Autism Society Western New York

ABLEnow Information Session - Webinar
2021-04-20 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
More independence, greater financial security and a better quality of life – that’s the future ABLEnow is building. Join ABLEnow for a free information session to discover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the national ABLEnow program. In just one hour, we’ll cover the answers to these questions, and more:
• What are ABLE accounts?
• Who is eligible?
• How can I use the money in an ABLE account?
• What are the features and benefits of the ABLEnow program?
• How can I learn more and open an account?
For more information on ABLEnow, please visit able-now.com.
Registration is open for a free information session on Tuesday, April 20 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. This webinar will cover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the ABLEnow program.
REGISTER: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2367981222887046672

Nutrition Classes via Zoom! Cooking, shopping, making, eating! All are welcome!
2021-04-20 12:00 - 12:40
Free Nutrition Classes starting next week via Zoom from Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Learn how to shop, cook and eat healthy food. Both daytime and evening classes are offered.
Cooking, shopping, making, eating! SNAP-Ed is pleased to offer free virtual workshops on Zoom!
Link is right here for the flyer: http://bit.ly/MyPlateFreeZoom or email me for the original PDF if needed
Join us on Zoom for 3 weekly sessions– choose your day/time! Classes run approximately 40 minutes. If you have a class at that time that might want to take part, feel free!
Session 2: Tuesday April 20 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 22 @ 6 pm
Session 3: Tuesday April 27 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 29 @ 6 pm
Learn to: • make healthy choices • eat healthy on a budget • cook new recipes
Contact: Sarah Martin skm99@cornell.edu to get the Zoom links if the PDF does not work for you!
All welcome!

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-04-19 19:00 - 20:30
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or suspect they have a disability?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sensed of belonging?
Get the support you need from Parent Network of WNY, Empower and other group members!
NO JUDGEMENTS – NO FEES – ALL ARE WELCOME
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Upcoming Meeting Dates: May 3, May 17, June 7, and June 21
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Mindfulness Webinar
2021-04-17 09:00 - 10:30
Mindfulness Webinar
Led by Sabrina Vogler, Mindfulness Coach
Saturday, April 17th from 9:00AM – 10:30AM
The overwhelming demands of parenting takes its toll on our mood, our energy levels, and how we show up for our children. Sabrina Vogler from Heart in the Moment Mindfulness Coaching will offer on-the-spot mindfulness tools for crafting inner calm, comfort, and mental clarity when emotionally triggered.
Register Here: https://redcap.urmc.rochester.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=AJKFN88X4R

How to Support Your Child's Vocabulary via Zoom
2021-04-17 09:00 - 10:30
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!
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/how-to-support-your-childs-vocabulary/

Putting the Pieces Together: A Biomedical Approach to ASD - Virtual Workshop
2021-04-17 08:45 - 12:45
The Autism Society WNY will hold their spring workshop “Putting the Pieces Together: A Biomedical Approach to ASD” presented by Dr. James Adams using a virtual platform instead of an in-person event due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtual Workshop | Saturday, April 17, 2021 | 8:45 am – 12:45 pm
Dr. James Adams is Director of the Autism/ Asperger’s Research Program at Arizona State University (ASU). Working in conjunction with physicians, nutritionists, biochemists, and others, his research is focused on the causes and treatment of autism across the lifespan. Dr. Adams believes the addition of research-based biomedical therapy to treat individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can improve the effectiveness of ongoing educational, therapeutic, and behavioral interventions. Dr. Adams will give an update on his groundbreaking research since he last presented in Buffalo in 2016.
This workshop will focus on:

General treatments for autism
Seizures– medications, supplements, and diet
Nutritional and dietary supports
Microbiota Treatment Update
Prevention of ASD
Benefits and adverse effects of psychiatric medications on those with ASD

It is applicable to individuals with ASD, parents/caregivers, SLPs, OTs/COTAs, PTs/PTAs, teachers, administrators, mental health professionals, and any other professionals/paraprofessionals working with those with ASD. This presentation will discuss individuals with ASD across the lifespan.
At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

List three treatment strategies for ASD.
List two treatment strategies for seizure disorders for those with ASD.
List three strategies to prevent ASD.
List three improvements in language, behavioral, and coping skills demonstrated as a result of the diet and nutrition study.

Online registration is required. Please note that there will be no mail-in registration for this event. Online registration and payment through PayPal will be available until April 14, 2021. Materials (i.e. registration links, handouts, etc.) will be e-mailed to attendees prior to the workshop.
PLEASE NOTE: No refunds will be given after April 7, 2021.

