Seeking nominations for 39th Annual Youth Awards

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Youth Bureau

Putnam County

Mission Statement

Contact the

Putnam County Youth Bureau

• Office | 845.808.1600

• Fax | 845.808.1907

• Email |  Send us a message

• Address | 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512

• Services Offered
• Meet the Team
• Forms
• News
• Calendar
• Contact Us

Youth Bureau

Services Offered

• Funded Programs

  The Putnam County Youth Bureau receives funding from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and is responsible for administering four state funding streams.

  These programs serve youth who are at risk of becoming involved or further involved in the juvenile justice or human services system. They specifically aim to divert youth from placement in out of home settings.

  Learn More

• Recreation Programs

  List of supported Recreation Programs.

  Learn More

• Supervision & Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP)

  Putnam County would like to announce that we have partnered with several community agencies and developed a new multi-faceted prevention program called Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP). This program is aimed at assisting youth who are demonstrating behaviors that place them at risk for possible involvement in the Juvenile Justice System.  These behaviors may include truancy, substance abuse, inappropriate peer interaction, a history of abuse or neglect, emotional difficulties, and a host of other concerns.

  Read more

• Mentoring Program

  The Teens~N~Kids Mentoring Program matches elementary age students with high school students as their mentors. It offers the younger children an opportunity to develop positive relationships, social skills, and confidence while engaging in a variety of activities.

  Read more

• Funding Available for New Youth Programs

  Funding Available for
  New Youth Programs

  Read more

• C.S.S.I - Children's Services

  CSI is a partnership between family members and service providers designed to assist families whose children have mental health needs. Our goal is to keep families together by creating linkages to community based services.

  Read more

• Youth Awards

  Every year the Putnam County Youth Board and Youth Bureau host their Annual Youth Awards Dinner. We recognize Youth Volunteers for their exemplary community service efforts that benefit Putnam residents. In addition, an adult is honored at this event for his/her outstanding volunteer work with Putnam Youth.

  Read more

• Youth Court

  Youth Court is a family court diversion program aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency in the county. Youth Court volunteer members range in ages 12-19 and come from various communities and school districts in Putnam. Members must complete a 10-week training program.

  Read more

• Youth Board Applications

  Are you interested in serving our Putnam community and making a difference? If so, consider the Putnam County Youth Board.

  The Putnam County Youth Bureau and youth Board are seeking new Youth Board members and welcome your input. Any student or adult who lives in, works in, or attend school in Putnam County is eligible to join the Youth Board.

  Read more

• Meet the Team

  Meet the amazing team of talented individuals in the Youth Bureau Department.

  Read more

Funded Programs

• Pegasus Program

  Program Coordinator: Sheila Hanley

  Spring 2023 Dates: 3/30, 4/6, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18
  What is Project Pegasus: Pegasus is a confidential educational program for children (ages 5 through 14) who have a parent or family member suffering from

  alcoholism or other drug dependencies. The goal of the program is to help these youth deal with their lives more effectively by providing them with a knowledge of addiction, coping skills, and emotional alternatives. Project Pegasus shows the children that they are not alone and that other kids have similar family circumstances and feelings. Some parents are in recovery and want their children to understand their disease. They also want them to know that they (the children) are at a higher risk of becoming addicted. Other adults have participated - a spouse of a parent struggling with addiction or a temporary caregiver (i.e., Grandparent, Aunt, etc.). The parent group is made up of both those in recovery and co-dependents of chemically dependents.
  How does the program work?

  ❖ Children ages 5 through 14 residing in Putnam County are eligible to participate. Children must be accompanied by at least 1adult. There is no fee for families who attend the program.

  ❖ Pegasus is offered twice a year in 8-week sessions in the spring and in the fall on Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 7:30 pm.

  ❖ Youth & adults are placed in separate groups.

  ❖ Each week pizza is provided for the families attending.

  ❖ Confidentiality is always respected, creating a safe environment for children & their families.

  
  Pre-registration is Required For more information or to register please contact: Sheila Hanley – Pegasus Coordinator (845) 808-1600 ext. 46126 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  2023 Fall Pegasus Flyer

• CoveCare Center

  Program Director: Steven Farina

  Offers a comprehensive youth assistance program with a focus on adolescent depression and youth suicide awareness. Coordinates the efforts of the County’s education, mental health, and youth services system in identifying and assisting youth.

  1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 225-2700

• Putnam County School-Based Prevention

  Provides student assistance counseling in Putnam County high schools.

  1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 225-2700 x130

• Youth Court Program

  Program Director: Dana Erickson & Kim Flynn

  Youth Court is a peer court program established to reduce incidents of juvenile crime by serving as a community-based alternative to Family Court. Volunteer members throughout Putnam County participate in a 10-week training program that prepares them to serve in the roles of Judge, Defense Attorney, Prosecuting Attorney, Court Clerk, Bailiff, and Jury in actual cases of youth under 16 charged with a crime.

  Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 808-1600 ext. 46122

• Coordinated Youth and Family Services Project

  Program Director: Janeen Cunningham

  Putnam County Youth Bureau: Provides a coordinated interagency approach to case planning and implementation. Case planning may include referrals to treatment and/or service providers with ongoing advocacy and comprehensive case planning based on individual family needs.

  Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 808-1600, ext. 46120

• Youth Awards

  Coordinator: Christine Andrews

  Putnam County Youth Board: Annual dinner to recognize outstanding youth volunteers whose community service efforts benefit the residents of Putnam County.

  Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 808-1600, ext. 46113

  Click for additional information

• Youth Forum

  Director: Dena Altavilla | Executive Director: Janeen Cunningham

  Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Putnam County Youth Bureau: This is a one-day conference planned and run by high school students, for high school students.

  Cornell Cooperative Extension, Geneva Road, Brewster, New York 10509
  (845) 278-6738

  Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 808-1600, ext. 46120

• Youth Development Program:

  These programs address specific target populations, school-related prevention problems, multi-problem families, or employment projects for youth.

  CoveCare Center: Provides student assistance counseling in Putnam County high schools.

  1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 225-2700 x130

• Arbor House

  Green Chimneys Children’s Services: Provides case management, independent living skills training, referral assistance, advocacy, basic need support and transportation for the 16 to 20-year-old homeless or at risk of becoming homeless population.

  400 Doansburg Road, Caller Box 719, Brewster, New York 10509
  (845) 278-4486

• Runaway and Homeless Youth Program

  This program provides shelter for runaway and homeless youth and serves as a community-based referral and counseling network.

  Arbor House – Green Chimneys Children’s Services: Provides crisis intervention, counseling and case management services to runaway and homeless youth or youth at risk of running away or becoming homeless and their families. Arbor House also offers emergency shelter through a six-bed Safe House or through a network of Interim Families.

  400 Doansburg Road, Caller Box 719, Brewster, New York 10509
  (845) 278-4486

• Runaway and Homeless Youth Coordination Program

  Coordinator:

  Putnam County Youth Bureau: Assists the Youth Bureau in developing and implementing the county plan to improve services to runaway and homeless youth and their families and ensures that services to runaway and homeless youth and their families are provided in accordance with runaway and homeless youth regulations.

  Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
  (845) 808-1600, ext. 46116

Recreation Programs

• Town of Putnam Valley

  Program Contact Person: Frank DiMarco (845) 526-3292 Fax: (845) 526-3179 www.PVPR.com

  Putnam Valley Parks and Recreation
  265 Oscawana Lake Road,
  Putnam Valley, NY 10579

  Website: www.PVPR.com
  

  (Ages 4 – 20)
  Site: Putnam Valley Elementary, Junior High Schools and Town Park
  Serves: General Youth Population

  Provides youth ages pre-school through 12th grade with safe organized activities within the framework of the Recreation Department. This program is also designed to encourage teens in the area to participate and become part of town activities.

• Town of Phillipstown

  Program Contact Person: Amber Stickle (845) 265-5200

  Philipstown Recreation Department
  P.O. Box 155 238 Main Street,
  Cold Spring, NY 10516

  (Ages 13 – 20)
  Site: Haldane High School
  Serves: General Youth Population

  Provides structured, supervised leisure time of teens in 7th through 12th grades, increases activities for youth including trips and transportation to sporting and cultural events and expands programs held at Haldane High School.

• Town of Southeast

  Program Contact Person: Patricia Bohrman This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone: 845-279-3915 Fax: 845-279-3137

  Town of Southeast Recreation
  1 Main Street
  Brewster, NY 10509

  Website: www.southeast-ny.gov
  

  Serves: All residents preschool through senior citizens

  Rentals: Lakeview Manor – Available for rental for parties.  Ball fields are available for rent to sports teams.

  The Town of Southeast offers a wide variety of programs to enhance our community experience from preschool right up through our seniors. We have a multitude of camp offerings such as Yoga & Journaling, Young Rembrandts, Tennis, Taekwondo, football, basketball, volleyball, track & field, Lego, Mad Science, wrestling, baseball, and cheerleading.  We also have several leagues for our youths and adults including men’s and youth basketball, youth football, youth cheer, and men’s and women’s softball.  Our residents enjoy Lake Tonetta during our summer months and swimming lessons and swim team are programs we offer at the lake.  Our seniors enjoy aerobics and senior programs as well as many day trips organized by the Southeast Seniors group.  Our programs are designed to pique the interest of a vast array resident interests to allow for social interaction in a safe, fun environment.  Southeast Recreation works diligently to foster a community spirit and peer interaction with our youth and adults alike.

