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Your Choice. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.myindependentliving.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [First Home Care Mixer](https://www.myindependentliving.org/home-care-mixer/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Independent Home Care’s First Annual Home Care Mixer Celebrates Person-Centered Care Newburgh, NY – November 14, 2023 - [A Paradigm Shift: Embracing the Social Model of Disability](https://www.myindependentliving.org/the-social-model-of-disability/) - In this blog, we will delve deeper into the dichotomy between these models and explore the transformative potential of embracing the social model of disability. - [Behavioral Health and Social Needs in the Hudson Valley](https://www.myindependentliving.org/blog-cbhsuniteus/) - Coordinated Behavioral Health Services Partners with Unite Us to Address Behavioral Health and Social Needs in the Hudson Valley! - [Fair Pay for Home Care](https://www.myindependentliving.org/the-value-of-caregiving/) - The Value of Caregiving Stories from Home Care Consumers & Stories from Home Care Workers. Elevate your voice. Tell our legislators the value of caregiving - [First Time at Advocacy Day](https://www.myindependentliving.org/advocacy-day-review/) - My First Time at Advocacy Day - I never would have imagined that my work would lead me to being in a state senator’s office. It was such an exciting experience. - [Disability Rights Employment Awareness Month (DREAM): Inclusive Employment Works](https://www.myindependentliving.org/dreampressrelease/) - With its new “Inclusive Employment Works” campaign, ILIwill revolutionize the way individuals with disabilities perceive and access employment opportunities. - [Fair Pay for Home Care](https://www.myindependentliving.org/fair-pay-home-care-blog/) - Fair Pay - In a recent survey, 1 out of 4 people who qualify for home care cannot find the care they need, and 3 out of 4 struggle to retain the care they have. - [Game Changers - Accessibility](https://www.myindependentliving.org/game-changers/) - Game Changers - The 2024 Olympics featured NBCUniversal’s implementation of assessable event coverage. Click here for more disability service information! - [Springing Forward Series Part One: Spring Cleansing](https://www.myindependentliving.org/springing-forward-series-part-one-spring-cleansing/) - Springing Forward Series Part One: when it comes to spring, what else could be a better way to define cleansing than through the tradition of spring-cleaning? - [Why Me?](https://www.myindependentliving.org/why-me/) - Why me? Growing up I remember always thinking and feeling like life is not supposed to be like this. Click here to learn more about Independent Living, Inc.! - [Independent Living Center Funding](https://www.myindependentliving.org/independent-living-center-funding/) - Independent Living Center - Your support can make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Please contact your representative today! - [The Greatest Human Dignity](https://www.myindependentliving.org/the-greatest-human-dignity/) - The greatest human dignity you can give a person regardless of their age or condition is to help them be as independent as possible. Click here to learn more! - [Interview with Kimora](https://www.myindependentliving.org/interview-with-kimora/) - An Interview with Kimora in May 2023 Kimora started in Independent Living Inc.’s Learning Enrichment After Program (LEAP) when she was 12. Click here for more! - [Against All Odds - A Story of Re-Entry](https://www.myindependentliving.org/against-all-odds/) - Against all Odds - Two decades of incarceration was all I knew and understood of the world on my release in 2018.I was able to regain a portion of my humanity. - [Friends of Independence 14th Annual Spring Breakfast](https://www.myindependentliving.org/friends-of-independence-breakfast/) - May 10, 2023 was our first Friends of Independence Breakfast since 2019! Gathering together with friends like you to celebrate the work we do & its impact! - [Deborah Danner, a catalyst in police reform and disability rights trailblazer](https://www.myindependentliving.org/deborah-danner/) - This Trailblazer Tuesday, we spotlight Deborah Danner, a catalyst to law enforcement and societal reformation! chick here for more info about disability rights! - [Brain Injury Awareness Month](https://www.myindependentliving.org/brain-injury-awareness/) - In the wake of Brain Injury Awareness Month, I find myself reflecting on a journey I never anticipated embarking upon. - [Pioneers of Disability Rights](https://www.myindependentliving.org/disability-rights/) - The pioneers of disability rights, Lois Curtis, Judy Heumann, Alice Wong, and Ed Roberts. Each played a crucial role in a more inclusive society. Click for more - [Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month](https://www.myindependentliving.org/developmental-disabilities-awareness/) - Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that