SILC Program Project Performance Report

SILC Program Project Performance Report For Year 2019 Administrative Data Section 1. Sources and Amounts of Funds and Resources Sections 704(c) and 704(m)(3) and (4) of the Act * - Required field Item 1.1 - All Federal Funds Received

Type of Funds Amount

(A) Title VII, Ch. 1, Part B* 338717

(B) Title VII, Ch. 1, Part C-For 723 states Only* 0

(C) Title VII, Ch. 2 * 0

(D) Other Federal Funds* 0

Item 1.2 - Other Government Funds


(E) State Government Funds* 31862

(F) Local Government Funds* 0

Item 1.3 - Private Resources


(G) Fees for Service (program income, etc.)* 0

(H) Other resources * 0

Item 1.4 - Total Income


Total income = 370579

Item 1.5 - Pass-Through Funds


Amount of other government funds received as pass through funds to consumers (include funds, received on behalf of consumers, that are subsequently passed on to consumers, e.g., personal assistance services, representative payee funds, Medicaid funds, etc.)*

0

Item 1.6 - Net Operating Resources


Net Operating Resources = 370579

Section 2. Distribution of Title VII, Chapter 1, Part B Funds Section 713 of the Act * - Required field

What Activities were Conducted with Part B Funds?

Expenditures of Part B Funds for Services by DSU Staff

Expenditures for Services Rendered By Grant or Contract

(1) Provided resources to the SILC to carry out its functions* 14176 0

(2) Provided IL services to individuals with significant disabilities* 269508 55033

(3) Demonstrated ways to expand and improve IL services* 0 0

(4) Supported the general operation of CILs that are in compliance with the 0 0

What Activities were Conducted with Part B Funds?

Expenditures of Part B Funds for Services by DSU Staff

Expenditures for Services Rendered By Grant or Contract

standards and assurances set forth in subsections (b) and (c) of section 725 of the Act*

(5) Supported activities to increase capacity to develop approaches or systems for providing IL services*

0 0

(6) Conducted studies and analyses, gathered information, developed model policies, and presented findings in order to enhance IL services*

0 0

(7) Provided training regarding the IL philosophy* 0 0

(8) Provided outreach to unserved or underserved populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations*

0 0

Section 3. Grants or Contracts Used to Distribute Title VII, Chapter 1, Part B Funds Sections 704(f) and 713 of the Act * - Required field

Name of Grantee or Contractor

Use of Funds (based on the activites listed in Subpart I, Section B)

Amount of Part B Funds

Amount of Non-Part B Funds

Consumer Eligibility Determined By DSU or Provider

CSRs Kept With DSU or Provider

Independent Resources Inc Peer support and IL skills training

2094 0 provider provider

Freedom Center for Independent Living

Peer support and IL skills training


Blind Sight Delaware Peer Support and IL skills training


Wilmington Family Eye Care Low Vision Services 18016 0 provider provider

Blind Sight Delaware Telephonic Peer Support 28130 0 provider provider

Simon Eye Consultants Low Vision Services 430 0 provider provider

Total Amount of Grants and Contracts

55033 0

Section 4. Grants or Contracts for Purposes Other than Providing IL Services or For the General Operation of Centers Section 713 of the Act Section 713 of the Act * - Required field Describe the objectives, activities and results for each Part B grant or contract awarded for purposes other than IL services or the general operation of centers. * The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation contracts with several organizations, Independent Resources, Incorporated, the Freedom Center for Independent Living, and Blind Sight Delaware, to provide face-to-face Independent Living Skills Training and Peer Support Services that are not otherwise provided by the DSE. The Freedom Center for Independent Living did not submit any documentation, again, in FY 2019. It is undergoing significant changes in leadership. After discussion at a meeting of the SILC, it was

