Look at Me, Not my Disability
An intelligent man with a great sense of humor, Ed Duryea has worked throughout his life to help others. Ed, who has Cerebral Palsy, helps to train and teach new staff at The Arc Jefferson-St. Lawrence Commerce Lane day habilitation, where he attends. He is a strong…
Continue Reading
A Message from OPWDD Commissioner Kastner
Dear Friends and Colleagues, OPWDD understands how challenging and disruptive the temporary suspension of day services, home visits, community outings and other outdoor activities has been for the people we support and their families during the COVID-19 global pandemic response,…
Continue Reading
Service with a Smile
Essential workers have stepped up in a big way during the COVID-19 outbreak. LIFEPlan member Princess W, working with Challenge Workforce Solutions, is a terrific example of an essential worker. To her it is more than a job, it is her passion. We are sharing her story that…
Continue Reading
Still Work to be Done
LIFEPlan member, Brady Orr, typically attends Upstate Cerebral Palsy’s Tradewinds School, a supportive environment where he and others learn vocational skills to prepare them for employment and independent living. Due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, Brady has been home from school for the past 6 weeks. As with many people diagnosed with Autism, the lack of routine and consistency in his…
Continue Reading
Pizza and More!
With all the disruptions that have been created by the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be challenging to find the little things in life that bring us joy. With the closing of many restaurants, theaters and most community attractions we…
Continue Reading
New: Emergency Resources Search Tool
The Emergency Resources Search tool was designed by LIFEPlan in collaboration with other NYS CCO’s to support people with various needs during a time of crisis. This easy-to-use database allows people to search resources by county to discover supports available.…
Continue Reading
Don’t Worry Be Happy
Eleven-year-old LIFEPlan member Ethan James is on a mission. A mission to bring smiles to people’s faces during the COVID-19 pandemic and the world of social isolation. Years ago, Ethan and his father spent time drawing together as a therapeutic tool.Drawing was a passion…
Continue Reading
CNY Care Manager Gets the Laundry Done
The outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has been stressful for many people, especially for people with a developmental disability. Having to cope with managing changes in routine due to thevirus, and the impacts of quarantine and social distancing were creating challenges for one Central New York family. And then they faced another…
Continue Reading
Spring Outdoor Activities
After a long winter, topped off with social distancing spring brings many reasons to get outside! Stored energy can be released in the fresh spring air. When the sun is out, and the temperature is warm is a great time…
Continue Reading