Approved by RSA 10/19/10 with Technical Edits
 
State:   New York

 

State Plan For Independent Living (SPIL)

 

Chapter 1, Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as Amended

 

State Independent Living Services (SILS) Program

Part B

 

Centers for Independent Living (CIL) Program
Part C

 

FISCAL YEARS                       2011 – 2013               

 

Effective Date:  October 1,      2010   

 


 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Part I: Assurances

 

Section 1: Legal Basis and Certifications 3

Section 2: SPIL Development 4

Section 3: Independent Living Services ................... 5

Section 4: Eligibility ..... 5

Section 5: Staffing Requirements 5

Section 6: Fiscal Control and Fund Accounting . 6

Section 7: Record-Keeping, Access and Reporting .... 6

Section 8: Protection, Use and Release of Personal Information . 7

Section 9: Signatures.... 7

 

Part II: Narrative

 

Section 1: Goals, Objectives and Activities...... 8

Section 2: Scope, Extent, and Arrangements of Services ............................................................ 36

Section 3: Design for the Statewide Network of Centers ............................................................ 45

Section 4: Designated State Unit (DSU) ...................................................................................... 52

Section 5: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) .......................................................... 53

Section 6: Service Provider Requirements .................................................................................. 57

Section 7: Evaluation ................................................................................................................... 64

Section 8: State-Imposed Requirements ..................................................................................... 81

 

 

 


PART I: Assurances

State of:             New York   

 

Section 1: Legal Basis and Certifications  

 

1.1  The Designated State unit (DSU) eligible to submit the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL or the plan) and authorized under State law to perform the functions of the State under the State Independent Living Services (SILS) and Centers for Independent Living (CIL) programs is   New York State Education Department (NYSED)/Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID).  34 CFR 76.104(a)(1) and (2); 34 CFR 364.22(a)     ü      

 

1.2  The separate State agency eligible to submit the plan and authorized under State law to provide Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services to individuals who are blind is    New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYSOCFS)/Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH).  Indicate N/A if not applicable.  34 CFR 76.104(a)(1) and (2); 34 CFR 364.20(d) and 364.22(c)     ü      

 

1.3  The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) that meets the requirements of section 705 of the Act and is authorized to perform the functions outlined in section 705(c) of the Act in the State is    New York State Independent Living Council, Inc. (NYSILC).  34 CFR 364.21(a)     ü      

 

1.4  The DSU and, if applicable, the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, and the SILC are authorized to jointly develop, sign and submit this SPIL on behalf of the State, and have adopted or otherwise formally approved the SPIL.  34 CFR 76.104(a)(7); 34 CFR 364.20(c) and (d)       ü      

 

1.5  The DSU, and, if applicable, the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, may legally carry out each provision of the plan and will comply with all applicable Federal statutes and regulations in effect with respect to the three-year period it receives funding under the SPIL. 34 CFR 76.104; 34 CFR 80.11(c)     ü      

 

1.6  The SPIL is the basis for State operation and administration of the program.  All provisions of the SPIL are consistent with State law. 34 CFR 76.104(a)(4) and (8)     ü      

 

1.7  The representative of the DSU and, if applicable, of the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, who has the authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the SPIL and to submit the SPIL jointly with the SILC chairperson is    Rebecca H. Cort, Ed. D., Deputy Commissioner, NYSED/VESID and    Brian S. Daniels, Associate Commissioner, NYSOCFS/CBVH.  34 CFR 76.104(a)(5) and (6)         ü      

 

 

 

 

Section 2: SPIL Development  

 

2.1    The plan shall be reviewed and revised not less than once every three years, to ensure the existence of appropriate planning, financial support and coordination, and other assistance to appropriately address, on a statewide and comprehensive basis, the needs in the State for:

 

        the provision of State independent living services;

        the development and support of a statewide network of centers for independent living; and

        working relationships between programs providing independent living services and independent living centers, the vocational rehabilitation program established under title I, and other programs providing services for individuals with disabilities.  34 CFR 364.20(f)         ü       

 

2.2    The DSU and SILC conduct public meetings to provide all segments of the public, including interested groups, organizations and individuals, an opportunity to comment on the State plan prior to its submission to the Commissioner and on any revisions to the approved State plan. 34 CFR 364.20(g)(1)          ü    

 

2.3    The DSU and SILC establish and maintain a written description of procedures for conducting public meetings in accordance with the following requirements.  The DSU and SILC shall provide:

 

        appropriate and sufficient notice of the public meetings (that is, at least 30 days prior to the public meeting through various media available to the general public, such as newspapers and public service announcements, and through specific contacts with appropriate constituency groups and organizations identified by the DSU and SILC);

        reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication in the conduct of the public meetings, including providing sign language interpreters and audio-loops; and

        public meeting notices, written material provided prior to or at the public meetings, and the approved State plan in accessible formats for individuals who rely on alternative modes of communication. 34 CFR 364.20(g)(2)        ü       

 

2.4    At the public meetings to develop the State plan, the DSU and SILC identify those provisions in the SPIL that are State-imposed requirements beyond what would be required to comply with the regulations in 34 CFR parts 364, 365, 366, and 367.  34 CFR 364.20(h)        ü        

 

2.5    The DSU will seek to incorporate into, and describe in, the State plan any new methods or approaches for the provision of Independent Living (IL) services to older individuals who are blind that are developed under a project funded under chapter 2 of title VII of the Act and that the DSU determines to be effective. 34 CFR 364.28           ü        

 

2.6    The DSU and SILC actively consult, as appropriate, in the development of the State plan with the director of the Client Assistance Program (CAP) authorized under section 112 of the Act.  34 CFR 364.20(e)       ü        

Section 3: Independent Living Services 

 

3.1 The State, directly or through grants or contracts, will provide IL services with Federal, State,

      or other funds.  34 CFR 364.43(b)     ü        

 

3.2    Independent living services shall be provided to individuals with significant disabilities in accordance with an independent living plan mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff   member of the service provider and the individual, unless the individual signs a waiver stating that such a plan is unnecessary.  34 CFR 364.43(c)         ü     

 

3.3    All service providers will use formats that are accessible to notify individuals seeking or receiving IL services under chapter 1 of title VII about:

 

        the availability of the CAP authorized by section 112 of the Act;

        the purposes of the services provided under the CAP; and

        how to contact the CAP. 34 CFR 364.30       ü   

        

3.4    Participating service providers meet all applicable State licensure or certification requirements. 34 CFR 365.31(c)     ü     

 

Section 4: Eligibility  

 

4.1    Any individual with a significant disability, as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b), is eligible for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs authorized under chapter 1 of title VII of the Act.  Any individual may seek information about IL services under these programs and request referral to other services and programs for individuals with significant disabilities, as appropriate.  The determination of an individual's eligibility for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs meets the requirements of 34 CFR 364.51.  34 CFR 364.40(a), (b) and (c)

     ü        

 

4.2    Service providers apply eligibility requirements without regard to age, color, creed, gender, national origin, race, religion or type of significant disability of the individual applying for IL services.  34 CFR 364.41(a)        ü    

 

4.3    Service providers do not impose any State or local residence requirement that excludes any individual who is present in the State and who is otherwise eligible for IL services from receiving IL services.  34 CFR 364.41(b)     ü    

 

Section 5: Staffing Requirements  

 

5.1    Service provider staff includes personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of centers.  34 CFR 364.23(a)    ü      

 

5.2    To the maximum extent feasible, a service provider makes available personnel able to communicate:

 

        with individuals with significant disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication, such as manual communication, nonverbal communication devices, Braille or audio tapes, and who apply for or receive IL services under title VII of the Act; and

        in the native languages of individuals with significant disabilities whose English proficiency is limited and who apply for or receive IL services under title VII of the Act. 34 CFR 364.23(b)      ü        

 

5.3    Service providers establish and maintain a program of staff development for all classes of positions involved in providing IL services and, if appropriate, in administering the CIL program. The staff development programs emphasize improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of and practice in the IL philosophy.  34 CFR 364.24           ü      

 

5.4    All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with significant disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of individuals with disabilities under section 503 of the Act.  34 CFR 364.31

      ü

 

Section 6: Fiscal Control And Fund Accounting 

 

6.1    All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will comply with applicable EDGAR fiscal and accounting requirements and will adopt those fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for those funds.  34 CFR 364.34     ü    

 

Section 7: Recordkeeping, Access and Reporting 

 