determined that they would be offered the opportunity to provide services under an IL-B project in FY 2020. Blind Sight Delaware- Peer Support Program (Telephone) The Division for the Visually Impaired has contracted with Blind Sight Delaware for the Blind since 1987. The contract is monitored monthly with the submission of reports and communication with BSD personnel occurring during case assignment, goal setting meetings, and closure meetings. In addition, the Executive Director, Program Coordinator, Peer Support Representatives and the Division for the Visually Impaired Independent Living Administrator meet quarterly to discuss the previous quarter’s performance, trends, comparisons, and issues that arise. Low Vision Contracts (Wilmington Family Eye Care, Dr. Debbie Steele, Simon Eye Associates) DVI contracts with three providers for Low Vision evaluations and follow-up services. These providers examine the consumers’ ocular health, prescribe aids, and consult with DVI personnel and the patient’s medical professional. The contracts are monitored throughout the year via reports, communication, correspondence, invoices, and consumer feedback. Section 5. Monitoring Title VII, Chapter 1, Part B Funds * - Required field Provide a summary of the program or fiscal review, evaluation and monitoring conducted by the state of any of the grantees/contractors receiving Part B funds during the reporting year. * Section 2 reflects the actual expenditures in FY 2019. The SILC money was primarily spent on sending members of the SILC to the NCIL Conference and SILC Congress. In terms of the SILC’s access to funds (the ability to direct funds), the SILC has the ability to recommend and direct the DSE to make contracts with community partners (hence the contracts with IRI, FCIL, and Blind Sight Delaware) for up to $30,000. Three contracts were awarded in FY 2019 although FCIL did not execute its contract due to internal issues. For the remaining funds, $283,684, 15% of the total grant went to the Division for the Visually Impaired to maintain their IL program both directly or through contracts. The rest of the funds were spent on direct services to individuals with disabilities for services such as home and vehicle modifications, including the cost of coordinating those services. The total expenditure on contracts, both DVR and DVI, was $55,033. The DVI and DVR contracts were supervised and reviewed by the agency liaisons. The organizations with DVR contracts reported on their progress at SILC meetings. Section 6. Administrative Support Services and Staffing * - Required field Item 6.1 - Administrative Support Services Describe any administrative support services, including staffing, provided by the DSU to the Part B Program. * The direct services DVR IL counselor was partially funded by IL-B during FY2018. The other services for administration of the program, fiscal and federal reporting, were not funded by IL-B funds. Item 6.2 - Staffing

Type of Staff Total Number of FTEs

FTEs filled by Individuals with Disabilities

Decision-Making Staff* .35 .25

Other Staff* 0 0

Section 7. For Section 723 States ONLY Section 723 of the Act Section 723 of the Act * - Required field Item 7.1 - Distribution of Part C Funds to Centers

Name of CIL Amount of Part C Funding Received

Cost of Living Increase? (Yes/No)

Excess Funds After Cost of Living Increase? (Yes/No)

New Center? (Yes/No)

Onsite Compliance Review of Center? (Yes/No)

N/A 0 No No No No

Item 7.2 - Administrative Support Services Section 704(c)(2) of the Act Describe the administrative support services used by the DSU to administer the Part C program. Section 704(c)(2) of the Act * N/A Item 7.3 - Monitoring and Onsite Compliance Reviews Section 723(g), (h), and (i) Provide a summary of the monitoring activities involving Part C centers conducted by the state during the current reporting year, including the onsite reviews of at least 15% of centers receiving Part C funds under section 723.The summary should include, at least, the following: A) centers’ level of compliance with the standards and assurances in Section 725 of the Act; B) any adverse actions taken against centers;C) any corrective action plans entered into with centers; and D) exemplary, replicable or model practices for centers. Section 723(g), (h), and (i) * N/A Item 7.4 - Updates or Issues Provide any updates to the administration of the Part C program by the DSU, if any, including any significant changes in the amount of earmarked funds or any changes in the order of priorities in the distribution of Part C funds.Provide a description of any issues of concern addressed by the DSU in its administration of the Part C program. * N/A × Close Number and Types of Individuals with Significant Disabilities Receiving Services Section 704(m)(4) of the Act Section 8. Number of Consumers Served During the Reporting Year * - Required field

Condition # of CSRs

(1) Enter the number of active CSRs carried over from September 30 of the preceding reporting year*

56

(2) Enter the number of CSRs started since October 1 of the reporting year* 73

(3) Total number of consumers served 129

Section 9. Number of CSRs Closed by September 30 of the Reporting Year * - Required field

Condition # of CSRs

(1) Moved* 2

(2) Withdrawn* 11

(3) Died* 2

(4) Completed all goals set* 70

(5) Other* 19

(6) Total CSRs closed 104

Section 10. Number of CSRs Active on September 30 of the Reporting Year * - Required field

