abilities and capabilities through local job searches and awareness of self-employment and telecommuting opportunities.



• Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP)  http://www.tricare.osd.mil/cap/  CAP provides assistive technology as a form of reasonable accommodation http://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/accommodation.html to enable a qualified person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job. CAP's scope is to provide the assistive technology used to modify the computer and telecommunication environment for federal employees with disabilities.



• Manual and Procedures for Providing Reasonable Accommodation USDOJ/JMD  www.usdoj.gov/jmd/eeos/ddaccomprocfinal081502.htm  The Department of Justice (DOJ) has a legal obligation to provide reasonable job accommodations for employees and job applicants with disabilities. This policy statement provides examples of the types of accommodations that are appropriate and generally will be provided to Department employees and applicants with disabilities.

Return to the TOP

Domestic Violence
• Domestic Violence Screening   http://psychcentral.com/dvquiz.htm   Are you in a violent or otherwise abusive relationship. Not sure? Answer the survey to get a quick assessment. However, regardless of the outcome of this survey, if you feel you are in an abusive relationship or fear for your safety or the safety of your family, contact your local law enforcement agency or seek assistance by contacting National Domestic Violence Hotline http://www.ndvh.org/ at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) . Make a safety plan by visiting http://www.ndvh.org/help/planning.html to better plan for your safety.



• Domestic Violence handbook  http://www.feddesk.com/freehandbooks/050304-1.pdf  Responding to Domestic Violence handbook offers resources and information regarding domestic violence.



• Office on Violence Against Women  http://www.usdoj.gov/ovw/  Since its inception in 1995, the Violence Against Women Office, now the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has handled the Department’s legal and policy issues regarding violence against women, coordinated Departmental efforts, provided national and international leadership, received international visitors interested in learning about the federal government’s role in addressing violence against women, and responded to requests for information regarding violence against women. Vist this site for more related information.



• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence  www.ncadv.org  A site providing education and resources for victims of domestic violence.



• Family Violence Prevention Fund  www.endabuse.org  A site providing educational information about domestic violence. It also has a section devoted to domestic violence in the workplace.



• National Domestic Violence Hotline  www.ndvh.org  Provides resource information and education about domestic violence.

Return to the TOP

EAP/TIM
• EAP Order Chapter 7-1 Department policy for Employee Assistance Programs and services.
  



• Traumatic Incident Management Order Chapter 7-2 Department policy addressing Traumatic Incident management services, training and oversight.
  



• Statement of Client Understanding Statement of Client Understanding Form
  

Return to the TOP

Education
• College Circle   www.collegecircle.com/payingforcollege-10.htm  College Circle provides college-bound students and their parents information about planning for college, finding scholarships, paying for college, choosing the right college, and developing a career path.



• The Federal Resource Center for Special Education  www.federalresourcecenter.org/frc/TAGuide/index0009.html  Get the information/training you need to advocate for your child. Funded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Parent Training and Information Centers in each state provide training and information to parents of infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and young adults with disabilities and the professionals who work with their families. This assistance helps parents participate more effectively with professionals in meeting the educational needs of children and youth with disabilities.



• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.  www.nichcy.org/idea.htm  A National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities site. The IDEA guides how states and school districts provide special education and related services to more than six million eligible children with disabilities. Learn more about this important federal law here!



• Locating Colleges and Scholarships via the Human Resources Training Page



• School Refusal in Children and Adolescents  www.aafp.org/afp/20031015/1555.pdf  Does your child fight going to school? This is an interesting article for parents to examine what might be going on with their child.

Return to the TOP

End of Life Information
• Connecticut Hospice  www.hospice.com  The Connecticut Hospice inaugurated hospice care in America in 1974. Since then, it has been the beacon and teacher of the growing hospice movement throughout the nation, and beyond. Connecticut Hospice addresses physical, spiritual, social, and emotional needs of patients with advanced irreversible illness, and their families. Such care is provided regardless of diagnosis and as long as the Hospice level of care is needed by the patients.



• End-of-Life information from Medlineplus  www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/endoflifeissues.html#cat1  While dealing with end of life issues may be difficult, this site offers advice when confronting such a difficult subject.



• Find a Hospice Program  www.nhpco.org/Directory  A national database of hospices.



