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

 

 

 

 

ü

ü

 

ü

ü

 

ü

ü

 

ü

ü

Counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services

ü

 

ü

Services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this Act and of the titles of this Act, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with significant disabilities)

 

 

ü

Rehabilitation technology

 

 

ü

Mobility training

ü

 

ü

Services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services

ü

 

ü

Personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services

 

 

ü

Surveys, directories and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation, accessible transportation and other support services

 

 

ü

Consumer information programs on rehabilitation and IL services available under this Act, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this Act

 

 

ü

Education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities

 

 

ü

Supported living

 

 

ü

Transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation

ü

 

ü

Physical rehabilitation

 

 

 

Therapeutic treatment

 

 

 

Provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices

 

 

 

Individual and group social and recreational services

 

 

ü

Training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with significant disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options

 

 

ü

Services for children with significant disabilities

 

 

ü

Services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with significant disabilities

 

 

ü

Appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals with significant disabilities for similar services in the future

 

 

ü

Community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities

 

 

ü

Other necessary services not inconsistent with the Act

ü*

 

ü**

                                                                                      

*   CBVH provides rehabilitation teaching, orientation and mobility, low vision examinations and devices, assistive equipment, social casework services, transportation to other IL services and interpreter services.

 

** See Attachment II below for a listing of CIL services and service definitions in New York as defined by the DSU (VESID).

 

Attachment II

 

Other Necessary Services Not Inconsistent with the Act

 

The following services should be considered as “other services not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act.” It has been provided by the DSU (VESID) for CILs. Some of the items in the list below overlap the services grouped together in “Table 2.1A: Independent Living Services.” Descriptions have been provided to clarify the scope and extent of these services, as delivered in New York State.

 

            1.         Advocacy/legal services ‑ individual advocacy and legal assistance and/or representation in accessing benefits, services and programs to which a consumer may be entitled.  This section may include any aspect of direct individual advocacy provided by a staff member of a center on behalf of a consumer.

 

            2.         Architectural barrier services ‑ advice, information or assistance regarding removal of architectural barriers from any publicly or privately owned residence or other building or constructed facility, whether already built or in the planning stage, including preparation of detailed plans.

 

            3.         Assistive devices/equipment ‑ provision of specialized devices and equipment such as TTYs, wheelchairs and lifts, or provision of assistance to obtain these devices and equipment from other sources.  This service equates with equipment repair and loan.

 

            4.         Children's services ‑ IL services not specified elsewhere in this list, provided to a child under age 6.

 

            5.         Communication services ‑ services directed to enable individuals with disabilities to better communicate such as:  interpreter services, including tactile interpreter services for deaf‑ blind individuals; Braille transcription; and reading services.

 

            6.         Counseling services ‑ this service equates with personal counseling services.

 

            7.         Family services ‑ services not specified elsewhere in this list, provided to the family members of individuals with disabilities when necessary for improving the individual's ability to live and function more independently, or his or her ability to engage or continue in employment. Such services may include integrated nonresidential respite care.

 

            8.         Housing or shelter services ‑ information, advice, and assistance related to securing and/or retaining housing or shelter, including existing accessible housing. Includes assistance with reviewing and evaluating newspaper ads, advice on communication with landlords, provision of lists of available accessible housing and housing support application information and assistance.  A CIL shall not provide housing or shelter as an IL service on either a temporary or long-term basis.

 

            9.         Information and referral services (I&R) ‑ individual I&R provided to a consumer.  (It is not necessary to record I&R in a CSR nor establish a CSR for an individual receiving only I&R services).  Most individuals receive I&R services through single face‑to‑face contact or one or two telephone calls, with information provided verbally, through printed material and/or through referral to another source for services or further information.  Some service providers record I&R as strokes on an answering pad‑‑others as phone minutes; some CILs record only name and disability of such service recipients in order to provide an unduplicated count of individuals served.

 

            10.       Independent Living Skills development and Life Skills Services ‑ IL skills development is instruction to develop independent living skills in areas such as personal care, coping skills, use of assistive technology, financial management, social skills, and household management, including education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities.

 

            11.       Mobility training ‑ variety of services involved in assisting individuals with cognitive and sensory impairments to get around their homes and communities.

 

            12.       Peer Counseling (including cross‑disability peer counseling) ‑ counseling, teaching,  information sharing, and similar kinds of contact provided by other individuals with disabilities.  This may include the provision of education and awareness by one person with a disability to another regarding disability laws, civil rights and other available protections, strategies and resources to support personal empowerment.

 

            13.       Personal assistance services ‑ including provision of attendant care to consumers and/or training consumers to supervise their own attendants.

 

            14.       Recreational services ‑ provision or identification of opportunities for the involvement of individuals with disabilities in integrated leisure time activities; participation in community affairs and/or other integrated recreation activities that may be competitive, active or quiet.

 

            15.       Transportation services ‑ provision of, or arrangements for provision of transportation.

 

            16.       Youth Services ‑ services not specified elsewhere in this list, provided to youth with disabilities (ages 6 ‑ 17 or students in transition ages 15‑22).  May include services provided as part of a formal school‑to‑work transition program.

 

            17.       Vocational services ‑ training in job‑seeking skills such as interviewing and resume writing, and/or provision of individual supported employment and/or integrated job placement services.

 

            18.       Plan for the Achievement of Self Support (PASS) Development ‑ Assistance with the design of an approved PASS.

 

            19.       Business/Industry/Agency Services ‑ services not specified elsewhere in this list provided to businesses, industries and agencies, i.e. assistance to four individuals at ABC business that receive support in resolving a dispute over a specific discriminatory practice.  The number of individuals at the business is counted here and the business served is counted in the total number of business/agencies section.

 

            20.       Benefits Advisement - assistance provided during the application process to obtain economic benefits.  This service does not include the representation of individuals at hearings or appeals (see (A) for appropriate service category).

 

            21.       Voter Registration - assistance provided to register individuals to vote.  Count the number of individuals registered.

 

CILs are required to pursue systems advocacy that results in systemic change. They are a core service and identified within the purpose of Title VII, Chapter 1 of the Act as amended. A description has been provided to clarify the scope and extent of these services, as delivered in New York State. Systems change has been defined as “the permanent change to policies, practices, decisions and environments in the public and/or private sector that control resources necessary to enhance integration inclusion and independence of people with disabilities as a group.”

 

            1.         Systems Advocacy Activities Leading to Community and Systems Change: may encompass but are not limited to: issue oriented education, coalition building, coordinated legal action, public events, rallies and activities, targeted public relations campaign, coordination of group testimony and opinion, and promulgation of regulations and legislative action.

 

2.         Outcomes of Systems Change: may encompass, but are not limited to: adoption of a new policy or procedure, adoption of legislation, guidelines, regulations, a new service or program in the community, removal of architectural, programmatic or communication barriers to environments and/or services and programs, change in the distribution of funding or resource allocation, increase in empowerment, authority and control by people with disabilities, increase in group social, economic, political or spiritual autonomy, and elimination of segregated, unequal or stigmatizing policies, programs or services.

 

a. Educational Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control resources necessary to increase training and learning experiences across the life span for people with disabilities as a group. These systems include but are not limited to: preschool, nursery school and day care programs, elementary, middle, secondary and continuing education programs, college, universities, technical schools and trade programs, and adult education, technology and business training

 

b. Employment Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control resources necessary to increase competitive and integrated employment opportunities for people with disabilities as a group. These systems include but are not limited to: employment and job placement agencies, labor offices, unions, business councils, private and public human resource offices, rehabilitation and vocational programs, and economic development programs.

 

c. Health Care Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control resources necessary to promote health and wellness of people with disabilities as a group. These systems include but are not limited to: medical and paramedical associations, health care institutions such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, doctors offices, health care management organizations and health insurance providers, disability prevention and health promotion programs, employee assistance programs, substance abuse programs, domestic violence programs, nutrition, dietary, food pantry, and shelters, therapeutic recreation and rehabilitation medicine programs.

 

d. Commerce Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control the resources necessary to engage in economic and marketplace activities by people with disabilities as a group. These systems include, but are not limited to: housing such as real estate dealers, private and public housing stock, adult retirement communities, private development and management corporations, transportation such as trains, airplanes, buses, taxis, car services, automobile rental services, tour bus lines, private and public business entities such as restaurants, banks, libraries, hotels, catering halls, cinemas, and retail shops.

 

e. Social Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control the resources necessary to engage in social, recreational and leisure pursuits by people with disabilities as a group. These systems include, but are not limited to: parks, camping facilities, fitness trails, sports arenas, health spas, concert halls, amusement parks, sports clubs, social clubs, camps, theater groups, beaches, and swimming facilities.

 

f. Citizenship Advocacy: includes efforts to influence positive change to systems that control the resources necessary to participate fully in the conduct of civic responsibilities and opportunities for people with disabilities as a group. These systems include, but are not limited to: voting and polling sites, public meeting locations, public committees, work groups, boards and task forces, and forums.

