Directory of Vocational Rehabilitation and Related Services Provided by New York State Agencies
State Interagency Council for Vocational Rehabilitation and Related Services
Implementation Committee Cross Systems Working Group on Training
Revised September 1994 Introduction
On July 28, 1989 Governor Mario Cuomo and Chancellor Martin Barell, the latter acting on behalf of the State Board of Regents, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that established the State Interagency Council for Vocational Rehabilitation (ICVR). The agreement initiated a new era of cooperative planning and service delivery by the agencies of government in New York that serve persons with disabilities. The purpose of the State Interagency Council is to review and make recommendations to the Governor and the Board of Regents with regard to those actions necessary to insure that vocational rehabilitation and related services offered by New York State agencies are integrated, non-duplicative, comprehensive and designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities in such a manner as to encourage their full and independent participation in society.
Pursuant to the MOA, an Advisory Group of advocates, consumers and providers representing the field was appointed and provided input to the Council. The Council is comprised of representatives from the following agencies: The Education Department and its Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities; the Department of Social Services' Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped; the Office of Mental Health; the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities; the Department of Labor; the Division of Veterans Affairs; the Office of Advocate for Persons with Disabilities; the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services; the Commission on Quality of Care for the Mentally Disabled; and the Executive Chamber.
In his 1992 State of the State Message, Governor Mario M. Cuomo recognized the important work being conducted by the Interagency Council and the Human Investment Subcabinet/Gateway and the need to coordinate efforts. As such, he directed these bodies to develop a formal liaison. Thus, the Subcabinet/Gateway is another participating member.
In his 1990 State of the State Message, Governor Mario M. Cuomo recognized the efforts of the Interagency Council to identify what must and can be done to get more people with disabilities to work as quickly as possible. The state's vocational rehabilitation agencies (the departments of Education and Social Services) and other state agencies were asked to continue their cooperative efforts to build a system of services that is logical, has clear lines of responsibility and is responsive to the vocational needs of people with disabilities. The Governor accepted the key recommendations of the Council and directed the state agencies to implement them.
To implement the recommendations, the Council created two major committees, Implementation, where the focus was implementing those recommendations that can be accomplished immediately, and Long-Term Agenda, where the focus is on reviewing barriers and developing recommendations to address long-term systems change. The Implementation Committee consists of two work groups. These include Integrated Employment which develops strategies to improve access, delivery and coordination of related services and support of employment; and Cross Systems Training which develops strategies to improve state agencies knowledge of one another's services and to facilitate on-going cooperative training activities.
The Long-Term Agenda Committee's current priority areas include:
- investigation of alternatives to medical insurance and the health care delivery system for the provision of personal attendant care services;
- on-going monitoring of local accessible transportation services; and
- investigation of program models and funding sources to establish more mentors for people with disabilities in the business community.
Overview
The State of New York has an abundance of human services to meet the varied needs of its citizens. Over time, these services have been developed to ensure that people have the necessary assistance to forge a purposeful and productive life-style in the mainstream of society. While large resource systems exist to address the needs of many groups of people (including those with disabilities), the specific services available, and the means to deliver them, are constantly evolving in response to changing demands and improved delivery methods.
Many service providers, both state operated and those affiliated with the state through various licensing and funding mechanisms, have considerable expertise in aiding people with disabilities to become employed and live independently in the community. The services they need generally are not confined to the particular area in which a resource agency is charged to provide help. Therefore, people may be left with continuing needs, despite having received high quality services.
One of the core issues which cuts across the broad spectrum of human services is vocational rehabilitation. Regardless of the specific reasons why individuals seek assistance, the lack of specific and generic skills needed to compete in the world of work is a fundamental barrier to the achievement of self-sufficiency and satisfaction. Although vocational rehabilitation services are available throughout the state, those in need often have encountered a confusing maze of eligibility requirements and procedures in attempting to gain access to vocational rehabilitation programs. Therefore, the Cross Systems Training Work Group of the Implementation Committee designed this Directory to help professionals assist consumers in securing appropriate services from different agencies.
Purpose of the Directory
The Directory of Vocational Rehabilitation and Related Services in New York State is intended to serve as a tool for human service workers and people with disabilities in discovering where they may locate services in specific areas. It is not possible in this document to cite each facet of the services provided by various agencies or to note every factor which may be considered in determining eligibility for those services. What can be gained from the Directory is a general description of the missions of the resource systems represented herein, as well as information regarding the general services and service delivery structure found in those systems. In particular, vocational rehabilitation services are highlighted, with brief descriptions of eligibility criteria and specific programs which one may consider.
One of the most important features of the Directory is a listing of offices which may be contacted in each resource system to obtain additional information. Whether these contact offices provide information directly, or by referral to others, they offer ready access to resource data. This should facilitate the referral of clients between resource systems and enhance communications between those working in these systems.
It must be noted that membership in a specific group or having a particular disability may not automatically qualify one for services. A resource system or agency should always be contacted before a presumption of eligibility is made.
New York State Department of Social Services Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped
Agency Description
Mission
In accordance with federal and state law, regulations, and guidelines, the Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH) is the designated agency responsible for the administration of programs and services to legally blind individuals which enhance independence and facilitate opportunities for participation in the community.
Service Delivery Structure
CBVH provides a range of services for individuals who are legally blind through the independent living and vocational rehabilitation provisions of the federal Rehabilitation Act, including programs serving children and older individuals who are blind. In each of eight district offices located throughout the state, rehabilitation counselors accept and review applications for services.
The CBVH intake process uses a common application for all programs. A rehabilitation counselor explains the variety of services available through CBVH and obtains information necessary to assess eligibility.
A vocational rehabilitation counselor determines eligibility for services. Individuals may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services, or referred to either the Independent Living Services program or other programs, depending on the age of the applicant.
Many services are provided through contracts with private rehabilitation agencies throughout New York State. For children, each district office has a children's consultant who acts as a case coordinator, provides assistance to parents and family members, and serves as an advisor in the development of a child's Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) with the school district.
Independent living services are provided by a designated rehabilitation counselor at each of the eight CBVH district offices.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services/Programs
Eligibility for Services
An applicant must be legally blind to be considered for any CBVH program. Legal blindness is defined as visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with best correction; and/or a visual field of no greater than 20 degrees in the better eye. Working with the applicant, the CBVH rehabilitation counselor gathers information to determine whether the individual's disability impedes functional capabilities.
The two federally mandated criteria for determining eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services are:
- the individual has a disability, defined as any individual who has a physical or mental impairment (which must include legal blindness) that results in a substantial impediment to employment; and who can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services; and
- the individual requires vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, enter, engage in, or retain gainful employment.
A substantial impediment to employment exists when legal blindness, and any other disabilities present, prevents an individual from preparing for entering into, or retaining employment consistent with individual abilities, capabilities, and interests.
If an applicant is not eligible for CBVH VR services, the individual is considered for the other programs administered by CBVH.
To be eligible for one of the programs for children or older persons, an individual must not be eligible for VR services, and:
- Be legally blind.
- Meet the age requirement. That is, either reach age 55 during that state fiscal year (for the older blind services program) or be under the age of 21.
- Be a legal resident of New York State.
To be eligible for the Independent Living Services program, the legally blind individual must be not eligible for the VR program and not receiving services through another CBVH program. In addition, the individual must meet the following criteria:
- be an individual with a severe physical or mental impairment (which must include legal blindness) whose ability to function independently in the family or community, or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited; and,
- for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move toward functioning independently in the family or community, or to continue in employment, respectively.
General Programs and Services
Vocational Rehabilitation Program
Vocational counseling and guidance is an ongoing service provided throughout the rehabilitation process. Other services may include:
- An Assessment for Determining Eligibility and Vocational Rehabilitation Needs
- Maintenance
- Transportation
- Equipment
- Services to Family Members
- Interpreter Services for Hearing Impaired Applicants and Clients
- Interpreter Services for Non-English Speaking Applicants and Clients
- Reader Services
- Rehabilitation Teaching
- Orientation and Mobility
- Low Vision Services
- Personal Assistance Services
- Consultation Services
- Medical Services
- Technology-Related Services
- Educational and Vocational Training
- Placement Services
- Post-Employment Services necessary for the client to achieve the vocational goal
- Other Goods and Services necessary for the client to achieve the vocational goal
The programs for children and older persons respond to the needs of those persons who are legally blind but not eligible for VR services by providing the following services:
Low Vision Exams and devices
Social Casework for clients and family members
Rehabilitation Teaching
Orientation and Mobility
Adaptive Equipment
Diagnostic evaluations are also provided to children needing such
services.
