Notice of Rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The New York City Department of Youth and Community Development does not allow discrimination on the basis of disability in the operation of its programs, services or activities. DYCD and DYCD-funded programs are required to make reasonable accommodations necessary to enable persons with disabilities to participate in programs, services and activities.

Anyone who needs a disability related accommodation in order to participate in a DYCD or DYCD-funded program or receive DYCD or DYCD-funded services (involving matters other than employment) is invited to make their needs and preferences with respect to accommodation known to DYCD by contacting DYCD’s ADA Coordinator, Ruma Debi, at (646) 343-6722 (phone) or by completing an ADA request form.

Grievance Procedure under ADA

A grievance with respect to matters other than employment should be in writing and contain information about the alleged discrimination such as the name, address, and phone number of the grievant and the location, date, and description of the problem. Alternative means of filing complaints, such as personal interviews or a tape recording of the complaint, will be made available for persons with disabilities upon request. The complaint should be submitted by the grievant or the grievant’s designee as soon as possible but no later than 60 calendar days after the alleged violation to DYCD’s ADA Coordinator (contact information above).

Within 15 calendar days after receipt of the complaint, the ADA Coordinator or her designee will contact the grievant to discuss the complaint and the possible resolutions. Within 15 calendar days of such discussion, the ADA Coordinator or her designee will respond in writing, and where appropriate, in format accessible to the grievant, such as large print, Braille, or audio tape. The response will explain the position of DYCD and offer options for resolution of the complaint.