RCSN 2013 Annual Report

2013

ANNUAL REPORT

RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT

Hugh Chatfield Jack Donahue Andrea House Adam Thompson EDITORIAL DESIGNER

Kelsey Fagan WWW.RESOURCESNYC.ORG

T HE NEED

THERE ARE OVER 250,000 YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIE S IN NE W YORK CIT Y

31%

GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL

32% LIVE IN POVERTY

A PERSON W ITH DIS A BILITIES IS

5 TIMES MORE LIKELY

4 0,0 0 0 PEOPLE

TO BE UNEMPLOY ED

“When my son was first diagnosed, I felt incredibly isolated. I didn’t know where to start, what questions to ask, or what supports were out there. Then I found RCSN. I have learned to be his fiercest advocate, and I know he will achieve more than I could ever imagine.”

– PARENT

Every parent knows how difficult parenting can be. Worry is part of the parenting DNA – from concerns about our child’s future to concerns about personal safety, feeling accepted and having friends. For parents of a child with special needs, there are exceptional reasons to worry.

Children with special needs are our most vulnerable young people. In New York City, parents of children with disabilities face byzantine education and service systems, among the largest and most rapidly changing anywhere.

Here, youth with special needs are only half as likely to graduate high school, and over five times more likely to face unemployment.

WITH THE RIGHT SUPPORTS, CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS CAN BECOME CONTRIBUTING, INDEPENDENT CITIZENS. Although young people with special needs may be eligible for or entitled to services, the system is full of hurdles that limit access. For families for whom English is a second language, who are working several jobs, or who are consumed with the day-to-day reality of poverty or homelessness, these hurdles can be overwhelming. Time and time again, public systems have proven ineffective at helping people get what they need.

With the right supports, children with special needs can become contributing, independent citizens. Family engagement is essential in ensuring positive outcomes for children with disabilities. Resources for Children with Special Needs is here to help.

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RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IS HERE TO HELP.

Thirty years ago, three mothers of children with disabilities found each other. They met over coffee to share their experiences and hard-earned knowledge about how to advocate and access resources for their children in New York City. These mothers created Resources for Children with Special Needs so that all families in New York City could find the information, resources, and confidence to advocate for their own children.

Thirty years later, we’ve grown from three co-founders to 16 staff members.

Every day, we provide free, one-to-one support and training to help families and professionals provide children and young adults with any disability what they need to achieve their fullest potential.

To better equip families with the skills and knowledge to navigate complex systems, we provide over 200 free parent workshops each year. When families need immediate help, they speak with an advocate by calling our Resource Line. We also train professionals to work effectively with youth with disabilities and their families. We reach thousands of New Yorkers annually through our trainings and one-to-one support, and reach hundreds of thousands more through publications, websites, social media, and outreach events. And we continue to advocate for system-wide change on behalf of all children and young adults with special needs.

RCSN focuses our outreach, direct service, and training work in the highestneed communities – neighborhoods with elevated poverty rates, linguistic diversity, and the lowest-performing schools. We work in all five boroughs, and all of our services are available free of charge to families.

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“I now know so much more about how to plan for my child’s future.”

– PARENT

RCSN PARENT CENTERS RCSN Parent Centers provide training, information, and resources to help families of young people with disabilities access services, make informed choices, and advocate effectively.

Since 1992, RCSN has served as a federally funded Parent Training and Information Center (PTIC) for all five boroughs of New York City. The PTIC provides one-to-one help, information and referral, and parent training to promote positive outcomes for young people with disabilities through age 26. As a PTIC, RCSN is fortunate to be part of a robust national network of programs and centers sharing up-to-date information and research on disabilities, effective strategies and practices, and policy.

For the past five years, RCSN has served as the NY State-funded Bronx and Manhattan Special Education Parent Centers. These programs provide resources, information, and training for families to promote effective family engagement in the educational process through high school. These programs also enable RCSN to collaborate and partner with key state initiatives to improve special education services and outcomes. Beginning in 2014, RCSN will be the Special Education Parent Center for the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Starting in 2013, RCSN became the NYC Parent Center partner for NYS PROMISE, a new five-year federally-funded project to demonstrate effective transition practices for young people with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). RCSN supports project outreach and recruitment, connects families with community resources, and conducts training for project participants. We work closely with state agencies, NYC public schools, and Cornell University on this exciting project.

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DIRECT ASSISTANCE RCSN’s staff provided one-to-one help to 2,745 people in 2013. In addition to providing support navigating multiple systems, including the public education system, RCSN staff helped families access camps and summer programs, after-school programs, family support services, and more.

