State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) Table of Contents Part I: Assurances Section 1: Legal Basis and Certifications Section 2: SPIL Development Section 3: Independent Living Services Section 4: Eligibility Section 5: Staffing Requirements Section 6: Fiscal Control and Fund Accounting Section 7: Recordkeeping, Access and Reporting Section 8: Protection, Use and Release of Personal Information Section 9: Signatures Part II: Narrative Section 1: Goals, Objectives and Activities Section 2: Scope, Extent, and Arrangements of Services Section 3: Design for the Statewide Network of Centers Section 4: Designated State Unit (DSU) Section 5: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) Section 6: Service Provider Requirements Section 7: Evaluation Section 8: State-Imposed Requirements Part I: Assurances Section 1: Legal Basis and Certifications 1.1 The designated State unit (DSU) eligible to submit the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL or the plan) and authorized under State law to perform the functions of the State under the State Independent Living Services (SILS) and Centers for Independent Living (CIL) programs. Florida Department of Education Division of Vocational Rehabilitation 1.2 The separate State agency eligible to submit the plan and authorized under State law to provide vocational rehabilitation (VR) services to individuals who are blind. Florida Department of Education Division of Blind Services 1.3 The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) that meets the requirements of section 705 of the Act and is authorized to perform the functions outlined in section 705(c) of the Act in the State. Florida Independent Living Council, Inc. 1.4 The DSU and, if applicable, the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, and the SILC are authorized to jointly develop, sign and submit this SPIL on behalf of the State, and have adopted or otherwise formally approved the SPIL. Yes 1.5 The DSU, and, if applicable, the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, may legally carry out each provision of the plan and will comply with all applicable Federal statutes and regulations in effect with respect to the three-year period it receives funding under the SPIL. Yes 1.6 The SPIL is the basis for State operation and administration of the program. All provisions of the SPIL are consistent with State law. Yes 1.7 The representative of the DSU and, if applicable, of the separate State agency authorized to provide VR services to individuals who are blind, who has the authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the SPIL and to submit the SPIL jointly with the SILC chairperson is Bill Palmer, Director and Joyce Hildreth, Director. Section 2: SPIL Development 2.1 The plan shall be reviewed and revised not less than once every three years, to ensure the existence of appropriate planning, financial support and coordination, and other assistance to appropriately address, on a statewide and comprehensive basis, the needs in the State for: * The provision of State independent living services; * The development and support of a statewide network of centers for independent living; * Working relationships between programs providing independent living services and independent living centers, the vocational rehabilitation program established under title I, and other programs providing services for individuals with disabilities. Yes 2.2 The DSU and SILC conduct public meetings to provide all segments of the public, including interested groups, organizations and individuals, an opportunity to comment on the State plan prior to its submission to the Commissioner and on any revisions to the approved State plan. Yes 2.3 The DSU and SILC establish and maintain a written description of procedures for conducting public meetings in accordance with the following requirements. The DSU and SILC shall provide: * appropriate and sufficient notice of the public meetings; * reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication in the conduct of the public meetings, including providing sign language interpreters and audio-loops; and * public meeting notices, written material provided prior to or at the public meetings, and the approved State plan in accessible formats for individuals who rely on alternative modes of communication. Yes 2.4 At the public meetings to develop the State plan, the DSU and SILC identify those provisions in the SPIL that are State-imposed requirements beyond what would be required to comply with the regulations in 34 CFR parts 364, 365, 366, and 367. Yes 2.5 The DSU will seek to incorporate into, and describe in, the State plan any new methods or approaches for the provision of IL services to older individuals who are blind that are developed under a project funded under chapter 2 of title VII of the Act and that the DSU determines to be effective. Yes 2.6 The DSU and SILC actively consult, as appropriate, in the development of the State plan with the director of the Client Assistance Program (CAP) authorized under section 112 of the Act. Yes Section 3: Independent Living Services 3.1 The State, directly or through grants or contracts, will provide IL services with Federal, State, or other funds Yes 3.2 Independent living services shall be provided to individuals with significant disabilities in accordance with an independent living plan mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff member of the service provider and the individual, unless the individual signs a waiver stating that such a plan is unnecessary. Yes 3.3 All service providers will use formats that are accessible to notify individuals seeking or receiving IL services under chapter 1 of title VII about: * the availability of the CAP authorized by section 112 of the Act; * the purposes of the services provided under the CAP; and * how to contact the CAP. Yes 3.4 Participating service providers meet all applicable State licensure or certification requirements. Yes Section 4: Eligibility 4.1 Any individual with a significant disability, as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b), is eligible for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs authorized under chapter 1 of title VII of the Act. Any individual may seek information about IL services under these programs and request referral to other services and programs for individuals with significant disabilities, as appropriate. The determination of an individual's eligibility for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs meets the requirements of 34 CFR 364.51. Yes 4.2 Service providers apply eligibility requirements without regard to age, color, creed, gender, national origin, race, religion or type of significant disability of the individual applying for IL services. Yes 4.3 Service providers do not impose any State or local residence requirement that excludes any individual who is present in the State and who is otherwise eligible for IL services from receiving IL services. Yes Section 5: Staffing Requirements 5.1 Service provider staff includes personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of centers. Yes 5.2 To the maximum extent feasible, a service provider makes available personnel able to communicate: * with individuals with significant disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication, such as manual communication, nonverbal communication, nonverbal communication devices, Braille or audio tapes, and who apply for or receive IL services under title VII of the Act; and * in the native languages of individuals with significant disabilities whose English proficiency is limited and who apply for or receive IL services under title VII of the Act. Yes 5.3 Service providers establish and maintain a program of staff development for all classes of positions involved in providing IL services and, if appropriate, in administering the CIL program. The staff development programs emphasize improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of and practice in the IL philosophy. Yes 5.4 All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with significant disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of individuals with disabilities under section 503 of the Act. Yes Section 6: Fiscal Control and Fund Accounting 6.1 All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will comply with applicable EDGAR fiscal and accounting requirements and will adopt those fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for those funds. Yes Section 7: Recordkeeping, Access and Reporting 7.1 In addition to complying with applicable EDGAR recordkeeping requirements, all recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will maintain records that fully disclose and document: * the amount and disposition by the recipient of that financial assistance; * The total cost of the project or undertaking in connection with which the financial assistance is given or used; * the amount of that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other sources; * compliance with the requirements of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act and Part 364 of the regulations; and * other information that the Commissioner determines to be appropriate to facilitate an effective audit. Yes 7.2 With respect to the records that are required by 34 CFR 364.35, all recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will submit reports that the Commissioner determines to be appropriate. Yes 7.3 All recipients of financial assistance under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will provide access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General, or any of their duly authorized representatives, to the records listed in 34 CFR 364.37 for the purpose of conducting audits, examinations, and compliance reviews. Yes Section 8: Protection, Use, and Release of Personal Information 8.1 Each service provider will adopt and implement policies and procedures to safeguard the confidentiality of all personal information, including photographs and lists of names in accordance with the requirements of 34 CFR 364.56(a)(1-6). Yes Section 9: Signatures As the authorized signatories, we will sign, date and retain in the files of the state agency(ies) and the Statewide Independent Living Council the Part I: Assurances, 1-8, and the separate Certification of Lobbying forms ED-80-0013 (available in MS Word and PDF formats) for the state independent living program (Part B) and the centers for independent living program (Part C). The effective date of this SPIL is October 1, 2010. Section 9: Signature for SILC Chairperson Name Rose Lee Archer Title President Signed Yes Date signed 06/30/2010 Section 9: Signature for DSU Director Name Bill Palmer Title Director Signed Yes Date signed 06/18/2010 Section 9: Signature for Separate State Agency for Individuals Who Are Blind Is there a Separate State Agency for Individuals Who Are Blind - Yes Name Joyce Hildreth Title Director Signed Yes Date signed 06/28/2010 Part II: Narrative Section 1: Goals, Objectives and Activities 1.1 Goals and Mission Describe the overall goals and mission of the State's IL programs and services. The SPIL must address the goals and mission of both the SILS and the CIL programs, including those of the State agency for individuals who are blind as they relate to the parts of the SPIL administered by that agency. Goal Name: Community Integration Goal Description: Promote community integration and self-sufficiency via consumer-controlled, community-based services that are integrated and accountable. Goal Name: Housing Goal Description: Increase accessible, affordable and integrated housing options in Florida. Goal Name: Youth Transition Goal Description: Promote Community Integration via Youth Transition. Goal Name: Minority Outreach Goal Description: Increase the population of ethnic and racial minorities served by the Centers for Independent Living. Goal Name: Health and Safety Goal Description: Increase access to health care and safety for people with disabilities. Goal Name: Employment Goal Description: Increase access to employment by eliminating systemic barriers and expanding opportunities for economic self-sufficiency. 