Autism Society Western New York

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-10-04 18:30 - 20:00, 2021-09-20 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
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=a1Q4djhNRnhKaktJblhZbC84RC8rQT09
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957 Passcode: 075356

Getting To Calm... Getting In Sync Sensory Processing Disorder Workshop via Zoom
2021-10-02 09:00 - 12:00
Presented by Carol Stock Kranowitz
Author of the best selling book “The Out-Of-Sync Child”
Simple, fun activities to help every child or young adult develop, learn and grow. Learn effective strategies through exercises and communication. Guided sensory-motor activities and exercises for all ages.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/getting-to-calm-while-getting-in-sync/

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Group through ZOOM
2021-09-29 19:00 - 20:30
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. Contact Barb Hoffman with any questions.
9-_29-2021_Barb_Caregiver_Connection_flyer.docx
Contact: Barb Hoffman – bhoffman@ptopnys.org
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclc-yorDkoG9C78nLhwcm8OJSrF-Y5GWT1

Are you Ready for your Family’s Telehealth Visit? - Webinar
2021-09-29 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on Are you ready for your child’s telemedicine appointment?
Tele-what? What is telehealth? What is telemedicine? Are they different? How do I navigate these appointments with my child? Do I have the same rights as I do during an appointment at the office? What accommodations do I have to request to make these appointments truly family-centered? Do I have the technology I need to make these appointments happen effectively?
Come explore the world of telemedicine as Lin Perry, Project Director for the Family to Family Health Information Center at Parent to Parent of NYS presents part of the Nuts and Bolts of Telemedicine: Essentials for a Family-Centered Care Experience, part of Telehealth Curriculum developed by Family Voices National with funding through the 2020 CARES Act. We will provide you the information and resources that you need to make your child’s telehealth appointments the best possible.
If you have question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350, tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
Online GotoWebinar; Registration link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4191847813593645837

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-09-29 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=e93c6f047c5c64eeb4a7a9607c7b52bd4

How to Protect My Child's Future Through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts via Zoom
2021-09-28 18:00 - 20:00
Presentation & Discussion with Bruce A. Goldstein
Special Counsel Kenney Shelton Liptak Nowak LLP
Planning for the future is especially important when you have a child with a disability. This workshop provides parents or caregivers with an overview of things to
think about: guardianship, wills, and trusts.
The class will help you to understand your options as you begin to think about plans for your special needs child.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER: How to Protect My Child’s Future Through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts – Parent Network of WNY (parentnetworkwny.org)

Webinar- A Beginners Guide to Understanding the Special Education Process
2021-09-27 18:00 - 19:30
Presenter: Trish Washburn,Education Specialist.
This workshop will describe the purpose of special education, introduction to special education process, and services available to children ages birth to 21. This training is for parents, grandparents, guardians, and professionals that are new to the special education process or have limited knowledge. The goal of the training is for attendees to learn the basics of the special education system.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6973449506271317773

Webinar- Communicating Through Letter Writing
2021-09-27 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CSE 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 questions, contact Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350 or tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8217750322750923533

Parent to Parent of NYS Father Group On-Line Chat
2021-09-23 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 23, 2021
Contact: Phone: Chris Brewster-cbrewster@ptopnys.org
Dads_group_flyer_20211.docx
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZArc-qhqDwvGtcGK3ZSfALdt5lR58nt30tb

Virtual six session FAMILY EMPOWERMENT SERIES on how to become an effective advocate for your child's success in school.
2021-09-23 18:00 - 20:30
Starbridge invites you to attend their virtual six session FAMILY EMPOWERMENT SERIES on how to become an effective advocate for your child’s success in school.
Students who have disabilities or suspected disabilities may be eligible for additional supports and services through their school. For families, the acronyms and processes can seem overwhelming to start. Join Starbridge for this series to learn useful information and effective strategies to help you and your child navigate special education options.
DATES AND TOPICS
Thursday, September 23rd, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Introductions
What to expect in this series
Developing a vision to prepare for IEP and CSE meetings
Effective communication and Advocacy steps

Thursday, September 30th, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

RTI, 504, IEP: What’s the difference?
Resources

Thursday, October 7th, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Building your circle of support
Understanding systems: OPWDD, OMH, and more
IEP essentials

Thursday, October 14th, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Understanding challenging behaviors
Taking care of yourself

Thursday, October 21st, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Discipline and suspension
Transition from high school to adult life

Thursday, October 28th, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

TIES: Including everyone in the fun
Baggage
Wrap up and graduate from FES!

This series is FREE to family members of children and youth who have disabilities or suspected disabilities.
Registration is required. Link to Zoom meetings provided to participants after registration.
To register, please contact Laura Arrington at 585-224-7332 or email LArrington@starbridgeinc.org

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-09-23 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/2654051056859944204

Webinar: Education Records Organizer
2021-09-22 17:30 - 18:45
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

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 | 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=VlJsWE9OVjI0ODIwK1E0c2dCNDBMdz09
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: 028188
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=QzA5Z0tRVWczQUVlTnNhVXY2OVBnUT09
Meeting ID: 961 2704 3675, Passcode: 632607