 

g. Other Community and Systems Change Issues: includes work on other specific laws, issues and activities which have an impact on the community but which may not be covered by one of the preceding categories. These laws include but are not limited to: Rehabilitation Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Assistive Technology Act (ATA), Workforce Investment Act (WIA), Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWWIIA), National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), Help America Vote Act (HAVA), Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act, New York State Human Rights Law, New York State Civil Rights Law, New York State Election Law, New York State Education Law, and New York State Building and Fire Codes. The issues include but are not limited to: federal and state funding for CILs, Medicaid Buy-In, Olmstead implementation (most integrated setting), Medicaid waiver for people with physical disabilities, constitutionality of the ADA, transition services for students with disabilities, Medicaid Community Attendant Services and Support Act (MiCASSA), Consumer Directed Personal Assistance (CDPA) services, Kendra’s Law, Ticket to Work, supportive employment, civil rights for people with disabilities, election reform, housing, and transportation.

 

2.1B Describe any service provision priorities, including types of services or populations, established for meeting the SPIL objectives identified in section 1.2. 

 

Identification of Unserved/Underserved Need

 

Background

 

The Needs Assessment Subcommittee met in January of 2007 to start aggressive work to analyze center service data and U.S. Census Bureau statistics to structure a preliminary needs assessment in New York to identify unserved and underserved areas for funding priorities. The Needs Assessment Subcommittee and council staff worked with SUNY Buffalo and Burton Blatt Institute researchers to identify preliminary needs from independent data analysis. The needs were brought to the attention of the full council in September 2007. They were developed into recommendations at a subcommittee meeting on 11/5/07. Minor changes were made to the recommendations to accommodate mutual interests and gained approval at a full council meeting on 11/16/07.

 

Recommendations were made to address the following need areas: (13) upstate counties with populations above 48,050 without the presence of a CIL, increased funds to New York City to address expanded service need, and targeted outreach to Asian and Hispanic communities with disabilities, youth with disabilities, and elderly population with disabilities. It should be noted that the SPIL 2008 through 2010 1.2B also identified veterans with disabilities as a distinct population in need of services which was added to this list. In its acceptance, these recommendations were not prioritized. They were included in the 2008 704 Report to RSA.

Current SPIL (2011-2013)

Overall, the list of unserved/underserved need is based primarily on the Needs Assessment, but has expanded due to a combination of the new CIL capacity building objective (# 11) and ARRA funding. In addition to the identified downstate/underserved and upstate/unserved counties, Hispanics and Asians with disabilities, youth with disabilities, elderly/seniors with disabilities, and veterans with disabilities, they also list 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).

 

Based on the NYSILC 2007 Needs Assessment, the NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee decided to concentrate on the first two recommendations over the next three years as defined below. When funds become available in the State to establish new CILs through a competitive process, as defined in the "design for the expansion for the network" and "decision-making criteria," they will be prioritized in one of the following need areas:
o (11) Upstate counties with populations above 48,050 without the presence of a CIL.

Ontario: 100,224.
Wayne: 81,963.
Wyoming: 81,963.
Livingston: 64,328.
Otsego: 61,676.
Washington: 61,042.
Fulton: 55,073.
Tioga: 51,784.
Chenango: 51,401.
Allegany: 49,927.
Greene: 48,195.

o New York City boroughs, including Long Island, without the presence of a Federally-funded CIL to address expanded service need.

Kings (Brooklyn): 2,465,326.
Richmond (Staten Island): 443,728.
Nassau: 1,334,544.
Suffolk: 1,419,369.

 

In addition, there is a need to recognize the New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) needs assessment, especially in its support of the two general recommendations as noted in its "key findings" below:

 

"Despite the demonstrated successes and accomplishments over the years of ILCs and their statewide association, there are currently significant gaps in services and underserved geographic areas which need to be addressed. For example:
o 17 counties have neither a Center nor outreach office located within county borders. The gaps are particularly acute in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, where there are no Centers in half or more of the counties.
o Given the sheer volume of numbers of residents with disabilities living in the New York City and Long Island regions, even though each county has an ILC, very small proportions of people with disabilities are able to be served by those facilities." (Page ii)
The full NYAIL needs assessment can be accessed at: http://www.ilny.org/downloads/NYAILNeedsAssessmentFinalReport.doc.

 

Finally, the forums provided in 2009 related to the distribution of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) "stimulus" funds contributed to the identification of a set of funding issues related to the statewide network for Federally-funded CILs and State Service Centers for Independent Living. The complexity of the issues will require further investigation in the next needs assessment. A stakeholder work group should attempt to frame or resolve some of the multi-layered dilemmas facing the network consisting of members of NYSILC Needs Assessment Subcommittee, DSU, NYAIL and the statewide network of centers.

 

2.1C If the State allows service providers to charge consumers for the cost of services or to consider the ability of individual consumers to pay for the cost of IL services, specify the types of IL services for which costs may be charged and for which a financial need test may be applied, and describe how the State will ensure that:

 

  Any consideration of financial need is applied uniformly so that all individuals who are eligible for IL services are treated equally; and

  Written policies and consumer documentation required by 34 CFR 364.59(d) will be kept by the service provider.

 

No fees are charged for any independent living services.

 

2.2 Arrangements for State-Provided Services – 34 CFR 364.43(d) and (e)

 

2.2A If the DSU will provide any of the IL services identified in section 2.1A through grants or contractual arrangements with third parties, describe such arrangements. 

 

         VESID, in partnership with NYSILC, will develop and execute a competitive procurement process leading to the awards of several RFP’s related to SPIL objectives. They have been fully described in Section 1.3A, including details in the Support Narrative and Support Criteria. This includes how the awardees will report the information out to the DSU and NYSILC and how it will be evaluated. For reference, these competitive RFP’s are identified below by SPIL objective:

·  Objective 3: SSAN contracts (14 sites@$25,000 each/year)(3 years).

·  Objective 3: SSAN coordination ($98,000/year)(3 years).

·  Objective 4: CIL consulting and coaching ($12,500/year)(3 years).

·  Objective 6: NFTD waiver training ($5,000/year)(3 years).

·  Objective 7: GOTV network ($20,000/year)(3 years).

·  Objective 11: Capacity building (4 @ $30,000 each/year)(3 years).

 

2.2B If the State contracts with or awards a grant to a center for the general operation of the center, describe how the State will ensure that the determination of an individual's eligibility for services from that center shall be delegated to the center.

 

N/A. New York State does not use Title VII Part B funds for the operation of CILs.

 

Section 3: Design for the Statewide Network of Centers

 

3.1 Existing Network – 34 CFR 364.25

 

Provide an overview of the existing network of centers, including non-Part C-funded centers that comply with the standards and assurances in section 725 (b) and (c) of the Act, and the geographic areas and populations currently served by the centers.

 

There are still twenty-four CILs in New York State's federally-funded network. Eight of these federally funded CILs are sponsored by CILs with preexisting Title VII, Part C funds. They share the same governing boards as their host CILs. They are noted below with an asterisk. For clarity, the federally funded CILs and satellites in the New York State network include:

 

1. Capital District Center for Independence (Albany)

2. Capital District Center for Independence (Albany/Schenectady)*

3. Bronx Independent Living Services (Bronx)

4. Western New York Independent Living (Buffalo)

5. Native American Independent Living Services (Buffalo/Native American)*

6. Access to Independence and Mobility (Corning)

7. Southern Adirondack Independent Living (Glens Falls/Saratoga County)

8. Harlem Independent Living Center (Harlem)

9. Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York (Manhattan)

10. Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York (Manhattan/Queens)*

11. Action Toward Independence (Middletown/Sullivan County)

12. Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living (Raybrook/Tri-Lakes Region)

13. Regional Center for Independent Living (Rochester)

14. Center for Disability Rights (Rochester/Center-City)

15. ARISE Children and Family Services (Syracuse)

16. ARISE Children and Family Services (Syracuse/Oswego County)*

17. ARISE Children and Family Services (Syracuse/Madison)*

18. Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley (Troy/Columbia County)

19. Resource Center for Independent Living (Utica)

20. Resource Center for Independent Living (Utica/Herkimer)*

21. Northern Regional Center for Independent Living (Watertown)

22. Westchester Independent Living Center (White Plains)

23. Westchester Independent Living Center (White Plains/Minority Outreach)*

24. Westchester Independent Living Center (White Plains/Putnam County)*

 

The DSU (VESID) has established eighteen additional IL service providers to augment the State network through the delivery of complementary IL services. These Service Centers for Independent Living are listed below and comply with State IL standards (Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, Part 248)(Service Centers for Independent Living, NYS Education Law, 1123, 1124 (2)). Listed next to each service center is the present amount of their State IL Funding, along with possible Part B Funds/SSAN (Y/N) Amount, and/or Part B Funds/ARRA (Y/N) Amount.

 

1. Options for Independence (Auburn). State IL Funding $271,590, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760. 