7.1    In addition to complying with applicable EDGAR recordkeeping requirements, all recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will maintain records that fully disclose and document:

 

        the amount and disposition by the recipient of that financial assistance;

        the total cost of the project or undertaking in connection with which the financial assistance is given or used;

        the amount of that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other sources;

        compliance with the requirements of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act and Part 364 of the regulations; and

        other information that the Commissioner determines to be appropriate to facilitate an effective audit.  34 CFR 364.35(a) and (b)       ü        

 

7.2    With respect to the records that are required by 34 CFR 364.35, all recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will submit reports that the Commissioner determines to be appropriate.  34 CFR 364.36        ü      

 

7.3    All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will provide access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General, or any of their duly authorized representatives, to the records listed in 34 CFR 364.37 for the purpose of conducting audits, examinations, and compliance reviews.  34 CFR 364.37         ü        

 

Section 8: Protection, Use, and Release of Personal Information 

 

8.1   Each service provider will adopt and implement policies and procedures to safeguard the confidentiality of all personal information, including photographs and lists of names in accordance with the requirements of 34 CFR 364.56(a)(1-6). 34 CFR 364.56(a)     ü        

 

Section 9: Signatures

 

After having carefully reviewed all of the assurance in sections 1 – 8 of this SPIL, the undersigned hereby affirm that the State of    New York    is in compliance and will remain in compliance with the aforementioned assurances during    2011 through 2013   .  

 

The effective date of this SPIL is October 1,    2010   . 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF SILC CHAIRPERSON                  DATE

 

 Christine Zachmeyer                                                      

NAME OF SILC CHAIRPERSON                 

 

                                                                                      

SIGNATURE OF DSU DIRECTOR                       DATE

 

 Rebecca H. Cort, Ed. D., Deputy Commissioner                                  

NAME AND TITLE OF DSU DIRECTOR             

 

                                                                                        

SIGNATURE OF DIRECTOR OF THE SEPARATE          DATE

STATE AGENCY FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BLIND                          

 

 Brian S. Daniels, Associate Commissioner                                        

NAME AND TITLE OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE

SEPARATE STATE AGENCY FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BLIND                          

 


   State of: New York

 

Part II: Narrative

 

Section 1: Goals, Objectives and Activities 

        

1.1  Goals and Mission – 34 CFR 364.42(b)(1)

 

Describe the overall goals and mission of the State's IL programs and services.  The SPIL must address the goals and mission of both the SILS and the CIL programs, including those of the State agency for individuals who are blind as they relate to the parts of the SPIL administered by that agency.

 

The New York State Independent Living Council, Inc. (NYSILC) developed a new mission statement during the past year: NYSILC is an independent federally mandated state council that advances Independent Living philosophy through the network of CIL's and statewide partnerships by engaging in or supporting research, education, employment, community organization, advocacy, and systems reform. In large part, NYSILC will accomplish this mission by completing specific goals and objectives stated in the SPIL (Section 1.2). Progress on the SPIL will be monitored by the SPIL Subcommittee and a review of outcomes in the Evaluation Plan (Attachment III). The council also developed a new vision statement: NYSILC is a champion of systemic change promoting opportunities and full participation in all aspects of society for people with disabilities.

 

The mission of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) is to promote educational equity and excellence for students with disabilities while ensuring that they receive the rights and protections to which they are entitled; assure appropriate continuity between the child and adult services systems; and provide the highest quality vocational rehabilitation and independent living services to all eligible persons as quickly as those services are required to enable them to work and to live independent, self-directed lives. VESID is the Designated State Unit (DSU) for vocational rehabilitation in New York State.

 

The mission of the Office of Children and Family Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped (CBVH) is to enhance employability, maximize independence, and assist in the development of the capacities and strengths of people who are legally blind. CBVH is the DSU responsible for the administration of vocational rehabilitation and other related services to legally blind residents of New York State. CBVH’s goal with respect to the IL Services Program is to enable individuals who are legally blind and not eligible for other CBVH programs to gain skills needed to function more independently.

 

As a result, NYSILC, VESID, and CBVH are authorized by the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, to jointly develop the SPIL. Together, as state plan partners, they are expected to promote mutual cooperation and support and/or coordinate activities with CILs, State Rehabilitation Councils and other State agencies and councils that address the needs of people with disabilities. NYSILC recognizes RSA’s role to monitor and evaluate the Federally-funded IL programs in New York State to ensure that people with significant disabilities have equal access to services and programs under Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act as amended. NYSILC is responsible to develop, monitor, and review the SPIL.

 

1.2 Objectives – 34 CFR 364.42(a)(1) and (d); 34 CFR 364.32; 34 CFR 364.33

 

1.2A Specify the objectives to be achieved and the time frame for achieving them. 

 

Based on the input received and reviewed through an extensive SPIL formulation process, NYSILC will address the following objectives in its State Plan for 2011 through 2013. This process commenced in the fall of 2009 with initial input on the SPIL utilizing public hearings, CIL focus groups, non-IL breakout sessions, and receipt of written comments received mostly via email. NYSILC SPIL materials were developed to facilitate the process and subsequently posted on the NYSILC website www.nysilc.org. After review of the initial comments, a draft of the key elements were then developed by the SPIL Subcommittee and sent out for another round of input on January 11, 2010 for Part B objectives, a budget, and a Part C IL funding plan. Based on comment, feedback from the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), and variance from what was originally sent out, a revised Part C IL funding plan was distributed for comment on February 16, 2010. The SPIL Subcommittee felt that the changes made were reflective of the comments and diverse needs in the State. While every need could not be addressed in the plan, members were satisfied in the process, the time and attention given to comments, which ultimately had a bearing on the final plan along with the various needs of the State.

 

For this section, each objective will relate to a general goal area. Each objective will then identify a specific item to be addressed and will include resources (if necessary) and a timeframe for achievement. Objectives will be listed in Section 1.3A. They will be supported by a narrative to further explain the objectives. This will be followed by “SPIL Objective Support Criteria” which will establish an outcome-based SPIL. Specific criteria for each objective include: measurable indicators, geographic scope, 3-year performance targets, timeframes for interim progress, action steps, lead organization, key partners, resources, and funding source. This information will then be developed into the SPIL Evaluation Plan – cross referenced in Section 7: Evaluation and the plan provided in Attachment III.

 

It should be noted that objectives listed in the SPIL under this section will have costs related to them unless noted otherwise. These costs will be supported in the Financial Plan Tables 1.3A primarily by Part B funds. CBVH State match funds, as defined in the financial table, will be used to support Objective 2 in the amount of $17,708 each year.

 

$12,361,000 is listed for State Funds under the category of General Center for Independent Living (CIL) Operations. $4,505,588 of this amount goes to fourteen of the sixteen centers in the federally funded network listed in the SPIL for the twenty-one Federally-funded CIL grants in the State (see Section 3.1). The centers include: Action Toward Independence, ARISE, AIM, Bronx Independent Living Services, Capital District Center for Independence, Center for the Disabled in New York, Southern Adirondack Independent Living, Harlem Independent Living Center, Resource Center for Independent Living, Regional Center for Independent Living, Independent Living Center (ILC) of the Hudson Valley, Northern Regional Center for Independent Living, Westchester Center for Independent Living, and the Western New York Independent Living Project. The remaining $7,855,412 in State Funds goes to State Service Centers for Independent Living not identified in the Federally-funded network. As a result, these state centers do not have to comply with federal standards.

 

Under 1.3A:

 

Goal # 1: NYSILC monitors, evaluates and effectively carries out duties related to the SPIL.

 

Objective 1: At a total SPIL cost of $1,173,368 $391,956 Year 1, $391,456 Year 2, $389,956 Year 3), support the basic operation of NYSILC each year through September 30, 2013. See Attachment I, A.

 

Overall, no Part B funds will be utilized to support general CIL Operations. Objective 1, NYSILC resource plan, a list of major line items is provided in the budget (see Attachment I, B) and relate to the duties and responsibilities of the council (identified under the SILC Resource Plan column in 1.3A) The DSU's (VESID and CBVH) will share costs and resources to support NYSILC's resource plan. See Attachment I, C for a Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by State Agency Source for specific amounts. More description is provided in Section 5.1 related to the SILC Resource Plan.

