NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans

Contract Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007

NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans Contract Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007: Word (469KB, 95 pgs.)
NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans Contract Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007: PDF (326KB, 95 pgs.)

ALBANY - Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
AMSTERDAM - Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
AUBURN - Options for Independence
BATAVIA - Genesee Region Independent Living Center, Inc.
BINGHAMTON - Southern Tier Independence Center
BRONX - Bronx Independent Living Services, Inc.
BROOKLYN - Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled
BUFFALO - Western New York Independent Living Project, Inc.
CORNING - AIM Independent Living Center
CORTLAND - Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
DELAWARE - Catskill Center For Independence
GLENS FALLS - Glens Falls Independent Living Center
HARLEM - Harlem Independent Living Center
ITHACA - Finger Lakes Independence Center
JAMESTOWN - Southwestern Independent Living Center, Inc.
KINGSTON - Resource Center for Accessible Living, Inc.
LONG ISLAND - Long Island Center For Independent Living
MANHATTAN - Center For Independence Of The Disabled Of New York
MASSENA - Massena Independent Living Center, Inc.
MIDDLETOWN - Action Toward Independence, Inc.
NEWBURGH - Independent Living, Inc.
NIAGARA FALLS - WNYILP for Niagara County
OLEAN - Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
PLATTSBURGH - North Country Center for Independence, Ltd.
POUGHKEEPSIE - Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc.
QUEENS - CIDNY for Queens County
ROCHESTER - Regional Center for Independent Living, Inc.
ROCKLAND - Rockland Independent Living Center, Inc.
STATEN ISLAND - Staten Island Center for Independent Living, Inc.
SUFFOLK - Self Initiated Living Options, Inc.
SYRACUSE - ARISE
TROY - Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley, Inc.
UTICA - Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
WATERTOWN - Northern Regional Center for Independent Living
WHITE PLAINS - Westchester Independent Living Center
YONKERS - Westchester Disabled On the Move, Inc.

1. ALBANY

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
Address: 855 Central Ave., Suite 110, Albany, NY 12206
Contract No.: C006624
Report Period: October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Laurel Lei Kelley, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Kim Strauchon-Verner, Board President

Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

To change local school district policies and/or practices to allow for more student/parent input in creating and modifying IEPs.

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one employment or job placement agency will change its policies and/or practices to comply with Title I of the ADA.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs, such as internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs for persons with disabilities.
At least one area business will change its application form to eliminate questions that discriminate concerning a person's disability.
At least one area business will change its policies regarding the rights of employees with disabilities and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Albany County Social Service Department will change its policies to allow as many hours as needed of home care to avoid placement in nursing homes.
There will be a change in procedure and policies, which will allow more people with disabilities, to leave long-term facilities and return to the community.
Long-term facilities will change their policies to include information on community resources, which allow people to remain in the community.
Hospitals and rehabilitation center facilities will change their policies to include information on community resources, which allow people to remain in the community.
The Capital District Center for Independence, Inc. advocacy efforts will result in the passage of new national, state, and/or local laws to eliminating barriers to community living.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of affordable integrated and accessible housing options for people with disabilities.
Increase in state and/or federal subsidized accessible and affordable rental units.
Increase in state and/or federal accessible home buying programs.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in the architectural and communication access in local social activities and/or establishments for people with disabilities.
At least one recreational facility/program will establish and post easily identifiable policies and procedures for consumers with disabilities to request and receive individual assistance ensuring equal service.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Bring Schenectady and Albany County into compliance with the Help America Vote Act.

2. AMSTERDAM

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 2450 Riverfront Center, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Contract No.: C006641
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, PhD, Executive Director
Ramon Rodriguez, Program Director
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school will adopt a policy that the parents rights information packet will be mailed prior to and not given out at the time of the Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings.
At least one school will institute a system of providing information to parents about the need for benefits advisement services to be included in the Individual Education Plan (IEP) Transition Plans for all appropriate special education students.

B. Employment Advocacy:

The Center will establish a mechanism to insure local implementation of the Medicaid Buy-in and have it verified by at least one consumer participating in the program.
At least one employer will change its employment application to eliminate a question that is deemed discriminatory under the ADA laws toward people with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one medical facility will establish a policy requiring discharge planners include RCIL's brochure in its discharge planning packets.
There will be an increase in the number of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program enrollments in Fulton County and that number will be sustained to a stable foundation.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

At least one Police Department will modify its in-service training plan to include Disability Awareness Training either developed or endorsed by RCIL to all law enforcement personnel.
One public transportation service provider will change its written schedules, prepaid access cards and any other related information available for public use to alternate formats.

E. Social Advocacy:

At least one social venue will change its policy so that a personal care attendant (PCA) or an Independent Living Skills Trainer would not be charged full admission, while in the line of work with a consumer.
One social venue will become accessible to individuals with disabilities. *

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

A local Board of Elections will change its poll workers training and related educational materials to include disability awareness and sensitivity training either developed or endorsed by RCIL.
A local Board of Elections will implement a policy to notify all voters of accessible polling site changes.

3. AUBURN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Options for Independence
Address: 75 Genesee Street, Auburn, NY 13021
Contract No.: C006638
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 31, 2007
Contact Person: Guy Thomas Cosentino, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Betty Palega

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

At least one school district will incorporate Parent Information Nights as an educational component for families with children with IEPs and 504 Plans.
At least one school district will incorporate a Transition Fair/Transition Night where families and students can come to learn about community resources, employment, higher education and other services available for students with disabilities upon graduation.
A school district in Cayuga County will make a procedural change to have transition plans for students with disabilities include participating in Cayuga County's Disability Mentoring Day.
Cayuga Onondaga BOCES will institute a system of providing information in the form of a flyer sent to parents about the need for benefits advisement services to be included in the Individual Educational Plan (IEP) Transition Plans for all appropriate special education students.

B. Employment Advocacy

The Cayuga One-Stop will incorporate training sessions and workshops that are designed by Options staff that focus on issues related to disability and work into the employment services that they offer the community.These sessions will be on various topics including advocacy, maximizing benefits and community resources.
Options will establish a written memorandum of understanding with VESID and/or the Cayuga One-Stop to conduct outreach and benefits advisement to consumers applying for VESID and/or the Cayuga One-Stop services.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Options for Independence will work with at least one health care provider during the Program Year to make their facility more accessible to their patients with disabilities.
Local human service agencies and public health services will provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.
Physician offices and medical facilities in Cayuga County will adopt a policy that all new employees will receive training developed by Options for Independence and AURORA of Central New York on the needs of deaf and blind patients so that they are given access to interpreter services and appropriate accommodations.
The local Department of Social Services will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Options for Independence will work with both private and public businesses in Cayuga and Seneca counties resulting in a measurable increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are more accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Cayuga County Courts and the Auburn City Court will provide access and effective communication for people with disabilities.
Options for Independence will work with and assist area restaurants so that they provide their menus in accessible formats.
The County of Cayuga will change its building codes to require that Visitability features are included into single-family housing that is built with Federal dollars.
Options will work with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity so that new homes built by this organization will be visitable homes.
Local business and paving companies will follow accessible parking space guidelines and create adequate well-designed, accessible parking spaces.
Options for Independence will work with the City of Auburn, local towns and villages to achieve a measurable increase in the accessibility of public right-of-ways, such as curb cuts, constructed for people with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy

The accessibility of existing recreational facilities will increase.
Options for Independence will work to increase the number of integrated recreational and social opportunities in Cayuga and Seneca counties.
There will be an increase in the number of special events and gatherings held in Cayuga and Seneca counties that are accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Options for Independence will work to increase the number of polling sites that are accessible to people with all types of disabilities in both Cayuga and Seneca counties.
Political leaders will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations and their materials will be available in alternate formats when requested. Options will ensure that this is done by having elected officials sign a Pledge Letter stating their intent to be inclusive to the disability community. This will be done on a regional basis with Centers who share elected officials also working to enforce this. Options will monitor Cayuga and Seneca counties for compliance.
There will be an increase in the number of persons with disabilities who participate on Boards where services are offered to people with disabilities that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
The Cayuga County and/or Seneca County Board of Elections will commit to not granting waivers to any polling site that is not accessible.
Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities will be adopted in Cayuga and Seneca counties.

4. BATAVIA

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Genesee Region Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 61Swan Street, Batavia, NY 14020
Contract No.: C-006621
Report Period: Oct. 1, 2006 - Sept. 30, 2007
Contact Person: Ann M. Bell, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Craig H. Wilcox, Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

GOAL: A local school district will make procedural changes to incorporate information on ILCs, PASS Plans, VESID, and other community resources, in the transition plans of students with disabilities.

GOAL: IL Philosophy and History Training will be incorporated into the procedure of a local CSE committee, to be presented during meetings with students with disabilities and their parents/guardians, in order to increase the knowledge of Independent Living Centers and the referrals to Independent Living Centers.

B. Employment Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will continue their efforts to increase the number of integrated employment opportunities for our consumers. There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs, such as internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for persons with disabilities

GOAL: Establish written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.

GOAL: A local One Stop Center will incorporate "Sensitivity Training", developed by GRILC, as part of their training procedure for all new employees.

GOAL: GRILC will develop a written agreement with a local One Stop to provide PASS Plan development and other employment services to their consumers who have disabilities.

GOAL: A local One Stop will formally change its policies and procedures for referring consumers to community independent living services and resources.

C. Health Care Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will increase physical and communication access within health care facilities including physician offices, clinics, and hospitals.

GOAL: A local health care facility will change their policies to include information on community independent living resources, which allow individuals to remain in the community.

GOAL: A local long term care facility will incorporate the Olmstead Panel DVD, developed by GRILC, as part of the information given to consumers and caregivers, to increase knowledge among these individuals, of what resources are available to allow individuals to remain in the community.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Goal: Increase ADA compliance in the business and commercial sectors of the community, i.e. Batavia Bus Service, restaurants, stores, etc.

Goal: GRILC will establish a written arrangement whereby a law enforcement agency will offer an on-site disability sensitivity training track as a regular part of it's training for employees.

E. Social Advocacy

GOAL: Increase the number of accessible municipal sponsored recreation opportunities, and facilities by changing the systems that control the resources that make it possible so that people with disabilities will benefit from them.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will ensure that political candidates adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

GOAL: GRILC will increase the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide boards/committees/task forces, that previously have not had representation from the disability community.

GOAL: GRILC will continue to work towards the full implementation of HAVA in New York State.

5. BINGHAMTON

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Southern Tier Independence Center (STIC)
Address: 24 Prospect Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13901
Contract No.: C006646
Report Period: October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Maria Dibble, Executive Director
Phone: (607) 724-2111 Email: mdibble@stic-cil.org
Board President Authorization: Linda Geise

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. EDUCATION

At least one school district will make a policy change to include vocational goals and activities in students' IEPs starting at age 14 (rather than waiting until the last semester).
A school district will change its policies and/or procedures to incorporate information regarding relevant community resources (STIC, VESID, OMRDD, waivers) into their student's transition plans and/or IEPs.
A school district will adopt a policy and/or procedure to ensure that student and parent input is used in the transition planning process rather than relying solely on a vocational assessment.
*There will be an addition of at least one integrated Summer Program in our service area for students with disabilities who require 12 month services.
A local school district will implement policies, procedures and/or practices resulting in the inclusion of assistive technology in IEPs for students with disabilities.
*A school district will implement policies, procedures and/or practices resulting in a universal design approach to assistive technology.
STIC will establish a written contract with at least one additional school to provide augmentative communication assessments and related services to students with disabilities.
As a result of the Early Childhood Direction Center's (ECDC)'s advocacy efforts, there will be an increase in the number of inclusive preschool and daycare opportunities for children with disabilities in the mid-south region.
*Through the advocacy efforts of the ECDC and its Advisory Committee, additional Early Intervention providers (SEIT, therapists) will become available for service delivery in rural areas.
As a result of the advocacy activities of the ECDC, there will be a measurable increase in the availability of home-based services for children with disabilities.
In response to the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Schaffer v. Weast, NY will adopt legislation to amend the education law, placing the burden of proof in IEP disputes on school districts instead of parents.
NYSED will adopt regulations prohibiting and disallowing exemptions for aversive treatments, which would or could endanger the health and well-being of students with disabilities.

