Issue 2, 2011
In This Issue
NYSARC Trust Services
Latest from LAN
Self-Advocate Corner
Chapter News
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Upcoming Events

 

2011 Joint Lobby Day

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Briefing on Issues at 9:30a.m. in the Sign of the Tree

Albany, NY

 

NYSARC, Inc. staff will schedule Lobby Day appointments with your local legislators and key staff. NYSARC, Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State, and the Alliance of Long Island Agencies have agreed to assign their combined membership into teams on a geographic basis.

 

 

Autism NOW Weekly Webinars

Thursday, January 27, 2011

2:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.

Register Now

 

Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE) will present a webinar explaining the work that SABE accomplishes throughout the United States as well as the role of SABE at The Autism NOW Center. To access this webinar, please call 1-866-740-1260 and enter access code 2321101. 

 

 

The Arc Rebranding Webinars

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

2:30p.m. - 4:00p.m. 

Register Now

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

2:30p.m. - 4:00p.m.

Register Now

 

The Arc of the U.S. is offering two Webinars over the next month to help Chapters understand The Arc's new brand beginning in March. The webinars will be open to all Chapters and will offer useful information regarding the national launch plan beginning in March. If you have any questions, please contact Shelly DeButts at debutts@thearc.org.

Marc Brandt

Special Commentary: A Time to Listen 

 

Greetings!  


Sixty-two years ago, the families that founded what was to become the largest non-profit of its kind had no idea of the historic consequence of their actions.  In 1949, this handful of parents wanted for their children the same qualities and inclusive life within the broader community as the families of today aspire for their children. Yes, it was a different time and the understanding and perspectives of these early pioneers were perhaps shaded by their need to protect their loved ones from a society that had little understanding or empathy for their children.

 

From the day NYSARC was formed and throughout the next sixty-two years,  the families of our Organization distinguished themselves within New York State's public policy arena. Almost all of the legislative accomplishments over the six plus decades affecting the lives of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities were initiated by NYSARC, Inc. Laws establishing the models and resources for education, vocational services, community residences, guardianship, health care decision making, and burden-of-proof, were all advocated for and by family members and self-advocates of NYSARC, Inc.

 

It is important in this current environment to remember not only those successes but also how they were accomplished. The determination, persistency, and willingness to never say "no" or to sacrifice the principles underlying the objectives has in large measure made the current system for the people we support the strongest and best in the nation. Very often this in-your-face advocacy did not win "friends" within state government or the very bureaucracy the families created.  It did, however, produce results, and has become recognized throughout the nation. While we acknowledge the journey has not been completed, we have gone from a highly impersonal institutionalized system of care to a community-based system providing numerous options of services and supports.

 

Unlike almost every other state in our nation we formed a close bond with the regulatory agency that gave us the funds to realize our vision and carry out our mission. Unlike almost every other state in the nation we aggressively pursued rapid deinstitutionalization. Unlike almost every other state in the nation we entered into a partnership with the federal government to assure that the movement of individuals into the community would receive the proper funding it required. And, unlike any other state in the nation, we aggressively and creatively used the federal resources of the Medicaid program that was available to any state.

 

The end result of all of these efforts speaks volumes. The inhumane treatment and total disregard of a section of our society has been transformed into the envy of the nation. People with developmental disabilities who just a few short years ago had little say in their lives and had to be totally dependent on others for their most basic needs, are now beginning to be empowered. While real choice, person-centered planning, and full inclusion are still today in their infant stages, no one can deny that the time has come. 

 

On February 1st, Governor Andrew Cuomo will be presenting his budget recommendations to the legislature for the April 1, 2011 - March 31, 2012 fiscal period. Since taking office, the Governor has eloquently and aggressively been educating New York State residents as to the deficits and extreme fiscal condition that exists. A number of Task Forces, including one on Medicaid Redesign, have been empowered to find efficiencies so as to not only address the current fiscal dilemma New York is experiencing but to rethink and reshape the manner in which our state's citizens with disabilities are supported.    

 

While the Governor's budget is still a week away from being presented, the developmental disabilities field anticipates and understands that it will be called upon to do its part in assisting the State regain its economic and fiscal strength. The Governor, his staff and the Legislature would do well to remember that the current developmental disabilities field is a product of a former redesign. While most of those individuals who created that redesign might not be present today to lead the way, they have turned the torch over to another generation of families, professionals, advocates, and the very individuals for whom we advocate. Before any redesign or severe cuts that would devastate the system of support that was created in partnership with NYS is implemented, it would be wise to understand the consequences of those cuts as well as to listen to those families and individuals that will be most affected.       

 
Marc N. Brandt
Executive Director
News from NYSARC
New Executive Director at Oneida-Lewis Counties Chapter

Karen KorotzerThe Board of Directors of our Oneida-Lewis Counties Chapter has announced the appointment of Karen Korotzer to the position of Executive Director.  Karen is replacing Angela VanDerhoof who retired in December after 32 years as the Chapter's Executive Director.

