NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans

Contract Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008

NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans Contract Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008: Word (840KB, 127 pgs.)
NYS ILC Community and System Advocacy Plans Contract Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008: PDF (613KB, 127 pgs.)

ALBANY - Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
AMSTERDAM - Resource Center for Independent Living-satellite
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 (WNYILP)
CORNING - AIM Independent Living Center
CORTLAND - Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
DELAWARE - Catskill Center For Independence
GLENS FALLS - Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center
HARLEM - Harlem Independent Living Center
HERKIMER - Resource Center for Independent Living-satellite
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 - Independent Living of Niagara County - WNYILP satellite
OLEAN - Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
PLATTSBURGH - North Country Center for Independence, Ltd.
POUGHKEEPSIE - Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc.
PUTNAM - Westchester Independent Living Center-satellite
QUEENS - Center For Independence Of The Disabled Of New York - satellite
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.
SULLIVAN - Action Toward Independence-satellite
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.: C008929
Report Period: October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Laurel Lei Kelley, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Kim Strauchon-Verner, Board President

I. 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.
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.
* CDCI will establish a written arrangement whereby at least one NYS Correctional facility will offer on-site presentations on Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages as a regular part of preparing inmates who are disabled for their transition back to the community.

B. Employment Advocacy

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.
* As a result of CDCI's participation in the Greater Capital District CA$H (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) coalition, at least one community-based tax preparation program will improve its physical and program access for persons with disabilities.

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 - satellite
Address: 347 West Main Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Contract No.: C008943
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, PhD, Executive Director
Ramon Rodriguez, Program Director
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

A program to train and support parents of children with disabilities to serve as peer advocates for educational issues will be started.
A disabilities awareness track either developed or endorsed by RCIL-Amsterdam 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 Advocacy

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.
Establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
At least one local employer will change its recruitment policies and procedures to create new employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy

* A Nursing Home will establish policies and procedures to include as part of its community transition process a peer group to explore issues regarding returning to community living.
There will be an increase in the number of physicians’ offices, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
The county health and social service departments will change their policies to allow as many hours as needed of self-directed home health care to avoid placement in nursing homes.

D. Commerce Advocacy

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.
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 sensitivity and awareness.
RCIL will establish a written arrangement with a preservation corporation or other funding/ building entity to offer a training on Universal Design Disability Awareness Track as a regular part of its curriculum for town and village planning and zoning boards across Montgomery/Fulton County.

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.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

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

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.: C008941
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 31, 2008
Contact Person: Tracy L. Murphy, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Nancy Wise

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

At least one school district in Cayuga and Seneca counties will incorporate Parent Information Nights as an educational component for families of children with IEPs and 504 Plans.
At least one school district in Cayuga and Seneca counties 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.
A school district within Cayuga and Seneca counties will change its policies and/or procedures to incorporate information regarding relevant community resources (OFI, VESID, OMRDD, waivers) into their students’ transition plans and/or IEPs.
A Disabilities Awareness and Sensitivity component either developed or endorsed by OFI will be added to at least one school’s personnel training and/or in-service program.
At least one school district within Cayuga and Seneca counties 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.

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

C. Health Care Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of local human service agencies and public health services that provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.
The Cayuga County Department of Health and Human Services will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.
At least one long-term facility and/or health care facility will change its policies to include information on community resources which allow people to remain in the community.
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.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Cayuga County Courts and the Auburn City Court will provide accessible 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.
Options will work with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity so that new homes built by this organization will be visitable homes.
Options will provide information to local business and paving companies on accessible parking space guidelines leading to an increase in the number of parking lots with adequate, well-designed, accessible parking spaces.
There will be an increase in the number of affordable integrated accessible housing options for people with disabilities.
As a result of the advocacy of Options for Independence, one first responder agency will incorporate training created by Options on the needs of persons with disabilities in crisis or disaster.
At least one local bank will produce an audio taped or CD-Rom version of its products and services brochure.
Options will work with both private and public businesses in Cayuga and Seneca counties to increase the number of Title III entities that are ADA compliant in the community.
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

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.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible faith-based organizations and institutions in Cayuga and Seneca counties.
Opportunities for participating in integrated fitness programs in the community will be increased.
The accessibility of existing recreational facilities in Cayuga and Seneca counties will be increased.

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.
A local Board of Elections in Cayuga and Seneca counties will implement a policy to notify all voters of accessible polling site changes.
At least one local government in Cayuga and Seneca counties will start providing agendas in alternate formats at publicly attended meetings.
Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities either developed or endorsed by OFI will be adopted in Cayuga and Seneca counties.
To increase the number of residents becoming aware of the American with Disability Act, at least one municipality in Cayuga or Seneca counties will pass appropriate legislation establishing and promoting the date of July 26th as A Day of Celebration of The American with Disabilities Act.
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.

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.: C008925
Report Period: Oct. 1, 2007 – Sept. 30, 2008
Contact Person: Ann M. Bell, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Paul Monachino , Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Goal: It is Genesee Region Independent Living Center, Inc. (GRILC) goal to have at least one school in each of our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) to incorporate information on ILCs, PASS plans, VESID, and other community resources, in the transition plans of students with disabilities.
Goal: It is GRILC’s goal to have at least one local CSE committee incorporate the New York State Independent Living Philosophy and History DVD as a regular part of disability awareness training for committee members.

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. We are in contact with our local college (Genesee Community College) Theatre Arts Department to set up an internship program with a person with disabilities to present our “Kids on the Block” program to the community at large within our three (3) country area.
Goal: Establish a written arrangement whereby the three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) that we serve that their One-Stop Center’s will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
Goal: Our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) One Stop Center’s 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 our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) One Stop Center’s to provide PASS Plan development and other employment services to their consumers who have disabilities.
Goal: Our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) One Stop Center’s will formally change their policies and procedures for referring consumers to community services, including 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 in our three (3) counties area.
Goal: One health care facility in each of our three (3) county areas will change their policies to include information on community services, including independent living resources, which allow individuals to remain in the community.
Goal: At least one long term care facility in each our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) 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 each of our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) 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 at least one law enforcement agency in each of our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming) areas 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 which 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 secure full implementation of HAVA in New York State in each of our three (3) counties (Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming).

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.: C008948
Report Period: October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008
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

*As a result of advocacy by STIC, school districts responsible for State Performance Plan Indicators (SPPI) 13 and 14 (related to secondary school transition) will achieve compliance.
There will be an addition of at least one new integrated Summer Program in our service area for students with disabilities who require 12 month services.
* NYS Education Department will change policies, procedures, and practices to designate additional resources and responsibility for production of Braille text books.
NYSED will amend regulations to prohibit and disallow exemptions for aversive treatments, which would or could endanger the health and well-being of students with disabilities.
* Local school districts will change policies, procedures, and practices to conduct Functional Behavior Assessments and ensure that Behavior Intervention Plans are implemented/followed before moving students to more restrictive environments.
* At least one local school district will include awareness training developed or endorsed by STIC for regular education staff to be more knowledgeable and accepting of students with disabilities.
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.
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.

B. Employment

*Medicaid Buy-In upper age limits will be increased in state law.
Medicaid Buy-In upper age limits will be increased in federal law.
*Develop and implement a new employment service program (modeled after Project Search) for people with disabilities in our service area.
*Increase rural transportation opportunities in order to have more successful employment objectives for rural consumers.
Increase supported employment opportunities and availability in rural and/or underserved communities.
As a milestone toward securing passage of NYS Sovereign Immunity legislation, secure the introduction of Senate Sovereign Immunity legislation comparable to the Assembly’s bill.
*As a milestone toward securing passage of NYS Sovereign Immunity legislation, the Senate will pass Sovereign Immunity Legislation comparable to the Assembly’s version.

C. Health Care

Increase the availability of psychiatric/evaluation services, as well as non-psychiatric diagnostic and evaluative medical services for children with disabilities in the Broome County area.
*State agencies will change policies, practices and procedures to allow individuals with co-occurring psychiatric and other disabilities to receive appropriate mental health services.
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.
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.

