Autism Society Western New York

Webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform
2021-07-19 18:00 - 19:15 (America/New_York)
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. Autism Insurance Reform legislation became effective in 2013, however aspects of the bill, related to Applied Behavioral Analysis, are still being worked on within the NYS government. This webinar will address the overall legislation, who it assists, and how, and will also give an update on the current status of the ABA portion of the legislation.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 or email mfegeley@ptopnys.org with any questions.
Click here to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1723402427791205646

Webinar:Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities
2021-07-20 09:30 - 11:00
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.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/643286185620431628

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-07-20 12:00 - 13:30
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/7236314144128036108

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-07-20 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=e659c6c5096cd078c74c0cd6cd7b86edb

Transition for Families - Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
2021-07-21 13:00 - 14:30
Is your teenager in high school getting ready to transition to adulthood?
During this training, parents will learn about assessing their teen’s strengths, interest and needs, how to establish measurable goals for the future and identify appropriate transition services and coordinated activities. Learn how to work with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) to get your teenager ready for adulthood.
CTLE Credits Available
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/21825/
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716-332-4170

Playtime with Parent Network
2021-07-21 16:30 - 17:30 | Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Join us for an hour filled with activities for all ages and abilities provided by The Collaborative Community Mission! Parent Network Staff will also be there providing information on programs, services and upcoming events!
This event is held as part of the Summer on Superstreet series and will be located at 1021 Broadway St. Buffalo, NY 14212 on the greenspace at the corner of Clark and Kent St. (Superman Corner)
Playtime with Parent Network is a FREE event that will be held on multiple Wednesday evenings throughout the summer in collaboration with other community organizations.

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-07-21 19:00 - 20:00
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.
Register in advance for this meeting. Online Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMuf-yvrDojHNNjxQcYRU77sxJKFgIqdBDI After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Contact Barb Hoffman with any questions at bhoffman@ptopnys.org

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-07-22 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
July 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/

Playtime with Parent Network
2021-07-23 16:30 - 17:30 | Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Playtime with Parent Network- Parents and Caregivers can find out more Parent Network Programs and Services while their children enjoy a fun and inclusive activity!
Join us for an hour filled with activities for all ages and abilities provided by OLV Human Services! Parent Network Staff will also be there providing information on programs, services and upcoming events!
This event is held as part of the Summer on Superstreet series and will be located at 1021 Broadway St. Buffalo, NY 14212 on the greenspace at the corner of Clark and Kent St. (Superman Corner)
Playtime with Parent Network is a FREE event that will be held on multiple Wednesday evenings throughout the summer in collaboration with other community organizations.
All are welcome! Each week will be a different activity.

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-08-02 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 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/5283064722682338572

Webinar: Health Care Notebook Overview
2021-08-04 13:00 - 14:00
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Health Care Notebook overview. Participants will learn how a Health Care Notebook can assist in organizing medical records. They will be given tips on how the notebook can assist with advocacy, save time, reduce stress and utilize the information within the notebook in the event of an emergency. Contact Maryalice Fegeley 716-427-5140 or email mfegeley@ptopnys.org with any questions.
Click here to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7771250743210448654

Understanding the IEP Process for Parents of Preschoolers - Virtual meeting via Zoom
2021-08-05 10:00 - 11:30
Is your child going into Preschool Special Education?
During this training, parents will learn about the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process, their role in the process, and identify the different components of the IEP.
Discuss how to develop relationships and practices that build home-school collaboration and support the student.
CTLE credits available.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/understanding-the-iep-process-for-parents-of-preschoolers-3/

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-08-05 11:00 - 12:00
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.
Register in advance for this meeting. Online Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscu-urzksH9bfidAyb3AAyPohv2PBa_gF After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Contact Barb Hoffman with any questions at bhoffman@ptopnys.org

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-08-05 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 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/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-08-06 15:00 - 17:00
“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=e245cbc18881c0f01832af0068af9fd48

Webinar: Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide
2021-08-10 10:00 - 11:30
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 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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5164322968027812878

Webinar: Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives
2021-08-11 13:00 - 14:30
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore: Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives. 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.
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1273555935660139788

Webinar: Living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
2021-08-11 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents the webinar Living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Children prenatally exposed to alcohol become adults with FASD. Understanding that the permanent brain damage caused by prenatal alcohol exposure may be the reasons individuals with FASD fail in school, treatment, in the workforce, and with relationships, can help us to form strategies that may work and help the individual have a successful, happy life.
This webinar will give a brief overview of FASD, identify some of the challenges of raising an individual with FASD over the lifespan and look at strategies that could be useful when living or working with them.
Contact Tina Beauparlant with questions, 518-381-4350.
Webinar registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1106988718415505677

Webinar: Education Records Organizer
2021-08-17 12:00 - 13:15
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/716092543532546827

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-08-18 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.
Online Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtf-2qqDIpHdOcYnki1vRSWVUHKY2Xg6la
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. Email Barb Hoffman with any questions at bhoffman@ptopnys.org

Western NY Caregiver Connections FLYER

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

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

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
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=VlJsWE9OVjI0ODIwK1E0c2dCNDBMdz09
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: 028188
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)

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/

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.

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

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/

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/

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

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
