Boston, MA, Application for Summer 2022 accepted on a rolling basis. City of Boston Mayor’s Commission for People with Disabilities  – Summer Internship Program for College Students with Disabilities
* The City of Boston’s Mayor’s Commission for People with Disabilities is hosting a financial empowerment summer program for college students in Boston.
* Students must be either a resident of Boston or enrolled at a college in Boston to be eligible.
* This 10 week program includes paid job experience with the Commission (an internship), as well as once weekly webinars, training, and other sessions that will introduce you to financial wellness principles and support programs from the City of Boston.
* If you are a college student or work with college students who are interested in applying, please send a resume and cover letter to andrea.patton@boston.gov.
* Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis to www.boston.gov/departments/disabilities-commission or contact andrea.patton@boston.gov

Virtual Support for Worcester area families, May 4th & 18th, 2022, with 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. Share your successes and challenges with raising a child with emotional and
behavioral health need.
* Meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.
* 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.
For more information contact about the Zoom log in and passcode, https://zoom.us/j/97898615351?pwd=UTNVTjcweWl0YUR0RThlMUVJWUVXUT09   Meeting ID: 978 9861 5351 Passcode: 478346 +1 646 558 8656
Questions? Email Tara and Joel at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net 

Held online with UMass Lowell, May 4th – 18th, 2022. A social networking program for adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum. There are currently have around 10-15 regular attendees each month ranging in age from about 16-30 years.
* The group typically meets online (Discord server) the first Wednesday of each month 6-7.30 pm.
* The main goal of The Network is to provide an opportunity for young adults on the autism spectrum to meet others who they may have things in common with and who they can connect with.
* Meeting online, chat, and playing Jackbox games.
* The Network costs $75 for the year (pro-rated; and scholarships are available).
To RSVP or for more information visit https://www.uml.edu/Research/Autism/services/the-network.aspx  or contact  Ashleigh_hillier@uml.edu

• Wednesday, April 6: No meeting, Ashleigh out of town
• Wednesday, April 20: Discord
• Wednesday, May 4: No meeting, Ashleigh out of town
• Wednesday, May 18: Discord
• Wednesday, June 1: Escapology Escape Room, 345 Main St, Tewksbury, MA 01876.
• Wednesday, June 15: Discord
• Wednesday, July 6: Picnic at UMass Lowell (on the lawn opposite Coburn Hall).
  Please bring a snack / drink to share, a blanket to sit on, and lawn games.
• Wednesday, July 20: Discord
• Wednesday, August 3: TBD
• Wednesday, August 17: Discord
• Wednesday, September 7: Jay Gees Ice-cream and Fun Center in Methuen: 602 Lowell Street, Methuen, MA 01844. Meet at the ice-cream stand and then parents / caregivers can stay there and chat, and group members can do other activities if they want to such as batting cages, go karts, mini golf or the (small) arcade.
• Wednesday, September 21: Discord
• Wednesday, October 5: Halloween Party and Potluck Coburn Hall.
• Wednesday, October 19: Discord
• Wednesday, November 2: 6-7:30 p.m.: Pizza and games night at UMass Lowell (room G10 in Coburn Hall for group members and G20 for parents / caregivers). Bring your favorite board game and snacks / treats / drinks to share. We will supply pizza and drinks for group members and parents / guardians.
• Wednesday, November 16: Discord
  First week of December (day and time TBD): UMass Lowell Mean’s ice-hockey game at Tsongas Center in Lowell.
• Wednesday, December 21: 6-7:30 p.m.: Discord

  Find more recreation activities for youth and adults with special needs on our Recreation Page. 

Webinar, May 10th, 2022. Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) and the Autism Alliance will host Attorney Svetlana Uimenkova of the Disability Law Center .
 * Join a webinar focused on the transition for families that occurs when a parent retires, begins receiving Social Security retirement benefits, ends employer-based commercial health insurance, and enrolls in Medicare.
* Attorney Svetlana Uimenkova of the Disability Law Center will present about this transition and its impact on the adult disabled family member’s social security and health insurance status.
* After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar, a fact sheet, and an AFAM email address where registrants can send questions in advance of the webinar. 
Register to www.autismalliance.org/events/yet-another-transition?fbclid=IwAR3wJ_Wl1vKMa3c-UzjD-C8fwaSmkNix3f9rIwIgYMQh0OawOn9qHw5HFX8 or contact (508) 652-9900 AutismAlliance@Advocates.org

Online group, May 27th, and the last Friday of each month, with the Arc of Opportunity in Fitchburg, MA.
* The Healthy Relationships group is an opportunity for people to explore
the many components of healthy relationships, sexuality and various social topics.
* Together the participants will learn and grow as they engage in fun activities.
RSVP Required to https://form.jotform.com/211534578418157 or contact (978) 343-6662

Springfield, MA, June 25th, 2022, with the West Region Self Advocacy, a network for local self-advocacy groups in Western Massachusetts to work together.
Keynote Speaker Dr. Grandin became a prominent author and speaker on both autism and animal behavior.
* Today she is a professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. She also has a successful career consulting on both livestock handling equipment design and animal welfare.
* Temple has been featured on NPR (National Public Radio) and a BBC Special – “The Woman Who Thinks Like a Cow”. Articles about Dr. Grandin have appeared in Time Magazine, New York Times, Discover Magazine, Forbes and USA Today. HBO made an Emmy Award winning movie about her life and she was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2016.
* When Temple was young, she was considered weird and teased and bullied in high school. The only place she had friends was activities where there was a shared interest such as horses, electronics, or model rockets. Mr. Carlock, her science teacher, was an important mentor who encouraged her interest in science. When she had a new goal of becoming a scientist, she had a reason for studying. Today half the cattle in the United States are handled in facilities she has designed.
To register or for more information visit https://masswrsa.org/2021-west-region-self-advocacy-conference/ or contact APettell@wmtcinfo.org or DLund@wmtcinfo.org

On-line Support Group, through April 25th, 2022. This closed group is designed for parents and family members of transition-age youth (18-22) who have been diagnosed with Asperger’s/autism or similar profiles.
Parents of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders Support Group
* This group is limited to 12 participants for caregivers to connect with one another and share information.
* All 2022 Dates: ​​​ 4/11, 4/25.
Fees apply, registration required to www.aane.org/event/online-closed-support-group-for-parents-of-transition-age-youth-18-22-evening-1-10-22-4-25-22-700-pm-830-pm-et/  or contact Nancy Parker, 617-393-3824 x214 nancy.parker@aane.org 

Virtual Event, through August 19th, 2022, with Pathlight, Greenfield, MA. The February 16th workshop is for parents and caregivers, and will briefly discuss components of how the Whole Selves program works, and what it covers. Whole Selves is all about straightforward, empowering, and comprehensive sexuality education for people with intellectual disabilities.
* JUNE TOPICS – See below (keep scrolling).