D. Diversion, Deinstitutionalization and Olmstead Implementation Goals

When implemented, STIC will ensure verifiable local implementation of the NYS Department of Health Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver
*As a result of a partnership with the Broome Developmental Disabilities Service Office (DDSO), the DDSO will create a new comprehensive community transition program for Broome Developmental Center residents.
*As a result of the formation of a coalition of volunteer organizations, at least one coalition member will change its policies, procedures, and practices to expand social contacts and informal supports for people with disabilities to prevent isolation after transitioning from congregate institutional settings to the community.
The Center will establish a mechanism to insure local implementation of the Money Follows the Person (MFP) in New York State and have it verified by at least one consumer participating in the program.
*NYS will adopt an Olmstead Implementation Plan, which complies with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court decision.
*Congress will pass the Community Choice Act.

E. Commerce

Achieve a measurable increase in the number of accessible local businesses.
Achieve a measurable increase in the number of accessible and integrated local housing rental properties.
A local municipality will adopt policies and/or procedures resulting in increased installation and/or maintenance of local curb cuts.
Broome County municipalities will establish a policy for regular snow removal from curb cuts, bus stops and accessible parking spaces to improve access for persons with disabilities.
NYS will adopt policies and/or procedures to implement enforcement of Title III legislation.

F. 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.
Achieve a measurable increase in the availability of integrated art and music opportunities for children with disabilities.

G. Citizenship

*Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities will be adopted in Chenango and Tioga Counties.
*Broome County government will contract with STIC to provide ADA training to new hires on a regular basis.
Increase the number of accessible polling sites in Broome, Tioga and Chenango Counties.
*Secure adoption of S.6311, requiring poling places to be accessible to voters with physical disabilities in NY.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
*An Office of Disability will be established as an umbrella for all disability services in NY.
*Secure the adoption of the ADA Restoration 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.: C008926
Report Period: October 01, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Susan Attzs-Mendoza
Board President Authorization: John Pugh

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

At least one Parent Teachers Association (PTA) will change policies, procedures, and practices to ensure that its meetings and other school related meetings are accessible for parents with disabilities.

B. Employment Advocacy

At least one business and/or government agency will make documented changes in its employment policies, procedures, and practices to comply with Title I of the ADA.

C. Health Care

A long-term facility will change its policies to include information on community resources, which allow people to remain in the community.
BILS’ advocacy efforts will result in the passage of new national, state, and/or local laws to eliminating barriers to community living.
BILS’ advocacy efforts will prevent any changes to the Medicaid program that restrict or limit eligibility and choice.

D. Commerce Advocacy

At least one Police Department will modify its in-service training plan to include Disability Awareness & Sensitivity Training either developed, endorsed or conducted by BILS to all of their law enforcement personnel.
BILS’ advocacy efforts will result in the incorporation of the housing provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act into state law.

E. Social Advocacy

The visually impaired community will have full communication access through implementation of a Community Speaking Calendar.

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 that is developed, endorsed or conducted by BILS.

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. (B.C.I.D.)
Address: 2044 Ocean Avenue, Suite B-3, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contract No.: C008927
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Marvin Wasserman, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Yvon Alexis

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education

At least one school district will change its policies and procedures to incorporate parent information nights as an educational component for families with children with IEP and 504 plans.
A disabilities awareness tract either developed or endorsed by BCID will be incorporated as part of the school personnel-training curriculum in at one school district.
In at least one school district, a student/parent advocacy network/infrastructure will be established with organized teams of trained consumer advocates available to address special education issues as they arise.

B. Employment

At lease one employment or job placement agency will change its recruitment process to eliminate questions that discriminate in regards to a person‘s disability.
The local office of the New York State Department of Labor office will improve its access by installing Assistive Technology on site.
At least one union or business council will improve its access by providing materials in alternate formats and holding meetings at an accessible location.

C. Health Care

Increase access to health care services for people with mobility, visual, hearing, cognitive, and mental health disabilities.
New York City Human Resources Administration will change its policies and procedures to allow as many hours as needed of home care to avoid placement in nursing homes.
Increase accessibility at hospitals, clinics, private doctors’ and dental offices to persons with disabilities e.g. examination table, dental chairs and mammography equipment.

D. Commerce

A private and/or a public retirement community will improve access by making its resident’s handbook available in alternate formats.
Local catering halls and restaurants will improve access by making menus available in large print, and Braille.
Improve public and Para-transportation access in Brooklyn for inter-borough and inner-borough trips.

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 (WNYILP)
Address: 3108 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14214
Contract No.: C008972
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
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

Name of Center: AIM Independent Living Center (AIM)
Address: 271 East First Street, Corning, NY 14830
Contract No.: C008924
Report Period: October 1, 2007-September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Diane Elizabeth Demuth - demuth@aimcil.com
or
Traci Roche - troche@aimcil.com
Board President Authorization: Libby Howell

I. 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. Before the meeting takes place, an AIM advocate will contact the parents to inquire if they need assistance in understanding the information contained within the packet.*
*Reason for adaptation: There is a high level of illiteracy among parents of students with disabilities in the school districts where AIM advocates work. Offering assistance in this way may potentially increase their ability to participate in the CSE.
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.
There will be an addition of at least one integrated Summer Program in our service area for students with disabilities who require twelve month services.
Ensure that Parent Teachers Association (PTA) meetings and other school related meetings are accessible for parents with disabilities.
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.
Southside High School, in the City of Elmira, will begin to change policies and procedures to include staff from AIM ILC in transition planning activities.*
*Reason for adaptation: In the course of AIM ILC’s work in transition services for students with disabilities in the Elmira City School District, of the two schools that an AIM advocate is placed, Elmira Free Academy excels at including an AIM advocate in transition planning activities. Southside High School, on the other hand, is somewhat resistant.
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

At least one employer will change its employment application to eliminate a question that is deemed discriminatory toward people with disabilities under the ADA laws.
A One-Stop in AIM’s geographic distribution will incorporate training sessions and workshops that are designed by AIM 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.
AIM ILC will continue its 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.
At least one employer will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodations to persons who are Deaf.
At least one (1) area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate practices and questions that discriminate against people with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy

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.
At least one medical facility will establish a policy requiring discharge planners include AIM”s brochure in its discharge planning packets.
There will be an increase in the number of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program enrollments in Yates County and that number will be sustained to a stable foundation.
There will be an increase in the number of health care providers that make their facility more accessible to their patients with disabilities.
The local Department of Social Services will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.
AIM ILC will increase physical and communication access within health care facilities including physician offices, clinics, and hospitals.
Prevent any changes to the Medicaid program that restrict or limit eligibility and choice.
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.
A long-term facility will establish a formal agreement to allow AIM ILC to conduct an on-going support group for its residents.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of affordable integrated and accessible housing options for people with disabilities.
At least one Police Department will modify its in-service training plan to include Disability Awareness training either developed or endorsed by AIM to all law enforcement personnel.
Chemung County Courts and the City of Elmira Courts will provide access and effective communication for people with disabilities.
AIM ILC will work with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity so that new homes built by the organization will be visit-able homes.
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.
There will be at least one accessible ATM for those with low/no vision.
At least one (1) local restaurant will provide its menu in an alternative format for consumers and make it available on request.
At least one (1) 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.
A local bank will produce an audio taped version of its products and services brochure.

E. Social Advocacy

There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible.
At least one social venue will change its policy so that a personal care attendant 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.
As a result of working cooperatively with other agencies, there will be an increase of integrated recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Increase access to religious institutions for the deaf community*
*Reason for adaptation: AIM ILC has steadily increased physical access to religious institutions in its geographic area; access for the deaf remains the most difficult to increase.
At least one (1) area special event will improve access for people 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 AIM ILC.
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.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Steuben County.

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. (ATI)
Address: 26 N. Main Street, Cortland, NY 13045
Contract No.: C008932
Report Period: October 1, 2007-September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Mary E. Ewing, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Andrea Haenlin-Mott, Board Chair

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

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.
At least one school system will change its policies and procedures to have the community resource referral packet include information about Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages to facilitate successful transitions from high school.
Onondaga-Cortland-Madison (OCM) BOCES will change its policies and procedures to have the community resource referral packet include information about Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages to facilitate successful transitions from high school.
As a result of ATI’s establishment of a youth transition partnership with an institute of higher learning, the institute of higher learning will establish a new program to address transition issues for youth with disabilities (i.e., mentoring, training, volunteering, and teacher training).

