Citizens Options Unlimited, Inc.

Citizens supports people to live the life they choose. The organization provides supports and services across Long Island to more than 1,500 people with developmental disabilities.

Citizens’ services include selfdirection, family supports and education, respite and recreation and residential services. The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) recognizes Citizens as a Compass agency, a distinction of excellence held by only four agencies in New York State. Citizens also holds the fouryear Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation With Distinction by the international accrediting organization, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership.

Citizens provides self-direction services, including fiscal intermediary (FI) and broker services. Self-direction is the philosophy that a person “self-directs” all aspects of his/her life through a plan that incorporates choices, such as where to live, how and with whom to spend time, as well as how to participate in the community. Self- direction also allows people the opportunity to hire his/ her own staff to provide services such as supported employment, community habilitation and respite.

Citizens’ Family Support Services (FSS) offers a wide range of unique programs. Recreation and social engagement, including virtual opportunities, provide exceptional opportunities for adults to connect with each other, the community, and the world. A family reimbursement grant is also administered to support families facing financial hardships and in need of goods and services related to the care of a family member with a disability.

Citizens’ respite services include residential services for both families’ crisis and traditional needs, as well as respite opportunities provided through Camp Loyaltown. Camp Loyaltown, is back after a 3-year hiatus. Camp provides one- of-a-kind camp experiences in Hunter, NY for people of all ages as well as respite opportunities throughout the year.

Citizens’ residential services are growing both in Nassau and Suffolk counties, from Port Washington to Shoreham. Increased independence, inclusion, individualization and person-centered planning are the goals for each person receiving residential supports. Men and women are provided with a variety of nursing services and clinical supports that include psychology, nutrition, physical therapy and human growth and development services. Every person is supported to reach their goals and dreams.