 

 

Objective 8: At a total SPIL cost of $59,000 ($19,500 Year 1, $20,000 Year 2, 19,500 Year 3), support statewide strategic media services and promote public awareness about IL in multiple media markets each year through September 30, 2013. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 8, strategic media services is referenced in the Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives Per Year, Other SPIL Activities -  Attachment I, A. The NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee will monitor the progress made on the outcomes in the media plan. It will relate to the outcomes identified in the SPIL criteria and evaluation plan for the objective. NYSILC staff will work with a media consultant to provide input and when appropriate help to implement the plan. The DSU (VESID) will follow approved State contracting processes in administering this objective. A determination will be made as to whether this objective will be sole sourced or administered through a Request For Proposal (RFP) regarding its implementation. The objective will be coordinated by the most appropriate statewide, consumer controlled, not-for-profit disability rights organization.

 

·        Objective 8: Support statewide strategic media services and promote public awareness about IL in multiple media markets each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets (newsprint, radio, television, online media).

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets (television, radio, newsprint, online media), either purchased or PSA, part of a statewide campaign to promote IL.

§         Number of media hits that appear in local media markets (television, radio, newsprint, and online media) by providing support to CILs.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         36 media hits that appear in statewide media markets.

§         240 media hits that appear in statewide media markets, either purchased or PSA, as part of a statewide campaign to promote Independent Living.

§         54 media hits that appear in local media markets by providing support to CILs.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3).

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets:

·        Year 1: 6.

·        Year 2: 12.

·        Year 3: 18.

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets, either purchased or PSA, as part of a statewide campaign to promote Independent Living:

·        Year 1: 40.

·        Year 2: 80.

·        Year 3: 120.

§         Number of media hits that appear in local media markets by providing support to CILs:

·        Year 1: 12.

·        Year 2: 18.

·        Year 3: 24.

§         Action Steps:

·        Develop strategic media plan and statewide media markets to focus on with media consultant.

·        Evaluate 2000 statewide IL PSA for current use. Determine need to adapt and/or create new campaign; include use of existing PSAs that can add tag and titles of NYSILC, DSU and location of CILs.

·        Create process to assist local CILs with media placement for an event or story (not duplicated with SSAN).

o       Lead Organization: NYSILC.

o       Key Partners: NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee, DSU.

o       Resources: $59,000 ($19,500 Year 1, $20,000 Year 2, $19,500 Year 3).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 9: At a total SPIL cost of $25,000 ($25,000 Year 1), support a statewide consumer satisfaction survey regarding the satisfaction with the services of the CIL network by September 30, 2011. See NYSILC resource plan (Attachment I, A).

 

Objective 9, CIL consumer satisfaction survey is referenced in the Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives Per Year - Attachment I, A. The SILC’s role in the process is to fulfill its State Plan evaluation duties. The NYSILC Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee will guide the process in year 1. Staff will coordinate the distribution, tabulation, and issuance of the statewide survey results in a report. Unless decided otherwise, centers will be responsible for the distribution and direct tabulation of their results. As an added benefit, individual center results will be discussed between CILs and VESID. Centers scoring below the established benchmark will have to take steps to improve their consumer satisfaction.

 

·        Objective 9: Support a statewide consumer satisfaction survey for the CIL network by September 30, 2011.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         % of CILs that receive the materials and participate in the survey.

§         % of CILs that achieve a total consumer satisfaction survey rating above 90%.

§         % of overall satisfied consumers.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         100% of CILs will receive the materials and participate in the survey.

§         95% of CILs will achieve a total consumer satisfaction survey rating above 90%.

§         90% of consumers will report that they are satisfied.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1)

§         Percentage of CILs to receive the materials and participate in the survey:
Year 1: 100%.

§         Percentage of CILs achieving a total consumer satisfaction survey rating above 90%:

·        Year 1: 95%.

§         Percentage of consumers reporting that they are satisfied:
Year 1: 90%.

o       Action Steps:

§         Distribute materials and instructions to CILs to complete the survey at the local level.

§         Compile statewide survey data and issue a report based on the results.

§         CILs that achieve a total consumer satisfaction rating below 90% will work with the DSU on a plan to improve their consumer satisfaction.

o       Lead Organization: NYSILC.

o       Key Partners: NYSILC Consumer Satisfaction Subcommittee, DSU.

o       Resources: $25,000 (Year 1).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See NYSILC resource plan (Attachment I, B).

Objective 10: Support a consultant to establish an outcome-based evaluation SPIL plan that the council can implement and operationalize, including its use and development towards the next SPIL, each year through September 30, 2013. See NYSILC resource plan (Attachment I, B).

Objective 10, outcome-based SPIL evaluation is referenced in the Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives Per Year, Attachment I, A. The NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee will work with a consultant to establish an outcome-based SPIL evaluation plan and learn how to conduct the process using its committee process within its annual cycle. The consultant will assist the SILC to take the plan and operationalize it into its structure so that it takes the responsibility to delegate the evaluation of the plan out to various committees and report back the results to the full council. The SPIL Subcommittee will then use the information to develop its next three-year SPIL. If funds are available, since they tie in to the process, they should be directed to the NYSILC Needs Assessment Subcommittee. The parameters for the next needs assessment should be defined and a consultant engaged to develop a needs assessment report that will redefine new unserved and underserved areas of the State going into the next SPIL. Coordination will also occur between the SPIL Subcommittee and the Consumer Satisfaction Subcommittee regarding the statewide results of the CIL consumer satisfaction survey results.

 

 

·        Objective 10: Support a consultant to establish an outcome-based evaluation SPIL plan that the council can implement and operationalize, including its use and development towards the next SPIL, each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Percentage of SPIL objectives that are successfully completed on an annual basis.

§         Percentage of SPIL objectives that meet performance targets.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         100% SPIL objectives that are successfully completed on an annual basis.

§         100% SPIL objectives that meet performance targets.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         SPIL objectives that are successfully completed on an annual basis:

·        Year 1: 90%.

·        Year 2: 95%.

·        Year 3: 100%.

§         SPIL objectives that meet performance targets:

·        Year 1: 90%.

·        Year 2: 95%.

·        Year 3: 100%.

§         Action Steps:

·        Engage a consultant to provide services to develop an outcome-based SPIL evaluation plan and instruct the SPIL Subcommittee on how to conduct the process using its committee process within its annual cycle.

·        If funds are available, the NYSILC Needs Assessment Subcommittee will first have to define the parameters as mentioned in Section 1.2B. A consultant will be engaged to develop a needs assessment report that will redefine new unserved and underserved areas of the State going into the next SPIL.

·        The SPIL Subcommittee will utilize the information to develop its next three-year SPIL.

o       Lead Organization: NYSILC.

o       Key Partners: NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee, DSU.

o       Resources: $30,000 ($10,000 Year 1, $10,000 Year 2, $10,000 Year 3).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See NYSILC resource plan (Attachment I, B).

 

Goal # 2: People with disabilities are empowered through participation and choices.

 

Objective 2: At a total SPIL cost of $312,500 ($103,500 Year 1, $103,500 Year 2, $105,500 Year 3), CBVH will provide services on a fee-for-service basis to eligible individuals who are legally blind to enable them to meet independent living goals each year through September 30, 2013.

 

Objective 2, CBVH will work with the network to increase the number of CILs and SCILs with the appropriate expertise and capacity to become vendors and to provide these services on a fee-for-service basis wherever possible. In Year 2, CBVH will develop a consumer satisfaction survey to be sent to individuals who received these services. CBVH is contributing $3,000 in year 2 from its Part B funds toward this objective as noted in Attachment I, C. The survey will be provided in the consumer's preferred format. The results of the survey will be shared with NYSILC. CBVH State match funds, as noted in Financial Plan Tables 1.3A, will be used to support Objective 2 in the amount of $17,708 each year.

 

·        Objective 2: CBVH will provide services on a fee-for-service basis to eligible individuals who are legally blind to enable them to meet independent living goals each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services.

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services who meet independent living goals.

§         Percentage of overall satisfied consumers (Year 2).

§         Increase in number of CILs providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         1,050 legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services.

§         540 legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services will meet their independent living goals.

§         80% of consumers will report that they were satisfied with their services.

§         9 additional CILs will be providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services:

·        Year 1: 350.

·        Year 2: 350.

·        Year 3: 350.

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services who meet independent living goals:

·        Year 1: 180.

·        Year 2: 180.

·        Year 3: 180.

§         Percentage of satisfied consumers as surveyed in year 2:

·        Year 2: 80%.

§         Increase in number of CILs providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services: :

·        Year 1: 3.