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.
The Cortland Works Career Center will make a policy or procedure change to include an ATI developed or endorsed component relating to disability awareness & etiquette and independent living philosophy in its youth employment services.
Access to Independence will establish a written agreement with the VESID Syracuse District Office to provide outreach and benefits advisement to VESID consumers as a fee-for-service venture.
The Cortland County Youth Employment Program will amend its orientation procedures to include an ATI developed or endorsed section on disability awareness & etiquette, independent living skills, and self-determination/self-advocacy skills.
As a result of a partnership with the Cortland Works Career Center, the Career Center will establish a new program to offer computer training and service provider information to people with disabilities.

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.
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 which are fully accessible.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of government buildings that become fully accessible.
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.
There will be a measurable increase in the physical and programmatic accessibility of at least one library in Cortland County.
Through the work of the Housing Coalition, there will be increased housing options available to people with disabilities and homeless individuals in Cortland County.

E. Social Advocacy

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.
There will be an increase in the number of special events and gatherings in Cortland County which are accessible to travelers, tourists and community members.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of faith-based organizations in Cortland County that are accessible to people with disabilities.
There will be at least one new handicapped accessible trail created which is accessible to people with disabilities in Cortland County.
Opportunities for participating in integrated fitness programs in the community will be increased.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Cortland County.
An advocacy network/infrastructure will be established, with organized teams of trained consumer advocates available to address issues as they arise.
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.: C008930
Report Period: October 1, 2007-September 30, 2008
Contact Person: C. Zachmeyer
Board President Authorization: Don Gersch

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Employment

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

B. Education

Goal: Schools will add an independent living component either developed or endorsed by CCFI to their curriculum.
Goal: At least one school will make a procedural change that allows for a disability awareness class either developed or endorsed by CCFI to be taught as part of their curriculum.

C. Commerce

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

D. Social

Goal: The Center will increase accessibility to places of worship.
Goal: The Center will 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: Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center
Address: 71 Glenwood Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804
Contract No.: C008936
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
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, flyer or other media concerning services available through the Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center (SAIL) to transitioning students
At least one (1) area school district will change policies and procedures to add SAIL 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 SAIL 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
SAIL staff will be appointed to advisory committees for local Single Points of Entry

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
There will be an increase in the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and local boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community

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.: C008937
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
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 CCNY a local four college.

Outcome:

The City University of New York (CUNY), City College of NY (CCNY) will improve the physical access for at least one area/department.

B. Employment Advocacy

Issue:

Local businesses are not physically accessible for persons with disabilities.

Outcome:

At least one area small business will improve access for potential employees with disabilities with the provision of a ramp, wider doors, and grab handle doorknobs.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Issue:

Local community hospitals continue to be non accessible for Deaf and HOH patients.

Outcome:

At least once community hospital will change written policy in the provision of assistive aid to the Deaf and HOH patient population.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Issue:

Local banking institutions continue to have inaccessible ATM’s for those with low/no vision.

Outcome:

At least one local banking institution will improve the access of its automatic teller machine (ATM) for those with low/no vision.

Issue:

NYC/MTA bus fleet not accessible for those with low/no vision. External announcements are not made alerting passengers of arriving bus.

Outcome:

New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority will change its policies, procedures, and practices to assure the proper training of all fixed route bus drivers to make external announcements of arrivals/departures for passengers with disabilities.

E.Social Advocacy

Issue:

Local recreation/fitness center is not accessible for PWDs.

Outcome:

Local recreation/fitness center will be accessible for people with disabilities with increased signage, installation of portable ramps, etc.

14. HERKIMER

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: 401 E. German Street, Suite 208, Herkimer, NY 13350
Contract No.: C009023
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, Ph.D., Executive Director
Sylvia J. Bunce, Director
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

A disabilities awareness track will be instituted as part of the school personnel training curriculum in at least one school district in the center's service area.
At least one area school district will change its policies and procedures to include staff from RCIL in transition planning activities.

B. Employment Advocacy

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.
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

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

A business in the Center’s service area will improve its access to comply with Title III of ADA.
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.

E. Social Advocacy

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

F. Citizenship Advocacy

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.
A local board of elections will change its poll workers training and related educational materials to include disability awareness and sensitivity training developed or endorsed by RCIL.

15. 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.: C008935
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
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: There will be an increase in the number of medical facilities, doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
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: The local public transit company will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

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.
GOAL: FLIC will work to increase the number of consumers/staff that serve on community boards and tasks forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community.

16. 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.: C008949
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Marie T. Carrubba, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Allen Wilcox

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.
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 Advocacy

A local One Stop Center will incorporate “Sensitivity Training,” developed by SILC, as part of their training procedure for all new employees.
Physical and program access will improve throughout the local one-stop system sites.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs in the community, such as internships, work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for people with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Local human service agencies and public health services will provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.
Long-term facilities will change their policies to include information on community resources which allow people to remain in the community.

D. Commerce Advocacy

At least one local municipality will change its policies, procedures and practices to consistently enforce accessible/adaptable requirements in new construction.
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.
The local public transit company will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability and Deaf 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

Increase integrated social and recreational activities available for adults and children with disabilities.
One local bowling alley will have handicapped parking.

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 SILC.
As a result of SILC’s advocacy efforts, the voting machines selected by Chautauqua County will meet Help America Vote Act (HAVA) requirements.

17. 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.: COO8942
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
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: Astor Children’s Services)

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.

18. 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.: C008938
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Patricia Moore, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Mary Ellen Lewis

I. Systems Advocacy and Community Change

A. Education Advocacy

A local high school will institute as part of its curriculum a LICIL designed independent living skills class for their senior students with disabilities.

B. Health Care Advocacy

A local health clinic will install TTY service, provide staff training in the use of TTY’s, and list the TTY number on its website and all printed materials.

C. Commerce Advocacy

A local shoe store will create a curb cut in front of their store to accommodate people with disabilities and add necessary signage for disabled parking.
A local Post Office will clear a blocked ramp adjacent to parking so that patrons with disabilities can enter the post office.

D. Social Advocacy

A local restaurant will provide visually impaired patrons with larger print/Braille menus.
*A local youth mentoring organization will provide accessible transportation for the children with physical disabilities participating in its programs.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

LICIL’s Community Policy Advocate will become a member of the Town of North Hempstead’s New Cassel Visioning Project Committee.

19. 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.: C008931
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Susan Dooha, Executive Director
Telephone: 212-674-2300 x 140 Fax: 212-254-5953
Email: sdooha@cidny.org
Board President Authorization: Dr. Sam Wu

I. Community and Systems Change

A. Education Advocacy

* New York State will adopt and fund a proposal, endorsed by the Board of Regents, to increase the number of students with disabilities transitioning directly from high schools to vocational rehabilitation training programs, employment or college.
* One school in New York City (Francis Lewis in Queens) will create and implement a new program, the Transition Academy, in partnership with CIDNY. The program will rely on evidence-based practices to improve the academic and functional achievement of students with disabilities thereby facilitating their movement from school to post-school activities.

B. Employment Advocacy

*New York State’s Department of Insurance will implement the New York State Court of Appeals decision Benesowitz v. Metro Life Co decision allowing insurers to toll benefits during the first 12 months of coverage, but not permitting them to impose an absolute bar to coverage for disabilities stemming from preexisting conditions.
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, at least two agencies will develop policies, procedures and training programs targeted 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.
*VESID will develop a policy promoting linguistic and cultural competence at District Offices.
* As a result of CIDNY’s advocacy efforts with VESID and the VESID State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), VESID will adopt an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) policy that includes a reasonable time frame for developing the IPE when the consumer has identified a vocational goal that VESID agrees is attainable.

