Charles River Center in Needham, December 5th, 2018. Free. Yvette Jones, Director of Adult Family Care, Charles River Center will be the presenter. Adult Family Care (AFC) is a MassHealth program that provides a 24/ 7 supervision and training for adults with disabilities that need assistance with their Adult Daily Living (ADL) skills.
* Caregiver homes provide a supportive environment that provides and the care and supervision needed.
* In return caregivers receive a tax free stipend.
* Learn about eligibility, the benefits of AFC, and the different situations that can enhance a person’s ability to stay in a home environment.
To register or for more information visit https://www.charlesrivercenter.org/

Peabody, December 5th, 2018. For parents and families of individuals in a Day Program.  Facilitated by Judith Doherty, Parent and Program Director at Bridgewell, and is open to the Community of families from ANY Day Program.
*A Presentation on Adult Family Care & Alternatives by NE Arc AFC office will be at 6 p.m., immediately following the support group.
To RSVP or for more information contact jdoherty@bridgewell.org 

Peabody, December 5th, 2018. Adult Family Care (AFC) helps caregivers cope with the tremendous mental and physical challenges of caring for a loved one at home. AFC provides ongoing training, professional support,
and even financial compensation to people who require assistance with their daily activities like bathing, eating, and dressing so they can continue to live at home.
* Services also include nursing oversight and case management.
* To qualify for AFC, individuals must be at least 16-years-old, qualify for MassHealth, require daily assistance with one or more activities of daily living, and be willing to participate in the program.
* Caregivers may be parents, siblings, extended family, or non-family members and must reside in the same home as the person for whom they are caring.
* Caregivers cannot be a spouse or legal guardian (a parent of a minor child or court appointed of an adult).
* The speaker will be Director of Operations of NE Arc AFC, Jennifer Couturier-Duchemin.
RSVP to Judith Doherty jdoherty@bridgewell.org or 339-883-1761.

Fall River, December 5th, 2018. Those with special needs and their family can determine their vision and strive to achieve it by creating their own individualized supports. Hear speaker Ed Wilson, the Regional Manager for Self-Directed Services in the Southeast Region for the Department of Developmental Services, provide an overview of Self-Directed services as well as traditional service options.
* Jena Shea, whose son John receives Agency with Choice services through the ARC of Greater Plymouth, and Andi Lunden, whose daughter receives services through the Participant Directed Program, will share their stories and answer questions.
* Hear about the innovative ways in which people have taken control of their services and how, with the help of their families, are living ordinary lives filled with purpose and meaning.
To register contact Community Autism Resources – Kathy Almeida at 774-488-5325 or kalmeida@peopleinc-fr.org 

Haverhill High Library, December 6th, 2018. Matthew Scanlon, Haverhill Transition Coordinator, in conjunction with the DDS, MRC and The Arc, will be the speaker. Families will hear about special-needs transition planning for ages 14 – 22, and steps to take for this process.
* RSVPs are required by December 1st to  www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10155685730056574&set=gm.2092757924109776&type=3  or contact MScanlon@Haverhill-ps.org. 

Leominster, December 6th, 2018. The Parent Professional Advocacy Network (PPAL) has Transition Age Youth parent-support group for those wanting to support their young adult ages 14 – 26 with a variety of mental health challenges.
DECEMBER SPEAKER: Beth English, MA, CRC, Unit Supervisor of the, Fitchburg Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) Area Office and learn about what
services are available to help transition age youth live & work independently.
* Share your successes and challenges with raising a child with emotional and behavioral health need.
* Learn helpful tips and tools while creating a new support network.
* Join interactive conversations about the journey from adolescents to adulthood and the parent experience.
* Meets in Leominster 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month.
For more information contact http://ppal.net/  or contact contact Ann or the PPAL office at aberube@ppal.net parentsupportgroup@ppal.net 508-767-9725

