Community Council Newsletter, April 2025
Grassroots Day with State Legislators in Sacramento, CA
Medi-Caid is Under Fire
Congress must hear from you now. Tell your Senators and Representative: Reject Medicaid cuts and protect services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
The House of Representatives recently passed a budget framework calling for cuts of at least $880 billion—cuts that would likely target Medicaid. These cuts would have devastating consequences for people with I/DD, potentially stripping away access to vital supports that allow individuals to remain in their communities. These are not just numbers—they represent real people whose independence and well-being are at stake.
https://www.ancor.org/actions/preserve-i-dd-services-tell-congress-protect-medicaid/
Volunteer News
The Pomeroy Client Volunteer Program offers a fun, engaging, and meaningful way to spend your day while providing essential services throughout the Bay Area. Our volunteers collaborate with organizations like the SF/Marin Food Bank, The Task Team, Little Brothers of the Bay Area, and more. We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Meals on Wheels! As part of their Client Needs division, we’ll be delivering essential items such as refrigerators, microwaves, shower chairs, and more. Interested in learning more? Talk to Jenny to see if you qualify for our waitlist!
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, April 1st, April Fools Day.
Monday, April 14th, Bay School Jazz Performance in the Main Hall.
Wednesday, April 16th, Spring Treasure Hunt at 10:30am in the Main Hall.
Tuesday, April 22nd, Earth Day Celebration at 11:00am in the Main Hall.
Wednesday, April 23rd, Bluegrass Performance at 10:30am in the Main Hall.
Staff Spotlight
Michael Van Winkle
After finishing college, Michael started his job search based on proximity to home—and luckily, he found the Pomeroy Center just three miles away!
One of Michael’s favorite parts of working at the center is the community outings. He finds joy in creating opportunities for participants to explore the world beyond the center’s walls.
Outside of work, Michael loves spending time in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether it’s the mountains, forests, or beaches, he enjoys being surrounded by plants and animals. But since he spends most of his time in the city, he also likes playing games and riding his bike.
Michael has a hidden talent—he can recite the alphabet backward! If given the chance, he’d love to meet Elon Musk and ask when artificial intelligence will replace humans in government.
Before joining Pomeroy, Michael worked as a security guard at Dandelion Chocolate, where he made lasting friendships with regular customers. He still meets up with them occasionally on Valencia Street.
And when it comes to school memories, his favorite subject growing up? Recess!
Michael is known as a nice guy, a strong advocate, and a supportive presence in the community. We’re grateful to have him on the team!
Guiding Vision: Organizing enriching trips and outings, hosting impactful fundraising events, and actively advocating while engaging with our community to foster greater unity and cohesion.