C. Health Care Advocacy

*New York State will amend Social Services Law to create a new eligibility group for medical assistance. This group will include children under 19 years of age (phased in by age over two years), who meet the disability criteria established by the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, and have family income at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level ($51,210 for a family of 3 in 2007).
*State legislation will be enacted to limit the Part D prescription drug copays for dual eligible beneficiaries to $200 or less per year.
*New York State’s legislature will expand Public Health Law Article 44 (the Managed Care Bill of Rights) to include external review of out-of-network specialist choice.
*The New York State Department of Health will direct counties to change practices that prevent SSI beneficiaries in the mandatory Medicaid managed care program to access long-term care in and out of plan.
*The Department of Health will implement a new program in partnership with CIDNY and the Brain Injury Association of New York State that will result in ensuring access to Medicaid community-based services for persons with TBI returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
*The Chairman of the New York City Council Veterans Affairs Committee (Monserrate, Queens) will convene New York City agencies to establish communication among these agencies and with community partners to facilitate reentry for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
At the direction of the Governor and the legislature, New York State’s pharmaceutical assistance program, EPIC, will modify its criteria to increase coverage to people with disabilities under the age of 65.
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%.
*As a result of CIDNY’s involvement in creating and leading of a new health coverage education consortium, local Asian and Hispanic disability-serving organizations in Queens will improve access to coverage and care. Organizations participating in this new consortium (in formation) include: Asian Americans for Equality; Chinese-American Planning Council; Queens Borough Council for Social Welfare.)
*New York’s Executive and Legislature advocacy efforts will lead to a change by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services in the community spousal impoverishment rule, allowing people with disabilities more opportunity to receive care and services in their communities.
*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.
*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.
*State legislation will be enacted that will allow Medicaid Buy-In recipients to continue eligibility for Medicaid after they turn age 65.

D. Commerce Advocacy

*The New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal will permit owners and developers of properties who submit their accessible properties to the NYS Accessible Housing Registry to receive credit toward Fair Housing Marketing Act (FHMA) requirements.
The New York City Housing Authority will restore the “health emergency” priority it had for housing applicants until 2007, which aided individuals with disabilities whose current living conditions presented a direct threat to their lives.
The state and local legislatures will amend the DRIE law to establish income threshold parity with SCRIE.
*At least one New York City agency will establish and conduct a disability literacy training program organized by the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and CIDNY.
*New York City will adopt a policy of requiring new technology being installed in New York City cabs to be accessible to people with visual and hearing impairments.
*As a result of CIDNY’s efforts, the Mitchell Lama Housing Program in Queens with change its policies, procedures, and practices to ensure residents with disabilities are fully informed about the availability of the Disability Rent Increase Exemption program (DRIE), including information about applying for such services.

E. Social Advocacy

*The Manhattan Borough President’s Task Force on Disabilities will establish a set of voluntary guidelines for making New York City parks accessible, at the behest of CIDNY and the Parks Subcommittee. These guidelines will be adopted by at least one private funder of activities in New York City parks. We will obtain Parks Department adoption with respect to activities they fund in at least one park in Queens.

F. Civic/Citizenship Advocacy

*Through CIDNY’s advocacy efforts, there will be an increase in the number of accessible voting sites in New York City.
CIDNY will ensure that disaster preparation and disaster relief plans developed by the Office of Emergency Management address the needs and concerns of people with disabilities.
*For the first time, CIDNY will be surveying polling sites in Queens; an increase in the number of accessible voting sites in Queens will result.

20. 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.: C008939
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Mr. Jeff Reifensnyder - Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Wanda Harvey Date:07/18/07

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

The Massena Independent Living Center, Inc. will ensure that an Independent Living History & 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.

21. 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.: C008922
Report Period: October 1, 2007-September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Joann Seligman-Hargabus, Interim Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Carl Berkowitz

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

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

B. Employment Advocacy

Occupations, Inc. will change their policy to ensure people with disabilities who work in their sheltered workshops will make at least minimum wage.
An Orange and/or Sullivan County agency or department will change its policies, procedures and/or practices to become compliant with Title I of the ADA.
One or more employers will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with psychiatric disabilities, developmental disabilities and/or who are deaf.
Benefit Advisement staff will establish a written arrangement with the VESID Sullivan County District Office to conduct on-site outreach and benefits advisement services to individuals applying for VESID.
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.
At least one area business will change its policies regarding the rights of employees with disabilities and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.
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 in Sullivan County.

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 doctor’s offices, health care clinics, dentists and hospitals for individuals with mobility disabilities.
At least one medical facility will establish a policy requiring discharge planners include ATI’s brochure in its discharge planning packets.
At least one local human service agency and/or public health service will provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.
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.
When implemented, ATI 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.
ATI 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.
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.
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.
Congress will pass the Community Choice Act (formerly known as MiCASSA).

D. Commerce Advocacy

At least one business or store will become ADA Title III compliant in either or both Orange and Sullivan Counties.
ATI will work with and assist area restaurants so that they provide their menus in accessible formats.
A local municipality will adopt a policy to post the monetary fine for handicapped parking violations adjacent to the parking signs.
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.
There will be an increase in the number of affordable, accessible, integrated housing options for people with disabilities.

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.
The accessibility of existing recreational facilities will increase.
Achieve a measurable increase in the availability of integrated art and music opportunities for children with disabilities.
There will be an increase in the architectural and communication access of social and recreational programs for people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

At least one polling site will become accessible in Orange or Sullivan County.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
A local Board of Elections will implement a policy to notify all voters of accessible polling site changes.
Orange and/or Sullivan County Board of Elections will be in full compliance with the accessible voting provisions of the NYS election law and the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).
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. ATI will ensure that this is done by having elected officials sign a Pledge Letter stating their intent to be inclusive to the disability community.
At least one local Board of Elections will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of polling site workers to appropriately assist people with disabilities at the polls.
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.

22. 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.: C008934
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Michael P. Dunn, Associate Director
Board President Authorization: Kara Dorsey

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 identify and promote transition processes that ensure that preschool children suspected of having a disability are referred, evaluated, and have eligibility determined by the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) within 30 school days of receipt of the parental request for evaluation.
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.
*Identify and promote typical early childhood settings for preschool students with disabilities to meet and/or exceed the state target work plan for each year.
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.
*Identify and promote processes that ensure children transition from early intervention to preschool special education services with a developed IEP prior to their third birthday.
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.
*Provide training and technical assistance to families and CPSEs to increase parent and district skill in partnering for the success of preschool students with disabilities.
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.
IL’s ECDC, in coordination and collaboration with their regional SETRC, will provide regional forums to identify improvement activities and learning opportunities for CPSE chairpersons, preschool providers and families.

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 track 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.
*IL Inc. will advocate and position itself to be part of housing education and information through the newly emerging Money Follows the Person program.
*We will advocate and develop resource strategies related to facilitating nursing home transition and diversion. We will look to actively participate as a service provider in this arena.

OUTCOMES:

One or more county departments of social services will adopt policies that enable self-directing individuals to schedule the hours authorized for Personal Attendant 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 county will adopt changes from the state to provide Long Term Care services to the disability population and that previously has not had representation from the disability community.
At least one local physician’s 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.
*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 utilizing Money Follows the Persons (MFP) initiatives.
*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 utilizing nursing home transition and diversion initiatives.

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.
IL will continue to advocate for increased accessible transportation in the City of Newburgh and seek to establish an accessible transportation program.

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.
The County of Orange and the City of Newburgh will adopt policies that enable individuals with disabilities in Newburgh and County of Orange, to have and make accessible transportation choices.

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 2007 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.

23. NIAGARA FALLS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Independent Living of Niagara County - WNYILP satellite
Address: 746 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
Contract No.: C009032
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Douglas J. Usiak
Board President Authorization: Dennis M. Kessel

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education

As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one post-secondary educational institution will integrate Independent Living Philosophy training either developed or endorsed by ILNC into its academic programs.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one school district will integrate a disability awareness training program either developed or endorsed by ILNC into its employee training program.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one school district will change its policies, procedures, and practices to strengthen the coordination of vocational rehabilitation services in transition planning for persons with disabilities.

B. Employment

As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, Niagara County one-stop services will be more accessible to persons with disabilities.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one business will become compliant with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one IDA will integrate a disability awareness training either developed or endorsed by ILNC to its members.

C. Health Care

As a result of advocacy of ILNC, one community agency will establish a new Peer Program to provide recovery-oriented peer services to the community.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one hospital will change its policies and procedures to provide training on access to interpreter services to its employees.

D. Commerce

As a result of the advocacy of the ILNC, the NYS Commissioner of Jurors Office for Niagara County will incorporate a training program either developed or endorsed by ILNC on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in Jury Duty as a regular part of its staff training.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, more accessible and integrated housing opportunities will be available to persons with disabilities.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority will extend paratransit scheduling services beyond normal business hours.
As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one business will be compliant with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

E. Social

As a result of the advocacy of ILNC, one outdoor event will become compliant with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

F. Citizenship

As a result of the advocacy of the ILNC, one polling place will become accessible to persons with disabilities.

