Disability Thrive Banner - Together, we can thrive.

WELCOME!

Established in 2020, the Disability Thrive Initiative helps navigate changes in services and supports for Californians with developmental disabilities. In collaboration with people with disabilities, their families, and professionals who serve them, the Initiative facilitates education and explores new challenges and opportunities. The Initiative offers free webinars, live conversations, and an online resource library for the entire disability community.

Together, we can thrive!

The Disability Thrive Initiative is presented by California Disability Services Association and Easterseals of Southern California, in collaboration with the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. The Initiative is generously funded by the California Department of Developmental Services and San Diego Regional Center.

RESOURCE LIBRARY

Advocacy and Self-Determination

Coming soon!

Accessibility

Accessibility trainings and resources to create materials that are easy to use and access for everyone.
For plain language resources see “Communication and Language” category

  • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Improving Access to Remote Disability Services Using Technology
  • Lunch and Learn on the Americans with Disabilities Act
  • Board Resource Center
    • Board Resource Center provides tools that assist individuals and organizations to support people they serve to live quality self-determined lives and contribute to their communities.
    • Advocacy Resources
    • (English Only)
  • DISABILITY-INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE GUIDELINES
    • These guidelines are aimed at removing barriers and engaging persons with disabilities in all spheres of work and life in order to achieve sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion.
    • Disability Inclusive Language Guidelines
    • (English Only)
  • CA Department of Rehabilitation Accessibility resources
    • Web Accessibility Toolkit: DOR Web Accessibility Toolkit
      • The Toolkit is designed to help determine if your website meets state accessibility requirements and to provide resources to help make your website and website content accessible.
    • Document Accessibility CA DOR Document Accessibility
      • The Department of Rehabilitation’s Disability Access Services Unit has guides to create accessible documents, and provide easy to follow instructions.
Alternative Services

Coming soon!

Communication and Language

Tools for supporting and enhancing communication.

  • Deaf Access Program

    • The Deaf Access Program (DAP) was created to ensure that California’s public programs are adapted to meet the communication needs of deaf and hard of hearing children, adults, and families so they may receive the public benefits and services to which they are entitled and achieve economic independence to fully participate in mainstream society.

  • California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) – Assistive Technology
    • Assistive technology (AT) is anything that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities and independence of persons with disabilities, aging populations, and people with non-communicable diseases. Find DOR AT Services:
    • CA Department of Rehabilitation
    • (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
  • Planeta fácil 
    • Website based in Spain that offers plain language information on various global topics such as COVID 19, natural resources, news, books and much more.
    • Planeta Fácil Home
    • (Español) 
  • Simple English Wikipedia
    • An English language version of Wikipedia that is written at a basic level of English for adults with learning disability and non-native English speakers. 
    • Simple English Wikipedia Home
    • (English) 
  • Center For Plain Language 
    • Center for Plain Language provides resources to help you and your colleagues create better content that the target audience can read, understand, and confidently act on through plain language.
    • Plain Language Learning
    • (English Only)
  • USCIS Plain Language
    • USCIS is dedicated to improving plain language communication with the public, and have created several writing tips videos to help improve the clarity of communications.
    • USCIS Plain Language | USCIS
  • Webinar on Removing Barriers to Disability Services through Assistive Technology

    • A webinar on how new assistive technology can create more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate online and in the community. Learn whether assistive technology might be right for you, your loved one, or someone you serve.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Free Speech-Generating Device
  • PathPoint Assistive Technology Guide
    • Guide for the process of using Person-Centered tools to help plan and prepare for incorporating technology into the daily lives of people with disabilities.
    • PathPoint Assistive Technology Guide
  • The Arc: Tech Recommender
    • “Tech Recommender” finds tech products for people with disabilities based on diagnosis, abilities, needs, and lifestyle.
    • The Arc Tech Recommender
  • Plain Language Association International: What is Plain Language?
  • Plain English Training Video 2021
    • Plain Language Training Video by Disability Rights California (DRC).
    • YouTube Video
  • gov: Plain Language Basics: Online Workshop
  • Documentos Accesibles Para Todos
  • Manual de Lenguaje Claro
Resources

Coming soon!

Disability Rights and Advocacy

Resources for empowering people with disabilities to advocate for their rights and what is important to them.