• Town of Patterson

  Program Contact Person: Matthew Chibbaro (845) 878-7200

  Patterson Recreation Department
  65 Front Street
  P.O. Box 278
  Patterson, New York 12563

  Website: www.pattersonrec.org

  Rental: Available for parties and events in our Recreation Room.  Our gymnasium and ball fields are rented out for sports teams.

  Provides recreation programs for citizen’s age 24 months to seniors.  The Patterson Recreation Center provides activities in the form of camps, sports clinics, and community programs.  The Patterson Recreation Department also offers other activities such as yoga, Zumba, Pokémon, Little Cooks, Bowling, guitar lessons, Kindergarten Enrichment, ski & snowboarding, Tumbling Time, cheerleading, flag football league, senior fitness classes, pizza nights for middle school  and elementary-aged children, pilates, circuit-training, senior drop-in, open gym, senior luncheon (monthly) kickboxing, martial arts, karate, youth basketball, adult basketball leagues, summer camps, weight training as well as special events to fulfill a continuing commitment to promote quality recreation for all. The Patterson Recreation Center also rents out their facility for parties and events.  They also  rent out the gymnasium and ball field to sports teams. The Recreation Center provides a healthy, fun and energetic environment for all!

• Town of Carmel

  Program Contact Person: James Gilchrist,CPRP This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (845) 628-7888 Fax(845) 628-2820

  Carmel Recreation and Parks Department
  Sycamore Park/790 Long Pond Road
  Mahopac, New York 10541

  (Ages 1 – Senior Citizens)
  Site: Sycamore Park
  Serves: General Youth Population

  Provides recreation programs for ages 1 to Senior Citizens in the form of camp, swimming, and boating activities, community and sports programs and special events to fulfill a continuing commitment to promote quality recreation for all by offering no-fee pre-school activities in addition to a variety of ongoing youth recreation and senior programs.

• Town of Kent

  Program Contact Person: Jared Kuczenski This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (845)531-2100 Fax: (845)306-7249

  Town of Kent Recreation and Parks
  770 Route 52 
  Kent Lakes, NY 10512

  (Ages 3 – 20)
  Sites: Kent Primary and Elementary Schools, Rte. 52, Carmel, NY
  Park, West Drive and Towner Road, Carmel, NY
  Park, Rte. 301, Carmel, NY
  Edward Ryan Park – 43 Park Road, Kent, NY 10512
  Huestis Park – 178 Farmers Mill Road, Kent, NY 10512
  Serves: General Youth Population

  The Town of Kent Recreation and Parks Department provides a myriad of sport and recreation activities for its residence.  We offer youth baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, bowling, ski program and other sport opportunities throughout the year.  There is an adult men’s spring softball and fall softball program as well as an adult coed summer softball league  We have many community special events scheduled including our annual Kent Community Day, Egg Hunt, Summer Movie Nights and Spookeree Parade.  All of our programs are designed to foster healthy and positive involvement for all of our residence. Provides active and passive recreation activities to over 1500 youngsters 3 to 20 years with the intent of providing constructive use of their leisure time.

Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP)

Services Offered

• Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center

  Adolescent Victim Services Project is a trauma informed victim service component for individual adolescents (male and female) who have been victims of sexual, physical or emotional trauma that has contributed to negative behaviors placing them at risk for involvement in the juvenile justice system. The Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approach will be used for treatment.  Contact: Christina Barnard, 628-9284 x220.

• Green Chimneys

  Intensive Service Coordination Program (ISCP) will provide youth with services to optimize their functioning in their home, school, community and to avoid placement in the juvenile justice system.  Goals will be achieved through individualized, strength based services using evidence-based methods.  Individual and Family Counseling, case management, skill building, respite services, psycho-educational groups, parent support and overnight respite will be available.  Contact: Clare Rigano, 279-2995 x702.

• Camp Herrlich

  This program is available for Middle School (12-15) to attend Camp Herrlich five days a week for day camp.  Day camp runs for 9 weeks throughout the summer.  Contact: Scott Riches, 878-6662 x306.

• The Putnam County Probation Department

  conduct curfew checks on all youth involved in the county’s juvenile justice system. Curfew checks are aimed to address the on-going need of at-risk youth and to remind youth of their upcoming court appearances.  (PLEASE NOTE:  This program is for youth in PINS Prevention or the Green Chimney’s ISCP Program.) 
  Contact: April Lathrop, 808-1111

Mentoring Program

C.C.S.I. - Children's Services

CCSI Brochure

Youth Awards | NOMINATION DEADLINE: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH, 2023!

• About Youth Awards

  Every year the Putnam County Youth Board and Youth Bureau host their Annual Youth Awards Dinner. We recognize Youth Volunteers for their exemplary community service efforts that benefit Putnam residents. In addition, an adult is honored at this event for his/her outstanding volunteer work with Putnam Youth.

• Nomination Form

  The “39th Annual Youth Awards Dinner” will take place at Putnam County Golf Course tentatively on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 at 6:30 pm.
  “DEADLINE”
  All nominations must be received no later than Friday, November 17th, 2023.

  YOUTH VOLUNTEER NOMINATION GUIDELINES
  “NOMINATIONS FOR PRIOR YOUTH AND ADULT AWARD WINNERS ARE NOT ACCEPTED”
  

  • Must be a high school student who resides in Putnam County or attends a high school within Putnam.

  • Volunteer Service performed in 2023 is required; volunteer work from the past 4 years will be considered.

  • Must be an active volunteer & must have performed a minimum of 1 year of community service in Putnam County; 1-4 years of service will be considered.

  • Volunteer work benefitting the Putnam community is desired; service outside Putnam will be considered.

  • Volunteer service performed for people, organizations or the community must have been unpaid.

  • Only individual volunteers are eligible for this award; volunteer groups will not be considered.

  • Nominator may serve as a Reference (unless the nominator is a parent or relative of the Nominee).

  ADULT VOLUNTEER NOMINATION GUIDELINES
  “NOMINATIONS FOR PRIOR YOUTH AND ADULT AWARD WINNERS ARE NOT ACCEPTED”
  

  • Must be over 19 years of age and must live or work in Putnam County.

  • Must have performed at least two (2) consecutive years of volunteer work with Putnam Youth.

  • Volunteer work with Putnam County Youth from previous years will be considered.

  • Volunteer service must have been unpaid and must have benefitted Putnam County residents.

  • Only individual volunteers are eligible for this award; volunteer groups will not be considered.

  • Nominator may serve as one of the volunteer’s three (3) required references (unless the nominator is a relative.

  “Qualities Considered for Award Selection”
  Commitment ♦ Effectiveness ♦ Leadership ♦ Initiative

  “UPON RECEIPT OF THE NOMINATION FORM, THE NOMINEE WILL BE NOTIFIED & INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE PROVIDED“

  QUESTIONS/INQUIRIES:
  Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN THE YOUTH OF PUTNAM COUNTY!
  SPONSORED BY THE PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU & PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BOARD
  110 OLD ROUTE SIX – BUILDING 3 – CARMEL, NY 10512
  PHONE (845) 808-1600 EXT. 46113

  CLICK TO FILL OUT YOUTH NOMINATION FORM

• Volunteer Service Log

  VOLUNTEER SERVICE LOG GUIDELINES

  “TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION, FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES LISTED BELOW”

  • Volunteer Service Log: Please log the community service that you performed in 2023, as well as the volunteer work you did in the last four years, which benefits Putnam County residents.

  • Three Individual References:   Please request for three individuals to complete an electronic reference form by providing them with the website link.   Each individual must indicate specific details about your community service work.  (Relatives may NOT serve as a reference and a “minimum & maximum” of three reference forms will be accepted.)

  • Only complete packets will be reviewed by the Youth Board Selection Committee: Complete packets must include the Volunteer Log and three Reference Forms.  Those chosen to receive a 2024 Volunteer Service Award will be honored at our Annual Youth Awards Dinner at Putnam County Golf Course on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 at 6:30 pm.

  • Electronic submission of these packet forms are due no later than: Friday, January 19th, 2024 You will be notified (via email) by the deadline date whether or not a complete packet has been received on your behalf. Please be sure to check your email.

  QUESTIONS/INQUIRIES: Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR VOLUNTEER EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF PUTNAM COUNTY! SPONSORED BY THE PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU & PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BOARD 110 OLD ROUTE SIX – BUILDING 3 – CARMEL, NY 10512 PHONE (845) 808-1600 EXT. 46113

  Youth/Adult Service log

• Reference Form

  YOUTH AWARD NOMINEE(S)/JAMES F. REITZ ADULT AWARD NOMINEE(S) MUST HAVE “THREE” REFERENCE FORMS AND A VOLUNTEER SERVICE LOG SUBMITTED ON THE YOUTH BUREAU WEBSITE BY OR BEFORE FRIDAY, JANUARY 19th, 2024!

  • To be eligible for consideration, each Award Nominee must have a complete packet containing three completed online Reference Forms and one detailed Volunteer Service Log {to be completed by the award nominee}.  Upon receipt of all forms, the nominee will be notified of his/her complete packet.

  • All sections of the online reference form must be completely filled in and submitted for the candidate to be considered.

  • Specific information must be provided regarding quality & quantity of volunteer work performed. Our Focus is Community Service that benefits Putnam Residents.

