Navigating the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) System

Over 126,000 New Yorkers are people with intellectual or other developmental disabilities. They are children and adults with a range of abilities and needs.  The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for assuring that services rendered are of high quality and effectiveness while engaging in oversight functions with other agencies so that the civil rights of people receiving services are protected.  

Navigating the OPWDD system can be extremely challenging. This program is designed to demystify the OPWDD system and promote effective advocacy for people with disabilities and their families.  The speakers will address:

• Establishing eligibility for OPWDD services
• Supports and services available in the OPWDD system
• Role and function of Care Management Organizations
• Willowbrook Consent Decree
• Role of oversight agencies; and the
• Rights of people receiving services

Speakers

Moderator: Alison K. Morris, Esq., Cuddy Law Firm

Michael I. Fiske, Esq., Mental Hygiene Legal Service

Lisa K. Friedman, Esq., Lisa K. Friedman, Attorney at Law

Beth Haroules, Esq., Senior Staff Attorney

Kathryn E. Jerian, Esq., The Arc New York

Megan O'Connor-Hebert, Care Design New York

Program Chair: Brendan H. Buschman, Esq., Bleakley Platt & Schmidt LLP

Program Chair: Sheila E. Shea, Esq., Mental Hygiene Legal Service