The Arc of Illinois

Understanding Autism
2024-01-17 12:00 - 13:15 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Location
Virtual Workshop: Zoom

Zoom Meeting
https://uic.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlcuippjwiEtWmppj07_G1Bg7FNHQEtGgQ

Cost
Free

An overview for parents/caregivers, educators, and other professionals that addresses the core characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
All workshops are for families/caregivers, educators and other professionals unless otherwise noted. Credits are available for Illinois State Board of Education, Early Intervention, and Social Workers unless otherwise noted. In order to receive credit, you must be registered and signed into the workshop under your name. Closed captioning is provided for all workshops.

Contact
Nora Stillwell

norajs@uic.edu

Seminario Web en Español: La Comision de Igualdad de Oportunidades de Empleo (EEOC)
2024-01-22 17:30 - 18:30 | Webinar
La presentación proporcionaría una breve descripción general de la EEOC y las leyes federales de EEO y se centraría principalmente en la discapacidad y la discriminación de los cuidadores en el lugar de trabajo.
Presentador: Jose Romo
El Señor José Romo ha trabajado para el gobierno de los Estados Unidos en varios cargos durante los últimos cuarenta años. Ha recibido una amplia formación en mediación y es mediador de la EEOC de tiempo completo. El ha trabajado en la EEOC durante veinticinco años y anteriormente se desempeñó como investigador. Además, el Sr. Romo se retiró del Cuerpo de Marines de los Estados Unidos y fue Oficial Correccional de la Oficina Federal de Prisiones durante siete años y medio antes de unirse a la EEOC. El ha vivido toda su vida en Chicago. Está muy orgulloso de haber nacido en Jalisco, México y haber emigrado a Chicago cuando tenía 3 años.
Inscríbase con este enlace:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_px_JuN-wRH-rNuNCNu-b_Q
Luego de la inscripción, recibirá un correo electrónico de confirmación con información para unirse al seminario web.

QIDP Conference
2024-01-23 09:00 - 17:00
Join us for the virtual QIDP Leadership Conference over Zoom webinar. There will be more information to come in the next week about our speakers.
A few of our speakers include “Dignity of Risk” with CQL, “Explore Short Term Stabilization” with Kim Shontz and Amie Burke from ICPN (Illinois Crisis and Prevention Network), and “Effective Strategies for LGBTQIA+ Self-Advocates” with Lydia Dolch from Open the Lid
https://www.thearcofil.org/qidp-leadership-conference-2024/

Mid-Year Family Early Childhood Executive Functioning Check-In
2024-01-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom
STARNET IS HALFWAY INTO THE SCHOOL YEAR TIME FOR AN EXECUTIVE FUNCTION CHECK-IN!
WHAT IS WORKING? WHAT IS NOT WORKING? WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU HAVE? NEED SOME MORE STRATEGIES? JOIN US!

Ligas Family Advocate Program - Children's Support Waiver
2024-01-24 12:00 - 13:00, 2024-02-21 12:00 - 13:00
Children’s Support Waiver
Children/Young Adults ages 3 to 22 can be in the Children’s Support Waiver. Have you received an invitation letter to apply for the Children Support Waiver?
Do you have questions? We have answers!!!
Registration is required.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B7-jaBkzTkysuiQFARFT5g
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Questions?
Contact the Ligas Family Advocate Program
708-331-7370

More Than Down Syndrome Workshop
2024-01-27 09:30 - 11:00 | Virtual
Topic: Is it Sensory or Behavior?
Guest Speaker: Katie Frank (PhD, OTR/L is an Occupational therapist at the Advocate Medical Group Adult Down Syndrome Center in Park Ridge, IL)
Free seminar for parents/family/caregivers of a person (of any age) with a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome PLUS autism spectrum disorder.

The More than Down Syndrome Workshop will be held virtually on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 9:30am to 11:00am CST. This workshop is intended for families and caregivers of individuals with a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorder.

Registration required. Please RSVP by January 26
https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001un8Mgy_BDijpxOhJJHJ8K92qaL9uEGXm6kJ0As9etLfUyjTytB5hUxwcH0mK-lxceVIf7POqftytvgpzUEiNfMumHOnWCFvnfH1sAX_FR5DBC5LtciNrxMEVTitYuSWrNES7_ke2QFc4SpsdBDcgQDGAEEJBHTVJ1veccmsdLGc=&c=jicwhDda7Zl2foGwU4ZBu4BHLmk8mfqpo5K0dnpI4c9O66ta2OGjkw==&ch=Uub0wg-bFrKw0EMMPw8miUEBgCAy-ykGd7AyokPVi1FSOcnHwZfC3g==

Special Education Rights Webinar: The Behavior Intervention Plan
2024-01-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Special Education Rights Webinar:
The Behavior Intervention Plan
January 27, 2024
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Struggling with frequent school calls about your child’s behavior? Find solutions in our training session focusing on Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIP). Unpack the components of a BIP, understanding its pivotal role in behavior management. Explore the purpose behind these plans and learn actionable steps to secure one for your child if deemed necessary. Empower yourself with insights to address behavioral concerns collaboratively with educators. This training equips parents with the tools to navigate challenging situations, ensuring a supportive approach to your child’s unique needs. Join us to transform those concerning calls into a proactive journey toward positive behavioral outcomes.
This training will discuss:

the components of the Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP),
the purpose of the BIP,
and steps to acquire one for your child if appropriate.

Illinois Assistive Technology Program: Introduction to Resources and Services
2024-01-29 12:00 - 13:00 | Family Matters PTIC, 1901 S. 4th Street, Suite 209, Effingham, IL, 62401
Learn about the incredible IATP programs, resources, devices, and support!
Registration Required:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rB6vOjLnS9WD6MUHUUkvtA
FAMILY MATTERS
PARENT TRAINING &
INFORMATION CENTER

Ligas Family Advocate Program - Know Your Options
2024-02-01 12:00 - 13:00
Join us to learn about options available following a PUNS selection or Early Notification of an upcoming PUNS selection. We will discuss the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver, support services, residential options, and key preparatory steps. We will review both Home-Based and CILA options and discuss how families have utilized funding to support their loved ones in building a full life in the community.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g8LAsO-dQQ-blXvNGrvpVQ
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Questions? Contact the Ligas Family Advocate Program 708-331-7370

Play for All:
2024-02-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Chicago Children’s Museum, United States
When: February 3, 2024 from 10 am – 12 pm
Where: Chicago Children’s Museum
Who: The first 500 children and families with disabilities who register will receive free admission. All Play for All attendees will also receive a 10% discount on Navy Pier parking.

Calling ALL champions to Chicago Children’s Museum! At this event with Dare2tri, visitors will discover the endless possibilities for athletes with disabilities during an exclusive hour of play before the museum opens to the public at 11 am.

Participate in event activities, including roller sled hockey, handcycling, wheelchair racing, bocce, Judo, group exercises, and a See & Touch Prosthetics display. All of our inclusive, multisensory museum exhibits and programs will also be available during Play for All.

Procedural Safeguards: Protections Under IDEA Training
2024-02-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Procedural Safeguards:
Protections Under IDEA Training
February 3, 2024
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

If your child is receiving special education, then Notice of Procedural Safeguards For Parents/Guardians of Students of With Disabilities is one of the most important documents you will receive this year because it spells out your rights and responsibilities in the special education system. This training focuses on the components of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards For Parents/Guardians of Students of With Disabilities. These components will include: Prior Written Notice Consents Dispute Resolution Options.

Educational Surrogate Parent Training
2024-02-05 09:00 | Virtual
Educational Surrogate Parent Training

Family Matters is seeking volunteers in all counties of Illinois to act as Educational Surrogate Parents (ESP). An ESP is someone who helps to advocate for the appropriate
educational services for youth who receive special education services and are in the care of the State of Illinois.

Call Family Matters to Register
866-436-7842 or complete the online registration

Portfolios for Transition Age Students Webinar
2024-02-06 12:00 | Webinar
Join FMPTIC Educational Support Coach, Karrie Potter, when she presents Portfolios for Transition Age Students on February 6th at 12:00pm!
Register by clicking the link below!
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NPPYvfaHSLqljuaQlfWzVg

Overview of the History of Special Education Rights
2024-02-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
12noon – 1pm Central Time

Overview of the History of Special Education Rights
Speaker: Kristina Rios, Ph.D.

In this presentation, we will delve into the historical evolution of support for families and individuals with disabilities, particularly in the context of special education. We’ll explore a time when there was no federal special education law and the pivotal legal cases of Parc and Mills, which set the stage for the Education for all Handicapped Act, the very first special education law, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Click here to register

Laremont School's Special Needs Resource Fair
2024-02-08 09:00 - 15:00 | Laremont High School, 17934 Gages Lake Road, Gages Lake, IL, 60030, United States
The purpose of this fair, which is FREE to the public to attend, is to provide
families, allies, and individuals living with
disabilities the opportunity to connect with local agencies, organizations,
resources, and the community.

LEARN ABOUT CAMPS, ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY, ADULT
DAY PROGRAMS, SUPPORT GROUPS, AND MORE!!!

Questions? Want to be a vendor? Reach out to Andre Probst at aprobst@sedol.us.

Paid Leave Q & A DHS and ACES$
2024-02-08 12:00 - 13:15
You might be wondering how the Paid Leave for All Workers Act will impact your Home Base monthly budget if you individually hire your own personal support worker. No worries, we have answers for you. “Paid leave will not count against the customer’s monthly budget.
Join The Arc of Illinois Family Support and The Ligas Family Advocate Program for a Q and A session with DDD and ACES$ on the Paid Leave Act and the importance of having a back-up worker!