B. EMPLOYMENT

Increase supported employment opportunities and availability in rural and/or underserved communities.
*Increase summer supported employment opportunities for youth with disabilities.
*As a result of the efforts of a cooperative network of supported employment providers and interested others established by STIC, there will be a unification of currently fragmented, competitive services, resulting in share job openings, information, contacts, etc.
**A Broome County agency or department will change its policies, procedures and/or practices to become compliant with Title I of the ADA.
*VESID will change its statewide policies and/or procedures to begin providing support to students before their senior year of high school.
As a milestone toward securing passage of NYS Sovereign Immunity legislation, obtain the introduction and sponsorship of a Senate bill comparable to the Assembly's version.

C. HEALTH CARE

Increase the availability of psychiatric/evaluation services for children with disabilities in the Broome County area.
*Increase the availability of non-psychiatric diagnostic and evaluative medical services for children with disabilities in the Southern Tier.
*Increase the availability of hourly in-home respite services in our community.
NYS Medicaid will change its policies, procedures and/or practices, resulting in an Increase in the types of approved technology, as well as appropriate levels of funding for repairs/maintenance.
Secure the adoption of State Consumer Directed Personal Assistance (CDPA) regulations that are acceptable to advocates.
The NYS Legislature will change the EPIC program to include coverage for people with disabilities.
*OMRDD will overhaul the HCBS Waiver program to incorporate an RRDC-approach to eligibility determination (similar to the TBI and Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waivers).
Prevent any changes to the Medicaid program that restrict or limit eligibility and choice.
Achieve a measurable improvement in the physical and programmatic accessibility of medical facilities in our service area.
DIVERSION, DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION AND OLMSTEAD IMPLEMENTATION GOALS:
1. *When implemented, STIC will ensure verifiable local implementation of the NYS Department of Health Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver
2. At least one institution will include, as part of its community transition process, a comprehensive guide to supports and services developed by Broome County CASA with significant input from STIC.
3. At least one institution will change its procedures and/or policies to allow more people with disabilities to transition from institutions into integrated community living.
4. *Funding will be appropriated for a housing subsidy under the new nursing home waiver.
5. NYS will adopt an Olmstead Implementation Plan, which complies with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court decision.
6. Congress will adopt MiCASSA.

D. COMMERCE

Achieve a measurable increase in the number of accessible local businesses.
*Achieve a measurable increase in the number of accessible local rental properties.
*A local municipality will adopt a policy to post the monetary fine for handicapped parking violations adjacent to the parking signs.
* A local municipality will adopt policies and/or procedures resulting in Increased maintenance of local curb cuts.
*Broome County will establish a policy for regular snow removal from curb cuts, bus stops and accessible parking spaces.
NY will incorporate the housing provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act into state law.
*NYS will adopt policies and/or procedures to implement enforcement of Title III legislation.

E. SOCIAL

*A local or regional Shared-Use Trail will begin to publicize its level of accessibility on its web site, in published materials and/or other mechanism.
*Increase the availability of certified UTAP (Universal Trail Assessment Process) services in the Southern Tier.
*Achieve a measurable increase in the availability of integrated art and music opportunities for children with disabilities.

F. CITIZENSHIP

Increase the number of accessible polling sites in Broome, Tioga and Chenango Counties.
As a result of STIC's advocacy efforts, the voting machines selected by Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties will be as accessible as possible.
The Broome, Tioga and Chenango Boards of Elections will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of polling site workers to appropriately assist people with disabilities at the polls.
*Ensure effective implementation of NY's 2006 interim HAVA compliance plan.
*Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities will be adopted in Broome County.
*Achieve truly accessible HAVA implementation in NY.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
*The NYS Legislature will add ILCs to the list of organizations that receive an annual COLA.
Prevent the adoption of the ADA Notification Act by Congress.
Increase participation of individuals with disabilities and/or center staff on community, regional and state boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had effective representation from the disability community.

6. BRONX

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Bronx Independent Living Services, Inc
Address: 3525 Decatur Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467
Contract No.: C006622
Report Period: October 01, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Susan Attzs-Mendoza
Board President Authorization: John Pugh

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

BILS is committed to achieving an outcome in at least one goal in each of the advocacy areas during the fiscal year 2006.

A. Education Advocacy:

Establish a student disability advocacy network/infrastructure comprised of Bronx high-school students to address special education issues as they arise.
The Bronx High School district office will incorporate a policy to ensure that disabled students in Bronx high schools are informed about the availability of the 80/20 waiver and procedures for obtaining it.

B. Employment Advocacy

The Bronx Business Solutions Center (One-Stop) will increase programmatic access through the purchase of adaptive equipment, such as closed-captioned videotapes, tape recorders and word-prediction software.
The Bronx Business Solutions Center (One-Stop) will incorporate training sessions and workshops designed by BILS and focused on issues related to disability as they relate to the employment services that they offer the community.
As a result of participation in at least one Economic Development Program, there will be an increase in self-employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

C. Health Care:

A long-term facility will establish a formal agreement to allow BILS to conduct an on-going support group for its residents.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

As a result of working with Bronx developers, there will be an increase of accessible and integrated housing for people with disabilities.
Establish a housing disability advocacy network/infrastructure to address housing issues as they arise.

E. Social Advocacy

As a result of working cooperatively with other agencies, there will be an increase of integrated recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Increase the number of accessible polling sites in the Bronx.

7. BROOKLYN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Brooklyn Center For Independence Of The Disabled, Inc.
Address: 2044 Ocean Avenue, Suite B-3, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contract No.: C006623
Report Period: 10/1/06 - 9/30/07
Contact Person: Helene Katz Lesser, LMSW - Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Joan Serrano

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school district will change its policies and procedures to engage parents in their child's CSE Committee and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) development process at an earlier point in their child's education.
Ensure that Parent Teachers Association (PTA) meetings and other school related meetings are accessible for parents with disabilities.
Increase access to youth programs and groups, such as scouts and after School programs.
Increase access to deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the public schools.

B. Commerce Advocacy:

Increase access to commercial establishments in Brooklyn.
Improve public and para-transportation access for Brooklyn residents - for inter-borough and inner-borough trips.
Increase physical access and decrease communication barriers to Police Department and Fire Department.
Increase access to the Long Island Railroad, and the Port Authority of New York.

C. Social Advocacy:

Increase access to public parks, pools and playgrounds.
Increase access to religious institutions.
Increase the number of integrated social clubs, health spas, and fitness programs.
Increase access to senior citizen programs.

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

Politicians will make policy change to increase accessibility to locations where meetings and rallies are held, as well as ensure the availability of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
Achieve accessibility to polling sites and voting machines.
Increase the number of staff and board serving on various community and statewide boards, advisory committees, and task forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community

8. BUFFALO

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: The Western New York Independent Living Project, Inc.
Address: 3108 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14214
Contract No.: C006654
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Douglas J. Usiak
Board President Authorization: Dennis M. Kessel

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

At least one college or university will incorporate WNYILP's Independent Living Philosophy presentation into its curriculum for professional preparation programs that work with persons with disabilities.
One Institution of Higher Learning will incorporate WNYILP's Peer Recovery Model presentation into its curriculum for mental health care providers.
At least one local school district, BOCES, or Early Intervention Program will incorporate WNYILP's Independent Living Philosophy presentation into a training curriculum for its staff and parents.
*At least one college or university will implement policies or services to reduce disenrollment on the basis of disability.

B. Employment Advocacy

As a result of WNYILP's participation on the WNY Employment Consortium, one employment placement agency will change its policies and procedures to provide disability sensitivity training for newly hired job coaches and developers.
*As a result of the advocacy of the WNYILP, at least one vocational program provider will integrate a training on Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act, created by the WNYILP into its services.

C. Health Care Advocacy

As a result of WNYILP involvement on the Erie County Integrated Setting Committee, one county department will adopt policies, which will maximize the community inclusion of persons with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

As a result of collaboration between the WNYILP and other community agencies, more accessible and integrated housing will be available for persons with disabilities.
As a result of advocacy by the WNYILP, at least one media outlet will adopt the use of a WNYILP-developed "Style Book" when writing media pieces that relate to persons with disabilities.
*As the result of advocacy by the WNYILP, paratransit scheduling services will be extended beyond normal business hours.
*"As a result of the advocacy of the ILP, one first responder agency will incorporate training on the needs of persons with disabilities in crisis or disaster, created by the WNYILP".

E. Social Advocacy

*"As a result of the advocacy of the WNYILP, at least one place of worship will increase it access to persons with disabilities."
As a result of the advocacy of the WNYILP one area theatre will increase its access to or use of assistive listening devices.
As a result of the advocacy of the WNYILP one area theatre will increase its access to or use of alternative formats.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

As a result of advocacy by the WNYILP, the City of Buffalo will modify its policy to allow for easy access to interpreters for common council and other public meetings sponsored by the City of Buffalo.
The ILP will increase physical access to local polling places.

9. CORNING

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Corning Council for Information and Referral for the Disabled no longer does business as Access to Independence and Mobility. Our new DBA was filed with VESID's Finance Department two year's ago, and we now do business in NYS as:

Name of Center: AIM Independent Living Center (AIM)
Address: 271 East First Street, Corning, NY 14830
Contract No.: C006620
Report Period: October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Marsha Sweet, Deputy Director
Board President Authorization: Libby Howell, Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Goal: Change school procedures to demonstrate that students with disabilities are being referred to adult service agencies when they are preparing to leave high school.

Goal: Ensure that PTA meetings and other school functions will be accessible for parents with disabilities.

B. Employment Advocacy

Goal: There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs, such as, internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs for person with disabilities.

Goal: At least one location of the Department of Labor in either Steuben or Chemung counties will have assistive technology on site.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Goal: As a result of AIM's establishment of a referral system with at least one hospital, that hospital will make a policy and procedural change that will facilitate a more efficient referral process for community services for patients with disabilities.

Goal: The Center will increase physical and communication access within healthcare facilities including physicians' offices, clinics and hospitals.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Goal: A local public transit company will adopt a policy ensuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

Goal: At least one new place of commerce will install a TTY/TTD device.

Goal: There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in AIM Center service area.

E. Social Advocacy

Goal: At least one movie theatre in our catchment area will regularly provide and actively publicize captioned films for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Goal: The AIM Center will increase access for persons with disabilities in places of worship.

Goal: One local bowling alley will have handicapped parking.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Goal: At least one local government will start providing agendas in alternate formats at publicly attended meetings.

Goal: There will be an increase in the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide Boards/committees/task forces, etc. that previously have not had representation from the disability community.

10. CORTLAND

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
Address: 26 N. Main Street, Cortland, NY 13045
Contract No.: C006628
Report Period: October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Mary E. Ewing, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Andrea Haenlin-Mott, Board Chair Andrea Haenlin-Mott

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc. will achieve three community/systems advocacy outcomes, or provide an acceptable action plan, in order to remain eligible for continued funding. A minimum of one outcome in each of the three out of six ascribed categories must be achieved on an annual basis. The Community and Systems Advocacy Plan for October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007 reads as follows:

A. Educational Advocacy

At least one local school system or CSE will make a policy change in the development of transition plans for students with disabilities, so that plans will include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages.
The SUNY Cortland Institute on Disability Studies will institute a disabilities awareness track developed by Access to Independence, to be included as part of its basic curriculum.
The Cortland School District will incorporate in its curriculum an Access to Independence developed peer advocacy group for transition age youth with disabilities, including programs on topics such as: goal setting, independent living skills, self-advocacy and empowerment.

