Frequently Asked Questions

Participants who have developmental disabilities join activities where they can develop recreational interests, learn about their community, and have fun with peers.

Peer volunteers learn how to support participants according to their individual needs, gain more understanding of disabilities and diversity, and make a positive difference in a peer’s life.

Activity leaders create an experience where all individuals and talents are included, and promote community awareness and inclusion.

For Participants

First step, if you are interested in joining as a Participant and are at least 8 years of age, complete the application. Our TIES Coordinator will contact you to complete the application process. This involves a brief phone conversation to get specifics to better support the Participant.

Second step, you find the school/community/church event you would like a Volunteer to support the Participant in and share that specific information with the Coordinator.

Next, the Coordinator will match Participant with Volunteer and work with you to create an Individual Support Plan (ISP). This ISP will assist the Volunteer and Activity Leader (adult in charge of the event) in providing appropriate guidance and support. It will also give the Volunteer talking points and ways to encourage social interactions with peers while enjoying the activity.

While most activities are initiated from the Participant or Parent/Care Giver, TIES does at times offer some activities. Examples of activities include Drumming Circles (Self-Direction eligibility required), Cooking classes, and free activities offered through SUNY Brockport.

For Volunteers

First step, if you are in grades 8-12, complete the Volunteer Application. Be sure to list references who are not related to you. Next, attend a brief training (30-45 minutes) about the TIES Program and ways you can support Participants. And get some free snacks! Next, the Coordinator will reach out to the References listed on the application and then you are all set to support a Participant! The Coordinator will contact you as Participants request Volunteers. An Individual Support Plan will be share with you so you have some talking points and strategies to support the Participant. It's that easy!

No. Participants and Volunteers must have their own methods of transportation.

No. TIES offers Volunteers to support Participants who want to engage in activities in our Community but may need assistance from a Peer to be successful. Parents/Care givers must register the Participant in an activity and pay any fees that may be involved with the activity.

No. Registration fees for Volunteers are paid for by TIES or waived by the agency coordinating the activity.

Possibilities are endless.

Activities can be –

• A single event, such as a school dance or after-school football game.
• An ongoing class, such as cooking, dance, martial arts, music, or gymnastics.
• Ongoing participation in a community organization, such as Scouts.
• A Drumming Circle.

A great place to start is your school. Are there after school activities or clubs the Participant is interested in? What community resources do you want to participate in? Church? the Perinton Rec Center? The Y? Local Karate studio? Reach out to your Coordinator to seek input or ask for resources. Participants are able to sign up for any community event/activity with an Activity Leader (adult in charge).

You are encouraged to speak directly with the Activity leader during the activity or reach out to the TIES Coordinator. The Coordinator is there to answer questions or address any concerns you may have as a Participant or a Volunteer.

Together Including Every Student (TIES) was developed in 1997 by two parents of children who have disabilities and is currently in over 25 school districts across New York State.