PARENT SUPPORT SERVICES Parenting is the most challenging job that some adults undertake. With such high demands, it’s not uncommon to feel frustrated. Parents can lose control when they are feeling isolated, involved in difficult relationships, experiencing financial stress or lacking information on child development and child-rearing techniques. However, becoming an informed
ADVOCACY Laws and regulations provide guidance and clarification about what is and is not acceptable when providing supports to individuals with disabilities. A number of Federal laws address accessibility and protect the rights of persons with disabilities. These laws cover access to a wide range of facilities and services, including housing, transportation,
TRANSITION YEARS (14-18) The transition years are pivotal for planning your life. During this time, you can design a plan for academic and non-academic courses, other learning experiences, employment and community living. The goals of transition planning are to help you understand your disability and to determine your future. One way transition
TRANSPORTATION Transportation is helpful in maintaining employment, education, healthcare and community life. Transportation services will allow you to live independently within the community. If you do not drive, there are generally two options: public transit and paratransit. Public transit includes fixed route public transportation by bus, subway and light rail. Paratransit includes
HOUSING A home of one’s own, either rented or owned, is the cornerstone of independence for any individual. Many people with disabilities face tremendous difficulties in getting and keeping adequate housing. They face obstacles like discrimination, inaccessible construction and unaffordable housing. There are many government supports for home ownership and rental housing
LEGAL RESOURCES There are a multitude of legal resources in each state, which sets its own guidelines. You should check with your state agencies for guidance. Legal Resources to Consider: Health Insurance Medicaid health benefits are available for individuals who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Medicaid provides government-funded health insurance for
VOCATIONAL TRAINING & LIFE SKILLS Work-based experiences are your key to having a successful school-to-work transition. Career exploration includes the following: job shadowing, internships, unpaid volunteer experiences and paid employment. There can be a job for everyone who wants one - regardless of the nature of disability, need for workplace accommodation or economic
IEP - Individualized Education Program Once you reach age 16, a transition Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting must be held by the IEP team to discuss future services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 04) requires that in the first IEP that will be in effect when the student turns 16, his/her annual IEP