The Independent Living Services Program provides the following services:
Rehabilitation Teaching
Orientation and Mobility
Low Vision Exams and devices
Adaptive Equipment
Social Casework for clients and family members
CBVH also administers a statewide Business Enterprise Program under the federal Randolph-Sheppard Act. This program provides qualified legally blind individuals with opportunities to operate a variety of retail businesses and food service facilities on federal, state, municipal and private properties. The average income of a manager of one of these businesses is over $20,000 annually. Any person eligible for the Vocational Rehabilitation program may apply for training leading to licensing as a program member and placement in a business facility.
Points of Contact for CBVH Services
CBVH has eight district offices throughout the state and contracts with 18 private not-for-profit agencies for the blind. Together these public and private entities conduct outreach efforts to identify legally blind persons who could benefit from services.
Individuals who, in fact, may benefit from CBVH services are received by the district office serving the county in which the individual resides. A determination is made at the district office as to the types of services needed and the appropriate program under which the service will be provided. CBVH district offices are in the locations listed below.
District Offices
1. Buffalo Counties
Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee,
Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming
295 Main Street, 10th Floor
Buffalo, NY 14203
Phone: 716-847-3163
Fax: 716-847-3983
Niagara Falls Outstation
(Monday, Wednesday, Friday only)
Niagara Frontier Independent Living Center
1522 Main Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14301
Phone: 716-284-2452
2. Rochester Counties
Chemung, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Schuyler,
Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Yates
259 Monroe Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: 716-238-8113
Fax: 716-238-8278
Elmira Outstation
(Monday-Friday)
425 Pennsylvania Avenue
Elmira, NY 14904
Phone: 607-737-1007
Geneva Outstation
(Monday & Thursday)
425 Exchange Street
Geneva, NY 14456
Phone: 315-789-9490 (ext. 21)
Bath Outstation
(no business hours)
115 Liberty Street
Bath, NY 14810
Phone: 607-776-7460
3. Syracuse Counties
Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer,
Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga,
Oswego, Tioga, Tompkins
333 East Washington Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
Phone: 315-428-4136
Fax: 315-426-2158
Binghamton Outstation
(Monday-Friday)
Binghamton State Office Building Annex
164 Hawley Street, Room 304
Binghamton, NY 13902
Phone: 607-773-7819
4. Albany Counties
Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Delaware, Essex,
Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery,
Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady,
Schoharie, St. Lawrence, Warren, Washington
74 State Street
Albany, NY 12207
Phone: 518-474-1084
Fax : 518-474-8551
Tupper Lake Outstation
(Monday-Friday)
Building 11
Sunmount DDSO
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
Phone: 518-359-2141
Fax: 518-359-7004
5. White Plains Counties
Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan,
Ulster, Westchester
150 Grand Street, 2nd Floor
White Plains, NY 10601
Phone: 914-993-5370
Fax: 914-993-0238
6. New York City Counties
Brooklyn (Kings), Staten Island (Richmond) Queens,
270 Broadway
New York, NY 10007
Phone: 212-417-5226
Fax: 212-417-4627
7. Hempstead Counties
Nassau, Suffolk
175 Fulton Avenue, Room 300
Hempstead, NY 11550
Phone: 516-564-4314
Fax: 516-292-7448
8. Harlem Counties
Bronx, Manhattan (New York)
163 West 125th Street
New York, NY 10027
Phone: 212-870-4450
Fax: 212-870-4133
New York State Commission on Quality of Care for the Mentally Disabled
Agency Description
Mission
The New York State Commission on Quality of Care for the Mentally Disabled was created in 1977 by the New York State Legislature to provide independent oversight of programs and facilities serving the mentally disabled. In 1980, the Governor designated the Commission as New York's Protection and Advocacy Agency pursuant to the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 1975, and in 1984, as New York's Client Assistance Program pursuant to the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1984 and in 1986, the Protection and Advocacy Program for Individuals with Mental Illness. The Commission's statutory responsibilities include: 1. advising the Governor on policy and programs to ensure quality of care in the state's mental hygiene system; 2. visiting, inspecting and monitoring state-operated and state-certified facilities and programs serving the mentally disabled; 3. reviewing the cost effectiveness of mental hygiene programs; 4. investigating allegations of patient abuse and mistreatment, including allegations of child abuse and mistreatment; 5. reviewing deaths of clients of state-operated and state-certified mental hygiene facilities and programs and investigating all unusual deaths; and 6. strengthening the lay advocacy of the state's 51 boards of visitors empowered to monitor the quality of care in state psychiatric and developmental centers by providing training and assistance to board members. The Commission, in its role as the state's Protection and Advocacy (P&A) Agency and Client Assistance Program (CAP), also ensures the availability of a wide range of advocacy services for persons with disabilities, including the provision of legal services.
General Services
In fulfilling its broad mandate, the Commission, through its two offices and its regional Protection and Advocacy and Client Assistance Program contract offices, offers an array of services to persons with disabilities, their families and advocates. These services fall into three broad areas, namely, ensuring quality of care, protecting client rights and advocating systemic change.
Ensuring Quality of Care:
Although all Commission bureaus are concerned with the quality of services rendered to the mentally disabled, the Commission's Investigation and Quality Assurance Bureaus are especially active in this area. These bureaus review allegations of patient abuse or mistreatment and complaints or requests regarding care and treatment, and conduct larger reviews or studies on aspects of care or the management of resources in the mental hygiene system. The Commission works closely with other statutorily created groups in ensuring the highest quality of care for the mentally disabled. A statutory component of the Commission, the Mental Hygiene Medical Review Board, is an independent panel of physicians appointed by the Governor to review all unusual deaths within the state's mental hygiene system and make recommendations to improve the medical and clinical care and services of this system. In addition, the Commission provides training and technical assistance to the Boards of Visitors of New York State's psychiatric and developmental centers, while the boards in turn serve as valuable conduits of information for the Commission.
Protecting Client Rights:
The Commission, particularly the Commission's Advocacy Bureau has the responsibility of protecting the rights of people with disabilities. The Advocacy Bureau, with its network of regional contract agencies, ensures that a full range of advocacy services is available. Among these services, individual advocacy is perhaps the most important. The P&A and CAP offices assist clients by: providing information about rights and benefits; negotiating with service providers and government officials; representing clients at administrative hearings; and, when necessary, pursuing legal remedies on their behalf. In addition, the Advocacy Bureau develops training materials and manuals and provides training programs for parents, service providers and advocates.
Investigating Abuse/Neglect:
The Commission as a result of both state and federal mandates is charged with the responsibility to investigate the abuse/neglect of persons with disabilities. In particular under Chapter 676 and 677 of the Laws of 1985, the Commission is charged with the responsibility for investigating all allegations of child abuse or mistreatment occurring in mental hygiene residential facilities, excluding family care homes, that are registered with the Department of Social Services' Child Abuse Register. Investigations are commenced within 24 hours of the reporting of an allegation and a site visit is usually made to evaluate the environment, photograph any injury, order x-rays, and place the child in protective custody as required.
Service Delivery Structure
The Commission delivers the bulk of its investigatory and quality assurance services from its own two offices located at 99 Washington Avenue, Suite 1002, Albany, New York 12210-2895 and 80 Maiden Lane, Suite 320B, New York, New York 10038-4811. Commission units operating from these two offices include the Advocacy Services Bureau, Medical Review Investigations Bureau, Policy Analysis and Development Bureau, Surrogate Decision-Making Program, and the Quality Assurance Bureau. Protection and Advocacy for the Developmentally Disabled (PADD)
Regional Offices
New York State Commission on Quality of Care
Bureau of Protection and Advocacy
99 Washington Avenue Suite 1002
Albany, NY 12210
(518) 473-7378 (518) 474-2652 (FAX)
New York City Region
Counties served: Bronx, Richmond, Kings, Manhattan, Queens
New York State Commission on Quality of Care Bureau of Protection and Advocacy
80 Maiden Lane, Suite 320B
New York, NY 10038-4811
(212) 383-1967 (212) 383-1951 (FAX)
New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, Inc.
30 West 21st Street, 9th Floor
New York, NY 10010-6905
(212) 727-2270 (212) 727-2996 (FAX)
(212) 727-2997 (TTY)
Upper Hudson Region
Counties served: Albany, Columbia, Greene, Schenectady, Schoharie, Rensselaer, Dutchess, Ulster, Fulton, Montgomery, Saratoga Mid-Hudson
Legal Services, Inc.