can affect a person’s physical, cognitive, or emotional development. Click here for ILI services! - [Speak Out Against CDPA Budget Cuts](https://www.myindependentliving.org/cdpabudgetcuts/) - We’re inviting individuals who benefit from CDPA, caregivers, and supporters to share stories and perspectives through personal video clips. Help protect CDPA! - [Affordable Housing 2024](https://www.myindependentliving.org/affordable-housing/) - As someone deeply committed to our community’s well-being, I’m reaching out to ask for your commitment to Affordable Housing in the 2024 Budget. Click for info! - [Mental Health and Aging](https://www.myindependentliving.org/mental-health-aging/) - This article includes helpful information for seniors with mental health struggles. Click here for more infoabout our Independent Living Reach One Program! - [An Executive Budget Review](https://www.myindependentliving.org/executivebudget/) - As we progress with advocacy efforts, let us all ensure we are at the center of the conversation, pushing for policies that benefit everyone. - [July is Disability Pride](https://www.myindependentliving.org/july-is-disability-pride-month/) - This Disability Pride Month we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by reflecting on the massive progress made in the past 30 years. - [A Community Independence Program Feature](https://www.myindependentliving.org/community-independence/) - Community Independence - Interacting with the staff & consumers feels like a warm hug. The sense of community & inclusion is apparent right from the start. - [2023 Annual Impact Report](https://www.myindependentliving.org/2023-annual-impact-report/) - Independent Living, Inc.'s 2023 Impact Report showcases the strides made to foster independence and break down barriers for people with disabilities. - [Inside Bipolar Disorder](https://www.myindependentliving.org/inside-bipolar-disorder/) - Submitted by an anonymous member of our community, sharing his informed lived experience with Bipolar Disorder. - [I Might Not be Here Forever - Mental Health](https://www.myindependentliving.org/here-forever-mental-health/) - Disclaimer: There may be some triggering content as it relates to mental illness, mental health, medication, and more. Click here for mental health programs! - [Mental Health Awareness Month: Lived Experiences](https://www.myindependentliving.org/mental-health-awareness-month/) - As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, it’s vital to shine a light on the lived experiences that shape our understanding of mental health and resilience. - [34th Anniversary of the ADA Event](https://www.myindependentliving.org/ada34/) - Join us July 27, 2024, from 12 to 4 p.m. on the Walkway Over the Hudson as we celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). - [Friends of Independence Breakfast](https://www.myindependentliving.org/friends-of-independence-breakfast-2024/) - Friends of Independence Breakfast - This fundraiser allows us to bridge funding gaps, increase awareness, and serve more people with disabilities. - [19th Annual Chris Ashman Wellness & Recovery Conference](https://www.myindependentliving.org/wellness-recovery-conference/) - Thank you to our speakers and to everyone who joined us for the 19th Annual Chris Ashman Wellness & Recovery Conference on April 20, 2023! - [20th Annual Chris Ashman Wellness & Recovery Conference](https://www.myindependentliving.org/2024-wellness-recovery-conference/) - Wellness & Recovery: Bridging Generations for Mental Wellness A conversation about the Value of Lived Experience & Engaging Youth in Mental Health Conversations - [Inclusive Employment Works](https://www.myindependentliving.org/inclusive-employment-works/) - This month, we introduce our transformative “Inclusive Employment Works” initiative. Click here for more information and employment opportunities! - [Home Care that puts you in charge!](https://www.myindependentliving.org/home-care-that-puts-you-in-charge/) - Home Care that puts you in charge! Lynne has participated in the ILI Options/ Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services (CDPAS) for over a decade. - [Project Hope comes to Independent Living](https://www.myindependentliving.org/project-hope/) - Project Hope Comes to Independent Living Sometimes it helps to talk to someone you don’t know reads the tagline of NY Project Hope, Independent Living Inc - [Playtime: Fun for All!](https://www.myindependentliving.org/fun-for-all-reducing-stress/) - Playtime: Fun for All! NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, stress - [Emotional Wellness](https://www.myindependentliving.org/emotional-wellness/) - Emotional Wellness -Emotional Wellness By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic Although some people might believe that emotional wellness may mean being happy most of the time, that is absolutely not true. Rather it is the ability - [There is No Place Like Home](https://www.myindependentliving.org/there-is-no-place-like-home/) - There's no place like home - Independent Living, Inc. recently transitioned John, a 95-year-old man, from a nursing facility back home! - [Will you be our Valentine?](https://www.myindependentliving.org/will-you-be-our-valentine/) - Will you be our Valentine? Shop at smile.amazon.com and AmazonSmile donates to Independent Living, Inc. at no cost to you! - [Project Hope Comes to Independent Living](https://www.myindependentliving.org/project-hope-comes-to-independent-living/) - Project Hope Comes to Independent Living Sometimes it helps to talk to someone you don’t know reads the tagline of NY Project Hope, Independent Living Inc.’ - [Stress During the Covid Crisis](https://www.myindependentliving.org/stress-during-the-covid-crisis/) - Stress During the Covid Crisis Even though the Covid-19 pandemic has left its mark, there are ways you can cope. As we all know, the COVID pandemic has managed to suddenly upend everyone’s life in some way over the past year. With school closures forcing kids, parents, and teachers to instantly adapt to a new - [Forever Grateful - Journaling Your Way to an Attitude of Gratitude](https://www.myindependentliving.org/forever-grateful-journaling-your-way-to-an-attitude-of-gratitude/) - Forever Grateful – Journaling Your Way to an Attitude of Gratitude Journaling, or the act of writing for personal use, has long been heralded by research scientists as an easy-to-use stress-busting method that has been found to be beneficial to our physical and mental health. By writing down what we’re thinking and feeling, it helps - [Helping Is Healing](https://www.myindependentliving.org/helping-is-healing/) - Helping Is Healing By Cindy Roe and Marie-Lise Baroutjian What happens when we help others? In thinking about this, our first thoughts might naturally gravitate towards empathy for the other person. If, for example, we let the person with only a few things in their hand go ahead of us in the grocery store checkout - [The Value of Home Care](https://www.myindependentliving.org/value-of-home-care/) - A diverse group of stakeholders will convene for a panel discussion titled “The Value of Home Care A Fair Pay for Home Care Discussion.” - [Turn Off and Tune In: Using Visualization to Turn Off Worry and Tune in to Relaxation](https://www.myindependentliving.org/turn-off-and-tune-in-using-visualization-to-turn-off-worry-and-tune-in-to-relaxation/) - Turn Off and Tune In: Using Visualization to Turn Off Worry and Tune in to Relaxation As the systematic creation within the mind of highly defined images of scenes that one associates with peacefulness and tranquility, visualization has been known to induce a state of calm that can help combat stress and anxiety, lower blood - [The Art of Creativity for Managing Stress](https://www.myindependentliving.org/the-art-of-creativity-for-managing-stress/) - The Art of Creativity for Managing Stress By Cindy Roe and Marie-Lise Baroutjian “When we strike a balance between the challenge of an activity and our skill at performing it, when the rhythm of the work itself feels in sync with our pulse, when we know that what we’re doing matters, we can get totally - [The Role of Sleep in Stress Management](https://www.myindependentliving.org/sleep-and-stress-management/) - Sleep and Stress Management: Heavenly and delightful, restful and refreshing, or elusive, erratic, and exhausting? - [Stress Reduction Activities for Children](https://www.myindependentliving.org/stress-reduction-activities-for-children/) - Stress Reduction Activities for Children By Cindy Roe and Marie-Lise Baroutjian Everybody hurts. We all get stressed. Even though we’d love to live a life that is 100 percent stress free, that is merely an unrealistic ideal. It’s also important to remember that, particularly now- given the ways that the Covid-19 pandemic has changed so - [Listen Away Your Stress with Music](https://www.myindependentliving.org/listen-away-your-stress-with-music/) - Listen Away Your Stress with Music, music lends its calming effects to many different parts of the brain, nucleus accumbens, amygdala, hippocampus and more! - [Grief Series - Part 1: What Is Grief?](https://www.myindependentliving.org/grief-series-part-1-what-is-grief/) - What is grief? In part one of our series on grief we explore the means and feeling of grief and how to cope with it all. Click here to learn more about grief! - [Grief Series Part 2: Grief in Children](https://www.myindependentliving.org/grief-series-part-2-grief-in-children/) - To begin to deepen our understanding of what grief in children looks like, we’ll start with a brief overview of 4 inter-related concepts a child must understand - [Grief Series Part 3: Grief in Teens and Young Adults](https://www.myindependentliving.org/grief-series-part-3-grief-in-teens-and-young-adults/) - For teens and young adults, many milestones can also be instances when they experienced loss: graduation ceremonies in 2020 were almost nonexistent. - [Grief Series Part 4: The Not So Little Things-Grieving the “New Normal” and Socially Negated Losses](https://www.myindependentliving.org/grief-series-part-4-the-not-so-little-things-grieving-the-new-normal-and-socially-negated-losses/) - Grief Series Part 4: The Not So Little Things-Grieving the “New Normal” and Socially Negated Losses By Cindy Roe and Marie-Lise Baroutjian NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Given the pervasiveness of the Covid pandemic, people everywhere have - [Grief Series Part 5: Moving Forward into Post-Pandemic Life: Grief and Relief](https://www.myindependentliving.org/grief-series-part-5-moving-forward-into-post-pandemic-life-grief-and-relief/) - Grief and Relief: Given the pervasiveness of the Covid pandemic, people everywhere have experienced loss- and for many, multiple losses- - [Exercise Your Stress Away](https://www.myindependentliving.org/exercise-your-stress-away/) - Exercise Your Stress Away, During the course of everyday life in the days before the pandemic, many of us led busy lives; between work, caring for children. - [Aromatherapy & The Scents of Relaxation](https://www.myindependentliving.org/aromatherapy-the-scents-of-relaxation/) - The Scents of Relaxation: Our senses can be thought of as the points of entry where information about the outside world enters our conscious awareness. - [My Hearing Family Supports Me](https://www.myindependentliving.org/my-hearing-family-supports-me/) - My Hearing Family Supports Me Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Phasellus tempor odio nibh, et gravida ligula efficitur at. Suspendisse id posuere velit, nec facilisis nisl. Etiam ut sodales eros, sed tincidunt sem. Vestibulum est felis, luctus non fermentum eget, gravida eu tortor. Aenean vehicula, mauris id placerat interdum, nulla ligula elementum - [Spring Forward During the Pandemic Series: Reflection](https://www.myindependentliving.org/spring-forward-the-pandemic/) - The pandemic series with a bit of reflection starting with spring 2020, a tumultuous period of time marked by fear, anxiety and chaos invoked by the pandemic - [Into The Woods: Connecting with Nature](https://www.myindependentliving.org/into-the-woods-connecting-with-nature/) - Into The Woods: Connecting with Nature Cindy Roe and Marie-Lise Baroutjian NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are now in the mountains and they are in us, kindling enthusiasm, making every nerve quiver, filling every pore and cell - [Food That Reduces Anxiety](https://www.myindependentliving.org/food-that-reduces-anxiety/) - Here's Independent Living's List of Six Food That Reduce Anxiety and Stress! Click here for more! - [Holiday Series Part One: Coping with Grief](https://www.myindependentliving.org/holiday-series-part-one-coping-with-grief/) - Holiday Series Part One: Coping with Grief By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support &resources to help people cope. - [Setting Small Daily Goals](https://www.myindependentliving.org/setting-small-daily-goals/) - Setting Small Daily Goals By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope. Click for more - [Holiday Series Part Two: Support System and Resilience](https://www.myindependentliving.org/holiday-series-part-two-support-system-and-resilience/) - Holiday Series Part Two: Support System and Resilience By Miasha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources - [Holiday Series Finale: Healthy Cooking Part One](https://www.myindependentliving.org/holiday-series-finale-healthy-cooking-part-one/) - Holiday Series Finale: Healthy Cooking : I know that one of the main focus of holidays are the food and as glorious and mouth-watering as it may look - [New Beginning Series: Introduction](https://www.myindependentliving.org/new-beginning-series-introduction/) - A New Beginning: Can you believe that the year is almost over? It seems like just yesterday I was planning out my resolutions for 2021. Click here for more! - [New Beginning Series Part One: Realistic Resolutions](https://www.myindependentliving.org/realistic-resolutions/) - Tips on Setting Realistic Resolutions Start with small steps: Although it’s easy to hype ourselves up by looking at the bigger picture through making goals. - [New Beginning Series Part Two: Staying Healthy in the New Year](https://www.myindependentliving.org/staying-healthy-new-year/) - We talked about realistic resolutions for the new year in which staying healthy just happened to be the top of the priority list for many. Click here for more! - [Creative Series Part One: Art Therapy](https://www.myindependentliving.org/creative-series-part-one-art-therapy/) - Art therapy is a therapeutic process in which people are often encouraged to utilize creative art as a way to reflect on their emotional well-being! - [Creative Series Part Two: Music Therapy](https://www.myindependentliving.org/creative-series-part-two-music-therapy/) - ‘Music therapy’ involves the application of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social challenges faced by individuals. Click here for more! - [Healthy