Newsday Charities has been a generous supporter of EAC for over six years, supporting many EAC programs such as Chance to Advance, Nassau Supervised Visitation and the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Their grants have brought vital services to many children and families in need and we are so grateful to add the clients of the Long Island Parenting Institute to the long list of people they have enabled EAC to help. In 2011 LIPI improved the lives of hundreds of children by teaching over 630 adults how to be more effective parents.

Newsday Charities, a fund of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, is committed to improving the lives of at-risk children and families on Long Island by funding nonprofit organizations with programs that help them thrive and succeed.  Grants are provided for programs focused on hunger, housing, child abuse prevention and treatment, and youth education.

Pictured, (l-r) Joseph Quatela, Esq., Partner, Hagney, Quatela, Hargraves, and Mari, PLLC, Thomas Boerum C.G.A.A., Inc., and EAC Chairman of the Board, Rebecca Bell, EAC Executive Vice President and COO, Lance W. Elder, EAC President and CEO, Paul Fleishman, Newsday Vice President, Public Affairs, and Jaclynne M. Jacobs, EAC Assistant Vice President Development.

Michelle Nesi, a Student Intern of EAC’s Sanctions Intervention Project

During the time I’ve volunteered at EAC’s Sanctions Intervention Project, I have learned so much and realized so much about my future career goals. EAC advocates for the client and the case managers are able to build relationships with the clients even in the brief time they meet with them, which is something I aim to be able to do myself. I could see the clients begin to trust EAC workers almost immediately, even in a system where they are cautious and always on defense.

Since I began working here last June, my career goals have been reinforced. I’ve always wanted to work for a non-profit organization in a position where I could help people, but I had never been in the actual setting before. I now see how caring and compassionate the people in this field really are and how the goal of helping others is shared between everyone. I’ve also seen all the “behind the scenes” work that has to take place to make these organizations run effectively. I really like the problem-solving-type work that goes into helping a client. I am even more passionate now about working in the non-profit sector as I was before.

As a “job developer” at EAC, I’ve used my creative skills to create resumes for clients. These resumes have helped to secure employment for several clients. I’ve also conducted job searches, contacted employers and connected clients to resources according to each client’s needs.

My ultimate career goals include obtaining a Ph.D. in Social Work and teaching at a University. I would love to be able to explore the field and “get my feet wet” in many areas. I would love to work with children or mentally disabled populations, or (as influenced by my time at EAC) work as a job developer. My experience at EAC has shown me all these possibilities and opened my eyes to positions I didn’t even know existed.

- by Michelle Nesi, a Student Intern of EAC’s Sanctions Intervention Project

In 2009-2010 EAC began implementing a New York State Department of Labor “Building Skills” grant to provide superior training to staff in our Long Island and NYC programs. Training provided included: Conflict Resolution, Mandated Reporter, Team Building, Budgeting, Grant Writing, Time Management, Computer applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), Dealing with the Special Needs Client and Supervisory Skills to name a few.

 EAC has continued to develop training since then. For instance, in 2011, Directors, Supervisors and Vocational program staff completed agency training on the “Hiring Process”. This training offered up-to-date information on how to best prepare managers for the process of interviewing and hiring new staff and assisted vocational program staff on how to effectively prepare their program participants for employment. Training was offered on site at multiple program locations to accommodate staff and minimize disruption of program services.

EAC Staff Dr Buzz J. Von Ornsteiner, Glicette Castro and Ryna Dery participated in the “Hiring Process” training held in Brooklyn in December 2011.

The clothing was distributed before the holidays by EAC staff to families on Long Island, Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens. “EAC is very grateful to Bob Eslick, Executive Director of “Kids Helping Kids” for his generosity and kindness. It means so much to people who are struggling during these very difficult times to know that others care,” expressed Lance W. Elder, EAC President & CEO.

The mission of “Kids Helping Kids” by Kids Way, Inc. is to encourage philanthropy in young people.  Since the inception of the “Making a Warmth of Difference” Winter Apparel Program in 2006 “Kids Helping Kids” has distributed well over $1,000,000 ($MSR) in winter related apparel to kids and their families that are less fortunate to help brighten their holidays and keep them warm during the cold winter months.

Pictured, (l-r), Hilary Hartung, EAC Assistant Vice President Marketing & PR, Bob Eslick, Executive Director “Kids Helping Kids”, Philip Eslick, Co-Founder “Kids Helping Kids”, Fernanda Eslick, and Bob Rinkel, “Kids Helping Kids” Winter Apparel Coordinator.

