https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddd/news/updates
To subscribe to the Division’s e-news bulletin, Division Update, please send an email to DDD.Communications@dhs.state.nj.us, with Division Update Subscribe in the subject line.
Mailing Address: Administrative Office
PO Box 726, Trenton, NJ 08625-0726
Office: Department of Human Services building
222 South Warren Street, Trenton, NJ 08625-0700
December 3, 2024
Today, December 3rd, we observe International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It is a day that has been observed and promoted by the United Nations since 1992 in various ways throughout the world. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be made from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life. Each year the day focuses on a different theme and this year’s theme is, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” Included below is also a video featuring deaf activist, Nyle DiMarco, discussing disabilities and human rights on the UN stage.
Nyle DiMarco, New York Times bestselling author, producer, advocate, and actor talks about disabilities and Human Rights.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 Theme
NJ Disability Information Hub
All New Jersey residents have the right to be in spaces open to the public without experiencing discrimination. This FREE virtual training will provide an overview of what places of public accommodation are and are not, and how the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) regulates these entities. Through case studies and other interactive exercises, participants will examine topics including disparate treatment, disparate impact, sexual harassment and other types of hostile environment harassment, reasonable accommodations, and assistance animals.
The National Down Syndrome Society is presenting a FREE webinar starting at 1:00 p.m. to help you learn practical strategies for accessing and utilizing state resources, including Home and Community-Based Services and Vocational Rehabilitation, to turn your or your loved one’s self-employment dreams into reality. Presenters include Sue Babin, Special Projects Coordinator for the Rhode Island Developmental Disabilities Council (RIDDC) and founder and Project Director for RI’s Self-Employment Business Incubator Project as well as Katie Lowe, a business owner with Down syndrome, and her mother, Claudia, as they share their journey and insights on the key resources that helped make Katie’s business a success. This webinar will be recorded, but advance registration is required.
Register for the ndss webinar | National Down Syndrome Society
At the end of each calendar (tax) year, taxpayers lose most opportunities to reduce their taxable income and lower their tax bill. This class will describe actions that people can take before December 31 including early RMD withdrawals during financial “gap years,” preparing a draft tax return, comparing current and prior year income and expenses, tax loss harvesting, and more. Presenter: Barbara O’Neill, Ph.D., CFP, CRPC, AFC, CFEd, CPFFE, Distinguished Professor Emerita, Rutgers University
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register for the Wellness Wednesday webinar
November 19, 2024
On January 1, 2024, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) updated its system to reflect a reimbursement rate increase for the following Community Care Program and Supports Program services (see Quick Guide to FY24 Rate Increases):
In addition, on or around May 1, 2024, DDD issued a one-time retroactive payment to agencies that had provided and claimed for one or more of the above-referenced services between July 1 and December 31, 2023.
Mandatory DSP Wage Reporting for FY24 Rate Increases applies to agencies that were approved, as of July 1, 2023, to provide one or more of the above-referenced services. (Agencies that do not provide one or more of these services are not required to submit a report.)
As explained in a December 2023 Information Bulletin and FAQ, agencies are required to submit a report to DDD demonstrating that they have done both of the following:
(Please note that depositing a check or receiving an electronic funds transfer constitutes acceptance of this requirement.)
Agencies must complete and submit their report to DDD by December 13, 2024. Please see the report template and instructions below, as well as a sample report.
The next DDD Update Webinar is Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the November 27 DDD Update Webinar
November 19, 2024
Governor Kathy Hochul (NY), Governor Phil Murphy and The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced the proposal of a new reduced fare program for customers with disabilities using the PATH system. The 50 percent fare reduction would match the reduced fare program currently available for senior riders. If approved, riders could begin applying for the program in spring 2025, with the reduced fare implemented in the summer as PATH continues rolling out its TAPP tap-to-pay system. The reduced fare would be available through one of two fare payment options: A unique physical TAPP card issued by PATH, or a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet that the rider has linked to a TAPP transit account. More information on the application process will be made available in the coming months. Read the full press release
On November 15th, 2024, Governor Phil Murphy released a statement press release regarding planned updates and improvements to the NJ Transit rail system. The full statement has been shared below:
“This $300 million in grant funding from the Federal Railroad Administration will bring needed enhancements to Amtrak’s infrastructure, which will improve reliability for NJ TRANSIT riders and will also be transformational for Penn Station, which is the gateway between New Jersey and New York. Since I took office, I have been committed to improving NJ TRANSIT. But state investments alone are insufficient, as we rely on tracks shared with Amtrak. I’m proud to announce that this funding will help us improve resiliency along the most heavily traveled rail line in the country—allowing for upgrades that will increase the speed and the volume of trains and improve infrastructure that is more than a century old, including the catenary overhead wire systems that are prone to failures. Thank you to the Biden Administration and New Jersey’s congressional delegation for working alongside us to secure this funding.” Read the full press release
Join the Arc of New Jersey for an essential FREE webinar from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. designed to help you navigate the latest updates and changes in Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Whether you’re a beneficiary, caregiver, or service provider, staying informed about these changes is crucial for understanding eligibility, benefits, and how to maximize support. Register now to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to navigate these critical programs effectively.
Key Topics Include:
Register for the Arc of New Jersey webinar
The current physical activity recommendations for aerobic activity are to engage in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. You may be asking, “What does moderate intensity mean?” or “How do I use the intensity scale while being active?”. Join Ricardo Kairios, FCHS Educator / Assistant Professor, to learn the basics about the activity intensity scale, how you can identify your level of intensity while being active, and strategies you can use during activity to help increase the intensity of your activity. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS, Mercer County FCHS Educator
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register for the Wellness Wednesday webinar
October 29, 2024
The New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities is pleased to announce the release of an updated Request for Proposals (RFP), To Support the Development of Homes for People with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities Transitioning from Nursing Facilities and Other Qualified Institutions.
Successful bidders will develop new residential opportunities to support people to move from nursing facilities into community-based residential homes. Funding may be used to develop new sites or enhance existing locations (update accessibility and/or complete other modifications to facilitate appropriate support for a person who is moving from a nursing facility or other qualified institution).
The Notice of Funding Availability and Request for Proposals are posted on the DHS Public Notices webpage. The deadline to submit questions is November 7, 2024 and the deadline for proposal submissions is January 29, 2025.
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) reminds providers they are required to submit an annual fiscal sustainability report within 120 days of the closing of their fiscal year. This requirement applies to all providers with more than $100,000 in annual combined billing to DDD – including all revenue received from DDD through Medicaid Fee-for-Service claims, support coordination, and any contract revenue.
Reporting Instructions:
To learn more about fiscal sustainability reporting, please review Section 14 in the DDD policy manuals.
The DDD Resource Team and Office of Risk Management are collaborating in November to offer Safety in Your Setting Month, a time to focus on supervision, independence, and best practices for keeping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities safe. The primary audience for the virtual trainings are provider agency staff and caregivers, but all are welcome to attend.
Visit the DDD Health and Safety web page for a list of available trainings and links to register.
Learn about the two Self-Directed Employee (SDE) models available to individuals interested in self-directing some or all of their DDD-funded services: the Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Model and the Agency with Choice Model.
Register for one or both virtual information sessions, which are open to all:
Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) Model Information Session, hosted by Public Partnerships LLC (PPL)
Agency with Choice (AwC) Model Information Session, hosted by Easterseals NJ
To learn more about self-directed services and the two models available through DDD, visit the DDD Self-Directed Services web page.
The Addressing Enhanced Needs Form (AENF), which is required to be completed by the support coordinator and provider when an individual with an acuity factor is seeking acuity-differentiated DDD services from a DDD/Medicaid-approved provider, has been updated as follows:
The Support Coordination Attestation has been changed
FROM THIS:
By submitting this form, I attest that a review of the NJCAT was conducted and to the best of my knowledge, all areas for which the Individual requires enhanced supports while receiving services, have been identified.
TO THIS:
The Provider Attestation has been changed
FROM THIS:
By submitting this form, I attest the Provider is aware of CCP/SP Manual requirements as outlined ahead, has DDD approval to provide higher level supports and has properly trained and credentialed staff in place for service delivery.
TO THIS:
The Addressing Enhanced Needs Form is required to be completed prior to service delivery and updated as needed, or, at a minimum, annually.
The next DDD Update Webinar is Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the November 27 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 29, 2024
Today, October 29th is World Stroke Day, and it provides an annual focal point for stroke awareness activity around the world. This year the World Stroke Organization’s campaign highlights the importance of stroke prevention and encouraging us all to take steps to be #GreaterThan stroke. The organization is also highlighting the importance of staying as active as possible. Walk, Bike, Run, Hike, Yoga… or whatever exercise you like. By getting more active we can all do something to prevent stroke!
For more information from the World Stroke Organization click the links below.
Prevent Stroke
Spot Stroke
Treat Stroke
Life After Stroke
Disability Rights New Jersey recently launched the ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool, a no-cost resource developed to empower students & youth with disabilities to take the lead in planning their futures by defining their interests, needs, and goals in preparation for adulthood. ASPYIR stands for Accessing Strategies to Prepare Youth for Independence and Responsibility. It is an innovative, interactive self-assessment tool for transition-aged students and youth, ages 14 to 21. ASPYIR was initially conceived to help students with disabilities advocate for themselves at their IEP meetings, but the transition planning tool can benefit all students and youth, regardless of their abilities, to identify their strengths and needs.
ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool
Disability Rights New Jersey
On Wednesday, October 30th, at 11:00 a.m., join The Arc of New Jersey for a free Zoom Halloween party and get some tips on having a healthy, safe, and fun Halloween. Presenters will be demonstrating a healthy recipe (Frankenstein Treats), a fun craft (Pressed Flower Pumpkins), and playing a Halloween themed game. Live viewers will be able to share comments, ask questions, and participate in real time. Costumes are highly encouraged!
PLEASE NOTE: This event is intended for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project reserves the right to take and use photographs, video, and electronic images of attendees at its agency-sponsored events for promotional and educational purposes. By registering, you consent to having your photo taken for promotional purposes. Register for the event
Celebrate Halloween in a safe and healthy way with your family and friends. We will review tips on safety, taming a child’s sweet tooth, and share some healthy recipes. Presenter: Jen Salt Taylor, RDN, CHES
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register for Wellness Wednesday webinar
October 25, 2024
On October 22nd, 2024, Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced Human Services has awarded a contract to develop evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) awarded a $3.2 million contract to create a START Model program. START – which stands for Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment – will expand community capacity to provide an integrated response to adults at risk of or experiencing a behavioral health crisis, their families, and those who support them, and to foster cross-systems relationships that support the health and wellbeing of each person served. The contract was awarded to the Young Adult Institute, or YAI. The program is projected to begin in spring 2025, and will be active in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Salem counties. You can read the full press release in English or Spanish.
All are welcome to join this FREE virtual conference on October 29th, 2024, 9:00a.m. – 3:00 p.m. During this full day conference there will be breakout sessions, CME & CE credits available, and a keynote address by Dr. Thomas Joiner, Florida State University professor of psychology and author of “The Varieties of Suicidal Experience” (NYU Press, 2024). Register for the Conference | See the event flyer
In New Jersey, housing providers, employers, and places of public accommodation are required to modify or make exceptions to their policies governing animals in order to accommodate people with disabilities. In this webinar starting at 9:30 a.m. EST, Division of Civil Rights representatives will clarify what the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination says about assistance animals, and answer some of the questions we frequently hear from members of the public. Through case studies and discussion, participants will learn about their rights and obligations under the law regarding service animals and emotional support animals. Register for Navigating the Rights of People with Disabilities
The NJ Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant program is thrilled to offer a FREE webinar from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on the Social Determinants of Health. Dr. Linda Whitfield-Spinner, professor and career social worker within health systems in New Jersey, will demystify this framework that has become an essential building block for projects seeking to advance health equity. Register for the IHC webinar
Join Disability Rights New Jersey for a free webinar, on Wednesday, starting at 6:00 p.m. This webinar is designed to help high school students and their families understand the meaning of self-advocacy and its importance in transition planning in the high school years and beyond. It will provide practical strategies on how to become a stronger self-advocate or how to assist someone in developing their self-advocacy skills. It will also feature useful information about transition planning, and introduce attendees to the ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool – a self-assessment resource created by Disability Rights New Jersey to empower students to take the lead in planning for their futures. See the event flyer | Register for the Disability Rights New Jersey webinar
October 22, 2024
October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, and a great time to celebrate all abilities, educate the public, and bring awareness to learning disabilities that include Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Oral/Written Language Disorder, and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities. The Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) has created posters that can be downloaded and shared to your social media accounts, hung in your library, classroom, or office year-round to help raise awareness. For more information from the LDA, please click on the links below.
Download the posters | Learning Disabilities Association of America homepage: https://ldaamerica.org
The NJ Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant program is thrilled to offer a FREE webinar from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on the Social Determinants of Health. Dr. Linda Whitfield-Spinner, professor and career social worker within health systems in New Jersey, will demystify this framework that has become an essential building block for projects seeking to advance health equity. Register for the IHC webinar
In New Jersey, housing providers, employers, and places of public accommodation are required to modify or make exceptions to their policies governing animals in order to accommodate people with disabilities. In this webinar starting at 9:30 a.m. EST, Division of Civil Rights representatives will clarify what the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination says about assistance animals, and answer some of the questions we frequently hear from members of the public. Through case studies and discussion, participants will learn about their rights and obligations under the law regarding service animals and emotional support animals. Register for Navigating the Rights of People with Disabilities
With cold and flu season coming up, join us to learn how a balanced diet can support your immune system. We will look at specific nutrients and how they support immunity, as well as provide practical strategies for getting these nutrients from whole foods. Wrap up with us as we touch on other areas of wellness to support your health during cold and flu season. Presenter: Anneliese Kuemmerle, MS, R. All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register for Nutrition for Immune Health
October 18, 2024
Nearly two months after effectuating the first round of medical debt abolishment through the State’s partnership with Undue Medical Debt, Governor Phil Murphy announced on October 15th, that 77,000 eligible individuals and families across New Jersey are set to benefit from the elimination of an additional $120 million in medical debt. Governor Murphy sat down with Andrew Rose Gregory, who was a special guest at the 2024 State of the State Address, to discuss the announcement. Andrew and his wife, Casey, partnered with Undue and raised $1.1 million following her passing to help eliminate medical debt for others. Those benefiting from medical debt relief will receive an Undue branded letter in the mail beginning Thursday, October 17th, 2024.
Read the full press release | To learn more about Undue click here. | Watch the video announcement
October is one of the most festive times of the year! Join in on supporting the Down syndrome community during this special month. It’s a great way to raise awareness and celebrate the many abilities of our loved ones with Down syndrome. Down Syndrome Awareness Month (DSAM) seeks to break down barriers and focus on promoting advocacy for people with Down syndrome.
For more information visit the National Down Syndrome Society’s page for DSAM. | National Down Syndrome Society homepage: www.ndss.org
Join the ADA National Network for this free Zoom webinar from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST. Reaching parents of children with disabilities in underserved communities with evidenced-based knowledge and information can be a challenge. Often this knowledge and information is unavailable or inaccessible to them in their communities. Presenter, Dr. Sandy Magaña, Professor and Director of the Texas Center for Disability Studies, will present different examples of disseminating information to diverse communities using a parent/peer leader and curriculum-based model. Attendees will be encouraged to think about how they might disseminate ADA and other accessibility information using a similar approach. Register for ADA webinar
Every October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (often abbreviated as NDEAM) is celebrated. This FREE webinar from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. will provide tips and tools to help boost your job search and describe various types of opportunities available to you. They’ll also explain how Ticket to Work service providers can help. You’ll learn more about:
Register for Ticket to Work webinar
By Phone: 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY device for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or who have speech disability).
The WISE ASL Guide can help individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing access the monthly WISE webinars using Video Relay Service (VRS).
Learn how Social Security work incentives help beneficiaries return to work, including how you can get support with your job search and maintaining employment through the Ticket to Work program. ABLE accounts provide an avenue for managing some of your earnings and maintaining your connection to Medicaid. Hear from subject matter experts on ABLE accounts and get details on how to get support through the American Dream Employment Network (ADEN), a qualified Ticket to Work provider. Explore how an ABLE account, combined with federal benefit services and other federal programs and initiatives such as the Ticket to Work program, can lead to gainful employment outcomes for people with disabilities. This event is from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST.
Captioning will be provided for this event. To make additional accommodation requests, or if you have any questions, please email Cheyenne Rivers at crivers@ndi-inc.org
Register to ABLE NRC’s webinar
DDS in the Community
October 15, 2024
Senator Joe Vitale announced he has introduced a legislative package aimed at enhancing the health and safety of individuals with developmental disabilities. This initiative, drafted with assistance from and supported by the Department of Human Services, seeks to hold service providers accountable while ensuring that individuals receiving services, and their families are treated with respect and dignity.
The bill package includes bills that:
You can read the full press release in English or in Spanish.
Invisible Impact; Disability on Climate Change’s Frontline
On October 17th, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., join the Rutgers – New Brunswick, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at the Civic Square Building, for a screening of New Jersey-based journalist, Jason Strother’s short film, “Invisible Impact; Disability on Climate Change’s Frontline.” People with disabilities face new threats from climate change driven disasters. They are more likely to lose assistive devices or medication, become disconnected from support networks and be left behind during an emergency. Following the film, there will be a panel discussion with experts, Javier Robles, JD and Christine Schell, MPA, moderated by Jennifer Senick, Ph.D. They will discuss the implications of the film for the NJ metro area in terms of climate policy, disaster preparedness, and emergency operations & how the urban planning and public health professions can facilitate life-saving improvements in these areas.
The Civic Square Building can be located at 33 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Learn more about Invisible Impact at www.lens15.com/impact.
Guests with accessibility questions should contact Giulianna Rivera at GIULIANNA.RIVERA@RUTGERS.EDU
For the flyer with full details click here.
Thursday, October 31st – Parent Training and Education Approaches for Families in Underserved Populations
Join the ADA National Network for this free Zoom webinar from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST. Reaching parents of children with disabilities in underserved communities with evidenced-based knowledge and information can be a challenge. Often this knowledge and information is unavailable or inaccessible to them in their communities. Presenter, Dr. Sandy Magaña, Professor and Director of the Texas Center for Disability Studies, will present different examples of disseminating information to diverse communities using a parent/peer leader and curriculum-based model. Attendees will be encouraged to think about how they might disseminate ADA and other accessibility information using a similar approach. Register for ADA webinar
Celebrate National Disability and Physical Therapy month! Learn accessible & inclusive fitness strategies and adaptations appropriate for a wide range of physical abilities. Presenter: Erin Comollo, EdD, Certified CrossFit Trainer
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register for Adaptive Fitness Methods
October 9, 2024
This past April, the Department of Human Services and its Divisions of Developmental Disabilities and Aging Services launched a major statewide campaign to increase awareness of and drive people to the new JobsThatCare.NJ.GOV website.
The campaign highlights the need for Direct Support Professionals to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their homes and communities, and Certified Home Health Aides to help individuals maintain their personal health and hygiene in their home setting.
If you are a DDD provider agency needing to hire Direct Support Professionals (DSP), or an individual or family needing to hire a Self-Directed Employee (SDE), now is an ideal time to take advantage of the job advertising tips and tools available on the JobsThatCare.NJ.GOV website.
The Information for Employers page lists various job search sites where employers can post available DSP and SDE opportunities, including the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s Job Source website. In addition, on the National Labor Exchange (NLx) NJ Employer Access page, employers can register for an account and post jobs for free.
The NJ Regional Family Support Planning Council #6 (Monmouth and Ocean) has partnered with the DDD Resource Team to offer Overview of DDD Resource Team, a virtual forum for families and caregivers to learn about the training and support available through the DDD Resource Team.
Overview of DDD Resource Team
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Register Now for Oct. 10 Overview of DDD Resource Team
With the ongoing need for safe, affordable community-based housing options for New Jersey citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the Division of Developmental Disabilities is pleased to release a new guide, Innovation in Housing: Developing HCBS Compliant Settings. This resource was developed to support innovation in housing and services that reflects an understanding of and compliance with the statutes and spirit of the HCBS settings rule.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
Register Now for the October 24 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 8, 2024
As part of Governor Phil Murphy’s commitment to increase access to mental health supports in our state, the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) announced on October 4th 2024 that the application period is open for behavioral healthcare professionals to apply for up to $180,000 in student loan redemption and incentive grants. This program aims to incentivize eligible professionals to provide mental health services to residents throughout New Jersey.
For more information on eligibility and application requirements, and to access the application visit https://www.hesaa.org/Pages/BHLRP.aspx.
Read the full press release
Join the Pineland’s Preservation Alliance for the next installment of the Access Nature Forum on October 16th, 2024, from 1:00-2:00 PM. This event is free and held virtually. The topic is “Accessible Electronic Communications.” In this discussion, Joe Zesski, Program Manager of the Northeast ADA Center, will discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it applies to the communications of state/local government as well as businesses and nonprofits. He will particularly focus on the requirement to provide effective communication to individuals with disabilities and what that means in the digital space. Mr. Zesski will review what makes electronic communication most accessible to the most number of individuals. He will provide best practice strategies and tips for achieving accessibility in documents, presentations, social media, and other forms of electronic communication. Time will be set aside for questions and answers.
Register for the Access Nature Forum For more information on the Access Nature Forum click here.
Join BIANJ from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. for a free virtual webinar, reviewing virtual reality as a treatment method for brain injury. Physical, cognitive, psychological, and behavioral impairments may result following a brain injury (BI) and significantly impact survivor functioning. To provide efficient care, clinicians must embrace treatment methods that address multi-faceted impairments. While many treatment methods exist, one method gaining attention is the use of virtual reality. Presenters: Christie Levatino, PT, DPT, CSRS, and Ilana Beitscher, PhD, OTR
Objectives:
Register for the Use of Virtual Reality webinar
October 7, 2024
A Proposed Readoption with Amendments of N.J.A.C 10:41, Records Confidentiality and Access to Client, Division, and Provider Records, was published on the New Jersey Department of Human Services Proposed Rules and Amendments page on October 7, 2024. There is a 60-day formal public comment period, which ends December 6, 2024. Written comments may be submitted as follows:
A Proposed Readoption with Amendments of N.J.A.C 10:41A, Human Rights Committee, was published on the New Jersey Department of Human Services Proposed Rules and Amendments page on October 7, 2024. There is a 60-day formal public comment period, which ends December 6, 2024. Written comments may be submitted as follows:
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the October 24 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 4, 2024
This month is the perfect time to level up your employment and ADA knowledge by exploring the ADANN Employment Resource Hub. The hub has nine sections, covering everything from pre-employment interviews to on-the-job resources for employees and employers. The ADA National Network has created the Employment Resource Hub to address specific themes and common questions related to employment and the ADA. The majority of this information was developed from existing materials, including factsheets, handbooks, and guides published by the ADA National Network or by the regional ADA Centers. For the ADANN Employment Resource Hub click here.
