Autism Society Western New York

Webinar: Education Records Organizer
2021-09-22 17:30 - 18:45 (America/New_York)
Please join Dodie Daniels, 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, 518-381-4350.
Webinar registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7458649688775799307

Webinar: Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-09-21 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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4590199773988674572

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-09-21 10:00 - 11:30
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 Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services. Contact Tina Beauparlant at 516-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/54605204018472588

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-09-20 18:30 - 20:00
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or do you 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, Empower and other group members!
Discuss topics such as
Special Education, Sensory Processing Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders and more!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957 Passcode: [REDACTED]

Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities - Webinar
2021-09-20 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities. Join Lin Perry as she unravels the web of public benefits and Medicaid waivers available to people with disabilities. This is a very complicated issue and many families don’t know where to begin so let us help you get started. The purpose of the webinar is to provide caregivers with the information about state and federal programs so they will have the knowledge to know what their loved one is eligible for.
Contact: Tina Beauparlant – tbeauparlant@ptonys.org
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3231873009974115852

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2021-09-16 18:30 - 19:30, 2021-08-19 18:30 - 20:00 | The Resource Center, 880 E. Second St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Free support group for parents, family members, and caregivers of children with special needs. Third Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m.
Receive support, connect with others, and express yourself.
In-person and virtual options available.
In-person located at 880 E. Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701
or

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82679660440?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)

Transition to Adulthood for Youth with Mental Health Challenges
2021-09-15 18:30 - 19:30
Join Mental Health Advocates of WNY for their free Wednesday Wellness with the Experts series on Wednesday, September 15th at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom
This month’s topic is: Transition to Adulthood for Youth with Mental Health Challenges
Presented by Tonia Weichmann, Transition Coordinator, Parent Network of WNY
Click here to register. If you have any questions, please email sdziwulski@mhawny.org or call 716-886-1242 ext. 337.

Webinar- Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide
2021-09-15 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.
Let’s explore what the CSE team needs to consider when discussing the need for a one to one aide. 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).
Contact: Phone: Tina Beauparlant -tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4710945946889498637

Parent's Guide to Special Education (formerly Parent Member)
2021-09-14 18:00 - 20:00
FREE WORKSHOP
2 Parts: Online Training and Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Learn about the Special Education Process and the Individualized Education Plan!

Gain understanding about procedures, NYS regulations, and strategies to promote a parent’s understanding and participation in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting.
This course is required to receive a Parent Member Certificate to support a parent of a child with a disability in an IEP meeting.

Part 1 – Online videos & activities
Complete at least 1 day prior to Live Zoom Session
Part 2 – Live Zoom Session
September 14
6 – 7:30 pm
CTLE Credits Available
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170

Webinar- Key Ingredients For the Start of a Successful School Year!
2021-09-14 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Key Ingredients For the Start of a Successful School Year!
A new school year means a new grade, new teachers, new goals, and maybe even a new school! In order to help you and your child with special needs be as successful as they can be, we put together this great presentation with helpful back to school tips that we hope will make this transition into the a new school year a little easier for you and your child.
Contact: Phone: Tina beauparlant- tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2581451408631525645

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-09-14 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=ea22fc5052998bcd3419fff61ce7b471f

Webinar- “What is Section 504?”
2021-09-13 17:00 - 18:15
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/6026894239569899277

Parent to Parent of NYS Father Group On-Line Chat
2021-09-09 19:00 - 20:30
Parent to Parent has established an informal Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their child’s special needs.
Virtual Meeting: Thursday, September 9, 2021.
Dads_group_flyer_2021.docx
Contact: Phone: Chris Brewster-cbrewster@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZArf-Ggqj0vGtAeVLnnDTOE-nupexKmhHwq

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group
2021-09-09 19:00 - 20:00
Do you have a family member in a residential program and are struggling to make peace with this decision? Parent to Parent is excited to host a new Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Mariela Adams, for families with children and adults of all ages that have children in residential school or a group home.
Come join us for an hour of support and conversation about this important topic.
See flyer for registration link
September-_Residential_Placement_Discussion_Group.docx
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvd-CspjktE9MrDO_9RBzg5OhXsTh-oIbM
Contact: Phone: Contact: Phone: Valerie Colavecchio – vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-09-09 11:00 - 12:30
At Parent to Parent of NYS we want you to know that during these uncertain and overwhelming times you are not alone. We are still here to offer support and information as we work from home. Our Caregiver Connections. This group is an informal meeting for parents who are navigating their child’s special needs.
Click the link above to register in advance for this meeting. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
9-_9-2021_Barb_Caregiver_Connection_flyer.docx
Contact: Phone: Barb Hoffman – bhoffman@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwtf-yurjktGtff2-QNCRmVoLU3YandfV4J

