(Paris, France) Weathering the storm of an international recession is not an easy task. However, for international businesses, one thing has remained constant in good, as well as bad times, a competent multinational and multi-ethnic team. The ability to sustain effective cross-cultural communications is a crucial skill required for international business success in today’s global economy.
For the past 20 years, KD Conseil has played a key role in facilitating this skill. Launched by Kathleen Dameron in 1992, KD Conseil improves the intercultural communications skills between the corporate offices and the executive management teams who work in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, Africa and South East Asia.
Dameron, based in Paris, France, says “KD Conseil is strategically situated both geographically, as well as for business cultures in most industries and Fortune 500 companies. We know how to meet the demands and needs of our clients in an international business center for multinational corporations.”
“I truly adore the city of Paris. The companies here have very strong business connections with the Middle East, Africa and South East Asia,” said Dameron. “It’s easy to travel from Paris all around Europe, the Middle East and Africa.”
Dameron explains that some of the key challenges faced by companies working across national and corporate environments are born out of cultural differences. It is those differences in cultures that can also create the building blocks to success.
“If an organization works with other cultures, I help them make it possible for senior managers, experts and employees to work together with greater efficiency and comfort,” said Dameron. “There is a joy that comes from working in an intercultural surrounding, discovery of different ways of succeeding, new and tried solutions to issues, as well as the pain of differences in attitudes and ways of working. My role is to help individuals, teams and organizations understand and appreciate those differences, thus developing a more harmonious working environment.”
Standing the test of time, KD Conseil has developed quality relationships with clients, generating customer referrals, which have enabled her business to grow even in difficult economic times for businesses globally.
“I believe that one of the keys to our success during this economic hardship is our ability to guide clients through different interventions,” said Dameron. “For instance, we develop intervention materials that assist in increasing multicultural competencies or adjusting to an organizational change. The goal is for our clients to keep their employees motivated and improve performance and that has a positive affect on their bottom-line.”
However, Dameron points out that KD Conseil’s affect should not be measured solely by quantity and direct immediate contribution to the bottom-line. In fact, she informs that the best contribution comes when her company is embraced as a partner on a strategic journey to understand and implement cultural change.
This enables her to implement the best evaluation measurements, reviewing what has changed over a six-month period.
With the growth of the global economy, Dameron notes that her industry has likewise expanded. Others are finding their way to play a role in assisting businesses to adapt and adjust multicultural working environments on an international level.
“This is an exciting time for the multicultural training industry,” said Dameron. “20 years ago, I had to explain what multicultural intervention was all about. Today all of the corporate leaders I speak to say they are engaged in some sort of multicultural professional activity.”
Dameron says the key is to go beyond merely giving a catalogue listing of “dos and don’ts.” KD Conseil delivers facilitators who develop strategies to increase individual, team and overall organizational multicultural competence.
“Keeping abreast of what is happening in the business world, as well as taking the time to interview managers and business leaders is key to any successful intervention,” said Dameron. “However, investing in your client by listening, to develop their skills and vision, that is what allows you to create leading edge impact intervention processes.”
Members of the So. Cal. Dezire ready to take the field.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) After coming together only eight short months ago, the “Southern California Dezire” has earned the right to represent the Inland Empire in the 2012 Triple Crown Sports World Series in San Diego, California from July 15-21.
Armed with a goal of teaching young ladies the fundamentals of organized recreational softball, this 10-member traveling softball team is made up of young ladies age 14 and under, representing the cities of San Bernardino, Banning and Colton.
This year marks the 16th year of the Triple Crown Sports World Series and the first time one of the age divisions will be held in Southern California. With this year’s 14 and under tournament set to be held in San Diego County, it is anticipated that 120 teams will participate, with most of the tournament teams coming from California, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah and other states West of the Mississippi.
In order to compete in the series, the team must pay their own way. Through a series of community car washes, hit-a-thons and other fundraising efforts, the team has successfully raised money to cover the cost for most of their equipment, uniforms and tournament fees. However, the team is still in need of an additional $5,000 for travel and accommodations.