Parent/Family/Individual Cost: $10 CEUs N/A
Speech-Language Pathologist or Audiologist Cost: $30 .35 ASHA CEUs
OT or COTA Cost: $30 3.0 NYS Continuing Competency Hours for OTs/OTAs. Please note that these hours may be used towards completing AOTA continuing competency requirements, but are not offered through an AOTA approved provider.
PT or PTA Cost: $30 .3 NYS PT Board Continuing Education Hours
Other Professional/Paraprofessional or Student Cost: $20 No CEUs Awarded

All SLP/OT/PT attendees obtaining continuing education credits will receive a Certificate of Attendance.
Parents, other professionals and students will receive a Certificate of Attendance (NOT conferring CEUs) if requested prior to the event.
Online registration is now available at https://autism-services-inc.org/resources/semi-annual-workshops/. Please note that as this is a virtual event there will be no mail-in registration. The deadline to register is April 14, 2021. No refunds after 4/7/21.

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-04-15 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series sessions every 2 weeks from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
April 15, 29
May 13, 27
June 10, 24
July 8, 22
August 5, 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

CHQ Family/Caregiver Support Group of Children with Special Needs
2021-04-15 18:30 - 19:30, 2021-04-01 18:30 - 19:30
Want to feel less overwhelmed? Want to feel a sense of belonging? This is the Place for You!
No Judgements! No Fee!
Every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month
6:30-7:30PM
Join Zoom Meeting.
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org or join the group on Facebook for future dates, helpful hints and links:
CHQ Support Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Special Needs

Nutrition Classes via Zoom! Cooking, shopping, making, eating! All are welcome!
2021-04-15 18:00 - 18:40
Free Nutrition Classes starting next week via Zoom from Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Learn how to shop, cook and eat healthy food. Both daytime and evening classes are offered.
Cooking, shopping, making, eating! SNAP-Ed is pleased to offer free virtual workshops on Zoom!
Link is right here for the flyer: http://bit.ly/MyPlateFreeZoom or email me for the original PDF if needed
Join us on Zoom for 3 weekly sessions– choose your day/time! Classes run approximately 40 minutes. If you have a class at that time that might want to take part, feel free!
Session 1: Thursday April 15 @ 6 pm
Session 2: Tuesday April 20 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 22 @ 6 pm
Session 3: Tuesday April 27 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 29 @ 6 pm
Learn to: • make healthy choices • eat healthy on a budget • cook new recipes
Contact: Sarah Martin skm99@cornell.edu to get the Zoom links if the PDF does not work for you!
All welcome!

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide & the Role the Aide Plays - Webinar
2021-04-15 16:00 - 17:30
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.
Let’s explore what the IEP team needs to considering, supplemental aids, services and program modifications for all students with disabilities. 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 questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8843914494756088332

Buffalo Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders via Zoom
2021-04-14 18:30 - 19:30
Practicing social distancing but still need to talk?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sense of belonging?
Get the support you need from Kathy Doody, Jana Mertz & other group members!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/97311273663?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 973 1127 3663
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Upcoming meetings on Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
May 18
June 16
July 14
August 18
September 15
October 13
November 17
December 15

Webinar: When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective
2021-04-14 17:30 - 18:45
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator for Parent-2-Parent of NYS as she presents the webinar: When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit. This webinar provides an overview of the parent’s perspective when planning for a child’s developmental evaluation. This webinar will not be looking at specific tests or types of evaluations. Instead, we want to share some tips and potential suggestions that we have learned based on our own personal experiences when our children were evaluated. We hope that this provides you with information and ideas when planning for your own child’s evaluation. Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7378354553842063629

How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting - Webinar
2021-04-14 13:00 - 14:15
This training is to help parents, who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread. If this is you, attended this training and there may be some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and able to participate as a full member of the team that plans your child’s special education program.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or just interested in this topic, then this training is for you!
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/707076547148622096

Nutrition Classes via Zoom! Cooking, shopping, making, eating! All are welcome!
2021-04-13 12:00 - 12:40
Free Nutrition Classes starting next week via Zoom from Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Learn how to shop, cook and eat healthy food. Both daytime and evening classes are offered.
Cooking, shopping, making, eating! SNAP-Ed is pleased to offer free virtual workshops on Zoom!
Link is right here for the flyer: http://bit.ly/MyPlateFreeZoom or email me for the original PDF if needed
Join us on Zoom for 3 weekly sessions– choose your day/time! Classes run approximately 40 minutes. If you have a class at that time that might want to take part, feel free!
Session 1: Tuesday April 13 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 15 @ 6 pm
Session 2: Tuesday April 20 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 22 @ 6 pm
Session 3: Tuesday April 27 @ 12 noon or Thursday April 29 @ 6 pm
Learn to: • make healthy choices • eat healthy on a budget • cook new recipes
Contact: Sarah Martin skm99@cornell.edu to get the Zoom links if the PDF does not work for you!
All welcome!