Condition # of CSRs

Total number of consumers served - Total CSRs closed 25

Section 11. IL Plans and Waivers * - Required field

Condition # of Consumers

(1) Number of consumers who signed a waiver* 110

(2) Number of consumers with whom an ILP was developed* 19

(3) Total number of consumers served during the reporting year 129

Section 12. Age * - Required field


(1) Under 5 years old* 0

(2) Ages 5-19* 0

(3) Ages 20-24* 23

(4) Ages 25-59* 86

(5) Age 60 and Older* 20

(6) Age unavailable* 0

Section 13. Sex * - Required field


(1) Number of Females served* 65

(2) Number of Males served * 64

Section 14. Race And Ethnicity * - Required field Indicate the number of consumers served in each category below. Each consumer may be counted under ONLY ONE of the following categories in the 704 Report, even if the consumer reported more than one race and/or Hispanic/Latino ethnicity).


(1) American Indian or Alaska Native* 0

(2) Asian* 2

(3) Black or African American* 53

(4) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander* 0

(5) White* 56

(6) Hispanic/Latino of any race or Hispanic/ Latino only* 5


(7) Two or more races* 13

(8) Race and ethnicity unknown* 2

Section 15. Disability * - Required field


(1) Cognitive* 6

(2) Mental/Emotional* 1

(3) Physical* 25

(4) Hearing* 4

(5) Vision* 79

(6) Multiple Disabilities* 14

(7) Other* 0

Individual Services and Achievements Funded Through Title VII, Chapter 1 Part B Funds Sections 13 and 704(m) (4) Section 16. Individual Services and Achievements * - Required field For the reporting year, indicate in the chart below how many consumers requested and received each of the following IL services.Include all consumers who were provided services during the reporting year through Part B funds, either directly by DSU staff or via grants or contracts with other providers.Do not include consumers who were served by any centers that received Part C funds during the reporting year.

Services Consumers Requesting Services

Consumers Receiving Services

(A) Advocacy/Legal Services* 1 1

(B) Assistive Technology* 7 7

(C) Children's Services* 0 0

(D) Communication Services* 31 31

(E) Counseling and Related Services* 35 35

(F) Family Services* 0 0

(G) Housing, Home Modifications, and Shelter Services* 24 24

(H) IL Skills Training and Life Skills Training* 39 39

(I) Information and Referral Services* 25 25

(J) Mental Restoration Services* 0 0

(K) Mobility Training* 15 15

(L) Peer Counseling Services* 3 3

(M) Personal Assistance Services* 1 1

(N) Physical Restoration Services* 29 29

(O) Preventive Services* 8 8

(P) Prostheses, Orthotics, and Other Appliances* 0 0

(Q) Recreational Services* 0 0

(R) Rehabilitation Technology Services* 5 5

(S) Therapeutic Treatment* 0 0

(T) Transportation Services* 10 10

(U) Youth/Transition Services* 0 0

(V) Vocational Services* 4 4

(W) Other Services* 5 5

Section 17. Increased Independence and Community Integration * - Required field

Item 17.1 - Goals Related to Increased Independence in a Significant Life Area Indicate the number of consumers who set goals related to the following significant life areas, the number whose goals are still in progress, and the number who achieved their goals as a result of the provision of IL services.

Significant Life Area Goals Set

Goals Achieved

In Progress

(A) Self-Advocacy/Self-Empowerment* 12 11 1

(B) Communication* 46 41 5

(C) Mobility/Transportation* 49 43 6

(D) Community-Based Living* 0 0 0

(E) Educational* 0 0 0

(F) Vocational* 4 4 0

(G) Self-care* 6 5 1

(H) Information Access/Technology* 55 50 5

(I) Personal Resource Management* 5 5 0

(J) Relocation from a Nursing Home or Institution to Community-Based Living*

14 13 1

(K) Community/Social Participation* 1 1 0

(L) Other* 65 57 8

Item 17.2-Improved Access To Transportation, Health Care and Assistive Technology In column one, indicate the number of consumers who required access to previously unavailable transportation, health care services, or assistive technology during the reporting year.Of the consumers listed in column one, indicate in column two, the number of consumers who, as a result of the provision of IL services (including the four core services), achieved access to previously unavailable transportation, health care services, or assistive technology during the reporting year.In column three, list the number of consumers whose access to transportation, health care services or assistive technology is still in progress at the end of the reporting year. 17.2.1 Table

