Manhattan Family Support Services Advisory Council Meeting
2025-02-06 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
The New Statewide Ombudsman Program
Community Service Society of New York
Presenters: Flor Raminez & Rachel Shuman

Registration Link:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/_6aj3WI-T8KuOdoB5_OEzA

Navigating OPWDD Services? We’re Here to Help
The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ombuds program, also known as IDDO, provides independent guidance and advocacy.

We are free and private
Call our statewide helpline, open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
Call us at 1-800-762-9290 Email us at iddo@cssny.org
What does IDDO do?
The IDDO can help you:

Get information about services and the supports offered through OPWDD.
Connect you to OPWDD’s Front Door.
Support you and advocate with you alongside your providers, Fiscal Intermediary, Care Manager, Care Coordination Organization or anyone else who supports you.
Advise you on how to file a complaint.
We are free and private Call us at 1-800-762-9290 or Email us at iddo@cssny.org

Learn more about the new Statewide Ombudsman program:
The Ombudsman program will provide an independent advocate for individuals who are not able to speak for themselves and provide training and support to those who can make their own decisions to help them achieve greater independence. This program will be available across the entire OPWDD service system
The IDDO is funded by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to educate and assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, caregivers, and representatives successfully access OPWDD-funded services and supports.

IAC Budget Briefing
2025-02-07 10:00, 2025-02-14 12:00
Please join IAC via Zoom for the Governor’s budget briefing. See what the impact will be for OPWDD.

Two Sessions Available:
Friday, February 7th, at 10am
or
Friday, February 14th, at 12pm

Zoom Info:
https://iacny-org.zoom.us/j/6599597245?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 659 959 7245 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
Join by Telephone: 646-931-3860

Manhattan Adult Services Meet & Greet 2025
2025-02-12 10:00 - 12:00
Download Printable Flyer

What’s Next After High School?
Learn about programs & services for adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities living in Manhattan!

Learn About:

Day Hab Programs
Employment Services
OPWDD

You Can:

Learn about programs & services
Connect with people who can help

Zoom Info:
https://zoom.us/j/94544350248?pwd=[REDACTED] ID: 945 4435 0248 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
Participating Organizations:
ACANY • ADAPT Community Network • AHRC NYC • Braverhood • Care Design NY • Center for Family Support • Esperanza Center • Gateway Counseling Center • General Human Outreach • Goodwill NYNJ • Lifespire • The NY Foundling • Open the Lid • Partners Health Plan • QSAC • Services for the UnderServed • Sinergia • The Shield • Unique Care • YAI Network
Sponsored By:Manhattan DD Council Transition Committee
Questions? aharris27@schools.nyc.gov

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-02-18 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
AHRC New York City
83 Maiden Lane, 11th Floor Boardroom, NY, NY 10038
Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

NYC FAIR Budget Town Hall
2025-03-04 19:00 - 20:30
What’s In The State Budget ?
What’s Not?
Find Out at NYC FAIR’s
VIRTUAL TOWN HALL
March 4th, 7 – 8:30pm
With:
Wini Schiff
Cris Marchionne
Kate Hoy
Veronica Crawford
Register Here and Submit Questions

2025 Five Borough Virtual Legislative Breakfast
2025-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Via Zoom, United States
2025-citywide-legislative-breakfast-2

2025-citywide-legislative-breakfast-spanish
mandarin-flier-2025-citywide-legislative-breakfast

Register Here

All five of New York City’s Borough Developmental Disabilities Councils have joined together to address the NYS Budget for 2025-2026.

