Happy and Exciting Summer with CIDA!

Greetings from Our Executive Director

I hope all CIDA families and friends are enjoying a wonderful summer! CIDA is preparing exciting events and programs for Fall 2023, including the 2023 Gala, Art Festival, CoSpire Career program, and new parent training programs!

We changed the format of this year’s Very Special Art Festival to open opportunities for wider audience participation, so please watch out for the email containing the instructions. We also successfully delivered two days of Housing Webinars in collaboration with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). In August, we will continue our information sessions regarding independent living resources for those who do not have OPWDD eligibility. So please stay tuned for our email blasts!

Enjoy a safe and happy summer!

Young Seh Bae, Ph.D.
Executive Director

What’s Up at CIDA

BE READY FOR CIDA’S VERY SPECIAL ART FESTIVAL 2023, “COLOR THE WORLD”

CIDA is kicking off the 2023 Very Special Art Festival soon! The theme for this year’s Art Contest is “Color the World” to celebrate the creativity, diversity and resilience of the CIDA community and our young artists’ unique visions and imaginations. This year, art contestants can submit their completed arts to CIDA Community Center between August 14 – 19. The award ceremony and art exhibition will be held at St. John’s University on September 23. Admission is free. Please stay tuned for more information!

CoSpire, Career Readiness Program Accepts New Applicants!

CoSpire, CIDA’s workforce development program is currently recruiting for new trainees! Following the successful job placements of our past trainees, we are now seeking new young adults to join us starting in late August. Over a period of 4 months, many participants will learn new skills, gain valuable experiences and find a career. Even after the Training period ends, we will continue to maintain support to find jobs and independent living resources. We are eagerly awaiting applications from young adults between 18- 40 years old, who are seeking employment opportunities and valuable experiences and career opportunities. For more detailed information, please refer to the details provided below.
https://cidainfo.com/workforce-development-programs-2/

OPWDD Housing Presentations

CIDA invited the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to present the housing program available for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During the two-day sessions, more than 600 people received important information for housing and independent living options. CIDA will continue to communicate with the OPWDD Housing Team to answer questions regarding housing options for persons with developmental disabilities. The presentation slides, housing glossary, and session videos are available here: https://cidainfo.com/opwddhousingresources/

Free Adult Social Skills Sessions

CIDA starts the bi-weekly adult social group on Saturdays starting July 29. The target audience are persons with disabilities (18 years and older). The program is free (participants pay for their own lunch) and run by CIDA volunteer groups. CIDA will start this project in a small group setting. Registration begins July 17 through KakaoTalk and email.

Have you ever visited our CIDA website resources page?

Have you ever visited the “Information and Resources” page on our CIDA website? We have made significant updates regarding ‘NYC Language Access and DOE Forms’. Click here to download the necessary forms you need! Our “Information and Resources” page is constantly updated for the convenience of parents. Please check it out and make good use of it!