(A) Title VII, Ch. 1, Part B

(B) Title VII, Ch. 1, Part C - For 723 states Only

(C) Title VII, Ch. 2

(D) Other Federal Funds

(E) State Government Funds

(F) Local Government Funds

(G) Fees for Service (program income, etc.)

(H) Other resources

Total income = (A)+(B)+(C)+(D)+(E)+(F)+(G)+(H)

Amount of other funds received as pass through funds to consumers (include funds, received on behalf of consumers, that are subsequently passed on to consumers, e.g., personal assistance services, representative payee funds, Medicaid funds, etc.)

[Total Income (Section 4) minus Pass-Through Funds amount (Section 5) = Net Operating Resources

Describe the objectives, activities and results for each Part B grant or contract awarded for purposes other than IL services or the general operation of centers.

N/A

Provide a summary of the program or fiscal review, evaluation and monitoring conducted by the state of any of the grantees/contractors receiving Part B funds during the reporting year.

Performance contracts were prepared between the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the eight (8) Centers for Independent Living (CIL) and the NC Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC). The contracts were reviewed, evaluated and monitored according to State contract rules and regulations. A Scope of Work was prepared by the CILs and SILC which was incorporated into their individual contracts. The Scope of Work identified the activities, outputs, standards, measures, completion dates and budget for the activities to be conducted. Each individual contractor sent invoices to the DVRS Contract Administrator with a report of the activities completed in accordance with the schedule in the Scope of Work and terms of the contract. The Contract Administrator reviewed the reports and invoices, and prepared and submitted the packet requesting payment to DVR’s Fiscal Services Unit. The packets were reviewed and evaluated by the Unit’s Accountant and then submitted for final payment to the NC Controller’s Office.

Describe any administrative support services, including staffing, provided by the DSU to the Part B Program.

DVRS provided extensive in-kind support to the NCSILC, Part B and Part C Centers. One staff spent approximately 75% of time working with new contracts, contract amendments, monthly/quarterly fiscal and performance reports, consulting with the NCSILC and CILS on state guidelines and developing strategies to help streamline reporting requirements. Additionally, this staff researched and provided information as requested by the NCSILC Chair and Executive director. This staff also serves on various SILC committees. The Fiscal Unit within DVRS performed yearly audits for the NCSILC and each CIL. The DVRS Statewide Coordinator for Deafness and Communicative Disorders, researched and provided the ENC-CIL Executive Director with a suggested list of equipment for people with hearing disabilities to purchase with the Part B ARRA funds. The ENC-CIL Executive Director also consulted with the NC Assistive Technology Project regarding equipment to purchase for people with disabilities. In addition, DVRS administrative support staff mailed 381 SILC satisfaction surveys to DVRS clients with closed cases and the clients will return the completed satisfaction survey directly to the SILC office.

Describe the administrative support services used by the DSU to administer the Part C program.

Provide a summary of the monitoring activities involving Part C centers conducted by the state during the current reporting year, including the onsite reviews of at least 15% of centers receiving Part C funds under section 723. The summary should include, at least, the following:

• centers' level of compliance with the standards and assurances in Section 725 of the Act;
• any adverse actions taken against centers;
• any corrective action plans entered into with centers; and
• exemplary, replicable or model practices for centers.

Provide any updates to the administration of the Part C program by the DSU, if any, including any significant changes in the amount of earmarked funds or any changes in the order of priorities in the distribution of Part C funds. Provide a description of any issues of concern addressed by the DSU in its administration of the Part C program.

(1) Enter the number of active CSRs carried over from September 30 of the preceding reporting year

(2) Enter the number of CSRs started since October 1 of the reporting year

(3) Add lines (1) and (2) to get the total number of consumers served

(1) Moved

(2) Withdrawn

(3) Died

(4) Completed all goals set

(5) Other

(6) Add lines (1) + (2) + (3) + (4) +(5) to get total CSRs closed

Section A(3) [minus] Section (B)(6) = Section C

(1) Number of consumers who signed a waiver

(2) Number of consumers with whom an ILP was developed

(1) Under 5 years old

(2) Ages 5 - 19

(3) Ages 20 - 24

(4) Ages 25 - 59

(5) Age 60 and Older

(6) Age unavailable

(1) Number of Females served

(2) Number of Males served

(1) American Indian or Alaska Native

(2) Asian

(3) Black or African American

(4) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

(5) White

(6) Hispanic/Latino of any race or Hispanic/Latino only

(7) Two or more races

(8) Race and ethnicity unknown

(1) Cognitive

(2) Mental/Emotional

(3) Physical

(4) Hearing

(5) Vision

(6) Multiple Disabilities

(7) Other

The 2010 704 report Subpart II and Subpart III included the consumers who received services from dRC, ENC-CIL and DVRS ILRP personal assistance services.