“This is very important. These girls are passionate about playing softball,” says their coach, James Gonzales, project manager with the San Bernardino Salvation Army Adult Recovery Center (ARC). “I think we can win this, but not everyone can financially pay for such a trip. It would be a shame to see all their hard work come to an end and not be able to participate.”
The team needs monetary donations and or corporate sponsorship to continue. Those wishing to make a donation in support of the team may send a check or money order payable to: Banning Pony, 988 N. J St San Bernardino CA 92411. Please put “So Cal. Dezire” in the memo area.
For information about our sports betting sites please contact James Gonzales at (951) 906-7624.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Clean hands save lives! It’s a simple message repeated by health care providers and agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), daily.
Keeping hands clean is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness, such as the common cold and influenza, says Dr. Albert Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates.
As you touch people, surfaces, pets and objects, you accumulate germs on your hands, and although it’s impossible to keep your hands germ-free, washing your hands frequently can help limit the transfer of germs.
“Just think about all the things you touch everyday. You come in contact with germs all the time, so there are many opportunities to wash your hands,’’ says Arteaga.
Consider these key facts about hand washing from the CDC:
A third of adults in the U.S. do not wash their hands after using the bathroom.
One in four adults don’t wash their hands after changing diapers.
Less than half of Americans wash hands after cleaning after pets.
A third of adults wash hands after sneezing/coughing.
Less than one in five adults washes their hands after touching money.
One in three E. coli occurrences is caused from not washing hands before handling food.
How to Wash
“If hands are kept clean, the transmission of germs from person to person is greatly reduced,” Arteaga says. “But just holding your hands under running water won’t do the trick. There are proper techniques to follow,” he continued.
The best way to effectively eliminate most germs, Dr. Arteaga says, is to wash your hands with soap and water for about 15 to 20 seconds, followed by a good rinse.
“Be sure to wash the backs of your hands, between your fingers where germs can hide, and under your fingernails,’’ Dr. Arteaga says. “You must scrub your hands vigorously for at least 15 to 20 seconds to remove germs.”
For those concerned about time, Dr. Arteaga suggests looking no further than the “ABC Song.” He says singing the “ABC Song,” which is about 20 seconds in length, is not only effective in timing your own hand washing but is a unique way to help children develop their vocabulary skills and understand the importance of proper hand washing.
As an extra precaution, when using public restrooms, Dr. Arteaga suggests drying your hands with a paper towel, using it to turn off the water. Then, before discarding the paper towel, use it to open or close the bathroom door.
In the event a sink and or soap and water are not available, Dr. Arteaga suggests using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel or wipes, which are also effective in eliminating germs. But, Dr. Arteaga also points out, soap and water is still best in removing germs and bacteria.
“Many people use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, but if there is visible dirt on your hands, the alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not going to be as effective,’’ he says. “You need to use soap and water to rinse the dirt off your hands. If your hands aren’t visibly dirty, and you do not have soap and water available, make sure the hand sanitizer contains at least 60 percent alcohol to be effective in killing most germs and viruses.” When to Wash
Wash your hands before and after you eat, use the toilet, change a diaper, touch an animal, blow your nose, cough or sneeze, handle garbage and touch a computer screen or telephone.
Dr. Arteaga says it is also good practice to wash your hands after visiting a park, entering our homes, and using our computers and telephones.
“Repetition is the mother of conversation,’’ he says. “The more you repeat something, the more it becomes ingrained in you to do it. So we must continue to instruct people on the proper way to wash their hands so that they don’t forget.”
Dr. Arteaga and his wife, Maria, a registered nurse, founded LaSalle Medical Associates 27 years ago. He and his team of 120 health care professionals treat thousands of patients for infectious diseases, such as the common cold and seasonal influenza each year.
LaSalle operates clinics in Fontana, Hesperia and San Bernardino.
