State of the Agency

 

Horry County Disabilities and Special Needs have seen significant changes in the past several months.  The completion of the 6000 Square Foot addition and renovation to the Administrative offices at 250 Victory Lane has created a much more productive and positive working environment for both consumers and staff.  We have seen fewer episodes of behavior challenges as consumers have more personal space in which to work and grow.  We are so thankful for the Board as well as the Foundation and the State of South Carolina for providing the financial support needed to make this long term dream a reality.

As we have moved into the year, there continues to be challenges on the fiscal front.  Although Horry County DSN has not seen a direct budget reduction, we are challenged each day in stretching the resources due to other unforeseen challenges.  The cost of gas, food, and day to day commodities has risen and impacted everyone directly.  The overall cost of goods and services has a direct impact on the bottom line, thus creating a challenge that was not foreseen.  Reductions in Medicaid and increases in co-pays have too caused additional financial burdens on all our consumers and their families.  We have worked diligently to find other alternatives to offset the cost to the consumers directly and have been successful in accessing food stamps for our residential consumers.

The staff has been extremely dedicated in helping to find other sources of funding to address long term goals and needs of the agency and consumers.  The Michelob Ultra Bike Ride sponsored by the Conway Area Philanthropists headed up by George Ulrich – our Director of Personnel, raised $5000 to support the Waccamaw Regional Foundation in February.  In May, the annual Golf Tournament was held at River Oaks Golf Plantation and brought an additional $8000 to the Waccamaw Regional Foundation that supports the efforts of Horry County Disabilities and Special Needs.  The first annual Motorcycle Ride, spear headed by Yvonne Salinger - our Director of Family Services and assisted by several staff was held in August and raised $2886.  The dedication of our staff continues to be the glue that holds the agency together in these difficult times.  Deep appreciation to everyone who assisted with these efforts is graciously extended.

The State Department of Disabilities and Special Needs are in the process of formulating their budget proposal for next year 2012-2013.  The program needs identified are to
1) maintain the current services in place at the current level of service
2) address the needs of individuals who are on the various waiting lists
3) seek additional funding for post-acute rehabilitation for people with traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries and
4) request additional funding to provide the adequate support to providers due to the rising cost of care.  Support of these efforts by contacting your State House or Senate representatives would be welcome and appreciated. 

As we approach the crazy rush of the holidays, the activities surrounding the individuals we serve, their families and the agency as a whole becomes very hectic.  I hope that everyone will take the time to remember the meaning of the season and take the time to reflect on the challenges as well as the positives of the year.  Wishing each of you the best!

 

Contact Information

Mailing address: 250 Victory Lane, Conway, SC 29526
Phone: (843) 347-3010
FAX: (843) 347-7308
Email: dsn@sccoast.net