• Five Wishes Document  www.agingwithdignity.org/5wishes.html  An Aging with Dignity resource. The Five Wishes document helps you express how you want to be treated if you are seriously ill and unable to speak for yourself. It is unique among all other living will and health agent forms because it looks to all of a person's needs: medical, personal, emotional and spiritual. Five Wishes also encourages discussing your wishes with your family and physician.  Five Wishes lets your family and doctors know:
  1.Which person you want to make health care decisions for you when you can't make them.
  2. The kind of medical treatment you want or don't want.
  3. How comfortable you want to be.
  4. How you want people to treat you.
  5. What you want your loved ones to know.
  
  The document is valid in all but 15 states. The 15 that Five Wishes is not legally valid in, either require a specific state form or that the person completing an advance directive be read a mandatory notice or "warning." Residents of these states can still use Five Wishes to put their wishes in writing and communicate their wishes with their family and physician. Most health care professionals understand they have a duty to listen to the wishes of their patients no matter how they are expressed.



• Funerals: A Consumer Guide (FTC)  www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/services/funeral.htm  This Federal Trade Commission site provides consumer information on funerals. When a loved one dies, grieving family members and friends often are confronted with dozens of decisions about the funeral - all of which must be made quickly and often under great emotional duress. What kind of funeral should it be? What funeral provider should you use? Should you bury or cremate the body, or donate it to science? What are you legally required to buy? What other arrangements should you plan? And, as callous as it may sound, how much is it all going to cost? Each year, Americans grapple with these and many other questions as they spend billions of dollars arranging more than 2 million funerals for family members and friends. The increasing trend toward pre-need planning - when people make funeral arrangements in advance - suggests that many consumers want to compare prices and services so that ultimately, the funeral reflects a wise and well-informed purchasing decision, as well as a meaningful one. If you need information on this topic, this FTC site may be of assistance.



• Funerals: A Consumer Guide (GSA)  www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/misc/funeral/funeral.htm   When a loved one dies, grieving family members and friends often are confronted with dozens of decisions about the funeral - all of which must be made quickly and often under great emotional duress. What kind of funeral should it be? What funeral provider should you use? Should you bury or cremate the body, or donate it to science? What are you legally required to buy? What other arrangements should you plan? And, as callous as it may sound, how much is it all going to cost? Check this site for additional information and direction.



• Funerals.org  www.funerals.org  This is a national funeral consumer organization with state chapters. Contact your local state chapter for advice and directions related to funeral arrangements and your rights by clicking on Directory of Nonprofit Funeral Consumer Groups when visiting their home page.



• Growth House  www.GrowthHouse.org This award-winning web site is your international gateway to resources for life-threatening illness and end of life care. Our primary mission is to improve the quality of compassionate care for people who are dying through public education and global professional collaboration.



• Hospices of the National Capital Region  www.thehospice.org  Falls Church, Va. 22042  -  Offers support groups, workshops, seminars, educational sessions and other special events provided by grief counselors for the Washington, D.C. area. Call 800-255-0342 to find services near you.



• Hospice Patients Alliance  www.hospicepatients.org  HPA promotes quality hospice services whether a patient is enrolled in a licensed hospice or not, whether residing at home or in a facility. HPA protects the rights of patients, their families and caregivers, the bereaved and staff by providing information about the standards of care governing the health care provided, the services required to be provided by law, standard industry practices and how to obtain the very best hospice care available.
  
  
• LastActs.org  www.lastacts.org  Last Acts is a call-to-action campaign to improve care at the end of life. Our goals are to bring death related issues out in the open and help individuals and organizations pursue better ways to care for the dying. We believe in palliative care, which focuses on ways to ease pain and make life better for people who are dying and their loved ones. Palliative care means taking care of the whole person--body, mind, spirit--heart and soul. It looks at death and dying as something natural and personal. The goal of palliative care is to provide the best quality of life till the very end of life.



• National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization  www.nhpco.org  Mission & Vision, To create an America where every individual can value the experience of the end of life. Mission to advance the art and science of end-of-life care.



• On Our Own Terms  www.pbs.org/wnet/onourownterms  Across the country, local coalitions are forming to improve end-of-care in their communities in conjunction with the PBS series ON OUR OWN TERMS: Moyers on Dying. Filled with honesty, courage and humor, the series breaks through the culture of denial to wrestle with how we can die better in America

Return to the TOP

Financial



• American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC)  www.consumercredit.com  ACCC is a nationally recognized consumer credit (501)(c3) non-profit organization, helping people regain financial control through debt consolidation and credit counseling. The ACCC mission is to financially empower their clients to regain control of the quality of their lives through education and financial management.



