NYS ILC COMMUNITY AND SYSTEM ADVOCACY PLANS

CONTRACT PERIOD: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006

1. ALBANY - Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
2. AMSTERDAM - Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
3. AUBURN - Options for Independence
4. BATAVIA - Genesee Region Independent Living Center, Inc.
5. BINGHAMTON - Southern Tier Independence Center
6. BRONX - Bronx Independent Living Services, Inc.
7. BROOKLYN - Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled
8. BUFFALO - Western New York Independent Living Project, Inc.
9. CORNING - AIM - Independent Living Center
10. CORTLAND - Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
11. DELAWARE - Catskill Center For Independence
12. GLENS FALLS - Glens Falls Independent Living Center
13. HARLEM - Harlem Independent Living Center
14. ITHACA - Finger Lakes Independence Center
15. JAMESTOWN - Southwestern Independent Living Center, Inc.
16. KINGSTON - Resource Center for Accessible Living, Inc.
17. LONG ISLAND - Long Island Center For Independent Living
18. MANHATTAN - Center For Independence Of The Disabled Of New York
19. MASSENA - Massena Independent Living Center, Inc.
20. MIDDLETOWN - Action Toward Independence, Inc.
21. NEWBURGH - Independent Living, Inc.
22. NIAGARA FALLS - Niagara Frontier Center for Independent Living, Inc.
23. OLEAN - Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
24. PLATTSBURGH - North Country Center for Independence, Ltd.
25. POUGHKEEPSIE - Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc.
26. QUEENS - Queens Independent Living Center
27. ROCHESTER - Regional Center for Independent Living, Inc.
28. ROCKLAND - Rockland Independent Living Center, Inc.
29. STATEN ISLAND - Staten Island Center for Independent Living, Inc.
30. SUFFOLK - Self Initiated Living Options, Inc.
31. SYRACUSE - ARISE
32. TROY - Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley, Inc.
33. UTICA - Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
34. WATERTOWN - Northern Regional Center for Independent Living
35. WHITE PLAINS - Westchester Independent Living Center
36. YONKERS - Westchester Disabled On the Move, Inc.

1. ALBANY

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
Address: 855 Central Ave., Suite 110, Albany, NY 12206
Contract No.: C006624
Report Period: October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006
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.

B. Employment Advocacy:

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

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Albany County Social Service Department will change its policies to allow as many hours as needed of home care to avoid placement in nursing homes.
A long-term facility will change its policy to allow the Capital District Center for Independence, Inc. to conduct a support group for residents.
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 eliminate 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.
Local municipalities will change their policies and will adopt a new policy to make accessible parking enforcement a main concern.
STAR will change its policy by adding a more in depth disability awareness training.
STAR will change its policy allowing more people with disabilities access to the STAR system.

E. Social Advocacy:

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

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

2. AMSTERDAM

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 2450 Riverfront Center, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Contract No.: C006641
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
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:

At least one school district will change its policy to engage parents in their child's school, CSE Committee, and IEP development process at an earlier point in the child's education.
A 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.

B. Employment Advocacy:

The capacity of individuals with disabilities to obtain and maintain integrated employment will be increased through the establishment of a new program to increase the potential for competitive integrated employment.
Businesses are not accessible for employees as well as the public. At least one business will make necessary changes to make their business fully accessible for employees as well as the public.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Community and government agencies providing health care services are not fully accessible to people with disabilities. At least one community or governmental agency providing health care services will improve its accessibility to people with disabilities. This is part of the Center's emphasis on providing individuals the ability to live independently in the community.
There will be an increase in the number of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program enrollments in Fulton County and that number will be sustained to a stable foundation.
The lack of waiver monies will be explored further to affect change in the policy of DDSO and the way waiver monies are distributed.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
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.

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 recreational and fitness facilities and programs that are accessible to people with disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

The Board of Elections will be in compliance with the accessible voting provisions of the NYS Election Law by implementing a training program for poll workers presented by RCIL.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Fulton-Montgomery Counties.
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.

3. AUBURN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Options for Independence
Address: 75 Genesee Street, Auburn, NY 13021
Contract No.: C006638
Report Period: October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Guy Thomas Cosentino, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Betty Palega

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

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

B. Employment Advocacy

The Cayuga One-Stop will incorporate training sessions and workshops that are designed by Options staff that focus on issues related to disability and work into the employment services that they offer the community. These sessions will be on various topics including advocacy, maximizing benefits and community resources.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Options for Independence will work with at least one health care provider during the Program Year to make their facilities accessible to their patients with disabilities.
Local human service agencies and public health services will provide brochures and pertinent program information in accessible formats.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Options for Independence will work with both private and public businesses in Cayuga and Seneca Counties resulting in a measurable increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are more accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Cayuga County Courts and the Auburn City Court will provide access and effective communication for people with disabilities.
Options for Independence will work with the Auburn Housing Authority to increase housing vouchers available specifically for people with disabilities.
Emergency housing services developed and offered in the community will be made accessible and available to people with disabilities.
Options for Independence will work with and assist area restaurants to provide their menus in accessible formats.
The City of Auburn and/or the County of Cayuga will change its building codes to require that Visitability features are included into single-family housing that is built with Federal dollars.
Options will work with the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity so that new homes built by this organization will be visitable homes.

E. Social Advocacy

The accessibility of existing recreational facilities will increase.
Options for Independence will work to increase the number of integrated recreational and social opportunities in Cayuga and Seneca Counties.

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. 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 and Options monitoring meeting locations.
The Cayuga County and/or Seneca County Board of Elections will incorporate Options training on disability sensitivity and awareness for its poll watchers.
There will be an increase in the number of persons with disabilities who participate on Boards where services are offered to people with disabilities that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
The Cayuga County and/or Seneca County Board of Elections will commit to not granting waivers to any polling site that is not accessible.

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: 61 Swan Street, Batavia, NY 14020
Contract No.: C006621
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Ann M. Bell, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Craig Wilcox

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Goal: A local school district will make procedural changes to incorporate information on ILCs, PASS Plans, VESID, and other community resources, in the transition plans of students with disabilities.
Goal: IL Philosophy and History Training will be incorporated into the procedure of a local CSE committee, to be presented during meetings with students with disabilities and their parents/guardians, in order to increase the knowledge of Independent Living Centers and the referrals to Independent Living Centers.

B. Employment Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will continue their efforts to increase the number of integrated employment opportunities for our consumers. There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs, such as internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for persons with disabilities.
GOAL: Establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
GOAL: A local One-Stop Center will incorporate "Sensitivity Training", developed by GRILC, as part of their training procedure for all new employees.
GOAL: GRILC will develop a written agreement with a local One-Stop to provide PASS Plan development and other employment services to their consumers who have disabilities.
GOAL: A local One-Stop will formally change its policies and procedures for referring consumers to community independent living services and resources.

C. Health Care Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will increase physical and communication access within health care facilities including physician offices, clinics, and hospitals.
GOAL: A local health care facility will change their policies to include information on community independent living resources, which allow individuals to remain in the community.
GOAL: A local long-term care facility will incorporate the Olmstead Panel DVD, developed by GRILC, as part of the information given to consumers and caregivers, to increase knowledge among these individuals, of what resources are available to allow individuals to remain in the community.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Goal: Increase ADA compliance in the business and commercial sectors of the community, i.e. Batavia Bus Service, restaurants, stores, etc.
Goal: GRILC will establish a written arrangement whereby a law enforcement agency will offer an on-site disability sensitivity training track as a regular part of it's training for employees.

E. Social Advocacy

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

F. Citizenship Advocacy

GOAL: The Center will ensure that political candidates adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.
GOAL: GRILC will increase the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide boards/committees/task forces, that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
GOAL: GRILC will continue to work towards the full implementation of HAVA in New York State.

5. BINGHAMTON

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Southern Tier Independence Center (STIC)
Address: 24 Prospect Avenue, Binghamton, NY 13901
Contract No.: C006646
Contract Period: October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Maria Dibble, Executive Director
Phone: (607) 724-2111
Email: mdibble@stic-cil.org
Board President Authorization: Linda Geise

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. EDUCATION

At least one school district will make a policy change to include vocational goals and activities in students' IEPs starting at age 14 (rather than waiting until the last semester).
A local school district will incorporate information about STIC, VESID and other appropriate agencies into students' transition plans.
Achieve a measurable increase in the inclusion of assistive technology in IEPs for students with disabilities.
STIC will establish a written contract with at least one additional school to provide augmentative communication assessments and related services to students with disabilities.
As a result of the activities of STIC's Parent Mentor Project, STIC will create an advocacy team of parents to identify and respond to systemic education issues as well as to assist and/or train other parents.
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 opportunities for children with disabilities in the mid-south region.
Through the advocacy efforts of the ECDC, a Special Education Itinerant Teacher for preschool children will become available in the region.
As a result of the advocacy activities of the ECDC, there will be a measurable increase in the availability of home-based services for children with disabilities.