·        Year 2: 3.

·        Year 3: 3.

o       Action Steps:

§         CBVH will provide IL FSS to consumers and report on measurable target information at full council meetings.

§         CIL’s with the appropriate expertise and capacity will be encouraged to become vendors and to provide these services on a fee-for-service basis.

§         CBVH will develop and conduct a consumer satisfaction survey to be sent to individuals who received these services in year 2. Results will be reported back to NYSILC.

o       Lead Organization: CBVH.

o       Key Partners: SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $309,500 ($103,500 Year 1, $100,500 Year 2, $105,500 Year 3).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, C.

 

Objective 3: At a total SPIL cost of $1,344,000 ($448,000 each year), support a Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN) by developing local partnerships and coalitions, and engaging in community education about issues impacting people with disabilities, resulting in increased visibility about Independent Living, and at least one significant statewide system change each year through September 30, 2013.

 

Objective 3, Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN), will be coordinated by a consumer-controlled, cross-disability, not-for-profit organization, with proven expertise in the coordination of statewide organizing and advocacy campaigns focused on systems change, the development of annual statewide disability budget and policy agendas, guided by Independent Living philosophy. It will also have expertise in providing statewide technical assistance to community-based disability organizations, coordinating statewide training and advocacy events, in-depth policy expertise in areas of health, long term care, housing, education, transportation and other areas that impact people with disabilities, and have established relationships with other statewide disability and related organizations and coalitions on systems change efforts. The DSU (VESID) will offer a $98,000 per year grant opportunity for three-years to such an organization through competitive RFP. The SSAN will focus on strengthening efforts of Centers for Independent Living and Service Center for Independent Living network in community organizing, developing local partnerships and coalitions, and engaging in community education about issues impacting people with disabilities. The efforts of the SSAN will be directed by an Independent Living statewide disability budget and policy agenda, and will result in increased visibility and influence of CILs in local communities and statewide, and at least one significant statewide systemic change each year. The DSU (VESID) will offer fourteen grant opportunities at $25,000 per year for three years through competitive RFP. These SSAN contractors must be Centers for Independent Living and Service Center for Independent Living which are consumer-controlled, cross-disability, not-for-profit organizations with proven expertise in systems change directed by Independent Living philosophy.  CBVH is contributing $88,000 over three years ($30,000 in Year 1, $30,000 in Year 2, and $28,000 in Year 3) from its Part B funds toward this objective as noted in Attachment I, C.

 

·        Objective 3: Support a Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN) by developing local partnerships and coalitions, and engaging in community education about issues impacting people with disabilities, resulting in increased visibility about Independent Living, and at least one significant statewide system change each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of SSAN significant statewide system changes.

§         Number of local partnerships and coalitions established by the SSAN network.

§         Number of educational alerts disseminated to local volunteers by the SSAN network.

§         Number of local public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network.

§         Number of grassroots organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network.

§         Number of oral or written public testimonies statements or letters provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         3 SSAN significant statewide system changes.

§         210 local partnerships and coalitions established by the SSAN network.

§         1,848 educational alerts disseminated to local volunteers by the SSAN network.

§         840 local public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network.

§         252 local grassroots organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network.

§         210 oral or written public testimonies statements or letters provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of SSAN significant statewide system changes:

·        Year 1: 1.

·        Year 2: 1.

·        Year 3: 1.

§         Number of local partnerships and coalitions established by the SSAN network:

·        Year 1: 70.

·        Year 2: 70.

·        Year 3: 70.

§         Number of educational alerts disseminated to local volunteers by the SSAN network:

·        Year 1: 616.

·        Year 2: 616.

·        Year 3: 616.

§         Number of local public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network:

·        Year 1: 280.

·        Year 2: 280.

·        Year 3: 280.

§         Number of local grassroots organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network:

·        Year 1: 84.

·        Year 2: 84.

·        Year 3: 84.

§         Number of oral or written public testimonies statements or letters provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network:

·        Year 1: 70.

·        Year 2: 70.

·        Year 3: 70.

o       Action Steps:

§         The DSU will develop and distribute competitive RFP’s regarding the coordination of the SSAN and the fourteen statewide SSAN contracts.

§         The coordinator of the SSAN will submit a quarterly report to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation.

§         SSAN contractors will establish five (5) local partnerships and coalitions per contract year with organizations whose mission is consistent with the Independent Living philosophy and which address issues of concern to people with disabilities such as health, aging, poverty, housing, education, and transportation. Such partnerships may be evidenced, for example, by the regular exchange of information and/or shared decision-making between CILs and local organizations and coalitions, by attendance of CIL staff at partnership organization meetings and partnership organization staff at meetings and trainings at CILs, by CIL staff who sit on local planning councils, advisory committees and boards of local organizations with missions consistent with the Independent Living philosophy, and  by partner organization staff who are represented on CIL boards and committees. 

§         SSAN contractors will increase public education activities at the local level about Independent Living and issues of concern to people with disabilities, resulting in 20 activities and/or accomplishments per contract year. Such activities would include, for example, facilitating educational and training events at the CIL, presenting information at other organizations’ events, and generating media hits in local newspapers, television, radio, newsletters and other local media outlets. 

§         SSAN contractors will engage in community organizing activities, with the goal of engaging community members and volunteers in providing education about statewide issues impacting people with disabilities, including issues addressed in the statewide disability budget and policy agenda. This includes six (6) local community organizing events per contract year.

§         SSAN contractors will provide at least five (5) oral or written public testimonies, statements or letters per contract year, in response to a documented request from the state legislature, state agencies, statewide councils, or other statewide public bodies. 

o       Lead Organization: Coordinator of SSAN.

o       Key Partners: DSU, SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $1,344,000 ($448,000 each year).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 5: At a total SPIL cost of $12,000 ($4,000 each year), encourage youth leadership by providing sponsorships for youth to attend and participate in IL conference and national disability youth leadership trainings each year through September 30, 2013. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 5, youth leadership sponsorships is referenced in the Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives Per Year, Other SPIL Activities - Attachment I, A. The NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee will conduct outreach and coordination. Staff will provide support to the Recruitment Subcommittee for those youth recommended and eventually appointed to serve on the council. The DSU (VESID) will follow approved State contracting processes in administering this objective. A determination will be made as to whether this objective will be sole sourced or administered through a Request For Proposal (RFP) regarding its implementation. The objective will be coordinated by the most appropriate statewide, consumer controlled, not-for-profit disability rights organization.

 

·        Objective 5: Support youth leadership by providing sponsorships for youth to attend and participate in IL conference, national disability and youth leadership trainings each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of youth applying for youth sponsorships.

§         Number of youth attending and participating in IL conference, national and youth disability trainings.

§         Number of youth appointed to NYSILC.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         24 youth will apply for youth sponsorships.

§         12 youth will attend and participate in IL conferences or national youth disability trainings.

§         2 youth will be appointed to NYSILC.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3).

§         Number of youth applying for youth sponsorships:

·        Year 1: 6.

·        Year 2: 8.

·        Year 3: 10.

§         Number of youth attending and participating in IL conference, national and youth disability trainings:

·        Year 1: 4.

·        Year 2: 4.

·        Year 3: 4.

§         Number of youth appointed to NYSILC:

·        Year 1: 0.

·        Year 2: 1.

·        Year 3: 1.

o       Action Steps:

§         NYSILC Youth Subcommittee will work with staff to develop the process to conduct outreach to solicit response to sponsorships.

§         The Youth Subcommittee will report out results at full council meetings. Letters from youth or youth who participated will be invited to attend council meetings to share their experiences.

§         Youth with advanced experience will be screened and recommended to the NYSILC Recruitment Subcommittee for possible appointment to the full council.

o       Lead Organization: NYSILC.

o       Key Partners: NYSILC Youth Subcommittee, DSU.

o       Resources: $12,000 ($4,000 Year 1, $4,000 Year 2, $4,000 Year 3).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 7: At a total SPIL cost of $60,000 ($20,000 each year), support a statewide consumer-controlled, non-partisan Get Out The Vote (GOTV) network for voters with disabilities to promote voter registration, voter education and use of the new accessible voting systems each year through September 30, 2013.

 

Objective 7, Get Out The Vote (GOTV), the opportunity to coordinate the network will be offered through a competitive RFP by the DSU (VESID). The GOTV network will be coordinated by a consumer-controlled, cross-disability, not-for-profit organization with proven expertise in the area of voter registration, voting education, accessible voting issues, and Get Out The Vote activities, as well as IL philosophy.