The 2011 704 report Subpart II and Subpart III includes the consumers who received services from ENC-CIL using the Part B and Part B ARRA funds as well as the number of consumers who received DVRS ILRP personal assistance services because the 10% state match was used for the DVRS ILRP personal assistance service.

During the 2010 – 2011 SFY, the DVRS ILRP utilized $14,335,798.00 of state funds appropriated by the NC General Assembly and $1,327,705.00 of Social Security Administration Receipts which served 4,694 individuals with significant disabilities in all 100 counties of NC during this reporting period. The services provided by the DVRS ILRP allowed individuals with disabilities to live more independently in the community prevent nursing home placement and assist individuals in transitioning from skilled nursing facilities. The type of services that the DVRS ILRP provided included home and vehicle modifications, adaptive equipment and assistive devices, personal assistance services, recreation therapy, assistive technology, and guidance and counseling. The DVRS ILRP provided personal assistance services to 311 individuals with significant disabilities during this reporting period. Subpart II and III of this 704 report includes the detailed information about the 311 individuals who received the DVRS ILRP personal assistance services because the ILRP utilized the 10% state match for the Part B funds. Three (3) individuals received the personal assistance services using the 10% state match and additional state funds in the amount of $58,847.30. No Part B dollars were used by the DVRS ILRP, as 100% of those funds were allocated to support the function of the NC Statewide Independent Living Council and the goals and activities of the NC State Plan for Independent Living. The ILRP referred individuals to other resources as needed including the CILs.

During the 2010 – 2011 state fiscal year, the NC General Assembly appropriated $475,396 to the North Carolina Division of Services for the Blind (DSB) Independent Living Rehabilitation (ILR) Program. This funding enabled the DSB ILR Program to provide comprehensive independent living rehabilitation services for individuals who have significant vision loss. Services were provided to residents in all 100 counties of the state by independent living rehabilitation counselors, orientation and mobility specialists, nurse eye care consultants, deaf blind specialists, assistive technology consultants and instructors, social workers and vocational rehabilitation counselors. The services provided helped individuals who are blind, deaf blind and visually impaired to obtain, regain and maintain their functional independence in their homes, communities and employment. DSB Independent living rehabilitation services were provided for 400 consumers, who were less than 55 years of age, in their homes and in small community-based sites called Mini Centers. Program participants were provided adjustment to vision loss counseling and guidance, assessments, information about and referral to other services and supports and direct instruction in areas such as communication skills, personal and home management skills, self-advocacy, orientation and mobility, kitchen safety and cooking techniques, consumer education and the use of assistive technology and adaptive aids and devices. There were 129 individuals who completed the program and achieved their rehabilitation goals during the federal fiscal year. No Part B federal dollars were used by the DSB ILR Program because 100% of those funds were used by the NC Statewide Independent Living Council and the goals and activities of the NC State Plan for Independent Living.

During this reporting period, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services had a financial assistance contract with the ENC-CIL in Greenville and the disability Resource Center (dRC) in Wilmington for the Part B ARRA funds. The total amount of the two Part B ARRA contracts were $445,877.00. Of this amount, $441,280.33 was utilized by the ENC-CIL and the dRC and $4,596.70 of the Part B ARRA funds was reverted back to RSA.

During this reporting period, the ENC-CIL utilized $167,741.97 of Part B funds and $181,862.88 of Part B ARRA funds. The ENC-CIL provided services to 74 individuals with significant disabilities using the Part B and Part B ARRA funds. Subpart II and III of this 704 report includes the detailed information about the individuals who received services from the ENC-CIL.

During this reporting period, the dRC utilized $259,417.45 of Part B ARRA funds. In consultation with RSA, the funding amount and services provided by dRC using the Part B and Part B ARRA funds were not included in the Subpart II and Subpart III of this 704 report because the dRC became a Part C center on October 1, 2010 and will report the funding amount and number of consumers served on their Part C 704 report.

Nursing Home Transition: Success Story

ENC-CIL was contacted by a lady at a nursing home in Pitt County begging us to please get her out of there. The very next morning, our staff Advocacy Coordinator went to the facility to find this lady plus another lady and a gentleman that was being mistreated due to them reporting instances of sexual molestation and sexual exposure by one of the staff members of the nursing home. The Director of the facility was not cooperative to what had been reported and so therefore, the investigation had been closed. Upon our investigation, the NC State Administrators of Nursing Homes were contacted along with local police enforcement and the case was reopened. This is still an on-going investigation but we were able to transition lady 2 into independent living on 9-30-11. We are in the process of transitioning the gentleman – waiting on eligible housing to become available. Lady 1 left the nursing home on her own and we cannot locate her. Lady 2 is living independently now and is very happy and a lot healthier in her new and safer environment. We continue to monitor her and feel that this is a very successful transition.

