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.
    • Transition Services For Students With Disabilities | The Arc
    • (English and Spanish)
  • CalABLE and Special Needs Trusts: Resources and information about savings plans for people with disabilities.
    • Special Needs Trust In California for Adults with Disabilities
    • (English and Spanish)
  • 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
    • First 5 California will promote, support, and optimize early childhood development for California’s children prenatal through age 5 and their families.
    • First 5 California: Early Childhood Resources for California’s Children
    • (English and Spanish) 
  • 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
  • Statewide network of family resource centers who provide information, training, and social resources to families of people with disabilities.
  • Family Resource Centers Network Website
• 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
  • Resources to help parents understand developmental milestones and early start for babies and young children.
  • 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

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

• Webinar on Planning for Community Reengagement in the Next Phase of Disability Services
  • This webinar demonstrates how organizations providing transportation, residential, and day services are preparing for the next phase of services.
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Video series on Community Reengagement of People with Disabilities Post Pandemic
• Webinar on Reshaping Our Services and Our Future
  • This webinar shows how alternative services have increased accessibility and choice for many people.
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar

• Department of Developmental Services information on “Alternative Services”
  • Alternative Services Model information for individuals, families, and providers, including frequently asked questions, symposiums, briefings, and reports.
  • Alternative Nonresidential Services – CA Department of Developmental Services
  • (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
• 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
  • A compilation of virtual tours of museums and galleries around the world. 
  • Time Out Virtual Museums
  • (English) 
• 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
  • Online events and exhibits offered through the Los Angeles Public Library.
  • Los Angeles Public Library Events Calendar

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

• National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
  • Helps people with disabilities and older adults find out about their community’s available transportation services and connect individuals with transportation operators and mobility managers who can assist in finding transportation.
  • National Aging and Disability Transportation Center Website
• The National Center for Mobility Management
  • Assists individuals and communities through dissemination of promising practices, a monthly e-newsletter, and customized technical assistance.
  • National Center for Mobility Management Website
• Easterseals Project Action Consulting
  • Training and technical assistance center that spreads the word about accessible transportation in all communities by sharing tips and potential solutions. (Language Options Available)
  • How to Find and Use Accessible Transportation in Your Community Link

Employment

• The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
  • Promotes policies and coordinates with employers and all levels of government to increase workplace success for people with disabilities. (English Only)
  • The Office of Disability Employment Policy Official Website
• The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Employment Services
  • Assists Californians with disabilities to obtain and retain employment and maximize their ability to live independently. (Website Accessibility Options Available – English Only)
  • Department of Rehabilitation Employment Services

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
  • Find information on access and diversity, best practices, curricular resources, lectures and workshops, and more.
  • Office of Developmental Primary Care – Training
  • (English & Spanish) 

• 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
  • Wellness toolkit for Direct Support Professionals (DSP) who work directly with people who have developmental disabilities.
  • Direct Support Professionals Wellness Toolkit
• National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
  • • Professional development opportunities for direct support professionals along with the resulting recognition and acknowledgement.
    • National Association of Direct Support Professionals

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
  • Clinical tools for clinicians, self-advocates and caregivers. It includes resource materials, tracking tools, forms to help organize care and more.
  • Office of Developmental Primary Care – Clinical
  • (English & Spanish) 
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid: Getting the Care You Need – A Guide for People with Disabilities
  • A Guide for People with Disabilities
  • GETTING THE CARE YOU NEED
  • (English Only)
• 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)  

• Prior to, getting and after the vaccine questions:
  • Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination in Long-Term Care Facilities
• Handling vaccine symptoms:
  • Workplace and Business Resources
  • Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Tool for Long-Term Care Facilities
• Promoting vaccine confidence:
  • Building Confidence in COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination
• After vaccination:
  • Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination in Long-Term Care Facilities
  • Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People

Other COVID-19 Resources

• State of California: COVID-19 Response Toolkit
  • One-stop-shop for materials available for download and sharing in support of outreach to communities and Californians in need of information about COVID-19 and the vaccine.
  • COVID-19 Response Toolkit: Resources for Partners
• California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC): COVID-19 Educational Toolkits
  • Hub for information and resources about COVID-19 and vaccines for advocates, organizers and others in the disability community.
  • COVID-19 Disability Community Advocacy and Information Toolkit
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on COVID-19 Vaccine for People with Disabilities

