State of the Art Conference
2024-10-30 | The Friday Center/Chapel Hill, NC, NC, United States
The State of the Art Conference (SOTA) 2024, sponsored by Syracuse University Taishoff Center, provides opportunities for colleges, universities, researchers, program staff, parents and self-advocates to learn about the current state of research and practice in the field of inclusive postsecondary/higher education, and to network with each other.
On October 30th, SDMNY will be presenting on the SDM curriculum development.

ADAPT Community Network - SDM: Creating a Future of Autonomy & Competence
2024-11-07 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | NC
This workshop will discuss the exciting shifts in attitudes and practice that result when Supported Decision Making (SDM) is implemented in place of guardianship. By gaining an understanding how SDM differs from guardianship, participants will learn how the Supported Decision-Making New York (SDMNY) project has enhanced the self-determination, independence, inclusion, and dignity of individuals with I/DD, while preserving the right to legal capacity and decision-making power in their lives. The presentation will explain how the SDMNY facilitation process works with a wide spectrum of persons with I/DD and autism. The presentation will also discuss the impact of the new SDM law. Participants will come away from the presentation with: an understanding of how the 17-A guardianship law in NY State affects the rights of persons with I/DD; clear knowledge of how the SDMNY 3-phase facilitation process works, a broad view of how Supported Decision Making Agreements (SDMAs) are being utilized by individuals with I/DD and an understanding of the impact of the new SDM Law (NY Mental Hygiene Law Article 82).
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Parents, family members, caregivers, therapists, teachers, and other professionals who want to enhance the lives of children, teenagers, and young adults. We welcome all who strive to achieve the same goals.
LANGUAGE: English (Spanish and Mandarin Interpretation Provided)
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
By web: Click here
By Email: familyconnect@adaptcommunitynetwork.org
By Phone: (718) 436-7979 Ext.5139
Event flyer – Adapt Supported Decision Making (3 lang.)

General Information Session to Learn More about SDMNY
2024-11-12 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-14 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-19 18:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-03 18:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-05 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-01-14 09:00 - 10:00, 2025-01-16 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-01-23 17:00 - 18:00 and 1 more date | NC
These Information Sessions are held on Zoom and are for anyone who wishes to learn more about supported decision-making (SDM), and the SDMNY facilitation process. Appropriate for Individuals who are considering creating their own SDM agreement, or for parents, guardians, service providers and others who wish to learn more. Includes time for Q&A.
RSVP required via the below link.

Supported Decision-Making and Other Alternatives to Guardianship in NYS
2024-11-13 17:00 - 18:00, 2024-11-15 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
SDMNY and Brooklyn Law School’s Disability and Civil Rights Clinic will discuss the history of guardianship and supported decision-making, as well as programs that can be used to complement supported decision-making agreements.
RSVP is required via the link below.

SDMNY Sign-Up Session for Decision-Makers
2024-11-14 18:00 - 19:00, 2024-11-21 18:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-05 18:00 - 19:00, 2024-12-12 18:00 - 19:00 | NC
This session is required for individuals who wish to sign up to participate in SDMNY’s facilitation process to create a Supported Decision-Making Agreement. Attendance by the Individual is required. Parents/Caregivers/Guardians are welcome to attend the session with the DM to provide support. Decision-Makers will learn about what to expect in the SDMNY facilitation process, including their own responsibilities, and will have the opportunity to sign-up to participate.
RSVP required via the below link.
Note: Please register latest by 12:00 pm on the day of the session. If it’s past 12:00 pm, please find the next Sign-Up session on our Events page to register.

Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) Monthly Decision-Making Series Workshop #1
2024-11-19 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood. Hosted by WIHD.
Workshop #1: Supported Decision-Making (SDM), Guardianship, and other Alternatives
Many parents and caregivers have questions about how best their loved one with intellectual and developmental disabilities may be supported in making decisions as an adult. What are the concerns around guardianship?What about Supported Decision Making? How do advance directives such as health care proxies and durable power of attorney factor in? This workshop should be taken before the Guardianship and Digging intoSupported Decision-Making workshops. If you have already taken thisWIHD zoom workshop, please register instead for the Digging in toSupported Decision-Making workshop.
RSVP here

Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) Monthly Decision-Making Series Workshop #2
2024-11-20 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood. Hosted by WIHD.
Workshop #2: Digging in to Supported Decision-Making
This workshop is intended for individuals who have already attended our monthly Supported Decision-Making, Guardianship, and otherAlternatives workshop, and want to know more about SDM. We will review Article 82, the NY State supported decision making law, and will answer SDM-specific questions.
RSVP here

Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) Monthly Decision-Making Series Workshop #3
2024-11-21 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood. Hosted by WIHD.
Workshop #3: Guardianship Workshop
This workshop is intended for individuals who have already attended our monthly Supported Decision Making, Guardianship, and otherAlternatives workshop, and have determined that guardianship is the most appropriate alternative. Since guardianship is considered the most restrictive form of decision support, it is recommended that you also attend the Digging in to Supported Decision-Making workshop before signing up for this one. We will review the process of putting together a petition for guardianship and the documentation requirements.
RSVP here

SPARK CHANGE: Empowering Choices: Understanding Supported Decision-Making in NYS
2024-12-03 09:00 - 11:00 | NC
Spark Change is a day of learning and connection related to systemic advocacy policies in the educational system.
Join us in person or virtually!
Al Sigl Sports Committee Conference Center
1000 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14620
Event Includes:

Understanding the concept of Supported Decision-Making (SDM) and its importance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Insight into New York State’s recognition of SDM as a less restrictive alternative to guardianship under Article 17-a.
Learning how courts are applying SDM to avoid guardianship or assist individuals in regaining their rights from existing guardianships.
Overview of the SDM model adopted by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).
Exploration of the implications of New York State’s new legal framework for individuals with IDD.
Engaging panel discussion featuring experts in the field.
Opportunity for audience Q&A to address specific questions and concerns related to SDM.