 

·        Objective 7: Support a statewide consumer-controlled, non-partisan Get Out The Vote (GOTV) network for voters with disabilities to promote voter registration, voter education and use of the new accessible voting systems each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of network partners within the GOTV.

§         Number of people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network.

§         Number of voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         60 partners within the GOTV network.

§         10,000 people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network.

§         18 voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of network partners within the GOTV:

·        Year 1: 15.

·        Year 2: 20.

·        Year 3: 25.

§         Number of people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network (non-cumulative, each year):

·        Year 1: 2,000.

·        Year 2: 3,000.

·        Year 3: 5,000.

§         Number of voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network:

·        Year 1: 6.

·        Year 2: 6.

·        Year 3: 6.

o       Action Steps:

§         The DSU will develop and distribute the competitive RFP regarding the coordination of the GOTV network.

§         The coordinator of the GOTV network will submit a quarterly report to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation.

o       Lead Organization: Coordinator of GOTV network.

o       Key Partners: DSU, SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $60,000 ($20,000 each year).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Goal # 3: Centers provide effective services to allow people with disabilities to control their lives.

 

Objective 4: At a total SPIL cost of $37,500 ($12,500 each year), support direct consulting services and coaching to the Statewide network of centers each year through September 30, 2013. See Attachment I, A – Other SPIL Activities.

 

Objective 4, CIL consulting and coaching services, NYSILC will help to coordinate the need for technical assistance and coaching services through its SPIL Subcommittee. The SPIL Subcommittee will have representatives from the state association and DSU. This will ensure that the SILC is aware of the State’s technical assistance needs. NYSILC will forward interested applications to the national membership organization dedicated to advancing the rights of people with disabilities awarded the grant through the competitive RFP issued by the DSU (VESID). The program will connect centers and seeking consulting and coaching services with centers from an established network of national CIL consultants which provide the services using the peer model.

·        Objective 4: Support direct consulting services and coaching to the statewide network of centers each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of CILs using consulting/coaching service.

§         Percentage of CILs with unqualified financial audits.

§         Percentage of CILs with boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans.

§         Percentage of CILs with at least 50% non-IL funding.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         15 CILs will use consulting/coaching service.

§         100% of CILs will have unqualified financial audits.

§         80% of CILs will have boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans.

§         50% of CILs will have at least 50% non-IL funding.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of CILs using consulting/coaching service:

·        Year 1: 5.

·        Year 2: 5.

·        Year 3: 5.

§         Percentage of CILs with unqualified financial audits:

·        Year 1: 90%.

·        Year 2: 95%.

·        Year 3: 100%.

§         Percentage of CILs with boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans:

·        Year 1: 70%.

·        Year 2: 75%.

·        Year 3: 80%.

§         Percentage of CILs with at least 50% non-IL funding:

·        Year 1: 40%.

·        Year 2: 45%.

·        Year 3: 50%.

§         Action Steps:

·        The DSU will develop and distribute the competitive RFP regarding the coordination of the CIL consulting and coaching network.

·        The coordinator of the CIL consulting and coaching services will submit a quarterly report to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation.

·        The SPIL Subcommittee will collaborate with the state association to identify the need and referrals for these services. The SPIL Subcommittee will forward requests for technical assistance and coaching to the consultant. They will review quarterly reports to keep up on the quality of the service and technical assistance needs of the network.
-- A program will be established for CILs who will network with national consultants like APRIL and CIL-Net to provide the necessary services.

o       Lead Organization: Coordinator of service.

o       Key Partners: DSU, SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $37,500 ($12,500 each year).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 6: At a total SPIL cost of $15,000 ($5,000 each year), support an annual training opportunity to promote the implementation of the Nursing Facility Transition and Diversion waiver in a manner consistent with the Independent Living (IL) philosophy, including best practices and technical assistance, each year through September 30, 2013.

 

Objective 6, the Nursing Facility Transition and Diversion (NFTD) waiver training is based on the one-day conference model used to promote and improve the Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver. This conference will provide an opportunity for consumers to assert control over the services which support them in the community and for providers to learn about the Independent Living Philosophy which guided the creation of the NFTD waiver.  The organization or group of organizations coordinating this training will be selected using a competitive RFP process administered by the DSU (VESID). The annual training opportunity will be provided by a consumer-controlled, cross-disability, not-for-profit organization with proven expertise on the NFTD waiver and IL philosophy.  Regional Resource Development Centers, because they are working as agents of the state in implementing this waiver, will not be considered eligible to coordinate this objective.

 

·        Objective 6: Support an annual training opportunity to promote the implementation of the Nursing Facility Transition and Diversion waiver in a manner consistent with the Independent Living philosophy, including best practices and technical assistance, each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of people participating in the NFTD waiver training.

§         Number of CILs participating in the NFTD waiver training.

§         Percentage of participants which reported that they benefited from the training.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         225 people participate in the NFTD waiver training.

§         20 CILs participate in the NFTD waiver training.

§         90% of participants report that they benefited from the training.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of people participating in the NFTD waiver training:

·        Year 1: 50.

·        Year 2: 75.

·        Year 3: 100.

§         Number of CILs participating in the NFTD waiver training (annual basis):

·        Year 1: 10.

·        Year 2: 15.

·        Year 3: 20.

§         Percentage of participants which reported that they benefited from the training: ):

·        Year 1: 80%.

·        Year 2: 85%.

·        Year 3: 90%.

o       Action Steps:

§         The DSU will develop and distribute the competitive RFP regarding the NFTD waiver training.

§         The coordinator of the NFTD waiver training will submit a quarterly report to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation.

§         A training program will be established each year on the topic for the statewide network.

o       Lead Organization: Coordinator of service.

o       Key Partners: DSU, SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $15,000 ($5,000 each year).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A.

 

Objective 11: At a total SPIL cost of $360,000 ($120,000 each year), provide four $30,000 capacity building grant opportunities for three years in a competitive Request For Proposal (RFP) to Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and Service Centers for Independent Living (SCILs) each year through September 30, 2013.

 

            Objective 11, capacity building, the DSU (VESID) will offer each of four $30,000 Centers for Independent Living or Service Centers for Independent Living capacity building grant opportunities through competitive RFP. The aim of these grants is that they are self-sustaining and lead to long-term program expansion with an emphasis serving an identified unserved or underserved population: veterans with disabilities, youth with disabilities, seniors with disabilities, Hispanic and Asian populations with disabilities, healthy lifestyles with disabilities, deaf/blind individuals, or homeless people with disabilities. CBVH is contributing $30,000 a year for three years from its Part B funds toward this objective as noted in Attachment I, C.

 

·        Objective 11: Provide four $30,000 capacity building grant opportunities for three years in a competitive RFP to Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and Service Centers for Independent Living (SCILs) each year through September 30, 2013.

o       Measurable Indicators:

§         Number of people served by identified target unserved/underserved population.

§         Number of self-sustaining programs.

o       Geographic Scope:

§         Statewide.

o       3-Year Performance Targets:

§         360 people served by identified target unserved/ underserved population.

§         4 self-sustaining programs.

o       Timeframes/Interim Progress: (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3)

§         Number of people served by identified target unserved/ underserved population:

·        Year 1: 60.

·        Year 2: 120.

·        Year 3: 180.

§         Number of self-sustaining programs:

·        Year 1: 0.

·        Year 2: 2.

·        Year 3: 4.

o       Action Steps:

§         The DSU will develop and distribute the competitive RFP regarding the capacity building grant opportunities.

§         The grant recipients will submit quarterly reports to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation.

o       Lead Organization: Grant recipients.

o       Key Partners: DSU, SPIL Subcommittee.

o       Resources: $360,000 ($120,000 each year).

o       Funding Source: Title VII, Part B. See Attachment I, A. 

 

1.2B Describe the steps planned regarding outreach to populations in the State that are unserved or underserved by programs under title VII, including minority groups and urban and rural populations.  This section of the SPIL must:

 

  Identify the populations to be designated for targeted outreach efforts;

  Identify the geographic areas (i.e., communities) in which the targeted populations reside; and

  Describe how the needs of individuals with significant disabilities from minority group backgrounds will be addressed.