Nursing Home Transition

ENC-CIL still finds that affordable, accessible housing is the primary barrier for people who would like to transition into the community from a nursing home. ENC-CIL continues to work with the local housing authority to advocate for housing. The Section 8 program continues to have a long waiting list. In addition, the lack of available funding and community based services continues to be a barrier for people to transition out of a nursing home.

The continued association/collaboration between ENC-CIL staff/BOD members, S.T.A.R. [Support Team for Active Recreation] Regional Rehab Center, DVRS ILRP, PCMH and ECU is a win-win partnership for all concerned, especially our consumers. This association provides our consumers the opportunity to be exposed to the cultural arts, social/holiday gatherings, boating, beach/river excursions, bowling and numerous other sports, especially the Adapted Sports Day held at East Carolina University.

Efforts have been made this year to better inform the business community on how it can partner with ENC-CIL to help make their business more attractive to people with disabilities.

Efforts have been made to have ENC-CIL staff/BOD members present at Commission/committee meetings scheduled by the City of Greenville and Pitt County in order to assure that people with disabilities are included/involved in the planning process of the City/County.

The two DSUs, NCSILC and CILs continue their efforts to maximize the cooperation, coordination, and working relationships among other state agencies on the NCSILC, other councils that address the need of specific disability populations and issues, and other public and private entities. The DSUs shared information with the NCSILC on activities, assessment, and changes in services and programs in order to keep the NCSILC updated on the DSUs’ programs for individuals with disabilities. The Leadership of both DSUs actively participated in NCSILC meetings and initiatives. The ILRP and CILs continued to share referrals and information with consumers. Each new ILRP client was provided with the CIL referral information/brochure.

(A) How many members are on the SILC?

(B) How many members of the SILC are individuals with disabilities not employed by a state agency or a center for independent living?

(C) How many members of the SILC are voting members?

(D) How many of the voting members of the SILC are individuals with disabilities not employed by a state agency or a center for independent living?

Region 1: Counties of Ashe, Watauga, Caldwell, Burke, Cleveland and all the counties further west. Two SILC members represent these twenty-two counties: One in Jackson and one in Buncombe.

Region 2: Counties of Rockingham, Guilford, Randolph, Moore, Scotland, and all the counties west to Region 1. Eleven members represent this twenty-six county area: Two in Stanly County; five in Guilford County and one in each of Moore, Rockingham, Stokes and Forsyth.

Region 3: Counties of Northampton, Halifax, Edgecombe, Wilson, Wayne, Sampson, Bladen, Columbus, Brunswick, and all the counties west to Region 2. Seven members represent this twenty-seven county region: Six from Wake and one from Alamance.

Region 4 contains the 25 counties west of Region 3. Three members represent this region: One each from Craven, New Hanover and Lenoir.

On September 30, 2011, NCSILC had 23 members; nineteen voting and four nonvoting. Of the nineteen voting members; eight members had physical disabilities, three members with vision loss, two with a hearing disability, one with an emotional/mental disability, one with a systemic disability, one with multiple disabilities that included two or more categories. Three of the voting members have no disability.

The Council includes 14 female and nine male members. There are 18 Caucasian members and five African American members.

North Carolina residents interested in membership on the NCSILC may complete and submit an application developed by the NCSILC Membership Committee and available through the NC SILC website (www.ncsilc.org). The NCSILC Membership Committee interviews perspective applicants to determine the individual’s knowledge about Centers for Independent Living and independent living services. Prospective applicants who are vetted by the Membership Committee are presented to the NCSILC for approval. The Executive Director then submits the approved applicant’s information to the Governor’s Office for consideration for appointment.

In compliance with NC Executive Order 55 effective April5, 2010, North Carolina residents who are interested in serving on the NCSILC are required to complete the Application for Boards and Commission and submit to the NC Boards and Commission.

NCSILC offers a Member Orientation annually. This orientation reviews the Rehabilitation Act and history of the Independent Living Movement, duties and responsibilities of NCSILC members and the DSUs, current NC-SPIL goals and objectives, and opportunities for involvement as new members. New members are given a Member Handbook containing the information provided in the orientation. New members are strongly encouraged to attend the orientation, which is open to all members.

Cynthia Sexton, Executive Director

401 Oberlin Road, Suite 115

Raleigh, NC 27605

(919) 835-3636

Debbie Hippler, Office Manager

Freida Moore, Fiscal Manager

Michele Proctor, Technology Specialist

None of the above are employed by a state agency.