International Day of Sign Languages was September 23rd. Early access to sign language and services is vital to the growth and development of a deaf individual. DDHH provides language acquisition and development services for deaf, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind children ages 0 – 5 as well as supports and resources to their families. Deaf adults fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) teach children and families ASL, and provide supports in their journey for full language development. To learn more about this program click here. You may also download a Language Instruction Booklet to give to families in need of information. Available in English and Spanish.
It can be confusing knowing what to do and where to go to find work. Following along in the theme of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” experience this prerecorded free webinar on Tuesday, October 8th, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. for the first time or rewatch it to gain a better understanding of the topic. The question box will be open, and any questions will be answered 24 hours after the event. Wesley Anderson, former Director of Training and Consultation for The Arc of New Jersey, will present 7 tips and strategies for finding work and hearing “You’re Hired!”
Reminder: This is a recording of a previous webinar and closed captioning is now available! Click the CC button to toggle the captions on/off. Register for this free webinar
NJTIP @ Rutgers teaches persons with disabilities and older adults how to safely and independently use public transportation to access where they need and want to go. Join on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for an informative FREE webinar with NJTIP travel instructors Jeffrey Dennis and Jackie Ng who will share how individuals with disabilities can confidently and safely navigate public transportation to reach their destinations. Learn about the vital role of accessibility in transit, explore NJTIP’s services, and discover accessible transportation options available throughout New Jersey. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your travel skills and independence! *Accessibility Services: Captioning provided
If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the access provided, please call Jackie Ng at 908-361-1118 or email jacqueline.ng@rutgers.edu in advance of your participation. Register for Transit 101
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 3, 2024
This October, in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Office of Transition to Adult Life & Employment invites you to join them for a Thursday webinar series focusing on employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
All are welcome – use the links below to register, and share the NDEAM 2024 Flyer with your networks!
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
Register Now for the October 24 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 2, 2024
The New Jersey Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is pleased to announce we are again participating in the National Core Indicators® (NCI) surveys for individuals and their families and guardians.
Beginning in October 2024, DDD will contact individuals and families to request their voluntary and confidential participation in one of the following surveys:
· Family/Guardian Survey – an online survey for family members/guardians who have an adult (21 years or older) with an intellectual/developmental disability who lives outside of the family home and receives at least one DDD-funded service in addition to Support Coordination.
To learn more about National Core Indicators® and the individual, family and guardian surveys, please see the NCI Survey Overview.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the October 24 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 1, 2024
Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and Department of Education Acting Commissioner Kevin Dehmer announced that all New Jersey school districts can now obtain naloxone at no cost through Human Service’s Naloxone DIRECT program. This announcement coincided with First Lady Tammy Murphy’s visit to Bayside High School in Virginia to participate in a bipartisan discussion on fentanyl awareness with First Lady of Virginia Suzanne Youngkin. During the visit, the First Ladies participated in an opioid overdose and naloxone education course and attended roundtable discussions with students, staff and parents.
“Every community in our state has felt the impact of the opioid epidemic. That is why we have prioritized a whole-of-government approach to put lifesaving tools and resources in reach for all New Jerseyans. From harm reduction to education initiatives, we are taking action to put an end to this public health crisis so that we can create a healthier New Jersey for generations to come,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “We know that preparation is key and that having naloxone readily available can mean the difference between life and death. If providing our schools with this safe, fast-acting overdose reversal medication saves just one life, it will have been worth it. I thank Commissioner Adelman and Acting Commissioner Dehmer for their leadership on this important issue.”
“Addiction doesn’t discriminate and the heartbreaking reality is overdoses can happen in any setting. By supplying naloxone to schools, we are giving a second chance to those suffering from addiction who visit, work, or learn in a New Jersey school,” said Commissioner Adelman. “We thank the Department of Education for their partnership in this important initiative. By working together, we will continue to save lives of those impacted by the opioid crisis. We urge all school districts to contact their County Office of Education to obtain life-saving naloxone at no cost.”
“Naloxone is a safe, easy to use, fast-acting and effective nasal spray medication to reverse an opioid overdose and save someone’s life. If a student, staff member, or visitor experiences an opioid overdose on school grounds, having naloxone available allows for rapid intervention, which can be life-saving,” said Human Services Deputy Commissioner for Health Services Valerie Mielke. “Every minute counts when it comes to opioid overdose response and by having naloxone on hand at schools, we help to provide a safe and supportive school environment.”
“Our driving goal has always been to save lives and we are pleased to offer naloxone at no-cost to all schools throughout the state. It is critical that school personnel can access this life-saving tool whenever and wherever they may need it,” said Human Services Assistant Commissioner Renee Burawski, who oversees Human Services’ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. “Through this collaborative work, together we can continue to turn the tide in our efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.”
Read more HERE.
Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced that Human Services has awarded over $3.4 million in grants to develop community-based housing to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are transitioning out of nursing homes and other qualified institutions.
“This funding will provide highly-specialized support to meet the complex needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are transitioning out of nursing facilities, adding to the nearly 28,000 adults with IDD that Human Services serves in the community today,” Commissioner Adelman said. “Empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to transition from institutions to community living isn’t just a change in location—it’s about supporting their independence and their right to make their own choices. We look forward to working together with the selected community providers on this initiative.”
Grants were awarded to the following community-based service providers:
“This initiative reflects our long-standing commitment to ensuring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have access to community-based alternatives to institutional care,” Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire said. “We are continuing our goal of meeting the needs of all individuals and providing comprehensive and quality services, while helping individuals thrive in the communities in which they live. As always, we want to help individuals live independently and successfully.”
The housing is expected to serve 57 persons, providing each their own bedroom. Funding may be used in a variety of areas including fire suppression systems, accessibility modifications, accessible vehicles, furnishings, and staff training/development costs.
“Providing individuals and families with the choice to live outside of a nursing home or other institution is so very important,” Division of Developmental Disabilities Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Seifried said. “This initiative marks another step forward in empowering persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination over their lives.” Read more HERE.
Governor Phil Murphy launched the Garden State Community Outreach to ensure eligible New Jerseyans and their families are aware of state resources available to help them thrive, many of which are relatively new, and provide assistance in applying for or accessing them.
“From day one, my Administration has been committed to building a stronger New Jersey where every family has equal access to opportunities that will help them thrive. Whether it’s through affordable high-quality health care, access to nutritional food, assistance with utility payments, or historic levels of tax relief, we are leveraging these vital resources to build more resilient communities,” Governor Murphy said. “Amidst the hustle of daily life, Garden State Community Outreach is designed to help ensure that every family is not only aware of these programs, but understands how to access them.”
As part of the comprehensive awareness campaign, a landing page has been created to help residents identify which programs they are eligible for and apply for them.
Garden State Community Outreach also includes a team of canvassers conducting door-to-door outreach statewide and providing application assistance for a range of available resources. Visit HERE to learn more
NJ Human Services’ Annual Virtual Opioid Summit was held on September 18th. This year’s theme was:
‘Building Hope for the Future.’ The all-day conference featured panels, workshops and keynote speakers.
We collaborated with the New Jersey Department of Transportation to raise awareness and to offer a hand to those who need it the most through the new 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Lifeline. Support is always available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org Click here https://shorturl.at/zBiBn to watch the message.
Division of Developmental Disabilities Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Seifried joined “Think Tank with Steve Adubato” to discuss the transition from school to adult life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Click above to watch the episode.
Commissioner Sarah Adelman, Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire, Assistant Commissioner of Aging Services Louise Rush, and Assistant Division Director Melissa Chalker spoke at the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County about the many programs and services the Department offers to help older residents maintain independence. To learn more about senior services in NJ, visit HERE. For a comprehensive guide detailing the programs and services the Department offers visit HERE.
Commissioner Sarah Adelman spoke at SciTech Scity at the Liberty Science Center to discuss the future of value-based care and digital health technology.
The Division of Disability Services joined REV UP New Jersey and the Alliance Center for Independence at the State House to celebrate the power of the disability vote and encourage people to register to vote. To register to vote in New Jersey please visit the New Jersey Division of Elections HERE. For more info about the Division of Disability Services, visit HERE.
Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire was a guest at the New Lisbon Developmental Center as they held a Renaissance Fair for residents and their families on September 21st and 22nd.
The Division of Aging Services participated in the Bergen County Annual Senior Festival at Van Saun County Park in Paramus. DoAS staff handed out information about programs and services available to older New Jerseyans. To learn more, visit HERE.
The Office of Emergency Management delivered the Pathways to Preparedness Training to the senior community of Wellington Manor in Pennington. The training provides Disaster Preparedness information and was developed in coordination with the NJ Statewide Independent Living Council. If interested in receiving this training, please contact the Office of Emergency Management at 609-631-4363 or email eocesf6@njsp.gov.
Staff from the Division of Aging Services were out in the community at the Cherry Hill Senior Festival. DoAS staffed a resource table and spoke to visitors about our multiple programs and services for older adults in New Jersey.
October 1, 2024
Working with a number of community partners since 2022, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has established a new competency-based career pathway for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who are employed by DDD-approved agencies. There are new required trainings for DSPs that will have a soft rollout effective October 1, 2024, and full implementation January 1, 2025.
Information about the new trainings is available on the Provider Information page of the DDD website, and includes the following:
To account for the cost to providers to implement the new DSP training requirements, DDD issued a Rate Change Notice and Quick Guide to Rate Increases on September 26, 2024. As indicated in the notice, the rates for DSP-delivered services in the Community Care Program and Supports Program will increase effective October 1, 2024.
The increased rates will be implemented in iRecord on or about October 6, 2024. For details, including information about claiming, please review the DDD Information Bulletin, Rate Increases for New DSP Training Requirements. All Community Care Program and Supports Program up-to budget amounts will receive a corresponding increase.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
Register Now for the October 24 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
October 1, 2024
In celebration of Blindness Awareness Month, New Jersey Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) will host a Community Outreach Fair for all ages at Cheesequake State Park on Thursday, October 10th from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Community Outreach Fair will be held at the Hooks Creek Lake Pavilion located within Cheesequake State Park at 300 Gordon Road in Matawan. Accessible parking and food trucks will be available. The event is free, outdoors, and open to all ages. Governor Phil Murphy’s proclamation declaring October as Blindness Awareness Month will also be presented by CBVI Executive Director Dr. Bernice Davis.
Read the full press release | View Community Outreach Fair Flyer
If you have any questions about the Community Outreach Fair, email askCBVI@dhs.nj.gov OR call 877-685-8878.
Learn more about CBVI’s programs and services here.
Observed each October, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, or “NDEAM,” we celebrate the value and talent workers with disabilities add to America’s workplaces and economy. NDEAM’s purpose is to confirm our commitment to ensuring disabled workers have access to good jobs, every month of every year. That’s the spirit behind this year’s official theme: “Access to Good Jobs for All.” Please watch the NDEAM video to get more details on the importance and benefits of a disability inclusive workforce and how you can participate in NDEAM 2024.
Watch Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) Assistant Secretary Taryn Williams announce the NDEAM theme for 2024 by clicking here.
On October 11th, 2024, 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at 1540 West Park Avenue, Ocean, NJ 07712, the American Red Cross New Jersey Region will be holding their First Annual Community Resource Fair. Being ready for emergencies doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming. This is an opportunity to meet leaders in the disability community and from emergency and disaster response organizations. Learn about preparedness steps you can take to help keep you and your loved ones stay safe. The fair promises to be a fun, free, and informative event!
E-mail carina.marzec@redcross.org for more information.
With all the things that keep us busy it can be hard to focus on tasks to be productive. Join us to discuss ways to help reduce our stress and increase productivity. Presenter: Rachel Tansey, MA
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
September 27, 2024
Autism NJ recently shared that The Council of Autism Services Providers (CASP) released version 3.0 of their Applied Behavior Analysis Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. The guidelines help ABA practitioners, government and private healthcare funders, regulatory bodies, and consumers make the best decisions regarding medically necessary ABA treatment to improve the lives of autistic people. Numerous topics pertaining to ABA are covered in the document including, but not limited to, assessment, case conceptualization, treatment planning and implementation, outcome measures, collaboration with patients, caregivers, and other professionals, staffing and delivery models, and training and certification.
To read Autism NJ’s “Quick Guide to the Guidelines” click here. | To read the full CASP Guidelines click here.
Disability Rights New Jersey, the state’s designated Protection and Advocacy system (P&A) for people with disabilities, launches “ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool,” a no-cost, self-assessment resource for students with disabilities, ages 13 to 21. ASPYIR empowers youth to take the lead in planning their futures by defining their interests, needs, and goals in preparation for adulthood. ASPYIR stands for: Accessing Strategies to Prepare Youth for Independence and Responsibility. Once students complete the self-assessment, ASPYIR generates a document identifying the student’s goals related to education, employment, and independent living that can be used to chart their pathway to accomplishing those goals. By utilizing ASPYIR, students gain a resource essential to becoming an active participant at their Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, job interviews, and more.
To read the full press release from Disability Rights New Jersey click here. | Students can complete the ASPYIR Transition Planning Tool by clicking here.
Disability Rights New Jersey’s Youth Practice Group Advocate is available to assist students with ASPYIR, as well as discuss their results. Call the main intake line at (800) 922-7233, email intakeunit@disabilityrightsnj.org, or complete the online intake form on the Disability Rights New Jersey website to learn more.
Food insecurity is more common and severe in households affected by disabilities. The Trenton Health Team is addressing the problem by helping to improve food pantry accessibility in Mercer County, New Jersey. Watch this video to learn more about how the Inclusive Healthy Communities program works with the disability community to build a healthier, more inclusive New Jersey. The IHC program is run by the Department of Human Services Division of Disability Services.
Visit the Inclusive Healthy Communities website here.
Visit the Trenton Health Team website here.
View and Download Transcript here.
Join the Pinelands Preservation Alliance for the next installment of the Access Nature Forum on October 16th, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. via Zoom. This event is held virtually and is free to join. The topic is Accessible Electronic Communications. In this discussion, Joe Zesski, Program Manager of the Northeast ADA Center, will discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it applies to the communications of state/local government as well as businesses and nonprofits. He will particularly focus on the requirement to provide effective communication to individuals with disabilities and what that means in the digital space. Mr. Zesski will review what makes electronic communication most accessible to the most number of individuals. He will provide best practice strategies and tips for achieving accessibility in documents, presentations, social media, and other forms of electronic communication. Time will be set aside for questions and answers.
To sign up for this online event click here.
September 26, 2024
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the September 26 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started.
September 24, 2024
National Recovery Month, which started in 1989, is an observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices for mental health and/or substance abuse issues, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible. Recovery Month is a great time to focus on your health and wellness. SAMHSA recommends that you prioritize your needs for recovery: create healthy boundaries, ask for help, take breaks, and express gratitude.
To learn more on recovery and recovery supports click here.
To learn more on how to cope and find support click here.
SAMHSA spotlight with more details on National Recovery Month here.
A newly published white paper, “Unlocking Potential: Key Lessons from Kessler Foundation’s Signature Grants on Employment for People with Disabilities,” explores successful elements and challenges faced by 21 national programs that used grant funding to initiate training, career development, and job opportunities for people with disabilities. These insights provide a roadmap for guiding future initiatives for nonprofits, schools, public institutions, and philanthropy. All 21 programs were recipients of Kessler Foundation’s Signature Employment Grants. In advocating for positive changes in employer culture and hiring practices, the Foundation seeks to increase the number of employed individuals with disabilities nationwide.
To read the full white paper click here.
For summary of findings click here.
Considering starting your own business? Self-employment may be a great option for you. Learn more about how Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program service providers can help at this month’s WISE webinar! Join the next FREE webinar, September 25, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET. During the webinar, the team will share some of the benefits of being self-employed and answer your questions. WISE webinars are online events held for people who are age 18 through 64 and receive Social Security Disability benefits. You’ll learn about the Ticket to Work Program and available Work Incentives through accessible learning opportunities. WISE webinars are generally held on the fourth Wednesday of each month.
Register for the Ticket to Work webinar online
To register by phone: 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY)
The ASL Guide can help individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing access the monthly WISE webinars using Video Relay Services (VRS). Additional accessibility information is available on the registration page.
Celebrate National Women’s Health and Fitness Day. Learn about the top health issues impacting women and how you can prioritize your wellness to achieve better health. Presenter: Veronica Jones, PhD, MPH, CHES
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
September 20, 2024
Join The Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – West Orange for an inspiring event focused on embracing a positive outlook after a traumatic brain injury. Learn from experts, connect with others facing similar challenges, and discover strategies for maintaining a healthy mindset. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this FREE event will provide valuable insights and support. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to empower yourself and others on the journey to recovery!
On October 29th, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., all are welcome to join New Jersey’s 9th annual suicide prevention conference, Breaking the Silence: Engaging Communities to Prevent Suicide. The conference is a full day virtual event and is FREE for all who attend. This year’s keynote address will be given be Dr. Thomas Joiner, Florida State University professor of psychology and author of “The Varieties of Suicidal Experience” (NYU Press, 2024). CME & CE credits available. Register for the Annual Suicide Prevention Conference
Please join, from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., nTIDE & The Center for Research on Disability for their Deeper Dive mid-month FREE virtual webinar. Each month they focus on the employment trends of people with disabilities from a certain demographic subgroup. Learn more about how this demographic subgroup has fared during COVID and in today’s economy.
Agenda:
Presenters:
BIANJ will be hosting from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. a free virtual webinar, Trust Systems and Trusting the System: Estate Planning and Brain Injury; featuring presenter, Ryan A. Krocker, Esq.
This webinar will:
September 17, 2024
On September 5th, 2024, Governor Phil Murphy launched Garden State Community Outreach, a new statewide campaign designed to ensure eligible New Jerseyans and their families are aware of the vast state resources available to help them thrive, many of which are relatively new, and provide assistance in applying for or accessing them. The Garden State Community Outreach campaign will be promoting resources and programs across multiple departments, including those that provide access to quality, affordable health care, deliver life-saving mental health service, provide crucial assistance to keep the lights on and the heat running, and deliver thousands of dollars in tax benefits.
Read the full press release for more details on the campaign and links to programs and supports here.
On September 13th, 2024, Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and Department of Education Acting Commissioner Kevin Dehmer announced that all New Jersey school districts can now obtain Naloxone at no cost through Human Service’s Naloxone DIRECT program. First launched in 2022, the Naloxone DIRECT program works to provide first responder agencies, mobile outreach providers, opioid treatment programs, harm reduction programs and other eligible agencies the opportunity to easily request direct shipments of naloxone online, anytime they need it, at no charge.
To read the full press release click here. For details on the Naloxone DIRECT program click here.
Join the Pinelands Preservation Alliance for the next installment of the Access Nature Forum on October 16th, 2024, from 1:00-2:00 PM. This event will be held virtually and free to participate. The topic is Accessible Electronic Communications. In this discussion, Joe Zesski, Program Manager of the Northeast ADA Center, will discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it applies to the communications of state/local government as well as businesses and nonprofits. He will particularly focus on the requirement to provide effective communication to individuals with disabilities and what that means in the digital space. He will provide best practice strategies and tips for achieving accessibility in documents, presentations, social media, and other forms of electronic communication. Time will be set aside for questions and answers. To register click here.
Wednesday, September 18th – The Gut Microbiome and Cancer
Join us for a presentation on how gut microbiome health can affect cancer risk and cancer treatment. We will learn about the lifestyle and nutrition habits that can nourish gut health, as well as the factors that may have negative impacts. Presenter: Cecilia Gomez, Community Cancer Control Specialist, Rutgers Cancer Institute, Community Outreach and Engagement
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
September 10, 2024
During September, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) remembers the lives lost to suicide, acknowledges the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families and communities that have been impacted by suicide. It’s also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope.
White House Proclamation on World Suicide Prevention Day here. Statement by Secretary Xavier Becerra – National Suicide Prevention Month here.
This year SAMHSA launched the first-ever national 988 Day, a day of action to be held every year on September 8. 988 Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This year’s theme is “No Judgment. Just Help.” If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone. Take care of a friend, a loved one, or yourself. Call, text, or chat (ASL Now available) with a 988 Lifeline counselor for help during difficult moments anytime, day or night. SAMHSA statement on Suicide Prevention Month and Inaugural 988 Day here.
On Saturday, September 14th, 4 – 7pm, The Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University will be hosting an event to celebrate the opening of their new exhibit, “Smoke & Mirrors.” This major exhibition features the work of 14 artists with disabilities from across the globe who conceptualize access through humor, antagonism, transparency, and invisibility. The event is FREE, with refreshments provided, and open to the public. They are requesting RSVPs so that they can get an estimate of attendees, but of course, anyone is welcome if they decide to attend last minute!
To RSVP & Eventbrite registration, free parking info, accessibility details, and address click here.
For more details on the exhibit, read the full article from Rutgers TODAY here.
Are you a student with a disability, a parent, or an educator preparing for the transition from (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) IDEA services to adult support systems? On Wednesday, Sep. 18th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. join The Arc of NJ for an informative free webinar where you will delve into the critical aspects of transitioning from public education to services offered by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). This webinar is essential for anyone involved in the transition process and will provide valuable insights to help navigate the shift from IDEA to adult services. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your questions answered and plan for a successful future! To register for the free webinar click here.
September 10, 2024
On September 4th, 2024, Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced that Human Services has awarded over $3.4 million in grants to develop community-based housing to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are transitioning out of nursing homes and other qualified institutions.
Grants were awarded to the following community-based service providers:
This work enhances ongoing efforts by Human Services and the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman to move individuals out of nursing homes and developmental centers into community-based settings. Since 2008, the I Choose Home program has successfully transitioned more than 3,800 people from institutions into the community. Call 1-855-HOME-005 (1-855-466-3005) to learn more about this program’s impactful work.
