201.919.3211

YourCSN

Month: September 2025

  • Prioritizing Safety, Empowering Lives: Honoring World Patient Safety Day

    Graphic art with the words "World Patient Safety Day" which occurs on September 17 every year, with this year's slogan "Patient safety from the start!"

    Each year, on September 17, organizations around the world come together to recognize World Patient Safety Day (WPSD) — a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of keeping healthcare safe for all. This year’s theme, “Patient safety from the start!”, reminds us that true safety and quality in care begin with listening to and empowering those we serve.

    At Community Supports Network (CSN), our mission is centered around providing individualized care for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that each person is not only supported but also protected in every aspect of their journey. Safety isn’t just a protocol we follow — it’s the foundation of the trust we build with the individuals and families who count on us every single day.

    Why Patient Safety Matters

    Patient safety extends far beyond the walls of hospitals. It includes:

    • Preventing harm in everyday care settings — from homes to community spaces.
    • Clear communication and advocacy, ensuring every individual’s needs and concerns are understood.
    • Training and supporting staff, so they have the knowledge and confidence to provide safe, high-quality care.
    • Empowering patients and families, giving them a voice in their care plans and decisions.

    When safety is prioritized, individuals are able to thrive, and families gain peace of mind knowing their loved ones are supported by a team that values both dignity and protection.

    CSN’s Commitment to Safety

    At CSN, we are proud of the measures we take to maintain a culture of safety:

    • Continuous staff training to prevent errors and promote best practices.
    • Open communication channels that encourage feedback from individuals, families, and our teams.
    • Personalized care plans that address unique needs and minimize risks.
    • Strong partnerships with families and the community, ensuring everyone is informed and involved.

    Elevating Voices, Building Trust

    World Patient Safety Day calls on all of us to listen to the voices of patients and their caregivers. When we truly hear their stories, concerns, and goals, we can deliver care that is not only safe but also compassionate and transformative.

    Today, we honor our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and the entire CSN team for their dedication to this mission. Your work ensures that safety remains a cornerstone of the lives we touch.

    Join Us in Making Safety a Priority

    As we observe World Patient Safety Day, let’s remember that safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are a family member, caregiver, or advocate, your voice matters. Together, we can create a world where every individual receives care that is safe, respectful, and empowering.

  • Celebrating National DSP Recognition Week: Honoring the Heart of Community Supports Network

    Our DSP with one of our clients celebrating together on a sunny day.

    September 7–13th, 2025 marks National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week — a time to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to empowering others. At Community Supports Network (CSN), our DSPs are not just team members. They are advocates, mentors, and everyday heroes who make a profound difference in the lives of the people and families we serve.

    What Is a DSP and Why They Matter

    Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of disability services. They work directly with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), autism, and other support needs. Their role goes far beyond providing care — they empower people to live full, independent, and meaningful lives.

    From teaching daily living skills to supporting someone as they achieve their dream job, DSPs are there every step of the way. They help bridge gaps in education, employment, social opportunities, and community inclusion.

    Simply put: DSPs don’t just support people — they help create brighter futures.

    At CSN, our DSPs support individuals through:

    • Job coaching to help people thrive in meaningful employment.
    • Life skills training for greater independence at home and in the community.
    • Advocacy and mentorship, ensuring every person’s voice is heard.
    • Joyful connections, fostering friendships and belonging.

    Why This Week Matters

    While the impact of DSPs is felt every single day, National DSP Recognition Week gives us a chance to collectively celebrate their dedication and elevate awareness of their crucial role. Across the country, DSPs are facing workforce shortages and systemic challenges. By celebrating their work publicly, we not only thank them but also advocate for greater recognition, better wages, and stronger support for these essential workers.

    For the individuals and families, they serve, DSPs aren’t just staff members — they are life changers. This week is an opportunity for communities to pause and say, “We see you, we value you, and we appreciate you.”

    A Look at DSP Impact at CSN

    At CSN, we see the magic of DSPs every day.

    Whether it’s supporting someone to land their first job, encouraging a person to reach a new milestone in independence, or simply being a trusted presence through life’s ups and downs, DSPs are central to our mission.

    One recent success story is [Insert Brief Example — e.g., a client who gained employment or reached a milestone thanks to a DSP’s support]. These moments are a testament to the powerful relationships built between DSPs and the people they serve.

    A Call to Action

    The work of DSPs is not just vital — it’s transformative. By recognizing and supporting them, we are investing in stronger, more inclusive communities.

    If you are a DSP, know this: you are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.
    If you are a family member, friend, or community partner, take a moment to thank a DSP and consider how you can help advocate for these essential professionals.

    From All of Us at CSN: Thank You

    To every Direct Support Professional at CSN and beyond:
    Thank you for your compassion, your dedication, and the countless ways you make a difference.

    You are the reason individuals with disabilities are empowered to dream bigger, achieve more, and live lives filled with independence and joy.

    Happy National DSP Recognition Week! 💙

  • Breaking Down Barriers: How Disability Services Work in New Jersey (A Family Guide)

    Navigating supports in New Jersey can feel like alphabet soup—NJEIS, CSOC, DDD, HCBS, NJCAT. Here’s a clear, step-by-step map of who to call, when to apply, and what to expect—from birth through adulthood.

    Birth–Age 3: Early Intervention (NJEIS)

    If you’re concerned about a child’s development before age 3, start with the New Jersey Early Intervention System (NJEIS). It’s the statewide program (run by NJ Department of Health) that evaluates and provides services for infants and toddlers with delays or disabilities. Families can self-refer; services typically end at the child’s third birthday.

    For children 3 and older, referrals typically shift to the local school district; families can also use Project Child Find (800-322-8174).

    Up to Age 21: Children’s System of Care (CSOC) / PerformCare

    For youth with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), mental health needs, or substance-use challenges, New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care (CSOC) is the public front door.
    PerformCare is the 24/7 single point of access for eligibility and service coordination under CSOC:
    📞 1-877-652-7624
    🌐 www.performcarenj.org

    Planning the Transition to Adulthood (Around 18–21)

    You can apply to the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) at age 18, but DDD’s adult services start at 21 (while school-based services can continue through 21). Families should begin transition planning with the school IEP team and explore DDD eligibility well before the 21st birthday so services can start smoothly.
    Learn more: DDD Eligibility

    Age 21+: Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)

    DDD administers New Jersey’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for adults with I/DD via two Medicaid waiver programs:

    • Supports Program (SP): for adults living with family or independently in the community.
    • Community Care Program (CCP): includes options for licensed residential settings with additional clinical criteria.
      📘 Supports Program Manual

    Key Requirements & Steps

    1. Medicaid eligibility
      You must have NJ FamilyCare Medicaid to receive ongoing DDD services.
      NJ FamilyCare Info
    2. NJCAT assessment
      DDD uses the New Jersey Comprehensive Assessment Tool (NJCAT) to measure support needs in self-care, behavioral, and medical areas.
      NJCAT Overview
    3. Budgets by tier
      Your NJCAT score determines your tier and annual budget in the Supports Program.
      Budget Tier Table – Effective Jan 1, 2024
    4. Choose a Support Coordination Agency (SCA)
      Once eligible/enrolled, adults select a Support Coordination Agency. Support Coordinators help develop the Individualized Service Plan (ISP), locate providers, and make changes as needs evolve.
      Search for SCAs and Providers

    Self-Directed Options

    New Jersey offers Self-Directed Employee (SDE) models where individuals can hire their own staff and purchase certain approved services.
    Two models are available:

    • Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent (VF/EA)
    • Agency With Choice (AWC)

    As of 2025, DDD is transitioning the VF/EA fiscal intermediary from PPL to Acumen, with staggered rollout through September 2025. Your Support Coordinator will guide you through model selection and enrollment.
    Self-Direction Resources

    How CSN Fits In

    • Navigation & planning: We help families prepare for key handoffs—Early Intervention → CSOC/PerformCare → DDD—so services don’t lapse.
    • Support Coordination: Once an adult enrolls with DDD, we work with support coordinators to provide this service that matches their NJCAT-based budget.
    • Self-direction support: We assist with setting up and maintaining self-directed services for long-term success.

    Quick Contacts (New Jersey)

  • What We Celebrate in September: Awareness, Inclusion, and Advocacy

    At Community Supports Network (CSN), we believe that every month offers an opportunity to amplify awareness, foster inclusion, and advocate for the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. September is especially meaningful, as it highlights several important observances that connect directly to our mission of empowering independence and building community.

    World Patient Safety Day — September 17

    This day emphasizes safer healthcare practices and the importance of reducing harm to patients. For people with disabilities, access to safe, responsive, and inclusive healthcare is essential. At CSN, we recognize the unique needs of the individuals we support and advocate for care systems that prioritize safety, dignity, and respect.

    World Alzheimer’s Day — September 21

    Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia impact millions of families worldwide. On this day, we come together to raise awareness, support research, and stand by individuals and caregivers who navigate the challenges of memory loss. At CSN, we know that dignity in care is vital and that communities are stronger when we uplift one another.

    International Day of Sign Languages — September 23

    Language is power, and sign language is an essential tool for connection and inclusion. This day reminds us that communication should never be a barrier. We celebrate the richness of sign languages and the Deaf community, and we remain committed to fostering environments where every voice—spoken, signed, or supported—is heard and valued.

    National Non-Speaking/Nonverbal Awareness Day — September 30

    Not all communication looks the same. This observance advocates for individuals who are non-speaking or nonverbal, ensuring their voices are acknowledged and respected through alternative and augmentative communication methods. At CSN, we see daily how technology, creativity, and compassion help people express themselves fully.

    Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day — September 30

    Awareness of rare conditions, such as limb girdle muscular dystrophy, is vital for advancing research, building understanding, and supporting affected individuals and their families. By learning and sharing, we help strengthen communities and expand networks of care.

    Why These Days Matter

    Each of these observances shines a light on a different aspect of health, disability, and inclusion. For CSN, they are not just dates on the calendar — they are reminders of why we do what we do. Every day, we work to create environments where individuals feel empowered, supported, and able to live fulfilling lives.

    As we move through September, let’s carry forward the message that awareness leads to action, and action leads to change. Together, we can continue building communities that celebrate diversity, honor dignity, and prioritize inclusion.

    Written by Jess Quarello, Brand Communications Manager

Serving Morris, Passaic, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union, Warren, Somerset, Hunterdon & Sussex Counties