Worcester, December 8th, 2018. At the regional Easter Seal offices. Through the support of Mass Rehab Commission, the YLN promotes self-advocacy and self-awareness for teens and young adults with disabilities ages 16 to 21, plus opportunities for youth 14 to 26. This is a state-wide initiative with meetings and events held in Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and East Bridgewater. This is an opportunity for youth to make friends in their local communities and within the larger Network group.
**Guest Speaker is Jodie Brower, Director of Marketing and Placement Services Shared Living/Adult Family Care: Alternatives is a non-profit human services agency serving over 1500 adults with developmental and psychiatric disabilities in 60 residential, employment, and day programs throughout MA. Most Youth Leadership Network meetings feature fun, hands-on activities and interactive discussions about communication, teamwork, community service, disability rights, career interests and employment skills.
Parents are also invited to stay for a parent group, covering topics related to transition services and program for youth with special needs.
For more information about the meeting dates at each location event, visit the YLN Easter Seals page or contact RSVP to youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855

Braintree, December 11th, 2018. Free. The Autism Resource Center of the Arc of the South Shore will host Transition Workshop – Turning 18.  Hear a holistic perspective on benefit programs, ways to bridge funding gaps, and legal considerations.
The speakers will be Leo Rotman, a Certified Financial Planner, and Attorney Brendan King, both parents of children with special needs. Hear a unique perspective including personal and professional experience to working with special needs children and adults, and their families.
Registration is required to https://arcsouthshore.org/news-events/upcoming-events.html/event/2018/12/11/transition-workshop-turning-18/226201 . or autismresourcecneter@arcsouthshore.org 781-335-3023 x2229

Mass Down Syndrome Congress in Burlington, MA, December 11th, 2018. Learn about Rights · Process · Prioritization for funding · Goals + objectives, Plan of Care · Human Rights. Speaker Hillary Dunn Stanisz, Esq. is a Staff Attorney at the Disability Law Center. She focuses on advocating for appropriate community supports and services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and special education matters.
* Hillary also monitors program sites and conducts abuse and neglect investigations under the Disability Law Center’s authority as the Commonwealth’s Protection and Advocacy system. She previously worked in private practice where she practiced in the areas of special education, guardianship, and advocacy with adult human service agencies.
To RSVP or for more information contact o.sophia.johansson@gmail.com, 617-935-2264, Northeast Regional Coordinator Mass Families Organizing For Change.
* This workshop is offered by MFOFC in partnership with Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress and Riverside
Community Care as part of the A Full Life Ahead series: Workshops for parents and guardians on transition,
employment, housing, relationships, and other topics that will lead to interdependent, full lives in the community. 

Gloucester High School Library, December 12, 5:30 – 7 PM. Meet representatives on Post Secondary Education, Community, Recreation,  Housing, Supported Employment, Agency Support, Transportation and Family Advocacy. There will be ½-Hour Workshops on:
• Guardianship Part 1 – Basic Options
• Guardianship Part 2 – Supported Decision-Making
• Eligibility for MA Rehabilitation Commission and Department of Developmental Services
• Working While Collecting SSI & SSDI Benefits
For more information visit the Gloucester High School calendar page http://ghs.gloucesterschools.com/calendar  or contact 978-624-2302 

Framingham, December 13th, 2018. Learn about the process of supported decision making, an alternative to guardianship, and hear examples of individuals who are successfully using this option. Supported Decision Making is an alternative allows an individual with a disability to work with a team and make choices about his or her life. Under this model, the individual designates a support network, sometimes called a circle of support, to help him or her with decision making.
* Presented by: Michael J. Kendrick PhD, Director of Supported Decision Making Initiatives. He will explain the process and to give examples of individuals who are successfully using this option to advocate for themselves and make the important decisions of life.
RSVP to www.advocates.org/events/full-life-ahead-supported-decision-making  or contact  (774) 279-7467, FamilyServices@Advocates.org.
* Part of the A Full Life Ahead workshop series offered by Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change (MFOFC) for parents and guardians of young adults with a disability. 

