Federation's Spring 2021 Newsletter |
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Getting through it together
Like many other programs, the Advocacy Program had to suspend face to face services due to COVID-19 in March 2020, which meant our peer advocates could no longer facilitate in person groups in hospitals. As many of the advocates have been hospitalized themselves at one time, they are able to offer support through a unique sense of shared experience. The inability to provide this service during this isolating and anxious time, was difficult on both the staff and the recipients, who find these groups to be an integral part of their recovery process.
While advocates were able to reach out to people who needed support telephonically, connecting with the clients who were hospitalized was a priority. With the collaboration of hospital staff and technology, the peer advocates launched their first virtual support group in November. Despite some technical obstacles, teamwork prevailed and the program was able to partner with three hospitals including Stony Brook, Long Island Community and Mather Hospital. Through this video platform, the advocates have been able to conduct groups and provide support on various recovery topics such as health and wellness, coping skills, symptom management and discharge planning. The advocates report they missed running the groups and have found doing them virtually is very rewarding for both themselves and the individuals in the hospital. Vinny Mancini, an advocate with Federation has worked in the hospitals for many years, “I like the groups because I am able to share my background and interact with people, which makes me feel good. And I am glad we can still do that through these virtual ones, it’s different but it’s worth it for us.” The individuals in the hospital were happy to see him return, after listening to Vinny share his story one of the group members commented, “I feel good going to the groups. I think hearing his story and knowing he is out and about gives me the incentive to try and do it too.” Hospital staff agrees and they see the benefits the groups provide to people on the unit in their recovery process.
Currently, the advocates are running six virtual groups per week. While the advocates are looking forward to returning to in person groups again, they have shown the ability to adjust and adapt during this unprecedented time, when support is needed the most.
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Creative Connections
Recovery Concepts in Patchogue hosted a virtual talent show with PROS members in December. Staff set up an HD line for members who had access to join via video and those without access were able to call in and listen. The show was advertised through Facebook and through group and individual services. The members really looked forward to the show and practiced their talents ahead of time. Some of the talents showcased were poetry, signing, playing instruments and even some improvisation to gain insight into how to use different mediums of art to facilitate self-expression. According to Program Manager of Recovery Concepts at Patchogue, Colleen Jeffus, “The talent show was a great success and allowed the members the opportunity to connect with their peers in a creative and virtually social manner which they haven’t been able to do in months
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“No Justice, No Peace”
A 7-year-old girl from the Children’s Care Coordination Program showed that even the smallest voices can make a big impact. A video of Wynta-Amor Rogers chanting and marching during a June peaceful protest for racial justice went viral on Instagram. Wynta-Amor was shown passionately chanting “No justice, no peace” alongside other protestors as she marched for two miles with her mother, Lakyia Jackson, who told reporters her daughter insisted on attending the rally. Wynta-Amor does well in school and is well liked by her teachers, her mother reports.
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Tag-teaming with Texas via telehealth
Having developed extensive telehealth expertise during the pandemic, the Babylon ACT Team was able to use technology to serve a client, C.A., who moved to Texas. “This client moved to Texas to be with his girlfriend,” said Joseph Loftus, Babylon ACT Team Leader. “We linked him with another ACT Team there and completed a warm handoff” via technology. The handoff included a three-way meeting with the new treatment team and client to make introductions and provide collateral information. After about two months, however, C.A. decided to move back home to Long Island. “ACT maintained contact with him throughout the transition and he is now re-engaged with the Babylon ACT Team and is doing well,” Mr. Loftus said.
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OASAS clinic gets up and running
Federation launched its first program with the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) in January. The new OASAS Clinic, which is located at 1375 Akron St. in Copiague, will offer a full slate of services to help individuals who are struggling with alcohol or substance use to attain or maintain sobriety, as well as services to support family members impacted by a loved one’s alcohol or substance use. The clinic, which is overseen by the Director of Clinical Services Jennifer Aldrich, is actively seeking program participants. In addition to individual services, the clinic will offer group services that will include men’s groups, women’s groups, dual recovery groups (for individuals with both mental health and substance use diagnoses), relapse prevention groups and others. Additional services will include medication assistance treatment, family therapy and naloxone (NARCAN) training. Currently, all services are offered via telehealth due to the pandemic. For more information, please contact 631-552-4240.
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Kudos from Statewide Organization
We are proud to announce that NYAPRS (New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services) has awarded Federation and peer specialist Julie Burroughs Erdman with prestigious awards.
Federation was recognized with the Marty Smith Memorial Award, which is presented annually to a uniquely inspired and dedicated service agency that has demonstrated exemplary contributions to the advancement of best practices in service to New Yorkers with psychiatric disabilities.
Julie was selected to receive the Jason Brody Faith and Fellowship Award, which recognizes an individual who has been an extraordinary source of kindness, caring and devotion to people within the mental health community. Julie, who began working at Federation three years ago, is a peer specialist in the Home and Community Based Service (HCBS) program. Congratulations to Julie on a well-deserved honor!
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Get your vaccine when available!
Why you should get a COVID-19 vaccination.
It is reported that the COVID-19 vaccine is an important, safe and effective tool in the fight against the COVID-19 virus. Remember – COVID-19 is very serious, and can cause severe medical complications that lead to death in some people.
The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is by getting the vaccine as soon as possible and taking other precautions, including practicing social distancing, continuing to wear a mask and washing your hands often and thoroughly.
How does the vaccine work?
The COVID-19 vaccine is delivered in two doses over the course of three to four weeks. The vaccine helps protect you by strengthening your immune system and helping it to recognize and fight the virus.
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Stay tuned for upcoming events in 2021! |
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Federation of Organizations
1 Farmingdale Road
West Babylon, NY 11704
(631) 669-5355
New York City Office
116-06 Myrtle Avenue
Richmond Hill, NY 11418
(718) 850-7099
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