The DSU researched and provided information as requested by the NCSILC Chair and

Executive Director including providing information about the NC state guidelines and developing strategies to help streamline reporting requirements. In addition, DVRS administrative support staff mailed 381 SILC satisfaction surveys to DVRS clients with closed cases and the clients will return the completed satisfaction survey directly to the SILC office.

A subcommittee of the NCSILC met in August 2011 to discuss the process for obtaining public input which will be used when developing the 2014 – 2016 SPIL. A survey obtained from another state was reviewed and the committee made suggested changes.

A subcommittee of the NCSILC completed the development of a consumer satisfaction survey in September 2011. The NCSILC requested that the eight CILs and DSU provide the NCSILC with consumer contact information so that the NCSILC could send the satisfaction survey to randomly selected individuals with closed cases. The DSU consulted with key State governmental officials and notified NCSILC that DSU would not release the contact information of their consumers to NCSILC since confidentiality is vital to the trust of the clients and delivery of services. The DSU agreed to mail the NCSILC satisfaction survey quarterly to all of their consumers with closed cases and the consumers will return the completed NCSILC satisfaction survey directly to the NCSILC office. On September 30, 2011, DVRS mailed 381 and DSB mailed 141 NCSILC satisfaction surveys to consumers with closed cases.

NCSILC is of the considered opinion that this process does not provide a statistically valid sample with which the Council can fulfill its requirement to monitor, review and evaluate the implementation of the State Plan. The Council is prepared to cooperate with the process as outlined above. However, it is the Council’s position that Activity 6.1.a and 6.1.b of the State Plan, involving surveying the clients has not been met as written this year.

NCSILC members served on other councils, boards and commissions including the NC State Rehabilitation Council, NC Commission for the Blind, NC Assistive Technology Grant Advisory Council, NC Mental Health Planning Council, and NC-DAN. The NCSILC has ex-officio representation from not only the two (2) DSUs, but also the NC Council on Developmental Disabilities, NC Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Disability Rights North Carolina (NC’s Protection and Advocacy Agency).

All NCSILC meetings are open to the public and in accordance with the North Carolina Open Meetings Law. All meetings are publicized via the standard state procedure for Open Meeting compliance. The NCSILC posts the quarterly meeting dates and places on their website. There is contact information for anyone to make comments, apply for membership or ask questions. The meeting dates for NCSILC are set for the entire upcoming year at the last quarterly meeting.

N/A

SILC Board - Recruiting/Increasing Involvement

Goal 1. Expand the network of Centers for Independent Living in North Carolina

Goal Description: CIL core services will be available to more people with disabilities in NC increasing their opportunity for independent living and full inclusion in individual communities.

Objective 1.1. Support a statewide network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) with the capacity to deliver consistent CIL independent living core services that meet the standards and assurances of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended.

Activity 1.1.a. Provide financial support to the existing Part B CIL in Greenville to provide independent living core services and meet the standards and assurances of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. NCSILC will monitor progress of the Part B CIL by receiving reports during the quarterly NCSILC meetings. The Part B CIL will submit to the NCSILC an annual 704 Report. Consumers will be asked to complete a satisfaction survey to indicate their satisfaction with the quality of services and their increased level of independent living. Surveys will be forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director to compile in a report for the full NCSILC.

During this reporting period, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services had a financial assistance contract with the existing Part B CIL in Greenville. The contract provided the ENC-CIL with the funds for operating expenses and to provide the four IL core services in accordance with the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. The Executive Director of the ENC-CIL provided a progress report of activities performed at the quarterly NCSILC meetings. The ENC-CIL provided the NCSILC with a copy of the 2010 704 report. A subcommittee of the NCSILC completed the development of a consumer satisfaction survey in September 2011. The NCSILC did not send the satisfaction survey to randomly selected individuals with closed cases prior to September 30, 2011.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 1.1.b. Provide financial support to the existing Part C CILs for general operations to provide independent living core services. Each person who received services will be asked to complete a satisfaction survey to indicate their satisfaction with the quality of services received and their increased level of independent living. Surveys will be forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director to compile and report to the full NCSILC.

During this reporting period, the seven Part C funded CIL had a contract with the DSU for operational expenses to provide the independent living core services. The contracts are for a maximum of three years which are required to be amended annually. A subcommittee of the NCSILC completed the development of a consumer satisfaction survey in September 2011. The NCSILC did not send the satisfaction survey to randomly selected individuals with closed cases of the seven CILs prior to September 30, 2011.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 1.1.c. Provide financial support for training to existing Part B and C funded CIL staff on how to better serve consumers with diverse and significant disabilities.