LaSalle Medical Associates is an Independent Physicians Association (IPA), which has a membership of 1,900 health care professionals serving 190,000 patients in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Fresno, Kings, Madera, San Joaquin and Tulare counties.
For more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go on line to www.LasalleMedical.com. About LaSalle Medical Associates
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Med-Cal and Healthy Families and they also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and IEHP. LaSalle’s clinics are at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 16455 Main St. in Hesperia and1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patience care with more than 190,000 patient visits per year in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare Counties.
Dameron Communications designs, writes, photographs and prints beautiful 8 page annual reports from just $3,000. Call (909) 888-0017 to start your report today.
San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps’ Sam Valdez, Director of Path to Prosperity. Photo by Michael Downer
Path to Prosperity Client Louie Martinez showing off his new eyeglasses, courtesy of St. Bernadine’s Medical Center Foundation. Photo by Michael Downer
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Clients of the Path to Prosperity, a program offered by the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps, are bringing their future into focus with new eyeglasses and dental work, thanks to a $13,000 grant from St. Bernadine’s Medical Center Foundation.
“If you can’t see you can’t do well in school,” said Samuel Valdez, director of the Salvation Army Path to Prosperity program. “Thanks to this grant, our clients are given the opportunity to continue their progress in getting their lives back on track.” A one of a kind 18 month program limited to 27 men at a time, the Path to Prosperity program assists its participants in obtaining the skills they need to become self-supporting and financially independent after battling substance abuse.
“While many of our participants are graduates of our Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC), this program is open to any man who has successfully completed a six month sobriety program, is now living clean and sober and has the desire to make a positive change in their life,” Said Valdez.
A recovering alcoholic and drug addict himself, Valdez points out that Path to Prosperity is not for everyone. However, he stresses the benefits received by those who are focused on beating their addiction are many, laying a foundation to living a productive lifestyle.
“When you are battling drug addiction, you sometimes make choices that are not the best, falling back on what you know from the past and are comfortable with doing. Here at Path to Prosperity, we provide clients with the tools to make good choices, relying on what they need to succeed,” said Valdez.
Providing them with what they need to succeed includes onsite programs that focus on: anger management, life skills, goals setting, attitudes, relapse prevention, job readiness as well as life and recovery.
The job readiness class prepares clients by assisting with resumes and mock interviews. Even though in this digital age, much of the application process is done online, the understanding is that at some point clients will need to be in front of an interviewer and this class gets them ready for just that.
Since the main purpose of Path to Prosperity is to help the men obtain the skills they need to live independently, most Path to Prosperity members immediately enroll in San Bernardino Valley College. The goal is to complete an associate degree or certification for a vocational trade.
Some men go even further and enroll in California State University, San Bernardino, while others have the experience to become job ready very quickly and choose to seek employment rather than go to school.
“We find that those clients who have the potential to truly excel do a combination of going to school along with working,” said Major Stephen Ball, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino Corps. “Clients have 18 months to focus on getting their lives back together, while they’re obtaining their college degree or certificate.”
Major Ball also notes that those clients who have eligible income are required to pay one-third of their income, up to $430 per month as rent. This helps to provide structure and reintroduces them to following rules and being accountable.
For more information or to make a donation, call the San Bernardino Corps headquarters at (909) 888-1336. You may drop off your donations at the headquarters building, located at 746 W. Fifth Street, San Bernardino.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org <http://www.salvationarmyusa.org> or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or (909) 888-1336.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institution Fund has certified 1st Valley Credit Union (1stValleyCU.com) as a Community Development Financial Institution or CDFI. The certification provides access to funds for 1st Valley to offer additional Piggy loans to San Bernardino County members who live in economically distressed communities or areas that are underserved by mainstream financial institutions.
“This is validation of our commitment to San Bernardino County as a lender that helps our members with the renovation loans and financial tools they need,” said 1st Valley Credit Union’s President Gregg Stockdale.
“People need loans to buy homes, fund small businesses and buy cars. As a credit union and now as a Community Development Financial Institution, we have more flexibility and access to increased funding. This in turn grants us the ability to provide a greater number of loans that people need. We are making good loans to good people,” said Stockdale.
