Independence Care System

Enhancing Independence: The Consumer Wheelchair Repair Bill of Rights Act in New York We are closely following the introduction of the Consumer Wheelchair Repair Bill of Rights Act in New York State. This bill aims to address the challenges faced by wheelchair users regarding timely and affordable repairs for their essential mobility equipment. The legislation seeks to: ? Ensure access to necessary parts, tools, and documentation for both independent repair providers and wheelchair owners, fostering a more competitive repair market. ? Reduce long wait times for repairs, which currently pose significant challenges for many wheelchair users. ? Empower wheelchair users by providing them with greater choice and control over the repair process. By promoting a more accessible and efficient repair system, this bill has the potential to significantly enhance the independence and quality of life for wheelchair users throughout New York State. #DisabilityRights #Accessibility #WheelchairRepair #IndependentLiving

Have you ever felt that your voice was not truly being heard in professional or community settings? In a thought-provoking article by Marcus Johnson of ICS and the Civics League for Disability Rights (CLDR), the nuances of effective advocacy, particularly within spaces of privilege, are explored. He emphasizes that it's not enough to simply have a seat at the table. True inclusion requires a "place setting"—being respected and prepared with the necessary tools to make a genuine impact. Furthermore, understanding your audience and the specific dynamics of each setting are critical for effective advocacy. #Disability #Advocacy #Inclusion #CLDR

New York City prides itself on diversity and opportunity, but for many of our neighbors with disabilities, this promise rings hollow due to a shortage of accessible and affordable housing. Only 34% of all units in NYC are accessible and the NYC Housing Lottery only reserves 5% of units for people with mobility disabilities and 2% for those with hearing and vision disabilities, with no overlap. Council Members Erik Bottcher and Carlina Rivera are fighting for change with new legislation aimed at expanding the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) program and ensuring that more New Yorkers with disabilities are aware of DRIE and have access to a streamlined application process. This legislation also seeks to strengthen enforcement of accessibility requirements in new construction and retrofit existing housing to ensure that more New Yorkers with disabilities have access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing. #Accessibility #Housing #DRIE

EEO and DEI initiatives are not just policies; they are crucial for ensuring equitable workplaces and societies for people with disabilities. The loss of these protections could result in: ? More employment discrimination & fewer job opportunities. ? Less accessible workplaces due to fewer accommodations. ? Reduced representation and exclusion of diverse perspectives. ? Worsening biases and less understanding of disability issues. The impact goes beyond employment, affecting education, housing, and healthcare, potentially making it harder for people with disabilities to access quality education, affordable housing, and equitable healthcare. It's vital to safeguard these frameworks to ensure that people with disabilities have equal opportunities and a voice in shaping an equitable future. Read more about how DEI rollbacks could affect people with disabilities at the link. #Equity #Inclusion

The ICS Independent Living Program (ILP) is hosting a virtual, members-only workshop on interview preparation. Danny Perry will lead this event on March 13th, 2-3:30 PM. Prepare to excel in any interview scenario! Members will learn: ? What to wear to a job interview ? How to practice effectively before the big day ? The importance of sending a follow-up note post-interview This session is designed to build confidence and provide actionable tips for interview success. Register by emailing [email protected] or calling 646.530.0886.

We are proud to announce that ICS President & CEO Regina Estela has been named to City & State New York’s 2025 “50 Over 50” list! For over 25 years, Regina has been a relentless advocate for people with disabilities, fighting to improve health outcomes, ensure access to quality care, and champion independence. This well-deserved recognition highlights her leadership and the impact she has made. Congratulations, Regina Estela! We are honored to have you leading ICS. Read more: https://bit.ly/4hIGROn #Leadership #DisabilityRights #HealthcareEquity #50Over50

It's crucial to acknowledge and support the work of scientists with disabilities who are advocating for more inclusive research environments, labs, and fieldwork. At ICS, our mission is to help people with disabilities and chronic conditions remain healthy and independent. We recognize the critical need to remove obstacles that limit potential, whether in healthcare, community engagement, or scientific advancement. A recent article highlighted the ways in which scientists with disabilities are creating more accessible spaces in STEM, noting that only about 3% of the STEM workforce is made up of people with disabilities. This lack of representation is in part because labs, classrooms, and field sites are often not designed to accommodate them. These scientists' innovative problem-solving skills and unique perspectives are invaluable assets that benefit the entire scientific community.

The ICS Independent Living Program (ILP) is hosting a workshop on how to navigate disclosure in workplace. Michelle Lask will lead this virtual event on February 27th from 2-3:30 PM. This workshop will help you: ? Understand legal protections for employees with disabilities ? Explore effective communication strategies for disclosure ? Learn how to request accommodations that meet your needs ? Consider personal factors when deciding if and how to disclose This session empowers members to make informed decisions and approach workplace disclosure with confidence. Register by emailing [email protected] or calling 646.530.0886. Not a member of ICS? To learn more visit icsny.org, call 1.646.653.6230 or email [email protected].

The Independent Living Program (ILP) at ICS is hosting a Job Search Strategies Workshop on Thursday, February 13, from 2-3:30pm to equip members with tools to succeed in today’s job market. This workshop will cover: ? How to keep up with labor market trends ? Targeting the right employers ? Building a solid career plan To register, email [email protected] or call 646.530.0886. #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth

Need to advocate for yourself in the workplace? ICS Independent Living Program (ILP) is offering a free, virtual workshop on the ADA and requesting accommodations to their members on Thursday, Jan 30th from 2-3:30pm. This interactive workshop with expert Michelle Lask will cover essential topics such as: ? How to identify barriers ? How to request accommodations in the workplace ? How to initiate conversations with your employer ? Navigating challenges Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about your rights and how to effectively advocate for your needs in the workplace. Sign up now by emailing [email protected] or calling 646.530.0886. #ADA #Accessibility