County Seeks Input on Services for Individuals with Intellectual and Development Disabilities

County Seeks Input on Services for Individuals with Intellectual and Development Disabilities

Poughkeepsie … The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health will hold a virtual public forum on Tuesday, March 29th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. via Microsoft Teams to discuss resources and services available for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Dutchess County. Those living in the IDD community, families, and caregivers are encouraged to participate in the forum to provide feedback and input for the development of the County’s 2023 Local Services Plan for those living with special needs. Registration is required and can be done at dutchessny.gov/forumcomments.

County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “This forum is a great resource for us  to hear directly from members of our community about how we can better  support those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event provides an opportunity to learn about resources and services currently available as well as make your voice heard about any changes that may be needed as we continue to work together to make Dutchess County and inclusive and accessible place for all.”

In addition to offering time for public comments and concerns, the forum will feature several speakers from different agencies who will provide updates on services as well as answer any questions the public may have. Presentations include:

• 2021 accomplishments and planned changes for 2022

• An overview of the county’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative and upcoming plans

• Dutchess County’s Public Transit Administrator Michael Grattini will discuss accessibility and transportation services.

• Educational presentations from several experts covering topics such as Guardianship, Supplemental/ Special Needs Trust and End of Life & Advance Directives.

For those unable to attend, or do not feel comfortable during the forum, DBCH welcomes written comments and questions to be read aloud by the forum moderator. Individuals may submit comments online at dutchessny.gov/forumcomments, fax comments to 845-486-2829, or mail to: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Forum, 230 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.

Author: Harlem Valley News