Past Workshop Topics:
Stares, Glares and Hurtful Words
Medicaid Waivers- Tools for Independent Living and Employment
Navigating State Support and Live-in Caregivers
The Stress of Caring for a Child with a Disability
Advocacy: They Have It. You Want it! Now What?
Navigating Virginia’s Medicaid Waiver Program
100 Ways to Use Supported Decision Making
Developing Workplace Readiness Skills
Seguro Social: Proceso de Solicitud de SSI y SSDI
Needs, Wants, Wishes, and Dreams
Federal Employee Benefits and Their Impact on Adults with Disabilities
Medicaid Waiver Basics and Using Your Waiver for Fun and Recreation
Unpacking Inclusion- If it is right for us, how will it work?
Planning for Transitions- Between Grades and Out of School
Navigating Social Security and Department of Social Services Benefits
Supported Decision Making During Transition & Beyond
Medicaid Waivers: For Care Outside of School, Beyond School, and More
Can I Ask for That? Navigating ADA Requests in a Post-COVID World
Medicaid Waiver Basics and Aging with Your Waiver
Supported Decision Making and Aging with the Help of Your SDM Team
Talking With Your (Adult) Children About Relationships & Sexuality
Stories of Successful Housing: Tools to Maximize Independence and Community Inclusion
One, the Other, or Both? Navigating Medicaid and Medicare for Dual Special Needs Populations
Transportation Options with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Supported Decision Making Basics & Community Inclusion
Let’s Focus on Fun: Spotlight on Therapeutic Recreation
Medicaid Waiver Baiscs & Recreation
Careers in Computer Tech: Spotlight on Your AbilIT
Can I Have Privacy and Safety?
The Basics of the Medicaid Waiver
10 Things to Consider Before Moving to Virginia with a Developmental Disability
The Basics of Supported Decision Making
Get To Know: Post-Secondary Programs at the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center
Life After High School: Finding the Right Fit for Neurodiverse Learners
Virginia Medicaid Waivers Basics
Advice from Siblings- What We’ve Learned and How We’re Involved Now
Which Therapy is Right for That?
Staying Connected: Virtual Opportunities for People with ID/DD
Webinar: Exploring Independent Housing Options
Webinar: Tech = Independence: Using Waiver Tech Options to Be Safe at Home
Webinar Series: Social Security
Webinar: All About Medicaid Waivers
Social Media Safety for Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Workshop Series: The ADA with a Focus on People with Developmental Disabilities
Workshop Series: Supported Decision Making
Supporting Positive Behavior in a Pandemic
Impact of Unemployment Insurance on Social Security Disability Benefits and Medicaid Waivers
Creating Your Circle of Support
Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others
Social Security: Applications and Disability Determinations
Waivers, Managed Care, & EPSDT
New Diploma Options for Students with Disabilities
Fair Housing Protections for People with Disabilities
Americans With Disabilities Act: The Basics
Finding a Residential Provider
Hiring Consumer-directed Attendants
Past Workshop Recordings
Stares, Glares, and Harmful Words
Presented on September 21, 2023
by: Gary Shulman, MS. Ed.
When your child is perceived to look or behave in a way that brings on unwanted attention from others, it can be uncomfortable. Let’s share strategies to educate, sensitize and react to these experiences. Let’s dive into this sensitive topic and share our feelings, thoughts and emotions.
When a person looks or behaves in a way that tends to cause unwanted attention, this can lead to every emotion and reaction possible. Parents and caregivers of children with disabilities have experienced this and the reactions can range from ignoring the reaction to anger and everything in between. This can chip away as the mental health of the person with the disability as well as the mental health of the family. We will address this reality in a constructive and positive way to enhance mental health when faced with such a situation.
Our objective is to explore why people stare and use hurtful words, to learn positive ways to react to such situations, and to let the participants know that others have experienced similar situations so they can share and provide emotional support to each other. Hopefully our concept of why someone is staring will be modified and any reaction can be more positive for all involved. It never feels good to be angry and infuriated. Sometimes a negative can be turned into a positive and all benefit. We will share ways to do this.
Gary Shulman has been helping families of children with disabilities for almost five decades. Gary will share his experiences as well in advocating for thousands of families throughout his 50 year career. His workshops are fun, educational, interactive and hopeful.
To Watch the Webinar, Click here:
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Medicaid Waivers-
Tools for Independent Living and Employment
Presented September 14, 2023
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, reviews what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To Watch the Webinar, Click here:
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Navigating State Support and Live-in Caregivers
A collaborative presentation with Apex Social Group
Presented September 12, 2023
The Arc of Northern Virginia and Apex Social Group came together to present an enlightening webinar: “Navigating State Support and Live-in Caregivers.” This collaborative event features insightful discussions with the founder of Apex Social Group, a family benefiting from live-in caregivers, and representatives from The Arc of Northern Virginia to give you insights on traversing the Medicaid Waiver maze.
Learn from an experienced parent and industry experts as they share their firsthand knowledge and offer practical advice on making the most of this unique caregiving option for children and young adults up to the age of 25. Gain valuable insights into the transformative effects of having a dedicated live-in care professional in your home.
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We All Belong
Why the inclusion of children with disabilities into mainstream programs benefits all
Presented August 10, 2023
by: Gary Shulman, MS. Ed.
An overview of why the inclusion of children with disabilities into mainstream programs benefits all, when done with support, caring, kindness and compassion. Let’s learn more about the laws that support inclusion and hear from participants about their experiences with inclusion into the community.
Persons with disabilities and their families have a long history of exclusion and discrimination. Even though laws have changed, attitudes have improved and there is greater sensitivity to diversity, there is still much to be done so persons with disabilities and their families feel empowered to be fully participating members of their community.
In this workshop, we explore the history of discrimination and advances that have been made that promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities and their families. When discrimination and exclusion seems to happen, how can we address the situation in a positive way so all benefit and inclusion is promoted? By participants sharing and workshop presenter facilitation, we learn the skills needed to make sure our family members with disabilities enjoy the benefits of inclusion into our community.
Learning the history of discrimination, learning the laws that encourage and protect inclusion for persons with disabilities and their families and to instill the confidence to help promote that inclusion in various situations. Our goal is to make sure each participant has the knowledge about the laws that promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities and their family so they can approach each situation with confidence as well as be more informed about strategies that can be shared to maximize the successful inclusion of someone with a disability. Is inclusion always best? This is also a topic we can share and get various perspectives.
Gary Shulman has been helping families of children with disabilities for almost five decades. Gary will share his experiences as well in advocating for thousands of families throughout his 50 year career. His workshops are fun, educational, interactive and hopeful.
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The Stress of Caring for a Child with a Disability
Presented on July 20, 2023
Presented by: Gary Shulman, MS. Ed.
Nobody plans to have a child with a disability unless adopting or becoming a foster parent and you are given the information up front. Life is stressful to begin with and especially these last 3 years with pandemics and various social and political issues facing us daily. Life can be very unpredictable when caring for a child with a disability leading to compromised mental and physical health issues for everyone involved.
In this session, we shared primary stress causing issues and how each has dealt with those issues successfully and not so successfully. We then shared specific strategies that have helped to reduce the difficulties. Stress is normal but we each deal with it differently.
The objective is to pinpoint and share the causes of stress in our lives having to do with caring for a child with a disability, to share and learn about successful methods of dealing with that stress, and to discuss harmful ways that make the situation more dire so we can prevent burnout.
The goal is that participants, through sharing, will realize that stress is not unique to their family-we all experience it! Also by sharing we will gain strategies and methods to deal with the stresses that occur in our lives and hopefully obtain skills in reducing those stress causing factors.
Gary Shulman has been helping families of children with disabilities for almost five decades. Gary will share his experiences as well in advocating for thousands of families throughout his 50 year career. His workshops are fun, educational, interactive and hopeful.
To Watch this webinar, Click here:
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Advocacy: They Have It. You Want it! Now What?
Presented on Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Presented by: Gary Shulman, MS. Ed.
Families having a child with a disability are often confused, overwhelmed and frustrated about obtaining all appropriate programs, rights, entitlements and services. There are many emotions involved in dealing with “The powers that be” who seem to have all the power of providing the needed interventions. We will try to provide strategies, words, information and confidence so the parent/caregiver can become the best possible advocate for the child. This session will also help support professionals gain those same skills. Ultimately those skills will hopefully be transferred to the person with the disability to be a successful self-advocate.
