August 7th, 2020 12:00 p.m., with the National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) Lunch & Learn series at the University of New Hampshire.
Season 5, Episode 8 Description
• 12:00 pm: Overview of National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) Jobs Report Release – Andrew Houtenville, UNH-IOD & John O’Neill, Kessler Foundation
• 12:15 pm: News from the field of Disability Employment – Denise Rozell, AUCD
• 12:30 pm: Guest Panelist – Michael Morris, National Disability Institute
• 12:45 pm: Open Question & Answer period for attendees
* On the first Friday of every month, corresponding with the Bureau of Labor Statistics jobs report, nTide offers a live broadcast via Zoom Webinar to share the results of the latest nTIDE findings.
* In addition, nTIDE will provide news and updates from the field of Disability Employment
* There will also be invited panelist(s) who will discuss current disability related findings and events.
To register or for more information visit https://researchondisability.org/home/ntide

Online Sessions August 11th – 19th, 2020 2:00 p.m., with The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council. The Virtual Legislative Advocacy Training will consist of two separate 1-hour sessions.
* Session 1 will cover the legislative process, specifically: what is a law, who are the “players” in state and federal government, how a bill becomes a law, and how to find out who your legislators are.
* Session 2 will cover how to be involved in the legislative process. Specifically: what is legislative advocacy and why it is important, ways and tips on how to connect with your legislator during COVID19, and the importance of voting/how to vote, etc.
Option 1:

• Session 1: Tuesday Aug 11, 2020 11-12 and
• Session 2: Tuesday Aug 18, 2020 11-12

Option 2: 

• Session 1: Wednesday August 12, 2020 2:00-3:00 and
• Session 2: Wednesday August 19, 2020 2:00-3:00

To register or for more information contact Kristopher Callahan at Kristopher.L.Callahan@mass.gov or 617-770-7676 ext. 107

Webinar August 19th, 2020, 2:30 p.m., ET, with the Administration for Community Living. The National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems (NCAPPS) presents a webinar: “Exploring the Intersectionality of Peer Support and Person-Centered Planning Across Disability.
* Presenters will discuss opportunities and challenges for blending and strengthening peer support and person-centered planning in diverse communities, and in physical, mental health, and intellectual and developmental disability services.
About the Speakers:
* Martha Barbone served in the U.S. Air Force before being sidelined by a diagnosis of depression and PTSD. Martha has worked as the director of CPS training and provided peer support on an inpatient unit, in a peer-run organization and facilitated groups in the VA. She currently is the Interim Director of Operations for iNAPS.
* Ebony Flint is a Certified Peer Specialist, a Peer Group Facilitator for Alternatives to Suicide and Hearing Voices Network, and a Wellness Recovery Action Plan Facilitator for adults, young adults, and trauma survivors. She works for Advocates, Inc as the Peer Program Coordinator for The Living Room, a 24-hour, peer run crisis alternative in Massachusetts. She is also a parent of a child with special needs and has overcome traumatic experiences..
* Sassy Outwater-Wright is the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. She has fifteen years of experience in the digital accessibility fields, consulting for small businesses, helping make products and services digitally accessible. Her background is in user experience and project management, and she specializes in multiple disability intersectionality.
To register or for more information visit https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9k6DhGmJTiGgMRa3J7BWvA   or contact the Administration for Community Living (202) 401-4634

HYPE Virtual Courses with UMass Medical School, Shrewsbury, through August 19th, 2020. Free. Aimed at meeting the career preparation needs of young adults with mental health conditions during the quarantine to stop the spread of COVID-19.
 * Helping Youth on the Path to Employment (HYPE) provides flexible, solution-focused, career-oriented services based on your needs and preferences. This includes but is not limited to:

• Finding out what you want to do
• Getting a job
• Enrolling in and completing college or vocational-technical programs
• Helping you identify and pursue your school and work goals
• Work on things that get in the way of pursuing your goals, like low energy, feeling forgetful, or feeling stuck
• Getting organized for work and school success!

There are 3 Virtual HYPE Course Offerings in Summer 2020:

• Career Decision-Making
• HYPE Work Prep
• HYPE School Prep

* Registration will occur on a rolling basis, so young adults can sign up through early summer for courses occurring later in the season.
For more information visit www.umassmed.edu/hype/hype-course-in-ma/  or contact HYPE@umassmed.edu

Webinar, August 20th, 2020, with Asperger / Autism Network of New England.  This webinar will provide a framework and practical tools to support young adults with caring for their own space including cooking, cleaning and organizing.
* They will outline the basic tasks involved in caring for your own space including the “hidden” components of those tasks.
* They will also provide practical tools to support young adults with skill development and we will address how to create and maintain habits and routines to support maintenance of one’s space.
* They will address how challenges with executive functioning can impact one’s ability to maintain their space and provide some tools to compensate for such challenges.
About the Speakers: 
Transition Director and Clinical Director, Skills for Life – Brooke Howard, MS, OTR/L – Brooke is a licensed Occupational Therapist, and has worked at educational institutions, in inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and supervised the outpatient program at Franciscan Hospital for Children, as an adjunct faculty in the Occupational Therapy department at Sargent College, and is currently a founding partner of Ivy Street’s community-based program, Skills For Life where she works in the community with young adults who seek to gain more independence.
Program Director, Skills for Life – Jane Hannafin, MS, OTR/L. Jane has a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy, has previously worked at Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital on the Traumatic Brain Injury Unit, and is a founding partner of Ivy Street’s community-based program, Skills for Life where she works in the community with young adults who seek to gain more independence.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.aane.org/event/online-open-webinar-skills-for-life-caring-for-your-space-for-parents-of-transition-age-adults-adults-7-23-20/  or contact Janeka.Melanson@aane.org
* August 20th signup https://www.aane.org/event/online-open-webinar-skills-for-life-caring-for-yourself-as-a-young-adult-for-parents-of-adults-adults-8-20-20/  

