As summer fades and the air begins to cool, we welcome September—a month of fresh beginnings and vibrant energy. In this edition of our newsletter, we’ve curated a variety of content, from insightful resources to the latest updates and exciting upcoming events.

Honoring 9/11: A Day of Remembrance

Today, we take a moment to remember September 11, 2001. We honor the lives lost and the bravery of the first responders who risked everything to help others.

This day reminds us of the strength and unity that brought people together during a difficult time. As we reflect, let's carry forward the spirit of kindness and support for one another, today and always.



Brand New Blog Post

Westchester Independent Living Center is dedicated to supporting the disability community. During the Paris 2024 Paralympics, we celebrate the achievements of these athletes as they inspire our continued advocacy for greater inclusion and accessibility. Join us in supporting these athletes and embracing the spirit of the Paralympics.

To Read More Click Here

National Deaf Awareness Month

This September is National Deaf Awareness Month. Being deaf means that you cannot fully hear and being hard of hearing means that you can partially hear, but not as well as others can. I understand what that is like because I am hard of hearing. 

I have 70% hearing loss in my left ear, and 20% hearing loss in my right ear. Being able to not hear properly can have its challenges, but I have found ways to compensate for that. I primarily use hearing aids to help with my hearing loss. They give me a great advantage for what otherwise would be difficult to hear. 

I didn’t know at first that I was born hard of hearing until my parents took me into New York City to speak to an audiologist and see if I was having trouble hearing or not. Before that, I would leave signs that something was wrong without ever realizing it, such as increasing the volume of my tv, or constantly trying to get my parents attention to get them to repeat what they said. Some people told me that I tend to read lips to make sure I understand what they are saying (and that’s something that I still do). I didn’t see any issues with that at the time, given that I was only five years old. 

What helps me is that fact that I never felt like I was different from anyone else. I may have been given different kinds of accommodations that others would not, but that never made me feel any different, nor did anyone make me feel different. It helps that having friends and family understand you for who you are and see that you are just the same as they are. 

For those who develop such disabilities, WILC can provide resources to help individuals with their needs to lead independent lives, as well as help them navigate how to best approach those issues head on.

- Michael Colotti



Positive Behavior Strategies

Join us for a free Zoom webinar on Positive Behavior Strategies presented by the Parent Training & Information Center, sponsored by Blind Brook PTA. This session, led by Denise Green and Fiona Rattray from PILS, will provide parents with effective strategies for promoting positive 

behavior in children. 

DATE: Wednesday, September 18, 2024

TIME: 6:15 pm – 7:00 pm 

LOCATION: Zoom webinar 

To Register Click Here

If you have any questions, please email frattray@putnamils.org 

Understanding the CSE Process

Join us for a free Zoom webinar on Understanding the CSE Process, presented by SEPTA and led by Denise Green and Fiona Rattray from PILS. This informative session will guide parents through the Committee on Special Education (CSE) process, providing essential insights and tips

 for navigating it successfully. 

DATE: Monday, September 23, 2024

TIME: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm 

LOCATION: Zoom Webinar

To Register Click Here

If you have any questions, please email frattray@putnamils.org 

Resource & Transition Fair

Explore resources for education, recreation, training & employment, advocacy, and more… Representatives from a variety of agencies will offer more information. Break-out sessions will provide detailed information on several different topics



DATE: Monday, November 19, 2024

TIME: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm 

LOCATION: Brewster Highschool

50 Foggintown Road

Brewster NY, 10509

Free Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Endorsed Health Class

Are you 16-27 years old and living in New York State?

Do you have an intellectual or developmental disability? If so, you can get paid up to $100 to learn more about your health!

Our program offers two different classes, and while you can’t choose which one you’ll get, both provide valuable information, support, and someone to talk to each week. Topics include:

• Friendships, Boyfriends & Girlfriends, Your Body, Sex, Self-Esteem, & More!

OR

• New Recipes, Healthy Snacks, Relaxation, Exercise, Setting & Achieving Goals, & More!

No matter which class you attend, you’ll have the opportunity to gain knowledge, ask questions, and connect with an educator each week!

To learn more Click Here

To Join STEPS2 Click Here

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15, and WILC is proud to celebrate the culture and contributions of the Hispanic community. As a peer-driven, community-based organization, we empower individuals with disabilities to lead self-directed lives through advocacy, training, and resource referrals. To support our Spanish-speaking community, we offer Spanish-language webinars and services, ensuring everyone has the tools they need to live independently.



Leave Us a Google Review!

Share your experience with the Westchester Independent Living Center (WILC) by leaving a Google review. Your feedback helps us empower individuals with disabilities to lead self-directed lives through advocacy, training, and access to essential resources. Together, let's amplify our impact and support the journey towards independent living.

Click Here to leave your review today!