B. EMPLOYMENT

Increase self-employment opportunities for people with disabilities in our service area.
Increase supported employment opportunities and availability in Chenango and Tioga Counties.
All One-Stops in Broome and Tioga Counties will become fully accessible.
Achieve a reallocation of employment related funding from sheltered to integrated employment programs on a statewide basis.
Achieve implementation of one consistent statewide policy for supported employment services no matter the funding source.
As a milestone toward securing passage of NYS Sovereign Immunity legislation, obtain the introduction and sponsorship of a Senate bill comparable to the Assembly's version.

C. HEALTH CARE

Increase the availability of psychiatric/evaluation services for children with disabilities in the Broome County area.
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.
The NYS legislature will adopt mental health parity legislation.
NYS DOH and SOFA will implement a plan for a Point of Entry (POE) for the Long Term Care program.
Prevent any changes to the Medicaid program that restrict or limit eligibility and choice.
Achieve a measurable improvement in the physical and programmatic accessibility of medical facilities in our service area.
DIVERSION, DEINSTITUTIONALIZATION AND OLMSTEAD IMPLEMENTATION GOALS:
1. When implemented, STIC will ensure verifiable local implementation of the NYS Department of Health Nursing Home Transition and Diversion Waiver.
2. At least one institution will include, as part of its community transition process, a comprehensive guide to supports and services developed by Broome County CASA with significant input from STIC.
3. Achieve greater integration, inclusion and/or independence of people with disabilities in Tioga County through the implementation of the "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" project verifiable by at least one consumer being approved for services through the program.
4. 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.
5. NYS will adopt an Olmstead Implementation Plan, which complies with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court decision.
6. Congress will adopt MiCASSA and/or "Money Follows the Person" legislation.

D. COMMERCE

Increase the availability of integrated daycare opportunities for preschool children with disabilities.
Achieve a measurable increase in the number of accessible local businesses.
Achieve verifiable implementation of "Access to Home" in Broome and Tioga Counties.
The City of Binghamton will implement the transition plan required under ADA.
NY will incorporate the housing provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act into state law.
NY will establish a statewide affordable accessible housing registry.
Secure passage of Income Source Discrimination legislation related to housing in NY.
Secure implementation of ADA Title III legislation in NY.

E. SOCIAL

NONE

F. CITIZENSHIP

Increase the number of accessible polling sites in Tioga and Chenango Counties.
As a result of STIC's advocacy efforts, the voting machines selected by Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties will be as accessible as possible.
The Broome, Tioga and Chenango Boards of Elections will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of polling site workers to appropriately assist people with disabilities at the polls.
Disaster preparation and relief plans addressing the needs and concerns of people with disabilities will be adopted in Broome County.
NYS will adopt legislation to incorporate Title II of the ADA into state law.
Prevent the adoption of the ADA Notification Act by Congress.
Prevent the appointment of judicial nominees that are in opposition to the protections of the ADA.
Increase participation of individuals with disabilities and/or center staff on community, regional and state boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had effective representation from the disability community.

6. BRONX

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Bronx Independent Living Services, Inc
Address: 3525 Decatur Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467
Contract No.: C006622
Report Period: October 01, 2005 to September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Susan Attzs-Mendoza
Board President Authorization: John Pugh

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Employment Advocacy:

Goal: To establish a written Community Benefits Agreement which will address jobs development and local employment initiatives for people with disabilities.

B. Commerce: Advocacy:

Goal: To increase the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.

C. Social Advocacy:

Goal: To increase the number of integrated community social activities that become accessible to people with disabilities.

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

Goal: To increase the number of accessible polling sites.

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.: C006623
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Sandrina Kingston, IL Coordinator
Board President Authorization: Charlotte Rubin

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

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

B. Commerce Advocacy:

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

C. Social Advocacy:

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

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

8. BUFFALO

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: The Western New York Independent Living Project, Inc.
Address: 3108 Main Street, Buffalo NY 14214
Center No.: C006654
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
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.

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.

C. Health Care Advocacy

As a result of WNYILP involvement on the Erie County Integrated Setting Committee, one county department will adopt policies that will maximize the community inclusion of persons with disabilities.
NYS Department of Mental Health shall issue regulations mandating the consistent application of notification of rights of consumer choice.

D. Social Advocacy

The ILP will increase access for persons with disabilities in places of worship.
The ILP will increase physical access and use of assistive listening devices in area theaters.
ILP will improve access to alternative communication formats in area theaters (i.e. programs, etc.).

E. 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.
The Erie County Department of Social Services will increase their physical access to Social Services programs.
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.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

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

9. CORNING

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

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

Name of Center: AIM Independent Living Center (AIM)
Address: 271 East First Street, Corning, New York 14830
Contract No. C006620
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Marsha Sweet, Deputy Director
Board President Authorization: Ed Pears, President

1. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Goal: Change school procedures to demonstrate that students with disabilities are being referred to adult service agencies when they are preparing to leave high school. Milestone: Upon establishment of a partnership with two Elmira schools, an AIM advocate will be sited in two school buildings in Elmira weekly, to provide transition services to students- insuring the dissemination of information on what adult services will be available to them upon transition from high school into the adult world and assisting with the referral process.
Goal: Ensure that PTA meetings and other school functions will be accessible for parents with disabilities. Milestone: AIM's Deaf Services team will meet with the Elmira Superintendent of Schools to ensure that a policy is created stating that meetings are accessible for parents who are deaf and/or hard of hearing.

B. Employment Advocacy

Goal: At least one area employer in Steuben or Chemung Counties will change his or her employment policies and/or procedures with regard to the recruitment process to eliminate questions that discriminate against people with disabilities. Milestone: All AIM advocates, in evaluating Title 1 of the ADA, will work with area employers regarding the requisite changes that eliminate questions that discriminate against people with disabilities.
Goal: At least one location of the Department of Labor in either Steuben or Chemung Counties will have assistive technology on site. Milestone: All AIM advocates, in evaluating Title 1 of the ADA, will work with local Departments of Labor in both Steuben and Chemung Counties regarding the use of TTY, voice recognition systems, Braille resources to assist people with disabilities who will visit the DOL site.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Goal: As a result of AIM's establishment of a referral system with at least one hospital, that hospital will make a policy and procedural change that will facilitate a more efficient referral process for community services for patients with disabilities. Milestone: Advocates working in AIM's Traumatically Brain Injured Program, or Consumer Directed Personal Assisting Services, or Deaf Services will promote, in all presentations, changes that educate hospitals to implement more efficient referral processes regarding patients with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Goal: A local public transit company will adopt a policy ensuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness. Milestone: AIM's public speaking personnel will canvass all public transit entities to do no-cost presentations that detail proper training and will offer services in the transit company reconstructing policy language.
Goal: At least one new place of commerce will install a TTY/TTD device. Milestone: In evaluating Access Award nominations throughout the year, advocates will request places of commerce to install a TTY/TTD.

E. Social Advocacy

Goal: At least one movie theatre in our catchment area will regularly provide and actively publicize captioned films for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Milestone: Advocates working in Deaf Services unit will promote through presentation to local movie theatres changes that urge theatre operators to implement captioned films for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Goal: At least one local government will start providing agendas in alternate formats at publicly attended meetings. Milestone: In meeting annually with local governments to promote AIM's programs and services, advocates will urge alternate format discussions.

10. CORTLAND

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
Address: 26 N. Main Street, Cortland, NY 13045
Contract No.: C006628
Report Period: October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Mary E. Ewing, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Andrea Haenlin-Mott

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.
Cincinnatus School District will make changes to the front entrance of the high school in order to make the facility accessible.

B. Employment Advocacy

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 (One-Stop) will increase programmatic access through the purchase of adaptive equipment, such as closed-captioned videotapes, tape recorders and word-prediction software.

C. Health Care Advocacy

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

D. Commerce Advocacy

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

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.
The Cortland Repertory Theatre (CRT) will become fully accessible.
The Cortland Arts Council will become fully accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of special events and gatherings in Cortland County that are accessible to travelers, tourists and community members.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of faith-based organizations in Cortland County that are accessible to people with disabilities.

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 that 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.: C006625
Report Period: October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: C. Zachmeyer
Board President Authorization: Margie Aitken

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education

Goal: Schools will add an independent living component to their curriculum.
Goal: At least one school will make a procedural change that allows for a disability awareness class to be taught as part of their curriculum.
Goal: A Disabilities Awareness and Sensitivity component will be added to at least one school's personnel training and/or in-service program.

B. Employment

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

C. Social

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

D. Commerce

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

E. Citizenship

Goal: The Center will ensure that voting machines purchased in NYS will be accessible to voters with disabilities.
Goal: At least one political candidate or incumbent will adopt a policy or make a procedural change to hold their meetings and rallies in accessible locations.

12. GLENS FALLS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Glens Falls Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 71 Glenwood Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804
Contract No.: C006632
Report Period: October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Karen A. Thayer
Board President Authorization: Norman H. Dobert

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one (1) area school district will change their transition policy to include distribution of a CD-ROM concerning services available through the Glens Falls Independent Living Center to transitioning students.
At least one (1) area college will implement a policy to hold a disability awareness forum at least annually.
At least one (1) area college or vocational school will change its Human Services curriculum to require students to attend a disability awareness training venue or worksho.