2. Southern Tier Independence Center (Binghamton). State IL Funding $394,455, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

3. Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled (Brooklyn). State IL Funding $520,210, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part Funds/ARRA $38,760.

4. Access to Independence of Cortland County (Cortland). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

5. Finger Lakes Independence Center (Ithaca). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

6. Southwestern Independent Living Center (Jamestown). State IL Funding $312,798, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

7. Resource Center for Accessible Living (Kingston). State IL Funding $344,653, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

8. Long Island Center for Independent Living (Long Island). State IL Funding $334,842, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

9. Massena Independent Living Center (Massena). State IL Funding $271,590, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

10. Independent Living, Inc. (Newburgh). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

11. Directions in Independent Living (Olean). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

12. Catskill Center for Independence (Oneonta). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

13. North Country Center for Independence (Plattsburgh). State IL Funding $271,590, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

14. Taconic Resources for Independence (Poughkeepsie). State IL Funding $296,224, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

15. Rockland Independent Living Center (Rockland). State IL Funding $271,590, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

16. Staten Island Center for Independent Living (Staten Island). State IL Funding $354,662, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $7,094.

17. Self Initiated Living Options (Suffolk). State IL Funding $447,757, N, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

18. Westchester Disabled on the Move (Yonkers). State IL Funding $349,102, Y/Part B Funds/SSAN $25,000, Y/Part B Funds/ARRA $38,760.

 

In addition, three more Service Centers for Independent Living are directed by established Centers for Independent Living to assist them in a transitional phase of operation. These State Service Centers are identified as follows, including the CIL that directs them in parentheses: Independent Living of Niagara County (WNYIL) $271,590, Independent Living of Genesee Region (WNYIL) $271,590, and Resource Center for Independent Living/Amsterdam (RCIL/Utica) $271,590.

 

The contact information for these federally-funded sites can be found on the NYSILC website at, http://www.nysilc.org/directory.htm. They are listed in alphabetical order with the state funded centers.

 

The chart below provides data per each federally funded CIL, identifying the CIL Service Area under the Part C application, areas cover under Non-Part C funding, and whether or not each site receives federal and/or state IL funding by identified sources.

* The CILs identified by the asterisk below are being recognized for the variance that exists between the State Plan listing for their Part C service areas and what RSA has on record. If RSA’s further analysis of the CIL’s service areas indicates the need to revise those service areas in Section 3.1, it may require a revision to the SPIL at a later date. There will be a coordinated effort by the State Plan partners to seek documentation related to the identified Part C service areas to help confirm and/or clarify the information by the end of the three-year SPIL.

 

CIL Part C Service Area, Non-Part C Service Area, Federal Part C Funds (Y/N) Amount, State IL Funds (Y/N) Amount, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y/N) Amount, ARRA Funds (Y/N) Amount. No CILs receive Part B funds for the operation of a center.

 

1. Capital District Center for Independence, Part C Service Area/Albany County, Non-Part C Service Area/Albany County, Part C Funds (Y) $221,800, State IL Funds (Y) $316,416, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $207,985.

2. Capital District Center for Independence, Part C Service Area/Schenectady County, Non-Part C Service Area/Schenectady County, Part C Funds (Y) $100,000, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (N).

3. Bronx Independent Living Services, Part C Service Area/Bronx County and deaf of South Bronx, Non-Part C Service Area/Bronx County, Part C Funds (Y) $162,664, State IL Funds (Y) $348,453, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $152,533.

4. Western New York Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming, Non-Part C Service Area/Erie County, Part C Funds (Y) $228,607, State IL Funds (Y) $310,987, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $214,368*

5. Native American Independent Living Services, Part C Service Area/Reservations in Cattaraugus, Erie, and Niagara Counties,  Part C Funds (Y) $185,271, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $173,731.

6. Access to Independence and Mobility, Part C Service Area/Chemung County and surrounding area, Non-Part C Service Area/Steuben County, Part C Funds (Y) $185,271, State IL Funds (Y) $271,590, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $173,731.

7. Southern Adirondack Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Saratoga County, Non-Part C Service Area/Warren County, Part C Funds (Y) $184,933, State IL Funds (Y) $271,590, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $173,414*.

8. Harlem Independent Living Center, Part C Service Area/Central Harlem, Non-Part C Service Area/New York County, Part C Funds (Y) $339,256, State IL Funds (Y) $180,877, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $318,126.

9. Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York, Part C Service Area/New York City/County, Non-Part C Service Area/New York County, Part C Funds (Y) $220,309, State IL Funds (Y) $417,039, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $206,587.

10. Center for Independence of the Disabled in New York, Part C Service Area/Queens County, Non-Part C Service Area/Queens County, Part C Funds (Y) $100,000, State IL Funds (Y) $479,263, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y), Part C Funds/ARRA (N).

11. Action Toward Independence, Part C Service Area/Sullivan County, Non-Part C Service Area/Orange County, Part C Funds (Y) $175,241, State IL Funds (Y) $271,590, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $164,326*.

12. Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Essex and Franklin Counties, Part C Funds (Y) $224,810, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part B Funds/ARRA (Y) $210,808.

13. Regional Center for Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Monroe, Livingston, Ontario, Wayne, and Yates Counties, Non-Part C Service Area/Monroe, Part C Funds (Y) $214,326, State IL Funds (Y) $420,727, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $200,977.

14. Center for Disability Rights, Part C Service Area/Rochester Inner City, Part C Funds (Y) $142,465, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $133,591*.

15. ARISE Children and Family Services,  Part C Service Area/Onondaga County, Non-Part C Service Area/Onondaga County, Part C Funds (Y) $216,081, State IL Funds (Y) $398,123, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $202,622.

16. ARISE Children and Family Services,  Part C Service Area/Oswego County migrant farm camp workers, Part C Funds (Y) $192,174, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $180,204*.

17. ARISE Children and Family Services, Part C Service Area/Madison County, Part C Funds (Y) $100,000, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (N).

18. Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley Part C Service Area/Columbia County, Non-Part C Service Area/Rensselaer County, Part C Funds (Y) $185,271, State IL Funds (Y) $271,590, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $173,731*.

19. Resource Center for Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Lewis, Montgomery, and Oneida Counties, Non-Part C Service Area/Oneida County, Part C Funds (Y) $101,997, State IL Funds (Y) $458,792, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $95,644.

20. Resource Center for Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Herkimer County, Non-Part C Service Area/Herkimer County, Part C Funds (Y) $178,606, State IL Funds (Y) $254,122, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $167,481.

21. Northern Regional Center for Independent Living, Part C Service Area/Jefferson and Lewis Counties, Non-Part C Service Area/Jefferson County, Part C Funds (Y) $192,175, State IL Funds (Y) $271,590, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $180,205.

22. Westchester Independent Living Center, Part C Service Area/Westchester and Rockland Counties, Non-Part C Service Area/Westchester County, Part C Funds $221,857, State IL Funds (Y) $296,224, Part B Funds/SSAN (Y) $25,000, Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $208,038*.

23. Westchester Independent Living Center, Part C Service Area/Minority towns and cities of Westchester County including Port Chester, Mount Vernon, and New Rochelle, Part C Funds (Y) $188,387, State IL Funds (N), Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $176,653*.

24. Westchester Independent Living Center, Part C Service Area/Putnam County, Non-Part C Service Area/Putnam County, Part C Funds (Y) $224,810, State IL Funds (Y) $254,122, Part B Funds/SSAN (N), Part C Funds/ARRA (Y) $210,808.

 

3.2 Expansion of Network – 34 CFR 364.25

 

Describe the design for the further expansion of the network, including identification of the unserved and underserved areas in the State and the order of priority for serving these areas as additional funding becomes available (beyond the required cost-of-living increase).  

 

Design for the Expansion of the Network/

Identification of Unserved and Underserved Needs

 

Section 2.1B identifies two statewide priorities that will be recommended for potential expansion of the network. Growth into either: 1) Unserved: Eleven Upstate counties with populations above 48,050 without the presence of a CIL (Allegany, Chenango, Fulton, Greene, Livingston, Ontario, Otsego, Tioga, Washington, Wayne, and Wyoming), or 2) Underserved: New York City boroughs, including Long Island, without the presence of a Federally-funded CIL to address expanded service need (Kings, Nassau, Richmond, Suffolk).

Both of these statewide priorities should been seen as equal options. It is crucial to address large concentrations of people with disabilities in urban settings with its set of challenges at the same time outreach and services meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in vast rural areas lacking infrastructure. As a result, the following framework is provided to ensure statewide equity for both of these priorities.