EAC began delivering life sustaining meals to homebound elderly residents of Westbury, New Cassel and Carle Place in 1989. Since that time, over 2,000,000 meals have nourished frail and sick senior citizens.  As life expectancy increases and hospitals often discharge patients quicker more people are in need of help from Meals-on-Wheels. More than just food, Meals-on-Wheels drivers and volunteers deliver much needed friendship to those whose age and health have left them very much alone.

“We are thankful for our friends at the East Meadow Wal-Mart”, said Carol O’Neill, EAC Regional Director of Senior & Nutritional Services. “They are good community partners and understand the need to support our senior citizens. ”

Pictured, (l-r), East Meadow Walmart Assistant Manager Patrick Lawrence, Walmart Good Works Coordinator, Giavana Genzale, EAC Assistant Vice President of Development Jaclynne M. Jacobs, EAC Regional Director of Senior & Nutritional Services, Carol O’Neill.

The books were distributed throughout EAC’s many Programs that Protect Children throughout Nassau and Suffolk County. These programs helped 11,550 children and their families last year. 

“Our program directors were very thankful to have the books”, said Lance W. Elder, EAC’s President & CEO, “It is so important to encourage our boys and girls to read, and anything we can do to enrich their lives means so much to them.”

Pictured, (l-r); back row - Stephan Cruet, Stephanie Reese, Amy Walsh, Nicholas Guider, Gregory Bruno, Justin Oakley. Front Row - Tanya Poole, Mia Accardi, Lauren Roma, Nicole Mark, Allison Doyle.

The smiles on their faces really say it all!

Spring will be here before you know it!

PRESENTED BY BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2012

CREST HOLLOW COUNTRY CLUB, WOODBURY, NY

11:30AM – 2:30PM

HONORING

John Murcott, Founder & CEO, Karma411

&

The Crest Hollow Country Club

Forms now available:EAC’s Spring Luncheon 2012

Or call Claire Bellerjeau, Director of Development at (516) 539-0150 X115 for Sponsor & Ticket information.

The Community Guardianship Program works to ensure the health and safety of people who are incapacitated and unable to manage aspects of daily living requirements. Appointed by the Court, EAC staff and volunteers serve as advocates and surrogate decision-makers for those individuals appointed to EAC care.

Thorough assessment, comprehensive service planning, regular visits, ongoing support and reporting to the Court ensures that the needs of the incapacitated person are met. Guardianship responsibilities can include a wide range of duties, including property management, assistance with personal needs, and advocacy with medical and social service providers.   EAC Guardians are sensitive to the needs and wishes of their wards, and responsible stewards of their property.

 EAC was proud to honor Paul Tonna, Executive Director for The Energeia Partnership at Molloy College, and his wife Carol, as well as William J. Lindsay, Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature for their dedication to helping Long Island’s at-risk children.

 The proceeds from the Party will support EAC’s programs that protect children including; Chance To Advance, our Child Support Enforcement Programs, the Court Appointed Special Advocate Programs (CASA), Family Connections Project, Family Treatment Court, Project Access, SAFE START Program, The Suffolk County Child Advocacy Center at The Pat & Mary Bagnato Place For Kids, Suffolk County Children’s Center at Cohalan Court, and our Supervised Visitation Programs. Over 11, 550 children and their families were helped by these programs last year.

(l-r) Paul Tonna, Executive Director for The Energeia Partnership at Molloy College, Lance W. Elder, EAC President & CEO and William J. Lindsay Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature.

Pictured, (l-r) Oyster Bay residents, Beth Petrucci, Thomas Dooney, Nicole Troncone, Matthew DeMaria, Michael DuBois and Matthew Maglio.

 “There was a good turnout at the Y,” stated Assemblyman Boyle. “The everyday decisions we make can have a profound affect on our children, and taking time to make sure that their car seats are installed properly is vital to ensuring their safety.”

 The SAFE START Program is designed to improve the use of safety restraints for all motor vehicle occupants and to promote safer driving practices through education. In addition to car seat inspections the program addresses topics that include: aggressive driving, driving distractions, improper or non-use of seat belts, child safety seats, booster seats or other child passenger restraints, as well as leaving children unattended in motor vehicles. Last year SAFE START assisted 3,305 people with child safety seat issues.

