Nora K. Yates

This Fiscal Year 2015 Annual Report details the activities and accomplishments of the State Rehabilitation Council for the New York State Office of Children and Family Services Commission for the Blind. The report outlines goals for FY2016 focusing on: continued recruitment of diverse council members; evaluation of consumer satisfaction; development of an assistive technology trainer certification program; and enhancement of workforce opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, with particular attention to ensuring the accessibility of high-stakes electronic examinations.

The summit focused on the impact of COVID-19 on the online underground commercial sex economy and the exploitation of youth. Key discussion topics included navigating social media safely with youth, the inclusion of safe harbor partners from every county in New York, and addressing the rise of online sexual exploitation. Presenters discussed the challenges of virtual outreach, the importance of ongoing conversations between adults and youth regarding online risks, and the introduction of new website resources for internet safety.

This Annual Plan for the Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP) outlines the county's strategy to reform juvenile justice practices by engaging youth and families through innovative programming to reduce out-of-home placement and detention. The plan details three primary programs: Electronic Monitoring, Support Services, and Probation Supervision. Key focus areas include prevention, early intervention, alternatives to detention and placement, and reentry/aftercare. It emphasizes local collaboration with various agencies and aims to address disparities, substance use, and mental health issues. Targeted outcomes for youth include reducing PINS referrals, truancy, school suspensions, arrests, and fostering positive adult connections and community involvement.

The meeting provided guidance for grant recipients on quarterly deliverables, including program operation, good standing status, Quality Stars New York participation, and staff training requirements. Presenters detailed the documentation needed for compliance, the impact of deliverables on funding, and the process for non-traditional hours and infant-toddler slot bonuses. Additionally, the session outlined requirements for developing sustainability plans and business trainings for grant awardees.

The meeting featured an overview of the executive budget, including provisions for DJJOY facility body scanners, funding for NYC youth violence prevention, and significant investments in child care and early education, such as the establishment of the Office of Child Care and Early Education. Discussion also covered the anonymous reporting bill for child abuse and domestic violence funding trends. Additionally, the board reviewed the Family First Implementation, the Children and Family Services Review Program Improvement Plan pilot initiative focused on safe and stable homes, and the Express NY initiative aimed at integrating stakeholder perspectives on agency policies.