Areas # of Consumers Requiring Access

# of Consumers Achieving Access

# of Consumers Whose Access is in Progress

(A) Transportation* 36 31 5

(B) Health Care Services* 150 134 16

(C) Assistive Technology* 88 80 8

Note: For most IL services, a consumer's access to previously unavailable transportation, health care and assistive technology is documented through his or her CSR. In some instances, consumers may achieve an outcome solely through information and referral (I&R) services. To document these instances as successful outcomes, providers are not required to create CSRs for these consumers but must be able to document that follow-up contacts with these consumers showed access to previously unavailable transportation, health care and assistive technology. Item 17.2.2 - I&R Information

To inform ACL how many service providers engage in I&R follow-up contacts regarding access to transportation, health care services or assistive technology, please indicate the following: The service provider did engage in follow-up contacts with I&R recipients to document access gained to previously unavailable transportation, health care or assistive technology Yes × Close Section 18. Additional Information Concerning Individual Services or Achievements * - Required field Please provide any additional description or explanation concerning individual services or achievements reported in subpart III, including outstanding success stories and/or major obstacles encountered. * Example of a DVR Independent Living Success Story The client was referred to the IL program while hospitalized at Christiana Care. The request was for a ramp that would enable the client to safely enter and exit the home, and it was determined that the door needed to be widened. The client is very large and needs to be transported in and out of the home on a bariatric stretcher to attend medical appointments. In the absence of home modifications, the client would have needed to enter a rehabilitation facility until suitable, accessible housing was found. The contractor hired by the DVR IL program was able to make the modification to the entrance and build the ramp in a timely manner, avoiding the need to enter a facility. The hospital caseworker and the client’s insurance are discussing the availability of support for the client to obtain a wheelchair which would further enhance the client’s independence. Community Activities and Coordination Section 704(i), (l), and (m)(4) of the Act Section 19. Community Activities * - Required field Item 19.1 - Community Activities Table In the table below, summarize the community activities involving the DSU, SILC and CILs in the Statewide Network of Centers (excluding Part C fund recipients) during the reporting year. For each activity, identify the primary disability issue(s) addressed as well as the type of activity conducted. Indicate the entity(ies) primarily involved and the time spent. Describe the primary objective(s) and outcome(s) for each activity. Add more rows as necessary.

Issue Area Activity Type

Primary Entity

Hours Spent

Objective(s) Outcome(s)

Community Communication

Education SILC 20 Maintaining the website and State calendar

Information on meetings and opportunities for public participation and comment are available

Transition Youth Education SILC and CILs

6 Participated in the annual youth transition conference

Coordinated with SILC, CILs, and DVR Transition program

Unserved/Underserved Education SILC 18

Participated in the LIFE Conference, TBI Conference, and Pathways Conference

Passed out information to potential SILC members and other individuals in the community

Issue Area Activity Type

Primary Entity

Hours Spent

Objective(s) Outcome(s)

Self-Advocacy Education SILC 2 Provided training through Developmental Disabilities Council

Focused on training individuals in becoming self-advocates and IL philosophy.

Item 19.2 - Description of Community Activities For the community activities mentioned above, provide any additional details such as the role of the DSU, SILC, CIL, and/or consumers, names of any partner organizations and further descriptions of the specific activities, services and benefits. * The SILC continues to look for ways to reach out to the community and to encourage individuals to participate and to join the SILC. One such way is by providing information on independent living philosophy and programs to conference participants. An example is the annual LIFE (Liberty and Independence For Everyone) Conference held in central Delaware annually. The SILC also brings in speakers to provide information about projects in the community that espouse the independent living philosophy and that promote inclusion. At a recent SILC meeting, a representative of a program that provides independent living experiences to transitioning youth spoke to the group. The SILC is aware that the far southern county is not represented on the SILC and is reaching out to individuals in Sussex County. The consumer members of the SILC tend to be primarily sight-impaired or physically-impaired. For this reason, the SILC is educating additional organizations about independent living in order to bring representatives from a more diverse disability community. Section 20. Working Relationships Among Various Entities * - Required field Describe DSU and SILC activities to maximize the cooperation, coordination, and working relationships among the independent living program, the SILC, and CILs; and the DSU, other state agencies represented on the SILC, other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues, and other public and private entities. Describe the expected or actual outcomes of these activities. * DVR Partnerships The DVR IL Program works in partnership with several organizations on projects that keep Delawareans in their homes, diverting individuals with significant disabilities from having to move into institutions. Individuals seeking funding assistance from DVR for IL projects are also provided with a list of additional funding resources for which the individual may qualify and which may assist the individual in maintaining or achieving greater independence. Chief among those organizations are the Colonial Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the Lion’s Club, and the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative. Individuals applying for assistance from DVR’s IL Program are also referred to the PVA as a source of assistance. Cost-sharing for home modifications and assistive technology enables the IL program to stretch resources. Eligible individuals may also seek future funding from the PVA. In addition to PVA, the DVR IL Program partners with other community organizations including faith-based programs and disability-specific agencies such as the MS Society. During FY 2019, the DVR Independent Living Program offered contracts with two Centers for Independent Living and one community provider to provide peer support groups and independent living skills training. These contracts are reported on by the contracted programs in writing quarterly and at every bi-monthly SILC meeting. One of the CILs did not perform under the contract in FY 2019 but