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Live Stream
2021-04-13 09:00 - 14:15
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) are offering three live stream seminars that are directed towards school professionals, community professionals, and parents, who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum. These sessions will not be recorded.
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) offers these seminars AT NO COST to participants living in New York State through a grant from the New York State Education Department. The funding is administered by The Research Foundation for SUNY.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
Seminar I—9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. What Does “Quality Education Programming” Mean for Children Diagnosed with Autism?
This presentation is a primer regarding autism programming for success! We will discuss characteristics of autism and how these necessitate modification/enhancement in assessment, curriculum, and instruction. A summary of current research regarding practices designed to support and enhance instruction for students with autism will be included. Key variables related to creating quality programming will be discussed.
Seminar II—11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Increasing Engagement and Motivation in Students with ASD
Students with ASD and other disabilities are often exposed to academics and homework assignments that are challenging or simply uninteresting to the students. Active participating in academics is important and students are expected to engage in and practice these fundamental skills both within and outside of the classroom. This presentation will focus on what factors influence motivation, different strategies that support motivation as well as how Executive Functions play a role in motivating students with ASD.
Seminar III—1:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Encouraging Independence with Emotion Regulation in Students with ASD
Learners with ASD across the age range from preschool to high school can benefit from self-management interventions. The use of self-management interventions is not limited to a particular skill domain. This presentation will focus on how the deficits in ASD affect individuals’ ability to maintain emotional regulation and multiple evidence-based interventions that can support individuals’ attempts to regulate their emotions and maintain prosocial behavior.
Registration information: http://www.albany.edu/autism/pdps.php
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologists (NASP), Social Workers (LMSW & LCSW), and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), and Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE). General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each part is eligible for 1.25 contact hours. There is a $ 5.00 processing fee per session for each CEU selected. Please visit CARD Albany website for more information about CEU offerings. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.
The live stream seminars (three seminars per date) are available on the following dates
Tuesday, April 13 2021
Friday, April 30, 2021

Communicating Through Letter Writing - Webinar
2021-04-12 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Trish Washburn, 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/4060945452656109840

Super-Sized Sibshop! - Virtual
2021-04-08 19:00 - 20:30
What could possibly be better than a Sibshop? A Super-Sized Sibshop!
Leading up to National Siblings Day on April 10, Sibling Support Project is hosting what they hope will be one of the largest Sibshops ever! Siblings of children with special developmental, health and mental health concerns are invited to attend this free event! Children age 7-15 are welcome join for fun, games, arts, crafts and special guest speakers! Seasoned Sibshoppers and newbies alike are encouraged to attend! While they wish they could offer an event that accommodates all time zones and languages, this Sibshop will be facilitated in English and welcome any child who is able to attend at this time.
The event will take place on Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. and will be 90 minutes in duration.
REGISTER: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Hf0VKoZxZUahPFR9qXY59O5pr-Si20xMgAPYuHUskUZUOU4xN1VNRUdWOVlFVEZWTlYxQUlYVTROMC4u

Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives - Webinar
2021-04-07 13:00 - 14:45
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore: Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives
Let’s face it nothing keeps parents up at night more than thinking about who will care for our child/children when we are no longer able to care for them. This workshop will increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the options besides legal guardianship for adults with disabilities. If your adult child does not need full guardianship, there are other options that we will explore in this presentation. We will also discuss guardianship and the legal requirements.
Contact Tina Beauparlant for more details (518) 381-4350 or tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2000301235782330126

Family/Caregiver Support Group - 2021 Zoom meeting
2021-04-06 17:30 - 19:30
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or suspect they have a disability?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sense of belonging?
Get the support you need from Parent Network of WNY & other group members!
First Tuesday of the Month
5:30 pm to 7 pm
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96127043675?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 961 2704 3675, Passcode: [REDACTED]

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-04-06 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, 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 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7946535983458051084

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-04-01 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series sessions every 2 weeks from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
April 1, 15, 29
May 13, 27
June 10, 24
July 8, 22
August 5, 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

A Family’s Guide to Student-Led IEPs via Zoom
2021-04-01 15:00 - 17:00
Get your child involved in planning for his/her future!
Students who participate in their own Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings often know more about their own disability, rights, goals, and accommodations. Through this participation, students have the opportunity to practice many skills that will help facilitate their independence, their ability to overcome obstacles and lead more self-determined lives.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/a-familys-guide-to-student-led-ieps/
CTLE credits available.