During this reporting period, all eight CILs in NC provided their staff with training on how to better serve consumers with diverse disabilities. The trainings included attending the National ADA symposium; ILRU for a series of audio conferences; ADA conference on accessible recreational facilities; ADA mediation webinar; ADA para- transit webinar; ADA transportation training audio conference; Impact of the ADA and the senior population audio conference; ADA and the courts; ADA audio conference on reasonable accommodations for employees and job seekers; ADA audio conference training on advocacy; ADA webinar on public transportation accessibility stops announcements; ADA webinar on accessibility in hotels; Obstacles faced by people with disabilities in obtaining employment; PCMH training on peer mentoring skills; Medicaid and new community options; PCMH training on infections in spinal cord patients and treatment; Work incentives information summit; Money follows the person program; option counseling training; American sign language training; CIL history and philosophy training; Improving communication in the work place and promoting a positive work environment. IDEA and the special education process and five CIL attended the National Council on Independent Living Annual Conference.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 1.1.d. Provide financial support to conduct trainings for CIL staff, NCSILC members and/or grassroots organization related to SILC and/or CIL roles and responsibilities.

During this reporting period, training for CIL staff, NCSILC members and/or grassroots organization related to SILC and/or CIL roles and responsibilities was not conducted. No organization has stepped up to be a new Center for Independent Living during this reporting period. The NCSILC is in the planning process of hosting an IL Summit in the spring of 2012.

This activity is ongoing.

Goal 2. Support the operations of the NCSILC non-profit office.

Goal Description: Part B funds will be used to ensure the NCSILC office will continue to operate in an efficient and effective manner.

2.1. Promote efficient and effective management of the non-profit office to ensure autonomy and independence of the NCSILC.

Activity 2.1.a. Provide Part B funds for general operations of the NCSILC non-profit office and the NCSILC related activities.

During this reporting period, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services had a financial assistance contract with the NCSILC. The contract provided the NCSILC with funds for the general operating expenses of the NCSILC office and related NCSILC activities. The NCSILC staff provided I & R services to 65 individuals and the NCSILC members and/or the NCSILC Executive Director attended the following training activities and meetings:

• The Executive Director attended the APRIL Conference in Overland Park, Kansas from October 29 - November 1, 2010.

• Two members and the NCSILC Executive Director attended the SILC Congress Conference from January 8-12, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.

• The Executive Director attended an online training on nonprofit tax return preparation which was held on January 18, 2011.

• The Executive Director attended an online course through ILRU, “Getting on Board” which was held from February 18 through 25, 2011.

• The Treasurer and the Executive Director participated in the 2011 Teleconference “Playing by the Rules: A SILC Fiscal Guide to Federal Dollars” which was held on April 11, April 21, April 26, and April 28, 2011.

• At the April 28, 2011 NCSILC meeting, the NCSILC Chair and a CIL director provided training to members, “Operationalize Effectiveness of SILCs” for members.

• The Executive Director attended the SILC conference on Implementing and Enforcing Olmstead in Atlanta, Georgia from May 11 - 12, 2011.

• The Executive Director participated in the NCACPA Not-for-Profit Accounting Conference from May 22 – 23, 2011 in Greensboro, NC.

• Three members and the Executive Director attended a finance meeting with DVRS staff on June 16, 2011.

• The Executive Director participated in the Best Practice Models to Enhance Transition to College & Careers Webinar on June 20, 2011.

• Two members attended the NCIL Conference from July 13 – 16, 2011 in Washington, D.C.

• The Executive Director attended an on-line course offered by Eve Borenstein on August 24, 2011 concerning the 2011 Form 990 updates.

• One member attended the ILRU on-line course “Smooth as SILC” from September 9-29, 2011.

• The Treasurer and the Executive Director attended an ILRU webinar, “Gathering Consumer Feedback for SILCs on September 27, 2011.

• The Executive Director participated in the ILRU Intensive SILC Support Program through monthly telephone calls from May 30 through September 30, 2011.

• The Executive Director attended the Raleigh 10-year plan to end Homelessness monthly meetings, CRC All Grantee Statewide Meeting, Medicare/Medicaid Dual Eligible Planning Group monthly meetings, DD Council quarterly meetings, MH-DD-SA Council meeting, NC CAP services meeting, and Money Follows the Person Program meeting.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 2.1.b. VR and NCSILC will research options to better access Part B funds within the guidelines of the Department of Health and Human Services.

On May 18, 2011, DVRS received notice from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Controller’s Office that a cash advance using only federal funds is not required to be returned or settled by June 18 of the year in which the contract terminates. The cash advance using only federal funds is required to be returned or settled by September 18 of the year in which the contract terminates.