RSVP is required.
Event page and registration

Sesión de información general para saber más sobre SDMNY
2024-12-10 09:00 - 10:00 | NC
10 de diciembre de 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Estas sesiones Informativas se llevan a cabo por Zoom y son para cualquier persona que desea aprender más sobre la toma de decisiones con apoyo (SDM) y el proceso de facilitación SDMNY. Son apropiadas para individuos que están considerando crear su propio acuerdo SDM, o para padres, tutores, proveedores de servicios u otros que desean aprender más. También incluyen un momento para preguntas y respuestas.

Se requiere reservar a través del enlace que se muestra abajo.

Monthly Decision Making Series Workshop #1: Supported Decision-Making (SDM), Guardianship, and other Alternatives
2025-01-07 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood.
Workshop #1: Supported Decision-Making (SDM), Guardianship, and other Alternatives
Many parents and caregivers have questions about how best their loved one with intellectual and developmental disabilities may be supported in making decisions as an adult. What are the concerns around guardianship? What about Supported Decision Making? How do advance directives such as health care proxies and durable power of attorney factor in? This workshop should be taken before the Guardianship and Digging into Supported Decision-Making workshops. If you have already taken this WIHD zoom workshop, please register instead for the Digging in to Supported Decision-Making workshop.

Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Monthly Decision Making Series Workshop #2: Digging in to Supported Decision-Making
2025-01-08 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood.
Workshop #2: Digging in to Supported Decision-Making
This workshop is intended for individuals who have already attended our monthly Supported Decision Making, Guardianship, and other Alternatives workshop, and want to know more about SDM. We will review Article 82, the NY State supported decision making law, and will answer SDM-specific questions.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Monthly Decision Making Series Workshop #3: Guardianship Workshop
2025-01-09 12:00 - 13:00 | NC
Join us for our three-workshop series where we will present instruments and methods used to support loved ones with disabilities in making choices as they approach the age of adulthood.
Workshop #3: Guardianship Workshop
This workshop is intended for individuals who have already attended our monthly Supported Decision Making, Guardianship, and other Alternatives workshop, and have determined that guardianship is the most appropriate alternative. Since guardianship is considered the most restrictive form of decision support, it is recommended that you also attend the Digging in to Supported Decision-Making workshop before signing up for this one. We will review the process of putting together a petition for guardianship and the documentation requirements.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

SDMNY Sign-Up Session for Decision-Makers
2025-01-23 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-01-28 18:00 - 19:00 | NC
This session is required for individuals who wish to sign up to participate in SDMNY’s facilitation process to create a Supported Decision-Making Agreement. Attendance by the Individual is required. Parents/Caregivers/Guardians are welcome to attend the session with the DM to provide support. Decision-Makers will learn about what to expect in the SDMNY facilitation process, including their own responsibilities, and will have the opportunity to sign-up to participate.
RSVP required via the below link.

Community Support Network 2025 ‘Virtual’ Transition Institute - Westchester Institute for Human Development
2025-01-29 09:00 - 2025-01-31 13:00 | NC
We are co-sponsoring this year’s Community Support Network (CSN) Transition Institute and presenting a session. Join us!
The 2025 Community Support Network Transition Institute will cover all aspects of post-secondary transition planning for students with disabilities including employment, supported decision-making, self-direction, social and recreational programs, systems navigation, self-advocacy, policy issues and other important topics.
If you are a parent or family member of a young person with a disability, school administrator, teacher, other school professional, self-advocate, or agency staff member, you will likely find many of the offered sessions valuable.
This year’s threads include:

Disability Systems Navigation
Employment Services & Supports
Post-Secondary Education Options
Independent Living Resources
Self-Direction Practices
Transition Thought Exchange for Educators, Administrators and other School Professionals
Alternatives to Guardianship
Financial Planning
Self-Advocacy

A Historic Conversation: The Willowbrook Legacy at 50 Years - Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY
2025-01-29 14:00 - 16:00 | NC
Fifty years ago, the exposure of inhumane conditions at Willowbrook State School on Staten Island led to a landmark Consent Decree that forever changed how our society treats people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Three people whose lives intersected at this crucial moment will share their stories:

Bernard Carabello, who survived years as a resident at Willowbrook and has dedicated his life to disability rights advocacy and now serves as a CIDNY board member
Michael Wilkins, whose conscience as a physician at Willowbrook led him to speak out against the institution’s conditions
Geraldo Rivera, then a young journalist whose groundbreaking exposé brought Willowbrook’s shocking reality into millions of American homes.

CIDNY’s executive director Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier will be moderating this discussion about Willowbrook’s impact on disability rights, the progress of the past five decades, and the challenges that remain in achieving full inclusion.

Location: CIDNY Manhattan Office 1010 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 301, New York, NY 10018 (Limited in-person seating available and virtual attendance option via Zoom)

RSVP required: https://forms.office.com/r/ZUYngwCidq

Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY (CIDNY)

Calling All Advocates: Medicaid Advocacy in 2025 (The Arc Event)
2025-01-29 16:00 - 17:00 | NC
From our friends at The Arc:
“Join us for an important webinar on January 29 to learn about the growing concern of potential cuts to Medicaid. We’ll discuss what you can do this year to help protect Medicaid. We’ll also share tools, resources, and strategies to help you advocate effectively.”