B. Employment Advocacy

The Cortland Works Career Center (One-Stop) will increase programmatic access through the purchase of adaptive equipment, such as closed-captioned videotapes, tape recorders and word-prediction software.
Access to Independence will establish a written agreement with the local VESID District Office to teach a work readiness, core curriculum to enhance employment outcomes for VESID consumers.
Access to Independence will establish an agreement with the VESID District Office to provide outreach and benefits advisement to VESID consumers as a fee-for-service venture.

C. Health Care Advocacy

The number of health care providers who are universally accessible will increase.
A program will be established that will assist one or two consumers per year to return to the community from an institution.
The Center will contract with OMRDD to provide "Startup Broker" services, designed to increase empowerment and self-directed goal setting for people with developmental disabilities.
Local medical facilities will provide sign language interpreter services to their patients.
Access to Independence will develop a written agreement with the Cortland Housing Assistance Council (CHAC) to provide lead and asbestos assessments, at no charge, to low income people with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Increase the number of businesses that are fully accessible.
Increase the number of crosswalks in the City of Cortland that are fully accessible.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of government buildings that become fully accessible from one reporting period to the next.
Cortland Transit will have at least two ADA compliant buses; expanded service hours; and accessible, limited cross-county service.
Safe and accessible parking will be available in Cortland for people with disabilities.
Accessible public housing will be available to more persons with disabilities.
Cortland Housing Authority will implement an unbiased process for selecting set-aside Section 8 Vouchers, for Medicaid Waiver applicants who are self-identified as disabled, which will require the applicant's permission before information is sent to Section 8.
There will be a measurable increase in the physical and programmatic accessibility of at least one library in Cortland County.
An advocacy network/infrastructure will be established, with organized teams of trained consumer advocates available to address ADA Title II and Title III accessibility issues as they arise.

E. Social Advocacy Outcomes:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated social activities in the community for persons with disabilities.
There will be a measurable increase in architectural and communication access to social and recreational activities for people with disabilities in Cortland County.
The Cortland Arts Council will become fully accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of special events and gatherings in Cortland County that are accessible to travelers, tourists and community members.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of faith-based organizations in Cortland County, which are accessible to people with disabilities.
Opportunities for participating in integrated fitness programs in the community will be increased.

F. Citizenship Advocacy Outcomes:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Cortland County.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of people with disabilities who serve on community or statewide boards, committees, and task forces, which have not previously included representation from the disability community.
The City of Cortland will pass legislation that enables low income people with disabilities to be eligible for a partial exemption from real property taxes.

11. DELAWARE

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Catskill Center For Independence
Address: PO Box 1247, Oneonta, NY 18320
Contract No.: C-006625
Report Period: 10-1-06 - 9-30-07
Contact Person: C. Zachmeyer
Board President Authorization: Don Gersch

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education

Goal: Schools will add an independent living component to their curriculum.

Goal: At least one school will make a procedural change that allows for a disability awareness class to be taught as part of their curriculum.

Goal: A Disabilities Awareness and Sensitivity component will be added to at least one school's personnel training and/or in-service program.

B. Employment

Goal: Physical and program access will improve throughout the local one-stop system sites.

C. Commerce

Goal: The Center will work to increase accessibility to ADA Title III entities in the community.

D. Social

Goal: The Center will work to increase accessibility to places of worship.

Goal: The Center will work to increase accessibility to recreation facilities.

E. Citizenship

Goal: The Center will ensure that voting machines purchased in NYS will be accessible to voters with disabilities.

Goal: At least one political candidate or incumbent will adopt a policy or make a procedural change to hold their meetings and rallies in accessible locations.

12. GLENS FALLS

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Glens Falls Independent Living Center, Inc. operating as Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL) Center
Address: 71 Glenwood Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804
Contract No.: C006632
Report Period: 10/1/06-9/30/07
Contact Person: Karen A. Thayer
Board President Authorization: John E. Brault

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one (1) area school district will change their transition policy to include distribution of a CD-ROM concerning services available through the Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center to transitioning students
At least one (1) area school district will change policies and procedures to add Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center as a listed resource for students with disabilities to the information provided to students/families through the Committee on Special Education
At least one (1) area school district will change policies and procedures to include staff from Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center in transition planning activities

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one (1) area employment agency will improve access for people with disabilities
At least one (1) area business will improve access for potential employees with disabilities

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one (1) area medical provider will improve accessibility for patients with disabilities
There will be a measurable increase in the number of agencies providing services through NYS Medicaid Waiver programs

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in integrated housing units for individuals with disabilities
At least one (1) area Chamber of Commerce will make a policy and procedural change to routinely provide accessibility information for people with disabilities
At least one (1) newspaper will make a policy and procedural change to report on accessibility for people with disabilities when reporting on local restaurants/eateries
The accessibility of downtown areas in the Saratoga, Warren, and Washington County region will become more accessible by adding curb cuts

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible churches that people with disabilities can attend
There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible outdoor recreational venues for individuals with disabilities
At least one (1) area special event will improve access for people with disabilities

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites for individuals with disabilities
There will be a measurable increase in the number of Towns that hold Town Board Meetings in accessible venues
Area Boards of Elections will incorporate a disability awareness training either developed or endorsed by the Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center to election workers

13. HARLEM

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Harlem Independent Living Center
Address: 289 St. Nicholas Ave., lower level, New York, NY 10027
Contract No.: C006633
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Christina Curry
Board President Authorization: Vanessa Young

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

Issue:

Continued non-compliance of federal building codes/removal of physical barriers for many of the area colleges/universities.

Outcome:

HILC will achieve removal of physical barriers for at least one area college/university.

B. Employment Advocacy:

Issue:

There is a continued lack of accessibility within area businesses for persons with disabilities.

Outcome:

At least one area small business will become accessible for persons with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Issue:

Community awareness of mental health parity within the physical disability population needs to be increased.

Outcome:

One mental health facility will make its programs/services fully accessible to disabled persons with mental health needs.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Issue:

Local banking institutions have inaccessible ATM's for those with low/no vision.
Current rent increase exemption laws does not provide for equal parity for those who are disabled, especially disabled veterans (this includes DRIE and City Council Intro. 61).
Local cable channels do not provide close captioning excluding viewership by the Deaf, HOH community.
NYC/MTA bus fleet not accessible for those with low/no vision. External announcements are not made alerting passengers of arriving bus.
Local building is not accessible for seniors, PWDs forcing tenants to become homebound due to inability to leave the premises.
Major intersection is not accessible for seniors, PWDs creating increase in pedestrian accidents.

Outcome:

There will be at least one accessible ATM for those with low/no vision.
As a milestone toward securing passage of DRIE and Intro 61, HILC will obtain the sponsorship of local State Assembly members for the Assembly version of DRIE and of local New York City Council Members for Intro 61.
As per FCC regulations and ADA law(s), the local cable channel will provide access for the Deaf and HOH community.
NYC Metropolitan Transit Authority will comply with federal law and make external announcements of arrivals/departures.
Housing Management for a local building will change its policies and procedures to ensure the building is fully accessible to residents who are seniors and persons with disabilities.
NYC Department of Transportation will improve the access at a major traffic intersection by synchronizing traffic lights and installing audible pedestrian signals to allow safer crossings for seniors and persons with disabilities.

E. Citizenship:

Issue:

Local political events are not physically accessible for PWDs and/or are not accessible for those of the Deaf and HOH communities.

Outcome:

Political candidates and/or current political leaders will adopt policies that ensure meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

14. ITHACA

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Finger Lakes Independence Center
Address: 215 Fifth Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
Contract No.: C006631
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Lenore Schwager
Board President Authorization: Jan Lynch

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy:

GOAL: At least one school district in Tompkins County will change its policy to allow FLIC to assist in the transition process of students.

GOAL: At least one CSE will make procedural changes to have transition plans include information on Independent Living and other community based agencies and organizations.

B. Employment Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will work to assure that at least one employer adopts diversity policies and procedures, including policies and procedures which attract and employ people with disabilities.

GOAL: As a result of the FLIC sponsored World of Skills job fair, at least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate questions that discriminate in regards to a person's disability.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will continue to work to improve access in health care facilities in Tompkins County.

GOAL: FLIC will work to improve access to health care for women with disabilities in Tompkins County.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will work to increase ADA compliance in the business community.

GOAL: FLIC will continue to work on improving accessible parking in Tompkins County.

E. Social Advocacy

GOAL: FLIC will work to increase integrated recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.

GOAL: FLIC will continue to work to increase equal access to the performing arts in Tompkins County, including access to temporary events such as festivals.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

GOAL: Continue to make sure that polling places are truly accessible to all people with disabilities and that poll workers are trained in assisting people with disabilities.

GOAL: FLIC will work to ensure that political candidates and/or current political leaders will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

15. JAMESTOWN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Southwestern Independent Living Center
Address: 843 N. Main St., Jamestown, NY 14701
Contract No.: C-006647
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Marie Carrubba
Board President Authorization: Allen Wilcox

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education

A local school district will implement usage of a student guidebook, developed by independent living center staff, to prepare students with disabilities and their families for life after high school. Information will include services provided by the independent living center.
A local school district will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include developing information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living Advocacy, and linkages to other appropriate community based agencies and organizations.
At least one school district will make a policy and procedures change to have IEPs include information on technology available for students with disabilities and possible sources of funding to purchase the equipment.

B. Employment Advocacy:

One employment placement agency will change its policies and procedures to provide disability sensitivity training for newly hired job coaches and developers.
ILC staff will establish a written memorandum of understanding with VESID and/ or Department of Labor to conduct outreach and benefits advisement to consumers applying for VESID and/or DOL services.
Establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
There will be a reallocation of employment related funding from sheltered to integrated employment programs at The Resource Center.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

As a result of SILC's establishment of a referral system with at least one hospital, that hospital will make a policy and procedural change that will facilitate a more efficient referral process for community services for patients with disabilities.
At least one community or governmental agency providing health care services to victims of crime, abuse, and domestic violence will improve its accessibility to people with disabilities.
At least one area Social Security Administration office will change the system for disseminating information concerning Medicare Part D Coverage to make the information more accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of physicians' offices, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
At least one local restaurant will provide its menu in an alternative format for consumers and make it available on request.
At least one service station will agree to change policies and practices to comply with the law requiring them to assist drivers with disabilities to pump gas while charging the self-service price.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of recreation and fitness facilities and programs that are accessible to people with disabilities.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible municipal sponsored recreation opportunities and facilities.
The ILC will increase access for persons with disabilities in places of worship.

F. Citizen ship Advocacy:

At least one local government will start providing agendas in alternate formats at publicly attended meetings.
The Center will ensure that new voting machines purchased for use in Chautauqua County will be accessible to voters with disabilities.
In a written agreement with the Board of Elections, IL staff will provide on-site disability awareness and sensitivity training to polling site workers.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites.
Political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.
There will be an increase in the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community.

16. KINGSTON

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Accessible Living, Inc.
Address: 592 Ulster Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401
Contract No.: COO6640
Contact Person: Susan J. Hoger, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Caroline Corsa
Phone: 845-331-0541 845-331-8680 (TTY)

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Educational Advocacy

RCAL will establish a written agreement with one Ulster County Human Service organization to offer on-site Special Education Advocacy Training. This will be a regular part of its staff training for professionals who work with high risk children. (Target: Headstart)

B. Health Care Advocacy

RCAL will increase the accessibility of health care providers in Ulster County.