Peer Experiences and Behavioral Challenges - Webinar
2021-03-31 13:00 - 14:00
Learn about the connection between peer experiences and behavioral challenges some individuals with autism may experience during adolescence.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/peers-and-behavior/
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Somer Bishop, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco. She is a clinical psychologist with expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Her research and clinical interests are focused on ASD symptom manifestations in individuals of different ages and levels of ability, as well as on differentiating between ASD and other developmental disabilities across the lifespan.

“What is Section 504?” - Webinar
2021-03-29 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 questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8530927514733255438

Free ABLEnow Webinar
2021-03-29 12:00 - 13:00
More independence, greater financial security and a better quality of life – that’s the future ABLEnow is building. Join ABLEnow for a free information session to discover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the national ABLEnow program. In just one hour, we’ll cover the answers to these questions, and more:
• What are ABLE accounts?
• Who is eligible?
• How can I use the money in an ABLE account?
• What are the features and benefits of the ABLEnow program?
• How can I learn more and open an account?
For more information on ABLEnow, please visit able-now.com.
Registration is open for a free information session on Monday, March 29, at 12 noon ET. This webinar will cover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the ABLEnow program.
REGISTER: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1879474802521859595

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Live Stream
2021-03-26 09:00 - 14:15
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) are offering three live stream seminars that are directed towards school professionals, community professionals, and parents, who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum. These sessions will not be recorded.
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) offers these seminars AT NO COST to participants living in New York State through a grant from the New York State Education Department. The funding is administered by The Research Foundation for SUNY.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
Seminar I—9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. What Does “Quality Education Programming” Mean for Children Diagnosed with Autism?
This presentation is a primer regarding autism programming for success! We will discuss characteristics of autism and how these necessitate modification/enhancement in assessment, curriculum, and instruction. A summary of current research regarding practices designed to support and enhance instruction for students with autism will be included. Key variables related to creating quality programming will be discussed.
Seminar II—11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Increasing Engagement and Motivation in Students with ASD
Students with ASD and other disabilities are often exposed to academics and homework assignments that are challenging or simply uninteresting to the students. Active participating in academics is important and students are expected to engage in and practice these fundamental skills both within and outside of the classroom. This presentation will focus on what factors influence motivation, different strategies that support motivation as well as how Executive Functions play a role in motivating students with ASD.
Seminar III—1:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Encouraging Independence with Emotion Regulation in Students with ASD
Learners with ASD across the age range from preschool to high school can benefit from self-management interventions. The use of self-management interventions is not limited to a particular skill domain. This presentation will focus on how the deficits in ASD affect individuals’ ability to maintain emotional regulation and multiple evidence-based interventions that can support individuals’ attempts to regulate their emotions and maintain prosocial behavior.
Registration information: http://www.albany.edu/autism/pdps.php
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologists (NASP), Social Workers (LMSW & LCSW), and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), and Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE). General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each part is eligible for 1.25 contact hours. There is a $ 5.00 processing fee per session for each CEU selected. Please visit CARD Albany website for more information about CEU offerings. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.
The live stream seminars (three seminars per date) are available on the following dates
Friday March 26, 2021
Tuesday, April 13 2021
Friday, April 30, 2021

BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
2021-03-25 19:00 - 20:00
BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
Join us at our weekly chat sessions to discuss your questions & concerns.
Buffalo Families! We are here to answer your questions and concerns on a wide range of topics including …
• Transitions
• Meltdowns
• Time Management
• Technology Needs
• Guidance to Resources in Buffalo
• And Any Other Topics, General Questions or Concerns!
Thursdays, 7:00 PM
Weekly Live Chats with Kim Hernandez & Lizarelis Ali!
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Kim Hernandez is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 17 years. Her expertise is supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with a variety of disabilities.
Lizarelis Ali is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 20 years. Her expertise is
supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/91379417144?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 913 7941 7144
Passcode: [REDACTED]
+1 646 558 8656 US
(New York)
info@parentnetworkwny.org or 716.332.4170 or www.parentnetwork.org

Webinar: Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-03-25 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs. Powerful and intense feelings are natural and common responses to parenting a child with exceptional needs. This training will provide an overview of common emotions experienced by parents and discuss how by sharing and acknowledging these emotions parents can find the inner strength needed to face and embrace their role as a parent of a child with special needs. Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8945707279594250766

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
