CONGRESS AT HOME FOR MONTH-LONG AUGUST RECESS

The U.S. Congress is home for the month of August for its recess.  As always, a Congressional recess presents opportunities for you to deliver your messages to your lawmakers by scheduling meetings in their home district or attending local events and forums.  If you cannot speak with your lawmakers, get to know their district office staff.  Congress will reconvene at 2 p.m. o­n Tuesday, September 6, 2005.

Last week, Representatives Terry and Capps sent a Dear Colleague letter to all 435 U.S. Representatives before Congress left for recess to draw attention to the importance of their bill H.R. 1264.  The bill called the Direct Support Professionals Fairness and Security Act (H.R. 1264) addresses the inadequate wages paid to direct support professionals who struggle daily to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.  The Dear Colleague letter was timed to aid us in making this bill a focus of our efforts during the Congressional recess.  Their letter informs each Representative that he/she is likely to be asked about this issue during recess and urges their colleagues to join with them in co-sponsoring   Currently,15 Representatives—five Republicans and ten Democrats have signed o­n to support the bill.  We need to build upon this momentum.  We must have more House co-sponsors to gain interest in moving a similar bill in the Senate.

There is power in numbers!  Just last week, an alert from UCP resulted in more than 21,000 contacts to all 435 U.S. Representatives!  Let’s join in making this concerted effort throughout the August recess, as are all of our national partners— ANCOR, The Arc, UCP, and Lutheran Services.  Check out NYSACRA’s Action and Education Center o­n our website:  www.nysacra.org.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RATES TO GO UP

Effective 10/1/05 there will be an increase in Workers’ Compensation rates.  Although the new rates established by the New York State Workers’ Compensation Rating Bureau have an average increase of o­nly 5%, the rate increases for the social service industry are particularly o­nerous.  For example, class code 8865 defined as Residential Care Facility has increased from $2.65 per $100 of payroll to $3.25 per $100 of payroll.  This is a 22.64% increase.  Class 8868-Adult Living Facility, the rate goes from $3.89 to $5.00, an increase of 28.53%.  Class 8833-Homes with Medical Staff goes from $1.49 to $1.65, an increase of 10.74%.  We realize our members are ill prepared to handle this jump in payroll related costs.  In addition, there is an increase in the assessment charge at the bottom line of the Workers’ Compensation premium from 15.1% to 17.5%.

This is a good time for you to consider a quote from CRISP, the Community Residence Self-Insurance Trust.  CRISP has been serving the membership of NYSACRA and other associations for almost 10 years.  In addition to their loss control expertise, they are able to absorb the 17.5% assessment charge levied by the Sate Insurance Fund and commercial insurance carriers.  We recommend that you give either Morty Case or Pat Hoffman a call at 1-800-876-6659.                                                               AUGUST NYS OPTS UPDATE

OMRDD’s August update o­n the status of OPTS projects has been posted o­n NYSACRA’s website at www.nysacra.org

EXECUTIVE POSITIONS

Executive Director

Rivershore, a small, quality oriented, MR/DD COMPASS agency is seeking an Executive Director.     Candidates must have experience with leadership in a team-focused participatory management organization, experience and knowledge of non-profit finance and policy development. Preferred Credentials include Masters Degree in Human Service Administration or related field or MBA, experience in MR/DD services with a minimum of 4 years at a Director.  Please send cover letter and resume to Rivershore Board of Directors c/o Lisa M. Jamieson, SPHR, Director of Human Resources, PO Box 884, Lewiston, NY 14092 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   Posting will close Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at 5 pm.

Day Services Administrator

Family Residences & Essential Enterprisesis looking for a Day Services Administrator to ensure the overall direction and development of all Day Programs including those certified by OMRDD, DOH, and OMH in accordance with all federal, state and agency laws, policies and procedures.  This includes the review of documentation, development and facilitation of activity schedules, internal audits and controls.  A Masters degree in a related field required.  Qualified applicant must be able to work independently and be able to multitask across various sites.  Strong Organizational Skills and Previous Supervisory Skills a must.  For consideration, please e-mail resumes with salary requirements to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Visit our website at www.familyres.org

RESIDENTIAL PROJECT MANAGER

 FEGSis o­ne of the largest not-for-profit health and human service organizations in the country with an operating budget in excess of $200 million, 3500+ staff, 12 subsidiary corporations and a diverse service delivery network including operations in over 300 locations throughout the metropolitan New York area.  Our Developmental Disabilities Division seeks experienced professional to coordinate, manage and oversee development of new residential initiatives, from inception to completion.  Candidate will develop and submit applications and proposals.  Identify properties and oversee renovation, construction, and decoration.  Act as community board liaison.  Identify and oversee major renovations and repairs of existing program/residential physical plants to ensure compliance with agency, funding source and governmental regulations and policies.  Position requires 3+ years real estate experience in a Project Management role. Working knowledge of NYSOMRDD regulations preferred.  Candidate must be able to complete projects o­n time and within budget and have excellent negotiation, written and oral communication skills.  BA related discipline preferred. Must be computer literate.  Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.  Send resumes to our HR Consultants:  HR Dynamics, Inc. (DEPT. SS/DD), 345 Hudson Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY  10014.  E-mail:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it EOE M/F/D/V  | Posted: 7-29-05

Nursing Supervisor 

 FEGSseeks Nursing Supervisor to provide clinical training and supervision of all nursing and health care services; coordinate health and related services for consumers in multiple residential and outpatient locations; develop and oversee implementation of nursing service plans; and provide o­ngoing orientation and training to staff and consumers.  Candidate will also provide nursing back up services, oversee all medical and clinical consultations and serve as liaison to medical providers.  NYS licensed RN and managerial experience required. Position is located in the Bronx.  If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, we encourage you to apply.  Send resume and cover letter to our HR Consultants:  HR Dynamics, Inc., Dept. DD-RES/SS, 345 Hudson Street, 4th Floor, New York, New York 10014 or fax 212-366-8555 Attn: DD/RES or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .   | Posted: 7-29-05

Residential Administrator

FEGS seeks Residential Administrator to oversee daily operation and maintenance of multiple homes and apartments; supervise management and clinical service teams; oversee development and implementation of individualized residential service plans.  BA and 3 years experience including 2 years supervisory experience required.  Positions are located in the Bronx.  If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, we encourage you to apply.  Send resume and cover letter to our HR Consultants:  HR Dynamics, Inc., Dept. DD-RES/SS, 345 Hudson Street, 4th Floor, New York, New York 10014 or fax 212-366-8555 Attn: DD/RES or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .    |Posted: 7-29-05

Director of Nursing

Greystone Programs, Inc. is seeking a Director of Nursing who will lead a small staff of exceptional RNs in providing medical support to developmentally disabled adults in community-based settings.  Develop policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance of programs, train staff, interact with consultants, families and other agencies and provide leadership support to nursing department.  Position is based in Poughkeepsie with travel to homes throughout Dutchess and Orange counties required.  Flexible schedule with professional autonomy.  Qualifications include RN license, 3+ years supervisory experience in a hospital, ICF/IRA or nursing facility and valid NYS driver’s license.  Greystone Programs provides a comprehensive benefit package including weekly payrolls, medical, dental and life insurance, pension plan, 403b plan, tuition assistance, and generous paid time off.  EOE.  Greystone Programs, Inc., 36 Violet Avenue,  Poughkeepsie, NY 12601,  Tel:  845-452-5772, Fax:  845-625-2189, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   | Posted: 7-29-05

QA Coordinator

Richmond (www.richmondgroup.org) is seeking QA Coordinator to help manage the Quality Assurance and Risk Management programs to be in compliance with applicable codes and regulations. RN degree or other health-related field / Excellent writing skills req’d. Three years related experience pref’d. Valid drivers license req’d. Fax resume to: 914-968-3749; email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   | Posted: 7-29-05

DIRECTOR OF RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Life's WORC seeks an experienced professional with prior management and supervisory experience to join our Residential team. Your experience and knowledge of the MR\DD population will support your residence management staff as a resource, trainer and advocate in the development of their professional growth. Duties include oversight of a cluster of residences for adults in the Queens and Long Island (Nassau County) regions, assuring regulatory and programmatic standards are met and fiscal management. Qualifications include a Bachelor=s Degree, minimum two years supervisory and MR\DD program related experience and a valid NYS Driver=s License. Excellent salary plus annual COLA and pay for performance bonus. Extensive benefit package which includes fully paid health and dental coverage (includes dependent coverage with no employee contribution to the premium expense), four weeks vacation, unlimited sick time, tuition and textbook reimbursement and much more. Applicants may contact us as follows:  Life's WORC, 1501 Franklin Avenue, Mineola, NY 11501; Fax:516-741-1820; Phone: 516-741-9000, ext 232; Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . See website  www.worca.org  EOE | Posted: 7-28-05

REGISTERED NURSE (HEALTH SERVICES SPECIALIST)

CWI has a Full-time, permanent position with excellent benefit package.  · Starting salary $16.67/hour.  Must be an RN with a NYS License, with o­ne year of experience.  Previous experience with the developmentally disabled desired.  Duties include providing assessment and treatment as appropriate, dispensing first aid and maintaining equipment, materials and medical records.  Stop by the CWI Human Resources office at 88 Broad Street, Glens Falls (1st floor), to complete an application, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm.   Mail: CWI Attn: Human Resources, P.O. Box 303, Glens Falls, NY  12801; Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it www.cwinc.org |Posted: 7-18-05

Residential Manager

 CWIhas a Full-time, benefited position for experienced, QMRP credentialed individual, capable of handling leadership responsibilities at a residence for developmentally disabled individuals.  Ideal candidate will be a leader with previous experience in scheduling, problem solving, residential habilitation planning, direct care and accountability for quality service provisions.  Some flexibility required.  A Bachelor’s Degree preferably in a Human Service/Special Education discipline or Registered Nurse/Licensed Practical Nurse along with o­ne year of experience in demonstrated management of providing services to persons with developmental disabilities required.  Acceptable driving record also required.  (Excellent salary/benefit package commensurate w/experience, education and ability)  Apply at: CWI Human Resources, 88 Broad Street, 1st floor, Glens Falls, NY; Mail: CWI Attn: Human Resources, P.O. Box 303, Glens Falls, NY  12801; Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it www.cwinc.org | Posted: 7-18-05

Accounting Manager

Independent Living Association, a well-established, non-profit agency, seeks a motivated, self-starter for its Acct. Dept.  Requirement: BA in Acct., 4-5 yrs managerial or staff accounting exp. Knowledge of spreadsheets, Great Plains, Fund EZ, ADP PC payroll for windows Prefer.  Public Accounting experience a plus.  Salary commensurate w/experience.  Excellent benefits package.  Fax your resume and salary requirement to (718) 243-1064.  EOE | Posted: 7-13-05

DIRECTOR OF WAIVER AND FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES

Independence Residences, Inc.  Person is responsible for overall management of all current and future service programs. Insures all program are maintained at full capacity and are financially solvent. Insure that quality services are provided for consumers in a timely and effective manner through a thorough understanding of services provided and support of staff in fulfilling these requirements. Working with the Executive Director, shall plan for responding to all relevant requests for proposals to broaden the services under this department and to meet the needs of individuals and families.  The candidate should self-motivated and work cooperatively with the senior management team.  QUALIFICATIONS:  MSW or MS and Human Services with five years experience supervising OMRDD funded Waiver and/or Family Support Service Programs preferred. Strong management,  leadership and communication skills. Competitive salary and benefits including twenty days vacation and fourteen paid holidays.  Contact: Director HR, Independence Residences, Inc. 93-22 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven , NY 11421.  FAX (718) 805 – 2711; E-MAIL:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   AA/EOE

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Greystone Programsa progressive and expanding private Human Services agency has a senior management position available immediately.  This position, based in Orange County, carries significant leadership responsibility including direct responsibility for planning, organizing, overseeing and directing  operations at three separate locations (Monroe, Sugar Loaf and Warwick).  Successful candidate should be a strategic planner with the proven capacity to develop new programs and expand existing services given the agency’s commitment to growth in this region.  Qualifications Required:  Masters Degree in Human Services with 3 years experience or BA with 5 years extensive program supervision experience.  Greystone Programs, Inc., 36 Violet Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 845-452-5772, x138

Psychologist

Steuben Arcseeks a Psychologist to provide psychological and counseling services to individuals according to the guidelines of the current policies and procedures of New Dimensions in Health Care (NDHC) and Steuben Arc. This individual must develop behavioral plans of service with the individual and his/her planning team, in accordance with Steuben Arc policies and procedures.  Qualifications:  Ph.D. in Psychology from an accredited college or university, and license to practice in New York State.  Valid New York State driver's license, and driving record acceptable to the Agency's insurance carrier.  E-mail letter of interest, resume and salary requirements to:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or fax to:  607-776-9366 attn:  HR.  EOE.

Director of Staff Training and Development

Taconic Innovations. Director of Staff Training and Development-Duties include staff training, o­n the job training in multi-sited programs.  Please contact Jackie Williams-Coordinator of Human Resources @1-866-337-0578 ex 111 or 845-567-6408 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Director of Community Support Services

Taconic Innovations. Director of Community Support Services: Duties include broad supervision of Supported Independent Living sites in Westchester County. Combination of experience and Education will be considered. Please contact Jackie Williams-Coordinator of Human Resources @1-866-337-0578 ex 111 or 845-567-6408 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Supervisor of Service Coordination

Westchester Jewish Community Services Seeking professional to supervise growing department of service coordinators who work with children and adults. Bachelors degree or Masters degree (preferred) necessary in order to be considered. At least 3-5 years experience with MSC regulations and supervision required as well as experience working with consumers, families and community organizations. Knowledge of community resources important. Good organizational skills, computer literacy, and  vehicle required. Ability to train and supervise staff a must! Fax resume to: HR, WJCS, 914-421-9066 or email to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Director of Residential Services

Putnam Associated Resource Center.  Located in Brewster, N.Y. is seeking a dynamic leader to oversee a Residential Program that serves adults with developmental disabilities.  Successful candidate will have the ability to coordinate, lead and motivate a talented team of individuals providing high quality services.  Masters degree in a human services related field and three years supervisory experience required.  Familiarity with OMRDD regulations, fiscal management experience and the ability to balance multiple tasks is essential.  Interested candidates should fax their resume along with salary requirements to the attention of Human Resources at 845-278-8282 or e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . EOE.