54 Noxon Street
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(914) 452-7911
(800) 356-2939
(914) 485-7217 (FAX)
Disabilities Law Clinic at Albany Law School
80 New Scotland Avenue
Albany, NY 12208
(518) 445-2328
(518) 434-8612 (FAX)
North Country Region
Counties served: St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Warren, Washington
North Country Legal Services, Inc.
100 Court Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
(518) 563-4022
(800) 722-7380
(518) 563-4058 (FAX)
North Country Legal Services, Inc.
PO Box 648
Canton, NY 13617
(315) 386-4586
(800) 822-8283
(315) 386-2868 (FAX)
Lower Hudson Region
Counties served: Westchester, Orange, Rockland, Sullivan, Putnam
Westchester Legal Services, Inc.
4 Cromwell Place
White Plains, NY 10601
(914) 949-1305
(914) 949-6213 (FAX)
Central Region
Counties served: Jefferson, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, Herkimer, Lewis, Oneida
Legal Services of Central New York, Inc.
329 West Fayette Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 475-3127
(315) 475-2706 (FAX)
Western Region
Counties served: Livingston, Steuben, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, Yates, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Allegany, Wyoming, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe
Western New York Advocacy for the Developmentally Disabled, Inc.
242 Andrews Street, 2nd Floor
Rochester, NY 14604
(716) 546-1700
(716) 546-7069 (FAX)
Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
495 Ellicott Square Building
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-0650
(716) 847-0227 (FAX)
Southern Tier Region
Counties served: Chemung, Schuyler, Tompkins, Broome, Delaware, Otsego, Chenango, Tioga
Broome Legal Assistance Corporation
30 Fayette Street
PO Box 2011
Binghamton, NY 13902
(607) 723-7966
(607) 724-7211 (FAX)
Long Island Region
Counties served: Nassau and Suffolk
Long Island Advocates, Inc.
Herricks Community Center
999 Herricks Road
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
(516) 248-2222
(516) 248-2290 (FAX)
Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals (PAIMI)
Regional Offices
New York City Region
Counties served: Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond New York
Laywers for the Public Interest, Inc.
30 West 21st Street, 9th Floor
New York, NY 10010-6905
(212) 727-2270
(212) 727-2996 (FAX)
(212) 727-2997 (TTY)
Western New York Region
Counties served: Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Ontario, Seneca, Yates, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany, Steuben
Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
495 Ellicott Square Building
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-0650
(716) 847-1322 (TTY/TDD)
(716) 847-0227 (FAX)
Central New York Region
Counties served: Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, Oneida, Broome, Herkimer, Otsego, Delaware, Madison, Onondaga, Cayuga, Cortland, Chenango, Schuyler, Chemung, Tompkins, Tioga
Legal Services of Central New York, Inc.
329 West Fayette Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 475-3127
(315) 475-2706 (FAX)
Long Island Region
Counties served: Nassau and Suffolk
Touro College
Jacob Fuchsberg Law Center
300 Nassau Road
Huntington, NY 11743
(516) 421-2244
(516) 421-2675 (FAX)
Hudson Valley Region
Counties served: Saratoga, Fulton, Montgomery, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Schoharie, Albany, Greene, Columbia, Ulster, Sullivan, Orange, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland, Westchester
Disability Advocates, Inc.
155 Washington Avenue, Suite 300
Albany, NY 12210
(518) 432-7861
(518) 427-6561 (FAX)
North Country Region
Counties served: St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Warren, Washington
North Country Legal Services, Inc.
100 Court Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
(518) 563-4022
1-800-722-7380
(518) 563-4058 (FAX)
North Country Legal Services
38 Gouverneur Street, POB 648
Canton, NY 13617
(315) 386-4586
1-800-822-8283
(315) 386-2868 (FAX)
Client Assistance Program (CAP)
Regional Offices
Western New York Region
Counties served: Monroe, Livingston, Steuben, Chemung, Tompkins, Schuyler, Seneca, Yates, Ontario, Wayne, Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany, Wyoming, Genesee and Orleans
Rochester Center for Independent Living, Inc.
758 South Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620
(716) 442-6470 (Voice and TTY/TDD)
(716) 271-8558 (FAX)
Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc.
495 Ellicott Square Building
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-0650
(716) 847-1322 (TTY/TDD)
(716) 847-0227 (FAX)
Central New York Region
Counties served: Jefferson, Oswego, Onondaga, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Fulton, Montgomery, Herkimer, Oneida, Lewis, Tioga, Broome, Delaware, Otsego and Chenango
Resource Center for Independent Living, Inc.
409 Columbia Street
Utica, NY 13502
(315) 797-4642
(315) 797-5837 (TTY/TDD)
(315) 797-4747 (FAX)
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York, Inc.
185 Genesee Street, 14th Floor
Utica, NY 13501
(315) 732-2131 (Voice and TTY/TDD)
(315) 732-3202 (FAX)
Hudson Valley Region
Counties served: Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Greene, Columbia, Rensselaer and Albany
Capital District Center for Independence, Inc.
845 Central Avenue, South #3
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 459-6422 (Voice and TTY/TDD)
Counties served: Rockland, Westchester, Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, and Sullivan
Westchester Independent Living Center, Inc.
297 Knollwood Road
White Plains, NY 10607
(914) 682-3926
(914) 682-8518 (FAX)
(914) 682-0926 (TTY/TDD)
New York City Region
Counties served: New York (Manhattan), Bronx and Richmond (Staten Island)
Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York, Inc.
841 Broadway, Suite 205
New York, NY 10003
(212) 674-2300 (Voice or TDD)
(212) 254-5953 (FAX)
Counties served: Queens and Kings (Brooklyn)
Brooklyn Center for the Independence of the Disabled, Inc.
2044 Ocean Ave, Suite B-3 & B-4
Brooklyn, NY 11230
(718) 998-3000
(718) 998-7406 (TTY/TDD)
(718) 998-3743 (FAX)
Counties served: New York (Manhattan), Bronx, Richmond (Staten Island), Queens and Kings (Brooklyn)
Legal Services Unit for all counties in the New York City Region:
New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, Inc.
30 West 21st Street, 9th Floor
New York, NY 10010-6905
(212) 727-2270
(212) 727-2996 (FAX)
(212) 727-2997 (TTY)
Long Island Region
Counties served: Nassau and Suffolk
Long Island Advocacy Center, Inc.
Herricks Community Center
999 Herricks Road
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
(516) 248-2222
(516) 877-2627 (TTY)
(516) 248-2290 (FAX)
Long Island Advocacy Center, Inc. (Satellite Office)
490 Wheeler Rd, Suite 165C
Hauppauge, NY 11788
(516) 234-0467
(516) 234-4069 (FAX)
New York State Department of Labor Agency
Description
Mission
The Department of Labor is charged with the enforcement of the State Labor Law and the rules and regulations issued thereunder. The labor statutes of the state are designed primarily to (1) improve the working condition of men, women, minority and employees with disabilities in industry and trade; (2) broaden employment opportunities through a statewide employment service; (3) provide for the collection of unpaid wages and fringe benefits, ensure payment of minimum wages and fringe benefits, and payment of prevailing wages and fringe benefits to construction workers and certain service employees on state or municipal work; (4) provide benefits to workers eligible for unemployment insurance, workers compensation and disability benefits; (5) foster peaceful relations between labor and management; (6) protect the health and safety of public employees, certain members of the public, and various other employees not covered by federal programs; and (7) encourage development of sound apprenticeship training programs.
General Services
Provide a Labor Exchange for employers seeking workers and for job applicants. Increase the employability of unemployed or underemployed workers by providing community training opportunities and other special services. Provide Unemployment Insurance, Workers Compensation and Disability benefits for eligible clients. Protect workers by collecting unpaid wages and benefits assuring the payment of prevailing wages and fringe benefits for certain workers on public worker projects, and protect the health and safety of public employees, certain members of the Public and other employees not covered by federal safety and health programs. Foster peaceful relationship between labor and management.
Service Delivery Structure
The Department of Labor has Central Administrative Offices in over 100 locations throughout the state. The staff in the Central, Regional or local offices can provide the range of services listed above. Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Eligibility
All who are eligible to hold jobs can use most of these services. However, in some instances, such as referral to specific training programs, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria for that program.
