New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs

?? And that concludes our 2024 Code of Conduct Award presentations! Yesterday, Executive Deputy Director Robert Miller presented Gavin Vincent, Assistant Program Manager at Ability Beyond, with this well-deserved honor. Mr. Vincent was recognized for his calm, patient, and nurturing demeanor, as well as his can-do attitude and individualized approach to care. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate with us, including NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Willow Baer. Read more about Mr. Vincent’s accomplishments: https://lnkd.in/gCF-GtHD (And keep an ?????? out! Nominations for the 2025 Code of Conduct Award series will open soon!)?

?? We’re excited to introduce an all-new training course designed specifically for first responders and law enforcement personnel! Our inaugural virtual session is scheduled or April 29. ???????? ???? ???????????? ???????? ???????????????????? ???? ?????????????????????? ?????????????????? ?????? ?????????????????????? ???????? ?????????????????????????? ???????????????????????? Responding to a residence providing care to individuals with developmental disabilities can present unique challenges. This one-hour, virtual training will address ways for the first responder to potentially identify such a residence upon arrival and provide initial steps to take to ensure a thorough, safe, and non-leading preliminary investigation is completed. Register ?? https://lnkd.in/e48mwKKX?

?? Medical Board Volunteers advocate for the rights of individuals who can no longer advocate for themselves. This important safety net allows us to identify and address potential abuse or neglect, ensuring the highest standards of care are maintained and ensure justice is served. ???????????????????? ???? ????????????????????????? Learn more about the Justice Center’s Medical Review Board and submit your application. https://lnkd.in/emeWZYkb?

We're loving the latest #DDAM campaign from the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities. ?? The theme for NACDD in 2025 is "We're Here All Year," which highlights the importance of acknowledging and advocating for community, accessibility, and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities every day, not just in March.? They invite photo submissions to show the everyday lives of individuals with lived disability experiences across the country. Learn more here:? https://lnkd.in/gcPzfnH2

Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray, Esq. joined Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris Madden, MBA, MSHRM in sharing #GovernorHochul's budgetary priorities at the Children's Home of Poughkeepsie yesterday. The pair addressed local officials, nonprofit leaders, and community groups and expanded upon the governor's proposals impacting children, families, and public safety. Special thank you to Walt Joseph and the Children's Home staff for hosting such a wonderful event! #FightingForFamilies

We’re joining NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities this month in introducing you to people with developmental disabilities who are daring to be themselves and daring to take part in their communities. Let’s make all parts of our communities more welcoming to people of all abilities by daring to include. #DareForDDAM.

?? Become a part of the Justice Center! We are looking for an Advocacy Specialist to enhance our team and offer essential support and guidance to individuals and families as they navigate the investigation process. ?????? ???????? ???????? ???????????? ????: ? Answering questions from individuals and families ? Providing assistance and emotional support ? Connecting people to resources and programs You will also have the chance to attend conferences, represent our agency at various events, and collaborate with internal and external partners. For more information or to apply, use this link:? https://lnkd.in/e5cn6HRy???

Investigating allegations of abuse and neglect is just one part of what our team does every day. We’re also here to ?????????????? ?????????????? ?????? ???????????????? ???????????????????? ?????? ?????????????????? ?????? ?????????????????????????? ??????????????. This includes answering questions, attending proceedings, or connecting them with additional resources and assistance. You’re never alone.? Sign up for a free Family Engagement Session to discover all the ways we support families.? https://lnkd.in/eMViface

?? Calling all first responders and law enforcement professionals ?? Join us for our ??????-?????? ???????????????? ???????????????????????? ???????????????? happening on ?????????? ????-???? (next week!). Don’t miss your chance to attend and enhance your skills in interviewing vulnerable populations. Learn more and secure your spot ?? https://lnkd.in/e4dms2qE

This week, our Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray, Esq. attended the Women's History Month Reception at the SUNY Chancellor's Residence with fellow cabinet members and female leaders. The evening was an opportunity to celebrate and honor the contributions of women to society, culture, and events in history. Thank you to Chancellor John King for a fantastic event! The State University of New York #womenshistorymonth #whm2025 #womenleaders