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June is here, bringing the start of summer, new opportunities, and plenty to look forward to as we continue growing together. As the days get longer and the season shifts, WILC remains committed to fostering connection, learning, and support throughout our community. We’re excited for all that this month will bring and look forward to making more meaningful memories, celebrating achievements, and continuing to build a strong and
inclusive community together.
| | Supporting Brain Health & Awareness | | |
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, which recognizes the millions of individuals and families affected by cognitive and neurological conditions, while highlighting the importance of support,
understanding, and access to resources.
A brain injury or neurological condition can change many aspects of daily life, but it does not diminish a person’s right to independence, choice, and community inclusion. Through our Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Regional Resource Development Center, we help connect individuals and families with services and supports that promote safety, self-direction,
and quality of life.
| | Free Webinar: Navigating Summer Break | | |
Summer break can bring changes in routine, structure, and support services for children with disabilities.
Join WILC for a free webinar designed to help families prepare for a successful and enjoyable summer!
More information can be found here!
| | Join the Pathway to Power Advocacy Group | | |
Your voice matters!
Join our Pathway to Power Advocacy Group and connect with others while building confidence, community, and self-advocacy skills.
More information can be found here!
| | Emotional Resilience Discussion Group | | |
You are not alone. 🫂
Join our Virtual Emotional Resilience Discussion Group for supportive conversation, meaningful connection, and an opportunity to share experiences in a welcoming and encouraging environment.
More information can be found here!
| Learn, Connect, and Earn a Degree from Home | | |
Have you always wished for a college education? Westchester Community College has a new service for people who are homebound because of illnesses and disabilities. It is called GABE: The Homebound
Collegiate Initiative.
See and hear your college professors and classmates daily as you study, learn, and participate in two-way conversations with professors and classmates—like a Zoom call. Earn a college degree.
Information: Call George Smith, MSW, at (973) 487-8095 or email at gsmith898@myyahoo.com
| | Honoring Dignity, Independence & Choice | | |
June 15 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness about the importance of treating older adults with dignity,
respect, and compassion.
At WILC, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live safely, independently, and with self-determination. Through programs like the Nursing Home Transition and Diversion (NHTD) Waiver Program, we help eligible individuals access the supports and services they need to
remain in their homes and communities whenever possible.
This month, we stand in solidarity with older adults and caregivers throughout our community, because every person should be treated with the dignity they deserve.
| | Collaboration Across the Region | | |
On May 21st, the Open Doors, RT H, and OHS teams gathered
for their annual regional meeting
They had the opportunity to connect, collaborate, share ideas, and strengthen partnerships that support individuals and communities throughout the region.
We are grateful for the dedication of these teams and the
meaningful work they do every day.
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New on Our Blog: Preparing for a
Successful Summer
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Summer can bring fun and family time, but it can also present unique challenges for families of children with disabilities.
In our latest blog, Fiona Rattray, Parent Training & Information Specialist with PILS, shares practical strategies, helpful insights, and information about our upcoming webinar to help families prepare for a
successful summer season.
Read the full blog here!
| Michael’s Monthly Fun Fact | | |
This June, there is more than one disability awareness. From June 15–21, it will be Learning Disability awareness week. The week aims to fight stigma, celebrate what people with learning disabilities bring to society, and challenge the barriers they face. Even if it only last for a week, it is still worth being made aware of.
It is important to educate yourself on the many different kinds of learning disabilities there are more than one kind. There are no set numbers, but it’s certainly more than one.
Some of those disabilities include Dyslexia. People with dyslexia struggle to recognize and blend sounds in words, read fluently, and spell accurately. These difficulties persist despite having access to adequate instruction, making fluent reading a struggle. Non-Verbal Learning Disability is another, as people with nonverbal learning disabilities NVLD experience challenges with their motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. Things like social cues and abstract thinking don’t often come naturally, sometimes negatively impacting the person’s day-to-day living.
These are just two of many that can be a challenge for many individuals.
Organizations like WILC can help with speaking with consumers who have learning disabilities and can help to both advocate and communicate to ensure that they can get the right resources they need.
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