This potential expansion of the Federally-funded network would only take place under the following set of circumstances:
o A competition for a new CIL would take place only if the DSU (VESID) and SILC were notified by RSA that it was to receive additional Title VII, Part C funds above the amount of the COLA for the Federally-funded network in an amount to sustain the capacity of one or more new CILs.
o The SPIL Subcommittee has identified the amount for a CIL to self-sustain at $200,000. This amount has been supported in previous SPILs.
o If the additional increase above the COLA supported a new CIL competition, then the DSU (VESID) and SILC would confer, reach agreement, and send correspondence to RSA confirming the number of new centers in the competition, amount ($200,000), and update the listing for the unserved/underserved priority areas of the State noted in Section 2.1B of the SPIL ("identification of unserved/underserved need").
o If a competition for one CIL takes place in a given year, then it would be awarded to the highest ranked proposal either unserved/Upstate or underserved/Downstate.
o If a competition for two CILs takes place in a given year, then one would be awarded to the highest ranked proposal unserved/Upstate and one to the highest ranked proposal underserved/Downstate.
o If a competition for three or more CILs takes place in a given year, then one would be awarded to the highest ranked proposal unserved/Upstate, one to the highest ranked proposal underserved/Downstate, and one or more to the remaining highest ranked proposals either unserved/Upstate or underserved/Downstate.
o It is possible that if no substantial increases are realized above the COLA to the Title VII, Part C program during the three-year period, then no realistic expansion would happen to either unserved or underserved area of the State utilizing these Federal funds.

 

Finally, the statewide network experienced difficulty during the discussions and negotiations surrounding the distribution of the ARRA funds. Since the Statewide network was not able to resolve the issues related to its Federally-funded and State Service Centers for Independent Living, it is believed that the most proactive strategy to take if new ARRA "stimulus" funds are released is to not create new centers and thereby pose harm to the existing Federally-funded network with the "funding cliff" that will occur when their collective budgets are decreased to accommodate the newly created centers. As a result, if new additional short-term IL Part C funding, such as the stimulus funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, is distributed, it should be distributed proportionally among the Federally-funded network sites in the state.

Funding Priorities and Decision Making Criteria

 

The following decision-making criteria will be utilized to address annual changes to the level of Title VII, Part C funding for New York:

1) Funding Decrease: If RSA informs the SILC and the DSU (VESID) of a funding decrease to the Title VII Part C funds, the amount of the decrease will be calculated in proportion to the CIL current funding levels (based on a fixed percentage). Since the funding varies, it was pointed out that dividing a decrease in equal shares is not fair to the CILs with lower funding levels.
2) Level Funding: If RSA informs the SILC and the DSU (VESID) that the Title VII, Part C funding will receive level funding (no change), then each CIL will continue to get the same amount from the previous year.
3) COLA: If RSA informs the SILC and the DSU (VESID) that the Title VII, Part C CILs will receive a Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA), then RSA will verify the COLA amount and the percentage (usually determined by the Consumer Price Index). This percentage will then be multiplied by the funding level for each CIL from the previous year to calculate their new funding levels.
4) Additional Funds Above the COLA ($200,000 or More): If RSA informs the SILC and the DSU (VESID) that the Title VII, Part C CILs will receive additional funds above the COLA in an amount that would permit it to fund a new center with $200,000 to self-sustain annually, then that funding will be used for the expansion of a new CIL through a competitive RFP process. Expansion beyond more than one new CIL would require proportionate increases of $200,000 in a given year. New CILs would be established in priority unserved or underserved areas identified in Section 2.1B of the SPIL and focus on the provision of IL services in a priority area currently not served by a Part C center.
5) Additional Funds Above the COLA (Less than $200,000 or any funds remaining after establishment of new center(s)): If RSA informs the SILC and the DSU (VESID) that the Title VII, Part C CILs will receive additional funds above the COLA, in an amount less than $200,000 or there are funds remaining after a new center is established, those funds will be divided proportionally based on current Part C funding amongst the existing Federally-funded network (See Section 3.1).
6) If additional short-term IL Part C funding, such as the stimulus funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009,  are awarded: The full amount will be divided proportionately based on current Part C funding amongst the existing Federally-funded network (See Section 3.1). ARRA funds are short-term in nature and will have greater impact on the existing network.

 

Finally, since ARRA 2009 funding required an amendment to the SPIL 2008-2010 to accommodate the distribution of Part C funds to the Federally-funded network and a competition for three new CILs, the primary paragraph has been provided below for reference purposes. The Part C ARRA 2009 funds are five years in duration.

 

In response to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds, the NYSILC and the DSU have agreed to establish three new centers (i.e., $100,000 each). Though the funds remaining after establishing those three centers are enough to fund additional new centers, the NYSILC and DSU have determined, and RSA agrees, that the significant negative impact to existing centers when the ARRA funds expire permits RSA to provide the remaining ARRA funds to the existing centers under subparagraph (5) without regard to the statutory priority under section 722(e) to create new centers when sufficient funding is available.

Process to Communicate

 

Since New York is a 722 State and does not administer the CIL program and money directly, the state plan partners will utilize the following process to communicate its funding priorities to RSA as necessary and appropriate.

 

RSA will notify the SILC and the DSU (VESID) about annual changes to the level of Title VII, Part C funding for New York by the start of each calendar year. The state plan partners will confirm action based on the decision-making criteria above, as well as communicate preferences for any funding priorities through correspondence to RSA. The funding priorities will be relevant to the funding level changes. They will be further defined by the results from the statewide needs assessment, when available.

 

3.3 Section 723 States Only – 34 CFR 364.39

 

3.3A If the State follows an order of priorities for allocating funds among centers within a State that is different from what is outlined in 34 CFR 366.22, describe the alternate order of priority that the DSU director and the SILC chair have agreed upon.  Indicate N/A if not applicable.

 

         N/A.

 

3.3B Describe how the State policies, practices and procedures governing the awarding of grants to centers and the oversight of these centers are consistent with 34 CFR 366.37 and 366.38.

 

         N/A.

 

Section 4: Designated State Unit (DSU)

 

4.1 Administrative Support Services – 34 CFR 364.4; 34 CFR 364.22(b)

 

4.1A Describe the administrative support services to be provided by the DSU for the SILS

(Part B) program and, if the State is a Section 723 State, for the CIL (Part C) program. 

 

  Refer to the SPIL Instructions for additional information about administrative support services.

 

The DSU (VESID) administers a contract to operate the New York State Independent Living Council, Inc. (NYSILC) and through this arrangement it assists as a State Plan partner in the evaluation of the SPIL objectives. VESID also develops, awards, allocates, and monitors the contracts related to the SPIL objectives identified in Section 2.2A. This includes how the awardees will report the information out to the DSU and NYSILC and how it will be evaluated.

 

VESID partners with NYSILC for the completion of a statewide CIL customer satisfaction survey (objective 9) and will utilize the results to assess the required performance measure in contracts for state independent living operation funds. NYSILC will coordinate the statewide distribution, tabulation of data and issuance of the report. Individual center results will be discussed between the CIL and VESID. Centers scoring below the established benchmark will have to take steps to improve their consumer satisfaction.

 

4.1B Describe other DSU arrangements for the administration of the IL program, if any.

 

         N/A.

 

Section 5: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)

 

5.1 Resource plan – 34 CFR 364.21(i)

 

5.1A Describe the resource plan prepared by the SILC in conjunction with the DSU for the provision of resources, including staff and personnel, made available under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII, section 101(a)(18) of the Act, and from other public and private sources that may be necessary to carry out the functions of the SILC identified in section 705(c). The description must address the three years of this SPIL. 

 

  Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section.

 

NYSILC is an established not-for-profit corporation with the following mission: an independent federally mandated state council that advances Independent Living philosophy through the network of CILs and statewide partnerships by engaging in or supporting research, education, employment, community organization, advocacy, and systems reform.

 

To achieve this end, NYSILC needs to maintain a staffing structure and office commensurate to the efforts necessary to carry out the work of the council. In the proposed SILC resource plan, NYSILC will look to support a full-time Executive Director, Office Manager, and Administrative Assistant. NYSILC is looking to recruit a new position for a part-time Technical Support Coordinator to help staff and council learn how to better interface with the upgraded technology infrastructure received under the ARRA IL Part B funds. For the first time, staff will have remote access to their email and the computer system. This also opens up opportunities for council members and committees who can post documents and collectively work on them. The technology coordinator will also help direct future training sessions on technology-related issues.

 

In addition to regular duties and responsibilities, NYSILC staff will have to focus attention toward the new direct SPIL projects described below. Objective # 9 (consumer satisfaction survey) will take an enormous amount of staff time and attention in year 1 along with the coordination of the NYSILC Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee. Upon direction of the subcommittee, staff has to order and distribute the survey materials to the centers statewide. Based on the last survey, this was over 26,500 (double-sided surveys, cover letters, business reply envelopes, outer mailing envelopes). The appropriate number was then sent to each center for redistribution. NYSILC tabulated the statewide responses and issued the statewide report.

