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Present Programs
1. The Learning Disabilities Helpline
The Learning Disabilities Helpline (212 645-6730) is a free telephone referral and information service. The Helpline’s LDA-created and regularly updated computerized database contains nearly 1,000 listings, which gives the LDA staff the resources to provide callers with information about learning disabilities, their legal rights and, even more important, how to use those rights to secure instructional and other services. In addition, Helpline staff make referrals to agencies that provide independent evaluations, tutoring, counseling, recreational programs, vocational training, and free or low-cost legal assistance. By the end of 2003, just short of 10,300 referrals had been accomplished in this manner. Callers are encouraged to call as often as needed, and staff members make follow-up calls and send out letters to ensure that the services provided actually met the need. The Helpline is funded through a contract with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH).
2. The Latino Outreach Program
The LDA’s Latino Outreach Program has been funded by New York State’s Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) since January, 1995. This program targets low-income families at high risk for having children with developmental disabilities. Weekly workshops, in Spanish and/or French and/or English, are held at WIC Centers, hospital and neighborhood health clinics, Head Start Programs and early childhood centers that serve the target population throughout Manhattan. Workshop sessions provide information on typical child development, deviations from those norms, information on programs for children with developmental disabilities and how to get those services, to 40-60 concerned parents weekly. Individual counseling and follow-up assistance is also provided as needed. Separate training sessions have also been held for staff of the WIC Centers and early childhood program. Staff training has become a key component of the program since staff members have ongoing contact with the target families. We also translate English language materials into Spanish for distribution at appropriate workshop sessions.
3. Adult Support Group
The DHMH-supported Adult Support Group program serves adults who continue to manifest the social, emotional and vocational problems so often associated with learning disabilities. This program allows participants to explore their current situations and share experiences, successes and challenges with peers and an experienced Coordinator. Guest speakers address various topics that include: employment concerns, low self-esteem and overcoming obstacles to social relationships. Average attendance at the meetings, held on evenings once a month throughout the year, has been 8-12 people, although a total of well over 100 people view themselves as part of the group and consistently value their membership.
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