• Annual Credit Report  www.annualcreditreport.com  You are now able to request a free credit report once a year from the three national credit companies all at one time, and you can do so over the internet. If you want a little more information about the legitimacy of this site visit the Federal Trade Commission and read up on this new service. There’s only one online source authorized to provide you free reports from each of the credit companies and that is https://www.annualcreditreport.com. Beware of other sites that may look and sound similar. Unfortunately, while you can get your credit reports once a year for free, the reports will not include your credit score. If you want to know your credit score you still must purchase that from the credit companies.



• Benefitscheckup  https://ssl1.benefitscheckup.org/ Developed and maintained by The National Council on Aging (NCOA), BenefitsCheckUp is the nation's most comprehensive Web-based service to screen for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources. BenefitsCheckUp includes more than 1,550 public and private benefits programs from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.



• Budget Maker Quattro Pro 9 version - MS Excel version  Get in control of your debt by creating a budget. The budgetmaker will automatically tabulate your expenses and income for your. Just fill in the form and make a plan. To access the program click on the version above that you prefer. If the file does not automatically open then either save the file on your computer and then open the file by clicking on the file name you chose to save it as; or when the window pops up asking you for : More information; Pick App; Save File; or Cancel; click on Pick App. Go to browser, and look for the icon that has a calculator or displays the qpw.exe format. If you prefer the Excel format, look for the Excel icon and click on that instead. This should allow you to open the document. Once the spread sheet opens, make sure when you open the page that you are on the correct tab located at the bottom of the screen and that your curser is set at the top left hand corner of the page. Remember to save the document once you are done if you wish to work on your budget again.



• CNN/Money's Credit Scoring  www.money.cnn.com/pf/features/scoring  Do you know what your credit score is? Do you qualify for the cheapest interest rates? If do not qualify for low interest rate loans, then you may have a low credit score. Take a look at this site to understand what credit scores are used for, how they affect you, and how to find out what your score is. Remember, if you have bad credit, only you can fix it over time. Do not fall victim to the spam emails or other invitations by companies or individuals who (for a small sometimes large fee) claim they can "fix" your credit problems. The only thing these businesses do is clean you of your hard earned money.



• CNN/Money's Debt Reduction Planner  http://cgi.money.cnn.com/tools/debtplanner/debtplanner.jsp   If you want to get out of debt you need to have a plan. Go to this site to see how your rate of payment and interest rates determine when you will be debt free. Please look at just how much of your money goes towards just paying interest!



• Credit Counseling Services  -  http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/Banking/Yourcreditrating/P38049.asp   Credit counselors are falling all over themselves to help you out of debt, but some do more harm than good. Here’s what you need to know, including whether you need it and the red flags for ripoffs.



• DOJ Criminal Division  www.usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud/websites/idtheft.html  This site provides information regarding Identity Theft and other information.



• Federal Citizen Information Center  www.pueblo.gsa.gov  This site provides a great deal of useful financial information. At this site you can learn about what is identity theft; other topics include HOW TO PURCHASE A HOME; FINANCING; AVOIDING LOAN FRAUD; LOCATING THE BEST MORTGAGE; AND MUCH MORE. Be a smart consumer and protect your financial interests!



• Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)  www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnsum02/cvrstry.html  This site can assist you in avoiding the traps of "PREDATORY" HOME LOANS! Be careful when considering a home equity loan offer in the mail. It may sound like a great deal-?one that you can't afford to pass up! But before you send that application in, be aware that a few unscrupulous lenders are tricking cash-strapped, unknowing borrowers into expensive home equity loans and mortgages. The big risk: If you can't repay the loan you could lose your home. "Predatory" loans are the result of a company misleading, tricking and sometimes coercing someone into taking out a home loan (typically a home equity loan or mortgage refinancing) at excessive costs and without regard to the homeowner's ability to repay. Victims who have trouble repaying a predatory loan often face harassing collection tactics or are encouraged to refinance the loan at even higher fees. To learn more visit this site.



• Federal Information Center  www.consumerprivacyguide.org/  Privacy Resources; Here are some helpful links to Federal sites, along with informative sites from other non-governmental organizations, all grouped by subject, like Identity Theft; Computer privacy issues; etc.



• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)  www.consumer.gov/idtheft/  This site is to the U.S. government's central website for information about identity theft. This site is maintained by the FTC. Information is constantly being added to the site, including government reports and Congressional testimony, law enforcement updates, and links to other sites with helpful information about identity theft.



• Identity Theft  -   Advice to Federal Employees.



• IRS  www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=105077,00.html  Offers tax information and other related information.