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one (1) area business will change its personnel application to eliminate questions that may be discriminatory for individuals with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one (1) area medical provider will improve accessibility for patients with disabilities.
At least one (1) area Social Security Administration office will change the system for disseminating information concerning Medicare Part D Coverage to make the information more accessible.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of agencies providing services through NYS Medicaid Waiver programs.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in integrated housing units for individuals with disabilities.
At least one (1) area hotel/motel will improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
At least one (1) area restaurant/eatery will improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
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 indoor recreational venues for individuals with disabilities.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible outdoor recreational venues for individuals 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.

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 Avenue, lower level, New York, NY 10027
Contract No.: COO6633
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Christina Curry
Board President Authorization: Vanessa Young

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

Issue: There is a continued lack of cohesive transitional programs for H.S. youths to postsecondary activities.

Activities:

Will continue with established linkages to New York State Rehabilitation Association's transitional services program.
Will continue with outreach to the public schools (elementary, Jr. H.S. and H.S.) in the community to inform them of HILC services.
Will continue to advocate for collaboration between HILC and the NYS Board of Education.

Outcome: HILC will assist with the increase of educational opportunities for PWDs with the Board of Education providing post secondary information for all discharge plans, to provide permanent policy/procedural changes.

B. Employment Advocacy:

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

Activities:

HILC will maintain linkages with Central Harlem VESID office to increase employment opportunities for program participants served by our respective agencies.
HILC will continue in its efforts towards removing barriers faced by people with disabilities who want to become part of the workforce.
HILC will continue to educate consumers about availability of funding for the various assistive technologies available.
HILC will provide small businesses with literature on applicable Federal Laws.
HILC will partner with the National Ticket to Work Program. Outcome: At least one area small business will become accessible for persons with disabilities.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

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

Activities:

HILC will provide community awareness in-house workshops on mental health issues.
HILC will continue in its outreach to local in/out patient mental health clinics/programs as well as support groups.
Increase consumer awareness/participation for mental health issues (i.e. lobbying).
HILC will host mental health support groups for PWDs.
HILC will obtain mental health grant to fund outreach efforts.
HILC will partner with UN consortium for Mental Health parity and PWDs. Outcome: One mental health facility will make its programs/services fully accessible to disabled persons with mental health needs.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Issue:

Local building codes, particularly as they address area colleges continue in their failure to adhere to accessibility standards.
Local public ferry waiting area is not physically accessible.
Local City Penal institutions are not compliant with Federal statutes regarding physical and programmatic accessibility.

Activities:

Will continue to work with other New York City CILs, Manhattan Borough President's Office and Mayor's office for Individuals with Disabilities to address non-compliance with local building codes.
Will consult with the Department of Justice and other interested legal firms.
Will continue with consultation of other disability focused agencies as needed.
Will attend City Council meetings in an effort to force physical and attitudinal compliance measures.
Will meet with State and Federal officials to discuss noncompliance issues.
Will conduct disability trainings with Staten Island Center for Independent Living.
Will work with the local penal institutions to conduct trainings on accessibility issues.

Outcome:

There will be a charge in local building codes, particularly as they address area colleges, which fail to adhere to the accessibility standards of ADDAG.
Local ferry waiting area will be accessible for PWDs.
Local penal institutions will be programmatically/physically accessible for inmates who are PWDs.

E. Social Advocacy:

Issue:

Recreational facilities within Harlem/District 10 continue to be inaccessible to persons with disabilities.
Harlem/District 10 has very few disability focused support groups.

Activities:

Develop a resource list of recreational facilities, which are accessible.
Plan and implement an annual bus ride for consumers to accessible facilities.
Maintain and distribute information at HILC regarding accessible facilities, movie houses, restaurants and other places accommodation.
Work with community social support groups to increase accessibility for PWDs.

Outcome: There will be an increase in the number of integrated social and recreational opportunities for PWDs within the Central Harlem district.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Issue: Local community boards continue to be inaccessible to persons with disabilities.

Activities:

HILC will continue to provide local community boards with ADA information.
HILC will petition other community disability focused agencies for support in advocating for access to local community boards.
HILC will contact local and state officials to gain support for access to local community boards.
HILC will meet with community board/district leaders to discuss alternate accessible sites for community board meetings.
HILC will meet with community board/district leaders to discuss outreach efforts within the disabled community.
HILC will meet with community board/district leaders to discuss efforts to increase presence of PWDs on community boards.

Outcome: Persons with disabilities will gain access to public committees, workgroups, board and task force committees that set policy as well as make decisions that affect PWDs.

14. ITHACA

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Finger Lakes Independence Center
Address: 215 Fifth Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
Contract No.: C006631
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Lenore Schwager
Board President Authorization: King Houston

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy:

GOAL: At one school district in Tompkins County will change its policy to allow FLIC to assist in the development of transition plans.
GOAL: At least one CSE will make procedural changes to have transition plans include information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy and links to other community based agencies and organizations.

B. Employment Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will assure that at least one employer adopts diversity policies and procedures, including policies and procedures which attract and employ people with disabilities.
GOAL: As a result of the FLIC sponsored World of Skills job fair, at least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate questions that discriminate in regards to a person's disability.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

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

D. Commerce Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will increase ADA compliance in the business community.
GOAL: FLIC will improve accessible parking in Tompkins County.

E. Social Advocacy:

GOAL: FLIC will increase integrated recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.
GOAL: FLIC will 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 ensure that political candidates and/or current political leaders will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.

15. JAMESTOWN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Southwestern Independent Living Center
Address: 843 N. Main St., Jamestown, NY 14701
Contract No.: C006647
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Marie Carrubba
Board President Authorization: Allen Wilcox

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 appropriate community based agencies and organizations.
At least one school district will change its policy to engage parents in their child's school, CSE Committee, and IEP development process at an earlier point in the child's education.
A disabilities awareness track, developed by independent living center staff, will be implemented as part of the school training curriculum in at least one school district in the center's service area so that students and their parents may learn about and access needed services provided by the independent living center.

B. Employment Advocacy:

ILC staff will establish a written memorandum of understanding with VESID and/or Department of Labor to conduct outreach and benefits advisement to consumers applying for VESID and/or DOL services.
Establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
ILC staff will establish a written memorandum of understanding to permit IL staff to meet with the local DSS office staff to provide benefits planning and training to ensure that working consumers who qualify for the Medicaid Buy-In will be appropriately reviewed under the Medicaid Buy-In rules and not the more stringent Medicaid eligibility requirements.
There will be a reallocation of employment related funding from sheltered to integrated employment programs at The Resource Center.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one community agency providing mental health services will improve its accessibility to consumers who are Deaf.
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, clinics and hospitals that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
The local public transit company will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
At least one local restaurant will provide its menu in an alternative format for consumers and make it available on request.

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:

In a written agreement with the Board of Elections, IL staff will provide on-site disability awareness and sensitivity training to polling site workers.
A local municipality will develop, advertise, and distribute "Personal Emergency Packets" to consumers for the purpose of emergency disaster preparedness.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites.
Political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.
There will be an increase in the number of consumers/staff that serve on community and statewide boards/committees/task forces that previously have not had representation from the disability community.

16. KINGSTON

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Accessible Living, Inc.
Address: 592 Ulster Avenue, Kingston, New York 12401
Contract No.: COO6640
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Susan J. Hoger, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: R. Marie Altenau
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: MHA)
RCAL will provide a Special Education Training Track focusing on transition to be incorporated at one Ulster County Human Service Organization. It will be incorporated as part of staff training for professionals who work with high-risk children. (Target: Children's Home)

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 on Universal Design Disability Awareness Track as a regular part of its curriculum for town and village planning and zoning boards across Ulster County.

D. Social Advocacy

RCAL will increase accessible recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

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

17. LONG ISLAND

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Long Island Center For Independent Living
Address: 3601 Hempstead Turnpike, Suite 31, Levittown, NY 11756
Contract No.: C006634
Contract Year: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Patricia Moore
Phone: (516) 796-0144
Board President Authorization: Mary Ellen Lewis

1. Systems Advocacy and Community Change Plan

A. Education Advocacy

The Office of Disability Services at a local community college will implement a LICIL-designed training module on Self Advocacy Skills Development and Reasonable Accommodations in education and the workplace.

B. Employment Advocacy

LICIL's Director of Advocacy and Community Policy will secure a seat on the Long Island Working Partnership.

C. Healthcare Advocacy

A local area hospital will adopt a policy brought forth by LICIL that will identify, serve and be accountable for properly servicing specific needs of their disabled patients so as not to compromise safety, comfort and dignity.
New Island Hospital will purchase an accessible transfer-gurney for use in its Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center in order to increase safety and accessibility for individuals with disabilities undergoing this treatment.

D. Commerce Advocacy

A local Co-Op complex will provide disabled parking for its residents with disabilities.
HSBC Bank will install automatic doors at its Levittown location.
In the interest of increasing disability access, the Town of Hempstead will continue to add curb cuts throughout the municipality.