Activities/Programs for Invididuals with Disabilities
The activities dealing with increasing the employability of job applicants and finding jobs for the unemployed or underemployed are services that are available to all who are eligible to hold jobs. These services include: 1. Job referrals for the unemployed or underemployed 2. Vocational counseling Individual Counseling - (a) Assessment-relating an individual's capabilities to occupations and/or groups of activities; (b) Physical Capabilities Analysis-analyzing an individual's physical/mental capacities for job placement. Group Counseling. Using interactive teaching group techniques to modify inappropriate vocational behavior. Group Guidance. Using interactive teaching techniques to help applicants learn about the world of work. 3. Group and individual testing services Vocational aptitude test, Interest inventories and tests, vocational literacy tests and proficiency tests in clerical skills. 4. Selective placement activities Intensive individualized job development for the hard-to-place applicants. 5. Information on occupations, labor markets and training programs 6. Group and individual instructions on job research strategies and techniques 7. Referral of eligible clients to training programs 8. Special employment services to veterans, older workers, migrant farm workers, disabled job seekers, youth, etc.
Department of Labor Points of Contact
Capital District Region
Saratoga Mall
3035 Route 50
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
(518) 587-8443
Counties Served: Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Schenectady, Albany, Greene, Rensselaer, Columbia
Mohawk Valley Region
State Office Building
207 Genesee Street Utica, NY 13501
(315) 793-2280
(518) 842-5510
Counties Served: Madison, Oneida, Herkimer, Fulton, Montgomery, Schoharie
North County Region
11 St. Bernard Street
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
(518) 891-5335
Counties Served: Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, Hamilton
Central Region
450 S. Salina Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 479-3370
Counties Served Oswego, Cayuga, Onondaga, Cortland
Finger Lakes Region
130 W. Main Street
Rochester, NY 14614
(716) 258-8858
Counties Served: Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Seneca and Monroe
Western Region
290 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 851-2750
Counties Served: Niagara, Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany
Southern Tier Region
30 Wall Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 773-7294
Counties Served Steuben, Schuyler, Chemung, Tioga, Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tompkins
Hudson Valley Region
30 Glenn Street
White Plains, NY 10603
(914) 997-9535
Counties Served: Ulster, Orange, Rockland, Dutchess, Putnam, Westchester, Sullivan
Long Island Region
303 W. Old Country Road
Hicksville, NY 11801
(516) 934-8547
Counties Served: Nassau, Suffolk
New York City Region
One Main Street, Room 509
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(718) 797-7199
Counties Served: Kings, Bronx, New York, Queens, Richmond
New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs Agency
Description
Mission
The New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) was created in 1945 to assist returning World War II servicemen and women in a smooth readjustment from military to civilian life. The legislation establishing the Division provided for a separate agency to oversee all matters concerning veterans who, in the past, had found themselves shunted from department to department. This unique agency embraces the complex tasks of veterans' advocacy and counseling, helping New York's 1.6 million veterans and their families and survivors. The Division is responsible for administering and coordinating veteran programs and representing clients in establishing their eligibility for a broad spectrum of federal, state, local and private veterans' benefits. Service Delivery System The heart of the state's veterans' program is the Division's free professional counseling service. Experienced and dedicated counselors, each a veteran, in 60 field offices across the state offer veterans professional help to resolve social, medical and economic problems. The men and women of the State Veteran Counseling Service assist the claimant, whether a veteran, spouse, child, parent or active duty service person in completing applications, obtaining necessary documentation and filing for benefits. Counselors, additionally, assist claimants in responding to follow-up correspondence and, if necessary, in preparing and filing appeals of unfavorable rulings. State Veterans Counselors are cognizant of the complex and ever-changing laws and regulations controlling entitlement to benefits and federal veterans' health care. They cut through the red tape to ensure veterans and their families receive maximum entitlement to benefits. Working closely with other state, federal, local and private agencies, the Division of Veterans' Affairs is able to utilize the expertise and resources of others in the community to help the veterans and family with specific needs such as employment, rehabilitation, counseling for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, medical treatment and home health care.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Eligibility
Counselors within DVA are available to advise veterans on eligibility for benefits and for filing claims. The first step in applying for any benefit is to prove veteran status. The most common proof is the separation paper or U.S. Department of Defense Form DD-214. Without proof of military service, claims will be extensively delayed, if not automatically denied. The counselor can assist in filing for a copy of a lost or missing document; however, the client must provide certain vital information such as branch and dates of service and, if possible, their military service number. Additional documentation may be required, depending on the case. After proving veteran status, those who served in the Armed Forces on or after September 16, 1940, are eligible for federal vocational rehabilitation if all three of the following conditions are met: 1. They suffered a service-connected disability in active service which entitles them to compensation or would do so but for receipt of military retirement pay; 2. They were discharged or released under other-than-dishonorable conditions or are hospitalized awaiting separation for disability (the counselor will help with additional discharge requirements); and, 3. U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) determines that they need vocational rehabilitation to overcome an impairment to their ability to prepare for, obtain or retain employment consistent with their abilities, aptitudes and interests. Their service-connected disabilities must materially contribute to this employment handicap. In addition to monthly compensation payments, VA's vocational rehabilitation program pays the trainee a monthly subsistence allowance and pays for the cost of tuition, books, supplies, and any special services the veteran may need such as interpreter services for the deaf, reader services for the blind, and tutoring.
Points of Contact Locations for Division of Veterans' Affairs
State Veteran Counseling Offices are listed in the following pages. These counselors are certified by the United States Department of Veterans' Affairs to represent veterans and service their claims for federal benefits.
New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs
1-800-635-6534
State Veteran Counseling Offices
Albany:--Albany:
130 New Scotland Ave.,
518-432-2462;
Albany: 875 Central Ave., 518-438-2505
Allegany--Wellsville: 156 N. Main St., 716-593-4881
Bronx--Bronx: 1 Fordham Plaza, Suite E210, 718-563-5935
Broome--Binghamton: County Bldg. Hawley St., 607-778-2147
Cattaraugus--Olean: 306 N. Union St., 716-372-3929;
Salamanca: 225 Wildwood Ave., 716-945-4250
Cayuga--Auburn: Carr Bldg., 188 Genesee St., 315-253-6731
Chautauqua--Jamestown: 110 East 4th St., 716-661-8269; Dunkirk: 200 Lake Shore Dr. West, 716-366-0131 ext. 223
Chemung--Elmira: Mark Twain Bldg., W. Gray St., 607-733-2178
Chenango--Norwich: 22 South Broad St., 607-334-2049;
Oxford: State Veterans Home, E. River Rd., 607-843-3100 Clinton--Plattsburgh: 137 Margaret St., 518-565-4720
Columbia--Hudson: Country Office Building, 401 State St., 518-828-9511
Cortland--Cortland: County Office Building, Box 5900, 607-753-5014
Delaware--Sidney: Civic Center, 607-563-2002
Dutchess--Poughkeepsie: 22 Market St., 4th Floor, 914-431-2060
Erie--Buffalo: 125 Main, Room 231, 716-847-3409;
Buffalo: 351 Linwood Ave., 716-882-0505;
Williamsville: 5583 Main St., 716-632-4190
Essex--Elizabethtown: Court House Annex, 518-873-3488, ext. 307/309
Franklin--Saranac Lake: Town Hall, 518-891-1572
Fulton-Gloversville: 25 N. Arlington Ave., 518-773-8946
Genesee--Batavia: VAMC, Bldg. 1, Room 111, 716-343-7500 ext. 7298
Greene--Catskill: Sheriff's Bldg., 518-943-3703
Hamilton--Wells: Town Hall, 518-773-8946
Herkimer--Herkimer: County Bldg., Mary St., 315-867-1126
Jefferson--Watertown: 317 Washington, 2nd Fl., 315-785-2468
Kings--Brooklyn: 195 Cadman Plaza W., 718-875-1077;
Brooklyn: 800 Poly Pl., Room 538, 718-630-3709
Lewis--Lowville: Court House, 315-376-5316
Livingston--Mount Morris: County Campus, Bldg. 2, 716-658-2252
Madison--Morrisville: 43 East Main St., 315-684-9424
Monroe--Rochester: 375 Westfall Rd., 1st Fl., 716-274-6041
Montgomery--Fonda: County Annex Bld., Rm. 108, 518-853-8365
Nassau--Plainview: Bldg. H, 1425 Old Country Rd., 516-572-8455;
Long Beach:City Hall, Rm. 404A, 516-431-1000, ext. 208
New York--New York: 80 Centre St., Rm. 294, 212-417-4826;
New York: 252 Seventh Ave., 11th Fl., 212-337-2586;
New York: 163 W. 125th, 212-961-8663
Niagara--Niagara Falls: State Armory, 901 Main St., 716-285-0222;
North Tonawanda: 216 Payne Ave., 716-695-8552