Webinar: Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs
2021-09-08 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 Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3978246786370468110

PANS and Autism - 2021 Updates - Webinar
2021-09-08 13:00 - 14:00
Tune in to hear Jennifer Frankovich, MD, discuss the co-occurrence of systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases including the overlap between pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) and autism.
About the Speaker
Jennifer Frankovich, MD, is an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Immunology Rheumatology (AIR) at Stanford University/Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital (LPCH). Her clinical expertise is in systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases that co-occur with psychiatric symptoms. She completed her training in pediatrics, pediatric rheumatology, and clinical epidemiology at Stanford University/LPCH. She directs the Stanford PANS Program (2012- present) where she and her collaborators have created a longitudinal clinical database and large biorepository of patient and control biospecimens. In addition to generating clinical data to better understand the PANS illness, she is collaborating with ten basic science labs who aim to understand the immunological underpinnings of the illness.

Free certificates of participation are available upon successful completion of a brief knowledge quiz after the webinar. The quiz will be added to this page once the event has concluded.
Register: https://www.autism.org/pans-and-autism-2021-updates/

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - Webinar
2021-09-08 11:00 - 12:45
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Understanding the Regulation of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities.
This training will take you through the NYS Special Education Regulations step by step. Parents will learn the role they play on the CSE, learn the chain of command regarding the CSE, learn how to request information regarding your child’s IEP and gain an understanding how to communicate with your child’s teachers & administrators.
After this webinar parents will have more knowledge about the educational laws to advocate for their child/children.
Contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: Tina Beauparlant- tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5287670581983513869

Family/Caregiver Group via Zoom
2021-09-07 17:30 - 19:00
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]

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-09-01 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=e9d7db8dce14c218f36bf592d21152d0a

When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist - Webinar
2021-08-31 17:30 - 18:45
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator as she presents a webinar on When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit.
This presentation 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: Phone: Tina Beauparlant- tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8823076553834149392

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-08-27 10:00 - 11:30
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/13918029895511820

Graduation Options for Students with Disabilities
2021-08-25 18:00 - 19:30
What does it mean to get a Regent’s diploma? A local diploma? Via safety net? A CDOS or Skills Credential?
What can you do? What can you not do? How much effort does it take? Can your child do the work?
This session explores the options and outlines the updates to NYS regulations.

*CTLE Credits Available*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER HERE: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/graduation-options-for-students-with-disabilities/

REAL Transition Partners “Role of the VR Counselor”
2021-08-25 12:00 - 13:00
The Role of the VR Counselor
Vocational Rehabilitation(VR) is a program that helps people with disabilities find and keep a job. Often, families, young adults with disabilities, and professionals are unsure exactly how to utilize the VR program and how a VR Counselor can help.
In this webinar, we will discuss how to work with a VR counselor to successfully find and keep employment.
Questions contact: Dawn Monaco, dmonaco@spanadvocacy.org
Register for Webinar: https://rtproleofvr.eventbrite.com/

ACCES-VR Orientation
2021-08-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Applying for ACCES-VR?
ACCES-VR (Adult Career & Continuing Ed Services-Vocational Rehabilitation)
Learn about eligibility, potential services, and get help completing the paperwork.
Masks mandated.
Location: 1021 Broadway Street, Buffalo, NY 14212 Community Space located on Ground Floor
Register: Call 716-332-4170 or Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Parent Network of WNY: Meeting Families Where They Are - Facilitating Meetings With Families via Zoom - August 24 and August 26
2021-08-24 15:30 - 16:30
Free training for WNY Teachers, Administrators, Counselors and Social Workers
8/24/21 & 8/26/21 from 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Participants will apply strategies to prepare for, engage in and follow up on parent/family meetings and conferences.
For more info contact: Clarissa Stockman (cstockman@e2cc.org)
REGISTER: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/166ixyMTX2sdaBBqVtGHeeXZJ7Smb6CBYKWyq7YFFB1k/viewform?edit_requested=true
CTLE credits available.

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-08-19 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
August 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

Webinar: Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities - Webinar
2021-08-19 12:00 - 13:15
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities. Join Lin Perry as she unravels the web of public benefits and Medicaid waivers available to people with disabilities. This is a very complicated issue and many families don’t know where to begin so let us help you get started. The purpose of the webinar is to provide caregivers with the information about state and federal programs so they will have the knowledge to know what their loved one is eligible for.
Please contact Maryalice Fegeley with any questions at 716-427-5140.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9103709302754858768

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-08-19 10:00 - 12:00
“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=e141df6764548be26ac643f7b8f13c444