  All complete packets will be reviewed, scored and ranked by the Youth Board Selection Committee.  Those chosen to receive a 2024 Youth Volunteer Service Award will be honored at our Annual Youth Awards Dinner at Putnam County Golf Course on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 at 6:30 pm.

  Questions/inquiries:

  Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  Thank You for your Interest in the Youth of Putnam County!

  Sponsored by the Putnam County Youth Bureau & Putnam County Youth Board 110 Old Route Six – Building 3 – Carmel, NY 10512 Phone (845) 808-1600 Ext. 46113

  Youth/adult Award – Reference form

Youth Court

• About Youth Court

  Youth Court is a family court diversion program aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency in the county. Youth Court volunteer members range in ages 12-19 and come from various communities and school districts in Putnam. Members must complete a 10-week training program. Youth Court members hear cases of first time offenders between ages 7 and 17. This program offers these youth an opportunity to constructively assume responsibility for their actions and a chance to learn about the justice system.

• Documents

  Philipstown Youth Court Flyer 2024
  Youth Court Application - Spring 2024
  Youth Court Spring Training 2024
  Youth Court Brochure 2023
  Training Schedule 2023
  Youth Court Permission Slip 2021
  Youth Court Photo Release 2024

Youth Board

• About Youth Board

  Are you interested in serving our Putnam community and making a difference? If so, consider the Putnam County Youth Board.

  The Putnam County Youth Bureau and youth Board are seeking new Youth Board members and welcome your input. Any student or adult who lives in, works in, or attend school in Putnam County is eligible to join the Youth Board.

  The Youth Board, which serves in an advisory capacity, is composed of teen and adult members who meet monthly to discuss youth program ideas, review funding requests, and make recommendations. The Youth Board and the Youth Bureau co-host a Youth Awards dinner each Spring to honor Putnam teens whose outstanding volunteer efforts have benefited our Putnam community.

  The Youth Board meets for one hour on the third Wednesday of the month at 4 pm at the Youth Bureau office, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, in Carmel. Why not attend one of our Board meetings to learn what we are all about. If this sounds interesting, just call Christine Andrews, Youth Bureau Secretary, at 845.808.1600 ext. 46113 for more information.

  we hope you will consider joining us in our effort to make Putnam County a better place for youth so they can become better leaders Tomorrow!

• Documents / Applications

  • Youth Board Flyer
  • Youth Board Flyer Interest
  • Youth Board Membership-Process
  • PCYB Youth Board Application

Forms

Youth Bureau Staff

• Current Members

  images/Departments/Youth_Bureau/Graphics/pcyblogo-sm-pcny.png
• 

  Janeen Cunningham

  Janeen Cunningham | Director | Ext. 46120

  Janeen Cunningham began working at the Putnam County Youth Bureau in 2003 as the Deputy Director and was then promoted to Executive Director. She is a graduate of SUNY Delhi with an AAS degree in Recreation Management. Her Bachelor of Science degree is from SUNY Brockport in Physical Education and holds a Master of Science Degree in Counseling. She is a certified Instructor in Lifeguard Training, First Aid and CPR-For the Professional Rescuer for the American Red Cross. She is a Safe School Ambassador trainer and has been trained in Mental Health First Aid.

• 

  Dawn Mullins | Coordinator of CCSI

  Dawn Mullins | Coordinator of CCSI | Ext. 46139

  Dawn Mullins is the Coordinator of CCSI (Coordinated Children’s Services Initiative) and SPOA (Single Point of Access) for Children and families for the Putnam county dept. of mental health. The objectives of these blended initiatives are to provide assessment, referral, support and strength based service coordination to families with children between the ages of 5-21 with severe emotional or behavioral disturbances, or other complex needs. Dawn is a licensed Social Worker and a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, as well as extensive experience in the fields of substance abuse prevention.

• 

  Christine Andrews

  Christine Andrews | Secretary | Ext. 46113

  Christine Andrews joined the Putnam County Youth Bureau as the Secretary in 2015. She has many years of administrative experience working in various industries. Since joining the Youth Bureau, her key role is to coordinate the annual Youth Awards Dinner event, which recognizes and honors exemplary youth and adults for their volunteer efforts in Putnam County.

• 

  Diane Carlsen | Account Clerk

  Diane Carlsen | Account Clerk | Ext. 46116

  Diane Carlsen has been a Putnam County resident since 1998, originally from Ardsley, N.Y. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY New Paltz. Diane joined the Youth Bureau staff in February 2023. She currently resides with her family in Putnam Valley.

• 

  Dana Erickson | Program Specialist

  Dana Erickson | Program Specialist | Ext. 46118

  Dana Erickson began her journey at the Putnam County Youth Bureau as an intern, observing and participating in the many programs offered by the Youth Bureau, such as Pegasus, Youth Court, SIDNE, and the Teen-N-Kids Mentoring Program. Since the conclusion of her internship, Dana had taken on the role of Youth Program Specialist in the aforementioned programs. Dana has an undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science and a graduate degree in Sociology. She has a long history working with youth due to her four year internship at St. Joseph’s Elementary School.

• 

  Kim Flynn | Program Specialist

  Kim Flynn | Program Specialist | Ext. 46123

  Kim Flynn received her Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education from Pace University. She worked as a Vocational Counselor at CAREERS Support Solutions assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities find and maintain employment as well as assisting high school students transition to a work environment. Kim is a lifelong resident of Carmel. Kim began her career with the Youth Bureau in 2016 as a Pegasus Program Case Worker/Coordinator and in 2022 she took on the role as Youth Program Specialist.

• 

  Naomi Bowen | Youth Aide

  Naomi Bowen | Youth Aide | Ext. 46124

  Naomi Bowen is the latest addition to the Putnam County Youth Bureau. Her role is within the Teen-N- Kids Mentoring and Youth Court programs, currently. Her Bachelors of the Arts degree, previous teaching experience and love of all things done in creativity, will ensure she brings the fun of art to the families of Putnam in her position as Youth Aide.

  Naomi previously served as the Art Director for a Grant based program for the Police Athletic League in Yonkers, where she created and implemented an art program for at risk youth between the ages of 6-13. The artwork created in this program was put on exhibition at the Yonkers Public Library, was featured in the local newspaper and highlighted on News 12.

  Exciting programs and opportunities for the Putnam County youth are on the horizon, with Naomi in her new role, encouraging creativity and expression through art. She will also be available to assist the Spanish speaking families within the community as well.

• 

  Lori Fava | Teacher

  Lori Fava | Teacher

  Lori Fava is a teacher with Putnam County Youth Bureau’s Pegasus Program. She is also a Para-Professional at Carmel Central School District. Her primary responsibility is providing teacher support and student behavior management. She is passionate about successfully impacting her students in a positive, energetic and helpful manner along with building strong relationships and being a positive role model. Her previous work experience incudes twenty-two years within the corporate industry servicing the Finance and Pharmaceutical industry as an Administrative Officer/Staffing Specialist.

  She enjoys spending quality time with her children along with cooking, baking and watching movies.

• 

  John Mulreany | Program Specialist

  John Mulreany | Program Specialist

  John Mulreany took on the role of Youth Program Specialist for Putnam County Youth Bureau’s SIDNE Program in July 2022. He is a Carmel High School graduate, is a Westchester Community College graduate with an AS degree in Business Administration and a SUNY Oneonta graduate with a BS degree in Business Economics.

  John was employed as a Putnam County Probation Officer from February 1, 1988, until July 8, 2022. He has been a Security Officer at Putnam Hospital Center from 1996 until present.

  John is a current Board member (Treasurer) of the Prevention Council of Putnam, a life member of Carmel Fire Department (Past President and Past Treasurer), a life member of Carmel Volunteer Ambulance Corp. (Past President), and a former Board member of Putnam Federal Credit Union.

News & Newsletters

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Watershed

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Contact Us

• Phone

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Veterans Service Agency

Putnam County

• Services Offered
• SITREP News & Newsletters
• Row of Honor
• Contact

Mission Statement

Contact Veterans

Service Agency

• Office | 845.808.1620

• Fax | 845.808.1940

• Send us a message

• Address | Donald B. Smith Campus 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512

Veterans Service Agency

Services Offered

• What does the Putnam County Veterans Service Agency do?

  • Provide outreach and community resources to Putnam County New York’s Veterans and their family members
  • Assist Putnam County Veterans and their family members with their federal VA claims and benefits through our Local & State Veteran Service Officers.
  • Fortify our County level Veteran programs that provide Putnam County Veterans and their families a fair shot.

  Want to learn more? Give us a call at 845.808.1620

• Row of Honor

  The Row of Honor is a beautiful way to show gratitude to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our safety and freedom, This biannual tradition means so much to both Veterans who have risked their lives for their country, and the families who have lost their loved ones.”

  A flag can be sponsored for $100 dollars in the name of a loved one lost in the service of our country. All proceeds are given directly to VET2VET, a program that helps Veterans suffering from PTSD, depression, and other difficulties, reintegrate into society.

  Flags can be ordered at (845) 808-1620. Checks are payable to:

  Joint Veterans Council c/o PC Veterans Affairs
  Donald B. Smith Government Campus
  110 Old Route 6 Bldg. 3 Carmel, NY 10512

  Learn More

• Return the F.A.V.O.R Program

  Return the F.A.V.O.R Program – In Putnam County we love to help our Veterans. With the F.A.V.O.R . Program you will see a list of local businesses that have special services and deals just for our Veterans.