“I just wanted to let you know how helpful you have been.

I met with the principal this morning, and took your sage advice to be cautious and

RESOURCE LINE In March 2013, RCSN launched the Resource Line to better provide immediate one-to-one assistance to family members needing help.

Resource Line staff provide immediate assistance to most callers. Those with more technical or complex questions receive an appointment with a specialist in their area of concern, from early intervention to special education to adult service systems. The Resource Line is staffed by English, Mandarin, and Spanish-speaking staff from 8 AM until 4 PM Monday through Thursday, and with additional hours by appointment. When there is not staff available in the language of the caller, RCSN staff use Language Line, which provides simultaneous translation in a myriad of languages.

approachable with my tone.

Apparently I did something right! My son is going to get what he needs. I’m not 100% sure what happens now, but I am 100% full of joy and relief.”

– PARENT

WORKING TOGETHER Joanne, mother of 10-year-old Ricky, called RCSN after Ricky’s bus route was changed. Ricky has autism which makes it challenging for him to sit on long bus rides, but his new bus route forced him to sit on the bus for 3 hours each day. Many times, Ricky missed afternoon therapies. After working with RCSN, Joanne called the relevant Department of Education contacts and the private bus agency to advocate for her son. A few weeks later, Joanne and Ricky got some good news—his bus was being rerouted to a 30 minute route. Now Ricky is much happier getting to school and home in time for therapies, and his mother is empowered to get her son what he needs.

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96%

72%

OF FAMILIES REPORTED BEING MORE KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT HOW TO WORK WITH SCHOOLS

OF FAMILIES SHARED INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM RCSN WITH OTHER FAMILIES

84% OF FAMILIES WERE ABLE TO WORK WITH THE SCHOOL TO ADDRESS A CRITICAL NEED RELATED TO THEIR CHILD’S EDUCATION

80% OF FAMILIES SAID THEIR CHILD RECEIVED MORE APPROPRIATE SERVICES BECAUSE THEY PUT TO USE THE INFORMATION LEARNED FROM RCSN

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PARENT WORKSHOP MENU THE EARLIER THE BETTER WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD TURNS 2 PREPARE FOR KINDERGARTEN

2013

Overview of Early Intervention: how to get evaluations, establish eligibility, work with service providers, and more Create a smooth transition from Early Intervention to pre-school Practical guide to school-aged services and introduction to the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process

SPECIAL EDUCATION BASICS

Overview of Special Education: learn the NYC process, including timelines for referral, evaluation, services, placement, and parent rights and role

ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD AT SCHOOL

Develop partnerships with educators, participate effectively in IEP meetings, and use due process options wisely

THE INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM (IEP)

Use the IEP process to develop goals that align with your child’s unique needs, educational standards, and access services and programs to support your child’s progress

TOP 5 RIGHTS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION

In this brief overview, learn your most important rights and responsibilities under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

RESOLVE CONFLICTS THROUGH MEDIATION

Learn how special education mediation can help you resolve disagreements with your child’s school, and whether mediation is right for you

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY, COMMUNICATION, AND THE IEP

Use the IEP process to access technology that can help your child communicate, learn, and meet educational goals

THE NYC MIDDLE SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS

Navigate the NYC public middle school application process

SELF-ADVOCACY FOR TWEENS AND TEENS

Gain practical tools to foster independence during the middle school years

HIGH SCHOOL PLANNER

Design your high school experience to create options for college and work

THE NYC HIGH SCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS

Navigate the NYC public high school application, and find a good-fit high school for your student

DIPLOMA PRIMER

In this brief overview, learn about the different diploma types and the graduation requirements for each

FAMILY GUIDE TO TRANSITION

Orientation to Transition: understand options, identify goals, and develop a meaningful plan for your child with any disability

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

Create a plan for your young adult with a developmental disability to transition to a meaningful life of learning, earning, and independence

NEW RULES, NEW CHOICES: OPWDD ACCESS & SERVICES

Learn about the Front Door, new assessments, managed care options and self-direction for your child or young adult with a developmental disability

SELF-DIRECTION

Use the Medicaid Waiver to create and fund services and supports that make sense for your child or young adult with a developmental disability

YOUR CHILD’S BEST CHAMPION

Gain the skills and confidence you need to speak, listen and advocate on behalf of your child

FIND YOUR INNER SHERLOCK CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS

Learn and practice practical tools to understand and address challenging behaviors at home

“YOU JUST DON’T GET IT”

Learn practical strategies to manage family and other social dynamics when your child has differences

FACEBOOK TO TEXTING NO BULLYING

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Learn to find the programs and services you need for your child in NYC

Help your child live a safe and positive digital life Minimize the risk that your child will be a bully – or be bullied – and use the IEP as a tool to create a proactive plan

BY THE NUMBERS: 2013 TRAININGS

217

TRAININGS

4,740

TOTAL PEOPLE TRAINED

2,529

PARENTS TRAINED

52

TRAININGS DELIVERED IN SPANISH

13

TRAININGS DELIVERED IN CHINESE

2

TRAININGS DELIVERED IN KOREAN

101

WORKSHOPS AND TRAININGS RCSN workshops are designed to provide families with tools to address the unique challenges that come with raising a child with special needs.

In 2013, RCSN offered 24 workshop topics, with each workshop delivered by an experienced RCSN family educator to meet the needs of diverse learners.

We help parents understand their child’s educational and transitional needs in workshops like “Prepare for Kindergarten” and “The Individualized Education Program (IEP)”. RCSN’s workshops on “Challenging Behaviors”, “Your Child’s Best Champion”, and “Facebook to Texting” help parents keep their children engaged appropriately in school, and better manage challenges at home. All of RCSN’s workshops equip parents with practical knowledge and skills to support a bright future for their child.

SCHOOL TRAINING SITES

66

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION TRAINING SITES

100%

OF TRAINING ATTENDEES SURVEYED FOUND INFORMATION THEY RECEIVED USEFUL

In 2013, RCSN delivered 217 free workshops and trainings to more than 4,700 New Yorkers across the five boroughs. RCSN benefited from the partnership and collaboration of government agencies, community organizations, schools, and many other community sites. RCSN delivered trainings in English, Spanish, Korean, and Chinese.

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“From now on, when I speak with parents, I will start by telling them about all the positive things about working with their child.”

– AFTER SCHOOL YOUTH WORKER

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RCSN furthers our impact by building the capacity of organizations and their staff to include and support young people with disabilities and their families. We work with educators, agency staff, after-school providers and therapists, as well as people who work in libraries, museums, public parks, and other community settings. RCSN offers technical training on special education and other systems, and works with organizations to improve how they welcome, collaborate, and communicate with families.

INFORMATION RESOURCES Families of children and young adults with disabilities must navigate many systems on behalf of their kids. Information is often complex, full of jargon, and hard to understand. RCSN takes this information and makes it available to our families through workshops, one-to-one help, online resources, and tip sheets. We use easy-to-comprehend language and visuals to make sure all families, regardless of education level or language spoken, get the information they need.

IT MATTERS TO US RCSN began a partnership with Special Citizens Futures Unlimited after several staff members attended an RCSN workshop on “Sexuality and Disabilities” and requested additional professional development workshops. In October, RCSN presented a professional development workshop for over 75 staff and managers who provide day and residential services to youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. At the beginning of the training, we asked staff to share a recent victory of one of the youth or young adults with whom they work. After each victory, everyone gave a round of applause – an acknowledgment of the success of the team in helping people with disabilities reach their fullest potential. One participant shared, “I remembered how much I love my job and care about the people I support.”

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BY THE NUMBERS: CAMP FAIR

1,200

CAMP FAIR ATTENDEES

58

SUMMER CAMPS/PROGRAMS

300

CAMPS/PROGRAMS LISTED IN CAMP GUIDE

BY THE NUMBERS: SYMPOSIUM

100

PARENTS ATTENDED

COMMUNITY EVENTS Camp Fair

33

PARENTS REQUESTED AND RECEIVED ONE-TO-ONE HELP FOLLOWING THE SYMPOSIUM

RCSN’s 28th Annual Camp Fair in January connected nearly 1,200 attendees with camps, summer programs, and community organizations that include children and young adults with disabilities. Attendees received a flash drive with a searchable directory, in English and Spanish, of camps and summer programs that give youth with disabilities a chance to experience new situations, to increase their independence, and to have a memorable summer.

Symposium In October, RCSN collaborated with Credit Suisse to host “New Rules, New Choices, Parent Voices” – a free symposium for families on the changes in the way families can access services through the Office for People With Development Disabilities and an introduction to Self-Direction.

Parent panelists shared their firsthand stories of using self-direction, and a resource panel of staff from the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and support brokers were on hand to field questions. The event was a huge success, and strengthened RCSN’s work to help families navigate the changing world of developmental disability services.

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BY THE NUMBERS: 2013 HIGH SCHOOL MATCH

1,111

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS RECEIVED PROGRAMMING

420

STUDENTS WITH IEP’S RECEIVED INTENSIVE WORKSHOPS

16

MIDDLE SCHOOLS PARTICIPATED

100%

OF STUDENTS IN RCSN’S FIRST COHORT RECEIVED A FIRST ROUND MATCH TO CHOICE HIGH SCHOOLS

413

NYC PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS TO WHICH STUDENTS CAN APPLY

HIGH SCHOOL MATCH For the city’s most at-risk students, placement in the right high school is key to obtaining a high school diploma that opens the doors to college and career – but without help, these students often fall through the cracks. The New York City high school application process is particularly challenging.

Students and families must navigate hundreds of school options, high school fairs, open houses, admissions criteria, timelines, and a complex application. Students with disabilities and low-achieving students from high needs neighborhoods face additional challenges and are at greatest risk for placement at the city’s lowest-performing schools.

High School Match equips students, schools, and families with the tools and knowledge to complete a strategic and informed high school application, and to be matched to a high school that increases a student’s chance of graduating and achieving positive post-secondary outcomes.

Over the 2013-2014 school year, RCSN expanded HS Match to serve 2,000 students at high needs schools throughout NYC. Students with IEPs attend workshops throughout the 7th and 8th grade year to explore high school options, to identify best-fit high schools, and to complete an accurate high school application.

MARCUS’ STORY Marcus, a seventh grade student with an IEP living in the South Bronx, attended his first High School Match workshop in the fall of 2013. Using the tools he learned in the workshop, he started exploring the New York City High School Directory to find schools that would best help him graduate with a high school diploma. On the night of the workshop, Marcus’s mom came home from work to find the Directory on her nightstand. It was open to the page for Eagle Academy for Young Men – his “dream school”.

Marcus’ mother is thrilled to see him take ownership over his education and his future.

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“Sometimes kids receiving special education services are overlooked. I think High School Match is really, really important. Because of it, they understand that they do have a chance.

It’s a really excellent program, I’m so glad you are here.”

– GUIDANCE COUNSELOR, HARLEM

BY THE NUMBERS: 2013 CASES PARTNERSHIP

CASES PARTNERSHIP In 2013, RCSN partnered with the Center for Alternative Sentencing and Employment Services’ (CASES) Alternative to Detention program to provide advocacy and support for youth involved in the family court system. RCSN collaborates with CASES education advocates, participants, and their families to ensure students with disabilities receive the services they need to stay in school and stay out of the criminal justice system.

40

COURT-INVOLVED YOUTH SERVED BY CASES AND RCSN

11-16

AGES OF YOUTH SERVED BY CASES

15

STUDENTS WITH IEPS RECEIVED INTENSIVE ONE-TO-ONE EDUCATIONAL ADVOCACY

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RCSN IS COMMITTED TO REACHING THE FAMILIES WHO NEED US MOST RCSN regularly provides information about upcoming workshops and events and up-to-date, easy-to-access resources and information. RCSN outreach materials are designed to be visually accessible to low-literacy learners, culturally competent, and easily shared. Materials are available in English, Spanish, and in other languages as needed.

Since some parents are unable to attend an RCSN workshop or need immediate information, RCSN launched a “How-To” YouTube Channel in October, with a growing number of short instructional videos to give parents practical strategies in a format that is highly accessible to all literacy levels. These videos allow parents to pause and take notes, and they can be easily circulated to other family members and advocates. RCSN’s “How-To” videos are available in Spanish as well as English and can be translated into additional languages as needed.

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RCSN is active on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media sites. We share information and create conversation with NYC families, professionals, and other stakeholders.

RCSN launched a new website in October.

The website was redesigned to help families easily find what they are looking for. Upcoming workshops are posted by topic and age group to allow families to quickly find workshops that meet their needs. The website also includes links to resources and “how-to” tip sheets with practical information for parents and professionals.

BY THE NUMBERS: 2013 OUTREACH

80,317

WEBSITE VISITORS

195,427

WEBSITE PAGE VIEWS

3,086

FACEBOOK “LIKES”

19,000

PEOPLE RECEIVED RCSN E-BLASTS

CONNECT WITH RCSN Our “connect” page on our website features: • RCSN Voices Staff on life and disability in NYC launched in June • Pavement RCSN in the 5 boroughs, featuring RCSN’s partnerships and events around NYC launched in October • A weekly web news roundup of special education and other related articles • Social media feeds • Current and archived RCSN eNewsletters

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“YOU CAN SEE RCSN’S LOVE FOR OUR CHILDREN.” – PARENT

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SYSTEMIC ADVOCACY

“RCSN helps level the playing field so everyone, regardless of their abilities, has a chance.”

-PARENT

RCSN works to improve the systems that impact lives. RCSN advocates for policies and practices that improve access and outcomes for all of New York City’s young people with special needs. In systems as diverse as education, developmental disabilities, mental health, child welfare, courtinvolved youth, and workforce development, our day to day work with families and youth informs and guides our systemic advocacy.

In 2013, RCSN staff were on the front lines, testifying before the City Council, providing feedback to state educational officials and the NYS Board of Regents on proposed policy changes, and developing and presenting our “Preparing for Change” curriculum to teach parents and professionals about reforms in the New York State systems that serve children and adults with developmental disabilities.

In the past year, RCSN participated in over 25 coalitions, policy-related workgroups, and neighborhood partnerships. These helped us to stay abreast of program, policy, and local initiatives that impact the families we serve, and to influence their development and delivery.

IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY During the New York City bus strike in early 2013, RCSN’s media outreach helped to highlight the impact of the strike on students with special needs. We highlighted the loss of instruction and services for these students, as well as the impact for working families. RCSN’s webinars were live-tweeted by local media, and our social media outlets erupted with parents telling their stories. RCSN also provided a forum for parents to seek help. We met with elected officials, spoke in public forums, held free webinars and clinics, and reached out to families via social media to equip them with the tools to manage the impact of the strike.

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“I LEARNED HOW TO HELP MY CHILD CHOOSE HIS OWN PATH FOR A GOOD LIFE.” – PARENT

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Government

Government

Foundation Support

46% Foundation Support 27% Individual Contributions Special Events and Corporations 12% Other Individual Contributions 8% 5% Other

Special Events and Corporations

$1.9M

IN 2013, NEARLY HALF OF RCSN’S $1.9 MILLION IN REVENUE CAME FROM FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT. THE REST CAME FROM FOUNDATION SUPPORT, INDIVIDUAL DONORS, AND SPECIAL EVENTS.

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2013 ADVISORY BOARD

Ellen Miller-Wachtel, Chair Shon E. Glusky, President Owen P.J. King, Treasurer Fredda Rosen, Secretary Laurie Abramowitz Michael B. Exstein Richard Hofstetter Jamie H. Klein Seth J. Kramer John J. McGuire, Jr. Suzanne Peters Iriss Shimony

Nina M. Hill, PhD Marion Katzive Jay D. Kramer, Esq. Jeffrey Lyons Ann Marcus, Ed.D. Edith McCarthy, MD Christopher Rosa, Ph.D. Sandy Rochelle Schachter Davida Sherwood, Ph.D. Alan Wachtel, MD Elaine Yudkovitz, Ph.D.

CO-CHAIR & VICE CHAIR EMERITA

Londra Lynford, LCSW CO-FOUNDER & FORMER ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

Helene F. Craner, LMSW CO-FOUNDER & FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Karen T. Schlesinger HONORARY BOARD

Katharine P. Darrow Diane E. Herzog Laura Shapiro EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rachel Howard

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OUR DONORS $100,000 AND UP The Heckscher Foundation for Children The Goldman Sachs Gives Charitable Trust The New York Community Trust

$50,000 TO $100,000 Blanche T. Enders Charitable Trust John J. and Elizabeth McGuire, Jr. The FAR Fund The Joseph Leroy and Ann C. Warner Fund

$25,000 TO $49,999 The Achelis Foundation Autism Speaks Francis and Edwin Cummings Memorial Fund J.E. & Z.B. Butler Foundation Jacob Friedman Charitable Fund KPMG LLP The Milbank Foundation for Rehabilitation

$10,000 TO $24,999 The Barker Welfare Foundation Beach Lane Management Mitchel and Helene Craner The Ferriday Fund Howard and Jamie Klein NYSE EuroNext Foundation The Poses Family Foundation Fred and Nancy Poses The OMER Foundation Jay Fialkoff and Iris Fishman The Carl and Lily Pforzheimer Foundation, Inc.

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Mark Scharfman Women’s Syndicate Association

$5,000 TO $9,999 Liz Beshel Bucks Creek Foundation Lisa Opoku Busumbru Mary Byron Anthony Carpet Daniel L. Dees Robert Dineen, Jr. Michael and Lida Exstein Goldman Sachs The Hyde and Watson Foundation Michael Koester J. Christopher Kojima Gregg R. Lemkau Lord & Taylor/Hudson Bay’s Company David W. Morse and Catherine Trimble John and Bridget Murphy David Christopher Ryan John and Monica Sganga James and Marilyn Simons

$1,000 TO $4,999 Mark and Joan Abramowitz Laurie Abramowitz Leigh and Carrie Abramson Robert Adler Michael Algiere Anderson Center for Autism John and Jody Arnhold Gareth Bater Andrew and Hillary Beckman Albert and Elissa Benchimol Zohar and Laurie Ben-Dov BNY Mellon Community Partnership Ronald R. Borus Rob Chevalier

Andrew Chisholm Ben Crane Matthew and Katharine Craner Credit Suisse Americas Foundation Dr. Nancy J. Crown David S. Stone Foundation David Kronenberg and Sarah Dearmont Robert and Judith Delasi District Council 37 Dobkin Family Foundation East 16th Street Realty Richard and Lora Elleson Julia Erario Frankfurt, Kurnit, Klein and Selz Murray Feiss and Diana Gould The Flora Morrell Charitable Trust Veronica Foo and Raymond Yeung Dana M. Foote Gillen Brewer School Allen and Roz Ginsberg Shon and Stefanie Glusky Sally Gottesman Allan and Jane Greenspan Michael Guernier John and Diana Herzog Richard and Fran Hofstetter Marty and Rachel Howard John N. Blackman Sr. Foundation Mikael Johnson David Bartz and Margaret Johnson Jeffrey Jones George S. Kaufman Shaun Kelly Donna Kennedy John MacArthur and Renee Khatami Owen King and Alison King Seth J. Kramer Guillaume Lechasseur Barbara Leff Len Camber Charitable Trust Larry Leva

Linda Lucardi Jeffrey and Tondra Lynford Aaron and Randie Malinsky Robert Manger and Davida Sherwood Jeannie Marie McGuire Louis Mezzina Ron Miller Alan Wachtel, MD and Ellen MillerWachtel Abby Modell Michael Monteleone New York University Community Fund Byron Nimocks and Emilie Murphy Ovation Travel Tim Steven and Suzanne Peters Pfizer, Inc. Thomas and Karen Robards Mordecai Rosenfeld and Paula Omansky Karen T. Schlesinger Richard and Lesley Seitchik William Seymour Jay Kramer and Laura Shapiro Kramer John Shaughnessy Rony and Catherine Shimony Andy Bogen and Iriss Shimony Stan and Miki Shpetner Eric Bregman and Arlene Slavin William Sneddon Judith H. Sussman Daniel and Amanda Tapiero Lauren Tsuchiya Carin van der Donk Ted and Betsy Wheeler

$500 TO $999 Aaron Arth Stephen Bauman Laurine Hawkins Ben-Dov

The work of RCSN would not be possible without the financial support of the individuals, corporations, and groups who are willing and ready to turn ideas into action and to support our mission. We greatly appreciate those who supported RCSN in 2013.

Barbara Brown Nancy Calderon Scott A. Carlson Ledyard and Millburn Carter Andrew Craner John and Muriel Craner Peter Cummiskey and Alexandra Dalpan Jean Dattner Robert and Lenore Davis Jesse Dittmar Ronald and Deborah Eisenberg Stephen F. and Martha Ellman William Darrow and Amelia Erikson Robert Ernst Eliza Factor Family Management Cooperation Joseph Frank and Ivone Fleitas Meyer S. and Florence Frucher Michael Dirzulaitis and Janice Gabrilove Scott Gaynor Barbara T. Gehring John and Gillett Gilbert Paul LeClerc and Judith Ginsberg Daniel and Arin Gornstein Robert and Andrea Greene Charles and Jane Greenman Karesse Grenier Bruce and Joanne Halev Ronald and June Hersh Stephen and Judith Hochman Galen Hoskin James Kase Tatsuo Kawasaki Carol Khoury Mehmet and Audrey Kirdar Susan Klebanoff Rajesh Kshatriya Richard Kurnit and Diane Katzin Caitlin LaCroix Sarah Levengood John Longstreet

M. Klebanoff Foundation William McKeown Felice Michetti Beth Mikosh Helen Murphy Jennifer O’Connell Michael O’Dowd Patricia Olivares Palaemon, Inc. Lee Perlman and Linda Riefberg John and Elly Rufer Michael and Pamela Schaenen Richard and Marcia Scheiner Sara Schiller Jennifer Shaoul Patrick Smith Kenneth and Katherine Snelson Jay and Lauren Springer Stephen Gaynor School Stephen D. Stern Timothy Stiles Jeanne Straus Elizabeth Williams Maureen Willox YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Elaine Yudkovitz Seymour Zises Ariel Zurofsky

$100 TO $499 Adam Nussenbaum and Shari Abramowitz Sheila Abrams Amanda Ackerman Advocates for Children Suzanne Aisenberg Jillian Amos Ellis Arnstein Ellen Banner Jaclyn Okin Barney Elizabeth Beck

Joan Berger Victoria Berger-Gross Derick and Suzanne Betts David Birnbaum Elana Bluestine Shana Block Abe Borenstein Alan Wiesenfeld and Rochelle Borsky Peg Breen Paul Brisson Mitchell and Lisa Broder Sir Harold Evans and Tina Brown Anthony Cammarata, Jr. Mara Canner Michael and Karen Carbone Louanna O. Carlin Reid Carroll Phil and Meryl Cedar Patricia Chapman William Charron Stephen Clemente Lauren Cloud Jeremy Cohen Monica Crowley Lauren Czeizler David D’Alessandro Harley Dalton Blanca del Castillo Edmund and Marilyn DeMario Norma Doft Jack Donahue Amanda Duva David and Sharon Eder Brett Ehrlich Karen Elder Dwight and Mary Ann Ellis John Englert Kathleen Feeney Guy and Michal Feldman Steven Fishner Douglas and Sarah Fleming Herbert Folpe

Caird Forbes-Cockell and Lynne Hyman Morgan Frame David and Dianne Frankel Michael P. Frankfurt Marissa Fremont Glen Gannon Valerie Garten Richard and Jennifer Geller Sahar Ghaheri Joseph Giordano Harry and Kim Glusky Steven and Paula Glusky Herb and Mary Golden Bennett and Marcy Grau Robert Stein and Mara Greenberg Leslie Greenberg Lawrence and Sandra Greller Laura R. Harris Adam and Heather Heft Eileen Hengel Jeff and Robyn Herman Ron Hibshoosh Allison Holt Steven and Sandra Holtz Arthur Hoyt Richard and Anita Inz Elkin Abramowitz and Susan Isaacs Anne Jameson Everett and Margie Jassy Sarah Jensen Eugene and Anne Jones Brandon Joseph Judge Rotenberg Center Mark and Keren Kalimian Diana Jacobs Kalman Eric Kahn Stephen Kandall Brian A. Kane Laurence and Sheila Kantor Brenda Kaplan Julie Karen

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Gary and Leslye Katz Marion Katzive Barbara Kaufman Sanda Kessler Helen Klebnikov Frederick and Marion Kneip Haya Kramer Larry Kraut Mark Kopinski Howard and Gail Kunreuther Steven and Judith Kunreuther Michael Kantor and Kathy Landau Harold Lander Charlene Laniewski Erlinda Lemly Harvey and Rosalyn Levine Mark and Jennifer Leyton Marc and Elizabeth Litt Jon London Carmen Lorenzana William Ludolph John and Patricia Maggio Manhattan Developmental Disabilities Council Kenneth and Susie Mandelbaum Ann Marcus Jeffrey and Elizabeth Margolin Amy Mathys Alexandra McArthur Park McArthur Greg McGee Camille McGratty Kim McMurdo Nathan Meeks Soren Meischeid Joel Miller Larry Miller and Kathy Chazen Adam and Melissa Miller Mobile Steam Boiler Rental Corp.

Amelia Mohabir Elizabeth Montemarano Marion Morgenthal Elizabeth Morris MT Business Consultants, Inc. My Learning Springboard, Inc. Alexandra Mysak New York Center for Child Development New York Life Insurance Co. William R. Nye Julie O’Shaughnessy Kristin Oliviero Lisa Ostad Ryan Owen John and Patricia Pegram Lisa Perfetti Charles and Dorothy Plohn, Jr. Archer and Margaret Puddington Andrew Quail Poppy B. Quattlebaum Daniel Rainer Reece School Anna Reeve

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Eliot and Amelia Relles Alan Riffkin Geraldo and Erica Rivera Giselle Rivers Robert A. and Linda S. Friedman Foundation Herold Smith and James Robinson Robert and Elizabeth Rodgers Roberto Romero Mary K. Rosano Daniel and Carolyn Rosen Fredda Rosen Gail Ross Yixin Santalone Greg Odland and Tracy Schaffzin Schall & Ashenfarb Trey Schorgl Diane and Eric Schwartz Howard Muchnick and Susan J. Schwartz Segel Foundation Matthew Shafiroff Kenneth Meister and Laurie Shahon Basil Williams III and Heather Shamsai Constance Shapiro Enid Shapiro Michael and Chaye Shapot Randi Sherman Marylin Silverman Renee Simon Sarah Singer Jaye-Bea Smalley Richard Smilow Ruth Sobie David and Nancy Solomon Jerry and Helene Spiegel Toby Lublin Stolzer Alex and Edna Sussman Francis Shannon Sweeney Blaine Templeman Robert and Susan Tofel Sophia Tu Henry Frommer and Cheryl Tuttle Theodore Tyberg Michael and Martine Tyson Sharyn Van Reepinghen Riska Wanago David Wasserman Earl Weiner Marie P. Weinstein Carol Weiss Netasha Williams Susan W. Williams Justin and Shelly Wimpfheimer Toby Winer Katherine Wolf Eric and Abigail Woodworth King Tung Clive Yip Andrew Yorks Richard Yu Stacey Zeltner

UP TO $100

GOVERNMENT

Cliff Archey Phyllis Arnold Dotie Marie Babael Ann Thornton Bearden Scott and Nicole Berman Steven and Arlene Bessenoff Sam and Mary Bishop Richard Blackwell Bruce Bogart and Elizabeth Sharpless Matthew Broggini Thomas W. Buckner Joseph Bukzin Robert and Olga Clolery William E. and Barbara Cuthel Katherine Davis Arlene Dunn Matthew Elkus Howard Foster and Virginia Fairweather Mary Flaherty Peter and Camilla Flemming Charles J. Gans and Sniezyna Watras-Gans Moire Givney Marshall and Ellen Golan Jerome Katz and Nancy Green Julie Grunberger Carolyn Harrs Helen Caplin Heller Elizabeth Inserra Melissa Lader JoAnn Larsen James Latham Miriam Laugesen Barbara Carren Le Sauter Caroline Lisker Laurie Marshall Ann Martin Susan Merrill Ralph Erenzo and Vicki Morgan Boris Musich Margery Reyman Mike Robinson Kathy Rose Andy Ross and Debra ShapiroRoss Alice Rothblum Patrick Ru Rebekah Saltzman Susanne B. Singer Piper Smith Steven Stella Catherine Stracquodaine Clare Stroud Adam Thompson Sharon Tompkins Robert Tortoriello Jill Totenberg Meredith Urban-Skuro

United States Department of Education The New York State Education Department The New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene / The New York City Council Autism Initiative New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC) – The Council of the City of New York Member Items

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS The Arts Effect Blue Note Jazz Club Bradford Studios BR Guest Hospitality Lisa Broder Shane Chapman Chicago The Musical Sheryl Crow Leslie Greene Harding Restaurant Robyn Herman Ivona Huszcza Jessica LaChance Pilates Jet Blue Jewish Community Center in Manhattan Kids on Camera Workshop Lamperos LLE-DOM Contemporary Art Glass Harry Levenson Joan Lynn Marilyn Zitmar Management Company Andrea Martin Meg McInerny Abby Modell Mariko Sakita and Mark Mozeson New York Giants New York Jets New York Knicks Ovation Travel SD26 Restaurant and Wine Bar Seth Rudetsky – Sirius FM Radio Show Iriss Shimony Alexander H. Stanton Staten Island Yankees Tuthilltown Spirits Uptown Pilates Debra Wattenberg Rosen, MD James Wesley

“RCSN IS SOMEWHERE WHERE I CAN GET HELP – A COMMUNITY THAT CARES AND IS ON MY SIDE.” – PARENT 2013 ANNUAL REPORT

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16 STAFF MEMBERS

OUR PEOPLE RCSN staff is experienced in special education, disabilities, youth development, parent engagement, social work, person-centered services, communications, and training. We are former teachers, social workers, and service providers. Many of us hold advanced degrees and many of us have a family member with a disability. We share the belief that, with the right supports, the possibilities for people with disabilities are endless.

2 EMPLOYEES WITH DISABILITIES

3 FLUENT IN SPANISH

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5 BOROUGHS FROM WHICH STAFF HAIL

1 FLUENT IN MANDARIN

3 COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY SOCIAL WORK INTERNS

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

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25 RCSN 26 RCSN

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

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RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS helps New York City families of children and youth with disabilities make informed decisions from birth through college and career.

WORKSHOPS | PRACTICAL INFO | A PARENT VOICE 116 EAST 16TH STREET 5TH FL. NY, NY 10003 212.677.4650 RESOURCESNYC.ORG