For information on the I Choose Home Program click here.
For the Division of Developmental Disabilities website click here.
For the full press release click here.
New Jersey is committed to being a safe, accessible, and affordable place for all, including those living with disabilities. Check out our video to learn more about the Disability Information Hub and by visiting the website.
Pinelands Adventures has upcoming September Inclusive Trips available geared towards nature lovers of all abilities, their family and friends. These will be held at nature sites within Ocean County, and they are additionally planning more programs in October. They have seven rugged terrain wheelchairs available for loan for these programs, and participants not borrowing one of their wheelchairs are encouraged to bring their own assistive mobility devices. These adventures are open to the public and require that participants have their own transportation to and from the meeting locations. The Adventures Without Barriers team will provide the adventure, loan chairs, accessible routes, and an enjoyable experience for the entire family.
September Programs – Cost & Details:
To learn more about these and all other upcoming Pineland Adventures programs click here.
Looking to add more physical activity to your daily routine? Join Delma Yorimoto to explore simple ways to incorporate walking into your everyday life, exercise routine, and fun events like 5K walks. Discover practical tips to stay active and healthy, and learn how walking with others can make it more fun and engaging. Presenter: Delma Yorimoto, MS, MBA
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
September 6, 2024
New Jersey Human Services is moving to enhance direct support professional services that serve individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health needs.
The Department has issued a request for proposal for provider agencies interested in having their direct support professionals (DSPs) obtain the National Association of the Dually Diagnosed (NADD) Competency-Based IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Direct Support Professional Certification. DSPs work with individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities to help those individuals achieve their personal goals. For full press release click here. | For the RFP click here.
Governor Phil Murphy proclaimed August 31st to be Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey. We remember those lost to overdose and aim to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and drug-related deaths. New Jersey is offering FREE NALOXONE at participating pharmacies! No prescription or name needed.
For more information, visit here or call 844-ReachNJ. | For the Governor’s Proclamation click here.
In honor of Overdose Awareness Day, please watch this personal message from Commissioner Sarah Adelman.
NJ Human Services’ annual virtual Opioid Summit is September 18th. This year’s theme is: ‘Building Hope for the Future.’ The all-day conference will feature panels, workshops and a keynote. CME and CEU credits available. To register, click here.
10/05/24: 2024 DisABILITY Expo & Job Fair, Saturday, October 5th, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Somerset County Senior Wellness Center, 876 E. Main St., Bridgewater, 08807
August 30, 2024
On Tuesday, September 3, 2024, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., join The Arc of New Jersey’s NJSAP Trailblazers for a virtual movement club created for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to lead the way towards healthier habits. Members will make personal goals, socialize, and learn all about hiking, nature, & fitness. Choose your own path and how to follow it, and join each week to talk about it. A new training topic will be discussed each session about hiking, nature, and/or fitness. Trailblazers meets every Tuesday in June through September from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Zoom. To register click here.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently enhanced the Claim Status Tool to improve its digital, self-service experience. The tool now shows a breakdown of the eight-step disability claims process, making it easier to understand where a claim currently is. Veterans no longer have to contact a call center or regional office for claims information. The claim status tool allows them to access important claim information when they need it. This tool is another step forward in the Veterans Benefits Administration’s ongoing mission to support Veterans and their families. For full details and the eight-step process click here. To access the VA Claims Status page click here.
Please join the Region 2 National Preparedness Division and NYC Emergency Management from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. for a FREE virtual webinar on important considerations for inclusive planning for an active shooter/active threat incident. Guest speaker, Andrew Perlman from New York City Emergency Management, will discuss actions a disability service provider can take to plan for this type of incident to ensure the safety of staff and clients. He will go over what to do in an active shooter/active threat situation, the roles of law enforcement, workplace management, and the disability community, and how to assess vulnerabilities.
Disability, Access and Functional Needs service providers, advocates and community members, workplace management and law enforcement are all encouraged to attend. This event will include ASL and live captioning. To register click here.
10/05/24: 2024 DisABILITY Expo & Job Fair, Saturday, October 5th, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Somerset County Senior Wellness Center, 876 E. Main St., Bridgewater, 08807
August 27, 2024
The New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) released a new Request for Proposals (RFP) in July, NADD Competency-Based IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Direct Support Professional Certification Pilot (and related Notice of Funding Availability).
The NADD RFP Questions and Answers (Q&A) have now been posted.
This RFP will fund certification of up to 3,000 Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and is open to all Medicaid/DDD-approved provider agencies that employ DSPs, as well as Financial Management Services agencies (known as fiscal intermediaries) that administer either of the DDD-funded self-directed employee (SDE) models.
The NADD Certification Pilot seeks to improve the quality of life of individuals with an intellectual and/or developmental disability and co-occurring mental health concerns, and their families, by enhancing the competency, skills, and professionalism of the DDD-funded direct care workers (DSPs and SDEs) who support them.
NADD is a national organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions, and a leader in providing education and advocacy that promotes their wellbeing and full inclusion in their communities.
In addition to NADD, the Department and Division are pleased to partner with The Boggs Center, which will conduct ongoing learning collaboratives for direct care staff who are enrolled in the pilot.
We encourage agencies and fiscal intermediaries to review the RFP and consider participating in this exciting opportunity. Proposals are due no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the September 26 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
August 23, 2024
Governor Phil Murphy announced that thousands of eligible individuals and families across New Jersey are set to have some or all of their medical debt eliminated as part of a major initiative to make health care more affordable and accessible. Those who qualify for medical debt relief are either four times or below the federal poverty level or have medical debts that equal 5% or more of their annual income. These are the only criteria for relief. This is a one-time abolishment to help remove the financial and emotional burden of unpayable medical debts. Those benefiting from medical debt relief will receive an Undue Medical Debt branded letter in the mail beginning Monday, August 19, 2024. For the full press release click here
Come join Autism New Jersey’s Directors of Family Wellness and Information Services in a virtual meetup on September 25 at noon to learn about autism and how to navigate services in New Jersey. This workshop is recommended for families with young children (6 years old or younger) who are new to the autism diagnosis or on a waitlist for an evaluation. Information will be provided to assist caregivers in understanding their child’s needs and connect them to valuable resources. For information on the speakers and to register click here.
The Voices Advancing the Brain Injury Community champions and publicizes the advocacy, rights, and needs of people who have sustained a brain injury, and their families. Voices will be meeting at 10:00 a. m., Wednesday, September 11th, 2024. This meeting will be held virtually and you can send any agenda items you want to be considered to Tom Grady (tgrady@bianj.org), Director of Advocacy and Public Affairs by 3:00 PM, Monday, September 9th, 2024.
There are also future meeting dates available from October – December listed on the registration form. You can choose to attend one or more of these sessions. To register click here.
Please join nTIDE for the Deeper Dive mid-month webinar from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p. m. Each month, presenters and guest speakers focus on the employment trends of people with disabilities from a certain demographic subgroup. Learn more about how this demographic subgroup fared during COVID and in today’s economy. The guest speaker for this event will be Katie Johnson, Program Manager for The Americans Association of People with Disabilities’ Summer/Fall Internship Program and Disability Advocacy Certificate Program. Note: All webinars will be recorded and closed-captioned and will be added to the website archives along with full transcripts following the live broadcast. To register click here. For archived webinars click here.
August 20, 2024
On August 15th, 2024, Governor Murphy announced a transit fare holiday for all customers from August 26 through September 2, 2024. During this period, fares will be waived for all modes of transportation, offering free rides across the NJ TRANSIT network as a “Thank You” to the hundreds of thousands of loyal customers who depend on public transit. The fare holiday is a way to express the sincere appreciation for customers’ continued loyalty and patronage, particularly during the last few months when transit service has not consistently met their expectations—or those of NJ TRANSIT. For the full press release click here.
BIANJ Peer Mentors provide an alternative, and much needed, form of support during the recovery process and transition back to the community. Volunteer Peer Mentors (survivors and caregivers with personal brain injury experience) are paired with survivors and caregivers who are newer to their injury. They will lend their time and experiences to guide other families and individuals through the path they once walked and continue to walk. Peer Mentors instill hope, inspire resilience, and serve as beacons of light in what can often be a daunting and isolating path to recovery.
If you are interested in volunteering as a BIANJ Peer Mentor OR in being matched with a Peer Mentor, please fill out the form below. For the BIANJ Peer Mentor Interest Form click here.
Currently serving New Jersey and surrounding areas, Operation K9 Beethoven is helping veterans with PTSD and other mental health issues free of charge. The organization is offering a Pet Therapy Dog Program, for visiting VA homes, hospitals, schools, and many other places to spread happiness and love. Also offered is the Free Psychiatric Therapy Dog Program, for veterans living with PTSD and in need of a psychiatric service dog. They can apply for one or contact the organization directly for information. All dogs are rescued, trained, and up-to-date on shots.
Note: You will not be eligible to receive a Psychiatric Service Dog if you own one or more pets (dogs, cats, etc.) of any breed. You must have a permanent address/housing. This policy was created to continue helping and protecting our Veterans and rescue dogs.
For full details on Operation K9 Beethoven click here. To schedule a therapy dog visit fill out this form here. Online application for a psychiatric service dog click here.
Did you know that adults are recommended to engage in muscle-building exercises at least twice a week? In this session Ricardo will explain the benefits of engaging in muscle-building activities, provide examples of simple activities you can do at home that incorporate various muscle groups, and share tips for adding these activities to your weekly routine. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have Register here.
August 19, 2024
In 2023, New Jersey received federal approval to reform its Medicaid (NJ Family Care) program to better connect recipients receiving clinical health services with other social services, including housing supports for people who are or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. In advance of implementation of a new Housing Supports Program, which will operate through the Medicaid Managed Care organizations (MCO), the NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) is holding a virtual event for community based organizations, interested in and able to serve as Housing Supports providers, to meet with MCOs and learn about the new program.
While not specific to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the new Housing Supports Program may be an opportunity for some qualified organizations to expand the services they offer.
WHAT: DMAHS Managed Care Organization (MCO) & Housing Supports Provider Meet & Greet
WHEN: Thursday, August 22, 2024, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
WHO: Interested Community Based Organizations/Providers
REGISTER NOW for August 22 DMAHS Housing Supports Program Event
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
Register Now for August 22 DDD Update Webinar
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
August 16, 2024
The Nature: Accessible for All campaign is a collaborative effort by individuals, public agencies and nonprofits to ensure that people with disabilities, their families and allies can enjoy New Jersey’s extraordinary natural places. The campaign is looking for interested individuals and organizations to become partners. There are two ways to get involved in the Nature: Accessible for All campaign. You can sign up to join a working group or groups (there are four to choose from) or apply for a stipend. There are two stipend programs, organizational and individual, and are intended to support the undertaking of any activities that advance the mission of the campaign.
To read the article click here.
For full details on the stipends click here.
The Mercer County Department of Human Services, Office on Aging/Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC), is accepting proposals for the period of January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2026, to provide Peer Grouping and County Direct Funding. This funding is to provide services and programs for Mercer County older adults age 60 and older, and/or Mercer County residents who have a physical or developmental disability, as described within each specific program.
Funding will be made available in the following service categories:
For the Mercer Disabilities RFP 2025 – 2026, and instructions to bidders click here.
All New Jersey residents have the right to be in spaces open to the public without experiencing discrimination. This FREE training will provide an overview of what places of public accommodation are and are not, and how the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) regulates these entities. Participants will examine topics including disparate treatment, disparate impact, sexual harassment and other types of hostile environment harassment, reasonable accommodations, and assistance animals. This virtual training session will be held on Zoom on Thursday, August 29th, from 9:30 a. m. – 11:30 a. m. To register click here.
On Monday, August 26th, 2024 from noon to 5 p.m., Morris County will host a free event in honor of Morris County Veterans Appreciation Day. There will be speakers and presentations by state and county officials and representatives from the various veteran community partners. Join your fellow veterans for a great afternoon with plenty of food, soft drinks, and fun!For full details click here.
The Brain Injury Alliance: Thursday, September 12th – Sports Concussion Update
This webinar will start at 10:00 a. m. and will be presented by David Gealt, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine & Fellow of the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine.
During the webinar, they will:
August 15, 2024
With the November 5 General Election just a few months away, Know Your Rights – A Webinar for Older Adults, Caregivers and Those with Disabilities is an opportunity to learn more about your voting rights and the rights of people you care for.
This free virtual event takes place Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 1 p.m. and is open to all. There will be time for questions and topics will include:
Voting Methods: Ways to vote and overcoming voting barriers
Voting Rights and Options: For those in long-term care facilities, group homes, and for individuals with cognitive issues
Caregiver Assistance in Voting: Allowable assistance in voting booths and mail-in voting support
Understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): What are the ADA requirements and actions to take if a building is not following necessary ADA regulations
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the August 22 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
August 13, 2024
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) offers two Self-Directed Employee (SDE) models that individuals interested in self-directing some or all of their services can choose: the Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Model administered by Public Partnerships, LLC, and the Agency with Choice Model administered by Easterseals NJ. We are happy to once again share the following virtual opportunities to learn more about these two models.
Public Partnerships Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) Model Information Session
Easterseals NJ Agency with Choice (AwC) Model Information Session
To learn more about self-directed services and the two models available through DDD, visit our Self-Directed Services webpage.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the August 22 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
August 9, 2024
Grants Will Support Statewide Efforts to Make Communities More Inclusive, Allow Residents to Age in Place
July 25, 2024
(TRENTON) – Human Services today announced that local government and nonprofit entities can apply for Age-Friendly grants to develop local age-friendly initiatives and implement recommendations from the New Jersey Age-Friendly Blueprint that support the health and wellbeing of older New Jerseyans. This describes a global movement to make communities more welcoming and livable for people of all ages.
The Blueprint focuses on:
To view the full Blueprint click here. | To view the RFP and details click here. | For the full press release click here.
Join Mark Raymond Jr., the National Outreach Lead for ABLE today, and other ABLE experts on August 12th to learn about ABLE Accounts, which aim to provide financial empowerment and community inclusion for people with disabilities. Mark will do a free 30-minute virtual presentation covering all ABLE topics (what is ABLE, who qualifies, how it works and much more). After the presentation, participants have the opportunity to ask questions live.
To register for the free event click here. | For more information on ABLE today click here.
Ticket to Work, the Social Security program that offers beneficiaries with disabilities the choices, opportunities and supports needed to find and keep employment, is promoting the online ABILITY “Stay-cation Job Fair.” Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. This virtual event will be held on Thursday, August 15th, 2024 at 1pm Eastern Time and lets job seekers engage with potential employers and learn about job openings from their home or preferred locations.
Accessibility Features include:
To register for the event click here. | For a list of employers and other details click here. | For more information on the Ticket to Work program click here.
August is here, and for some this means soaking up the last few weeks of summer sun. For others, it means back-to-school season is upon them. Whether you’re getting ready for class or already there, the ADANN Resources on Education are a great way to learn more about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it applies to students. Information on what are the public and private college & university’s responsibilities to students with disabilities, exams and courses, and taking a service animal to school are just some of the useful facts shared via the link below.
Make sure you’re starting your school year off right!
ADANN Resources on Education can be found here. | The ADANN website can found here.
This fall, expand your understanding and perception of accessibility through “Smoke & Mirrors,” the art exhibit opening September 4, 2024, at the Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University. This major exhibition features the work of 14 artists with disabilities from across the globe who conceptualize access through humor, antagonism, transparency, and invisibility. It also encourages visitors with disabilities and their allies to become active participants in telling their own stories.
Admission to The Zimmerli is FREE and open to the public. The museum is open Wednesday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. It is closed Monday and Tuesday, as well as major holidays and the entire month of August. The exhibit’s full run is September 4, 2024 – December 22, 2024.
For museum details including address, transportation, and parking click here. | For information on “Smoke & Mirrors” click here. | For the full article click here.
August 6, 2024
Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced $5.1 million in grants have been awarded to several organizations to serve as “Senior Save Navigators” to raise public awareness about the NJSave application, provide application assistance, and enroll more eligible residents in cost-saving programs available through NJSave.
The Senior Save Navigator Program offers another way to connect older New Jerseyans with affordable prescription drugs and other benefits. This tool serves as a one-stop shop that enables applicants to save time and to sign up for more than a dozen savings and discount programs. These new navigators will not only help people apply, but will also provide education and outreach to help connect more people to these benefits.
To learn more and for the full article click here. NJSave Application can be found here.
Current and prospective New Jersey college students who still need to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for State financial aid can now access one-on-one support from financial aid professionals. The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) is hosting free online consultations to help more New Jersey students complete this crucial federal application to access any available financial aid.
This summer FAFSA completion initiative will run until August 25, 2024 or until all funds are expended – whichever comes first. Students in need of assistance with any part of the FAFSA completion process are encouraged to sign up for a consultation as soon as possible to get the help they need ahead of the upcoming September 15, 2024 State financial aid deadline.
New Jersey students can sign up for a specific day and time here. Webinars in English and Spanish, and other FAFSA supports provided by HESAA can be found here. For more details and full press release click here.
A free one-stop resource guide at your fingertips! This all-new app makes it easy to find a variety of brain injury resources throughout New Jersey. Designed to be more than just a tool, our app serves as a beacon of empowerment for individuals and families navigating the complexities of life after a brain injury.
Check out the BIANJ social media pages to view a tutorial of how to use the app below. Find it on the Google Play Store and App Store to download.
Tutorial: Here Download the app here
Did you know that your child who is deaf or hard of hearing can receive language acquisition services through an ASL Deaf Language Associate? Check out our video from NJ Human Services’ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for more information. To learn more visit here.
Want to move with confidence and improve your daily activities? Join this webinar on Functional Fitness for All! Learn how to incorporate exercises that mimic everyday movements, regardless of age or fitness level. We’ll discuss the benefits of functional fitness, explore beginner-friendly exercises, and answer your questions live. Take control of your well-being and register today! Presenter: Erin Comollo, EdD, Certified CrossFit Trainer
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
August 1, 2024
The NJ Department of Human Services and the NJ Department of Community Affairs are announcing a new state program that would allow developers to receive funding for the creation of affordable rental housing units. Through the Healthy Homes partnership, the state is making $95 million available for developers to produce up to 200 low-rent housing units for NJ FamilyCare members who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or living in an institution. NJ FamilyCare is New Jersey’s Medicaid program. Funding for the program comes from the American Rescue Plan Act and is supplemented with state funding from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
It can be used for:
In addition, state funding will support a portion of rent and other costs for the NJ FamilyCare member, similar to a rental subsidy or voucher. To read full press release click here. Developers are invited to review the RFP and apply for funding. For RFP information, click here.
The NJ DRCC program is a volunteer, neighbor-helping-neighbor model. DRCCs provide emotional support to individuals following the immediate aftermath of a disaster. DRCCs undergo a series of trainings and a credentialing process to provide a coordinated and integrated response to disasters and traumatic events in the community. See flyer attached for additional information.
If you are interested in becoming a DRCC, you will need to complete an application and register for the following trainings at www.njdrcc.org:
A community of practice (CoP) is a group of people who share a common interest in something they do, meet regularly, and seek to improve their practice. The goal of the CoP is to bring New Jersey public school personnel into a working relationship around a common interest in working with students with disabilities.
The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE), Office of Special Education (OSE), invites school personnel to review the diverse CoP offerings (see below table) for the 2024-2025 school year and register to be a member of one of the CoPs. Members of each CoP will be invited to attend all meetings outlined in the table below for their chosen CoP. To ensure the CoPs are effective participation is limited. Please review each offering and register for the one that best fits your current role within the district. Click here for the Community of Practices
This August, Pinelands Adventures has three inclusive trips scheduled at nature sites within Burlington County, with more to come in September and October. Stylized as “Adventures without Barriers,” these programs are currently open to the general public and are geared toward individuals who enjoy the outdoors, but due to mobility concerns don’t normally get access to nature sites. The intended routes have been scouted for their accessibility and there are seven rugged terrain wheelchairs available for loan for these programs. Participants are encouraged to bring their own assistive mobility devices if they do not need to request one. These programs are open to the public and are not limited to individuals with mobility concerns. Loan chairs, accessible routes, and an enjoyable experience for the entire family will be provided!
Participants are also required to provide their own transportation to and from the meeting location. Cost is $10 per trekker (ages 8 and older), however, financial assistance may be available. Please inquire with Pinelands Preservation Alliance.
Learn more about the programs and sign up here. Adventures without Barriers: Connecting with Nature – Pinelands Adventures
August 1, 2024
During a virtual event this week commemorating Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New Jersey Department of Human Services and Office of Innovation launched a new web resource for people with disabilities and those who support them. The Disability Information Hub brings together into one place the wide variety of resources available through the State and other organizations for people with disabilities, caregivers, families, and advocates.
Governor Murphy’s press release about the Hub’s launch offers a glimpse into the many levels of collaboration that went into developing this statewide tool, as well as the focus on ensuring the Hub meets WCAG and Section 508 accessibility requirements and is easy to navigate for people with all types of disabilities.
To learn more or for help navigating the site, watch Learn about the NJ Disability Information Hub (also available with audio description and transcript). There is also a Caregiver Quick Start Guide to the Hub that you can view or download and print.
Please share this valuable resource with your networks and across your social media platforms!
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the August 22 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
July 30, 2024
Students from Manahawkin, West Windsor, Sewell, and Union Recognized for Academic Achievements with Scholarships
(TRENTON) – Celebrating the accomplishments of individuals who are blind, deafblind, and visually impaired, Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) today announced college scholarships to four blind, deafblind, or visually impaired students and recognized other blind and visually impaired students for their academic achievements during a recent Trenton Thunder game.
Click here to read the full article
The Vaccine Preventable Disease Program at the NJ Department of Health works to reduce and eliminate the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases affecting children, adolescents, and older adults by raising the immunization coverage rates of New Jersey citizens.
The Program has recently released five helpful educational toolkits for parents and guardians to help with potential vaccine related issues with children in their care. They are available for download in both English and Spanish below.
Sun, Sand and SEPAG: Recharge and Refresh Your Group for the New School Year
Join fellow parent leaders, caregivers, district staff, and community members for an interactive brainstorming session to help create an action plan for your Special Education Parent Advisory Group (SEPAG).