Pictured, (l-r), Assemblyman Philip Boyle, EAC SAFE START Technicians, Senior Case Coordinator, Angela Brockman, EAC Community Service Intake Specialist, Mayra Portillo, EAC HEAP Program Director, Liz McDermott, EAC JUMPSTART Senior Case Manager, Kathy Serini, and EAC Regional Director of Family Support Services, Rachel Lugo.

EAC’s TASC staff provides evidence-based case management for clients including screening, assessment, placement in treatment and additional services.

Guardians of the Children is a national biker organization dedicated to protecting the victims of child abuse. “The Guardians became involved with the Center years ago”, stated Andrea Ramos-Topper, EAC Regional Director of Children’s Services. “Their annual bike event has raised thousands of dollars, and we are so very grateful for their generosity and kindness”.

Members of "Guardians of the Children" pose with Andrea Ramos-Topper, Director of the Child Advocacy Center (front row, second from left), before the start of this year's Annual Poker Run.

The M*A*C AIDS Fund’s mission is to serve people of all ages, all races and all sexes affected by HIV and AIDS. Estee Lauder donates 100% of the proceeds from Mac’s Viva Glam lipstick products to support the Fund. The M*A*C AIDS  Fund has raised over $224 million over the past 15 years to help men, women and children living with and affected by HIV and AIDS.

Pictured (l-r), Carol O’Neill, EAC Regional Director Senior & Nutritional Services, Gloria Gillick, M.A.C. Roosevelt Field Retail Manager, Jeanine Vespucci, M.A.C. Manager of Retail Operations, Long Island, Lance Elder, EAC President & CEO, Susanne Schmidt, EAC Program Coordinator Meals on Wheels.

• Promotes communication
• Improves problem solving
• Motivates individuals to increases Productivity
• Retains qualified employees
• Enhances performance
• Improves morale
• Eliminates festering resentments
• Creates a positive change
• Empowers individuals

Benefits of Peer Mediation Training:

• Improves school climate
• Resolves student conflicts
• Motivates students to resolve their conflicts collaboratively
• Deepens the educational impact of school
• Creates more time for learning
• Empowers Students
• Increases self-esteem
• Provides leadership and communication skills
• Teaches essential life skills

 Benefits of having a Peer Mediation Program in Your School:

School Staff

• Staff spends less time settling disputes
• Decreases the pressure on teachers to serve as a constant disciplinarian
• Improves overall school climate through better student-staff relationships

 Students

• Become active in the problem-solving process
• Leads to greater commitment to making solutions work
• Provides Positive Role Models for solving conflict
• Assume greater responsibility for solving their own dispute
• Mediation process encourages students to share their feelings and search for constructive ways to meet their needs.

 Last year EAC helped over 62,500 people in need of all ages and from all walks of life.

Here are some of our accomplishments from 2011:

EAC’s Supervised Visitation Programs  provided safe visits for 1,779 parents and children last year.
EAC’s Community Service Program monitored 4,399 offenders who were sentenced to community service last year.
EAC’s New York City TASC Programs saved the city and state millions of dollars through alternatives to incarceration last year.
EAC’s Senior Respite Program volunteers provided 5,300 hours of respite to 295 families caring for frail elderly family members last year.
EAC’s Long Island Dispute Resolution Centers mediated and/or arbitrated 5,047 disputes in Nassau and Suffolk Counties last year.
EAC monitored 10,512 people in drug and alcohol treatment programs in 2011.
EAC’s anti-shoplifting program has only a 1% re-arrest rate. 4,081 people went through the Stoplift Program last year.
EAC’s Anger Management Program helped 1,572 people last year.
EAC’s Court Appointed Special Advocate Programs worked with 598 children in Long Island foster care in 2011.
EAC’s SeniorNet Computer Learning Center volunteers taught 601 older adults last year to use the computer and keep in touch with family and friends online through 12,100 hours of instruction.
EAC’s Suited for Success Programs provided interview outfits last year to 279 people seeking employment.
EAC’s Meals On Wheels for Seniors and HIV+ Food & Nutrition Services served over 78,888 nutritious meals to Nassau County’s senior citizens and persons living with HIV/AIDS in 2011.
EAC’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helped 6,675 people heat their homes last year.
EAC’s Child Support Enforcement Programs generated over $893,636 in child support payments from Nassau and Suffolk Counties last year.
EAC’s Suffolk County Child Advocacy Center at The Pat & Mary Bagnato Place for Kids helped 450 children last year who were victims of sexual and/or physical abuse.
EAC’s Safe Start Program helped 3755 clients with car seat inspections and educational trainings including teen driving classes last year.

Have you reached a personal milestone through an EAC Program? We’d love to here from you!