Please login at 9:45AM so we may promptly begin our program at 10:00AM

Sponsored By:
Bronx Developmental Disabilities Council
Brooklyn Developmental Disabilities Council
Manhattan Developmental Disabilities Council
Queens Council on Developmental Disabilities
Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council

Manhattan Family & Provider Information Committee Meeting
2025-03-12 10:00 - 12:00
Recent changes to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York State
Wednesday, March 12th @ 10:00 am

Presented by Co-Chairs, Luisa Eusse-Roche & Wendy De Leon
The Manhattan Family & Provider Information Committee would like to invite you to an insightful presentation on the recent changes to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York State and how they impact caregivers and home care services. We’ll cover key updates, including the transition to a single Fiscal Intermediary, and the roles of CDPAP caregivers, HHAs, and PCAs. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed!
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89138994385?pwd=[REDACTED]

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-03-18 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
AHRC New York City
83 Maiden Lane, 11th Floor Boardroom
NY, NY 10038
Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

MFSSAC Meeting - Guardianship Part 1
2025-03-26 10:00 - 12:00
Manhattan Family Support Services
Advisory Council

Guardianship and Future Care Planning
Where do we begin?
…..a two part series

Stephanie Baran, Esq., AHRC NYC

Part One:
Wednesday, March 26th
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Guardianship Services provides education and outreach to families regarding Article 17-A guardianship as well as alternatives to guardianship.
Assistance with 17-A guardianship for a family member with a developmental disability who is 18 years or older is available in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx.

Alternatives to 17-A Guardianship
It is crucial to remember that guardianship may not always be appropriate and there are other alternatives available to ensure that the individual is properly protected and cared for. Alternatives include” Supported Decision-Making, Representative Payee, Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney
Part TWO
Wednesday, April 9th, @ 10:00 am
“Assistance with the Application”
Registration link will be sent to ALL Part One participants
Mary McGuire-Weafer & Jackie Goldberg, Co-Chairs / Manhattanfamilyadvisory@gmail.com

MFSSAC Meeting - Guardianship Part 2
2025-04-09 10:00 - 12:00
Guardianship & Future Care Planning
Part TWO
Wednesday, April 9th, @ 10:00 am
“Assistance with the Application”
Stephanie Baran, Esq., AHRC NYC

Registration link will be sent to ALL Part One participants
Mary McGuire-Weafer & Jackie Goldberg, Co-Chairs / Manhattanfamilyadvisory@gmail.com

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-04-15 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
New York Lawyers for the Public Interest
151 W 30th St, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001
Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

Family Reimbursement Program (with MFPIC & MFSSAC)
2025-04-23 10:00 - 11:30
We are excited to partner with MFSSAC for our next webinar about the OPWDD Family Reimbursement Program. We are providing an overview of the eligibility requirements and recent changes to the program. We’ll also review the allowable and non-allowable expenses under the program, giving you clear guidance on how to make the most of this support. Additionally, we’ll discuss which agencies still have funding available and how you can access these resources. This session will equip you with all the necessary information to navigate the program effectively and ensure you’re making the most of the funding opportunities.
Presentation Slides from Meeting:
mfpic-family-reimbursement

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-05-20 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Virtual Meeting

Virtual Meeting Info:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

Manhattan Transition Committee Meeting
2025-06-11 10:00 - 12:00
Resources & Services for Employment
Presented by Chinese-American Planning Council

In Person:
45 Suffolk Street, 2nd Floor, NY, NY 10002

Virtual:
https://zoom.us/j/96729685164?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 967 2968 5164 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +16469313860,,96729685164#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

RSVP Here

We will have space for open discussion and networking for families, school staff, service provider agency representatives and others supporting youth in transition. All are welcome to join!

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us:
Andrew Harris, P138M, aharris27@schools.nyc.gov

Pat Liu Chang, GHO, pat@ghoinc.org

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-06-17 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
AHRC: 83 Maiden Lane, Room 1315, NY, NY 10038

Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

Manhattan Family & Professional Resource Fair 2025 / Feria de recursos familiares y profesionales de Manhattan 2025 / 2025年曼哈顿家庭与专业资源博览会
2025-06-20 09:00 - 14:00 | CUNY Graduate Center, 365 5th Ave., Concourse Level, New York, NY, 10016, United States
Join us for the Manhattan Family & Professional Resource Fair!
¡Únase a nosotros en la Feria de recursos familiares y profesionales de Manhattan!
加入我们参加曼哈顿家庭和专业资源博览会！