24. 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.: C008933
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Leonard Liguori
Board President Authorization: Nancy Crawford

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

A school or educational institution will adopt DIL’s anti-bullying and/or gang awareness training for students with disabilities as a part of their curriculum.
At least one college or university will incorporate a DIL developed or endorsed non-stigma mental health component within its criminal justice curriculum.
A local day care center will adopt DIL’s disability awareness training program.
DIL will establish a written arrangement with the County jail to offer on-site communication skills training as a regular part of preparing inmates who are disabled for their transition back to the community.

B. Health Care Advocacy

At least one nursing home will make a policy and procedural change to facilitate a more efficient referral process for community based living services.
An emergency evacuation plan for individuals with disabilities will be adopted by an institution in our service area.

C. Commerce Advocacy

A business will change its policies, procedures and practices to provide DIL’s disability sensitivity training on an annual basis to its employees.

D. Social Advocacy

There will be an increase in accessible fitness equipment at the Olean YMCA or other appropriate facility.
The Council of Agencies will move its meetings to accessible locations and start providing agendas in alternative formats to enable people with disabilities to attend meetings and address issues regarding social, recreational, and leisure pursuits.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites in our catchment area.
Political candidates and/or current political leaders will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

25. 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.: C008940
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Andrew Pulrang, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Norman Koslofsky, President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

A disabilities awareness track either developed or endorsed by NCCI will be instituted as part of the school personnel training curriculum in at least one school district in the Center's service area.
At least one high school in Clinton County will establish a new policy of giving an independent living brochure, geared to Transition, created by NCCI, to every transition-age student with a disability.
At least one private school will change or create policies and procedures designed to allow for more involvement of students with disabilities and their parents in the IEP and CSE process.

B. Employment Advocacy

A least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate questions that discriminate in regards to people with disabilities.
At least one area business will change its policies or procedures for employees with disabilities to obtain reasonable accommodations.

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.
At least one nursing home, adult home, or assisted living facility in Clinton County will make a policy and procedural change in how it identifies and refers residents who wish to leave the facility to community resources to facilitate successful transitions to the community.

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.
The City of Plattsburgh will adopt new policies designed to improve sidewalk snow and ice clearance in order to increase access for persons with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy

At least one area special event will improve access for people with disabilities
At least one park or public gathering place will be made more accessible to people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

The Clinton County Board of Elections will incorporate a disability awareness training either developed or endorsed by NCCI to election workers.
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.

26. 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.: C008951
Report Period: October 1-2007- September 30, 2008
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.
A disabilities awareness track developed or endorsed by TRI 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 Advocacy

At least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate practices and questions that discriminate in regards to people with disabilities.
At least one area business will change its policies regarding the rights of employees with disabilities and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.
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.
A long-term facility will establish a formal agreement to allow TRI to conduct an on-going support group for its residents.

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.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons 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.
Through the Advocacy efforts of TRI, Dutchess County will pass legislation that enables low-income people with disabilities to be eligible for a partial exemption from real property taxes.

27. PUTNAM

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 - Putnam County Program
Address: 1961 Route 6, 2nd Floor, Carmel, NY 10512
Contract No.: C009022
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Joseph Bravo, Executive Director
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 student with disabilities include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, post secondary education, agency linkages and benefits.
*Disabilities awareness training either developed or endorsed by PILS will be instituted as part of a school’s curriculum in at least one school district in the center's service area.

B. Health Care

At least one new service provider will become a waiver provider offering services to individuals transitioning out of nursing homes..
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.

C. 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 Putnam.

E. Citizenship

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

28. QUEENS

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 - satellite
Address: 841 Broadway, Suite 301, New York, NY 10003
Contract No.: C009040
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Susan Dooha, Executive Director
Telephone: 212-674-2300 x 140
Fax: 212-254-5953
email: sdooha@cidny.org
Board President Authorization: Dr. Sam Wu

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

*One school in New York City (Francis Lewis in Queens) will create and implement a new program, the Transition Academy, in partnership with CIDNY--QUEENS. The program will rely on evidence-based practices to improve the academic and functional achievement of students with disabilities thereby facilitating their movement from school to post-school activities.
*The Queens College Inclusion Program will demonstrate enforcement of existing inclusion policies and eliminate barriers to inclusion.
*New York State Education Department will adopt a new Transition Services policy that independent living centers are involved in the transition process as appropriate.

B. Employment Advocacy

*VESID will develop a policy promoting linguistic and cultural competence at District Offices.
*As a result of CIDNY--QUEENS’ advocacy efforts with VESID and the VESID State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), VESID will adopt an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) policy that includes a reasonable time frame for developing the IPE when the consumer has identified a vocational goal that VESID agrees is attainable.

C. Health Care Advocacy

New York State will amend Social Services Law to create a new eligibility group for medical assistance. This group will include children under 19 years of age (phased in by age over two years), who meet the disability criteria established by the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, and have family income at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level ($51,210 for a family of 3 in 2007).
New York State’s legislature will pass legislation eliminating the “sunset” for the Care at Home nursing rate increase and case management expansion legislation.
New York State will legislatively expand the Medicaid age limit for children in foster care from 18 to 21.
*State legislation will be enacted to limit the Part D prescription drug copays for dual eligible beneficiaries to $200 or less per year.
*New York State’s legislature will expand Public Health Law Article 44 (the Managed Care Bill of Rights) to include external review of out-of-network specialist choice.
*The New York State Department of Health will change its policies to clarify exemption criteria for SSI beneficiaries otherwise mandated to enroll in Medicaid health plans.
*The Department of Health will implement a new program in partnership with CIDNY--QUEENS and the Brain Injury Association of New York State that will examine access to Medicaid community-based services for persons with TBI returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The New York State legislature will pass legislation to streamline access to Medicaid by eliminating steps in the application and recertification process that inhibit enrollment.

D. Commerce Advocacy

*The New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal will permit owners and developers of properties in Queens who submit their accessible properties to the NYS Accessible Housing Registry to receive credit toward Fair Housing Marketing Act (FHMA) requirements.
*At least one New York City agency will establish and conduct a disability literacy training program organized by the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and CIDNY--QUEENS.
*New York City will adopt a policy of requiring new technology being installed in New York City cabs to be accessible to people with visual and hearing impairments.
New York State will pass legislation requiring transportation service providers, such as taxis, limousines and hotel shuttles to purchase accessible vehicles or otherwise ensure that they have the capacity to serve people with disabilities. [A.8520 of 2007]
*As a result of CIDNY--QUEENS’ efforts, the Mitchell Lama Housing Program in Queens will change its policies, procedures, and practices to ensure residents with disabilities are fully informed about the availability of the Disability Rent Increase Exemption program (DRIE), including information about applying for such services.
New York State will pass legislation to continue the annual federal SSI COLA without reducing the New York State benefit. New York State will provide an annual SSI COLA to the New York State Supplement.
New York State will pass legislation with an appropriation to create a Housing Opportunity Fund that will create independent housing opportunities for low-income people with disabilities.
New York State will pass a Housing Wait List bill that will identify those individuals in need of housing from a psychiatric hospital, adult home, nursing home, correctional facility or living with aging parents.

E. Social Advocacy

None

F. Citizenship Advocacy

CIDNY--QUEENS will ensure that disaster preparation and disaster relief plans developed by the Office of Emergency Management address the needs and concerns of people with disabilities.
*For the first time, CIDNY--QUEENS will be surveying polling sites in Queens; an increase in the number of accessible voting sites in Queens will result in September 2008.
The New York City Board of Elections will eliminate barriers to voting at polling sites at 5 polling sites in an Assembly District in Queens.
*Achieve implementation of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) in Queens County to ensure that people with disabilities will have access to at least one accessible balloting machine per poll site in September 2008.

29. 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.: C008945
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Bruce Darling, Interim Executive Director
Program Contact: Michele Schwartz, Director of Programs
Board President Authorization: Kathy Tanchick, 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 the Community Choice Act (formerly known as MiCASSA).

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of affordable, accessible, integrated housing options for people with disabilities.
The Rochester Housing Authority will change policies, procedures, and practices to increase housing vouchers available for people with disabilities.
Public and para-transportation access for Monroe County residents with disabilities will demonstrate measurable improvement.
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.
Full implementation of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) will be achieved 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.