The CDFI Fund promotes economic revitalization and community development in low-income and rural communities across America. Current economic conditions in San Bernardino County make the area a prime target for reinvestment.
CDFI certification makes 1st Valley Credit Union eligible to receive additional Technical and Financial Assistance grants to make more loans and provide other to affordable financial services for low-income consumers and underserved communities.
CDFI Funds have been used to create and expand programs such as mortgage financing for low-income and first-time homebuyers, loans for micro and small businesses, and financial education programs. Being eligible to apply for funding does not guarantee approval of CDFI grant requests.
It is likely, though not guaranteed, that your debt management plan will appear on your credit file. This shouldn’t worry you though, as you can work on improving it once the plan is finished.
“To obtain the certification, 1st Valley Credit Union secured assistance from the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions (the Federation), a trade association that represents the vast majority of credit unions that are currently certified as CDFIs,” said Pablo DeFilippi, Federation’s Membership Director.
The Federation was established in 1974 by a coalition of credit union leaders dedicated to revitalizing low-income communities. The Federation’s mission is to promote financial inclusion through credit unions by strengthening the capacity of Community Development Credit Unions (CDCUs), to provide services to low-income, urban, and rural economically distressed communities.
“We congratulate 1st Valley Credit Union for pursuing CDFI certification, which represents an official recognition of the groundbreaking work they have been doing for many years to bring affordable financial services to low-income consumers and underserved communities,” continued DeFilippi.
For more information call (909) 889-0838 or go online to 1stValleyCU.com
About 1st Valley Credit Union
1st Valley Credit Union is a locally owned and managed serving all of San Bernardino County with its headquarters at 401 West 2nd Street in San Bernardino. 1st Valley is the county’s only 5-Star Rated financial institution. They have $35 million in assets, and more than 3,600-members. Members receive a full suite of financial products and services at competitive rates delivered with outstanding customer service and 6,400 (walk-in) Shared Branch locations and 2,500 ATMs. For more information call (909) 889-0838 or go online to 1stValleyCU.com.
Carl Maier, LaSalle Medical Associates VP of Operations.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) LaSalle Medical Associates continues its strong commitment of providing quality patient care, with the addition of Carl Maier as Executive Vice President of Operations.
A seasoned healthcare executive, Maier will oversee the overall operational policies and procedures, network development, marketing and strategic planning, for LaSalle.
In addition, Maier will steer the operations and strategic partnerships of LaSalle’s Independent Practice Association’s (IPA) network of 1,900 independently contracted providers, with more than 190,000 patient visits per year in Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, Fresno, Kings, San Joaquin and Tulare Counties.
“Carl’s superb knowledge of healthcare operations and has the ability to create an integrated system, together with his unique ability to develop trusting relationships with physicians are a tremendous asset to LaSalle Medical Associates,” said Dr. Albert A. Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates.
Before Joining LaSalle, Maier served as the Chief Marketing Officer for Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and the Chief Executive Officer of OneAero Inc., an aviation parts supply marketing company. Managing a budget of $5.6 million and supervising nearly 100 staff, his expertise and knowledge of the healthcare industry played a pivotal role in IEHP achieving several milestones, including: increasing Medi-Cal market share, improving call center satisfaction ratings and creation of a marketing and outreach system that was ultimately adopted by the State of California.
“LaSalle Medical Associates believes we can do more together than we can alone. That means forming strong partnerships with our providers and organizations like MedPOINT Management, which helps us with much of the day to day operations,” said Maier. “My role is to ensure that our teams work well together, and that we deliver a better provider and patient experience.”
Maier earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Riverside. His interests include: ancient history, running, art history, scuba diving and skiing.