1.2 Objectives 1.2A. Specify the objectives to be achieved and the time frame for achieving them. Goal(s) from Section 1.1 Objective to be achieved Time frame start date Time frame end date Community integration Objective 1A: Advocate for an increase in general revenue funding for all Medicaid waiver services to reduce the waiting list. Strategy - Identify and collaborate with five local and statewide organizations supporting an end to the waiting list. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida Strategy - Mobilize local and statewide organizations to contact their legislators personally, by phone, fax, and e-mail to increase awareness of harmful impact on unserved families. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida Strategy - Identify and educate 50 families of unserved people with disabilities about individual and systems advocacy. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida Strategy - Create a position paper supporting an end to the waiting list and post on the Council website. Participating party(ies) include - The position paper will be prepared in collaboration with the Centers and posted on the Council's website. Strategy - Establish and maintain a blog on waiting list issues. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Community integration Objective 1B: Collaborate with organizations and agencies in Florida to encourage increased participation by citizens with disabilities in the electoral process. Strategy - Expand the Council Website to provide a portal to inform voters with disabilities about their voting rights and voting accessibility. Participating party(ies) include - The Council in collaboration with the Centers. Strategy - Provide disability sensitivity training to poll worker staff. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, and Disability Resource Center Strategy - Facilitate the registration of at least 100 persons with disabilities statewide as Florida voters during the first year to establish a baseline and increase registration by five percent each year of the State Plan for Independent Living. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Increase the number of council members who are poll workers. Participating party(ies) include - The Council 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Community integration Objective 1C: Advocate for accessible transportation and pedestrian access in the Center catchment areas. Strategy - Participate in local transportation Disadvantaged Committee meetings and other transportation advocacy activities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, Disability Resource Center, the CIL of Southwest Florida, and Council members (Council members participate in and report on local activities at no expense to the Council) Strategy - Report Council member involvement in local transportation advocacy at Full Council meetings. Participating party(ies) include - Council members (Council members participate in and report on local activities at no expense to the Council) 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Community integration Objective 1D: Promote retention of the Florida accessibility requirements in the Accessibility Code. Strategy - Participate in meetings and/or activities of the Florida Building Commission. Participating party(ies) include - The DSU, Disability Resource Center, the CIL of Southwest Florida, and CIL Disability Resource Center Strategy - Promote gender neutral access to family restrooms in new or altered construction. Participating party(ies) include - The DSU, the Council Youth Advisory Council, the CIL of Southwest Florida, and CIL Disability Resource Center 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Housing Objective 2A: Increase access to publicly funded housing for persons with disabilities. Strategy - Identify five local and statewide organizations supporting increased housing options and educate them about the lack of housing for persons with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Create a position paper on accessible, affordable, integrated housing options for dissemination to housing developers, county officials, architects, and community development corporations statewide. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, and CIL Disability Resource Center Strategy - Meet with local representatives of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to learn what disability advocates can do to advocate for increased housing options in their service area. Participating party(ies) include - the CIL of Southwest Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Promote the creation and renovation of housing by builders. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of Southwest Florida, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Seek membership to serve on local and statewide housing coalitions, commissions, committees, and alliances to influence policy and funding decisions. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the Coalition for Independent Living Options, and the CIL of Central Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Youth Transition Objective 3A: Increase involvement of youth with disabilities in the independent living movement by five percent (baseline 2008-2009) over the lifetime of the State Plan for Independent Living as reflected by the combined 704 Reports. Strategy - Baseline data will be collected from the 2008-2009 704 Reports. The number of youth who receive services will be compared to the 2013 704 data collected by the CILs. Participating party(ies) include - The DSU Strategy - Provide 100 students in post-secondary educational institutions with one-to-one tutoring, advocacy and support services to ensure appropriate accommodations and effective communication to ensure graduation during the first year of the Plan and increase by five percent each subsequent year of the Plan. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Centers will encourage collaboration with local business and participation in Disability Mentoring Day. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, and the CIL of Central Florida Strategy - Educate transition specialists in the school system about resources for programs for students with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, and the CIL of Central Florida Strategy - Coordinate a youth forum to educate young people with disabilities statewide about self and systems advocacy, and the independent living movement. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Establish a FILC Youth Advisory Council to assist in the evaluation of Plan Goals, Objectives and Strategies during at least two meeting annually in conjunction with the Full Council meetings. Participating party(ies) include - The Council Strategy- Increase outreach efforts to promote recreational opportunities for youth with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL Disability Resource Center 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Minority Outreach Objective 4A: Increase by five percent the population of racial and ethnic minorities served by the CILs throughout the course of the State Plan for Independent Living using a baseline number of those reported on the 2008-2009 704 Report. Strategy - Establish baseline data from 2009 combined 704 reports. Participating party(ies) include - The DSU Strategy - Participate in ten resource fairs, health fairs, disability celebration days, or other events to reach out to minorities with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Print and distribute brochures/flyers/newsletters or other publications showing ethnic and racial minorities that are substantially present in designated service areas. Participating party(ies) include - The Council, the CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, the CIL of Central Florida, and Self-Reliance CIL 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Health and Safety Objective 5A: Advocate for the elimination of Medicaid Reform as it is currently implemented in Florida. Strategy - Join statewide Medicaid Advocacy Coalition as a collaborative partner and participate in teleconferences to ensure that the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) provides effective communication and alternative formats for people with disabilities if expansion of Medicaid Reform is proposed. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida and the CIL of Southwest Florida Strategy - Participate in creating and disseminating a position paper on the impact of Medicaid Reform on people with disabilities to elected officials, AHCA, and AHCA-s vendors outlining the ADA obligations that must be met in any expansion effort. Participating party(ies) include - The Council and the CIL of Southwest Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Health and Safety Objective 5B: Promote the passage of Medicaid Buy-In in Florida. Strategy - Create and disseminate position paper on Medicaid Buy In to key stakeholders in designated service areas, including a cover letter asking for their support. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of Southwest Florida and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Participate in Medicaid Buy In advocacy organization teleconferences and their systems advocacy actions. Participating party(ies) include - The Council, the CIL of South Florida, the CIL of Southwest Florida and Self-Reliance CIL 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Health and Safety Objective 5C: Collaborate with state and local emergency management officials to promote safety for individuals with disabilities before, during and after disasters. Strategy - Promote collaboration between the Centers, Councils, the DSUs and the Division of Emergency Management to assure continuity of operations, services and mutual support during natural or other disasters. Participating party(ies) include - Self-Reliance CIL and CIL Disability Resource Center Strategy - Increase the number of commercial establishments allowing post-disaster charging of batteries for power wheelchairs and other assistive devices. Participating party(ies) include - The Council Strategy - Educate 25 consumers about their rights under the ADA in disasters and educate the Red Cross and Emergency Management about their obligations. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida Strategy - Increase compliance with the ADA by the Red Cross and Emergency Management. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Health and Safety Objective 5D: Increase knowledge about domestic violence, sexual assault and crimes against persons with disabilities. Strategy - Develop a Power Point presentation and accompanying materials to educate Council members and Center staff about domestic violence, sexual assault and crimes against persons with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, and disAbility Solutions for Independent Living Strategy - Add Power Point presentation and educational materials to the Council website. Participating party(ies) include - The Council 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Health and Safety Objective 5E: Support programs and services that provide the maximum opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community. Strategy - Promote implementation of Money Follows the Person in Florida. Participating party(ies) include - disAbility Solutions for Independent Living Strategy - Promote passage and implementation of the Community Choice Act (CCA). Participating party(ies) include - disAbility Solutions for Independent Living Strategy - Promote and participate in implementation of nursing home transition opportunities in Florida. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, disAbility Solutions for Independent Living, and the CIL of Central Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Employment Objective 6A: Provide financial literacy training/services for consumers with disabilities. Strategy Educate 50 consumers statewide annually regarding financial literacy/benefit planning in year one of the Plan and increase the number by five percent annually. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida and the CIL of Central Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 Employment Objective 6B: Increase employment of people with disabilities by 10 percent. (This objective will be achieved over the three years of the Plan. It will be measured using statistical data from -Cornell University, 2008 Disability Status Report of Florida- -University of Wisconsin 2010,- -Florida County Health Rankings and Cornell University ILR School Employment and Disability Institute,- and other statistical information identified by the Council Evaluation Committee.) Strategy - Participate in monthly Business Leadership Network meetings and sponsored activities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Advocate for increased incentives for businesses to hire people with disabilities. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida and Self-Reliance CIL Strategy - Educate 570 consumers about their employment rights under Title I of the ADA. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, and the CIL of Central Florida Strategy - Educate 90 employers about their legal obligations under Title I of the ADA. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, and the CIL of Central Florida Strategy - Sponsor or participate in Job Fairs in designated service area and distribute information about the obligations of employers under Title I of the ADA. Participating party(ies) include - The CIL of South Florida, Self-Reliance CIL, and the CIL of Central Florida 10/01/2010 09/30/2012 1.2 Objectives 1.2B Describe the steps planned regarding outreach to populations in the State that are unserved or underserved by programs under title VII, including minority groups and urban and rural populations. * Identify the populations to be designated for targeted outreach efforts CIL Disability Resource Center: Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing; with speech impairments; who are deaf/blind. Disability Resource Center: Individuals with cognitive disabilities; with mental illness and emotional disabilities; with physical disabilities including paraplegia and quadriplegia; with hearing impairments Ability 1st: Low income individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities CIL of North Central Florida: Individuals with visual impairments; with developmental disabilities Independent Living Resource Center: Individuals with visual disabilities; who are deaf disAbility Solutions for Independent Living: Individuals who are Native American; Hispanic; Russian CIL in Central Florida: Individuals who are Hispanic CIL in Central Florida - Lakeland: Individuals who are Hispanic Caring and Sharing CIL: Individuals who are African American; who are Hispanic Self-Reliance Center for Independent Living: Individuals with visual disabilities; who are deaf and hard of hearing; who need barrier removal to access their homes and community Space Coast CIL: Individuals from ethnic minority groups; Youth and -baby-boomers"; Individuals with cognitive impairments; with sensory impairments; living in rural areas SunCoast CIL: Youth with developmental delays; Individuals from minority populations CIL of Southwest Florida: Based on stakeholder surveys and community partner input annually we will identify and update our strategic plan to better meet the needs of underserved populations. Coalition for Independent Living Options: Parents of children with disabilities regarding educational issues; Adults with disabilities of all types CIL of Broward: Individuals who are Haitian; who are Hispanic CIL of South Florida: Individuals who are Hispanic; Migrant farm workers; Gays and lesbians CIL of the Keys: Individuals who are homeless Hispanic and African American * Identify the geographic areas (i.e., communities) in which the targeted populations reside CIL Disability Resource Center: Extreme rural Escambia (Century Molino); Santa Rosa County (Northern parts of Milton Jay); Okaloosa (Niceville Laurel Hill); Walton County (Freeport Defuniak Springs Paxton) Disability Resource Center: Bay Calhoun Franklin Gulf Holmes Jackson Liberty and Washington Counties Ability 1st : Gadsden Taylor and Madison Counties CIL of North Central Florida: Northern portion of area that includes: Columbia Dixie Hamilton; Southern portion that includes: Lake and Sumter. Independent Living Resource Center: People with disabilities who need barrier removal to participate in programs or services such as rural communities without sidewalks disAbility Solutions for Independent Living: Near the St John-s River on the far west side of Volusia CIL in Central Florida: Osceola County CIL in Central Florida - Lakeland: DeSoto County Caring and Sharing CIL: Eastern Pasco County Self-Reliance CIL: Ruskin and Wimauma; Sun City Space Coast CIL: Rural and unserved/underserved areas of Brevard and Indian River Counties SunCoast CIL: South sections of Sarasota County and eastern sections of Manatee County; Myakka City and other areas of Manatee County CIL of Southwest Florida: Based on current media reports and information and referral logs the Center will ascertain the geographic rural areas that need great outreach on a weekly basis Coalition for Independent Living Options: Belle Glade; Pahokee; South Bay; Okeechobee County CIL of Broward: Fort Lauderdale; Southwest Broward; Southeast Broward CIL of South Florida: Hialeah; Westchester; Kendall/Deep South Dade; Miami Beach CIL of the Keys: County-wide with a greater concentration of homeless in lower keys * Describe how the needs of individuals with significant disabilities from minority group backgrounds will be addressed CIL Disability Resource Center: The Center will conduct outreach to minority churches and participate in minority-sponsored civic groups and/or community events. Disability Resource Center: Since the Center is consumer driven, the needs of the consumer will be addressed through a needs assessment of the consumer and community. Ability 1st: Outreach efforts by Center staff into the community will identify needs. This should include someone (staff or volunteer) that speaks Spanish for the residents of Gadsden County. CIL of North Central Florida: The Center will take a consumer driven approach by conducting a needs assessment and public forums. Independent Living Resource Center: The Center strives to be consumer driven by what the needs of the community are and by working collaboratively with partner agencies. The Center could expand services by conducting a focus group at the Center or at an off site location within the rural county. disAbility Solutions for Independent Living: Outreach is the largest focus. The Center plans on participating in the Native American Festival next year and have partnered with the National VISION program. The Center is participating in the Hispanic Exhibit to begin outreach to that population as a targeted effort. The Center will develop a plan to reach the Russian community in Flagler if additional funds become available. CIL in Central Florida: Center has recently hired an Hispanic Housing/Accessibility Specialist who will be doing outreach to this population. CIL in Central Florida - Lakeland: The Lakeland office does not currently have a Spanish speaking staff person. The Center would recruit for such a person. Caring and Sharing CIL: The Center will identify communities in both counties which have high ethnic populations. The Center will increase outreach efforts to these areas and to eastern Pasco at the specific community level and through collaborations with other local agencies who frequently deal with persons with disabilities. The Center will seek cooperative agreements with other agencies or community organizations for space donated to provide services and for their assistance at outreach efforts. The Center will seek qualified candidates who may also be bilingual to better reach certain communities. Self-Reliance CIL: The Center will conduct outreach, and services will