E. Citizenship Advocacy

FEGS/IPRT Program will adopt a LICIL-designed training to educate and empower consumers with psychiatric disabilities about the voting process and the significance of their vote in the larger scheme of politics as it impacts the lives of persons with disabilities.

18. MANHATTAN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: CENTER FOR INDEPENDENCE OF THE DISABLED OF NEW YORK, INC.
Address: 841 Broadway, Suite 301, New York, NY 10003
Contract No.: C006627
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Susan Dooha, Executive Director
Telephone: 212-674-2300 x 140
Fax: 212-254-5953
e-mail: sdooha@cidny.org
Board President Authorization: Ann M. Davis

Ensuring Integration in the Community through Advocacy, Services and Consumer Involvement CIDNY remains committed to breaking down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from full participation in the community. We have always recognized that equitable access to civic, educational, employment and social opportunities are necessary for our consumers if they are to obtain and maintain independence. Through advocacy, direct services and the involvement of our consumers, CIDNY is able to take a multi-pronged approach to ensuring that such access is not only available, but also becomes ingrained in public policy and public opinion as a meaningful benefit to society as a whole.

I. Community and Systems Change Plan

CIDNY is committed to achieving an outcome in at least one goal in three of the six advocacy areas during fiscal year 2005-2006. The five year plan for community and systems change (2002-2007) provides the basis for activities in each area. Systems change is often the result of persistent advocacy over a period of years; this assumption is reflected in the repetition of goals from year to year.

A. Education Advocacy

At least one secondary school in New York City will improve transition plan execution by establishing policy and mechanisms to regularly review and modify, as needed, the students' IEP goals and regularly track the students' progress versus their IEP goals.

B. Employment Advocacy

A local VESID district office will establish policies and procedures for ensuring access to interpreter services and materials in translation in order to provide linguistically and culturally appropriate services for VESID consumers.
As a result of 7th Sense technical advice and training to law firms through the New York Bar Association's Disability Committee and outreach to New York City financial institutions, policies, procedures and training programs will be implemented to increase the number of employees with disabilities in these firms and to improve the firms' capacities to build a disability friendly work.

C. Health Care Advocacy

New York State's pharmaceutical assistance program, EPIC, will modify its criteria to increase coverage to people with disabilities under the age of 65.
Consumer protections will be established for dual eligibles in the new hybrid Medicaid/ Medicare plans (called Medicaid Advantage Plans) launched by New York State in April 2005, covering areas such as due process protections, clearly defined benefits, timely prior authorization processes, and consumer friendly enrollment and disenrollment procedures.
CIDNY will ensure that State legislation is enacted which closes any gap in prescription drug access in Medicare Part D for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
The New York State legislature will amend the New York State insurance law by enacting measures to prohibit the exclusion or limitation of benefits for mental illness and chemical dependency in health insurance plans.
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will enact a policy that ensures accessible substance abuse treatment for people with co-existing disabilities, both physical and cognitive.
The NYS Most Integrated Setting Coordinating Council will develop a comprehensive, statewide plan for the implementation of the Olmstead Decision that is satisfactory to the Independent Living network.

D. Commerce Advocacy

Federal, state, and city governments and housing agencies will develop and enact initiatives to expand the stock of accessible and affordable housing in order to prevent homelessness and to decrease the numbers of people with disabilities living in nursing homes.
The state and local legislature will amend the DRIE law to establish income threshold parity with SCRIE.
The New York State legislature will pass legislation to establish a mandatory statewide housing registry of all accessible and affordable housing stock.
The entire fleet of buses in the inter-borough bus systems will become fully accessible.

E. 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 address the needs and concerns of people with disabilities.
Congress will scrutinize the impact of proposals for social security reform on people with disabilities and, subsequently, vote against proposals that undermine social insurance.
The New York State legislature will pass legislation that reinforces state and local governments' commitments to assume full responsibility to comply with Title II and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

19. MASSENA

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Massena Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 156 Center Street, Massena, New York 13662
Contract No.: C006635
Report Period October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Mr. Jeff Reifensnyder - Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Ms. Wanda Harvey - President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

The Massena Independent Living Center, Inc. (MILC) will ensure that an Independent Living History and Philosophy awareness track developed by MILC is instituted as part of the training curriculum regularly offered by vocational agencies to Job Coaches and Transition Planning Teams in our area.
A local university will change its policies to ensure students with disabilities are fully 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 a local Department of Social Services District to incorporate a disability peer mentoring component developed by MILC into their dealings with people with disabilities seeking financial transition from Welfare.

C. Health Care Advocacy

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

D. Commerce Advocacy

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

E. Social Advocacy

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

F. Citizenship Advocacy

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

20. MIDDLETOWN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Action Toward Independence, Inc.
Address: 130 Dolson Avenue Suite 35, Middletown, New York 10940
Contract No.: C006618
Report Period: October 1, 2005-September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Rachel M. Bartlow-Pappas, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Carl Berkowitz

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school in Orange County will adopt or change its policy to include a parent on the CSE committee permanently.
At least one school will adopt policy to establish a recommendation protocol to seek assistance in Educational Advocacy pertaining to students with disabilities before the IEP process begins.
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:

As a result of ATI advocacy VESID will adopt policy that VESID counselors will directly refer consumers who are in need of pre-vocational training to the appropriate agency for needed skill development.
The Center will establish a mechanism to ensure local implementation of the Medicaid Buy-in and have it verified by at least one consumer participating in the program in Sullivan County.
Occupations, Inc. will change their policy to ensure people with disabilities who work in their sheltered workshops will make at least minimum wage.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

ATI will establish a Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program in Sullivan County.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible doctors offices, health care clinics, dentists and hospitals for individuals with mobility disabilities.
As a result of ATI's advocacy at least one hospital will make a policy and procedural change that will facilitate a more efficient referral process for community services for patients with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

At least one grocery store will install Braille keypads in the check-out line in either or both Orange or Sullivan Counties.
At least one business or store will become ADA Title III compliant in either or both Orange and Sullivan Counties.

E. Social Advocacy:

At least one public entity that provides fitness facilities (such as gyms or YMCA) will become accessible through ATI advocacy.
At least one public entity that provides musical venues (such as arenas or parks) will become accessible through ATI advocacy.
The casino in Sullivan County will be made accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

At least one polling site will become accessible in Orange or Sullivan County.
ATI staff and/or consumers will serve on committees, boards or task forces that have previously not had representation from the disability community.

21. NEWBURGH

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: INDEPENDENT LIVING, Inc.
Address: 5 Washington Terrace, Newburgh, NY 12550
Contract No.: C006630
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Arnie Abrams, Associate Director
Board President Authorization: Robert Browning

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy:

Advocate for systemic changes that result in 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.

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.
In our capacity as the Mid-Hudson Regional Early Childhood Direction Center, 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 underserved neighborhoods in culturally diverse communities in Orange, Ulster, Dutchess and Sullivan Counties.
Advocate to increase the number of parents and students actively participating in the IEP process in the Newburgh Enlarged City School District and in public school districts served by the Orange Ulster Board of Cooperative Educational Services.
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.
Continue to advocate for procedural changes at the Newburgh Enlarged City School District and the Orange-Ulster BOCES that result in providing equal access to extracurricular activities for students receiving special education services.
Advocate for changes to transition plans for students with disabilities in local school districts that result in the routing inclusion of information pertaining to PASS, VESID, Independent Living, advocacy and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.

OUTCOMES

At least one school district will change its policy to engage parents in their child's transition planning process.
One neighborhood-based organization in a culturally diverse community will establish a policy to include as part of its informational materials, information about disability and early intervention/education services in both English and Spanish.
At least one county childcare council will incorporate ILI developed disability awareness education into their required training curriculum for day care providers.
The Newburgh Enlarged City School District will institute a disability awareness tack developed by ILI as part of the school personnel-training curriculum.
At least one local school district will change its policy to provide equal access to extracurricular activities for students receiving special education services.
A local school district will make procedural changes that result in increased participation by students with disabilities in work learning programs.
A local school district will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy, and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.

B. Employment Advocacy:

Advocate for systemic changes that result in an end to segregated, sheltered workshops. Increase the capacity of persons with disabilities to obtain and retain competitive employment.

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

OUTCOMES

Establish a formal arrangement whereby the One-Stop Center located in the City of Newburgh will offer on-site advocacy services for persons with disabilities through a cooperative agreement with the independent living center.
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.

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.

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

OUTCOMES

One or more county departments of social services will adopt policies that enable self-directing individuals to schedule the hours authorized for PA services at their own discretion.
At least one community or governmental agency providing mental health services will improve its accessibility to people who are Deaf.
At least one hospital or community health care center will change its policies and practices to ensure full access to health services by individuals who are Deaf.
At least one local physicians office will improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
A local health care facility will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.
One or more local departments of social services will establish an agreement with the independent living center to adopt an ongoing practice of providing periodic disability awareness training to all DSS personnel.
The Orange County Mental Health Department will establish an agreement with the independent living center to adopt an ongoing practice of providing periodic Deaf cultural awareness training to all mental health practitioners.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

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

Continue to advocate with local municipalities regarding the consistent enforcement of accessible/adaptable requirements in new construction.
Provide ADA training and technical support to local code enforcement officials.
Continue to advocate for the full implementation of Orange County's ADA and Section 504 Transition Plan and Self-Evaluation as adopted by the County on November 30, 2000 in accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Continue to advocate for increased accessible housing options for persons with disabilities.
Advocate for greater access to community amenities by persons who are Deaf.