  • The Arc of California
    • The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
    • Who We Are | Advocates for People with IDD Since 1950
    • (English & Spanish)
  • People First of California
    • People First of California trains, informs, and supports all people with developmental disabilities to learn to; speak up for themselves, know our rights and responsibilities, make decisions and solve problems, and stand together in unity, to take our rightful place in the world.
    • People First of California
    • (English only)
  • Self Advocacy and Technical Assistance Center (SARTAC) 
    • SARTAC’s mission is to strengthen the self-advocacy movement by supporting self advocacy organizations to grow in diversity and leadership. They do this by providing resources for organizing and supporting self advocacy groups. 
    • SARTAC – Home
    • (Language options available) 
  • Supported Life Institute
    • Supported Life Institute offers educational and training opportunities to assist individuals and organizations in the work of improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
    • Welcome to the Supported Life Institute
    • (English Only)
  • Office of Developmental Primary Care (ODPC)
    • Find a range of materials including documents written by self-advocates, and information on navigating systems, supported healthcare decision-making, and successful community living.
    • Office of Developmental Primary Care – Advocacy
    • (English, Spanish, Chinese)
  • Disability Organizing Network (DOnetwork)
    • The Disability Organizing Network works to grow the disability community to be recognized amongst the decision makers in California, through community organizing, voter education, Olmstead, housing and transportation, and schools. 
    • DOnetwork Home
    • (English) 
  • Law Help CA
    • A directory of legitimate and pre-screened organizations that offer free or low-cost legal advice and representation. 
    • Law Help CA Home
    • (Language Options Available) 
  • The People’s Movement for Human Rights Learning (PDHRE)
    • A site dedicated to human rights learning for social and economic transformation. 
    • PDHRE Home
    • (English, Español) 
  • Green Mountain Self-Advocates
    • Green Mountain Self-Advocates (GMSA) is for people with developmental disabilities to educate peers to take control over their own lives, make decisions, solve problems, and speak for themselves.
    • Green Mountain Self-Advocates Website
  • Rooted in Rights
    • Rooted in Rights produces media to amplify perspectives from the disability community, including videos, blog posts, and social media campaigns that center people with disabilities.
    • Rooted in Rights Website
  • Webinar on Empowering People with Disabilities to Make Informed Life Decisions
  • Webinar on Advocacy: Informed and Empowered
    • In this webinar, hear from active advocates for the disability community, constantly striving for change, inclusion and accessibility.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Advocacy
  • TASK
    • Southern California-based special education support for people with disabilities from birth to age 26 and their families.
    • TASK Website
  • Down Syndrome Association Los Angeles (DSALA)
    • Peer support, social programming, information, and other resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families in the Los Angeles area.
    • DSALA Website
  • Disabled World
    • Health and disability news source with information from worldwide government and educational sources, in addition to original articles and fact sheets covering seniors and disability news.
    • Disabled World Website
  • Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)
    • Legal advocacy, training, education, public policy and legislative development for people with disabilities.
    • DREDF Home
    • (English, Spanish)
  • Disability Rights California (DRC)
    • Advocacy for Californians with disabilities, including public policy, research reports, and a helpline for legal questions.
    • DRC Programs
Community Programming Ideas

Coming soon!

Diversity and Inclusion

Methods for promoting diversity and inclusion in the disability community.

Unconscious Bias

Disability and LGBTQ+ Education

  • Webinar on Bridging the gap for the LGBTQ+ and disability communities
    • LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities often keep silent about their sexuality or identity, due to fear, lack of information, support and/or resources. This webinar addresses tools for empowering people with IDD.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Respect Ability
  • SAGE
  • Transgender Law Center
    • Resources in the areas of identity documents, immigration, health, employment, prisons/policing, housing, youth, and public accommodations.
    • Transgender Law Center
  • OutRight
    • OutRight ensures human rights for LGBTIQ people everywhere through three strategic program areas: Advocacy, Movement Resourcing, and Research.
    • OutRight Website
  • The Trevor Project
  • PFLAG
  • Trans Lifeline

Diversity Disparity

Disability Information and Support

Coming soon!

Person-Centered Services

Trainings, techniques, and toolkits to enhance person-centered practices in individual life planning and organizational culture.

