What is Blueprint?
Blueprint at Community Access is a Supported Education program that began in the fall of 2015 and is funded by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Our services are grounded in the belief that mental health struggles do not preclude a successful education. We ask each participant to define for themselves a satisfying life, with meaning and purpose. From there we explore what role education can play in creating that vision, and begin the work of matching barriers with supports and strengths.
The Blueprint Supported Education Specialists provide one-on-one support for prospective and current students with a focus on:
- Stress management
- Assistance with school admissions and financial planning
- Course registration, program transitions, planned withdrawals, and appeals processes
- Timely completion of course-work
- Skill development in studying, note-taking, time management
- Self-advocacy and decision-making
- Advocating for accommodations and exploring disclosure options
- Connecting with other students, campus life, and navigating social environments
- Exploring personal interests, values, and goals
Can I receive support from Blueprint?
Blueprint provides services to adults 18 years and older who live in New York City and have a history of mental health conditions. We want to reach individuals who have been impacted by the carceral system, or court-involvement, however this is not a requirement for services. Blueprint is designed to support current students and students who plan to enroll in the next available semester or program cycle (within the next 6 months). If you are not currently in school, we can do a pre-sign-up Exploration process with you, to help you consider your options and decide if moving forward with school enrollment is right for you at this time. We support education goals of high school equivalency, vocational certification, or college (AA, BA, MA, and more).
How can I talk to someone or start enrollment in Blueprint?
Request a meeting with us through this website under the Get Involved menu, or by phone and email via the contact information listed below. No official referral is required to book a meeting, and there is no obligation to enroll in Blueprint for education support.