The session is interactive with participants offering strategies that have worked for them in obtaining appropriate services. They share concrete experiences that demonstrate when they have been successful in advocating as well as failures as we learn from both.
Participants can gain concrete strategies and obtain the knowledge needed to confidently approach any entity having the power to provide the needed services, rights, entitlements and programs for a child, teenager or adult with a disability. We learn correct and appropriate terminology so that we can enter into such situations with confidence and advocacy skills to get the job done. We learn ways to motivate those “powers that be” to provide us with our desired goals.
As a result, each participant learns how to navigate the barriers to obtaining what is needed for the child, teen or adult with a disability by learning about appropriate terminology, strategies and laws to support their goals. Ultimately we hope you will come away armed with more confidence and skills in approaching any entity to get what is needed.
Gary Shulman has been helping families of children with disabilities for almost five decades. Gary will share his experiences as well in advocating for thousands of families throughout his 50 year career. His workshops are fun, educational, interactive and hopeful.
To Watch this webinar, Click here:
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Navigating Virginia’s Medicaid Waiver Program
Presented Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, reviews what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To Watch this webinar, Click here:
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100 Ways to Use Supported Decision Making
Presented on Monday, May 22, 2023
Hear our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell, discuss what supported decision making is, and then hear her work through many ways to use this powerful tool to empower people with disabilities and create durable, long-term support teams and systems. Lucy talks through examples of how people with different needs and strengths can use various supported decision making tools to maximize their independence and control over their lives.
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Developing Workplace Readiness Skills
Presented on Thursday, May 11, 2023
Workplace readiness skills are also known as soft skills or job etiquette. Required workplace readiness skills vary by job, but some common examples are understanding and following instructions, time management, problem solving, and understanding and engaging in appropriate workplace relationships. These skills are imperative to getting the job and keeping it.
Home is the first place we learn about working and having responsibilities. Join Ariel Matz, Executive Director of Matz Consulting to learn how to find opportunities for your child to practice employment related skills at home and strategies to promote success.
This webinar is free because of generous funding from donors and grant makers. Many grants require us to provide demographic info about those we serve. We appreciate your assistance.
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Seguro Social: Proceso de Solicitud de SSI y SSDI
Presentado en Español
Lunes, 8 de Mayo, 2023
Presentado por Diana Varela, Especialista en Asuntos Públicos, SSA
Este seminario web, presentado en español, cubrirá los aspectos básicos de la elegibilidad para la Seguridad de Ingreso Suplementario (SSI) para adultos con discapacidades y analizará el proceso de solicitud.
Para ver el seminario web, haga clic en el botón de abajo:
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Needs, Wants, Wishes, and Dreams
Presented April 25, 2023
Life can certainly be stressful these days and caring for a family member with a disability sometimes can add to that stress. Sharing our life experiences can bring joy and hope for the future. Please join us to share, learn, laugh, cry if need be and find support for your needs, wants, wishes and dreams. You all have treasures to share and perhaps fiascos as well. Such sharing always helps.
Gary Shulman has been helping families of children with disabilities for almost 50 years. His workshops are fun, educational, interactive and hopeful. Please join us!
This program is free because of generous funding from donors and grant makers.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Federal Employee Benefits and Their Impact on Adults with Disabilities
Presented April 20, 2023
Many Northern Virginia families will be impacted by the receipt of federal employee benefits, like retirement benefits and insurance. This can have lasting implications for those employees’ adult children with disabilities if those individuals receive public benefits, like the Medicaid Waiver. In this presentation, we’ll hear from expert attorneys about this intersection and how to prepare.
Hear from expert attorneys Elizabeth Gray and Jennifer Crane about this intersection and how to prepare.
This webinar is free because of generous funding from donors and grant makers.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Medicaid Waiver Basics and Using Your Waiver for Fun and Recreation
Presented February 13, 2023
Lucy Beadnell with The Arc of Northern Virginia reviews Home and Community Based Waivers (DD and CCC Plus) in Virginia, including application, eligibility, and services. For Social and Recreation month, this webinar highlights ways Waivers can be used for social and recreation goals for people with disabilities.
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Using the IEP as a Launch Pad
Presented January 19, 2023
It’s time to make your child’s future the top priority of their Individualized Education Plan. Improving your child’s readiness for post-graduation will require a mindset shift and a focus on goals for your child’s future. You will learn how to identify and understand the parts of the IEP that can align to future career and personal goals. Spoiler Alert: It’s not just the transition plan!
