Autism Society Western New York

FRONT DOOR FAMILY INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-07-20 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
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. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIMEOOP
7/20/2020 1pm-3pm
7/29/2020 3pm-5pm
8/5/2020 10am-12pm
8/10/2020 5pm-7pm
8/21/2020 3pm-5pm
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

FAMILY & CAREGIVER NIAGARA AUTISM GROUP
2020-07-20 19:00 - 21:00
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
JULY 2020
Practicing Social Distancing but still need to talk? We will be meeting via conference call!
July 20th
Time: 7:00- 9:00 pm
Call – (716) 332-4112 – pw is 1234#
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME.

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2020-07-21 11:30 - 13:00
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 Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1030504482628891394

Preparing for Back to School During COVID-19 Free Webinar
2020-07-22 13:00 - 14:00
As students prepare to return to school during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have questions about how to help your loved ones on the spectrum cope with social distancing, distance learning, and ongoing change. Tune in to ask your questions in real time.
Register: https://www.autism.org/back-to-school-covid19/
About the Speaker: Amanda Tami holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology and has completed a recertification program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In addition to being a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience working with both children and adults, including those who have autism spectrum and other pervasive developmental disorders, ADD/ADHD, anxiety issues, and trauma, both as a BCBA and as a counselor. She has additional specialized training as a counselor in EMDR therapy and its applications to children.

Let’s Talk: Meltdown Management
2020-07-23 08:30 - 10:00
During this discussion we will talk about the difference between tantrums and meltdowns. Strategies that can be used to help prevent them along with interventions that can be used will be introduced. We will also discuss recovering after a meltdown and how to create a “management plan” so that you are better prepared the next time it occurs. A “meltdown plan” template will be shared with participants.
Presentation & Discussion with Debbie Schutt, MS!
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://tinyurl.com/yalkf3bg
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

ABLE ACCOUNTS: A Way for Persons with Disabilities to Save and Pay for a Range of Items, with No Impact on SSI, Medicaid, or Other Key Benefits
2020-07-23 10:00 - 11:30
Neighborhood Legal Services invites you to a FREE ZOOM TRAINING on:
ABLE Accounts: A Way for Persons with Disabilities to Save and Pay for a Range of Items, with No Impact on SSI, Medicaid, or Other Key Benefits
Presentation by James Sheldon, Esq.
The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act of 2014 allows states to create tax-advantaged savings programs for eligible people with disabilities (designated beneficiaries). Funds from these 529A ABLE accounts can help designated beneficiaries pay for qualified disability expenses. Distributions are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses.
WHEN: Thursday, July 23, 2020
TIME: 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Please RSVP to lurquhart@nls.org if you plan to attend. Thank You!
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99104782989?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 991 0478 2989
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,99104782989# US (New York) 13126266799,,99104782989# US
+(Chicago)

Dial by your location
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+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 991 0478 2989
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/aKQeS47GK

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2020-07-23 18:30 - 20:00
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8267966044 0?pwd=[REDACTED] DBMdz09
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,82679660440#,,1#,0281
88# US (New York)

BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
2020-07-23 19:00 - 20:30
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!
Weekly Live Chats with Kim Hernandez & Lizarelis Ali!
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 from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/174359397
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ install/174359397
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (872) 240-3212
Access Code: 174-359-39

FAMILY & CAREGIVER GROUP for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2020-07-24 13:00 - 14:30
PURPOSE
Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
DATES
Friday , July 24, 2020
Friday, August 7, 2020
Friday, August 21, 2020
TIME: 1:00 –2:30 PM
WILL BE USING GO-TO MEETING: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/805112789
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (312) 757-3121
Access Code: 805-112-789
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/805112789

Family Fun Hour: Caption It!
2020-07-24 17:00 - 18:00
During this week’s family fun hour participants will be entertained by adding captions and dialogue to a variety of
pictures and comics selected and shared by the host.
Come back every Friday for more fun!
Friday, July 24th from 5:00-6:00pm
Family Fun Hour with Debbie Schutt, MS!
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://tinyurl.com/yc8nhn67
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

ASK ME ANYTHING - BEHAVIOR EDITION
2020-07-27 10:00 - 11:00
No registration required
• Need advice on tantrums or meltdowns?
• Need help implementing strategies?
• Tried everything and need some new ideas?
• Experiencing a new or challenging behavior?
Click the link or call in to Ask Me Anything about behavior.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/329637733
Dial by phone: +1 (224) 501-3412
Access Code: 329-637-733
Ask Me Anything—Behavior Edition is hosted by Debbie Schutt, MS. Debbie is the Behavior Intervention Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY. Debbie has over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of issues associated with developmental disabilities, mental health, crisis intervention, and behavior
management.