 

            Objective # 10 (SPIL outcome-based evaluation) will also take a significant amount of staff time in conjunction with the coordination of the NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee. The SPIL Subcommittee will be the primary evaluator of the Evaluation Plan (Attachment III) and several of the objectives listed in the “SPIL Support Criteria.” However, coordination will also need to be arranged with other NYSILC committees as noted in the plan. For instance, the Public Policy Committee will be evaluating the SSAN objective, while the Voting Education Subcommittee evaluates the GOTV network objective. All of this takes time. Staff will have to coordinate the collection of the identified reports and data and then distribute it to the specified group responsible for evaluating the objective. By November of each year, they will report back. Staff will have to summarize the results in time for the annual 704 Report. Overall, it will be under the guidance provided by a consultant assisting the SILC in meeting its requirement. However, the staff will be very busy coordinating the work over the three-year time period so the council can follow through on its responsibility.

 

            It should be noted that NYSILC will be active with other significant work duties during this plan. Even though NYSILC is not directly responsible for objectives # 3 (SSAN), # 4 (CIL consulting), # 6 (NFTD training), # 7 (GOTV network), and # 11 (capacity building), the council and its staff still have to review the reports pertaining to these projects. The NYSILC Executive Director, as the primary drafter of the annual 704 Report, uses the information from these reports and builds them into the 704 Report. Most of the data for the outcome measures for these objectives will likely come from these reports. NYSILC staff will have to pull it from the reports. Once the grants are active, NYSILC is frequently asked to provide support. For instance, NYSILC originally coordinated the SSAN. The council is often asked to provide guidance on issues or media support which is time intensive. An example would be in the area of accessible voting. Since the NYSILC Executive Director is a consultant with the national SILC-Net, he will probably be asked to network with the national consultants for the CIL consulting and coaching grant. The council will act as a liaison between the center network and the coordinator for those seeking the service. NYSILC will more than likely be asked to distribute and/or communicate information about the NFTD training opportunity as well as attend. Last, given its long history in the area of voting access, NYSILC intends to at least partner for the GOTV RFP when it is issued. All of these items require staff time.

 

            Overall, the NYSILC budget is projected on actual expenditure amounts as a base along with a cost of living over three years. NYSILC is limited in its ability to fund raise using Federal funds based on an RSA directive. Therefore, projecting costs and providing for the ability to meet them is extremely important, especially given rising costs such as health care and the fact that NYSILC will be renegotiating its office lease in the next three years. NYSILC staff has an increased work demand to address as the council takes responsibility for its first outcome-based SPIL. The last item to note is in year 2. There is a $11,000 increase in the General Operating line item that can be targeted for use on a new needs assessment or a segment of a new needs assessment.

 

In addition, NYSILC will outsource specialized office duties, required on a consistent but limited basis, to conduct vital services related to bookkeeping, webmaster, media relations, payroll, audit, and legal/public policy review. They are addressed in the Purchased Services line item of the NYSILC operations budget. The council will maintain its office in Albany, New York.

 

         The amounts listed in the SILC Resource Plan 1.3A identify the funding levels for NYSILC by plan year and will be used to support the basic, ongoing operation of the council, as described above. Attachment I, B details the resource plan of the SILC. The DSU's VESID and CBVH will share costs and resources to support NYSILC's operations. See Attachment I, C for a Breakdown of Title VII, Part B Funds by State Agency Source for specific amounts. VESID will contract with NYSILC to provide the council with the resources they need to successfully carry out its duties. The annual amounts are provided below:


Year one (2011): $360,668 VESID + $31,288 CBVH = $391,956.

Year two (2012): $360,168 VESID + $31,288 CBVH = $391,456.

Year three (2013): $358,668 VESID + $31,288 CBVH = $389,956.

 

5.1B Describe how the following SILC resource plan requirements will be addressed: 

 

  The SILC’s responsibility for the proper expenditure of funds and use of resources that it receives under the resource plan.

  Non-inclusion of conditions or requirements in the SILC resource plan that may compromise the independence of the SILC. 

  Reliance, to the maximum extent possible, on the use of resources in existence during the period of implementation of the State plan.

 

         NYSILC’s resource plan requirements will be met through a series of active policies and procedures. Proper expenditure of funds and use of resources will be addressed through several sources. The NYSILC New Member Orientation Manual identifies the primary responsibilities of members, which includes carrying out fiduciary responsibilities. NYSILC’s Conflict of Interest Policy points out the need for disclosure and avoidance of gifts and improper financial interest. NYSILC By-Laws, Article Seven – Fiscal Management of the Corporation, cross references detailed fiscal policies adopted by the council to ensure internal controls. Section 4.9 defines the duties of the Treasurer to help monitor and report the financial fitness of the council. It should be mentioned that NYSILC relies on guidance from the Financial Reference Guide it developed for the centers in New York in 2006.

 

         There is no “non-inclusion of conditions or requirements” in the SILC resource plan or subsequent contract from the DSU (VESID) that may compromise the independence of the council. The language used in this SPIL provides clarity to avoid any potential misinterpretation of the SILC resource plan.

 

         Maximization of the resources in this SPIL is ensured by the addition of a process and priority of how to acquire and use unspent Title VII, Part B funds (See Section 1.3B(4)).

 

5.2 Establishment and Placement – 34 CFR 364.21(a)

 

Describe how the establishment and placement of the SILC ensures its independence with respect to the DSU and all other State agencies. 

 

  Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section.

 

            NYSILC is a non-profit corporation that operates separately from any New York State agency. NYSILC operates under its own By-Laws. Two opinion letters by the NYS Attorney General’s Office (No. 97-FII and No. 2008-F1) determined among other things that council members were Public Officers, confirmed the duties and functions of the council, and acknowledged that the NYS Board of Regents as the appointing authority. The State 2010 fiscal year contract with NYSED/VESID was approved so that NYSILC can conduct its activities and State business per the last year of the previous SPIL. The 2011 fiscal year contract materials have been reviewed and submitted for processing by the contracts unit.

 

5.3 Appointment and Composition – 34 CFR 364.21(b) – (f)

 

Describe the process used by the State to appoint members to the SILC who meet the composition requirements in section 705(b). 

 

  Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section.

 

         NYSILC and the DSU (VESID) have a cooperative recruitment and appointment process for the SILC. A term chart is kept for all members of the council. It identifies the appointment category of the individual, the year they were appointed, the year their term expires, as well as what term they are in (first or second). This chart is utilized each spring to get a concise idea of what openings and vacancies need to be filled on the council before the start of the next calendar year. The process is directed by the council’s Recruitment Subcommittee which contains members of NYSILC and includes a representative of the DSU. They start by distributing a solicitation notice to seek interested candidates. The new applications are put with the existing pool of applications. The Recruitment Subcommittee then meets to confirm the openings that have to be filled, their appointment categories, and any minority demographics that are underrepresented on the council. The most important requirement is to ensure that more than half of the council members represent individuals with diverse disability experiences. The subcommittee then reviews the applications to identify the best individuals to help fulfill these multiple considerations. If needed, telephone interviews are set up with the candidates to verify their interest and qualifications. Time is taken to fully explain the responsibilities and expectations of appointed council members. A list is recommended and reviewed with the NYSILC executive committee. A final list of recommended appointees is then submitted to the DSU (VESID) for their review. A final appointment and reappointment list is then sent to the New York State Education Department for action in the fall by the Regents, who are the appointing authority. New members are notified of their appointment before the end of the year and become active in January. During the past year, the process has expanded to include how to address interim vacancies.

 

         The term chart is also useful to identify what members are ready for a possible transition to a leadership position on the executive committee. Every two years, the executive committee develops a slate of candidates to fill the officer positions, including council chair. The slate is announced at the September meeting and acted upon at the November meeting. Nominations are also taken from the floor. The full council has the prerogative of voting for the slate (if uncontested) or by office (with competition). A current listing of council members is available on the NYSILC website to verify composition, www.nysilc.org/council.htm, in addition to officers.

 

5.4 Staffing – 34 CFR 364.21(j)

 

Describe how the following SILC staffing requirements will be met:

 

  SILC supervision and evaluation, consistent with State law, of its staff and other personnel as may be necessary to carry out its functions.

  Non-assignment of duties to SILC staff and other personnel made available by the DSU, or any other State agency or office, that would create a conflict of interest while assisting the SILC in carrying out its duties.

               

 

Staffing is delineated on NYSILC's organizational chart. The Executive Director is hired by and reports to the council. The Vice Chair with input from Executive Committee members are responsible for the evaluation on the Executive Director. NYSILC utilizes a Personnel Evaluation form as the basis for such an evaluation. The other staff either report to the Executive Director or another direct supervisor. A staff person's direct supervisor reviews NYSILC's personnel policies and procedures with them. It includes additional resources, such as relevant fiscal policies, conflict of interest policy, and IL history and philosophy. The office manager holds a staff meeting approximately every two weeks to encourage communication. Staff training opportunities are based on interest, need, resources, and availability. Supervisors are responsible for conducting evaluations with staff every year. NYSILC utilizes a Personnel Evaluation form as the basis for such an evaluation.

 

N/A.

 

Section 6: Service Provider Requirements

 

Describe how the following service provider requirements will be met:

 

·        Inclusion of personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of centers.