East Bridgewater, December 14th, 2018. At the regional Easter Seal office. Through the support of Mass Rehab Commission, YLN promotes self-advocacy and self-awareness for teens and young adults with disabilities ages 16 to 21, plus opportunities for youth 14 to 26. This state-wide initiative has meetings and events in Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and East Bridgewater, and is an opportunity to make friends in  local communities and within the larger Network group.
* Meetings feature fun, hands-on activities and interactive discussions about communication, teamwork, community service, disability rights, career interests and employment skills.
* Parents may stay for a parent group that covers transition services and program for youth with special needs.
For more information about the meeting dates and locations, visit the YLN Easter Seals page or contact youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855  

Somerville, December 15th, 2018. Best Buddies of Massachusetts is hosting a Buddy Network event. Buddy Network is a new Best Buddies program for creating social, friendship, and networking opportunities for adults with disabilities.
* Tickets will be $5 at the door and include bowling for 2 hours and shoe rentals.
* They will provide some snacks, and additional food and drink will be available for individual purchase.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/events/333184024139734/  or contact massachusetts@bestbuddies.org

December 18th, 2018. For parents and guardians of special-needs teens ages 14 – 22. An alternative to guardianship, Supported Decision Making is intended to help persons with a disability become more proficient and experienced with decision-making.
* Supported decision-making promotes independence.
* Supported decision-making is based on the premise that persons with disabilities should have their own voice and autonomy as much as possible and these be respected by others.
* Through supported decision-making the person with a disability can become better supported in their decision-making, more competent with decisions over time and considerably less vulnerable due to the presence of thoughtful support.
RSVPs are required to Karen Bartlett, kbartlett@ne-arc.org or call 978-624-2317

Springfield, December 18th, 2018. Stavros Center. Through the support of Mass Rehab Commission, the YLN promotes self-advocacy and self-awareness for teens and young adults with disabilities ages 16 to 21, plus opportunities for youth 14 to 26. This is a state-wide initiative with meetings and events held in Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and East Bridgewater. This is an opportunity for youth to make friends in their local communities and within the larger Network group.
Meetings feature fun, hands-on activities and interactive discussions about communication, teamwork, community service, disability rights, career interests and employment skills.
Parents are also invited to stay for a parent group, covering topics related to transition services and program for youth with special needs.
For more information about the meeting dates at each location event, visit the YLN Easter Seals page or contact
RSVP to youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855

Stoughton, through December 19th, 2018. Wednesday Night Out is a social group for young adults that offers opportunities to build friendships while emphasizing independence and the acquisition of life skills. Participants’ interests shape the program and activities chosen.
* Participants pay for outside activities.
* Scholarships available for those in need.
* Fees apply – Class code: SNFAYG01.
* For information including fees and to register, contact inclusion@jccgb.org or 617-558-6507. 

Westwood District Administration Offices, January 14th, 2019. This workshop will be led by the HS Guidance Department and Transition Coordinator(s). This is for ALL parents of children on an IEP. It’s never too early to find out what your options are. Hosted by the Westwood SEPAC.

• Does your child/young adult have a vision for life after High School?
• What will they need to get there?
• How can you help?
• How can you advocate for your child?
• What are your/their rights?
• Does an IEP extend beyond High School?

To register or for more information visit www.facebook.com/events/2284097735169548/  or contact westwoodsepac@gmail.com

Bridgewater, January 5 – March 30, 2019. For ages 18 to 25 yrs old with special needs who are interested in increasing their readiness to transition into a college program, establishing proficiency in independent living skills and gain strategies to help them succeed in the college setting.
* Participants will individually learn about different college programs and career paths that could be best for them, based around both self-assessment and formal assessments.
* Participants will create individualized college and career paths, filling out college applications, writing personal statements, and applying for financial assistance.
* Participants will have instruction surrounding time management, self-care strategies, growing effective decision making skills, investigating different learning styles and study methods, how to get involved in student life, advocating for themselves, along with learning what resources are available on a college campus
* These activities will help participants transition successfully into the personal, social, and educational aspects of becoming and continuing as a college student.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.thebridgectr.org/programs.aspx?id=349 or contact aross@thebridgectr.org

Bridgewater, January 5 – March 30, 2019. For ages 18 to 25 yrs old with special needs who are interested in developing self-confidence and leadership skills to better strengthen their ability to work independently within their communities.
*Participants may individually learn about different vocational prospects that could be best for them, based around both self-assessment and formal assessments.
* Participants will get to work on soft skills for the workplace, building resumes, reading job descriptions, and interview prep work.
* Participants will have lessons based on daily living skills, money management, independent travel, work place etiquette, self-advocacy, self-regulation and more.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.thebridgectr.org/programs.aspx?id=349  or contact aross@thebridgectr.org