  Want to learn more? Give us a call at 845.808.1620

• Putnam Veterans SITREP News

  We provide articles and Information for Veterans as well as the general public to read , learn about what the Veterans Service Agency Services we provide, and share news and resources to assist & educate our Veteran’s and the general public.

  Read more

SITREP News & Newsletters

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Previous Newsletters

Department of Social Services & Mental Health

Putnam County

Welcome Message

Contact Department of Social Services & Mental Health

• Office | 845.808.1500

• Email |  Send us a message

• Address | Donald B. Smith Campus 110 Old Rt. 6,  Building 2 | Carmel, NY 10512

• Services Offered
• Contact

Department of Social Services

& Mental Health

Services Offered

• Adult Mental Health Services

  Information is currently being updated

  Read more

• Adult Protective Services

  Adult Protective Services, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45262
  Dial 1-844-697-3505 to reach a helpline for the Bureau of Adult Services to obtain information about available adult services.  The helpline can also take information to be sent to local APS units regarding abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults.  The phone lines are open Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  If someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.

  Read More

• Alcohol & Substance Abuse Services

  IF THERE IS AN EMERGENCY DIAL 911
  Alcohol and Substance Use:
  Substance abuse is prevalent in all communities, including Putnam County. Resources are available in our community to assist those in need as well as their family members.

  ALCOHOL
  Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are due to many interconnected factors, including genetics, how you were raised, your social environment, and your emotional health.

  Read more

• Child Abuse Services

  What is Child Abuse and Maltreatment?
  Child abuse and maltreatment is when a parent or other person legally responsible for a child’s care causes or creates a risk of harm to a child. The child must be under the age of 18. Child abuse involves serious physical harm or sexual abuse. Maltreatment (neglect) involves physical, mental or emotional harm.

  Physical abuse is when a parent/caretaker hurts or lets someone else hurt a child physically, or creates a substantial risk that a child will be hurt. There must be a serious injury or a risk of serious injury such as a severe burn, a broken bone, the loss of a body part, an internal injury or death. The injury or risk of injury must not be due to an accident.

  Read more

• Child Advocacy Center (CAC)

  he Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Putnam County opened in October 1999 to provide a coordinated response to child abuse allegations. The CAC is a government based program under the Putnam County Department of Social Services.

  The CAC provides a child-friendly setting, putting the child and family at ease while coordinating the essential services of forensic interviews, medical evaluations, mental health assessment and victim support and advocacy. The CAC is deeply committed to serving child victims with sensitivity, understanding, competence and compassion. All cases of child sexual abuse, serious physical abuse and domestic violence involving or witnessed by children are investigated by the CAC’s specially trained multidisciplinary team. Although team members come from various disciplines, the team has one goal: to reduce the trauma to child victims and their families by providing an immediate coordinated response to abuse allegations.

  
  
  

  Read more

• Children's Mental Health Services

  Children’s Mental Health Services is a division of Putnam County PCDMH responsible for coordinating the children’s system of care. This includes oversight of mental health providers, building mental wellness awareness, providing training, collaborating with state and county partners, and coordinating the Children’s Single Point of Access (SPOA).

  Read more

• Child Protective Services

  “In Order to make a CPS report, you must contact the hotline at 1-800-342-3720, Mandated reporters call 1-800-635-1522. For any other questions, please contact the CPS Supervisor at 845-808-1500 ext. 45207.”

   For more information on Child Protective Services, please click here.

  Read more

• Child Welfare Services

  Children’s Services (also known as Children’s Welfare Services), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45230

  Read more

• Child Support Collection

  Child Support Collection, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45305
  For more information you can call the NYS Child Support Hotline at 888-208-4485
  
  

  Read more

• Domestic Violence

  IF THIS IS AN EMERGENCY DIAL 911
  What is Domestic Violence
  Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by a partner in an intimate relationship in order to gain and maintain power and control in a relationship. Traditionally, domestic violence has had a narrow definition, and someone was considered a victim of domestic violence only if the perpetrator was related to him/her by blood or by marriage. However, with the new Expanded Access law, enacted in 2008, that definition has expanded to include all current or former intimate partners, regardless of whether they are married or have a child in common. This means same-sex couples and dating couples (including teens) have access to domestic violence victim resources (such as Orders of Protection).
  There are several different types of abuse:

  Read more

• Employment and Training

  Employment and Training, Building #3 – 845 808 1651 ext. 46605

• Fiscal Unit

  Fiscal Unit, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45280

• Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

  HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233
  Can apply on-line at https://www.MyBenefits.ny.gov or in person

  Apply Online

• Legal Services

  Legal Services, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45290

  The Legal Services Unit acts as counsel to the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Social Services, provides legal services to the different Units within the Department, and represents the Department in all legal proceedings.

• Medicaid

  Medicaid (MA), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45251

  Read more

• Office for Individuals with Disabilities

  The Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities was created to provide disabled individuals and their families with the necessary supports to access services throughout the community. It is the goal of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities to uphold the county’s pledge to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY”, which is a call to action to create a supportive and welcoming community for residents living with disabilities.

  Read more

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

  SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233 Can apply on-line at https://www.MyBenefits.ny.gov or in person

  • SNAP USDA Nondiscrimination Statement:
    http://otda.ny.gov/programs/snap/

  Apply Online

• Substance Abuse Prevention

  Each year, drug abuse and addiction cost taxpayers nearly $534 billion in preventable health care, law enforcement, crime, and other costs. The best approach to reducing the tremendous toll substance abuse exacts from individuals, families, and communities is to prevent the damage before it occurs. Over 20 years of research demonstrates that prevention interventions designed and tested to reduce risk and enhance protective factors can help children at every step along their developmental path, from early childhood into young adulthood.

  Read more

• Temporary Assistance

  Temporary Assistance (includes Family Assistance and Safety Net), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

  WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act), Building #3 – 845 808 1651 ext. 46600

Alcohol & Substance Abuse Services

• Alcohol and Substance Use:

  Substance abuse is prevalent in all communities, including Putnam County. Resources are available in our community to assist those in need as well as their family members.

  Alcohol

  Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are due to many interconnected factors, including genetics, how you were raised, your social environment, and your emotional health

• Common signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse include:

  • Repeatedly neglecting your responsibilities at home, work, or school because of your drinking. For example, performing poorly at work, flunking classes, neglecting your kids, or skipping out on commitments because you’re hung over.
  • Using alcohol in situations where it’s physically dangerous, such as drinking and driving, operating machinery while intoxicated, or mixing alcohol with prescription medication against doctor’s orders.
  • Experiencing repeated legal problems on account of your drinking. For example, getting arrested for driving under the influence or for drunk and disorderly conduct.
  • Continuing to drink even though your alcohol use is causing problems in your relationships. Getting drunk with your buddies, for example, even though you know your wife will be very upset, or fighting with your family because they dislike how you act when you drink.
  • Drinking as a way to relax or de-stress. Many drinking problems start when people use alcohol to self-soothe and relieve stress. Getting drunk after every stressful day, for example, or reaching for a bottle every time you have an argument with your spouse or boss.

• Helping a loved one with alcoholism or alcohol abuse:

  If someone you love has a drinking problem, you may be struggling with a number of painful emotions, including shame, fear, anger, and self-blame. The problem may be so overwhelming that it seems easier to ignore it and pretend that nothing is wrong. But in the long run denying it will be more damaging to you, other family members, and the person with the drinking problem.

• What Not To Do

  • Don’t attempt to punish, threaten, bribe, or preach.
  • Don’t try to be a martyr. Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and the compulsion to drink or use other drugs.
  • Don’t cover up or make excuses for the alcoholic or problem drinker or shield them from the realistic consequences of their behavior.
  • Don’t take over their responsibilities, leaving them with no sense of importance or dignity.
  • Don’t hide or dump bottles, throw out drugs, or shelter them from situations where alcohol is present.
  • Don’t argue with the person when they are impaired.
  • Don’t try to drink along with the problem drinker.
  • Above all, don’t feel guilty or responsible for another’s behavior.
  • Adapted from: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information
  • You cannot force someone you love to stop abusing alcohol. As much as you may want to, and as hard as it is to watch, you cannot make someone stop drinking. The choice is up to them.
  • Don’t expect the person to stop drinking and stay sober without help. Your loved one will need treatment, support, and new coping skills to overcome a serious drinking problem.
  • Recovery is an ongoing process. Recovery is a bumpy road, requiring time and patience. An alcoholic will not magically become a different person once sober. And the problems that led to the alcohol abuse in the first place will have to be faced.

• When your teen has a drinking problem

  Discovering your child is drinking can generate fear, confusion, and anger in parents. It’s important to remain calm when confronting your teen, and only do so when everyone is sober. Explain your concerns and make it clear that your concern comes from a place of love. It’s important that your teen feels you are supportive. 
Five steps parents can take:

  • Lay down rules and consequences: Your teen should understand that drinking alcohol comes with specific consequences. But don’t make hollow threats or set rules that you cannot enforce. Make sure your spouse agrees with the rules and is prepared to enforce them.
  • Monitor your teen’s activity: Know where your teen goes and who he or she hangs out with. Remove or lock away alcohol from your home and routinely check potential hiding places for alcohol—in backpacks, under the bed, between clothes in a drawer, for example. Explain to your teen that this lack of privacy is a consequence of him or her having been caught using alcohol.
  • Encourage other interests and social activities. Expose your teen to healthy hobbies and activities, such as team sports, Scouts, and afterschool clubs.
  • Talk to your child about underlying issues. Drinking can be the result of other problems. Is your child having trouble fitting in? Has there been a recent major change, like a move or divorce, which is causing stress?

  Get outside help: You don’t have to go it alone. Teenagers often rebel against their parents but if they hear the same information from a different authority figure, they may be more inclined to listen. Try seeking help from a sports coach, family doctor, therapist, or counselor.

• Warning signs that a friend or family member is abusing drugs

  Drug abusers often try to conceal their symptoms and downplay their problem. If you’re worried that a friend or family member might be abusing drugs, look for the following warning signs:

  Physical warning signs of drug abuse

  • • Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual

  • • Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.

  • • Sudden weight loss or weight gain

  • • Deterioration of physical appearance, personal grooming habits

  • • Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing

  • Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination

  Behavioral signs of drug abuse

  • • Drop in attendance and performance at work or school

  • • Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.

  • • Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors

  • • Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies

  • Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)

  Psychological warning signs of drug abuse

  • • Unexplained change in personality or attitude

  • • Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts

  • • Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness

  • • Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or “spaced out”
  • Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason

• Warning Signs of Commonly Abused Drugs

  • • Marijuana: Glassy, red eyes; loud talking, inappropriate laughter followed by sleepiness; loss of interest, motivation; weight gain or loss.

  • • Depressants (including Xanax, Valium, GHB): Contracted pupils; drunk-like; difficulty concentrating; clumsiness; poor judgment; slurred speech; sleepiness.

  • • Stimulants (including amphetamines, cocaine, crystal meth): Dilated pupils; hyperactivity; euphoria; irritability; anxiety; excessive talking followed by depression or excessive sleeping at odd times; may go long periods of time without eating or sleeping; weight loss; dry mouth and nose.

  • • Inhalants (glues, aerosols, vapors): Watery eyes; impaired vision, memory and thought; secretions from the nose or rashes around the nose and mouth; headaches and nausea; appearance of intoxication; drowsiness; poor muscle control; changes in appetite; anxiety; irritability; lots of cans/aerosols in the trash.

  • • Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP): Dilated pupils; bizarre and irrational behavior including paranoia, aggression, hallucinations; mood swings; detachment from people; absorption with self or other objects, slurred speech; confusion.
  • Heroin: Contracted pupils; no response of pupils to light; needle marks; sleeping at unusual times; sweating; vomiting; coughing, sniffling; twitching; loss of appetite.

• Warning signs of teen drug abuse

  While experimenting with drugs doesn’t automatically lead to drug abuse, early use is a risk factor for developing more serious drug abuse and addiction. Risk of drug abuse also increases greatly during times of transition, such as changing schools, moving, or divorce. The challenge for parents is to distinguish between the normal, often volatile, ups and downs of the teen years and the red flags of substance abuse. These include:

  • • Having bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils; using eye drops to try to mask these signs

  • • Skipping class; declining grades; suddenly getting into trouble at school

  • • Missing money, valuables, or prescriptions

  • • Acting uncharacteristically isolated, withdrawn, angry, or depressed

  • • Dropping one group of friends for another; being secretive about the new peer group

  • • Loss of interest in old hobbies; lying about new interests and activities

  • Demanding more privacy; locking doors; avoiding eye contact; sneaking around

• What can you do?

  • See Resources

  Information Courtesy of the and HelpGuide.org

Adult Protective Services

What is Adult Protective Services?

• What is Adult Protective Services? (Continued)

  he law requires APS to conduct an investigation whenever it receives oral or written information concerning a person who is thought to be in need of protective services. APS accepts referrals made within normal working hours; afterhours reports will be seen the next business day.

  APS is responsible for protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, while respecting their rights to self-determination.

  For persons who are so incapacitated that supportive services are insufficient to protect them, and who have no one to assist them, APS may submit a petition to the court for the appointment of a legal guardian.

• Who qualifies for Adult Protective Services?

  To qualify for services through APS, a person MUST meet (or be suspected to meet) ALL THREE criteria:

  1. Has a mental or physical limitation or impairment
  2. Is unable to protect themselves from abuse, neglect, financial exploitation or other harm
  3. Have no one available who is willing and able to assist responsibly

  What happens next?

  If the situation appears to meet the three criteria, a home visit will occur within 3 business days. If the initial home visit and investigation show that the adult meets the criteria (has an impairment, is vulnerable, and does not have enough help) then APS can begin a comprehensive 60-day investigation & assessment.

• Important principles of Adult Protective Services

  The Concept of Self-determination
  Adults, unlike children, are legally presumed to have capacity to make their own decisions. This means that most adults, even most vulnerable adults who may have mild impairments and who may be facing danger, have the right to refuse offered services. This is why it is best practice for an APS worker to carefully and gently engage the client to try to make a connection and to offer services to protect the client from harm.

  For example, an elderly homeless woman may be offered shelter, services, etc., and she may choose to decline those services. It is her right to do so, and no one can force her to make better choices. Sometimes an adult will accept some services but not others, and this too must be respected.

  It is sometimes difficult for other providers and the concerned public to understand that APS must respect the right of an adult to refuse help offered by APS and others. Simply having a diagnosis of dementia or mental illness does not automatically mean an adult has no decisional capacity. Only a judge can declare a person legally incompetent.

  APS seeks, to the extent possible, the provision of services that maximize an individual's independence, freedom and decision-making ability. This includes assistance to enable clients to remain in, or return to, the community, as opposed to a more institutional setting. APS often utilizes “supportive decision-making” to help impaired adults maximize their independence.

  Seeking Involuntary Interventions
  APS has a unique responsibility to protect vulnerable adults who appear to lack the capacity to understand the consequences of their choices. When APS believes there is a serious threat to an adult’s well-being and that the adult is incapable of making decisions on his or her own behalf because of impairments, APS has a responsibility to pursue appropriate legal interventions to protect the individual, even if the vulnerable adult has not agreed to, or even opposes such intervention. However, APS must employ the least restrictive intervention necessary to effectively protect the adult. The decision to seek an involuntary intervention should never be taken lightly.

  It is important to note that APS itself has no legal authority on its own to remove any person from their home or other setting, or to take any involuntary action. APS must request action from the court or some other official authorized to take involuntary action (e.g., law enforcement, psychiatrist, judge).

  What if the vulnerable adult refuses help?
  Adults with mental capacity have the right to exercise free choice in deciding whether to accept services. If an adult appears to be capable of understanding the risks and chooses to stay in an abusive or neglectful situation, this can be a difficult decision for others to understand. APS will offer services and try to convince the adult to accept help. If there are questions about the adult’s mental capacity, then a psychiatric evaluation will be pursued to determine if court-ordered interventions should be provided.

Child Abuse Services

• What is Child Abuse and Maltreatment?

  Child abuse and maltreatment is when a parent or other person legally responsible for a child’s care causes or creates a risk of harm to a child. The child must be under the age of 18.  Child abuse involves serious physical harm or sexual abuse. Maltreatment (neglect) involves physical, mental or emotional harm.

  Physical abuse is when a parent/caretaker hurts or lets someone else hurt a child physically, or creates a substantial risk that a child will be hurt. There must be a serious injury or a risk of serious injury such as a severe burn, a broken bone, the loss of a body part, an internal injury or death. The injury or risk of injury must not be due to an accident.

  Sexual abuse is when a parent or caretaker commits a sexual offense against a child or allows someone else to do this. Sexual abuse includes both touching and non-touching sexual offenses.

  • • Examples of touching offenses include: fondling, intercourse, and sodomy (oral or anal sex acts).

  • Examples of non-touching offenses include: using a child in a pornographic or sexually explicit video or picture, distributing such a video or picture, or using a child as a prostitute.

  Maltreatment (neglect) is when a parent or caretaker does not provide for a child’s basic needs, where the parent or caretaker has the means or is offered a reasonable way to do so. It also includes a parent or caretaker failing to properly supervise a child or hitting a child too hard. Examples of maltreatment may include: not getting, or waiting too long to get, health care for a child; not giving a child adequate food, shelter, or clothing; not properly looking after a child; misusing drugs/alcohol such that it interferes with their ability to adequately supervise the child; abandoning a child; or not sending a child to school when the child is able to attend school. The parent or caretaker’s actions must cause physical, mental or emotional harm, or a risk that the child will soon be harmed.

  Exposure to Domestic Violence: Witnessed domestic violence occurs when a child sees his or her parents or caregivers use behaviors against each other that make the child feel scared, controlled or intimidated

  What are some indicators of child abuse and maltreatment? You may see signs of child abuse or maltreatment in the way a child looks or in the way a child acts.

  Physical signs can include: a child whose hair, clothing or body is often very dirty; a child whose clothing is too hot or too cold for the season; a child who is not being watched properly; a child who is ill or hurt but is not seeing a doctor; or a child with bruises, burns, cuts, vaginal or rectal bleeding, or with soreness or itching in the genital area.

  Behavioral signs can include: a child who is afraid to go home; a child who does not think well of him- or herself, avoids people, or is very sad; a child who misuses drugs or alcohol, has an eating disorder or hurts him- or herself; a child whose mood or behavior changes a lot without a reason; a child who acts in a sexual manner that is unusual for the child’s age; or a child who often misses school without a good reason.

  Handling Disclosures: Disclosure can be a very difficult process for a child. Children often tell their stories over a period of time. Some never fully disclose what happened.

  • • Find a private place to talk.

  • • Believe and support them, stay calm and limit the discussion

  • • Tell the child it is not his/her fault.

  • • Tell them that you are going to call someone that can help

  • Report the situation immediately.

  DON’T:

  • • Do not allow contact between the child and the offender

  • • Do not confront the offender or discuss the incident with the offender (it is better for a trained law enforcement officer to talk with the offender first)!

  • Do not conduct an investigation

• Whom Do I Call If I Think a Child May Be Abused or Maltreated?

  If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local police department.

  As soon as you suspect abuse or maltreatment, you must report your concerns by telephone to the New York Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR). The SCR is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to receive your call.

  The timeliness of your call is vital to the timeliness of intervention by the local department of social services’ Child Protective Services (CPS) unit. You are not required to notify the parents or other persons legally responsible either before or after your call to the SCR. In fact, in some cases, alerting the parent may hinder the local CPS investigation and adversely affect its ability to assess the safety of the children. The telephone numbers to report abuse or maltreatment are:

  Mandated Reporter (800) 635-1522

  Public Hotline (800) 342-3720

  You do not need proof of child abuse or maltreatment to make a report; you only need to think that it has happened or that a child is at risk of being abused or maltreated. Your call to the Child Abuse Hotline is confidential. This means that only certain persons may learn about the information you report. The family you reported will not be told you made the report unless you say it is okay for them to know.

  Law Enforcement Referrals: If a call to the SCR provides information about an immediate threat to a child or a crime committed against a child, but the perpetrator is not a parent or other person legally responsible for the child, the SCR staff will make a Law Enforcement Referral (LER). The relevant information will be recorded and

  transmitted to the New York State Police Information Network or to the New York City Special Victims Liaison Unit. This is not a CPS report, and local CPS will not be involved.

  Mandated Reporter Responsibilities: New York State recognizes that certain professionals are specially equipped to perform the important role of mandated reporter of child abuse and maltreatment. The entire current list can be found in Article 6, Title 6, Section 413 of the New York Social Services Law, which can be accessed online through the New York State Legislature’s Website (http://public.leginfo.state.ny.us/menuf.cgi). Click on Laws of New York to access Social Services Law.

  When Am I Mandated to Report?Mandated reporters are required to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment when they are presented with a reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or maltreatment in a situation where a child, parent, or other person legally responsible for the child is before the mandated reporter when the mandated reporter is acting in his or her official or professional capacity.

  Reasonable Cause to Suspect: Reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or maltreatment means that, based on your rational observations, professional training and experience, you have a suspicion that the parent or other person legally responsible for a child is responsible for harming that child or placing that child in imminent danger of harm. Your suspicion can be as simple as distrusting an explanation for an injury.

• Immunity from Liability

  If a mandated reporter makes a report with earnest concern for the welfare of a child, he or she is immune from any criminal or civil liability that might result. This is referred to as making a report in “good faith

• Penalties for Failure to Report

  Anyone who is mandated to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment—and fails to do so—could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and subject to criminal penalties. Further, mandated reporters can be sued in a civil court for monetary damages for any harm caused by the mandated reporter’s failure to make a report to the SCR.

• What Happens When I Call the Child Abuse Hotline?

  A hotline employee will answer your call and ask you for information about why you called. Based on the information you provide, the hotline employee will decide whether to take a report of child abuse or maltreatment. It is helpful if you can give information about who the child is and where he or she can be found; the person who you think abused or maltreated the child; and the child’s parent, guardian or other person legally

  responsible for the child. If a report is not taken, the hotline employee will tell you why it could not be taken. If you disagree, you can ask to speak with a supervisor.

  If a report is taken, it will be sent right away to the local Child Protective Service (CPS), where the child resides. A local CPS caseworker will start an investigation within 24 hours. The CPS caseworker must work with the family on any issues that make the child unsafe. If the family does not want to make the changes needed for a child to be safe, CPS may go to court to ask a judge to require the family to make the changes or to remove the child from the home. However, in most cases, CPS can work with the family to protect the child in his or her home. This is done by making a plan with the child’s parent or caretaker to change any unsafe actions, or to get services so that the child will be safe.

• Prevention Strategies

  Understand the causes and effects of abuse and neglect. If you know a parent who is under stress, encourage them to seek help. To locate a parenting program that can provide guidance and support, call the Prevention Information and Parent Helpline at 1-800-342-7472; a program of www.preventchildabuseny.org

  Twelve Alternatives to Lashing out at Your Child The next time everyday pressures build up to the point where you feel like lashing out — STOP! Try any of these simple alternatives. You’ll feel better… and so will your child. http://www.preventchildabuse.org/images/docs/twelvealternativestolashingoutatyourchild.pdf

• Advice for new Moms and Dads

  Being a parent is the most difficult, yet most important and satisfying work you will ever do. During the busy and exciting days that make up the first weeks of parenting, remember to take good care of yourself as well as the new baby. Here are some tips on how to survive the early weeks with the new baby: http://www.preventchildabuse.org/images/docs/advicefornewmomsanddads.pdf

  Shaken Baby Syndrome (Abusive Head Trauma): Shaken Baby Syndrome refers to injuries to a baby’s brain and body that results from being shaken. Some babies die from these injuries.

  What causes the shaking? Usually a caregiver becomes frustrated with a baby’s crying. The caregiver loses control and shakes the baby.

  • • Never ever shake a baby

  • Make sure that everyone who cares for your child knows not to shake a baby

  Helpful tips to keep your baby safe: http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/publications/Pub5008.pdf

  begin_of_the_skype_highlightingReduce risk. Protect children from sexual abuse

  • • Understand that abusers often become friendly with potential victims and their families, enjoying family activities, earning trust, and gaining time alone with children.

  • Think carefully about the safety of any isolated, one-on-one settings. Choose group situations when possible.

  • • Think carefully about the safety of situations in which older youth have access to younger children. Make sure that multiple adults are present who can supervise.

  • • Set an example by personally avoiding isolated, one-on-one situations with children other than your own.

  • Monitor children’s Internet use. Offenders use the Internet to lure children into physical contact.

• One – on – one time with trusted adults is healthy and valuable for a child. It builds self-esteem and deepens relationships. To protect children while nurturing these relationships:

  • • Drop in unexpectedly when the child is alone with an adult or another youth, even if it a trusted family member.

  • • Make sure outings are observable – if not by you, then by others.

  • • Ask adults about the specifics of planned activities before the child leaves your care. Notice their ability to be specific.

  • • Talk with the child following the activity. Notice the child’s mood and whether he or she can tell you with confidence how the time was spent.

  • Find a way to tell adults who care for children that you and the child are educated about child sexual abuse. Be that direct.

• Talk Openly With Children to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse

  Age appropriate, open conversations about our bodies, sex, and boundaries gives children a foundation for understanding and developing healthy relationships. It also teaches them that they have the right to say “no.”

  With this foundation in place, they are less vulnerable to people who would violate their boundaries, and are more likely to tell you if abuse occurs.

  • • Teach children that it is “against the rules” for adults to act in a sexual way with them, and use examples.

  • • Teach them what parts of their bodies others should not touch.

  • • Be sure to mention that the abuser might be an adult friend, family member, or older youth.

  • • Teach children not to give out personal information while using the Internet, including email addresses, home addresses, and phone numbers.

  • • Start early and talk often. Use everyday opportunities to talk about sexual abuse.

  • Be proactive. If a child seems uncomfortable, or resistant to being with a particular adult, ask why.

• Sources and Resources

  New York State Office of Children & Family Services (Pub. 5056 (07/07 & Pub. 1159 (Rev. 9/2012) www.ocfs.state.ny.us

  Darkness to Light: https://www.d2l.org/

  www.preventchildabuse.org

  CAC of Putnam County: The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Putnam County is a child- and family-focused facility, providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary services to children suspected of being abused.

  A multidisciplinary team (MDT) of child protective service workers, law enforcement investigators, prosecutors, medical care providers, victim advocates and therapists work together to provide all necessary services in one place.

  Our Goals:

  • • Reduce trauma to the child

  • • Provide family with support and assistance

  • • Promote thorough investigations and hold offenders accountable

  • Improve communication and information sharing between MDT members

  For further information, contact the Child Advocacy Center at 845-808-1400 | http://putnamcac.org/

Children's Mental Health Services

• What is the Children’s Single Point of Access (SPOA)?

  Coordinated by the Department of Mental Health, the goal of the Children’s SPOA is to ensure timely and appropriate access to intensive services for children at risk of hospitalizations or residential treatment. The Children’s SPOA Coordinator provides case consultation, systems navigation, referral, and linkage to mental health supports and services. For youth in need of more intensive services, a SPOA Application can be submitted for review by the SPOA committee and linkage to appropriate supports. This process is facilitated by Putnam County’s Children’s SPOA Coordinator.

• When Should You Call the Children’s Single Point of Access (SPOA)?

  There is no WRONG call to the Children’s SPOA. The Children’s Mental Health Team is happy to field calls from any family or community member that is seeking mental health supports or consultation for Putnam County youth. The Children’s SPOA Coordinator can be reached at 845-808-1600 x46139.

  Families: Families/Caregivers
  should call SPOA if they are having difficulty securing outpatient mental health services for their child, if their child is struggling to manage with outpatient services alone, or if their child has required multiple psychiatric hospitalizations.
  