When / Cuándo / 什么时候:
Friday, June 20, 2025
9:00am – 2:00pm

Where / Dónde / 在哪里:
CUNY Graduate Center
365 5th Ave, Concourse Level, New York, NY 10016

What:

Learn about programs and services
Connect with service provider organizations
Enter a raffle for cash prizes
Enjoy complimentary food

Qué:

Infórmese sobre programas y servicios
Conéctese con organizaciones proveedoras de servicios
Participe en un sorteo para ganar premios en efectivo
Disfrute de comida de cortesía

什么:

了解项目和服务
联系服务提供商
参加抽奖赢取现金奖励
享用免费餐饮

Hope to see you there! / ¡Esperamos verte allí! / 希望在那里见到你！

RSVP Here / RSVP aquí / 在此回复

Interested in hosting a booth?

Please see Booth Registration Form for instructions on how to participate as an exhibitor at the event.
If you have any questions related to booth registration, feel free to contact Wendy DeLeon at wdeleon@adaptcommunitynetwork.org.

Save Our Services (SOS) Zoom Rally
2025-06-23 10:00 - 11:00
Why Worry About Cuts to Medicaid?
Attend the
SOS* Zoom Rally

MEDICAID Pays for Comm Hab
MEDICAID Pays for Day & Employment Programs
MEDICAID Pays for Residential Care
MEDICAID Pays for OT, PT, Speech & Other Therapies in Schools
MEDICAID Pays for Self-Direction
And that’s Not All
Join us for a Virtual Rally to:
🔍 Learn how these cuts will affect YOU and your loved ones
💬 Hear directly from people supported, families, and frontline staff
📢 Find out how YOU can take action to stop these devastating changes
REGISTER NOW
Organized by:
*Save Our Services IDD is the collaboration of Family Groups
ENYDDA, Family Committee of DDAWNY, L.I.A.N.D.D., NYC FAIR & NYC DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (DD) Councils:
Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island

ADAPT Community Network: Supported Decision-Making - Independence, Rights & Housing
2025-06-24 10:00 - 11:30
This workshop provides an overview of Supported Decision-Making (SDM) as an alternative to guardianship for individuals with I/DD and Autism. Participants will learn how the SDMNY project has advanced self determination, independence, inclusion, and dignity—while preserving individuals’ legal rights and decision making power in all areas of life, including housing. Attendees will come away with an understanding of the key differences between guardianship and SDM, how the SDMNY facilitation process works, and how Supported Decision-Making Agreements (SDMAs) are being implemented. The presentation will also cover the impact of New York’s new SDM Law (Mental Hygiene Law Article 82).

Register Here

PRESENTED BY:
MELISSA WILCOX
Melissa is a trained Supported Decision-Making Facilitator and Certified Personal Outcome Measures Interviewer. Since coming to ADAPT she has served as Director of Residential Services in Staten Island and Manhattan. She is a certified Housing Navigator and Housing Ambassador.
KAREN LIEBMAN
Karen oversees the Adult Day and Residential Programs Admissions Units and also collaborates with programs across the agency to ensure services and supports are person-centered. Karen is a trained Supported Decision Making Facilitator and Mentor.
WENDY DE LEON
For the past seven years, Wendy has been the Director of Housing Assistance Services at ADAPT Community Network, where she continues to advocate for inclusive, supportive housing solutions that empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and with dignity.

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Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-09-16 10:00 - 12:00
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
New York Lawyers for the Public Interest
151 W 30th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10001

Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

ADAPT Community Network Webinar
2025-09-30 10:00 - 11:00
Smart Supports for Safe Homes
Join us for Smart Supports for Safe Homes, a free virtual workshop on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, showcasing how housing and technology work together to support independence for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families.
What to expect
ADAPT Community Network’s Housing Assistance Services (HAS) helps families of individuals with I/DD navigate New York City’s housing system through advocacy, guidance, and referrals. Building on this support, ADAPT’s Techworks program provides digital literacy, assistive technology, and training that promote independence. This webinar will spotlight Techworks and show how housing and technology together create stronger opportunities for individuals and families across the city.