be mostly consumer driven based on the needs of the community and collaboration with partner agencies. Space Coast CIL: The Center attends health, community, and housing fairs directed to serve the minority communities, each held in the three most underserved areas of Brevard County covering Titusville, Cocoa and Melbourne/Palm Bay areas. The Center has marketed all services to include home modifications for those with disabilities of very low or low income needs. SunCoast CIL: The Center will provide services based on each consumer-s individual needs, according to their independent living plan. CIL of Southwest Florida: The Center will utilize volunteers and community partners to help locate and serve minority groups in the area. Coalition for Independent Living Options: The Center has a few bi-lingual staff who translate Spanish and one staff who can speak to the Creole speaking population. CIL of Broward: If additional funds were available, the Center would develop partnerships with Haitian outreach agencies that can assist in identifying Haitians with disabilities that need services. The Center would also partner with Haitian outreach agencies to provide Creole interpreters, assistive devices and durable medical equipment, independent living skills classes, legal services, and accessible housing. CIL of South Florida: Currently, 91 percent of the individuals the Center serves are minorities with significant disabilities. First, successful outreach to minority populations means having an office where they can be conveniently served in their community. Second, another essential feature is hiring a qualified person with a disability who reflects the dominant racial/ethnic characteristics of the community. Third, the Center would extend the four core services to the population in that community and, if funding allows, hire a job placement specialist since employment is likely to be the most needed service and the biggest barrier to independence. CIL of the Keys: The Center has added two employees in the past two years who are bi-lingual. Other staff are working on learning basic Spanish. The Center has translated some of our materials into Spanish and are working on others. As a result, the Center has seen an increase in number of Hispanic people coming to the Center for services. The Center has had minimal success with outreach to African Americans. They have added a board member who is from an African American neighborhood and who is well respected in that neighborhood and continue outreach at health fairs and community events. 1.3 Financial Plan Describe in sections 1.3A and 1.3B, below, the financial plan for the use of Federal and non-Federal funds to meet the SPIL objectives. 1.3A Financial Plan Tables Complete the financial plan tables covering years 1, 2 and 3 of this SPIL. For each funding source, provide estimated dollar amounts anticipated for the applicable uses. The financial plan table should include only those funding sources and amounts that are intended to support one or more of the objectives identified in section 1.2 of the SPIL. To the extent possible, the tables and narratives must reflect the applicable financial information from centers for independent living. Refer to the SPIL Instructions for additional information about completing the financial tables and narratives. Year 1 - 2011 Approximate funding amounts and uses Sources SILC resource plan IL services General CIL operations Other SPIL activities Title VII Funds Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part B $30,078 $176,930 $1,063,837 Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C $8,899,816 Title VII Funds Chapter 2, OIB (only those provided by the OIB grantee to further a SPIL objective) Other Federal funds - Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion) $365,742 Other Federal funds - other $3,472,193 Non-Federal funds - State funds $1,232,004 Total 395820 176930 14667850 0 Year 2 - 2012 Approximate funding amounts and uses Sources SILC resource plan IL services General CIL operations Other SPIL activities Title VII Funds Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part B $30,078 $176,930 $863,837 Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C $8,899,816 Title VII Funds Chapter 2, OIB (only those provided by the OIB grantee to further a SPIL objective) Other Federal funds - Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion) $365,742 Other Federal funds - other $3,472,193 Non-Federal funds - State funds $1,232,004 Total 395820 176930 14467850 0 Year 3 - 2013 Approximate funding amounts and uses Sources SILC resource plan IL services General CIL operations Other SPIL activities Title VII Funds Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part B $30,078 $176,930 $863,837 Title VII Funds Chapter 1, Part C $8,899,816 Title VII Funds Chapter 2, OIB (only those provided by the OIB grantee to further a SPIL objective) Other Federal funds - Sec. 101(a)(18) of the Act (Innovation and Expansion) $365,742 Other Federal funds - other $3,472,193 Non-Federal funds - State funds $1,232,004 Total 395820 176930 14467850 0 1.3B Financial Plan Narratives 1.3B(1) Specify how the part B, part C and chapter 2 (Older Blind) funds, if applicable, will further the SPIL objectives. For 2010-11 Florida will maximize its funding resources to support the State Plan for Independent Living by using the following resources: For 2010-11, the Florida Independent Living Council, Inc. will be funded from two sources - Title I, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Innovation and Expansion) and from Title VII, Part B funds provided by the Division of Blind Services. The funds are to be used to support the Council duties as outlined in Section 705, Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and to complete the assigned State Plan for Independent Living objectives. For 2010-11, Centers for Independent Living will be funded from four sources - These include Title VII, Part B; Title VII, Part C; Social Security Reimbursements; and state General Revenue. Funds provided to the Centers through the Memorandums of Agreement may be used to complete their assigned State Plan for Independent Living Objectives. The Centers have the flexibility to determine how they will spend Part C, Part B and other sources of funding to carry out State Plan for Independent Living objectives. Funding for future years will be based on documentation of need, the availability of Social Security reimbursements, and/or state and federal appropriations. At present, it is anticipated that funding for future years will, at a minimum, continue at the same levels. 1.3B(2) Describe efforts to coordinate Federal and State funding for centers and IL services, including the amounts, sources and purposes of the funding to be coordinated. Florida successfully requested and received, state General Revenue funds to support services delivered by the Centers for Independent Living. The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation funds state independent living program staff members from program income. The State Plan for Independent Living objectives have been assigned to the Designated State Unit, the Council and Centers so that each party understands its responsibilities. The Council: Complete requirements outlined in Section 705, of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and to achieve assigned objectives in the State Plan for Independent Living. Council: Innovation and Expansion $365,742 Council: Part B from Blind Services (17 percent) $30,078 Total: $395,820 Centers for Independent Living: To expand services as outlined in Part C of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended and to achieve the assigned objectives in the State Plan for Independent Living. State General Revenue $1,232,004 Social Security Reimbursements $3,472,193 Title VII Part B $863,837 Total State Agreements with CILs $5,568,034 1.3B(3) Describe any in-kind resources including plant, equipment or services to be provided in support of the SILC resource plan, IL services, general CIL operations and/or other SPIL objectives. The DSU provides no in-kind services to the CILs or SILC. 1.3B(4) Provide any additional information about the financial plan, as appropriate. Of the State General Revenue ($1,232,004), a total of $95,982 is used to match the Part B award to the Centers. In the first year of the financial plan, the Part B funds include $200,000 in remaining ARRA funds. Those funds will be expended by the end of the first fiscal year, and do not appear in the second or third year. The Part C figures included in the financial plan also include $5,131,344 in ARRA funds. The DSU distributes funds to the Centers via a funding formula that was included in the 2005-2007 State Plan for Independent Living. At that time, the formula was subjected to public review. A summary of the methodology is available on the DSU website (www.rehabworks.org/IL). The 2010 Florida Legislature has required that the funding for 2010 - 2011 be distributed based on the 2005-2007 formula. Any future modifications will be made in consultation with the Council and the Centers. The DSU will hold at least one public hearing on any modifications to the formula, and will provide other opportunities for public comment. 1.4 Compatibility with Chapter 1 of Title VII and the CIL Work Plans 1.4A Describe how the SPIL objectives are consistent with and further the purpose of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act as stated in section 701 of the Act and 34 CFR 364.2. This State Plan for Independent Living reflects the State's commitment to carry out an Independent Living Plan under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Chapter 1), and also the State's planning and implementation activities related to the plan. The State Plan objectives provide the opportunity for people with disabilities in the state of Florida to maximize opportunities which allow for integration and full inclusion in the mainstream of society in all aspects of daily life. This is accomplished by promoting community integration via consumer-controlled community-based services and advocacy in the areas of transportation, housing, voting, emergency management, access to health care and youth transition. The Council, Centers and the Designated State Unit will collaborate in these efforts. 