OUTCOMES

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
The local public transit company will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all transit/driving personnel on disability and Deaf awareness.
At least one municipal police department will establish an agreement with the Center that implements the ongoing practice of providing Deaf and disability awareness as part of the training/orientation for law enforcement officers.
A local housing organization will establish an accessible housing program that makes home modification services available to residences throughout Orange County, with technical support provided under contract with the independent living center.
At least one local landlord will make additional, accessible housing units available for persons with physical disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy:

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

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

OUTCOMES

At least one community club or service organization will adopt a policy assuring that meeting places are fully accessible.
One or more community service organizations will establish an agreement with ILI to provide disability awareness training for all of its members.
A municipal recreation department will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel in the areas of disability awareness and the ADA.
A local health club/fitness center will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

Continue to advocate for the local Board of Elections to adopt policies and processes that ensure the training of all newly hired election officials about the rights of persons with disabilities at polling places.
Continue to advocate for an increase in the participation of individuals with significant disabilities on governing boards of community organizations responsible for making decisions about the funding of disability services that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
Continue to advocate for increased participation by individuals with significant disabilities on governing boards of community organizations responsible for making decisions affecting the lives of persons with disabilities, in the areas of employment, recreation, citizenship, education, housing, and health care that previously have not had representation from the disability community.
Advocate with the Orange County Board of Elections and local municipalities to achieve 100% polling place accessibility.

OUTCOMES

The 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 policy of granting waivers to polling sites by including the stipulation that any waivers that are granted will be done so subject to prior review by the ILC.

22. NIAGARA FALLS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Niagara Frontier Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 1522 Main Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14305-2522
Contract No.: C006636
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Kathleen A. Pautler, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Patti King-Walter

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

There is a measurable increase in the number of schools using sign language interpreters.
At least one school district's will change its policies/procedures to ensure that school buildings are fully accessible to students with disabilities.
At least one school district's policies/procedures will be changed to allow for more involvement of students and their parents in the IEP and CSE processes.
At least one school district will incorporate Parent Information Nights as an education 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.

B. Employment Advocacy:

The Niagara One-Stop will become fully accessible.
At least one employer in the Center's catchment area will make changes in its employment policies to comply with Title I of the ADA.
At least one area business will change its policies regarding the rights of employees with disabilities and procedures for obtaining reasonable accommodations.
Establish a written arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer an on-site advocacy program for persons with disabilities.
NFCIL will ensure local implementation of the Medicaid Buy-In, as verified by at least one consumer participating in the program.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Niagara and Erie Counties Health and Social Services Departments will change their policies to allow as many hours as needed, including 24 hour, home care when necessary to avoid placement in nursing homes or other institutions.
Successful results of law suits/class actions will lead to a change in county policies that support full community integration of people with disabilities and prevent and decrease institutionalization.
NFCIL will establish a Consumer Directed Personal Assistive Program (CDPAP).
Secure the adoption of State Consumer Directed Personal Assistance (CDPA) regulations that include uniform availability of CDPA in all NY counties and preserve the intent of consumer control.
There will be a measurable increase in the number of health care providers and programs that are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of businesses that provide accessible parking spaces.
Increase the number of businesses that are fully accessible.
At least one area business will relocate its accessible parking spots located in unsafe areas to a safer location.
At least one police department will change its policy to make accessible parking enforcement a main concern.
At least one area law enforcement organization will change its policies to utilize trained citizens to ticket cars illegally parked in handicapped parking.
Through trainings provided by NFCIL and then incorporated by law enforcement agencies, all newly hired officers will be aware of the needs of persons with disabilities.
NFCIL will establish in Niagara County, an Interpreter Program supported by grant funding and/or self-sustaining fee-for-service agreements.
NFTA will change its policy allowing more people with disabilities access to the PAL (para-transit access system).

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be a measurable increase in the number of fully integrated recreational activities.
The accessibility of existing recreational facilities will increase.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

The Niagara County and/or Erie County Board of Elections will incorporate NFCIL training on disability sensitivity and awareness for its poll watchers.
The Center will ensure that political candidates adopt policies that ensure that meetings, rallies and offices are in accessible locations.
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.

23. OLEAN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Directions in Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 512 West State Street Olean, New York 14760
Contract No. C006629
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Leonard Liguori
Board President Authorization: Nancy Crawford

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

At least one elementary school within the Center's catchment area will adopt DIL's coloring book "Same Yet Different" as part of their class curriculum.
A local school will incorporate DIL's 'Transition to Work' interview for junior and/or senior special education students as part of their transition program.
Long Term goal development is the formation of a parent and teacher organization dedicated to furthering and strengthening the supports and services for special education students in a school district of Cattaraugus and/or Allegany County.

B. Employment Advocacy

A new Summer Employment Program for disabled youth will be established by DIL in the community.

C. Health Care Advocacy

A much-needed single room shelter in Cattaraugus County will be accessible and integrated.
Directions mental health transition program will be incorporated in local county jail for inmates who will soon be discharged back into the community.

D. Commerce Advocacy

'Sensitivity Training' developed by DIL will be adopted by one hotel in catchment area on an annual basis.
One long-term goal for the Cattaraugus or Allegany County is having area hotels and/or restaurants being designated as accessible in the county's tourism booklets published annually.
Adaptive traffic signals will be installed in Olean.

E. Social Advocacy

A fairground/chamber of commerce/recreational program will incorporate a DIL developed accessibility and sensitivity training or establish a written agreement for DIL to conduct it on an annual basis.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites.

24. PLATTSBURGH

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: North Country Center for Independence, Ltd.
Address: 102 Sharron Avenue, Plattsburgh, New York 12901-3803
Contract No.: C006637
Contract Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Andrew D. Pulrang, Executive Director
Phone: (518) 563-9058 V / TTY
Board President Authorization: Norman Koslofsky

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

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

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one employer in the Center's service area will make documented changes in its employment policies to comply with Title I of the ADA.
The regional VESID and/or CVBH office will establish a policy to include ADA Title I and New York State Human Rights Law information as part of its application process for new consumers.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

The Essex County Department of Social Services and Department of Health will establish the necessary administrative structures (contracts, MOUs, protocols, etc.) to offer Consumer Directed Personal Assistance services to eligible consumers in Essex County.
Essex County's Board of Supervisors and/or the Department of Social Services will pass legislation and/or change policies to enact the addition of accessible vehicles to available Medicaid transportation.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

City Cab Company of Plattsburgh will adopt policies and practices for drivers that ensure compliance with the ADA.
At least 5 businesses, for which full accessibility is technically and financially infeasible, will adopt polities and practices that make their goods and services more equally available to customers with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy:

The annual Mayor's Cup Festival and Regatta in Plattsburgh will adopt and carry out a comprehensive plan for making the event accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

At least one area agency serving people with disabilities will establish a written agreement to make its fleet of accessible vans and buses available to transport wheelchair users, including people not affiliated with the agency, to the polls on election days.

25. POUGHKEEPSIE

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc.
Address: 82 Washington St. Suite 214, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Contract No.: C006649
Report Period: October 1-2005- September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Cynthia L. Fiore, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Thomas J. Marone, Board President

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

At least one school district in Dutchess County will change its policy to allow TRI to assist in the development of transition plans.
TRI will increase educational opportunities for people with disabilities by at least one adult continuing education program changing its policies to improve access.

B. Employment Advocacy:

At least one area business will change its recruitment process to eliminate practices and questions that discriminate in regards to people with disabilities.
Dutchess Works, the county's One-Stop employment center, will change its policies and procedures to include in their information packet, for those with disabilities, information on Independent Living, VESID, CBVH, and other community resources as appropriate.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

Change at least one institution's policy to include making referrals to the TRI Center as an integral part of their discharge planning process.
There will be an increase in the number of physicians' offices that improve physical and communication access for persons with disabilities.
St. Francis Hospital will implement a policy change to ensure that qualified sign language interpreters and appropriate communication aides are provided to patients who are Deaf.
The local Department of Social Services will adopt a policy assuring the proper training of all DSS personnel on disability sensitivity and awareness.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

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

E. Social Advocacy:

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

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

26. QUEENS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Queens Independent Living Center
Address: 140-40 Queens Boulevard, Jamaica, New York 11435
Contract No.: C006639
Report Period: October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Daniel Aliberti, Acting Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Daniel Aliberti

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

Issue: To ensure that barriers are removed regarding students with disabilities within the local high schools.

