Upcoming Events
Explore upcoming events in the Self-Direction community and learn how to register.
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session- In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session- In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session- In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CDA Lecture Series – Navigating OPWDD Family Support Services (FSS) For Families & Professionals
Are you looking to access supports through OPWDD but unsure how to get started with the Family Support Services (FSS) reimbursement process?
Join us for a step-by-step workshop designed to help families and professionals understand how to complete the FSS application and access essential services.What You’ll Learn:
- How to complete the OPWDD FSS Reimbursement Application
- How to obtain services such as respite care, recreation, and vacation respite
- What kinds of expenses can be reimbursed — up to $3,000 per year
- How FSS differs from Self-Direction and Medicaid Waiver services
- Tips for families who are awaiting waiver approval
About FSS:
Family Support Services through OPWDD offer reimbursement for goods and services not typically covered by the Self-Direction budget. These supports are especially helpful for families caring for a loved one with developmental disabilities, including those who are still waiting for Medicaid waiver approval. The FSS process is separate from other OPWDD services and is managed by individual agencies, which can make it challenging to navigate—this workshop will help simplify it.
Featured Speakers:
Pearl Rubin, Director Of Family Support Services, Ohel Family Services
Sharon Hanover - Director, Adler Center For Special Needs, Mid-Island JCC
October Office Hours for C4SD
Get your Self-Direction questions answered at the C4SD Office Hours.
Due to the enthusiastic response from our attendees, we will be hosting one every 2nd or 3rd Wednesday of the month for the rest of the year!
Or, sometimes the 4th Wednesday, like this month
For our October Office Hours: Registration link
Self-Direction Short Film Screening at SNACK*
Wednesday, October 22nd, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for a screening of short films that share his story about independent life using self direction. We will also be sharing some other success stories about other SNACK 21+ friends.
Enjoy a warm and welcoming evening with appetizers, wine, beer, soft drinks, home made desserts, and great company, as we come together to support and celebrate creativity and achievements.
To RSVP, Please email oriana@snacknyc.com
A donation is not required but greatly appreciated. Click the link below to donate.
Donate here: https://www.snacknyc.com/donate
NY State DREAM Symposium 2025
Disability Rights Employment Awareness Month (DREAM)
https://www.ny.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/DREAM_2025_E1stNY_UPDATED_Flyer.pdf
Or direct to the registration link
Cost: Free, but pre-registration required
Place: Empire State Plaza Concourse; 100 S. Mall Arterial; Albany, NY 12242
Date / time:
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM EDT
Wednesday Oct 29, 2025 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM EDT
Please note that this symposium does overlap with the NYAII Self-Direction conference, and the two venues are about 20 minutes away by car service. Some coalition members will be attending the DREAM until about Noon on Wednesday the 29th, and then heading over to Troy for the SD Conference.
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
NYAII 10th Annual FI/Self-Direction Summit
Annual conference put on by the NY Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation.
Members of the Coalition will be there, to network with other family members, and hear from providers and the State. Next year we aim to be making a couple of the presentations.
We recognize that paying for this event and getting to Albany is a challenge. If you are able to attend, let us know-- drop a line to info@c4sd.org and we will be sure to connect with you there.
https://nyalliance.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=488&ts=1757960351
Cost: $355 for non-members.
Or, for $400 you can get a family membership for $130, and then pay $270 as a member. This is worthwhile if you anticipate going to a second NYAII event during the year.
Place: Hilton Garden Inn Troy; 235 Hoosick St; Troy, NY 12180
Date / time:
Wednesday Oct 29. Credential pickup starting at 12:30. Program from 1:30- 6:45 PM
Thursday Oct 30, Program from 8:30 AM - 3:45 PM
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - Webinar
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - Webinar
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session - In person
The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) will be hosting CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Sessions this fall for individuals and families. These sessions will provide valuable updates and answer questions about the assessment process.
Based on feedback from previous discussions, OPWDD has expanded the schedule to include additional in-person sessions across the state, as well as two statewide webinars. Each person wishing to attend must submit a separate request form. Due to limited seating at in-person locations, attendance is confirmed by email once requests are processed. If you do not receive a confirmation, you are encouraged to join one of the webinars instead—both formats will share the same information.
