Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)

@cidnyinc

We are a non-profit disability organization based in and serving people across NYC. #PWD Learn more: Events: Support: Newsletter:

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Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· 5d

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Susan Dooha, who had previously served as CIDNY’s Executive Director for 19 years. Susan's leadership, unwavering advocacy, and deep commitment to disability rights helped shape our organization and strengthen the disability community across New York.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Susan's family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her. We are profoundly grateful for Susan's extraordinary contributions to CIDNY and to the disability rights movement. Her legacy will continue to inspire our work, and she will be deeply missed.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· 7d

Bryant Park Station is more than a post office. It’s essential public infrastructure. Essential public services deserve transparency, accountability, and community engagement. #KeepMidtownConnected

Flyer text: KEEP MIDTOWN CONNECTED Preserve Postal Service at Bryant Park Station 23 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036 THE ISSUE Bryant Park Station is one of Midtown Manhattan's busiest retail post offices, serving thousands of residents, workers, commuters, visitors, and small businesses every day. USPS plans to close the facility following the expiration of its lease on August 8, 2026. While employees are expected to be reassigned, the closure would eliminate a vital public service in one of the nation's busiest commercial districts. WHY IT MATTERS Closing Bryant Park Station would: Reduce access to retail postal services in Midtown Increase wait times at nearby post offices Disrupt small businesses that rely on daily postal services Impact thousands of residents, workers, and visitors This is a public service issue, not simply a labor issue. PROCESS CONCERNS Federal regulations (39 C.F.R. § 241.3) require USPS to provide public notice, solicit community input, evaluate local impacts, and consider alternatives before permanently discontinuing a retail facility. Stakeholders are seeking transparency regarding: The basis for the closure Community and business impacts Alternatives considered How USPS will maintain adequate retail service OUR REQUEST We respectfully urge USPS to: Pause the proposed closure Complete a transparent public review process Engage elected officials, community stakeholders, and APWU Release the analyses supporting the decision Evaluate alternatives, including a lease extension or nearby replacement location Preserve reliable retail postal service in Midtown BOTTOM LINE Bryant Park Station is more than a post office. It is essential public infrastructure serving one of the busiest business districts in the world. Before moving forward, USPS should ensure transparency, meaningful public engagement, and a thorough evaluation of alternatives so Midtown does not lose a critical public service. Save Bryant Park Station • 23 W 43rd St • New York

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· 14d

The NYC Department of Transportation is hosting two Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) town hall sessions to collect public feedback and provide an opportunity for Q&A. The next session is on Wednesday, August 5 at 5 p.m. You can submit questions ahead of the session by emailing APS@dot.nyc.gov.

Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) are devices generally attached to pedestrian signal poles to help blind and low-vision pedestrians cross the street. When someone presses the button at the crosswalk, the APS provides information using sound and vibration instead of sight. It uses beeps, spoken messages, and a vibrating button to let pedestrians know when it is safe to cross during the “Walk” signal.Subject: The NYC Department of Transportation is hosting 2 APS town hall sessions to collect public feedback and provide an opportunity for Q&A. We encourage you to submit any questions ahead of time to APS@dot.nyc.gov. Date: Wed. 8/5, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Wed. 12/9, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Location: Online. Join using the APS Zoom link (on.nyc.gov.nycdotAPS). ASL/CART services will be provided. For more information, to submit questions or comments ahead of the meeting, or to request additional accommodations or translation services, contact the ADA Coordinator at APS@dot.nyc.gov or 929.441.9658.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jul 13

We were on hand earlier today at Queens Borough Hall for #DisabilityPrideMonth. it's great to see so many turn out for these events. We hope you can join us at CIDNY's ADA celebration on July 22!

Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier speaks in front of stage with ASL interpretation.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jul 7

Join us on July 14 at 1 p.m. for a healthcare presentation at SAGE Harlem Center. You’ll learn more about Medicaid managed care, long-term care services, and how to find the right plan for your needs. Please be sure to RSVP in advance. RSVP: vpaula@sageusa.org or 929-458-2125

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jul 6

Join us this Thursday, July 9, for a special discussion ‘Building Access: The History and Future of Disability Rights’ at the Center for Brooklyn History during Disability Pride Month. RSVP/Info: www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/cbh...