Oneida--Utica: County Office Bldg., 800 Park Ave., 315-798-5828
Onondaga--Syracuse: 333 E. Washington, 315-428-4046
Ontario--Canandaigua: VAMC, Bldg. 14, Room 112, 716-396-4733
Orange--Newburg: 290 Broadway, 914-562-1850
Orleans--Albion: 458 West Ave., 716-589-5335
Oswego--Oswego: Armory, 265 W. 1st St., 315-343-0394
Otsego--Oneonta: 242 Main St., 607-432-4190
Putnam--Carmel: 110 Old Rt. 6, Bldg. 3, Room 45, 914-225-2260
Queens--Far Rockaway: 1600 Central Ave., 718-327-7402; Rego Park: 93-29 Queens Blvd., 718-459-1828;
St. Albans: VA Care Center, Rm. A138, 718-526-1000, ext. 2587
Rensselaer--Troy: 1600 7th Ave., 518-270-2761
Richmond--Staten Island: Boro Hall Bldg., Room 313, 718-447-8787
Rockland--Spring Valley: 54 N. Myrtle Ave., 914-356-6070
St. Lawrence Ogdensburg: 225 Elizabeth St., 315-393-0580;
Massena: DOL Community Services Center, 315-769-3596
Saratoga--Saratoga Springs: 376 Broadway, 518-584-3136
Schenectady--Schenectady: 620 State St., 518-388-4252
Schoharie--Schoharie: Main St., 1st Floor, 518-295-8360
Schuyler--Montour Falls: 208 Broadway, 607-535-2091
Seneca--Waterloo: 1 Di Pronio Dr., 315-539-5655, ext. 2019
Steuben--Hornell: 107 Broadway, Room 130, 607-324-8370
Suffolk--Riverhead: Suffolk County Center, 516-852-1410;
Medford: 3233 Rte. 112, Bldg. 2, 516-451-6347;
Hauppauge: State Office Bldg., Veteran's Highway, 516-952-6432
Sullivan--Monticello: County Ctr., 914-794-3000, ext. 3372
Tioga--Waverly: 2 N. Chemung St., 607-733-2178
Tompkins--Ithaca: 304 Babcock Hall, Terrace Hill, 607-272-1084
Ulster--Kingston: 300 Flatbush Ave., 914-338-7496
Warren--Lake George: Municipal Ctr. Annex, 518-761-6343
Washington--Greenwich: VFW Post, Abel Ave., 518-692-2636
Wayne--Lyons: 16 William St., 315-946-5897
Westchester--New Rochelle: City Hall, 515 North Ave., 914-632-7353;
White Plains: 150 Grand St., 914-285-2145; Yonkers: 87 Nepperhan Ave., Rm. 216, 914-377-6702
Wyoming--Warsaw: 452 N. Main St., 716-786-3145
Yates--Penn Yan: 431 Libert St., Room 21, 315-536-5196
Regional Offices
Eastern Regions: Corning Tower, 28th Fl., ESP, Albany, NY 12210; 518-474-7821
Western Region: 125 Main Street, Buffalo, 14203; 716-847-3414
Metropolitan Region: 80 Centre St., New York, NY 10013; 212-417-4823
New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
Agency
Description
On June 23, 1992, Governor Mario Cuomo signed Chapter 223 of the Laws of 1992, combining the state's Division of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (DAAA) and Division of Substance Abuse Services (DSAS) to create the unified Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS). The new Office administers the state's comprehensive programs for treating persons addicted to alcohol and other drugs, for preventing the harmful use of substances, and for researching the basic aspects of addiction. OASAS--in partnership with localities, providers, and citizen groups--plans and regulates the state's system of alcoholism and substance abuse treatment and prevention services.
The agency operates 13 Alcoholism Treatment Centers, which provide inpatient rehabilitation services to 5,000 persons per year; and licenses, funds, and supervises some 1,000 local, community-based providers which serve more than 100,000 persons in a wide range of inpatient, outpatient, and residential programs. The Office also licenses and inspects these programs to guarantee quality of care and to ensure compliance with state standards. The OASAS operated alcoholism treatment programs are monitored for compliance with the national standards established by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.
In addition, OASAS monitors trends in substance use and abuse; supports school and community education and prevention programs; promotes public awareness and citizen involvement through community action groups; fosters Employee Assistance Programs for drug-free workplaces; pursues state, federal and private sources of funding and reimbursement for services; establishes linkages to services for clients in other human service agencies and the criminal justice system; and provides education and training for persons dealing with clients, including credentialing of alcoholism and substance abuse counselors.
OASAS also operates the Research Institute on Addictions in Buffalo which studies the etiology, course, treatment and prevention of alcoholism and drug addictions. General Programs and Services New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services administers and regulates a variety of treatment programs to address the effects of individuals and families abusing alcohol and other substances. At any given time, over 100,000 persons are receiving services from this treatment system.
Service Delivery System Treatment and Rehabilitation:
OASAS has developed a variety of approaches and methodologies to address the diversity of problems and needs manifested by individuals seeking treatment. Generally, an individual's specific issues dictate the type and intensity of treatment that is recommended. Services may be provided on a residential or ambulatory basis, taking into account many factors (e.g., structured activity, community supports) in a person's daily existence.
Alcoholism treatment services are offered through a continuum of care consisting of seven different program types: o Inpatient Detoxification Programs o Alcohol Crisis Centers o Inpatient Rehabilitation Programs o Community Residence Programs o Residential Chemical Dependency Programs for Youth o Outpatient Clinic Programs o Outpatient Rehabilitation Programs. The Bureau of State-Operated Alcoholism Services operates 13 Alcoholism Treatment Centers, located from Long Island to Buffalo. With 548 beds, they comprise the largest state-operated inpatient rehabilitation program in the nation, admitting 5,000 persons annually. Substance abuse treatment services are provided primarily through a network of community-based programs operated by local governments, proprietary agencies, and not-for-profit corporations. This network of substance abuse treatment programs is organized within the following categories: o Methadone Treatment Programs o Drug-Free Residential Programs o Drug-Free Ambulatory Programs o Medically Supervised Ambulatory Programs o Residential Detoxification Programs OASAS has developed special initiatives to meet identified needs and serve particular target groups. Examples of these efforts are: o expansion of treatment, risk-reduction activities, aggressive outreach, and interagency planning to address the AIDS problem; o outreach, crisis intervention, screening and referral, treatment, and vocational services for homeless substance abusers; o development of a unit within OASAS to assist treatment programs in addressing the special needs of children of alcohol and substance abusers and their parents who are in treatment; o coordination of agency and interagency services for individuals within the criminal justice system identified as alcohol and substance abuse offenders; o coordination with other state agencies to meet the needs of the multiply disabled through multi-agency sponsored programs and planning; o development of treatment services and technical assistance to employers to address the needs of employed alcohol and substance abusers; and o development of specialized vocational service providers to meet the particular assessment, planning, and referral needs of alcohol and substance abusers in treatment. Vocational Rehabilitation Services: During the past two decades, experience and research in the alcoholism and substance abuse treatment field have led to an increasing awareness of the importance of vocational rehabilitation as a necessary component of treatment. In support of this realization, the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services has established minimum vocational service guidelines for programs to follow in working with their clients. Training in vocational rehabilitation theory and practical skills has been made available to treatment personnel to increase their abilities to address vocational and employment issues with their clients. Efforts have also been made to make vocational services available to alcohol and substance abusers through the establishment of cooperative arrangements with other resources which primarily focus on vocational development activities. While a number of treatment programs employ vocational counselors, available resources have not permitted the overwhelming majority of treatment agencies to acquire this type of professional staff. In response to the need created by this situation, the Office has sponsored vocational service projects in most regions of the state. These projects work with clients of multiple treatment agencies to assist them in defining their specific vocational needs, interests, and abilities, followed by referral to vocational educational, or employment services as appropriate.
Prevention/Intervention:
OASAS funds and oversees a network of over 380 substance abuse prevention providers in operation at over 2,600 sites as well as 46 Councils on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse for the delivery of comprehensive prevention services to youth and their families. Services are accessed through both school and community-based programs statewide that target specific high-risk populations. The range of services include the provision of age-appropriate accurate information, social competency skill development, opportunities to participate in positive alternatives to alcohol and substance abuse, training for those who impact the target population (teachers, peers, parents, etc.), development of efforts to influence public social policy regarding alcohol and other drug abuse, and identification and early intervention for those at highest risk. Intervention services include a variety of Employee Assistance Programs and Hospital Intervention Services.