There are two Zoom sessions. Select one to attend.
Spanish interpretation available.
Personal finance information is more useful and more easily understood when it can be applied personally to our lives. Fortunately, there are many useful online tools (e.g., quizzes, calculators, and publications) from a variety of non-profit, educational, government, and for-profit sources. This webinar will describe 35 useful personal finance websites. Presenter: Barbara O’Neill, Ph.D., CFP, CRPC, AFC, CFEd, CPFFE, Distinguished Professor Emerita, Rutgers University
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
July 29, 2024
Online Hub Will Connect New Jerseyans to Disability-Related Programs and Services
(TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and State Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole today launched a Disability Information Hub website during a virtual event commemorating Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA Day). The Hub, located at NJ.gov/Disabilities, will serve as a one-stop shop to connect New Jerseyans with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and advocates with state services and resources in an accessible format. The Hub and related referral services are among Fiscal Year 2025 investments to support inclusion and services for New Jersey’s diverse disability community.
“Across state government, our Administration has pursued equity and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, improved access to services, and strengthened supports for this community. For many individuals and families, New Jersey’s Disability Information Hub will be a game-changer. Having streamlined, easy access to the State’s comprehensive collection of services and supports will put needed tools and resources in reach for countless people,” said Governor Phil Murphy.”
A demo with audio description can be found here.
To view a recording of the full Disability Information Hub launch event, including the demo, click here Click here to read the full article
On July 26th we celebrated the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. During the entire month of July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month to mark the passage of this historic law. It is an opportunity for those with disabilities to come together and celebrate who they are. It’s also a chance to raise awareness of the challenges still faced every day by individuals with disabilities to be treated equally. The first official celebration of Disability Pride Month occurred in 2015 and since then cities across the country have celebrated with parades and other festivities, including displaying the Disability Pride Flag.
In modern times flags raise awareness and are a symbol of solidarity, pride and acceptance. The Disability Pride Flag was designed in 2019 by writer Ann Magill, who also lives with cerebral palsy. Originally designed with zigzagging lines of green, red, white, yellow and blue over a black background, the zigzags represented how people with disabilities have to maneuver around all of the barriers they may face. However, when viewed on a phone or other types of electronic devices, the design prompted symptoms in individuals with visually triggered disabilities.
Once that was identified members of the disability community began offering suggestions, and bringing their strengths and creativity together to create the current version of the flag we use today. The flag now has straightened stripes, and was also changed to more muted colors to accommodate those with red-green colorblindness. Each color represents a different group within the community and disabilities they may experience.
The black background represents the mourning and rage for the negative aspects the disabled community has had to endure; in contrast, the diagonal striped style represents light and creativity cutting through the darkness.
Join us as we take a moment to commemorate and celebrate Disability Pride Month today, and every July. Together we can make great strides, and we can do it with inclusivity, equality, fairness, and of course, pride.
Happy Disability Pride Month!
“July is Disability Pride Month, an event dedicated to celebrating the unique strengths and contributions people with disabilities have made to society.” To celebrate this month, NPR asked readers and listeners to share their experiences with disability. They wanted to know: “What’s one thing you wish people knew about living with a disability?”
Click What NPR readers want you to know about living with a disability to read the full article
July 26, 2024
Governor Murphy Proclaims July 2024 as The 34th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities ActA Message from DDS Executive Director, Peri Nearon
On July 26th, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as the ADA. Today we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the ADA which is the world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. It continues to prohibit discrimination in many areas of public life and private places that are open to the general public.
On this 34th anniversary we look back in remembrance and gratitude for the positive impact the ADA has had on individuals, families, friends, and in all of our collective lives. The signing of the ADA was a landmark event that granted equal access to many fundamental rights and experiences in education, the workplace, recreation, transportation, shopping, and entertainment.
The ADA has significantly improved the way of life for those with disabilities, helping to enhance their daily activities and bringing the disabled community out of the background of past societal stigmas and into the forefront of our shared future together. Although we celebrate our successes thus far, our work is not done. As our world changes so must we. We must continue to strive for greater inclusivity, equality, and fairness today and always, and we will.
I have the honor of being the Executive Director of the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services (DDS), which provides a single point-of-entry for New Jerseyans seeking information about the various programs, services and supports available to residents with disabilities. Focused on promoting independence for individuals with disabilities in all areas of life, DDS works to streamline the pathway to information and services and to advance policies, systems and environmental changes promoting access, equity and inclusion.
Through our toll free hotline, 1-888-285-3036, callers can connect with live, professionally certified, Community Resource Specialists specifically trained in disability services and prepared to address needs and concerns.
DDS also publishes New Jersey Resources, a comprehensive guide to services available throughout the state, found here.
Let us all take a moment to salute our progress, and remember we have more work to do for an even better tomorrow. Happy 34th ADA Anniversary!
Sincerely,
Peri L. Nearon, MPA
Executive Director, Division of Disability Services
July 25, 2024
The Rutgers Developmental Disabilities Planning Institute (DDPI) is conducting a research study to identify areas of the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) NJ Comprehensive Assessment Tool (NJCAT) that might benefit from improvements. The first step of the Rutgers DDPI study was completed last fall and involved collection and analysis of stakeholder feedback about the NJCAT through a series of small focus groups and a system-wide stakeholder online survey.
Using the collected feedback to inform the process, DDPI has drafted a revised NJCAT, referred to as the Study-NJCAT, and will begin testing of this draft tool with a stratified random sample of about 5,000 individuals served by DDD. (Please Note: the NJCAT currently in use remains unchanged.)
The DDPI will begin emailing selected individuals or their legal guardian(s) in early September 2024, in small groups of 100 – 500 people at a time over a 12-to-18-month period, to invite them to voluntarily participate in testing of the Study-NJCAT. The support coordinators for the selected individuals will be copied on those invitation emails.
For the Study-NJCAT testing to be successful, it is critical that iRecord has the most up-to-date contact information for the selected individuals and their legal guardian(s). Therefore, beginning next week and every 4 – 8 weeks thereafter, DDD will email the support coordinators of the upcoming group of randomly selected individuals/legal guardians.
The DDD email will instruct the support coordinators to reach out to the selected individuals/legal guardians to obtain updated contact information within 30 days of receipt of the email. Support coordinators can relay that the updated information is being requested in relation to a research study of the NJCAT being conducted by Rutgers DDPI. (Support coordinators may want to share this Division Update communication with them as well.)
Participating in the Study-NJCAT is voluntary and responses are confidential. Participation will not affect a person’s DDD services and will not change a person’s tier. The Study-NJCAT will be done the same way NJCAT assessments and reassessments are done now – facilitated by DDD staff who have received specialized training, and completed in-person, virtually, or over the phone.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
August 21st @ 2 pm EST
Click here to register
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the August 22 DDD Update Webinar.
July 23, 2024
Innovative Healthy Homes Initiative Focuses on Wellness of Medicaid Members in Need of Housing
July 17, 2024 (TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez today announced developers can apply for funding to provide affordable housing for NJ FamilyCare members. Under the Healthy Homes partnership, the $95 million available will be used to produce up to 200 low-rent housing units for NJ FamilyCare members who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or living in an institution. NJ FamilyCare is New Jersey’s Medicaid program. Click here to read the full article
August 14th, 2024 is ABLE Savings Day! To celebrate the impacts of ABLE accounts, ABLE today and the ABLE Savings Plans Network are co-hosting additional webinars to educate key stakeholders about the power of ABLE accounts.
Join ABLE webinars by registering below:
ABLE Account 101
August 12th @ 2 pm EST
Click here to register
How Can Employers Promote ABLE as a DEI Tool?
August 14th @ 2 pm EST
Click here to register
I Have an ABLE Account, Now What?
August 21st @ 2 pm EST
Click here to register
Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and other ingredients. We will discuss key points, such as effectiveness, quality, and safety, as well as when it is appropriate to use dietary supplements. This session will provide additional resources for consumers about using dietary supplements wisely. Presenter: Jen Taylor
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
July 22, 2024
The New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is pleased to announce the release of a new Request for Proposals (RFP), NADD Competency-Based IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Direct Support Professional Certification Pilot (and related Notice of Funding Availability).
This RFP will fund certification of up to 3,000 Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and is open to all Medicaid/DDD-approved provider agencies that employ DSPs, as well as Financial Management Services agencies (known as fiscal intermediaries) that administer either of the DDD-funded self-directed employee (SDE) models.
The NADD Certification Pilot seeks to improve the quality of life of individuals with an intellectual and/or developmental disability and co-occurring mental health concerns, and their families, by enhancing the competency, skills, and professionalism of the DDD-funded direct care workers (DSPs and SDEs) who support them.
NADD is a national organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health conditions, and a leader in providing education and advocacy that promotes their wellbeing and full inclusion in their communities.
In addition to NADD, the Department and Division are pleased to partner with The Boggs Center, which will conduct ongoing learning collaboratives for direct care staff who are enrolled in the pilot.
We encourage agencies and fiscal intermediaries to review the RFP and consider participating in this exciting opportunity. Proposals are due no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the July 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
July 18, 2024
New Jersey’s FY25 Budget went into effect July 1, 2024, and included $7,500,000 for an across-the-board increase to Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) fee-for-service reimbursement rates, also referred to as a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). All Supports Program and Community Care Program service rates, excluding those with a “reasonable and customary” rate, will see an automatic rate increase. To accommodate the rate increases, individualized up-to budget amounts will also see a slight increase.
Please see the FY25 COLA Rate Increase bulletin for more information. Provider and Support Coordination Agencies, in particular, are encouraged to review the bulletin, which gives details about claiming for services over the next few weeks.
Please direct any questions to DDD.FeeForService@dhs.nj.gov.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the July 25 DDD Update Webinar. This program is supported by an Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant from NJ Division of Disability Services.
July 16, 2024
A Bridge Between Generations: NJ Human Services Opens Mentorship Program for Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals
July 15, 2024 (TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced the Department has opened for a second year a mentorship program to bring together younger and older residents who are visually impaired, blind, and deafblind. This Fellowship Program is designed to address their needs through peer mentoring opportunities. Click here to read the full article
This presentation has the following agenda:
Date: July 17, 2024 | Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Presenter: Ann M. Nguyen, PhD MPH, Assistant Research Professor
Click here to join the Zoom meeting (Meeting ID: 160 806 2749)
This interactive, virtual training will introduce participants to the concept of implicit bias. Participants will consider how implicit bias manifests in our interactions with others and explore strategies for addressing implicit bias in ourselves and in the workplace. Participants will also learn about how the NJ Law Against Discrimination protects individuals from discrimination and bias-based harassment in the workplace. Register here
Division on Civil Rights Anti-Discrimination Trainings
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) offers trainings aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination through its Education and Training Unit. For additional training topics and dates, click here.
Plant-based proteins (such as beans and lentils) are nutrient-dense foods that and can compliment various types of recipes and cooking styles. Join Ricardo to hear an overview of the different types of plant-based foods that are considered to be good sources of proteins, gain tips for including these items in your weekly menu, and learn healthy recipes using these foods that you can easily make at home. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
July 12, 2024
Human Services Awards ‘Senior Save Navigator’ Grants to Promote NJSave Application, Enroll More Eligible Residents in Cost-Saving Programs
NJSave Application Can Help Low-Income Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities Save Money on Prescription Costs, Medicare Premiums, and Other Expenses July 11, 2024
(TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced $5.1 million in grants have been awarded to several organizations to serve as “Senior Save Navigators” to raise public awareness about the NJSave application, provide application assistance, and enroll more eligible residents in cost-saving programs available through NJSave. Click here to read the full article
The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) In Person Public Meeting will be held on Thursday August 15,2024 from 9:30am to 1:30pm at the Hilton Garden Inn, 800 US Route 130, Hamilton NJ. To attend in person or make a public comment, please submit your In-Person RSVP or written public comment to Jacinta.williams@njcdd.org by Wednesday July 31st 2024.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
For in-person accommodations, language interpretation and/or other accommodations, please contact Jacinta Williams at Jacinta.williams@njcdd.org, with your specific accommodation request at least two weeks in advance or by July 31, 2024. Register for the third quarter meeting
Wednesday, July 17th – Community Preparedness: Integrating the Needs of Children
This webinar walks participants through identifying the organizations, requirements and resources needed in their preparedness programs to ensure that children are kept safe and healthy during disasters. It is a free resource designed to bring emergency managers, medical professionals, childcare providers and other partners together to boost community resilience.
This webinar begins at 1:00 p. m. and you may register in advance for the zoom webinar.
Meet Rebecca Martin, a candidate in the Rutgers School of Social Work PhD program and student affiliate of the Rutgers Hub on Aging Collaboration. She believes the work we do is only as strong as our ability to discuss it. In this Language Matters presentation, Rebecca will be presenting on the importance of using language in a culturally competent way when engaging with people with disabilities and considering other intersectional positioning. She will provide nuanced considerations while also providing practical tips for where to start and important strategies for adapting your communication to best align with the preferences of the members of your local community. Sign up below!
Date: August 13th, 2024, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Location: Online Via Zoom Sign up for Language Matters
This program is supported by an Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant from NJ Division of Disability Services.
DDS in the Community
July 9, 2024
Veterans who were discharged in any way other than dishonorably who are experiencing a suicidal crisis can go to any mental healthcare facility for no-cost treatment. Veterans do not need to be enrolled in the VA system to use this benefit.
The act allows the VA to:
This expansion of care is designed to help prevent veteran suicide by guaranteeing no-cost mental healthcare in times of crisis. It will also increase access to acute suicide care for up to 9 million veterans who are not currently enrolled in VA. Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
The US Department of Veterans Affairs want all Veterans and former service members to know that they can get free, emergency suicide care when they need it, no matter where they are. Click here to read the full article
Last month, ABLE Today collaborated with the DC Bar Association to develop a free CLE for attorneys across the country. The brand new CLE offers accreditation nationwide.
The course, “Focus on ABLE Accounts: A Financial Tool Specifically for People with Disabilities (On-Demand)” provides an overview of how ABLE accounts can positively impact people with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers.
It also covers the statutory background on ABLE accounts and will explain eligibility requirements, account management, contribution limits, qualified expenses, tax rules, and interactions with benefits programs (such as SSI and Medicaid). Finally, the class will provide practice pointers for the usage of ABLE accounts, including working in conjunction with special needs trusts. Learn more and access the webinar
Meet Rebecca Martin, a candidate in the Rutgers School of Social Work PhD program and student affiliate of the Rutgers Hub on Aging Collaboration. She believes the work we do is only as strong as our ability to discuss it. In this Language Matters presentation, Rebecca will be presenting on the importance of using language in a culturally competent way when engaging with people with disabilities and considering other intersectional positioning. She will provide nuanced considerations while also providing practical tips for where to start and important strategies for adapting your communication to best align with the preferences of the members of your local community. Sign up below!
Date: August 13th, 2024, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Location: Online Via Zoom Sign up for Language Matters
This program is supported by an Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant from NJ Division of Disability Services.
Since 2020, the New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus has served as a bipartisan forum within the New Jersey Legislature for lawmakers and their staff to consider the impact on the disability community when shaping ALL public policies in the Garden State through increased awareness and a greater understanding of the complexities of the disabilities service system and issues affecting individuals with disabilities and their families. People with disabilities, their families, and organizations that serve support and advocate for people with disabilities in New Jersey serve as a resource to the Caucus, providing education and programming as needed. This webinar begins at 12:00 noon and you may register here.
Throwing away unused food due to improper storage or preservation can result in a big waste of your family’s food budget! Proper refrigeration, freezing, drying, or canning can prevent unnecessary food waste, and also keep foods safe to eat. Join Sandra for tips and strategies for using the best home preservation methods, with a special emphasis on preserving perishable fruits and vegetables. Presenter: Sandra Grenci, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 p.m., are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here
July 8, 2024
The Department of Human Services (DHS), Department of Children and Families (DCF), and Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) have formally launched the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Loan Redemption Program (HCBSP-LRP), a new program that will provide student loan redemption to licensed health care, behavioral health, and social services professionals. In exchange for one year of service at an eligible HCBS provider this program will offer up to $50,000 in student loan redemption. Applications opened on July 1 and will close on July 31. Awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
We have received a number of inquiries from applicants regarding details of the program, their eligibility, and the role of their employer in their application. Providers and potential applicants should refer to the HESAA HCBS Provider Loan Redemption Program web page for information which includes both an FAQ and fact sheet. **Please also note the following information and share with any potential applicants at your agency:
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the July 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
July 1, 2024
The application portal for the Home and Community-Based Services Provider Loan Redemption Program (HCBSP-LRP) is open from July 1 – July 31, 2024. New Jersey’s Department of Human Services, Department of Children and Families, and Higher Education Student Assistance Authority launched this new initiative that will provide student loan redemption up to $50,000 to certain licensed health care, behavioral health, and social services professionals in exchange for a year of service at an eligible HCBS provider agency.
Funding will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Professionals are encouraged to apply early, including downloading and having the Employer Certification Form completed and signed by their employer. Visit the HCBSP-LRP application portal today for more information and to apply!
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the July 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
June 26, 2024
The National Core Indicators® State of the Workforce Survey has been extended through July 31, 2024. Initial Email invitations were sent to eligible DDD providers – to the provider email address on file in iRecord – on March 5, 2024 with follow up invitations sent monthly, bi-weekly and then weekly through June.
If your agency has not received an invitation to participate, please email DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov as soon as possible.
The data collected through this annual survey helps us examine and respond to challenges experienced by New Jersey’s Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce serving adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, and has played a key role in the state’s DSP wage increases.
Participation by as many eligible providers as possible is critical to ensure valid results. To learn more, visit National Core Indicators® or see our NCI State of the Workforce Overview.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
June 25, 2024
Human Services, Children and Families, and Higher Education Student Assistance Authority Unveil New Program to Attract & Retain Health Care and Social Services Professionals
June 17, 2024
(TRENTON) – As part of a continued effort to improve and expand the home and community-based services workforce, the Department of Human Services, Department of Children and Families, and the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority today announced a new student loan redemption program to benefit health care, behavioral health, and social services professionals serving those with medical needs, behavioral and/or mental health conditions, and disabilities. Click here to read the full article
This interactive training on Danielle’s Law ensures families and self-directed employees are prepared to recognize the difference between a health emergency and a life-threatening emergency in an “own home” setting. The goal of this refresher training is to ensure self-directed employees know how to respond promptly and appropriately to life-threatening emergencies involving individuals receiving DDD-funded services, while complying with Danielle’s Law. This session will begin at 3:00 p.m. and will last one hour. Register here.
Keeping a Healthy Home is the key to improving your family’s health. Did you know we spend 65% of our time in our home?? Your home influences your: heart, brain, hormone, and mental health. We will discuss research and expert tips from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health that may help to make your home a healthier place to live. Join us to learn quick fixes that can have a major impact on your family’s health and wellness. Presenter: Karen Ensle EdD, RDN, FAND, CFCS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 p.m., are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
June 24, 2024
The National Core Indicators® State of the Workforce Survey is open through June 30, 2024 and participation by as many eligible providers as possible is critical to ensure valid results. Please note in previous years NCI has granted extensions to the response deadline but has indicated extensions will not be granted to states going forward.
Email invitations were sent to eligible DDD providers – to the provider email address on file in iRecord – in March, with follow-up invitations sent in April.
If your agency has not received an invitation to participate, please contact DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov as soon as possible.
The data collected through this annual survey helps us examine and respond to challenges in New Jersey’s Direct Support Professional workforce serving adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. To learn more, visit National Core Indicators® or see our NCI State of the Workforce Overview.
Recently, DDD mailed about 22,000 NCI Family Survey invitation letters via US postal mail to the primary caregivers/family members and guardians of individuals receiving at least one DDD service in addition to Support Coordination. Each invitation includes a survey link and unique access code.
Participation in the NCI Family Survey is anonymous and voluntary. You do not need to complete the survey if you do not want to, but it is strongly encouraged. The information collected will help us better understand caregiver/family experiences with the IDD service system and improve the quality of services for everyone.
The NCI Family Survey closes on June 30, 2024 and the last day to request a hard copy is June 26, 2024. If you have questions about the survey or wish to request an online invitation or hard copy of the survey in English or other languages, email us at DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov.
Los Indicadores Básicos Nacionales® (NCI, por sus siglas en inglés) son un esfuerzo nacional de colaboración para medir y mejorar los resultados de los participantes en los sistemas públicos de servicios humanos. Cada año, para apoyar este esfuerzo, la División de Discapacidades del Desarrollo (DDD, por sus siglas en inglés) facilita la realización de encuestas NCI para las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo (IDD, por sus siglas en inglés), sus familias y cuidadores, y los proveedores de servicios de IDD en New Jersey (ver nuestra visión general de NCI para más información).
Recientemente, la DDD envió por correo postal unas 22,000 cartas de invitación a la Encuesta Familiar de los NCI a los cuidadores principales/miembros de la familia y tutores de personas que reciben al menos un servicio de la DDD además de la Coordinación de Apoyos. Cada invitación incluye un enlace a la encuesta y un código de acceso único.
La participación en la encuesta familiar del NCI es anónima y voluntaria. No es necesario que complete la encuesta si no lo desea, pero se le recomienda encarecidamente que lo haga. La información recopilada nos ayudará a comprender mejor las experiencias de los cuidadores/familiares con el sistema de servicios de IDD y a mejorar la calidad de los servicios para todos.
La encuesta familiar del NCI finaliza el 30 de junio de 2024. Si tiene preguntas sobre la encuesta o desea solicitar una invitación en línea o una copia impresa de la encuesta en inglés u otros idiomas, envíenos un correo electrónico a DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Get Ready. Get Registered. VOTE!
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
June 20, 2024
New Jersey’s Department of Human Services, Department of Children and Families, and Higher Education Student Assistance Authority recently announced the Home and Community-Based Services Provider Loan Redemption Program (HCBSP-LRP), a new initiative that will provide student loan redemption up to $50,000 to certain licensed health care, behavioral health, and social services professionals in exchange for a year of service at an eligible HCBS provider agency.
Many provider agencies participated in an introductory webinar on June 19, during which we advised that we would be offering a similar webinar for potential applicants on Friday, June 28 at 3:00 PM. This next session will allow us to provide more information about the program eligibility and how to apply.