Who should attend
People with disabilities, parents and family members, caregivers, educators, service coordinators, and professionals supporting I/DD housing and technology needs.

When & where

Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Time: 10 AM
Location: Virtual (Zoom)

Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/PX-O2EiuT9qyZrk6UX_YmA
We hope to see you there!
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Manhattan Transition Committee Meeting
2025-10-08 10:00 - 11:00
What’s Next After High School?
Navigating Adult Services for Youth with I/DD

In Person:
Chinese-American Planning Council
45 Suffolk Street, 2nd Floor, NY, NY 10002

Virtual:
https://zoom.us/j/96976866485?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 969 7686 6485 / Passcode: [REDACTED]

Download PDF Loading...

We will have space for open discussion and networking for families, school staff, service provider agency representatives and others supporting youth in transition. All are welcome to join!

Download PDF Loading...

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If you have any questions please feel free to contact us:
Andrew Harris, P138M, aharris27@schools.nyc.gov

Pat Liu Chang, GHO, pat@ghoinc.org

Disability Pride Parade NYC
2025-10-19 11:00 - 15:00
Register Here

About the Parade
The parade honors our past, celebrates our present, and invites our city to imagine a more accessible future. We walk and roll to show the power of protest, the joy of celebration, and the strength of community.

2025 Parade Theme
In 2025, we’ll march under the theme “Love Unites: We’re All In This Together.” We’re building a citywide celebration where neighbors, allies, and advocates from every background join in the joy, the strength, and the warmth of community.

Parade Schedule
10:00 AM — Line-up at Madison Square Park (arrive on time for section assignments)
10:30 AM — Opening remarks and photos (repeated at 12:10 PM in Union Square Park)
11:00 AM — Parade starts
10 Blocks of Pride
Block 1 (E 26th – 25th): Celebrate
Block 2 (E 25th – 24th): Educate
Block 3 (E 24th – 23rd): Commemorate
Block 4 (E 23rd – 22nd): Protest, Power, and People’s Movements (1960s)
Block 5 (E 22nd – 21st): Glitter, Games, and Groove (1970s)
Block 6 (E 21st – 19th): Punk, Paint, and Possibility (1980s)
Block 7 (E 19th – 18th): Streets, Sports, and Spoken Word (1990s)
Block 8 (E 18th – 17th): Global Fusion and Firsts (2000s)
Block 9 (E 17th – 16th): Future Forward -> Tech, Tactile, and Time Capsules (2010s–Beyond)
Block 10 (Union Square Park/ E 16th): Advocate
12:00–3:00 PM — Block Party in Union Square Park: Disability Unite Festival “Pop-up” Performances, community tables, performances, and activities

Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) @ CPC
2025-10-20 00:00 - 2025-10-21 00:00 | Chinese American Planning Council, 45 Suffolk Street, NY, NY, 10002, United States
New York Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)

About the Training:
The Queens Special Needs Program of the Chinese-American Planning Council is offering a special 2-day training called Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT).
Day 1 will be on Monday 10/20, and day 2 will be on Tuesday 10/21.
This training is designed for parents, families, and individuals with disabilities (age: 14+). The training will be in English and lunch will be provided.
Learn About:

Understanding Benefits & Employment Incentives
Customized Employment
Transition Services
Maintaining Benefits While Working
Resources & Supports for Integrated
Competitive Employment
Success Stories & Insights from Local Agencies
Maintaining Benefits While Working
Resources & Supports for Integrated Competitive Employment
Success Stories & Insights from Local Agencies

Special Guests:
We’ve invited local service providers to share their resources and supports, helping individuals with disabilities find and maintain competitive employment in the community.
Why Attend?

Learn: Discover key services and supports available in your community.
Connect: Engage directly with local agencies and ask questions.
Empower: Gain knowledge to better support individuals with disabilities in finding suitable job opportunities.

Register Here:
https://qfreeaccountssjc1.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5cfa5x70zXOH0Tc

Download PDF Loading...