• Social Media Clinics
  April 4, 2022 – April 8, 2022 , May 16, 2022 – May 20, 2022 
  This clinic teaches students how to be safe in the online world. Topics covered are: Public and private online, technology boundaries, staying healthy with online relationships (friendships and romantic), bullying (gaming and all social media), and dating sites (only if appropriate for the age group). Appropriate for all ages. For more information or to register for this clinic, click  https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
• Self-Advocacy Clinic  -April 11, 2022 – April 15, 2022. Students learn the meaning and importance of self-advocacy before they learn specific steps that can help them speak up for themselves in their lives.
  * Students learn to identify “What I Want”, “Who I Can Talk To”, and “What I Can Say”, in a variety of realistic scenarios.
  * Students learn that some situations call for self-advocacy and some may call for flexibility.
  * Finally, each student learns about the IEP and identifies the members of their IEP team.
  * The clinic ends with a mock IEP experience in which each student practices self-advocating at their IEP meeting.
  * Appropriate for all ages. For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
• Decision Making Clinic – April 18, 2022 – April 22, 2022. This clinic helps student learn how to make healthy and safe decisions in their lives.
  * The clinic begins by showing students that they already make decisions every day, before teaching a step-by-step process that they can use to make more difficult decisions.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
• Public and Private Clinic – April 25, 2022 – April 29, 2022. Students learn the difference between public and private places, activities, and topics and that their whole body is private.
  * Students are introduced to the anatomically accurate names of the body parts commonly referred to as the “private parts.”
  * The clinic concludes with a lesson about social media.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
• Puberty Clinic (two (2) weeks) – May 2, 2022 – May 13, 2022. Far from your average health class, our clinic is designed for students of all abilities and will foster confidence and competence in a way that is fun and comfortable.
  * Geared for children ages 10 – 16, the Puberty Clinic will cover body changes, body parts, and the differences between children and adults.
  * Add to that a healthy dose of activities fostering self-esteem and self-confidence.
  * Most importantly, your child will know that they are not alone in this process.
  * Students then move onto Body Changes in Depth (erections/ejaculation, menstruation, PMS, masturbation), Hygiene and why it is important during puberty, Social Changes, Emotional Changes, Reproduction, Sexual Orientation, and Sexual Identity. 
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click  https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
  PART II
• Setting the Tone, Part II – June 6, 2022 – June 10, 2022 (Pre-Requisite for the following Whole Selves Clinics: Fundamental Boundaries, Types of Relationships, Healthy Relationships, Friendships, Romantic Relationships/Dating, Navigating Sexual Relationships, and Boundaries and Personal Safety. Age recommendations are indicted for each clinic.) 
  * Setting the Tone, Part II introduces students to the second part of the Whole Selves curriculum.
  * Students become familiar with basics of boundaries and consent and establish group expectations.
  * Together, the group establishes a welcoming and safe environment in which students can explore topics around relationships, dating, sex, and personal safety.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/
• Fundamental Boundaries Clinic – June 13, 2022 – June 17, 2022. Students learn how to firmly set a boundary, how to get and give consent, and that they and others have the right to set boundaries for touch, their possessions, what people talk about around them, and with social media.
  * Students are introduced to the concept of “Red Flags” and what to do when they see a red flag in their relationships. * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/  
• Types of Relationships Clinic – June 20, 2022 – June 24, 2022. Students explore and categorize the types of relationships in their lives.
  * They also learn that each type of relationship comes with its own set of boundaries.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/ 
• Healthy Relationships Clinic – June 27, 2022 – July 1, 2022. Students learn the five elements of a healthy relationship: Trust, Support, Communication, Respect, and Healthy Boundaries.
  *They explore these elements in friendships, romantic relationships, and with online relationships.
  * Students also learn how to evaluate their relationships and how to address red flags.
  * Recommended for ages 14+.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/ 
• Friendships Clinic – July 11, 2022 – July 15, 2022. This clinic is all about making friends and sustaining existing friendships.
  * Students learn about boundaries in friendships, managing conflict, social dilemmas, peer pressure, and red flags.
  * The clinic ends with learning how to navigate online friendships.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/ 
• Romantic Relationships/Dating Clinic (two (2) weeks) – July 18, 2022 – July 29, 2022. In this two-part clinic, students learn the steps of dating and that attraction is usually the first step.
  * They learn about sexual orientation, red flags in romantic relationships, how to evaluate a romantic relationship, and how to deepen communication with partners.
  * Recommended for ages 16+.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/   
• Navigating Sexual Relationships Clinic (two (2) weeks) – August 1, 2022 – August 12, 2022. In this two-part clinic they review enthusiastic consent, reproductive anatomy, and masturbation.
  * They clarify what sex is, talk about sexual safety, birth control, STIs, and pregnancy.
  * They teach that communication is very important in sexual relationships and how to know if they are ready to have sex.
  * They end the unit with “Fact, Belief, Expectation” to clear up any misconceptions students might have.
  * They also help students figure out if they are ready for a sexual relationship.
  * Recommended for ages 17+.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/  
• Boundaries and Personal Safety Clinic – August 15, 2022 – August 19, 2022. In this clinic they talk about what it means to be safe in the community.
  * They define, give examples of, and talk about what to do if someone experiences physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
  * They teach students what to do if they experience abuse from a ‘trusted’ adult. We also teach that abuse can happen based on bias.
  * Recommended for ages 13+.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-ii-clinics/ 

To find out more information about this program, contact Tracy Romeo, Business Manager, Whole Selves, Hadley, MA, 413.314.3152 

The February 16th PARENT INFORMATION information session “Whole Selves” Self Esteem, Intimacy & Consent for Special Needs Young Adults, is an information/question and answer session for parents to learn about Whole Selves and our clinics and meet instructors. 

• Setting the Tone Clinic – February 28th – March 4th Session Setting the Tone, Part I (Pre-Requisite for the following Whole Selves Clinics: I Matter, Knowing Yourself, Self-Care, Emotions, Social Media, Self-Advocacy, Decision Making, Public and Private, and Puberty. Age recommendations are indicted for each clinic.)
  *Setting the Tone, Part I introduces students to the Whole Selves curriculum and provides a foundation for the clinics to come.
  * Students preview the curriculum topics, become familiar with relevant vocabulary, and establish group expectations.
  * Together, they establish a welcoming and safe environment in which students can explore the ins and outs of growing up.
  * Appropriate for all ages.
  For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/
  
• I Matter Clinic – March 7, 2022 – March 11, 2022. The lessons and activities in I Matter help students understand that their thoughts and feelings are important, which is the first step to building healthy relationships, creating strong boundaries and self–advocacy skills. 
  * Building self-esteem and self-confidence are cornerstones of this clinic. 
  * This clinic takes an honest look at bullying in all its forms and teaches strategies to deal with bullying. 
  *  Recommended for ages 10-16.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/ 
• Knowing Yourself Clinic – March 14, 2022 – March 18, 2022. This is a clinic about exploring who you are, what are your likes/dislikes, values, strengths, things that give you trouble, and your needs and how to meet them. 
  * They group does a brief introduction to self-advocacy and decision making and how they relate to knowing yourself. * Recommended for ages 10-16.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/ 
• Self-Care Clinic – March 21, 2022 – March 25, 2022. This clinic is learning to take care of your body and your mind.
  The group is taught the importance of exercise, healthy eating, and hygiene.
  * They address self-talk and how important it is for self-talk to be positive.
  * Recommended for ages 10-16.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/ 
• Emotions Clinic – March 28, 2022 – April 1, 2022. Students explore a wide range of emotions with a focus on happiness, anger, sadness, and fear/anxiety.
  * The goal is to help students recognize these emotions in themselves and others, understand their emotional triggers, and know how to deal with strong feelings.
  * Recommended for ages 10-16.
  * For more information or to register for this clinic, click https://wholeselves.org/whole-selves-part-i-clinics/ 

