About us

My name is Donna Irving and I have a child with Autism and Developmental Disabilities, who receives services through Self Direction formerly known as Consolidated Support Services. I have also been Support Staff for individuals in Self Direction for several years now. Since I began working in this field I realized that there was very little connection with other participants or families receiving services through OPWDD. So, I formed Long Island CSS & Friends so that people could connect as well as learn about upcoming events. I have also began a Google Group as well, along with adding a Facebook group. Also, please feel free to check out our blog.

In the past, we have also had meet-ups at several cafes such as Starry Night Cafe, Sip This, Starbucks in Long Beach, Witches Brew, Panera Bread in Bellmore, Roller Skating at United Skates of America and Hot Skates, Wednesday Walkers at the Source Mall, and more to come. We also do Staff & Family Connections at libraries, and I started local meet ups in places such as Wantagh Pool, Adventureland, and Splish Splash. I have created this place so that we can support each other, share important information, share resources, share stories, receive support, and participants can make friends with others in Self Direction as well as make new friends in the community.

I look forward to meeting all of you in time at one of our meet-ups.

Donna Irving