C. Commerce Advocacy

RCAL will increase the accessibility of businesses and for public facilities in Ulster County.
RCAL will establish a written arrangement with Rural Ulster Preservation Corporation to offer an on-site training on Universal Design Disability Awareness Track as a regular part of its curriculum for town and village planning and zoning boards across Ulster County.

D. Social Advocacy

RCAL will increase accessible recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

RCAL will advocate and cause inaccessible polling sites within Ulster County to be made accessible and usable by persons with disabilities.

17. LONG ISLAND

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Long Island Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 3601 Hempstead Turnpike, Suite 208, Levittown, NY 11756
Contract No.: C006634
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Patricia Moore
Board President Authorization: Mary Ellen Lewis

I. Systems Advocacy and Community Change

A. Education Advocacy

Sylvan Learning Center will produce an audio taped version of its brochure describing its programs and services.
Hofstra University's School of Communication will adopt a LICIL-developed training module to be used as part of a required seminar designed to educate Communication Arts majors about techniques for effectively reporting on persons with disabilities and the issues that concern this population.

B. Employment Advocacy

A local business will produce an audio taped and/or CD-Rom version of its employee handbook.

C. Health Care Advocacy

The local chapter of the American Cancer Society will provide its brochure, "Breast Cancer: Questions and Answers" in audio taped format.
A local hospital will change its policies and procedures to have its staff training materials include a brochure developed by LICIL and entitled Healthcare with Dignity: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals Treating Patients with Disabilities that will address the quality of healthcare for persons with disabilities.

C. Commerce Advocacy

A local library will increase its holdings and develop a "Specialized Reference Group" targeting literature that addresses and explores disability issues, including its history and culture in meaningful detail.
A local bank will produce an audio taped version of its products and services brochure.
The Town of Hempstead will increase the number of curb cuts available throughout the municipality.
The Fair Media Council will establish standards for its member organizations regarding reporting on disability issues and marketing to consumers with disabilities.

D. Social Advocacy

A local library will establish a book discussion program that meets periodically designed to explore disability literature and its portrayal of and impact upon Disability Culture.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

LICIL will work to increase the number of accessible voting sites in Nassau County.
The Nassau County League of Women Voters will produce an audio and/or CD-Rom version of their publication entitled "They Represent You: A Directory of Public Officials."

18. MANHATTAN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Center For Independence Of The Disabled Of New York, Inc.
Address: 841 Broadway, Suite 301, New York, NY 10003
Contract No.: C006627
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Susan Dooha, Executive Director
Telephone: 212-674-2300 x 140
Fax: 212-254-5953
Board President Authorization: Ann M. Davis

Ensuring Integration in the Community through Advocacy, Services and Consumer Involvement

The Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York's goal is to ensure full integration, independence and equal opportunity for all people with disabilities by removing barriers to the social, economic, cultural and civic life of the community. CIDNY education, services, advocacy and policy programs help ensure that equitable access to civic, educational, employment and social opportunities are available for people with disabilities to ensure community integration. Our activities are driven by the expressed needs of the community.

I. Community and Systems Change

New York State's five year plan for community and systems change (2002-2007) provides the basis for CIDNY's activities. CIDNY is committed to achieving an outcome in at least one goal in three of the six advocacy areas identified in the State Plan during fiscal year 2006-2007.

A. Education Advocacy

At least one secondary school in New York City will improve transition plan execution by establishing policy and mechanisms to regularly review and modify, as needed, the students' IEP goals and regularly track the students' progress versus their IEP goals.
New York State will adopt and fund a proposal to increase special education teacher recruitment and retention.

B. Employment Advocacy

VESID will pilot a Vocational Rehabilitation Readiness Training program with a peer-based curriculum.
As a result of 7th Sense technical advice and training to profit and non-profit organizations, policies, procedures and training programs will be implemented to increase the number of employees with disabilities in profit and non-profit firms and to improve the firms' capacities to build a disability friendly workplace.
Federal Social Security reform legislation is enacted which will encourage work when possible and provide support when work is not possible. It will embody the following principles: (i) do no harm; (ii) maximize self-sufficiency at a reasonable standard of living; (iii) services should be based on individual choice.
New York State's Office of Temporary Disability Assistance (OTDA) will implement "supported employment" policies in TANF reauthorization by creating public/private partnerships for job readiness and job coaching.

C. Health Care Advocacy

CIDNY will ensure that State legislation is enacted which closes any gap in prescription drug access in Medicare Part D for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. (a) New York State's pharmaceutical assistance program, EPIC, will modify its criteria to increase coverage to people with disabilities under the age of 65. (b) The New York State Legislature will enact,and the state Medicaid program will implement, legislation, which extends indefinitely state coverage of prescription drugs for dual eligibles. (c) State legislation will be enacted to limit the Part D prescription drug copays for dual eligible beneficiaries to $200 or less per year.
The New York State legislature will amend the New York State insurance law by enacting measures to prohibit the exclusion or limitation of benefits for mental illness and chemical dependency in health insurance plans.
The New York State Department of Health will make policy and procedural changes to ensure Medicaid health plan ADA compliance before moving SSI beneficiaries into mandatory Medicaid managed care.
A change in State interpretation of law and regulation will result in a change in policy and procedures regarding eligibility for long-term care for individuals with special needs trusts.
State legislation will be enacted that will reinstate public hearings held by the State Insurance Department for proposed rate increases for individuals who must purchase their own insurance, including Medigap coverage, when premium increases proposed exceed 10%.
New York State's legislature will adopt, and the executive branch will implement, reforms to remove bureaucratic barriers to coverage in health care safety-net programs.
New York State's Department of Health will make a policy and procedural change to come into compliance with its durable medical equipment prior approval process regulations and it will promulgate additional guidance and criteria related to prior approval.

D. Commerce Advocacy

The Department of Homeless Services will change its procedures to improve intake of people with disabilities and improve direction of individuals with disabilities to appropriate shelters and improve shelter discharge policies.
New York City Housing Authority will revise its procedures regarding marketing of upcoming accessible units to include notification of the housing registry.
The Department of Homeless Services and the New York City Housing Preservation and Development agency will change their procedures to ensure that people with disabilities residing in homeless shelters be given "homeless" priorities for newly constructed accessible apartments, instead of having them access housing through the lottery system.
The state and local legislatures will amend the DRIE law to establish income threshold parity with SCRIE.

E. Civic/Citizenship Advocacy

Through CIDNY's advocacy efforts, there will be an increase in the number of accessible voting sites in New York City.
The NYC Board of Elections will incorporate materials on access for people with invisible disabilities either developed or endorsed by CIDNY into its poll site workers training curriculum and poll site surveying instruments.
The NYC Board of Elections will incorporate educational materials provided by CIDNY into its outreach strategy to voters as HAVA is implemented, ensuring that people with disabilities who want to vote at their polling sites understand the new process.
CIDNY will ensure that disaster preparation and disaster relief plans address the needs and concerns of people with disabilities.

19. MASSENA

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Massena Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 156 Center Street, Massena, New York 13662
Contract No.: C006635
Report Period: 10/1/06 -9/30/2007
Contact Person: Mr. Jeff Reifensnyder - Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Ms. Wanda Harvey

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy:

The Massena Independent Living Center, Inc. will ensure that an Independent Living History and Philosophy awareness track either developed or endorsed by MILC is instituted as part of the academic curriculum at an educational institution in our area.
A local university will change its policies to ensure that students with disabilities at academic risk are better informed about the Accommodative Services office and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.

B. Employment Advocacy

Change at least one One-Stop Employment Center policy toward enabling persons with disabilities greater access to the good and services offered.
Convince an Employment Training Provider to incorporate a disability peer mentoring component either developed or endorsed by MILC into their dealings with people with disabilities seeking financial transition from Welfare.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Change at least one institution's policy toward their making referrals to the MILC an integral part of their discharge planning process.

D. Commerce Advocacy

The Massena Independent Living Center, Inc. will increase ADA compliance in the business community.

E. Social Advocacy

Increase the number of integrated recreational activity opportunities for people with disabilities in our area.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

MILC will increase the number of accessible polling locations in St. Lawrence County.

20. MIDDLETOWN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Action Toward Independence, Inc.
Address: 130 Dolson Avenue Suite 35, Middletown, NY 10940
Contract No.: C006618
Report Period: October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Rachel M. Bartlow-Pappas, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Carl Berkowitz

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school district will make a policy change to include vocational goals and activities in students' IEPs starting at age 16 (rather than waiting until the student's last semester).
At least one school will adopt policy to establish a recommendation protocol to seek assistance in Educational Advocacy pertaining to students with disabilities before the IEP process begins.
A local school district will make policy and procedural changes that result in an increase in the inclusion of assistive technology in IEPs for students with disabilities.
At least one school will adopt or change policy that allows for a disability awareness class to be taught as part of the curriculum.

B. Employment Advocacy:

Increase self-employment opportunities for people with disabilities in our service area.
Occupations, Inc. will change their policy to ensure people with disabilities who work in their sheltered workshops will make at least minimum wage.
Securing passage of NYS Sovereign Immunity legislation
The Sullivan County One-Stop will become fully accessible.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Increase the availability of psychiatric/evaluation services for children with disabilities in Sullivan and/or Orange County.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible doctors offices, health care clinics, dentists and hospitals for individuals with mobility disabilities.
ATI will secure funding to establish a peer case management program to transition people from institutions into the community.
The NYS Legislature will change the EPIC program to include coverage for people with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Achieve a measurable increase in the accessibility of public right-of-ways in our service area such as curb cuts constructed for people with disabilities.
At least one business or store will become ADA Title III compliant in either or both Orange and Sullivan Counties.

E. Social Advocacy:

At least one public entity that provides fitness facilities (such as gyms or YMCA) will become accessible through ATI advocacy.
At least one public entity that provides musical venues (such as arenas or parks) will become accessible through ATI advocacy.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

At least one polling site will become accessible in Orange or Sullivan County.
Achieve full implementation of HAVA in New York State.
As a result of ATI's advocacy efforts, the voting machines selected by Orange and Sullivan Counties will be as accessible as possible.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
ATI staff and/or consumers will serve on committees, boards or task forces that have previously not had representation from the disability community.

21. NEWBURGH

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 5 Washington Terrace, Newburgh, NY12550
Contract No.: C-006630
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Michael P. Dunn, Associate Director
Board President Authorization: Robert Browning

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy:

Advocate for systemic changes that result universal access to educational opportunities and related supportive services for children ages birth to 21, and to ensure a successful transition of students with disabilities from school to adult life. Continue to advocate for an end to educational services that segregate children with disabilities, denying them the right to equally choose, equally participate and equally benefit.
Will advocate to increase the enforcement of the rights and responsibilities of schools under laws related to special education, especially Section 504 and IDEA. Specifically advocate with school administration and instructional staff at both the Newburgh Enlarged City School District and the Orange-Ulster BOCES to engage all special education students in a transition planning process that begins at age 14.
As the Mid-Hudson Regional Early Childhood Direction Center, we will continue to advocate for increasing access to early intervention and preschool education services by families of children with disabilities birth to age five, with emphasis on those residing in traditionally unserved and unserved neighborhoods in culturally diverse communities in Orange, Ulster, Dutchess and Sullivan Counties.
Advocate to increase the number of parents and students actively participating in the IEP process in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District, and in public school districts served by the Orange Ulster Board of Cooperative Educational Services, and in Parent trainings throughout Orange, Ulster, Dutchess and Sullivan Counties.
Continue to advocate to establish a disability awareness track as part of the basic curriculum in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District.
Continue to advocate to reduce the incidence of segregated special education services for students with psychiatric disabilities by advocating for the adoption of inclusive educational practices and demand responsive supportive services that enable these students to learn in regular classroom settings.
Will advocate with the Newburgh Enlarged City School District to provide collaborative efforts to ensure the equal dissemination of promotional materials and educational opportunities for the middle schools students who would like to participate in Independent Living's (LEAP) program: a Learning Enrichment After school Program.
Continue to advocate for procedural changes at the Newburgh Enlarged City School District and the Orange-Ulster BOCES that result in providing equal access to extracurricular activities for students receiving special education services.
Advocate for changes to transition plans for students with disabilities in local school districts that result in the routing inclusion of information pertaining to PASS, VESID, Independent Living, advocacy and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.