Activities: QILC will:

Network with local high schools and invite students with disabilities to visit and learn about the Center.
Offer students the opportunity to utilize the Computer Center to determine if newer technology can assist with his/her educational goals.
Form a focus group of students with disabilities to discuss and identify systemic barriers that exist within the New York City Department of Education.

Outcome: A local school system will make a procedural change to have transition plans for high school students with disabilities include information on Independent Living Centers, VESID, and agency linkages.

B. Employment Advocacy:

Issue: To ensure that people with disabilities gain the needed computer and technology skills that would further their employment opportunities.

Activities: QILC will continue to:

Market our Computer Center equipped with the latest adaptive technology.
Develop trainings that can help individuals gain knowledge of basic office computing skills.
Conduct outreach to organizations and individuals who could utilize such a service.
Create computer courses based on participant need or request.

Outcome: Establish with at least one organization a written fee for service contract to utilize the QILC Computer Center to assist persons with disabilities to access the employment market.

C. Healthcare Advocacy:

Issue: To remove barriers to appropriate health care in the borough of Queens.

Specific Issue: To ensure that local hospitals provide direct ASL interpreter services or purchase the technology available to import these services from a remote location for Deaf patients.

Activities: QILC will:

Formally survey Queens hospitals to determine the availability of ASL interpreters or the technology to provide off-site services.
Engage the hospital administration of non-compliant hospitals and discuss the legal implications in failing to provide interpreter services.
Make complaints to the appropriate authorities.

Outcome: At least one local non-compliant hospital will establish policies and procedures for the provision of sign language interpreter services.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Issue: To ensure that local businesses are accessible to people with disabilities.

Activities: QILC will continue to:

Conduct accessibility surveys of local businesses, including banks, supermarkets, etc.
Meet with business owners and managers to discuss accessibility and the current federal, state and city laws.
Forward appropriate complaints to the New York City Commission on Human Rights.

Outcome: At least one local business will become accessible to persons with disabilities.

Issue: To ensure there is affordable housing for people with disabilities in the borough of Queens. Activities: QILC will continue to:

Educate consumers on issues regarding affordable and accessible housing.
Apply for, and distribute and manage section-8 vouchers that may become available through HUD notice of funding availability.
Apply for additional supported housing slots if they become available, based on increased funding.
Advocate with DHCR to increase accessible, affordable housing for people with disabilities through section-8 and other housing initiatives.
Conduct weekly housing workgroups.

Outcome: QILC will be awarded a HUD grant to administer a Section 8 housing voucher program thus increasing accessible, affordable housing options for people with disabilities.

E. Social Advocacy:

No systems advocacy goals expected this year.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Issue: To ensure that New York City polling places are accessible to people with disabilities. Activities: QILC will continue to:

Network and advocate to ensure implementation of HAVA as it pertains to New York State and New York City elections.
Conduct ongoing advocacy to ensure that voting machines are accessible for people with disabilities.
Offer its findings from a borough-wide accessibility survey on Election Day 2004.
Recruit and educate voters and potential voters regarding their rights and responsibilities in the voting process. Outcome: There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites.

27. ROCHESTER

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Regional Center for Independent Living, Inc. (RCIL)
Address: 1641 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610
Contract No.: C006643
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Todd E. Eggert, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Jim Leary

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

Build on previous success by continuing to increase students with disabilities right to self direction and freedom of choice by eliminating the policy in at least one additional school district of having disabled students assemble in one area and wait for assistance during fire drills and other emergency evacuation situations.

B. Employment Advocacy

A local employer will develop and implement a written policy on reasonable accommodations pursuant to Title I of the ADA.

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 physical/programmatic accessibility to people with disabilities.
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 State of New York will agree to provide gap coverage to dually Medicaid/Medicare eligible consumers who will otherwise lose some medication coverage after implementation of the Medicare Part D program begins in Jan 06.

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.
Secure passage of legislation in Monroe County that results in an increase of audible traffic signals located throughout the County.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
The Department of Health's TBI Waiver Housing Unit will implement a process whereby participants who receive rental subsidies may convert them to home ownership subsidies.
At least one airline serving the Greater Rochester International Airport will establish a written agreement with RCIL to conduct a program to train its employees in both disability etiquette and proper handling of wheelchairs used by passengers.

E. Social Advocacy

The Monroe County Park Department will establish appropriately accessible viewing areas of movies/performances held at Ontario Beach Park for wheelchair users.
Rochester's para-transit service, Lift Line, will establish an appropriately accessible and safe pick up/drop off point at Ontario Beach Park for people with disabilities.
The Rochester Museum and Science Center will adopt guidelines to provide maximum accessibility to their exhibits and programs for people with a variety of disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

Increase the number of people with disabilities involved in the political process by establishing an advocacy network/infrastructure with organized teams of trained consumer advocates available to address issues as they arise.
Increase the total number of accessible polling sites throughout RCIL's service area.
Political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are fully accessible including the dissemination of campaign materials in alternate formats.

28. ROCKLAND

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Rockland Independent Living Center, Inc.
Address: 230 North Main Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Contract No.: C006644
Report Period: October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Miriam Cotto, Executive Director
Phone: 845-426-0707
Board President Authorization: Serge Jelenevsky
E-mail: serge@jelenevsky.com

1. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

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.
One local school district will make a policy change to provide printed information to each special education student/family on changes in IDEA.

B. Employment Advocacy

One local business will have changed its application policies to provide accessibility to the visually impaired.
One local agency providing supported employment services will establish a formal procedure to include benefits advisement to all its clients before they begin employment.

C. Health Care Advocacy

The local DSS will establish a policy or issue a directive whereby an interpreter(s), for Spanish and French/Creole speaking applicants, will be diverted from the mainstream traditional programs to PAS/CD-PAS.
The Medicaid Unit of the local Department of Social Services will establish a policy to provide printed information on all Medicaid programs available to people with disabilities (regular Medicaid, disability Medicaid with a spend-down, Medicaid Buy-in and Medicare Savings Plans).

D. Commerce Advocacy

One local restaurant will be accessible to people who use wheelchairs/scooters.
One local business or not-for-profit agency will become accessible to deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired consumers.
One local parking lot will now have proper handicapped parking.

E. Social Advocacy

One senior center will become accessible to people using wheelchairs/scooters.
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.
One local park or ball-field will have handicapped parking.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

The Rockland County Board of elections will establish a policy to provide information on the proper use of the new voting machines to people with disabilities.
One polling place previously inaccessible will be made accessible.
The Rockland County legislature will make a proclamation or issue a regulation to set aside a specific date to celebrate the anniversary of the ADA.

29. STATEN ISLAND

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Staten Island Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 470 Castleton Avenue Staten Island, NY 10301
Contract No.: C006648
Report Period: October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Dorothy M. Doran, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: A. Georg Fleischer, M.D.

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

ISSUE: The St. John's University Staten Island Campus will be completely accessible by 2007.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will continue to meet with members of the Accessibility Committee of the school.
Staff will assist in plans for new buildings.
Recommendations will be made to the President of the University.

RESULTS:

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

ISSUE: As a result of a consumer survey, an integrated literacy group has been requested.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will recruit interested consumers and non-disabled individuals who wish to join this group.
A convenient time will be determined to meet.
Staff will write proposals to fund this program.
A group leader will be chosen by the consumers to lead in the discussions.

RESULTS: The first integrated literacy group will be established on Staten Island

B. Employment Advocacy:

ISSUE: Consumers find it difficult to find accessible employment agencies on Staten Island.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff of the One-Stop Program, JESC, (JOB EMPLOYMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE), VESID and CBVH will be invited to participate in these workshops.
Members of the Chamber of Commerce will be invited to meet with consumers and other agencies.

RESULTS: Staten Island based employment Agencies will become more accessible to consumers.

ISSUE: The One-Stop Program has recently been established and is in need of accessibility consultation.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff of SICIL will participate in the meetings of the One-Stop Program to offer advice on networking, physical accessibility and working with consumers.

RESULTS: Policies and procedures of the One-Stop Program will be amended to reflect the changes made that promote accessibility.

ISSUE: A program is needed that will assist individuals with developmental disabilities to prepare for the adult world of work.

ACTIVITIES:

Write proposals for this program.
If funded, employ an individual with the qualifications needed to coordinate this program.
Visit schools and agencies to inform them of this program. RESULTS Collaborating with VESID, CBVH and the One-Stop Program, SICIL will contract with the DDPC/UNITED WAY to establish a pre-employment program for individuals with developmental disabilities that will prepare them for competitive employment.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

ISSUE: Pursuant to a survey taken by SICIL in the summer of 2003, consumers will be active in the legislative process that addresses their health needs.

ACTIVITIES:

Workshops on the enhanced Medicare Prescription Bill will be offered to consumers.
A workshop on how bills become laws will be offered.
Consumers will be given the opportunity to meet their representatives to discuss their health needs.
The center will promote the passage of bills that address the health issues of its consumers.

RESULTS:

New health laws that address prescription drugs, Medicaid and Medicare and eliminate barriers will be adopted in the fiscal year 2005-2006.