Relationship: Family and Friends](https://www.myindependentliving.org/maintaing-healthy-relationships/) - Tips On Maintaining a Healthy Relationship with Friends and Family Click here for more information and mental health resources! - [Spring Forward Series: Introduction](https://www.myindependentliving.org/spring-forward-series-introduction/) - Spring Forward Series: Introduction By Maisha Ahmed This year’s winter was a bit erratic to say the least. I remember there was a particular week in which one day it felt like summer and then the next day we were cooped up at home due to a snowstorm. Regardless, I am so glad that we - [Spring Forward During the Pandemic Series Part Two: Staying Healthy During St. Patrick’s Day](https://www.myindependentliving.org/staying-healthy-st-patricks-day/) - When you think of St. Patrick’s Day, what images conjures into your mind first? !he parades, the drinking, or just having a good time? Click here for more info! - [Spring Forward During the Pandemic Series Part 3: Creating Goals to Stay Healthy](https://www.myindependentliving.org/creating-goals-to-stay-healthy/) - Spring Forward During the Pandemic Series Part 3: Creating Goals to Stay Healthy By Maisha Ahmed Spring is finally here! There’s no better feeling than stepping outside to a ray of sunshine and a gentle breeze, which definitely contributes to a more energized and positive vibe for many of us. The days are longer and - [A Police Encounter](https://www.myindependentliving.org/apoliceencounter/) - Talking With My Hands *By Vernon Bonse, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Coordinator When if police use a flashing siren, I am always aware on the roadway while driving. Police want to stop me. I will pull it off. I will calm down and control myself. It will be communicated carefully with police because - [Disability Rights and Our Collective Responsibility](https://www.myindependentliving.org/ourcollectiveresponsibility/) - We need to recognize the collective responsibility we all share in promoting diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion (DEAI) for all people. - [Environmental Wellness](https://www.myindependentliving.org/environmental-wellness/) - Environmental Wellness By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic I admit that when it comes to wellness never really considered how the environment might contribute to it; I viewed wellness as something that is a - [Physical Wellness](https://www.myindependentliving.org/physical-wellness/) - Physical Wellness By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic One of the most vital components of the 8 Dimensions of Wellness is physical wellness. Physical wellness encompasses a wide range of healthy behaviors that include - [Intellectual Wellness](https://www.myindependentliving.org/intellectual-wellness/) - Intellectual Wellness By Maisha Ahmed NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic There’s a reason I strongly believe that examination scores and grade point averages is not the end to all means when it comes to determining the - [Spiritual Wellness](https://www.myindependentliving.org/spiritual-wellness/) - Spiritual Wellness By Maisha Ahmed In these stressful times we all need a way to de-stress and find peace; spiritual wellness practices can help and can be the pause that lets us start again. NY Project Hope is a crisis counseling program that provides support and resources to help people cope with the challenges of the ## Pages - [HOME](https://www.myindependentliving.org/) - Your Life. Your Choice. Our Mission: Independent Living, Inc. is a consumer-directed, cross-disability advocacy, and service organization. Click here for more! - [Our Team](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/) - Our Team Executive Leadership - Meet the dynamic executive leadership team driving the mission of Independent Living, Inc. & Independent Home Care, Inc. Board of Directors - The esteemed Members of the governing Board of Directors guiding our organization towards achieving its goals. - [Newsletter](https://www.myindependentliving.org/newsandevents/newsletter/) - Independence Insider A free newsletter published by Independent Living Inc. Subscribe to our Quarterly Newsletter today! Click here for more information! - [Events](https://www.myindependentliving.org/events/) - Explore Independent Living, Inc.'s events. advocacy initiatives, community celebrations, and fundraisers supporting individuals with disabilities. - [Donate](https://www.myindependentliving.org/donate/) - Donate - Your support today is an investment into a future without barriers, a future that is equitable and accessible to all people regardless of disability - [Support & Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/) - Support & Services, Independent Living Services Independent Living offers services to people with disabilities in Orange, Dutchess, Ulster & Sullivan Counties. - [Recovery Center Services – Reach