Registration is required. Please use this link to request attendance:
CAS and CANS-NY Assessment Informational Session Registration
Most Integrated Setting Coordinating Council (the MISCC) Meeting
Empire State Plaza, Meeting Room 6. More details to come.
September Office Hours for C4SD
Get your Self-Direction questions answered at the C4SD Office Hours.
Due to the enthusiastic response from our attendees, we will be hosting one every 2nd or 3rd Wednesday of the month for the rest of the year!
For our September Office Hours Click Here To Register Now!
Family Support Services (FSS) Meeting
The meeting will be held in person in Albany at the Empire State Plaza, Meeting Room 1.
You may also join at one of our OPWDD Regional Office Locations listed below. When you arrive, please sign-in at the security desk:
Buffalo: 1021 Broadway, Room 433, Buffalo, NY 14212
NYC: 25 Beaver St. OPWDD, 3rd Floor, Room 3K11, New York, NY 10004, Please bring state issued photo ID and sign-in at the security desk
Long Island: 415A Oser Ave. Hauppauge, NY 11788
Syracuse: Syracuse: 187 Northern Concourse, Syracuse, NY 13212 | Classroom 2
The Family Support Services (FSS) Committee Meeting has transitioned to a new webcasting platform.
To view the live meeting, please visit: http://totalwebcasting.com/live/nysopwdd
To participate in public comment, you may either attend the meeting in person or sign up to participate virtually on Total Webcasting. Those who sign up for virtual public comment will receive an email with instructions on how to join the meeting and provide their comments virtually on the morning of September 8.
Housing Subcommittee Meeting- September
C4SD Working Group on Housing
Meets first Wednesday of month at 4 PM in September, October, November, and Deceember!
If you would like to join the discussion, please reach out to the Chairs of the group at HousingAdmin@c4sd.org
Olmstead Plan Input
After more than a decade, New York State is revising its Olmstead Plan. This is an opportunity to tell the policy makers about what is working and what is not. An opportunity to shape policy for the decade to come.
Tell the State about the changes that you need.
Send an email by end of the day on Monday September 1st: olmsteadplanny@exec.ny.gov.
Send us a copy too, please, at info@coalition4sdf.org
Topic 1: Access to Services and Supports
Getting the help you need – like housing, healthcare, or transportation – when you need it.
Prompt:
What kinds of help or services do you rely on to live in your community?
What services and supports would most improve your life if they were made more accessible?Topic 2: Rights Protection and System Accountability
Knowing your rights are protected, being treated with dignity, and having systems that work and respond fairly.
Prompt:
What have your experiences in sharing your preferences been like?
Have you or someone you know had your/their rights eroded?
What would help you feel more confident that your rights are protected?Topic 3: Community Integration and Choice
Living where and with whom you want, making your own choices, and being part of your community.
Prompt:
What have you observed about community integration and choice in your community?
What would help make where you live more inclusive and integrated?
What’s one thing that could make it easier for people to live in the communities of their choice?
OPWDD Strategic Plan Input
OPWDD is going through their annual exercise of updating the Stategic Plan.
We encourage everyone to send them written testimony at planning@opwdd.ny.gov by the end of the day on Tuesday August 19th.
Send us a copy too, please, at info@coalition4sdf.org
Details of the Strategic Plan can be found on the OPWDD site at opwdd.ny.gov/strategic-planning/opwdd-2023-2027-strategic-plan-document-all-languages
You can also testify at the on-line forums on August 18th and 19th, as listed on our calendar.
Mid-day on-line OPWDD Strategic Forum
Register HERE for the virtual forum on August 19th from 11am to 1pm.
Evening On-line OPWDD Strategic Forum
Register HERE for the virtual forum on August 18th from 5:30 to 7:30pm
August Office Hours for C4SD
Get your Self-Direction questions answered at the C4SD Office Hours.
Due to the enthusiastic response from our attendees, we will be hosting one every 2nd Wednesday of the month for the rest of the year!
For our August Office Hours Click Here To Register Now!