Mental Health Resources

• Webinar on Strengthening Mental Health Through Empathy and Understanding
  • This webinar discusses the importance of strengthening mental health and wellbeing for people with disabilities and offers tools for support.
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Mental Health Awareness
• 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

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
  • Learn more about finding and using new tools to support progress toward individual goals while addressing the demands of “now” through alternative and remote services for people with developmental disabilities.
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Improving Access to Remote Disability Services Using Technology
• 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

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

Webinars

• Webinar on Unlocking Technology as a Key to Connection and Alternative Services
  • Learn about tools and resources for individualizing and accessing technology during the pandemic for individuals with developmental disabilities.
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Webinar
  • Disability Thrive Initiative Video Series on Improving Access to Remote Disability Services Using Technology

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
  • Supports organizations that accept and give out donations of assistive technology (AT) and durable medical equipment (DME) to people in their communities for free or low-cost.
  • 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
  • The Simon Technology Center (STC) at Pacer is dedicated to making the benefits of technology more accessible to children and adults with disabilities at home or school.
  • Pacer Center – Champion for Children with Disabilities
• 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
  • Laws and information on assistive technology and medical equipment.
  • Disability Rights California
• Assistive Technology Recommendations from PathPoint
  • Software and hardware recommendations to supporting people in fully accessing their environment and online communities.
  • Assistive Technology Recommendations

Tailored to Thrive: Flexible Supports Through Tailored Day Services
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English slides
• Spanish slides

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:

• State Policy Updates About Tailored Day Services from DDS
• Tailored Day Services in Action at Becoming Independent
• Regional Center Roles in Tailored Day Services

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

• English Recording  
• Grabación en español
• English slides 
• Spanish slides
• Employment Resources and Strategies for Results

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:

• TAP at Meristem, an Employment Approach for Young Adults with Autism
• How To Turn Your Internship Into A Meaningful Career
• Employment Strategies For People With High Support Needs

Supporting Healthy Aging for Californians with Disabilities
Wednesday, August 10, 2022
3:00 – 4:00 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English slides
• Spanish slides

Highlights from this webinar:

• Bridging the Gap Between Aging and Disability Services with the California Department of Aging
• Improving Quality of Life for Aging Individuals with Disabilities
• The Importance of Life Planning for Seniors with Disabilities and Families
• Accessing Healthy Aging Services Beyond Regional Centers

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
Wednesday, July 13, 2022
3:00 – 4:00 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English slides
• Diapositivas en español

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:

• A Quick Guide to Launch a Social Recreation Program through Regional Center 
• Positive Impact of Camping Services on Social Skills and Friendships
• Panelists Sharing Personal Insights and Reasons to Join

Helping California Address the Direct Support Professional Workforce Crisis
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
3:00 – 4:00 PM

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español 

Highlights from this webinar:

• The Importance of Direct Support Professionals and the Benefits of Data Collection
• Understanding the Importance of Taking the Workforce Survey Annually for Service Providers
• How Data is Key to Systemic Change in Direct Support Professional Workforce Crisis
• Tips for Completing the Direct Support Professional (DSP) Workforce Survey

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

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

3:00 – 4:15 pm

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Spanish Recording
• Spanish Slides

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Spanish Recording
• Spanish Slides

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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. 

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

Wednesday, June 23, 2021
3:00 – 4:15 pm

• English Recording
• English Slides
• June 25 Lunch & Learn Slides – Inclusive Services by Options For All
• June 25 Lunch & Learn Video by Options For All
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

• Bryan Neider, CEO, AbilityPath
• Jen Smith, Strategy Manager, Monitor Institute by Deloitte

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• PathPoint Assistive Technology Guide
• PathPoint Safe Operations Guide
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• A corresponding Spanish webinar was held on April 15, 2021. See Spanish recording and Spanish slides. (Un seminario web en español correspondiente se llevo acabo el 15 de abril de 2021. Vea la grabación en español y las diapositivas en español.)

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

Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 3:00 – 4:15 pm

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Grabación en español
• Diapositivas en español

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

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

• English Recording
• English Slides
• Spanish Slides
• Spanish Recording

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 3:00 – 4:15 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English Slides
• Diapositivas en español
• English Template Service Contact Form
• English Virtual Engagement Resources

Wednesday, January 27, 2021 3:00 – 4:15 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English Slides
• Diapositivas en español

Wednesday, December 16, 2020 3:00 PM – 4:15 PM

• English Recording
• Grabación en español
• English Slides
• Plain Language Slides
• Diapositivas en español
• 简体中文幻灯片
• Tagalog slides