One](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/recovery-center-services-reach-one/) - Recovery Center Services Reach One offers proactive peer engagement and services for people with psychiatric diagnoses & chemical addiction in the Hudson Valley - [Recovery Center](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/recoverycenter/) - Independent Living, Inc.’s Recovery Center Location – 263 Route 17K, Newburgh, NY 12550 Do you need Narcan? We have free Narcan for you, no questions asked. - [Contact Us](https://www.myindependentliving.org/contact/) - Contact Us Call Independent Living, Inc. at 845-565-1162. We are happy to assist you by phone, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may also complete our contact form, and someone will reach out to you as soon as possible. Emergency and Support Contacts If you are experiencing a fire, police, or medical emergency, please - [News and Events](https://www.myindependentliving.org/newsandevents/) - Welcome to ILI’s News and Events! Stay connected with everything happening at Independent Living, Inc. From exciting community events to the latest updates on our programs and services, this is your hub for what’s new. Use the dropdown menu above to explore: Press Releases – Official announcements and organizational news. Event Highlights – Find out - [Action Alerts](https://www.myindependentliving.org/actionalerts/) - Our action alerts are a quick and easy way to learn more about each opportunity to elevate your voice and tell your legislators what is essential. - [Locations](https://www.myindependentliving.org/contact/locations/) - 5 Convenient Locations Office hours are Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Feel free to call ahead for an appointment at your preferred location. For directions, click here. MAIN OFFICE 5 Washington Terrace Newburgh, NY 12550 845-565-1162 MIDDLETOWN 30 Industrial Drive Middletown, NY 10940 845-342-1162 MONTICELLO 14 Pelton Street Monticello, NY 12701 - [Morris Breitstein, CFO](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/morris-breitstein-cfo/) - Throughout my career, I have focused on the financial management of healthcare and social service community-based organizations. I believe that the Finance department serves as a vital support area, engaging both internal stakeholders—such as Program Directors, Boards, and Committees—and external entities like government regulators and auditors. I take pride in consistently striving to exceed the - [Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP)](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/cdpap/) - Home Care in the Hudson Valley in Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, Putnam, Sullivan and Rockland county. Personal attendants for people with disabilities and seniors. - [ADA Compliance Policy](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/ada-compliance-policy/) - We want to hear about any ADA concerns or problems that encounter in the community! We will investigate and work with the location to remedy any violations. - [ADA Consultation and Modifications](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/ada-consultation-and-modification/) - Independent Living offers advocacy, consultations, and evaluations for individuals, local municipalities, commercial property owners, employers, businesses, schools, and provider agencies in the Mid-Hudson region of New York. These services play a vital role in ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - [Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter: ILI Insider!](https://www.myindependentliving.org/contact/subscribe/) - Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter. - [Leadership Directory](https://www.myindependentliving.org/contact/leadership/) - Leadership Directory - This is not a complete staff directory. If you would like to contact a person not listed, please call our main number 845-565-1162. - [Who We Are](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/) - Who We Are - Since inception in 1987, Independent Living, Inc. has remained committed in its mission of enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities. - [Kathy Giraud, VP of HR](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/kathy-giraud/) - Kathy Giraud has served as Independent Living, Inc.’s (ILI) and Independent Home Care, Inc.’s (IHC) Vice President of Human Resources since April 2022 - [Doug Hovey, President & CEO](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/doug-hovey/) - Doug Hovey is the Founding Chief Executive Officer of Independent Living, Inc., a consumer-directed, cross-disability service in Hudson Valley NY. - [Shannon Zawiski, COO](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/shannon-zawiski/) - Shannon Zawiski has had the privilege of working for Independent Living/ Independent Home Care (ILI/ IHC) since 2006. Click here for more information! - [Kelly Wright, Director of Marketing and Development](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/our-team/kelly-wright/) - Kelly Wright brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in marketing and fundraising to Independent Living, Inc. and Independent Home Care, Inc., t - [Accessibility Barrier Form](https://www.myindependentliving.org/reportabarrier/) - If you identify an accessibility barrier in your community, please fill out the form below. We will follow up & assist management in addressing concerns. - [Brochure Page](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/virtual-brochure-page/) - Independent Living's virtual brochure page with information on all of the services available. Click here for more information and resources to help! - [Peer Support Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/peers/) - Independent Living, Inc.’s Peer Support Services Peer Services at Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) encompass a unique and invaluable approach to support services. - [Advocacy Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/advocacy/) - Advocacy at Independent Living, Inc. We are united in our commitment to advocating for the rights and inclusion of all people with disabilities, recognizing that disability can touch any one of us at any moment in our lives. Our advocacy efforts are grounded in the principles of the peer services movement, where lived experience is - [We Are Hiring!](https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/) - Careers - Work with us and help to create a barrier-free society! We offer full-time employee's excellent benefits, paid holidays, and competitive wages! - [Independence Square](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/independence-square/) - Independence Square Located at 11 Washington Terrace in the City of Newburgh, New York Independence Square is a safe, affordable, and fully accessible apartments - [Forensic Connections Program](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/forensic-connections-program/) - Forensic Connections Program In collaboration with the Orange County, New York Department of Mental Health and the Port Jervis City Community. - [Support for Parents & Families](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/support-for-parents-families/) - Support for Parents & Families - What families do when a child deals mental illness, get an evaluation of your child by a licensed mental health professional. - [Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA)](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/work-incentives-planning-assistance-wipa/) - Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) A national program funded by the Social Security administration guiding individuals with disabilities. - [Supported and Supportive Housing](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/supported-and-supportive-housing/) - Supported and Supportive Housing Independent Living provides case management services and rental subsidies for permanent housing for qualified individuals with disabilities in Orange County, New York, funded by NYS Office of Mental Health and Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Services include, but are not limited to, independent living skills training; wellness coaching, peer - [Recovery Center Programs](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/recoveryprograms/) - Recovery Center Programs - Providing support to anyone 18 and older impacted by substance use, mental health / illness. Click here for more information! - [Self-Directed Care](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/self-directed-care/) - Self-Directed Care Through funding made possible by the New York State Office of Mental Health, this program provides funding to HARP enrolled individuals. - [Mental Health Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/) - Mental Health Supports and Services - Grounded in the principles of the peer services movement, our organization is driven by lived experience. - [Transition (“Bridger”) and Diversion Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/transition-bridger-and-diversion-services/) - Transition (“Bridger”) and Diversion Services Independent Living provides Transition (Bridger) and Diversion Services to people with psychiatric & co-occurring addictive disabilities in the Mid-Hudson region of New York. The goal is to aid in the prevention of hospitalization and homelessness, this program provides wrap-around support, including core independent living services. Our bridgers are on-site and on-call at local hospitals - [Case Management Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/mental-health-services/case-management-services/) - Case Management Services Independent Living offers a holistic, person-centered approach to facilitating connections with provider agencies and community - [Information & Referral](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/informationreferral/) - Information and Referral Resource - Don’t know where to begin? Embarking on the journey to access disability supports and services can feel overwhelming. - [Benefits