 

Overall, outreach will be encouraged through a combination of a new CIL capacity building objective (# 11) and ARRA funding to address the wide variety of unserved and underserved populations identified in the State. They include Hispanics and Asians with disabilities, veterans with disabilities youth with disabilities elderly/seniors with disabilities, health wellness for people with disabilities, deaf/blind services, and homelessness amongst people with disabilities. These groups represent both minorities and individuals residing in rural and urban locations. For both the CIL capacity building objective (# 11) and ARRA funding, the core IL services will be prioritized and promoted by everyone in the network (DSY, SILC, and CILs).

 

and CBVH are committed to promoting the participation and needs of minority individuals and groups in all aspects of independent living programs and services. This is reflected in the creation of a new objective (#11) which addresses capacity building for the CIL network by providing four $30000 grant opportunities. The aim of these grants is to promote long-term program expansion with an emphasis serving an identified unserved or underserved population: veterans with disabilities, youth with disabilities, elderly/seniors with disabilities, health wellness for people with disabilities, deaf/blind services, or homelessness amongst people with disabilities. These targeted unserved/underserved populations were either identified through the current needs assessment the previous SPIL (Section 1.2B) or in SPIL formulation input. The State plan partners are subsequently being responsive to meeting these outreach needs given the limited amount of resources available.

 

The actual geographic areas will be determined by the location of the four award recipients of the competitive RFP. The grant recipients will submit quarterly reports to the DSU which will update information related to the performance targets. The information will be shared at full council meetings and with the SPIL Subcommittee for evaluation. Progress of these grant opportunities will be evaluated to determine continuation and/or expansion of the objective and the need populations in the next SPIL.

 

 

It should also be mentioned that the Federally-funded network of CILs (see Section 3.1) all received a distribution of 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Part C funds which are to be distributed over a five-year timeframe. Per the State's agreement with RSA, these funds were focused towards serving and providing outreach to unserved/underserved populations identified in the needs assessment recommendations in the previous SPIL which included: youth with disabilities, veterans with disabilities, Hispanics and Asians with disabilities, and elderly/seniors with disabilities. Data from the annual 704 Reports for the Federally-funded network in the State should be evaluated by the NYSILC office and appropriate committee to determine the impact on the targeted populations served for the duration of the ARRA funding.

During conference and training opportunities within the State, NYSILC will help to promote the inclusion of outreach and cultural competency best practices that will be shared and or presented for any one or combination of the identified groups. Progress about the four CIL capacity building projects and their outreach efforts along with the impact of the ARRA funding should be promoted in the NYSILC newsletter and website.

 

An effort should be made to address the next needs assessment despite the lack of resources. The NYSILC Needs Assessment Subcommittee, which contains members of the council, DSU, NYAIL, and the statewide network of centers, must be convened to start the process of framing the parameters of what should be considered:
o The types and levels of data to be analyzed in the needs assessment.
o The types of outcomes the needs assessment will focus on such as unserved and underserved need areas.
o Identification of supporting data and/or reports.
o Identification of the cost, or costs of various stages, to conduct the needs assessment.

 

Once the subcommittee addresses these issues, a decision will be made related to subsidizing the next needs assessment based on the availability of resources. This could include partnering or other collaborative opportunities. The limited resources for the needs assessment are addressed in this plan in Sections 1.3B (4) and mentioned in the narrative in Section 5.1A.

 

1.3 Financial Plan – 34 CFR 364.42(a)(2) and (3); 34 CFR 364.29

 

Describe in sections 1.3A and 1.3B, below, the financial plan for the use of Federal and non-Federal funds to meet the SPIL objectives. 

 

1.3A Financial Plan Tables

 

Complete the financial plan tables covering years 1, 2 and 3 of this SPIL.  For each funding source, provide estimated dollar amounts anticipated for the applicable uses.  The financial plan table should include only those funding sources and amounts that are intended to support one or more of the objectives identified in section 1.2 of the SPIL.  To the extent possible, the tables and narratives must reflect the applicable financial information from centers for independent living.  Refer to the SPIL Instructions for additional information about completing the financial tables and narratives.

 

–  Insert additional rows for the specific funding sources and amounts expected within the categories of Other Federal Funds and Non-Federal Funds.

 

Year 1

 

Sources

Approximate Funding Amounts and Uses

 

SILC Resource Plan

IL Services

General CIL Operations

Other SPIL Activities

Title VII Funds

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1, Part B

391,956

103,500

N/A

629,000

Chapter 1, Part C

 

 

3,984,559

 

Chapter 2, Individuals Who are Older Blind

 

 

 

 

Other Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion)

 

 

 

 

Other

ARRA Part C

ARRA Part B

 

 

 

1,047,347

 

 

422,871

Non-Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

State Funds

 

17,708

12,361,000

 

Other

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

 Year 2

 

Sources

Approximate Funding Amounts and Uses

 

SILC Resource Plan

IL Services

General CIL Operations

Other SPIL Activities

Title VII Funds

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1, Part B

391,456

 103,500

N/A

629,500

Chapter 1, Part C

 

 

3,984,559

 

Chapter 2, Individuals Who are Older Blind

 

 

 

 

Other Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion)

 

 

 

 

Other

ARRA Part C

 

 

 

1,047,347

 

Non-Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

State Funds

 

17,708

12,361,000

 

Other

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

Year 3

 

Sources

Approximate Funding Amounts and Uses

 

SILC Resource Plan

IL Services

General CIL Operations

Other SPIL Activities

Title VII Funds

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1, Part B

389,956

105,500

N/A

629,000

Chapter 1, Part C

 

 

3,984,559

 

Chapter 2, Individuals Who are Older Blind

 

 

 

 

Other Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion)

 

 

 

 

Other

ARRA Part C

 

 

 

1,047,347

 

Non-Federal Funds

 

 

 

 

State Funds

 

17,708

12,361,000

 

Other

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

* See Attachment I for A: Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives per Year and a C: Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by State Agency Source. Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C, Other Federal Funds and Non-Federal Funds.

 

Attachment I

A. Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by SPIL Objectives per Year,

SPIL Objective #: Year 1 (2011), Year 2 (2012), Year 3 (2013), 3-Year Total
# 1 NYSILC Resource Plan: $391,956, $391,456, $389,956, $1,173,368
# 2 CBVH IL Services: $103,500, $103,500, $105,500, $312,500
Other SPIL Activities
# 3 SSAN (14 projects @$25,000)($98,000 Coordination: $448,000, $448,000, $448,000, $1,344,000
# 4 CIL Consulting/Coaching: $12,500, $12,500, $12,500, $37,500
# 5 Youth Sponsorships: $4,000, $4,000, $4,000,$12,000
# 6 NFTD Training: $5,000, $5,000, $5,000, $15,000
# 7 GOTV Network: $20,000, $20,000, $20,000, $60,000
# 8 Strategic Media: $19,500,$20,000,$19,500,$59,000
# 11 Capacity Building (4 projects @$30,000 ea.): $120,000, $120,000, $120,000, $360,000
TOTAL Other SPIL Activities: $629,000, $629,500, $629,000, $1,887,500
(Surplus/Deficit), 0, 0, 0, 0

B. SILC Resource Plan

 

NYSILC Resource Plan: Year 1 (2011), Year 2 (2012), Year 3 (2013), 3-Year Total

Salaries: $167,107, $172,760, $178,188, $518,055

Fringe: $44,779, $46,645, $47,098, $138,522

General Operating: $136,570, $127,246, $118,521, $382,337

Equipment: $2,500, $2,575, $2,652, $7,727

Purchased Services: $41,000, $42,230, $43,497, $126,727

TOTAL SILC Resource Plan: $391,956, $391,456, $389,956, $1,173,368

 

C. Breakdown of Title VII, Part B by State Agency Source

 

VESID Title VII, Part B Funds, Year 1 (2011), Year 2 (2012) Year 3 (2013), 3-Year Total

# 1 NYSILC (Resource Plan): $360,668, $360,168, $358,668, $1,079,504

# 3 SSAN (Contracts): $320,000, $320,000, $322,000, $962,000

# 3 SSAN (Coordination - NYAIL): $98,000, $98,000, $98,000, $294,000

# 4 CIL Consulting/Coaching: $12,500, $12,500, $12,500, $37,500

# 5 Youth Sponsorships: $4,000, $4,000, $4,000,$12,000

# 6 NFTD Training: $5,000, $5,000, $5,000, $15,000

# 7 GOTV Network: $20,000, $20,000, $20,000, $60,000

# 8 Strategic Media: $19,500, $20,000, $19,500, $59,000

# 11 Capacity Building (3@$30,000 ea.): $90,000, $90,000, $90,000, $270,000

VESID Subtotal: $929,668, $929,668, $929,668, $2,789,004

(Surplus/Deficit), 0, 0, 0, 0

 

CBVH Title VII, Part B Funds, Year 1 (2011), Year 2 (2012), Year 3 (2013), 3-Year Total

# 2 CBVH IL Services: $103,500, $100,500, $105,500, $309,500

# 2 CBVH IL Services Consumer Satisfaction Survey: $0, $3,000, $0, $3,000

# 1 NYSILC (Resource Plan): $31,288, $31,288, $31,288, $93,864

 

 

# 11 Capacity Building (1 project @$30,000ea.): $30,000, $30,000, $30,000, $90,000

# 3 SSAN (Contracts): $30,000, $30,000, $28,000, $88,000

CBVH Subtotal: $194,788, $194,788, $194,788, $584,364

(Surplus/Deficit), 0, 0, 0, 0

VESID & CBVH TOTALS: $1,124,456, $1,124,456, $1,124,456, $3,373,368

(Surplus/Deficit), 0, 0, 0, 0

 

Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C: Represents total annual direct federal funding ($3,984,559) in support of CIL general operations.