ISSUE:

SICIL will join with legislators and other agencies to sponsor two Health and Safety Fairs.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will meet with members of the Inter-Agency Council for the Aging to plan a Health and Information Fair in the fall of 2005 and the Spring of 2006.
Members of the NYS Senate, Assembly and NYC City Council have invited the Center to take part in their Health Fairs and assist them in the planning process.
Staff will invite safety experts to make presentations about emergency preparedness.
Staff will prepare brochures and other publications that address consumer's interests.

RESULTS:

Policies of local health and other business facilities will be changed to address safety and health needs of consumers.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

ISSUE: SICIL will continue to meet with Assemblyman Michael Cusick and the NYS Handicapped Parking Committee and will address the complaints of consumers.

ACTIVITIES:

The Center will invite legislators to join a consumer-controlled committee to learn about problems of consumers.
Members of the DOT and Police Department will be asked to submit reports showing the numbers of tickets given out to offenders.
Legislation will be requested by the committee that will enforce violations.

RESULTS:

A new law that will correct the misuse of the Handicapped Parking ID will be enacted in the fiscal year 2006.

ISSUE: Ferries will become completely accessible to consumers by 2008.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff and consumers will continue to join with other agencies to demand accessible ferries.
Letters, telephone calls and meetings with legislators will be planned to advise them of consumer needs.
Consumers will be invited to advocate with the Center.

RESULTS:

As a result of a City Council Law, all ferries and NYC terminals must become accessible by 2008.

ISSUE: As a result of many meetings with personnel from the Department of Transportation, members of Disabled in Action and the Harlem Independent Living Center, a recommendation was made to do sensitivity training for deckhands and other Staten Island Ferry personnel.

ACTIVITIES:

Meet with ferry personnel to plan training.
Meet with staff once a month to educate and sensitize them.
Produce a manual specifically geared for this training. RESULTS Personnel Policies will be amended and staff of the Department of Transportation will be trained to assist passengers with disabilities.

ISSUE: The New York State Driver's Manual has a small section devoted to pedestrians with a disability.

ACTIVITIES:

SICIL staff will meet with legislators to request additional information about individuals with disabilities is placed in the manual.
Staff will meet with driving school instructors to inform them of the need for more education in this regard.

RESULTS:

The Department of Motor Vehicles will amend its manual to include additional information about disabilities. Driving Instructors will devote a portion of their training to disability awareness.

ISSUE: SICIL will continue to advocate for accessible, acceptable and convenient transportation for consumers.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will invite other agencies and consumers to offer workshops and hearings on transportation needs.
Legislators will be invited to meet with the committee to hear its concerns.
Policies will be suggested that will improve the program

RESULTS:

New York City will have an improved Transportation Program for consumers and there will be more accessible taxis and vans in the fiscal year.

ISSUE: The Center will continue to work on a campaign for affordable and accessible housing.

ACTIVITIES:

Consumers and agencies will continue to work on a housing committee that will address the housing needs of islanders with disabilities.
Legislators will be invited to hear the concerns of consumers.
Builders, developers and real estate brokers will be invited to a special meeting to discuss the problems.

RESULTS: Legislation addressing affordable and accessible housing will be passed in 2006.

ISSUE: Staten Island's traffic system is hindering pedestrians with disabilities in their attempts to cross streets safely.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will contact the Department of Transportation to offer suggestions about problems faced by consumers.
Surveys will be taken to determine how traffic lights can be adjusted to allow safer crossings for pedestrians.
Staff will join with other organizations to provide information about crossings.

RESULTS:

Traffic lights will be synchronized and new traffic lights will be installed to allow safer crossings for individuals with disabilities. 8. ISSUE The business community of the North Shore of Staten Island wishes to learn more about accommodating customers.

ACTIVITIES:

SICIL will join with the West Brighton LDC to assist business leaders in making accommodations for customers.
Braille menus and other formats will be given to restaurants.
Renovations will be made to stores. RESULTS The stores and offices of West Brighton will be accessible to consumers.

ISSUE: A number of sidewalks are not accessible to individuals with disabilities.

ACTIVITIES:

Survey consumers for their input in finding non-accessible sidewalks.
Contact DOT personnel with documented complaints.
Follow-up to observe compliance.

RESULTS: Sidewalks and curb cuts will be made accessible on Staten Island.

E. Social Advocacy:

ISSUE: The St. George Theatre is not completely accessible.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will meet with personnel of the theatre to determine the accessibility needs.
Proposals will be written to assist in the renovations.

RESULTS: The St. George Theatre will be made accessible.

ISSUE: The Children's Museum is requesting assistance in offering new integrated programs for children with and without disabilities.

ACTIVITIES:

Staff will meet with personnel of the museum to plan activities.
Presentations will be made to visitors.
New information about disabilities will be provided.

RESULTS: The Children's Museum will offer a new integrated program for all children that addresses disabilities.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

Political candidates will adopt policies that ensure that meetings and rallies are held in accessible locations.
A new civil rights bill for New York City will be passed in fiscal year 2005-2006.

30. SUFFOLK

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Self Initiated Living Options Inc. dba Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO)
Address: 745 Waverly Ave, Holtsville, NY 11742
Contract No.: C006645
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Edward J. Ahern, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Jeff Zemla

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

A written agreement will be established with at least 1 school district for SILO to provide peer counseling services to students with disabilities.
There will be a change in school district policy that will facilitate an increase in the involvement of students and families in CSE meetings and IEP development.
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 3 schools will make physical access changes to facilities to enable greater access for students with disabilities.
As a result of one local town's desire to provide more services to residents with disabilities, it will contract with SILO to provide more concentrated IL skills and self-advocacy training to residents with disabilities.

B. Employment Advocacy:

SILO Peer Counseling services will be incorporated by the local One-Stop for job seekers with disabilities.
One local One-Stop location that previously did not have a person with a disability involved in the planning committee will appoint an individual with a disability to provide input into planning of programs and services.
At least 3 employers will change their policies and procedures to provide reasonable accommodations to applicants or employees by utilizing a SILO developed 'Request for Reasonable Accommodation' form.
At least 3 employers will eliminate illegal questions from their hiring practices as a result of SILO's Employment and Work Incentive Project.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

SILO will begin to provide services under the Consumer Directed Personal Assistant Program (CDPAP).
One local rehabilitation hospital will change its policies and procedures to provide IL information to all patients during discharge planning.

D. Commerce: Advocacy:

SILO will ensure that 75% of all homeless shelters in Suffolk County are accessible to people with mobility impairments.
One local police agency will change their policies and procedures to include training on the rights of people with disabilities as well as disability awareness.

E. Social Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of accessible houses of worship.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Suffolk County.

31. SYRACUSE

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: ARISE
Address: 635 James St., Syracuse, N.Y. 13203
Contract No.: C006619
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Nina Lutz
Board President Authorization: Dan Mohr

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

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

B. Employment Advocacy:

More public and private employers adopt a policy to include a disability training in their company training manuals and procedures, and utilize existing community resources and expertise to conduct these trainings.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

At least one local hospital will establish and follow policies and procedures for the provision of sign language interpreter services.
Nursing homes and hospitals will make a policy and procedural change in how they distribute information on patients' rights to receive services in the most integrated setting to all inpatients.
Increase the number of health care facilities that improve physical access for persons with disabilities, including parking.
Increase the number of medical facilities that provide accessible equipment.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

Increase the number of housing providers, private and subsidized with government funds, which will build and rehab homes with basic access.
Local business and paving companies follow accessible parking space guidelines and create adequate well-designed, accessible parking spaces.
Zebra-style pedestrian crossings are adopted and curb cuts are improved.
Increase the number of accessible public facilities in Onondaga County.

E. Social Advocacy:

Increase the number of accessible recreational opportunities.
Increase the number of persons with disabilities who become members on Boards of local agencies and who participate in advisory and planning committees that address issues regarding social, recreational and leisure pursuits.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

32. TROY

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley, Inc.
Address: 49 4th Street, Troy, NY 12180
Contract No.: C006650
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Denise A. Figueroa
Board President Authorization: Sean Turley, Board President

I. Community and System Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

The Hudson School District will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include developing information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living advocacy and linkages to other community based agencies and organizations.
A written agreement will be established for ILCHV to conduct a disabilities awareness track as part of the School personnel training curriculum in the Germantown School District.
At least one adult continuing education program will change its policies to improve access to sign language interpreters for Deaf adults.
One school district will change its English curriculum to include a panel discussion and a viewing of the film, The Mighty, to complement the required reading of Freak the Mighty.

B. Employment Advocacy:

The local One-Stop Center will demonstrate implementation of a policy that allows persons with disabilities a choice that includes access to the same goods and services available to those with out disabilities.
A local employer will develop and implement a written policy on reasonable accommodations pursuant to Title I of the ADA.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Columbia Memorial Hospital will establish a policy requiring all employees to receive training on communication with Deaf and hard of hearing individuals.
A policy will be developed and implemented at Columbia Memorial Hospital to provide interpreter services.
A policy will be implemented at St. Peter's Hospital and Albany Medical Center to provide appropriate interpreter services for Deaf patients.