We are asking provider agencies to forward this invitation to eligible staff and ask them to register for the webinar using this link. After registering, they will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. (Eligible self-directed employees in a DDD-funded Self-Directed Services program may also register to attend the webinar.)
Psychiatrists, licensed psychologists, licensed social workers, licensed clinical social workers, psychiatric nurse mental health clinical specialists, board-certified behavior analysts, board-certified behavior analysts-doctoral, licensed clinical or certified alcohol and drug counselors, licensed professional and associate counselors, licensed or associate marriage and family therapists, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and DCF care managers will be eligible to apply if they work in any of the following settings:
Applications for the program will open on July 1st and close on July 31st. Awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
June 14, 2024
The event will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Summit will present current research and evidence-based best practices through keynote speakers, panels and workshops. Topics to be covered include Opioid Use Disorder and stigma, current drug trends, harm reduction, family supports, OUD and vulnerable populations, and more! Continuing Education Credits will be available for some licenses/certifications. Register to the NJ DHS Opioid Summit 2024
After completing registration, you will receive an email from donotreply@eventScribe.com which will include your “Access Key”. Please keep this available since it will be needed to log in to the virtual conference.
This month marks the 25th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s “Olmstead” decision – a case that was a watershed moment in the lives of Americans with disabilities. Read an essay reflecting on the Olmstead decision in NorthJersey.com by Paul Aronsohn, New Jersey’s Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families. (A copy of the article has also been attached for your access.)
Honoring the 25th Anniversary of the US Supreme Court’s Olmstead Decision
Trenton, NJ, June 14, 2024 – The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) is proud to announce that Vice Chairperson Kevin Nuñez will be participating in a distinguished panel discussion at the White House. This event marks the 25th anniversary of the landmark US Supreme Court’s Olmstead Decision and will take place on Tuesday, June 18 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. ET.
Accompanying a screening of the 2023 film, Take Me Home, the panel discussion aims to highlight the significant actions and investments by the Biden-Harris Administration that support individuals with disabilities in leading fulfilling lives, securing employment, and living independently within their communities rather than in institutional settings. This event underscores the Administration’s commitment to upholding the principles of the Olmstead Decision and promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all Americans with disabilities.
The White House panel discussion will stream virtually. Register for the White House panel discussion
NOTE: Attendees MUST register for the White House event in order to attend virtually. Once registered, a Zoom link to join the event will be sent out.
This training will provide an overview of what reasonable accommodations are, who is eligible for them, and how requests for accommodations are initiated and carried out. Through case studies and other interactive exercises, participants will examine topics including the interactive process, undue hardship, non-apparent disabilities, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and telework as an accommodation. Register here
In this webinar, DCR representatives will clarify what the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination says about assistance animals, and answer some of the questions we frequently hear from members of the public. Through case studies and discussion, participants will learn about their rights and obligations under the law regarding service and emotional support animals. Register here
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) offers trainings aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination through its Education and Training Unit. These interactive sessions educate participants about their rights and responsibilities under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, the New Jersey Family Leave Act, the Fair Chance in Housing Act as well as raise awareness about current anti-bias issues. All trainings are currently being offered for FREE to the public. For additional training topics and dates, click here.
Pinelands Preservation Alliance (PPA) is excited to launch the Nature: Accessible for All campaign statewide in New Jersey! Through a partnership between the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, the NJ Division of Disability Services Inclusive Health Community Grant Program, the Edward J. Bloustein School, and Duke Farms, the Nature: Accessible for All campaign is a collaborative effort by individuals, public agencies, and nonprofits to ensure that people with disabilities, their families and allies can and do enjoy New Jersey’s extraordinary natural places.
Facilitated through critical funding by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the campaign focuses on:
GET INVOLVED! Join PPA’s efforts through:
For more details, visit the Access Nature blog post, or contact Sean at sean@pinelandsallaince.org.
Learn how state agencies can support New Jersey residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in navigating transitions from youth and educational services to adult supports. Presenter: Paul Aronsohn – New Jersey IDD Ombudsman
This session will start at 4:00 p.m. See attached flyer for additional information. To join, Register here.
June 14, 2024
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today named new leaders for two critical Human Services divisions. Assistant Commissioner Renee Burawski will lead the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and Assistant Commissioner Gregory Woods will lead the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services that administers NJ FamilyCare, the state Medicaid program. Click here to read the full article
(TRENTON) – The Hudson County Office of Inclusion and Accessibility, in collaboration with local partners, has expanded employment training for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The initiative is funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities grant from the Human Services’ Division of Disability Services. Click here to read the full article
This workshop will provide an overview of different types of funding from family foundations, institutional foundations, “angel investors,” and venture capitalists to various types of government funding. Presenters will walk through a sample budget that includes all the components of a typical budget and how to align a budget with the program or project design.
Date: July 2, 2024 \ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Presenter: Nicholas Torres, The Network: Towards Unity of Health; Liz Hayden, Woods System of Care
Register here.
This month, this webinar will highlight Ticket to Work Program resources that can help Ticketholders decide to pursue work, find opportunities and successfully transition to work!
Specifically, the webinar will cover:
This webinar starts at 3pm ET. WISE webinars highlight the supports and services offered to you. Register here
June 10, 2024
We are pleased to announce two upcoming webinars for families and self-directed employees. Overview of the DDD Resource Team for Families and Self-Directed Employees
Tuesday, June 25, 2024, 3 – 4 p.m.
Danielle’s Law Refresher for Families and Self-Directed Employees
Thursday, July 18, 2024, 3 – 4 p.m.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
June 7, 2024
The Office of Education on Self-Directed Services hosts networking sessions for people and families who are self-directing services or interested in self-direction. All sessions are held in-person unless otherwise noted. Advance registration is required.
Date: June 11th | Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Statewide: VIRTUAL via ZOOM
Register for June 11 Virtual Session
Date: June 25th | Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Bergen County: Bergen Community College
Register for June 25 Session
Date: July 10th | Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Camden County: Camden County Library-Voorhees Branch
Register for July 10 Session
Date: August 8th | Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Cape May and Atlantic Counties: Ocean City Free Public Library
Register for August 8 Session
Peer-to-Peer Networking Session
For adults with IDD who are self-directing some or all of their DDD-funded services and those who are interested in learning about self-direction.
Date: July 9th | Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Statewide: VIRTUAL via ZOOM
Register for July 9 Peer-to-Peer Networking Session
Register Ready is a free, secure, voluntary database designed to help emergency managers and first responders plan for and support people with disabilities and access and functional needs (DAFN).
You (or someone on your behalf) are encouraged to register if you have a physical, developmental, cognitive, or behavioral impairment.
Document library more information
If you use Access Link paratransit service, NJ Transit wants your feedback! NJ Transit invites Access Link paratransit users to complete the Spring 2024 Access Link Customer Satisfaction Survey. The survey can be completed on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smart phone.
People who complete the Access Link survey and provide their contact information will earn 250 NJ Transit (NJT) Rewards points and will also be entered into an NJ Transit drawing to win a Free Monthly Pass or $100 Gift Card. NJ Transit is grateful for your participation!
In this webinar, DCR representatives will clarify what the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination says about assistance animals, and answer some of the questions we frequently hear from members of the public. Through case studies and discussion, participants will learn about their rights and obligations under the law regarding service and emotional support animals. Register here
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) offers trainings aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination through its Education and Training Unit. These interactive sessions educate participants about their rights and responsibilities under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, the New Jersey Family Leave Act, the Fair Chance in Housing Act as well as raise awareness about current anti-bias issues.
All trainings are currently being offered for FREE to the public. For additional training topics and dates, click here.
June 4, 2024
Blueprint provides recommendations to help communities become more inclusive, allow residents to age in place
(TEANECK) – With New Jersey’s older adult population steadily growing, Human Services today released the NJ Age-Friendly Blueprint, which provides strategies and best practices to improve New Jersey’s communities for older adults and enable people to remain in their homes and communities as they age. Click here to read the full article
DCR invites high school students with a passion for civil rights to apply to the 2024-2025 Youth Ambassador Program. This 10-month program empowers the next generation to work to eliminate bias and discrimination in their communities. DCR offers Youth Ambassadors mentorship, education, and leadership opportunities to encourage students to act as community change agents through education on the Law Against Discrimination. Participants will attend youth ambassador bi-monthly Monday evening meetings that will be tailored to participants’ civil rights-related interests. Applications are due by Monday, July 15, 2024. Click here for program overview | Apply to the Youth Ambassador Program
Sunday, July 28, 2024, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Sherer’s Boat Basin, 482 E. Bay Ave, Barnegat
Barnegat Recreation Disability Advisory Board will be hosting its 25th Day on the Bay, an event that allows adults and children with special needs the opportunity to experience a boat ride on the Barnegat Bay. Free boat rides, entertainment, and refreshments for kids and adults with special needs. All participants must be accompanied by a legal guardian or parent to sign a waiver. Learn more here, and be sure to register here!
Interested in helping?
Volunteers, contact Meredith Jackstadt at barnegatspecialneedsrec@gmail.com or 609-553-4682; Boat owners/captains, contact Walt Fernandez at wjfern@outlook.com or 609-290-8741.
The NJ I/DD Youth Transition Conference is created for youth & young adults who experience an intellectual and/or developmental disability, their caregivers and the professionals who serve them. This conference will be presented online on October 1st and 3rd. Click here to learn more
On May 9, 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a Center for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Services (CMCS) Informational Bulletin (CIB) announcing a further extension of unwinding-related section 1902(e)(14)(A) waivers. On December 18, 2023, CMS announced these waivers would be extended to December 31, 2024, and to continue supporting states’ efforts to establish and update income and eligibility determination systems that maximize states’ ability to ensure that eligible individuals retain coverage, CMS is further extending these waivers through June 30, 2025. The Extending flexibilities authorized under section 1902(e)(14)(A) of the Social Security Act (the Act) or otherwise approved by CMS to streamline renewals will enable states to shift limited resources to reduce processing time at application when needed.
Other flexibilities extended include:
Click here to access the CIB itself for more information.
Now that Summer has finally arrived, some of our favorite Jersey Fresh produce is about to be ready for harvesting! This session will provide an overview of the seasonal produce available during July, August, and September, featuring healthy recipes, and tools you can use to find your local grower. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 p.m., are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
June 3, 2024
National Core Indicators® (NCI) is a collaborative national effort to measure and improve outcomes of participants in public human service systems. Each year, to support this effort, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) facilitates completion of NCI surveys by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their families and caregivers, and IDD service providers in New Jersey (see our NCI Overview for more information).
Last week, DDD mailed about 22,000 NCI Family Survey invitation letters via US postal mail to the primary caregivers/family members and guardians of individuals receiving at least one DDD service in addition to Support Coordination. Each invitation includes a survey link and unique access code. Participation in the NCI Family Survey is anonymous and voluntary. You do not need to complete the survey if you do not want to, but it is strongly encouraged. The information collected will help us better understand caregiver/family experiences with the IDD service system and improve the quality of services for everyone.
The NCI Family Survey closes on June 30, 2024. If you have questions about the survey or wish to request an online invitation or hard copy of the survey in English or other languages, email us at DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov.
Los Indicadores Básicos Nacionales® (NCI, por sus siglas en inglés) son un esfuerzo nacional de colaboración para medir y mejorar los resultados de los participantes en los sistemas públicos de servicios humanos. Cada año, para apoyar este esfuerzo, la División de Discapacidades del Desarrollo (DDD, por sus siglas en inglés) facilita la realización de encuestas NCI para las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo (IDD, por sus siglas en inglés), sus familias y cuidadores, y los proveedores de servicios de IDD en New Jersey (ver nuestra visión general de NCI para más información).
La semana pasada, la DDD envió por correo postal unas 22,000 cartas de invitación a la Encuesta Familiar de los NCI a los cuidadores principales/miembros de la familia y tutores de personas que reciben al menos un servicio de la DDD además de la Coordinación de Apoyos. Cada invitación incluye un enlace a la encuesta y un código de acceso único.
La participación en la encuesta familiar del NCI es anónima y voluntaria. No es necesario que complete la encuesta si no lo desea, pero se le recomienda encarecidamente que lo haga. La información recopilada nos ayudará a comprender mejor las experiencias de los cuidadores/familiares con el sistema de servicios de IDD y a mejorar la calidad de los servicios para todos.
La encuesta familiar del NCI finaliza el 30 de junio de 2024. Si tiene preguntas sobre la encuesta o desea solicitar una invitación en línea o una copia impresa de la encuesta en inglés u otros idiomas, envíenos un correo electrónico a DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov.
The National Core Indicators® State of the Workforce Survey is open through June 30, 2024 and participation by as many eligible providers as possible is critical to ensure valid results. Please note in previous years NCI has granted extensions to the response deadline but has indicated extensions will not be granted to states going forward.
Email invitations were sent to eligible DDD providers – to the provider email address on file in iRecord – in March, with follow-up invitations sent in April.
If your agency has not received an invitation to participate, please contact DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov as soon as possible.
The data collected through this annual survey helps us examine and respond to challenges in New Jersey’s Direct Support Professional workforce serving adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. To learn more, visit National Core Indicators® or see our NCI State of the Workforce Overview.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started! | The mTBI Webinar.
May 31, 2024
Commissioner Adelman Announces Two New Deputy Commissioners for NJ Human Services
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced two new Deputy Commissioners will join NJ Human Services’ senior leadership team to oversee medical and behavioral health services, social services and emergency management. Commissioner Adelman named Michael J. Wilson as Deputy Commissioner for Social Services and Valerie Mielke as Deputy Commissioner for Health Services.Click here to read the full article
BIANJ is Excited to Offer New Groups to the Brain Injury Community!
The Brain Injury Alliance of NJ is pleased to announce a new BIANJ Affiliate Support group which will be offered to Hudson County survivors. The Hudson County Survivor Support group will be facilitated by Grace Suttle, MD, a current resident physician at the Kessler/NJ Medical School Physical Medicine & Rehab program. This group will meet virtually on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. EST. Please email Grace at grace.suttle.94@gmail.com for more information.
BIANJ understands that social connection is an important factor in optimizing the quality of life for individuals with brain injury and their families. They are encouraging brain injury survivors to GET SOCIAL! by offering several new social groups, including:
The Artful Minds Social Club: Connect and bond with other people with brain injury with a shared interest in the creative arts (movies, music, and television). At each meeting, gather with others to discuss that new song you heard or the trailer that just came out for an upcoming movie. Meetings will take place virtually, on the last Tuesday of each month at 4:00 p.m. EST.
Brain Book Club: Connect and bond with other people with brain injury with a shared interest in reading and podcasts. At each meeting, gather with others to discuss themes, opinions, and likes/dislikes of a shared reading or podcast. Meetings will take place virtually on the third Monday of every month at 11:00 a.m. EST.
Wednesday, June 12th – Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Evaluation and Management
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) can be a confusing topic for both professionals and survivors. How is it diagnosed, and what can one expect in terms of recovery and treatment? This webinar will:
This webinar begins at 12:00 noon and will be presented by Stephanie Assuras. | Register for the mTBI Webinar.
May 29, 2024
(TRENTON) – The Department of Human Services will release the NJ Age-Friendly Blueprint, and announce a new multi-million dollar investment to promote age-friendly planning efforts and initiatives in the state at a press event to commemorate Older Americans Month. In 2021, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order 227 creating an Age-Friendly State Advisory Council within Human Services. Copies of the Blueprint will be made available at the event.
Speakers:
When: Thursday, May 30 at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Brookdale Senior Apartments, Community Room, 60 Bergen Ave, Teaneck, NJ 07666
Contact: Eva Loayza-McBride at Eva.Loayza-McBride@dhs.nj.gov
PUBLIC NOTICE: HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES
Take notice that, in compliance with N.J.S.A. 52:14-34.4 and 34.6, the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) hereby announces the availability of the following grant program funds:
Name of Program: 988 Mobile Crisis Outreach Response Teams (MCORT) Region 9 RFP
Purpose: This Request for Proposals (RFP) is issued by the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) for Mobile Crisis Outreach Response Teams (MCORT) to respond to adults (18 and above) in non-life-threatening situations who have contacted the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Amount of funding available: Total available annual funding, subject to State appropriations, is $2,838,704. This funding will be used to support 11 MCORTs across Essex and Hudson counties in New Jersey. This area is known as Region 9 in the MCORT system. DMHAS will also fund one-time startup costs (for computers, phones, office furniture, vehicles, etc.). DMHAS will make one award. DMHAS intends for this program to provide Medicaid-funded MCORT services under Section 1947 of the US Social Security Act.
Procedure to apply: Effective May 22, 2024 the RFP is available at https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/providers/grants/ and https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/provider/funding/
A proposal must be submitted that comports with the RFP requirements and instructions.
East Hanover, NJ – May 23, 2024: From 2009 through 2024, youth and young adults with disabilities have experienced considerable fluctuations in employment, particularly during major economic downturns such as the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. But notably, the 25–34 age group has demonstrated significant post-COVID recovery, outpacing other age groups. In contrast, individuals aged 16–24 experienced a slower recovery, only recently surpassing their pre-COVID peak, according to the latest findings from the National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) Deeper Dive. Click here to read more.
The SSI payment usually occurs on the first weekday of the month. However, multiple irregular payments are scheduled for the remainder of this year. You may receive two payments or none in certain months per the Social Security Administration’s Schedule of Benefit Payments for 2024.
SSI recipients should make sure that their resources will remain under $2,000 in June, September, and December.
In this workshop, families will learn simple, effective strategies they can do at home to prevent the “summer slide” while making reading together fun and engaging.
Date: June 4, 2024,
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Via Zoom, click here to register and attend
Presenter: Dr. Jamie Zibulsky, co-author of Book Smart: How to Support Successful, Motivated Readers.
Spanish interpretation available.
Questions, please contact Beth Cosentino at bcosentino@spanadvocacy.org.
Join SPAN Parent Advocacy network as they discuss the “summer slide” and share a variety of engaging summer activities for children of all ages! They will provide information to help families stem the summer slide with free and/or low-cost activities.
Date: June 11, 2024,
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Location: Via Zoom, click here to register and attend
The N.J. Family Engagement Hub is a project of SPAN, funded by the U.S. Department of Education. To learn more, visit njfehub.org.
May 29, 2024
If you use Access Link paratransit service, NJ Transit wants your feedback! NJ Transit invites Access Link paratransit users to complete the Spring 2024 Access Link Customer Satisfaction Survey. The survey can be completed on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smart phone.
People who complete the Access Link survey and provide their contact information will earn 250 NJ Transit (NJT) Rewards points and will also be entered into an NJ Transit drawing to win a Free Monthly Pass or $100 Gift Card.
NJ Transit is grateful for your participation!
Si utiliza el servicio de paratránsito Access Link, NJ Transit desea saber su opinión. NJ Transit invita a los usuarios de paratránsito de Access Link a completar la Encuesta de Satisfacción al Cliente de Access Link, Primavera de 2024. La encuesta se puede completar en una computadora de sobremesa, portátil, tableta o teléfono inteligente.
Las personas que completen la encuesta de Access Link y proporcionen su información de contacto, ganarán 250 puntos de NJ Transit (NJT) Rewards y también participarán en un sorteo de NJ Transit para ganar un pase mensual gratuito o una tarjeta de regalo de $100 dólares.
¡NJ Transit le agradece su participación!
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
Register Now for the June 27 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
May 22, 2024
Next DDD Update Webinar is Thursday, May 23
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the May 23 DDD Update Webinar.
Get Ready. Get Registered. VOTE!
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
May 17, 2024
This event presented by Rebecca Martin will discuss the ethics of AI for inclusion work, practical considerations, and how to leverage what we know so far to increase accessibility on a shoestring budget.
Date: May 23, 2024 | Time: 10 am – 11 am | Register for AI for Inclusion
Save the Date for BIANJ annual Family FEST (Fun, Education, Support, Togetherness), a free educational, social, and recreational opportunity for families affected by brain injury. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and most importantly have fun. Food and zoo/wildlife refuge admission is included.
Date: June 2, 2024 | Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm | Location: Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford NJ
Date: June 9, 2024 | Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm \ Location: Turtleback Zoo, West Orange NJ
Reach out to Kim Myers at kmyers@bianj.org with any questions. Register for Family Fest
The NJ Department of Human Services, Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired will hold, Covering the Bases 2024, The 19th Annual Night-Out with The Trenton Thunder for People Who are Blind, DeafBlind and Visually Impaired, on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at Trenton Thunder Ballpark, 1 Thunder Road, Trenton, NJ.
The gates will open at 6:00 p.m. and at 6:30 p.m., there will be an on field ceremony honoring outstanding members of the blindness community, including the 2024 Board of Trustees Scholarship Awardees.
CBVI college student, disabilities advocate, musician and vocalist Kaleigh Brendle will sing “The National Anthem”. The first pitch will be thrown at 7:00 p.m. sharp. and there will be a post-game fireworks show.
Complimentary tickets are available for people of all ages who are blind, deafblind and visually impaired and their immediate family members. (Tickets for All Others Available at a Significantly Discounted Fee)
Wheelchair accessible seating can be arranged.
For tickets or information email: AskCBVI@dhs.nj.gov with Trenton Thunder on the subject line.
(The flyer attached includes the information above and a photo of the 2023 Covering the Bases awards ceremony participants standing on the ballfield. From left to right: DHS Deputy Commissioner Kaylee McGuire; scholarship awardee Liam Nelson; community honorees: Joanna Benthall; Tonya Hunt and Father Jim Warnke, with Dr. Bernice Davis)
This ADA-accessible family-friendly outing follows along a section of the White Trail at Franklin Parker Preserve. On May 22nd and May 24th, meet at the Speedwell Entrance to the beautiful Franklin Parker Preserve at 9:45 am to take a slow hike, passing through both woods and wetland, and open cranberry bogs. You will look for interesting birds that are resident or just passing through the area. This park is a good place to get long, clear looks at birds because of the relative openness of the park. It is also a nice park to know about, especially because of its quick and easy access to birding for almost anyone. Join the Birding Walk
If you would like to use one of Pinelands Adventures’ all-terrain wheelchairs for this trip, please register through this link. Pinelands Adventures is an initiative of the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, a 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 grantee of the DDS Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program.