The LEND Boston Program is seeking an adult age 23+ with an intellectual, physical or developmental disability to take part in the LEND fellowship September 2020 through May 2021.
*  LEND stands for Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities.
* The program is affiliated with Boston Children’s Hospital and the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts, Boston.
* LEND provides interdisciplinary training for a diverse group of fellows from disciplines including social work, psychology, developmental medicine, audiology, occupational therapy, nursing, public health, genetic counseling, child development, education and others.
* Fellows also include parents of children with disabilities, and self-advocates (people with disabilities who are finding ways to increase their independence and speak up for their goals).
* In the past, some self-advocates bring their own support person to help with travel and with processing and understanding the material.
* If selected, you will be required to attend in-person classes at Boston Children’s Hospital on Fridays, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
* You will also need about 4 hours per week for reviewing materials, clinic observations, community visits, and community work.
* Some of this can take place on evenings or weekends, although you will need some weekday time to visit hospital clinics and community settings.
* LEND fellows also are eligible to receive a small stipend to support their attendance in the program. They also support fellows to attend a policy conference in Washington DC.
* LEND is in the process of accepting applications and conducting interviews, so please respond quickly if you are interested.
For more information visit www.lendboston.org/self-advocate.html  or contact Lauren Berman at Lauren.Berman@childrens.harvard.edu for application materials and if you have questions.

August 26, 2020, 3 p.m. ET, with the Social Security Administration. How can Ticket to Work help you on your employment journey? If you receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), this month’s Work Incentive Seminar Events (WISE) webinar will help answer some of those questions. 
* Hear information about Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program and other Work Incentives that can help you as you start on the path to financial independence through work.
* Discover the answers to questions such as:

• What is the Ticket Program?
• How can I connect with a Ticket Program service provider?
• How do I get started?

Register to Online: choosework.ssa.gov/wise or 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) or support@choosework.ssa.gov. 
*  You will receive a registration confirmation message with instructions on how to log in to the webinar. 
* WISE in American Sign Language (ASL).
* Additional accessibility information is available on the registration page.
* The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Monthly WISE webinars provide information about Social Security programs, Work Incentives and other resources that may help you, or someone you know, succeed on the path to financial independence through work.

Webinar July 1, 2020, Hosted by the Hosted by Autism Research Institute. Hear about strategies for individuals on the autism spectrum interested in the ins and outs of dating.
* About the speaker: Aarti Nair, Ph.D., is a postdoctoral scholar at the Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center.  Her primary research interests lie in multimodal imaging studies of social cognition in ASD, specifically using fcMRI and DTI techniques to quantify connectivity differences within this population. Currently Dr. Nair is working on studies involving maturational trajectories of subcortical networks in ASD, as well as network clustering analysis to identify subgroups within the broader ASD endophenotype.
To register visit www.facebook.com/events/1112648272412923/ or contact 833-281-7165 cme@autism.com 

Virtual Course, July 13th – 31st, 2020, with the Carroll Center in Newton. Designed to prepare college-bound high school students and current college students with advanced technology skills, comprehensive computer instruction and supporting information from college disability services, blindness professionals, as well as students who are blind to learn how to get the most out of college. 
 *  Students will attend lectures on a variety of topics, including; computer security and data backup, digital accessibility and subsequent advocacy, social networking, using state services effectively, and working with college staff to obtain support and accessibility on campus.
* Students must have a laptop computer with built-in microphone & camera so they can effectively participate in online remote meetings. 
GUEST SPEAKERS WILL ADDRESS THE FOLLOWING TOPICS

• Technology Services available from the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB).
• Other MCB support for College Students.
• Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library –reference library services, Newsline
• Bay State Council of the Blind (BSCB) Student Group Events.
• Web and Document Accessibility—advocating your needs.
  Computer Security.
• How to get the most out of college disability services.
• On-campus orientation and mobility strategies.
• Conversations with current college students who are blind about on-campus experience and lifestyles, including living in dorms.

To register or for more information visit https://carroll.org/virtual-youth-summer-programs or contact (617) 969-6200, extension 216, toll free at (800) 852-3131 or by email at kathy.felt@carroll.org.

Webinar, July 15th, 2020, with a social support center in Boxborough, MA. Explore adolescent development and how this exciting, yet sometimes excruciating, process of growing up can impact those in its path.
* Surviving Adolescence will explore why teens become allergic to their parents, prefer the advice of other adults, and how boys’ and girls’ journey through adolescence in similar and different ways.
* Talk about how to gain respect from a teen, tips for communication and collaboration, strategies for connecting with a teen as opposed to a younger child, and how to avoid the traps teens set for us and the communication traps we set for ourselves. 
* Each participant receives a copy of the handouts and a certificate of attendance for professional development hours.
* Workshops are live – you will be able to ask questions and interact with the host, just as an in-person workshop.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.eventbrite.com/e/surviving-adolescence-outwit-outplay-outlast-tickets-110523410496 or contact dshea.peterpancenter@gmail.com  