OUTCOMES:

At least one school district will change its policy to engage parents in their child's transition planning process.

One neighborhood-based organization in a culturally diverse community will establish a policy to include as part of its informational materials, information about disability and early intervention/education services in both English and Spanish.

At least one county childcare council will incorporate ILI developed disability awareness education into their required training curriculum for day care providers.

*A local school district will make policy and procedural changes in how it makes referrals to after school learning enrichment programs to facilitate increased participation by students with disabilities.

The Newburgh Enlarged City School District will institute a disability awareness tack developed by ILI as part of the school personnel-training curriculum.

At least one local school district will change its policy to provide equal access to extracurricular activities for students receiving special education services.

A local school district will make procedural changes that result in increased participation by students with disabilities in work learning programs.

A local school district will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy, and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.

B. Employment Advocacy:

Advocate for systemic changes that result in an end to segregated, sheltered workshops. Increase the capacity of persons with disabilities to obtain and retain competitive employment.
Continue to advocate for a shift in funding that will provide greater financial incentives to programs and agencies providing integrated employment services, than to those operating sheltered, segregated employment programs.
Continue to advocate for an increase in the availability of supported work opportunities for persons with significant disabilities - that have historically been excluded from consideration as candidates for integrated employment.
Continue to advocate for policy and procedural changes that increase participation by students with disabilities in work learning programs offered by Orange County School Districts.
Continue to advocate for physical and procedural changes at One-Stops in the Cities of Newburgh and Middletown that facilitate increase participation by persons with significant disabilities.
Continue to advocate for on-site advocacy services for persons with disabilities, at the local One-Stops.
Continue to advocate for an increase in the availability of flexible, individualized supportive services (e.g. intensive vocational service coordination, flex funds, transportation and child care assistance) designed to address issues outside of work that directly bear upon placement stabilization.
Continue to advocate for a measurable increase in the number of competitive employment opportunities that are made available to persons with significant disabilities, by employers that have not previously hired persons with disabilities.
Advocate for equality of employment for persons who are Deaf.
Advocate for equality of employment for persons with developmental disabilities.
Advocate for equality of employment for persons with significant psychiatric disabilities.

OUTCOMES:

At least one local business will change its recruitment process so as to create new supported employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

One or more employers will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodations to persons who are Deaf.

One or more employers will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodation to employees with developmental disabilities.

*One or more employers will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with significant psychiatric disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Continue to advocate for increasing the capacity of community-based supportive services to a level sufficient to enable persons presently confined to nursing homes and other restrictive settings, or at-risk of confinement, to return to, or remain in the community as an alternative to institutionalization - consistent with the Olmstead decision of 1999.

Will advocate for changes in the local institutional policies and practices in the area of Long Term care needs assessment, and work in close collaborative effort with local government agencies.
Continue to advocate for changes in local institutional policies and practices that will result in increased referrals to community based living options.
Continue to advocate for changes in local institutional policies and practices that will result in significantly increasing the number of nursing home residents engaged in discharge planning.
Advocate for changes in local mental health system policies and practices that refocus services on recovery and wellness.
Advocate for changes in policies by local county departments of social services so as to provide self-directing consumers with control over their PA's work schedule(s).
Advocate with local county departments of social services to authorize as many hours as necessary, without restriction, to enable persons with disabilities to remain in the community of their choosing.
Continue to advocate with community organizations so as to produce a measurable increase in the number of such organizations referring consumers to Consumer Directed Personal Assistance services that have not previously done so.
Continue to advocate for changes in the policies and practices of providers in the local health care system that will ensure full access to health services by individuals who are Deaf.
Continue to advocate for changes in the policies and practices of providers in the local mental health care system that will ensure equal access to mental health services by individuals who are Deaf.

OUTCOMES:

One or more county departments of social services will adopt policies that enable self-directing individuals to schedule the hours authorized for PA services at their own discretion.

At least one community or governmental agency providing mental health services will improve its accessibility to people who are Deaf.

At least one hospital or community health care center will change its policies and practices to ensure full access to health services by individuals who are Deaf.

*One or more ILI staff will become a member of a key Long Term Care Task Force that will set the direction and tone of how the country will adopt changes from the state to provide LTC services to the disability population and that previously has not had representation from the disability community.

At least one local physicians office will improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.

*One or more county departments of social services will adopt policies that enable individuals with disabilities in the Long Term Care services system, to make informed choices as to where they would like to reside.

A local health care facility will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

One or more local departments of social services will establish an agreement with the independent living center to adopt an ongoing practice of providing periodic disability awareness training to all DSS personnel.

The Orange County Mental Health Department will establish an agreement with the independent living center to adopt an ongoing practice of providing periodic Deaf cultural awareness training to all mental health practitioners.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Continue to advocate for systemic changes that result in universal access to public transportation, public buildings, communication systems and other amenities. Increase the capacity of people with disabilities to engage in local marketplace activities including shopping, dining out, using recreational facilities and participating in community events by increasing the number of Title III entities that are accessible in the Orange County area.

Continue to advocate with local municipalities regarding the consistent enforcement of accessible/adaptable requirements in new construction.
Provide ADA training and technical support to local code enforcement officials and or other municipal departments.
Continue to advocate for increased accessible housing options for persons with disabilities.
Advocate for greater access to community amenities by persons who are Deaf.

OUTCOMES:

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.

The local public transit company will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability and Deaf awareness.

At least one municipal police department will establish an agreement with the Center that implements the ongoing practice of providing Deaf and disability awareness as part of the training/orientation for law enforcement officers.

A local housing organization will establish an accessible housing program that makes home modification services available to residences throughout Orange County, with technical support provided under contract with the independent living center.

At least one local landlord will make additional, accessible housing units available for persons with physical disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy:

Continue to advocate for systemic changes that result in an end to segregated, dead-end day programs, and the increased inclusion of people with disabilities in service and social clubs, special interest organizations, and other integrated community activities.

Continue to advocate for changes in funding policies and practices as necessary to encourage the creation of an on-going, "free-market" driven process for providing individuals receiving day services the opportunity to evaluate and, potentially change service providers based upon individually determined criteria.
Continue to advocate for changes in funding policies and practices as necessary to create incentives for day service providers to develop integrated community based program models and eliminate segregated day services.
Continue advocating to increase the number of community clubs and service organizations that are accessible by individuals with significant disabilities.
Continue to advocate for increased availability of sign language interpreters at local theatrical performances and other cultural and recreational events.
Continue to advocate with local municipalities to ensure that stadiums, auditoriums, parks and other public recreational facilities are fully accessible.

OUTCOMES:

At least one community club or service organization will adopt a policy assuring that meeting places are fully accessible.

One or more community service organizations will establish an agreement with ILI to provide disability awareness training for all of its members.

A municipal recreation department will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel in the areas of disability awareness and the ADA.

A local health club/fitness center will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Advocate for systemic changes that result in universal voter access to polling places. Increase self-advocacy and leadership skills among youthful and adult citizens with disabilities.

Continue to advocate for the local Board of Elections to adopt policies and processes that ensure the training of all newly hired election officials about the rights of persons with disabilities at polling places.
Continue to advocate for an increase in the participation of individuals with significant disabilities on governing boards of community organizations responsible for making decisions about the funding of disability services that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
Continue to advocate for increased participation by individuals with significant disabilities on governing boards of community organizations responsible for making decisions affecting the lives of persons with disabilities, in the areas of employment, recreation, citizenship, education, housing, and health care that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
Advocate and provide means to help register the underserved and non-registered voters of Orange County
Advocate with the Orange County Board of Elections and local municipalities to ensure that ballot marking devices are marketed as available to the public in 2006 and new voting machines are fully accessible in 2007.
Advocate with the Orange County Board of Elections and local municipalities to achieve 100% polling place accessibility.
Work with collaborative local agencies to provide a Candidates Forum for the upcoming elections in part to finalize and publicize positions on disability related issues.

OUTCOMES:

The Orange County Board of Elections will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all polling site workers, on disability sensitivity and awareness.

One or more political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

There will be an increase in the number of individuals with disabilities serving on community boards/committees and task forces that previously have no consumer representation.

*The Orange County Board of elections will modify its polling site selection policy to no longer grant waivers to any polling site that is not accessible.

The Orange County Board of Elections will modify its list of polling sites for 2006 by changing at least one inaccessible location to an accessible site.

The Orange County Board of Elections will develop policies and procedures to ensure the public (including the disability community) is made aware of changes in polling sites and/or voting machines.

*The Center will ensure that new voting machines purchased for use in Orange County will be accessible to voters with disabilities.

22. NIAGARA FALLS

On 6/16/06 the contract with Niagara Frontier Center for Independent Living (NFCIL) was terminated effective 9/30/06. A specially designed contract for 2006-2007 was established with an interim vendor, Western New York Independent Living Project (WNYILP), to serve Niagara Country that did not require the development of the standard goals and objectives.

23. OLEAN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 512 West State Street, Olean, NY 14760
Contract No.: C006629
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Leonard Liguori
Board President Authorization: Nancy Crawford

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

At least one college/university and/or other educational institution will incorporate DIL's developed or endorsed IL philosophy and history component into their curriculum.
Local Department of Social Services or other Social Service agencies will adopt DIL's Independent Life Skills Budgeting Program for their Representative Payee consumers.
A long-term goal development is the formation of a Parent and Teacher organization dedicated to furthering and strengthening the supports and services for special education students in a school district of Cattaruagus and/or Allegany counties.

B. Employment Advocacy

A job coaching program for youths with disabilities will be established by DIL within the community.

C. Health Care Advocacy

A much needed single room shelter in Cattaraugus County will be accessible and integrated.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be a large print menu offered as an alternative format at one local restaurant.
The City of Olean will increase the number of accessible parking spaces in Olean, New York.
Sensitivity Training developed by DIL will be adopted by one hotel in our catchment area on an annual basis.
A long term goal for Cattaraugus or Allegany County is having area hotels and/or restaurants being designated as accessible in the County's Tourism Booklets published annually.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be an increase in accessible polling sites in our catchment area.

24. PLATTSBURGH

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: North Country Center for Independence, Ltd.
Address: 102 Sharron Avenue, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Contract No.: C006637
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Andrew D. Pulrang, Executive Director
Telephone: (518) 563-9058 V / TTY
Board President Authorization: Norman Koslofsky

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

Independent living and disability awareness content developed by NCCI will be incorporated by the Education Department at Plattsburgh State University of New York as part of its teacher training curriculum.

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one new foreign employer will make documented changes in its employment policies and practices to comply with Title I of the ADA and other applicable disability rights laws.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Champlain Valley Physician's Hospital will adopt and commit to a set of comprehensive, specific goals, developed in collaboration with NCCI, for improving services to people with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

At least 5 businesses, for which full accessibility is technically and financially infeasible, will adopt polities and practices that make their goods and services more equally available to customers with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy:

At least one community entertainment event will make verifiable, documented changes in policies, practices, and / or physical accessibility, to ensure equal access to the event for people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

The Essex County Board of Elections will develop a written, comprehensive action plan that will lead within 2 years to full accessibility of all polling sites.