May 15, 2024
An NJ ABLE account promotes financial independence without jeopardizing eligibility for many means-tested benefits. Save money while maintaining important federal benefits, such as Medicaid and SSI. On May 23 from 6 pm to 7 pm, learn all the basics of ABLE savings, in an informative, clearly explained presentation, and invest in your future! See the attached flyer for more information.
Presented by Amanda Gerson, NJ Division of Disability Services Manager of Outreach, Education, & Innovation. Register here
Living with a disability and working can be complicated when it comes to benefits! Learn the basics of how employment can impact medical and social security benefits while also becoming aware of resources and guidance available to beneficiaries. With the right guidance, significant earnings while maintaining key benefits may be possible for you or your loved one!
Presented by Adam Kubler, Certified Work Incentive Practitioner and Employment Coordinator at the NJCDD. Register here
As interest in Employment First gains ground, state agencies and service providers are being called upon to rethink how they support people with disabilities and help them become valued members of our workforce.
Date: Friday, May 17, 2024 | Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm |Register here
This advanced notice is available, as published on the New Jersey Department of Human Services Public Notice site on April 24, 2024. The thirty-day informal comment period ends May 24, 2024. You may submit written comments electronically to: Ddd-co.Lapo@dhs.nj.gov or by regular mail to:
Carol Jones, Administrative Practice Officer
Division of Developmental Disabilities
PO Box 726, Trenton, NJ 08625-0726
In this webinar, DCR representatives will clarify what the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination says about assistance animals, and answer some of the questions we frequently hear from members of the public. Through case studies and discussion, participants will learn about their rights and obligations under the law regarding service and emotional support animals. Register here
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) offers trainings aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination through its Education and Training Unit. These interactive sessions educate participants about their rights and responsibilities under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, the New Jersey Family Leave Act, the Fair Chance in Housing Act as well as raise awareness about current anti-bias issues.
All trainings are currently being offered for FREE to the public. For additional training topics and dates, click here.
Join fellow parent leaders, district staff, and community members for a brainstorming and networking session on Monday, May 20 at 7:00 pm or Wednesday, May 22 at 10:00 am via Zoom.
Engaging Parents of Students with Disabilities is a partnership between the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education (NJOSE) and SPAN Parent Advocacy Network. Spanish Interpretation available. Register here
Join FCHS Educators and Alzheimer’s Association volunteers Shailja Mathur and Luanne Hughes to learn about the latest research and get insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Use hands-on tools to help incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging. Presenter: Luanne Hughes, MS, RDN & Shailja Mathur, MS, MEd, RDN
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
May 10, 2024
With the stress and uncertainty in the world right now, learn how you can identify the emotional needs and provide assistance to others in your community, family, or organization. QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a suicide prevention training, will be offered at no cost. See flyer attached.
Please register in advance through link below each date.
Question, Persuade, Refer (2 Hours) – Closed Caption*
May 13th 2024 1:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register here
Question, Persuade, Refer (2 Hours) – Closed Caption*
May 24nd 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register here
* Closed captioning is available with all trainings. If assistance is needed related to an accommodation, please email Amy Hassa at least two weeks prior to the training.
May 7, 2024
The Rowan-Virtua Regional Integrated Special Needs (RISN) Center, South Jersey’s first primary care practice dedicated to serving individuals with complex special needs, has launched an initiative to improve sexual and reproductive healthcare for women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant from the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services, the effort aims to elevate the standard of care and eliminate health-care disparities by reducing the stigma associated with sexuality education, deescalating patient fears, addressing potential histories of sexual trauma, and empowering patients to participate in their own health-care decisions, according to a press release from the New Jersey Department of Human Services (NJDHS). Click here to read the full article.
Wednesday, May 8th – Communicating Effectively with Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Join FCHS educators and Alzheimer’s Association volunteers Luanne Hughes and Shailja Mathur to explore ways that Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect an individual’s ability to communicate across different stages, and get tips to better communicate with people living with their disease. Presenter: Luanne Hughes, MS, RDN & Shailja Mathur, MS, MEd, RDN
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
May 3, 2024
We mark Mental Health Awareness Month every May to raise awareness about mental health, fight stigma and provide support.
Mental health and wellness is an essential part of overall health and well-being. New Jersey, including through our Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, has been focused on building effective, responsive and integrated services and support for children, youth and adults. We remain committed to a behavioral health system that offers comprehensive, integrated, coordinated, person-centered treatments and supports that are compassionately delivered.
Read the full message from Commissioner Adelman in the NJ DHS May 2024 Newsletter
See the NJ DHS May 2024 Newsletter for the Spanish and the Closed Captioned versions for 9-8-8.
Quick Tips to Boost Your Mental Health — Implementing routines for stress relief at work and at home can increase happiness and motivation. Check out Mental Health America’s 31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health to learn small tips that can have a big impact on your mental health.
Daily Wellness Activities: Need a quick in-office break? Try this 14-minute office break yoga, or this 7-minute stretch break.
Head-Healthy Nutrition: Nutrition is one factor of mental wellbeing that is often neglected. Review the Mental Health Foundation’s briefing on mental health and nutrition to learn how eating well can improve your mental health.
Managing Stress in the Work Place: The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends keeping track of your stressors to develop effective ways to prevent getting overwhelmed. You can read all of APA’s recommendations in “Coping With Stress at Work”
The Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services is offering the Mental Health Awareness Month Webinar series. These weekly webinars are Wednesdays from noon to 1pm.
May 1, 2024
For information on accessibility and accommodations, visit the Abilities Expo Show Services website
April 30, 2024
(TRENTON) – The Trenton Health Team in collaboration with local partners and stakeholders has launched an effort to improve access to food pantries for individuals with disabilities in Mercer County. The initiative is funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant from the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services.
Since the U.S. Department of Agriculture finds that food insecurity is more common and severe in households that include an individual with a disability, the Trenton Health Team has developed a plan to make food pantries across Mercer County more inclusive and accessible. Click here to read the full article.
Plan Focuses on Improving Overall Health and Wellbeing of Those Served by the Agencies (TRENTON) – The $1.66 million federally funded plan focuses on improving the overall health and wellbeing of individuals served by the agencies, with an emphasis on the treatment of hepatitis C and the integration of clients’ behavioral and medical healthcare.
“As we continue to integrate behavioral and physical health care, it’s important that treatment includes nurse care management, case management and health coaching to reduce identifiable health risks associated with hepatitis C, other infectious diseases and medical issues that people managing opioid use disorder are at high risk of contracting,” Commissioner Adelman said. “Research shows that behavioral health interventions help people successfully initiate and remain in care for hepatitis C and substance use disorder treatments. By reducing barriers to seeking treatments for disease, we can help the whole person.” Click here to read the full article.
New Jersey is among 20 states that will join two technical assistance programs to help better recruit, train, and retain direct care workers, who provide home and community-based services for older adults and people with disabilities.
Each state receives up to 250 hours of individualized technical assistance to support them in addressing direct care worker challenges. Each team includes reps from the state’s Medicaid, aging, disability & workforce development agencies, in addition to other stakeholders. Click here for more
Regional Family Support Planning Council #4 (Essex) invites family members with a loved one with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) to an engaging presentation on collaborating with support coordinators to create person-centered Individualized Supports Plan (ISP). We are inviting support coordinators to discuss their strategies for identifying the unique needs, preferences, and aspirations of the individuals they serve. They will explain how the information can be used to create the support systems an individual needs to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Multi-lingual closed captioning is available. If you speak other than English, please indicate so on the registration site or contact Kerry.McGrath@njcdd.org or609-984-4516. Click links for flyers in English and Spanish. Register here.
Parents, siblings, and family members of children and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities are cordially invited to our special **in-person** meeting on Saturday, May 4 2024, from 10am – 12pm.
The Regional Family Support Planning Council #5 (Middlesex, Mercer, Hunterdon) advocates for families and individuals with developmental disabilities at the local and state level on issues that directly impact their lives.
This is an **in-person** event. Real-time AI captioning and language translation are available via the participant’s mobile device. For more information, contact Kyoko.Coco@njcdd.org. Click links for flyers in English and Spanish. Register here.
Join FCHS educators and Alzheimer’s Association volunteers Shailja Mathur and Luanne Hughes for a discussion about Alzheimer’s and dementia. Learn basic information about Alzheimer’s and dementia, stages, risk factors, research, and FDA-approved treatments. Presenter: Luanne Hughes, MS, RDN & Shailja Mathur, MS, MEd, RDN
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
April 29, 2024
The National Core Indicators® State of the Workforce Survey is open through June 30, 2024 and participation by as many eligible providers as possible is critical to ensure valid results. Email invitations were sent to eligible DDD providers – to the provider email address on file in iRecord – on March 5, with follow-up invitations sent on April 26.
If your agency has not received an invitation to participate, please contact DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov as soon as possible.
The data collected through this annual survey helps us examine and respond to challenges in New Jersey’s Direct Support Professional workforce serving adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. To learn more, visit National Core Indicators® or see our NCI State of the Workforce Overview.
On Friday, May 10, 2024, the DDD Office of Education on Self-Directed Services is collaborating with the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Family Development (DFD) to host a webinar about programs available through DFD, including NJ SNAP and WorkFirst NJ. While the information is geared toward individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families, all are welcome to attend.
Friday, May 10, 2024, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the May 23 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 26, 2024
The New York Deafblind Collaborative (NYDBC) is hosting a CHARGE Syndrome Conference HERE in Princeton, NJ the weekend of June 7-9. This conference/family learning retreat for families and professionals is an amazing opportunity to gather for learning from the experts and networking with the community.
New Jersey Center on Deafblindness is offering to cover the $125 registration fee for any New Jersey family registered with NJCDB. Register here for the conference
Session begins at 3:00 pm EST and has the following objectives:
Register here.
Session begins at 10:00 am EST and will be virtual only. Send any agenda items you want to be considered to Tom Grady, Director of Advocacy and Public Affairs by 3:00 PM, Monday, May 6th, 2024.
The Voices Advancing the Brain Injury Community champions and publicizes the advocacy, rights, and needs of people who have sustained a brain injury, and their families. Do you want your voice heard? Register here.
Session begins at 12:00 pm EST and will be and will be presented by Jennifer Vasilik. Stroke can be an overwhelming experience for patients and caregivers, from the day of incidence through the rehabilitative process.
In this webinar, BIANJ will:
Wednesday, May 1st – The Traumatic Loss Coalition’s Hopes Program
A new program designed to provide early peer support to families bereaved by the suicide loss of a child. Speakers: Brett Peppe and Wendy Sefcik
Wednesday, July 3rd – The Rutgers University Gun Violence Research Center
Learn about the role of firearms in American suicide and address various interventions. Speaker: Dr. Michael Anestis
Wednesday, September 4th – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
An overview and update of the new nationwide 3-digit dialing code for suicide prevention, mental health and substance use crisis. Speaker: Mary Jean Weston
Wednesday, November 6th – Climate Change Impact on Suicide
Researchers have demonstrated correlations between higher temperatures and increased suicide rates. Speaker: Steve Crimando
All virtual sessions are from 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Select credits will be offered. Register here.
April 24, 2024
This panel will showcase the work of four of our amazing grantees from the Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program. Through inclusion of people with disabilities, the NJ Department of Human Services’ Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program (IHC) advances policy, systems and environmental change to address pre-existing social and structural determinants of health to build healthy communities for all. Now in its third funding cycle, IHC has supported work related to food security, affordable housing, access to health care, civic engagement, workforce development, access to nature, recreation, arts and culture and many other sectors. This panel focuses on the work of four current IHC grantees to deliver equitable health and mental health services to people with disabilities. Grantees on this panel will provide overviews of their approaches to expanding access to health and mental health services for people with disabilities and the successes and challenges they have encountered in doing this work.
Date: May 10, 2024; Session will take place at 1:20-2:35pm.
Location: Ocean Place Resort & Spa, Long Branch, NJ | Register here.
April 24, 2024
There is a 30-day informal public comment period for both, which ends May 24, 2024. Written comments may be submitted as follows:
Carol Jones, Administrative Practice Officer Division of Developmental Disabilities PO Box 726 Trenton, NJ 08625-0726
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 24, 2024
On April 24, 2024, an Advance Notice of Proposed Readoption with Amendments: N.J.A.C. 10:41A, Human Rights Committees (HRC), was published on the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Public Notices page. There is a 30-day informal public comment period, which ends May 24, 2024. Written comments may be submitted as follows:
Carol Jones, Administrative Practice Officer, Division of Developmental Disabilities
PO Box 726, Trenton, NJ 08625-0726
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 24, 2024
The Division of Developmental Disabilities’ (DDD) April 2024 release of its updated Community Care Program and Supports Program policy manuals includes a new policy section that may affect a small number of individuals ages 18 through 21. Please review and share DDD’s Information Bulletin on Limited Circumstances Where a Person Ages 18 through 21 May Receive Division Services.
An overview of the new policy will be provided at the next DDD Update Webinar on April 25 (see below).
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 23, 2024
The Division of Developmental Disabilities has updated the policy and procedure manuals for our Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs, the Community Care Program and Supports Program. You will find a summary of changes on page two of each manual, and a detailed overview will be provided at the next DDD Update Webinar on April 25 (Register Now).
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 19, 2024
Young Audiences Inspires with United We Discover Arts Program for Students with Disabilities; Program Funded by NJ Human Services’ Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program
(PRINCETON) – Young Audiences of New Jersey & Eastern Pennsylvania has launched an innovative arts program designed to provide enriching arts experiences for students with disabilities in New Jersey.
Called United We Discover, the program promotes inclusivity and creativity in education, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to explore the transformative power of the arts. The initiative is funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant from NJ Human Services’ Division of Disability Service. United We Discover is currently available in Paterson, Newark, Hightstown, and New Brunswick. Programming is offered during the school day and in collaboration with classroom teachers. Click here to read the full article.
Rowan-Virtua RISN Center Using NJ Human Services Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant to Improve Healthcare for Women with Developmental Disabilities
Funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant from the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services, the effort aims to elevate the standard of care and eliminate healthcare disparities by reducing the stigma associated with sexuality education, deescalating patient fears, addressing potential histories of sexual trauma, and empowering patients to participate in their own healthcare decisions.
Click here to read the full article.
NJ Human Services Awards Contracts to Develop Crisis Diversion Homes
(TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced the Department has awarded more than $3.6 million in contracts to develop recovery-oriented crisis diversion homes, which will provide care and services to individuals who have recently experienced a mental health crisis.
“Crisis diversion homes offer a supportive environment for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis and, by focusing on stabilization and empowerment, promote long-lasting recovery,” said Commissioner Adelman. “We look forward to these homes operating in Warren, Mercer, and Gloucester counties and ensuring those in need get help.”
The program will be funded by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Community Mental Health Block Grant. State funds will also be available to fund provider costs, as available and needed. Click here to read the full article.
April is #ABLEtoSave month! #ABLEtoSave month is here! Individuals with disabilities and their families can use ABLE accounts to save and invest for disability expenses and help build long-term financial wellness.
What is Ugift®? Ugift is an easy, free-to-use service that lets friends and family contribute directly into a loved one’s NJ ABLE plan account in lieu of traditional gifts. All gift contributions sent in to Ugift are invested into the account owner’s ABLE plan account and can be used to pay for disability-related expenses.
Are there any fees involved in Ugift? No. Neither the account owner nor the gift giver has to pay any fees for using Ugift. The entire amount of the gift will be deposited into the account owner’s ABLE plan account.
How do I get a Ugift code? Ugift codes have to be initiated by the ABLE plan account owner. If you want to use Ugift to contribute to an ABLE account, reach out to the account owner to ask them if they have an NJ ABLE plan. If so, they can log into their account to get a Ugift code and share it with you.
How does the account owner know that I made a gift? When the account owner views their ABLE account online, your name will display next to the amount of your gift.
For more information, login to your NJ ABLE account at NJ.SaveWithABLE.com, and click on the Ugift banner at the top, or visit UgiftABLE.com
Collaborative Leadership: Fostering Sustainable Change for Disabled Survivors
A two-part technical assistance training for organizations serving people with disabilities and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Upcoming Virtual Sessions:
Virtual sessions will be held 10:00 am -12:30 pm. Registration details coming soon…For more information or to request accommodations, please email training@ssw.rutgers.edu. ASL Interpretation will be available. See attached for more information.
New Jersey Human Services Ear with a hearing aid. Hands doing sign language. DDHH Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SENSITIVITY TRAININGS
The Department of Human Services’ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is hosting these trainings open to the public to provide information about deaf and hard of hearing culture, common challenges, and strategies for effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Register here for Thursday April 25th 10am training session
Register here for Thursday May 23rd 1pm training session
See attached flyers (English and Spanish) for more information
The Gary Rubin Independence and Advocacy Fund from the New Jersey American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (NJAAIDD)
The New Jersey American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (NJAAIDD) dedicates this emergency fund to Gary Rubin, NJCDD council member, former NJAAIDD board member, and nationally recognized and respected advocate. Gary has dedicated his life and energy to promoting the independence of people with disabilities, closing institutions, and expanding community supports.
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can apply for this grant up to $5,000 to meet emergency needs such as medical care, utility bills, housing needs, scholarships, and other major emergencies.
Contact Walter Kalman at wkalman@njaaidd.org for more information. Click here to download the brochure
April 12, 2024
Trenton Health Team Uses NJ Human Services Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant to Enhance Food Pantry Accessibility for People with Disabilities in Mercer County
(TRENTON) – The Trenton Health Team in collaboration with local partners and stakeholders has launched an effort to improve access to food pantries for individuals with disabilities in Mercer County. The initiative is funded in part by an Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant from the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services.
Since the U.S. Department of Agriculture finds that food insecurity is more common and severe in households that include an individual with a disability, the Trenton Health Team has developed a plan to make food pantries across Mercer County more inclusive and accessible. Click here to read the full article.
April is #ABLEtoSave Month! Open an NJ ABLE Account today! Visit NJ.SaveWithABLE.com!
Learn about ABLE accounts from the ABLE NRC! With live and on-demand free webinars, decisions guides, FAQs and more, the ABLE National Resource Center is a valuable source of information about ABLE savings accounts and federal and state-related ABLE programs. (See here for ABLE NRC’s ¡Información de ABLE en español!)
Check out ABLE NRC Live & Recorded Webinars:
Wednesday, April 24th – Autism Speaks: Empowering People with Autism through Inclusive Hiring & ABLE Accounts
You are invited to join ABLE today and Autism Speaks for a national webinar marking World Autism Awareness Month and National Financial Literacy. This webinar is specifically designed for the Autism community, Employers, HR and DEI executives to learn about 1) the power of ABLE accounts for individuals with autism, family members and caregivers; 2) how to leverage ABLE accounts as a workplace benefit and 3) how to tap Autism Speaks’ Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN) to help expand your workforce inclusion. This webinar will begin at 2pm EST. Register here.
April 9, 2024
Call for Proposal 2024 Opioid Summit
The Summit aims to provide various stakeholders the opportunity to participate in panels and breakout sessions that assist individuals with navigating addiction and recovery pathways.
DMHAS is seeking proposals from clinicians, peers, recovery specialists, medical professionals, criminal justice professionals, researchers and other stakeholders who have experience in opioid use disorder subject matter to share innovative approaches to harm reduction, prevention, treatment, the recovery process, stigma and integrative care coordination. We invite all interested individuals to submit a proposal. Submission Deadline: Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) State Plan Open for Public Comment
The New Jersey State Employment Training Commission, along with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development announce that the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) State Plan is open for public comment beginning April 5th through April 19th, 2024. The WIOA State Plan guides New Jersey’s workforce development system in assisting state residents, including youth and those with significant barriers to employment, to move into high-quality jobs and careers while also helping employers hire and retain skilled workers.
Under law, each state’s governor must submit a WIOA State Plan to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor that outlines a four-year strategy for the State’s workforce development system. The publicly funded workforce development system is a national network of agencies that provide a range of employment, education, training, and related support services. States must have approved plans in place to receive funding for core programs.
The WIOA State Plan can be viewed at SETC (nj.gov) To submit comments, email joan.desmarais@dol.nj.gov or mail written comments to:
New Jersey State Employment and Training Commission
One John Fitch Plaza, PO Box 940
Trenton, NJ 08625-0940
nTIDE March 2024 Jobs Report: Maintain Strong Employment Levels Through End of Year, Staying at Historic Highs
National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) – is issued semi-monthly by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire.
March job numbers showed minimal changes for people with disabilities, according to today’s National Trends in Disability Employment – semi-monthly update (nTIDE), issued by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability (UNH-IOD). Despite small declines in the employment-to-population ratio over the past four months, employment remains at historically high levels for people with disabilities. The small gain in their labor force participation rate is a positive sign that people with disabilities are still engaging in the labor market by looking for work. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 18th – Your Rights Regarding Assistive Technology
People who need assistive technology are often eligible for programs that can assess a person’s need or try out a device that may help them at home or in the community. There are even programs that can help pay for the purchase or repair of AT. Sometimes people who need AT experience barriers to their getting the AT funding that is meant to help them.
Remember, AT may include communication, hearing or vision devices, home or vehicle modifications and much more. In this webinar from the National Disability Institute, you will learn about AT assistance available through Disability Rights organizations. Presenter: Helen Hellmuth, Senior Advocate from Disability Rights New York. This webinar begins at 12:00. pm and will last one hour. Register here.
Wednesday, April 10th – Spring Foodies: Taking Advantage of NJ Produce in the Spring!
As the weather starts to warm up in the beautiful Garden State, some of our favorite Jersey Fresh produce is growing and may be ready for harvesting. This session will provide an overview of the seasonal produce available during April, May, and June, featuring healthy recipes, and tools you can use to find your local grower. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
April 5, 2024
April is #ABLEtoSave Month!
Join the NJ Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability Services as we celebrate #ABLEtoSave Month, with featured information every Friday on the benefits of opening an NJ ABLE account, how to open and maximize your NJ ABLE account, and more! To learn more and open an NJ ABLE Account today, visit NJ.SaveWithABLE.com!
Brought to you by the ABLE National Resource Center (ABLE NRC), the #ABLEtoSave month-long campaign provides people with disabilities and their families information about the significance of ABLE accounts and how these accounts can be used to address daily needs, help achieve long-term goals and dreams and increase their financial well-being. See below for free webinar opportunities in the month of April.