  Providers & Schools: 

  Community Providers should call SPOA if they need help navigating the

  children’s mental health system, would like a case consultation, or are working with a child for whom they would like to submit a SPOA Application.

  Anyone can submit a SPOA Application or inquiry to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; however, the team will need input from caregivers and mental health providers (such as clinical reports). Please see reverse side for listing of SPOA services.

• What Kinds of Services Can the Children’s SPOA Offer?

  Referrals are accepted regardless of income, insurance, or other eligibility requirements. Examples of services accessed through the SPOA are listed below.
  Specific services recommended by the SPOA vary based on a youth’s individual needs and eligibility.

  • CCSI – Coordinated Children’s Services Initiative
  • Wraparound Meetings
  • Outpatient Individual and Family Therapy
  • Family Peer Support Services
  • Care Management
  • Community Based In-Home Supports
  • High Fidelity Wraparound
  • DSS Preventive Services
  • PINS Prevention Program
  • Youth Bureau Programs
  • The Community Outreach Center
  • Arbor House
  • CoveCare Respite
  • Community Residence
  • Residential Treatment Facility
  • Acute Inpatient Hospitalization
  • Educational Advocacy

Child Welfare Services

• Preventive Services

  This unit seeks to deliver an array of services to meet the multiplicity of problems that threaten the breakup of families and the placement of children in foster care. These services include casework counseling, parenting skills training, and referrals to community-based programs.

• Foster Care

  Foster Care services for children are defined as assessing the need for, arranging for, and providing for placement and related services to children in an appropriate foster care setting. Children are placed by either the request of a parent or guardian or as a result of a judicial determination that the child’s continuation in his own home would be contrary to the welfare of such child. Children are placed from birth up to age 18 and can remain in care up to age 21 if they entered prior to turning 18. The Foster Care Home finding Unit is responsible for securing placements in foster homes for children who are in the custody of the department and recruiting and training new foster and adoptive parents. Click here to become a foster parent: (we truly need you!) We want a link to our word document “How to Become a Foster Parent” 

  Addition websites- New York Foster care ( http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/fostercare/) 

• Become Foster Parent

  What are the steps to becoming a foster parent?

  • Fill out and return/submit the agency’s application form
  • Attend a 10-week Foster/Adoptive Parent Training Program
  • Have a home study completed by our agency
  • Provide medical statements and personal references

  Basic requirements

  1. You must be at least 21 years old
  2. You can be married, single or living in a partnership
  3. Have your own source of income (job, public assistance, pension, or social security)
  4. Have a bed for each child and 45 square feet per child in each bedroom (2 children fit in a 9’ x 10’ room)
  5. Have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  6. Have every person in the home 18 years and older fingerprinted
  7. Have every person in the home 18 years and older cleared through the child abuse registry
  8. Provide a safe, healthy, nurturing home
  9. Be medically/physically fit to care for children

  Training and supports provided to foster parents

  1. A stipend for food and board based on the child’s age and need for special services
  2. Clothing allowances
  3. Medical insurance for each foster child
  4. Payment for licensed daycare providers for working parents
  5. Support from caseworker/Home finder
  6. Training to learn about caring for children in foster care

  Who are the children who come into foster care?

  1. They can be between the ages of newborn and 18 years old
  2. They can be any ethnicity
  3. They are from Putnam County
  4. They can be a single child or be part of a sibling group
  5. The children are either removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect, or the parents are unable to care for them
  6. They can have special, physical, or emotional needs
  7. They may represent all educational levels and require different needs

  Be a part of a team

  1. Foster parents are expected to work with our agency to provide a temporary safe home for children, while their parents work toward the return of their children. During that time the foster parents share parenting of the child.
  2. Foster parents are expected to treat the children as they would their own children by taking the children to doctor appointments, attend school meetings, and provide love, guidance, and nurturance to the children.

  Our greatest need

  1. Foster parents who will accept sibling groups of 3 or more
  2. Foster parents from ethnically diverse cultures
  3. Foster parents who will accept teenagers into their homes and provide a loving family support system for the rest of their lives. Our teens need someone to be a strong role model for them and to offer them guidance as they learn to live independently.

   

  If you are interested, please call Linda Amicucci at (845)808-1500 extension 45258 or Devon Sudlow (845)808-1500 extension 45371.

• Adoption

  When a child cannot be returned to their home and becomes a freed child through a surrender or termination of parent rights, this agency works in conjunction with Putnam County Family Court to finalize an adoption for the child/ren and give them a forever home. When a freed child, is placed in your family, a caseworker supervises the placement for a period no less than six months. Services will be implemented as needed for the family and the child during this period.
  In addition, postadoption services referrals are provided when needed to adoptive families. These services are offer and recommend by this department as a child grows and develops. Resources and information about post-adoption services can be found on the website of New York State Office for children and Family Services
  ( https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/adoption/post-adoption/)
  Addition websites
  Agape Post Adoption Services/ Adoptive and Foster Family Coalition (http://affcny.org/)

  Addition websites-to view freed children
  New York State Adoption Album (https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/adoption/)
  AdoptUSKids (http://adoptuskids.org/)

Domestic Violence

• What is Domestic Violence?

  Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by a partner in an intimate relationship in order to gain and maintain power and control in a relationship. Traditionally, domestic violence has had a narrow definition, and someone was considered a victim of domestic violence only if the perpetrator was related to him/her by blood or by marriage.  However, with the new Expanded Access law, enacted in 2008, that definition has expanded to include all current or former intimate partners, regardless of whether they are married or have a child in common. This means same-sex couples and dating couples (including teens) have access to domestic violence victim resources (such as Orders of Protection).
  There are several different types of abuse:

  • Physical Abuse
    Physical abuse involves contact designed to inflict pain, suffering, punishment, or harm. This can include, but is not limited to, hitting, punching, kicking, shoving, strangling, throwing things at the partner, stabbing.
  • Emotional and Verbal Abuse
    Emotional abuse and verbal abuse involves acts designed to intimidate, humiliate, and belittle the victim. These can include, but are not limited to name-calling, criticizing, demeaning and insulting the victim, and withholding affection, making the victim feel unloved or unwanted.
  • Isolation
    Isolation is a form of abuse where the perpetrator cuts off the victim from family, friends, or resources. The victim will not be allowed to go out with friends, visit family, or have access to a car to get around. This ensures that the victim has to rely on the perpetrator and will be reluctant to leave or ask for help.
  • Financial Abuse
    Financial abuse involves keeping the victim financially dependent on the perpetrator. This can include, but is not limited to, not allowing the victim to keep a job, restricting access to bank accounts or credit cards, withholding basic necessities, and making the victim account for all spending. Like isolation, this ensures that the victim is dependent on the perpetrator and feels like he/she won’t be able to make it on his/her own.
  • Sexual Abuse
    Sexual abuse includes, but is not limited to, minimizing your feelings about sex, rape, and withholding sex and affection. Sexual abuse is yet another tool perpetrators use to humiliate and control their victims.
  • The Cycle of Violence
    While the abuse may not always be constant, domestic violence, and its cycle, is always happening. There are three phases to the cycle: the tension building phase, the acute abuse phase, and the honeymoon phase. In the tension building phase, the perpetrator begins to show anger and pick fights. Verbal abuse begins, and the victim tries to ease the situation by giving in to the perpetrator and becoming compliant; trying to keep the peace. In the acute abuse phase, the tension has peaked and there has been some form of significant violence.  In the honeymoon phase, the perpetrator is loving and apologetic. There is generosity and kindness; possibly gifts. The perpetrator assures the victim that the abuse will never happen again.

  It Is Still Abuse If . . .
  The incidents of physical abuse seem minor when compared to those you have read about, seen on television or heard other women talk about. There isn’t a “better” or “worse” form of physical abuse; you can be severely injured as a result  of being pushed, for example. The incidents of physical abuse have only occurred one or two times in the relationship. Studies indicate that if your spouse/partner has injured you once, it is likely he will continue to physically assault you.The physical assaults stopped when you became passive and gave up your right to express yourself as you desire, to move about freely and see others, and to make decisions. It is not a victory if you have to give up your rights as a person and a partner in exchange for not being assaulted!

  There has not been any physical violence. Many women are emotionally and verbally assaulted. This can be as equally frightening and is often more confusing to try to understand.
  Source: Breaking the Silence: a Handbook for Victims of Violence in Nebraska
  
  The most important thing to remember about domestic violence is it is NEVER the victim’s fault!

• Shelter and Crisis Services

  If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
  If you are a victim of Sexual Assault or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
  24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
  or our Main Office at 845-628-9284

• Sexual Assault Services

  If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
  If you are a victim of Sexual Assault or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
  24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
  or our Main Office at 845-628-9284

• Support Groups and Workshops

  Domestic Violence Support Group
  Year Round, drop-in group for women who have experienced or are experiencing physical, verbal or emotional abuse. Mondays from 7:00 p.m.-8:15 p.m. (child care provided)

  Women in Transition Group
  Year Round, group for women going through a separation or divorce. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284  Group is held Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  (child care provided)

  Empowerment Group
  Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; A growth oriented group to address women’s concerns including self-esteem, boundaries, goal setting, stress management & effective communication. Must call to register 845-628-9284   Group is held Thursdays from 6:30-7:45 at the Women’s Resource Center. (child care available) Spring group TBA.