Watertown, Winter/Spring 2022, with Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, MA. This program goal is to put young adults on path to self discovery and professional success. 
Career Launch For Adults with Visual Impairments aged 18-29. A transition program that equips adults with visual impairments aged 18-29 with the skills they need to find a meaningful career and sustain finance.
* A training and career services program helping blind and visually impaired young adults land career-track jobs.
* The curriculum provides the hands-on training and experience necessary to build a sustainable career in professional fields focused on customer success.
* The program also includes more than a year of support from the Career Services team.
* This program starts with nine weeks of on-campus training. During this time participants work on skills like resume building, interview prep, how to communicate about their disability and what accommodations they need in the workplace.
* Participants also study business cornerstones like customer acquisition and retention, take part in simulated customer relations scenarios and visit job sites in the area.
* The idea is to make sure participants have every tool in their belt to not only land competitive employment, but also the skills needed to pursue career growth once on the job.
* Following their course work, participants spend two months at an internship with a community business partner, putting into practice the lessons learned over the preceding weeks. 
For more information visit https://www.perkins.org/career-launch/or contact Deana.Criess@perkins.org  

Worcester, MA, Spring 2022, with Thrive in Marlboro & Worcester MA. Thrive’s LGBTQIA Support Group is for all people with special needs that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual / aromantic / agender, to meet in a safe, friendly, and supportive environment.
* For ages 18-30.
* To register visit www.icanthrive.org/events/month/?tribe-bar-date=2022-02-01 or Email: info@icanthrive.org

Virtual Event, March 30th, 2022, with the Woburn, Massachusetts Special Education Parent Advisory Council. Free. Designed specifically for students who learn differently. however it is open to ALL students.
* Learn about continuing education opportunities for students with learning differences.
* Parents and students can meet virtually with representatives from Massachusetts colleges and programs that specialize in providing services and resources for students who learn differently. Colleges and Program Attending include:

• Curry College (MA)
• Dean College (MA)
• Endicott College (MA)
• Lesley University (MA)
• Merrimack College (MA)
• North Shore Community College (MA)
• Salem State University (MA)
• UMass Lowell (MA)
• Westfield State University (ME)

Programs Attending:
• Asperger/Autism Network (MA)
• Easter Seals (MA)
• MGH Aspire (MA)

For updates on additional college attending or for more information and an updated list of colleges visit the Woburn SEPAC  http://woburnsepac.org/collegefair    or contact 781-281-9811 wps.sepac@gmail.com  

Bridgewater, MA, In Person, April 19th, 2022.. 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 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.
 * 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  https://www.easterseals.com/ma/our-programs/youth-services/youth-services.html  or contact RSVP to youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855

Online March 3rd & 17th, 2022, or the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month, with the with the Lurie Center for Autism in Lexington, MA.
* This workshop provides a thorough overview and discussion about transition to adult planning.
* Transitions is specifically designed for parents or caregivers of an adolescent who has autism spectrum disorder or a related developmental disability who would like to learn about important information, such as timelines, steps/tasks, services and resources.
To register or for more information visit www.massgeneral.org/children/autism/lurie-center/ and scroll all the way down to “workshops/events” or contact 781-860-1700  

Webinar, March 14th, 2022, with the Massachusetts’ Department of Developmental Services. Free. The Transition Years: A Mini Series DDS 101 Training.
* This workshop will provide need to know information about the Department of Developmental Services as the transition from high school to life after high school approaches.
This workshop will focus on the following topics: 

• 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 visit http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=hjcuxexab&oeidk=a07ej1uil1w55e22531  or contact Becky Morrissey, DDS Southeast Learning and Development
774-384-4988, dds.southeasttraining@massmail.state.ma.us

Webinar, March 16th, 2022, with a Newton based learning disability support center. Free. “College Ready? How to know if a student has the skills to be successful in the digital age”.
* From motor skills, such as typing, to organizational executive function skills, to functional digital communication, students benefit from a quick check of where their skill lie and how ready they are to tackle the new demands of the college setting.
College Ready in the Digital Age? College Ready? How to know if a student has the skills to be successful in the digital age”
* Hear Dr. Sophie Bellenis OTD, OTR/L discuss some of the foundational digital skills that can be overlooked as we prepare students for the transition from high school to college.
* Dr. Bellenis is a licensed and registered Occupational Therapist in Massachusetts, specializing in educational occupational therapy and functional life skills development.  Dr. Bellenis has worked for the Northshore Education Consortium and the Salem Public Schools providing occupational therapy services across vastly different educational settings. She also has experience working at the Northeast ARC Spotlight Program using a drama-based method to teach social skills to children, adolescents and young adults with autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and related social cognitive challenges. Dr. Bellenis currently works as part of NESCA’s transition team and offers transition assessment, educational occupational therapy assessment, consultation and virtual executive function coaching. Se is the program manager for NESCA’s Real-life Skills Program, providing community- and home-based coaching for functional skill development.
Registration is required to https://nesca-newton.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DEULDjuaTeSyEp01xOY89g or contact Jane Hauser jhauser@nesca-newton.com 

Zoom Support Meetings, Wednesdays, through March 30th, 2022, with a Peabody-based support center.  For parents and families of individuals that usually attend a Day Program for special needs and disabilities.
Co-facilitated by Judith Doherty, Parent and Program Director at Bridgewell, and Jodi Smith, Clinical Director at Bridgewell.
2022 Dates: Every 2 weeks on Wed, until Mar 30, 2022, 7 occurrence(s)

• Jan 5, 2022 10:00 AM
• Jan 19, 2022 10:00 AM
• Feb 2, 2022 10:00 AM
• Feb 16, 2022 10:00 AM
• Mar 2, 2022 10:00 AM
• Mar 16, 2022 10:00 AM
• Mar 30, 2022 10:00 AM

To RSVP or for more information visit https://bridgewell.org/disability-services/autism-services/family-support-center/?tribe_events  and scroll to the event you are choosing or contact Shannon Kaiser, Director of Community and Family Services at skaiser@bridgewell.org or jdoherty@bridgewell.org

Virtual Conference, November 4 – 18th, 2021, with the Arc of Massachusetts. For families of teens and adults with special needs ages 13-26.
  * The Arc of Massachusetts Disability Transition Conference webinar series will demonstrate how the LifeCourse Frameworks and Tools can help you create seamless, successful transitions into the adult world for your loved ones.
 * This 2-week virtual program will begin with:

• A welcome from Leo Sarkissian, Executive Director of The Arc of Massachusetts,
• Kickoff with special guest Corey Ferguson from the Department of Developmental Disabilities in Ohio

This event offers 16 webinars reflecting the six domains of Charting the LifeCourse:

• Meaningful Day and Employment
• Safety and Security
• Community Living
• Social and Spirituality
• Healthy Living
• Advocacy and Engagement

* About the Speaker:  Corey F. Ferguson, MHA works at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities where he focuses on supporting, educating, engaging, and empowering Ohioans with developmental disabilities, and their families, in pursuing their vision for a good life. He facilitates an Ohio Community of Practice for Supporting and Empowering Families, and is a Charting the LifeCourse Ambassador. His passion for his work in Ohio, and as an Ambassador, derives from his lived experience as a father of a child with significant disabilities.
Fees apply – Scholarship available
Registration is required to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eimxcw8m20d88a0c&llr=bk8ljbdab  or contact Kerry Mahoney, The Arc of Massachusetts, 781-8916270 x109, mahoney@arcmass.org   

• November 4 – Day 1: 12:00PM Kickoff Presentation by Corey F. Ferguson, MHA
• November 8 – Day 2: 10:00AM Developing and Utilizing Self-Determination Skills
  12:00PM Future Planning for Spanish Caregivers: It’s Possible and Necessary Part 1
• November 9 – Day 3: 10:00AM DDS 101: What You Should Know About DDS As The Transition From High School To Life After High School Approaches
  * 12:00PM Voice and Choice: Important Discussions Around Legal Decision Making
• November 10 – Day 4: 10:00AM Reframing Your Role: What Parents Need To Know About Their Own Adult’s Transition
  * 12:00PM Legacy Planning: A New Way Of Thinking About Special Needs Planning
• November 12 – Day 5: 10:00AM Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission: An Overview Of Services For Students And Adults
  * 12:00PM Transition From School to Adult Life: Using the IEP to Create Success
• November 15 – Day 6: -10:00AM Pathways to Friendship
  * 12:00PM Future Planning for Spanish Caregivers: It’s Possible and Necessary Part 2
• November 16 – Day 7: 10:00AM If I Only Knew Then What I Knew Now: Talking Transitions with Self-Advocates
  * 12:00PM Supporting Young Adults with Mental Health
• November 17 – Day 8:
  * 10:00AM Individual Support Services: Living Independently Starts with Personalized Interdependence
  12:00PM Let’s Talk About the Money: Financial Planning Strategies, Tips, & Tools
• November 18 – Day 9: 10:00AM Raising Expectations for Better Futures
  * 12:00PM Thinking About Housing

Webinar October 14th, 2021, with the Tyngsborough, MA, Public Schools. Basic Rights: Transition Planning is a workshop for parents of youth in special education ages 14 – 22 transitioning out of school. The presenter will be a representative from the Federation for Children with Special Needs. The information will provide:

• why transition planning is important
• services that could be included
• who is eligible
• student and parent roles in transition planning
• role of student’s vision
• how to prepare for a transition planning meeting
• age of majority
• anticipated graduation date
• procedural due process rights for resolving disputes.

For more information visit the Federation for Children with special needs events calendar https://fcsn.org/news/#calendar   or contact Kristin LaRose klarose@fcsn.org or workshops@fcsn.org. 

Hybrid Classes – Fitchburg and Virtual, with the North Central Family Support Seven Hills Family Support Center. through November 17th, 2021. Free. The North-Central-Family-Support-Center . Learn how to manage the upkeep of a home: Budgets, cleaning, cooking, schedules, and so much more to discuss with your friends.
All 2021 dates- Thursdays, 9/16, 10/21, 12/16, 5:30-6:30 pm.
To register or for more information visit www.sevenhills.org/whats-happening/calendar?hsLang=en or more icontact: Kathy Black, 978.602.8697, kblack@sevenhills.org or Gina Bernard, 978.602.8711, gbernard1@sevenhills.org

Webinar, February 17th, 2022, with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and the Federation for Children with Special Needs. Free. Learn about Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission Pre- Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for those with special needs ages 14 and up, and for those graduating  high school or turning 22.
Pre-Employment Transition Services for Disabilities
* Learn how Pre-ETS can help you get ready for work.
Pre-ETS includes:
• Job exploration counseling
• Work readiness training
• Work-based learning experiences
• Counseling on options for post-secondary education
• Self-Advocacy

Pre-Employment Transition Services for Disabilities- About the Presenter: Rachel Reyes, MPA, is the West District Director for the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. Rachel will be joined by statewide Pre-ETS vendors to answer your questions.
Registration is required to https://fcsn-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsd–gqDouGt3vX4FQN8-dbx3YU0JMc9v7?_x_zm_rtaid=Zpm9tGy5TiqFR6AF55eygw.1643739029611.647172cc4a73d05dbe9e5926dbf2ea44&_x_zm_rhtaid=160   For more information about the educational workshops available from The Federation for Children with Special Needs, please visit fcsn.org/linkcenter/ or email: transition@fcsn.org  
Legal and Financial Workshops for Massachusetts Families with Disabilities in Transition to Adult Services are on our Financial & Legal Page. 
About the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission: The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) helps individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Living, and Disability Determination for federal benefit programs.

Marlborough & Worcester, MA, September 2021, with THRIVE of Marlborough, MA. Thrive is now hosting Wednesday, Thursday & Friday “Out ‘n About” Groups for those aged 18+ with an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis only. 
 * Wednesday Group runs 11am-3:30pm:  the Worcester Thrive staff takes individuals to the Westborough YMCA- swim, basketball, gym, track.  * Worcester Thursday schedule: 

• August 26 – Breezy Bends Picnic Grounds and Waterslides.
  $35/person – 11am-3:30pm – Swimming, picnicking, & Waterslides.
• September 2nd – Southwick Zoo
  $40/person – 10am-4pm. New England’s largest zoological experience.
• September 9th – Corn Maze at Schartner’s Farm
  $20/person – 11am-3:30pm. Find your way through this family farm’s corn maze.
• September 16th – That’s E! Pop Culture Emporium
  $15/person – 11am-3:30pm. Come for your own personal tour of New England’s pop culture emporium since 1980. Per their website, That’s E! buys, sells and trades popular culture, entertainment merchandise and
  collectibles. 
• September 23rd – Paint Party – $25/person
  Paint your masterpiece. Painting materials available at Thrive. They will also have examples of fall art to replicate on your own canvas.
• September 30th – Tower Hill Botanical Gardens
  $15/person – 11am-3:30pm. Check out the fall changes at Tower Hill. 
• Masks must be worn at Out n About’s
• Billing once a month to home
• Always bring a packed lunch

