Care Design NY

08/31/2026

Travel looks different for everyone, and that’s something to celebrate. 🧭

A successful trip isn’t about following one perfect plan. It’s about finding the supports, routines and tools that help you feel comfortable and confident along the way.

For people with I/DD, travel preparation may include:
Packing familiar items 🎒
Communicating preferences and needs 🗣️
Creating a plan before leaving home 📅
Building confidence through practice ⭐

This Labor Day weekend, we’re celebrating the freedom to explore in ways that work best for each person.

08/27/2026

A major milestone for supported decision-making! 🎉

New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities' Supported Decision-Making facilitation model has been shortlisted for the Zero Project Awards 2027, recognizing innovative solutions removing barriers for people with disabilities around the world.

Supported decision-making helps people with I/DD make their own choices about their health, finances and everyday lives with support from people they trust. For our members and the broader I/DD community, having a voice in decisions is an important part of greater independence and self-determination.

Congratulations to OPWDD, AIM Services, Inc. and the advocates and self-advocates helping move this work forward! 💙

Supported-Decision Making has been shortlisted for the Zero Project Awards 2027!

🏆 The Zero Project is a global initiative committed to finding and sharing innovative solutions that remove barriers for persons with disabilities.

At OPWDD, we know that a life free of barriers means a richer life, and we’re excited to connect with others in the global community who are as committed as we are to finding new ways to advance disability inclusion.

The Zero Project Awardees will be announced on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, December 3, 2026.

Learn more about the and the Zero Project Awards at zeroproject.org/zerocall27

08/27/2026

Staying hydrated is an important part of staying healthy! 💧

For people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), drinking enough water can support overall health, energy and focus. It can also help your body stay cool during the warmer months.

Here are a few easy ways to make hydration more fun:
Carry a reusable water bottle. 🥤
Add fresh fruit like strawberries, lemon or cucumber. 🍋
Take water breaks throughout the day. ⏰
Celebrate each refill and every healthy habit. 🎉

08/26/2026

Strong leadership starts with creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. 💜

On Women’s Equality Day, we recognize the incredible women across Care Design NY who bring passion, innovation and dedication to their work every day.

From supporting our teams to advancing our mission, women leaders continue to make a meaningful impact on the people and communities we serve. Today, we celebrate their contributions and the future leaders they inspire. ✨

08/25/2026

Making a difference can start with one relationship. 🤝

Our Care Managers are dedicated to creating connections, supporting personal goals and helping members feel valued every step of the way.

Join a team where compassion, advocacy and meaningful relationships are at the center of the work. Apply now: https://bit.ly/44RUQyi

08/22/2026

Supporting your health starts with having the right resources.🌟

Staying informed is an important part of taking care of yourself and your loved ones. Our Healthcare Resources page provides helpful information on topics like:

🩺 High blood pressure
💙 Diabetes awareness
🍂 Flu prevention and staying healthy
🧠 Mental health resources

Explore health tips, education and resources designed to support individuals and families. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4gK3mET

08/21/2026

Myth or fact? Let’s talk flu vaccines. 💉

There’s a lot of information out there about vaccines, and it can be difficult to know what’s true. This National Immunization Awareness Month, we’re sharing the facts behind some common flu vaccine misconceptions.

Swipe through to learn what you need to know about flu protection this season. 💪

08/20/2026

Make the most of the last days of summer while staying water safe. 🌊

As we enjoy the final weeks of warm weather, remember that water activities should always include a plan for safety. Before swimming or participating in water activities:

👀 Always have proper supervision
🦺 Use life vests and floaties when needed
🏊 Know each person’s needs, abilities and comfort level around water

08/19/2026

Compassion in action can change lives. 🌎

World Humanitarian Day is a reminder to recognize the people who dedicate their time, energy and hearts to helping others. At Care Design NY, we’re grateful for the dedicated team, care managers and community partners who support our members and help create a more inclusive world every day with their advocacy and dedication.

Thank you to everyone who leads with kindness and makes a difference in the lives of others. 🤝

08/17/2026

Register NOW! 📣

Protecting your rights and the rights of the I/DD community is so important. You may have seen a lot of news lately about the DOJ’s recent opinion on Olmstead v. L.C and wondered what that means for you and your loved ones.

We highly recommend attending this upcoming webinar on Wednesday, 8/19, with the American Association of People with Disabilities. They will be discussing:

⚖️ The importance of the Supreme Court’s decision

♿ The mandate of the ADA and Section 504

✅ How to protect your rights and the rights of the I/DD community

ASL and CART will be provided as well! Learn more and register for the webinar below. 👇

Recent Justice Department actions have threatened to undermine disabled people’s rights under foundational disability civil rights laws. AAPD and our partners are hosting a webinar on Wednesday, August 19, to help you navigate these threats and protect your rights.

Speakers will address the importance of the Supreme Court's Olmstead decision and the rights that disabled people have under the ADA and Section 504 to live in their own homes and communities, discuss how recent threats may affect these rights, and teach you what you can do to protect them.

The integration mandate of the ADA and Section 504 is one of the most fundamental rights that disabled people have, and it is critical that we take collective action to preserve it. Please join us on Wednesday, August 19th, from 4 PM - 5:15 PM ET to learn how.

You’ll receive updates and resources from policy leaders fighting for our rights – Maria Town, President and CEO of American Association of People with Disabilities, Jennifer Mathis, Deputy Director of The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Cathy Costanzo, Executive Director of the Center for Public Representation, and Alison Barkoff, Hirsh Health Law & Policy Associate Professor and Hirsh Program Director at GW Milken Institute School of Public Health

ASL and CART will be provided. Please contact [email protected] to request any other accommodations, and be sure to register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xHzUA2CBQAOLx8vh7H7c6Q

Image Description: A royal blue graphic has a black-and-white photo on the right of a protest sign that says “Our Homes NOT Nursing Homes” and text that conveys the same information as the caption. The logos for the co-presenting organizations are featured.