FRONT DOOR FAMILY INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-07-29 15:00 - 17:00
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
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. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIME
7/29/2020 3pm-5pm
8/5/2020 10am-12pm
8/10/2020 5pm-7pm
8/21/2020 3pm-5pm
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

Coping Skills
2020-07-30 08:30 - 10:00
Coping Skills – Defining & developing creative coping strategies to help manage emotions & behavior challenges
Participants will learn about what coping skills are and why they are important. Educate participants on how to develop and utilize healthy coping skills for themselves and children. Participants will also receive access to coping skills cards for kids and minute meditations.
Presentation & Discussion with Debbie Schutt, MS!
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYtdu2gqTIuE9z1b2e8gDx6Q81LqovtQHtG
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Let’s Talk: Mindfulness & Managing Stress
2020-07-30 10:30 - 11:30
Do You….
• Feel overwhelmed and unable to stop?
• Find yourself dwelling on the past and/or worrying about the future?
• Feel stuck in a cycle of regret, exhaustion, and fear?
• Want to learn how mindfulness can reduce stress and foster positive attitudes?
• Each week will highlight a new strategy.
Presentation & Discussion with Theresa Drum & Mindy Scirri Ph.D. !
About the Hosts
Theresa Drum has over 25 years of experience supporting and educating families who have children with special needs. Her first hand experiences as a parent and caregiver bring a valuable perspective and insight to the importance
of mindfulness and stress reduction.
Mindy Scirri, Ph.D., is a Learning (Dis)abilities Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the direct service of K-12 and college students with and without special needs. Dr. Scirri also has over 10 years of experience in teacher preparation and has presented to administrators, teachers, support staff, and parents at local, state, national, and international venues. She currently collaborates with Mount Saint Mary College’s Center on Aging and Disability Policy and the Parent Network of WNY to bring Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMuceCorDovEtGV6qaSVnCpc3eX40ZMWaBK
Last minute registration welcome.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
2020-07-30 19:00 - 20:30
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!
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 from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/174359397
You can also dial in using your phone. United States: +1 (872) 240-3212 Access Code: 174-359-39
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ install/174359397

Family Fun Hour: Make Me Laugh!
2020-07-31 17:00 - 18:00
Do you like to tell jokes? Join us for an hour of humorous and wholesome fun where participants will do their best to
make others laugh. Don’t know any good jokes? That’s okay….tell a funny story, make silly faces, or just sit back and enjoy the comedy presented by others.
Come back every Friday for more fun!
Friday, July 31 from 5:00-6:00pm
Family Fun Hour with Debbie Schutt, MS!
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://tinyurl.com/y8vte7rc
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Family & Caregiver Group for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2020-08-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Prevention Works Office, 501 W. 3rd Street (Suites 3&4), Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Provides a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.

RSVP TO ATTEND
www.parentnetworkwny.org or (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org

If you are interested in attending but have transportation or other barriers that would limit your participation, please let us know.

Child Care is available. In order to provide for your child’s individual needs reservations for childcare are required by the Monday prior to the meeting. Registration forms are required for all new children and are available at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call (716) 332-4175.

Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition
2020-08-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2020-08-10 10:00 - 11:00
No registration required.
• Need advice on tantrums or meltdowns?
• Need help implementing strategies?
• Tried everything and need some new ideas?
• Experiencing a new or challenging behavior?
Click the link https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/329637733 or call in to Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition.
Dial by phone: +1 (224) 501-3412
Access Code: 329-637-733
Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition is hosted by Debbie Schutt, MS. Debbie is the Behavior Intervention Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY. Debbie has over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of issues associated with developmental disabilities, mental health, crisis intervention, and behavior
management.

Family & Caregiver - Niagara Autism Group
2020-08-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Empower Children’s Academy, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304
Provides a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
Practicing Social Distancing but still need to talk? We will be meeting via Zoom meeting on August 3 & August 17 from 7:00- 8:00 pm
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86330143381?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 863 3014 3381
Password: [REDACTED]
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

