For a copy of the newsletter, please call 516-796-0144 or e-mail us at: licil@aol.com
LICIL HAS A NEW FRIEND: “Cristina And Friends”
Cristina And Friends is a not-for-profit 501c(3) organization based in Nassau County, which provides services to children with developmental disabilities and their families in the Metropolitan NY area. It was founded in 2000 by Evelyn and Carlos Cortez, parents of ten-year-old Cristina, who recall the frustrating experiences they personally encountered when seeking information and resources for their daughter who was born with CP. Indeed, their personal journey became the catalyst and now serves as the driving force for assisting other children and families in their quest to obtain relevant information and benefit from resources - both available and “soon to be discovered.” These efforts will ensure that the children have an optimal quality of life that will enable them to benefit from opportunities in their community that are available to all other children.
The mission of Cristina And Friends is a commitment to provide comprehensive activities and services. These services are distinguished by an overall sense of freedom, relaxation, mutual caring, positive energy and a focus on each child’s unique talents and abilities.
LICIL embraces this exciting and innovative organization, which seeks to provide recreational activities within an integrated environment with non-disabled children. Another aspect of this organization is the provision of therapeutic activities that include, but are not limited to, therapeutic horseback riding programs, swimming programs, ski programs, sensory sessions, art workshops and alternative physical therapies in countries as far away as Poland and the Ukraine. We are in the process of collaborating with Cristina And Friends on programs and activities that we believe will be progressive and enriching for participating youngsters.
If you would like to learn more about Cristina And Friends please contact Evelyn Cortez at (516) 739-3237.
CODI Update
Citizens Opening Doors for Integration (CODI) Accomplishes Significant Systems Change for ’02-’03
By Therése E. Aprile, Director of Systems Advocacy
After just under one year since its rollout, LICIL’s Team CODI produced a number of successful results in the area of Community Change and Systems Advocacy. The following are just a few of the highlights which represent tremendously hard work and unyielding dedication on the part of volunteers who represent the interests of LICIL’s consumers.
- Seven new, wheelchair accessible bus shelters with seats have been added to the busy and popular Hempstead Turnpike corridor served by L.I. Bus Routes 70; 71; and 72.
- CODI presented a workshop unprecedented in Nassau County entitled The Three C’s of Fire Safety & Evacuation for Persons with disabilities: Cooperation; Coordination; Communication. This forum brought together professionals representing Nassau County Office of Emergency Management; the Levittown Fire Department; the Town of Hempstead; and the Nassau County Red Cross. For the first time, consumers with disabilities were able to participate in an open dialogue about particular safety and evacuation concerns and get answers and advice directly from the experts. Kate Murray, Supervisor of the Town of Hempstead, was in attendance and presented the Center with a Citation in recognition of its continuing work on this vital issue.
- As a result of an aggressive letter writing campaign, CODI was instrumental in convincing Nassau County officials to necessitate action in order for Able Ride to take advantage of federal grant money available for the renovation of much-needed additional space. This site, located in Garden City, will facilitate the management and upkeep of Able Ride’s expanded fleet of vehicles, thereby resulting in increased and improved services to consumers.
Ongoing Projects:
- As part of its initiatives for ’02-’03, CODI developed a petition asking New York State officials to expand the Elderly Prescription Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program to include individuals with disabilities. Over 400 signatures were procured and copies of the petition were sent to political representatives at every level of state government. Strong support for a change in legislation was expressed and is continually evident in the recent influx of interest on the matter.
CODI will continue to push for the expansion of EPIC throughout the coming year and looks forward to increased consumer involvement in this significant venture.
- The Road to Equal Access for Students with Disabilities: A Unique Partnership Between Students, Faculty and Administrators remains a priority in the area of Educational Systems change. The publication has been distributed to numerous local colleges and Universities and is being used currently as part of faculty training programs on two campuses. The marketing campaign for this useful tool is in full swing, with efforts to increase its use and distribution among the community of higher education. Copies of The Road to Equal Access are available free of charge. Contact LICIL at 516/796-0144 and ask for Tanny.
A special word of thanks is extended to CODI members Jimmy Allen; Tom Bodnar; Loretta Picone; Louis Richiusa; and Doug Stelling for their especially valuable input and effort toward continued positive transformation of the systems that drive our community. Here’s to another year of progress and commitment to “opening doors” for the full integration of all persons with disabilities!
No matter what, don’t give up the fight!…
LICIL BOARD MEMBER GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
LICIL has lost a vibrant and energetic board member and friend this past year. Katherine “Kitty” Halkin was an active board member who was a staunch supporter of the Independent Living philosophy and took her responsibilities as a board member seriously with a no-nonsense, down to earth attitude. She embraced challenges and was not afraid to advocate for what she believed in. Everyone whose life she touched will remember her as a concerned, kindhearted person who took pleasure and satisfaction in helping others.