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jul 2

Join us for our next CAN meeting on July 22. We’ll be celebrating the 36th anniversary of the ADA. The celebration will include a discussion with community leaders, advocates, City and State legislators on inclusion and accessibility for People with Disabilities. RSVP: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

What: CIDNY’s Consumer Action Network (CAN) ADA Celebration
When: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: CIDNY Manhattan (1010 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10018)
RSVP: https://www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jun 30

An extreme heat watch has been issued for this Wednesday, July 1 to Friday, July 3, with heat index values between 105 and 110 possible. Very hot weather will continue Saturday and Sunday. Find a cooling center or other cool option nearby at finder.nyc.gov/coolingcente....

Text: Stay Cool This Summer Hot and humid weather is not just uncomfortable. Extreme heat is the deadliest type of weather event in NYC. Be prepared and keep yourself and others safe this summer. Signs of Heat-Related Illness If you or someone you know has symptoms of heat-related illness, get to a cool place, remove extra clothes, and drink plenty of water right away. If there are symptoms of heatstroke, call 911. Signs of heat exhaustion: Headache, Lightheadedness or feeling faint, Heavy sweating, Cold clammy skin, Nausea or loss of appetite, Fast, weak pulse, Decreased energy, Muscle cramps. Signs of heatstroke: Confusion, hallucinations, and disorientation, Dizziness, Loss of consciousness or being unresponsive, Trouble breathing, Nausea or vomiting, Fast, strong pulse, Weakness, Hot dry skin.

Text: You are at higher risk of heat-related illness if you: Stay Cool Outdoors • Are drinking heavily or using drugs • Do not have access to air-conditioning • Have a chronic health condition, such as heart disease, a mental health or cognitive condition, or diabetes • Take medicines that make it difficult for your body to stay cool, such as diuretics and some antidepressants and blood pressure medicines • Have limited mobility • Are pregnant. Stay Cool Outdoors: • Avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine, or sugar. • Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. • Stay in the shade. • Wear lightweight clothing and a hat. • Wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. • Avoid strenuous physical activity. • Shift outdoor activities to the early morning and late evening, when the sun is not as strong. • Take breaks inside an air-conditioned space.
For more information, visit nyc.gov/health/heat. To find an NYC Cool Option, call 311 or visit finder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters. For more information on staying safe and healthy in NYC, visit nyc.gov/healthysummer.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jun 23

Today is Primary Election Day! Be sure to get out and vote. If you need to find your polling location, you can do so here: findmypollsite.vote.nyc

Red, white, and blue button image with stars that says VOTE.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jun 18

Please note that all CIDNY offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026 in honor of Juneteenth. Services will resume on Monday, June 22, 2026.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jun 10

Go New York, Go New York, Go! Support your local team. Support your local ILC: www.cidny.org/donation/

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jun 1

Join us on 6/17 for our June CAN meeting. We’ll discuss the impact of climate change on people with disabilities. After the CAN meeting participants will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with benefits counselors. RSVP: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

Animated style image of a diverse group of people with disabilities. Text: Please join our Consumer Action Network (CAN) meeting for a discussion on the Impact of Climate Change on people with disabilities with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. We will also provide one-on-one meetings in person with benefits counselors for home cooling assistance programs. What: Consumer Action Network (CAN) Meeting When: June 17, 2026, from 1pm to 3pm Where: 1010 Avenue of Americas Suite 301, NYC, NY 10018 And online via Zoom. Please, RSVP in advance at: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All or email Mbacke Thiam at mthiam@cidny.org. If you need accommodation like large print, American Sign Language (ASL), or materials in other languages, please request it by Wednesday, June 8th. For more information, please call 212-674-2300. Thank you!

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· May 15

Our next digital literacy workshop is on Tuesday, May 19 at 12 p.m. focused on email basics. This is an in-person for people age 55+. If you know someone who might benefit from an overview of email basics, please share this information with them!

In these workshops, you will:

Learn about email basics

Explore web browsers and the internet

Find out about cybersecurity and online risks .

All sessions are 12pm-1pm
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 : Cybersecurity Basics
Tuesday, May 19, 2026: Email Basic
Location: CIDNY office 1010 Avenue of the Americas, 3 floor rd NY, NY 10018
For more information, call Sara at (646) 849-8303

In collaboration with National Council on Aging, AT&T and The Public Library Association, a division of the American Library Association.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· May 14

Are you disabled and thinking about being an election day worker? Learn how to become a poll worker, the jobs they do and why it’s so important to have poll workers with disabilities! When: Friday, May 15, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. via Zoom Register: bit.ly/RevUpNYworks...