Other Federal Funds: Represents annual allocation ($1,047,347) of the New York State ARRA Part C five-year appropriation. The ARRA Part B allocation in Year 1 only ($422,871) represents the balance of the New York State ARRA Part B appropriation not utilized for the 2008-2010 SPIL.

Non-Federal Funds: Represents CBVH annual State match ($17,708) and annual State funding for Service Centers for Independent Living ($12,361,000).

 

1.3B Financial Plan Narratives

 

1.3B(1) Specify how the part B, part C and chapter 2 (Older Blind) funds, if applicable, will further the SPIL objectives.

 

Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C: Represents total annual direct federal funding ($3,984,559) in support of CIL general operations.

 

Other Federal Funds: Represents annual allocation ($1,047,347) of the New York State ARRA Part C five-year appropriation. The ARRA Part B allocation in Year 1 only ($422,871) represents the balance of the New York State ARRA Part B appropriation not utilized for the 2008-2010 SPIL.

 

Non-Federal Funds: Represents CBVH annual State match ($17,708) and annual State funding for Service Centers for Independent Living ($12,361,000). Regarding the annual State match of $17,708, CBVH is the DSU responsible for the administration of vocational rehabilitation and other related services to legally blind residents of New York State. CBVH's utilizes IL State matching funds to provide individualized services to consumers who are legally blind and not eligible for other CBVH programs.  These individualized services focus on assisting consumers to learn skills needed to live independently in the community.  Services provided include independent living skills training, orientation and mobility training, purchase of adaptive equipment and social casework. CBVH purchases these services from private non-for-profit agencies serving individuals who are legally blind, independent living centers and private vendors.  CBVH counselors work with consumers to develop a mutually agreed upon plan for service provision which includes the services to be provided and the provider of the services.  CBVH counselors monitor the consumer’s progress throughout the provision of services to be sure that the consumer has received the full array of services outlined in the IL plan for services.

 

o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 1, NYSILC Resource Plan.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 2, CBVH IL FFS to individuals legally blind.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 3, Statewide Systems Advocacy Network (SSAN) and coordination.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 4, CIL consulting and coaching services.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 5, youth leadership training sponsorships.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 6, NFTD waiver training.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 7, GOTV network.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 8, statewide strategic media services.
o Part B funds will support (through the NYSILC resource plan) SPIL objective # 9, a CIL statewide consumer satisfaction survey.
o Part B funds will support (through the NYSILC resource plan) SPIL objective # 10, a consultant to establish an outcome-based evaluation SPIL plan.
o Part B funds will support SPIL objective # 11, capacity building grant opportunities.
o No Part B funds will be utilized to support General CIL Operations.

o If new Part C Federal funds become available above a COLA, they will be utilized as defined in Section 3.2 Expansion of Network - 34 CFR 364.25.

o No Chapter 2 (Older Blind) funds are identified to further the SPIL objectives.

 

1.3B(2) Describe efforts to coordinate Federal and State funding for centers and IL services, including the amounts, sources and purposes of the funding to be coordinated.

 

The coordination of Federal and State funding for CIL’s and IL services is coordinated by the DSU (VESID). VESID currently administers State funds for 39 consumer controlled, community-based, not-for-profit organizations recognized in New York State Education Law as Service Centers for Independent Living (SCIL) to provide independent living services to those areas of the State that are unserved by the Federal network of centers and enrich the capacity to deliver independent living services in areas served by the Federal CIL network. VESID does not provide any Federal funds to the state funded centers which negate SCIL’s obligations to meet Section 725 standards in Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act as amended. 

 

         The Federally-funded network consists of 16 CIL’s that receive the 21 Title VII, Part C grants identified in Section 3.1 Existing Network. Fourteen of the 16 CIL’s noted above also receive State IL funds. The Center for Disability Rights in Rochester and Tri-Lakes CIL in Raybrook are the only CIL’s that receives only Federal IL funding. The other 14 CIL’s receive both Federal and State IL funds.

 

         1.3B(3) Describe any in-kind resources including plant, equipment or services to be provided in support of the SILC resource plan, IL services, general CIL operations and/or other SPIL objectives.

 

         There are no known in-kind resources or obligations known at this time related to the support of the SILC resource plan, IL services and general CIL operations.  However, VESID provides significant resources from Title I and other sources to competitively bid out and administer SPIL objectives.

 

1.3B(4) Provide any additional information about the financial plan, as appropriate.

 

         This section defines the process on how to identify, reallocate, and expend unspent Title VII, Part B funds during the SPIL 2011 through 2013. The State Plan Partners need an efficient way to maximize these scarce resources. The competitive priorities identified during SPIL formulation allowed NYSILC to develop objectives and allocate funds for many different initiatives. However, most of these objectives ended up with less than ideal resources. Some were not funded at all or at limited capacity.

 

         As a result, NYSILC will work with the DSU (VESID) to identify any unspent Part B amounts on an annual basis. At the beginning of each calendar year, NYSILC will be notified of the amount of unspent Part B money. Ninety-one days after the end of year two (January 2, 2010), CBVH will inform NYSILC about any unspent funds from the 2008 allocation. NYSILC’s Executive Committee will then meet to make recommendations for the best use of the funds according to the following criteria:

 

1)      To provide appropriate and/or additional resources for development of the next needs assessment,

2)      To enhance the funding level for any existing SPIL objectives to maximize their success,

3)  To fund projects prioritized during the SPIL formulation process that did not receive                                                                                                                                                     any resources,

4) To fund any urgent or emerging priorities identified through the statewide needs assessment process.

        

         The Executive Committee will forward these recommendations to the full council for their review and approval.

 

1.4 Compatibility with Title VII and the CIL Work plans – 34 CFR 364.42(c) and (e)

 

1.4A Describe how the SPIL objectives are consistent with and further the purpose of Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Act as stated in section 701 of the Act and 34 CFR 364.2. 

 

All of the SPIL objectives are consistent with the purpose of Chapter 1, Title VII of the Act in that they provide for promotion of Independent Living philosophy; consumer control; peer driven program models; self help; and enhance the inclusion, integration and independence of people with disabilities.  Objective 2 looks to expand IL services to people who are legally blind and cannot access similar services without an employment goal.  Objective 3, the SSAN network, promotes systems advocacy and empowerment among people with disabilities. Objective 7 GOTV network encourages voter registration aimed at exercising rights of people with disabilities to vote and equal access in the voting process. Objective 5 youth leadership sponsorships promotes empowerment and self-direction among youth with disabilities.  Objectives 4 (CIL consulting and coaching), 6 (NFTD waiver training), and 11 (capacity building) offer direct technical assistance, training, or grant opportunities to the statewide network of centers to remain strong and viable organizations. The remaining objectives support the operations of the SILC and its duties as defined in the Act and in this SPIL.

 

         1.4B Describe how, in developing the SPIL objectives, the DSU and the SILC considered and incorporated, where appropriate, the priorities and objectives established by centers for independent living under section 725(c)(4) of the Act.

