In this section you will find current news, legislation and trends that impact people who have developmental disabilities. Although these items are not necessarily sponsored by AVSP, keeping abreast of the ever-changing service environment is essential to successfully meeting the needs of consumers.

Families, friends and other services providers may also find these items of interest.

The Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council (SIDDC) generally meets on the fourth Friday of each month at 9:30 am. The next meeting is scheduled for May 23, 2008. The SIDDC is our local advocacy group, providing information and resources to our consumers and families. More information can be obtained by contacting the Council office at (718) 983-5354.

The Parent-to-Parent program provides a variety of support groups for family members of individuals with disabilities. Specialized support groups are held for mothers, fathers and siblings Parent-to-Parent also provides monthly workshops on topics of interest to consumers and their families. For more information about Parent-to-Parent call (718) 494-4872.

The Learning Disability Association of New York City holds a parent support group on the last Monday of the month at 2795 Richmond Avenue from 7:00–9:00pm. Presentations and discussions are geared to assist parents of children with learning disabilities.

The Grace Foundation of New York offers parent and sibling support groups. For additional information, please contact the Grace Foundation at 718-605-7500.

YAI, National Institute for People with Disabilities offers “Project Grow,” a 7-session parent-training program that focuses on positive behavior management. You can join if you are a primary caretaker or if you have a child with a documented developmental disability and live on Staten Island. For more information, contact Kelly Flanigan at 212-273-6259.