Worcester Friday Schedule

• August 20th- Live Action Escape!
  $30/person -11am-3:30pm. It is up to the group to solve the mystery and work together to solve the puzzle and escape the room before time runs out.
• August 27th -Kimball Farm
  $40/person -11am-3:30pm. The group will be playing mini-golf, water-bumper boats and checking out animal adventures.
• September 3rd – Vision Boards
  $20/person – 11am-3:30pm. Thrive is kicking off fall with vision boards. Using a collage of images, make a visual representation of your future goals. Feel free to bring some of your own cut-outs or clippings from home. They may also explore
  conversations about the future: jobs & aspirations.
• September 10th – Bowling at AMF in Auburn
  $28/person – 11am-3:30pm. Bowling, shoe rentals, 2 slices of pizza and soft drinks included
  If you have a gluten or dairy allergy, please pack a lunch to eat there.
• September 17th – Gaming Group at Thrive
  $15/person – 11am-3:30pm. Meet up with friends and game.  Enjoy the gaming systems at the Thrive office.
• September 24th – Old Sturbridge Village
  $40/person – 11am-4pm. Visiting Old Sturbridge Village will give an opportunity to see what life was like in rural New England during the 1790’s-1830’s. It is a “living museum”.
• Masks must be worn at Out n About’s
• Billing once a month to home
• Always bring a packed lunch

RSVPs are required – To register or for more information visit https://www.icanthrive.org/events/ and scroll to “Out & About”, or contact Mollie O’Leary | Family Support Coordinator, c (774) 245-2182 | icanthrive.org, Worcester Area Office
100 Grove Street, Suite 104, Worcester, MA 01605 p (774) 703-3033 Ext. 3187| f (508) 459-1203

Webinar, January 26th, 2022, with the Parent Professional Advocacy Network (PPAL) of Massachusetts.
 *  PPAL’s workshop, “Moving to Young Adult Life: Focus on Education Transition”  – PPAL workshops are meant ONLY for parents/caregivers/family members/family partners of children with behavioral health needs.
* (Peer leaders who work with children and have lived experience also welcome.)
To register or for more information visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eizj98xa4684dad0&oseq=&c=&ch=  or contact (866)815-8122, training@ppal.net 

Online, October 1st, 2021. This Virtual Job Fair is for People who are Visually Impaired,  and will be hosted by the Massachusetts’ Commission for the Blind (MCB).  The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind works to increase the percentage of individuals with a disability in the workforce.
* Their aim is to connect individuals who are looking to enter or re-enter the workforce with available opportunities and employer partners throughout the Commonwealth. Individuals will meet with employers to network and discuss open positions.
* Are you ready to hire? Are you ready to work? 
* To register or for more information visit www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-commission-for-the-blind/events and scroll down to the event. Or Email Carol.Cullins@mass.gov for more information.
* If you would like to request an ADA accommodation, please contact MCB ADA Coordinator Kamilia Drogosz at 617-279-3332 or kamilia.drogosz@mass.gov.   

Webinar, June 2nd, 2021, with the PPal of Massachusetts P-TAY Family Network Social Parents of Transition Age Youth.
* Hear about all the great work and resources that have been created to help your child who is in transition.
* Have you been wondering where to find useful tools to help your youth/young adult?
* If yes, then you may find this webinar helpful.
* Providers are welcome. 
About the Speaker: Jean Wnuk is fromthe  Transitions to Adulthood Center for Research.
To RSVP visit https://zoom.us/j/99976478858, Meeting ID: 999 7647 8858, +1 646-558-8656 or for more information contact the Parent Professional Advocacy League , Kathy or Ann at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net

Webinar, June 2nd, 2021, with the Parent Professional Advocacy League of Massachusetts. Framingham, April 20th, 2017. Geared for parents and teens (14+), Family Network Social Parents of Transition Age Youth
1st/3rd Wednesdays from 6 – 8 PM.
* This workshop will welcoming Maryann Davis, Ph.D., Transitions to Adulthood Center for Research for a discussion about the PASS Study “Peer Academic Coaching for College Students with Mental Health Condition.”
* The goal of PASS Study is to produce an empirically supported peer coach intervention, called Peer Academic Supports for Success (PASS), to help new college students with serious mental health conditions (SMHC) succeed academically. 
* Providers are also welcome to attend. 
RSVPs required to  https://zoom.us/j/99976478858 Meeting ID: 999 7647 8858 / +1 646-558-8656
or  Email Kathy and Ann at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net

Webinar, June 23rd, 2021. For individuals with disabilities and their families. Learn how the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) is partnering with the disability community to change how they create and deliver services.
 * MRC’s Office of Individual and Family Engagement in partnership with UMass Medical School’s Commonwealth Medicine is hosting a two-hour virtual forum for individuals with disabilities and their families: 
 • Learn about results from focus groups with individuals with disabilities receiving MRC services and their families
 • Learn who MRC is and what we can do for you
 • Provide feedback on projects we are taking on at MRC to enhance our services and supports.
•  They want to hear from you whether you’ve received services from MRC or not.
Registration is required to https://massrehabcommission.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oUfVYEl6TBCRxpYphdvqeQ or contact Amanda Costa, MRC Director of Individual and Family Engagement Amanda.Costa@mass.gov or call/text at: 617-645-3460. 
**Accommodations can be requested during registration**     

Webinar, May 4th, 2021 with Thrive Support & Advocacy, Marlborough, MA. Presented by Pamela Hickey, DDS Central/West Regional Self-Direction Manager.
* A discussion about expanding choices and control in your life through Self-Directed Supports.
* This is an opportunity to hear how participants and their families use DDS Self-Directed Services to design individualized services to meet their needs through Participant Direct Programs or Agency with Choice.
* Geared to participants and their families. Pre-registration is required. A Zoom meeting link will be sent prior to the workshop.
To RSVP for the Zoom link or for more information visit https://www.icanthrive.org/event/dds/?fbclid=IwAR0v06rX-E_S_EsP2tNB5qHuEhkwrE6qx0SngN7G4PT7Njx7QIhDPLcZ3OI   or contact 508-485-4227 x1115 pcarlson@icanthrive.org 

Webinar, May 12th, 2021, with the Asperger / Autism Network of Watertown, MA. Are you an adult on the spectrum? Have you ever wanted to learn how to create and follow a budget? Has your financial situation changed because of COVID-19?
* Join Creating & Following a Budget, run by PwC volunteers, will review the process of creating a budget and go over some tips and strategies on how to follow a budget. PwC will be offering an additional Financial Literacy workshop on another topic later in the Spring.
Fees apply, space is limited. Please register to www.aane.org/event/online-open-pwc-financial-literacy-creating-and-following-a-budget-a-workshop-for-adults-5-12-21-630-pm-830-pm-et/ or contact 617-393-3824 x211
kelly.urban@aane.org    

Webinar, April 13th, 2022, with the Millis, SEPAC. Basic Rights: Transition Planning (for IEP students ages 14-22) provides an overview of the transition planning process for youth with disabilities ages 14-22 on IEPs.
* The speaker will be Claire Vann from The Federation for Children with Special Needs.
* All families welcome. It is never too early to start thinking about these things and be prepared for what is coming down the pike.
* Workshop topics include:

• What is Transition and Why is it Important.
• Legal Basis for Transition Planning.
• Student Vision, Self-Determination, and Self-Advocacy.
• Student and Parent’s Roles.
• Transition Planning Form (TPF).
• Age of Majority; and Timelines.
• Timelines, Resources and more.

For more information visit  https://fcsn.org/event/basic-rights-transition-planning-20/   
For more information about all of the FCSN workshops, vcontact the Federation for Children with Special Needs (800) 331-0688 (in MA) or  info@fcsn.org

Virtual Event, April 15th, 2021, with the Marlboro / Northboro Public Schools. . For students age 13-22, family members, and professionals.
Hear from State Agencies and Local Training Programs About the Possibilities for Your Futures:
* The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services
* Advocates of Framingham
* Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
* Employment Options
* The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health
* Mass Bay Transitional Scholars
* Quinsingamond Community College
* Assabet After Dark
* Tempo
For more information visit //www.facebook.com/675637092475831/photos/a.675644812475059/4084358851603621   nspac1@gmail.com  

Webinar, March 3rd, 2021, with the Hudson, MA, SEPAC.  Basic Rights: Transition Planning is a workshop for parents of youth in special education ages 14 – 22 transitioning out of school. The presenter will be a representative from the Federation for Children with Special Needs.
The information will provide: 

• why transition planning is important,
• services that could be included,
• who is eligible
• student and parent roles in transition planning
• role of student’s vision
• how to prepare for a transition planning meeting
• age of majority
• anticipated graduation date
• procedural due process rights for resolving disputes.

Preregistering for the Zoom link is required to  https://www.facebook.com/events/818691142193903  or contact sepachudson@gmail.com.
For more information visit The Federation For Children with Special Needs workshops page https://fcsn.org/ptic/workshops/schedule  or contact (800) 331-0688  info@fcsn.org

Webinar, March 9, 2021, 10:00 a.m., with the Arc of Greater-Haverhill Newburyport.
* Are you lost in the transition maze? Join other parents & caregivers to discuss topics in transition-into adulthood planning, share resources and to connect with each other.
* Meets the second Tuesday of every month. 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. via Zoom
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 -Speakers & Topic: Jenn Laudani & Aisha Nakazibwe
* Jenn and Aisha are MRC Vocational Counselors from Merrimack Valley Office.
* Jenn and Aisha will discuss their role as Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) Vocational Counselors; and discuss:

• financial eligibility for paid services,
• Pre-ETS, rehabilitation technology,
• and any other questions about MRC

Register to https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcqf-CsrzksHdM6z9XTR43Cxju101Cp-W79 or for more information contact Andrea Morris, Director of Family Support,  Andrea.Morris@TheArcofGHN.org or (978) 373-0552 x211   

Webinar, March 18, 2021, with The Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburport. Learn about alternatives to guardianship such as Supported Decision-Making (SDM) and why it is so important.
* Hear about how SDM empowers young people to keep their rights and be respected for their decisions.
* Share your own experiences with this topic and ask questions.
About the speaker: Emily Berheide, OTR/L, M.Ed. is a Talent Discovery Specialist and Transition Consultant, helping youth discover their unique areas of talent and recognize their true potential. Emily is working with the Center for Public Representation on a grant funded project to increase awareness about Supported Decision-Making in school systems.
To register or for more information visit https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0ode-rqj8tGNXQ_ELWuAhfxSSp-rk5whVP or contact Andrea.Morris@thearcofghn.org or (978) 373-0552 x211

Webinars March 24th, 2021, with Bristol Community College /Fall River. Free. Information Evening For Students, Parents and Teachers.
* The Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative (MAICEI)  provides a fully inclusive college experience to high school students with intellectual disabilities and/or autism who are 18–21 years old and who are receiving special education services under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
* Each student who participates in the MAICEI initiative at Bristol Community College is considered a fully enrolled Bristol Community College student and will be able to audit or take for credit up to three college courses per semester that are aligned with their career goals and interests.
To register or for more information contact – 508 207-2906 or maicei@bristolcc.edu

Webinar, March 30th, 7:00 p.m., Co-hosted by Lincoln-Sudbury, Acton-Boxborough, Maynard, Concord-Carlisle, and Sudbury SEPACs, in collaboration with their respective school districts.
*  Basic Rights: Transition Planning (for IEP students ages 14-22) will be presented a representative from the Federation of Children with Special Needs.
* ALL families of Sudbury Public Schools’ students and interested community members are welcome and invited to participate.
* This workshop will provide an overview of the transition planning process for youth with disabilities ages 14-22 on IEPs.
  * Workshop topics usually include:

• What is Transition and Why is it Important; Legal Basis for Transition Planning;
• Student Vision, Self-Determination, and Self-Advocacy;
• Student and Parent’s Roles;
• Transition Planning Form (TPF);
• Age of Majority; and Timelines,
• Resources and more!

RSVPs required to  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/basic-rights-the-transition-planning-process-tickets-137337270473  or contact sudburysepac@gmail.com

Virtual Event, March 31st, 2021, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council (MASILC). Join in  on celebrating the work of Independent Living Centers across Massachusetts.
Independent Living Education Day will showcase stories of Independent Living from across Massachusetts.
 * Massachusetts has 10 Centers for Independent Living, which together serve all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth.
 * The last year has been challenging. Independent Living Centers have risen to that challenge, continuing to provide services, advocate for access and challenge disparities.
 * The Independent Living Movement is founded in the belief that people with disabilities, regardless of the form, have a common history and a shared struggle, that we are a community and a culture that will advance further banded together politically.
 * The first Center for Independent Living was founded by disability activists in California in 1972. There are now 403 Centers across the United States, providing Peer Support , Information and Referral , Individual and Systems Advocacy , Independent Living Skills Training and Transition.
 * CART, ASL and Spanish interpretation have been requested.
For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/independent-living-education-day-tickets-137489487759?fbclid=IwAR1DiwhSBBVnAX-W5aUCGg9_VZXv4YALE5XLZ7aqY0VgkDHlBdObbZ4DvE0 or contact info@masilc.org or visit http://www.masilc.org/    The Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council (MASILC) is a Governor appointed Council. Members include persons who are knowledgeable about centers for independent living and the services they provide. The Council was established by Executive Order No.373 of William F. Weld, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on September 26, 1994. The Council includes representation of individuals with a range of physical and mental disabilities from the various geographic areas within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Worcester, February 13th, 2020. Work Without Limits invites college students and recent graduates with disabilities to this Massachusetts-based network of private and public sector employers are looking to:

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

SCHEDULE:
1:30 – 3:30 pm Optional Educational Sessions
12:30 – 1:30 pm Career Fair

Participating Employers (as of January 2021)
American Tower Company, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston University, Dell, Eversource, Federal Home Bank of Boston, Massachusetts Medical Society, Middlesex Savings Bank, Raytheon, Reliant Medical Group, State Street, Tufts Health Care,  UMass Medical School.
Register is required to http://survey.alchemer.com/s3/6096547/WWLCF-2232021   /or 508-856-3533, kathy.muhr@umassmed.edu
** If you need an ASL interpreter, contact Nicole Henry at 508-856-3934 or nicole.henry@umassmed.edu

Online, February 17th, 2021, with the Parent Professional Advocacy Network (PPAL) in Massachusetts. PPal’s Transition Age Youth parent-support groups are for those wanting to support their young adult ages 14 – 26 with a variety of mental health challenges.
* Share your successes and challenges with raising a child with emotional and behavioral health need.
* Meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.
* 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.
For more information contact www.ppal.net or Lunie at parentsupportgroup@ppal.net 508-767-9725

Webinar, March 6th, 2021, 10 a.m., with the MGH Aspire Program in Lexington, MA,.
This workshop is intended for parents of young adults on the spectrum who are interested in motivating their kids to explore work options. Our discussion will focus on defining success and identifying barriers in order to make progress toward employment goals. Parents will gain better understanding of their role during this stage of life and build strategies to encourage motivation.
* Requirements: Open to new, current and past participants, ages 18+
● Fees apply, registration is required to www.massgeneral.org/children/aspire/media/  or contact 781-860-1900  mghaspire@partners.org

Virtual Event for Massachusetts Families, March 10th, 2021, 6 p.m., with Cotting School of Lexington, MA. Free and open to the public.
* This event is an evening of information sharing and discussion about the transition process.
* Guest Speaker: Kerry Mahoney, Director of Outreach and Education for the ARC of Massachusetts, will offer a talk focused on supporting individuals with disabilities and their families in developing a vision for a meaningful life.
Virtual Resource Fair:
* Connect with transition and post-22 resources in an evening of (virtual) information sharing and discussion about the transition process.
To register visit: https://forms.gle/BxxkEf3ckPzJrHqGA or contact Elizabeth Russell at erussell@cotting.org or 781-862-7323 ext. 114

Online, Thursdays, through January 2021, with Kehillah at the JCC in Springfield, MA. For teens and young adults with special needs, ages 14 – 26. Participants will work on social pragmatics and friendship skills
* Get together, whether in-person or on-line, to play games and socialize.
* * 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.springfieldjcc.org/kehillah/
or contact (413) 739-4715 or email tedwards@springfieldjcc.org Tina Edwards , Director of Kehillah.

Virtual Best Buddies, December 2020, with Kehillah JCC Springfield. For high-school aged participants, this event meets twice a month on Zoom.
* The Best Buddies Chapter at the JCC is part of their Kehillah programs for teens.
* Best Buddies is a non-profit global organization that creates opportunities for one to one friendships for people with social, intellectual or developmental disabilities.
* The Kehillah Best Buddies is now able to accept teens from all Western MA school districts. This program helps break the invisible line that too often separates those with disabilities from those without.
To register or for more information visit  www.springfieldjcc.org/kehillah/youth-programs/   or contact Tina Edwards, Director of Kehillah, tedwards@springfieldjcc.org (413)-739-4715 ext 315

Virtual Conference, October 21st, 2020, with UMass Medical School. This one-day annual conference features prominent national keynote speakers, educational sessions, exhibitors, networking opportunities and sharing of best practices on disability employment.
* For People with disabilities and Family members, Employers, Employment service providers, State agencies, Disability Owned Business Enterprises.
Keynote Speaker:
* Hosted by Work Without Limits, a network of employers, educational institutions, employment service providers, state and federal agencies, individuals with disabilities and their family members. Work Without Limits programs and services are geared to meet the needs of businesses that actively recruit people with disabilities, individuals with disabilities who are seeking jobs, and the employment providers that serve them.
To register or for more information visit https://workwithoutlimits.org/raise-the-bar-hire/ or contact michelle.nowers@umassmed.edu
2020 Workshops:

• Disability Advocacy in the Time of COVID-19 – Explore Professional Presence to Raise your Brand,Suggested Audience: Community Service Providers, State Agencies and Higher Education
• Bridge to Success: Transition to College for Students with Visual Impairments
  Understanding and Addressing the Vocational Barriers and Needs of Black Young Adults with Serious Mental Health Conditions
  Suggested Audience: Employers
  
• Inclusive Strategies for Supervisors or Peers to Engage and Support Employees with Diverse Abilities – The Challenge for Accessibility and Inclusion Amidst a Landscape of Pandemic Forces and Racial Unrest: Four Professionals > Four Perspectives. Suggested Audience: Community Service Providers, State Agencies and Higher Education
• Moving Career Readiness Training Online: Lessons Learned from COVID-19. The Key Components to a Successful Employment Model. Suggested Audience: Employers
• Inclusive Hiring Best Practices – Looking Beyond the Core Skills

Online, October 23rd, 2020, with the Autism Alliance in Framingham, MA. A new social support group that is designed to meet the needs of individuals 18+ with an Autism/Asperger profile. Hosted by The Autism Alliance / Advocates, this group offers participants a safe and supportive place to share common experiences and concerns, while receiving comfort, encouragement and advice. 
Tentative Program Schedule

• 11am – 12 noon: Activities designed to facilitate conversation while engaging in creative recreation.
• 12 noon – 12:30 pm: Lunch break 
• 12:30 pm-1:00 pm: Movie and/ or book chat.

For more information visit https://www.autismalliance.org/events/new-without-limits-social-support-program-adults-18-asperger-profile   or contact the Autism Alliances’ Adult Autism Specialist, (508) 652-9900 AutismAlliance@Advocates.org

Virtual Event, October 29th, 2020, with the Brockton Area Arc and The Massachusetts Sibling Support Network (MSSN) is hosting a get together for adult siblings of people with disabilities.
* Join The Arc of Massachusetts and Massachusetts Sibling Support Network to hear the thoughts and reflections of four adult siblings of people with disabilities.
RSVPs are required twww.facebook.com/masiblingsupport/?ref=page_internal or contact (617) 807-0558 or info@masiblingsupport.org

Webinar, December 2nd & 10th, 2020, with the Parent Professional Advocacy League in Massachusetts.  Parents of Transition Age Youth (P-TAY) welcomes Cheryl Ryan Chan, with Person Centered Planning During the
Transition Process.
* Person-centered planning is a set of approaches designed to assist an individual to plan their life and supports>
* Learn how to use this approach to support your youth or young adult.
About the Speaker: Cheryl Chan is Mom to Nicky – a young man severely impacted by autism. Cheryl devoted her self to integrating her son and family into the disability community, and involved in local 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.
* Cheryl has been trained in Person-Centered Planning..
To register or for more information and the Zoom link, contact Contact Kathy or Ann at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net 

Boston, August 15th, 2020. With support of Mass Rehab Commission, YLN promotes self-advocacy/self-awareness for teens/young adults with disabilities 16-21, plus opportunities for youth 14-26. 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 https://www.easterseals.com/ma/our-programs/youth-services/youth-services.html    or contact 
RSVP to youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855

Virtual Meeting or In Person Meeting TBA for Springfield, August 18th, 2020. Stavros Center. With support of Mass Rehab Commission, YLN promotes self-advocacy/self-awareness for teens/young adults with disabilities 16-21, plus opportunities for youth 14-26. 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 youth@eastersealsma.org or 617-226-2855

Boston – Applications for the 20/21 school year open through September 1, 2020. Teens with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD) work together to mentor younger children on the autism spectrum. TEAM (Teens Engaged as Mentors), empowers diverse children and adolescents in a mentorship model that encourages leadership, self-confidence, and positive community relationships.
* TEAM’s goal is to inspire personal growth and development within each mentor and mentee while nurturing leadership skills and self-confidence. It also encourages independence while helping youth to identify personal goals and create action plans for achieving them.
* TEAM also aspires to promote positive community engagement through ongoing partnerships with programs and agencies from all across the city.
* TEAM focuses on strengthening social awareness while promoting an appreciation and understanding of differences as strengths in each mentor and mentee. 
* Hosted by the Boston Medical Center’s Autism Program. 
* A TEAM mentor is typically an adolescent who is in high school, between the ages of 14-21. May or may not have a diagnosis of autism. 
* A TEAM mentee is typically a child between the ages of 9-13, has a diagnosis of autism, Is interested in participating in group events with same-age and older peers, and would benefit from having role models to help with developing social and relationship skills.
To learn more about TEAM visit www.bmc.org/pediatrics-autism-program/services/teens-engaged-mentors-team  or contact autismprogram@bmc.org or 617-414-3842 BOTH

Webinar, July 1st, 2020, with the Parent Professional Advocacy League of Massachusetts.
* All families welcome. Basic Rights: Transition Planning is a workshop for parents of youth in special education ages 14 – 22 on IEPs transitioning out of school. The presenter will be Attorney Nickie Cardamone, from Community Legal Aid, who will discuss Special Education Laws and answer your questions.
Workshop Topics:

• What is Transition and Why is It Important
• Legal Basis for Transition Planning
• Student Vision
• Self Determination and Self-Advocacy
• Student and Parent’s Roles
• Transition Planning Form (TPF)
• Age of Majority
• Timelines, Resources and More

Registration and Zoom information:  6:00 p-8:00 p
https://zoom.us/j/99976478858
Meeting ID: 999 7647 8858 (no password needed)
+1 646-558-8656
or for more information Email Kathy and Ann at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net

Webinar August 5th, 2020, 8:15, a.m., with Yachad of New England/ Boston. Free and all are welcome to join. Hear a Certified Financial Planner share advice and tips with Transition 101.
* Learn from experts in the field about a variety of topics related to parenting a special needs child or young adult during the pandemic and beyond.  Each week Yachad will feature a different speaker who will give a presentation over Zoom. There will be time for questions at the end.  
About the presenter: Leo Rotman is a Certified Financial Planner. He focuses on working with families to give them peace of mind about their future and in particular enjoys working with folks who have a special needs loved one. He is also the parent of a child with special needs. 
Zoom ID: https://zoom.us/j/2862141370
Meeting ID: 286 214 1370
Contact Person: Yaffa Tilles, 1.617.209.6799, Ext. 9 or tillesy@ou.org

November 5th, 2020, Massachusetts. Location or Virtual Option  – Location will be dependent on which company you are matched with for the day.
* Applications currently being accepted. There is a possibility that not everyone will be matched. However, if you are not selected you will be placed on a wait list.
* You must be at least 18 years old and your own legal guardian to participate in this event.
* This event is for all diverse individuals interested in the promotion of Employment First practices and Employment for All.  Join in on a unified celebration of Disability Mentoring and Employment opportunities for individuals with varied abilities and strengths.
* Disability Mentoring Day is a one day event, located at the company where you are matched.
* DMD is NOT a job interview or an internship.
* DMD IS a chance to experience what it would be like to work in your field of interest/study, as well as a great opportunity to network, get a sense of the culture and environment, and build a relationship with a professional.
For more updated information on participating companies, and how to apply, please visit https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5345892/DMD-Mentee-Application-2020  or contact Kathy Muhr at kathy.muhr@umassmed.edu.

Webinars July 8 & 22, 2020,, with The Paul Sherlock Center for Disabilities at Rhode Island College. Free. Learn about SSI and SDDI work incentives and how they affect other benefits. 
* These free online sessions/Public Information Sessions provide an opportunity for SSI and SSDI beneficiaries to ask questions about the topics listed below and more. Use the link above to register for one of the sessions.

• COVID-19 benefits and impact on SSI and SSDI
• Ticket to Work
• SSI and SSDI Work Incentives
• Work Incentives
• Benefits Counseling
• Impact of work on health benefits

Do you receive SSI or SSDI? Would you like to work but are concerned that working could affect your benefits? Find out more at a Work Incentives Public Information session.
* Sponsored by the DHS/Office of Rehabilitation Services, Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities and CPNRI. 
* NOTE: These are not “how to apply for benefits” sessions. These sessions are for individuals already receiving SSI or SSDI benefits or those supporting them.
To register or for more information visit www.ric.edu/sherlockcenter/wi.html   or contact Elaine Sollecito: esollecito@ric.edu 401-456-2764 

Next Step of Cambridge, MA, Summer 2020 will offer virtual programs. Rare Genetic Disorders -July 9-11, HIV+ Disorders –  July – 23-25, 2020. (Applications were due May 1st, 2020)
* The Next Step Summer Campference serves young people, ages 16-24, living with a rare genetic disorder, sickle cell disease or a rare chronic condition.
* Applications are due May 1st, however the program fills quickly so it’s encouraged to get both applications in as soon as possible.
All Dates. Cancer Diagnosis – June 25-27, Rare Genetic Disorders -July 9-11, HIV+ Disorders –  July – 23-25, 2020.
To register or for more information visit www.nextstepnet.org/campference/ or contact (617) 864-2921 or Quita Christison at quita@nextstepnet.org  

Webinar, November 4th, 2020, with the Parent Professional Advocacy League in Massachusetts.  Free. PPal’s Parents of Transition Age Youth (P-TAY) will host
Erica Torres and associates from the Center for Living and Working in Worcester.
* Join in and learn from CLW what services are available, for youth/young adults including independent living, services and housing workshops.
* About PPAL – If you’re feeling isolated and don’t know where to turn, if you’re a parent of a child/youth/young adult with emotional and behavioral healthcare needs, join their groups to meet other parents, caregivers and PPAL staff to network and learn during this uncertain time.
* These are confidential support groups.
To RSVP and the Zoom link, contact Contact Kathy or Ann at Parentsupportgroup@ppal.net 

Webinar, August 5th, 2020, with the Parent Professional Advocacy Network of Massachusetts.  PPAL’s Transition Age Youth parent-support groups are for those wanting to support their young adult ages 14 – 26 with a variety of mental health challenges. Share your successes and challenges with raising a child with emotional and behavioral health need.
* MEETING TOPIC: Helping Youth on the Path to Employment (HYPE). Speaker Dylan St. Germain, from Transitions ACR/iSPARC, will explain more about HYPE, which is a free 12 week course for young adults (ages 18-30) that provides flexible, solution focused, career-oriented services based on needs and preferences, including but not limited to:
  ●  Exploring opportunities
  ●  Getting a job
  ●  Enrolling in and completing college or vocational-technical programs
  ●  Securing academic funding
* Open to Parents/Caregivers, Young Adults and Providers
Registration and Zoom info 6:00p-8:00p
https://zoom.us/j/99976478858  Meeting ID: 999 7647 8858
(no password needed)  +1 646-558-8656