Manhattan DD Council Meeting
2025-10-21 10:00 - 12:00 | AHRC, 83 Maiden Lane, New York, NY, 10038, United States
Come and hear updates from providers, OPWDD, and New York City DOHMH

Learn what’s happening as we continue to work to ensure services and supports for people with I/DD!

Hybrid Meeting – Join In Person OR Virtual
In Person:
AHRC NYC
83 Maiden Lane, 11th Floor Boardroom, NY, NY 10038
Join us after the meeting to view the New York Disability Rights Archive exhibition at Positive Exposure (Same Location, 4th Floor)!

Virtual:
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97723827673?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 977 2382 7673 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,97723827673#,,,,*[REDACTED]#

OPWDD: CAS & CANS Info Session
2025-10-21 10:30 - 12:00
Join Us to Learn More & Ask Questions
About OPWDD CAS and CANS-NY Assessments
OPWDD is pleased to invite people and families to attend one of our upcoming information sessions on OPWDD’s Coordinated Assessment System (CAS) and the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS-NY) assessment. We’ll be launching a statewide roadshow to help make the assessment process easier to understand. We’ve heard feedback that people may have anxiety or concerns about the assessment interviews, and we want to help relieve those feelings.
The purpose of the CAS and CANS-NY assessment is to improve service delivery and care planning for everyone who receives OPWDD services. By involving you and your circle of support in the assessment, we can make service plans that are responsive to the needs of each person.
We hope you will use these information sessions as an opportunity to hear from OPWDD leaders about how the CAS and CANS-NY assessment will inform your services and share your experiences and questions about the assessment process.

Each Information Session will include:

A brief introduction about the CAS and CANS-NY assessment
Question & Answer session where you can share your questions about the CAS and CANS-NY assessment process

NYC Session
October 21
10:30 am – 12 noon &1:30 pm – 3 pm
OPWDD NYC Office
25 Beaver Street
New York, NY 10004

(Other Sessions Available Statewide from 10/9 – 11/6)
Register Here

College Is Possible: College Programs
2025-10-23 18:00 - 19:30 | https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IXAQ4clKSR-dTMcElV_27g#/registration
College information for high school students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) who will leave high school with a diploma. Families are welcome.
SCHEDULE

5:45 PM: Webinar opens and accommodations set up
6:00 PM: Listen to a PANEL OF EXPERTS talk college for students who are leaving school with a diploma. Panelists include City University of New York, ACCES-VR, INCLUDEnyc, student self advocates, and NYC Public Schools.
7:00 PM: Q&A. Get your questions answered by representatives from CUNY Disability Programs, Financial Aid, ACCES-VR, student self-advocates, and more!

This is an online event.

Register here

ADAPT Community Network: Family Education Workshop
2025-10-30 10:00 - 11:30
Transitioning of Youths with Special Healthcare Needs to the Adult Medical World

Presented by
Lynn F Davidson MD, an Associate Professor of Pediatrics,
Children’s Hospital at Montefiore

Learn strategies to prepare and tools to use to make the transition a smoother process.
Spanish and Mandarin translation will be provided.
Registration is required.

Register Here

ADAPT Family Connect Summit
2025-11-05 10:00 - 15:00
ADAPT Community Network is having their free virtual Family Connect Summit 2025 on Wednesday, November 5th from 10 am – 3 pm.
Topics include:

Starting Early: Empowering Your Child Through Self-Advocacy
Transitions in Life
Path to Independence: Making Informative Choices

Enter to win a free Chromebook!
Spanish, Mandarin and ASL interpretation will be provided.

Register Here

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College Is Possible: Non-Diploma Programs
2025-11-06 18:00 - 19:30
Educational programs on college campuses for students with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities who use Alternate Assessment and will leave high school with a non-diploma credential. Families are welcome.
SCHEDULE

5:45 PM: Webinar opens and accommodations set up
6:00 PM: Listen to a PANEL OF EXPERTS talk about unique programs on college campuses for students with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities.
7:00 PM: Get your questions answered by representatives from CUNY Unlimited, Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program, THINK College, ACCES-VR, student self-advocates, and more!

This is an online event.

Register here