Tuesday, April 16th at 2pm ET – #ABLEtoSave Opens the Door to Housing Opportunities
Discover how ABLE accounts can help with housing! Hear from our ABLE ambassadors, Edward and Emily, who will talk about their own experiences. This webinar is for people with disabilities, their families and supporters. You will learn how ABLE accounts can be used whether you live alone, with others, rent, own a home or want to buy a home. Register here.
Thursday, April 25th at 2pm ET – #ABLEtoSave for Lifelong Financial Wellness
This engaging event will highlight four ABLE ambassadors, each representing different life stages—preteen, transition, work, and retirement. They will share their strategic use of ABLE accounts to create a better economic future for themselves or their family members. It is never too early or too late to open an ABLE Account! Register here.
What is Register Ready?
Register Ready is a free, secure, voluntary database designed to help emergency managers and first responders plan for and support people with disabilities and access and functional needs (DAFN). You (or someone on your behalf) are encouraged to register if you have a physical, developmental, cognitive, or behavioral impairment. Click here for more information
Morris–Sussex Transition Partnership Regional Transition Fair
In this transition fair, any family and student who has a 504 or IEP working through the transition phase can attend. The fair highlights service providers, agencies, and local organizations that offer services for teens and young adults with disabilities.
Date: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: 306 Lathrop Ave, Boonton, NJ 07005 (Boonton High School’s Gymnasium)
Host: Boonton High School, in Partnership with the Morris and Sussex
Transition Partnership Committee and DAWN Center for Independent Living Questions? Contact morrissussextransition@gmail.com Register here.
April 3, 2024
DHS Public Notice of Rule Adoptions
A Notice of Readoption with Amendments of N.J.A.C. 10:46D, Contribution to Care and Maintenance Requirements, and an Administrative Change to N.J.A.C. 10:46D-3.2 were published on the New Jersey Department of Human Services Rule Adoptions page on April 1, 2024.
REMINDER! Next DDD Update Webinar is Thursday, April 25
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
Get Ready. Get Registered. VOTE!
Visit the New Jersey Voter Information Portal to get started!
April 2, 2024
School Transportation Listening Sessions
The New Jersey Department of Education is hosting three school transportation safety listening sessions with the support of the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities and SPAN Parent Advocacy Network. The Department of Education’s new Director of the Office of School Bus Safety, James Scaringelli, and the Special Education Ombudsman, Cynthia Hoenes-Saindon, would like to hear from individuals with disabilities and their families about their experiences, concerns and recommendations with school transportation for students for disabilities.
Register here for Monday April 29th 1pm listening session
Register here for Monday May 2nd 7pm listening session
Register here for Monday May 6th 1pm listening session
Multi-lingual closed captioning is available for this event. Contact Kerry McGrath at kerry.mcgrath@njcdd.org or 609-984-4516 if you have any questions.
Biggest, Most Unique, and Accessible Playgrounds in North Jersey to Check Out This Spring
Click here to find out some of the biggest and most unique playgrounds in North Jersey, many of which are wheelchair accessible.
Free Virtual Classes for Older Adults
Click here to access the Online Classes
Wednesday, April 3rd – Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health – National Public Health Week
Feeling like we belong, being a part of our communities and fostering cultural connections supports our health and the quality of our lives. Learn about how everyone can make their communities healthier, safer and stronger when we support and stay engaged with one another. Presenter: Jennifer Taylor, RDN, CHES
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
April 1, 2024
With an increased availability of fingerprinting appointments, the Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Office of Program Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) will be returning to normal onboarding requirements for direct support professionals and self-directed employees effective April 15, 2024. OPIA will continue the temporary clearance process until then.
Effective April 15, 2024, new hires must complete onboarding requirements prior to employment, and OPIA’s Employment Controls and Compliance Unit (ECCU) will no longer process emergency requests for hire. For employees who have already begun employment based on emergency approval prior to April 15, 2024, employers have until June 15, 2024 to complete criminal background checks via fingerprinting.
Please review the April 1 DHS Information Bulletin, Updated Employee Onboarding Requirements.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
April 1, 2024
With an increased availability of fingerprinting appointments, the Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Office of Program Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) will be returning to normal onboarding requirements for direct support professionals and self-directed employees effective April 15, 2024. OPIA will continue the temporary clearance process until then.
Effective April 15, 2024, new hires must complete onboarding requirements prior to employment, and OPIA’s Employment Controls and Compliance Unit (ECCU) will no longer process emergency requests for hire. For employees who have already begun employment based on emergency approval prior to April 15, 2024, employers have until June 15, 2024 to complete criminal background checks via fingerprinting.
Please review the April 1 DHS Information Bulletin, Updated Employee Onboarding Requirements.
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the April 25 DDD Update Webinar.
March 28, 2024
Family Networking Sessions Spring 2024 Schedule is Here
The DDD Office of Education on Self-Directed Services hosts networking sessions for people and families who are, or are interested in, self-directing some or all their DDD-funded services. The first spring session is in-person on Wednesday, April 3 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Bergen Community College. Advance registration is required and location details are available when you register. Register Now for April 3 Bergen County Family Networking Session
See the full schedule and register for upcoming sessions (April through June): Family Networking Sessions Spring 2024
March 27, 2024
REMINDER! Next DDD Update Webinar is Thursday, March 28
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the March 28 DDD Update Webinar.
March 22, 2024
Visit WorldDownSyndromeDay.org to learn more.
Look to the Future: Transition from School to Adult Life
This workshop will discuss issues relating to transitioning from school to adult life, identifying outcomes, and developing goals as part of the IEP process. Parents and students will become knowledgeable regarding resources in the community in order to build linkages and ensure a dignified life as contributing citizens.
Date: March 26, 2024 12:00am – 1:00pm Presenter: Dawn Monaco
For more information, you may contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org Register here.
2024 State Rehabilitation Council
Public Forums Listening Session Registration Deadline is Tuesday April 23rd Register here
Thursday, April 4th – ABLE Accounts and Social Security Beneftis: Representative Payees, Reporting and More
This webinar will include two additional forms of accessible capabilities: ASL communicators and for the first time Spanish translation. We look forward to a great webinar and appreciate your help in promote this great ABLE outreach opportunity.
This is the second national ABLE webinar hosted by ABLE Savings Plans Network and ABLE today in collaboration with the U.S. Social Security Administration and it will begin at 1pm. Register here.
March 15, 2024
Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey Conducting Needs Assessment
The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey is conducting a statewide needs assessment on Traumatic Brain Injury and quality of life and access to services amongst survivors, caregivers, and service providers. This study is supported by the Administration for Community Living, Traumatic Brain Injury State Partnership Program Grant and approved by the Rowan University Institutional Review Board (Study # PRO-2022-310).
With this needs assessment, the aim is to better understand the current picture of TBI in the state and direct efforts to areas that are the most in need of attention. The first part of the study will consist of individual surveys conducted online, over the phone, and on paper. After this, there will be focus groups in South, Central, and North Jersey.
The hope is to get a well-represented screenshot of the gaps in TBI services in New Jersey. The direct link to the surveys is HERE.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Sakina Ladha, MD, MPH by email at sladha@bianj.org or by phone at 609-480-2271.
Bridging the Disparity Gap: Improving Equity in Brain Injury Care and Prevention
The overall objective of the 2024 BIANJ Annual Seminar is to provide an educational opportunity to professionals working with individuals affected by brain injury through workshops related to research, clinical innovations and strategies, rehabilitation and advocacy.
The 2024 Annual Professional Seminar is funded in part by the New Jersey Division of Disability Services and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
Date: May 1, 2024 8:30am – 4:30pm
Location: The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset, NJ 08873
Click here for more information.
Early registration rate is available through March 31st, 2024 Register here.
Questions? Contact the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey at 732-745-0200 or info@bianj.org.
BIANJ Introduces their New Resource Center App!
This all new app makes it easy to find a variety of brain injury resources throughout New Jersey. Find it on the Google Play Store and App Store to download.
The Days Last Forever, but the Years Fly by: Navigating the Secondary Transition Process
Families and caregivers are crucial partners in assisting youth in transitioning from high school to adult life. This session will:
Date: March 27, 2024 12:00am – 1:30pm
Presenter: NTACT-The Collaborative
Register here.
Accessible Performances at the Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University
Title: Resonance, a dance concert
Dates/Times: March 29 at 7:30 p.m. and March 30 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. The March 29 performance will be open captioned.
Location: Hearst Dance Theater at Lewis Arts complex
Click here for tickets and more information.
Title: She Loves Me, a musical
Dates/Times: March 29 & 30, April 5 & 6 at 8:00 p.m. The April 5 performance will be open captioned.
Location: Wallace Theater at Lewis Arts complex
Click here for tickets and more information.
Performances are in accessible venues with an assistive listening system. Guests in need of other access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at least one week in advance at lewiscenter@princeton.edu
March 12, 2024
FREE Upcoming Webinars
Thursday, March 14th – NJ Family Engagement Hub Kick-Off Webinar
Learn about the New Jersey Family Engagement Hub (NJ FE Hub), which is a project of SPAN Parent Advocacy Network. The NJ FE Hub recognizes that students thrive when families and communities are engaged in the school community, increasing the likelihood of student success. SPAN Parent Advocacy Network aims to promote and engage in activities and policies that build collaborative partnerships among youth, families, schools, and communities to enhance child development and student achievement. They will highlight their next steps and how they can partner with you in this exciting work. Register here.
Wednesday, March 13th – Healthy Snacks for Teens and Adults
Discover the best healthy, quick and easy snack ideas for teens and adults from homemade popcorn to nutritious nachos to frozen fruity treats. Presenter: Karen Ensle EdD, RDN, FAND, CFCS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
March 5, 2024
NJ Human Services Opens College Scholarship Program for Blind, Deaf-Blind and Visually Impaired Students
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced students can now apply to the 2024 Board of Trustees Scholarship program, which provides college scholarships to individuals who are blind, deaf-blind, and/or visually impaired. The program, run by Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI), is open to high school seniors and college students, of any age, who are registered to attend the 2024-2025 academic year. Students must be active or eligible CBVI clients. For full eligibility requirements please visit here. Click here to read the full article.
Event: Twinkle Time!
Date: April 3, 2024 at 2pm
Location: Grunin Center for the Arts at Ocean County College
This performance will be a Relaxed Performance. Relaxed performances are designed to be a welcoming environment for all visitors, including neurodiverse individuals with sensory needs. Families who do not require these accommodations are still welcome to attend.
Described as “like Lady Gaga for kids,” Twinkle breaks barriers with both her music and flamboyant Harajuku-style presentation teaching kids to accept everyone, their differences, and to celebrate in what makes them unique-bringing all walks of life together through Music, Arts, Dance and Pop Culture. For additional information and to purchase tickets, click here.
March 5, 2024
NJ Human Services Seeks Proposals for Crisis Prevention & Intervention Team Serving Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Need
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced Human Services is seeking proposals to develop evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has issued a request for proposals to develop a new START Model program. START – which stands for Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment – provides community-based crisis prevention and intervention services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. This model focuses on reducing emergency room visits, hospitals admissions, caregiver burnout, and calls to police as well as building community capacity to successfully support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Click here to read the full article.
Four Basic Signs of a Scam
Recognizing the signs of a scam gives you the power to ignore criminals and report the scam. Scams come in many varieties, but they all work the same way:
For more information on how to avoid scams, how to report them, and what to do if you’ve been a victim of a scam, see resources from the Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Administration.
Educators Conference Journeys of Inclusion: Charting Compassion, Courage and Community
Date: Friday, March 15, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00pm
Location: Kean University, Liberty Hall Academic Center
1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083 | Campus Map This program is presented in partnership with the New Jersey Education Association, Kean University, the New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, the Holocaust Resource Center of Kean University, and the NJEA Consortium, which invite you to this dynamic, one-day event. Click here to RSVP
Wednesday, March 6th – Eating the Rainbow: Adding a Variety of Colorful Fruits and Vegetables to Your Plate
You may have heard the phrase “It’s important to eat the rainbow“; but what does that really mean? This session will share the health benefits of eating a variety of colorful foods and easy ways you can include a diversity of colorful produce into your meals throughout the week. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm (new time in 2023), are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
March 4, 2024
Governor Murphy Proclaims March 2024 as Brain Injury Awareness Month in New Jersey!
Since head injuries are so common across the U.S. and the world, Brain Injury Awareness Day is held annually on March 4, and we recognize the entire month of March as Brain Injury Awareness Month.
This day and month brings awareness to educate the public, communities, and decision-makers about the effects of brain injury, as well as to honor people living with brain injury and their families. Brain injuries can lead to long-term changes for the affected person and their loved ones, and present challenges to everyday life. Today the world is more aware of brain injuries, their causes, and how best to prevent them, but there is lots of room for improvement, which is why the U.S. observes Brain Injury Awareness Day and Month.
Through our Traumatic Brain Injury Fund, DDS provides New Jersey residents who have survived a traumatic brain injury the opportunity to access services and supports they need to live in the community, foster independence, and maximize quality of life when insurance, personal resources, and public programs are unavailable to meet those needs. A portion of the Fund is also used to support public education, outreach, and prevention activities related to TBI.
For more information about the TBI Fund, visit our website at: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dds/services/tbis/tbifund/index.html OR Call: 1-888-285-3036
BIANJ Program Spotlight Facebook Live Series
March 11, 12:30 PM: Join BIANJ Director of Support Services Elizabeth Van Roten and Support Services Manager Stacy Lyons for a discussion about BIANJ ‘s new Peer Mentoring program and support groups.
March 18, 12:30 PM: Join BIANJ Camp TREK Director Rachel Ishak, Assistant Director Kim Myers and special guests to hear everything camp related for 2024!
March 25, 12:30 PM: Listen in as BIANJ Director of Education and Outreach, Barbara Chabner, has a conversation with survivors of Acquired Brain Injury who share their personal experiences.Click here for the BIANJ Facebook page
Virtual Brain Injury Awareness Day
Join BIANJ staff and partners, brain injury advocates and legislators on March 13, 10:00am at a virtual day of awareness that will feature a discussion of important topics in the brain injury community. A Q & A session will conclude the day. Register here
RWJ Barnabas Health New Jersey State Concussion Summit, co-sponsored by BIANJ
Attend to learn more about concussion innovations and technology, updates on the international consensus, concussion nutrition, mental health effects and more!
Date: March 11, 8:30am – 1:30pm
Location: Monmouth University, West Long Branch
Click here for more information.
Wednesday, March 20, 2024 – Effective Community Reintegration Post Brain Injury
This presentation will take a deeper look at the challenges faced by individuals who have sustained a brain injury that may affect one’s success in being able to integrate back into the community. We will dive into what encompasses community reintegration and its importance for individuals with brain injuries and their caregivers.
This webinar starts at 1pm ET and will be presented by Melissa Moyer. Register here.
March 1, 2024
U.S. Dept. of Education’s Office for Civil Rights Releases New Resources on Students with Disabilities
On February 20, The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released four new resources with information for students, parents and families, and schools addressing civil rights of students with disabilities, as well as a data snapshot about education access for students with disabilities drawn from OCR’s 2020-21 Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC).
OCR issued these new resources to inform students with disabilities, and their families and schools, about their legal rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities by institutions that accept federal financial assistance, which includes almost all public schools and public and private institutions of higher education. To view the release announcement and the new resources, click here.
State-Wide Survey of Older Adults, 2024
New Jersey Advocates for Aging Well (NJAAW) is conducting a statewide survey to gather older adult insight and opinions on aging in the state. Please help this effort by completing the survey and/or sharing this information with your network and consumers. This survey if for people who are age 60+, consider NJ their primary residence, and live independently in the community, NOT in skilled nursing settings or nursing homes. The survey period ends on March 15, 2024.
The survey can be completed electronically by visiting the NJAAW website (https://www.njaaw.org) or directly to the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X8X3VDS. A print version is attached and can be mailed to:
NJ Advocates for Aging Well, 3705 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 102, Hamilton, NJ 08619
Tuesday, March 12, 2024 11:00am – 12pm – Inclusion of Service Dogs
This session will discuss Nimit Kaur’s journey with her guide dog and to explore the distinction between service animals and emotional support animals as well as relevant legislation. Register here.
Thursday, March 21, 2024 11:00am – 12:15pm – ADA Overview
This session will review how the ADA defines “a person with a disability,” where and when the ADA applies, who has obligations under the ADA, and the various enforcement agencies involved with the ADA. Register here.
March 27, 2024
Social Security to Remove Barriers to Accessing SSI Payments
Today, the Social Security Administration published a final rule, “Omitting Food from In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM) Calculations.” The final rule announces the first of several updates to the agency’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) regulations that will help people receiving and applying for SSI.
Under the final rule, beginning September 30, 2024, the agency will no longer include food in ISM calculations. The new policy removes a critical barrier for SSI eligibility due to an applicant’s or recipient’s receipt of informal food assistance from friends, family, and community networks of support.
Read full blog post here: Social Security to Remove Barriers to Accessing SSI Payments | SSA
Abilities Expo: May 3-5
Join this year’s Abilities Expo – May 3, 4 and 5 at the NJ Convention and Expo Center in Edison. The Abilities Expo showcases a wide range of interactive events, informative workshops and the latest tech and disability products. Admission is free, register here
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Visit www.njoag.gov/cvrw to register
PODD Training
The Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center is thrilled to organize this multi day professional learning experience with PODD (Pragmatic Organization of Dynamic Display) trainer Kelly Fonner. Last year they hosted Kelly for a two-day Introduction to PODD training event.
For 2024, they are going to build on this and offer a range of PODD related training events designed to meet the needs of new participants and returning participants.
Dates: May 20, 2024 – May 23, 2024
Location: The Grand Hotel Cape May, 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
Register here
March 27, 2024
REMINDER! Next DDD Update Webinar is Thursday, March 28
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the March 28 DDD Update Webinar.
March 22, 2024
Visit WorldDownSyndromeDay.org to learn more.
Look to the Future: Transition from School to Adult Life
This workshop will discuss issues relating to transitioning from school to adult life, identifying outcomes, and developing goals as part of the IEP process. Parents and students will become knowledgeable regarding resources in the community in order to build linkages and ensure a dignified life as contributing citizens.
Date: March 26, 2024 12:00am – 1:00pm Presenter: Dawn Monaco
For more information, you may contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org Register here.
2024 State Rehabilitation Council
Public Forums Listening Session Registration Deadline is Tuesday April 23rd Register here
Thursday, April 4th – ABLE Accounts and Social Security Beneftis: Representative Payees, Reporting and More
This webinar will include two additional forms of accessible capabilities: ASL communicators and for the first time Spanish translation. We look forward to a great webinar and appreciate your help in promote this great ABLE outreach opportunity.
This is the second national ABLE webinar hosted by ABLE Savings Plans Network and ABLE today in collaboration with the U.S. Social Security Administration and it will begin at 1pm. Register here.
March 15, 2024
Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey Conducting Needs Assessment
The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey is conducting a statewide needs assessment on Traumatic Brain Injury and quality of life and access to services amongst survivors, caregivers, and service providers. This study is supported by the Administration for Community Living, Traumatic Brain Injury State Partnership Program Grant and approved by the Rowan University Institutional Review Board (Study # PRO-2022-310).
With this needs assessment, the aim is to better understand the current picture of TBI in the state and direct efforts to areas that are the most in need of attention. The first part of the study will consist of individual surveys conducted online, over the phone, and on paper. After this, there will be focus groups in South, Central, and North Jersey.
The hope is to get a well-represented screenshot of the gaps in TBI services in New Jersey. The direct link to the surveys is HERE.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Sakina Ladha, MD, MPH by email at sladha@bianj.org or by phone at 609-480-2271.
Bridging the Disparity Gap: Improving Equity in Brain Injury Care and Prevention
The overall objective of the 2024 BIANJ Annual Seminar is to provide an educational opportunity to professionals working with individuals affected by brain injury through workshops related to research, clinical innovations and strategies, rehabilitation and advocacy.
The 2024 Annual Professional Seminar is funded in part by the New Jersey Division of Disability Services and the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
Date: May 1, 2024 8:30am – 4:30pm
Location: The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset, NJ 08873
Click here for more information.
Early registration rate is available through March 31st, 2024 Register here.
Questions? Contact the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey at 732-745-0200 or info@bianj.org.
BIANJ Introduces their New Resource Center App!
This all new app makes it easy to find a variety of brain injury resources throughout New Jersey. Find it on the Google Play Store and App Store to download.
The Days Last Forever, but the Years Fly by: Navigating the Secondary Transition Process
Families and caregivers are crucial partners in assisting youth in transitioning from high school to adult life. This session will:
Date: March 27, 2024 12:00am – 1:30pm
Presenter: NTACT-The Collaborative
Register here.
Accessible Performances at the Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University
Title: Resonance, a dance concert
Dates/Times: March 29 at 7:30 p.m. and March 30 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. The March 29 performance will be open captioned.
Location: Hearst Dance Theater at Lewis Arts complex
Click here for tickets and more information.
Title: She Loves Me, a musical
Dates/Times: March 29 & 30, April 5 & 6 at 8:00 p.m. The April 5 performance will be open captioned.
Location: Wallace Theater at Lewis Arts complex
Click here for tickets and more information.
Performances are in accessible venues with an assistive listening system. Guests in need of other access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at least one week in advance at lewiscenter@princeton.edu
March 12, 2024
FREE Upcoming Webinars
Thursday, March 14th – NJ Family Engagement Hub Kick-Off Webinar
Learn about the New Jersey Family Engagement Hub (NJ FE Hub), which is a project of SPAN Parent Advocacy Network. The NJ FE Hub recognizes that students thrive when families and communities are engaged in the school community, increasing the likelihood of student success. SPAN Parent Advocacy Network aims to promote and engage in activities and policies that build collaborative partnerships among youth, families, schools, and communities to enhance child development and student achievement. They will highlight their next steps and how they can partner with you in this exciting work. Register here.
