The Finger Lakes Independence Center

08/31/2026

Introducing to you our CDPAP (Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program) team! These amazing staff members began this year specifically to help consumers manage their CDPAP services. They also assist people with disabilities and older adults to navigate home safety and accessibility, independent living and self-advocacy skills training, emergency planning, assistive devices, and more.

On the team:
Brenda Pepe, Program Manager
Erin Vallely, Data Support Specialist
Sheldon Meade, Support Specialist
Shelby Piotti, Support Specialist
Lucas Monroe, Support Specialist
Hiroko Takashima, Program Support Specialist

Do you need help? Reach out to [email protected]. We’re here to help you navigate to a successful result!

08/31/2026

Please join us.

08/27/2026

Are you passionate about disability advocacy? Sign up to receive Action Alerts from our Statewide Systems Advocate, Andrea!

Actions typically take fewer than five minutes to complete and focus on local, state, and federal policies.

Email Andrea at [email protected].

Nothing about us, without us!

08/27/2026

"I need help with washing my hair, getting dressed and some cleaning in my home. Where do I find someone who can do this?"

Stephanie, our NY Connects Specialist, is here to provide you with resources that enable you to remain healthy and safe while living in your home. If you need help, reach out to Stephanie at 607-272-2433 or [email protected].

NY Connects is a free New York State program that provides trusted information and assistance for long-term services and supports. Stephanie helps people with disabilities live independently and navigate care options like home care, meals, and benefits.

08/27/2026

The New York State Independent Living Council is still seeking Youth and Young Adults to join their Youth Leadership Subcommittee! Please consider applying or sharing with a youth or young adult you know!

Happy International Youth Day!

Are you between the ages of 16 and 25 and have a disability? NYSILC's Youth Leadership Subcommittee is looking for young people who want to connect, learn, and make a difference. Whether you're new to leadership or already involved in advocacy, this is a space where your ideas matter and your experiences can help shape the future of Independent Living in New York.
As a member, you'll meet other young people from across New York, build confidence, and work together to create the change you want to see. All disabilities are welcome. This group meets virtually, with opportunities for growth and connection in your personal and professional networks.

If you're ready to learn, share your perspective, and help turn ideas into action, we'd love to have you join us. Apply today at our link here: https://forms.gle/xikw3sPnFpgNVA2e7

08/26/2026

With the threats we're facing to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), Olmstead, and Section 504, it’s more critical than ever we collect stories of Disability Freedom. These stories are a crucial step for getting the LaTonya Reeves Freedom Act passed. These stories will also be used for helping us in our state-level advocacy.

Please check out this Videorequest link: https://video.videorequest.io/.../8ddfeb80-162e-4b4a-9f19...
and share with your networks!

We want to know how disability freedom improves a person’s quality of life and what it means to them. Folks have the option to either record a video or write their story in the Videorequest platform.

If you have any issues with the platform or need an alternative way to share your story, please let us know! You can email [email protected] or give her a call at (607)272-2433.

08/25/2026

Please join us! The Invisible Disabilities Peer Support Group will meet this Thursday. For meeting time, contact Brenda at [email protected].

08/25/2026

NEW ITEMS ADDED!

We often receive donations from this amazing community. When that happens, we're able to distribute the donated items for FREE as needed. Right now we have:

• Childrens Pull-Ups, size XL
• Infant diapers, sizes 3 and 4
• Two-wheeled walkers
• Crutches
• Commodes
• Raised toilet seats
• Supplements for those who get nutrition through a feeding tube

In fairness to all the awesome people we serve, we can't hold donated items. Simply stop in. We'd love to see you! All items are while supplies last.

08/24/2026

Our Try-It-Room allows clients to try both traditional and innovative tools available to assist with daily living. No appointment is necessary! Simply stop by during business hours.

08/19/2026

Come on in! No appointment needed.

The scale platform of the is 32"x36." There are ramps on two sides, so users in wheelchairs can remain seated during weighing. There are two foam-grip handles for people who are unsteady on their feet. There is a digital readout and an 800 pound weight limit.