For members of the class of 2020, the senior year of high school is very different from classes before them due to COVID-19. Instead of donning a cap and gown to graduate, schools and families are celebrating this achievement in…
Continue ReadingOwning a house with a white picket fence is often referred to as the American dream. At a very young age, Edwin “Ed” Dingman cherished his independence and chased this American dream. To reach this goal, Ed worked hard, employed…
Continue ReadingLIFEPlan believes it is important to connect with other organizations and groups that support the developmental disabilities community. Below are some Facebook pages and groups that we have connected to on Facebook and encourage our Members, Families and MFA Council…
Continue ReadingAn 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 ReadingEssential 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 ReadingLIFEPlan 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 ReadingWith 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 ReadingThe Community Resources 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. Click…
Continue ReadingEleven-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 ReadingThe 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…
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