Chief of Advocacy, Karleen Haines, and Self-Advocate, Veronica Crawford, Discusses The Importance of Developmental Disability Supports on ABC News10

In a recent segment on ABC News10, Karleen Haines, Chief of Advocacy at Care Design New York (CDNY), and Veronica Crawford, a self-advocate and Individual & Family Liaison, discussed the vital role that Care Coordination Organizations (CCOs) like Care Design New York play in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Karleen spoke about the critical role Care Design New York plays in supporting individuals with IDD, from healthcare access to community integration. And Veronica, who benefits from these services, shared her personal journey as a self-advocate and family liaison. Through self-direction, she has the freedom to choose where she lives, what job she wants, and how she spends her time. It’s all about empowering people to live the life they choose, and Veronica is a great example of how these services truly make a difference.

But with cost of living adjustments at the forefront of this year’s New York state budget discussions, Karleen emphasized the importance of advocating for these adjustments to ensure care managers continue to be supported in their work. Without proper funding, these essential services could be at risk, which is why advocacy is so crucial.

Listen to Karleen and Veronica discuss their experiences and why it's so important for legislators to hear the voices of those with IDD. Watch the full segment below.