 

Karen brings to the position extensive knowledge and experience in both the intellectual disabilities field and the mental health field.  She has worked in clinical and senior management positions in a variety of settings including hospitals, non-profits and state government organizations.

 

We welcome Karen to the Oneida-Lewis Counties Chapter and to the NYSARC, Inc. family. We congratulate her on her appointment and wish her the very best of success.

In Remembrance: Richard Witkowski

On January 20, 2011 the former Executive Director of our Allegany County Chapter, Richard S. Witkowski, passed away.  Richard served as the Chapter Executive Director from February 6, 1989 until February 5, 2010.

 

Upon learning of his passing, Marc N. Brandt, NYSARC, Inc. Executive Director, offered his thoughts, "Dick was a kind, gentle, dedicated professional who lived the philosophy and mission of our Organization. All of us in the NYSARC family extend to his wife Sheila and family our deepest sympathies."

NYSARC Announces 2011 Charitable Gift Annuity Program

The NYSARC, Inc. Charitable Gift Annuity Program is one of the simplest, yet most versatile of all charitable gift planning options available to people who want to support an important cause or organization.  It is often the best choice, because it allows a person to receive an immediate charitable deduction as well as a lifetime fixed annual income, in exchange for their gift of cash or securities. 

 

The NYSARC, Inc. Charitable Gift Annuity Program is structured so that under a normal life expectancy, fifty percent (50%) of the initial gift will be retained by the charity, NYSARC, Inc.  Ninety percent (90%) of the residuum will be gifted to the donor's local NYSARC, Inc. Chapter, and ten percent (10%)  will be used to help support the NYSARC, Inc. Corporate Guardianship Program.

 

Payments made through this program benefit from favorable tax advantages because a portion of the annuity is treated as a return of principal.  In addition, the income, or annuity payment, is guaranteed by NYSARC, Inc.

 

For more information about the 2011 Charitable Gift Annuity Program, please contact Muriel Doyne, Assistant Executive Director for Quality Assurance, or David Pascale, Esq., Assistant Executive Director for Fiscal Management. Additional information can be found at the NYSARC Trust Services website.

NYSARC Presents 2010 Logo Contest Award
Michael Capone, Community Relations Manager for Jefferson Rehabilitation Center (the Jefferson County Chapter of NYSARC, Inc.), was awarded the 2010 Logo Contest Award for his entry for the 2011 NYSARC Convention, "Advocacy in Action." Capone also received a laptop computer, donated to NYSARC by CMI Communications located in Rochester, NY.
Marc Brandt, Executive Director, NYSARC; Michael Capone, Community Relations Manager, Jefferson; Deborah Vink, president, Jefferson; Howard Ganter, Executive Director, Jefferson.  Computer was donated to NYSARC by CMI Communications located in Rochester, NY.
Marc Brandt, Executive Director, NYSARC; Michael Capone (Award Winner), Community Relations Manager, Jefferson Rehabilitation Center; Joanne Rhode, President, Jefferson Rehabilitation Center; Howard Ganter, Executive Director, Jefferson Rehabilitation Center.

NYSARC TRUST SERVICES

What's a Supplemental Needs Trust?

A Supplemental Needs Trust (sometimes referred to as a Special Needs Trust) or commonly a "SNT" is a legally recognized way for property to be set aside for the ultimate benefit of an individual with disabilities while not interfering with eligibility for  various governmental benefits (usually Medicaid and/or SSI).  

 

The funds are held by a trustee and can be used for personal living expenses that are not provided by these governmental programs but which enhance the life of the disabled person. There are two different types of SNTs:

  • SNTs set up with the funds of a person with a disability (a first party SNT)
  • SNTs set up with the funds of a third person, usually a family member (a third party SNT). 

The rules covering each type of trust are quite complex and anyone considering establishing a SNT should always consult with an attorney. Some charitable organizations operate "pooled trusts" which are SNTs that are combined for investment and management purposes but for which the funds remain separate and distinct for the benefit of the individual. 

 

NYSARC has operated a pooled third party SNT for beneficiaries with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (The Unrestricted Fund) since 1972. In addition, NYSARC operates three separate first party pooled trusts for individuals who are determined to be disabled under the social security law. NYSARC Trust Services also provides trust administration and management services for individual first- and third-party SNTs.  

 

Currently NYSARC serves over 5,000 trust beneficiaries with its co-trustee and financial advisor, JP Morgan Chase. For more information, visit the NYSARC Trust Services website at www.nysarctrustservices.org or call 1-800-735-8924.