Fitchburg,  Seven Hills Family Support Center, May 28th, 2019. Discuss definitions of sexuality, stigmas and stereotypes, and share how to build a positive, healthy approach to support a loved one’s sense of their whole self.
* The presenter will be  Patricia Carney, Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Central & West Training Department. * This workshop is offered by Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change in partnership with North Central Seven Hills as part of the A Full Life Ahead series: Workshops for parents and guardians on transition, employment, housing, relationships, and other topics that will lead to interdependent, full lives in the community.
RSVPs are required to https://mfofc.org/events/2019/05/a-full-life-ahead-how-to-talk-to-your-child-about-sexuality/     or contact   iavoryie@sevenhills.org or 978.602.8695

Amherst Regional High School, January 16th, 2019. Free and open to the public. An overview of the transition planning process for youth with disabilities ages 14-22 on IEPs. This workshop will also include some tools for creating a vision for after high school. Presented by a representative from the Federation of Children with Special Needs.
* This presentation  will provide students, families and school staff with valuable information for future planning and will assist in transitioning students from school to adult life.
* RSVPs required to www.facebook.com/events/315742115843524/   

Plymouth, January 26th, 2019. Transition assessments are an ongoing processes of data collection on an individual’s needs, preferences and interests as they relate to the demands of independent living. Conducting meaningful assessments and creating appropriate programming to meet the needs of individuals present a challenge to many educators.
In this workshop participants will learn how to navigate:
• Age Appropriate Transition Assessment Toolkit
• Formal and Informal Transition Assessment Models
• How to effectively weave the Assessment findings into the IEP and TPF.
About the Presenter: Mary Brennan, M.Ed., is a certified Special Education Teacher and DESE Endorsed Transition Specialist. Mary has been working in Special Education for the past 30 years at the Pilgrim Area Collaborative. She most recently received her Transition Specialist Endorsement through UMASS Boston. Currently Mary is a post-secondary transition teacher located in Bridgewater. Her students participate in the ICEI (Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative), SALS (SelfAdvocacy Leadership Series) and T@B (Transitions at Bridgewater)
all located on the campus of Bridgewater State University. She specializes in Person Centered Planning, age appropriate assessments and connecting with adult agencies for student employment opportunities.
To RSVP or for more information visit www.pilgrimac.org/professional-development/  or contact 508-747-6686 x 2703 or jsilverman@pilgrimac.org

Worcester, January 31st, 2019. Work Without Limits invites college students and recent graduates with disabilities to the Disability:IN Massachusetts Employer Meet and Greet & Recruiting Event.
* Disability:IN Massachusetts is a Massachusetts-based network of both private and public sector employers who are committed to diversity and inclusion and interested in building capacity to:

• Attract, recruit and retain employees with disabilities
• Market to and service customers with disabilities
• Include disability-owned businesses in their supply chains
• Disability:IN Massachusetts offers opportunities for employers to learn, connect and share best practices to build confidence and success when employing people with disabilities.

Disability:IN Massachusetts offers educational, networking and career fair events throughout the calendar year. Members receive full access to the Work Without Limits online job board – Jobs Without Limits.

Registration for this event is required to www.surveygizmo.com/s3/4681792/collegeCF o

*For more information on Disability:IN Massachusetts please contact Kathy Petkauskos, Director, Work Without Limits at Kathy.petkauskos@umassmed.edu or 508 856-3897 or Bonnie Rivers, Director of Employer Relations at bonnie.rivers@umassmed.edu or 508-856-2710.

Turner Free Library, Randolph, March 26th, 2019. For those than have a child over 19 with Autism, a Developmental Delay, Intellectual Disability. Learn about The Department of Developmental Services’ (DDS) services and supports for individuals with intellectual disabilities and children with developmental disabilities.
* The DDS offers residential supports, services for families, respite care, and transportation services.
* The DDS provides some of these services directly, and others are available from providers in the community.
* The the child’s parent or legal guardian must live in Massachusetts. Emancipated youth may also apply.
To RSVP or for more information visit www.facebook.com/events/217837189091771/ or contact info@autismsprinter.com

Winchester, MA, November 14th, 2018. The Real Lives Law in Action – Learn How to Use this New Law to Create Your Vision for A Great Life.  Paula Thompson, of Coummunitas will discuss how the new Real Lives Law incorporates the philosophy of self-determination and person-centered planning.
Learn about:

• Support for existing or new long term relationships
• Real community membership
• DDS and Family Involvement

Register to http://info.specialneedsplanning.com or 781-756-1804 

JCC in Springfield, MA, through November 14th, 2018. For teens and young adults with special needs, ages 14 – 26. Participants will work on social pragmatics and friendship skills while participating in community outings. Learn independence and self advocacy while having fun doing teen activities, such as Bowling, Dinner Out, Art and Cooking Community Classes and more.
* The ability to follow instructions and to be safe in the community with staff support is a requirement.
* * Part of the Kehillah, the JCC Special Needs Program, which provides recreational, social, and enrichment programs for children, teens, and adults with special needs, including cognitive and developmental delays, Down Syndrome, and autism spectrum disorders.
* Kehillah is open to people of all faiths, ethnicities and beliefs.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.kehillah-sjcc.org/teens/ or contact 413-739-4715 x325
Bethany Young, Director  byoung@springfieldjcc.org

Lynn, MA, Miércoles, 15 de Noviembre de 2018.  El Family Support Center presenta Padres Latinos – Taller de Tomar Decisiones para Adultos, Café y Conversación Presentación en español y inglés.  Este taller presenta un abogado provisto por Mass Advocates for Children a través de un programa piloto con el Lurie Center y el Volunteer Lawyer Project.
* El orador, Víctor Rivera Colón, JD, discutirá “fuera de la corte” opciones como hacer decisiones respaldadas, el poder de atención médica, poder notarial, y también cuándo la tutela limitada y completa es apropiada.
* Después del taller, algunos participantes pueden ser elegibles para asistencia con tomar de decisiones respaldada o asistencia legal para obtener una tutela.
*Preguntas? www.facebook.com/groups/transitioningourkids/permalink/2371446816206809/ or    Póngase en contacto con jdoherty@bridgewell.org 339-883-1761
Latino parents – workshop to make decisions for adults – Wednesday, November 15, 2018, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm.
Coffee and conversation presentation in Spanish and English
66 silsbee st, Lynn, ma guardianship and alternatives .
* This workshop presents a lawyer provided by mass advocates for children through a pilot program with the Lurie center and the volunteer lawyer project.
* The speaker, Victor Rivera Colón, JD, will discuss “outside the court” options like making backed decisions, the power of medical care, power of attorney, and also when limited and complete guardianship is appropriate.
* After the workshop, some participants may be eligible for assistance with support or legal assistance to obtain a guardianship.
* Questions? Visit www.facebook.com/groups/transitioningourkids/permalink/2371446816206809/   or  jdoherty@bridgewell.org 339-883-1761 

Worcester, November 15th, 2018.  The speaker will be Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Massachusetts ​Department of Developmental Services Metro Region. She will review the turning 22 transition ​process and opportunity for feedback ​from families and individuals to improve ​the transition process for young adults eligible for DDS services.
R.S.V.P.​s required by November 8, 2018, to Awilda.Ayala@state.ma.us 

Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, October 2nd, 2018. Free and open to the public. Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School SEPAC presents a Federation for Children with Special Needs workshop, which will feature an overview of the transition planning process for families of students with disabilities ages 14-22 on IEPs.
For more information visit www.lssepac.org/events/  or contact  lssepac.chair@gmail.com 

Waltham, Bentley College, LaCava Center, October 10, 2018. The speaker will be Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Massachusetts ​Department of Developmental Services Metro Region.  She will review the turning 22 transition ​process and opportunity for feedback ​from families and individuals to improve ​the transition process for young adults eligible for DDS services.
R.S.V.P.​s required by October 3, 2018 to Joan.Antonelli@massmail.state.ma.us 

Hadley Farms Meeting House, October 17th, 2018. Panel discussion 5:00-6:00 p.m., Exhibitor Fair 6:00-8:00 p.m. Free. Addresses the needs of students with a broad range of abilities and learning differences, aged 14-22 and older. The Fair highlights options and supports for all students with learning differences who want to explore post secondary education and employment possibilities.