Virtual Event, July 16th & 17th, 2020, with Best Buddies International.  The aim of the the Best Buddies Leadership Conference (BBLC) is to inspire leaders to be Best Buddies advocates and to bring about social change in their communities. It unites Best Buddies leaders, volunteers, and community advocates from around the globe.
* Conference attendees will gain knowledge to effectively take action for a common cause while discovering the importance of their leadership, influence, and responsibilities.
* For the 2020 conference, Best Buddies will be offering a virtual conference experience so that worldwide leaders can gather, learn, and engage while safely participating in this incredible event.
* Using an interactive digital platform to engage attendees, this virtual conference will offer opportunities to learn from professional presenters, participate in small group discussions, engage with experts, and choose from a diverse variety of education sessions that will inform, inspire, and advance their role in the disability rights movement.

• Voices of Inclusion Kickoff: July 16 @ 8:00 pm ET
• Leadership Conference Training: July 17 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm ET
• Speaker WOWcase: July 17 @ 7:00 pm ET
  

To register or for more information, visit www.bestbuddies.org/bblc/?fbclid=IwAR0xtWIslQjDHsb1Tv6lszZF9Z4hZjWzz1HwnaaHXfMArCx1eU4zajigK_4    or contact LeadershipConference@bestbuddies.org

Webinar, July 16th, 2020, with Riverside Community Care of Massachusetts. Discuss how you can support your teen to manage anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics include: 

• How the pandemic is affecting teens’ emotional well-being
• How teens experience and express anxiety
• When and how to seek help for your teen’s anxiety
• Strategies for social connection, structure, and self-care to manage anxious times
• Additional resources for teens experiencing anxiety

About the presenters: Julia Bruss & Lacey Cukier are Program Directors of Riverside Life Skills Centers in Needham and Somerville. Doreen Shea is Education Director. The Riverside Life Skills Centers are supportive, therapeutic day programs for adolescents, ages 12-18 years, who are experiencing significant emotional difficulties or a psychiatric diagnosis and who are having disruptions in their home, school, or community.
To register or for more information visit https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jMuP6PENTpKt4uz9yKbsnw?fbclid=IwAR20Sw8kip8uaPCIRN-BQUPn5kZHWAQ1wPap7Iz4efhsXyeipmy-iN1nIcE    or contact (781) 329-0909 or info@riversidecc.org

Webinar, July 22nd, 2020, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm, with AANE in Watertown, MA.
* Are you getting ready to start or return to college? Have your summer plans been cancelled?
* This series will meet one evening per week for 8 weeks and help you get ready for college life, academically and socially.
* Adulting skills will be discussed and some guest speakers from colleges will join us.
* This small group setting limited to 15 participants allows members to connect with each other and delivers a wealth of information.
* 7/22/2020, 7/29/2020, 8/5/2020, 8/12/2020, 8/19/2020, 8/26/2020, 9/2/2020, 9/9/2020
* Presenter Jane Thierfeld Brown, EdD co-author of A Parent’s Guide to College for Students on the Autism Spectrum, is Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale Child Study, Yale Medical School and Director of College Autism Spectrum.  
Fees apply, registration is required to www.aane.org/event/online-college-101-approaching-adulthood-closed-information-series-for-transition-age-youth-18-22-7-22-20-9-9-20-700-pm-830-pm-edt/ or contact 617-393-3824 x32  or events@aane.org

July 29th, 2020, with the Massachusetts’ Down Syndrome Conferences’ Self Advocate Advisory Council. For teens & adults with Down syndrome and friends ages 13+.
* Do you have questions about how to eat healthier?
* Join MDSC Self Advocate Advisory Council member Kate Bartlett to learn as she shares tips about what she has learned and answers your questions.
* End the event with a fun trivia game.
To register or for more information visit https://files.constantcontact.com/d4b65ba9001/03465190-5bed-4192-b4d7-f14353be9a90.pdf or contact Email Colleen at cendres@mdsc.org to register.  

Webinar June 15th, 2020, with a pediatric neuropsychology practice and treatment center based in Massachusetts. For parents and caretakers of teens with disabilities.
Sexual Health Education for Teens with Disabilities: Talking about Sexuality with our Kids will discuss the reasons behind the need for comprehensive sexual health education for students with disabilities and examine common barriers to the successful delivery of this information.
* Through a review of human sexual development, learn how education can be tailored to this population and how personal ethics play a role in this topic.
* Discuss concrete strategies for answering questions, providing age-appropriate information and teaching consent.
* Recommendations for resources will be provided.
* Facilitated by:
Sophie Bellenis, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist; Real-life Skills Program Manager and Coach, NESCA.
Register in advance for this webinar to https://nesca-newton.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_m3A_SoPxTlewq9mYK-q12w or contact jhauser@nesca-newton.com

Webinars, June 2nd & 16th, 2020, with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy Youth IMPACT Center.
* Youth IMPACT Center is seeking transition age youth and young adults with disabilities who are about to or have recently transitioned from high school to post-secondary education or employment to participate in a series of online dialogues. 
* The Youth IMPACT Center is working to improve employment outcomes for youth and young adults with disabilities by helping states build capacity in their youth service delivery and workforce systems. These dialogues will focus on strategies and approaches that can improve access to career pathways and encourage professional development, including:

• Apprenticeships
• Pre-apprenticeships
• Trainings
• Individualized employment plans
• Internships and work-based learning