Maier’s professional associations include: California Health and Human Services (CHHS) Olmstead Advisory Committee (2007-2009), Local Health Plans of California Marketing Executives Committee (2002-2009), California HealthCare Foundation Performance Standards for People with Disabilities Work Group (2005), California HealthCare Foundation Retention Work Group (2004), A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management Alumni Association Advisory Board (1999- 2001). About LaSalle Medical Associates
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Med-Cal and Healthy Families and they also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and IEHP. LaSalle’s clinics are at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 16455 Main St. in Hesperia and1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patience care with more than 190,000 patient visits per year in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare Counties.
Staff of Magnolia at Highland gather in community room ready to assist residents. (Maintenance Technician Phillip Holmes, Leasing Consultant Carol Cook, Resident Manager Daysherri Terry, Assistant Manager Gamille Nash and Leasing Consultant Julio Martinez) Photo by Chris Sloan.
Maintenance Technician Phillip Holmes cutting keys for residents ready to move in the Magnolia at Highland. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Assistant Manager Gamille Nash guiding prospective resident through the application process. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Resident Manager Daysherri Terry answering questions from Linda Quinn, one of Magnolia at Highland’s new residents. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Magnolia at Highland’s first resident, Connie Moore, taking time to discuss her day with leasing consultant Julio Martinez. Photo by Chris Sloan
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The Magnolia at Highland, San Bernardino’s newest senior living apartment community for those 62 or better, fuses luxury living with a management team and style that is reflective of the diverse community it serves.
Conveniently located at 2196 Medical Center Dr. in San Bernardino (at the corner of Highland and Medical Center Drive), the Magnolia at Highland is managed by Western Seniors Housing Inc., a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself.
The resident manager of this 80-unit community, which features spacious one and two bedroom apartments, is Daysherri Terry, a native of San Bernardino. Terry brings more than 11years of senior property management experience.
“I think property management is in my blood,” said Terry. “I followed in my mother’s footsteps, who worked for Cal American managing properties when I was a kid. I truly love property management for one simple reason – compassion. This trait is even more essential when working with seniors. The little things mean so much and consistency is key. I love being able to help my seniors with making their day better in every way.”
Terry, joined Western Seniors Housing this past summer, during the Magnolia at Highland’s development stage. She immediately assembled a management team that possessed the skills and experience she needed to make this senior community a pleasant and comfortable home for area seniors.
“All members of my team are from the local area,” said Terry. “Each person has a background that is amazing. They take their job very serious and are dedicated to making this a wonderful place for our residents. I am very proud of them all. They are very thorough.”
Boasting an impressive 70 percent occupancy since opening this past Christmas, Terry gives much of the credit to team member Julio Martinez. Another native of San Bernardino, as leasing consultant Martinez brings 15 years of property management experience to the team, playing a key role in getting the property move-in ready.
“We all live in the area, which really makes a difference in understanding what the needs of the community are and what they have been lacking and wanting for so long” says Martinez. “We care about our residents, who may have been our neighbors. As a result, we work hard to offer them the best service available.”
Charged with making the Magnolia at Highlands comfortable and more like home is maintenance technician Phil Holmes. A resident of Fontana, Holmes has six years of property management experience, and understands the importance of his duties when it comes to senior luxury living, and that beautiful buildings and landscaping are only part of the job.
“My desire is to make the community a home for the residents, one without worries or care. The smallest inconvenience such as a bad light bulb is important to seniors. Even a defective doorbell is important. With seniors, customer service and standing behind what you say is crucial,” said Holmes.
Rounding out the team is Assistant Manager Gamille Nash. Born and raised in San Bernardino, she is new to property management, making the transition after working for 10 years as a office manager. What she enjoys most about her new position is the interaction with seniors.
“Being able to help seniors is really a wonderful feeling. They have so much knowledge and history to share,” said Nash. “The residents here love their new home and will be able to participate in social and educational programs provided on site. This is really an upscale environment right here in San Bernardino, complete with a dedicated staff to help them with all their daily needs at an affordable price.”
The Magnolia at Highland offers apartments that are very spacious and complete with upscale appointments such as solid wood cabinetry, granite counter-tops, built in computer desk, central heat and air conditioning, modern appliances, with walk in showers in some units.