• The Panel Discussion will include a focuses on students who have graduated from high school with a diploma and are looking for post-secondary education and career options. It will highlight college and career opportunities for these students who are looking for full time jobs and careers
  * Please RSVP to Michelle at michelle.mendes@pathlightgroup.org for this presentation.
• The exhibitor fair will have a more broad focus for students of all abilities, many of whom will not graduate from high school with a typical diploma. Exhibitors will be available to discuss topics related to the transition process for students 14-22+. Exhibitors include programs for college and postsecondary education options, job training, career investigation, day and recreation activities, living options, and special needs financial planning.Resources and connections to local and state networks for disability specific information.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/events/1750218945097600/?active_tab=discussion     or contact 413-585.8010.

Woburn, MA, October 17th, 2018. The speaker will be Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Massachusetts ​Department of Developmental Services Metro Region. She will review the turning 22 transition ​process and opportunity for feedback ​from families and individuals to improve ​the transition process for young adults eligible for DDS services.
R.S.V.P.​s required by October 8, 2018 to Kathy Pearson by e-mail at Kathleen.pearson@state.ma.us or phone at 978-774-5000 ext. 545 

Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill, MA, October 18th, 2018. The Department of Developmental Services, Elder Services of Merrimack Valley, The Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburyport, and the Arc of Massachusetts and the Northeast Arc host. This is a facilitated discussion with older caregivers to examine:

• What supports and services work well? Where are the gaps?
• What is important for service providers to understand?

Who Should Attend?

• Older caregivers and family members of adults with disabilities
• Elder service professionals
• DDS staff, service providers, and Family Resource Centers staff
• Interested community members & Policy makers

To RSVP or for more information visit http://thearcofmass.org/event/merrimack-valley-a-community-conversion-with-older-caregivers-of-adults-with-disabilities/   contact 781-891-6270  

Amesbury High School Library, November 14th, 2018. The Amesbury SEPAC will host Kathy Kelly, who will provide basic information about Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, the impact work can have on SSI benefits, and the various work incentives available for students.
* She will also discuss other public benefits such as MassHealth, housing, and SNAP.
To register visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efox2tsk91933514&oseq=&c=&ch= or contact Andrea Morris Andrea.Morris@TheArcofGHN.org or (978) 373-0552 x211

Cranston, RI, November 5th, 2018. Free and open to the public. Aging and Autism: Findings from a Longitudinal Family Study will feature Dr. Marsha Mailick, Emeritus Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The focus of Dr. Mailick’s research is on the life course trajectory of developmental disabilities. She is interested in how specific developmental disabilities, including autism, fragile X syndrome, and Down syndrome change during adolescence, adulthood, and old age.
* Dr. Mailick also studies how the family environment affects the development of individuals with disabilities during these stages of life, and how parents and siblings of individuals with disabilities are affected.
* Sponsored by the Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment, Bailey’s Team for Autism, and the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute.
RSVP required to www.autismri.org/events-1?fbclid=IwAR2wPB_m3fbKfuPccWRDa2g00i-xrdubWYPHYhdMjS388pBCyukJRcEz9HE  or contact RICART@Lifespan.org or (401) 432-1200 

The Southeast Regional DDS Office, Middleboro, October 24th, 2018. The speaker will be Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Massachusetts ​Department of Developmental Services Metro Region. She will review the turning 22 transition ​process and opportunity for feedback ​from families and individuals to improve ​the transition process for young adults eligible for DDS services.
*Please RSVP By October 19, 2018 to https://mailchi.mp/8d0e7705e2f6/monday-morning-message-for-the-week-april-24-3154537    or contact Jennifer Jensen at 508-866-8872 or Jennifer.jensen@state.ma.us 

Plymouth Public Library, November 29th, 2018, 1 – 3 p.m. Learn about Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission  redesign of Pre- Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for those with special needs ages 14 and up, those graduate high school or turning 22.
* You do not need to apply for Vocational Rehabilitation, instead you can connect directly to a pre-ETS community provider while still in high school and benefit from the five pre-ETS services.
* MRC recommends that students take part in at least one pre-ETS service before applying for VR services.
* There will also be Listening Sessions around how pre-employment transition services can be redesigned to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Gain insight into how job exploration counseling, work readiness training, work-based learning experiences, counseling in post-secondary education and self-advocacy can be provided to students to better prepare them for employment and post-secondary success.
For questions, contact Jennifer Stewart, Statewide Transition Director – jennifer.stewart@state.ma.us  

