Join us

At Nor-West, we recognize that each person has their own unique needs and interests. That is why we provide a wide variety of therapeutic recreation programs. We offer community-based day and evening programs and special events throughout the year, ensuring there is something for everyone. Our specialized services include Special Olympic training, transportation services, and skill enhancement programs in cooking, bowling, swimming sports, social skills, and more!

New to Nor-West?

Nor-West provides recreational programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, ranging from 7 years of age through adulthood. These programs are specially designed to cater to the unique needs of participants that traditional recreational programs may be unable to address. To qualify for Nor-West programs, you must be eligible for OPWDD services. If you want to join Nor-West, please download the "Participant Application" from the website and contact the Nor-West office to schedule an intake. We would be happy to meet with you and discuss how our programs can support your recreation and respite needs.
Participant application

Eligibility

To participate in Nor-West programs, individuals must be deemed eligible for services by OPWDD. Information about eligibility and OPWDD services can be found on their website, Front Door | Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (ny.gov) If you are already enrolled in the HCBS Medicaid Waiver and want to join Nor-West programs, specific documentation is required before starting. Nor-West programs are considered respite, and we need to be included in your Lifeplan. Your Care Manager can assist with the process. To continue receiving our services, we need annual and semi-annual Lifeplan reports. Failure to provide them may lead to a suspension of services. We also require the Service Authorization Letter (SAL), Notice of Decision (NOD), and Level of Care and Eligibility Determination (LCED) on file. OPWDD loves acronyms!
OPWDD Front Door

Fees and Charges

Venue Fees
All participants are responsible for paying the Venue Charges, which cover expenses incurred at the program site, including admission charges, tickets, user fees, meals, beverages, and snacks. The Venue Charge is mandatory for all consumers, regardless of waiver status.
Registration Fees
Registration Fees apply to residents of IRA, Supported Apartments, Group Residences, or those who live independently. Unfortunately, individuals who reside in state-funded settings do not qualify for respite funding. While contributions from our four municipalities supplement the fees, they do not cover the entire cost.
Transportation Fees
Transportation Fees apply to those in an IRA, Supported Apartment, Group Residence, or living independently and must be paid at the time of registration via check or money order.
Self Direction
If you have self-directed services, funding must be allocated to Nor-West for respite services. Nor-West bills Medicaid directly and our services are considered a "direct provider purchase." Adequate funds must be allocated in your self-direction budget for our services. Nor-West is required to submit monthly utilization reports to your Fiscal Intermediary (FI) for our services. Please contact your broker to ensure that funds are properly allocated to Nor-West. By working together, we can ensure compliance with Medicaid and the continuation of desired services.
We understand that OPWDD paperwork can be overwhelming. We appreciate the cooperation of parents/families and their Care Managers in ensuring that all required documentation is current. Compliance is necessary for Medicaid and OPWDD audits, so staying on top of the paperwork is essential.

Nor-West Policy & Procedure Manual