Regional Offices:
The Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services has regional offices located throughout the state to provide access to information and the variety of services available to the public. Each of these offices works closely with local officials and community-based organizations to plan for the best use of available resources in meeting identified needs of the target population. The regional offices listed below can be contacted to obtain information regarding alcoholism and substance abuse services in your locale.
Regional Offices
Regional Office #1/Western General Donovan State Office Building
125 Main Street Room 232
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-3943
(Substance Abuse)
1021 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 885-0701)
(Alcoholism)
Regional Office #2/Finger Lakes
109 S. Union Street - 3rd Floor
Rochester, NY 14607
(716) 454-4320
(Substance Abuse)
(716) 262-3163
(Alcoholism)
Regional Office #3/4 John F. Hughes State Office Building Room 548
333 E. Washington Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 428-4113
(Substance Abuse)
Regional Office #5/Northeastern
10 Colvin Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 453-4369
(Substance Abuse)
(518) 453-1745
(Alcoholism)
Regional Office #6/Mid-Hudson
30 Glenn Street
White Plains, NY 10603
(914) 428-6414
(Substance Abuse)
Hudson River Psychiatric Center Branch B,
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(914) 473-5340
(Alcoholism) Regional Office #7/New York City
55 West 125th Street
New York, NY 10027
(212) 870-8439
(Substance Abuse)
270 Broadway, Room 410,
New York, NY 10007
(212) 417-4944
(Alcoholism)
Regional Office #8/Long Island
175 Fulton Avenue - Room 307
Hempstead, NY 11550
(516) 489-3104
(Substance Abuse)
PO Box 600
West Brentwood, NY 11717
(516) 273-0888
(Alcoholism)
New York State Office of Advocate for Persons with Disabilities
Agency
Description
The New York State Office of Advocate for Persons with Disabilities (OAPWD) was created by an executive order of the governor in 1977. It was given a permanent base in law under Chapter 718 of the Laws of 1982. The law took effect on February 1, 1983. Structure The agency is headed by the State Advocate for the Disabled who is assisted by an advisory council composed of consumers, providers and state agency representatives. Mission It is the mission of the Advocate's Office to assure that the majority of New Yorkers with disabilities, regardless of severity or multiplicity, will achieve meaningful integrated employment and community living by the year 2000.
To carry out its mission, the Advocate's Office: -- Advises the governor, the legislature and other state agencies of the needs and issues facing people with disabilities. -- Initiates and takes part in shaping innovative programs to meet these needs. -- Identifies possible areas of improvement and coordination among segments of the system that can achieve such change. -- Assists local government, service providers and the private sector in efforts to achieve the goal of full participation of people with disabilities in community life. -- Helps people with disabilities and their families to identify and meet their personal needs.
The Advocate's Office participates on more than 30 state panels and--under executive order--reviews a broad spectrum of proposed legislation, regulations and policies for potential impact upon people with disabilities. As a systems advocacy agency, the New York State Advocate's Office strives to assure that each individual with a disability has the opportunity to be an equal, participating member of society. Through deliberate and organized efforts, the agency promotes changes in policies and operations to make the delivery of services more responsive to individual needs.
General Services -- Information and Referral
The agency provides a toll-free, statewide information and referral line. People with disabilities, their families, advocates, service providers, employers and others place thousands of calls to the agency each year seeking information and referral to sources of aid or service. Information is provided on a wide variety of topics--including education, technology, accessibility, employment, housing, transportation, legal rights, legislation, rehabilitation, financial assistance, disability benefits, home care and handicapped parking. The phone line is also equipped to answer calls from people who are deaf or have speech impairments who use a tele-text writer (TTY).
Staff's ability to quickly and accurately help callers is greatly aided by the computerized SATIRN II (Self-Advocacy Training and Information and Referral Network) system which includes over 8,000 federal, state and local sources of referral. Ongoing expansion of the database is made possible by a grant from the NYS Department of Health through federal Early Intervention funds. OAPWD's information and referral system and SATIRN II serves as the Central Directory for Early Intervention services required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part H. The resources are compiled in a stand alone database program that may be accessed in a number of ways including by county, regions, age groups, services and in populations served. Many local agencies have copies of the database and use if for their information and referral services.
OAPWD received a grant from the NYS Developmental Disabilities and Planning Council to greatly expand its computerized bulletin board system (BBS) offering direct access to information relevant to individuals with disabilities including: training conferences and seminars; the Americans with Disabilities Act; services available through the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) project, including TRAID-IN, an equipment exchange program; Abledata, a database of assistive devices; SATIRN II; other agencies' newsletters, publications, announcements and activities; OAPWD's legislative update publications and newsletter; independent living; parents' exchange network. Additional topics will be added as the system can accommodate 99 separate areas. BBS users may also leave messages, such as requesting or providing information or may engage in "live conversations" with one another. Individuals who have a computer and a modem can reach the system 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling (518) 473-0320 in the Capital District, or 1-800-943-2323 from other parts of the state. Individuals with developmental disabilities or their family members may be eligible for the modem loan program through various libraries. --
Technology
The agency administers a federal grant for the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Project. This project extends on-going efforts in New York State to establish a consumer-responsive, comprehensive statewide program for technology related assistance by and for individuals with disabilities. The TRAID Project resources establish the vital links that integrate the state's comprehensive service delivery system. The integration enables the TRAID project to apply existing resources in the state more effectively to address the full range of unmet needs. The TRAID Project's four components include: Information Network - a comprehensive information network on assistive technology services and devices; Service Network - a comprehensive affiliation of service providers in the state linked by a hierarchy of technology resource centers charged with coordinating the service delivery process; Initiatives in Education - including outreach workshops consisting of information dissemination, device demonstration and public forums for consumers, entry-level and continuing professional education and general awareness projects for the general public and the private sector, including businesses and manufacturers; and Advisory Boards - regional and statewide advisory boards comprising consumers, service and other agency representatives, who will provide consumer-responsive policy direction and review.
The TRAID Project partially funds five regional technology centers at seven sites. The project also funds the TRAID Equipment Exchange Program, "TRAID-IN" which is operated by information and referral (I&R) staff. TRAID-IN, a computerized database developed like a "want-ad" digest, enables persons with disabilities to sell, donate, or purchase used assistive devices at a reduced cost. I&R staff take general information from callers, provide written follow-up information, enter information into, and maintain, the database, and contact sources about potential matches. --
Legislation
One of the agency's key functions is promoting legislation that will meet the needs of people with disabilities. To achieve that goal, agency staff annually prepare a legislative package for the governor. The agency is also charged with reviewing legislation proposed by other state agencies which would impact upon people with disabilities. The agency assists consumers to bring individual and group concerns and interests to the attention of lawmakers by conducting workshops on the legislative process and working closely with the Senate Select Committee on the Disabled and the Assembly Task Force on the Disabled. Staff also distribute legislative summaries, updates and bill tracking data and attend committee meetings and hearings. Staff contact legislators and their staffs to increase their awareness of the Advocate's Office ability to assist them on disability-related legislation and to acquaint them with the agency's legislative priorities. --
Legal Rights
As the designated coordinator for New York State agency efforts to achieve full compliance with the non-discrimination provisions of Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Advocate's Office provides technical assistance and leadership on a variety of fronts. Staff assist and cooperate with people with disabilities, advocates, service providers, employers, attorneys, state agencies, local governments and others in need of information, assistance and training concerning the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act, ADA, the NYS Human and Civil Rights Laws, and other federal and state civil rights statutes and regulations. --
Community Development
The agency's community development program assists counties, cities, boroughs, town and villages to form local advocacy systems. These grass-roots advocacy systems help mobilize local resources and integrate people with disabilities in community life, including governmental decision-making. In the majority of communities, councils on the disabled are the structures which serve as local advocacy systems. In other areas, offices for the disabled (established by local governments), independent living centers or community agencies for persons with disabilities serve this function. Regardless of the structure, these local advocacy systems work with businesses, government and community leaders, community agencies and organizations and the general public to ensure that people with disabilities have full opportunity to participate in every aspect of community life. To encourage the growth of new systems and to strengthen existing ones, the Advocate's Office provides information, guidance and training tailored to meet local needs. --
Public Awareness
The Advocate's Office produces television, radio and print media materials to promote awareness and a better understanding of the agency's policies and initiatives. The agency also strives to make the general public more aware of people with disabilities and their needs and abilities. To accomplish this, the agency produces a wide variety of material prepared for different audiences--including people with disabilities, their families, advocates, service providers, government officials, employers and the general public. The agency publishes a quarterly newsletter containing articles on new state and federal laws, legislation, court decisions, regulations, special events and innovative programs. It also publishes monographs, position papers and brochures on a variety of topics, including architectural accessibility, community development and advocacy, improving the general public's acceptance of people with disabilities, special employment efforts, technology and information and referral systems. --
Employment
The aim of the Advocate's Office in the area of employment is to help ensure that qualified people with disabilities have full opportunity to find work, pursue careers or develop businesses that are meaningful to them and based on their abilities. Rather than duplicate the direct services offered by others, the agency promotes policies and programs which enhance opportunities for individuals and foster cooperation among government, business, industry and labor. --
Long-Term Care
The Advocate's Office participates in the Long-Term Care Policy Coordinating Council, an interagency group researching issues involved in maintaining people in their homes rather than in institutions. Based on this research, the council makes recommendations to the governor on possible approaches to address the issue being considered. --
Accessibility
The Advocate's Office provides technical assistance and information on accessibility and barrier-free design in transportation, housing and other construction to local governments, people with disabilities, service providers, architects and other professionals. Training is also provided on barrier-free design and the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Construction Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act. In compliance with Chapter 61 of the Laws of 1990, representatives of the agency were appointed by the governor to be members of accessible transportation committees in various regions of the state. These committees recommend policies and practices concerning the required accessible fixed route and para-transit systems. Services Delivery The Advocate's Office does not provide direct services. It does provide several other types of programs and services which benefit people with disabilities through its main office in Albany and a satellite office in New York City.