In compliance with the Department of Health and Human Services policies and procedures for contract monitoring and oversight, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) is required to have a monitoring schedule in place for each contract. DVRS requires all contractors receiving funds to provide the supporting documentation to DVRS at the time of submitting their invoice for payment. This reporting requirement is the same for all contractors regardless of the funding source, contract amount, private non-profit organization or private company. In an effort to expedite the monthly reimbursement process, in September 2011, DVRS offered the Part C CIL an exception to the standard reporting procedures by allowing the Part C CIL to submit the monthly invoice for payment to DVRS without the supporting documentation and DVRS will conduct an annual audit at the CIL office. As a result, five of the Part C CILs will submit the monthly invoice for payment to DVRS without the supporting documentation and DVRS will conduct an annual audit at the CIL office for the FFY 2011 – 2012 contracts.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 2.1.c. NC DVRS will process, upon receipt of approved required documentation, payments for reimbursement for actual expenses.

*During this reporting period, the NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services processed the monthly NCSILC invoice for payment of actual expenditures upon receipt of the approved required documentation.

This activity is ongoing.

Goal 3. Increase Participation and Leadership by Youth with Disabilities.

Goal Description: Support a NC Youth Leadership Forum to increase youth participation in all of NC.

3.1. Objective: Increase Participation and Leadership by Youth with Disabilities.

Activity 3.1.a. A Youth Leadership Committee will be established to develop and implement an annual Leadership Forum. The Committee will be comprised of participants from prior years Forum(s) and will include other youth between the ages of 15 and 28. The Committee will be responsible to develop and implementation of the annual Forum. NCSILC will monitor the progress of the Committee.

During this reporting period, a Youth Leadership Committee was established in April 2011 to develop and implement the 2011 youth Leadership Forum. The Youth Leadership Committee was comprised of three youth mentors from previous YLF and five other youth with disabilities between the ages of 15 and 28. The committee met nine times during the period of April 20, 2011 – July 7, 2011 to plan and evaluate the implementation of the 2011 Youth Leadership Forum. The Youth Leadership Committee provided the NCSILC with an update about the YLF at the NCSILC quarterly meetings.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 3.1.b. Contract with a CIL or grassroots organization to conduct an annual Youth Leadership Forum will be sponsored each year of the 3-year SPIL to increase participation and leadership by youth with disabilities. The Youth Leadership Forum will be open to youth between the ages of 15 and 28. The Forum will be youth-led and youth-run. Participation by youth will increase 10% each year.

During this reporting period, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services had a contract with the Alliance of Disability Advocates CIL to conduct a Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) designed to increase participation and leadership by youth with disabilities. The YLF was held at the NC State University from June 20 - 24, 2011. There were 5 Youth Leadership Committee members in attendance, 20 selected applicants between the ages of 15 – 27, three mentors, and four contractor staff. In addition, there were two national youth speaker/facilitators, Ms. Wheelchair America 2011 and a policy analyst from the MS Society.

This activity is ongoing.

Activity 3.1.c. NCSILC will monitor, review and evaluate the Forum each year. The Youth Committee will report quarterly to the NCSILC on the progress of the Committee and its plans for the Forum. Evaluation and satisfaction surveys will be completed by participants of the Forum, forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director for compilation, and the results reported annually to the NCSILC.

During this reporting period, the Youth Leadership Committee reported on the planning of the 2011 YLF at the NCSILC April 2011 meeting and conducted a presentation about the 2011 YLF at the NCSILC July meeting. The participants of the YLF completed a satisfaction survey which was provided to the NCSILC Executive Director for compilation and the results were reported to the NCSILC at the July 2011 meeting. The results of the consumer satisfaction surveys reflected a satisfaction rate of 93.2% overall, with dorms scoring the lowest rating. All participants reported to have gained personal advocacy skills.

This activity is ongoing.

Objective 3.1.d The Youth Committee will report quarterly to the NCSILC on the progress of the Committee and its plans for the Forum. Evaluation and satisfaction surveys will be completed by participants of the Forum and presented yearly to the NCSILC. Participation by youth will increase 10% each year.

During this reporting period, the Youth Leadership Committee reported on the planning of the 2011 YLF at the NCSILC April 2011 meeting and conducted a presentation about the 2011 YLF at the NCSILC July meeting. The participants of the YLF completed a satisfaction survey which was provided to the NCSILC Executive Director for compilation and the results were reported to the NCSILC at the July 2011 meeting. The results of the consumer satisfaction surveys reflected a satisfaction rate of 93.2% overall, with dorms scoring the lowest rating. All participants reported to have gained personal advocacy skills.

