Self-Advocates of Indiana - Wabash Center Chapter
This chapter of Self Advocates of Indiana meets the second and fourth Thursdays each month. All self-advocates are invited. You do not need to be a client of Wabash Center.
For more information contact Rhonda Hicks, rhicks@wabashcenter.com.
Disability Resource Fair
Connect with local resources to help you create a vision for Your Good Life.
Learn more about:
Advocacy groups
Assistive Technology
HCBS Waiver Providers
Housing Resources
Financial and Future Planning
Recreational Opportunities
Remote Supports
For more information, including a list of participating organizations, or if you would like to be an exhibitor, visit oasisforlife.org/drf.
Purdue Autism Research Conference
The PARC Annual Conference provides an opportunity for our community to celebrate the scientific advances being made by our PARC faculty and students. Events typically include symposia, social activities, and an engaging student poster showcase (with prizes!).
As part of this celebration, PARC invites leading visionaries in the field of autism to provide both a scientific and community-focused keynote speeches.
The 2026 Purdue Autism Research Conference will be held on Friday April 10th, from 8am-6pm at the Purdue Memorial Union – East & West Faculty Lounge. Registration and Poster submission will open in February.
This day-long conference will include a series of keynote and symposia by researchers in diverse fields related to autism – ranging from basic to applied sciences. Featured keynote speakers for 2026 are Dr. Diana Robins (Drexel University), an expert in early autism screening, detection, and intervention methods. Her work includes developing, validating, and refining a widely used screening tool – the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT). Additionally, model system expert Dr. Graham Diering (University of North Carolins, Chapel Hill) will speak on the molecular mechanisms by which sleep modifies synapses to support cognitive functions and neural development in autism. His work integrations methods from biochemistry, proteomic, cell biology, and animal behavior.
For more information and to register: https://hhs.purdue.edu/autism/conference/
Self-Directed Services with Indiana's HCBS Waivers
Indiana FSSA recently started offering Self-Directed Care on the CIH and FS home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers. This option aims to help older adults and people with disabilities have the support they need to live in their communities.
Join us to learn more about this service from Karly Sciortino-Poulter, The Arc Advocacy Network Director for The Arc of Indiana.
RSVP by April 10 to programs@oasisforlife.org to reserve your spot.
Let's Talk Benefits
Join for a free, interactive, two-hour training designed for parents, caregivers, and supporters of individuals with disabilities.
This session breaks down how state and federal benefits can support people with disabilities in the workplace and clears up the confusion that often comes with them.
During this training, you’ll:
Bust common myths about benefits and working
Learn the difference between SSI vs. SSDI
Understand which healthcare benefits (Medicaid / Medicare) connect to each SSA program
Explore asset-building options that work with benefits
Find out how to access benefits counseling in Indiana
Options to register:
May 13, 2026 2pm - 4pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCi
August 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCj
October 28, 2026 8am - 10am Register here go.iu.edu/8wCk
Ask The Arc Webinars
Join us for Ask The Arc—a free webinar series where we talk about topics that matter to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Once you sign up, you’ll automatically be registered for this month’s webinar and all future sessions, held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. EST.
Tonight’s topic: Self-Direction with the Indiana HCBS Medicaid Waivers.
Presented by The Arc of Indiana.
Free registration.
DDRS Advisory Council Meeting
The DDRS Advisory Council was established by IC 12-9-4 to assist the Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services in ensuring individuals with disabilities are as independent and self-sufficient as possible.
2026 DDRS Advisory Council Calendar
January 21 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room A
March 18 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
May 20 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
July 15 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room B
November 18 9:30am - 12:30pm Virtual Only
For more information about the DDRS Advisory Council click here.
DDRS Advisory Council Meeting
The DDRS Advisory Council was established by IC 12-9-4 to assist the Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services in ensuring individuals with disabilities are as independent and self-sufficient as possible.
2026 DDRS Advisory Council Calendar
January 21 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room A
March 18 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
May 20 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
July 15 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room B
November 18 9:30am - 12:30pm Virtual Only
For more information about the DDRS Advisory Council click here.
Let's Talk Benefits (Copy)
Join for a free, interactive, two-hour training designed for parents, caregivers, and supporters of individuals with disabilities.
This session breaks down how state and federal benefits can support people with disabilities in the workplace and clears up the confusion that often comes with them.
During this training, you’ll:
Bust common myths about benefits and working
Learn the difference between SSI vs. SSDI
Understand which healthcare benefits (Medicaid / Medicare) connect to each SSA program
Explore asset-building options that work with benefits
Find out how to access benefits counseling in Indiana
Options to register:
May 13, 2026 2pm - 4pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCi
August 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCj
October 28, 2026 8am - 10am Register here go.iu.edu/8wCk
DDRS Advisory Council Meeting
The DDRS Advisory Council was established by IC 12-9-4 to assist the Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services in ensuring individuals with disabilities are as independent and self-sufficient as possible.
2026 DDRS Advisory Council Calendar
January 21 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room A
March 18 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
May 20 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
July 15 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room B
November 18 9:30am - 12:30pm Virtual Only
For more information about the DDRS Advisory Council click here.
INF2F Heart to Heart Conference
Visit https://www.inf2f.org/heart-to-heart-conference.html for more information and for free registration when available.
Let's Talk Benefits
Join for a free, interactive, two-hour training designed for parents, caregivers, and supporters of individuals with disabilities.
This session breaks down how state and federal benefits can support people with disabilities in the workplace and clears up the confusion that often comes with them.
During this training, you’ll:
Bust common myths about benefits and working
Learn the difference between SSI vs. SSDI
Understand which healthcare benefits (Medicaid / Medicare) connect to each SSA program
Explore asset-building options that work with benefits
Find out how to access benefits counseling in Indiana
Options to register:
May 13, 2026 2pm - 4pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCi
August 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCj
October 28, 2026 8am - 10am Register here go.iu.edu/8wCk
DDRS Advisory Council Meeting
The DDRS Advisory Council was established by IC 12-9-4 to assist the Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services in ensuring individuals with disabilities are as independent and self-sufficient as possible.
2026 DDRS Advisory Council Calendar
January 21 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room A
March 18 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
May 20 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
July 15 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room B
November 18 9:30am - 12:30pm Virtual Only
For more information about the DDRS Advisory Council click here.
Indiana GCPD Five Year State Plan Public Listening Session
Help Shape Indiana’s 2027-2032 State Plan!
The Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities is hosting virtual listening sessions this month. This is your chance to tell the state what should be a priority for the next five years!
Goal: Building supports that strengthen autonomy and community for all Hoosiers.
Choose the session that works for you:
Wednesday, March 18 @ 6:00 PM EST | REGISTER HERE: https://zurl.co/r4pY8
Friday, March 20 @ 9:00 AM EST | REGISTER HERE: https://zurl.co/nW8Du
Presented by the Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities.
Indiana GCPD Five Year State Plan Public Listening Session
Help Shape Indiana’s 2027-2032 State Plan!
The Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities is hosting virtual listening sessions this month. This is your chance to tell the state what should be a priority for the next five years!
Goal: Building supports that strengthen autonomy and community for all Hoosiers.
Choose the session that works for you:
Wednesday, March 18 @ 6:00 PM EST | REGISTER HERE: https://zurl.co/r4pY8
Friday, March 20 @ 9:00 AM EST | REGISTER HERE: https://zurl.co/nW8Du
Presented by the Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities.
DDRS Advisory Council Meeting
The DDRS Advisory Council was established by IC 12-9-4 to assist the Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services in ensuring individuals with disabilities are as independent and self-sufficient as possible.
2026 DDRS Advisory Council Calendar
January 21 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room A
March 18 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
May 20 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room C
July 15 9:30am - 12:30pm IGC Conference Room B
November 18 9:30am - 12:30pm Virtual Only
For more information about the DDRS Advisory Council click here.
Emergency Preparedness for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
Join us for a webinar to share strategies and resources to help families of CYSHCN prepare for unexpected emergencies and natural disasters. Emergencies happen. Prepare today to be safe tomorrow.
(Two times are available to accommodate family schedules.)
Date: March 17, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Date: March 17, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
To register, please use the following links:
Registration link 11 a.m. https://redcap.link/ERprep-AM
Registration link 7 p.m. https://redcap.link/ERprep-PM
Presented by The Family Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs.
Emergency Preparedness for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
Join us for a webinar to share strategies and resources to help families of CYSHCN prepare for unexpected emergencies and natural disasters. Emergencies happen. Prepare today to be safe tomorrow.
(Two times are available to accommodate family schedules.)
Date: March 17, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Date: March 17, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
To register, please use the following links:
Registration link 11 a.m. https://redcap.link/ERprep-AM
Registration link 7 p.m. https://redcap.link/ERprep-PM
Presented by The Family Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs.
Ask The Arc Webinars
Join us for Ask The Arc—a free webinar series where we talk about topics that matter to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Once you sign up, you’ll automatically be registered for this month’s webinar and all future sessions, held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. EST.
Tonight’s topic: Self-Direction with the Indiana HCBS Medicaid Waivers.
Presented by The Arc of Indiana.
Free registration.
Self-Advocates of Indiana - Wabash Center Chapter
This chapter of Self Advocates of Indiana meets the second and fourth Thursdays each month. All self-advocates are invited. You do not need to be a client of Wabash Center.
For more information contact Rhonda Hicks, rhicks@wabashcenter.com.
From Activities to Identity: Practical Strategies to Support Valued Social Roles
Too often, people receiving supports spend their time in activities without gaining meaningful roles in their communities. Yet it is valued social roles — not programs — that shape how people are noticed, known, included, and valued in everyday life.
In this webinar, From Activities to Identity: Practical Strategies to Support Valued Social Roles, we explore what valued social roles really are, why they matter, and how they move people from simply being present in the community to truly belonging. Drawing on Social Role Valorization, social capital, and real-world practice, this session offers practical strategies that staff and organizations can use to support people to gain and sustain meaningful roles.
Participants will leave with concrete, actionable ideas for starting with discovery, connecting people to ordinary community spaces, enhancing social image, facilitating relationships intentionally, rethinking risk and readiness, and aligning daily routines with outcomes that matter. Whether you are a direct support professional, supervisor, or leader, this webinar will challenge program-based thinking and offer practical guidance you can apply right away.
Presented by The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL).
Free registration.
Let's Talk Benefits
Join us on Thursday, March 5 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. ET for a free, interactive, two-hour training designed for parents, caregivers, and supporters of individuals with disabilities.
This session breaks down how state and federal benefits can support people with disabilities in the workplace and clears up the confusion that often comes with them.
During this training, you’ll:
Bust common myths about benefits and working
Learn the difference between SSI vs. SSDI
Understand which healthcare benefits (Medicaid / Medicare) connect to each SSA program
Explore asset-building options that work with benefits
Find out how to access benefits counseling in Indiana
Register now: go.iu.edu/8wCh. (free)
This webinar will be repeated on
May 13, 2026 2pm - 4pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCi
August 6, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm Register here go.iu.edu/8wCj
October 28, 2026 8am - 10am Register here go.iu.edu/8wCk
Supporting Families Feeling Overwhelmed in the IDD Community
At MyQuillo, We reached out to psychologist Karyn Harvey and Dr. Robert Naseef to help us tackle this feeling together.
On March 3rd, join us for a free 20-minute webinar focused on practical steps to help you feel less overwhelmed.
Date: Tuesday, March 3rd
Two sessions: 1PM EST and 7PM EST
Free Registration required.
Please know you are not alone in this feeling of being overwhelmed. There are some things we each can try that will help. Download our webinar flyer and send to friend.
Supporting Families Feeling Overwhelmed in the IDD Community
At MyQuillo, We reached out to psychologist Karyn Harvey and Dr. Robert Naseef to help us tackle this feeling together.
On March 3rd, join us for a free 20-minute webinar focused on practical steps to help you feel less overwhelmed.
Date: Tuesday, March 3rd
Two sessions: 1PM EST and 7PM EST
Free Registration required.
Please know you are not alone in this feeling of being overwhelmed. There are some things we each can try that will help. Download our webinar flyer and send to friend.
Ask The Arc Webinar: Medicaid Waiver Amendments
Amendments to the CIH, Family Supports, Health & Wellness, TBI, and 1915 B(4) waivers are open for public comment, now through March 13, with a projected effective date of August 2026.
The Arc of Indiana has scheduled a special Ask The Arc webinar on Thursday, February 26, 6:00 p.m. EST where we will discuss the waiver amendments.
Presented by The Arc of Indiana.
Click here to register.
Self-Advocates of Indiana - Wabash Center Chapter
This chapter of Self Advocates of Indiana meets the second and fourth Thursdays each month. All self-advocates are invited. You do not need to be a client of Wabash Center.
For more information contact Rhonda Hicks, rhicks@wabashcenter.com.
Experience the Benefits of Music, Recreation, & Behavioral Therapies
Discover how these therapeutic approaches can support growth, healing, and overall well‑being.
This presentation offers beneficial information for individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals interested in learning how these services can enhance quality of life and promote meaningful engagement.
Presented by Noble, Inc.
RSVP to CFL@mynoblelife.org.
BDS Monthly Webinar for Providers and Case Managers
The Bureau of Disabilities Services is committed to working collaboratively with case managers and providers.
First quarter dates for the 2026 provider and case manager webinar have been set. All BDS providers and Case Management Organizations are strongly encouraged to attend these monthly webinars.
The webinars will include information and updates from BDS. All webinars will be held via Microsoft Town Hall. The new dates are as follows:
Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
Charting the LifeCourse on: TRANSITION
Discover how Charting the LifeCourse tools can support students, families and professionals during the transition from school to adulthood.
This session offers a quick overview of the transition process and introduces practical tools - like the Exploring Portfolio, Transition Quick Guide, and Vision Tool - to spark planning and empower next steps.
This session is also offered on February 12 3:00pm - 4:00pm.
Presented by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.
Free registration.
Ask The Arc Webinars
Join us for Ask The Arc—a free webinar series where we talk about topics that matter to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Once you sign up, you’ll automatically be registered for this month’s webinar and all future sessions, held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. EST.
Tonight’s topic: Self-Direction with the Indiana HCBS Medicaid Waivers.
Presented by The Arc of Indiana.
Free registration.
Charting the LifeCourse on: TRANSITION
Discover how Charting the LifeCourse tools can support students, families and professionals during the transition from school to adulthood.
This session offers a quick overview of the transition process and introduces practical tools - like the Exploring Portfolio, Transition Quick Guide, and Vision Tool - to spark planning and empower next steps.
This session is also offered on February 19 9:00am - 10:00am.
Presented by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.
Free registration.
Self-Advocates of Indiana - Wabash Center Chapter
This chapter of Self Advocates of Indiana meets the second and fourth Thursdays each month. All self-advocates are invited. You do not need to be a client of Wabash Center.
For more information contact Rhonda Hicks, rhicks@wabashcenter.com.
FSSA Quarterly Financial Review
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration will host a Quarterly Financial Review on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. ET.
During the QFR, agency leadership will provide an update and overview about how taxpayer dollars are supporting agency priorities and Hoosiers.
Location: Indiana Government Center South Auditorium - 302 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 .
Schedule: The most up-to-date schedule may be found here. Two important times:
12:30- 1:15 Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning
1:30- 2:45 Division of Disability, Aging and Rehabilitative Services
A livestream will be available on FSSA’s YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person.
If you have any questions in advance of or in reaction to the QFR, please contact AskTheSecretary@fssa.in.gov.
Start the New Year Organized with the Dani Plan
Whether you’re supporting a child or loved one with a disability, the Dani Plan is your secure, easy-to-use online tool for managing vital care information in one central place. Begin the year with clarity and confidence by creating a care plan that keeps everyone informed and supported—every day.
Families and caregivers nationwide are using the Dani Plan to:
Build a personalized care plan that's easy to update and share
Upload and store essential documents securely
Set helpful reminders to keep caregivers on track
Be ready for the unexpected—so nothing falls through the cracks.
Free registration.
Lunch with LifeCourse
Discover Your Path to a Good Life with LifeCourse Trajectories.
The Trajectory tool helps people envision and identify what makes their life truly fulfilling.
Dis you know? There are over 10 unique Trajectories designed to spark meaningful conversations and help you organize your thoughts about what a “good life” means to you.
Join us and learn how these powerful tools can support and empower you to chart your course to a brighter future. Unlock your Potential with Trajectories.
Two part series:
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.
Free registration.
Financial Preparedness Series- Government Benefits and Programs
Government Benefits and Programs: This workshop provides an overview of various government programs that may be available to dependents with special needs. We’ll review Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), Medicaid/Medicaid Waivers, and State Specific Programs. You will learn about the requirements to qualify for these programs and the types of expenses they cover for qualified candidates.
Bio: Gordon Homes is a Certified Financial Planner Professional whose practice focuses on Financial and Estate Planning for families who have a child or dependent with special needs. He has a unique perspective through his experience both as a financial professional and parent. He assists with Financial and Government Benefit issues faced by families, including access to legal professionals, Special Needs Trusts, Guardianship, Social Security and Medicaid.
Presented by Autism Society of Indiana.
Free registration.
SALT Talks Transition Series: Building Life Skills
Join us for January 2026 Theme of Planning for Independent Living.
January 6: Home Sweet Home / Housing 101
January 20: Transition and Technology
January 27: Building Life Skills: Preparing for Independent Living
Presented by Ohio SALT Resources.
BDS Monthly Webinar for Providers and Case Managers
The Bureau of Disabilities Services is committed to working collaboratively with case managers and providers.
First quarter dates for the 2026 provider and case manager webinar have been set. All BDS providers and Case Management Organizations are strongly encouraged to attend these monthly webinars.
The webinars will include information and updates from BDS. All webinars will be held via Microsoft Town Hall. The new dates are as follows:
Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. ET. To participate please log in using this link.
OASIS Community Update Meeting
Are you considering living at OASIS Community? This update meeting is for you!
Learn what you need to know to become a resident.
Hear the latest progress update.
Meet other interested families (and potential neighbors).
Join us for dinner. We’ll provide pizza and drinks. Bring a side dish or dessert to share if you are able.
RSVP by January 15 to programs@oasisforlife.org.
Parent Cafe
Come, join us in starting the New Year with sharing, reflecting and learning about on how we can continue to Build a Strong Family😊
What a parent can expect at our free virtual Parent Cafes:
Meet the Parent Café team and other parents.
2 rounds of group discussion and questions focusing on the January theme - “Building a Strong Family”- examples made include:
What was the hardest obstacle you had to overcome as a family and what did you learn about yourself?
In times of stress, how do you stay strong for yourself and family?
Resources that may be of benefit to you and your family.
Presented by Noble.
Free registration.
Special Feedback Session with ACL
Share Your Opinion with ACL!
Join us for a special virtual public feedback session with the federal Administration on Community Living (ACL) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Staff members from ACL—the federal agency that oversees and funds the national Independent Living network, including State Independent Living Councils—will be present to listen to public comment and engage in discussion.
This is a unique opportunity to share your perspective on disability services in Indiana or raise broader issues impacting independent living. Your input helps inform policies and priorities for people with disabilities.
The event will be held virtually. ASL and CART will be provided. For additional accommodation requests, please contact us at info@indianasilc.org.
Presented by Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council.
Topic: Special Feedback Session with ACL
Time: Jan 21, 2026 02:00 PM Indiana (East)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95009755368?pwd=gUpwkmBeMgvb3h4WTFJmHViMBufBPb.1
Meeting ID: 950 0975 5368
Passcode: 184231
Lunch with LifeCourse
Discover Your Path to a Good Life with LifeCourse Trajectories.
The Trajectory tool helps people envision and identify what makes their life truly fulfilling.
Dis you know? There are over 10 unique Trajectories designed to spark meaningful conversations and help you organize your thoughts about what a “good life” means to you.
Join us and learn how these powerful tools can support and empower you to chart your course to a brighter future. Unlock your Potential with Trajectories.
Two part series:
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.
Free registration.
Financial Preparedness Series- ABLE Accounts
Able Accounts: This workshop will include information on the ABLE process including the ABLE Authority, InvestABLE Indiana, the states 529A ABLE savings plan. The ABLE program in Indiana will dramatically impact and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Bio: Amy Corbin is the Executive Director for the ABLE Authority which oversees INvestABLE Indiana, the state’s 529A ABLE savings plan. Amy has worked for the State of Indiana for over 10 years and has an established background in social work and case management. Prior to working for the Office of the Indiana Treasurer of State, she worked for the Indiana Department of Child Services as a Family Case Manager and later proceeded to work with the DCS older youth services initiative Collaborative Care. In this role Amy assisted with program development and implementation, while overseeing life skills training and increasing independence for former foster youth. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in Psychology from Indiana University. In her current role, Amy oversees the program management and operations for the Indiana ABLE Authority. She believes offering a qualified ABLE program in Indiana will dramatically impact and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities..
Presented by Autism Society of Indiana.
Free registration.