Vocational Rehabilitation Activities/Programs
Eligibility for Service
There are no eligibility requirements.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
All of the general services previously described could also be listed under this section since vocational rehabilitation activities are included in the general categories.
Points of Contact
The main office is located at One Empire State Plaza, Suite 1001, Albany, New York, 12223. The phone numbers include: (518) 474-5567 (Voice only), (518) 473-4321 (TTY only), (800) 522-4369 (Voice and TTY).
The New York City office is located at: 5 Penn Plaza, 5th Floor, New York, New York, 10001. The phone number is: (212) 613-4877 (Voice and TTY), (212) 613-4217 (FAX).
New York State Office of Mental Health
Agency Description
Mission
The Office of Mental Health provides treatment, rehabilitation and support services to persons with mental illness within New York State. Services are provided at state-operated psychiatric centers as well as through voluntary not-for-profit provider agencies and through the auspices of local governments. The overall responsibility of the Office of Mental Health is to ensure that all citizens in New York State have access to needed mental health services. Its priority is to provide services including emergency access, treatment and rehabilitation within a comprehensive and coordinated public mental health system. The Office of Mental Health looks to the public mental health system to provide these needed services to persons of all ages who are experiencing severe mental illness.
General Services
There are four major program categories of service: emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and community support. Vocational rehabilitation is a community support service. Other community support services include education, and social support groups such as psycho-social clubs.
Service Delivery Structure
There are 31 state-operated psychiatric centers and over 2000 voluntary sector mental health programs located throughout the state. Individuals seeking service are best advised to contact their nearest OMH regional office for more detailed information on access to services. Services, such as vocational rehabilitation, may be found within free standing rehabilitation facilities offering a range of vocational options or may be incorporated within larger facilities - state psychiatric centers, community mental health agencies, or large voluntary provider agencies which offer a comprehensive range of treatment and rehabilitative services. Since the Office of Mental Health serves an average of 85,000 persons a day, the range and scope of services throughout the state is large and varied.
Vocational Activities and Programs
There are vocational activities and programs available at each of the state psychiatric centers and local special employment programs listed below. The full range of vocational activities include: -- vocational goal planning -- vocational assessment -- career exploration -- vocational training -- resum preparation -- job seeking skills -- job development/job placement -- job coaching -- work adjustment/work hardening -- ongoing support -- job crisis intervention/job saving -- linkage and referral Although all of these vocational services may not be available in each program, they are available in many configurations throughout the state. The criteria for being deemed eligible to receive these services include a mental illness diagnosis, stabilization from an acute phase of mental illness, a willingness to develop and implement a vocational goal. Further, information on access to vocational services can be obtained by consulting any of the following contact personnel.
Contact Personnel
New York City Regional Office (212) 633-4300
Long Island Regional Office (516) 434-5311
Hudson River Regional Office (914) 452-1540
Central New York Regional Office (315) 423-1047
Western New York Regional Office (716) 885-5014
New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities
Agency Description
Mission
The Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) is New York State's lead agency responsible for planning, administering and providing services for citizens with developmental disabilities and their families. The agency is dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities and their families obtain the support and services they want and need. OMRDD and its twenty Developmental Disabilities Services Offices (DDSOs) work closely with voluntary agencies and local governments to develop the supports that will help families care for their relative with a disability, and help each person with a disability to become a more effective and productive member of his or her community. The agency and its district offices insure that the standards and quality of supports and services are adequate to meet the expressed needs of its consumers and are as individualized as they can be. OMRDD is committed to continuous improvement of its supports and services. It strives for equal opportunities for citizens with developmental disabilities to benefit from New York State's public resources and from all available formal and natural supports, as well as to receive services that are culturally responsive to their needs and choices. OMRDD facilitates access to services by working cooperatively with state, federal, and local government, provider agencies, other sate agencies, constituent groups, and the community at large.
Eligibility
In order to receive services, persons must be diagnosed as having a developmental disability which is defined as follows: 1. (a) is attributable to mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, neurological impairment or autism; (b) is attributable to any other condition of a person found to be closely related to mental retardation because such condition results in similar impairment of general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior to that of mentally retarded persons or requires treatment and services similar to those required for such persons; or (c) is attributable to dyslexia resulting from a disability described in subparagraph (a) or (b) of this paragraph; 2. originates before such person attains age twenty-two; 3. has continued or can be expected to continue indefinitely; and 4. constitutes a substantial handicap to such person's ability to function in society. General Services o Residential Services include a range of community-living situations as well as in-home and out-of-home residential services to address individual needs at home or in a homelike setting. o Family Support Services help families to care for a family member with a disability in their home. This includes providing information about developmental disabilities, referrals to service organizations, case management, parent counseling and training, prevention services, and relief for families from the responsibilities of constant care. o Developmental Services for Children are aimed at early recognition and treatment. Services include diagnosis, treatment planning, infant stimulation, assessment, early intervention, and a variety of services to develop daily living skills, including social abilities. o Treatment and Training Services range from services that focus on improving basic daily living skills such as dressing, communication and personal hygiene; to more advanced services and supports that provide supported employment and/or can lead to competitive employment.
Day and Employment Services
OMRDD has shifted the focus of service planning and delivery from a model driven system to a "person centered" approach. This approach, the Individualized Service Environment, requires that supports and services for an individual be built around that person, his or her strengths, abilities, and desires rather than program models.
DDSO Points of Contact:
Deputy Director of Community Services at Each Location DDSOs and Counties Served
Bernard Fineson
DDSO
Gertz Plaza
92-31 Union Hall Street Room 5206
Jamaica, NY 11433
(718) 262-4772
County Served: Queens
Bronx DDSO
Eastchester Professional Center
1695 Eastchester Rd
Bronx, NY 10461
(718) 430-0700
County Served: Bronx
Brooklyn DDSO
2 Metrotech Center
Brooklyn, NY 11208 (718) 834-6635
County Served: Kings
Broome DDSO
Glenwood Road
Binghamton, NY 13905
(607) 770-0249
Counties Served: Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tioga, Tompkins
Finger Lakes DDSO
Parkside Commons
5259 Parkside Drive
Farmington, NY 14425
(716) 394-7140
Counties Served: Chemung, Steuben, Livingston, Schuyler, Ontario, Seneca, Yates, Wayne, Wyoming
J.N. Adam DDSO
110 West Third Street Suite 1
Jamestown, NY 14701
(716) 664-3141
Counties Served: Cattaraugus, Allegany, Chautauqua
Letchworth DDSO
Admin. Bldg.