30. 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: Nanuet Mall, Suite 2130; 75 W Route 59, Nanuet, NY 10954
Contract No.: C008946
Report Period: October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Miriam Cotto, Executive Director
Telephone: 845-624-1366
Board President Authorization: Serge Jelenevsky
E-mail: serge@jelenevsky.com

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Issue: One local school district will include an annually scheduled Disability Awareness Day for its elementary schools as a regular part of their calendar for the school year.
Activities: The local school district will be contacted to discuss all aspects regarding the need for awareness of and sensitivity to people with all disabilities. Different formats for such information to be presented.
Outcome: One local school district will have a regularly scheduled Disability Awareness Day/Assembly placed on the district school calendar.
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 establish procedures for presenting the necessary information.
Outcome: One high school will establish a procedure to present special education students and their family’s 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.
Outcome: 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 high school (Spring Valley) to formulate plans for a disability awareness assembly.
Outcome: One local high school shall establish within their curriculum an annual disability awareness assembly.

B. Employment Advocacy

Issue: One local business will begin providing employment applications in Large Font upon request to assist those with vision impairments and or learning disabilities.
Activities: Staff will work in collaboration with the employment specialist from AVI (Association for the Visually Impaired) to explain the need, to provide technical assistance and to see that applications suitable for the visually impaired are available.
Outcome: One local business will have changed its application policies to provide accessibility to the visually impaired.
Issue: Increase the number of people with disabilities who are successfully employed.
Activity: Staff will work with VESID and BOCES to provide resources to continuing Peer Mentor program that will assist people with disabilities in gaining and maintaining employment.
Outcome: A governmental entity (VESID and/or CBVH) will change its statewide policies and procedures to provide Peer Mentor services to assist consumers to gain and maintain employment.
*Issue: Increase the number of people receiving supportive employment services who maintain successful employment
Activity: RILC staff will work with one local supportive employment agency receiving funding through VESID to inform them of the availability of Peer Mentoring and Supports.
Outcome: One local supportive employment agency will make a policy and procedural change to facilitate a more efficient referral process for community supports, including Peer Mentoring services.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Issue: To increase the number of medical offices that are accessible.
Activities: Staff will work with local doctors and the local Medical Society to inform them of necessary changes for office accessibility.
Outcome: One local Doctor’s office will become fully Accessible.
*Issue: To increase the number of people who are discharged from nursing homes.
Activities: Staff will work with local nursing homes to provide information about the Medicaid Transition Waiver program and its implementation.
Outcome: The Center will establish 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.
*Issue: To increase the number of individuals with Alzheimer’s who are aware of CD-PAS and IL services.
Activity: RILC staff will work with the local branch of the Alzheimer’s Association to determine how to provide information to those with Alzheimer’s and their family members about IL and CD-PAS services.
Outcome: The local Alzheimer’s Association will change its policies, procedures, and practices to ensure people with Alzheimer’s and /or their family members are fully informed about the availability of community services, including Independent Living and Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services (CD-PAS).

D. Commerce Advocacy

Issue: One local restaurant will install a ramp at an inaccessible entrance.
Activity: Staff will locate one local restaurant that is inaccessible to people who use wheelchairs/scooters and work with the owner to provide necessary ramping for entry.
Outcome: One local restaurant will be accessible to people who use wheelchairs/scooters.
Issue: One local business or non profit will install a TTY.
Activity: RILC Staff will work with one local business or not-for-profit agency to provide information of the installation and use of a TTY.
Outcome: One local business or not-for-profit agency will become accessible to deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired consumers.
Issue: One local parking lot will provide proper handicapped parking in accordance with code.
Activity: RILC will identify one local parking lot that does not have proper handicapped parking, contact and work with the owner by providing the necessary information to bring the lot up to existing code.
Outcome: One local parking lot will now have proper handicapped parking.
*Issue: To increase evening accessibility during the evening hours of the local para-transit system (TRIPS).
Activity: RILC staff will work with the local Department of Transportation and the Disability Advisory Council to provide information about need for increased evening services.
Outcome: TRIPS will establish procedures to provide transportation during evening hours.

E. Social Advocacy

*Issue: To increase the number of people able to access recreational activities.
Activity: RILC staff will work with staff of the Transitional Rehabilitation Center of Helen Hayes Hospital (TRC) to inform them of RILC’s new movie night at the Center.
Outcome: The Transitional Rehabilitation Center of Helen Hayes Hospital (TRC) will establish a policy to schedule, as a regular part of their program calendar, visits to integrated community social and recreational activities, including movie theaters.
Issue: One local day habilitation will include as a regularly scheduled part of their program attendance at RILC’s Cyber Café.
Activity: RILC Staff will work with the director of a dayhab program explaining the about Cyber Café to have to visits to it offered to its consumers as a regularly scheduled weekly activity.
Outcome: A local day habilitation program will establish a policy to schedule, as a regular part of their program calendar, visits to the RILC Cyber Café.
Issue: One local park/ball-field will provide handicapped parking.
Activity: RILC staff has already identified one local ball-field/park that does not provide handicapped parking. They will work with the administrator of the field to have spaces provided up to code.
Outcome: One local ball-field will have handicapped parking.
*Issue: To increase the number of people with disabilities who have the ability to access AA meeting.
Activities: RILC staff will work with the local AA inter-group to have meeting lists take note of accessible meeting places.
Outcome: The local AA inter-group will change its policies, procedures, and practices to publish AA meeting lists with an “H” to note meetings that are accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Issue: Increase the number of Rockland County residents aware of the Americans with Disabilities 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
Outcome: By passage of appropriate legislation, Rockland County will establish and promote the date of July 26 as Rockland County Day of Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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 an accessible forum to have people with disabilities meet and have discussions with the various candidates.
Outcome: One County local political party will adopt policies, procedures, and practices that ensure pre-election candidate forums are held in accessible locations.
Issue: Increase the number of people with disabilities who have the ability for on-site voting
Activity: RILC Staff will identify one polling place that is not accessible for people using wheelchairs during the upcoming November election; provide expertise (site evaluation) to the Board; and information of what is necessary for accessibility of the polling place. In addition RILC will provide assistance in making necessary “changes”.
Outcome: One polling place previously inaccessible will be made accessible.
*Issue: Decrease the number of people with disabilities who have difficulty with the voting process.
Activity: Staff will work with the local Board of Elections to have disability awareness education Available to its staff.
Outcome: The local Board of Elections will have formal policies and procedures established to present RILC developed or endorsed Disability Awareness information to its staff.

31. 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.: C008950
Report Period: October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Dorothy M. Doran, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Joseph Fortunato, LCSW

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

*ISSUE
Several buildings on St. John’s University Staten Island campus are not accessible for some students and staff 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’s Staten Island Campus will become accessible for all students and staff.

ISSUE

Students with disabilities and their parents 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 one 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.

ISSUE

Legislators must address the growing needs of students with disabilities and create laws that address these problems.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with students, parents and counselors to discuss problems in education.
Meet with District Supervisors to understand the Department of Education’s policies.
Testify at hearings addressing students with disabilities.
Write to legislators to implore them to sponsor legislation that will benefit consumers.

RESULTS

Secure passage of new national, state or local legislation that benefits students with disabilities.

*ISSUE

Staten Island does not have a computer training course for consumers who need a voice recognition system to help them access a computer.

ACTIVITIES

Provide training to staff computer trainer on voice recognition software.
Up grade hardware.
Seek grants to support this program.

RESULTS

At least one organization will establish a written fee for service contract to utilize SICIL’s computer training course for consumers who need a voice recognition system.

B. Employment Advocacy

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.

*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.

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

*ISSUE

Richmond University 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

Richmond University 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.

*ISSUE

Staten Island University Hospital is in need of additional 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.

ISSUE

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

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 2007-2008 calendar years that permits payment for prosthetic devices.

*ISSUE

Health legislation is needed to ensure consumer’s medical needs.

ACTIVITIES

Create focus groups that address health needs of consumers.
Invite legislators to meet with consumers.
Testify at hearings about the needs of consumers.
Write legislators to gain support for bills that address consumer’s health needs.

RESULTS

Secure passage of new national, state or local legislation that address the health needs of consumers in the 2007-2008 fiscal year.

*ISSUE

Women with disabilities are not aware of the health resources that are available to them.