Closed captioning will be provided.
JUNE 2 | 3 – 4 p.m. EDT JUNE 2  REGISTER NOW
JUNE 16 | 3 – 4 p.m. EDT JUNE 16 REGISTER NOW

June 18th, 2020, with Think College, Institute for Community Inclusion, UMass Boston. Heading off to college brings excitement as well as new challenges for students and their families.
 * In this webinar, PACER’s Simon Technology Center specialists will discuss tools to support students with intellectual disabilities as they learn to navigate the college campus and college life.
 * Demonstrations will include mobile apps to help students manage their time, schedule, money, and social connections.
* About the speakers: Sarah Giffen-Hunter and Paul Sanft are Assistive Technology (AT) Specialists from PACER’s Simon Technology Center. Both specialize in working with teens and young adults in the transition from high school to the postsecondary activities of school, career, and living independently.
To RSVP or for more information visit https://communityinclusion.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YO3AB9gYT7KRsxaHceeTig?utm_source=May+2020 or contact (617) 287-4300
or thinkcollege@umb.edu

June 19th, 2020, with Think College, Institute for Community Inclusion, UMass Boston. “Opening Doors to College” is a documentary by filmmaker Dan Habib which shows the educational, social and self-determination strategies of inclusive higher education at Millersville and Temple Universities.
* The presenters will be Dan Habib, Ann Marie Licata, and students featured in the film.
 * “Opening Doors to College” shows how students like Fudia, Missy, Curtis, and Janet immerse themselves in classes, residential life, extracurricular activities, and the entire college experience at Millersville and Temple Universities.
To register or for more information visit https://thinkcollege.net/events/external-webinar/opening-doors-to-college-film-premiere or contact (617) 287-4300 or thinkcollege@umb.edu

June 22, 2020 – 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EST – Online with the Autism Aspergers Network based in Watertown, MA.  Students with autism who participate in special education are entitled to an education designed to meet their unique educational needs and prepare them for further education, employment and independent living afterward.
 * Schools assist students on IEPs with postsecondary preparation is through “transition services.” But, what are transition services? And, where do they go in an IEP?
 * The presenter will be Kelley Challen, the Director of Transition Services at a Boston based neuropsychology practice and integrative treatment center. She is is co-author of the chapter “Technologies to Support Interventions for Social- Emotional Intelligence, Self-Awareness, Personality Style, and Self-Regulation” for the book Technology Tools for Students with Autism. She overseeing planning, consultation, evaluation, coaching, case management, training and program development services. Kelley will provide some basic information about how:

• the law describes transition services
• how an IEP team determines what transition services a student needs
• and provides examples of transition services that are commonly useful and necessary for students with autism.

COST: $10 – Financial assistance is available. Contact stephanie.birkdale@aane.org for more information.
To register or for more information visit www.aane.org/event/aane-webinar-transition-planning-understanding-and-accessing-iep-transition-services/ or contact Stephanie Birkdale, AANE, 617-393-3824 x32, 
events@aane.org

Webinar, June 24th, 2020, with Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change. How have person-centered living arrangements fared during the COVID-19 crisis? In this concluding webinar in the series, check in with three parents who practice person-centered planning for adult children with disabilities.
* During this interactive session with the parent panel, discuss:
1. Impact of COVID-19 crisis on their children’s living arrangements, including dealing with concerns and challenges.
2. Strengths of the person-centered plans that helped the families adjust to the crisis.
3. Unexpected benefits of the crisis, including new skills, strategies, resources
4. Lessons for person-centered planning
* gaps revealed by the crisis
*considerations for other families
* rethinking for the long term.
Presenters:
* Kathy Brill – Kathy’s 30-year old daughter Alexa uses a power wheelchair and lives in her own home, using technological and personal supports. 
* Sandra Heller – Sandy helped her son Craig, who has Down Syndrome, create a person-centered plan that enables him to work and maintain independence on his terms. 
* Dr. Laurel Peltier – Laurel worked with son Elijah, who has autism and intellectual impairment, to create a person-centered plan and shared living arrangement. 
To register or for more information visit https://mfofc.org/housing-webinar-series/june-24-covid-parent-panel-webinar-registration/  or contact 1-774-855-6001 or hello@massfamilies.org

Webinar – May 18, 2020, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EST, Online with the Autism Aspergers Network based in Watertown, MA. Every adolescent develops uniquely and every family has its own culture and preferences. However, some aspects of transition planning can take nearly a decade to complete and other aspects may include accessing time- or age-limited resources. For these reasons, it is helpful to have guidelines regarding when to focus on what and what to focus on when.
* Presenter Kelley Challen will discusses a suggested timeline for carrying out transition planning activities in order to best support a young person with Autism across life domains as they transition toward postsecondary adulthood. 
* Kelley is the Director of Transition Services at a Boston based neuropsychology practice and integrative treatment center. She is is co-author of the chapter “Technologies to Support Interventions for Social- Emotional Intelligence, Self-Awareness, Personality Style, and Self-Regulation” for the book Technology Tools for Students with Autism. She overseeing planning, consultation, evaluation, coaching, case management, training and program development services. 
COST: $10 – Financial assistance is available. 
To register or for more information visit www.aane.org/event/aane-webinar-transition-planning-guidelines-and-timelines-for-supporting-an-individual-with-autism/   or contact Stephanie Birkdale, AANE, 617-393-3824 x32,  events@aane.org. adrotate banner=”139″]  

May 26th, 2020, with the Federation for Children with Speaker Needs of Massachusetts. Speaker Kelley Challen is the Director of Transition Services for a local support organization, overseeing planning, consultation, evaluation, coaching, case management, training and program development services.
 * Previously, Kelley worked at the MGH Aspire Program where she founded an array of social, life and career skill development programs for teens and young adults with Asperger’s Syndrome and related profiles.
* She additionally worked at the Northeast Arc as Program Director for the Spotlight Program.
To register or for more information visit https://fcsn.org/rtsc/upcoming-webinars/ or contact irego@fcsn.org  

With the Asperger / Autism Network in Watertown, MA – 7:00 – 8:00 PM EST on 4/2/20 and 4/9/20. Free.
 * If you’re unsure how to provide structure with kids out of school, need some self-care, or if you’re feeling isolated from other adults and the community, drop in to the Autism / Asperger’s Network for their weekly free online chat sessions to connect with other parents raising teens with Asperger profiles.
 * Chats will be facilitated by Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) Child and Teen Services staff who know firsthand the need to maintain a balance for ourselves and our teenagers when life brings the unexpected.
  To log in, click https://zoom.us/j/482221879 to join at that time.  

Webinar June 4th, 2020, with SPARK Kindness of Natick, MA. For parents/caregivers of teens and young adults. Stay interconnected and support one another with this online Zoom conversation.
* Co-facilitated by Dr. Richard Kadison, psychiatrist and member of SPARK Kindness’ Advisory Board and Leah Parker-Moldover, parent of teens and member of the SPARK staff.
* The goal of “Don’t Worry Alone” is for us to connect and learn from each other.
* How are parents and caregivers supporting teens and adolescents during this tumultuous time in their lives? Discuss the anxiety, uncertainty and sadness regarding cancelled and postponed plans due to COVID-19, and the anger, tragedy and injustice regarding current events of racism in our country.
* Learn about new resources and tools to support ourselves and our teens/young adults.
* Share your successes- What has worked well for you during this difficult time?
Note: this is not therapy, but an opportunity to learn from each other about practical tools that will support us all during this difficult time. 
To register or for more information visit http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eh4fagmg5fa8e549&llr=6qmzg5dab  or contact Leah Parker-Moldover, SPARK Kindness, Inc. , lparkermoldover@sparkkindness.org  

April 23, 2020 @ 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, with the The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). In this webinar, you’ll hear why the autistic community prefers acceptance to awareness, and explore the concept of neurodiversity. * Gain a deeper understanding of how to be an ally to autistic people in your work and workplace.
* About the Presenter: ASAN is a nonprofit organization run by and for autistic people. This session will be led by Zoe Gross, ASAN’s Director of Operations.
Fees apply, registration is required to https://learn.pyd.org/webinar/autism-acceptance-month-promoting-neurodiversity-in-the-workplace-with-asan/ o

April 27th, 2020, 10:00 – 11:30 AM, Online with the Asperger / Autism Network in Watertown, MA. Transition Planning requires a steady pace along with optimism, creativity, and flexibility. Maintaining this mindset is much easier when we know, and focus on, the skills that will most impact postsecondary adult life outcomes.
 * Hear why transition planning for adulthood needs to start early, about the skills known to make the biggest difference in postsecondary transition, and  tips on what you can do to build these skills.
* About the speaker: Kelley Challen is the Director of Transition Services, overseeing planning, consultation, evaluation, coaching, case management, training and program development services at a local support organization. 
 * In addition , Kelley spent several years at the MGH Aspire Program where she founded an array of social, life and career skill development programs for teens and young adults with Asperger’s Syndrome and related profiles. She additionally worked at the Northeast Arc as Program Director for the Spotlight Program, a drama-based social pragmatics program, serving youth with a wide range of diagnoses and collaborating with several school districts to design in-house social skills and transition programs. Ms. Challen is co-author of the chapter “Technologies to Support Interventions for Social- Emotional Intelligence, Self-Awareness, Personality Style, and Self-Regulation” for the book Technology Tools for Students with Autism. 
Fees apply, registration is required to www.aane.org/event/aane-webinar-transition-planning-skills-that-make-a-difference-in-long-term-success/  or contact Stephanie Birkdale, 617-393-3824 x32 , events@aane.org 

April 29th, 2020, 4 pm ET, with the Northeast Independent Living Program of Lawrence & Lowell, MA. Nathan Hughes of Northeast Independent Living’s Youth Services Program is leading a Parent Focus Group about the college experience for students with disabilities.
 * Nathan has a Masters in Special Education and is also an individual who lives with Autism. He’s a peer mentor and is here to answer any of your questions.
 * To get the link and password for the Zoom meeting please visit www.facebook.com/NortheastIndependentLivingProgram/photos/a.513678675414895/2901865086596230/?type=3&theater or contact Rowan, Youth Services Program Manager, at rdeaza@nilp.org or (978) 989-5636.  

Webinar – April 30th, 2020, 7 p.m., Eastern Time, with the Boston Public Schools Special Education Advisory Group. Join Boston SpEd PAC for a presentation on Transition Services & Special Education & COVID-19 Q & A.
Presenters:
* Melanie R. Jarboe & Alicia Warren, Special Education Attorneys
* Marcia Fitzpatrick, BPS Assistant Director of Transition
* After presentations, there will be a question and answer session about Transition Services and then special education during COVID-19.
* Questions can be sent to email@bostonspedpac.org in advance or entered into the chat during the live Zoom session.
* Spanish Interpretation available.
* Additional interpretation services are available upon request 7 days in advance by contacting Lisa Connor, Parent Support Coordinator at lconnor2@bostonpublicschools.org or by calling 617-828-5690.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/events/160627988601156/   or contact SpEd PAC at email@bostonspedpac.org or 617-297-7335

Webinar available through April 30th with Employment First of Massachusetts. Employment First MA is hosted by the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston and is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services.
* About the webinar:  Many job seekers worry about losing their benefits when going to work. This training will provide an overview of the impact of earnings on Social Security benefits. Topics include:

• The differences between SSI and SSDI
• SSA Work Incentives
• How to keep medical benefits while working
• How to explain benefits to job seekers
• Families and other stakeholders
• Resources available to assist job seekers with benefit planning issues.

Upon completing this training, students will be able to:

• Counsel job seekers and family members on the financial incentives for returning to work
• Formulate simple calculations comparing benefit to salary income ratio
• Assist individuals with keeping records and reporting necessary information to Social Security

This workshop will be available around the clock (24/7) from April 1 through April 30, 2020. It should take about six hours to complete. Participation is self-paced and flexible. Included are a variety of formats: readings, presentations, discussion forums, videos, professional development activities, and assignments. An instructor will be available on a regular basis throughout the month to answer questions and give feedback.

To register or for more information visit //www.eventbrite.com/e/earnings-and-benefits-using-social-security-work-incentives-april-2020-registration-100411984950  or contact for questions Berenise Reyes-Albino,berenise.albino@umb.edu, 617-287-4314

UMass Lowell, May 6th, 2020. COVID-19 Update. Please check with the host for further information regarding this event. 

This event is free and open to the public. Leslie Hughes, Massachusetts Advocates for Children will be the presenter. This workshop is part of the UMass Lowell Center for Autism Research and Education (CARE) Spring 2020 Expert Speaker Series. 
 * This workshop will address the transition planning and services required for youth with disabilities ages 14-22.
 * The training will focus on both the transition special education services which prepare youth for employment, independent living and further education and discuss mechanisms to plan for services students may require when they exit special education as well as transition to the adult human service system. 
  * Through the use of case examples, parents and professionals will learn strategies that may help students receive important transition services mandated by special education laws.
 * Parents and professionals will also gain an understanding on Chapter 688, the federal law that helps plan for youth with disabilities after they leave. 
 *  This event is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, UMass Lowell Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies, and the UMass Lowell Interdisciplinary Minor in Disability Studies.
*** Registration is required Ashleigh Hillier, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Psychology, Director, Center for Autism Research and Education (CARE)   Ashleigh_hillier@uml.edu 

May 3, 2020, 2 PM – 3:30 PM EDT, with the Asperger / Autism Network in Watertown, MA. Panel discussion featuring current and recent college graduates who are on the autism spectrum.  Are you the parent of a teen* who is considering college? Are you or your teen* wondering…

• What are the best and most challenging parts of college for someone on the autism spectrum?
• Should I write about my diagnosis in my college essay?
• What type of college environment will work for me?
• Should I live at home or away?
• Should I ask for a single room if I live away?
• How can I make friends at college?
• How will I have time for everything I like to do AND do everything I have to do?
• There will be a link to a packet of college information sent after the seminar and plenty of time to ask questions.
• *Teens must be accompanied by an adult

Fees apply, registration is required by May 1, 2020 to www.aane.org/event/perspectives-on-college-life/  or 617-393-3824 x32
events@aane.org  

Webinar, May 12, 2020, with Family Empowerment of Hadley, MA. Charting the LifeCourse Framework was created by families to help individuals and families of all abilities and all ages develop a vision for:

• a good life
• to think about what they need to know and do
• identify how to find or develop supports
• discover what it takes to live the lives they want to live.

Individuals and families may focus on their current situation and stage of life but may also find it helpful to look ahead to think about life experiences that will help move them toward an inclusive, productive life in the future.
* By the end of this webinar, participants will:
 – Know how the requirements for transition assessment can be addressed using Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) tools.
 – Understand how information gathered can be used to support the requirements for transition services.
– Be able to identify one CtLC tool and share one idea about how to use this tool to support transition-aged youth.

Event registration: https://bit.ly/LifeCourseToolsMay2020
Flyer: https://files.constantcontact.com/2cce95d1401/0aa73ea5-1876-466f-923f-d8c0dbe58ea6.pdf or contact Michelle Mendes, Family Empowerment
michelle.mendes@pathlightgroup.org  

Virtual Training, May 12th & 13th, 2020, with Work Without Limits/Mass,  Shrewsbury, MA. This training is appropriate for employment specialists and other staff that work closely with persons served to achieve employment goals.
* This training provides in-depth information and tools to assist Social Security beneficiaries to write, submit and maintain a PASS plan.
* PASS plans help qualified individuals pay for key expenses related to achieving vocational goals, including education, transportation and equipment.
* Participants will: 

• Gain an understanding of what PASS is and what it’s not
• Be able to assist clients to decide if PASS is right for them
• Gain an understanding of how a PASS can be used to support client’s work goals
• Become familiar with the PASS application form
• Learn resources to help complete the PASS application

Fees apply, registration is required to https://workwithoutlimits.org/event/pass-intensive-training-5-12-2020-shrewsbury-ma/  or contact nicole.henry@umassmed.edu  