• Money.gov  www.mymoney.gov  Welcome to mymoney.gov, the Federal Government's website dedicated to helping Americans understand more about their money - how to save it, invest it, and manage it to meet your personal goals. As a first step, please send for the free "My Money" tool kit. It has information to help you choose and use credit cards, get out of debt, protect your credit record, understand your Social Security benefits, insure your bank deposits, and start a savings and investing plan. Just click on the Free "My Money" tool kit link above, fill out the order form it will bring up, and we'll be glad to send your "My Money" tool kit right away. Thanks for visiting mymoney.gov. This website is managed by the federal Financial Literacy and Education Commission.



• National Foundation For Credit Counseling



• Social Security Administration  www.socialsecurity.gov/reach.htm  This site offers provides information related to the SSA and related benefits. Visit this site to answer your questions or to learn more about the benefits and services offered through the SSA.
  
  IDENTITY THEFT ADVICE
  
  If you do become a victim of identity theft, there are ways to recover your good credit rating. First, report the identity theft to Social Security's Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. Then, report it to the Federal Trade Commission's ID Theft Hotline, 1-877-IDTHEFT. You also should contact the three major credit bureaus, tell them you're an identity theft victim and ask them to place a fraud alert on your records. The credit bureaus are:
  
  
  • Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 or http://www.equifax.com
  • Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 or http://www.tuc.com
  • Experian: 1-888-397-3742 or http://www.experian.com
  
  
  Also, write your creditors and ask them to contact you before opening any new accounts in your name or changing existing accounts or credit limits. For more information on identity theft, visit the Social Security Administration’s identity theft web page.


• DOJ Attorney Student Loan Repayment Program-  The Department of Justice Attorney Student Loan Repayment Program (ASLRP) for 2008 will soon be accepting requests from attorneys interested in participation. The ASLRP Policy, detailed information about eligibility, application procedures, request forms, component contacts, FAQ, and other relevant materials are posted on the Office of Attorney Recruitment and Management (OARM) web page, www.usdoj.gov/oarm. ASLRP information is accessed under the “Resources and Other Programs” link, (during the ASLRP season) from the “Quick Links” directory on the OARM home page, or by entering the ASLRP URL (www.usdoj.gov/oarm/aslrp/aslrp.htm) into the Internet browser. Requests from attorneys seeking to participate in the ASLRP are due to components by April 16, 2008. Renewal requests from current participants selected in 2006 and 2007 are due to components by March 31, 2008.
  
  

Return to the TOP

Government Benefits
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  www.fema.gov  after a disaster FEMA and other federal, state, local and volunteer agencies offer disaster assistance. Go to this site for additional information.



• GovBenefits.gov  http://GovBenefits.gov  This is a government site that can help you find government information related to the full range of government services and financial assistance. From the web site's Community Advocates page, you can search for programs by life event or category, such as housing, nutrition, health care, education, disaster relief, and more.



• Medicare  www.medicare.gov/default.asp  The Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare.

Grief and Support Services
• The Hospices of the National Capital Region Grief and Loss Services  www.thehospices.org  The mission of The Hospices of the National Capital Region is to improve care for those facing life-limiting illness through direct support of patients and their families, public education and public advocacy. They provide a caring, family-centered approach to respond to your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs during illness and bereavement. These expert services are readily available and continually improving. Your care is provided regardless of your ability to pay. 800-255-3042. For workshops to help you deal with loss during the holidays, call the 800 number for a listing of nearby groups.

Return to the TOP

Health and Medical
• AAHCP HOUSE CALL NETWORK  www.aahcp.org/physicianreferral.shtml  shtml Directory of home care physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners by state.



• Alzheimer's Disease Education & Referral Center  www.alzheimers.org/unraveling/index.htm  The U.S. Congress created the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center in 1990 to "compile, archive, and disseminate information concerning Alzheimer's disease" for health professionals, people with AD and their families, and the public.



• American Heart Association
  



• AVIAN FLU  http://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian-flu.html or http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/businesschecklist.html  Visit these two sites for information about protecting yourself and family.
  
  
• Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)  http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/index.htm  this webpage provides background information about avian influenza, including recent outbreaks, the viruses, and the risk to human health.
  
  
• Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC)  http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/  Find health, mental health, shelter and other local services via HHS's locater engine, that will assist you to find services in your community.



• Cancer Hope Network  http://cancerhopenetwork.org/ Cancer Cancer Hope Network provides free, confidential, one-on-one support to people with cancer and their families. They match patients with trained volunteers who have themselves undergone a similar experience. They provide support and hope, to help patients and families look beyond the diagnosis, cope with treatment, and start living life to its fullest once again.



• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention



• CDC Small Pox Vaccine  www.bt.cdc.gov/agent/smallpox/vaccination/facts.asp  Information regarding the small Pox Vaccine.



• Create a diet  www.nhlbisupport.com/chd1/create.htm  If you are looking for assistance in creating a menu that will support your weight loss, experiment with this site.
  
  
• Federal Employees Health Handbook  www.feddesk.com/handbooks/061404-1.pdf  The handbook consist of legislative and regulatory information and guidance and resources central to the operations of Federal employee health services programs.
  
  
• Flu Facts  The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. To learn more click on Flu Facts.



• Healthfinder  www.healthfinder.com  Visit this site for hand-picked health information from A to Z - prevention & wellness, diseases & conditions, and alternative medicine - plus medical dictionaries, an encyclopedia, journals, and more.



• Healthierus  www.healthierus.com  A web site on health, fitness and nutrition, brought to you by the Executive Office of the President and the Department of Health and Human Services.



• HIV/AIDS Hotlines  www.thebody.com/hotlines/state.html  AIDS hotlines are invaluable for basic HIV/AIDS information. You can talk to someone knowledgeable about HIV, and get referrals to various AIDS services in your city or state. Typically, hotlines are open Monday through Friday 9 to 5 with some also open evenings and Saturdays. The National AIDS hotline in Washington, D.C. is the only hotline open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 1-800-342-2437.



• HIV Testing Sites  www.hivtest.org  Resources on HIV testing including a national database of HIV testing sites and answers to many questions about HIV/AIDS and testing.



• HIV/AIDS Testing Sites   - For DC, VA. and Md. Only.



• Home Health Compare  www.medicare.gov/HHCompare/Home.asp?dest=NAV|Home|About#TabTop  This site gives detailed information about Medicare-certified home health agencies that were certified as of January 2003. The Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare.



• HomeCare Agency Locater  www.nahc.org/Tango/HCLocator/locator.html  Looking for a home care or hospice agency? Finding the right provider does not have to be difficult. The Home Care/Hospice Agency Locator contains the most comprehensive database of more than 22,500 home care and hospice agencies. Use this resource to find all the agencies in any particular area of the country.



• Interactive Health Tutorials  www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorial.html  This is a great medical site. It offers medical tutorials and interactive health education resources from the Patient Education Institute. It uses animated graphics with each tutorial to explain the procedure or condition in easy to read language. You can also listen to the tutorial if you prefer.



• Lab tests on line  labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/glucose/glance.html   This site explains what lab tests are looking for and understand what your test may mean.



• Mayo Clinic  www.mayohealth.org  Visit this site to find diseases & conditions A-Z.



• Meals On Wheels  www.mowaa.org/search.shtml  Provides meals to home bound elderly and handicapped persons. National listing of contacts.



• Medicaid Information  www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicaidGenInfo/  Medicaid is health insurance that helps many people who can't afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills.



• National Women's Health Information Center  (NWHIC)   www.4woman.gov/about/index.htm  NWHIC is a service of the Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health and Human Services. The NWHIC provides a gateway to the vast array of Federal and other women's health information resources. This site can help you link to, read, and download a wide variety of women's health-related material developed by the Department of Health and Human Services, other Federal agencies, and private sector resources.



• Nursing Homes  www.medicare.gov/NHCompare/home.asp  Medicare/Medicaid approved nursing home locator.



• Pandemic Flu Information  www.pandemicflu.gov/  Information addressing medical and local state informtion.



• Physician finder on WebMd  http://doctor.webmd.com/physician_finder/home.aspx?sponsor=core   Looking for a physician in your area, contact your insurance provider through their internet site or phone number first to get a provider in your plan. Otherwise this WebMd site offers a great search engine to find all kinds of physicians.



• Social Security Administration  www.socialsecurity.gov/reach.htm  This site offers provides information related to the SSA and related benefits. Visit this site to answer your questions or to learn more about the benefits and services offered through the SSA.



• Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM)  www.istm.org   If you have visited a foreign country and incurred a strange bug bite or illness that other doctors have no familiarity with, contact ISTM and seek out one of their expert travel medicine doctors. ISTM is committed to the promotion of healthy and safe travel. In cooperation with national and international health care providers, academic centers, the travel industry and the media, ISTM advocates and facilitates education, service, and research activities in the field of travel medicine. This includes: preventive and curative medicine within many specialties such as tropical medicine, infectious diseases, high altitude physiology, travel related obstetrics, psychiatry, occupational health, military and migration medicine, and environmental health. ISTM is based in Stone Mountain, Ga. and can be reached by phone at 770-736-7060.



• University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center