REV UP NY COALITION Presents a free online workshop: “Are You Disabled and Thinking About Being An Election Day Worker?” Friday, May 15 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Zoom.
American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and real-time captioning (CART) provided. Learn how to become a poll worker, the jobs they do and why it’s so important to have poll workers with disabilities!
Register for Zoom link: https://bit.ly/RevUpNYworkshop

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· May 6

Join us on 5/19 at 1 p.m. for our May CAN meeting. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we will host a discussion on the impact of mental health and the stigma around seeking therapy, with a 1-hour community relaxation workshop, open to all. RSVP: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

Animated-style image of a diverse group of people with disabilities. Text: What: CAN Meeting When: Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 1pm to 3pm Where: 1010 Avenue of Americas, Suite 301 NYC NY 10018 And Online via Zoom. Please, RSVP in advance at: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Apr 28

If you weren’t able to join us in-person this evening for The Future of MOPD, you can still join in the livestream. Stream the event here at 5 pm: disabilityunite.org/live-stream-...

THE FUTURE OF MOPD FORUM 2026
Program Agenda

Tuesday, April 28, 2026
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Transit Workers Union Local 100
195 Montague Street, Brooklyn, NY

Virtual Live Stream Hosted by DisabilityUnite.org

5:00 PM
Arrival, Refreshments, and Opening Remarks
Guests arrive, connect with attendees, enjoy refreshments, & hear opening remarks, including from elected officials.

5:50 PM
Presentation: The History and Evolution of MOPD
A presentation on the history of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and the evolution of its role in NYC government.

6:30 PM
Session #1 Report-Out: What the Community Shared
A summary of the major issues and priorities raised during the community-led Session #1 of the forum held virtually on April 14th.

7:10 PM
Panel Discussion: The Future of MOPD — What Comes Next
A moderated discussion on how MOPD could serve the disability community and the big ideas that could shape its future in NYC.

7:45 PM
Closing Remarks and Conclusion
Final reflections, conclusion, and remarks from the MOPD Commissioner Nisha Agarwal.

ABOUT THIS FORUM
The Future of MOPD Forum is a community-centered conversation on disability policy, accessibility & the future of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities in NYC. It brings together community members, advocates, public officials, and partners to share ideas & help shape what comes next.

CONVENED BY

The 504 Democratic Club

The Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY (CIDNY)

Art Beyond Sight

Inclusive Futures at Project Access for All

Wheeling Forward

Sponsored by
CIDNY
Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY

Additional Funding by
The New York Community Trust

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Apr 17

The MTA is currently accepting feedback regarding the future of Jamaica Station in Queens. This is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts. Your voice and your thoughts matter. Let’s make sure you are heard! You can fill out the survey at the link below. www.tinyurl.com/JamaicaStati...

What’s this about?
Who can take the survey?
Anyone who has used the Jamaica Station.
How to participate:
Scan the QR code below or visit
tinyurl.com/JamaicaStationSurvey

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Apr 13

We all have rights, regardless of immigration status. Join us for Knowledge is Power: Understanding Our Rights, presented by ImmSchools, to learn key protections, how to respond in real-life situations, ways to keep yourself & your community safe, and more. Register: forms.office.com/r/927K1C6HYG

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Apr 13

What should the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) do for New Yorkers? Join us on April 14 to share your thoughts discuss! Register: www.eventbrite.com/e/the-future...

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Apr 1

What should the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) do for New Yorkers? Join a citywide disability community 2-part forum to help shape the future of disability policy in New York City. More info: www.eventbrite.com/e/the-future...

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Mar 16

Earlier today CIDNY joined TWU Local 100 and Antonio Reynoso (current Brooklyn Borough President) in Brooklyn to announce a new lawsuit against the MTA and speak to the dangers of not having station agents in subway stations and potential station closures.

CIDNY's Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier, standing next to Antonio Reynoso, speaks among a group of advocates outdoors.

CIDNY's General Counsel, Arthur Schwartz, speaks among a group of advocates outdoors.

CIDNY's Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier and Arthur Schwartz speak with a TWU member.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Mar 2

On Tuesday, March 3 at 12 p.m. we'll be hosting our next Digital Literacy Workshop, focused on Android Phone Basics. This is a free course open to adults age 55+. To register, please call Sara at 646-849-8303. Please share with anyone you think may be interested.

