NEW YORK STATE — Community Based Services (CBS) announced plans to merge with In Flight, Inc., a New York-based organization that provides residential, community and day habilitation services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

The partnership, according to a news release, will further CBS’s mission, allowing the organization to provide innovative programs and quality support to more people with autism and other disabilities and their families in the New York area. 

“This merger not only addresses the post-COVID challenges of staffing shortages, stringent regulations and escalating inflation, but also aligns with CBS’s strategic plan to seek collaborations with like-minded organizations that maintain high standards of excellence,” said chief strategy officer Bhakar Singh, who is the lead CBS staff member facilitating the merger. 

Singh has begun the process of obtaining the necessary New York State government approvals for the merger, and expects it to be completed by January 2024. 

CBS provides comprehensive services in the lower to mid-Hudson Valley; In Flight, Inc., based in Red Hook, operates in Dutchess, Ulster, Columbia and Greene counties.

Singh said that “the merger aims to enhance the quality, creativity and scope of existing and new support services within the Hudson Valley and Capital regions. The combined leadership teams will work collaboratively to achieve operational efficiencies and enhanced service delivery.” 

Given, the company said, that the two organizations have compatible cultures, the merger will not result in any layoffs, and will create greater opportunities for staff growth and development. 

“This, in turn, will empower the organization to continually improve salaries and benefits over time,” CBS added. 

Community Based Services will be the surviving entity of the merger, and chief executive officer Vicki Sylvester will continue to lead the organization. Matt Bateman, CEO of In Flight, will assume the role of chief administrator. 

"We are enthusiastic about joining forces with CBS," said Bateman. "Our collective expertise and shared values will undoubtedly elevate the services we offer and amplify the positive impact on the people we serve." 

CBS provides people with autism and other disabilities the best quality of life through residential and community-based opportunities. The agency has been enriching lives, providing jobs, and cultivating dreams for people with disabilities since 1981. CBS offers residential, day services, employment, training and in-home support. 

To get help or eligibility information, visit commbasedservices.org or call Jennifer Havrilla at 914/236-1128 or email jhavrilla@commbasedservices.org.

CBS is also currently hiring direct service professionals. Visit the career section of the website to review open positions. 

In Flight is a nonprofit organization; its mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach for their hopes and dreams and support a meaningful quality of life. Through programs and advocacy, In Flight works to empower individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives. For more information about In Flight’s mission and services, visit www.inflightinc.org.