 

The general DSU (VESID) maintains an Independent Living Unit that consists of senior managers who are individuals with disabilities who possess decades of experience in disability policy, programming and the administration of service centers for independent living.  The VESID IL Unit is responsible for contract compliance and program administration for the State's network of 39 State-funded service centers pursuant to NYS Education Law (Article 23-A Service Centers for Independent Living - §1030-1123).  Under their contractual obligations, service centers are required to conduct their fiscal management consistent with NYS Finance Law, VESID contract enforcement guidelines (see:  http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/lsn/ilc/contractenforcement_final.htm) and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.  In addition, service centers for independent living are required to meet standards, provide performance reports and undertake data collection as articulated in the VESID Centers for Independent Living Standards, Performance reports and Data Collection guide.  The guide is a comprehensive reference for all service centers for independent living (see:  http://www.vesid.nysed.gov/lsn/ilc/nysilstandard1002.htm). Through mid year and end of year reporting, service centers demonstrate their compliance with data collection requirements and program performance measures that include community systems change outcomes in such areas as education, employment, health care, commerce, social, citizenship and other community and system change issues.  Full compliance with State and federal laws and regulations and state performance standards are also monitored by the Independent Living Unit through periodic site visits.  Site visits validate data reporting, case service record development, confidentiality and ensure that services are provided in accessible formats among other service delivery considerations.

 

The Independent Living Unit will have administrative responsibility for the development and administration of the Request for Proposals (RFPs) and contracts associated with carrying out the Title VII Part B funded initiatives identified in the 2011-13 SPIL.  Each of the SPIL RFPs will include  a set of rigorously defined staffing and performance criteria that in all cases will require fiscal administration in full compliance with NYS Finance Law, NYS Education Law,  and VESID contract enforcement guidelines. Every SPIL contractor will be required to submit quarterly program reports pursuant to the performance standards defined in the RFPs and the evaluation protocols articulated in the SPIL.  VESID will promptly share all program reporting with NYSILC and participate in NYSILC's evaluation process of the SPIL as a member of the Council.

 

Overall, VESID and NYSILC will help to assure that the federal requirements to be monitored by RSA will be further supported and enforced by the state in the following ways for the statewide network of CILs:
o On an annual basis, NYSILC will direct email a copy or link to the "Financial Reference Guide" product developed to assist them with financial governance to the federally funded network. The email will include a link to EDGAR. During the year, NYSILC will forward appropriate training notices from the IL-net on the topic.
o VESID will review the unqualified financial statements of the federally funded CILs on an annual basis.
o On an annual basis, NYSILC will email a direct copy and/or link of the federal requirements out to the statewide network.
o If any state plan partners, or RSA, obtain information about a federally funded CIL in the network being "at risk," then they should communicate specific concerns to NYSILC so that the center can be referred to the awardees of objective 4 for CIL consulting and coaching to help them to remedy the situation.
o When appropriate, NYSILC will forward training notices about instructions and completion of the Annual 704 Report. As needed, NYSILC will send out email notices to remind the Federally-funded network of timely completion of their reports along with sending copies of their reports to the DSU (VESID) and NYSILC.

 

The service provider requirements in Section 6 for VESID apply to the CIL network. CBVH's responses for Section 6 refer to their IL fee-for-service opportunity.

 

For VESID, each CIL has the local control to develop its own staffing pattern based on the community needs. However, the staff must be qualified and trained to provide IL services, in particular, the core services. This includes IL specialists.

 

CBVH staff providing IL services are qualified rehabilitation professionals who are trained in the provision of CBVH IL services.

 

 

VESID will review CPA-certified independent financial audit statements on an annual basis.

 

When appropriate, NYSILC will forward training notices on staff development opportunities for carrying out SPIL objectives.

 

Through VESIDs administration of State funded Service Centers for Independent Living, co-located federally funded CILs are also monitored to assure full compliance with Federal and State laws and regulations governing program access and the provision of services in alternative formats.

Staff have received copies of the Independent Living Services Manual and has access to technical assistance as needed through the CBVH Home Office. CBVH purchases interpreter services as needed to enable a consumer to fully access their independent living services. Print materials are provided to consumers in their preferred format.

 

 

To make sure that every staff person had a consistent understanding of IL and their roles, VESID and NYSILC worked with the RRTC in - IL Management in Buffalo to develop a DVD training product to provide proper background on history and philosophy.

 

All CBVH staff participates in a program of staff development. Staff participation in career -development activities is documented in a database.

 

 

CBVH and VESID comply with all affirmative action requirements 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.

 

6.1 Staffing – 34 CFR 364.23; 34 CFR 364.24; 34 CFR 364.31

 

  Inclusion of personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of centers.

  Availability, to the maximum extent feasible, of personnel able to communicate (1) with individuals with significant disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication, such as manual communication, nonverbal communication devices, Braille, or audio tapes and (2) 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.

  Establishment and maintenance of a program of staff development for all classes of positions involved in providing IL services and, where appropriate, in administering the CIL program, improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of and practice in the IL philosophy.

  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.

 

               For VESID, each CIL has the local control to develop its own staffing pattern based on the community needs. However, the staff must be qualified and trained to provide IL services, in particular, the core services. This includes IL specialists. To make sure that every staff person had a consistent understanding of IL and their roles, VESID and NYSILC worked with the RRTC in Buffalo to develop a DVD training product to provide proper background on history and philosophy. VESID follows its own policies and procedures regarding the provisions of alternative formats and modes of communication, communication devices, or interpreter services for its staff and consumers. It is important that all individuals have the ability to communicate equally or be able to read a document in a format or language of their choice. This same practice is expected from the CILs. VESID complies with all affirmative action employment requirements for qualified individuals with significant disabilities on the same terms and conditions required under section 503 of the Act.

 

               CBVH staff providing IL services are qualified rehabilitation professionals who are trained in the provision of CBVH IL services.  Staff have received copies of the Independent Living Services Manual and has access to technical assistance as needed through the CBVH Home Office.    CBVH purchases interpreter services as needed to enable a consumer to fully access their independent living services.   Print materials are provided to consumers in their preferred format.  All CBVH staff participates in a program of staff development. Staff participation in career development activities is documented in a database.  CBVH complies with all affirmative action requirements 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.

 

6.2 Fiscal Control and Fund Accounting – 34 CFR 364.34

 

  Adoption of those fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for funds made available through parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act, in addition to complying with applicable EDGAR fiscal and accounting requirements.

 

            For all contracted/purchase services under the SPIL, VESID and CBVH have adopted fiscal control and fund accounting procedures for proper disbursement and accounting for funds made available through Part B of Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Act, in addition to complying with applicable EDGAR fiscal and accounting requirements.

 

It should be noted that NYSILC and VESID will conduct two assurances to help support this area: 1) Annual distribution of the "Financial Reference Guide" product along with links to EDGAR and training resources and 2) Review of the certified financial statements of the federally funded CILs on an annual basis.

 

6.3 Record-Keeping, Access and Reporting – 34 CFR 364.35; 34 CFR 364.36; 34 CFR 364.37

 

  Maintenance of records that fully disclose and document the information listed in

         34 CFR 364.35.

  Submission of annual performance and financial reports, and any other reports that the Secretary determines to be appropriate

  Access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General, or any of their duly authorized representatives, for the purpose of conducting audits, examinations, and compliance reviews, to the information listed in 34 CFR 364.37.

 

                 

 

VESID and CBVH maintain records that fully disclose and document the information listed in 34 CFR 364.35. In October 2008, CBVH implemented an electronic case management system. All IL consumer service records are maintained electronically, including eligibility information, service plan information and other required case documentation.

 

 

VESID and CBVH are active participants in development of the federal independent living 704 report and will submit annual performance and financial reports and any other reports that the Secretary determines to be appropriate. The SILC will initiate the draft report to start the process.

 

 

VESID and CBVH will provide access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General, or any of their duly authorized representatives, for the purpose of conducting audits, examinations, and compliance reviews, to the information listed in 34 CFR 364.37.

 

6.4 Eligibility – 34 CFR 364.40; 34 CFR 364.41

 

  Eligibility of any individual with a significant disability, as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b), for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs.

  Ability of any individual to seek information about IL services under these programs and to request referral to other services and programs for individuals with significant disabilities.

  Determination of an individual's eligibility for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs in a manner that meets the requirements of 34 CFR 364.51.

  Application of 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.

  Non-exclusion from receiving IL services of any individual who is present in the State and who is otherwise eligible for IL services, based on the imposition of any State or local residence requirement.

               

 

VESID uses and requires of the CILs the same standards expected by RSA for eligibility of any individual with a significant disability in accordance with federal regulations as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b) and 34 CFR 364.51. CBVH staff determines eligibility for IL services. The criterion for eligibility for CBVH Independent Living Services is: Any individual with a significant disability as defined in Federal regulation is eligible to receive independent living services. This criterion is found in the CBVH Independent Living Services Manual.

 

 

This includes IL services under the SILS and CIL programs, the ability of any individual to seek information about IL services, to request referral to other services and programs, determination of an individual's eligibility for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs, application of eligibility requirements without regard to age, color, creed, gender, national origin, race, religion, or type of significant disability, and non-exclusion from receiving IL services of any individual who is present in the State and who is otherwise eligible for IL services, based on the imposition of any State or local residence requirement.

 

 

6.5 Independent Living Plans – 34 CFR 364.43(c)

 

  Provision of IL services in accordance with an IL plan complying with Sec. 364.52 and mutually agreed upon by the individuals with significant disabilities and the appropriate service provider staff unless the individual signs a waiver stating that an IL plan is unnecessary.

 

VESID and NYSILC as state plan partners rely on the Annual 704 Report and RSA administered Federal site reviews as assurances of compliance with section 364.52.

CBVH IL services are provided in accordance with a mutually agreed upon Independent Living Services Plan (ILSP). The service plan is developed in accordance with Federal regulations. Every consumer receiving IL services develops a plan for service provision with a CBVH counselor.  Once the plan is agreed upon, the CBVH counselor is responsible for monitoring the services provided and the consumer’s progress towards completing the plan.  CBVH counselors communicate with the service provider and the consumer to facilitate the consumer’s progress towards completing the plan. Individuals receiving CBVH IL services have the option of waiving the development an ILSP. Guidelines for the development of the ILSP are in the CBVH Independent Living Services Manual. In addition, CBVH will conduct a consumer satisfaction survey in year 2 of this SPIL.  For the last SPIL, CBVH contracted with the Center for Essential Management Services (CEMS) to develop a survey instrument to determine if the IL services provided met each consumer’s expectations.  Once the survey instrument was finalized, CEMS staff contacted a group of CBVH consumers who received IL services.  Responses to survey were analyzed and the results were shared with NYSILC.  CBVH expects to use a similar process to conduct the consumer satisfaction survey for this SPIL.

 

6.6 Client Assistance Program (CAP) Information – 34 CFR 364.30

 

  Use of accessible formats to notify individuals seeking or receiving IL services under chapter 1 of title VII about the availability of the CAP program, the purposes of the services provided under the CAP, and how to contact the CAP.

 

            VESID requires all federally-funded CILs to maintain due process policy and procedures that ensure consumers of services are notified of the availability and functions of the NYS Client Assistance Program.  CBVH provides information regarding the Client Assistance Program and contact information for the local CAP to consumers in their preferred format. This information is provided during the development of the Independent Living Service Plan and at the time of case closure. For VESID, and the CILs, the information is provided at intake and closure.

 

6.7 Protection, Use and Release of Personal Information – 34 CFR 364.56(a)

 

  Adoption and implementation of policies and procedures meeting the requirements of 34 CFR 364.56(a), to safeguard the confidentiality of all personal information, including photographs and lists of names.

 

            VESID and CBVH confidentiality policies safeguard the confidentiality of all personal information in accordance with all State and Federal law and State/Federal regulations.

 

VESID's state CIL standards require that all CILs provide a statement of rights and responsibilities that include a statement of confidentiality.

 

The CBVH Confidentiality policy located in the CBVH Vocational Rehabilitation Services Manual applies to both the Independent Living Services Program and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

 

Section 7: Evaluation

 

Describe the method that will be used to periodically evaluate the effectiveness of the plan in meeting the objectives established in Section 1.  The description must include the State’s evaluation of satisfaction by individuals with significant disabilities who have participated in the program.  34 CFR 364.38

 

         See Attachment III below for the 2011 through 2013 Evaluation Plan which will be used to satisfy the requirements of this section.

 

Attachment III

 

SPIL 2011 through 2013 Evaluation Plan

 

NYSILC, and the State Plan Partners, are responsible for the development, implementation and monitoring of the SPIL. NYSILC will utilize the following chart to monitor the SPIL Objectives by their Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets, Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator, Methods to Gather Each Item of Information, Organization Responsible to Gather Information, Organization Responsible to Evaluate, and Timeline for Evaluation in order to satisfy the requirements for Section 7.

 

A. 2011 SPIL Evaluation Plan

 

·        Objective 1: (NYSILC operation) Support the basic operation of NYSILC each year through September 30, 2013.

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of NYSILC full council meetings held during year: 3

§         Percentage of NYSILC annual financial audits completed and 990 forms filed: 100%.

§         Percentage of annual 704 Report submitted with DSU to RSA: 100%.

§         Percentage of surveyed consumers responding to CIL satisfaction survey: 15% (Year 1).

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC full council meeting minutes.

§         NYSILC executive committee or finance committee minutes, along with completed financial audit and 990 form.

§         Completed annual 704 Report.

§         NYSILC CIL Statewide Consumer Satisfaction Survey Report.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of full council meetings that took place during the year based on the minutes.

§         Verify completion of the financial audit and submission of the 990 form based on the minutes and existence of the documents.

§         Verify completion of the annual 704 Report based on existence of the document.

§         Verify percentage of consumers responding to the CIL survey based on the statewide report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Executive Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 2: (CBVH IL FFS) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service: 350.

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service who meet independent living goals: 180.

§         Increase in number of CILs providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services: 3.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         Central Office/District Office records.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         CBVH.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 3: (SSAN) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of SSAN significant statewide system changes: 1.

§         Number of local partnerships and coalitions developed by the SSAN network: 70.

§         Number of educational alerts disseminated by the SSAN network: 616.

§         Number of public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 280.

§         Number of local grassroots community organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 84.

§         Number of oral or written public testimonies, statements or letters, provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network: 70.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         SSAN annual report (all indicators) by coordinator of network to DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU/NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Public Policy Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of CILs using consulting/coaching service: 5.

§         Percentage of CILs with unqualified financial audits: 90%.

§         Percentage of CILs with boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans: 70%.

§         Percentage of CILs with at least 50% non-IL funding: 40%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual review of financial audits and report conducted by DSU.

§         New annual report will have to be conducted by NYSILC of strategic planning practices of CILs.

§         Annual chart of IL and non-IL funding prepared by DSU of CIL network.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of CILs using service based on annual report received from DSU.

§         Verify percentage of CILs with unqualified audits based on DSU report.

§         NYSILC will have to develop a survey instrument and distribute to the CIL network to solicit the information needed and summarize it into a brief report.

§         Verify percentage of non-IL funding based on DSU chart.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC and DSU.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 5: (Youth leadership sponsorships) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of youth applying for youth sponsorships: 6.

§         Number of youth attending and participating in IL conference, national and youth disability trainings: 4.

§         Number of youth appointed to NYSILC: 0.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of application process.

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of sponsorship process.

§         NYSILC Recruitment Subcommittee documentation of new appointees.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify the total number of youth applying for youth sponsorships at year end.

§         Verify the total number of youth receiving youth sponsorships.

§         Verify the total number of newly appointed council members who are youth.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 6: (NFTD waiver training) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of people participating in the NFTD waiver training: 50.

§         Number of CILs participating in the NFTD waiver training: 10.

§         Percentage of participants which reported that they benefited from the training: 80%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Post-survey of training participants by NYSILC.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number participating in training based on report.

§         Verify number of CIL’s participating based on report.

§         Verify number benefited from training based on survey responses.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of network partners within the GOTV: 15.

§         Number of people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network: 2,000.

§         Number of voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network: 6.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         GOTV annual report (all indicators) by coordinator of network to DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Voter Education Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets (newsprint, radio, television, online media): 6.

§         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: 40.

§         Number of media hits that appear in local media markets (television, radio, newsprint, and online media) by providing support to CILs: 12.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by station documentation of campaign running times provided by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant based on assistance provided to CILs at the local level.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of campaign media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of media hits based on report and support provided at the local level.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         Media consultant and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 9: (CIL consumer satisfaction survey) Support a statewide consumer satisfaction survey for the CIL network by September 30, 2011 (Year 1).

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Percentage of CILs that receive the materials and participate in the survey: 100%.

§         Percentage of CILs that achieve a total consumer satisfaction survey rating above 90%: 95%.

§         Percentage of overall satisfied consumers: 90%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC documentation of materials distributed to and participated in survey.

§         NYSILC statewide CIL consumer satisfaction survey report.

§         NYSILC statewide CIL consumer satisfaction survey report.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify percentage of CILs that received materials and participated in survey based on documentation.

§         Verify percentage of CILs that achieve that desired rating based on the report.

§         Verify percentage of overall satisfied consumers based on the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Consumer Satisfaction Survey Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Percentage of SPIL objectives that are successfully completed on an annual basis: 90%.

§         Percentage of SPIL objectives that meet performance targets: 90%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         NYSILC Executive Director’s report of year-end SPIL deliverables at September full council meeting.

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee final evaluation of SPIL objectives.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office and SPIL Subcommittee.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

·        Objective 11: (Capacity building) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of people served from identified target unserved/underserved population: 60.

§         Number of self-sustaining programs.

·        0.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Compilation of capacity building annual report data sent to the DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify data based on the information provided in the reports.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU/NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2011.

