SSN-RC-2021-055 - SS Award to NYSARC Inc. to Provide a Self-Advocacy Program

The County of Rockland Department of Mental Health is considering the issuance of a Sole Source award to The Arc Rockland to provide A Self Advocacy Program for individuals with developmental disabilities.
This award may be made on a sole source basis in accordance with the Rockland County Procurement Policy.
SCOPE
To provide individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities who are enrolled in The Arc Rockland’s services the opportunity to participate in a community center style program in person and/or utilizing a virtual platform that provides a safe and engaging environment to help self-advocates build the skills and courage needed to advocate for themselves and others. 
Empowered self–advocates can help create inclusive communities and a person-centered and person-directed system of supports.  Arc Self-Advocates is a group led by people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.  The Arc Rockland promotes the awareness and recognition of civil rights and responsibilities, which include the opportunities and choices of equal citizenship.  Self-advocates are encouraged to speak for themselves individually and collectively.
PROGRAM SERVICES
Individuals are provided with ongoing self-advocacy skills training including, but is not limited to:

• Self-Determination skills
• Person centered employment planning and residential planning
• Supportive decision-making skills
• “Rights of the Month” training
• Best possible health strategies
• Social and interpersonal skill building
• Enhanced communication skills
• Improve technology skills through the use of virtual meeting platforms
• Understanding CCO / Life Plans and Learning about Manage Care
• Fundraising Skills to help people in their community
• How to be an informed voter & the voting process
• Peer Mentoring

• Provide self-advocacy skills training so that individuals learn to advocate for themselves and others.
• Promote the awareness and recognition of civil rights and responsibilities, which include the opportunities and choices of equal citizenship
• Provide needed staff supports to ensure a successful experience for the individuals.

• Be a 501 (c)3.
• Have a successful history of working with and supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as physical and other health related issues.
• Be governed by a Board of Directors.
• Be up to date with all IRS filings.
• Be up to date with all NYS filings.
• Have a 2021 budget with Board approval.
• Be fiscally sound.
• Have a Non-discrimination Policy.
• Have a Conflict of Interest Policy.
• Maintain program records for an audit and provide to the County all program-related information including proprietary materials upon request
• Submit quarterly and year end reports, including number of persons served, service units and results of performance outcomes, as required.
• Be available for on-site visits, announced and unannounced.