Board of Elections
Board of Elections
Putnam County
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Putnam County
Putnam County
The Putnam County Youth Bureau receives funding from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and is responsible for administering four state funding streams.
These programs serve youth who are at risk of becoming involved or further involved in the juvenile justice or human services system. They specifically aim to divert youth from placement in out of home settings.
Office | 845.808.1600
Fax | 845.808.1907
Email | Send us a message
Address | 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512
Director
Janeen Cunningham
The Putnam County Youth Bureau receives funding from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and is responsible for administering four state funding streams.
These programs serve youth who are at risk of becoming involved or further involved in the juvenile justice or human services system. They specifically aim to divert youth from placement in out of home settings.
List of supported Recreation Programs.
Putnam County would like to announce that we have partnered with several community agencies and developed a new multi-faceted prevention program called Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP). This program is aimed at assisting youth who are demonstrating behaviors that place them at risk for possible involvement in the Juvenile Justice System. These behaviors may include truancy, substance abuse, inappropriate peer interaction, a history of abuse or neglect, emotional difficulties, and a host of other concerns.
The Teens~N~Kids Mentoring Program matches elementary age students with high school students as their mentors. It offers the younger children an opportunity to develop positive relationships, social skills, and confidence while engaging in a variety of activities.
Funding Available for
New Youth Programs
CSI is a partnership between family members and service providers designed to assist families whose children have mental health needs. Our goal is to keep families together by creating linkages to community based services.
Every year the Putnam County Youth Board and Youth Bureau host their Annual Youth Awards Dinner. We recognize Youth Volunteers for their exemplary community service efforts that benefit Putnam residents. In addition, an adult is honored at this event for his/her outstanding volunteer work with Putnam Youth.
Youth Court is a family court diversion program aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency in the county. Youth Court volunteer members range in ages 12-19 and come from various communities and school districts in Putnam. Members must complete a 10-week training program.
Are you interested in serving our Putnam community and making a difference? If so, consider the Putnam County Youth Board.
The Putnam County Youth Bureau and youth Board are seeking new Youth Board members and welcome your input. Any student or adult who lives in, works in, or attend school in Putnam County is eligible to join the Youth Board.
Meet the amazing team of talented individuals in the Youth Bureau Department.
The Putnam County Youth Bureau receives funding from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services and is responsible for administering four state funding streams.
These programs serve youth who are at risk of becoming involved or further involved in the juvenile justice or human services system. They specifically aim to divert youth from placement in out of home settings.
Program Coordinator: Sheila Hanley
Spring 2023 Dates: 3/30, 4/6, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18
What is Project Pegasus: Pegasus is a confidential educational program for children (ages 5 through 14) who have a parent or family member suffering from
alcoholism or other drug dependencies. The goal of the program is to help these youth deal with their lives more effectively by providing them with a knowledge of addiction, coping skills, and emotional alternatives. Project Pegasus shows the children that they are not alone and that other kids have similar family circumstances and feelings. Some parents are in recovery and want their children to understand their disease. They also want them to know that they (the children) are at a higher risk of becoming addicted. Other adults have participated - a spouse of a parent struggling with addiction or a temporary caregiver (i.e., Grandparent, Aunt, etc.). The parent group is made up of both those in recovery and co-dependents of chemically dependents.
How does the program work?
❖ Children ages 5 through 14 residing in Putnam County are eligible to participate. Children must be accompanied by at least 1adult. There is no fee for families who attend the program.
❖ Pegasus is offered twice a year in 8-week sessions in the spring and in the fall on Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 7:30 pm.
❖ Youth & adults are placed in separate groups.
❖ Each week pizza is provided for the families attending.
❖ Confidentiality is always respected, creating a safe environment for children & their families.
Pre-registration is Required For more information or to register please contact: Sheila Hanley – Pegasus Coordinator (845) 808-1600 ext. 46126
Program Director: Steven Farina
Offers a comprehensive youth assistance program with a focus on adolescent depression and youth suicide awareness. Coordinates the efforts of the County’s education, mental health, and youth services system in identifying and assisting youth.
1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 225-2700
Provides student assistance counseling in Putnam County high schools.
1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 225-2700 x130
Program Director: Dana Erickson & Kim Flynn
Youth Court is a peer court program established to reduce incidents of juvenile crime by serving as a community-based alternative to Family Court. Volunteer members throughout Putnam County participate in a 10-week training program that prepares them to serve in the roles of Judge, Defense Attorney, Prosecuting Attorney, Court Clerk, Bailiff, and Jury in actual cases of youth under 16 charged with a crime.
Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 808-1600 ext. 46122
Program Director: Janeen Cunningham
Putnam County Youth Bureau: Provides a coordinated interagency approach to case planning and implementation. Case planning may include referrals to treatment and/or service providers with ongoing advocacy and comprehensive case planning based on individual family needs.
Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 808-1600, ext. 46120
Coordinator: Christine Andrews
Putnam County Youth Board: Annual dinner to recognize outstanding youth volunteers whose community service efforts benefit the residents of Putnam County.
Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 808-1600, ext. 46113
Director: Dena Altavilla | Executive Director: Janeen Cunningham
Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Putnam County Youth Bureau: This is a one-day conference planned and run by high school students, for high school students.
Cornell Cooperative Extension, Geneva Road, Brewster, New York 10509
(845) 278-6738
Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 808-1600, ext. 46120
These programs address specific target populations, school-related prevention problems, multi-problem families, or employment projects for youth.
CoveCare Center: Provides student assistance counseling in Putnam County high schools.
1808 Route 6, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 225-2700 x130
Green Chimneys Children’s Services: Provides case management, independent living skills training, referral assistance, advocacy, basic need support and transportation for the 16 to 20-year-old homeless or at risk of becoming homeless population.
400 Doansburg Road, Caller Box 719, Brewster, New York 10509
(845) 278-4486
This program provides shelter for runaway and homeless youth and serves as a community-based referral and counseling network.
Arbor House – Green Chimneys Children’s Services: Provides crisis intervention, counseling and case management services to runaway and homeless youth or youth at risk of running away or becoming homeless and their families. Arbor House also offers emergency shelter through a six-bed Safe House or through a network of Interim Families.
400 Doansburg Road, Caller Box 719, Brewster, New York 10509
(845) 278-4486
Coordinator:
Putnam County Youth Bureau: Assists the Youth Bureau in developing and implementing the county plan to improve services to runaway and homeless youth and their families and ensures that services to runaway and homeless youth and their families are provided in accordance with runaway and homeless youth regulations.
Donald B. Smith County Government Campus, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, Carmel, New York 10512
(845) 808-1600, ext. 46116
Program Contact Person: Frank DiMarco (845) 526-3292 Fax: (845) 526-3179 www.PVPR.com
Putnam Valley Parks and Recreation
265 Oscawana Lake Road,
Putnam Valley, NY 10579
Website: www.PVPR.com
(Ages 4 – 20)
Site: Putnam Valley Elementary, Junior High Schools and Town Park
Serves: General Youth Population
Provides youth ages pre-school through 12th grade with safe organized activities within the framework of the Recreation Department. This program is also designed to encourage teens in the area to participate and become part of town activities.
Program Contact Person: Amber Stickle (845) 265-5200
Philipstown Recreation Department
P.O. Box 155 238 Main Street,
Cold Spring, NY 10516
(Ages 13 – 20)
Site: Haldane High School
Serves: General Youth Population
Provides structured, supervised leisure time of teens in 7th through 12th grades, increases activities for youth including trips and transportation to sporting and cultural events and expands programs held at Haldane High School.
