DPD Support Coordination

05/28/2026

05/19/2026

Congratulations, Paige! 🩷

Congratulations to Paige Miller, DPD Support Coordinator, on an incredible achievement! Paige has balanced her work at the Department for Persons with Disabilities while completing a dual master’s degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University, earning both a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Public Health.

The Department for Persons with Disabilities along with the entire Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson proudly congratulate Paige on this milestone. In her graduation speech, Paige honored the DPD clients who inspired her throughout her academic journey.

Here is an excerpt from her remarks:

“I would like to end with some direct quotes from my clients at the Department for Persons with Disabilities. My clients have been my biggest motivators throughout this program, and I would like to honor them and give them a voice. I asked my clients “what does success mean to you?”

Client reflections on success:

“Success means you pursue something you love, like a job. It’s when you accomplish something big all on your own.”

“What success means to me is being able to get up every morning and having the opportunity to live in a group home with caring staff that help me whenever I ask them to”

“What success means to me is that I was given a place to live my life to my full potential despite my disability. I’m thankful for everyone who assisted me in every way possible!”

Watch Paige’s full speech here: https://youtu.be/LEUhyCLmH44?si=WmI2-JMYcYmXNUzq&t=1882

05/19/2026

Please see below!

⛽ Gas prices continue to rise — but transportation for individuals with disabilities isn’t optional.

Many individuals with IDD rely on provider transportation every single day to get to work, medical appointments, community programs, and essential services.

Without a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), providers are expected to absorb increasing fuel and transportation costs while continuing to deliver critical support.

A 3% COLA in FY27 isn’t a bonus. It’s a lifeline.

ANYONE CAN HELP SUPPORT THIS INCREASE - Easy Steps to contact your local officials who can make a difference! https://bit.ly/NJACP_ADVOCACY_TAKE_ACTION_STEPS

05/05/2026

Governor Mikie Sherrill has officially proclaimed that May is in NJ! NJ Department of Human Services' Division of Mental Health & Addiction Services oversees a number of programs and services that help people living with mental illness get the assistance they need. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4t3AytV

05/01/2026

Register at go.rutgers.edu/personcentered

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, living a truly person-centered life is about more than receiving services. It is about having real choice, genuine relationships, and a meaningful place in the community.

We're partnering with NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities to offer this in-person workshop twice in June. It is designed for self-advocates, families, support coordinators, and provider agencies, and will equip participants with practical tools to support community inclusion and person-centered planning for individuals transitioning into homes in the community.

Register at go.rutgers.edu/personcentered

04/21/2026

Best of luck to the nominees!

The Chamber is proud to present this year’s nominees for the 2026 Chamber Annual Awards. Best of luck to all the nominees!
https://www.sussexcountychamber.org/news_detail_T8_R456.php

04/07/2026

Free if needed!

Need to file your taxes? Join us on April 14 for a free pop-up tax event, hosted by Senator Andrew Zwicker.

We’ll be there ensuring our hardworking neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet receive any credits or refunds they qualify for while saving hundreds in tax prep fees.

This pop-up is one way to connect with our free tax prep program. We also offer online, drop-off, and self-filing options. Additional in-person appointments are available but are filling up fast.

03/27/2026

Register soon!

Please register in advance for this event as we are sure to reach capacity!

RECAP
WHEN: Thursday April 23, 2026 - 6:30pm sharp
WHO: SCARC Guardianship team: Jennifer Case & Judy McDonough
WHAT: SCARC Guardianship Services, Inc. serves as lifelong advocates for special needs individuals who cannot acquire services independently.
WHERE: Via Zoom Video-Conferencing platform

Please register in advance for this meeting using the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/EvpRFdBZQqCYFdhFas3Csw

As always: you can RSVP to (908) 713-0469 or [email protected]
and Zoom Video-Conferencing access instructions & password will be emailed directly to you!

Stay tuned for more exciting details on these & other future events.
Earl A. Pedersen, Jr. & Barry Friedson, CFP, CFA
NEWROADS FINANCIAL GROUP
Special Needs Division

03/09/2026

Coming up soon!

Inclusion is most powerful when everyone takes part!
Why not hold a day at your school or workplace? It’s a great way to start conversations about the rights and well-being of all the people in our communities. Loneliness often starts early when children are "present" but not "invited". By wearing socks and donating, you support global projects that fight for real inclusion in schools and workplaces.
🏆 Pro-tip: Host a "best socks" competition or create your own sock bunting to get everyone involved!
Learn more and get resources: https://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/lots-of-socks-campaign/

02/06/2026

The Support Coordination staff at DPD decided to 'sHeartHealth on day!