D. Commerce Advocacy:

There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities in the center's service area.
There will be an increase in the number of integrated accessible/adaptable housing units available to persons with disabilities.
Albany County will establish a coordinated human services transportation system.
As a milestone toward securing passage of legislation in New York State for Taxi owners to provide accessible transportation, obtain the introduction and sponsorship of an Assembly and Senate Bill.

E. Social Advocacy:

Establish a coordinated transportation system in Columbia County for social and recreational activities.
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.
CDTA will expand STAR/Shuttle services to Special Events in response to consumer driven interests.

F. Citizenship Advocacy:

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

33. UTICA

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Address: 409 Columbia Street, P O Box 210, Utica, New York 13503-0210
Contract No.: C006642
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Burt Danovitz, Ph.D.
Board President Authorization: Elizabeth Bowers

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Educational Advocacy

A school system will increase inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities through a change in their policies and procedures.

B. Employment Advocacy

Establish a written agreement whereby the One-Stop will provide, in collaboration with the BPAO Project, regular access to benefits counseling services, including updated and accessible written information and materials on work incentives.
A business will eliminate inappropriate disability related questions in their employment applications to bring them in compliance with ADA requirements.

C. Health Care Advocacy

The Oneida County Departments of Health and Social Services will modify their policies/procedures resulting in authorization of an appropriate number of hours of self-directed home care for individuals with disabilities to avoid placement in nursing homes.
Public funding and regulations for social and medical models of Adult Day Services will be modified, resulting in an increase in the community capacity.
There will be an increase in the number of respite sites, community programs and health care facilities that improve access for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease.

D. Commerce Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of businesses that are accessible to people with disabilities.
The Varick Street renovation project will be accessible to people with disabilities.

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

The Oneida County Board of Elections will be in compliance with the accessible voting provisions of the NYS election law by implementing a training program for poll workers presented by RCIL.
Elected officials and candidates will adopt policies to assure meetings, rallies and other events are accessible.
There will be an increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Oneida County.

34. WATERTOWN

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Northern Regional Center for Independent Living
Address: 165 Mechanic Street, Watertown, New York 13601
Contract No.: C006651
Report Period: October 1, 2005 to September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Tracy L. Murphy, Executive Director
Board President Authorization: Nicola Luciani

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

At least one school district in Jefferson and Lewis Counties will make procedural changes to transition plans for students with disabilities to include information on PASS, VESID, Independent Living supports and advocacy, and linkages to other community-based organizations and agencies.

B. Employment Advocacy

At least two local businesses in Jefferson and Lewis Counties that have questions on their application forms which discriminate against people with disabilities will eliminate those questions.

C. Health Care Advocacy

Samaritan Hospital in Jefferson County will add additional accessible parking spaces, making the facility more accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. (The current spaces are located on a step incline).

D. Commerce Advocacy

At least one hotel in Jefferson County will change parking lot striping adding additional accessible spaces, bringing the hotel into compliance with Code.
There will be an increase in the number of ADA Title III entities that are fully accessible in Jefferson and Lewis Counties.

E. Social Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of integrated recreational and social opportunities in Jefferson and Lewis Counties.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

There will be an increase in the number of persons with disabilities on community or statewide Boards, committees, and/or task forces that have previously not had effective representation from the disability community.
NRCIL will establish a formal arrangement with the Lewis County Board of Elections to offer disability awareness training for polling place employees on a regular basis.

35. WHITE PLAINS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name of Center: Westchester Independent Living Center Center
Address: 200 Hamilton Avenue, White Plains, New York 10601
Contract No.: C006653
Report Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: Joseph Bravo, Executive Director
Phone: (914) 682-3926
Board President Authorization: Gerry Fleming

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. EDUCATION:

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

B. EMPLOYMENT:

Establish a formal arrangement whereby the local One-Stop Center will offer advocacy services for persons with disabilities.

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 a local provider of consumer directed personal care assistance services available to consumers instead of a NYC based provider.
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.
There will be a person centered Medicaid Service Coordination program available to youth with developmental disabilities.

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.
At least one municipality will implement a transition plan for accessibility.

E. SOCIAL

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

F. CITIZENSHIP

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

36. YONKERS

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

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Name Of Center: WESTCHESTER DISABLED ON THE MOVE, INC.
Address: 984 North Broadway Suite L-01, Yonkers, N.Y. 10701
Contract No.: C006652
Contract Period: October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Contact Person: MELVYN R. TANZMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Phone: (914) 968-4717 VOICE/TDD
Fax: (914) 968-6137
Board President Authorization: Ivan Wyler

I. COMMUNITY AND SYSTEMS ADVOCACY PLAN

A. Education Advocacy

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

Activities:

Through individual and group education and training, as well as a public information campaign in the Yonkers school district, students and parents will be empowered to participate more fully in CSE meetings and in the development of an IEP that reflects the student's transition goals.
WDOMI staff will collaborate with school district personnel and parent representatives to develop and implement new practices that will ease referrals for community services such as VESID and OMRDD, as well as encouraging greater involvement by students and parents at CSE meetings.
Advocate for more State funding for ILC High School Transition Programs.
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. Expected

Outcomes:

There will be a change in school district policies and procedures that will facilitate referrals to community based services.
The school district will establish policies and procedures designed to increase the involvement of students and families in CSE meetings and IEP development.

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

Issue: Increase employment related experiences for high school students.

Proposed Activities:

Conduct pre-employment workshops with High School Students with disabilities.
Provide job placement services to High School students with disabilities. Desired Outcome: There will be a measurable increase in the number of integrated employment preparation programs, such as internships, community work experience programs, and job readiness training programs, for high school students with disabilities.

B. Employment Advocacy

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

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

Desired Outcome: The center will work with one-two Westchester employers that have not previously hired people with disabilities to initiate policies to hire qualified applicants with disabilities.

Issue: Facilitate employment for people with disabilities through Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach.

Proposed Activities:

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

Desired Outcome: The Center will contract with the VESID and/or Department of Labor to conduct outreach and Benefits Advisement services to individuals applying for VESID and DOL services.

C. Health Care Advocacy:

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

Activities:

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

Intended Outcomes:

The initiation of a waiver program and/or other program initiative that will focus on preventing and/or reversing institutionalization. Such initiatives will be the result of legislation or administrative changes.
At a local level the center will change county policies and practices that will result in the appropriate discharge from institutions of 8-12 people with disabilities.

Issue: Increase the options for consumers accessing Consumer Directed Personal Care in Westchester.

Activities:

Respond to a county RFP for new CDPA programs.
Work with established CDPA providers to develop a collaborative approach to delivering enhanced CDPA services in Westchester County.

Expected Outcome: Ensure a second CDPA program is established in Westchester County that has enhanced local support services available to members.

D. Commerce Advocacy

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

Activities:

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

Expected Outcomes:

Increase the ability of people with disabilities to engage in local economic and market place activities such as area restaurants and retail shops. A minimum of two businesses will improve accessibility.
The Center will work with a minimum of one bank (HSBC) to improve ATM accessibility through an audio output.

Issue: Increase the effectiveness and consumer friendliness of the County para-transit and fixed route transportation system.

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

Expected Outcome: Increase the effectiveness and consumer friendliness of the County transportation system.

Goals this year will include: Bus system drivers will routinely announce stops; and a monthly pass will be made available to riders with disabilities.

Issue: Increase the availability of accessible housing units for people with disabilities.

Activities:

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

Expected Outcomes:

Housing options for people with disabilities will increase by WDOMI administering in collaboration with other community agencies a Mainstream Section 8 housing voucher program.
WDOMI will, with the cooperation of State and local housing agencies and local developers 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.

E. Social Advocacy

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

Activities:

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

Expected Outcome: At least one public or private recreational facility will become fully accessible.

F. Citizenship Advocacy

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

Activities:

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

Expected Outcomes: An advocacy network/infrastructure will facilitate organized teams of trained consumer advocates to address issues as they arise.

Issue: Improve polling place accessibility and voter registration in Westchester County and New York State.

Activities:

Work with the Board of Elections and the County Legislature to find legislative solutions to this problem.
Explore legal injunction against the County should collaborative efforts stall. Survey polling places on election day.
Advocate for changes in the State Election Law that would mandate accessible polling sites and voting machines.
Continue active voter registration campaign Expected Outcome: There will be a measurable increase in the number of accessible polling sites in Westchester County.

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. COMMERCE

E. SOCIAL

F. CITIZENSHIP

6. BRONX

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Employment Advocacy:

B. Commerce: Advocacy:

C. Social Advocacy:

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

7. BROOKLYN

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy:

B. Commerce Advocacy:

C. Social Advocacy:

D. Citizenship Advocacy:

8. BUFFALO

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Social Advocacy

E. Commerce Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

9. CORNING

1. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Education Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

10. CORTLAND

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan

A. Educational Advocacy

B. Employment Advocacy

C. Health Care Advocacy

D. Commerce Advocacy

E. Social Advocacy

F. Citizenship Advocacy

11. DELAWARE

I. Community and Systems Advocacy Plan