2 Secor Road
Thiells, NY 10984
(914) 947-1115
Counties Served: Orange, Rockland, Sullivan
Long Island DDSO
415-A Oser Road
Hauppauge, NY 11788
(516) 434-6013
Counties Served: Nassau, Suffolk
Manhattan DDSO
75 Morton Street
New York, NY 10014
(212) 229-3000
County Served: New York Monroe
DDSO
Basin Park
1160-A Pittsford-Victor Road
Pittsford, NY 14534
(716) 248-4655
County Served:
Oswald D. Heck
DDSO Balltown & Consaul Roads
Schenectady, NY 12304
(518) 370-7370
Counties Served: Albany, Columbia, Greene, Schenectady, Schoharie, Rensselaer
Rome DDSO
Administration Complex
Box 550
Lower S. James Street
Rome, NY 13440
(315) 336-2300
Counties Served: Herkimer, Lewis, Oneida
Staten Island DDSO
1150 Foresthill Road Building A
Staten Island, NY 10314
(718) 983-5200
County Served: Richmond
Sunmount DDSO
403 Park Street
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
(518) 359-3311
Counties Served: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, St. Lawrence
Syracuse DDSO
416 W. Onondaga Street
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 424-5355
Counties Served: Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego
Wassaic DDSO
149 Union Street
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(914) 473-5050
Counties Served: Dutchess, Ulster, Putnam
Westchester DDSO
580 White Plains Road
Tarrytown, NY 10591
(914) 631-8188
West Seneca DDSO
1200 East & West Roads
West Seneca, NY 14224
(716) 674-6300
Counties Served: Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans
Wilton DDSO
10 Railroad Place
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
(518) 583-2810
Counties Served: Fulton, Saratoga, Hamilton, Warren, Montgomery, Washington
New York State Education Department
The Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities
Agency Description
Overall Mission
The Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) is an office of the State Education Department which provides vocational services and coordinates lifelong educational services for individuals with disabilities to assist in expanding and enhancing their opportunities to live and work independently in their communities. Specific objectives are: o To provide vocational rehabilitation services to those people whose disabilities impose barriers to gainful employment. o To increase the access of all persons with disabilities, regardless of age, disability, or minority status, to the complete range of services offered within the New York State Education Department and other agencies providing services to individuals with disabilities.
o To assure that secondary students experience seamless continuity in vocational rehabilitation and related services in the transition from school to adult life.
o To coordinate lifelong educational services to persons with disabilities. o To assist individuals with disabilities to live and work independently in their communities. VESID provides services which assist those with disabilities to become placed in appropriate and meaningful employment in integrated settings within the community. The central role of the vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselor and the VR process, from referral to placement, will be tailored to provide maximum accessibility to jobs. In addition, VESID provides overall coordination of educational, vocational, and rehabilitation services to all people with disabilities. This includes increasing the access of all people with disabilities to the full range of services which are offered within the State Education Department and other agencies which provide services to individuals with disabilities. Services Provided Services are provided, as needed, to enable the consumer to meet vocational goals, as determined by the consumer and counselor together. All services are individualized and plans for service (the Individualized Written Rehabilitation Program--IWRP) are prepared by the counselor with the individual. The IWRP will specify the vocational goal, rights and responsibilities of both the agency and the consumer, and the services to be provided.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Eligibility
The counselor will work with the applicant to gather information necessary to determine if the individual meets the following eligibility criteria:
o The individual has a physical or mental impairment that is a substantial impediment to employment;
o The individual can benefit in terms of achieving an employment outcome; and
o The individual requires vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, enter, engage in or retain gainful employment. The information may include medical reports, the results of interest and/or ability testing, and other evaluations. To the greatest extent possible, existing information is used in determining an individual's eligibility. After discussing the agency services provided, the applicant may decide to accept or not take advantage of services. Once it is decided the applicant is eligible, sponsorship for "some services" is based on the applicants income and/or family resources. If the applicant is not eligible for VESID services, every effort is made to refer the individual to the appropriate program for service. General Programs Vocational counseling is an ongoing service provided throughout the rehabilitation process. Other services may include:
o Vocational evaluations to determine: -- skills, abilities and interests -- possible vocational goals -- services needed to secure employment
o Consultation with school districts to assist in the development of appropriate vocational assessment, career planning and employment services
o Career planning and vocational counseling for consumers with disabilities o Restoration services and/or adaptive equipment to remove or reduce limitations related to employment
o Job skills training through: -- work study programs -- transitional employment with job coaching -- "on-the-job" programs -- trade and business schools -- colleges and universities -- community rehabilitation programs
o Driver/homemaker evaluation and training
o Assistance with support services during training: -- public transportation/special transportation -- extra maintenance expenses -- personal assistance services including attendants, notetakers, readers and interpreters -- Reader's Aid for matriculated college students o Supported employment: -- job coaches -- situational assessment
o books, tools and equipment needed for training/employment
o Telecommunication aids, rehabilitation engineering
o Assistance with some costs of home/vehicle modifications required for employment o Job seeking skills training to learn how to: -- fill out a job application or develop a resum -- handle job interviews successfully -- develop other job related skills
o Occupational licenses, tools, initial stock, and supplies for small businesses
o Job placement and post-employment follow-up services
o Referral to independent living services for: -- peer counseling -- housing assistance -- training in independent living skills -- advice on other benefits for individuals with disabilities There are 35 Independent Living Centers in the state. For more information, contact the nearest regional VESID office.
o Referral for assistance from other agencies such as the: -- Social Security Administration -- Department of Social Services -- Department of Mental Health -- Veterans Administration. Some services may be dependent upon meeting economic need criteria, while others, including any vocational counseling and placement, are available to any eligible consumer. Points of Contact Our Offices are found in 15 locations around the state, with satellite offices for further convenience. Please contact the District Office covering your county for more information:
VESID Offices and Counties Served
Albany District Office
55 Elk Street, Room 301
Albany, NY 12207
(518) 473-8097
(518) 473-8467 (TTY)
1-800-272-5448
Counties Served: Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Albany, Greene, Columbia, Schoharie
Bronx District Office
1500 Pelham Parkway South
First Floor
Bronx, NY 10461
(718) 931-3500
(718) 892-7576 (TTY)
Country Served: Bronx
Brooklyn District Office
55 Hanson Place, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11217
(718) 722-6700
(718) 722-6736 (TTY)
Country Served: Kings
Buffalo District Office
General William J. Donovan State Office Building
125 Main Street, 8th Floor
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 847-3294
(716) 847-1495 (TTY)
Counties Served: Niagara, Erie, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany
Hauppauge District Office
State Office Building
Veterans Highway Hauppauge, NY 11788
(516) 952-6357
(516) 952-6370 (TTY)
1-800-441-0320
Country Served: Suffolk
Hempstead District Office
50 Clinton Street, Room 708
Hempstead, NY 11550
(516) 483-6510
(516) 483-6087 (TTY)
County Served: Nassau
Malone District Office
East Main Street Road
RD 1, Box 39
Malone, NY 12953
(518) 483-3530
(516) 483-6070 (TTY)
1-800-882-2803
Counties Served: St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex
Manhattan District Office
116 West 32nd Street, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10001
(212) 630-2300
(212) 630-2378 (TTY)
(212) 630-2369 (TTY)
Counties Served: New York, Richmond
Mid-Hudson District Office
120 Dutchess Turnpike
Canterbury Plaza, 1st Floor
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
(914) 452-5325
(914) 452-2910 (TTY)
Counties Served: Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan, Orange, Putnam
Queens District Office
1 LeFrank City Plaza
59-17 Junction Blvd., 20th Floor
Corona, NY 11363
(718) 271-9346
(718) 271-9799 (TTY)
County Served: Queens
Rochester District Office
109 South Union Street, 2nd Floor
Rochester, NY 14607
(716) 238-2900
(716) 325-6278 (TTY)
1-800-462-0178
Counties Served: Monroe, Livingston, Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Seneca
Southern Tier District Office
92 Hawley Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 773-7830
(607) 773-7998
(TTY) 1-800-888-5020
Counties Served: Delaware, Otsego, Chenango, Broome, Tioga, Tompkins, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben
Syracuse District Office
333 East Washington Street, Room 230
Syracuse, NY 13202
(315) 428-4179
(315) 426-2155 (TTY)
1-800-782-6164
Counties Served: Cayuga, Cortland, Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Jefferson
Utica District Office State Office Building
207 Genesee Street
Utica, NY 13501
(315) 793-2536
(315) 793-2667 (TTY)
1-800-624-6206
Counties Served: Oneida, Herkimer, Montgomery, Fulton, Hamilton, Lewis
White Plains District Office
55 Church Street, 3rd Floor
White Plains, NY 10601
(914) 946-1313
(914) 946-1520 (TTY)
1-800-258-3743
Counties Served: Westchester, Rockland
|
.gif){kind=spacer}