intends to do so in FY 2020. These contracts round out the Independent Living Services in the state of Delaware. DVI Partnerships Visual Impairment Sensitivity Training - DVI Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (VRTs) provide training on the specific aspects of working with the visually impaired population in order to familiarize new or existing DVI employees, family members, and local organizations who are interested in establishing and/or maintaining opportunities for this population. There is one Training Center located New Castle , that is fully equipped with the necessary adaptive devices. We discovered that our external customers find it beneficial to learn additional skills in sighted guide technique, white cane use, as well as the wide variety of assistive technology; we invited colleagues from other programs to assist with this endeavor. During FFY’19, 43 individuals were trained in sensitivity awareness for the visually impaired population. All of the training evaluations have been positive. The Sensitivity Training Centers at both sites include many appliances and items for daily living. Diabetes - The Division for the Visually Impaired continued collaborating with the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program. Diabetes is a costly disease associated with serious complications and premature death. Diabetes is also a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment. The DVI Liaison is an active member of the Diabetes Coalition. This team is comprised of representatives from health insurance companies, physicians, pharmacists, diabetes educators, and other public and private agencies. The Coalition meets quarterly to discuss issues such as education, strategic plans, and health care issues. DVI and the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program provide information to Delawareans about their respective programs to ensure awareness at various levels. DVI and the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program also inform members of each organization about outreach opportunities, diabetes information, and access to community services. DVI also assisted in the planning of all of the Diabetes Wellness Expos. This past year, DVI’s Social Service Administrator was the event’s MC and facilitated a break out session. This collaboration will continue to be enhanced as we strive to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and support effective management. The Independent Living Advisory Committee is comprised of consumers appointed by the Director of DVI. Their primary function is to provide feedback to the independent living program. The committee is currently fully staffed. The Independent Living team developed a schedule of workshops to educate agency consumers on a variety of topics. The curriculum included: Amazon Echo, All About Meal Deliveries and Paratransit Updates. The consumers talked openly during breaks and provided feedback on the value of the program. DVI partners with the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative and the University of Delaware Center for Disabilities Studies to facilitate the iCanConnect program. This program provides communications technology to consumers who have been identified as deaf-blind. DVI provides assessment, recommendation and training services to consumers who participate in this program. DVI partners with the Delaware Division of Aging to provide referral information to consumers who may benefit from services from either agency. Cross Training is planned to increase services to the visually impaired community through the Aging and Disability Resource Network.

DVI partners with the Division of State Service Centers to provide resource guides and agency information to all Delaware State Service Center locations. These resources with be disseminated to State Service center visitors in order to increase awareness of DVI services throughout Delaware. DVI will continue to partner with the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities and BlindSight Delaware to conduct information sessions to community stakeholders as a team. Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) Section 705 of the Act Section 21. Composition and Appointment * - Required field Item 21.1 - Current SILC Composition In the chart below, provide the requested information for each SILC member. The category in which the member was appointed can be described, for example, as ex-officio state agency representative, other state agency representative, center representative, person with a disability not employed by a center or state agency, section 121 funded project director, parent of person with a disability, community advocate, other service provider, etc. Include current vacancies, along with the corresponding appointment category for each. Add more rows as necessary.