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nR1U7JScQIK2RDZpUi1s4A#/registration

Navigating the Transition Plan: Special Education Rights Webinar
2024-02-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Embarking on the journey of transitioning your child to adulthood within the Illinois special education system? Navigate this process confidently with our webinar, concentrating on the academic aspect of the transition. Gain insights into defining comprehensive transition plans, unraveling the components involved, and understanding the significance of transition services. Delve into practical tips designed for parents, equipping you to prepare your child effectively for the challenges and opportunities of adulthood. Join us for an informative session that empowers you with the knowledge needed to ensure a smooth and successful transition for your child in the Illinois special education landscape.

The Eight Components of an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
2024-02-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
12noon – 1pm Central Time

The Eight Components of an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Speaker: Kristina Rios, Ph.D.
This presentation will comprehensively explore the eight essential components that make up an Individualized Education Program (IEP). We will delve into the key elements that contribute to a well-rounded and tailored educational program for students with disabilities.

Click here to register

Sponsors:
University of IL Institute on Disability & Human Development (IDHD) / Illinois LEND / The Autism Program of IL (TAP)

Funding is provided in whole or in part by The Autism Program of Illinois and the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS).

Please share with self-advocates, allies and colleagues.
—
Learning and Advocacy Opportunities Email Listserv
Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance (The Alliance)
P.O. Box 403
Glen Carbon, Illinois 62034
info@selfadvocacyalliance.org
www.selfadvocacyalliance.org
In partnership with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. This project was supported, in part by grant numbers CFDA 93.630, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.
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To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to AllianceLearningandAdvocacyOpportunities+unsubscribe@selfadvocacyalliance.org.

Illinois Guardianship & Advocacy Commission: Special Education Program & Services
2024-02-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
The Illinois Guardianship & Advocacy Commission will be presenting the webinar, Special Education Program & Services on February 13th.
Register by clicking the link below:
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JNqRoo8-RxGyIUjQkHg9NQ

ILS & F2F Webinar Series: Guardianship & Other Legal Decision Making Tools
2024-02-14 12:00 - 13:00
Presentation description:
An overview of the available decision-making legal tools for adults with disabilities who are not able to make major life decisions for themselves. Participants will learn about adult guardianship, powers of attorney for health, supported decision making, and how to decide which options may be helpful. Participants will also learn how to navigate the court process for adult guardianship.
Presenter: Sarah Hess, Senior Staff Attorney, Legal Council for Health Justice

Sarah Hess is a staff attorney at Legal Council for Health Justice. She provides legal aid to mitigate the causes and consequences of trauma, toxic stress, and the social determinants of health through the Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) model. Sarah has designed and integrated youth-focused MLPs into a social work department, a community health worker program, and an FQHC school-based health center. She addresses health-harming legal needs for young people and their families via direct services and impact litigation. Sarah was a Skadden Fellow at Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights. Aside from direct services, Sarah provides training on trauma-sensitive practices for lawyers and other helping professions, including the 2017 Illinois Legal Aid Advocates Conference, Legal Aid Society, the Illinois Courts, ICJIA, Equip for Equality’s Disability Rights Consortium, and CLE-approved courses at the Chicago Bar Association.
You can register with this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1YVloNmsSxeLA4TnEyAreQ
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Programa de Abogacía Ligas - Conoce Tus Opciones LFA
2024-02-14 12:00 - 13:00
¿Recibió recientemente una carta de notificación anticipada o una carta de selección PUNS?
Únase a nosotros para conocer sus opciones bajo la exención de Medicaid basada en el hogar y la comunidad para adultos con discapacidades del desarrollo en Illinois.
Discutiremos las opciones de servicio y soporte, exploraremos el rol
de su ISC, revise los pasos clave que debe seguir para prepararse para los apoyos y hable sobre inquietudes y barreras comunes.
Es necesario registrarse.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k1KUCdX4Qe-VxcuXXZEKqw
Una vez registrado, recibira un correo con el enlance para entrar al taller en línea.

Preguntas?
Programa de Abogacía Ligas
815-464-1832 x1033

Planning for the Future Webinar Series
2024-02-15 09:00 - 13:00
Registration is open for the Planning for the Future seminar!
February 15, 2024 | 9am – 1:15pm
This virtual webinar is the first of a series and focuses on children (birth to 13 years) with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
www.thearcofil.org/planning-for-the-future-2/

DSCC Programs and Resources for Families Webinar
2024-02-20 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
The University of Chicago, Division of Specialized Care for Children will be presenting the webinar DSCC Programs and Resources for Families on February 20th.
Register by clicking the link below!
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_K28JFkOVR1STXDGldO0jZ

Tips and Tools for Homes and Schools
2024-02-21 12:00 - 13:15 | Zoom
Classroom & home strategies that address academic, social, leisure goals of a child with autism or developmental delays. Content focus on early education. Workshop provided in English.
February 21, 2024
12:00 PM – 1:15 PM America/Chicago

Contact
Nora Stillwell
norajs@uic.edu

Zoom Meeting
https://uic.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEpcuivpzwiHdfOfUVxdQKUtamKFgwZsIDb

Sibling Self Care Workshop
2024-02-25 19:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
Join us and S.I.B.S. member Aubrey Thornton! This 1-hour presentation will review what self-care is, why it is necessary for our everyday lives, and how we can implement strategies to take care of ourselves. Participants will complete a self-assessment and be able identify areas of improvement for their self care. The presenter will share ways to help participants practically implement self-care in their lives. This session will not be recorded.
Aubrey Thornton is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a sibling. She received her MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago and has years of experience working with individuals with disabilities across the lifespan and their families. She currently works at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) on a research project through the Department of Pediatrics and Disability and Human Development. Aubrey is currently a LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities) trainee at UIC.

STRESS BUSTERS CLUB
2024-02-27 18:30 - 2024-04-02 19:45
STRESS BUSTERS CLUB
Tuesdays, February 27 – April 2, 2024 | 6:30-7:45pm
Abe and Ida Cooper Center 6639 N. Kedzie Avenue, Chicago
Stress Busters Club is a group for adults with disabilities to talk about stress and anxiety, learn new coping strategies, and try them out together.
To register contact:
Jess Jankowski 773.765.3102 JessJankowski@JCFS.org

Empowerment through Education: Free Suicide Prevention Training
2024-02-28 08:00 - 17:00 | Webinar
Register by March 1

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) recognizes the critical importance of equipping our educators and school personnel to address the sensitive and pressing issue of suicide prevention. Suicide is a leading cause of death for youth between the ages of 12 and 19, so educators are uniquely positioned to identify warning signs and provide vital support.

ISBE is partnering with the Illinois Department of Public Health to offer free suicide prevention training courses tailored to empower and educate our educators. We invite you participate in this crucial training course.
Question, Persuade, Refer Training – 1 credit hour

This training is available for all school staff to help them recognize the warning signs of suicide and learn more about preventing it. The registration deadline is March 1, 2024, with the option to complete the training during the 2024 calendar year.

An in-depth training course targeted at school counselors, social workers and other school personnel is also available. See the Free Suicide Prevention Training for Illinois School Staff flyer for more details.

We invite you to take a proactive stance in preventing tragedies and fostering a supportive environment for those in need. Thank you for your dedication and unwavering support in making our communities a safer and more nurturing place for all.

Questions? Contact klee64@bsd.uchicago.edu if you have questions related to registration. For all other questions, contact DPH.Safety@illinois.gov.

PUNS—The Basics
2024-02-28 14:00 - 15:00
Wednesday, February 28 | 2-3pm CST | Zoom
The PUNS list, Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services, is the database that the Department of Human Services (DHS) uses to understand how many individuals in Illinois want or need Developmental Disability Waiver services.
Join guest speaker Ruth Aguilar, Ligas Family Advocate from The Arc of Illinois, for an overview of PUNS. Learn more about qualifications, requirements to enroll, prioritization, the benefits of being on the PUNS list, and steps to help in the process. Q&A will be available. This presentation will be helpful to people with disabilities and their families,
as well as professionals.
Register Here
To register, click on the link: http://www.jcfs.org/register/puns You will receive a Zoom link via email the day prior to the session.
This event is free and open to the public. Continuing education credits are available for QIDP’s. Sessions may be recorded.

For help with registration and accommodations contact:
Kathryn Dougherty
773.765.3158
KathrynDougherty@JCFS.org

Six Principles of IDEA: ﻿Special Education Rights Webinar
2024-03-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Webinar
Six Principles of IDEA: Special Education Rights Webinar is designed to empower you with knowledge about the vital aspects of special education rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
As parents, we understand that navigating the world of special education can be both challenging and rewarding. The Six Principles of IDEA are the cornerstone of your child’s educational journey, and understanding them is essential to ensure your child receives the best possible education tailored to their unique needs.
During this webinar, you will gain insights into:

1. Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE): Discover your child’s right to a quality education without financial burden.
2. Individualized Education Program (IEP): Learn how to actively participate in creating a customized education plan for your child.
3. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):Understand the importance of your child’s inclusion in the general education setting when appropriate.
4. Parent and Student Participation: Find out how you can be a strong advocate for your child’s educational journey.
5. Procedural Safeguards: Learn about the safeguards in place to protect your child’s rights.

Together, we can ensure that your child receives the education they are entitled. We look forward to seeing you and embarking on this empowering journey together.