  • National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems
    • Provides monthly webinars open to the public and topic-specific learning collaboratives to promote broad-based learning and sharing of best practices. Their resources are offered in plain language for more accessibility. 
    • NCAPPS Home
  • Webinar on Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule (HCBS)
  • The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices (TLCPCP)
    • Training materials, best practices, and virtual and in-person events for sharing and learning about person-centered planning for people with disabilities, their families, and their services.
    • TLCPCP Website
  • Helen Sanderson Associates
  • Inclusion Press: Resources for Inclusion
    • “PATH,” “Maps,” and “Circles of Friends” tools to assist individuals, families and their support networks with person-centered planning.
    • Inclusion Website
  • The Arc: Future Planning
    • “Build Your Plan” tool is creating a guide for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability to plan how to live the life they want as independently as possible.
    • The Arc Future Planning Website
  • Council for Quality and Leadership (CQL)
    • CQL offers training, accreditation, and certification in person-centered planning for those who support people with intellectual, developmental, and psychiatric disabilities.
    • CQL Website
  • Every Moment Has Potential
    • Online learning for direct support professionals in “Person Centered Active Support:” an approach that enables everyone, no matter their level of disability, to make choices and participate in meaningful activities and social relationships.
    • Every Moment Has Potential Website
  • Easterseals Southern California: Person-Centered Services
  • California Department of Developmental Services (DDS): Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Training & Information
    • Recorded trainings aimed to help individuals with disabilities and those who support them better understand and implement lasting person-centered practices.
    • DDS: HCBS Training & Information
  • Tri-Counties Regional Center: Living Well In My Community
    • Printable PDF guide to help people with disabilities and service providers better understand Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and person-centered practices.
    • Living Well In My Community Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN): The HCBS Settings Rule and You
  • Toolkit for understanding the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Settings Rule and how it affects people with disabilities.
Family and Children Support

Coming soon!

Self-Determination Program

Understanding the Self-Determination Program and the flexibility it offers individuals, families, and service providers.

  • Webinar on Understanding the Self-Determination Program (SDP)
  • California Department of Developmental Services (DDS): Self-Determination Program (SDP)
    • This site is designed to allow individuals interested in the program, participants already in the program and their related support system access to resources to assist in getting enrolled and learning about the SDP. If you are interested in participating in the SDP, reach out to your regional center for more information on how to get started.
    • DDS: Self-Determination Program (SDP)
  • Office of the Self-Determination Program (SDP) Ombudsperson
    • The Ombudsperson assists regional center consumers and Self-Determination participants and their families to participate in the program.
    • Office of the SDP Ombudsperson
  • Local Self-Determination Advisory Committees
    • Self-Determination Advisory Committees (SDAC) give individuals and families a voice in the development and implementation of the Self-Determination Program at each regional center.
    • Local Self-Determination Advisory Committees
  • California Self-Determination Program Forum
    • Facebook group forum hosted by the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to share best practices, ask questions and provide answers about the Self-Determination Program.
    • California Self-Determination Program Forum
  • Programa de Autodeterminación 
    • This video presented by Congreso Familiar explains how the self-determination program allows participants of the Regional Center and their families increased liberty, control, and responsibility in choosing services and supports to complete their IPP goals. 
    • Video De Autodeterminación
    • (Español) 
Person Centered Services

Coming soon!

Children and Families

Connecting individuals and families to support services and resources.

  • California Department of Social Services
    • The California Department of Social Services serves, aids, and protects needy and vulnerable children and adults in ways that strengthen and preserve families, encourage personal responsibility, and foster independence.
    • Home | California Dept. of Social Services
    • (Language options available)
  • The Arc of California
    • The Arc of California: Transitioning out of school can often be a time of anxiety for students with disabilities and their families, but it doesn’t have to be.
    • CalABLE and Special Needs Trusts: Resources and information about savings plans for people with disabilities.
    • Early Start – CA Early Intervention Program for infants and toddlers
      • The Early Start program is California’s early intervention program for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Early Start services are available statewide and are provided in a coordinated, family-centered system.
      • Early Start – CA Department of Developmental Services
      • (English and Spanish)
    • First 5 California
    • Congreso Familiar
      • Congreso Familiar is a group dedicated to promote education and leadership in Latin American families who have children or family members with disabilities. 
      • Congreso Familiar Página Oficial
      • (Español)
    • Parents Helping Parents (PHP) 
      • Parents Helping Parents a trusted source of information for helping parents, caregivers, and children with special needs offering information and direction on resources and referrals specific for your loved one. 
      • PHP Home
      • (English, Español, Tiếng Việt) 
  • Family Resource Centers Network of California
  • Central Directory of Early Intervention Resources
    • Helps parents, family members, service providers, and members of the public find resources for infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities or delays.
    • Early Start Central Directory
  • Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Resources for Families, Parents & Caregivers
  • Family, Adult and Child Therapies (FACT)
    • Affordable mental health care treatment with a range of services and supports.
    • FACT Website
Regional Centers

Coming soon!

Community and Hybrid Services

Programming ideas for customizing or individualized services in the community, in-person and remotely.

