Arkansas Administrative Code, Agency 165, Rule 165.00.04-001 - STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING - FISCAL YEARS 2005 - 2007 | Arkansas Administrative Code

Chapter 1. Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as Amended

ATTACHMENTS

The following is a list of the attachments in the SPIL. The attachments listed are numbered to coincide with their section. It is recommended that these attachments not exceed a combined total of 40 pages in length.

Attachment 1 Goals, Missions, and Objective

Attachment 2 Plan for the Provision of Resources to the SILC Budget

Attachment 3 Evaluation Plan

Attachment 4 Policies, Practices and Procedures for Award of Grants Under Section 723

Section 1 : Purpose of the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), under Chapter 1 of Title VII

1.1 Philosophy of the Programs (Sec. 701 of the Act; 34 CFR 364.2 )

The State assures that in the implementation of this plan the State will:

(a) Promote a philosophy of independent living (IL), including a philosophy of consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual, and system advocacy, to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with significant disabilities, and to promote and maximize the integration and full inclusion of individuals with significant disabilities into the mainstream of American society by providing financial assistance to States;

(b) Provide financial assistance for providing, expanding, or improving the provision of IL services;

(c) Provide assistance to develop and support a Statewide network of centers for independent living (CILs), operated by consumer-controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agencies that are operated within local communities by individuals with disabilities and that provide an array of IL services; and

(d) Advocate for improving working relationships among the various entities providing services to and for people with significant disabilities.

1.2 Participation in the Programs (Sec. 704(a)(1) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.10 )

The DSU and SILC understands that no Federal funds or other benefits can be made available under Chapter 1 unless the State conforms with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.

(a) This SPIL reflects the State's commitment to carry out an IL plan under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Chapter 1)1, and also the State's planning and implementation activities related to the plan.

Section 2 : Legal Basis and State Certifications (Sec. 704 of the Act) As a condition to the receipt of financial assistance under Chapter 1, the

Arkansas [Statewide] Independent Living Council

(Name of Statewide Independent Living Council)

jointly with the DSU is authorized to develop and sign the SPIL. The DSU and SILC agree to administer the programs in compliance with the provisions of the Act, all applicable regulations, policies, and procedures promulgated by the Secretary, and the provisions of this SPIL.

(b) The State legally may carry out each provision of the SPIL and the DSU has the authority under State law to perform the functions of the plan.

(c) All provisions of the SPIL are consistent with State law.

(d) The Commissioner, Arkansas Rehabilitation Services, Dept. Workforce Education Director, Division of Services for the Blind, Dept. Human Services (Title of State Official acting on behalf of DSU) has authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the SPIL.

(e) The SPIL being submitted has been adopted or otherwise formally approved by the DSU and SILC.

(f) The SPIL is the basis for State operation and administration of the Chapter 1 programs, as appropriate,2 and is available for public inspection.

(g) The effective date of this SPIL is October 1, 2004.

Section 3 : Plan Submittal

3.1 Frequency of Submittal (Sec. 704(a)(3) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.11, 364.20(b) )

(a) This SPIL is for fiscal years 2005 - 2007. A three-year plan must be submitted every three years by July 1 of the year preceding the first fiscal year for which the plan is submitted, (i.e., July 1, 2001).

(b) Plan amendments are submitted whenever the Secretary determines an amendment to the SPIL is essential during the effective period of the plan; or when there is a significant and relevant change that materially affects the information or the assurances in the plan, the administration or operation of the plan, or the organization, policies, or operations of the DSU or SILC.

3.2 State Plan Development (Sec. 704(a)(2) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.20(c) )

The State plan is jointly developed and signed by the director of the DSU and the chairperson of the SILC or other individual acting on behalf of and at the direction of the Council.

3.3 Public Hearings (Sections 17, 704(m)(6) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.20(g), (h) )

(a) The State conducts public hearings to provide all segments of the public, including interested groups, organizations, and individuals, an opportunity to comment on the SPIL prior to its submission to RSA, and on any substantive review or revision of the approved SPIL. The DSU and SILC may meet the public participation requirement by holding the public hearings before a preliminary draft State plan is prepared or by providing a preliminary draft State plan for comment at the public hearings.

(b) The State establishes and maintains a written description of procedures for conducting public hearings in accordance with the following requirements:

(i) The DSU and SILC shall provide appropriate and sufficient notice of the public hearings. Appropriate and sufficient notice means notice provided at least 30 days prior to the public meeting through various media available to the general public, such as newspapers and public service announcements, and through specific contacts with appropriate constituency groups and organizations identified by the DSU and SILC.

(ii) The DSU and SILC shall make reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who rely on alternative modes of communication in the conduct of the public hearings, including providing sign language interpreters and audio-loops.

(iii) The DSU and SILC shall provide the notices of the public hearings, any written material provided prior to or at the public hearings, and the approved State plan in accessible formats (e.g., Braille, large print, on disk) for individuals who rely on alternative modes of communication.

(iv) At the public hearings to develop the State plan, the DSU and SILC will identify those provisions in the State plan that are State-imposed requirements. For purposes of this section, a State-imposed requirement includes any State law, regulation, rule, or policy relating to the DSU's administration or operation of IL programs under Title VII of the Act, including any rule or policy implementing any Federal law, regulation, or guideline, that is beyond what would be required to comply with the regulations in 34 CFR Parts 364, 365, 366, and 367.

(c) The State identifies State imposed requirements resulting from the application of any State rule or policy relating to the administration or operation of the programs under

Chapter 1. Following are descriptions of the State imposed requirements included in the SPIL, if any:

Services are based on financial need and comparable benefits will be utilized. Services are intended to be comprehensive, one time services to enable individuals to live and function independently in the home, family, or community and to maintain employment.

3.4 Opportunity for Review and Comment Under State Review Process ( 34 CFR 76.141-142 ) If the SPIL or an amendment to the plan is subject to the State review process, such materials are reviewed, and commented on, in accordance with the provisions of Executive Order 12372. Comments provided through the State review process will be transmitted to RSA.

Section 4 : Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) (Sec. 705(a) and (b) of the Act)

4.1 Composition of the SILC (Sec. 705(b) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.21(b) )

(1) State the total number of persons on the SILC.	7
(2) State the number of SILC members with disabilities, as defined in 34 CFR 364.4(b), and not employed by a State agency or a CIL	2*
(3) Is a representative of the DSU an ex-officio, member of the SILC?	Y N
(4) State the number of voting members on the SILC.	6
(5) State the number of different disability groups (physical, mental, cognitive, sensory, or multiple) represented by members of the SILC (up to five).	3
(6) Is a CIL director chosen by CIL directors within the State appointed to the SILC?	Y N
(7) Does the SILC include representatives from other State agencies that provide services for individuals with disabilities.	Y N
(8) Does the council have a voting membership that is knowledgeable about CILs and IL services?	Y N
(9) Do Council members provide statewide representation?	Y N
(10) Is the Council Chairperson elected from among the voting members of the Council by the voting members of the Council or the Governor, pursuant to section 705(b)(5) of the Act?	Y N

* The SILC is working closely with the Governor's office to expedite the appointment of additional Council members who are individuals with disabilities in order to reach the required majority absent due to recent resignations.

4.2 Placement of the SILC (Sec. 705(a) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.21(a)(2) )

The SILC is not established as an entity within any State agency, including the DSU, and is independent of the DSU and all other State agencies. Following is a brief description of the legal status and placement of the SILC:

The Arkansas Independent Living Council is a private, nonprofit organization doing business in Little Rock, Arkansas. It rents office space in the city, and staffs a director and an administrative assistant.

4.3 Plan for Provision of Resources to the SILC (SILC Budget) Sec. 705(e) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.21(i) )

(a) In conjunction with the DSU, the SILC will prepare a Resource Plan Attachment 2 (SILC Budget) for the provision of resources, cash or in-kind, including staff and personnel, rent, supplies, telephone expenses, travel, and other expenses (e.g., child care, personal assistance services, and compensation to a member of the SILC, if the member is not employed or must forfeit wages from other employment, for each day the member is engaged in performing SILC duties) that will be necessary to carry out the functions of the SILC during the term of the SPIL.

(b) The SILC will be responsible for the proper expenditure of funds and the use of resources it receives under the SILC Budget.

(c) No conditions or requirements are included in the SILC Budget that will compromise the independence of the SILC.

(d) While assisting the SILC in carrying out its duties under the SPIL, staff and other personnel assigned to the SILC under the SILC Budget will not be assigned duties by the DSU or other agency or office of the State that would create a conflict of interest.

Attachment 2 - Describes the SILC Budget.

Attachment 2 must include a description of the SILC's Budget for the three years covered by the SPIL, including the sources of funds, staff, supplies, and other resources made available under parts B and C of Chapter 1, Part C of Title I of the Act, and from State and other public and private sources, that may be necessary for the SILC to carry out its responsibilities under section 705 of the Act and the SPIL. No conditions or requirements may be included in the SILC's resource plan that may compromise the independence of the SILC. The SILC is responsible for the proper expenditure of funds and use of resources that it receives under the resource plan. The SILC shall, consistent with State law, supervise and evaluate its staff and other personnel as may be necessary to carry out its functions. While assisting the SILC in carrying out its duties, staff and other personnel made available to the SILC by the DSU may not be assigned duties by the designated State agency or DSU, or any other agency or office of the State, that would create a conflict of interest.

Section 5 : Designation and Responsibilities of the State Unit(s)

5.1 Designation (Sec. 704(c) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.22 )

The State unit(s) designated to receive, account for, and disburse funds, and provide administrative support services is (are):

________ Arkansas Rehabilitation Services-Dept. Workforce Education __________

________ Division of Services for the Blind-Dept. Human Services ______________

5.2 DSU Responsibilities under the SPIL (Sec. 704(c) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.22 ) The DSU:

(a) Receives, accounts for, and disburses funds received by the State under Chapter 1 in accordance with the SPIL;

(b) Provides administrative support services for the part B State IL services (SILS) program and the part C, Chapter. 1, CIL program in a case in which the program is administered by the State under section 723 of the Act;

(c) Keeps such records and affords such access to such records as the Secretary finds to be necessary with respect to the programs; and

(d) Submits the SPIL and such additional information or provides such assurances as the Secretary may require with respect to the programs.

Section 6 : Staff and Staff Development

6.1 Personnel Administration (Sec. 12(c), 704(m) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.23 )

(a) The staff of service providers will include personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of CILs.

(b) To the maximum extent feasible, each service provider will make available 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 tape, and who apply for or receive IL services under the SPIL; 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 the SPIL.

6.2 Personnel Development (Sec. 12(c), 704(m) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.24 )

The State assures that service providers will 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 program will emphasize improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of the IL philosophy.

6.3 Affirmative Action (Sec. 704(m)(2) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.31 )

All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of individuals with disabilities under section 503 of the Act.

6.4 Nondiscrimination ( 34 CFR 76.500 )

No individual will, on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under this SPIL.

Section 7 : Financial Administration

7.1 General Provisions (Sec. 704(m)(3) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.34 )

All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 will adopt such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for funds paid to the State under Chapter 1.

7.2 Source of State Funds (Sections 712(b)(2) and 7(7)(C) of the Act; 34 CFR 365.12, .13 and .14, 367.11, .42)

(a) The one to nine non-Federal share of the cost of any project that receives assistance through an allotment under part B, Chapter 1 will be provided in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or services, consistent with 34 CFR 365.13, .14, and .15.

(b) For the purpose of determining the Federal share with respect to the State, expenditures by a political subdivision of the State will, subject to regulations prescribed by the Secretary, be regarded as expenditures by the State.

(c) The State may not condition the award of a grant, subgrant, or contract under part B, Chapter 1 or a grant, subgrant, or assistance contract under part C, Chapter 1 on the requirement that the applicant for the grant or subgrant make a cash or in-kind contribution of any particular amount or value to the State. Furthermore, an individual, entity, or organization that is a grantee or subgrantee of the State, or has a contract with the State, may not condition the award of a subgrant or subcontract under part B, Chapter 1 or part C, Chapter 1 on the requirement that the applicant for the subgrant or subcontract make a cash or in-kind contribution of any particular amount or value to the State or to the grantee or contractor of the State.

7.3 Financial Record Keeping (Sec. 704(m)(4)(A) and (B) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.35 ) All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 will:

(a) Maintain records that fully disclose-

(1) the amount and disposition by each recipient of the proceeds of such financial assistance,

(2) the total cost of the project or undertaking in connection with which such financial assistance is given or used, and

(3) the amount of that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other sources; and

(4) compliance with the requirements of Chapter 1 and 34 CFR Parts 364, 365, 366, and 367.

(b) Maintain such other records as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to facilitate an effective audit.

7.4 Access to Financial Records (Sec. 704(m)(4 & 5) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.37 )

All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 will afford access to the Secretary and the Comptroller General or any of their duly authorized representatives, for the purpose of conducting audits and examinations, to all records maintained pursuant to section 7.3 of the SPIL immediately above and any other books, documents, papers, and records of the recipients that are pertinent to the financial assistance received under Chapter 1.

7.5 Financial Reports (Sec. 704(m)(4)(D) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.36 )

All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 will submit reports with respect to records required in section 7.3 of the SPIL, as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

Section 8 : State Administration of Part C Program 3

NOTE - THIS SECTION APPLIES ONLY TO §723 STATES.

8.1 Funds Earmarked to Support CILs (Sec. 723(a) of the Act; 34 CFR 366.32 ) In the second fiscal year preceding fiscal year 2000, the general operations of CILs in the State were supported by the following amounts of earmarked funds4:

State Funds N/A Federal Allotment N/A

8.2 State Applies to Administer Part C Program (Sections 704(h) and 723 of the Act; 34 CFR 366.32 )

The director of the DSU hereby applies to award grants or assistance contracts to eligible agencies in the State that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act. The grants are to be made from the funds allotted to the State for the planning, conduct, administration, and evaluation of CILs under part C, Chapter 1.

8.3 State administers funds in compliance with §723 (Sec. 704(h) of the Act; 34 CFR 366.32, .35)

3

(a) To meet the requirements in section 723(a)(1)(B) and (2) of the Act, a §723 State must submit this section of the SPIL for approval each year subsequent to the first year of approval to administer the Part C, Chapter 1 program.

(b) Unless the provisions of Attachment 8 are materially changed, submittal of this Section shall not constitute a material revision of the SPIL requiring public hearings or State review under SPIL Section 3.

4 The amount of State funds earmarked by a State to support the general operation of centers does not include:

(1) Federal funds used for the general operation of centers;

(2) State funds used to purchase services from a CIL, including State funds used for grants or contracts for personal assistance or skills training;

(3) State attendant care funds;

(4) Social Security Administration reimbursement funds; or

(5) funds used to support an entity that does not meet the definition of a CIL in section 702 of the Act, e.g. funds used to support a single disability (If a State or outlying area is operating a CIL pursuant to section 724 of the Act, the funds used to support this CIL can be considered "earmarked" for purposes of section 723(a)(1)(A)(i) of the Act.) or residential facility cannot be counted as earmarked funds.

(a) If Section 8.2 is answered in the affirmative, the director of the DSU awards grants or assistance contracts under section 723 of the Act to any eligible agency that was awarded a grant under part C, Chapter 1 on September 30, 1993, unless the director makes a finding that the agency involved fails to comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act or the director of the DSU and the chairperson of the SILC, or other individual designated by the SILC to act on behalf of and at the direction of the SILC, jointly agree to another order of priorities.

(b) The State assures that any assistance contracts issued to eligible agencies will not add any requirements, terms, or conditions to the assistance contract other than those that would be permitted if the assistance contract were a subgrant consistent with grants issued by RSA under section 722 of the Act.

(c) In administering the part C, Chapter 1 program, the State will not enter into any procurement contracts with CILs to carry out section 723 of the Act.

8.4 Monitoring and Oversight. (§§704(h), 723(g) and (h) of the Act; 34 CFR 366.38 )

The State assures that periodic and on-site compliance reviews will be conducted to determine CIL compliance with section 725 of the Act as described in Attachment 3.

Attachment 4 describes the policies, practices, and procedures, which comply with section 723 of the Act, that the State utilizes for awarding continuation and new grants.

Section 9 : Information on Use of Part B, Chapter 1 Funds

9.1 Use of §711 funds in support of §713 purposes (Sec. 713 of the Act; 34 CFR 365.1 )

Part B Funds are to be used only for any one or more of the following purposes (all optional):	Directly by DSU	Grant/ Contract	Dollar Amt.
(a) Fund the resource plan for SILC (SPIL Section 4).	Y N	Y N	0
(b) Provide IL services to individuals with significant Disabilities	Y N	Y N	118,079
(c) Demonstrate ways to expand and improve IL services.	Y N	Y N	40,600
(d) Support the general operation of CILs.	Y N	Y N	74,805
(e) Support activities to increase capacity of public or nonprofit agencies and organizations and other entities to develop comprehensive approaches or systems for providing IL services.	Y N	Y N	4,000
(f) Conduct studies and analyses, gather information, develop model policies and procedures, and present information, approaches, strategies, findings, conclusions, and recommendations to Federal, State, and local policy makers to enhance IL services.	Y N	Y N	0
(g) Train individuals with significant disabilities, individuals providing services to individuals with significant disabilities, and other persons regarding IL philosophy.	Y N	Y N	40,600
(h) Provide outreach to unserved or underserved populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations.	Y N	Y N	45,600

Section 10 : Outreach (Sections 704(l) and 713(7) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.32 )

The State reaches out to populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations, that are unserved or underserved by the programs funded under Chapter 1.

Attachment 1 describes the steps that will be taken regarding outreach to populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations, that are unserved or underserved by the programs funded under Chapter 1. Attachment 1 also describes populations designated for special outreach efforts and the geographic areas in which they reside (e.g., individuals with significant disabilities residing on land controlled by American Indians. ) `

Section 11 : Extent and Scope of IL Services (Sections 7(30), 704(e) and 713(1) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.43 )

(a) Attachment 1 describes all IL services to be provided under the SPIL to meet the objectives in Section 10.

(b) The State provides the following IL core services to individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities:

(1) Information and referral;

(2) IL skills training;

(3) Peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling); and

(4) Individual and systems advocacy,

(c) The IL core services may be provided directly by the DSU, or through grant or contract. While the State is required to provide these services, it may fund the services using funds from any source, e.g., part B or part C, Chapter 1, State funds, or other funds.

(d) In addition, the State provides the following IL services to individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities5:

(1) _ x_ Counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services; 5 Insert an "X" or check mark for each IL service that will be made available. It is not necessary to insert any projection of numbers of consumers to be served.

(2) x 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);

(3) x Rehabilitation technology;

(4) x Mobility training;

(5) x Services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities,

including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services;

(6) x Personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services;

(7) x Surveys, directories, and other activities to identify appropriate housing,

recreation opportunities, and accessible transportation, and other support services;

(8) x 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;

(9) x Education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities;

(10) x Supported living;

(11) x Transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation;

(12) x Physical rehabilitation;

(13) x Therapeutic treatment;

(14) x Provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices;

(15) x Individual and group social and recreational services;

(16) x 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;

(17) x Services for children with significant disabilities;

(18) x 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;

(19) x Appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals with significant disabilities assisted under this Act for similar services in the future;

(20) x Community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities; and

(21) x Such other services as may be necessary and not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act.

Section 12 : Eligibility, Records, IL Plans, and Notice of Client Assistance Program

12.1 Eligibility for Receipt of Services (Sections 7(15)(B) and 703 of the Act; 34 CFR 364.51 )

(a) Individuals with significant disabilities are eligible for services provided under the SPIL.

(b) To be eligible, an individual is one:

(1) Who has a significant physical, mental, cognitive, or sensory impairment;

(2) Whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited; and

(3) For whom the delivery of IL services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move towards functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment.

12.2 Consumer Service Record (Sections 704(m)(4)(B), 725(c)(8) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.53 )

A consumer service record (CSR) will be maintained for each consumer of services, other than information and referral, which will contain documentation that the consumer is eligible or ineligible for IL services, the information required for the annual performance report under 34 CFR 364.36 and 366.50(h), and an IL plan (ILP) or a waiver as described in SPIL Section 13.3.

12.3 IL Plans (Sec. 704(e) and 725(c)(14) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.52 )

The State provides IL services under Chapter 1 to individuals with significant disabilities in accordance with an ILP 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.

12.4 Notice about the Client Assistance Program (Sections 20 and 704(m)(1) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.30 )

All recipients of financial assistance under Chapter 1 that provide services to individuals with significant disabilities advise those individuals seeking or receiving IL services about the availability of the Client Assistance Program under section 112 of the Act, the purposes of the services provided under such program, and information on the means of seeking assistance under such program.

Section 13 : Statewide Network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs)

13.1 Network Design (Sec. 704(g) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.25(a) )

The State has developed a design for the establishment of a statewide network of CILs that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act.

13.2 Unserved and Underserved Areas and Priorities (Sec. 704(g) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.25(b) )

(a) The network design:

(i) identifies unserved and underserved geographic areas of the State; and

(ii) includes an order of priority for the establishment of CILs in those areas.

Section 14 : Communication, Cooperation, and Coordination (Sections 704(I-k) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.26 and .27)

(a) The State takes steps that maximize the communication, cooperation, coordination, and working relationships among -

(1) the SILS program, the SILC and CILs; and

(2) the DSU, other State agencies represented on the SILC, other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues, and other public and private entities, including Indian Tribal Councils, determined to be appropriate by the SILC.

(b) The State ensures that services funded under Chapter 1 will complement and be coordinated with other services to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State, and local programs, including the IL program for older individuals who are blind funded under Chapter 2 of Title VII.

(c) The State coordinates Federal and State funding for CILs and SILS.

Section 15: Evaluation Plan (Sec. 704(n) of the Act; 34 CFR 364.38 )

(a) The State establishes a method for the periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the SPIL:

(1) In meeting the State's objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives;

(2) In the satisfaction of individuals with disabilities; and

(3) In meeting the objectives established in Section 9 of the SPIL.

(b) The State agrees to annually submit the results of DSU and SILC evaluation activities, including the most recent evaluation of Title VII consumer satisfaction, with the annual performance report to RSA.

ARKANSAS STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (ASPIL)

FY 2005-2007

ATTACHMENT 1

VISION, MISSION, GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES

Vision of the Arkansas State Independent Living Council

The vision of the Arkansas Statewide Independent Living Council is to see an Arkansas where all its citizens have equal rights and opportunities.

MISSION OF THE ARKANSAS STATE INDEPENDENT LIVING COUNCIL

The mission of the Arkansas Statewide Independent Living Council is to promote independence, including freedom of choice and full inclusion into the mainstream of society, for all Arkansans with disabilities.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES

The Arkansas State Independent Living Council has established four (4) primary goals for independent living efforts in Arkansas. The Council will:

I. Promote the Independent Living Philosophy in all of Arkansas' seventy-five counties.

II. The council shall identify and prioritize specific advocacy issues to actuate individual and systems change throughout the state.

III. Maintain a functional, constructive, and communicative relationship with existing Centers for Independent Living as well as Federal, State, and local entities whose mission may impact the lives of Arkansans with disabilities.

IV. Assist the Centers for Independent Living in their quest to develop and actuate appropriate services for those individuals with disabilities who wish to enhance the level of their independence by transitioning to less restrictive environments.

The Arkansas Independent Living Council (Council) will play a primary role in coordinating the activities, which will accomplish these goals. In the Arkansas State Plan for Independent Living (ASPIL) there are a number of themes related to achieving all goals. These themes are collaboration, cooperation, and communication among all organizations involved in independent living; expanded knowledge and awareness of independent living philosophy and approaches and; evaluation of effectiveness.

To achieve the objectives of this plan, participating organizations must continue to work together to expand and improve services and advocacy. This plan addresses these needs by emphasizing cooperation, advocacy, and outreach for all organizations promoting independent living in the State.

Objectives and activities for each goal are listed below.

GOAL I. The Council shall promote the Independent Living Philosophy in all of Arkansas' seventy-five counties.

The Council shall take a lead role in informing the public about independent living, and it will assist other organizations at the grassroots level by offering technical assistance, training and other means of support as it is appropriate.

Just as important will be the work of Centers for Independent Living and staff of the Designated State Units (DSU's) in increasing awareness and support for the concepts addressed in this goal.

OBJECTIVE A: The Council office staff and volunteers shall provide information to consumers, families, and the public throughout the state about the Independent Living philosophy, technology, and services.

* Maintain AILC website. The website will be updated on an as-needed basis. Evaluate what linkages currently exist and their effectiveness and investigate other possible linkages.

* Ensure that all Centers for Independent Living are linked to the AILC website.

* Maintain and publicize the statewide toll free number.

* Create an updated PowerPoint presentation on IL philosophy and advocacy. This PowerPoint presentation will be used for awareness and education purposes. The presentation will be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure inclusion of current disability related issues and activities.

* Develop a media campaign to increase awareness of the Council and to increase the number of incoming calls from Arkansans with disabilities requesting information about IL services.

OBJECTIVE B: Centers for Independent Living, their staff, and volunteers shall provide information to consumers, families, and the public about the Independent Living philosophy, technology, and services.

* Conduct community workshops

* Participate in state and local government planning and activities

* Enlist the support of community organizations, businesses, and local, state and national governments

* Document contacts

* Evaluate effectiveness

OBJECTIVE C: State agencies and staff shall provide information to consumers, families, and the public about the Independent Living philosophy, technology, and services available through Centers for Independent living as well as other service providers located throughout the state.

* Conduct community workshops

* Participate in federal, state and local government planning and activities

* Enlist the support of community organizations, businesses, local and state governments

* Maximize communication, coordination and cooperation among entities identified under this goal

* Document contacts and activities

* Evaluate effectiveness

GOAL II. The Council shall identify and prioritize specific advocacy issues to actuate individual and systems change throughout the state.

Through data gleaned from the DSU's statewide effort in 2004 to identify specific areas of IL service needs and through input received through the activities described in the objectives of Goal I, the Council will develop methodologies that focus on acknowledged deficiencies in the sphere of advocacy, addressing both individual and system change.

The Council will be an active partner with grassroots organizations or statewide agencies involved in systems advocacy, when compatible with the IL philosophy. Council members will serve on Task Forces and other Committees of such organizations as appropriate; and, facilitate the inclusion of annual independent living advocacy priorities in grassroots organizations. The Council will support a venue to provide legislative training and education on Independent Living; document contacts and activities; and evaluate the effectiveness of those activities. OBJECTIVE A: The Council shall solicit input from Centers for Independent Living, grassroots organizations, individuals with disabilities, state and local agencies, or any other interested party in a effort to identify advocacy issues.

OBJECTIVE A: The Council shall solicit input from Centers for Independent Living, grassroots organizations, individuals with disabilities, state and local agencies, or any other interested party in a effort to identify advocacy issues.

* Sponsor and facilitate community forums throughout the state.

* Actively monitor federal, state, and local legislative efforts impacting those with disabilities.

* Educate federal, state, and local policy makers on the importance of necessary policy changes based on input received from aforementioned community forums.

OBJECTIVE B: The Council shall offer expertise in the area of the Americans with Disabilities Act (Titles I. thru V.) either directly, through contracts with recognized professionals or organizations, or through referral to Centers for Independent Living.

* Cooperative agreement with Disability Rights Center, Little Rock, AR to provide guidance to consumers regarding advocacy issues.

* Cooperative agreement with Centers for Independent Living to provide guidance to consumers regarding advocacy issues.

* Develop curricula to dispel fear and misunderstanding of ADA by industry and the community at-large, and to facilitate the dismantling of attitudinal barriers.

* Actively seek participation of consumers in any activity meant to identify and initiate individual or system change.

OBJECTIVE C: The Centers for Independent Living shall conduct individual and systems change advocacy.

* Advocate for increased funding for assistive technology to support independent living.

* Provide technical assistance and training on Medicaid waivers, and other services designed to promote technological independence.

* Provide advocacy services to individual consumers

* Participate in systems change initiatives

* Document contacts

* Evaluate effectiveness

Goal III. Maintain a functional, constructive, and communicative relationship with existing Centers for Independent Living as well as Federal, State, and Local entities whose mission may impact the lives of those with disabilities.

Development of resources to accomplish the objectives of the ASPIL is crucial to the success of this plan. Centers, state agencies, and the Council all have responsibilities to secure additional funding to improve and expand independent living services. The council will consider the establishment of new Centers among their highest priority and conduct ongoing efforts to identify areas of need as well as sources of revenue. Prior to any decision by the Council to advocate for the establishment of a new Center for Independent Living, the Council shall appoint an advisory committee comprised of at least one Council member, a DSU Representative, the Executive Director of the Center for Independent Living nearest the geographical area under consideration for a new Center, and at least one member-at-large with a disability from that geographical area. The committee will seek to identify and validate the need for the proposed Center, investigate the economic impact the establishment of the Center would have on existing Centers, and advise the Council of the results of their efforts at a quarterly meeting of the Council scheduled no later than 180 days subsequent to the beginning of their endeavor. Any resolution to initiate the establishment of a new Center shall pass only by a unanimous vote of the Council. Any new Part C funds will be divided equally among the four existing Centers for Independent Living.

OBJECTIVE A: The Council shall be actively informed about the legislative process as it relates to persons with disabilities and their families.

* In 2005 the Council will develop a committee comprised of Council members, consumers, legislators, members of industry, State Work Investment Board appointees, and at-large individuals to design and construct a plan of action to promote the awareness of a mounting need for the increased funding of Independent Living Services in Arkansas.

* Advocate for increased access to assistive technology as a means to support independent living activities.

* Investigate the effectiveness of measures used by other State Independent Living Councils in their quest to affect issues and of the Independent Living philosophy.

OBJECTIVE B: Negotiate for the continuation of funding.

* Negotiate for continuation of Title I and other appropriate funding for continued effective management of the Council.

* Establish DSU and Council member workgroup to determine utilization of Part B funds.

* Negotiate for maximum utilization of Title I funds for employment related IL services through fee for service contracts with CIL's.

* Participate in national activities designed to increase Title VII, Part C funds.

GOAL IV: Assist the Centers for Independent Living in their quest to develop and actuate appropriate services for those individuals with disabilities who wish to enhance the level of their independence by transitioning to less restrictive environments.

In anticipation of the growing number of individuals with disabilities desiring to live outside of institutions or other restrictive environments, the Council shall actively participate in committees and task forces whose purpose it is to facilitate these desires. The Council, its staff, Centers for Independent Living, and DSU entities shall endeavor to avail themselves of the most current training and information regarding Olmstead and any other legislation addressing the transition issue as well as the methodologies to facilitate these transitions. During community forums, the Council shall endeavor to inform the public that transition services are now considered a Core service provided by Centers for Independent Living. The Council shall assist Centers for Independent Living in identifying and securing funding necessary to support this new array of services.

OBJECTIVE A: Identify service providers currently facilitating transition needs.

* Identify service providers currently facilitating transition needs and develop a committee to coordinate these efforts.

* Ensure that Council members, Council staff, DSU entities, DHS, and Centers for Independent Living staff are active in and knowledgeable about this service area through semi annual workshops designed to address technical and funding aspects of transition.

* Provide information through brochures and personal appearances to entities such as nursing homes, Human Development Centers, professional medical associations, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, civic organizations, and other groups or individuals who may become a stakeholder in the transition process.

* Examine methodologies used by other states in their attempt to incorporate transition as one of the array of services available to those with disabilities.

Mandatory Area 1: Scope of and Arrangement for IL Services (Section 11)

Independent living services are available in all 75 counties through the DSU field offices. The centers for independent living provide the four core services in 25 of the 75 counties, with additional services, such as benefit planning being offered in all 75 counties. It is anticipated that Transition will become a fifth core service.

Mainstream's core service area covers Pulaski, Lonoke, Perry, Faulkner, and Prairie and part of Saline counties in central Arkansas.

Delta Resource Center's core service area covers Jefferson, Arkansas, Grant, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, Bradley, Ashley, Chicot, and Lincoln counties in southeast Arkansas.

SAILS' core service area covers Garland, Hot Spring, Clark, Pike, and Montgomery, and Saline counties in southwest central Arkansas.

SOURCES core service area covers Washington, Benton, Madison, and Carroll counties in northwest Arkansas.

All four centers, the AILC and the DSU's have toll-free telephone numbers and email. The DSU's, Mainstream, Sources and the AILC also have web sites. SAILS and Delta have plans to develop web sites.

Arkansas Rehabilitation Services offers Independent Living Services for people with hearing impairments through the Office for the Deaf and Hearing-Impaired (ODHI). ARS provides services through the statewide technology programs, including Increasing Capabilities Access Network (ICAN). ARS Supported Housing Office seeks to find housing for persons with severe disabilities and promotes home ownership. All counties are served.

The Division of Services for the Blind (DSB) offers independent living services through its nine field offices throughout Arkansas. Information and referral, assessment, mobility rehabilitation teaching, counseling, skill instruction, limited transportation, and adaptive aides and devices are provided. The Independent Living For Elders (LIFE) program is funded through a formula grant under Chapter II of the Rehabilitation Act is available to visually impaired individuals 55 years of age and older. This program includes assessment, eligibility determination, information and referral, skill instruction, counseling, support activity (including peer counseling), limited transportation, assistive aids and devices and other appropriate services. These services are available in all 75 counties. DSB contracts with three of four Centers for independent living and employment related services.

ARS and DSB will grant IL services to Arkansas' Centers for Independent Living for Part B and other appropriate funds. The DSU's will also grant funds to the Statewide Independent Living Council for its operating budget (see Resource Plan).

The four centers for independent living, in addition to providing the four core services provides a variety of additional services funded through a variety of sources. A description of those services follows.

* Three centers have a Benefits Specialist on staff and two additional Specialists operate outside existing centers. Between these five Specialists and the AWIN (Arkansas Work Incentive) Project Manager the entire state is afforded access to this service. It is projected that 146,000 people with disabilities could benefit from this service yearly, with the projected cost being $280,349. This grant is housed at Sources.

All four centers are working to transition people out of nursing homes back into their communities. Through a grant project coordinated by the Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services each center will transition a minimum of 8 individuals a year. That number should increase in subsequent years. Projected cost is approximately $50,000 per center.

* SOURCES has a Home Modification program which assists consumers in the purchase of needed equipment, technical assistance, and wheelchair ramps to make their living environment more accessible. The cost of this program is $17,000 with all dollars going directly to equipment and some labor being donated. This project serves a minimum of 30 people each year.

* SOURCES is a designated Employment Network in cooperation with the Social Security Administration and projects 12 placements yearly. This endeavor was seeded through an initial $25,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Education and Training Administration in FY 2003 and will be partly sustained through some grant continuation and Ticket to Work income.

* SOURCES, Delta, Mainstream and SAILS have ramp projects, which assist consumers with, access to their homes. Together the projects provide a minimum of 40 ramps per year.

* SAILS has a job readiness program which serves a minimum of 30 consumers a year at a cost of $17,000.

* All centers, with the exception of SOURCES, receive some additional funding from Division of Services for the Blind to assist with providing IL services to this disability population.

* SAILS is project manager for a grant in excess of $200,000 earmarked to assist persons with disabilities obtain rental assistance for up to two years while waiting for available Section 8 housing.

Mandatory Area 2: Cooperation, Coordination, and Working Relationships among Various Entities

* Establish quarterly meeting schedule with DSU's and Executive Committee of the AILC to ensure on-going effective communication and collaboration

* AILC Executive Director will meet quarterly with Executive Directors of the centers for independent living to evaluate progress of activities as stated in the state plan, update information, plan for collaboration on current issues and discuss areas of concern. These meetings will be held on the same day of the scheduled board meeting.

* AILC provides time at each quarterly meeting for other community and grassroots organization to report on their activities so appropriate action and/or participation may be planned

* AILC actively seeks representation from specific disability populations on the Council

* Centers collaborate with specific disability populations to promote the independent living philosophy and to ensure quality of service

* AILC staff and board members are active participants in many cross disability coalitions and taskforces

* AILC and DSU's will seek public input about IL services and needs when addressing funding distribution

Mandatory Area 3: Outreach (Section 10)

The Council shall play a lead role in outreach activities to groups of persons who are presently unserved or who are underserved. This outreach is important, both for the immediate needs of consumers and for the effective design of a statewide network of centers and services. Through this outreach process, the membership of the Council shall be structured to reflect populations now presently unserved or served only to a limited degree. Utilization of computer networking and other technologies will be explored.

OBJECTIVE A: The Council shall expand its membership to reflect the identified unserved and under served populations. Priorities currently include persons with developmental disabilities and those with mental illness, Native American peoples, persons of Hispanic origin, and persons of Asian origin.

* Determine current needs

* Cooperate with the DSU's and Centers to initiate aggressive recruitment of members of identified groups to serve on the Council

* Submit nominations to the Governor's office

* Assist Governor's staff by making recommendations for selection

* Contact appropriate organizations such as tribal councils and similar groups

OBJECTIVE B: Continue to conduct outreach activities.

* Develop and disseminate a list of minority organizations to Centers and other service providers

* Provide information on IL services and Centers to other advisory councils of public and private domain, non-profit organizations, churches, culturally diverse groups and colleges and universities

* Produce and distribute public service announcements for media and educational institutions that are inclusive of populations from urban and rural areas, minority groups and targeting under served disability populations, with all public information materials available in accessible formats

* Document contacts and activities

* Evaluate effectiveness

Network of centers

Arkansas has four federally funded Centers for Independent Living:

1. Mainstream (Little Rock)

2. SOURCES (Fayetteville)

3. Delta (Pine Bluff)

4. SAILS (Hot Springs)

These centers are fairly well geographically dispersed, though southwest and northeast Arkansas include expansive areas that are unserved. The four centers provide the core services in 25 of the state's 75 counties. Mainstream, SAILS, and Delta cover areas that are contiguous, covering a large area in the central to southeast region of the state, whereas the other center, SOURCES, covers the four counties of extreme northwest Arkansas.

In keeping with the concept introduced in Goal III of this document and relying on data made available through planned need assessment research, the expansion of Independent Living service offerings will follow a specific formula. If information provided via Centers for Independent Living, community forums and grassroots organizations establishes the need for an additional Center for Independent Living, the feasibility determination process will consist of the following components:

1. Compilation of data supporting the expansion

2. Formation of committee charged with investigating the capacity of the community under consideration to support a new Center and the impact on existing Centers with contiguous service areas

3. Development of community action plan to address deficiencies if expansion is not recommended

4. Establishment of satellite center if expansion is recommended; under mentorship of existing Center geographically nearest new service area

5. Satellite Center becomes independent upon development of funds necessary to fully support autonomy

VI. Independent Living Funding for the State of Arkansas
Includes funding for the State Agencies, Centers for Independent Living, and the Arkansas Independent Living Council
Estimated for 2005 ORGANIZATION	Title VII CH1 PART B	Title VII CH1 PART B	TITLE VII CH 1 PART C	TITLE I STRATEGIC PLANNING	TITLE VII CH 2 OLDER BLIND IL	OTHER STATE & FEDERAL
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services	$ 43,292.00	13%
DHS Division of Services for the Blind	$ 39,187.00	12%	$338,701.00
ARS Deaf and Hearing Impaired	$409,785.00 Title XX
Delta Resource Center, Pine Bluff	$ 52,339.00	16%	$152,596.00	$ 10,000.00	$ 10,868.00 DSB
Mainstream Inc., Little Rock	$ 12,500.00	5%	$294,256.00	$ 16,000.00 DSB
Sources Independent Living, Fayetteville	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00
Spa Area Independent Living, Hot Springs	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00	$ 15,000.00 DSB
Arkansas Independent Living Council
Total	$323,684.00	100%	$752,044.00	$142,852.00	$338,701.00	$451,653.00

VII. Independent Living Funding for the State of Arkansas
Includes funding for the State Agencies, Centers for Independent Living, and the Arkansas Independent Living Council
Estimated for 2006 ORGANIZATION	Title VII CH1 PART B	Title VII CH1 PART B	TITLE VII CH 1 PART C	TITLE I STRATEGIC PLANNING	TITLE VII CH 2 OLDER BLIND IL	OTHER STATE & FEDERAL
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services	$ 43,292.00	13%
DHS Division of Services for the Blind	$ 39,187.00	12%	$338,701.00
ARS Deaf and Hearing Impaired	$409,785.00 Title XX
Delta Resource Center, Pine Bluff	$ 52,339.00	16%	$152,596.00	$ 10,000.00	$ 10,868.00 DSB
Mainstream Inc., Little Rock	$ 12,500.00	5%	$294,256.00	$ 16,000.00 DSB
Sources Independent Living, Fayetteville	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00
Spa Area Independent Living, Hot Springs	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00	$ 15,000.00 DSB
Arkansas Independent Living Council
Total	$323,684.00	100%	$752,044.00	$146,838.00	$338,701.00	$451,653.00

VIII. Independent Living Funding for the State of Arkansas
Includes funding for the State Agencies, Centers for Independent Living, and the Arkansas Independent Living Council
Estimated for 2007 ORGANIZATION	Title VII CH1 PART B	Title VII CH1 PART B	TITLE VII CH 1 PART C	TITLE I STRATEGIC PLANNING	TITLE VII CH 2 OLDER BLIND IL	OTHER STATE & FEDERAL
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services	$ 43,292.00	13%
DHS Division of Services for the Blind	$ 39,187.00	12%	$338,701.00
ARS Deaf and Hearing Impaired	$409,785.00 Title XX
Delta Resource Center, Pine Bluff	$ 52,339.00	16%	$152,596.00	$ 10,000.00	$ 10,868.00 DSB
Mainstream Inc., Little Rock	$ 12,500.00	5%	$294,256.00	$ 16,000.00 DSB
Sources Independent Living, Fayetteville	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00
Spa Area Independent Living, Hot Springs	$ 88,183.00	27%	$152,596.00	$ 15,000.00 DSB
Arkansas Independent Living Council
Total	$323,684.00	100%	$752,044.00	$150,943.00	$338,701.00	$451,653.00

ARKANSAS STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (ASPIL)

FY 2005-2007

ATTACHMENT 2

Resource Plan

Arkansas' two DSUs will make grants to the SILC, which operates as a nonprofit organization. ARS' contribution to the SILC's budget is calculated at 88% and DSB's is at 12%. The tables below show specifically the SILC's resources.

IX. Income

SOURCE	FY 2005	FY 2006	FY 2007
ARS Funding (88%)	$116,910.00	$120,417.00	$124,030.00
DSB Funding (12%)	$15,942.00	$16,421.00	$16,913.00
TOTAL (100%)	$132,852.00	$136,838.00	$140,943.00

Expenses

FY 2005	FY 2006	FY 2007
Meetings/Advocacy	2,808.00	3,187.00	3,446.00
Travel	17,161.00	17,675.00	18,328.00
Equipment	2,740.00	2,815.00	2,568.00
Supplies	2,075.00	2,139.00	2,203.00
Administrative	13,426.00	13,828.00	14,244.00
Rent, Water, &	19,620.00	19,921.00	20,562.00
Telephone
Insurance	3,114.00	3,208.00	3,305.00
Payroll	60,939.00	62,767.00	64,650.00
Fringe	10,969.00	11,298.00	11,637.00
Total	132,852.00	136,838.00	140,943.00

Budget Justifications:

MEETINGS (500)*

The AILC board of directors will meet a minimum of four (4) times annually. At least two of these meetings shall be held in the Little Rock area, and the remainder may be held in other areas of the state on a rotational basis.

Reimbursable expenses including, lost wages, parking, phone, childcare, and other allowable expenses, will be paid for board members, staff, and consultants (qualified individuals) to attend full council meetings, any sub-committee meetings as defined by the AILC financial policies, annual budget (resource plan), Federal guidelines, and other approved meetings of the AILC.

Food and beverages for meetings will be paid from this line item.

ADVOCACY (501)

The AILC will support advocacy activities and have the option to award grants to organizations extolling the philosophy of independent living. AILC may support research, demonstration projects, coalition development, and activities specifically regarding civil rights for persons with disabilities, such as Olmstead planning, other ADA issues, and Rehabilitation Act issues, among other things.

ACCOMMODATIONS (503)

Interpreter services, personal assistant services, and alternative formats, as well as other accommodations for meetings and other functions of the AILC, shall be paid from this line item. However, AILC will consider all its resources in consideration of reasonable accommodation and will not limit them to this line item. This account is expressly created for accommodating the needs of individuals to attend and participate fully in AILC programs. However, other measures will always be taken to assure that people with disabilities, regardless of the extent of disability, are fully included.

TRAINING (505)

The AILC will provide training opportunities for its board members, staff, and consultants, as well as consumers. The Council will pay professional fees for trainers. Costs for training materials will be covered under this line item. The AILC also will pay the registration fees for qualified attendees to attend meetings, conferences, and other approved events as defined by the AILC financial policies and annual budget (resource plan). Travel expenses for attendees will be paid for under Travel Expenses (510-520).

TRAVEL (510-520)

Travel expenses will be provided for board members, staff, consultants, and consumers for the purposes of gathering and sharing information on independent living and systems advocacy. Expenses also will be provided as available for consumers from Centers for Independent Living or grassroots organizations in the state to attend regional or national events, such as the Region VI IL Conference or training and the National Council on Independent Living Conference.

Travel In-State will cover the costs associated with travel inside the state of Arkansas. Travel expenses to and from regular business meetings will be reimbursed to board members. Travel expenses may also be reimbursed to technical consultants and advisors.

Travel Out-of -State will cover the costs associated with travel outside the state of Arkansas. Travel expenses will be reimbursed to board members and any qualified individual, such as a consultant or a consumer who is sponsored for an out-of-state event.

EQUIPMENT (530)

The AILC and staff is charged with purchasing and maintaining adequate equipment for the purposes of operating the Council office, receiving and disseminating information, and maintaining records. Equipment purchases will be in accordance with AILC policies and procedures, Federal regulations, and the annual budget.

SUPPLIES and POSTAGE (540-550)

The AILC office will maintain necessary office supplies and postage for its general operation.

ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (600)

These costs will include such items as an annual compilation, processing fees, printing and copying, advertising, purchasing subscriptions and publications, staff parking, and memberships to organizations that promote the philosophy of independent living. AILC policies and procedures, Federal regulations, and the annual budget will define these costs.

RENT (620)

The AILC shall rent office space as needed. Office space is necessary for the AILC staff to carry out its assigned duties, for the storage and use of AILC equipment, and for the provision of a centralized coordination of SILC activities.

TELEPHONE (640)

Telephone services are necessary for the coordination, communication, and cooperation of AILC services. The AILC shall maintain adequate telephone service, which may include but not necessarily be limited to a toll free number for consumers around the state, a cellular phone(s), e-mail, website, and general telephone service.

INSURANCE (650)

Insurance will be purchased to address the liability of the AILC, its staff, Director and Officers, and its property.

STAFF PAYROLL (660)

The staff oversees the general operation of the AILC office and maintains appropriate records. The staff also coordinates the ongoing implementation of the Three-Year State Plan under the direction of the AILC. The staff provides technical assistance to Centers for Independent Living, DSU's, other agencies, and community groups in underserved or unserved areas. It coordinates research. It serves as a systems advocate for persons with disabilities. Finally, the AILC staff coordinates the dissemination of information about the independent living philosophy and movement to consumers, families, and the general public.

Fringe (670)

Fringe includes the employer portion of the Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes, unemployment insurance and the employer contribution toward medical coverage.

ARKANSAS STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (ASPIL)

FY 2005-2007

ATTACHMENT 3

X. Evaluation Plan

The Arkansas Statewide Independent Living Council (Council), Arkansas Rehabilitation Services, and the Division of Services for the Blind are responsible for monitoring, reviewing, and evaluating the implementation of the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). The Council will utilize the following evaluation components to ensure compliance with the requirements of Section 15. These include: Submitting the annual 704 report to Rehabilitation Services Administration in conjunction with ARS and DSB. The Council will complete the information for Part 1 of the report and submit it to the DSUs. ARS will include the information in the full report that they submit to RSA not more than 120 days after the end of the federal fiscal year.

1. Publishing an Annual Report. This report will review the council's activities, successes, and problems over the previous fiscal year. It will be made available to the council's mailing list, through request by e-mail, and on the Council's web site.

2. Council Review. The council will review the progress of the SPIL annually. This process will be completed at the first business meeting following the completion of the 704 report. Goals and objectives will be evaluated for quantitative and qualitative results.

3. Consumer compilations. All written comments from consumers received by the council regarding independent living services shall be kept on record and considered in the development of the 704 report. The council newsletter will continue to encourage consumers to send comments in to the office. Comments sent to the newsletter may be published in the newsletter.

Arkansas Rehabilitation Services will monitor and evaluate the Arkansas Independent Living Council to assure compliance with the three-year state plan.

Program Evaluation

* ARS staff will attend quarterly AILC meetings. Attending these meetings allow ARS to stay abreast of consumer satisfaction, statewide initiatives to expand IL services and to gather information on ILC activities.

* ARS staff will monitor quarterly financial and program reports submitted by the AILC.

* ARS staff will monitor quarterly financial and program reports submitted by the CILs.

* ARS staff will attend RSA reviews or monitoring activities of AR CILs.

* ARS staff will review annual federal reports of the AILC and CILs.

Attachment 1. Goals and Objectives Timeline

Click here to View Image

SIGNATURE OF SILC CHAIRPERSON	DATE
Richard Royal	479-442-5600
NAME OF SILC CHAIRPERSON	PHONE NO.
_____________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE OF DESIGNATED STATE UNIT DIRECTOR	DATE
John Wyvill	501-296-1600
NAME AND TITLE OF DESIGNATED STATE UNIT DIRECTOR	PHONE NO.
_____________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE OF DESIGNATED STATE UNIT DIRECTOR	DATE
Jim Hudson	501-682-5463
NAME AND TITLE OF DESIGNATED STATE UNIT DIRECTOR	PHONE NO.

Arkansas Administrative CodeAgency 165 - Arkansas Rehabilitation ServicesRule 165.00.04-001 - STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING - FISCAL YEARS 2005 - 2007

Arkansas Administrative Code
Agency 165 - Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
Rule 165.00.04-001 - STATE PLAN FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING - FISCAL YEARS 2005 - 2007