1.4B Describe how, in developing the SPIL objectives, the DSU and the SILC considered and incorporated, where appropriate, the priorities and objectives established by centers for independent living under section 725(c)(4) of the Act. The three year State Plan goals and objectives were developed in conjunction with the Centers for Independent Living, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Division of Blind Services. The Council-s Planning Committee coordinated the development of the goals and objectives. The Committee membership consists of two Center directors, five Council members and representatives from the Designated State Units. There are currently sixteen Centers for Independent Living in the state of Florida. A group of Center executive directors/staff members participated in several conference calls to review the current State Plan goals and to identify activities that the Centers could develop for inclusion in the next State Plan. Participants offered ideas for activities that the Centers could develop for inclusion in the 2010-2013 State Plan. Following the initial brainstorming, each item on the list was discussed in greater detail and the potential role of the Centers was discussed. After the list of issues was developed, consideration was given whether the activities listed fit into one of the four goals of the current State Plan. Modifications and additions to the four goals were also proposed, and each activity was listed under a current, revised or proposed goal. Finally, each Center was given an opportunity to volunteer to be part of a smaller group that would develop the activities into proposed objectives for possible inclusion in the State Plan. Those preliminary ideas were provided to the Council Planning Committee, and the Centers that have volunteered to work on them will do so with support/facilitation of the DSU. Other Centers sent their consumer survey reports outlining the concerns of consumers and what services are needed in their area to the Planning Committee. The Council conducted one formal public forum in April 2010 in Tallahassee, Florida and placed the Draft State Plan on the Council and DVR websites for comment. The goals and objectives are on target with the needs of persons with disabilities in Florida as indicated by information provided by the CIL Consumer Satisfaction and Needs Assessments as well as from the statewide Centers- Focus Groups. 1.5 Cooperation, Coordination, and Working Relationships Among Various Entities Describe the steps that will be taken to maximize the cooperation, coordination and working relationships among the SILS program, the SILC, and centers; the DSU, other State agencies represented on the SILC and other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues; and other public and private entities determined to be appropriate by the SILC. The description must identify the entities with which the DSU and the SILC will cooperate and coordinate. The Council, Centers and the Designated State Units have together coordinated the entire development of the three-year state plan through teleconferences, face-to-face meetings, Center focus groups and one formal public forum. Florida-s rehabilitation program is divided into a general program and a program that serves individuals who are blind. The Council continues to hold a voting membership on the Florida Rehabilitation Council (FRC) and attends their meetings regularly. The Council assists with the Designated State Unit State Plan Public Forums and coordinates activities with Florida Rehabilitation Council. The Council also continues to have representation with the Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind. Through various collaborations, such as the Florida Rehabilitation Council and Florida Housing Coalition, the Council is being invited to speak to organizations serving persons with disabilities, therefore increasing its recognition and collaboration throughout the State. The Council also participates in a number of other activities. 1.6 Coordination of Services Describe how IL services funded under chapter 1 of title VII of the Act will be coordinated with and complement other services to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State, and local programs, including the OIB program authorized by chapter 2 of title VII of the Act, that provide IL- or VR-related services. The Council does not provide direct services to consumers. The Centers provide services in specific geographical areas. The agreement between the Centers and Vocational Rehabilitation requires them to provide services in a coordinated effort with community-based and other service providers. Centers implement this requirement based on local priorities and relationships. Generally, the Centers conduct regular needs assessments to set the priorities for independent living services. The Centers participate in a wide range of activities to coordinate with other organization to maximize resources for consumers and have a greater systemic impact. For instance: 1. Older Individuals who are Blind program - Centers coordinate services with local organizations that serve individuals who are blind to maximize opportunities for inclusion and resource sharing. 2. Special Education - The Centers collaborate with special education providers to assure that the independent living needs of students are met. Some collaborate to secure additional funding for High School/High Tech programs and many work with the schools to improve transition services for youth with disabilities. 3. Vocational Education - The Centers work with vocational education providers to enhance the educational opportunities for students with disabilities who are transitioning from high school to work. The collaboration also often includes local workforce development organizations. 4. Developmental Disabilities Services - Centers work with organizations that specialize in providing services to individuals with developmental disabilities to coordinate peer support, roommate matching and other services. 5. Public Health - The Centers collaborate closely with public health agencies because the public health system is one of the primary partners in the provision of special needs emergency shelters. The Centers are very involved in educating the public health system about the needs of individuals with disabilities during disasters, and working to improve service coordination, planning and communication throughout the year. 6. Mental Health - Much of the Centers' collaboration with mental health providers involve work on the needs of people who have disabilities and are homeless. The Centers collaborate on homeless coalitions and other organizations to maximize available services and to advocate for additional resources. 7. Housing - The need for affordable, accessible housing is critical to the Centers in Florida. The lack of housing is commonly identified as the main barrier to independent living. The Centers work with local coalitions to advocate for additional resources. They also work closely with local providers to build the partnerships necessary to assure that Center consumers with housing needs can quickly take advantage of any opportunities for housing alternatives arise. The Centers will collaborate with entities including the City of Tampa Public Housing Authority, the Hillsborough County Public Housing Authority, the City of Plant City, Carrfour Corporation, Coalition for the Homeless, Citrus Health, Miami Dade Housing Agency, Hialeah Housing Agency, Spinal Cord Living Assistance Development, Miami-Dade Housing Assistance Center, GoodWill of SouthWest Florida, the Commission on Affordable Housing, the Florida Supported Housing Coalition, the Palm Beach County Homeless and Housing Alliance, the South Florida Regional Homeless Awareness Council, the Homeless Advisory Board, the Palm Beach County emergency Shelter Grants Program Advisory Board, the Orlando Housing Authority, the Winter Park Housing Authority, the Housing Resource Development Center, the Central Florida Non-Profit Housing Roundtable, and other organizations that will be identified during as planning continues. 8. Transportation - Transportation is also typically identified as a major barrier to independent living. The Centers work closely with the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged, local policymakers, providers and consumer organizations to address the lack of transportation resources and to assure that the transportation options that are available meet the needs of consumers. 9. Veterans' Programs - The Centers are working to collaborate with veterans' programs to assist individuals transitioning into the community from a veterans' facility. The collaboration is intended to avoid duplication of services and to infuse the independent living philosophy into veterans' programs. 10. Social Security Programs - The Centers work closely with public health and benefits providers. The Centers collaborate in different ways, including provide benefits counseling, facilitating applications for consumers and working with organizations to promote the independent living philosophy. 11. Accessibility - The DSU, Council and Centers will work with the Florida Building Commission, the Paralyzed Veterans of Association of Florida, and other disability rights and business interests, on issues related to the Florida Accessibility Code. 12. Employment - The Centers will work with The Able Trust, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Business Leadership Networks and other organizations to improve employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Five Centers are Projects with Industry grant recipients. Two Centers operate Work Incentives and Planning Assistance Projects. Four Centers are Employment Networks. Several Centers provide employment, placement and other services to vocational rehabilitation customers, including those seeking self-employment opportunities. 13. Waiting list reduction - The Centers will collaborate with a variety of groups on reducing waiting lists for home and community based services, including: Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Family Care Council, Parent to Parent, National Organization to End Wait Lists, Network on Disabilities and other organizations. 14. Medicaid Buy-In - The Centers will collaborate with Partnership for Work and Health Care, a statewide coalition, on issues related to Medicaid Buy-In, local legislative delegations, Flagler and Volusia Exceptional StaSE Teams, Flagler and Volusia Transition Teams, Local Notification List Serve of Organizations that DSIL collaborates with.. 15. Medicaid reform - The Centers will collaborate with Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida Association of Centers for Independent Living, and other organizations on issues related to Medicaid reform. In the current service delivery climate, the Centers, Council and Designated State Units recognize that coordination of services and collaboration with both traditional and non-traditional partners is essential to meeting the independent living needs of consumers. The system is complex and the services cannot meet the large demand. Accordingly, to the extent that services are duplicated with other programs, it is necessary because no single organization or agency can meet all of the needs of Floridians with disabilities. 