Join us and Guest Presenter Ariel Matz to learn how to use the IEP as a launchpad for your child’s future.
Ariel Matz Consulting provides consultation, advocacy and coaching to help the neurodiverse and their families realize and follow their dreams. Through Ariel’s work as an instructional coach, local screening chair and special education teacher, she has had the privilege of serving students from elementary age through age 22 with a wide variety of strengths and abilities as well as disabilities within the public school systems of LAUSD and FCPS. Her background includes real experience teaching and consulting with teachers and families on the development of academic skills, workplace readiness skills and independent living skills in the home and community. She brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, empathy and experience to her work as a Special Education Consultant.
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Unpacking Inclusion-
If it is right for us, how will it work?
Presented November 10, 2022
There is lots of talk about the value of inclusion, but figuring out how it can be done well feels daunting. We welcome students, parents, and professionals in the disability field to join us as we hear more about the challenges and benefits of inclusion so that you can have more informed and creative discussions on what is best for the child’s unique needs. Models of co-teaching, close adult supervision, and curriculum modifications will all be discussed. This webinar ends with an open question an answer period. Presented by Special Education Advocate Liz Capone.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Planning for Transitions-
Between Grades and Out of School
Presented October 12, 2022
Whether it is a grade level transition or school exit transition, there are steps parents can take to improve overall outcomes. This was an interactive session with practical suggestions for more successful transition experiences that families can use in and outside of IEP meetings. This webinar ends with an open question an answer period. Presented by Special Education Advocate Liz Capone.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Navigating Social Security and
Department of Social Services Benefits
Presented October 4, 2022
Department of Social Services experts go over the life of a case at Disability Determination Services (DDS), review the definition used for “disability,” what they need in order to make the disability decision, and more. Their Social Security expert speaks to how to apply for disability benefits, who’s eligible for disability benefits, and how to work and maintain benefits eligibility.
Our panel for this important workshop includes Vida Cyrus, Professional Relations Officer, and Millie Rothwell, Work Incentives Coordinator, both from the Fairfax County Department of Family Services.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Supported Decision Making
During Transition & Beyond
Presented September 7, 2022
If you or a loved one with a disability are thinking about how to get help understanding and making choices now and for the future, it is time to learn about Supported Decision Making. This collaborative, empowering process helps leverage the strength of the person with a disability and their network while maintaining maximum civil rights and autonomy. Hear our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell, review what Supported Decision Making is, how to get started, how to build a team to help you navigate school transition and beyond, and other related resources in this webinar.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Medicaid Waivers:
For Care Outside of School, Beyond School, and More
Presented August 9, 2022
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, reviews what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, how Waivers can provide care outside of school and beyond school age, and gives tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Can I Ask for That?
Navigating ADA Requests in a
Post-COVID World
Presented July 27, 2022
In this question-and-answer style webinar we are joined by ADA expert Ann Deschamps of the Mid-Atlantic ADA Center. Ann talks through possibilities and considerations for people with disabilities as they navigate employment, local government services, business transactions, and community events in a world recovering from COVID. Listeners can hear strategies and information on how their ADA requests may be viewed differently now than they were before the pandemic.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Medicaid Waiver Basics and
Aging with Your Waiver
Presented May 10, 2022
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, reviews what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, using your Waiver to age in place, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Supported Decision Making and
Aging with the Help of Your SDM Team
Presented May 9, 2022
If you or a loved one with a disability are thinking about how to get help understanding and making choices now and for the future, it is time to learn about Supported Decision Making. This collaborative, empowering process helps leverage the strength of the person with a disability and their network while maintaining maximum civil rights and autonomy. Hear our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell, review what Supported Decision Making is, how to get started, using SDM overtime to age in your community, and other related resources in this webinar.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Talking With Your (Adult) Children
About Relationships & Sexuality
Presented May 5, 2022
Ease teaches accurate and age-appropriate education about relationships, sexuality, and advocacy skills to give people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the ability to make informed and healthy choices, advocate for themselves, prevent abuse, enjoy healthy relationships, and yes–see themselves as sexual beings. This special webinar guides parents on how to have these conversations with your children.