Name of SILC member

Employed by CIL, State Agency or Neither

Appointment Category

Voting or Non-Voting

Term Start Date

Term End Date

Monica Edgar neither consumer Voting 05-23-17 05-23-20

HarrietAnn Litwin State Agency DSE representative Non-Voting 02-05-19 05-23-20

Darryl Garner neither consumer Voting 05-23-17 05-23-20

Cheryl Hampson neither consumer Voting 05-23-17 05-23-20

Suzanne Howell neither consumer Voting 04-12-17 04-12-20

Jean May State Agency ex-officio Non-Voting 04-12-17 04-12-20

Daniese McMullin Powell

neither consumer Voting 04-12-17 04-12-20

Despina Wilson CIL CIL director Voting 07-12-19 07-12-22

Blake Roberts neither consumer Voting 04-12-17 04-12-20

Christine Trincia neither family member Voting 12-03-15 02-05-22

Andrea Wozny State Agency Ex-officio Non-Voting 07-12-19 07-12-22

Item 21.2-SILC Composition Requirements Please provide the information requested in the chart below. Include any current vacancies in a particular appointment category.

SILC Composition # of SILC members

(A) How many members are on the SILC?* 11

(B) How many members of the SILC are individuals with disabilities not employed by a state agency or a center for independent living?*

6

(C) How many members of the SILC are voting members?* 8

(D) How many of the voting members of the SILC are individuals with disabilities not employed by a state agency or a center for independent living?*

7

Section 22. SILC Membership Qualifications Section 705(b)(4) of the Act * - Required field

Item 22.1-Statewide Representation Describe how the SILC is composed of members who provide statewide representation. * The SILC has the goal of statewide representation. The current meeting location does not offer teleconferencing capabilities, and the SILC is discussing options. While New Castle and Kent Counties are represented, at this time, there are no members from the southern-most county, Sussex County. Transportation via paratransit between counties is a barrier to attendance. The SILC has tried to recruit and will continue efforts to identify participants from Sussex County. Item 22.2 - Broad Range of Individuals with Disabilities from Diverse Backgrounds Describe how the SILC members represent a board range of individuals with disabilities from diverse backgrounds. * The SILC is composed of individuals with both physical and visual disabilities. At this time, there is no representation from the hearing loss or mental health communities, and efforts to recruit consumers will continue. The SILC is ethnically diverse with several members from minority backgrounds. Item 22.3 - Knowledgeable about IL Describe how SILC members are knowledgeable about centers for independent living and independent living services. * Representatives from the Centers for Independent Living and the State agencies participate in all meetings of the SILC, reporting information about their activities. Members of the SILC are able to ask additional questions about programs and services at that time. Members of the SILC have attended both NCIL and SILC Congress events and the SILC resources have been used to provide this opportunity to interested SILC members. Section 23. SILC Staffing and Support * - Required field Item 23.1-SILC Staff Please provide the name and contact information for the SILC executive director. Indicate the number and titles of any other SILC staff, if applicable. Also indicate whether any SILC staff is also a state agency employee. * The SILC has no executive director or paid staff. The individuals paid by SILC funds provide direct service or support individuals who provide direct service. The SILC chair is: Chris Trincia [email protected] 302-383-0384 The DSE Liaison is: HarrietAnn Litwin Division of Vocation Rehabilitation 4425 Market St. Wilmington, De 19802 [email protected] 302-761-8275

Item 23.2 - SILC Support Describe the administrative support services provided by the DSU, if any. * Federal reporting and fiscal support is provided by the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for the SILC. Section 24. SILC Duties Section 705(c) * - Required field Item 24.1-SILC Duties Provide a summary of SILC activities conducted during the reporting year related to the SILC's duties listed below : * In FY 2019, the SILC has nearly finished the revision to its by-laws and the election of SILC leadership has taken place. The SILC members continued to learn their roles by sending participants to national conferences and sharing information afterward. Members also provided information about independent living by participating in local conferences. 24.1.1 State Plan Development Describe any activities related to the joint development of the state plan. Include any activities in preparation for developing the state plan, such as needs assessments, evaluations of consumer satisfaction, hearings and forums. * The SILC is working on the 2021-2023 State Plan for Independent Living. The SILC will hold public listening sessions in each county related to SPIL development. 24.1.2 Monitor, Review and Evaluate the Implementation of the State Plan Describe any activities related to the monitoring, review and evaluation of the implementation of the state plan. * At the meetings of State Independent Living Council, representatives of the Freedom Center for Independent Living, Independent Resources, Inc., the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Blind Sight Delaware, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Division for the Visually Impaired provide reports on their implementation of the State Plan for Independent Living. Members of the SILC have the opportunity to ask questions and provide input into the implementation. 24.1.3 Coordination With Other Disability Councils Describe the SILC's coordination of activities with the State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) established under section 105, if the state has such a Council, or the commission described in section 101(a)(21)(A), if the state has such a commission, and councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues under other Federal law. Please state whether the SILC has at least one representative serving as a member of the SRC and whether the SILC has any members serving on other councils, boards or commissions in the state. * The SILC was represented on the State Rehabilitation Councils of both DVR and DVI. They report on the SRC’s activities at our SILC meetings and look for opportunities for collaboration. The members and ex-officio members of the SILC and representatives of the CILs sit on many other councils, boards, and committees to stay abreast of related issues facing the disability community as a whole, bringing the information back to the SILC through individual reports. Participation also reduces duplication of effort among the organizations. Committees on which representatives participate include:

Governor’s Advisory Council for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities Governor’s Commission for Building Access to Community Based Services University of Delaware, Center for Disabilities, Community Advisory Council Delaware Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired (DCBVI), an affiliate of American Council of the Blind Stakeholders group for AT Low Interest Loan Program Elderly and Disabled Transit Advisory Committee ADAPT (American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today) Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council DDC Executive Committee DDC Advocacy and Outreach Sub-Committee DDC Policy and Law Sub-Committee State Council for Persons with Disabilities SCPD Executive Committee SCPD Policy and Law Committee SCPD Housing Committee National Council on Independent Living Client Assistance Program Not Dead Yet - Delaware Independent Living Advisory Council for Division for the Visually Impaired Vocational Rehabilitation Advisory Council for Division for the Visually Impaired State Rehabilitation Council for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Inter-Agency Council on Autism Protection and Advocacy for International Rights Victims’ Rights Taskforce (VRT) VRT Sub-Committee on Disability VRT Sub-Committee on Transportation Employment First Oversight Committee 24.1.4 Public Meeting Requirements Describe how the SILC has ensured that all regularly scheduled meetings and other public hearings and forums hosted by the SILC are open to the public and sufficient advance notice is provided. * All meetings are posted on the State website including the basic agenda and the dates and times. Information is also posted on the SILC website. During plan development, the SILC posts notices about the public hearings for comment on the SPIL in the Centers for Independent Living at locations around the state and distributes the information using disability-focused, community listservs. In the posting the SILC also indicates written comments will be accepted and provides information of how the comments may be sent. Item 24.2 - Other Activities Describe any other SILC activities funded by non-Part B funds. * N/A Section 25. Training and Technical Assistance Needs Section 721(b)(3) of the Act * - Required field

Training and Technical Assistance Needs

Choose up to 10 Priority Needs - Rate items 1-10 with 1 being the most important

Advocacy/Leadership Development

General Overview

Community/Grassroots Organizing 1

Individual Empowerment

Systems Advocacy 3

Legislative Process 4

Applicable Laws

General overview and promulgation of various disability laws 9

Americans with Disabilities Act

Air-Carrier's Access Act

Fair Housing Act 6

Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act

Medicaid/Medicare/PAS/waivers/long-term care

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended

Social Security Act

Workforce Investment Act of 1998

Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999

Government Performance Results Act of 1993

Assistive Technologies

General Overview

Data Collecting and Reporting

General Overview

704 Reports

Performance Measures contained in 704 Report

Dual Reporting Requirements

Case Service Record Documentation

Disability Awareness and Information

Specific Issues

Evaluation

General Overview

CIL Standards and Indicators

Community Needs Assessment

Consumer Satisfaction Surveys

Focus Groups

Outcome Measures

Financial: Grant Management

General Overview



Federal Regulations

Budgeting

Fund Accounting

Financial: Resource Development

General Overview

Diversification of Funding Base

Fee-for-Service Approaches

For Profit Subsidiaries

Fund-Raising Events of Statewide Campaigns

Grant Writing

Independent Living Philosophy

General Overview 5

Innovative Programs

Best Practices 8

Specific Examples

Management Information Systems

Computer Skills

Software

Networking Strategies

General Overview 10

Electronic

Among CILs & SILCs

Community Partners

Program Planning

General Overview of Program Management and Staff Development

CIL Executive Directorship Skills Building

Conflict Management and Alternative Dispute Resolution

First-Line CIL Supervisor Skills Building

IL Skills Modules 7

Peer Mentoring

Program Design

Time Management

Team Building

Outreach to Unserved/Underserved Populations

General Overview 2

Disability

Minority



Institutionalized Potential Consumers

Rural

Urban

SILC Roles/Relationship to CILs

General Overview

Development of State Plan for Independent Living

Implementation (monitor & review) of SPIL

Public Meetings

Role and Responsibilities of Executive Board

Role and Responsibilities of General Members

Collaborations with In-State Stakeholders

CIL Board of Directors

General Overview

Roles and Responsibilities

Policy Development

Recruiting/Increasing Involvement

Volunteer Programs

General Overview

Optional Areas and/or Comments (write-in)