25. POUGHKEEPSIE

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc.
Address: 82 Washington St. Suite 214, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Contract No.: C006649
Report Period: October 1-2006- September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Cynthia L. Fiore, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Thomas J. Marone, Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

A local school district will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include developing information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy, and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.
TRI will increase educational opportunities for people with disabilities by at least one adult continuing education program changing its policies to improve access.

B. Employment Advocacy

At least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate practices and questions that discriminate in regards to people with disabilities.
Dutchess Works, the county's one stop employment center, will change its policies and procedures to include in their information packet, for those with disabilities, information on Independent Living, VESID, CBVH, and other community resources as appropriate.
TRI will establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy

At least one community or governmental agency providing health care services to victims of crime, abuse, and domestic violence will improve its accessibility to people with disabilities.
There will be an increase in the number of physicians' offices that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
St. Francis Hospital will implement a policy change to ensure that qualified sign language interpreters and appropriate communication aides are provided to patients who are deaf.
The local Department of Social Services will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all DSS personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
The local public transit company will contract with TRI to ensure proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.
There will be an increase in the number of safe and accessible parking lots (public and private) that are available for people with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy

At least one movie theatre in Dutchess County will regularly provide and actively publicize captioned films and assisted listening devices to people who are deaf and hard of hearing.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible and are actively promoted.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible municipal sponsored recreation opportunities and facilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

The Center will work with the Dutchess County Board of Elections to ensure full implementation of HAVA in Dutchess County.
There will be an increase in the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
An advocacy network/infrastructure will be established, with organized teams of trained consumer advocates available to address issues as they arise. They will be effective in accomplishing at least one systems change in Dutchess County.

26. QUEENS

On 6/15/06 the contract with Queens Independent Living Center (QILC) was terminated effective 8/1/06. A specially designed contract for 2006-2007 was established with an interim vendor, Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York (CIDNY), to serve Queens County that did not require the development of the standard goals and objectives.

27. ROCHESTER

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Regional Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 497 State Street, Rochester, NY 14608
Contract No.: C006643
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Bruce Darling, Interim Executive Director
Program Contact: Michele Schwartz, Director of Programs
Board President Authorization: James Leary, Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

To change a local school district policies and or practices to allow for more student/parent input in creating/modifying IEPs.
A local school will make policy and procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include developing information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living Advocacy and linkages to their community based agencies and organizations.

B. Employment Advocacy:

As a result of a newly developed partnership between RCIL, Work Force NY and the One Stop Employment Centers in Rochester, Elmira and other locations, a One Stop Employment Center will demonstrate implementation of a written policy to ensure person's with disabilities are fully informed of the availability of assistive technology training relating to finding employment and procedures for obtaining it.
The regional VESID and/or CBVH office will establish a policy to include RCIL benefit advisement information as part of its application process for new consumers.
Benefit Advisement staff will establish a written arrangement with the VESID Rochester District Office to conduct on-site outreach and benefits advisement services to individuals applying for VESID.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one long-term care facility and one hospital will change their practices to include information on resources that allow people to remain in the community.
Secure the adoption of State Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program regulations that are acceptable to disability rights advocates.
NYS will adopt an Olmstead Implementation Plan, which complies with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court Decision.
Congress will pass MiCASSA and/or "Money follows the Person".

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of affordable, accessible, integrated housing options for people with disabilities.
RCIL will work with the Rochester Housing Authority to increase housing vouchers available specifically for people with disabilities.
RCIL will work to improve public and para-transportation access for Monroe county residents.
RCIL will increase ADA compliance in the business community.

E. Social Advocacy:

RCIL will increase accessible recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of polling sites that are accessible to people with all types of disabilities in Monroe County.
RCIL will continue to work towards the full implementation of HAVA in New York State.
At least one local government (village/town) will establish policies and procedures for the provision of sign language interpreter services at Community Council meetings.

28. ROCKLAND

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Rockland Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 230 North Main Street; Spring Valley, NY 10977
Contract No.: C006644
Report Period: October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Miriam Cotto, Executive Director
Telephone: 845-426-0707
Board President Authorization: Serge Jelenevsky
E-mail: serge@jelenevsky.com

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

* Issue: Increase the number of high school special education students that are made aware of services available through VESID and CBVH
Activity: Staff will work with VESID and CBVH to have one local school district to establish procedure for presenting the necessary information.
Goal: One local high school will establish a procedure to present special education students and their families information on accessing services from VESID and CBVH.
* Issue: Increase the number of severely emotionally disturbed high school students aware of the availability of various benefit programs.
Activity: Staff will work with one local school (Summit School) to have them provide a forum to provide information to student regarding benefits.
Goal: Summit school will establish a procedure to present an annual benefit forum for its students.
* Issue: Increase the number of high school students aware and sensitive to people with disabilities.
Activities: Staff will work with the staff of one local school (Spring Valley) to formulate plans for a disability awareness day/assembly
Goal: One local school district will change policies and procedures to place a scheduled Disability Awareness Day/Assembly on the calendar of its high schools.

B. Employment Advocacy

* Issue: Increase the number of people with disabilities who are successfully employed.
Activity: Staff will work with VESID on additional ideas and resources to assist people with disabilities in gaining and maintaining employment.
Goal: Rockland Independent Living Center will establish a written agreement with the local VESID office to provide outreach and benefits to VESID clients as a fee for service venture.
* Issue: Increase the number of visually impaired potential employees that are able to complete employment applications.
Activity: Staff will work with one local business to help them formulate an employment application for individuals who are visually impaired.
Goal: One local business will have changed its employment application policy to provide accessibility to the visually impaired.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

* Issue: To increase the number of people aware of the benefits available to them for health care.
Activities: Staff will work with Association for the Visually Impaired (AVI) to establish procedure to disseminate information about benefit programs to their consumers who are blind or visually impaired.
Goal: AVI will establish formal procedures and appropriate written and referral information of health and disability benefits available to its clients.
Issue: To increase the number of Medicaid applicant with disabilities who have access to information on all programs available to them.
Activities: Staff will work with the local Department of Services (Medicaid Unit) in ways to provide complete information on programs for people with disabilities.
Goal: The Medicaid Unit of the Rockland County Department of Social Services will establish policy and procedures to provide information on the benefits available to people who identify themselves as having a disability.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

* Issue: To increase the number of people with disabilities able to use local restaurants.
Activities: Staff will work with one local restaurant on the need for accessibility.
Goal: One local restaurant will become accessible for people who use wheelchairs/scooters.
* Issue: To increase the number of deaf, hard of hearing and/or speech impaired consumers who are able to access local businesses and/or not for profit agencies.
Activities: Staff will work with one local business and/or not for profit agency on the installation and use of a TTY/TDD.
Goal: One local business or not for profit agency will become accessible to deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired consumers.
* Issue: To increase the number of people with disabilities who will have access to handicapped parking.
Activities: Staff will work with local business to provide information about handicapped parking regulations.
Goal: One local parking lot will now have proper handicapped parking.
* Issue: Increase the number of businesses that are aware and sensitive to disability issues.
Activities: Staff will work with one local mall (Nanuet Mall) to formulate ideas for a disability awareness forum for its vendors.
Goal: The Nanuet Mall will establish a policy and procedure to provide proper training of its vendors and their employees in disability awareness and sensitivity.

E. Social Advocacy:

* Issue: To increase the number of recreational activities for people with mental illness.
Activities: Staff will work with the local Mental Health Association and other appropriate local organizations in formalizing plans for a local sports program for people with mental disabilities.
Goal: One local sports program at a local park or school will become accessible to persons with mental disabilities.
* Issue: Increase the number of people with disabilities who have access to movie viewing.
Activity: Staff will work with one local movie theatre to improve its access for persons with disabilities.
Goal: One local movie theatre will improve its access for people with disabilities.
* Issue: To increase the number of people with disabilities able to use local ball fields.
Activities: Staff will work with the appropriate agency or governmental entity to provide information on proper handicapped parking regulations.
Goal: One local ball field will have handicapped parking.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

* Issue: To increase the number of Rockland County residents aware of the American with Disability Act
Activities: Staff will work with members of the Rockland County Legislature to assure that Rockland County takes proper note of the passage of the ADA
Goal: By passage of appropriate legislation, Rockland County will establish and promote the date of July 26th as Rockland County Day of Celebration of The American with Disabilities Act
* Issue: To decrease the number of people with disabilities who have difficulty with the voting process.
Activity: Staff will work with the local board of elections on the need of real-time response to people with disabilities who have problems in voting.
Goal: The local Board of Elections will have formal procedures established to deal with Election Day difficulties of people with disabilities.
* Issue: To increase the number of persons with disabilities who have access to voting places.
Activities: Staff will work with the local Board of Elections on improving accessibility of polling places.
Goal: One previously inaccessible voting place will be made accessible.
* Issue: Increase the number of people with disabilities that are aware of local candidates and issues.
Activity: Staff will work with the County political parties to have policies to make sure that accessible forums are used for its activities.
Goal: One County local political party will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in or at accessible locations.

29. STATEN ISLAND

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Staten Island Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 470 Castleton Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10301
Contract No.: C006648
Report Period: October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Dorothy M. Doran, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Joseph Fortunato, LCSW

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

1. ISSUE

As of June 2006, several buildings on St. John's University Staten Island campus are not accessible for some students with disabilities.

ACTIVITIES

The Executive Director of SICIL will meet with Dean Nemzer (or campus coordinators) to address the needs of consumers.
Meetings will be held with the appropriate faculty and students to determine an accessibility plan.
SICIL will continue to meet on a regular basis with members of the Accessibility Committee of the school to develop a written policy.
This written policy to ensure the implementation of the recommendations will be submitted for approval.

RESULTS

St. John's University Staten Island Campus will become accessible for all students by 2007.

2. ISSUE

Students with disabilities are unaware of their rights when entering the adult world of work, training or higher education. In addition, students are limited in their understanding of their responsibilities.

ACTIVITIES

The Executive Director will meet with transition counselors to introduce them to the services of SICIL.
Offer SICIL's assistance by providing workshops that address this issue.
Attend Parent/teacher meetings to discuss issues.

RESULTS

At least on school district will incorporate a transition booklet developed by SICIL for students and transition coordinators that will be a guide in facilitating the transition process.

B. Employment Advocacy:

1. ISSUE

Individuals with disabilities living on Staten Island are finding it difficult to find employment on the Island and must travel to other boroughs.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with Chamber of Commerce personnel.
Meet with Mayor's Office.
Meet with Borough President's Advisory Committee.
Collaborate with other agencies.
Have articles placed in local papers.

RESULTS

Employers on Staten Island will change their current policies and employ individuals with disabilities.

2. ISSUE

SICIL's Computer Course is in need of additional funding so that it may educate and train consumers to become computer literate for competitive employment.

ACTIVITIES

Write proposals to foundations for state-of-the-art technology.
Write to Staten Island agencies concerning a fee for service.
Develop a proposal for VESID that will benefit Staten Island consumers.

RESULTS

SICIL will establish with at least one organization a fee for service contract to utilize its work preparation computer program.

3. ISSUE

Many small business offices are not accessible and therefore, cannot accommodate employees who have disabilities.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with Chamber of Commerce personnel to discuss ways that owners of small business establishments can remove architectural barriers.
Meet with members of the West Brighton Local Development Corporation to discuss funding for this project.
Discuss ways to inform employers about access and tax incentives.