ACTIVITIES

Join with the Department of Health to begin focus groups for women.
Offer workshops on health issues.
Provide health information in alternative formats.

RESULTS

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will incorporate into its resource materials a new health provider manual produced by SICIL that addresses safety issues for women with disabilities.

*ISSUE

Consumers are not provided with a comprehensive discharge plan when leaving the Island’s hospitals.

ACTIVITIES

Conduct a focus group to determine the consumer’s needs when they leave the hospital setting.
Join with other agencies to discuss consumer problems.
Meet with representatives of the hospitals to offer information that will benefit the patients.
Meet with discharge planners.

RESULTS

Hospitals on Staten Island will change their policies to include a comprehensive discharge plan.

*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 audio tapes.
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

*ISSUE

The new Staten Island and Manhattan Ferry Terminals are in need of additional audio signs that will assist consumers who are print/visually impaired in finding the proper bus ramps, elevators, escalators, bathrooms, etc.

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 and Manhattan Ferry Terminals will have additional audio signage by 2008.

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 accessible pedestrian signals on Staten Island in 2008. Traffic policies will be changed.

*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.

*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 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.

*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 NYS 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.

*ISSUE

Some Pedestrian ramps and sidewalks are not being maintained by building owners on Staten Island making it difficult for individuals with disabilities to access.

ACTIVITIES

Enlist consumers to survey their neighborhoods to determine where ramps and sidewalks are uneven or not compliant to code.
Contact officials to report violations.
Encourage consumers to write letters of support for repairs.

RESULTS

New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development will change its policies and procedures to better enforce the maintenance of sidewalks and pedestrian ramps by building owners.

*ISSUE

Consumers are finding it difficult, if not impossible to locate affordable and accessible housing on Staten Island.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with other Housing Coordinators to address this problem
Invite legislators to sponsor Bills that will assist consumers.
Testify at hearings addressing housing problems.
Write and telephone legislators to pass legislation that addresses housing.

RESULTS

Secure passage of new national, state or local laws that address the housing needs of consumers.

*ISSUE

The Salvation Army is in need of suggestions that will make their new housing complex accessible.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with representatives of the Salvation Army to discuss accessibility concerns.
Provide assistance in planning.
Suggest an Advisory Board be formed to help in the planning.

RESULTS

At least one housing complex on Staten Island will improve its access for persons with disabilities.

*ISSUE

Sea View Hospital will convert one of its buildings to apartments.

ACTIVITIES

Offer to be a member of the Advisory Board.
Provide suggestions on accessibility.
Join with other agencies on Staten Island to offer community services to residents.

RESULTS

Sea View Hospital will convert one of its buildings to apartments to increase the availability of accessible, affordable, and integrated housing for Staten Islanders with disabilities.

*ISSUE

Consumers find it difficult to identify bus numbers at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.

ACTIVITIES

Research other accessible bus terminals to find out how this problem was solved.
Meet with representatives from the Metropolitan Transit Authority to discuss solutions.
Invite legislators to support our efforts.

RESULT

New accessible signage will identify buses at the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.

*ISSUE

Signs on buses are difficult to read.

ACTIVITIES

Research bus companies that have solved this problem.
Meet with representatives of the MTA to discuss this problem.
Invite legislators and consumers to support this change.

RESULTS

New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority will improve the access of its buses by making route identification signs more readable by persons with visual impairments.

*ISSUE

Access-A-Ride drivers are finding it difficult to locate streets on Staten Island and other boroughs.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with the MTA advisory board.
Discuss policy changes that include more training in reading maps.
Discuss GPS equipment to assist drivers.

RESULTS

New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority will improve the efficiency of all Access-A-Ride drivers by adopting a policy assuring their proper usage of maps and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment.

*ISSUE

Consumers are finding it difficult to remain in their own homes and often are placed in nursing homes when illness or a disabling condition strikes.

ACTIVITIES

Write proposals for an Access To Home program.
Join with other agencies to provide access for consumers.
Inform hospitals and nursing homes of this program.

RESULTS

As a result of the Center’s efforts, a local housing organization will establish a new home modifications program through the NYS Access to Home Program to offer consumers the opportunity of remaining in his/her own home when and if a disabling condition occurs.

E. Social Advocacy

ISSUE
St. Charles 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. Charles Seminary and reception hall will be accessible to all.

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.

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.

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.

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.

*ISSUE

Consumers would like to participate in athletic activities that are made accessible to them.

ACTIVITIES

Invite consumers to a focus group to determine the activities they would like to participate in.
Meet with representatives of the Salvation Army, Community Resources, etc., to discuss the needs of consumers.
Make plans to fulfill the wishes of consumers.
Meet with legislators to discuss funding for special projects.

RESULTS

There will be an increase in the availability of accessible and integrated athletic programs and events for consumers.

*ISSUE

It is difficult for consumers to find an accessible pool on Staten Island.

ACTIVITIES

Meet with representatives of the Salvation Army to discuss the needs of consumers.
Discuss plans for an accessible pool.
Discuss funding with legislators.

RESULTS

A new accessible pool will be constructed on Staten Island.

ISSUE

There is only one beach on Staten Island that offers an accessible mat for mobility impaired consumers who wish to swim or sit near the waterfront.

ACTIVITIES

Ask consumers what beaches they would access if they were more accessible.
Meet with Parks Department Officials to discuss issues.
Meet with legislators to discuss funding.

RESULTS

At least one additional beach on Staten Island will improve its access by offering an accessible mat for mobility impaired consumers who wish to swim or sit near the waterfront.

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.

32. 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: 3680 Rt. 112, Suite 4, Coram, NY 11727
Contract No.: C008947
Report Period: October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Edward J. Ahern, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Jeffrey Zemla

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

SILO will establish a student disability advocacy network comprised of Suffolk County high-school students to address special education issues as they arise.
A disabilities Awareness and Sensitivity component either developed or endorsed by SILO will be incorporated by at least one school’s personnel training and/or in-service program.
At least one CSE will make procedural changes to have transition plans include information on Independent Living and other community based agencies and organizations.
SILO will ensure that an Independent Living History & Philosophy awareness track either developed or endorsed by SILO is instituted as part of the academic curriculum at an educational institution in our area.

B. Employment Advocacy

The regional VESID and/or CBVH office will establish a policy to include SILO benefit advisement information as part of its application process for new consumers.
SILO will establish an agreement with the VESID District Office to provide outreach and benefits advisement to VESID consumers as a fee-for-service venture.
SILO will Increase summer supported employment opportunities for youth with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy

At least one medical facility will establish a policy requiring discharge planners to include SILO’s brochure in its discharge planning packets.
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.
At least one community or governmental agency providing mental health services will improve its accessibility to people who are deaf.
A local health care facility will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

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.
At least one local town or village will achieve a measurable increase in the accessibility of public right-of-ways, such as curb cuts, constructed for people with disabilities.
At least one new place of commerce will install a TTY/TTD device.

E. Social Advocacy

There will be an increase in access to a public park, pool and/or playground.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible outdoor recreational venues for individuals with disabilities
There will be a measurable increase in the architectural and communication access in local social activities and/or establishments for people 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 SILO.
At least one local government will start providing agendas in alternate formats at publicly attended meetings.

33. SULLIVAN

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: 33 Lakewood Avenue, Monticello, NY 12701
Contract No.: C009024
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Joann Seligman-Hargabus, Interim Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Carl Berkowitz

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Sullivan County School Districts will change policies and procedures to adopt the peer approach model when conducting the Family & Children Clinic Plus program being initiated by Sullivan County Department of Community Services.
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.
To change local school district policies and/or practices to allow for more student/parent input in creating and modifying IEPs.
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.
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.

B. Employment Advocacy

Sullivan County ARC will change their policy to ensure people with disabilities who work in their sheltered workshops will make at least minimum wage.
A Sullivan County agency or department will change its policies, procedures and/or practices to become compliant with Title I of the ADA.
One or more employers will modify an established policy or practice to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with psychiatric disabilities, developmental disabilities and/or who are deaf.
Benefit Advisement staff will establish a written arrangement with the VESID Sullivan County District Office to conduct on-site outreach and benefits advisement services to individuals applying for VESID.
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.
At least one area business will change its policies regarding the rights of employees with disabilities and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.
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 in Sullivan County.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Increase the availability of psychiatric/evaluation services for children with disabilities in Sullivan County.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible doctor’s offices, health care clinics, dentists and hospitals for individuals with mobility disabilities.
At least one medical facility will establish a policy requiring discharge planners include ATI’s brochure in its discharge planning packets.
At least one local human service agency and/or public health service will provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.
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.
When implemented, ATI 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.
ATI 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.
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.
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.
Congress will pass the Community Choice Act (formerly known as MiCASSA).