ASD Workforce Coalition Meeting
C4SD’s Employment Committee has joined forces with Beth Rosenberg's ASD Workforce Coalition. Beth is the ED of Tech Kids Unlimited. This is a well-established advocacy organization. Folks interested in joining should reach out to Beth at asdworkforcecoalition@techkidsunlimited.org
Choice: NYS Olmstead Plan on-line Listening Sessions
You can influence NYS Policy for the coming decade.
Click here to register.
Rights: NYS Olmstead Plan on-line Listening Sessions
You can influence NYS Policy for the coming decade.
Click here to register.
Get Answers at C4SD “Office Hours” on-line
You have questions about navigating Self-Direction? We have helpful, candid answers. Register HERE!
Access: NYS Olmstead Plan on-line Listening Sessions
You can influence NYS Policy for the coming decade.
Click here to register.
NYC OPWDD Strategic Forum
Register HERE for the in-person forum on July 9th from 1pm to 3pm at Brooklyn Heights Library, 286 Cadman Plaza West, Brooklyn, NY 11201
LI OPWDD Strategic Forum
Register HERE for the in-person forum on July 8th from 1pm to 3pm at 415 A Oser Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11788.
OPWDD Strategic Forum
Register HERE for the in-person forum on June 30th from 4pm to 6pm at New Horizons 3999 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, NY 12538.
Get Outdoors and Get Together Day!
New York's Get Outdoors & Get Together Day coincides with National Get Outdoors Day, an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun.
Get Outdoors & Get Together Day is a partnership between the NYS Office of the Chief Disability Officer, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, the NYS Department of Veterans’ Services, the Office of Mental Health, the Justice Center for the Protection of People With Special Needs, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
At events across the state, participants will be encouraged to discover new skills and enjoy a range of free introductory-level outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, nature walks and hikes, birding, archery, camping demonstrations, paddling, and more. Each event will highlight ways to enjoy the outdoors safely and sustainably.
All locations will offer a selection of accessible activities, and use of adaptive equipment and demonstrations will be provided at many sites free of cost, including trail and beach mobility aids, archery assist stands, arm supports for fishing, and more.
ASD Workforce Coalition Meeting
C4SD’s Employment Committee has joined forces with Beth Rosenberg's ASD Workforce Coalition. Beth is the ED of Tech Kids Unlimited. This is a well-established advocacy organization. Folks interested in joining should reach out to Beth at asdworkforcecoalition@techkidsunlimited.org
ELIJA's 18th Annual Sy Schwartz Golf Outing of 2025
About ELIJA Foundation:
ELIJA (Empowering Long Island's Journey through Autism) is excited to be hosting our 18th Annual Sy Schwartz Golf Outing on Monday, June 2nd, at the amazing Brookville Country Club, Brookville, Long Island, honoring Craig Carton, renowned sports radio and television personality, 2024 New York State Broadcasting Hall of fame inductee, current host of Breakfast Ball on FS1, and Hello, My Name is Craig on WFAN.
Proceeds from this annual event go directly to improve the lives of the 1 in 36 children being diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which today is more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.
While there is no prevention or cure for Autism, research indicates that the appropriate support can result in significant improvements and outcomes for those affected. We at ELIJA work tirelessly to improve outcomes by offering our learners a personalized and quality education, focused on developing communication, social and cognitive skills.
The ELIJA Foundation, a not-for-profit, 501c (3) organization, has been serving parents, educators, professionals, and caregivers of children with an ASD since 2002. The ELIJA Foundation provides the community with educational opportunities that focus on improving the quality of programs and services available to children with Autism. In 2006, The ELIJA School opened its doors to extend the mission of the Foundation and start helping children with Autism. In 2016 we expanded programming to support our young learners as they transition into adulthood.
ELIJA's focus is to empower individuals and families living with an ASD throughout their lives. We believe in hope and hard work; that all children (or adults) with an ASD deserve a chance, and their families deserve our commitment, expertise and support!
ASD Workforce Coalition Meeting
C4SD’s Employment Committee has joined forces with Beth Rosenberg's ASD Workforce Coalition. Beth is the ED of Tech Kids Unlimited. This is a well-established advocacy organization. Folks interested in joining should reach out to Beth at asdworkforcecoalition@techkidsunlimited.org