Let’s Talk: Mindfulness & Managing Stress
2020-08-03 19:00 - 20:00
Do You….
• Feel overwhelmed and unable to stop?
• Find yourself dwelling on the past and/or worrying about the future?
• Feel stuck in a cycle of regret, exhaustion, and fear?
• Want to learn how mindfulness can reduce stress and foster positive attitudes?
• Each week will highlight a new strategy.
Presentation & Discussion with Theresa Drum & Mindy Scirri Ph.D. !
About the Hosts
Theresa Drum has over 25 years of experience supporting and educating families who have children with special needs. Her first hand experiences as a parent and caregiver bring a valuable perspective and insight to the importance
of mindfulness and stress reduction.
Mindy Scirri, Ph.D., is a Learning (Dis)abilities Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the direct service of K-12 and college students with and without special needs. Dr. Scirri also has over 10 years of experience in teacher preparation and has presented to administrators, teachers, support staff, and parents at local, state, national, and international venues. She currently collaborates with Mount Saint Mary College’s Center on Aging and Disability Policy and the Parent Network of WNY to bring Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs. You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwtcuiprzsrHdFCECrY1IejO6RjcEscX9rd
Last minute registration welcome.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-08-05 10:00 - 12:00
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
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. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIMEP
8/5/2020 10am-12pm
8/10/2020 5pm-7pm
8/21/2020 3pm-5pm
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

Ask Me Anything! Take the Stress Out of Transition
2020-08-05 11:00 - 12:00
• Do you have a high schooler with a learning difference?
• Do you have questions about accommodations at work or college?
• Need answers for after the bus stops coming?
• Not sure what to ask? Or who to ask?
Click the link https://zoom.us/j/94312045558?pwd=[REDACTED] or call in to Ask Me Anything about Transition.
Meeting ID: 943 1204 5558
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656
US (New York)
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adTpItYB0T
Ask Me Anything: Transition is hosted by Tonia Weichmann, Tonia is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY, with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of concerns associated with Learning Differences and Transitioning. The years of experiences have provided the ability to support young adults as they develop their skills and goals, educate families and professionals on ways to guide and support young adults, connecting to resources and services, and empower individuals to make an informed decision.

Help! My Child Won’t Wear a Mask!
2020-08-06 08:30 - 10:30
Everything you need to know to help your child learn to wear a mask :
• Specific strategies for parents, caregivers, and professionals.
• De-sensitization strategies
• Interventions for young children
• Tips for teenager compliance
• Information specific to various developmental stages and ages
• Disability-specific strategies
• Q&A
Presentation & Discussion with Debbie Schutt, MS!
ABOUT THE HOST
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEpcOitqDIqGdWl1Rv-ILkzFxvKEOdCb14i
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2020-08-06 18:30 - 19:30
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals
with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82679660440?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,82679660440#,,1#,0281
88# 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.

Special Education Task Force Virtual Panel: Reopening Schools - What Will It Look Like
2020-08-07 12:30 - 14:30
Reopening Schools – What Will It Look Like?
School districts are being challenged with when and how to reopen schools while ensuring the health and safety of their students, teacher and our communities during this unprecedented time we are living in. Our panel will discuss what the new landscape may look like in our schools – will it be buses half empty, students having their temperatures read before entering the building, children and teachers wearing masks, no recesses on the playground, desks 6 feet apart and one-way hallways? We will discuss how this will impact special education classrooms and related service providers.
Please joins us for a live panel discussion. Our panel will share insights into each of their districts planning for reopening for the 2020-2021 school year. This presentation is for parents, professionals and providers who want to learn how some schools will be reopening in the fall.
Presenters

Casey Bardin, Director of Pupil Services, North Colonie Central School District
Erin Hill, Director of Special Programs, Cohoes City School District
Jessica Allen, Director of Special Education, Schenectady City School District
Jessica Spellburg, Director of Special Education, South Glens Falls

Date/Time: Friday, August 7, 2020
Program: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Registration: SPACE IS LIMITED – REGISTER online at https://forms.gle/RZN7aQPknGoMo8nK8
Upon completing registration, you will receive an e-mail with webinar call-in information.
Need additional information or any accommodations? Contact Helen Charland at DRNY.
helen.charland@drny.org or 518.512.4927Spe

FAMILY & CAREGIVER GROUP for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2020-08-07 13:00 - 14:30
PURPOSE
Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
DATES
Friday, August 7, 2020
Friday, August 21, 2020
TIME: 1:00 –2:30 PM
WILL BE USING GO-TO MEETING: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/805112789
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (312) 757-3121
Access Code: 805-112-789
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/805112789

FRONT DOOR FAMILY INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-08-10 17:00 - 19:00
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
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. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIME
8/10/2020 5pm-7pm
8/21/2020 3pm-5pm
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2020-08-11 11:00 - 12:00
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Barb Hoffman, Regional Coordinator, as she presents on 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.
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1813137962633867275
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
If you have questions please contact: Maryalice Fegeley (716) 427-5140

Webinar: Health Care Notebook Overview
2020-08-11 16:45 - 18:45
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 Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/940577630055993614