1.7 Independent Living Services for Individuals who are Older Blind Describe how the DSU seeks to incorporate into, and describe in, the State plan any new methods or approaches for the provision of IL services to older individuals who are blind that are developed under the Older Individuals who are Blind program and that the DSU determines to be effective. The Division of Blind Services representative will report outputs, outcomes and any new methods or approaches of service provision identified in their OIB contracts (Community Rehabilitation Programs) to the Council Planning and Evaluation Committees. These findings are utilized in the development of the objectives and monitoring tools utilized in the plan. Section 2: Scope, Extent, and Arrangements of Services 2.1 Scope and Extent 2.1A Check the appropriate boxes in the SPIL Instrument table indicating the types of IL services to be provided to meet the objectives identified in section 1.2 of this SPIL, and whether the services will be provided by the CILs or by the DSU (directly and/or through contract or grant). Table 2.1A: Independent living services Provided by the DSU (directly) Provided by the DSU (through contract and/or grant) Provided by the CILs (Not through DSU contracts/ grants) Core Independent Living Services - Information and referral No Yes Yes Core Independent Living Services - IL skills training No Yes Yes Core Independent Living Services - Peer counseling No Yes Yes Core Independent Living Services - Individual and systems advocacy No Yes Yes Counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services No Yes Yes Services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this Act and of the titles of this Act, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with significant disabilities) No Yes Yes Rehabilitation technology No Yes Yes Mobility training No Yes Yes Services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services No Yes Yes Personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services No Yes Yes Surveys, directories and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation, accessible transportation and other support services No Yes Yes Consumer information programs on rehabilitation and IL services available under this Act, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this Act No Yes Yes Education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities No Yes Yes Supported living No No Yes Transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation No Yes Yes Physical rehabilitation No No No Therapeutic treatment No Yes Yes Provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices No Yes Yes Individual and group social and recreational services No Yes Yes Training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with significant disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options No Yes Yes Services for children with significant disabilities No Yes Yes Services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with significant disabilities No Yes Yes Appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals with significant disabilities for similar services in the future No Yes Yes Community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities No Yes Yes Other necessary services not inconsistent with the Act No Yes Yes 2.1B Describe any service provision priorities, including types of services or populations, established for meeting the SPIL objectives identified in section 1.2. Service provision priorities included in the State Plan for Independent Living include; transportation, housing, youth transition, access to health care, voting rights, and community integration. Priority populations include racial and ethnic minorities and youth. DBS priority is the adjustment to blindness targeting elder Blind/Visually Impaired individuals whose priority is not a vocational outcome. 2.1C If the State allows service providers to charge consumers for the cost of services or to consider the ability of individual consumers to pay for the cost of IL services, specify the types of IL services for which costs may be charged and for which a financial need test may be applied, and describe how the State will ensure that: * Any consideration of financial need is applied uniformly so that all individuals who are eligible for IL services are treated equally; and * Written policies and consumer documentation required by 34 CFR 364.59(d) will be kept by the service provider. Indicate N/A if not applicable. N/A 2.2 Arrangements for State-Provided Services 2.2A If the DSU will provide any of the IL services identified in section 2.1A through grants or contractual arrangements with third parties, describe such arrangements. The Division of Blind Services utilizes flat rate contracts with sixteen Certified Rehabilitation Programs statewide. All contract services are negotiated and documented. There are no third party contracts. The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation enters into agreements with each member of the Network of Centers. 2.2B If the State contracts with or awards a grant to a center for the general operation of the center, describe how the State will ensure that the determination of an individual's eligibility for services from that center shall be delegated to the center. The Division of Blind Services, Community Rehabilitation Program contracts enables Certified Rehabilitation Professionals to enter data on a shared case management system. Contract vendors and Blind Services have shared eligibility determination documentation. Consumer records are reviewed periodically for compliance by Blind Services. The Division-s agreement with each Center requires the Center to determine and document the eligibility of each consumer seeking services. During periodic technical assistance reviews, consumer service records are reviewed to assure that eligibility determinations are made and documented. Section 3: Design for the Statewide Network of Centers 3.1 Existing Network Provide an overview of the existing network of centers, including non-Part C-funded centers that comply with the standards and assurances in section 725 (b) and (c) of the Act, and the geographic areas and populations currently served by the centers. The State has a statewide Network of Centers that complies with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act and meets the geographic requirements of the state. Florida has 67 counties, all of which are served by a Center. All of the Centers serve all eligible consumers. All Centers are required to meet the definition of a Center for Independent Living as stated in Section 702 and the standards and assurances set forth in Section 725 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. Other services identified by consumers in the area may be provided within the constraints of available funding. All Centers are subject to being monitored by the Designated State Unit and the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). Below is the listing of Centers for Independent Living in the state of Florida, the counties served by those Centers and the sources of funds included in the resource plan. 1. CIL Disability Resource Center - Pensacola, Florida Serves: Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 2. Disability Resource Center - Panama City, Florida Serves: Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, and Washington Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 3. Ability 1st - Tallahassee, Florida Serves: Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 4. CIL of North Central Florida - Gainesville, Florida Serves: Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Sumter, Suwannee, and Union Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 5. Independent Living Resource Center of Northeast Florida - Jacksonville, Florida Serves: Duval Baker, Clay, Nassau, and St. Johns Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 6. disAbility Solutions for Independent Living - Daytona Beach, Florida Serves: Flagler and Volusia Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 7. Center for Independent Living in Central Florida - Winter Park, Florida Serves: Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 8. Center for Independent Living in Central Florida - Lakeland, Florida Serves: Desoto, Hardee, Highlands, and Polk Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 9. Caring and Sharing Center for Independent Living - Largo, Florida Serves: Pasco and Pinellas Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 10. Self-Reliance Center for Independent Living - Tampa, Florida Serves: Hillsborough County Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 11. Space Coast Center for Independent Living - Cocoa Beach, Florida Serves: Brevard and Indian River Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 12. SunCoast Center for Independent Living - Sarasota, Florida Serves: Manatee and Sarasota Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 13. Center for Independent Living of Southwest Florida - Fort Myers, Florida Serves: Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 14. Coalition for Independent Living Options - West Palm Beach, Florida Serves: Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Counties Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 15. Center for Independent Living of Broward - Tamarac, Florida Serves: Broward County Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 16. Center for Independent Living of South Florida - Miami, Florida Serves: Miami-Dade County Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 17. Center for Independent Living of the Keys - Key Largo, Florida Serves: Monroe County Funding sources: State General Revenue, Social Security Reimbursement funds, and Title VII, Parts B and C 3.2 Expansion of Network Describe the design for the further expansion of the network, including identification of the unserved and underserved areas in the State and the order of priority for serving these areas as additional funding becomes available (beyond the required cost-of-living increase). All 67 counties in Florida are currently served by Centers. If additional Part C funds become available, the new Part C funds coming to the state of Florida will be divided between the existing Centers as negotiated between the Network of Centers and the Designated State Unit, in consultation with the Council. The State Plan identifies priorities for serving unserved and underserved populations including non-English speakers and youth with disabilities. In addition, each Center has identified priorities to meet local needs. A description of the funding methodology can be found at www.rehabworks.org/IL (Description of CIL Funding Methodologies). 