This activity is ongoing.

Objective 3.2. Enhance youth awareness of disability history and independent living.

Activity 3.2.a. Members of the Youth Leadership Committee will coordinate with a CIL to present Disability History and Awareness month in K-12 public education settings. Students will complete evaluations to determine their increased knowledge of disabilities. Results of the evaluations will be presented to the full NCSILC. The Executive Director will monitor the progress of the Youth Leadership Committee. Results will be reported to the full NCSILC quarterly.

No report. This activity is ongoing.

Activity 3.2.b. NCSILC will recruit and recommend for membership qualified youth with disabilities between the ages of 15 and 28.

During this reporting period, the NCSILC has two members who are between the ages of 15 and 28.

This activity is ongoing.

Goal 4. Promote Community Based Living.

Goal description: People with disabilities will have access to funds for deposits, transportation, household items, etc. to use as they transition from institutionalized settings into the community.

Objective 4.1.Support transition of consumers from institutionalized settings into the community.

Activity 4.1.a. Provide Part B funds to Part B and C CILs to assist individuals who are transitioning from an institutionalized setting into the community. The funds will assist transitioning individuals with expenses they may incur during the process including but not limited to: deposits for housing and utilities, initial month’s rent, transportation, furniture, appliances, housing supplies, etc., needs to be determined by the individual. Consumers will be asked to complete a satisfaction survey to indicate their satisfaction with the quality of services and their increased level of independent living. Surveys will be forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director to compile in a report for the full NCSILC.

During this reporting period, the Part B and C CILs assisted 69 individuals with disabilities to transition from an institutionalized setting into the community. Funds were used during the transitioning process for rent, utilities, deposits, furniture, durable medical equipment, household supplies, clothing, transportation, personal care items, home modifications, air conditioner, and food.

This activity is ongoing.

Goal 5. Promote Civil Rights of People with Disabilities.

Goal Description: NCSILC and CILs will monitor legislation that affects the lives of people with disabilities.

Objective 5.1. NCSILC and NC CILs will monitor disability related legislation to promote increased independence of people with disabilities.

Activity 5.1.a NCSILC will coordinate with Disability Rights NC, NCDAN, CILs and other advocacy groups regarding studies, model policies and procedures for the public in order to enhance independent living services for individuals with disabilities.

During this reporting period, the NCSILC participated in the Disability Awareness Day in Raleigh, NC on March 22, 2011 and distributed approximately 100 NCSILC brochures. The NCSILC monitored disability related legislation that would impact people with disabilities. Members were concerned about proposed cuts in Medicaid and the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as a voter picture ID bill in the NC General Assembly and a proposal to keep Dorothea Dix Hospital open.

Goal 6: Provision of Direct Independent Living Services and Supports

Goal Description: DVR and DSB:

People with disabilities who qualify for DVRS and DSB services will receive direct services to support independent living.

Objective 6.1. NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and NC Division of Services for the Blind will provide direct independent living services to people with significant disabilities in all 100 counties. NC CILs will provide services in 42 counties.

Activity 6.1.a DVR will provide specialized and individualized services and supports for individuals with a significant disability. Services to be provided include but are not limited to: home modifications, vehicle modifications, personal assistance services, and the provision of durable medical equipment that leads to deinstitutionalization, the prevention of institutionalization, achieving community living, and/or employment transition to the Vocational Rehabilitation Services program. Consumers will be asked to complete a satisfaction survey to indicate their satisfaction with the quality of services and their increased level of independent living. Surveys will be forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director to compile in a report for the full NCSILC.

During the 2010 – 2011 SFY, the DVRS ILRP utilized state funds appropriated by the NC General Assembly and Social Security Administration Receipts to serve 4,694 individuals with significant disabilities in all 100 counties of NC during this reporting period. Of this number, the DVRS ILRP provided personal assistance services to 311 individuals, assisted 16 individuals in transitioning from skilled nursing facilities and prevented 279 individuals from nursing home placement. The type of services that the DVRS ILRP provided included home and vehicle modifications, adaptive equipment and assistive devices, personal assistance services, recreation therapy, assistive technology, and guidance and counseling. The services assisted individuals in achieving community living, and/or employment. On September 30, 2011, DVRS mailed 381 NCSILC satisfaction surveys to consumers with closed cases and the consumers will return the completed NCSILC satisfaction survey directly to the NCSILC office to be compiled into a report for the full NCSILC

NCSILC is of the considered opinion that the survey process does not provide a statistically valid sample with which the Council can fulfill its requirement to monitor, review and evaluate the implementation of the State Plan. The Council is prepared to cooperate with the satisfaction survey process as outlined above. However, it is the Council’s position that Activity 6.1.a of the State Plan, involving surveying the clients has not been met as written this year.