  • Department of Developmental Services information on “Alternative Services”
  • Institute on Aging (IOA) 
    • The institute of aging offers a toll free friendship line for older adults and people with disabilities in order to help keep them engaged in their community. This friendship Line also doubles as a warm line and offers outreach to eligible callers. 
    • IOA Friendship Line
    • (English) 
  • Time Out – Virtual Museums
  • San Francisco Public Library – Virtual 
    • A virtual library for any resident of California! Have books, exhibits, books clubs, and more at your fingertips!
    • SF Virtual Public Library
    • (English, Español, Chinese)
  • Los Angeles Public Library

Home and Community Based Services

  • Webinar on Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule (HCBS)
    • This webinar shows how service providers can adapt disability services and build on alternative services to meet all HCBS regulations. Hear stories about the benefits of this program.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar

Transportation Services

Employment

  • The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
  • The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Employment Services
Communication and Language

Coming soon!

Disability Services Management

Resources to support service providers and direct support professionals.

  • ANCOR- DSP Toolkit
    • Whether you’re someone searching for a rewarding career and are eager to learn more about being a Direct Support Professional (DSP), or you represent a community provider supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this Toolkit has been designed with your needs and challenges in mind.
    • DSP Toolkit
    • (English Only)
  • The National Association of QIDPs (NAQ)
    • NAQ is a place for disability professionals to Learn, connect and share. 
    • NAQ Home
    • (English) 
  • UC San Francisco, Office of Developmental Primary Care – Training
  • Webinar on Change Management Strategies for Disability Services to THRIVE
    • Times of uncertainty about the future can inspire innovation for an organization. Disability services have faced many changes since the start of pandemic. Change is hard for any organization, but especially difficult during a public health crisis. Using the key elements of change management, this webinar will give service providers the tools to redefine the future of their services.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Change Management Strategies
  • Department of Developmental Services: Direct Support Professionals Wellness Toolkit
  • National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
Technology use

Coming soon!

Health and Wellbeing

Supporting mental health, physical health, and overall wellbeing.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Resources

  • UC San Francisco, Office of Developmental Primary Care
  • Centers for Medicare and Medicaid: Getting the Care You Need – A Guide for People with Disabilities
  • Congreso Familiar – YouTube Page
    • Youtube page dedicated to promoting a healthier lifestyle by educating people with disabilities about various medical and day to day activities, including emotional resilience, Covid-19 vaccine, depression, self-care, and caregiver’s physical mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
    • Congreso Familiar Página de Youtube
    • (Español)
  • Each Mind Matters / SanaMente:
    • Millions of individuals and thousands of organizations working to advance mental health. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
    • ENGLISH: EachMind MATTERS
    • SPANISH: Sana Mente
  • Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 
    • COVID-19 Materials for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Care providers. This resource offers social stories, interactive social stories, and videos regarding COVID-19 prevention and vaccines as well as toolkits and guidance for service providers. 
    • CDC I/DD – COVID-19
    • (English, Spanish) 
  • California Health Advocates 
    • Offers the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) which provides free and objective information and counseling about Medicare. HICAP provides services to all counties in California. 
    • HICAP – Main
    • (Language Options Available) 
  • Mental Health Association San Francisco (MHASF)
    • MHASF offers a variety of mental health services including The Warm Line. This is a peer-run operation for anyone in California seeking mental health and emotional support for people before they reach “the boiling point” with the hope that immediate support will prevent crisis later. 
    • MHASF Home
    • MHASF Warm Line
    • (English, Spanish, based on availability) 
  • Prepare For Your Care
    • PREPARE is a step-by-step program with video stories that help you have a voice in your medical care, talk with your doctors, and shows you how to fill out an advance directive form to put your wishes in writing. 
    • PREPARE – Home
    • (English, Español)  

Other COVID-19 Resources

Mental Health Resources

  • Webinar on Strengthening Mental Health Through Empathy and Understanding
  • Project Connect
    • Telehealth support line for individuals with disabilities, their families, direct support professionals, and others who support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
    • Project Connect Website
  • CalHope
    • Wherever you are, whenever you need to talk with someone, CalHOPE is here. Connect with CalHOPE by chat or phone.
    • Live Chat – (833) 317-HOPE (4673)
    • CalHope Website
  • 211
    • 211 connects you to expert, caring help. Every call is confidential.
    • 211 Website
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline
    • Free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals and support to people living with a mental health condition, their family members and caregivers, mental health providers and the public.
    • NAMI Helpline
  • Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Wellness Toolkit
    • Information and tools related to health and safety for self-advocates, direct support professionals, and vendors or providers.
    • DDS Resources
  • Mental Health America
    • Mental health education and outreach materials, free online screening tests, peer support, and crisis resources.
    • Mental Health America
    • Teléfono: 703.684.7722
    • Toll Free: 800.969.6642
Technology Access

Coming soon!

Remote and Virtual Services

Innovative ideas and examples for enhancing remote and virtual services.

The Arc – Virtual Program Library

  • The Arc’s Virtual Program Library, is a free hub full of on-demand activities that can be done from home by people with disabilities, their families, and service providers.
  • Virtual Program Library™ (thearc.org)
  • Online Museums
    • List of 12 World Class museums you can visit online. 
    • Online Museums
    • (Accessibility Mode) 
  • English as a Second Language Games (ESL) 
    • This is a free website for people to learn English online. It is primarily aimed at ESL students, but all may benefit from it. 
    • ESL Games – Main
    • (English) 
  • Khan Academy
    • Khan academy offers practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalized learning dashboard that empower learners to study at their own pace in and outside of the classroom. 
    • Khan Academy Home
    • (English)
  • Disability Arts International 
    • Disability Arts International aims to promote the work of disabled artists, disabled-led companies, and inclusive arts organisations. It also functions as a regular newsletter on public policy. 
    • Disability Arts International – Home
    • (English) 
  • Wide Open School 
    • Wide Open School helps families and educators find trusted resources to enrich and support learning. Every day students can access free, high-quality learning activities across subjects, all in one place. More than 80 partners and supporters have come together to meet the change in learning needs of students, teachers, and families due to the coronavirus pandemic.
    • Wide Open School | Activities for kids learning from home.
    • (LANGUAGE OPTIONS)
  • Interactive Activity Board – Campbell Center
    • The pandemic required those providing services and supports to people with disabilities to get creative with their resources. The Campbell Center, a disability services organization in the Los Angeles area, used Google Drive and Zoom to develop their own interactive platform. Their Interactive Activity Board allows support staff to engage clients with disabilities in remote learning and social activities. These activities are available for FREE! You can incorporate them into your remote services, or even just to socialize with a loved one remotely.
    • The Campbell Center presentation on the Interactive Activity Board
    • Presentation slides
    • Game Instructions and Documents
  • Webinar on Reshaping Our Services and Our Future
    • At the beginning of the pandemic, disability services changed overnight putting technology at the forefront. It became the new way of connecting, accessing work, classes, day programs and even medical appointments. This webinar highlights the lessons learned and benefits of virtual, remote services.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Webinar on Meeting Individual Needs Through Adaptable Alternative Services
  • The Arc of San Francisco HUB
    • A digital resource for learning, connecting and accessing information and instructional classes created for direct support professionals and people with developmental disabilities.
    • The HUB
  • Disabilities R Us
    • Online community created by and for people with developmental disabilities, allowing people to connect and make friends from all over the world.
    • Disabilities R Us Main Page
  • Santiago Canyon College Online Classes
    • Free online classes offered to support students with developmental disabilities in reaching their academic, professional, and personal goals. They offer individual courses and certificate options 100% tuition free for California residents.
    • Santiago Canyon College Current Courses
  • Open Culture
    • Free online courses from universities throughout the world with degree and certificate programs accessible to all students.
    • Open Culture
Virtual Service Platforms

Coming soon!

Technology Use and Access

Tools and resources for using technology to deliver or access remote or virtual services.

Webinars

Online Learning Platforms

  • Zoom – Getting Started
    • Guide for getting started with your new Zoom account, including scheduling your first meeting, downloading the Zoom client, and updating your Zoom profile.
    • Getting Started Guide on Zoom Website
  • The Arc
    • Using technology is a vital part of participating in the community in today’s plugged-in world. Technology is integrated with many aspects of daily life, including transportation, employment, recreation, and social interaction.
    • Technology and People With Disabilities
    • (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
  • Gaptain
    • We work to close the digital gap between generations and promote the culture of cyber security which is necessary in this new digital age. 
    • 18 Herramientas Digitales
    • (SPANISH ONLY)
  • Free Software
    • NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA) Screen Reader
    • Free, open source, globally accessible screen reader for the blind and vision impared.
    • NVDA Screen Reader Download
  • TPGi Colour Contrast Analyser
    • Free color contrast checker that allows you to easily determine the contrast ratio of two colors and optimize text and visual elements for individuals with vision disabilities.
    • Colour Contrast Analyser (CCA)
  • Common Sense
    • Common Sense is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century.
    • Common Sense Media: Age-Based Media Reviews for Families
    • (LANGUAGE OPTIONS)  

Lending Library

  • Ability Tools
    • Program for free short-term loans of assistive devices and gadgets throughout California.
    • Device Lending and Demo Centers https://abilitytools.org/services/device-lending-library.php
  • California Assistive Technology Reuse Coalition

Low Cost Internet & Phone Services

  • California LifeLine
    • The California LifeLine is a state program that provides discounted home and cell phone services to eligible households.
    • California LifeLine
  • Augsburg University: Free or Low Cost Assistive Technology for Everyone
    • Tools that may help you complete tasks more quickly, easily, or independently, broken down into sub-categories such as Reading, Writing, or Note Taking; all apps and programs are free or cost less than $25.
    • Free or Low Cost Assistive Technology for Everyone

Assistive Technology

  • Webinar on Removing Barriers to Disability Services through Assistive Technology
    • Assistive technology creates more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate online and in the community. Learn all about the uses of assistive technology in this webinar.
    • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Pacer Center
  • California Phones 
    • California Phones from the California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) provides free specialized phones and accessories for your mobile phone to all qualified Californians. These devices make it easier to hear, dial, and call.
    • California Phones – Home
    • (Language Options available) 
  • TASK Tech Center
    • TASK’s TECH Center is a place where children with disabilities and their parents; adults with disabilities; and professionals can learn about assistive technology (AT) through hands-on access to computer hardware, specialized applications, and adaptive equipment.
    • TECH CENTER – TASK (taskca.org)
  • Disability Rights California
  • Assistive Technology Recommendations from PathPoint

PREVIOUS WEBINARS

A Vision for a Thriving Direct Support Professional Workforce

A Vision for a Thriving Direct Support Professional Workforce
Wednesday, November 16, 2022

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Direct support professionals (DSPs) are the staff serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families every day. Nationwide, disability service providers have struggled with the recruitment and retention of this critical workforce. California Department of Developmental Services is investing in multiple approaches to address this issue. The next step is a training stipend opportunity for DSPs to develop skills while improving quality for those served. DDS will share the state’s current vision for disability services workforce stability in this final Disability Thrive Initiative webinar, which will include:

  • A detailed overview of the workforce stability investments
  • Information on other planned workforce efforts, including a DSP internship program
  • Reflections on the Disability Thrive Initiative 2022 Training Series

Highlights from this webinar:

Tailored to Thrive: Flexible Supports Through Tailored Day Services

Tailored to Thrive: Flexible Supports Through Tailored Day Services
Wednesday, October 5, 2022

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

The disability community got used to the flexibility and personalization of alternative services during the pandemic. Tailored Day Services (TDS) is another option for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to get individualized support for pursuing their goals. Through customized services and plans, TDS offers a unique pathway for community participation. Join our webinar to learn more about TDS from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and others who provide support to Californians with disabilities, including:

  • Recent policy changes to TDS options
  • How to access TDS through regional centers and service providers
  • Experience serving diverse communities using TDS

Highlights from this webinar:

 

Expanding the Vision for Employment Services

Expanding the Vision for Employment Services
Wednesday, September 14, 2022
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Employment is changing quickly. For many, everything from the job search process to the work environment feels different than before the pandemic. Now is the time for new thinking in employment services for Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has been redoubling efforts to support a wide variety of employment programs and improve pathways to employment. In this webinar, DDS discusses employment policy updates and we learn directly from community organizations about:

  • Growing paid internships into employment opportunities
  • Employment strategies for people with high support needs
  • Innovative partnerships between employers and service providers

Highlights from this webinar:

Supporting Healthy Aging for Californians with Disabilities

Supporting Healthy Aging for Californians with Disabilities
Wednesday, August 10, 2022

3:00 – 4:00 PM

Highlights from this webinar:

Everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy a long life in communities where they can thrive! However, many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have a harder time accessing their communities and services they need to stay healthy as they age. Programs meant to help older adults aren’t always designed for people with IDD, and IDD services aren’t always fully prepared for the unique needs of the aging individuals they serve. The good news is that the California Department of Aging (CDA) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS), as well as community organizations around the state, are working to change that. Join our webinar to learn more about:

  • State strategies and programs to support aging people with IDD
  • How service providers are integrating people with IDD into aging programs
  • Resources and partnerships supporting older adults in their communities
Building Lifelong Skills and Relationships Through Social Rec & Camp Services

Building Lifelong Skills and Relationships Through Social Rec & Camp Services
Wednesday, July 13, 2022
3:00 – 4:00 PM

Many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities felt lonely or had mental health concerns during the pandemic. Now there is a new way to get support for connecting with others and building relationships! The state has restored funding for social recreation and camp (“social rec”) services through regional centers. The disability community has been busy learning how to use this funding to support fun, friendships, adventure, and social skills that will last a lifetime. Join our webinar to explore:

  • The benefit of social recreation for people with disabilities
  • Real-life examples of social rec programs designed by the people using them
  • How service providers can work with regional centers to start social rec programs

Highlights from this webinar:

Helping California Address the Direct Support Professional Workforce Crisis

Helping California Address the Direct Support Professional Workforce Crisis
Wednesday, June 8, 2022

3:00 – 4:00 PM

Highlights from this webinar:

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the backbone of community services and supports for Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, DSP staffing shortages threaten the independence and well-being of those relying on services.  National data shows a turnover rate of more than 45% and more than half of new DSPs leaving their positions within a year. The California Department of Developmental Services launched the DSP Workforce Survey to collect data needed to address this crisis. Learn more in our webinar and the following Lunch and Learn session about:

  • The survey process, provider participation incentives, and how to access technical assistance
  • A California provider’s experience with the pilot survey and its organizational value
  • Lessons learned and advocacy impact of this survey data in another state
Alternative Services & Beyond: Resources for the Disability Community to THRIVE

Alternative Services & Beyond: Resources for the Disability Community to THRIVE

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

3:00 – 4:15 pm

Alternative services were developed to safely meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities during the pandemic. Many found that they enjoyed the flexibility of these new remote, virtual, and customized services. In the coming months, while alternative services remain an option for individuals and their families, hybrid and traditional in-person programs will return. Learn how to access the many resources and tools available through the Disability Thrive Initiative to make navigating the next phase of disability services easier, including:

  • A Resource Library to support disability services across the lifespan
  • The impact of service flexibility and choices for people with disabilities
  • A vision for making services even more person-centered
Alternative Services & Beyond: Self-Determination Program

Alternative Services & Beyond: Self-Determination Program

Wednesday, November 10, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

The Self-Determination Program (SDP) was expanded statewide as of July 1. Those enrolled in SDP choose their preferred services and supports, which can be delivered remotely, in-person or in the community based on the individual’s needs. Providers may find the individualization and flexibility of alternative services to be a useful model for offering SDP options. SDP services have different funding and billing processes from standard regional center services. This webinar will give service providers a better understanding of SDP, including:

 

  • Key differences between Self-Determination, alternative, and traditional services
  • How to modify your service delivery model to integrate SDP
  • What to consider when developing SDP services
Alternative Services & Beyond: Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule

Alternative Services & Beyond: Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule

Wednesday, October 13, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

Services are always evolving to better meet the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Long before the pandemic, the federal government established the Home and Community Based Services Settings Rule (HCBS) aiming to make all disability services more person-centered. Like alternative services, HCBS emphasizes individualization, flexibility, and choice. California is still working on applying HCBS to regional centers and service providers, and alternative services provide a glimpse into new opportunities.

Learn more about HCBS and what it means for the disability community, including:

  • How to build on alternative services to achieve the goals of HCBS
  • Ways that services are adapting and changing for HCBS
  • Resources about HCBS for individuals served and service providers
Advocacy: From Informed to Empowered

Advocacy: From Informed to Empowered

Wednesday, September 8, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

 

The Pandemic set off the alternative services model to increase flexibility, choice, and control for people with disabilities over their supports and services. The disability community has had even more reasons, and opportunities, to get involved in advocacy at every system level starting with their personal service needs.

 

Have you heard the phrase, “nothing about us without us?” Within the disability rights movement this is more than just a saying, it is a call for action. We ALL have rights, and people with disabilities must have a seat at every table where the decisions affecting their lives are made. We invite you to join us and learn from advocates who are creating change both in their own lives and across our state.

 

Join us to hear valuable information about your rights and how to speak for yourself.

 

  • Why education about disability rights is important 
  • Why your voice MATTERS  
  • How to gain confidence and advocate for yourself if your services are not meeting your needs
  • How advocates can actively create systems change
The Changing Role of the Workforce Supporting People with Disabilities

Wednesday, August 11, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

The pandemic offered an unprecedented opportunity to innovate and develop person-centered alternative services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Like everything else, the role of the Direct Support Professional (DSP) continues to adapt to the individual needs of those served.

Our FREE webinar will discuss these important changes to workforce supporting people with disabilities, including:

  • Shifting from “providing care” to “supporting independence and community engagement”
  • Developing the workforce through Competency-Based Education rather than just “training”
  • Creating a culture that supports staff recruitment and retention
Reshaping Our Services and Our Future

Wednesday, July 28, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

COVID-19 has changed our lives, requiring us to creatively adapt to new ways of thinking about services. The disability community overcame many challenges. Almost overnight, technology became the essential new way of connecting. Now it is time to make a fresh start with all that we have learned. The discoveries we have made offer an even brighter future for person-centered programming.  Let us build on what we have gained and keep all of the voices that emerged during this challenging time strong and THRIVING! 

  • Learn how alternative services have increased accessibility and choice for many participants.
  • Experience a fresh and creative approach to remote and in-person learning 
  • Hear personal stories of how alternative services have nurtured person-centered values and supports. 
Removing Barriers to Disability Services through Assistive Technology

Wednesday, July 14, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

While alternative services have offered new ways of delivering and receiving individualized services, it can also present new communication challenges for some. Fortunately, new assistive technology can create more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate online and in the community. Assistive technology may be a device, equipment, or even software that removes barriers to certain activities, enhances learning, or improves communication, hearing, or mobility. Join our webinar to learn whether assistive technology might be right for you, your loved one, or someone you serve and get tools for:

  • Empowering individuals with disabilities to choose the assistive technology to fit their needs
  • Identifying individual communication barriers and using adaptive technology to improve remote learning
  • Evaluating how technology can help individuals achieve their personal goals
  • Training and supporting someone with their assistive technology
Change Management Strategies for Disability Services to THRIVE

Wednesday, June 9, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

Times of uncertainty about the future can inspire innovation for an organization. Disability services have faced many changes since the start of pandemic. Change is hard for any organization, but especially difficult during a public health crisis. How will your organization redefine “normal” in the future and prepare to address the unknown factors? Using the key elements of change management, this webinar will give service providers the tools to:

  • Begin planning for potential future scenarios
  • Manage expectations and resistance to change
  • Facilitate change with direct support staff
  • Engage clients, families, and other stakeholders in planning processes
  • Maximize opportunities for innovation

Presenters

Strengthening Mental Health Through Empathy and Understanding

Wednesday, May 26, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

Changes to COVID-19 restrictions are happening in communities across the state. Californians with developmental disabilities may soon be able to safely participate in more in-person programs. To meet individual needs, organizations who provide disability services can continue to offer remote or alternative services while reengaging site and community programs. Join our FREE webinar to learn how organizations providing transportation, residential, and day services are preparing for the next phase, including:

  • Flexibility for changing service and support needs
  • Safety changes to transportation services
  • Combined site, community, and remote services
Planning for Community Reengagement in the Next Phase of Disability Services

Wednesday, May 12, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

Changes to COVID-19 restrictions are happening in communities across the state. Californians with developmental disabilities may soon be able to safely participate in more in-person programs. To meet individual needs, organizations who provide disability services can continue to offer remote or alternative services while reengaging site and community programs. Join our FREE webinar to learn how organizations providing transportation, residential, and day services are preparing for the next phase, including:

  • Flexibility for changing service and support needs
  • Safety changes to transportation services
  • Combined site, community, and remote services
Understanding Unconscious Bias & Embracing Cultural Diversity
The COVID-19 Vaccine and What It Means for the Disability Community

Wednesday, April 14, 2021, 3:00 – 4:15 pm

As more people across the state receive immunization, communities will slowly be able to return to normal. Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, but information about the vaccine itself might be confusing or raise concerns. Whether you have a disability, have a family member with a disability, or provide services to someone with a disability, you need the facts. In this webinar, we heard directly from doctors about:

  • What happens in your body when you get immunization and possible side effects
  • How the vaccines were developed so quickly in this pandemic
  • Who makes sure the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
Gain COVID-19 Vaccine Information and Support Strategies
Empowering People with Disabilities to Make Informed Life Decisions

Wednesday, March 10, 2021, 3:00 – 4:15 pm

Thriving during a pandemic is all about balancing risk and priorities. As health and safety measures continue to change, Californians with developmental disabilities have decisions to make about their healthcare and the supports they need to live their best lives. Join the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals for a training on the Informed Decision-Making process to learn:

  • Why having choice is important for people with disabilities, even with risk involved
  • The vital role of direct support professionals and family caregivers in supporting choice
THRIVE Through Person-Centered Planning During the Pandemic

Wednesday, February 24, 2021 3:00 – 4:15 PM

Meeting Individual Needs through Adaptable Alternative Services
Unlocking Technology as a Key to Connection and Alternative Services
Disability Thrive Initiative Launch

SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

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NEED ASSISTANCE?

For Individuals and Caregivers:

Contact your regional center.

For Service Providers and Staff:

Contact your regional center.

For appeals, complaints or general questions about disability services:

Contact the Department of Developmental Services.

PARTNERS:
Presented by

California Disability Services Association Logo.
Easterseals Southern California

In collaboration with

The State Council on Developmental Disabilities

Funded by

San Diego Regional Center
California Department of Developmental Services