3.3 Section 723 States Only 3.3A If the State follows an order of priorities for allocating funds among centers within a State that is different from what is outlined in 34 CFR 366.22, describe the alternate order of priority that the DSU director and the SILC chair have agreed upon. Indicate N/A if not applicable. N/A 3.3B Describe how the State policies, practices and procedures governing the awarding of grants to centers and the oversight of these centers are consistent with 34 CFR 366.37 and 366.38. N/A Section 4: Designated State Unit (DSU) 4.1 Administrative Support Services 4.1A Describe the administrative support services to be provided by the DSU for the SILS (Part B) program and, if the State is a Section 723 State, for the CIL (Part C) program. Refer to the SPIL Instructions for additional information about administrative support services. Vocational Rehabilitation enters into an agreement with each of the Centers. The agreements provide financial assistance to support the independent living services, planning, evaluation activities, financial management, personnel development and record keeping activities. Vocational Rehabilitation provides technical assistance to the Centers on programmatic and financial management issues, approves invoices and reports, and monitors the agreements. 4.1B Describe other DSU arrangements for the administration of the IL program, if any. The Division of Blind Services (OIB) Program enters into agreements with 16 CRP-s (Community Rehabilitation Programs) to provide the following adjustment to blindness services: Information and Referral, Home Management, Personal Management, Communication skills training, Orientation and Mobility skills training. Section 5: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) 5.1 Resource plan 5.1A Describe the resource plan prepared by the SILC in conjunction with the DSU for the provision of resources, including staff and personnel, made available under parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII, section 101(a)(18) of the Act, and from other public and private sources that may be necessary to carry out the functions of the SILC identified in section 705(c). The description must address the three years of this SPIL. * Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section. For more information click the icon. The Division of Blind Services, through a Cooperative Agreement with the State Independent Living Council, Inc. and Vocational Rehabilitation arrange for 17 percent of their Part B dollars to be diverted to Vocational Rehabilitation to assist the functions of the State Independent Living Council, Inc. Following is a brief description of the legal status and placement of the State Independent Living Council: The administrative offices for Council staff members are independent of both the Designated State Unit and all other state agencies, and the Council continues to strive for full autonomy in meeting its federal mandates. Funding is dispersed through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation through the Florida Department of Education. The State Independent Living Council, in conjunction with the DSUs, will prepare a Resource Plan for the provision of resources, including staff and personnel, rent, supplies, telephone expenses, travel, and other expenses that will be necessary to carry out the functions of the Council during the term of the State Plan for Independent Living. The Council will be responsible for the proper expenditure of funds and the use of resources it receives under the Council Resource Plan. No conditions or requirements are included in the Council Resource Plan that will compromise the independence of the Council. While assisting the State Independent Living Council in carrying out its duties under the State Plan for Independent Living, staff and other personnel assigned to the Council under the Council Resource Plan will not be assigned duties by the Designated State Unit or other agency or office of the State that would create a conflict of interest. 5.1B Describe how the following SILC resource plan requirements will be addressed. * The SILC's responsibility for the proper expenditure of funds and use of resources that it receives under the resource plan. All requirements of the Florida Independent Living Council, Inc., with regard to expectations and expenditure of funds will be outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement. The Council is responsible for the proper expenditure of funds under this resource plan. The funds will be used for carrying out the State Plan for Independent Living, funding staff, meeting and travel expenses and other costs associated with Council operations, including its office expenses. The Council will approve each annual operating Resource Plan. * Non-inclusion of conditions or requirements in the SILC resource plan that may compromise the independence of the SILC. The Council is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, established in 1999 pursuant to Florida Statutes Chapter 413. The State Independent Living Council is not established as an entity within any State agency, including the Designated State Unit, and is independent of the Designated State Unit and all other State agencies. The State Independent Living Council and the Designated State Unit work together to manage their contractual relationship ensuring the autonomy of the State Independent Living Council. This relationship is formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Division of Blind Services and the Council. * Reliance, to the maximum extent possible, on the use of resources in existence during the period of implementation of the State plan. 5.2 Establishment and Placement Describe how the establishment and placement of the SILC ensures its independence with respect to the DSU and all other State agencies. Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section. The Council is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, established in 1999 pursuant to Florida Statutes Chapter 413. The State Independent Living Council is not established as an entity within any State agency, including the Designated State Unit, and is independent of the Designated State Unit and all other State agencies. The State Independent Living Council and the Designated State Unit work together to manage their contractual relationship ensuring the autonomy of the State Independent Living Council. This relationship is formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Division of Blind Services and the Council. 5.3 Appointment and Composition Describe the process used by the State to appoint members to the SILC who meet the composition requirements in section 705(b). Refer to the SPIL Instructions for more information about completing this section. Florida’s Governor appoints members to the Florida Independent Living Council, Inc. Potential nominees for the Council must complete an application that is reviewed by the Nominating Committee. The recruitment of members is accomplished through the following mechanisms: * The Council Executive Director informs the Executive Committee of up-coming/current openings. * The Executive Committee then informs the Full Council of up-coming/current openings. * The Full Council is then requested to solicit applications to various organizations while attending agency meetings, sitting on boards, attending conferences. * The Council website includes the gubernatorial appointment forms and request for submission of applications. * The announcement of vacancies are also advertised through the Governor-s website (MYFLORIDA.Com). * Application forms request self-identification from potential applicants. The Council has several mechanisms for assuring that members are knowledgeable about Centers and independent living services: 1. Nominees for membership on the Council complete application forms issued by the Governor-s office. The candidates are provided with ample opportunities to discuss their qualifications for serving on the Council, including their prior experience with Centers, independent living services and disability-related issues in general. 2. Applications are reviewed in detail by the Council-s Nominating Committee members and staff members. 3. If the Nominating Committee has questions about the qualifications of the applicant, follow-up interviews with potential members are conducted. In addition, applicants may attend meetings and interact directly with Council members and staff members. 4. The Council-s members scrutinize applications in great detail to assure that the most qualified applicants are recommended to the Governor-s Office for consideration. One of the primary focuses of the Council has been to ensure statewide representation on the Council, as Federal law and Florida Statutes mandate. In order to do this the Council has tried to select one representative from each of the 17 Center catchment areas. The Nominating Committee reviews applications in order to make its recommendations to the Full Council for consideration. The recommendations are then voted on by the full Council and forwarded to the Governor's office for his/her approval. 5. Each Council Member is appointed by the Governor for a three-year term, and may serve a total of two consecutive terms. Council Members continue to serve until (i) the Member is reappointed by the Governor; (ii) a replacement is named by the Governor following expiration of the term; or (iii) the Council Member resigns or is otherwise removed prior to the end of the term. 6. The Nominating Committee also researches and votes upon the slate of officers for the State Independent Living Council and then makes its recommendation to the full Council. The full Council then chooses to accept or reject the recommendation. 5.4 Staffing Describe how the following SILC staffing requirements will be met. * SILC supervision and evaluation, consistent with State law, of its staff and other personnel as may be necessary to carry out its functions. The Council shall, consistent with state law, continue to hire, fire, supervise and evaluate its staff and other personnel as may be necessary to carry out its functions. 1. A Board of Directors serves as the governing body of the Council. Its functions and authority are contained in the Charter and Bylaws of the corporation. 2. The personnel policy is the Board of Directors- approved plan to carry out the day-to-day functions of the corporation. The personnel policies of the Board have been established to assure consistent, efficient, and equitable personnel management practices. 