SPIL Comparison and Updates, Other Accomplishments and Challenges of the Reporting Year Section 704(m)(4) of the Act Section 26. Comparison of Reporting Year Activities with the SPIL * - Required field Item 26.1-Progress in Achieving Objectives and Goals Describe progress made in achieving the objectives and goals outlined in the most recently approved SPIL. Discuss goals achieved and/or in progress as well as barriers encountered. * As mentioned above, the SILC has been working to increase its diversity, communication of independent living philosophy and services, and transition services. The council’s web site, while an ongoing project, contains information regarding independent living philosophy, the SPIL, and upcoming meetings. The SILC has made progress in working with the Governor’s office to get people appointed and reappointed to the council. Progress has been made in getting appointments done in a timely manner, especially when there is a need to remain compliant with the regulations. The goal of diversifying the SILC in terms of disability type is still a challenge with a need for individuals with mental health and hearing loss. Transportation, particularly paratransit, continues to be an issue in obtaining geographic representation. The SILC is challenged because of the requirement that participants must be seen, either in person or via video, in order to be counted towards the quorum or to vote, and the current

meeting location is not able to accommodate that requirement. The council is discussing ways to accommodate individuals from Sussex County who might wish to join the council. Item 26.2 - SPIL Information Updates If applicable, describe any changes to the information contained in the SPIL that occurred during the reporting year, including the placement, legal status, membership or autonomy of the SILC; the SILC resource plan, the design of the statewide network of centers; and the DSU administration of the SILS program. * N/A Section 27. Significant Activities and Accomplishments * - Required field If applicable, describe any significant activities and accomplishments achieved by the DSU and SILC not included elsewhere in the report, e.g. brief summaries of innovative practices, improved service delivery to consumers, etc. * The DVR IL program sends out consumer satisfaction surveys to evaluate its performance. The results are as follows (not every person answered every question): Received what was requested: 17/17 Still using (if got adaptive equipment): 10/12 Increased independence: 16/16 (one respondent skipped the question) Rate interaction with counselor: Excellent 15 Very Good 2 Good 0 Fair 0 Poor 0 Very Poor 0 Rehabilitation Technology Service/Vendor Service Excellent 6 Very Good 1 Good 0 Fair 0 Poor 0 Very Poor 0 Did not receive 7 Did not answer 3 Overall Satisfaction Satisfied 17 Dissatisfied 0 Did not answer 0 Recommendations:

More communication with the public about services Sampling of other comments:

(Counselor) has been very accessible and responsive to all questions. She is very

professional and attentive to the needs of the client.

I feel more comfortable and safe while showering.

Able to enter and exit my home with ease

Very timely services

(Counselor) gave me excellent and prompt service. I need to get home due to my

Medicare has run out of coverage at (name) rehab. (Help getting an individual out of a

nursing facility)

Just talking to someone that cared. Didn’t know I was able to get things changed to help

my safety.

Awesome

This was the first time I asked for State assistance, received with no problems Section 28. Substantial Challenges * - Required field If applicable, describe any substantial problems encountered by the DSU and SILC, not included elsewhere in this report, and discuss resolutions/attempted resolutions, e.g., difficulty in outreach efforts; disagreements between the SILC and the DSU; complications recruiting SILC members; complications working with other state agencies or organizations within the state. * Increasing the diversity of the SILC membership is an ongoing topic. Individuals indicate an interest, but do not follow through with completing the application. Section 29. Additional Information * - Required field Include any additional information, suggestions, comments or explanations not included elsewhere in the report. * Nothing to add. Signatures * - Required input I, SILC, confirm that the information provided in this report is true, complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge. : true NAME AND TITLE OF SILC CHAIRPERSON* Christine Trincia, SILC Chairperson I, DSE, confirm that the information provided in this report is true, complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge. : true NAME AND TITLE OF DSE CHAIRPERSON* Andrea Guest, DVR Director

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Documents

SILC Program Project Performance Report