Advisement](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/benefits-advisement/) - Benefits Advisement Are you considering applying for benefits? Do you want support in knowing what benefits are available? Click here for more information! - [Aging In Place: E-WOGI](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/ada-consultation-and-modification/ewogi/) - Enhanced WELCOME Orange Geriatric Initiative (E-WOGI) At Independent Living, Inc. (ILI), our mission is centered around empowering individuals with disabilities - [Eliminate Barriers to Access](https://www.myindependentliving.org/eliminatebarriers/) - Eliminate Barriers- We need your help to identify accessibility barriers in our community. Independent Living, Inc. envisions a barrier-free society - [Contact Us](https://www.myindependentliving.org/contact/contact-us/) - Newburgh Phone: (845) 565-1162 Fax: (845) 565-0567 Email: Newburgh Videophone: (845) 764-8384 Middletown Phone: (845) 342-1162 Fax: (845) 342-1192 Email: Middletown Monticello Phone: (845) 794-3322 Fax: (845) 794-3323 Email: Monticello Contact Us We are best reached by phone Monday – Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you are experiencing a crisis, please dial - [Developmental Disabilities](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/developmental-disabilities/) - Developmental Disabilities Independent Living offers an array of services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in the Hudson Valley, including education advocacy and transition supports for students between the ages of 6 and 21, an after-school learning enrichment program, a Community Independence Program that offers independent living skills training. Services Community Independence Program Fundamental - [Facilitated Enrollment](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/facilitatedenrollment/) - Facilitated Enrollment Welcome to Independent Living Inc.’s Facilitated Enrollment for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (FE-ABD) program! CONTACT US What is the Facilitated Enrollment Process? Connect with a Facilitated Enrollment Specialist to discuss eligibility. Coordinate with the specialist on the best way to proceed with applications. Determine applicable programs, gather necessary documentation, and submit applications - [Employment Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/employment-services/) - Contact Form Thank you for your interest in our Employment Program! If you submitted a question, someone will contact you back within 1 business day. If you submitted a general interest inquiry, you will receive periodic updates about relevant news. Employment Services Real Jobs for Real People Labels Get in the Way, Disabilities Rarely Do… - [Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Services](https://www.myindependentliving.org/support-services/deaf-hard-of-hearing-services/) - Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Services Independent Living provides a bridge between the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing cultures in Orange, Ulster, Sullivan and Dutchess Counties. This program is actively engaged in community outreach and education, employment, advocacy, service coordination, counseling, and technical support. For more information on our Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Services, please call Videophone: (845) 764-8384. Contact - [Policies](https://www.myindependentliving.org/who-we-are/policies/) - Policies False Claim Whistleblower Policy Rights and Grievance Consumer Grievance Form Learning About Incidents: OPWDD Incident Management Policy and Procedure Incident Reporting Statement of Purpose Notice of Privacy Practices Compliance Plan Independent Home Care, Inc. (IHC) Compliance Plan Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) ## Categories - [News](https://www.myindependentliving.org/category/news/) - [Blog](https://www.myindependentliving.org/category/blog/) - [Our Stories](https://www.myindependentliving.org/category/our-stories/) - [Events](https://www.myindependentliving.org/category/events-ili/) - [Action Alert](https://www.myindependentliving.org/category/news/action-alert/) ## Tags - [mental health](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/mental-health/) - [aging](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/aging/) - [Deaf](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/deaf/) - [Disability](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/disability/) - [Disability Stories](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/disability-stories/) - [Disability Visibility](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/disability-visibility/) - [Deaf and Hard of Hearing](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/deaf-and-hard-of-hearing/) - [Disability Pride](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/disability-pride/) - [Police Encounter](https://www.myindependentliving.org/tag/police-encounter/) - 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