JCC in Springfield, MA, through November 3rd, 2018. For teens and young adults with special needs, ages 14 – 26. This is a social club that combines following directions and working with others to achieve a healthy snack for the entire group. Participants make the snack, help serve each other, and do the clean up together.
* Each recipe is kosher.
* * Part of the Kehillah, the JCC Special Needs Program, which provides recreational, social, and enrichment programs for children, teens, and adults with special needs, including cognitive and developmental delays, Down Syndrome, and autism spectrum disorders.
* Kehillah is open to people of all faiths, ethnicities and beliefs.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.kehillah-sjcc.org/teens/ or contact

Holyoke Community College, November 7th, 2018. The speaker will be Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Massachusetts ​Department of Developmental Services Metro Region. She will review the turning 22 transition ​process and opportunity for feedback ​from families and individuals to improve ​the transition process for young adults eligible for DDS services.
R.S.V.P.​s required by Thursday, November 1, 2018 to Awilda.Ayala@state.ma.us

Waltham, Woburn, Middleboro, Holyoke, through November 7th, 2018. Victor Hernandez,  Deputy Assistant Commissioner for the Massachusetts’ Department of Developmental Disabilities, will speak at DDS Turning 22 services Town Meetings.
* For special-needs families heading into the transition years (17-21).
Dates:

• DDS – Metro Region: October 10, 2018, 6:30 p.m., Bentley College, LaCava Center, Waltham, MA.
• DDS – Northeast Region: October 17, 2018, 6:00 p.m., Crowne Plaza (Boston-Woburn)
• DDS SE Region: October 24, 2018, 6:00 p.m., SE Region Office, 151 Campanelli Drive, Middleboro, MA
• DDS CW Region/Western: November 7, 2018, 6:00 p.m., Holyoke Community College, 303 Homestead Avenue, Holyoke MA 01040
• DDS CW Region – Central (pending)

For more information visit www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-developmental-services  or contact the Deputy Assistant Commissioner 617-624-7785 

Ayer, November 10th, 2018. This supportive event will take place during the Improving Health Care Experiences in the Rare Disease Community conference, in collaboration with Next Step, an organization devoted to building programs “where young survivors feel safe enough to laugh, share experiences, and create a sense of community with peers who truly understand their unique challenges.
Next Step’s aim is to empower young people with the tools and knowledge they need to begin asking “what’s next?” instead of “why me?”
* Teens and young adults with rare diseases to come together to meet, share and have some fun.
* There will be games, music and opportunities to just hang out and chat.
* Registration fees will cover meals and snacks for the day.
* Scholarships may be available.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.eventbrite.com/e/improving-health-care-experiences-in-the-rare-disease-community-tickets-47936865455  or contact Info@rarenewengland.org 

Brookline, MA, November 13th, 2018. Free. For all parents and caregivers of teens and adults with disabilities – hear about disability transition-to-adult information, support and resources. Special-needs Attorney Ken Shulman and Financial Planner Leo Rotman, together with Yachad staff, will share expertise about important areas of transition including financial and estate planning, public housing, day programs, and Masshealth.
* Hosted by Yachad and Temple Sinai of Sharon
To register or for more information visit www.yachad.org/newengland/events/10947/greater-boston-parent-resource-night  or contact Yaffa Tilles at tillesy@ou.org or 617-209-6799 ext 9. 

Worcester State University, November 14th, 2018. Free. The Department of Higher Education will host an informational panel to discuss the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment (MAICEI) initiative, a program supporting public high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
* MAICEI funds the enrollment of public high school students with intellectual disabilities at two- and four-year public colleges in Massachusetts.
* The panel will discuss the social, professional and academic advantages of a post-secondary education, and share their insights and experiences.
* The panel will include:

• Erin Kourafas, Coordinator, MAICEI Program, Salem State University
• Riley Easley, Worcester State University Student; Alumnus, MAICEI Program, Bridgewater State University
• Paula Easley, Parent of MAICEI Alumnus
• Glenn Gabbard, Coordinator, MAICEI Department of Higher Education

RSVPs Not Required. More information can be found at https://goo.gl/forms/At2C43RfatHQQ4NH2