  Teen Support Group
  Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; For girls ages 13& 14. Topics cover healthy relationships/dating, friendships, self esteem, conflict resolution, being assertive. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Group is held Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 7:15 p.m. at the WRC main office. Spring group TBA.

  Pre-Teen Support Group
  Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; Group for pre-teens ages 10-12 living with domestic violence, separation or divorce issues in their family. Topics include friendships, conflict-resolution, bulling, self-esteem, and coping and communication skills. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284.   Spring group TBA.
  Children’s Support Group
  Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; for children age’s 8-9-living with domestic violence and family change, a growth oriented program to address children’s concerns. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Spring group TBA. Group is held from Monday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the WRC main office.
  Adult Survivors of Sexual Trauma
  Offered Fall and Spring; a group  for women who have experienced sexual assault or rape. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Fall group Monday’s at 7:30p.m. beginning September 30th, 2013 runs for 10 weeks.
  Legal Clinic
  Offered Monthly;Meet with an attorney to discuss and Review of NYS laws on Divorce, custody, orders of protection and support/advocacy answers. this workshop is for individuals who are starting or maybe starting the initial process of a divorce, support, custody or order of protection and have not yet retained an attorney. Registration is required, to register call 845-628-9284.  Next workshop March 11, 2014 at 7:30 p.m.
  Volunteer Training
  Offered Fall and Spring; With the support of our volunteers, we are able to provide the necessary services to our clients that support their needs. Our program requires that interested adult volunteers be over the age of 18 to be trained to work with our staff and clients. Volunteers will receive training on cultural diversity, gender and power, sexual and domestic violence dynamics, advocacy skills, and much more!
  Registration is required, to register call 845-628-9284.  Spring Trainings TBA. Training run every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00p.m. to 8:30p.m. for 8 weeks. To learn more about the volunteer training and volunteering for WRC call 845-628-9284

• Community Education and Outreach Services

  The Community Education and Outreach program provides the community with information and resources about domestic and sexual violence. To accomplish this goal, the Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center has two community educators, who are able to create presentations, attend conferences, and sit on informational panels.
  These educators provide unique trainings, workshops, and presentations to a variety of organizations and local schools. These presentations and workshops can be developed to satisfy the needs of the school or organization while covering a wide range of topics that are appropriate for the target audience

  PRESENTATION TOPICS
  Colleges

  • Dating Violence Prevention
  • Acquaintance Rape
  • Drug-facilitated sexual assault
  • Sexual Harassment/Stalking
  • Gender Stereotyping

  High School

  • Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
  • Dating Violence
  • Gender Stereotyping
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Social Network/Texting Harassment
  • Stalking
  • Diversity Skills
  • Staff Development/Training

  Colleges

  • Dating Violence Prevention
  • Acquaintance Rape
  • Drug-facilitated sexual assault
  • Sexual Harassment/Stalking
  • Gender Stereotyping

  High School

  • Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
  • Dating Violence
  • Gender Stereotyping
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Social Network/Texting Harassment
  • Stalking
  • Diversity Skills
  • Staff Development/Training

  Non-School Presentations

  • Unhealthy Relationships
  • Dating Violence
  • Gender Stereotyping
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Social Network/Texting Harassment
  • Stalking
  • Diversity Skills
  • Staff Development/Training

  If you’re interested in learning more about the program or to set up a training at your location contact:
  call 845-628-9284

• Other Crime Services

  If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
  If you are a victim of Bullying, Dating Violence, Stalking, Human Trafficking or a Internet/Cell Phone related crime or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
  24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
  or our Main Office at 845-628-9284

• Advocacy Services

  If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
  If you want or need advocacy and/or other supports please call our

  24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
  or our Main Office at 845-628-9284
  Website Putnam County Women’s Resource Center – pnwwrc.org

Office for Individuals with Disabilities

All Abilities March Newsletter 2024

• Accessing Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

  The New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) requires all of the following to provide services:

  • A diagnosis of one (or more) of the following: Intellectual Disability; Autism; Cerebral Palsy; Epilepsy; Familial Dysautonomia; or Neurological Impairment (with injury, malformation, or disease in the central nervous system).
  • A diagnosis of the disability originating before age 22.
  • The disability is expected to be permanent, continuing indefinitely.
  • The disability must be so serious that it affects ability to function normally in society.

  In order to determine eligibility, the Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO) of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities requires information about a person’s disability, including:

  • OPWDD Eligibility Form, which can be found online at: https://opwdd.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/02/eligibility_transmittal_form-plus-gender-x-02-01-23.pdf
  • A psychological assessment that shows documentation of the disabilities listed above. The evaluation should include an assessment of intellectual functioning (IQ) and a standardized assessment of adaptive behavior through:
  • Adaptive Behavior Scales (such as the Vineland II or ABAS)
  • IQ Testing (such as the WISC-IV, WAIS-IV or Stanford Binet V)
  • A written summary explaining the results from the person who did the testing (which is also known as a “narrative.”)
  • A social/psychosocial history
  • This could be included in the psychological report or done in school evaluations, as part of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process.
  • This report should show that the person became disabled before age 22
  • A medical report
  • For conditions other than an Intellectual Disability, a medical or specialty report will also be needed that includes health status and diagnostic findings to support the diagnosis.

  OPWDD may also ask for other documents or evaluations on a case by case basis for eligibility assessment. Information regarding OPWDD eligibility can be found at: https://opwdd.ny.gov/eligibility

  Eligibility must be officially determined by NYS OPWDD in order to access the services they provide. The NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities provides a variety of supports and services for individuals with developmental disabilities. OPWDD works with voluntary providers to deliver services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Services include residential services, day/employment services, and family and individual supports. Family and individual supports include clinic services, in-home care, senior services and care management.

  It is important to note that the Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities is here as a resource to assist in questions throughout the process, and as a liaison to getting in touch with OPWDD and resources throughout the community.

• Resources for Putnam County Residents

  Putnam County Department of Mental Health’s Coordinator of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities is available to help individuals and families connect with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) by providing information, referral and assistance with the eligibility application.
  Dana Touponse- Coordinator, Office for Individuals with Disabilities
  110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512
  845-808-1641 Ext. 46019
  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  NYS OPWDD Taconic DDSO (Developmental Disabilities Services Office)

  • Main Office
    76 Firemens Way
    Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
    845-877-6821
    https://opwdd.ny.gov/
  • Satellite Location
    1620 Town Ctr Rt 22
    Brewster, NY 10509 
    845-279-2905

  The Arc Mid-Hudson

  • 575 Drewville Road
    Carmel, NY 10512 
    845-278-7272
    www.arcmh.org

  Constructive Partnerships Unlimited

  (Formerly Cerebral Palsy Association of New York State)

  • Headquarters:
    40 Rector Street
    15th Floor New York, NY 10006
    (212) 947-5770
    www.cpunlimited.org

  Careers Support Solutions

  • 400 Columbus Avenue
    Suite 123 South 2^nd Floor
    Valhalla NY 10595
    (914) 741-5627
    Fax: 914-741-6901

  Carmel Office
  

  • 102 Gleneida Avenue/Route 52
    Barrister Hall
    Carmel, NY 10512
    (845) 225-8007
    Fax:(845) 225-6820
    www.careerssupportsolutions.org

  HVCS (Hudson Valley Community Services)

  • HVCS Headquarters
    40 Saw Mill River Road
    Suite UL-5
    Hawthorne, NY 10532
    (914) 345-8888
    www.hudsonvalleycs.org

  Putnam County
  Office for Individuals with Disabilities

  • 110 Old Route 6
    Building #3
    Carmel, NY 10512
    (845) 808-1641 ext. 46019

  Putnam Independent Living Services (PILS)

  • 1441 Route 22, Suite 204
    (Tompkins Mahopac Bank building)
    Brewster, NY 10509
    Voice: (845) 228-7457
    VP: (914) 259-8036
    Fax: (845) 228-7460
    https://www.putnamils.org/

Substance Abuse

• Substance Abuse Prevention Program

  Each year, drug abuse and addiction cost taxpayers nearly $534 billion in preventable health care, law enforcement, crime, and other costs. The best approach to reducing the tremendous toll substance abuse exacts from individuals, families, and communities is to prevent the damage before it occurs. Over 20 years of research demonstrates that prevention interventions designed and tested to reduce risk and enhance protective factors can help children at every step along their developmental path, from early childhood into young adulthood.

  Alcohol and substance abuse prevention is an ongoing process with each new generation of parents, children, educators and community leaders. Effective prevention helps reduce violence, teen pregnancy, high school dropout rates, HIV/AIDS infection and many other related issues. By maintaining public awareness of the truth and dangers of drugs, prevention has a positive effect on children, teens, families, businesses and communities.

  There are currently two prevention providers in Putnam County that strive to carry out substance abuse prevention efforts. They are:

• National Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependencies/Putnam

  67 Gleneida Avenue

  Carmel, NY 10512

  Contact: Kristin E. McConnell, Executive Director

  845-225-4646

• Putnam Family and Community Services

  1808 Route Six

  Carmel, NY 10512

  Contact: Diane E. Russo, Executive Director

  https://covecarecenter.org

  845-225-2700

  There is also a community Drug Free Communities prevention coalition in Putnam County. They are:

• Putnam County Communities That Care Coalition

  67 Gleneida Avenue

  Carmel, NY 10512

  845-225-4646