Flyer text: Attend a FREE educational workshop to learn ANDROID PHONE BASICS and build confidence using technology! Stipends provided to first-time attendees to a Digital Literacy event In collaboration with National Council on Aging, AT&T and The Public Library Association, a division of the American Library Association Are you 55 and over? New to computers or cell phones? Have an Android phone? In this workshop, you will learn: Basic Android phone functions, About common apps, Get connected using an Android phone, Build confidence in using an Android phone, And more! Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 12pm-1pm CIDNY office 1010 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd floor NY, NY 10018. For more information, call Sara at (646) 849-8303

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 28

On Friday, February 20th, CIDNY was able to join Gotham Food Pantry for their NYCHA Sotomayor Houses Community Resource Fair. We’re always excited to speak to the community about CIDNY’s services.

Two CIDNY staff members at a display table full of CIDNY materials.

Group of people standing together on a basketball court, looking at the camera. A banner says Justice Sotomayor Houses.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 22

Due to the weather, CIDNY’s physical office locations will be closed on Monday, February 23. CIDNY staff and counselors will be available via phone and email. Stay safe and stay warm!

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 20

The folks at PAC NYC are sharing a discount to the new show, Trash, created by Deaf artists James Caverly and Andrew Morrill, who also star in the play. Tickets and more information here: pacnyc.org/whats-on/tra... Use code TRASH20 during checkout to unlock $20 tickets, limit 4 per order.

Image of two people standing side by side. Text reads: Trash. An Out of the Box Theatrics Production by James Caverly and Andrew Morrill. Directed by Nathanial P. Claridad. March 7-28. Enjoy $20 tickets with code: TRASH20. A Play in ASL and English. Tickets at pacnyc.org

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 18

Join us for our next Consumer Action Network (CAN) Meeting on Wednesday, March 25. We’ll be discussing housing accessibility as well as SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) and DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption). We will also be hosting a housing clinic during this meeting.

Please, join our Consumer Action Network (CAN) Meeting for a discussion on Accessibility of Public Housing for people with disability and the expansion of SCRIE and DRIE programs. We will also have a housing clinic offering one-on-one meetings with benefits counselors or with our general counsel, Arthur Schwartz.

What: CIDNY CAN Meeting
When: March 25, 2026, from 1pm to 3 pm
Where: 1010 Avenue of America suite 301, New York, NY 10018

Please, RSVP in advance at: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All or email Mbacke Thiam at mthiam@cidny.org. If you need accommodation like large print, American Sign Language (ASL), or materials in other languages, please request it by Wednesday, March 18, 2026. For more information, please call 212-674-2300. Thank you!

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 13

Today (2/13) is the last day to apply to join one of Queens’ 14 Community Boards. You can apply at bit.ly/communityboard2026

Apply to Serve on
Your Community Board
Looking for a way to serve your community? Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. is now accepting
applications from qualified, civic-minded individuals interested in joining one of Queens’ 14 Community Boards,
which play an important advisory role in considering land and zoning matters, city service delivery and more.
Application Deadline: February 13, 2026
Apply at bit.ly/communityboard2026

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 11

CIDNY’s next CAN advocacy meeting is in one week, on February 18 at 1pm via Zoom. We’ll discuss our recent Lobby Day trip to Albany and advocacy efforts. You don’t need to have attended Lobby Day to join this meeting. All are welcome! RSVP: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All

Animated style image of a diverse group of people with disabilities. Text reads: "Please, join our Consumer Action Network (CAN) Meeting for a discussion on Lobby Dayand share your experience on our advocacy in Albany. If you did not go to Albany, you can still join us and learn from our consumers. What: CIDNY CAN Meeting When: February18, 2026, from 1pm to 3 pm Where: Online via Zoom Please, RSVP in advance at: www.tinyurl.com/CIDNY4All or email Anna Humphreyat ahumphrey@cidny.org or also Molly Senack at msenack@cidny.org. If you need accommodation like large print, American Sign Language (ASL), or materials in other languages, please request it as early as possible. For more information, please call 212-674-2300. Thank you!"

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Feb 3

CIDNY's Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier speaks about the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs while visiting Albany for CIDNY's 2026 Lobby Day.

Advocates standing indoors speaking at a lectern.

Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY)@cidnyinc· Jan 30

Did you know that if you are a Con Ed customer, there is a program that may help you with your bills? The Energy Affordability Program (EAP) is intended to help those who are experiencing difficulties paying their bills. For more information on the program, visit conEd.com/EAP