Innovative Service Promoting Independence of People With Disabilities Turns 35

New York, NY, September 16, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Organization Pioneering Independence for People with Disabilities Celebrates 35 Years at Annual Gala!
On October 20th, 2015, Concepts of Independence, Inc. will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services program, which supports the freedom and independence of New Yorkers with disabilities. During the annual Gala, we will raise awareness of this innovative program so that more people will have the choice to successfully live meaningful and integrated lives in the community.

A Brief History of Concepts of Independence
Founded in 1980, Concepts pioneered Consumer Direction, allowing thousands of severely disabled and chronically ill individuals to hire, train, schedule and supervise the Personal Assistant home care worker of their choice. With the innovative creation of Consumer Direction, a safe and viable alternative to nursing home institutionalization was formed. Apart from offering greater freedom and independence for people with disabilities, Consumer Direction results in better health outcomes and is administered at a lower cost than a traditional home care program, saving New York State Medicaid millions of dollars per year.   

"More people should learn about and understand the many life-changing benefits of consumer directed care. Working with Concepts, I can completely control how my care is provided and around my schedule. Concepts gives me the freedom and independence to live a very fulfilling life."

T.K. Small, Director of Policy and Outreach at Concepts

Concepts to Honor Individuals Whose Dedication and Work Supports the Spirit of Consumer Direction
The Concepts’ Gala will honor the thirty-five year history of supporting freedom and independence of New Yorkers with disabilities by recognizing Consumers and Personal Assistants who have been with the program for the last 25+ years. Additionally, New York State Assemblyman David I. Weprin will be honored with the Sandra Schnur Advocacy Award for his efforts to improve wages for dedicated Personal Assistant home care workers and for his commitment to strengthen Consumer Direction throughout New York State. Lastly, Concepts will award several children who participate in Consumer Direction with donated gifts that will enhance their independence to an extent that wouldn’t otherwise be possible, giving them a greater chance to live their best lives. 

“Concepts gives me the freedom and independence to live a very fulfilling life.”
As Concepts turns 35, the goal is clear. "More people should learn about and understand the many life-changing benefits of consumer directed care. Working with Concepts, I can completely control how my care is provided and around my schedule. Concepts gives me the freedom and independence to live a very fulfilling life.” said T.K. Small, Director of Policy and Outreach at Concepts, and a long-time Consumer himself.