Learn how early and ongoing benefits counseling empowers those considering work. Learn how to reject common myths about benefits and going to work.​ Understand the difference between SSI & SSDI. Understand which healthcare benefit (Medicaid and Medicare) goes with which SSA benefit. Learn asset-building options to assist with benefits. Learn about the advantages and find out how to access benefits counseling in Indiana.

Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.

Free registration.

This training will introduce the fundamental principles of Positive Behavior Support as families navigate behavior change. It will review a brief overview of behavior support, the influence of mental health on behavior, and practical support strategies to prevent challenging behavior.  

Presented by The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development.

Free registration.

SAVE-THE-DATE March 25 6:30pm-7:30pm.

Ever have a time when you need to stretch your pantry food until your next payday or income check? Maybe you ask yourself what can I make with what I have? If this is occasionally you ...join CDE for this free webinar to show you how to use the free phone app SuperCook or check it out online https://www.supercook.com/#/desktop

Here is the registration link for this opportunity to help you in a pinch. Great informaiton for independent living skills.

https://us06web.zoom.us/.../register/ua5O52kxST6S8nKlfOOsRA

• Unlock lifelong empowerment!

• Learn how to create impactful experiences that empower individuals to shape their desired life.

• Join us to discover to the key to lifelong self-determination.

• Don’t miss out on this chance to learn and be inspired!

This is a two-part series: March 4 & March 18, 2025.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

• Unlock lifelong empowerment!

• Learn how to create impactful experiences that empower individuals to shape their desired life.

• Join us to discover to the key to lifelong self-determination.

• Don’t miss out on this chance to learn and be inspired!

This is a two-part series: March 4 & March 18, 2025.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

From school to employment and everything in between.

Join us online for six evenings of free virtual training sessions all about local, state, and federal resources for young adults with disabilities who want to work in their communities. Families, transition-age students and young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them are welcome to join us online.

PLUS:

• Time to network with families, employees, entrepreneurs, and community resources.

• The opportunity to meet individuals with disabilities who are successfully employed.

• The chance to meet people providing services to help you prepare for, find, and keep a job.

More information.

Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.

Free registration: go.iu.edu/8r8Z

Their annual conference with a variety of breakout sessions.

9:00 – 10:05 am Loss and Grief for All of Us presented by Tammy Besser, LCSW, NCG, QIDP, and Jess Jankowski, LCSW, JCFS

10:15 – 11:15 am Safely Navigating Social Media: Strategies and Tools for Promoting Social Media Safety for Individuals with IDD Presented by Mary Jo Krile, Ph.D

11:15 am – 12:15 pm Disability and Sexuality: Best Practices for Support Professionals Presented by Arryn Akhtenberg, MA, and Morrigan Hunter, MA, MSW

1:45 – 2:45 pm Inspiring Financial Strength for Those You Serve with IL ABLE Accounts – What QIDP’s Need to Know Presented by JJ Hanley and Stephanie Kanter, Office of the Illinois State Treasurer

3:00 – 4:00 pm Artificial Intelligence: Affordable, Accessible, Adaptive Presented by Anna Cronin, MS BCBA, Fern Leaf ABA

Presented by The Arc of Illinois.

Registration.

iPhones and iPads have many accessibility settings built-in to their operating systems. This workshop will teach participants about different ways to modify these Apple devices to make them more accessible, including voice control, text-to-speech features, head tracking, and more.

Presented by The Pacer Center.

Free registration.

"Life planning" involves creating plans for your assets, as well as outlining preferences for how you wish to be supported in the event that your decisional capability changes. Life planning tools include wills, trusts, health care proxies, living wills, transfer on death deeds and other will-substitutes. These tools promote self-determination and ensure that the wishes of older adults are affirmed even after their death.

While life planning includes putting plans in place for distribution of assets after death, it can also help older adults during their lifetime to help preserve housing and economic security, as well as put mechanisms in place that can avoid unnecessary guardianship and conservatorship.

This training will discuss how life planning services can benefit older adults and how to take a person-centered approach to traditional estate planning and preservation of generational wealth.

Presenters will cover:

- How life planning can support housing stability, economic security, and preserve the wishes of older adults;

- The various tools and instruments for life and succession planning, as well as the processes and procedures for probate and administration of a decedent's estate, and non-probate assets;

- How legal services providers can contribute to this work and develop opportunities for pro bono partnerships; and

- Strategies for engaging in conversations with older adults about the need for life planning services.

Presenters:

- Odette Williamson, National Consumer Law Center

- Danaya Wright, University of Florida Levin College of Law

- Tina Smith Nelson, Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Presented by the National Center on Law and Elder Rights.

Free registration.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

Four individuals – Christine Mathis, Gabe and Diana Smaglik, and Susi McKay – will share how they use smart wearables, like smartwatches, and other smart home technology to enhance their daily routines.

The presenters will discuss how smart devices support managing elopement and anxiety, as well as assist with everyday activities such as cooking dinner and doing laundry. This webinar is an opportunity to learn practical tips and gain insights into how technology can make daily tasks easier and more accessible.

Presented by PA Assistive Technology Foundation.

Free registration.

iPhones and iPads have many accessibility settings built-in to their operating systems. This workshop will teach participants about different ways to modify these Apple devices to make them more accessible, including voice control, text-to-speech features, head tracking, and more.

Presented by The Pacer Center.

Free registration.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

The Limitless Ability Conference is the premier opportunity for Indiana families, professionals, and individuals with moderate-to-profound disabilities to engage in bridging the gap in service for transition-aged individuals (14 and older). Attendees will find a community committed to learning innovative practices in all settings.

Sessions will focus on interdisciplinary service delivery, access to communication, quality of life, and best practices for individuals with the most complex learning, communication, and medical needs.

Individuals and families of individuals with moderate-profound disabilities are welcome to attend for free! There will be separate family sessions that focus on advocacy and building a support network with other like-minded individuals. Please reach out to our executive director, Conner Edwards to learn more about this registration option: conneredwards93@gmail.com

University students in a variety of fields can attend for a discounted rate of $50: contact our leadership at the email above to learn more!

Registration Includes:

• Dynamic keynote speaker

• Certificate for up to 5 hours of Continuing Education

• Breakout sessions from experts

• Opportunities to win door prizes

• Continental breakfast and boxed lunch

• Free parking

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 11/20 Goal Writing: "Effective Goal Writing: An essential roadmap for intervention and programming"

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, you're invited to join our CtLC Live: Respite Planning Session!

This event, led by Barbara Sapharas, CtLC Ambassador and LifeCourse Nexus Trainer and Coach, is designed to empower family caregivers with essential tools to plan and take much-needed breaks. Learn how to use Charting the LifeCourse tools to create meaningful respite opportunities that support your well-being and rejuvenation.

Presented by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

This webinar series offers a comprehensive exploration of federal and state benefits for individuals with disabilities, highlighting crucial topics such as the differences between SSI and SSDI, work incentives, and benefit counseling resources. Attending these sessions is vital for understanding how to navigate complex benefit systems, achieve economic independence, and maintain the vital supports necessary for sustaining that independence.

Additionally, participants will gain valuable insights into managing healthcare programs and asset-building strategies, all while seizing the opportunity to build momentum for creating a coalition that fosters positive changes in the disability community.

October 22, 2024: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) / Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Two federal benefits are available to people with disabilities. Discuss the differences between them and the available work incentives.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

November 19, 2024: Ticket-to-Work, IN WIPA, and IN BIN Project
Need benefits counseling to better understand your federal and state benefits? This session provides resources and contacts to get your questions answered.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

December 17, 2024: Federal and State Healthcare benefits
Discussion of Medicaid, Medicare, MEDWorks, and other programs and how they are connected to your federal benefits.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

January 21, 2025: Asset Building including ABLE accounts and Special Trusts
Discussion about possible ways to save money for short- or long-term goals without the worry of losing benefits.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

For more information or questions contact Luke Labas, Director of The Inclusion Institute at The League, LukeL@the-league.org or call 260-441-0551.

Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability & Community Center on Community Living & Careers and The League Inclusion Institute.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 11/13 Charting the LifeCourse: "Person-Centered Planning: Personalizing goal setting, supports and resources"

• 11/20 Goal Writing: "Effective Goal Writing: An essential roadmap for intervention and programming"

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 10/30 Sensory Considerations: "Sensory Considerations: Understanding and supporting unique sensory needs"

• 11/13 Charting the LifeCourse: "Person-Centered Planning: Personalizing goal setting, supports and resources"

• 11/20 Goal Writing: "Effective Goal Writing: An essential roadmap for intervention and programming"

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

Join the Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities for their virtual Snack Chat to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month!

This will be a relaxed thirty-minute conversation, where people with developmental disabilities are invited to share their honest thoughts, feelings, and experiences around employment.

ASL and CART captioning will be provided.

Free registration.

Led by Barbara Sapharas, you'll learn how to use the Trajectory and Vision Tool to shape employment goals and build a vision for the future. Perfect for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, this session is ideal for families, educators, and professionals supporting individuals in transitioning to adult life.

Presented by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

Join us for a statewide learning collaborative as we discuss how to use Charting the LifeCourse to explore and plan for meaningful employment opportunities. 

Good Life Groups are interactive peer learning collaboratives that allow for hands-on learning, to build the capacity of self-advocates and family members to use the framework in their own lives.

Suggested Audience:
Individuals and Families experiencing disability.

Presented by Missouri Family to Family.

Free registration.

Supported Employment is a valuable service that assists individuals with disabilities to secure integrated, competitive employment. Many parents, guardians, and family members have questions about how the process works, if it’s appropriate for their loved one, and what their role in the process should be. Please join us as we discuss how essential employment can be in the life of those with disabilities and examine how parents/guardians can contribute to their success.

Presented by The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development.

Free registration.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 10/16 Team Collaboration & Community/Cultural Considerations: "Act, do, collaborate: Collaboration and advocacy for success"

• 10/30 Sensory Considerations: "Sensory Considerations: Understanding and supporting unique sensory needs"

• 11/13 Charting the LifeCourse: "Person-Centered Planning: Personalizing goal setting, supports and resources"

• 11/20 Goal Writing: "Effective Goal Writing: An essential roadmap for intervention and programming"

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

This virtual workshop series is designed to educate participants about evidence-based strategies, learn how to use these strategies with individuals with ASD across home, school, community settings as well as to discuss and plan various materials tailored to individuals. These interactive workshops provide an opportunity to learn about and create tools used to support individuals with ASD. Each session will focus on a different area of interest. All sessions at noon ET.

• 10/2 Implementation Supports, Prompting & Differential Reinforcement: "Practical intervention across settings: Behavioral strategies effective for all learners"

• 10/16 Team Collaboration & Community/Cultural Considerations: "Act, do, collaborate: Collaboration and advocacy for success"

• 10/30 Sensory Considerations: "Sensory Considerations: Understanding and supporting unique sensory needs"

• 11/13 Charting the LifeCourse: "Person-Centered Planning: Personalizing goal setting, supports and resources"

• 11/20 Goal Writing: "Effective Goal Writing: An essential roadmap for intervention and programming"

• 12/4 Social Skills: "Social skills: Crucial skills for the everyday success across the lifespan"

• 12/11 Tasks & Adaptations: "Creative Teaching: Adapting Instructional Material for Inclusive Settings"

• 12/18 Data-Driven Decision-Making: "Data-Driven Decision-Making: Practical tools to make data work for you and your team"

Presented by HANDS in Autism.

Register here for any or all of the sessions.

This presentation explores the landscape of inclusive higher education for students with intellectual disability. A comprehensive overview will be provided, including national data, program characteristics, and the diverse profiles of students who benefit from these opportunities. Think College, a national initiative dedicated to developing, expanding, and improving inclusive higher education options for students with intellectual disability, offers a wide array of resources, and a summary of types of resources available will be shared.

Presented by The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development.

Free registration.