The beautiful grounds feature a landscaped courtyard with a tranquil fountain and outdoor fireplace in a resort like outdoor patio area with shade trees, barbecue grills, a large swimming pool, spa and multiple areas for relaxed seating.
The amenities don’t end there. For those residents who prefer to participate in activities indoors, there is a computer center, fitness center, billiards room and also a clubhouse offering resident programs through the nonprofit organization EngAGE.
EngAGE transforms aging and the way people think about aging by turning affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity.
The Magnolia at Highland is an affordable housing apartment community with 25 one bedrooms still available at $690. Applicants must meet income qualifications.
To schedule a personal tour or to learn more about The Magnolia at Highland Senior Apartment community, contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
About Western Seniors Housing
Western Seniors Housing, Inc. is a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself. As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared towards maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the owners, operators and residents of senior apartment communities.
The primary objectives of Western Seniors Housings sponsored programs and activities are to increase occupancy, enhance resident satisfaction and maintain properties in top condition.
A true alternative to in-house resources, Western Seniors Housing offers a high degree of practical experience, know-how and empathy with seniors and their needs. For more info please read the total core two home ab workout machine review.
Dr. Albert Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates, congratulates Dr. Franklin Chu upon receiving the inaugural "We Care Award". Photo by Michael Downer
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The LaSalle Medical Associates recently presented its inaugural “We Care Award” to the San Bernardino Urological Associates, which was accepted by founding member Dr. Franklin Chu.
Created by Dr. Albert Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates, the award pays tribute to doctors for their commitment to providing quality service and patient care in the local community.
Dr. Chu and his team continue to deliver quality care for the well being of their patients for more than 27 years. Dr. Chu says that sometimes, patients come to him very upset because they need or are on Medi-Cal. With offices in San Bernardino and Apple Valley, he explains that it is important to understand the frustration of his patients, giving them a little more leeway to express themselves.
The issue revolves around the predisposition of some doctors to provide socio-economically challenged patients with care that is not of the highest available quality, based on what saves time and money for the physician and their practice.
“When I am treating patients, I don’t differentiate in the type of care they receive based on their coverage. You would never be able to tell if the patient I am seeing is privately insured, utilizes a HMO or is a Medi-Cal patient. Once I see the patient I see a person who needs medical care, not what they are paying me. Their healthcare is the most important thing to me,” said Dr. Chu.
As the president of LaSalle Medical Associates, Dr. Arteaga operates clinics in San Bernardino, Fontana and Hesperia, as well 1900 physician members in his Independent Practice Group (IPA). Understanding the challenges and demands in providing quality care, he explains that too often our focus is on the disappointments and not the good things that happen in life. We created this award to direct that focus to highlight the positive things and people we encounter.
“We feel strongly that Dr. Chu and his staff are an excellent example of quality service is all about,” said Dr. Arteaga. “The time has come that we recognize them for all they do time and again, without any recognition. They are truly unsung heroes.”
Dr. Arteaga points out that as a specialist, you often see patients who have a great need of care. Dr. Chu and his staff were selected due to their ability to consistently provide high quality, sensitive care with understanding to patients.
The San Bernardino Urological Associates is conveniently located across the street from St. Bernardino Medical Center at 89 East 21st Street. Offering an excellent medical research program, cutting edge medications and treatment methods are often made available to cancer patients locally.
For additional information about San Bernardino Urological Associates call (909) 882-2973. For information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go on line to www.LasalleMedical.com. About LaSalle Medical Associates
LaSalle Medical Associates is an Independent Practice Association (IPA) with four clinics employing 100 dedicated individuals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. The LaSalle medical clinics are located at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino, and 16455 Main St. in Hesperia.
In addition, LaSalle Medical Associates operates a network of independently contracted providers, which averages over 100,000 patient visits per year in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare Counties. About San Bernardino Urological Associates
San Bernardino Urological Associates Medical Group continues to serve the Inland Empire since 1985. The physicians in their Group are committed to bringing the highest quality of urological medical care to their patients. Each of their physicians are Board Certified Urologists. Through extensive training and continued medical education, they are able to deliver the most modern and advanced surgical and medical treatments.
Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps Hospitality House Director Anne Metu hard at work, providing area families with shelter and an opportunity to become self-sufficient. Photo by Michael Downer
Anne Metu, Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps. Hospitality House Director, explaining tutorial services provided to children courtesy of the San Bernardino Unified School District. Photo by Michael Downer
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ Hospitality House Emergency family Shelter has selected Anne Metu as director. In her new role, she continues to provide vital services for the Inland Empire’s homeless children and families.
Originally from Nigeria, Anne Metu came to the United States, settling in Houston, Texas in 1997. No stranger to helping others, she began her career, with the Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston, where she worked for six years. It was while Metu worked there, that she decided to become a chemical dependency counselor. She later moved to the Family Drug Treatment Court as a coordinator.
“Working in Houston, I noticed a lot of families dealing with both substance abuse and homelessness,” said Metu. “Usually only one person in the family comes forward. My desire grew, wanting to help the entire family heal, not just that one person. I wanted to do what whatever it takes to help them live a normal life and functioning in society.”
Determined to combine her Christian counseling with her passion to battle drug and substance abuse, she began working with women, children and eventually all family members, including men and other extended members of the family, who contribute to its dysfunction. This dysfunction led to what she refers to as unhealthy behaviors such as addiction, shoplifting and more.
After working as a dependency counselor for ten years, she moved to California in the summer of 2010, and began volunteering with the Salvation Army.
“I heard that the Salvation Army was looking for someone to become the director of their Hospitality House,” said Metu. “The opportunity seemed perfect for me, being able to utilize my background of helping others through drug counseling, grant management and administration. I decided to apply for the job, and I got it.”
Coming on board as the new director in 2011, Metu started with emergency shelter, providing those in need with 75 beds available for overnight stays. Clients were required to check out by 8 am.
“When I first started, we allowed short term stays for a maximum of 90 days, as long as a client is seeking employment,” said Metu. “In the Fall of 2011, we expanded our services to become a fully operational transitional housing shelter. Now we can provide 18 to 24 month stays, giving clients an opportunity to move to a higher level of self-sufficiency and permanent housing.”
Offering life skills training, mental health referrals, individual case management and counseling job readiness, Metu says the shelter provides clients with tools to be successful and get back on their feet.
“We provide clients with job skill training,” said Metu. “They receive job preparation coaching classes, parenting skills, along with group counseling and tutoring for children four days a week with the San Bernardino Unified School District (SBUSD).”
Clients are required to locate and maintain employment, pay rent, at least 30% of what they earn. They are also required to save 20% of their income, in an effort to secure permanent housing by time they graduate from our program.
Metu says she is thankful to the Salvation Army for giving her a platform and encouraging her to pursue her passion for helping other people. However, Metu points out that she receives assistance from many areas to make lives better for the San Bernardino underserved through in-kind donations.
“So many people have come together, providing the support we need to do what we can for other,” said Metu. “The children receive tutoring from the SBUSD. The tutors come here, rain or shine and Ms. Brenda Dowdy, with the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, provides school supplies and gifts form different agencies for the children during the holiday season and as they go back to school.”
Other organizations that assist the Hospitality House on a weekly basis include: Ann Curtis with SAC-Norton Clinic, Jerry Heffington with Options House, Peter Emelue form Inland Counties Legal Services,, The Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino (CAPSBC) and San Bernardino employment and Training Agency (SBETA).
“This is really is a community effort,” says Metu. “I feel privileged to be apart of such a wonderful team that is dedicated to helping improve the lives of those who are less fortunate and going through a difficult time.”
For more information or to make a donation, call the San Bernardino Corps headquarters at (909) 888-1336. You may drop off your donations at the headquarters building, located at 746 W. Fifth Street, San Bernardino. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or (909) 888-1336.