RESULTS

Employers will remove architectural barriers on Staten Island, thus creating additional accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

1. ISSUE

St. Vincent's Medical Center is in need of discharge plans that will assist the patient in making the transition from hospital to his/her home.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with administrators to inform them of SICIL's services.
Provide a pamphlet that will assist patients and personnel of the hospital in gaining access to services.
Meet with social workers and transition planners to explore ways to allow individuals to return to their homes.

RESULTS

St. Vincent's Medical Center will adopt new policies to increase the numbers of consumer's who will return to their homes instead of being admitted to a nursing home.

2. ISSUE

Staten Island University Hospital is in need of policy changes that will create more accessibility for consumers.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of the Borough President's Advisory Board to make suggestions.
Suggest policy changes
Meet with members of the hospital planning committee.

RESULTS

A change in policies and procedures will be adopted by Staten Island University Hospital that will improve the services offered to consumers.

3. ISSUE

Mount Manresa offers medical and counseling programs to victims of AIDS and is in need of architectural barrier removal.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with the Executive Director of the Mount to discuss ADA requirements and solutions to make the necessary physical changes.
Discuss funding with local officials.

RESULTS

Mount Manresa will be accessible to consumers.

4. ISSUE

Many health insurance companies are denying medical reimbursements to individuals who are in need of prosthetic devices.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of the S.I. Amputee Club to form a coalition that will address this problem.
Discuss strategies to resolve this discrimination.
Meet with legislators to discuss new laws and changes in policies that have adversely affected consumers.

RESULTS

The New York State Legislature will pass legislation in the 2006-2007 calendar year that permits payment for prosthetic devices.

5. ISSUE

Hospitals on Staten Island are in need of informative brochures in alternative formats.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with hospital personnel to make them aware of information available in alternative formats.
SICIL will develop essential information on audiotapes.
SICIL will develop essential information in large print.
SICIL will develop essential information in Braille.

RESULTS

At least one hospital on Staten Island will establish policies and procedures to routinely provide patients with disabilities informative brochures in alternative formats

D. Commerce: Advocacy

1. ISSUE

The new Staten Island Ferry Terminal is in need of audio signs that will assist consumers who are print/visually impaired in finding the proper bus ramps.

ACTIVITIES

Write to and meet with local representatives.
Meet with members of the Department of Transportation.
Discuss funding with local officials.

RESULTS

The Staten Island Ferry Terminal will have audio signage by 2007.

2. ISSUE

Some Staten Island street crossings are dangerous for consumers.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of the Department of Transportation to discuss safer crossways.
Meet with legislators to discuss funding issues.
Encourage consumers to write to their representatives demanding safer streets.

RESULTS

There will be more audio pedestrian signals on Staten Island in 2007.

3. ISSUE

Staten Island businesses are unaware of tax incentives and funding that is available to make their places of business accessible.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of business associations to advise guests of available funding.
Join the West Brighton Local Development Corp. in their efforts to educate their consumers.
Speak at meetings of Lions, Rotary and other organizations.

RESULTS

Places of business will become more accessible to consumers.

4. ISSUE

Although the Paratransit system has improved, there are still problems.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of the Paratransit Committee.
Meet with the Borough President's Committee.
Meet with the Inter-Agency Council for the Aging.
Work with MTA staff to address problems of consumers.

RESULTS

The NYC Metropolitan Transit Authority, (MTA), Paratransit System will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all Access-A-Ride telephone dispatch service operators to sensitivity and awareness of individuals with disabilities.

5. ISSUE:

Driving schools do not devote enough time to educating students about recognizing obvious assistive devices, (i.e. white canes, walkers, wheelchairs, prosthetic devices), service or guide dogs, etc. In addition, some students are not aware of handicapped parking regulations and other issues concerning consumers.

ACTIVITIES

The Executive Director will conduct a focus group to determine the problems of pedestrian consumers.
Meet with members of the NYS Task Force on Handicapped Parking.
Contact driving schools and make appointments to conduct sensitivity classes.
Assist in the formation of an insert that will address this issue and accompany the Driver's Manual.

RESULTS

The Driver's Manual will include additional materials that will be developed by SICIL and the NYS Handicapped Parking Task Force that will explain and educate students about individuals with disabilities and their safety needs.

E. Social Advocacy:

1. ISSUE

St. Francis Seminary and reception hall is in need of accessibility to conduct meetings, social gatherings and religious services.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with members of the seminary to discuss accessibility.
Discuss ways to fund the project.
Assist in the architectural barrier removal.

RESULTS

St. Francis Seminary and reception hall will be accessible to all.

2. ISSUE

The train station at Yankee Stadium is not accessible.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with planning committee to identify barriers.
Meet with MTA representatives.
Plan renovations.

RESULTS

The train station at Yankee Stadium will be made accessible by 2009.

3. ISSUE

The train station at Shea Stadium is not accessible.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with planning Committee to identify barriers.
Meet with MTA.
Recommend renovations.

RESULTS

The train station at Shea Stadium will be made accessible by 2009.

4. ISSUE

The boat dock used for Shea Stadium visitors is not accessible.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with planning committee to identify barriers.
Meet with ferry personnel.
Make recommendations.

RESULTS

The boat landing for Shea Stadium will become accessible by 2009.

5. ISSUE

Trinity Lutheran Church is in need of accessibility.

ACTIVITIES

Consult with members of the church.
Make suggestions that will improve the accessibility of the church and meeting halls.
Provide specifications for bathroom accessibility and ramps.

RESULTS

Trinity Lutheran Church will be made accessible to all.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.
SICIL will work with the Richmond County Board of Elections to ensure full implementation of HAVA in Richmond County.
The Richmond County Board of Elections will establish policies and procedures to address Election Day difficulties of people with disabilities.

30. SUFFOLK

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Self Initiated Living Options Inc. (SILO) dba Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO)
Address: 140 Fell Ct., Suite 116, Hauppauge, NY 11788
Contract No.: C006645
Report Period: October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Edward J. Ahern, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Jeffrey Zemla

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school district will incorporate a Transition Fair/Transition Night where families and students can come to learn about community resources, employment, higher education and other services available for students with disabilities upon graduation.
As a result of the advocacy activities of the agency, there will be a measurable increase in the physical accessibility of at least 1 school district.
At least one school will make a procedural change that allows for a disability awareness class to be taught as part of their curriculum.

B. Employment Advocacy:

One local One Stop will implement programs and/or procedures that allow for greater access to services by people with all disabilities.
This agency will establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
A consumer will serve on an advisory committee of the One Stop and provide feedback on disability related issues where a consumer with disability had not been involved previous.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

As a result of SILO's advocacy efforts, at least one hospital will make a policy and procedural change that will facilitate a more efficient referral process for community services for patients with disabilities.
SILO will begin to provide services under the Consumer Directed Personal Assistant Program (CDPAP).
At least one community or governmental agency providing health care services will improve its accessibility to people with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

At least 5 businesses will become more accessible to individuals with disabilities as a result of the agency's advocacy efforts.
There will be a measurable increase in the physical and programmatic accessibility of at least one library in Suffolk County.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible homeless shelters.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated recreation programs in Suffolk County that include individuals with disabilities instead of separate programs for the disabled.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites.
The Town of Brookhaven will provide greater access to their Town facilities enabling people with disabilities greater access to the political process.

31. SYRACUSE

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: ARISE
Address: 635 James St., Syracuse, N.Y. 13203
Contract No.: C006619
Report Period: 10/01/06 - 09/30/07
Contact Person: Nina Lutz
Board President Authorization: Dan Mohr

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

Increase the number of educational facilities that provide adequate physical access.
Increase the number of educational facilities that provide adequate access to instruction, programming and internal policies and procedures.

B. Employment Advocacy:

More public and private employers adopt a policy to include a disability training in their company training manuals and procedures, and utilize existing community resources and expertise to conduct these trainings.
At least one local employer will change its recruitment policies and procedures to create new supported employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of physicians' offices, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
Increase the number of medical facilities that provide accessible equipment.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Increase the number of housing providers, private and subsidized with government funds, who will build and rehab homes with basic access.
Zebra-style pedestrian crossings are adopted and curb cuts are improved.
Increase the number of accessible public facilities in Onondaga County.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of community sites for social and recreational activities that are accessible to people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

More polling places become accessible for people with any type of disability.

32. TROY

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley, Inc.
Address: 49 4th Street, Troy, NY 12180
Contract No.: C006650
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Denise A. Figueroa
Board President Authorization: Sean Turley, Board President

I. Community and System Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

A school district will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include developing information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.
A written agreement will be established for ILCHV to conduct a disabilities awareness track as part of the school personnel training curriculum in at least one school district in the center's service area.
At least one adult continuing education program will change its policies to improve access to sign language interpreters for deaf adults.
At least one school district will incorporate parent information nights as an educational component for families.

B. Employment Advocacy:

A local employer will develop and implement a written policy on reasonable accommodations pursuant to Title I of the ADA.
A local one-stop will incorporate disability awareness/sensitivity training either developed or endorsed by ILCHV as part of their training procedures for all new employees.
ILC staff will establish a written memorandum of understanding with VESID and/or the Department of Labor to conduct outreach and benefits advisement to consumers applying for VESID and/or DOL services.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one local hospital will establish and follow policies and procedures for the provision of interpreter services.
The center will increase physical and communication access within health care facilities including physicians' offices, clinics and hospitals.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
Albany County will establish a coordinated human services transportation system.
As a milestone toward securing passage of legislation in New York State for Taxi owners to provide accessible transportation, obtain the introduction and sponsorship of an Assembly and Senate Bill.
There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
Establish a written agreement with at least one local taxi cab company to provide a negotiated percentage of accessible taxis in the capital district.
At least one local restaurant will provide its menu in alternative formats for consumers and make it available upon request.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of social and recreational facilities that comply with Title III of the ADA in the Center's service area.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Bring Rensselaer and Columbia County into compliance with the Help America Vote Act.

33. UTICA

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 409 Columbia Street, P O Box 210, Utica, NY 13503-0210
Contract No.: C006642
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, Ph.D.
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Educational Advocacy

A school system will increase inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities through a change in their policies and procedures.
At least one school system in our service area will adopt or change a policy to allow for disability awareness training to be incorporated into its curriculum.
A large urban school system will make policy and procedural changes to have transition plans for students with disabilities include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages. *
The NYS School for the Deaf will make policy and procedural changes to have transition plans for its students include information on the use of an interpreter in a post secondary educational setting. *

B. Employment Advocacy

One-Stop Career Centers will establish a protocol within policies and procedures for including work incentives planning and assistance services in employment plans developed by SSI/SSDI beneficiaries. *
There will be a increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs in the community, such as internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for persons with disabilities. *
At least one (1) area business will change its application form to eliminate questions that discriminate concerning a person's disability.
At least one (1) area business will change its policies/procedures to enable reasonable accommodations for any disabled employees who make such a request.

C. Health Care Advocacy

At least one local health care provider will change its policies and procedures to ensure individuals with disabilities are fully informed about the availability of long-term home care services, including information about funding such services.
There will be an increase in the number of respite sites, community programs, and healthcare facilities that improve access for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease.*
RCIL will enter into a contractual agreement with the Veteran's Administration for serving veterans in a Social Adult Day Services program. *
There will be an increase in the number of area hospitals, crisis centers, mental health organizations, county/health centers, and social services departments that provide accessible facilities/services for deaf or hard of hearing clients. *

E. Commerce Advocacy

A business in the Center's service area will improve its access to comply with Title III of ADA.
A major housing project will modify its standard housing construction plan to facilitate universal accessibility. *

F. Social Advocacy

There will be an increase in the architectural and communication access of social and recreational programs for people with disabilities.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated social programs/functions for deaf and hard of hearing members of the community.

G. Citizenship Advocacy

The Oneida and Herkimer County Board of Elections will be in greater compliance with the accessible voting provisions of the NYS election law and the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).
The Oneida and Herkimer County Board of Elections will incorporate disability sensitivity training either developed or endorsed by RCIL for its poll workers.

34. WATERTOWN

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Northern Regional Center for Independent Living
Address: 210 Court Street, Suite 107, Watertown, NY 13601
Contract No.: C006651
Report Period: October 1, 2006 to September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Brenda Campany, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Nicola Luciani

I. Community and System Advocacy Plan

A. Education

At least one school district will change its policy to engage parents in their child's school, CSE Committee and IEP development process at an earlier point in the child's education.
A disabilities awareness training developed and presented by NRCIL will be instituted as part of the school personnel training curriculum in at least one school district in the Center's service area.

B. Employment

NRCIL will establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center in Jefferson and Lewis counties will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.

C. Commerce

At least one transportation provider will establish policies and procedures for the training of all personnel in disability awareness.
NRCIL will increase accessibility to at least one business, agency or public entity in Jefferson and Lewis County.

D. Social Advocacy

Increase integrated social and recreational activities available for adults and children with disabilities.

E. Citizenship

Increase disability awareness in emergency preparedness training and planning by securing the appointment of a person with a disability on the Jefferson County Emergency Management Council that previously has not had representation from the disability community.

35. WHITE PLAINS

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Westchester Independent Living Center
Address: 200 Hamilton Avenue, White Plains, NY 10601
Contract No.: C006653
Report Period: October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007
Contact Person: Joseph Bravo, Executive Director
Telephone: (914) 682-3926
Board President Authorization: Gerry Fleming

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. EDUCATION

At lease one school district will change its policies to engage all special education students and their parents in the CSE or transition planning process.
At least one local school system will make a procedural change to have transition plans for students with disabilities include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, post secondary education, agency linkages and benefits.

B. EMPLOYMENT

Community agencies will contract with ILCs to provide employment readiness services.

C. HEALTH CARE

At least one new service provider will become a TBI waiver provider offering services to individuals with traumatic brain injury.
There will be an increase in the number of physician's offices, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
The Center will develop a mechanism to ensure local implementation of the NYS Department of Health Nursing Home Transition Waiver and have it verified by at least one consumer participating in the program.
There will be an increase in protections available to mental health consumers that ensure self-directed, person centered, recovery focused treatment.

D. COMMERCE

To increase ADA compliance in the business community.
There will be an increase in the number of affordable integrated and accessible housing units for people with disabilities in Westchester.

E. SOCIAL

There will be an increase in the availability of integrated community, social and recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.

F. CITIZENSHIP

To increase the accessibility of polling places in Westchester.
Staff with disabilities or consumers will serve on committees, boards or task forces that have previously not had representation from the disability community.

36. YONKERS

NEW YORK STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Westchester Disabled On The Move, Inc.
Address: 984 North Broadway Suite L-01, Yonkers, N.Y. 10701
Contract No.: C-006652
Contract Renewal Year: October 1, 2006 - Sept. 30, 2007
Contact Person: Melvyn R. Tanzman, Executive Director
Telephone: (914) 968-4717 Voice/Tdd
Fax: (914) 968-6137
Board President Authorization: Ivan Wyler

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Education Advocacy

Issue: To facilitate the transition of students from secondary education to employment, community services and/or post secondary education.

Proposed Activities:

Through individual and group education and training, as well as a public information campaign in the Yonkers school district, students and parents will be empowered to participate more fully in CSE meetings and in the development of an IEP that reflects the student's transition goals.
WDOMI staff will collaborate with school district personnel and parent representatives to develop and implement new practices that will ease referrals for community services such as VESID and OMRDD, as well as encouraging greater involvement by students and parents at CSE meetings.
A self-advocacy curriculum designed for individuals with disabilities and focusing on decision making, goal setting, and risk management will be expanded in the Yonkers school district.
WDOMI Staff will follow-up with graduating seniors to ensure an appropriate transition is taking place

Expected Outcomes:

There will be a change in school district policies and procedures that will facilitate referrals to community based services including facilitating follow-up with graduating Seniors by WDOMI staff.
The school district will establish policies and procedures designed to increase the involvement of students and families in CSE meetings and IEP development.
A local school district will incorporate information about WDOMI, VESID and other appropriate agencies into students' transition plans
Issue: All Yonkers educational and extra-curricula programs will be accessible to all students with disabilities

Proposed Activities:

Complete an assessment of existing programs and advocate for equal access for students with a wide variety of disabilities to all of Yonkers educational programs including but not limited to, magnet programs, recreational and other extra-curricula activities

Expected Outcomes:

A plan to accomplish 100% accessibility for school programs will be mutually developed with the Yonkers school district and the goals of this plan will receive high priority in the school district's capital improvement plan.
Issue: Increase employment related experiences for high school students.

Proposed Activities:

Conduct pre-employment workshops with High School Students with disabilities.
Provide job placement services to High School students with disabilities.

Desired Outcome:

There will be an increase in the number of school based integrated employment preparation programs, such as internships, work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for high school students with disabilities.

B. Employment Advocacy

Issue: Increase the knowledge of the business community regarding the availability of persons with disabilities as potential employees.

Proposed Activities:

Educational presentations will be made to business groups including Chambers of Commerce and local employers.

Desired Outcome:

The center will work with one-two Westchester employers that have not previously hired people with disabilities to initiate policies to hire qualified applicants with disabilities
Issue: Facilitate employment for people with disabilities through Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach.

Proposed Activities:

Publicize the availability of benefits planning and assistance services.
Provide direct assistance to consumers seeking employment to facilitate a plan to maintain necessary benefits

Desired Outcome:

The Center will contract with the VESID and/or Department of Labor to conduct outreach and Benefits Advisement services to individuals applying for VESID and DOL services.
Issue: Potential employees with disabilities will have equal access to employment related services

Proposed Activities:

Through the DPN Program WDOMI will survey the three Westchester-Putnam One Stop facilities and their services for accessibility to consumers with disabilities.

Desired Outcome:

All One-Stops in Westchester and Putnam Counties will become fully accessible

C. Health Care Advocacy

Issue: Advocate at State and Local levels to implement a plan to move individuals from institutional to most integrated settings.

Activities:

Continue participation in discussions and negotiations with the State Department of Health and the Governor 's Office to ensure effective implementation of Olmstead And Waiver implementation.
Educate discharge planners, nurses, providers and county Department of Social Services staff about alternatives to institutional placement.

Intended Outcomes:

When implemented, WDOMI will ensure verifiable local implementation of the NYS Department of Health Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver.
At least one institution will change its procedures and/or policies to allow more people with disabilities to transition from institutions into integrated community living.
Issue: Assure that health and mental health services available to People with Disabilities are maintained and expanded in scope.

Activities:

Advocate for Federal and State-wide legislation that protects and expands health and mental health services available to people with disabilities

"Timothy's Law"
Maintenance of Federal Medicaid Budget
EPIC Expansion
Maintenance of NYS Medicaid eligibility standards

Intended Outcomes:

The NYS legislature will adopt mental health parity legislation.
Prevent any changes to the Medicaid program that restrict or limit eligibility and choice.
The NYS Legislature will change the EPIC program to include coverage for people with disabilities under 65 years old.
Issue: Accessibility and services for patients with disabilities at health care facilities will be enhanced in Westchester County

Activities:

Work with a local hospital to survey for access and improve the existing conditions.

Expected Outcome:

Achieve a measurable improvement in the physical and programmatic accessibility of medical facilities in our service area

D. Commerce Advocacy

Issue: Increase the ability of people with disabilities to engage in local economic and market place activities such as area restaurants, retail shops and transportation services.

Activities:

Educate and train consumers about accessibility requirements
Continue to advocate for acceptable resolutions in active complaints
Identify new ADA compliance issues

Expected Outcomes:

A minimum of two businesses will improve accessibility.
The Center will work with a minimum of one bank (HSBC) to improve ATM accessibility through an audio output.
Issue: Increase the effectiveness and consumer friendliness of the County para-transit and fixed route transportation system.

Activities:

Participate and provide leadership in the County's para-transit advisory council.

Expected Outcomes:

The County transportation system will change its policies and procedures to have Bus system drivers routinely announce stops and make available a monthly pass to riders with disabilities.
Issue: Increase the availability of accessible housing units for people with disabilities.

Activities:

Conduct education and advocacy that will focus on the Fair Housing Act and HUD 504 requirements.
Develop a collaborative relationship with county, state, and local housing and legislative officials
Collaborate with other not for profits to propose new housing projects
Advocate for the implementation of the DRIE in local municipalities

Expected Outcomes:

Housing options for people with disabilities will increase by WDOMI advocating for and securing the passage of State legislation to develop a housing trust fund and/or a state housing subsidy targeted to people with disabilities.
One or more integrated and accessible housing project for people with disabilities will be developed in Westchester with the active participation of WDOMI
WDOMI will, with the cooperation of State and local housing agencies and local developers work to change the practices of at least one developer to ensure full compliance with HUD 504 requirements including set aside apartments of 5% for people with mobility impairments and 2% for people who are either visually impaired or hearing impaired. The developer will increase the percentage of such set-aside apartments actually occupied by eligible tenants with disabilities.
The number of municipalities offering a DRIE in Westchester County will increase.

E. Social Advocacy

Issue: Increase the ability of people with disabilities to engage in local recreational activities by monitoring ADA compliance at these facilities.

Activities:

Educate and train consumers about accessibility at all recreational facilities
Conduct at least one survey of ADA compliance at a recreational facility

Expected Outcome:

There will be an increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Issue: Increase consumer's knowledge of issues and legislation that impact people with disabilities.

Activities:

Publish a center newsletter three times a year.
Build the systems advocacy network
Hold one or more issue forums to educate consumers and their supporters
Continue advocacy and monitoring of Westchester County's efforts to make all polling places accessible

Expected Outcomes:

An advocacy network/infrastructure will facilitate organized teams of trained consumer advocates to address issues as they arise
Issue: Improve polling place accessibility and voter registration in Westchester County and New York State.

Activities:

Work with the Board of Elections Advisory Committee to find solutions to this problem.
Explore further legal actions against the County and State should collaborative efforts stall.
Advocate and monitor changes in the State Election Law that would mandate accessible polling sites and voting machines in compliance with HAVA
Continue active voter registration campaign

Expected Outcome:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Westchester County.
New York State will implement a HAVA plan that will assure people with disabilities have the right to vote independently and privately
Issue: The needs of people with disabilities in a disaster will be studied and addressed by Westchester County

Activities:

Advocate that Westchester County establish an ongoing advisory committee to provide input regarding the needs of people with disabilities in an emergency or disaster

Expected Outcome:

Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities will be adopted in Westchester County.

Last Updated: December 31, 2009

Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities

NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans

Table of Contents

1. ALBANY

Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

B. Employment Advocacy:

C. Health Care Advocacy:

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy:

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

2. AMSTERDAM

Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

B. Employment Advocacy:

C. Health Care Advocacy:

D. Commerce Advocacy:

E. Social Advocacy:

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

3. AUBURN

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

4. BATAVIA

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

5. BINGHAMTON

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. EDUCATION

B. EMPLOYMENT

C. HEALTH CARE

D. COMMERCE

E. SOCIAL

F. CITIZENSHIP

6. BRONX

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care:

D. Commerce Advocacy:

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

7. BROOKLYN

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

B. Commerce Advocacy:

C. Social Advocacy:

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

8. BUFFALO

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

9. CORNING

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

10. CORTLAND

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy Outcomes: