Transition Lunch & Learn sessions have proven to be a popular program for The Arc of Northern Virginia, and will continue be held twice a month in 2022. The first session of the month will remain the “open round-table” style discussion, giving you the chance to ask your questions and learn from the answers to other’s questions.
The second session of the month will be a Transition Lunch and Learn with an “Expert”. Each Lunch and Learn with an Expert will explore a topic of particular interest to families with young adults in transition age and are planning for the future. Presenters will provide a short presentation and the rest of the time will be discussion so bring all your questions to get the answers. Upcoming topics and experts confirmed to speak include:
January 19th
Lunch & Learn with an Attorney
Join Loretta Morris Williams, Partner, Hale, Ball, Carlson, Baumgartner, Murphy, PLC to discuss special needs planning for adults with disabilities. Loretta will review powers of attorney, guardianship, special needs trusts, and more.
February 16th
Lunch & Learn with DARS (Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services)
Join Tyler Schreffler, Unit Supervisor, DARS to discuss employment services. Tyler will review services offered through Pre-ETS (Employment and Transition Services), Vocational Rehabilitation, The Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center and how to apply.
March 16th
Lunch & Learn with a Medicaid Waivers Expert
Lucy Beadnell, Director of Advocacy at The Arc of Northern Virginia will discuss Medicaid Waivers. Lucy will review what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, tips for families on waiting lists for services, and how to use a Waiver if you have one.
Planning for the transition from school to adult services can be an overwhelming task. Once your child exits the school system, adult services are based on eligibility criteria and funding availability. These small group sessions are an opportunity to begin creating a plan for the future. Learn what kinds of employment and meaningful day support services are available, how to explore post-secondary options, what transportation supports exist, how to help your child make decisions and advocate, when to apply for SSI and manage benefits, and what recreation activities are available.
It’s never too early to plan; you don’t have to wait until your student is close to graduation. Also, these Lunch & Learns would be a great way for families who started the process but got overwhelmed or stuck to find the motivation to restart the process and press forward.
Note due to COVID-19, this is a Zoom virtual meeting rather than in-person meeting. Remember, all of our webinar events are FREE to attend, but pre-registration is required.
Click the button below to register for any of the upcoming Transition Lunch & Learn sessions.
If you have questions, please email Diane Monnig, Transition Manager at dmonnig@thearcofnova.org.