LIFEPlan Member and Hudson Valley Regional Liaison Stacy Mason shares the story of her family journey with a seizure disorder. In my 16 years working as a Social Worker and Parent Trainer with special needs families, I had worked with many families whose…
Continue ReadingOver the past five months the COVID-19 pandemic has given us plenty to complain about, but LIFEPlan Care Manager Melissa Imm chose to look at things differently, saying, “I am finding the silver lining in every single day and I’m staying positive.” Melissa only had…
Continue ReadingSometimes the job of a Care Manager presents extraordinary opportunities to improve the lives of not only people we support but extends to peers and others alike. Such is the case with Abigail Remington, and the member she works with, Ed Duryea. Ed is…
Continue ReadingThe SUNY Empire State College recently announced its plans for a statewide Center for Autism Inclusivity. The first of its kind, fully autism supportive college, is a collaborative effort between SUNY Empire State College and the Anderson Center for Autism.…
Continue ReadingIf you are a pet owner, you know what a huge role pets play in our lives. Pets are a great source of unconditional love, emotional support and many happy memories. In return we provide them with food, security and of course, love and companionship. The companionship between pet…
Continue ReadingDay Service Retainer Program- Last Eligible Day for Claiming is July 21, 2020 To: Day Habilitation, Prevocational Services and Community Habilitation Providers that have opted to participate in the OPWDD Day Service Retainer Program Please note: this guidance does not…
Continue ReadingJuly is Disability Pride Month in New York. It’s very fitting since we also celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. When I recently posted on social media about Disability Pride Month, someone commented, “Why am I supposed to…
Continue ReadingMillions of Americans are receiving a stimulus payment from the federal government. For people with disabilities, this payment may count as an asset and reduce means-tested benefits unless it is spent or put into an ABLE savings account within…
Continue ReadingInterim Guidance on Home Visits, Community Outings, Day Services and Return to Residences After Extended Home Visits Now Available Dear Friends and Colleagues: OPWDD is pleased to announce that guidance has been released, and posted on the OPWDD website, which…
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