Community Education and Outreach
The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island is dedicated to educating and raising awareness about seizure disorders. Through various programs, we aim to reach individuals with epilepsy, educate teachers and healthcare professionals, and eliminate stigma in schools and workplaces. Our goal is to promote inclusion, understanding and acceptance in the community.
FREE Educational Programs include:
The Seizure Recognition and First Aid Certification Program
Learn how to identify seizures and provide proper first aid with our comprehensive course. Upon completion, you will receive a two-year certification, at no cost to you. This 90-minute session will increase your knowledge, skills, and confidence in handling seizure emergencies.
The Seizure Smart Program
We reach out to school faculty to address the stigma surrounding epilepsy and educate teachers on identifying common seizure types and providing appropriate assistance. Our expert can conduct thorough training sessions at your school to equip staff with the knowledge to support students with seizures effectively.
Take Charge of the Facts Program
This program teaches middle and high school students about epilepsy and seizures and covers causes, treatments, and first-aid procedures to combat existing myths. We provide accurate information to dispel misconceptions and promote understanding.
Seizure Awareness and First Aid Training for Direct Care Staff
We offer comprehensive training programs for staff members in various settings like camps, day care centers, nursing homes, home health care agencies, and more. Our training caters to organizations seeking to enhance their staff’s skills and knowledge about epilepsy and seizure first aid.
Law Enforcement-Informed Training for Recognizing and Responding to Seizures
This specialized training aims to educate public safety professionals on epilepsy and seizure management, ensuring the well-being of individuals with epilepsy in interactions with law enforcement. The program was designed for law enforcement, public safety, and correctional officers, emphasizing the importance of understanding and responding effectively to individuals with epilepsy in various situations.
Medical & Legal Referrals
We offer referrals to medical facilities and specialists in epilepsy, as well as referrals to outside agencies for legal support, disability benefits, educational guidance, and employment rights. Our goal is to provide comprehensive assistance for individuals with epilepsy.
Information Services
We’re here to assist with any inquiries about epilepsy and its treatment. You can request printed materials such as articles and brochures. Additionally, we offer a wide selection of books and audiovisual resources that can be borrowed either by mail or for pick up. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.
The Sheila and Fred Abrams Community Education Workshop Series
Our educational workshops are led by guest speakers focusing on epilepsy and related topics. These informative sessions are open to everyone in the community. Expand your knowledge and awareness on epilepsy with us!
Advocacy
Home Visits
We can provide epilepsy information sessions for the caregivers, families and loved ones of individuals diagnosed with epilepsy. We offer informative sessions on epilepsy for those supporting individuals with the condition. Get valuable insights and support for caregivers and loved ones.
Legislative Advocacy
Together with our network affiliation with the Epilepsy Foundation and the Epilepsy Coalition of New York State, the Epilepsy Foundation of Long Island team advocates on legislative issues related to epilepsy at the local, state, and federal level.
School Advocacy
We’re here to assist parents during their 504/IEP Committee Meetings, offering valuable support and guidance throughout the process. This personalized assistance can help parents navigate the complexities of these meetings with confidence and clarity, ensuring that all necessary accommodations and services are properly addressed. By having a knowledgeable advocate by their side, parents can feel empowered to effectively communicate their child’s needs and secure the appropriate resources for their academic success.
Employment Advocacy
Our Community Educator can assist individuals by advocating with employers and helping them to understanding epilepsy in the workplace, and support individuals by advocating on their behalf with employers by providing guidance on managing epilepsy in a work environment. We offer valuable insights and assistance to ensure a better understanding of epilepsy and its impact in the workplace.