Wednesday, March 13th – Healthy Snacks for Teens and Adults
Discover the best healthy, quick and easy snack ideas for teens and adults from homemade popcorn to nutritious nachos to frozen fruity treats. Presenter: Karen Ensle EdD, RDN, FAND, CFCS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm, are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
March 5, 2024
NJ Human Services Opens College Scholarship Program for Blind, Deaf-Blind and Visually Impaired Students
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced students can now apply to the 2024 Board of Trustees Scholarship program, which provides college scholarships to individuals who are blind, deaf-blind, and/or visually impaired. The program, run by Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI), is open to high school seniors and college students, of any age, who are registered to attend the 2024-2025 academic year. Students must be active or eligible CBVI clients. For full eligibility requirements please visit here. Click here to read the full article.
Event: Twinkle Time!
Date: April 3, 2024 at 2pm
Location: Grunin Center for the Arts at Ocean County College
This performance will be a Relaxed Performance. Relaxed performances are designed to be a welcoming environment for all visitors, including neurodiverse individuals with sensory needs. Families who do not require these accommodations are still welcome to attend.
Described as “like Lady Gaga for kids,” Twinkle breaks barriers with both her music and flamboyant Harajuku-style presentation teaching kids to accept everyone, their differences, and to celebrate in what makes them unique-bringing all walks of life together through Music, Arts, Dance and Pop Culture. For additional information and to purchase tickets, click here.
March 5, 2024
NJ Human Services Seeks Proposals for Crisis Prevention & Intervention Team Serving Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Need
(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced Human Services is seeking proposals to develop evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has issued a request for proposals to develop a new START Model program. START – which stands for Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment – provides community-based crisis prevention and intervention services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. This model focuses on reducing emergency room visits, hospitals admissions, caregiver burnout, and calls to police as well as building community capacity to successfully support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Click here to read the full article.
Four Basic Signs of a Scam
Recognizing the signs of a scam gives you the power to ignore criminals and report the scam. Scams come in many varieties, but they all work the same way:
For more information on how to avoid scams, how to report them, and what to do if you’ve been a victim of a scam, see resources from the Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Administration.
Educators Conference Journeys of Inclusion: Charting Compassion, Courage and Community
Date: Friday, March 15, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00pm
Location: Kean University, Liberty Hall Academic Center
1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083 | Campus Map This program is presented in partnership with the New Jersey Education Association, Kean University, the New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, the Holocaust Resource Center of Kean University, and the NJEA Consortium, which invite you to this dynamic, one-day event. Click here to RSVP
Wednesday, March 6th – Eating the Rainbow: Adding a Variety of Colorful Fruits and Vegetables to Your Plate
You may have heard the phrase “It’s important to eat the rainbow“; but what does that really mean? This session will share the health benefits of eating a variety of colorful foods and easy ways you can include a diversity of colorful produce into your meals throughout the week. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm (new time in 2023), are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
March 4, 2024
Governor Murphy Proclaims March 2024 as Brain Injury Awareness Month in New Jersey!
Since head injuries are so common across the U.S. and the world, Brain Injury Awareness Day is held annually on March 4, and we recognize the entire month of March as Brain Injury Awareness Month.
This day and month brings awareness to educate the public, communities, and decision-makers about the effects of brain injury, as well as to honor people living with brain injury and their families. Brain injuries can lead to long-term changes for the affected person and their loved ones, and present challenges to everyday life. Today the world is more aware of brain injuries, their causes, and how best to prevent them, but there is lots of room for improvement, which is why the U.S. observes Brain Injury Awareness Day and Month.
Through our Traumatic Brain Injury Fund, DDS provides New Jersey residents who have survived a traumatic brain injury the opportunity to access services and supports they need to live in the community, foster independence, and maximize quality of life when insurance, personal resources, and public programs are unavailable to meet those needs. A portion of the Fund is also used to support public education, outreach, and prevention activities related to TBI.
For more information about the TBI Fund, visit our website at: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dds/services/tbis/tbifund/index.html OR Call: 1-888-285-3036
BIANJ Program Spotlight Facebook Live Series
March 11, 12:30 PM: Join BIANJ Director of Support Services Elizabeth Van Roten and Support Services Manager Stacy Lyons for a discussion about BIANJ ‘s new Peer Mentoring program and support groups.
March 18, 12:30 PM: Join BIANJ Camp TREK Director Rachel Ishak, Assistant Director Kim Myers and special guests to hear everything camp related for 2024!
March 25, 12:30 PM: Listen in as BIANJ Director of Education and Outreach, Barbara Chabner, has a conversation with survivors of Acquired Brain Injury who share their personal experiences.Click here for the BIANJ Facebook page
Virtual Brain Injury Awareness Day
Join BIANJ staff and partners, brain injury advocates and legislators on March 13, 10:00am at a virtual day of awareness that will feature a discussion of important topics in the brain injury community. A Q & A session will conclude the day. Register here
RWJ Barnabas Health New Jersey State Concussion Summit, co-sponsored by BIANJ
Attend to learn more about concussion innovations and technology, updates on the international consensus, concussion nutrition, mental health effects and more!
Date: March 11, 8:30am – 1:30pm
Location: Monmouth University, West Long Branch
Click here for more information.
Wednesday, March 20, 2024 – Effective Community Reintegration Post Brain Injury
This presentation will take a deeper look at the challenges faced by individuals who have sustained a brain injury that may affect one’s success in being able to integrate back into the community. We will dive into what encompasses community reintegration and its importance for individuals with brain injuries and their caregivers.
This webinar starts at 1pm ET and will be presented by Melissa Moyer. Register here.
March 1, 2024
U.S. Dept. of Education’s Office for Civil Rights Releases New Resources on Students with Disabilities
On February 20, The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released four new resources with information for students, parents and families, and schools addressing civil rights of students with disabilities, as well as a data snapshot about education access for students with disabilities drawn from OCR’s 2020-21 Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC).
OCR issued these new resources to inform students with disabilities, and their families and schools, about their legal rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities by institutions that accept federal financial assistance, which includes almost all public schools and public and private institutions of higher education. To view the release announcement and the new resources, click here.
State-Wide Survey of Older Adults, 2024
New Jersey Advocates for Aging Well (NJAAW) is conducting a statewide survey to gather older adult insight and opinions on aging in the state. Please help this effort by completing the survey and/or sharing this information with your network and consumers. This survey if for people who are age 60+, consider NJ their primary residence, and live independently in the community, NOT in skilled nursing settings or nursing homes. The survey period ends on March 15, 2024.
The survey can be completed electronically by visiting the NJAAW website (https://www.njaaw.org) or directly to the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X8X3VDS. A print version is attached and can be mailed to:
NJ Advocates for Aging Well, 3705 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 102, Hamilton, NJ 08619
Tuesday, March 12, 2024 11:00am – 12pm – Inclusion of Service Dogs
This session will discuss Nimit Kaur’s journey with her guide dog and to explore the distinction between service animals and emotional support animals as well as relevant legislation. Register here.
Thursday, March 21, 2024 11:00am – 12:15pm – ADA Overview
This session will review how the ADA defines “a person with a disability,” where and when the ADA applies, who has obligations under the ADA, and the various enforcement agencies involved with the ADA. Register here.
February 28, 2024
The New Jersey Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has rescinded the Request for Proposals (RFP) originally released on January 31, 2024, titled START Services NJ: Development of Mobile Crisis Prevention and Response Program(s) to Serve People with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability and Co-Occurring Mental Health Needs Based on the National START Model.
A replacement RFP was released on February 28, 2024, titled START Services NJ: Development of a Mobile Crisis Prevention and Intervention Program to Serve People with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability and Co-occurring Mental Health Needs in Southern New Jersey Based on the National START Model.
The successful bidder will partner with the National Center for START Services™ to develop one mobile crisis prevention and intervention program, consisting of a clinical team and therapeutic coaching team, to serve adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health needs who live in the southern region of New Jersey (as defined in the RFP).
The Notice of Funding Availability and Request for Proposals: START Services NJ are posted on the DHS Request for Proposals/Information webpage. The deadline to submit questions is March 13, 2024 and the deadline for proposal submissions is April 17, 2024.
February 23, 2024
Governor Murphy Announces Allocation of $95 Million from New Jersey’s Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund
(TRENTON) – Governor Phil Murphy today announced the allocation of over $95 million from New Jersey’s Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund to support critical programs tackling the opioid crisis, connecting New Jerseyans with tools to reduce overdoses and other harms of substance use, and supporting the treatment and recovery of residents struggling with substance use disorders. At the recommendation of the State’s Opioid Recovery and Remediation Advisory Council and with extensive input from the public, six programs addressing four priority areas – harm reduction, prevention and recovery support, treatment, and housing – have been identified to receive funding over the next two to three years.
Click here to read the full article.
February 22, 2024
National Core Indicators (NCI) Surveys
We need your input!
Annual NCI State of the Workforce Survey
In March 2024, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) will email an NCI State of the Workforce Survey invitation to eligible provider agencies who employ Direct Support Professionals. The invitation will be sent to the provider email address on file in iRecord and will include a link and instructions to complete the NCI State of the Workforce Survey for 2023.
The NCI State of the Workforce Survey will be open through June 30, 2024, and participation by as many eligible providers as possible is critical to ensure valid results. To learn more, visit National Core Indicators or see our NCI State of the Workforce Overview
Annual NCI In-Person Survey
DDD is continuing to conduct the NCI In-Person Survey for individuals 21 and older who are receiving at least one DDD-funded service in addition to Support Coordination. The 2023-2024 In-Person Survey will be administered through June 30, 2024. To learn more, please see our NCI Survey Overview.
Questions about the NCI State of the Workforce Survey or In-Person Surveys? Email us at DDD.NCI@dhs.nj.gov.
REMINDER! DDD Resource Team Offering Choking Prevention Awareness Activities Throughout March
February Information Sessions on DDD Self-Directed Employee Models
March 28th is National Choking Awareness Day, making March a great time to put a spotlight on choking risks and prevention. The DDD Resource Team has dedicated March 2024 to raising awareness about the risk of choking for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and best practices for preventing choking.
In-person workshops are being held for provider agency staff and self-directed employees at various DDD Community Services office locations on March 6, 13, 20, and 27. And virtual trainings, open to anyone, are available throughout the month. To see a full schedule of events and to register, please visit our Health and Safety webpage.
February 14, 2024
NJ ABLE
With NJ ABLE tax-advantaged savings accounts, you can save for qualified disability expenses without losing your eligibility for certain essential benefits, like SSI and Medicaid.Learn more about NJ ABLE, New Jersey’s ABLE plan, administered through DDS in partnership with program manager, Ascensus College Savings Recordkeeping Services.
The Division of Disability Services provides education and training for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) receiving services, their families, advocates and support coordinators, as well as community partners and other stakeholders.
February Information Sessions on DDD Self-Directed Employee Models
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) offers two Self-Directed Employee (SDE) models that individuals interested in self-directing some or all of their services can choose: The Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Model administered by Public Partnerships, LLC, and the Agency with Choice Model administered by Easterseals NJ. To learn more about self-directed services and the two models available through DDD, visit their Self-Directed Services webpage.
Public Partnerships Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) Model Information Session
Easterseals NJ Agency with Choice (AwC) Model Information Session
Family Networking Sessions
The Office of Education on Self-Directed Services hosts networking sessions for people and families who are, or are interested in, self-directing some or all their DDD-funded services. For more information and to register, view/download Family Networking Sessions Winter 2024 (PDF)
Winter 2024 sessions are being held on the following dates:
DCR Anti-Discrimination Trainings
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights (DCR) offers trainings aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination through its Education and Training Unit. These interactive sessions educate participants about their rights and responsibilities under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, the New Jersey Family Leave Act, the Fair Chance in Housing Act as well as raise awareness about current anti-bias issues.
All trainings are currently being offered for FREE to the public. For additional training topics and dates, click here.
All employees are entitled to a workplace that is inclusive and free from discrimination. This training will provide an overview of how the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) protects employees from harassment and discrimination. Register for March 5th from 9:30am-11:30am
This interactive, virtual training will introduce participants to the concept of implicit bias. Participants will consider how implicit bias manifests in our interactions with others and explore strategies for addressing implicit bias in ourselves and in the workplace. Participants will also learn about how the NJ Law Against Discrimination protects individuals from discrimination and bias-based harassment in the workplace. Register for March 12th from 9:30am-12:30pm
February 14, 2024
Autism New Jersey Launches Law Enforcement Initiative
Autism New Jersey is proud to formally announce its Law Enforcement Initiative, a multi-phase endeavor to increase the adoption of autism-friendly law enforcement practices. We are collaborating with individuals and entities in law enforcement at municipal, county, and state levels to advance best practices statewide.
Autism-Friendly Law Enforcement Practices
Creating a law enforcement environment that is inclusive and accommodating to autistic individuals is crucial for fostering positive interactions and ensuring the safety of both the community and those with autism.
Our list of autism-friendly practices includes both proactive and in-the-moment strategies. These can promote empathy, patience, and flexibility within law enforcement which can significantly contribute to building trust and ensuring the well-being of individuals with autism.
Brooke Ellison, Prominent Disability Rights Advocate, is Dead at 45
One of the first quadriplegic Harvard graduates, she became an author, professor and powerful voice for disabled people.
Brooke Ellison, who after being paralyzed from the neck down by a childhood car accident went on to graduate from Harvard and became a professor and a devoted disability rights advocate, died on Sunday in Stony Brook, N.Y., on Long Island. She was 45.
[S]he told The Times in 2005, reflecting on the accident that changed her life[…], “I didn’t want people to focus on what I had lost in my life, but rather on what I still had in my life… My body would not respond, but my mind and my heart were just the same as they had always been.” Click here for the full article.
Wednesday, February 14th – Nutrition and Heart Disease
A discussion on heart disease -what we should limit in our diet and what we could include to help decrease the risk. Presenter: Rachel Tansey, MA All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm (new time in 2023), are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
February 12, 2024
Feb. 13 Family Networking Session Canceled, will be Rescheduled
Due to tomorrow’s weather forecast, the Family Networking Session scheduled for Tuesday, February 13 at the Burlington County Library has been canceled and tentatively rescheduled to Wednesday, February 28. Everyone registered for the Feb. 13 session will be automatically registered for the new date and receive an updated registration confirmation.
Revised information will be posted on the Office of Education on Self-Directed Services webpage, and questions may be sent to DDD.OESDS@DHS.NJ.GOV.
NEW! DDD Resource Team Dedicates Month of March to Choking Awareness
March 28 is National Choking Awareness Day, making next month a great time to put a spotlight on choking risks and prevention. The DDD Resource Team has dedicated March 2024 to raising awareness about the risk of choking for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), regardless of diet texture or consistency. In-person trainings will be held for provider staff at various DDD Community Services office locations on March 6, 13, 20, and 27. And virtual trainings, open to anyone, will be held throughout the month. Please visit our Health and Safety webpage or download the 2024 Choking Awareness Month Flyer for more information and to register (advance registration is required).
NEW! February Information Sessions on DDD Self-Directed Employee Models
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) offers two Self-Directed Employee (SDE) models that individuals interested in self-directing some or all of their services can choose: the Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Model administered by Public Partnerships, LLC, and the Agency with Choice Model administered by Easterseals NJ. We are happy to once again share the following virtual opportunities to learn more about these two models.
Public Partnerships Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA) Model Information Session
Easterseals NJ Agency with Choice (AwC) Model Information Session
To learn more about self-directed services and the two models available through DDD, visit our Self-Directed Services webpage.
REMINDER! DDD Update Webinar on Feb. 22
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register Now for the Feb. 22 DDD Update Webinar.
February 9, 2024
Tuesday, February 13th 12:00pm – Untangling the Complex Relationship between Suicide and Traumatic Brain Injury
Research shows that there is a relationship between suicide and traumatic brain injury, but what exactly is the relationship and how do we understand it? This webinar is presented by Matthew Peters, MD, and it will:
Questions? Contact BIANJ at 732-745-0200 or info@bianj.org. Register here.
February 5, 2024
February 1, 2024: NJ Human Services Awards Contracts to Offer Outpatient Services for Older Adults with Serious Mental Illness
The Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University has been working to enhance accessibility for all patrons. All events listed below are free and open to the public, held in accessible spaces with assistive listening systems and captions are offered for many performances. Additional access services may be provided upon request.
Tuesday, February 20th: Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
The Regional Family Support Planning Council #1 (Morris, Sussex, Warren) invites parents to our special meeting to learn the Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund, a financial reimbursement program for New Jersey Families with potentially catastrophic medical expenses due to a child’s illness or condition.
Bring your questions! There will be ample Q&A time. Presentation will be conducted in English. Multi-lingual subtitles will be available.
Register here You many download the English or Spanish flyer.
January 30, 2024
Revised Behavior Management Committee (BMC) Referral Form and New BMC Helpdesk
The Division of Developmental Disabilities Office of Risk Management recently updated its Behavior Management Committee Referral Form and has developed an accompanying Behavior Management Committee FAQ. A dedicated Behavior Management Committee Helpdesk has also been established, where referral forms and other information can be submitted. Effective immediately, all BMC referrals as well as BMC related information and questions can be emailed to DDD.BMC@dhs.nj.gov.
The updated form is available in the Provider Toolkit section of the DDD Provider Information webpage. A webinar training about the BMC and use of the referral form is in development and expected to be available soon.
January 23, 2024
NEW! Webinar on Addressing Enhanced Needs Form
This webinar overview of best practices for using and implementing the Addressing Enhanced Needs Form is a collaborative effort of DDD’s Support Coordination Unit and
Provider Performance and Monitoring Clinical Services Unit. The target audience is support coordination and provider agency staff, but anyone may register to attend.
Title: Support Coordination Agency and Provider Partnerships: Using the Addressing Enhanced Needs Form in Plan Development
Day: Monday, Jan. 29, 2024
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Register now for Jan. 29 Addressing Enhanced Needs Form Webinar
Upcoming Networking Opportunities for Individuals and Families Self-Directing Their Services
The DDD Office of Education on Self-Directed Services (OESDS) is hosting the following networking events for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and families who are or are interested in self-directing some or all their DDD-funded services.
In-Person Self-Direction Family Networking Sessions
Advance registration is required and online registration is now available!
Virtual Self-Direction Family Networking Sessions
Advance registration is required and online registration is now available!
· Hunterdon & Somerset Counties Virtual Family Networking Session – Tuesday, March 5, 2024, from 1 – 3 pm: Register for March 5 Virtual Session
To learn more about the Family Networking Sessions, visit the OESDS webpage or email the OESDS Helpdesk.
Virtual Self-Direction Peer-to-Peer Networking Session
Adults with IDD who are self-directing or are interested in learning more about self-direction are welcome to attend.
· Tuesday, February 13, 2024, from 6 – 7:30 pm on Zoom: Register for the Feb. 13 Peer-to-Peer Networking Session.
To learn more about Peer-to-Peer Networking Sessions, visit the Self-Advocacy webpage. Feb. 13 Peer-to-Peer Networking Session Flyer
REMINDER! Next DDD Update Webinar is Feb. 22
The next DDD Update Webinar is scheduled for Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Register for the Feb. 22 DDD Update Webinar.
January 23, 2024
NJ DHS Division of Aging Services 2024 Program Guide
Looking for senior services in NJ? NJ Department of Human Services can help!
The DoAS Program Guide is a comprehensive resource guide to federal and state-funded programs that promote the well-being of seniors & adults with disabilities living in the community. Get this program guide in English or Spanish.
Brain Injury Alliance NJ Trainings for Health and Human Service Professionals
For more information and to register for the trainings, visit BIANJ’s website bianj.org/upcoming-events/regional-seminar-2/ or email info@bianj.org.
Disability Rights New Jersey’s Assistive Technology (AT)
Disability Rights New Jersey’s Assistive Technology (AT) Center is offering Tech Spotlight, a short webinar series to raise awareness about possible AT solutions.
All Tech Spotlight webinars are 30 minutes at 12PM (EST). To see the full lineup, visit: https://at4nj.org/webinars.
Virtual Mental Health Awareness Training
With the stress and uncertainty in the world right now, learn how you can identify the emotional needs and provide assistance to others in your community, family, or organization. QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a suicide prevention training, will be offered at no cost. See flyer attached.
Please register in advance through link below each date.
* Closed captioning is available with all trainings. If assistance is needed related to an accommodation, please email Amy Hassa at least two weeks prior to the training.
Wednesday, January 24th – The Power of Community Partnerships: Strategies a Rural Substance Use Training Center is Implementing to Partner with Community Health Stakeholders in New Jersey
Nationally and in New Jersey (NJ), there is an unmet need for education and training about rural substance use. The Northeast & Caribbean Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Center (NeC-ROTAC) is a federally-funded center tasked with providing these resources to rural communities of HHS Region 2, which includes NJ. Since its inception in 2022, the NeC-ROTAC has established and built on NJ partnerships with members of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, community organizations, health care centers, and health departments serving rural communities of the state. These partnerships have been built on a mutual respect and understanding of each organization’s role in addressing rural health inequities. This seminar will provide examples of community-engaged strategies used by the NeC-ROTAC and highlight some ongoing partnership activities. Presenter: Jamey Lister, PhD; Associate Professor & New Jersey Director of the Northeast & Caribbean Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Center (NeC-ROTAC), Rutgers University School of Social Work
All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm (new time in 2023), are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.
January 9, 2024
Programs to Focus on Individuals in Need of Immediate Services
(TRENTON) – New Jersey Human Services is enhancing the statewide emergency services programs that support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced the Department has awarded contracts to Community Options, Inc., Community Access Unlimited and Oaks Integrated Care to operate emergency capacity services (ECS) programs throughout the state. ECS programs support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including those with acute behavioral needs who require immediate residential and day program support. This funding enables emergency, short-term support to be available for admissions seven days per week, 365 days a year with 24-hour coverage provided. Click here to read the full article.
National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) – is issued semi-monthly by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire.
Following a historic high in November, slight declines were seen in the employment-to-population ratio and the labor force participation rate in December 2023 for people with and without disabilities. However, numbers still remain near the record levels achieved the previous month, according to today’s National Trends in Disability Employment – semi-monthly update (nTIDE), issued by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability (UNH-IOD). Click here to read more.
Engaging in regular balance and flexibility activities is an important step to help maintain optimal bone and joint health. This session will highlight simple movements and stretches that can be done at home to help promote bone and joint health. Presenter: Ricardo Kairios, MS All sessions of Wellness Wednesdays begin at 12:30 pm (new time in 2023), are FREE, and will last approximately 45 minutes with time for Q&A. To join, you will need to register and have either a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speakers. Register here.