The Queens Second Chance Program supports re-entry for offenders coming out of jail and prison in Queens.  Offenders are linked to treatment, housing and other support services in order to ensure a succesful transition from incarceration to community.

Our vocational programs help individuals who have a history of substance abuse and/or criminal activity to find and keep employment.  Certified vocational rehabilitation counselors assist clients with job skills and job retention.  In addition, other services deal with transportation issues and supply clothing for job interviews. Educational programs provide specialized instruction for students with learning disabilities and enable young people to obtain their high school diplomas.

FEATURED STORY:

“On December 30, 2009 I was arrested for dealing drugs. I was caught with multiple bags of marijuana, cocaine and pills. Not only was I selling but I was using. My life was wrapped around drugs, and for so long I was able to do a balancing act of being a husband and dad with being a pusher/user – until this fateful night. The night before New Year’s Eve my life took a change for the worst. I slapped with 2 class “C” felony charges and a bunch of misdemeanors. The 24 hours I spent locked up was the worst day of my life; being away from my family, not knowing what the future was going to hold. I was terminated from my job because of the arrest and my wife’s truck was impounded. I had no salary coming in and I promised my wife I would not deal drugs again. We had no medical benefits forcing us to apply for Medicaid as well food stamps to feed my family. Nobody was willing to hire me with the pending charges against me. This was the absolute hardest time in my life – but I had to make things right. There would be no chance to do that if I was forced to do time in prison. My attorney was able to convince the District Attorney’s office to offer a chance with the TASC Program. From the moment I interviewed I didn’t feel I was “dealing with the system”. They treated me like a human being that made a mistake in his life. In treatment I learned about my drug abuses, myself and the damage I was doing to other people. The staff at TASC was never judgmental towards me and made me feel like I could be trusted again. Your presence and satisfactory reports at my court hearings also helped my situation. From that point on I have been clean and drugs no longer play part in my life. I landed a job with my church parish, and quickly moved up to Maintenance Supervisor. I now volunteer there as a catechist teacher and my wife and children are first priority in my life. I thank God for a second chance and I am extremely grateful for the TASC Program.” – J. P.

The Suffolk TASC Program includes assessment of an offender’s addiction, a determination of the most appropriate treatment placement, referral to treatment and monitoring for the courts. Offenders with a history of violent crimes or who are currently charged with a violent crime are ineligible to participate in TASC.  TASC does not accept offenders with a history of inappropriate or illegal sexual acts, arson, or severe mental illness.  Offenders must have a current history of substance abuse and be willing to enter treatment for a minimum of 12 months.

Potential participants are identified by referral from the Court, a Defense Attorney, the District Attorney, Probation, or Parole. A treatment plan is developed by TASC staff and presented to the Court for its approval.  TASC clients are monitored by staff with an expertise in substance abuse, and regular reports are presented to the Court outlining client progress. Persons not in compliance with all conditions of the TASC treatment plan are returned to the Court for criminal processing.

Suffolk TASC staff is comprised of dedicated professionals delivering screening, assessment, referral and case management services. In recent years, there has been increasing awareness of the value of Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities (TASC) program services as a means to identify suitable offenders with substance abuse problems for diversion.  TASC services positively influence numerous offenders to acknowledge their substance abuse problems, undergo treatment and counseling, and comply with terms and conditions of their release.  TASC programs provide essential support and coordination of service delivery to achieve successful reintegration of participants to their respective communities.

“All my life I’ve been doing time, selling drugs, doing drugs and not caring about anything. All this time went by and I had given up; my addiction slowly sucking the life out of me, lying to me – telling me I would survive. But this time it was different. I didn’t want to lose my wife, my kids, my family. This time I wanted help. I wanted to change. I just didn’t know how.

I was interviewed by TASC and at first I was so rebellious. I didn’t trust anyone to help me. I was too street, too hood, too cold; but in the interview they explained to me the benefits, advantages and everything I could gain from staying drug free.

This process has changed my life. I see things totally differently. I’m a better father, a better husband and a better man. I know how to think things through now. I make better choices.” – E.P.

EAC has operated TASC programs in the metropolitan area since 1986. TASC Programs divert eligible offenders out of the criminal justice system and into the drug treatment system.  TASC monitors these cases for the Court.  Offenders are provided with case management, treatment and other ancillary services to aid in the recovery of addiction. NYC TASC Programs include assessments of an offender’s addiction, a determination of the most appropriate treatment placement, referral to treatment and monitoring for the courts. Offenders with a history of violent crimes or who are currently charged with a violent crime are ineligible to participate in TASC.  TASC does not accept offenders with a history of inappropriate or illegal sexual acts, arson, or severe mental illness.  Offenders must have a current history of substance abuse and be willing to enter treatment for a minimum of 12 months.

