A self-settled special needs trust (SNT) is often considered to preserve public benefits for individuals receiving personal injury settlements. However, this may not always be the optimal choice. Disadvantages of…
The 2024 report by the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) highlights a severe crisis in the Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce, essential for assisting individuals with intellectual…
The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) has commended the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for implementing comprehensive regulations to enhance air travel for passengers with disabilities. These new…
The Partners in Policymaking (PIP) program - hosted by Florida Developmental Disabilities Council - offers advocacy training and skill-building workshops for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their family members,…
For decades, workers with disabilities have endured an unjust reality: earning far below minimum wage because of an obscure legal loophole. However, change may finally be on the horizon. The…
The future can feel uncertain and overwhelming for families supporting individuals with disabilities. For families and professionals alike questions about resources, long-term planning, and navigating complex systems often bring a…
Managing Supplemental Needs Trusts (SNTs) for beneficiaries receiving federal housing subsidies is complex and requires careful thought to navigate the challenges of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations, determining income…
Government Day is an annual event in The Villages, Florida, where residents can meet directly with the agencies that serve them. Hosted by The Villages Community Development Districts (CDDs) -…
Guardianship is a strict way to help with decision-making. It should be a last choice. In Florida, people can ask if guardianship is still needed, and the law allows them…
Theme: Partnership and Collaboration: Elevating Family Leadership
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 – Friday, January 31, 2025 | Embassy Suites by Hilton Altamonte Springs
We want to welcome Family Leaders, Self-Advocates, the Champions who support family-professional partnerships, and emerging professionals representing healthcare settings, community agencies and academic centers. We all share an understanding of and passion for family-professional partnerships that strengthen the systems that serve our children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN).
The phrase “children and youth with special healthcare needs” is broadly accepted wording that encompasses children and youth with disability, chronic illness and medical complexity. About 20% of children in the US are in this category.
During this two-day conference we will have the opportunity to network with one another. We will strengthen our leadership skills by learning together.
We look forward to welcoming you back if you have attended in the past and getting to know you if this is your first time attending.
Nationwide Survey on Transportation Accessibility – Online
Closes Friday, December 20, 2024
If you are a Rider, a Driver, Transportation Program Manager, Planner, Advocate or anyone who is involved in transportation services in your community, we invite you to take just a few minutes to respond. ATRC will use the results to share accessible transportation practices from across the country
Open House – Virtual Event
Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
We look forward to meeting you.
Agenda
Become a Participant – Apply for 2025-2026 Workshops
Application Period Opens Saturday, March 1, 2025
Are you interested in becoming a Partner?
We’re looking for talented, motivated, and dedicated adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, family members who have decision-making responsibility for their family member with intellectual and developmental disabilities (e.g., parent, sibling, grandparent), and legal guardians of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are looking to have an impact in their communities. This year, up to 25 participants may be selected from a competitive applicant pool to participate in mandatory classes from September to February.
Virtual Event – Let Us Spell It Out For You
Thursday, December 19, 2024 | 8:00 PM
I-ASC’s Spellers and Allies want to educate, inform and share their life experiences about the nonspeaking community with you. Our presentations are created by nonspeakers, spelling letter by letter on letterboards or keyboards.
There are many misconceptions about nonspeakers our presentation addresses:
The presentation is entirely online and lasts about an hour, including a Q&A session with nonspeaking members of the Spellers & Allies Advocacy Network.
Monthly Luncheon – Self Pay Event
Monday, December 16, 2024 | 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM | Breakfast at Tiffany’s, 112 South 5th Street, Leesburg
Join the Celebrate Differences support group for moms of children with disabilities. This a nurturing and empowering community where mothers can come together to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and gain valuable information to help them navigate the complexities of raising a child with special needs. Our group provides a safe and understanding space where moms can connect with others who truly understand their challenges and triumphs. This group often features guest speakers and other resources to further support the well-being of mothers and families.
Please RSVP to info@celebratedifferences.org by Dec 12th!
Holiday Gathering – Self Pay Event
Monday, December 16, 2024 | 5:45 PM | Belle Glade Country Club
Time for Friends to gather and enjoy the holidays. Please join us on Monday, December 16th at 5:45pm at Belle Glade Country Club for dinner. We look forward to seeing you.
Let Janey Chavez know by December 1st how many you are bringing so we can get a final headcount.
Silent Auction
Thursday, December 12, 2024 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Waterfront Inn
Trees on display November 25th until December 12th at the Waterfront Inn, Lake Sumter Landing. A silent auction featuring trees, wreaths and centerpieces will be held on December 12, 2024 from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm. The evening includes light refreshments, music and a cash bar. Admission is free and donations are welcome. All proceeds are donated to Celebrate Differences, the parent organization that supports Sumter County Special Olympics.
Webinar – Liberty Dental Part 2
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Be Smart, on December 18, will touch on navigating the system and finding dental resources in your community. Hear from a panel of (dentists/providers/experts) on ways to provide person centered approaches to serving those with I/DD and their dental needs along with health care decision-making.
Would you like to participate in a virtual focus group?
Focus groups will be facilitated virtually and you will need access to an internet-enabled device with video and audio capabilities. Focus group discussions will take up to 90 minutes. To participate you must:
