Dennis Feuerstein, LCSW, Coordinator

Queens Independent Living Program (QILP), a partnership between JCCA and FEGS, empowers and supports high-functioning young adults with special needs to live independently. Participants are guided and encouraged to maximize their abilities and learn skills necessary to lead active and fulfilling lives. QILP’s specialized staff members facilitate the ongoing development and attainment of each participant’s personal goals. QILP leverages its expertise in working with young adults, using the many social, cultural, sports, and religious opportunities offered throughout New York City to create and maintain a strong and supportive community network.

QILP Eligibility:

• • Age 21-26
• • Able to live independently with a modest level of support
• • Able to independently manage medication
• • Able to travel independently

Basic QILP Services:

• • Individualized comprehensive care plan
• • Focus on addressing participant goals and concerns
• • Support for daily living
• • Monthly cultural and recreational activities
• • Help finding apartments and roommate matching
• • Staff available for emergencies, 24/7

Additional QILP Supportive Services:

• • Service Coordination and Community Habilitation Services (provided by FEGS Health & Human Services)
• • Links and coordination with government benefits and entitlements
• • Individualized life skills training, including:
• • Budgeting and paying bills
• • Travel training
• • Organizing a schedule
• • Apartment and personal hygiene
• • Vocational assessments and assistance with internships, job identification, placements, and job coaching. JCCA is a vendor agency of ACCES-VR.

QILP Features:

• • Participants choose from a variety of housing options
• • Convenience to community resources (supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, pharmacies, etc.)
• • Easy access to all New York City boroughs and surrounding counties through a wide range of public transportation options
• • Numerous opportunities for social, cultural, religious, and sports activities
• • Employment opportunities
• • Supportive community of peers and staff

Program Costs:

An annual program fee for each participant (paid quarterly) supports the work of the program staff. If a participant is eligible for services from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), other support services and costs (service coordination, community habilitation, and rent/living expenses) may be paid through government programs. If a participant does not qualify for OPWDD services, comparable services are available through a private pay arrangement with JCCA’s partner in QILP, FEGS. All housing and living expenses are the responsibility of the participant and/or family.

Application and Screening Process:

An application with supporting documentation is required. Each candidate must have a face-to-face interview and attend one or two social activities to become familiar with other QILP participants. A fee of $200 is due with the application.

Contact information:

For additional information, please contact

Elise Hahn Felix, Compass Project Director • 516.729.0066 • felixe@jccany.org

Dennis Feuerstein, Coordinator • 516.749.2896 • feuersteind@jccany.org