Best Practices for Supported and Customized Employment Found in Personal Stories
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA, 2014) outlined practices to be utilized by Vocational Rehabilitation and other service providers to increase integrated competitive employment. Now many personal examples of this increased employment have been shared through social media, websites, and agencies. This presentation will discuss themes and other data gathered through analysis of publicly available successful employment stories. The goal will be a summary of information and data about best practices in supported and customized employment provided through personal stories.
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
Participants will learn about the broad opportunities for supported and customized employment throughout the nations via the personal stories analyzed for the presentation.
Best practices will be shared that are gathered via the analysis of personal stories.
Information about the diversity of the individuals, the diversity of geographical areas, and an increased amount of stories will be shared.
Presented by TASH50.
Free registration.
2025 OCALICON
The premier autism and disabilities virtual conference!
November 18 - November 21.
Visit https://ocali.org/ for more information.
Limitless Ability Conference
Registration for our 2025 conference is live! Attend our second annual event focused on serving professionals, families, and individuals with complex needs on Tuesday, December 2nd.
We are Indiana’s first and only conference where the entire day and every session is dedicated to this population! Come for CEU’s, networking, community-building, and find support with like-minded individuals.
Families attend for free! Students attend at a lower rate! Email conneredwards93@gmail.com for discount codes.
OASIS Community is presenting!
Let's Talk Benefits
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.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Assistive Technology for Individuals with Mobility Impairments
This training offers valuable insights into the tools, technologies, and resources that enhance independence and quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments. Whether you are a healthcare provider, vocational rehabilitation counselor, professional supporting individuals with disabilities, or someone personally navigating mobility challenges, this session will provide practical knowledge and strategies you can use right away.
By participating in this FREE training, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of mobility solutions and how to match the right tools to individual needs. You’ll also strengthen your ability to empower individuals with greater independence while enhancing your own professional expertise. This training is an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge, stay current with best practices, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you support.
This event will also be streamed live via Zoom and can be accessed at www.eastersealstech.com/live. Registration is required for both in-person and online webinar attendance.
Presented by Easterseals Crossroads.
Click here for more information and to register.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
The Center on Community Living and Careers is proud to deliver Family Employment Awareness Trainings (FEAT) to Hoosier families, their young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.
Indiana is one of five states offering FEAT as a way to increase expectations and support for competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. FEAT’s goals are in keeping with those of the state of Indiana, which supports Employment First—real work in the community for real wages—as a first option for young adults transitioning from high school.
FEAT Indiana is designed to increase family, student, and professional knowledge of state, federal, and community resources that support employment. Training includes individual and group activities, discussions, pullout sessions for young adults, and presentations from local employers, entrepreneurs, and community resource agency members. FEAT training facilitators follow up with technical assistance sessions to support participants in taking steps toward achieving competitive integrated employment.
Topics covered include:
Indiana’s Employment First policy;
Outside-the-box employment possibilities;
Success stories;
Family/parent role in supporting employment;
Transition to adulthood (healthcare, work, postsecondary education/training);
Employee and employer resources;
Information to support gaining and maintaining employment; and
Antidiscrimination laws.
Join us for these upcoming sessions:
Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters
All sessions are 6-8pm.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Indiana AAC Summit
Save the date for the 10th Annual Indiana AAC Summit!
Presented by Indiana AAC Summit.
Creative Caregiving Options: Supporting Your Adult Child with Long Term Care Needs
For families who have an adult child with an IO Waiver, SELF Waiver or Level One Waiver, focusing on Homemaker Personal Care (HPC), Ohio Shared Living (OSL), Adult Day Services, Transportation, Respite and more.
We will cover:
The realities of long-term caregiving after school ends
Services and supports for adults who have DD Waivers
Tackling the lack of qualified DSPs
Creating a daily schedule
Tips and resources for success
This webinar is based in Ohio and talks about Ohio HCBS Waiver services. Still, there may be some wisdom and ideas for Indiana families.
Presented by Ohio Family to Family.
Assistive Technologies That Empower Daily Living
What does assistive technology really mean—and how can it support greater independence for people with disabilities? In this conversation, Ian Ramos, Assistive Technology Specialist at Access Ingenuity, joins Dana Hooper, Executive Director of LSA, to explore practical tools, common roadblocks, and how families can start finding the right supports. With personal stories and expert insight, they’ll dive into what’s possible when the right technology meets the right person.
Presented by Life Services Alternatives (LSA).
Free registration.
Executive function tools to support independent living
A wide range of assistive technology (AT) can be used to support teens and adults with disabilities to complete tasks at home or at work. We will demonstrate apps and devices that help with reminders, timers, and visual and audio prompts. Join us to learn about tools that can help individuals function more independently at home or on the job.
Presented by PACER Center.
Free registration.
Let's Talk Benefits
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.
Family Support Waiver Workshop
Join us on June 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM for a comprehensive Family Support Waiver Workshop designed to help individuals with Autism and their families navigate Indiana’s Family Support Waiver (FSW). This workshop will provide essential information about the services covered under the waiver, including respite care, behavioral support, therapies, and assistive technology. We will also walk you through the application process, covering eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and submission steps. Additionally, we will discuss what happens after being targeted for the waiver, including service plan development, provider selection, and how to begin receiving support. Whether you are new to the waiver process or need guidance on next steps, this session will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to access critical services. Parents, caregivers, self-advocates, and professionals are all encouraged to attend.
Presented by Autism Society of Indiana.
Free registration.
Mobile Device Accessibility Full Day Training
Who should attend: This training is for anyone interested in learning about mobile device accessibility for people with disabilities, highlighting built-in features and apps designed to support greater independence and ease of use. Individuals with disabilities, educators, parents, students, and professionals can benefit from this training.
Why: This FREE assistive technology training will provide participants with valuable insights into how mobile devices—equipped with built-in accessibility features and apps—can enhance the independence of individuals with disabilities in the workplace, at home, and in the community.
Presented by Easterseals Crossroads INDATA.
Free registration.
AT Demo Days
It's time for a quick refresh of what's new with AT products. Get an overview of many products during these two days of demos.
We know it's hard to keep up with all the latest features and product announcements. We want to make it easier, so join us for AT Demo Days to keep up-to-speed with a variety of AT products.
Sessions will take place on three Wednesdays in May via the ATIA Learning Center. Sessions are sponsored by ATIA members and free for anyone to attend. Live sessions will have prize giveaways!
May 7: AT and ACC
May 14: AT and Blind & Low Vision and Physical Access
May 21: AT and Education
Presented by Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATiA).
Free registration.
AT Demo Days
It's time for a quick refresh of what's new with AT products. Get an overview of many products during these two days of demos.
We know it's hard to keep up with all the latest features and product announcements. We want to make it easier, so join us for AT Demo Days to keep up-to-speed with a variety of AT products.
Sessions will take place on three Wednesdays in May via the ATIA Learning Center. Sessions are sponsored by ATIA members and free for anyone to attend. Live sessions will have prize giveaways!
May 7: AT and ACC
May 14: AT and Blind & Low Vision and Physical Access
May 21: AT and Education
Presented by Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATiA).
Free registration.
Introduction to customized employment for young adults
Is customized employment an option for your young adult? Join us to hear from Margie Webb, MS, CRC, a customized employment specialist for Minnesota’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services, about flexible employment options for young adults with disabilities. She will explore how customized employment can meet both the needs of employers and the strengths, needs, and interests of the job seeker.
Presented by the PACER Center.
Free registration.
IPMG Informational Webinar: Mobile Accessibility for all
One of the most accessible devices lives right in your pocket or backpack. Smart phones and tablets offer wonderful accessibility settings that can open up a world of access for individuals with disabilities, and really for anyone! Guest presenter Josh Anderson, ATP - Director of Assistive Technology - Easterseals Crossroads, will deep dive into the built-in accessibility settings for iOS and Android and show how they can help individuals with hearing, vision, mobility, and cognitive impairments access technology and the world around them.
Presented by IPMG.
Free registration.
AT Demo Days
It's time for a quick refresh of what's new with AT products. Get an overview of many products during these two days of demos.
We know it's hard to keep up with all the latest features and product announcements. We want to make it easier, so join us for AT Demo Days to keep up-to-speed with a variety of AT products.
Sessions will take place on three Wednesdays in May via the ATIA Learning Center. Sessions are sponsored by ATIA members and free for anyone to attend. Live sessions will have prize giveaways!
May 7: AT and ACC
May 14: AT and Blind & Low Vision and Physical Access
May 21: AT and Education
Presented by Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATiA).
Free registration.
IAB's 13th Annual Autism Parent Conference
The Institute for Applied Behavioral Science (IABS) at Endicott College is hoping you will join us for our 13th Annual Autism PARENT Conference!
All topics are geared towards parents & caregivers.
The conference is FREE and either in-person at Endicott College, or virtual via ZOOM.
WHEN: SATURDAY May 3rd
WHEN: 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. EST
Free registration.
AT Awareness Day
You're Invited!
Celebrate AT Awareness Day
Honoring the individuals who rely on Assistive Technology (AT) to access education, workplaces, communities, and recreation.
Join us for an Open House to celebrate the innovation of AT and the dedication of the researchers, educators, and specialists who make AT accessible to millions.
OPEN YOUR WORLD WITH TECHNOLOGY!
Explore our adaptive lab and discover how the INDATA Project, ATLAS Project, clinical services, digital literacy programs, loan library, home modification services, and more are helping individuals lead fuller, more independent lives.
Light refreshments will be served.
We look forward to welcoming you to an event that celebrates the power of technology in making the world more accessible for everyone!
Presented by Easterseals Crossroads.
Let's Talk Benefits
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.
A Workshop for Families: Understanding Behavior Change
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.
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
Presented in partnership with Wabash Center and The Arc of Tippecanoe County.
For more information, including a list of participating organizations, or if you would like to be an exhibitor, visit oasisforlife.org/drf.
BONUS! Come early to attend the INSILC Lafayette Town Hall presented by the Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council. Hear from local legislators, ask them questions, and participate in topical breakout sessions.
3:00pm – 7:00pm EST - Exhibitor Hall
Connect with organizations that serve the Lafayette community!
4:00pm – 5:00pm EST - Conversation with legislators
Meet local Tippecanoe County legislators!
Ask questions about issues relevant to you!
5:30pm – 6:30pm EST - Roundtable Conversations
Accessible Healthcare
Promoting the Independent Living Network
Emergency and Disaster Preparedness
Guardianship and Guardianship Alternatives
Transportation
MEETING ACCOMMODATIONS
American Sign Language Interpreters and CART services will be on hand
For other event accommodation requests, please contact the INSILC Executive Director, Mike Foddrill at MFoddrill@indianasilc.org. Accommodation requests should be made at least two business days in advance to help to ensure the availability of the accommodation.
What’s For Dinner?
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.
CtLC Live: Self Determination, Informed Decision Making & Supported Decision Making
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.
CtLC Live: Self Determination, Informed Decision Making & Supported Decision Making
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.
Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT)
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.
Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability and Community Center on Community Living and Careers.
Free registration: go.iu.edu/8r8Z
23rd Annual QIDP Leadership Conference
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.