 

B. 2012 SPIL Evaluation Plan

 

·        Objective 1: (NYSILC operation) Support the basic operation of NYSILC each year through September 30, 2013.

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of NYSILC full council meetings held during year: 4.

§         Percentage of NYSILC annual financial audits completed and 990 forms filed: 100%.

§         Percentage of Annual 704 Report submitted with DSU to RSA: 100%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC full council meeting minutes.

§         NYSILC executive committee or finance committee minutes, along with completed financial audit and 990 form.

§         Completed annual 704 Report.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of full council meetings that took place during the year based on the minutes.

§         Verify completion of the financial audit and submission of the 990 form based on the minutes and existence of the documents.

§         Verify completion of the annual 704 Report based on existence of the document.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Executive Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

·        Objective 2: (CBVH IL FFS) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service: 350.

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service who meet independent living goals: 180.

§         Percentage of overall satisfied consumers (Year 2): 80%.

§         Increase in the number of CILs providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services: 3.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         CBVH consumer satisfaction survey report.

§         Central Office/District Office records.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Verify % from CBVH consumer satisfaction survey report.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         CBVH.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

·        Objective 3: (SSAN) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of SSAN significant statewide system changes: 1.

§         Number of local partnerships and coalitions developed by the SSAN network: 70.

§         Number of educational alerts disseminated by the SSAN network: 616.

§         Number of public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 280.

§         Number of local grassroots community organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 84.

§         Number of oral or written public testimonies, statements or letters, provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network: 70.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         SSAN annual report (all indicators.).

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU/NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Public Policy Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of CILs using consulting/coaching service: 5.

§         Percentage of CILs with unqualified financial audits: 95%.

§         Percentage of CILs with boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans: 75%.

§         Percentage of CILs with at least 50% non-IL funding: 45%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual review of financial audits and report conducted by DSU.

§         New annual report will have to be conducted by NYSILC of strategic planning practices of CILs.

§         Annual chart of IL and non-IL funding prepared by DSU of CIL network.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of CILs using service based on annual report received from DSU.

§         Verify percentage of CILs with unqualified audits based on DSU report.

§         NYSILC will have to develop a survey instrument and distribute to the CIL network to solicit the information needed and summarize it into a brief report.

§         Verify percentage of non-IL funding based on DSU chart.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC and DSU.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

·        Objective 5: (Youth leadership sponsorships) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of youth applying for youth sponsorships: 8.

§         Number of youth attending and participating in IL conference, national and youth disability trainings: 4.

§         Number of youth appointed to NYSILC: 1.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of application process.

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of sponsorship process.

§         NYSILC Recruitment Subcommittee documentation of new appointees.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify the total number of youth applying for youth sponsorships at year end.

§         Verify the total number of youth receiving youth sponsorships.

§         Verify the total number of newly appointed council members who are youth.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

·        Objective 6: (NFTD waiver training) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of people participating in the NFTD waiver training: 75.

§         Number of CILs participating in the NFTD waiver training: 15.

§         Percentage of participants which reported that they benefited from the training: 85%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Post-survey of training participants by NYSILC.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number participating in training based on report.

§         Verify number of CILs participating based on report.

§         Verify number benefited from training based on survey responses.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of network partners within the GOTV: 20.

§         Number of people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network: 3,000.

§         Number of voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network: 6.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         GOTV annual report (all indicators) by coordinator of network to DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Voter Education Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets (newsprint, radio, television, online media): 12.

§         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: 80.

§         Number of media hits that appear in local media markets (television, radio, newsprint, and online media) by providing support to CILs: 18.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by station documentation of campaign running times provided by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant based on assistance provided to CILs at the local level.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of campaign media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of media hits based on report and support provided at the local level.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         Media consultant and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Percentage of SPIL objectives that are successfully completed on an annual basis: 95%.

§         Percentage of % SPIL objectives that meet performance targets: 95%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         NYSILC Executive Director’s report of year-end SPIL deliverables at September full council meeting.

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee final evaluation of SPIL objectives.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office and SPIL Subcommittee.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

·        Objective 11: (Capacity building) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of people served from identified target unserved/underserved population: 120.

§         Number of Self-sustaining programs: 2.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Compilation of capacity building annual report data sent to the DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify data based on the information provided in the reports.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU/NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2012.

 

C. 2013 SPIL Evaluation Plan

 

·        Objective 1: (NYSILC operation) Support the basic operation of NYSILC each year through September 30, 2013.

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of NYSILC full council meetings held during year: 4.

§         Percentage of NYSILC annual financial audits completed and 990 forms filed: 100%.

§         Percentage of Annual 704 Report submitted with DSU to RSA: 100%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC full council meeting minutes.

§         NYSILC executive committee or finance committee minutes, along with completed financial audits and 990 forms.

§         Completed annual 704 Report.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of full council meetings that took place during the year based on the minutes.

§         Verify completion of the financial audit and submission of the 990 form based on the minutes and existence of the documents.

§         Verify completion of the annual 704 Report based on existence of the document.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Executive Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

·        Objective 2: (CBVH IL FFS) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service: 350.

§         Number of legally blind consumers receiving CBVH Independent Living Fee For Service who meet independent living goals: 180.

§         Increase in number of CILs providing CBVH Independent Living Fee For Services: 3.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         Computerized Case Management System (CIS).

§         Central Office/District Office records.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting. Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

§         Reported out by DSU (CBVH) NYSILC representative at November full council meeting.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         CBVH.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

·        Objective 3: (SSAN) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of SSAN significant statewide system changes: 1.

§         Number of local partnerships and coalitions developed by the SSAN network: 70.

§         Number of educational alerts disseminated by the SSAN network: 616.

§         Number of public education activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 280.

§         Number of local grassroots community organizing activities engaged in by the SSAN network: 84.

§         Number of oral or written public testimonies, statements or letters, provided, in response to a documented request, by the SSAN network: 70.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         SSAN annual report (all indicators.).

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU/NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Public Policy Committee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of CILs using consulting/coaching service: 5.

§         Percentage of CILs with unqualified financial audits: 100%.

§         Percentage of CIL’s with boards engaged in developing or monitoring strategic plans: 80%.

§         Percentage of CIL’s with at least 50% non-IL funding: 50%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual review of financial audits and report conducted by DSU.

§         New annual report will have to be conducted by NYSILC of strategic planning practices of CILs.

§         Annual chart of IL and non-IL funding prepared by DSU of CIL network.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of CIL’s using service based on annual report received from DSU.

§         Verify percentage of CILs with unqualified audits based on DSU report.

§         NYSILC will have to develop a survey instrument and distribute to the CIL network to solicit the information needed and summarize it into a brief report.

§         Verify percentage of non-IL funding based on DSU chart.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC and DSU.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

·        Objective 5: (Youth leadership sponsorships) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of youth applying for youth sponsorships: 10.

§         Number of youth attending and participating in IL conference, national and youth disability trainings: 4.

§         Number of youth appointed to NYSILC: 1.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of application process.

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee minutes. NYSILC office documentation of sponsorship process.

§         NYSILC Recruitment Subcommittee documentation of new appointees.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify the total number of youth applying for youth sponsorships at year end.

§         Verify the total number of youth receiving youth sponsorships.

§         Verify the total number of newly appointed council members who are youth.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Youth Leadership Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

·        Objective 6: (NFTD waiver training) 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/Performance Targets:

§         Number of people participating in the NFTD waiver training: 100.

§         Number of CILs participating in the NFTD waiver training: 20.

§         Percentage of participants which reported that they benefited from the training: 90%.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Annual report submitted by grant recipient to DSU.

§         Post-survey of training participants by NYSILC.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number participating in training based on report.

§         Verify number of CIL’s participating based on report.

§         Verify number benefited from training based on survey responses.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013.

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of network partners within the GOTV: 25.

§         Number of people with disabilities registered to vote within the GOTV network: 5,000.

§         Number of voter education issues addressed through the GOTV network: 6.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         GOTV annual report (all indicators) by coordinator of network to DSU.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify numbers based on information provided in the report.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         DSU and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC Voter Education Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation:

§         November 2013

 

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

o Measurable Indicators/Performance Targets:

§         Number of media hits that appear in statewide media markets (newsprint, radio, television, online media): 18.

§         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: 120.

§         Number of media hits that appear in local media markets (television, radio, newsprint, and online media) by providing support to CILs: 24.

o Source of Information Needed for Each Indicator:

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by station documentation of campaign running times provided by consultant.

§         Yearend report by Executive Director supported by media hits collected by consultant based on assistance provided to CILs at the local level.

o Methods to Gather Each Item of Information:

§         Verify number of media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of campaign media hits based on report.

§         Verify number of media hits based on report and support provided at the local level.

o Organization Responsible to Gather Information:

§         Media consultant and NYSILC office.

o Organization Responsible to Evaluate:

§         NYSILC SPIL Subcommittee.

o Timeline for Evaluation: