Autism Society Western New York

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-02-18 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ebd6b1cf398aca3e8b2fc6f3180b92629

NEW: How to Prepare for a Virtual CSE / 504 Meeting - Webinar
2021-02-18 13:00 - 14:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS as they present this wonderful webinar.
One of the important lessons we’ve all learned from COVID-19 is the importance of having effective meaningful communication between parents, school district staff, and others in a virtual world. This training will talk about the importance of good communication between, parents, teachers, students, counselors, therapists, administrators, and community providers to name a few. We will touch on examples of effective communication, learn tips, ideas and strategies to prepare for virtual CSE, 504 and other general meetings. This presentation is for parents, professionals and providers who want to learn tips, ideas and strategies to communicate in our new virtual world.
If you have question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5278403893805944589

“What is Section 504?” - Webinar
2021-02-22 13:00 - 14:30
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What is Section 504?
This training will introduce you to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This training is designed to provide you with an understanding of the law, how it applies to educational programs and to students with disabilities. Children who qualify under this law receive services and/ or accommodations in the public-school system without being classified under IDEA/IDEIA and their school district’s Committee on Special Education.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
If you have question please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5746321955687727632

Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives - Webinar
2021-02-22 18:00 - 19:30
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives.
The primary purpose of this training is to increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the various Legal and non-legal options that the law requires alternatives to guardianship be considered before seeking guardianship.
Contact Tina Beauparlant for more details (518) 381-4350 or tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4405510408608853775

Speak- Up! Skills for Effective Advocacy & How to Prepare for Meeting
2021-02-23 18:00 - 19:30
This workshop is for parents, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities who participate in various meetings with professionals throughout a school year. The class will provide you with tips on how to be prepared and organized. You will learn how to be a powerful advocate (someone who speaks up).
Presentation & Discussion with Kristi Moscato!
* CTLE Credits Available *
ABOUT THE HOST
Kristi is the Community Engagement Manager for The Parent Network of WNY. She focuses her efforts in the 8 counties of WNY to ensure families of children with special needs are aware of all the supports and services available to their children and families. Kristi coordinates all Outreach, Training, Conferences, Support Groups and events for the Parent Network. In addition to her work at Parent Network, Kristi is involved in several local committees & advisory boards and is a mom of a child with special needs.
Target Audience Parents/Caregivers of School-Aged Children and Professionals.
FOR MORE INFORMATION email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER HERE: https://parentnetworkwny.secure.force.com/pmtx/evt__QuickEvent?id=a4l3a000000Y1RK

Webinar: Education Records Organizer
2021-02-24 12:00 - 13:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Education Records Organizer. This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504 and special education services take their educational records and organize them into a record-keeping binder. This workshop will assist in being more organized in planning a child’s education, and in the CPSE/CSE process.
Contact Tina Beauparlant with questions at 518-381-4350.
Webinar registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6564680764784232207

The Role of Neurotransmitters in GI Disorders Related to Autism - Webinar
2021-02-24 13:00 - 14:00
Tune in to learn about research exploring the role enteric neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and oxytocin, play in enteric nervous system (ENS) development and how, when signaling of either of these neurotransmitters is abnormal, it can result in intestinal inflammation and/or motility dysfunction.
About the speaker:
Kara Gross Margolis, MD is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and a pediatric gastroenterologist with a clinical expertise in brain-gut axis disorders, and particularly autism spectrum disorders (ASD). She has published highly novel observations on the roles that enteric neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and oxytocin, play in enteric nervous system (ENS) development and how, when signaling of either of these neurotransmitters is abnormal, result in intestinal inflammation and/or motility dysfunction. She has more recently leveraged her expertise to study disorders of the brain-gut axis from the perspective of the ENS. Her studies in this area thus far have focused on two disorders that have been classically thought of as central nervous system (CNS)-centric, ASD and developmental antidepressant (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor; SSRI) exposure. Her overall goals are to pursue translational research that interrogates basic mechanisms underlying important clinical conditions, in order to utilize this knowledge to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/gastrointestinal-autism-research/

Communicating Through Letter Writing - Webinar
2021-02-24 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating Through Letter Writing.
Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
If you have question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9102996814869280784

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-02-25 10:30 - 12:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs. Extraordinary parenting responsibilities create extraordinary pressures on parents. At the same time, parenting a child with special needs requires energy, focus, and enthusiasm to be effective in our role. The better off we are emotionally and physically, the better off our families will be. Join us for this webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/723993634229444364

Basics of Vocabulary Instruction for Families - Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
2021-02-25 15:00 - 16:00
Are you having trouble supporting your child with remote learning or assignments? Learn how your child is taught vocabulary so you can support them at home with remote learning or simply with assignments. This session will provide families with the basics of how vocabulary is efficiently learned!
*CTLE Credits Available*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER HERE: https://parentnetworkwny.secure.force.com/pmtx/evt__QuickEvent?id=a4l3a000000Y1Rt

Preparing for High School
2021-02-25 18:00 - 20:00
This workshop is designed to help parents or caregivers of children about to enter high school. Hear about changes that will take place along the way. Learn how to help your student identify his or her interests, strengths, and needs for all areas of life. An early understanding of graduation requirements will help to simplify this transition to independence.
Presentation & Discussion with Tonia Weichmann!
* CTLE Credits Available *
ABOUT THE HOST
Tonia Weichmann is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of Western New York. She has over 20 years experience working with young adults with disabilities, their families, and professionals. Her personal mission is to ensure that all young adults have the skills, knowledge, and support to achieve their life goals. Life is full of opportunity and knowing where to find the resources and supports that are needed is one of the most important steps.
Target Audience: Families of middle or high school students with disabilities and professionals.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER HERE: https://parentnetworkwny.secure.force.com/pmtx/evt__QuickEvent?id=a4l3a000000Y1Rj

Region 1 Front Door Information Session
2021-02-26 13:00 - 15:00
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions will outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented.
Pre-registration is REQUIRED to attend through WebEx (Online).
Preregistration is NOT required to attend by phone.
Please note that participants are muted throughout the session and may not hear anything when first joining the session.
If you have difficulty registering for a session, please contact Jeff Roberts at 585-241-5797 or Jeffrey.E.Roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
Counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
WebEx Event (Online) Registration Link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e98f98da112ac0bc8722de1635badee51
Phone Only: Call 518-549-0500 and enter code 171 443 3071 then press # and # again.

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-03-01 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD. The purpose of this training is to introduce families to the language of service delivery systems and to define and clarify information about services and supports. Participants will gain an increased awareness and understanding of eligibility criteria and the eligibility determination process. The training includes an overview of Medicaid Service Coordination (MSC), Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services. Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-51400 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5334553752699548172

Hippotherapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder - Webinar
2021-03-03 13:00 - 14:00
Hippotherapy is a form of physical, occupational and speech therapy in which a therapist uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input. Learn about strategies therapists utilize while supporting individuals diagnosed with ASD.
About the speaker:

Presented by Chelsea Whitaker, OTR/L, Founder & COO of Taking the Lead, a non-profit organization which helps children and adults with disabilities gain independence, build self-confidence, and learn to function at their highest levels through the use of therapeutic horseback riding and service dogs.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/hippotherapy/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-03-04 16:00 - 18:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e286854e2731fdff2854b3182f2e5b746

Transition from Preschool to School Age Special Education - Via Zoom
2021-03-04 18:00 - 19:30
Is your child going from preschool to school age special education?
During this training, guardians and family members will learn about the timeline, vocabulary and process for the transition from Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) to School Age Committee on Special Education (CSE).
CTLE Credits Available.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT.
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Power2Relate Using the Nurtured Heart Approach - A Four Week Parenting Series Via Zoom
2021-03-09 18:00 - 20:00
We are naturally created to be connected. Events, Circumstances, Unconscious ways of thinking and Stress can steal the joy and Love in our relationships. When this happens we feel pain and often helpless to stop the hurting. Power2Relate is designed to strengthen our natural ability to manage challenges and stay connected by focusing on 6 sources of power.
The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) is a language based approach that can help you regain focus and power and rebuild the love you want in your home. NHA teaches us why our typical parenting methods don’t always work and can even make things worse. The magic rests in its ability to use language to build “inner wealth” and to make positive connections to those around us by focusing on what IS working, at all times.
You will learn how to hold clear limits and consequences while you build positive connections. You will immediately FEEL the difference in your home, and in time, you, your children and your family learn to flourish.
By combining these curriculum it is our intention to more fully provide you tools to not only manage the challenges in your life, but to actually grow and get better because of them. We look forward to seeing you Transform!!
Joe Clem MA, LMFT, BCBA, Certified NHA Advanced Trainer
(No prior reading is required.)
Online Zoom Sessions for NHA. Once registered you will receive meeting id and password
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/y4zgwnbs

Please set up Zoom at 5:45 p.m. so we can begin Parent Session at 6:00 p.m.
Four Week Parenting Series
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 16, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 30, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Register by email to info@parentnetworkwny.org, online at www.parentnetworkwny.org/events or by phone at (716) 332-4170.

Webinar: Health Care Notebook Overview
2021-03-09 18:30 - 19:45
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Health Care Notebook Overview. Participants will learn how a Health Care Notebook can assist in organizing medical records. They will be given tips on how the notebook can assist with advocacy, save time, reduce stress and utilize the information within the notebook in the event of an emergency. Contact Maryalice Fegeley 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1834314560767121166

Region 1 Front Door Information Session
2021-03-10 16:00 - 18:00
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions will outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented.
Pre-registration is REQUIRED to attend through WebEx (Online).
Preregistration is NOT required to attend by phone.
Please note that participants are muted throughout the session and may not hear anything when first joining the session.
If you have difficulty registering for a session, please contact Jeff Roberts at 585-241-5797 or Jeffrey.E.Roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
Counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
WebEx Event (Online) Registration Link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e2ececfe94cd97884b8fc0356f2bc249b
Phone Only: Call 518-549-0500 and enter code 171 443 3071 then press # and # again.

Webinar: Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs
2021-03-10 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs. There are many reasons why a grandparent, or relative, may be raising their grandchildren full time. By creating an enriched, supportive, and safe living environment, grandchildren stay connected to their family while keeping them out of foster care.
This webinar will address the advantages and disadvantages of caring for our own and give practical resources and strategies for providing the best for your grandchildren. As one of the most important members of the family, we will also look at ways to care for you along the way. Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1189612619446778894

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - Webinar
2021-03-11 12:00 - 13:45
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS as they present this wonderful webinar.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires certain information to be included in the IEP but doesn’t specify how the IEP should look. Because states and local school systems may include additional information, forms differ from state to state and may vary between school systems within a state. The IEP, Individualized Education Program, is a written document that’s developed for each public school child who is eligible for special education. The IEP is created through a team effort and reviewed at least once a year. This trainings will teach you how to read the IEP so you can understand what should and can be in the IEP.
If you have question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7709912283942243344

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-03-17 09:00 - 11:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e8af62fca20dea4f3d8ac074114354e3a

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-03-17 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Program Manager / Education Specialist for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs. Extraordinary parenting responsibilities create extraordinary pressures on parents. At the same time, parenting a child with special needs requires energy, focus, and enthusiasm to be effective in our role. The better off we are emotionally and physically, the better off our families will be. Join us for this webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress. Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1292772098789516812

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide & the Role the Aide Plays - Webinar
2021-03-23 13:00 - 14:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents this wonderful webinar: Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide & the Role the Aide Plays.
This presentation will provide a summary to the benefits and disadvantages of 1:1 aides, and finally, emphasize the IEP Team’s responsibilities with regard to considering a request for 1:1 support.
A key question for the IEP team is to consider whether the student with a disability does or does not require one-to-one support to make meaningful progress toward annual goals in the IEP in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
If you have question, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/315979164402945296

Webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform
2021-03-23 18:30 - 19:45
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. Autism Insurance Reform legislation became effective in 2013, however aspects of the bill, related to Applied Behavioral Analysis, are still being worked on within the NYS government. This webinar will address the overall legislation, who it assists, and how, and will also give an update on the current status of the ABA portion of the legislation.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3745817724679072526

What are Effective Advocacy Skills - Webinar
2021-03-24 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What are Effective Advocacy Skills. Not everyone starts out by being a good advocate. Many parents, guardians and grandparents have faced challenges in getting their child’s education needs met. Parents, guardians, grandparents, must learn the skills they need to become good advocates for their children. Participants will learn that communicating effectively with teachers and other school personnel is one of the best ways to ensure that your child’s school is creating a good learning environment for your child, and to ensure that your child’s school is providing your child with the services or programs that he or she needs to succeed in school.
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3280636344074794512

Transition from Early Intervention (EI) Program to Preschool Special Education (CPSE) for Parents - Via Zoom
2021-03-24 18:00 - 19:30
Is your child going from early intervention to preschool special education?
During this training, parents will learn about the timeline, vocabulary and process for the transition from Early Intervention (EI) to Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). Learn more about the role of the teacher, the provider, and the county.
CTLE Credits Available.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/transition-from-early-intervention-ei-to-preschool-special-education-cpse-for-parents/
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716-332-4170

Region 1 Front Door Information Session
2021-03-25 09:00 - 11:00
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions will outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented.
Pre-registration is REQUIRED to attend through WebEx (Online).
Preregistration is NOT required to attend by phone.
Please note that participants are muted throughout the session and may not hear anything when first joining the session.
If you have difficulty registering for a session, please contact Jeff Roberts at 585-241-5797 or Jeffrey.E.Roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
Counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
WebEx Event (Online) Registration Link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e9b315228018533267762ccf5b527095e
Phone Only: Call 518-549-0500 and enter code 171 443 3071 then press # and # again.

Webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition
2021-03-25 12:00 - 13:15
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. As our youth with ID/DD or special healthcare needs transition from pediatric to adult healthcare systems, self-advocates and parents alike need to understand the importance of transitioning their healthcare effectively. While many people engage in transition planning for their education to adult systems, sadly healthcare, isn’t often included in those plans. And yet, good health is the most fundamental and foundational aspect of any person’s success.
In this webinar participants will learn what research says, what issues to consider, the importance of transitioning healthcare and some effective means to begin a plan to transition for the caregiver/parent or for the child. The focus is on being a good parent partner with health professionals, and using some tools to begin the conversations and plan for and insure success.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2480453563946029838

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-03-25 14:00 - 16:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ee6796eea3829610ee3c2e618b4a513a5