D. Commerce Advocacy

At least one business or store will become ADA Title III compliant in Sullivan County.
ATI will work with and assist area restaurants so that they provide their menus in accessible formats.
A local municipality will adopt a policy to post the monetary fine for handicapped parking violations adjacent to the parking signs.
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.
There will be an increase in the number of affordable, accessible, integrated housing options for people with disabilities.

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.
The accessibility of existing recreational facilities will increase.
Achieve a measurable increase in the availability of integrated art and music opportunities for children with disabilities.
There will be an increase in the architectural and communication access of social and recreational programs for people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

At least one polling site will become accessible in Sullivan County.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
A local Board of Elections will implement a policy to notify all voters of accessible polling site changes.
The Sullivan County Board of Elections will be in full compliance with the accessible voting provisions of the NYS election law and the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).
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. ATI will ensure that this is done by having elected officials sign a Pledge Letter stating their intent to be inclusive to the disability community.
At least one local Board of Elections will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of polling site workers to appropriately assist people with disabilities at the polls.
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.

34. 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.: C008923
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
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 appropriate and fair access to instruction, programming and internal policies and procedures.

B. Employment Advocacy

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.
ARISE will establish a written memorandum of understanding with VESID and/or the Onondaga County One-Stop to conduct outreach and benefits advisement to consumers applying for VESID and/or One-Stop services.

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.
*As a result of advocacy effort by ARISE, first responder and human service agencies in Onondaga County will incorporate training either developed or endorsed by ARISE on the needs of persons with disabilities in crisis, especially for those who are at risk or are survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual abuse.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the availability of accessible parking in Onondaga County.
ARISE will increase ADA compliance in the business community.
Onondaga County will establish a coordinated human services transportation system.
There will be an increase in the number of affordable, accessible, integrated housing options for people with disabilities.
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.
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

Increase the accessibility of polling places in Onondaga County.

35. 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.: C008952
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
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, access to assistive technology 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.
*VESID will change its policy to provide funding for sign language interpreters for deaf adults in GED preparation classes.
At least one school district will incorporate parent information nights as an educational component for families.

B. Employment Advocacy

A local one-stop will implement programs and or procedures that allow for greater access to services by people with all disabilities.
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.
ILCHV will establish a new program with the VESID District Office to provide Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Readiness 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.
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.
New York State will incorporate the housing provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act into state law.

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.
One county board of elections in the center’s service area will incorporate materials on access for people with disabilities either developed or endorsed by ILCHV into its poll site workers training curriculum and poll site surveying instruments.
*New York State will remove waiver language from the law requiring polling place physical accessibility
New York State will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.

36. 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.: C008944
Report Period: October 1, 2007 – September 30, 2008
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, Ph.D.
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Educational Advocacy

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.
At least one (1) area business will change its policies/procedures to enable reasonable accommodations for any disabled employees who make such a request.
A local One-Stop will incorporate disability awareness/sensitivity training developed or endorsed by RCIL as part of their training procedures for all new employees.
At least one (1) area business will change its application form to eliminate questions that discriminate concerning a person’s disability.

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.
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.
Increase the availability of hourly in-home respite services in our community.
At least one institution will change its procedure or policies to allow more people with disabilities (including youth) to transition from institutions into integrated community living.

D. 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.
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.

E. 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.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

The Oneida and Herkimer County Board of Elections will be in full 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.

37. 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.: C008953
Report Period: October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008
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 include transition services in IEPs for children at age 15.
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.
NRCIL will become a member of the Lewis County Children’s SPOA (Single Point of Access) Committee.

B. Employment

NRCIL will establish a written arrangement with the local One-Stop Center in Jefferson and Lewis counties to offer disability awareness trainings and work incentive trainings to its clients.

C. Health Care

NRCIL will secure a seat on the Jefferson and Lewis County NY Connects: Choices for Long Term Care Councils.
Establish a written arrangement whereby at least one prison in the Watertown Hub will offer on-site NRCIL’s AIDS in Prison program providing a new condom negotiation curriculum to reduce the transmission of HIV/AIDS.

D. Commerce

As a result of NRCIL facilitating a community task force, there will be an increase in the availability of accessible transportation in Lewis County for people with disabilities.
NRCIL will increase accessibility to at least one business, agency or public entity in Jefferson and Lewis County.

E. Citizenship

The Jefferson or Lewis County Board of Elections will incorporate disability awareness training either developed or endorsed by NRCIL for its poll workers.

38. 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.: C008955
Report Period: October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008 Contact Person: Joseph Bravo, Executive Director
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 student with disabilities include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, post secondary education, agency linkages and benefits.
*3. Disabilities awareness either developed or endorsed by WILC will be instituted as part of a school’s curriculum in at least one school district in the center's service area.

B. Employment

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

39. 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.: C008954
Contract Renewal Year: October 1, 2007 – Sept. 30, 2008
Contact Person: Melvyn R. Tanzman, Executive Director
Telephone: (914) 968-4717 Voice/Tdd
Fax: (914) 968-6137
Board President Authorization: Nancy Hansen

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, Greenburgh- North Castle UFSD, and the Mount Vernon school districts, 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 in the Yonkers and Greenburgh-North Castle School Districts 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 Yonkers and Greenburgh-North Castle 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 districts will establish policies and procedures designed to increase the involvement of students and families in CSE meetings and IEP development.
At least one new 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 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.
Arrange job shadowing activities and special events such as Disability Mentoring Day.

Expected Outcomes:

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.

Expected Outcomes:

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 the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program.

Proposed Activities:

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

Expected Outcomes:

Establish a written agreement whereby the One-Stop will provide, in collaboration with the WIPA Project, regular access to benefits counseling services, including updated and accessible written information and materials on work incentives.

Issue: Potential employees with disabilities will have equal access to employment related services.

Proposed Activities:

Monitor accessibility modifications and availability of adaptive technology at the three One-Stops.

Expected Outcomes:

All One-Stops in Westchester and Putnam Counties will become fully accessible and have appropriate adaptive technology.

C. Health Care Advocacy

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

Proposed 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.

Expected 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.

Proposed Activities:

Advocate for Federal and State-wide legislation that protects and expands health and mental health services available to people with disabilities.
a.       Maintenance of Federal Medicaid Budget
b.      EPIC Expansion
c.       Maintenance of NYS Medicaid eligibility standards
Assist Medicaid recipients in Westchester County make the transition to mandatory Medicaid Managed Care while maintaining essential services.

Expected Outcomes:

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

Proposed Activities:

Work with a local hospital to survey for access and improve the existing conditions with an initial focus on the availability of designated parking.

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.

Proposed 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.

Proposed 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.

Proposed 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.
Develop new housing initiatives at the local level under the Money Follows the Person Grant.

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.
*State legislation will be adopted incorporating the requirements of HUD 504 regulations into NYS Human Rights Law.
One or more integrated and accessible housing projects 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.
Public Housing Authorities in Westchester County will implement policy changes that will facilitate the availability of affordable accessible housing for people leaving institutions.

E. Social Advocacy

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

Proposed 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.

Proposed Activities:

Publish a center newsletter twice a year.
Build the systems advocacy network.
Hold one or more issue forums to educate consumers and their supporters.

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.

Propsed Activities:

Work with the Board of Elections Advisory Committee to find solutions to the problem of access to polling sites.
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.
*Legislation will be passed in NYS to no longer allow exceptions to polling site accessibility requirements.

Issue: The needs of people with disabilities in a disaster will be studied and addressed by Westchester County

Proposed 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.
WDOMI will be part of the Long Term Care Recovery Committee in Westchester County and will be listed as a resource for people with disabilities in the FEMA directory.

Expected Outcome:

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

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

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

2. AMSTERDAM

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

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. Diversion, Deinstitutionalization and Olmstead Implementation Goals

E. Commerce

F. Social

G. 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

B. Employment

C. Health Care

D. Commerce

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