Potential participants are identified by referral from the Court, a Defense Attorney, the District Attorney, Probation, or Parole. A treatment plan is developed by TASC staff and presented to the Court for its approval.  TASC clients are monitored by staff with an expertise in substance abuse, and regular reports are presented to the Court outlining client progress. Persons not in compliance with all conditions of the TASC treatment plan are returned to the Court for criminal processing.

NYC TASC staff is comprised of dedicated professionals delivering screening, assessment, referral and case management services. In recent years, there has been increasing awareness of the value of Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities (TASC) program services as a means to identify suitable offenders with substance abuse problems for diversion.  TASC services positively influence numerous offenders to acknowledge their substance abuse problems, undergo treatment and counseling, and comply with terms and conditions of their release.  TASC programs provide essential support and coordination of service delivery to achieve successful reintegration of participants to their respective communities.

Catch up on what’s new at NYC TASC from our monthly newsletter FOCUS:

May 2011 “Focus: Decreasing Criminal Recidivism”

June 2011 “Focus: Alcohol Education”

The Brooklyn Forensic Link Program assists over 1,000 severely and persistently mentally ill offenders each year released from Rikers Island with treatment and related transitional services.  Participants who would otherwise struggle to function in the community are assisted with psychiatric care, aquiring suitable housing, entitlements and others services including but not limited to mental health, drug and alcohol treatment, medical care and vocational and educational placement.  Community re-entry and family reconnections are also important building blocks to successful reintegration.

FEATURED STORY:

“I am so grateful to the program, I could never afford to weatherize my home.  My heating and electric bills have gone down and my home is warm.” - T. J.

This client was just one of many low income households faced with the burden of deciding whether to put food on the table or pay the heating bill.  His story was one we have heard so many times.  He was a 78 year old senior citizen, recently widowed in the home he purchased 50 years ago, trying to make ends meet on Social Security.  Mr. J. completed a weatherization application and because he is a senior citizen it was submitted as a priority case.  Thanks to the WRAP Program an energy audit was performed and determined that his house was in desperate need of weatherization.  Weatherization workers immediately began making necessary energy efficient improvements that would substantially reduce his heating costs.  They replaced 4 basement windows and 6 windows on the main floor of the home, added insulation to the attic and basement and replaced the hot water heater.  All windows and doors were provided with caulking and weather stripping to eliminate drafts and a complete clean and tune was done on the heating system and they installed a new thermostat and a carbon monoxide detector. Additionally, all light bulbs were replaced with energy efficient bulbs and foam insulation was installed in all electric outlets.

Weatherization is an essential part of assisting families in need of home energy assistance. In order to ascertain a household’s needs, WRAP staff may conduct a home assessment to identify any apparent energy-related structural deficiencies. The WRAP Coordinator identifies any immediate needs necessary and assesses any other issues related to social, health or safety problems. If repairs are needed, WRAP staff serve as a liaison with the Weatherization Assistance Provider, helping to guide clients through the service process and working with the Weatherization Provider to ensure delivery of services. Recommendations may include insulation and caulking of windows and doors, repair of broken windows, replacement of doors, repairs on the heating system or wrapping of pipes and water heaters.
Clients receive a directory outlining other agencies offering assistance with housing, home repairs, financial information, emergencies, weatherization, food pantries and crisis intervention.

Shoplifting occurs for many reasons.  Often young people shoplift simply for the thrill or excitement, unaware of the legal consequences.  For others shoplifting is an emotional outlet; it can also be used as a misguided way to stretch a family budget.  Regardless of the reason, EAC developed STOPLIFT to combat the crime of shoplifting. 

STOPLIFT is an education and remediation program for beginning offenders charged with shoplifting, serving clients in Nassau County, Suffolk County, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. It is a sentencing alternative that is used by the Court either as a pre-trial referral or as a condition of sentence. Through a full day Saturday class with workshops and assessments, shoplifting behavior is examined, legal and social consequences are discussed, needs are identified and problems that led to the behavior are addressed. A teacher and a social worker facilitate the program.
Referrals to STOPLIFT are made directly by the presiding judges (adults) and probation officers (juveniles). Classes are held at specified locations in each county. For jurisdictions that offer juvenile classes, program services are also held on Saturdays. A parent or guardian accompanies all juveniles. In addition to the material covered in the adult program, the juvenile class includes help for parents on setting limits and managing their child’s behavior. STOPLIFT has been operating since 1981.