Program Contact Person: Patricia Bohrman
Town of Southeast Recreation
1 Main Street
Brewster, NY 10509
Website: www.southeast-ny.gov
Serves: All residents preschool through senior citizens
Rentals: Lakeview Manor – Available for rental for parties. Ball fields are available for rent to sports teams.
The Town of Southeast offers a wide variety of programs to enhance our community experience from preschool right up through our seniors. We have a multitude of camp offerings such as Yoga & Journaling, Young Rembrandts, Tennis, Taekwondo, football, basketball, volleyball, track & field, Lego, Mad Science, wrestling, baseball, and cheerleading. We also have several leagues for our youths and adults including men’s and youth basketball, youth football, youth cheer, and men’s and women’s softball. Our residents enjoy Lake Tonetta during our summer months and swimming lessons and swim team are programs we offer at the lake. Our seniors enjoy aerobics and senior programs as well as many day trips organized by the Southeast Seniors group. Our programs are designed to pique the interest of a vast array resident interests to allow for social interaction in a safe, fun environment. Southeast Recreation works diligently to foster a community spirit and peer interaction with our youth and adults alike.
Program Contact Person: Matthew Chibbaro (845) 878-7200
Patterson Recreation Department
65 Front Street
P.O. Box 278
Patterson, New York 12563
Website: www.pattersonrec.org
Rental: Available for parties and events in our Recreation Room. Our gymnasium and ball fields are rented out for sports teams.
Provides recreation programs for citizen’s age 24 months to seniors. The Patterson Recreation Center provides activities in the form of camps, sports clinics, and community programs. The Patterson Recreation Department also offers other activities such as yoga, Zumba, Pokémon, Little Cooks, Bowling, guitar lessons, Kindergarten Enrichment, ski & snowboarding, Tumbling Time, cheerleading, flag football league, senior fitness classes, pizza nights for middle school and elementary-aged children, pilates, circuit-training, senior drop-in, open gym, senior luncheon (monthly) kickboxing, martial arts, karate, youth basketball, adult basketball leagues, summer camps, weight training as well as special events to fulfill a continuing commitment to promote quality recreation for all. The Patterson Recreation Center also rents out their facility for parties and events. They also rent out the gymnasium and ball field to sports teams. The Recreation Center provides a healthy, fun and energetic environment for all!
Program Contact Person: James Gilchrist,CPRP
Carmel Recreation and Parks Department
Sycamore Park/790 Long Pond Road
Mahopac, New York 10541
(Ages 1 – Senior Citizens)
Site: Sycamore Park
Serves: General Youth Population
Provides recreation programs for ages 1 to Senior Citizens in the form of camp, swimming, and boating activities, community and sports programs and special events to fulfill a continuing commitment to promote quality recreation for all by offering no-fee pre-school activities in addition to a variety of ongoing youth recreation and senior programs.
Program Contact Person: Jared Kuczenski
Town of Kent Recreation and Parks
770 Route 52
Kent Lakes, NY 10512
(Ages 3 – 20)
Sites: Kent Primary and Elementary Schools, Rte. 52, Carmel, NY
Park, West Drive and Towner Road, Carmel, NY
Park, Rte. 301, Carmel, NY
Edward Ryan Park – 43 Park Road, Kent, NY 10512
Huestis Park – 178 Farmers Mill Road, Kent, NY 10512
Serves: General Youth Population
The Town of Kent Recreation and Parks Department provides a myriad of sport and recreation activities for its residence. We offer youth baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, bowling, ski program and other sport opportunities throughout the year. There is an adult men’s spring softball and fall softball program as well as an adult coed summer softball league We have many community special events scheduled including our annual Kent Community Day, Egg Hunt, Summer Movie Nights and Spookeree Parade. All of our programs are designed to foster healthy and positive involvement for all of our residence. Provides active and passive recreation activities to over 1500 youngsters 3 to 20 years with the intent of providing constructive use of their leisure time.
Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP)
Putnam County would like to announce that we have partnered with several community agencies and developed a new multi-faceted prevention program called Supervision and Treatment Services for Juveniles Program (STSJP). This program is aimed at assisting youth who are demonstrating behaviors that place them at risk for possible involvement in the Juvenile Justice System. These behaviors may include truancy, substance abuse, inappropriate peer interaction, a history of abuse or neglect, emotional difficulties, and a host of other concerns.
We welcome an opportunity to meet with you and your staff to present this exciting innovative approach to working with youth who are exhibiting concerning behaviors, by providing them with support, counseling and healthy alternative to assist them in making better choices.
Below you will find a brief description of the services provided in the program, along with contact information, and a link to a referral form. Please feel free to reach out to any these individuals for more detailed information.
If you would like to schedule a time to meet to further discuss the program, answer questions and begin collaboration in addressing the needs of our youth, please contact Janeen Cunningham, Executive Director of the Youth Bureau, at (845) 808-1600, x46120.
Adolescent Victim Services Project is a trauma informed victim service component for individual adolescents (male and female) who have been victims of sexual, physical or emotional trauma that has contributed to negative behaviors placing them at risk for involvement in the juvenile justice system. The Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approach will be used for treatment. Contact: Christina Barnard, 628-9284 x220.
Intensive Service Coordination Program (ISCP) will provide youth with services to optimize their functioning in their home, school, community and to avoid placement in the juvenile justice system. Goals will be achieved through individualized, strength based services using evidence-based methods. Individual and Family Counseling, case management, skill building, respite services, psycho-educational groups, parent support and overnight respite will be available. Contact: Clare Rigano, 279-2995 x702.
This program is available for Middle School (12-15) to attend Camp Herrlich five days a week for day camp. Day camp runs for 9 weeks throughout the summer. Contact: Scott Riches, 878-6662 x306.
conduct curfew checks on all youth involved in the county’s juvenile justice system. Curfew checks are aimed to address the on-going need of at-risk youth and to remind youth of their upcoming court appearances. (PLEASE NOTE: This program is for youth in PINS Prevention or the Green Chimney’s ISCP Program.)
Contact: April Lathrop, 808-1111
The Teens~N~Kids Mentoring Program matches elementary age students with high school students as their mentors. It offers the younger children an opportunity to develop positive relationships, social skills, and confidence while engaging in a variety of activities. It can also provide academic support. As positive role models, the mentors demonstrate supportive and caring relationships with their mentees. In addition to the benefit of modeling healthy relationships, the mentors are also exposed to a wonderful leadership opportunity as well as the experience and reward of working with children.
Dawn Mullins C.C.S.I & S.P.O.A (Single Point of Access) Coordinator (845) 808-1600 x46139
Single Point of Access (or SPOA) is a process facilitated by the Department of Mental Health and attended by providers of intensive community-based programs. The goal is to ensure timely and appropriate access to intensive services for children at risk of multiple hospitalizations and out of home placements. Anyone can make a SPOA referral; however, we need input from you and your child’s mental health provider (such as clinical reports). All SPOA programs utilize a wraparound approach and care coordination. If you have any questions, please contact Dawn Mullins, SPOA at (845) 808-1600, Ext. 46139 or
Below is a brief description of these services.
SPOA SERVICES Home and Community Based Waiver (HCBS) is the highest level of community based care short of a hospital setting. An Individualized Care Coordinator (or ICC) meets with families several times a month and coordinate services (skill building, intensive in-home, family support, crisis response, and respite) to increase community connections. Families can expect a high level of service involvement and multiple service providers.
Community Residence (CR) This is a home-like setting where 8-10 children live while working on an appropriate family plan so that they may return to their community. This allows children and caregivers the space to help them improve their interactions. Children often go home on the weekend and parents are expected to be involved. Parents do not have to give up custody like in a group home. Youth connected to DSS may also use the CR as a resource. Westchester County has two CRs: Abbott House for boys and girls 9-16 and Family Services of Westchester for boys 13-18. Hamptonburgh Residence is a CR in Orange County for girls 12-18.
Residential Treatment Facility (RTF)
This is a licensed New York State Office of Mental Health residential program that fully integrates mental health services for youth 5-21. This process is considered for youth who are identified as having significant mental health needs and it has been determined that all other treatment options have been exhausted. A SPOA application is submitted to the Pre-Admissions Certification Committee (PACC) to determine eligibility. After determination youth is either referred to an RTF or alternative community options are recommended for exploration.
Case Management A Care Coordinator visits regularly to help youth/family identify needs and connect to services and supports as necessary.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES CCSI is a partnership between family members and service providers designed to assist families whose children have mental health needs. Our goal is to empower families by building upon strengths to create an individualized plan to meet their specific needs within the community.
Family Support is available to you and your family whether or not you receive SPOA services.
CoveCare Center offers Family Peer Support and Advocacy for parents/guardians of children with serious emotional, social and behavioral challenges. Staff are parents who understand the challenges you are facing and can direct you to community resources and supports. Please contact Wanda Crowley at (845) 225-2700, Ext. 224 for more information.
Health Home Care Management A Health Home is not a physical space; it is a care management service model for eligible Medicaid recipients where all of the professionals involved in a member’s care communicate with one another so that the member’s medical, behavioral health and social service needs are addressed in a comprehensive manner. Lead Health Homes work with local Care Management Agencies with a variety of specialties to best serve members in their own communities.
Every year the Putnam County Youth Board and Youth Bureau host their Annual Youth Awards Dinner. We recognize Youth Volunteers for their exemplary community service efforts that benefit Putnam residents. In addition, an adult is honored at this event for their outstanding volunteer work with Putnam Youth.
The “40th Annual Youth Awards Dinner” will take place at Putnam County Golf Course tentatively April 2025 at 6:30 pm.
“DEADLINE”
All nominations must be received no later than Friday, November 15th, 2024.
YOUTH VOLUNTEER NOMINATION GUIDELINES
“NOMINATIONS FOR PRIOR YOUTH AND ADULT AWARD WINNERS ARE NOT ACCEPTED”
Must be a high school student who resides in Putnam County or attends a high school within Putnam.
Volunteer Service performed in 2024 is required; volunteer work from the past 4 years will be considered.
Must be an active volunteer & must have performed a minimum of 1 year of community service in Putnam County; 1-4 years of service will be considered.
Volunteer work benefitting the Putnam community as well as surrounding counties will be considered.
Volunteer service performed for people, organizations or the community must have been unpaid.
Only individual volunteers are eligible for this award; volunteer groups will not be considered.
Nominator may serve as a Reference (unless the nominator is a parent or relative of the Nominee).
ADULT VOLUNTEER NOMINATION GUIDELINES
“NOMINATIONS FOR PRIOR YOUTH AND ADULT AWARD WINNERS ARE NOT ACCEPTED”
Must be over 19 years of age and must live or work in Putnam County.
Must have performed at least two (2) consecutive years of volunteer work with Putnam Youth.
Volunteer work with Putnam County Youth from previous years will be considered.
Volunteer service must have been unpaid and must have benefitted Putnam County residents.
Only individual volunteers are eligible for this award; volunteer groups will not be considered.
Nominator may serve as one of the volunteer’s three (3) required references (unless the nominator is a relative.
“Qualities Considered for Award Selection”
Dedication ♦ Effectiveness ♦ Leadership
“UPON RECEIPT OF THE NOMINATION FORM, THE NOMINEE WILL BE NOTIFIED & INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE PROVIDED“
QUESTIONS/INQUIRIES:
Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or
THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN THE YOUTH OF PUTNAM COUNTY!
SPONSORED BY THE PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU & PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BOARD
110 OLD ROUTE SIX – BUILDING 3 – CARMEL, NY 10512
PHONE (845) 808-1600 EXT. 46113
VOLUNTEER SERVICE LOG GUIDELINES
“TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION, FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES LISTED BELOW”
Volunteer Service Log: Please log the community service that you performed in 2024, as well as the volunteer work you did in the last four years, which benefits Putnam County residents as well as any volunteer service in the surrounding counties.
Three Individual References: Please request for three individuals to complete an electronic reference form by providing them with the website link. Each individual must indicate specific details about your community service work. (Relatives may NOT serve as a reference and a “minimum & maximum” of three reference forms will be accepted.)
Only complete packets will be reviewed by the Youth Board Selection Committee: Complete packets must include the Volunteer Log and three Reference Forms. Those chosen to receive a 2025 Volunteer Service Award will be honored at our Annual Youth Awards Dinner at Putnam County Golf Course April 2025 at 6:30 pm.
Electronic submission of these packet forms are due no later than: Friday, January 17th, 2025 You will be notified (via email) by the deadline date whether or not a complete packet has been received on your behalf. Please be sure to check your email.
QUESTIONS/INQUIRIES: Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR VOLUNTEER EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF PUTNAM COUNTY! SPONSORED BY THE PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU & PUTNAM COUNTY YOUTH BOARD 110 OLD ROUTE SIX – BUILDING 3 – CARMEL, NY 10512 PHONE (845) 808-1600 EXT. 46113
YOUTH AWARD NOMINEE(S)/JAMES F. REITZ ADULT AWARD NOMINEE(S) MUST HAVE “THREE” REFERENCE FORMS AND A VOLUNTEER SERVICE LOG SUBMITTED ON THE YOUTH BUREAU WEBSITE BY OR BEFORE FRIDAY, JANUARY 17th, 2025!
To be eligible for consideration, each Award Nominee must have a complete packet containing three completed online Reference Forms and one detailed Volunteer Service Log {to be completed by the award nominee}. Upon receipt of all forms, the nominee will be notified of their complete packet.
All sections of the online reference form must be completely filled in and submitted for the candidate to be considered.
Specific information must be provided regarding quality & quantity of volunteer work performed. Our Focus is Community Service that benefits Putnam Residents as well as the surrounding counties.
All complete packets will be reviewed, scored and ranked by the Youth Board Selection Committee. Those chosen to receive a 2025 Youth Volunteer Service Award will be honored at our Annual Youth Awards Dinner at Putnam County Golf Course April 2025 at 6:30 pm.
Questions/inquiries:
Contact the Youth Bureau (845) 808-1600 Ext 46113 or
Thank You for your Interest in the Youth of Putnam County!
Sponsored by the Putnam County Youth Bureau & Putnam County Youth Board 110 Old Route Six – Building 3 – Carmel, NY 10512 Phone (845) 808-1600 Ext. 46113
Youth Court is a family court diversion program aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency in the county. Youth Court volunteer members range in ages 12-19 and come from various communities and school districts in Putnam. Members must complete a 10-week training program. Youth Court members hear cases of first time offenders between ages 7 and 17. This program offers these youth an opportunity to constructively assume responsibility for their actions and a chance to learn about the justice system.
Are you interested in serving our Putnam community and making a difference? If so, consider the Putnam County Youth Board.
The Putnam County Youth Bureau and youth Board are seeking new Youth Board members and welcome your input. Any student or adult who lives in, works in, or attend school in Putnam County is eligible to join the Youth Board.
The Youth Board, which serves in an advisory capacity, is composed of teen and adult members who meet monthly to discuss youth program ideas, review funding requests, and make recommendations. The Youth Board and the Youth Bureau co-host a Youth Awards dinner each Spring to honor Putnam teens whose outstanding volunteer efforts have benefited our Putnam community.
The Youth Board meets for one hour on the third Wednesday of the month at 4 pm at the Youth Bureau office, 110 Old Route 6, Building 3, in Carmel. Why not attend one of our Board meetings to learn what we are all about. If this sounds interesting, just call Christine Andrews, Youth Bureau Secretary, at 845.808.1600 ext. 46113 for more information.
we hope you will consider joining us in our effort to make Putnam County a better place for youth so they can become better leaders Tomorrow!
OCFS FORMS
Fiscal Claim
Janeen Cunningham | Director | Ext. 46120
Janeen Cunningham began working at the Putnam County Youth Bureau in 2003 as the Deputy Director and was then promoted to Executive Director. She is a graduate of SUNY Delhi with an AAS degree in Recreation Management. Her Bachelor of Science degree is from SUNY Brockport in Physical Education and holds a Master of Science Degree in Counseling. She is a certified Instructor in Lifeguard Training, First Aid and CPR-For the Professional Rescuer for the American Red Cross. She is a Safe School Ambassador trainer and has been trained in Mental Health First Aid.
Dawn Mullins | Coordinator of CCSI | Ext. 46139
Dawn Mullins is the Coordinator of CCSI (Coordinated Children’s Services Initiative) and SPOA (Single Point of Access) for Children and families for the Putnam county dept. of mental health. The objectives of these blended initiatives are to provide assessment, referral, support and strength based service coordination to families with children between the ages of 5-21 with severe emotional or behavioral disturbances, or other complex needs. Dawn is a licensed Social Worker and a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field, as well as extensive experience in the fields of substance abuse prevention.
Christine Andrews | Secretary | Ext. 46113
Christine Andrews joined the Putnam County Youth Bureau as the Secretary in 2015. She has many years of administrative experience working in various industries. Since joining the Youth Bureau, her key role is to coordinate the annual Youth Awards Dinner event, which recognizes and honors exemplary youth and adults for their volunteer efforts in Putnam County.
Diane Carlsen | Account Clerk | Ext. 46116
Diane Carlsen has been a Putnam County resident since 1998, originally from Ardsley, N.Y. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY New Paltz. Diane joined the Youth Bureau staff in February 2023. She currently resides with her family in Putnam Valley.
Dana Erickson | Program Specialist | Ext. 46118
Dana Erickson began her journey at the Putnam County Youth Bureau as an intern, observing and participating in the many programs offered by the Youth Bureau, such as Pegasus, Youth Court, SIDNE, and the Teen-N-Kids Mentoring Program. Since the conclusion of her internship, Dana had taken on the role of Youth Program Specialist in the aforementioned programs. Dana has an undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science and a graduate degree in Sociology. She has a long history working with youth due to her four year internship at St. Joseph’s Elementary School.
Kim Flynn | Program Specialist | Ext. 46123
Kim Flynn received her Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education from Pace University. She worked as a Vocational Counselor at CAREERS Support Solutions assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities find and maintain employment as well as assisting high school students transition to a work environment. Kim is a lifelong resident of Carmel. Kim began her career with the Youth Bureau in 2016 as a Pegasus Program Case Worker/Coordinator and in 2022 she took on the role as Youth Program Specialist.
Naomi Bowen | Youth Aide | Ext. 46124
Naomi Bowen is the latest addition to the Putnam County Youth Bureau. Her role is within the Teen-N- Kids Mentoring and Youth Court programs, currently. Her Bachelors of the Arts degree, previous teaching experience and love of all things done in creativity, will ensure she brings the fun of art to the families of Putnam in her position as Youth Aide.
Naomi previously served as the Art Director for a Grant based program for the Police Athletic League in Yonkers, where she created and implemented an art program for at risk youth between the ages of 6-13. The artwork created in this program was put on exhibition at the Yonkers Public Library, was featured in the local newspaper and highlighted on News 12.
Exciting programs and opportunities for the Putnam County youth are on the horizon, with Naomi in her new role, encouraging creativity and expression through art. She will also be available to assist the Spanish speaking families within the community as well.
Lori Fava | Teacher
Lori Fava is a teacher with Putnam County Youth Bureau’s Pegasus Program. She is also a Para-Professional at Carmel Central School District. Her primary responsibility is providing teacher support and student behavior management. She is passionate about successfully impacting her students in a positive, energetic and helpful manner along with building strong relationships and being a positive role model. Her previous work experience incudes twenty-two years within the corporate industry servicing the Finance and Pharmaceutical industry as an Administrative Officer/Staffing Specialist.
She enjoys spending quality time with her children along with cooking, baking and watching movies.
John Mulreany | Program Specialist
John Mulreany took on the role of Youth Program Specialist for Putnam County Youth Bureau’s SIDNE Program in July 2022. He is a Carmel High School graduate, is a Westchester Community College graduate with an AS degree in Business Administration and a SUNY Oneonta graduate with a BS degree in Business Economics.
John was employed as a Putnam County Probation Officer from February 1, 1988, until July 8, 2022. He has been a Security Officer at Putnam Hospital Center from 1996 until present.
John is a current Board member (Treasurer) of the Prevention Council of Putnam, a life member of Carmel Fire Department (Past President and Past Treasurer), a life member of Carmel Volunteer Ambulance Corp. (Past President), and a former Board member of Putnam Federal Credit Union.
Putnam County
845-808-1000
Welcome John Tully
The New Watershed Information Coordinator
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems, (MS4.)
He can be reached at 845-808-1000, ext. 40108
Putnam County
The Putnam County Veterans Service Agency works year-round to ensure that all veterans and their dependents receive the maximum benefits from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies at all levels of government. We will provide you with detailed information about specific veteran benefits, and what you need to do to apply for them.
As advocates for veterans and their families, Putnam County Veterans Service Agency counselors work closely with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal, state, local, and private agencies to provide optimal service at the local level. Services include free accredited representation, securing military and personal records, obtaining medals and awards and assistance with veterans real property tax exemption filing and veterans medical ID card enrollment.
Office | 845.808.1620
Fax | 845.808.1940
Address | Donald B. Smith Campus 110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512
Director
Karl Rohde
Want to learn more? Give us a call at 845.808.1620
The Row of Honor is a beautiful way to show gratitude to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our safety and freedom, This biannual tradition means so much to both Veterans who have risked their lives for their country, and the families who have lost their loved ones.”
A flag can be sponsored for $100 dollars in the name of a loved one lost in the service of our country. All proceeds are given directly to VET2VET, a program that helps Veterans suffering from PTSD, depression, and other difficulties, reintegrate into society.
Flags can be ordered at (845) 808-1620. Checks are payable to:
Joint Veterans Council c/o PC Veterans Affairs
Donald B. Smith Government Campus
110 Old Route 6 Bldg. 3 Carmel, NY 10512
Return the F.A.V.O.R Program – In Putnam County we love to help our Veterans. With the F.A.V.O.R . Program you will see a list of local businesses that have special services and deals just for our Veterans.
Want to learn more? Give us a call at 845.808.1620
We provide articles and Information for Veterans as well as the general public to read , learn about what the Veterans Service Agency Services we provide, and share news and resources to assist & educate our Veteran’s and the general public.
Read more …Veteran’s Service Agency
Putnam County
The mission of the Putnam County Department of Social Services & Mental Health is to provide for financial and Social Services to eligible residents of Putnam County in accordance with applicable Federal State and County Laws, toward enhancing family functioning, increasing resilience, supporting protective factors and maintaining adults and children in the community when possible.
Office | 845.808.1500
Email | Send us a message
Address | Donald B. Smith Campus 110 Old Rt. 6, Building 2 | Carmel, NY 10512
Commissioner
Sara Servadio
Information is currently being updated
Adult Protective Services, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45262
Dial 1-844-697-3505 to reach a helpline for the Bureau of Adult Services to obtain information about available adult services. The helpline can also take information to be sent to local APS units regarding abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults. The phone lines are open Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.
IF THERE IS AN EMERGENCY DIAL 911
Alcohol and Substance Misuse:
Substance misuse is prevalent in all communities, including Putnam County. Resources are available in our community to assist those in need as well as their family members.
ALCOHOL
Alcohol Use Disorders are due to many interconnected factors, including genetics, how you were raised, your social environment, and your emotional health.
What is Child Abuse and Maltreatment?
Child abuse and maltreatment is when a parent or other person legally responsible for a child’s care causes or creates a risk of harm to a child. The child must be under the age of 18. Child abuse involves serious physical harm or sexual abuse. Maltreatment (neglect) involves physical, mental or emotional harm.
Physical abuse is when a parent/caretaker hurts or lets someone else hurt a child physically, or creates a substantial risk that a child will be hurt. There must be a serious injury or a risk of serious injury such as a severe burn, a broken bone, the loss of a body part, an internal injury or death. The injury or risk of injury must not be due to an accident.
he Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Putnam County opened in October 1999 to provide a coordinated response to child abuse allegations. The CAC is a government based program under the Putnam County Department of Social Services.
The CAC provides a child-friendly setting, putting the child and family at ease while coordinating the essential services of forensic interviews, medical evaluations, mental health assessment and victim support and advocacy. The CAC is deeply committed to serving child victims with sensitivity, understanding, competence and compassion. All cases of child sexual abuse, serious physical abuse and domestic violence involving or witnessed by children are investigated by the CAC’s specially trained multidisciplinary team. Although team members come from various disciplines, the team has one goal: to reduce the trauma to child victims and their families by providing an immediate coordinated response to abuse allegations.
Children’s Mental Health Services is a division of Putnam County PCDMH responsible for coordinating the children’s system of care. This includes oversight of mental health providers, building mental wellness awareness, providing training, collaborating with state and county partners, and coordinating the Children’s Single Point of Access (SPOA).
“In Order to make a CPS report, you must contact the hotline at 1-800-342-3720, Mandated reporters call 1-800-635-1522. For any other questions, please contact the CPS Supervisor at 845-808-1500 ext. 45207.”
Children’s Services (also known as Children’s Welfare Services), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45230
Child Support Collection, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45305
For more information you can call the NYS Child Support Hotline at 888-208-4485
IF THIS IS AN EMERGENCY DIAL 911
What is Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by a partner in an intimate relationship in order to gain and maintain power and control in a relationship. Traditionally, domestic violence has had a narrow definition, and someone was considered a victim of domestic violence only if the perpetrator was related to him/her by blood or by marriage. However, with the new Expanded Access law, enacted in 2008, that definition has expanded to include all current or former intimate partners, regardless of whether they are married or have a child in common. This means same-sex couples and dating couples (including teens) have access to domestic violence victim resources (such as Orders of Protection).
There are several different types of abuse:
Employment and Training, Building #3 – 845 808 1651 ext. 46605
Fiscal Unit, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45280
HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233
Can apply on-line at https://www.MyBenefits.ny.gov or in person
Legal Services, Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45290
The Legal Services Unit acts as counsel to the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Social Services, provides legal services to the different Units within the Department, and represents the Department in all legal proceedings.
Medicaid (MA), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45251
The Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities was created to provide disabled individuals and their families with the necessary supports to access services throughout the community. It is the goal of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities to uphold the county’s pledge to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY”, which is a call to action to create a supportive and welcoming community for residents living with disabilities.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233 Can apply on-line at https://www.MyBenefits.ny.gov or in person
Each year, drug misuse and addiction cost taxpayers nearly $534 billion in preventable health care, law enforcement, crime, and other costs. The best approach to reducing the tremendous toll substance misuse exacts from individuals, families, and communities is to prevent the damage before it occurs. Over 20 years of research demonstrates that prevention interventions designed and tested to reduce risk and enhance protective factors can help children at every step along their developmental path, from early childhood into young adulthood.
Temporary Assistance (includes Family Assistance and Safety Net), Building #2 – 845 808 1500 ext. 45233
WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act), Building #3 – 845 808 1651 ext. 46600
Substance misuse is prevalent in all communities, including Putnam County. Resources are available in our community to assist those in need as well as their family members.
Alcohol Use Disorders are due to many interconnected factors, including genetics, how you were raised, your social environment, and your emotional health
If you are concerned with a loved one's alcohol use, you may be struggling with a number of painful emotions, including shame, fear, anger, and self-blame.
Putnam County Department of Mental Health and its community partners can provide confidential referrals for you and your loved ones.
Discovering your child is drinking can generate fear, confusion, and anger in parents. It’s important to remain calm when confronting your teen, and only do so when everyone is sober. Explain your concerns and make it clear that your concern comes from a place of love. It’s important that your teen feels you are supportive. Five steps parents can take:
Get outside help: You don’t have to go it alone. Teenagers often rebel against their parents but if they hear the same information from a different authority figure, they may be more inclined to listen. Try seeking help from a sports coach, family doctor, therapist, or counselor.
People who use substances often try to conceal their symptoms and downplay their struggles. If you’re worried that a friend or family member might be using drugs, look for the following warning signs:
Physical warning signs of drug use
Behavioral signs of drug use
Psychological warning signs of drug use
While experimenting with drugs doesn’t automatically lead to problematic drug use, early use is a risk factor for developing substance use disorders. Risk of drug use also increases greatly during times of transition, such as changing schools, moving, or divorce. The challenge for parents is to distinguish between the normal, often volatile, ups and downs of the teen years and the red flags of substance use. These include:
Information Courtesy of the and HelpGuide.org
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a state-mandated program which is provided (without regard to income) to assist adults age 18 or older who, because of mental or physical impairments, can no longer provide for their basic needs or protect themselves from neglect or abuse, and who have no one willing and able to help in a responsible manner.
he law requires APS to conduct an investigation whenever it receives oral or written information concerning a person who is thought to be in need of protective services. APS accepts referrals made within normal working hours; afterhours reports will be seen the next business day.
APS is responsible for protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, while respecting their rights to self-determination.
For persons who are so incapacitated that supportive services are insufficient to protect them, and who have no one to assist them, APS may submit a petition to the court for the appointment of a legal guardian.
To qualify for services through APS, a person MUST meet (or be suspected to meet) ALL THREE criteria:
What happens next?
If the situation appears to meet the three criteria, a home visit will occur within 3 business days. If the initial home visit and investigation show that the adult meets the criteria (has an impairment, is vulnerable, and does not have enough help) then APS can begin a comprehensive 60-day investigation & assessment.
The Concept of Self-determination
Adults, unlike children, are legally presumed to have capacity to make their own decisions. This means that most adults, even most vulnerable adults who may have mild impairments and who may be facing danger, have the right to refuse offered services. This is why it is best practice for an APS worker to carefully and gently engage the client to try to make a connection and to offer services to protect the client from harm.
For example, an elderly homeless woman may be offered shelter, services, etc., and she may choose to decline those services. It is her right to do so, and no one can force her to make better choices. Sometimes an adult will accept some services but not others, and this too must be respected.
It is sometimes difficult for other providers and the concerned public to understand that APS must respect the right of an adult to refuse help offered by APS and others. Simply having a diagnosis of dementia or mental illness does not automatically mean an adult has no decisional capacity. Only a judge can declare a person legally incompetent.
APS seeks, to the extent possible, the provision of services that maximize an individual's independence, freedom and decision-making ability. This includes assistance to enable clients to remain in, or return to, the community, as opposed to a more institutional setting. APS often utilizes “supportive decision-making” to help impaired adults maximize their independence.
Seeking Involuntary Interventions
APS has a unique responsibility to protect vulnerable adults who appear to lack the capacity to understand the consequences of their choices. When APS believes there is a serious threat to an adult’s well-being and that the adult is incapable of making decisions on his or her own behalf because of impairments, APS has a responsibility to pursue appropriate legal interventions to protect the individual, even if the vulnerable adult has not agreed to, or even opposes such intervention. However, APS must employ the least restrictive intervention necessary to effectively protect the adult. The decision to seek an involuntary intervention should never be taken lightly.
It is important to note that APS itself has no legal authority on its own to remove any person from their home or other setting, or to take any involuntary action. APS must request action from the court or some other official authorized to take involuntary action (e.g., law enforcement, psychiatrist, judge).
What if the vulnerable adult refuses help?
Adults with mental capacity have the right to exercise free choice in deciding whether to accept services. If an adult appears to be capable of understanding the risks and chooses to stay in an abusive or neglectful situation, this can be a difficult decision for others to understand. APS will offer services and try to convince the adult to accept help. If there are questions about the adult’s mental capacity, then a psychiatric evaluation will be pursued to determine if court-ordered interventions should be provided.
Child abuse and maltreatment is when a parent or other person legally responsible for a child’s care causes or creates a risk of harm to a child. The child must be under the age of 18. Child abuse involves serious physical harm or sexual abuse. Maltreatment (neglect) involves physical, mental or emotional harm.
Physical abuse is when a parent/caretaker hurts or lets someone else hurt a child physically, or creates a substantial risk that a child will be hurt. There must be a serious injury or a risk of serious injury such as a severe burn, a broken bone, the loss of a body part, an internal injury or death. The injury or risk of injury must not be due to an accident.
Sexual abuse is when a parent or caretaker commits a sexual offense against a child or allows someone else to do this. Sexual abuse includes both touching and non-touching sexual offenses.
Maltreatment (neglect) is when a parent or caretaker does not provide for a child’s basic needs, where the parent or caretaker has the means or is offered a reasonable way to do so. It also includes a parent or caretaker failing to properly supervise a child or hitting a child too hard. Examples of maltreatment may include: not getting, or waiting too long to get, health care for a child; not giving a child adequate food, shelter, or clothing; not properly looking after a child; misusing drugs/alcohol such that it interferes with their ability to adequately supervise the child; abandoning a child; or not sending a child to school when the child is able to attend school. The parent or caretaker’s actions must cause physical, mental or emotional harm, or a risk that the child will soon be harmed.
Exposure to Domestic Violence: Witnessed domestic violence occurs when a child sees his or her parents or caregivers use behaviors against each other that make the child feel scared, controlled or intimidated
What are some indicators of child abuse and maltreatment? You may see signs of child abuse or maltreatment in the way a child looks or in the way a child acts.
Physical signs can include: a child whose hair, clothing or body is often very dirty; a child whose clothing is too hot or too cold for the season; a child who is not being watched properly; a child who is ill or hurt but is not seeing a doctor; or a child with bruises, burns, cuts, vaginal or rectal bleeding, or with soreness or itching in the genital area.
Behavioral signs can include: a child who is afraid to go home; a child who does not think well of him- or herself, avoids people, or is very sad; a child who misuses drugs or alcohol, has an eating disorder or hurts him- or herself; a child whose mood or behavior changes a lot without a reason; a child who acts in a sexual manner that is unusual for the child’s age; or a child who often misses school without a good reason.
Handling Disclosures: Disclosure can be a very difficult process for a child. Children often tell their stories over a period of time. Some never fully disclose what happened.
DON’T:
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local police department.
As soon as you suspect abuse or maltreatment, you must report your concerns by telephone to the New York Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR). The SCR is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to receive your call.
The timeliness of your call is vital to the timeliness of intervention by the local department of social services’ Child Protective Services (CPS) unit. You are not required to notify the parents or other persons legally responsible either before or after your call to the SCR. In fact, in some cases, alerting the parent may hinder the local CPS investigation and adversely affect its ability to assess the safety of the children. The telephone numbers to report abuse or maltreatment are:
Mandated Reporter (800) 635-1522
Public Hotline (800) 342-3720
You do not need proof of child abuse or maltreatment to make a report; you only need to think that it has happened or that a child is at risk of being abused or maltreated. Your call to the Child Abuse Hotline is confidential. This means that only certain persons may learn about the information you report. The family you reported will not be told you made the report unless you say it is okay for them to know.
Law Enforcement Referrals: If a call to the SCR provides information about an immediate threat to a child or a crime committed against a child, but the perpetrator is not a parent or other person legally responsible for the child, the SCR staff will make a Law Enforcement Referral (LER). The relevant information will be recorded and
transmitted to the New York State Police Information Network or to the New York City Special Victims Liaison Unit. This is not a CPS report, and local CPS will not be involved.
Mandated Reporter Responsibilities: New York State recognizes that certain professionals are specially equipped to perform the important role of mandated reporter of child abuse and maltreatment. The entire current list can be found in Article 6, Title 6, Section 413 of the New York Social Services Law, which can be accessed online through the New York State Legislature’s Website (http://public.leginfo.state.ny.us/menuf.cgi). Click on Laws of New York to access Social Services Law.
When Am I Mandated to Report?Mandated reporters are required to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment when they are presented with a reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or maltreatment in a situation where a child, parent, or other person legally responsible for the child is before the mandated reporter when the mandated reporter is acting in his or her official or professional capacity.
Reasonable Cause to Suspect: Reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or maltreatment means that, based on your rational observations, professional training and experience, you have a suspicion that the parent or other person legally responsible for a child is responsible for harming that child or placing that child in imminent danger of harm. Your suspicion can be as simple as distrusting an explanation for an injury.
If a mandated reporter makes a report with earnest concern for the welfare of a child, he or she is immune from any criminal or civil liability that might result. This is referred to as making a report in “good faith
Anyone who is mandated to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment—and fails to do so—could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and subject to criminal penalties. Further, mandated reporters can be sued in a civil court for monetary damages for any harm caused by the mandated reporter’s failure to make a report to the SCR.
A hotline employee will answer your call and ask you for information about why you called. Based on the information you provide, the hotline employee will decide whether to take a report of child abuse or maltreatment. It is helpful if you can give information about who the child is and where he or she can be found; the person who you think abused or maltreated the child; and the child’s parent, guardian or other person legally
responsible for the child. If a report is not taken, the hotline employee will tell you why it could not be taken. If you disagree, you can ask to speak with a supervisor.
If a report is taken, it will be sent right away to the local Child Protective Service (CPS), where the child resides. A local CPS caseworker will start an investigation within 24 hours. The CPS caseworker must work with the family on any issues that make the child unsafe. If the family does not want to make the changes needed for a child to be safe, CPS may go to court to ask a judge to require the family to make the changes or to remove the child from the home. However, in most cases, CPS can work with the family to protect the child in his or her home. This is done by making a plan with the child’s parent or caretaker to change any unsafe actions, or to get services so that the child will be safe.
Understand the causes and effects of abuse and neglect. If you know a parent who is under stress, encourage them to seek help. To locate a parenting program that can provide guidance and support, call the Prevention Information and Parent Helpline at 1-800-342-7472; a program of www.preventchildabuseny.org
Twelve Alternatives to Lashing out at Your Child The next time everyday pressures build up to the point where you feel like lashing out — STOP! Try any of these simple alternatives. You’ll feel better… and so will your child. http://www.preventchildabuse.org/images/docs/twelvealternativestolashingoutatyourchild.pdf
Being a parent is the most difficult, yet most important and satisfying work you will ever do. During the busy and exciting days that make up the first weeks of parenting, remember to take good care of yourself as well as the new baby. Here are some tips on how to survive the early weeks with the new baby: http://www.preventchildabuse.org/images/docs/advicefornewmomsanddads.pdf
Shaken Baby Syndrome (Abusive Head Trauma): Shaken Baby Syndrome refers to injuries to a baby’s brain and body that results from being shaken. Some babies die from these injuries.
What causes the shaking? Usually a caregiver becomes frustrated with a baby’s crying. The caregiver loses control and shakes the baby.
Helpful tips to keep your baby safe: http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/publications/Pub5008.pdf
begin_of_the_skype_highlightingReduce risk. Protect children from sexual abuse
Age appropriate, open conversations about our bodies, sex, and boundaries gives children a foundation for understanding and developing healthy relationships. It also teaches them that they have the right to say “no.”
With this foundation in place, they are less vulnerable to people who would violate their boundaries, and are more likely to tell you if abuse occurs.
New York State Office of Children & Family Services (Pub. 5056 (07/07 & Pub. 1159 (Rev. 9/2012) www.ocfs.state.ny.us
Darkness to Light: https://www.d2l.org/
CAC of Putnam County: The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Putnam County is a child- and family-focused facility, providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary services to children suspected of being abused.
A multidisciplinary team (MDT) of child protective service workers, law enforcement investigators, prosecutors, medical care providers, victim advocates and therapists work together to provide all necessary services in one place.
Our Goals:
For further information, contact the Child Advocacy Center at 845-808-1400 | http://putnamcac.org/
Coordinated by the Department of Mental Health, the goal of the Children’s SPOA is to ensure timely and appropriate access to intensive services for children at risk of hospitalizations or residential treatment. The Children’s SPOA Coordinator provides case consultation, systems navigation, referral, and linkage to mental health supports and services. For youth in need of more intensive services, a SPOA Application can be submitted for review by the SPOA committee and linkage to appropriate supports. This process is facilitated by Putnam County’s Children’s SPOA Coordinator.
There is no WRONG call to the Children’s SPOA. The Children’s Mental Health Team is happy to field calls from any family or community member that is seeking mental health supports or consultation for Putnam County youth. The Children’s SPOA Coordinator can be reached at 845-808-1600 x46139.
Families: Families/Caregivers
should call SPOA if they are having difficulty securing outpatient mental health services for their child, if their child is struggling to manage with outpatient services alone, or if their child has required multiple psychiatric hospitalizations.
Providers & Schools:
Community Providers should call SPOA if they need help navigating the
children’s mental health system, would like a case consultation, or are working with a child for whom they would like to submit a SPOA Application.
Anyone can submit a SPOA Application or inquiry to
Referrals are accepted regardless of income, insurance, or other eligibility requirements. Examples of services accessed through the SPOA are listed below.
Specific services recommended by the SPOA vary based on a youth’s individual needs and eligibility.
Applications
This unit seeks to deliver an array of services to meet the multiplicity of problems that threaten the breakup of families and the placement of children in foster care. These services include casework counseling, parenting skills training, and referrals to community-based programs.
Foster Care services for children are defined as assessing the need for, arranging for, and providing for placement and related services to children in an appropriate foster care setting. Children are placed by either the request of a parent or guardian or as a result of a judicial determination that the child’s continuation in his own home would be contrary to the welfare of such child. Children are placed from birth up to age 18 and can remain in care up to age 21 if they entered prior to turning 18. The Foster Care Home finding Unit is responsible for securing placements in foster homes for children who are in the custody of the department and recruiting and training new foster and adoptive parents. Click here to become a foster parent: (we truly need you!) We want a link to our word document “How to Become a Foster Parent”
Addition websites- New York Foster care ( http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/fostercare/)
What are the steps to becoming a foster parent?
Basic requirements
Training and supports provided to foster parents
Who are the children who come into foster care?
Be a part of a team
Our greatest need
If you are interested, please call Linda Amicucci at (845)808-1500 extension 45258 or Devon Sudlow (845)808-1500 extension 45371.
When a child cannot be returned to their home and becomes a freed child through a surrender or termination of parent rights, this agency works in conjunction with Putnam County Family Court to finalize an adoption for the child/ren and give them a forever home. When a freed child, is placed in your family, a caseworker supervises the placement for a period no less than six months. Services will be implemented as needed for the family and the child during this period.
In addition, postadoption services referrals are provided when needed to adoptive families. These services are offer and recommend by this department as a child grows and develops. Resources and information about post-adoption services can be found on the website of New York State Office for children and Family Services
( https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/adoption/post-adoption/)
Addition websites
Agape Post Adoption Services/ Adoptive and Foster Family Coalition (http://affcny.org/)
Addition websites-to view freed children
New York State Adoption Album (https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/adoption/)
AdoptUSKids (http://adoptuskids.org/)
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by a partner in an intimate relationship in order to gain and maintain power and control in a relationship. Traditionally, domestic violence has had a narrow definition, and someone was considered a victim of domestic violence only if the perpetrator was related to him/her by blood or by marriage. However, with the new Expanded Access law, enacted in 2008, that definition has expanded to include all current or former intimate partners, regardless of whether they are married or have a child in common. This means same-sex couples and dating couples (including teens) have access to domestic violence victim resources (such as Orders of Protection).
There are several different types of abuse:
It Is Still Abuse If . . .
The incidents of physical abuse seem minor when compared to those you have read about, seen on television or heard other women talk about. There isn’t a “better” or “worse” form of physical abuse; you can be severely injured as a result of being pushed, for example. The incidents of physical abuse have only occurred one or two times in the relationship. Studies indicate that if your spouse/partner has injured you once, it is likely he will continue to physically assault you.The physical assaults stopped when you became passive and gave up your right to express yourself as you desire, to move about freely and see others, and to make decisions. It is not a victory if you have to give up your rights as a person and a partner in exchange for not being assaulted!
There has not been any physical violence. Many women are emotionally and verbally assaulted. This can be as equally frightening and is often more confusing to try to understand.
Source: Breaking the Silence: a Handbook for Victims of Violence in Nebraska
The most important thing to remember about domestic violence is it is NEVER the victim’s fault!
If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
If you are a victim of Sexual Assault or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
or our Main Office at 845-628-9284
If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
If you are a victim of Sexual Assault or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
or our Main Office at 845-628-9284
Domestic Violence Support Group
Year Round, drop-in group for women who have experienced or are experiencing physical, verbal or emotional abuse. Mondays from 7:00 p.m.-8:15 p.m. (child care provided)
Women in Transition Group
Year Round, group for women going through a separation or divorce. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284 Group is held Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
(child care provided)
Empowerment Group
Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; A growth oriented group to address women’s concerns including self-esteem, boundaries, goal setting, stress management & effective communication. Must call to register 845-628-9284 Group is held Thursdays from 6:30-7:45 at the Women’s Resource Center. (child care available) Spring group TBA.
Teen Support Group
Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; For girls ages 13& 14. Topics cover healthy relationships/dating, friendships, self esteem, conflict resolution, being assertive. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Group is held Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 7:15 p.m. at the WRC main office. Spring group TBA.
Pre-Teen Support Group
Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; Group for pre-teens ages 10-12 living with domestic violence, separation or divorce issues in their family. Topics include friendships, conflict-resolution, bulling, self-esteem, and coping and communication skills. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Spring group TBA.
Children’s Support Group
Offered Fall, Spring, & Summer; for children age’s 8-9-living with domestic violence and family change, a growth oriented program to address children’s concerns. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Spring group TBA. Group is held from Monday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the WRC main office.
Adult Survivors of Sexual Trauma
Offered Fall and Spring; a group for women who have experienced sexual assault or rape. Intake required to join this group, must call for an intake appointment 845-628-9284. Fall group Monday’s at 7:30p.m. beginning September 30th, 2013 runs for 10 weeks.
Legal Clinic
Offered Monthly;Meet with an attorney to discuss and Review of NYS laws on Divorce, custody, orders of protection and support/advocacy answers. this workshop is for individuals who are starting or maybe starting the initial process of a divorce, support, custody or order of protection and have not yet retained an attorney. Registration is required, to register call 845-628-9284. Next workshop March 11, 2014 at 7:30 p.m.
Volunteer Training
Offered Fall and Spring; With the support of our volunteers, we are able to provide the necessary services to our clients that support their needs. Our program requires that interested adult volunteers be over the age of 18 to be trained to work with our staff and clients. Volunteers will receive training on cultural diversity, gender and power, sexual and domestic violence dynamics, advocacy skills, and much more!
Registration is required, to register call 845-628-9284. Spring Trainings TBA. Training run every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00p.m. to 8:30p.m. for 8 weeks. To learn more about the volunteer training and volunteering for WRC call 845-628-9284
The Community Education and Outreach program provides the community with information and resources about domestic and sexual violence. To accomplish this goal, the Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center has two community educators, who are able to create presentations, attend conferences, and sit on informational panels.
These educators provide unique trainings, workshops, and presentations to a variety of organizations and local schools. These presentations and workshops can be developed to satisfy the needs of the school or organization while covering a wide range of topics that are appropriate for the target audience
PRESENTATION TOPICS
Colleges
High School
Colleges
High School
Non-School Presentations
If you’re interested in learning more about the program or to set up a training at your location contact:
call 845-628-9284
If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
If you are a victim of Bullying, Dating Violence, Stalking, Human Trafficking or a Internet/Cell Phone related crime or any other related crime(s) and want or need assistance please call our
24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
or our Main Office at 845-628-9284
If you are currently experiencing a life threatening emergency please call 911.
If you want or need advocacy and/or other supports please call our
24 hour Crisis Hotline at 845-628-2166
or our Main Office at 845-628-9284
Website Putnam County Women’s Resource Center – pnwwrc.org
All Abilities March Newsletter 2024
The Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities was created to provide disabled individuals and their families with the necessary supports to access services throughout the community. It is the goal of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities to uphold the county’s pledge to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY”, which is a call to action to create a supportive and welcoming community for residents living with disabilities.
The Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities strives to educate the community on how to incorporate inclusivity into their daily lives, through supportive work environments, acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their differences and a united front to learn and think with an open mindset. The Office also works collaboratively with the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and local voluntary agencies, acting as a liaison, to help families navigate disability services and systems.
Should you, a family member or anyone you know need assistance, please contact the Office for Individuals with Disabilities at (845) 808-1641 Ext. 46019.
The New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) requires all of the following to provide services:
In order to determine eligibility, the Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO) of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities requires information about a person’s disability, including:
OPWDD may also ask for other documents or evaluations on a case by case basis for eligibility assessment. Information regarding OPWDD eligibility can be found at: https://opwdd.ny.gov/eligibility
Eligibility must be officially determined by NYS OPWDD in order to access the services they provide. The NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities provides a variety of supports and services for individuals with developmental disabilities. OPWDD works with voluntary providers to deliver services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Services include residential services, day/employment services, and family and individual supports. Family and individual supports include clinic services, in-home care, senior services and care management.
It is important to note that the Putnam County Office for Individuals with Disabilities is here as a resource to assist in questions throughout the process, and as a liaison to getting in touch with OPWDD and resources throughout the community.
Putnam County Department of Mental Health’s Coordinator of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities is available to help individuals and families connect with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) by providing information, referral and assistance with the eligibility application.
Dana Touponse- Coordinator, Office for Individuals with Disabilities
110 Old Route 6, Building 3 Carmel, NY 10512
845-808-1641 Ext. 46019
NYS OPWDD Taconic DDSO (Developmental Disabilities Services Office)
The Arc Mid-Hudson
Constructive Partnerships Unlimited
(Formerly Cerebral Palsy Association of New York State)
Careers Support Solutions
Carmel Office
HVCS (Hudson Valley Community Services)
Putnam County
Office for Individuals with Disabilities
Putnam Independent Living Services (PILS)
Putnam County Department of Mental Health is committed to:
The intergration of behavioral services as such the county has created a position for dual recovery support providing technical assitance to treatment providers and support for families and consumers.
Contact: 845.808.1500 ext: 45265 for more information.
Each year, drug misuse and addiction cost taxpayers nearly $534 billion in preventable health care, law enforcement, crime, and other costs. The best approach to reducing the tremendous toll substance misuse exacts from individuals, families, and communities is to prevent the damage before it occurs. Over 20 years of research demonstrates that prevention interventions designed and tested to reduce risk and enhance protective factors can help children at every step along their developmental path, from early childhood into young adulthood.
67 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10512
Contact: Kristin E. McConnell, Executive Director
845-225-4646
1808 Route Six
Carmel, NY 10512
Contact: Eric Toth, Executive Director
845-225-2700
67 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10512
845-225-4646