Activity 6.1.b. DSB will provide specialized and individualized services and supports for individuals, less than 55 years of age, who have significant visual impairments. Services to be provided include but are not limited to: adjustment to vision loss counseling, information and referral, independent living skills training (mobility, communications, personal and home management, etc.) and individual advocacy. Consumers will be asked to complete a satisfaction survey to indicate their satisfaction with the quality of services and their increased level of independent living. Surveys will be forwarded to the NCSILC Executive Director to compile in a report for the full SILC.

During the 2010 – 2011 state fiscal year, the DSB ILRP received state funds from the NC General Assembly. This funding enabled the DSB ILRP to provide comprehensive independent living rehabilitation services for individuals who have significant vision loss. Services were provided to residents in all 100 counties of the state by independent living rehabilitation counselors, orientation and mobility specialists, nurse eye care consultants, deaf blind specialists, assistive technology consultants and instructors, social workers and vocational rehabilitation counselors. The services provided helped individuals who are blind, deaf blind and visually impaired to obtain, regain and maintain their functional independence in their homes, communities and employment. DSB Independent living rehabilitation services were provided for 400 consumers, who were less than 55 years of age, in their homes and in small community-based sites called Mini Centers. Program participants were provided adjustment to vision loss counseling and guidance, assessments, information about and referral to other services and supports and direct instruction in areas such as communication skills, personal and home management skills, self-advocacy, orientation and mobility, kitchen safety and cooking techniques, consumer education and the use of assistive technology and adaptive aids and devices. There were 129 individuals who completed the program and achieved their rehabilitation goals. On September 30, 2011, DSB mailed 141 NCSILC satisfaction surveys to consumers with closed cases and the consumers will return the completed NCSILC satisfaction survey directly to the NCSILC office to be compiled into a report for the full NCSILC.

NCSILC is of the considered opinion that the survey process does not provide a statistically valid sample with which the Council can fulfill its requirement to monitor, review and evaluate the implementation of the State Plan. The Council is prepared to cooperate with the satisfaction survey process as outlined above. However, it is the Council’s position that Activity 6.1.b of the State Plan, involving surveying the clients has not been met as written this year.

6.1. c NC CILs will provide individualized services and supports and the four core services in each of its 7 Part C and one part B Centers for Independent Living.

During this reporting period, the seven Part C and one Part B funded CIL had a contract with the DSU for operational expenses to provide individualized services and supports and to provide the independent living core services. The seven Part C and one Part B funded CIL transitioned 69 individuals with disabilities from institutionalized facilities into the community, opened 12 case service records and provided the independent living core services to 2,413 individuals with disabilities using the Part B funds.

In February 2011, DVRS in collaboration with the NC Office of the Governor Boards and Commission provided RSA with documentation (legislative reports and a memo from former Governor Jim Martin) to see if these documents were acceptable to RSA to “establish” the SILC within North Carolina as specified in Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. In July 2011, RSA notified the NC Boards and Commission that additional action would be needed beyond the documentation provided to RSA to ensure that the NCSILC is not established as an entity within a State agency as specified in Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. The NC Boards and Commission is in the process of reviewing this matter to determine the best next steps; reviewing samples from other states and other relevant information and will consult with the NCSILC, RSA and others during this Process.

The total amount of Goal 3, Activity 3.1.b in the 2011 – 2013 SPIL resource plan is $18,527.00 which is broken down into three categories: Youth Leadership Committee $2,300.00; Mentors from Prior Youth Leadership Forums $1,227.00; and the Youth Leadership Forum $15,000.00. At the July 22, 2011 NCSILC quarterly meeting, the NCSILC Youth Leadership Committee requested that the funding breakdown for the three categories be eliminated as the current wording promotes exclusion of individuals with disabilities from participating if funds are not available in a particular category. The NCSILC voted to keep the total amount for activity 3.1.b at $18,527 but to eliminate the funding breakdown for the three categories. DVRS consulted with RSA, after the July 2011 NCSILC meeting. RSA stated that eliminating the break down amount for the three categories did not require notice to the public since the total amount of activity 3.1.b was not changed.

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During this reporting period, the NCSILC worked with the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commission to improve the NCSILC appointment process, however, NCSILC continues to face the challenge of delayed membership appointments. The Governor’s Office of Boards and Commission is working with RSA regarding NCSILC Codification and new NCSILC appointments are delayed until NCSILC Codification is completed. As of September 30, 2011, the Council had one vacancy and two members who are serving in holdover status after the expiration of their term.

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