Webinar May 13th, 2020, with Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change.  Person-Centered Planning for Special-Needs Adults: Creating a plan that evolves over time is a look at an examples of a person-centered approaches in living and housing for people with disabilities.
*  Person-centered planning provides the way to develop a structured plan that honors a person’s own vision for their future first and foremost; and accounts for those things that are important to and important for them.
*  The term person-centered planning is used to describe a planning process for supporting an individual or group in a positive and collaborative manner.
* The process focuses directly on the client’s strengths and capabilities.
* A successful plan results in the development of a personally meaningful vision for the future and a viable action plan for getting there.
About the speaker: Susan Yuan has worked in the field of developmental disabilities since the birth of her son, Andreas.. She was the Associate Director of the Center on Disability and Community Inclusion, Vermont’s UCEDD, until 2008. She now conducts training on culture and disability, inclusion, family support, and parents with disabilities. 
 To register or for more information visit https://mfofc.org/events/mfofc-housing-webinar-creating-an-intentional-community-2   or contact   hello@massfamilies.org  

Webinar May 18th, 2020, with the Asperger / Autism Network in Watertown, MA.  Some aspects of transition planning can take nearly a decade to complete and other aspects may include accessing time- or age-limited resources. It is helpful to have guidelines regarding when to focus on what and what to focus on when.
 Hear Kelley Challen as she discusses a suggested timeline for carrying out transition planning activities in order to best support a young person with Autism across life domains as they transition toward postsecondary adulthood.
 About the speaker: Kelley Challen, Ed.M., CAS, is NESCA’s Director of Transition Services, overseeing planning, consultation, evaluation, coaching, case management, training and program development services. Previously,  Kelley worked at the MGH Aspire Program where she founded an array of social, life and career skill development programs for teens and young adults with Asperger’s Syndrome and related profiles. She additionally worked at the Northeast Arc as Program Director for the Spotlight Program.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.aane.org/event/aane-webinar-transition-planning-guidelines-and-timelines-for-supporting-an-individual-with-autism/   617-393-3824 x32 or events@aane.org  

Stevens Memorial Library, North Andover, MA, March 23rd, 2020. UPDATE: Due to concerns from the Coronavirus, this event is cancelled. Please visit the event link below for more information from the host.

Free. Speaker Herb Cabral is dad to three adult children, including son Joe, who is 23 and on the autism spectrum. Herb is also Advocacy Alliance Coordinator, Arc of Massachusetts and HMEA on the Autism Advantage @ Work program.
   * In this workshop, Herb will share his family’s journey to discuss strategies that will help your child’s transition:
 · developing your child’s story and story-telling strategies
 · communicating with schools, agencies and insurance companies
 · leveraging applicable resources
 · finding transportation, employment and housing
To RSVP or for more information contact Radhika Pillai ldnorthandover@gmail.com  

April 2, 2020 – Webinar. Think College, UMass Boston, presents Intentional Inclusion: Cultivating Circles of Support. In good times and challenging ones, we use circles of support to help us out. The same goes for people with disabilities, only they are sometimes even more intentional in seeking out just the right people to be part of the Circle.
  * Hear from a parent Janice Fialka and sibling Emma Fialka about how they have used Circles of Support with their son and brother, and how it’s also a model that has been used in schools and communities around the country. Emma has also had great success using Circles of Support with her elementary school students.
Objectives:
1. Learn what (and who!) makes up a Circle of Support
2. Hear how families and educators can initiate and sustain Circles at home, in schools, and in the community (at any age).
3. Get valuable tools to invite people, host Circles gatherings, and keep things going.
REGISTER TO: https://communityinclusion.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2A3SKNRMTf2PSFpkfuQ1og?utm_source=2020+Webinars+announcement_MAR2020&utm_campaign=2020+Spring+webinars&utm_medium=email o  

Marlborough, MA, through February 26th, 2020. For teens and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 16+. Learn the art of cooking and make friends in this life skills group.
 * In each class, participants start with a menu board and end with a delicious, healthy meal.
* While food is cooking, participants engage in activities geared toward fostering friendships, self-esteem, and social skills.
* Hosted by the THRIVE support agency.
Fees apply, registration is required to www.icanthrive.org/event/social-cooking/all/?fbclid=IwAR3w8W1Z97ObuhJB9OuGDN1hy2IQSzK45apoRv0NICLnSqf9Vpmge3vVYow     or contact 508-485-4227 x 1114, thoude@icanthrive.org

Ripley Administration Building, Concord MA, February 11th, 2020. Guest Speaker Victor Hernandez, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Department of Developmental Services (DDS), will review the transition process and key transition milestones individuals and families need to be aware of.
* Includes a review of DDS supports that are available to help youth and families develop a vision including how to access them.
* Learn about the DDS traditional & non-traditional service options for both transition age youth and adults.
* Presentation will also explore the DDS resources that can help youth and families plan for the future.
* Victor currently holds the position of Deputy Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the largest state agency in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
* Responsibilities include: – DDS Statewide coordinator for MA Ch 688, the state law governing the transition services for those leaving special education – Commissioner’s liaison for special projects with the DDS 4 regions and 23 area offices.
Hosted by the CASE Collaborative of Concord, MA. 
To RSVP or for more information visit www.casecollaborative.org/programs  or contact RSVP required to: scampbell@casecollaborative.org   

Thrive in Marlborough, March 28th, 2020. UPDATE: Due to concerns from the Coronavirus, this event is cancelled. Please visit the event link below for more information from the host.

This workshop is presented by the Sexual Assault Response Unit (SARU), within the Disabled Persons Protection Commission.
* SARU provides sexual assault survivors and their families with peer support, information, and resources.
* The workshop provides caregivers with knowledge about how to access free and confidential sexual assault information, peer support, and trauma services.
* Presenters will be available after the workshop for questions.
To RSVP or for more information visit Thrive www.icanthrive.org/event/sexual-assault-support/ or contact 508-485-4227 x1118 jcostello@icanthrive.org  

HMEA’s Autism Resource Central, Worcester, MA, February 29th, 2020. For parents, adult siblings, caregivers, family members of people with disabilities. It will be most beneficial to those caring for adults over 22.
* If your greatest fear is “who will take care of the person I love when I’m gone?” then you are not alone. If you’ve decided that the solution is to never die, you’re also not alone – but that’s not a solution.
 * “Circle of Support” workshops described as emotional, full of difficult conversation, challenging your heart and your mind. However the end goal will be for the group together to find a pathway and leave armed with the tools needed to the important future for the person we love.
 *  Presented by Cheryl Ryan Chan. Cherly is Mom to Nicky – a 26 year-old man severely impacted by autism and intellectual disabilities. She has spent over 20 years in Massachusetts, integrating her son and family into the disability community and becoming a known leader in community organization, legislative activism, mentoring and public speaking. She has served on Boards for a number of nonprofit human service providers, mental health providers, and Support Centers. Her work as a Person-Centered Planning Practitioner has been shared nationwide. 
To RSVP or for more information visit  http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=pg7iu8cab&oeidk=a07egu32ndh6ef0a2ec&fbclid=IwAR0nsEkR07kUrV-3j8pc1phgbxYMCzmFuuNYfk5Vndq0XX5PLHaObEXciss or contact 508-298-1610, autismactivities@hmea.org

Waltham High School, Waltham, MA, March 18th, 2020. Learn about the transition from school to adult life. This presentation will cover the Transition Planning Form (TPF) which starts when your child turns 14.
* Includes  ways to empower your child and support them in
their transition to adult life. 
RVSPs required to the Waltham SEPAC https://www.facebook.com/WSEPAC/  or walthampac@gmail.com

Plymouth Public Library, Plymouth, MA, January 22nd, 2020. A Department of Mental Health Plymouth Site Community Conversation Event.
* Keynote Speaker: Dori Hutchinson, ScD, Director of Services, Center for Psychiatric Services, Boston University.
* Other Activities: Panel Conversation and Table Discussions regarding Employment and Recovery
Lunch will be served.
* Sponsors: Department of Mental Health, Plymouth Site Board, NAMI Plymouth Area, Plymouth Bay House, Mass Rehabilitation Commission, Vinfen

Plymouth, MA, January 28th, 2020, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. A Resource Fair where participants from local agencies will introduce their programs. A variety of programs will attend and have materials and resources to share.
* Find important and practical information of how to help their children become more successful and independent young adults.
Hosted by Pilgrim Academy.
RSVPs required by January 21st to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07egj79rdkbe1a6bc9&llr=m6ixkr6ab or contact Joanna Silverman
Pilgrim Area Collaborative, 508-747-6686  

Middleboro, MA, January 9th, 2020. Free. The Department of Developmental Services Southeast Regional Office will hosts “DDS 101 Training – What you should know about DDS as the transition from high school to life after high school approaches?”  Topics include:

• ELIGIBILITY -How do I become eligible for DDS Services?
• AREA OFFICE – What is the role of the DDS Area office?
• FAMILY SUPPORT – What can Family Support provide to my family,
  and what are the limitations?
• SELF-DIRECTION – What are Self-Directed Services.How do they differ from Traditional Services?
• AUTISM SERVICES What support is available to my family member with autism, and how do we access it?

To register or for more information http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=hjcuxexab&oeidk=a07egr3hdlaadbb6bdb  or contact Raquel Pereira
DDS Southeast Learning and Development, or contact Ed Wilson 1 508 866 8864 or Edward.B.Wilson@state.ma.us or Raquel Pereira,DDS Southeast Learning and Development, 508-866-8874
dds.southeasttraining@massmail.state.ma.us

Worcester, MA, January 21st, 2020. The Parent Professional Advocacy League invites you to join them in designing a survey to assess family
and community needs in order to better understand family
experiences.
 * This assessment tool will help them gather information about access, supports and trainings to better understand the challenges families’ experience.
To RSVP or for more information email parentsupportgroup@ppal.net or call Kathy or Beth at 508-767-9725

Somerville, MA. Applications due by January 7th, 2020. A program run by the Asperger Autism Network from February – May, 2020. Anxiety is often a major challenge for adults on the spectrum, and the desire to always be perfect can lead to difficulty achieving goals and finishing projects.
* In this program, groups of 4 participants will meet weekly for 3 hours each week to come up with an idea, define your own standards for success, and complete a project that will impact your relationship with anxiety and perfectionism in a positive way.

• is a post high-school adult
• on the autism spectrum
• likes to create and make things
• and is interested in reducing anxiety and/or perfectionism

Fees apply, registration is required to www.notion.so/AANE-Makers-Series-Design-for-Anxiety-and-Perfectionism-Winter-Spring-2020-ffa91752c97f449281943cd80c92eda2   or contact Contact Miriam Zisook at miriam@powderhouse.org or Nancy Schwartz at nancy.schwartz@aane.org