3. The Board of Directors of the corporation approves the personnel policy as recommended by the Executive Committee. The Board hires the Executive Director and provides guidance to the position through the President. 4. The Board of Directors has delegated to the Executive Director authority to employ and discharge staff. Terms of employment are established by the Board and are found in the Personnel Policy Manual, reviewed and approved by the board and legal counsel. 5. The Executive Director is employed by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director hires, discharges, reprimands, promotes and directs the daily functions of the employees of the corporation and administers the corporation consistent with established policy. Individual Board and/or Committee members address their recommendations to the Executive Director through the President. 6. The number of personnel employed by the Council shall be determined by the Board of Directors in consultation with the Executive Director. At least 51 percent of the Council staff and Board members have a disability. There are currently two full time and one part-time State Independent Living Council Staff: The Council Executive Director The Council Operations Director The Council Independent Living Specialist (average 10 hours weekly) * Non-assignment of duties to SILC staff and other personnel made available by the DSU, or any other State agency or office, that would create a conflict of interest while assisting the SILC in carrying out its duties. Section 6: Service Provider Requirements Describe how the following service provider requirements will be met: 6.1 Staffing * Inclusion of personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of centers. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Availability, to the maximum extent feasible, of personnel able to communicate (1) with individuals with significant disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication, such as manual communication, nonverbal communication devices, Braille, or audio tapes and (2) in the native languages of individuals with significant disabilities whose English proficiency is limited and who apply for or receive IL services under title VII of the Act. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Establishment and maintenance of a program of staff development for all classes of positions involved in providing IL services and, where appropriate, in administering the CIL program, improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of and practice in the IL philosophy. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with significant disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of individuals with disabilities under section 503 of the Act. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.2 Fiscal Control and Fund Accounting * Adoption of those fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for funds made available through parts B and C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Act, in addition to complying with applicable EDGAR fiscal and accounting requirements. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.3 Recordkeeping, Access and Reporting * Maintenance of records that fully disclose and document the information listed in 34 CFR 364.35. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Submission of annual performance and financial reports, and any other reports that the Secretary determines to be appropriate Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Access to the Commissioner and the Comptroller General, or any of their duly authorized representatives, for the purpose of conducting audits, examinations, and compliance reviews, to the information listed in 34 CFR 364.37. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.4 Eligibility * Eligibility of any individual with a significant disability, as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b), for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Ability of any individual to seek information about IL services under these programs and to request referral to other services and programs for individuals with significant disabilities. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Determination of an individual's eligibility for IL services under the SILS and CIL programs in a manner that meets the requirements of 34 CFR 364.51. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Application of eligibility requirements without regard to age, color, creed, gender, national origin, race, religion, or type of significant disability of the individual applying for IL services. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. * Non-exclusion from receiving IL services of any individual who is present in the State and who is otherwise eligible for IL services, based on the imposition of any State or local residence requirement. There are no State residency requirements imposed on consumers of the CILs. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.5 Independent Living Plans * Provision of IL services in accordance with an IL plan complying with Sec. 364.52 and mutually agreed upon by the individuals with significant disabilities and the appropriate service provider staff unless the individual signs a waiver stating that an IL plan is unnecessary. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.6 Client Assistance Program (CAP) Information * Use of accessible formats to notify individuals seeking or receiving IL services under chapter 1 of title VII about the availability of the CAP program, the purposes of the services provided under the CAP, and how to contact the CAP. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. 6.7 Protection, Use and Release of Personal Information * Adoption and implementation of policies and procedures meeting the requirements of 34 CFR 364.56(a), to safeguard the confidentiality of all personal information, including photographs and lists of names. Each agreement between Vocational Rehabilitation and a Center includes this requirement as a responsibility of the Center. Vocational Rehabilitation promotes compliance with these requirements through a variety of methods. The Designated State Unit: maintains a website (www.rehabworks.org/IL) providing all relevant federal and state laws and regulations, circulars, manuals for expending state funds, training materials, and questions and answer documents on the agreement; conducts periodic technical assistance visits to assess compliance with assurances and technical assistance needs related to programmatic and contract administration; reviews all 704 Reports and monthly performance reports submitted by the Centers; reviews satisfaction survey results submitted by the Centers, and; other monitoring activities as necessary. The Council will participate in the Vocational Rehabilitation technical assistance visits if requested to do so in writing by the Center. Section 7: Evaluation Describe the method that will be used to periodically evaluate the effectiveness of the plan in meeting the objectives established in Section 1. The description must include the State's evaluation of satisfaction by individuals with significant disabilities who have participated in the program. Section 7: Evaluation Goal(s) and the related Objective(s) from Section 1 Method that will be used to evaluate Community integration Housing Youth Transition Minority Outreach Health and Safety Employment The Florida Independent Living Council, Inc. will evaluate the progress of the implementation of the 2011-2013 State Plan for Independent Living in the following manner: - The Council, in conjunction with the DSU, will continue to collect the annual 704 Reports from the Centers for Independent Living, aggregate the data and report the progress of specific State Plan Goals and Objectives to the Evaluation Committee of the Council annually. - Council members and staff will attend the Independent Living Research Unit (ILRU) Training during the next SILC Congress scheduled to be held in Atlanta, Georgia in January of 2011. Those training tools will then be utilized for the evaluation of each Goal and Objective. - The Council will continue to gather reports of activities they have participated in specific to a State Plan Goal/Objective or Strategy. They will then be compiled into the Council Evaluation Book and utilized for reference during the Full Council Meetings on a quarterly basis. - The Council Executive Director will provide the DSU with monthly invoices and scheduled deliverables and summarize the monitoring, review, and evaluation of the implementation of the State Plan, according to the Memorandum of Agreement between the DSU and the Council. Section 8: State-Imposed Requirements 8 State-Imposed Requirements Identify any State-imposed requirements contained in the provisions of this SPIL. The Centers and the Council shall comply with the applicable provisions of: 1. Section 215.97, Florida Statutes - This section of statute is the Florida Single Audit Act. The purpose of the act is to promote sound financial management, including effective internal controls, with respect to state financial assistance administered by non-state entities by establishing uniform state audit requirements for state financial assistance provided by state agencies to non-state entities to carry out state projects. 2. Section 112.061, Florida Statutes - This section establishes rates for travel reimbursement using funds that flow through the State Treasury. 3. Florida Department of Financial Services Reference Guide for State Expenditures - The Reference Guide for State Expenditures provides comprehensive information about appropriate expenditures using funds that flow through the State Treasury. 4. Section 286.011, Florida Statutes - This section of statute is the Government in the Sunshine Act. It establishes open meeting and public records requirements for certain entities operating using state funding to carry out a public purpose, including the Centers and the Council. According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number of this information collection is 1820-0527. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 60 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate or suggestions for improving this form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537. If you have any comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: Ms. Sue Rankin-White, U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration, PCP-5013, 400 Maryland Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20202-2800. State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) State: Florida Agency: Florida Department of Education - Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Plan for: 2011-2013 Submitted in fiscal year: 2010 Page 2 of 59