Legislative Advocate Network (LAN)

Latest Updates

  • The Senate Finance Committee and Assembly Ways and Means Committee released the schedule for their joint hearings on the State budget. OPW's hearings are slated for March 2nd.  Separate Medicaid hearings will be held on March 1st. The annual hearings provide an opportunity for legislators to quiz Commissioners and other top agency personnel on the budget proposed by the Governor.
  • NYSARC met with Senate Health Chair Kemp Hannon on Tuesday, January 25. Senator Hannon has jurisdiction for Medicaid in the State Senate. The meeting included Marc Brandt; Sandy Gumerove, parent with the Nassau Chapter; and NYSARC Governmental Affairs Committee Chairs Gary Lind and Ben Golden. Also at the meeting was Jane Preston, Senator Hannon's former longtime chief aide. The aim of the meeting was to begin to distinguish Medicaid for services to people with developmental disabilities from other Medicaid funded programs.Senator Hannon is a longtime friend of NYSARC and worked closely with us on the Health Care Decisions Act. Kristin Sinclair from Senator Hannon's Office also attended.
  • The health care industry is expecting immediate Medicaid savings to come from a 7% across-the-board reimbursement cut to providers. To help providers weather those cuts, there could be a push for medical malpractice insurance reform. Home and personal care will be overhauled, with reduction in utilization and new methods for assessing eligibility. A move will be made to assist labor by addressing the pay disparity between personal care and home care.
  • The Statewide Family Advocacy Day was postponed from February 7 to March 11. Organizations holding the statewide event, including NYSARC, agreed that by February 7 there would be insufficient information about the NYS budget and its impact on services for people with developmental disabilities. Further, the Medicaid Redesign Team is scheduled to weigh in with its report on March 1. The report could have profound implications for our services.

Want to receive updates like these on a regular basis? Sign up to receive the LAN News & Alerts today: Join Our Mailing List! 

The Self-Advocate Corner
The Importance of My Job 

by David Liscomb, JRC Self Advocacy Consultant,
NYSARC Self-Advocacy Advisory Committee Chairperson 

  

David Liscomb

This week I would like to talk about my job and its importance.   

 

On May 28th, 2008, I was hired for a new job at the Jefferson Rehabilitation Center (JRC).  I am a professional Self-Advocacy Consultant.  Some of my duties are staffing the Self-Advocacy office at JRC three days a week, training new staff once a month, and organizing and presenting at regional, state, and national Self-Advocacy and Developmental Disability conferences. 

 

I often write policy statements, and I assist in developing platforms for the Self Advocacy Association of New York State (SANYS).  I try to help Self-Advocates work closely with the New York State Legislature so our elected officials can be aware of our needs.  Locally, I encourage my peers to register and vote every year in local elections and statewide elections.  Every vote counts, and in close elections we can make a difference.   

 

On Monday, January 10th, I participated in a conference call facilitated by Kareem Dale, who is President Obama's Special Assistant for Disability Policy.  I talked about the importance of Medicaid Service Coordination.  This month, I begin a term serving on the JRC's Board of Directors.  I have learned to apply what I have accomplished while at work.  The people that I serve have been my friends for many years.         

News from Our Chapters
Saratoga Bridges Receives Three Grants
Saratoga - Saratoga Bridges, the Saratoga County Chapter of NYSARC, is pleased to announce that they have received 3 generous grants. The Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust donated $45,637.85 to create the Alfred Z. Solomon Media & Computer Training Center at their Malta site to improve employment, programmatic, social and recreational opportunities for 500 individuals with developmental disabilities who attend their day programs.

Saratoga Gaming and Raceway and SEFCU both donated $2,500 for their most under-funded program, Family Support Services. This is essential for the over 200 families who have a loved one with a disability living at home. Saratoga Bridges becomes their lifeline by offering invaluable services that greatly enhance their lives including Respite, Family Care, Recreation & Social activities, Sibshops, Reimbursement, Guardianship, Specialized Autism Support Services and Parent Workshops.

 

Read more about the three grants received by Saratoga Bridges 

WYINA Wine Benefit Herkimer ARC's Wine Auction Sets Records
Herkimer - The New York International Wine Auction (NYIWA) not only reached the milestone of celebrating 15 years of raising funds to empower people and enrich lives, the charity wine auction continues to thrive, setting two records for sponsorship and auction gross at the October 2010 event.
 

Proceeds from NYIWA help the Herkimer ARC to support people with disabilities and others in the community to achieve full potential and to live enriched lives.


Read more about the NYIWA Wine Auction
The Arc of Oneida-Lewis Receives Grant from
Community Foundation

Utica - The Oneida-Lewis Chapter of the Arc was recently awarded a grant from the Charles Henry Ide & Georgiana Roberts Ide Fund, a donor-advised fund of The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc., in honor of former Executive Director, Angela Z. VanDerhoof, on her retirement.  The grant was specifically designated to support The Arc's new accessible playground.  Area citizens and businesses, in honor of VanDerhoof who retired last month after 32 years as Arc Executive Director, made numerous other donations to the playground fund.

NYSARC, Inc.
393 Delaware Ave
Delmar, NY 12054