 

         Centers for Independent Living (CILs) had numerous opportunities to express their priorities for consideration in the formulation of the SPIL 2011 through 2013. Three public hearings were held at CIL’s geographically located throughout the State (Rochester 10/7/09, Manhattan 10/15/09, and Utica 10/26/09). Centers were also encouraged to conduct their own focus group discussions as an alternative way to provide feedback. Three CIL’s held focus group discussions and submitted feedback: Manhattan, Corning and the Bronx. In addition, written comments were solicited on two occasions. Substantial input was received, especially from the IL community. Thus, NYSILC is satisfied that the SPIL objectives reflect the priorities expressed by CILs. The only limitation imposed was a lack of Part B resources, which forced the council to make some difficult decisions between competing priorities.

 

1.5 Cooperation, Coordination, and Working Relationships Among Various Entities – 34 CFR 364.26

 

Describe the steps that will be taken to maximize the cooperation, coordination and working relationships among the SILS program, the SILC, and centers; the DSU, other State agencies represented on the SILC and other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues; and other public and private entities determined to be appropriate by the SILC.

 

        The description must identify the entities with which the DSU and the SILC will cooperate and coordinate.

 

The SILC and DSUs have numerous partnerships and opportunities for cooperation and collaboration.  NYSILC is represented on both VESID’s and CBVH’s State Rehabilitation Councils and share minutes and initiatives.  NYSILC has partnered with a wide range of organizations involved in implementation of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) including the Executive Director serving on the State HAVA Task Force directed by the New York State Board of Elections.  The diversity among NYSILC members and connections to advocacy and disability service organizations enhances opportunities for collaboration on a variety of projects of mutual interest.  Current members allow partnerships with the following organizations: Disabled In Action (DIA), ADAPT, AHRC NY City, Disabilities Network of NY City, TBI Waiver Program, Perceptions for People (HIV), DBTAC Northeast ADA Center, NYAIL, and Abilities! NYSILC has been an active partner with national disability networks such as Independent Living Resource Utilization (ILRU), National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) and American Association of Persons with Disabilities (AAPD) on a range of national initiatives. NYSILC Executive Director Brad Williams is a national consultant with the SILC-Net. NYSILC member Denise Figueroa and Brad Williams have served on the board of directors of NCIL, while NYSILC member Bruce Darling is a current NCIL board member. All three individuals have also served and worked in various capacities with AAPD.

 

VESID holds an upstate and downstate forum with the statewide network of centers to share priorities and key issues.  VESID continues to represent the needs of centers and independent living services by representation on the New York State: Department of Health’s Statewide Long-term Care Advisory Council, Most Integrated Setting Coordinating Council, Interagency Geriatric Mental Health and Chemical Addiction Planning Council, Department of Health’s Disability and Health Council, CBVH State Rehabilitation Council, and Medicaid Infrastructure Grant activities. VESID has also engaged in efforts  to broaden independent living center activity in the area of employment and vocational rehabilitation.  Finally, VESID  has been significantly involved in broadening the scope of involvement of centers in service delivery and partnerships in fields of mental health, intellectual disability, veterans, and people living with HIV and AIDS, and many other groups. The state plan partners will continue to develop these and new partnerships during the course of the three-year SPIL.

 

1.6 Coordination of Services – 34 CFR 364.27

 

Describe how IL services funded under chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will be coordinated with and complement other services to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State, and local programs, including the OIB program authorized by Chapter 2 of Title VII of the Act, that provide IL- or VR-related services.

 

Currently VESID coordinates Title VII Part C with State funded "Service Centers for Independent Living" and maintains fiscal, programmatic and service data to avoid duplication of services. The SPIL partners are seeking a framework to conduct the next statewide needs assessment to help define future service needs and to address any unserved and underserved areas of the state. VESID's contracts require that all centers maintain parity when comparing census with service data based on ethnicity and take steps to address gaps.

 

None of the services planned or provided for in the SPIL or network are duplicated by special education services, vocational rehabilitation services, developmental disabilities, or public health as required by 364.27 of the regulations, the State Rehabilitation Councils, the TRAID Project, and Most-Integrated Setting Coordinating Council, other federal, state, and local programs, including the OIB program. Specifically, Independent Living Services provided under this State Plan do not duplicate the unique services provided by the Older Individuals who are Blind Program. CBVH uses Part B funds to provide independent living services to individuals who are blind who are not served by other CBVH programs. Overall, coordination and collaboration is primarily achieved through representation and participation on the council, as well as input during the SPIL formulation process.

 

In addition, NYSILC has kept liaisons with the DSU (VESID) State Rehabilitation Council to keep up on vocational education and employment related issues for people with disabilities. The SILC liaison has transitioned between three members. Wendy Strobel-Gower is the current representative. Edith Prentiss is the liaison to the DSU (CBVH) State Rehabilitation Council. She will be terming off. Ken Stewart has been recommended as her replacement. NYSILC member Christina Curry is also a member of the Interagency Coordinating Council for Services to Persons Who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing which is directed by the NYS Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities. NYSILC traditionally had representation with the developmental disability community through the Self-Advocacy Association of NYS. A member resigned this past year to accept a job. NYSILC will look to replace her with a representative from the developmental disabilities and/or self-advocacy association in the upcoming year. Currently, council member Lynn Drucker works at Abilities in Long Island and David Whalen is a disability awareness trainer from Western NY (both parent/guardians) have life and work experience related to developmental disabilities. NYSILC presently does not have any direct linkages to public health or housing. The council has been in discussions with both the NYS Department of Health (DOH) and Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) over relevant issues pertinent to people with disabilities in the past. However, NYSILC has consistently supported NYAIL (the state association) in its statewide housing initiative/Money Follows the Person (MFP) grant through DOH that funds housing advocates at various centers coordinated through NYAIL across the State. NYSILC currently does not have a formal appointment to the council affiliated with a mental health organization of statewide agency. The council will prioritize this connection as a future need. NYSILC recognized veterans with disabilities as an unsered/underserved need in the previous and current SPIL. The council developed and Outreach Subcommittee that connected to various veterans officials, groups, and experts in an attempt to increase a dialogue and connections between IL and this population. NYSILC was able to establish a relationship with an Army Captain with a disability who will be appointed to the council effective January 2011. While no direct transportation link exists on the council, member Denise Figueroa is the Chair of the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA). Her prominence in an urban transit system will help to provide insight and connections on the issue. Finally, NYSILC has been invited to a meeting in September 2010 convened by the Social Security Administration (SSA) in Albany to include the Office of Disability Adjudication and NYS Office of Temporary Disability Assistance to discuss how they may best work with advocacy organizations and maintain a dialogue with us.

 

1.7 Independent Living Services for Individuals who are Older Blind – 34 CFR 364.28

 

Describe how the DSU seeks to incorporate into, and describe in, the State plan any new methods or approaches for the provision of IL services to older individuals who are blind that are developed under the Older Individuals who are Blind program and that the DSU determines to be effective.

 

Title VII, Chapter 2 allocation is used to fund the Adaptive Living Program, a goal-focused service delivery system for New York State residents who are age 55 or older, legally blind, and desire to remain living as independently as possible in their homes or apartments and for whom gainful employment would be extremely difficult to attain because of their blindness but for whom independent living goals are feasible.

 

CBVH contracts with 17 not-for profit agencies that have developed innovative outreach methods to provide Older Blind Independent Living services.  These include the use of satellite offices and the development of clinics in rural areas.  Both approaches have resulted in an increase in referrals for services.  Community awareness initiatives in a variety of settings, partnering with county Offices for the Aging and programs funded by the Offices for the Aging, along with close contact with eye care professionals all serve to educate older individuals who are blind about available services as well as blindness prevention, vision loss and vision rehabilitation services.  CBVH will keep NYSILC and VESID apprised of ongoing and new developments in the Older Blind program through the CBVH designated NYSILC representative.

 

Section 2: Scope, Extent, and Arrangements of Services

 

2.1 Scope and Extent – 34 CFR 364.42(b)(2)(3); 34 CFR 364.43(b); 34 CFR 364.59(b)

 

2.1A Check the appropriate boxes in the SPIL Instrument table indicating the types of IL services to be provided to meet the objectives identified in section 1.2 of this SPIL, and whether the services will be provided by the CILs or by the DSU (directly and/or through contract or grant).

 


Table 2.1A: Independent living services

Provided by the DSU (directly)

Provided by the DSU (through contract and/or grant)

Provided by the CILs (Not through DSU contracts/ grants)

Core Independent Living Services, as follows:

-         Information and referral

-         IL skills training

-         Peer counseling

-         Individual and systems advocacy

 

 

 

 

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