FEATURED STORY:

“A couple of years after retiring from the United States Department of Justice, I heard about an opportunity to volunteer as a Surrogate Decision Maker (SDMC).  Shortly after completing training, I received my first assignment and have presided as the attorney panelist for 8 years time, in approximately 75-100 cases.  These matters have involved decisions for clients ranging in age from their late teens to mid seventies.  The clients have been mildly to profoundly retarded or suffered with emotionally disabling conditions, such as schizophrenia. The medical care involved procedures such as: invasive screening procedures, like colonoscopies, spinal surgery to correct deformities, or with conditions involving medical recommendations for end of life, palliative care or even withdrawal from a respirator.  My involvement in this personally fulfilling role has given me a better appreciation of the abilities, as well as the disabilities of the people being served by the SDMC program, and enabled me to gain a better understanding of the day to day efforts of their caregivers and the professionals who provide them with service. I have learned that regardless of how routine or simple a medical procedure may be that I my fellow volunteers in the SDMC program play an exceptionally important role in making the three decisions: lack or existence of capacity for the client to make a health care decision, unavailability or willingness of qualified representative to make the decision and whether the proposed treatment, when the answer to the two other questions is in the negative, is in the best interest of the patient.  Making such decisions requires careful attention to the testimony and using ones skills to ask questions to obtain the information needed to make the decision.  On a personal level, when it became necessary to make health care decisions for my aging parents, I felt much better equipped and emotionally able to deal with their advanced illnesses and finally hospice care decision-making.” – Joseph Liebman

The Surrogate Decision Making Committee Programs coordinate hearings for non-emergency medical and dental treatment for mentally and developmentally disabled residents, who reside in state funded facilities throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Rockland, Staten Island,  Westchester, Orange, Sullivan, Nassau and Suffolk counties. 

The four member panel consists of an attorney, medical professional, family member (one who has been a consumer of mental health services or who have family members who have been consumers), and an advocate. The panel reviews the documentary evidence, receives testimony from the person’s treatment team and other interested parties, interviews the individual and makes three determinations:

1) Does this person have the capacity to make this decision for him/herself?

2) If not, is there a legally authorized surrogate to make this decision for the person; and

3) If not, is the proposed medical intervention in the person’s best interest?

Going through the SDMC process means:

• Viable and preferable alternative to the Courts
• Provides timely access to major medical treatment, usually within 14 days
• Expedited Hearings available
• Easily accessible to Patients and Providers
• Cost Free-no fees to the patient or their provider
• Gives the dignity to the Patient by allowing them to participate at the Hearings
• Person-centered approach to medical decision-making
• MHLS provides free legal representation for the Patient

The SDMC was started in 1986 following a review of the delay in proving timely access to major medical treatment due to the lack of an authorized decision-maker. The Surrogate Decision Making Committee hearings are held pursuant to Mental Hygiene Law Article 80. Panel determinations are, in most cases, made immediately after the hearings.  EAC’s program began in June of 1999, and serves Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Consider becoming a SDMC Volunteer. Here’s what one of our volunteers had to say:

“I am so grateful to receive such a profound sense of service on the SDMC panel, since the least fortunate of our society need our ability to “speak out” for them.  SDMC serves staffs and clients to empower very vulnerable people in getting much needed health care.  Thank you for this privilege to serve in this way; to lift others up as a public benefactor.  That’s what our society needs: institutions that encourage others! Thank you!” 

~Mark Applewhite

Just click on the word “VOLUNTEER” on the bottom toolbar to contact us for more information.

FEATURED STORIES:

“Without this program I would still be spinning in circles” – L.B.

 I feel this was helpful because I really did not understand what was going on with my case. I now know what things are and what I have to do to remain in compliance. – R.S.

 I was happy to deal with people who cared and really wanted to help me. It was greatly appreciated. – M.D.

The Sanctions Intervention Project re-engages individuals who are non-compliant with Department of Social Services. A highly trained, motivational staff, interviews, assesses and refers individuals through a process of appointments until compliance is met and benefits are fully restored. Communication, education, case management & individual community resources play an important role towards the goal of self sufficiency. This award winning program serves the TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) population throughout Suffolk County. Once clients demonstrate compliance by keeping these scheduled appointments, benefits & services can be fully restored.