About our Presenters:
Arlene Lechner, M.Ed Ease co-founder & Human Sexuality Educator in Burke, VA. Arlene is the Inclusion & Disability Services Program Coordinator at the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia, coordinating social skills classes, adapted sports & is the Assistant Director of Camp Kesher, a new J camp for teens & adults with I/DD. Arlene has a BA in Human Development from Hofstra University & a Masters in Special Education from George Mason University.
Melissa Hochberg, M.Ed Ease co-founder & Human Sexuality Educator in Fairfax, VA. Melissa is the Resource Specialist at the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia, working in both the Early Childhood Learning Center & with Inclusion & Disability Services facilitating the Going Places! social clubs for teens & adults with Autism & related disabilities. Melissa has a BS in Speech Communication & Linguistics from SUNY Oneonta & a Masters in Special Education from the University of Virginia.
Arlene & Melissa are both Mental Health First Aid certified & trained by Elevatus Training.
About Ease (Empowerment, Advocacy & Sexuality Education):
Ease offers sexuality education classes for teens and adults with IDD, workshops for their parents, and professional development for support staff and employers. They fill the gap of inaccessible sexual health by adapting sexuality education to meet individuals’ learning style, teaching it in a safe and supportive environment, and empowering them to be self-advocates and sexual self-advocates.
All teen classes include parent meetings, where Ease guides parents in how to talk with and support their young people as they grow and experience relationships. Ease also offers classes for people with IDD who were arrested for a sexual offense as part of a Jail Diversion Program, and offers information and skills in their classes to keep folks with IDD from committing these offenses and out of the legal system.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Stories of Successful Housing:
Tools to Maximize Independence and Community Inclusion
Prsented April 26, 2022
If you’ve ever wondered how a loved one with a disability may be able to live more independently, how to conquer the fear of having someone move out, or how to ensure someone has resources to really be a part of their new community, we invite you to join us to learn from stories of others who have navigated this journey with DD Waivers.
This workshop features a panel of presenters from SafeinHome, a company that works with Medicaid Waivers to offer Electronic Home-Based Services. The SafeinHome team gives examples of people they’ve helped to maximize independence and community inclusion and share resources for people beginning the journey to housing away from family.
Our SafeinHome panelists include:
• Andrea Vincent, District Manager
• Melissa Blackburn, Community Development Representative
• Beth Bullard, Account Executive
• Koshala Cole, Account Executive
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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One, the Other, or Both? Navigating Medicaid and Medicare for Dual Special Needs Populations
Presented on April 21, 2022
Many people with developmental disabilities get Medicaid and Medicare in their lifetimes. It can feel confusing and overwhelming to navigate them both. Lisa Humes, an insurance expert, helps you figure out how these programs work together, what additional benefits are available for these “dual eligibles,” and how to make the most of Medicaid and Medicare together.
Presented by Lisa Humes, Licensed Insurance Agent at HealthMarkets
Lisa’s healthcare experience spans more than 30 years of working and living in Northern Virginia. She represents HealthMarkets Insurance Agency in the metro area, focused on serving the life, health, retirement and long-term care insurance needs of families, individuals, and small businesses.
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Getting Around: Transportation Options with the
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Presented March 10, 2022
Learn how people with disabilities can utilize Metro Rail and Bus Service, as well as, MetroAccess, a door to door paratransit service to get around the Washington area for work and participate in community activities. Participants will learn how to apply for and utilize reduced fare ID cards and/or MetroAccess and resources for travel training.
This webinar is presented by Gernae Ocasio, Metro System Orientation Specialist, Office of Eligibility.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Supported Decision Making Basics
and Fostering Community Inclusion
Presented on March 7, 2022
If you or a loved one with a disability are thinking about how to get help understanding and making choices now and for the future, it is time to learn about Supported Decision Making (SDM). This collaborative, empowering process helps leverage the strength of the person with a disability and their network while maintaining maximum civil rights and autonomy. We’ll discuss how SDM can foster inclusion of those with developmental disabilities in the community. Hear our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell, review what SDM is, how to get started, and other related resources in this webinar.
To watch the webinar, Click here:
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Let’s Focus on Fun:
Spotlight on Therapeutic Recreation
Presented on February 17, 2022
Since 2012, February has been designated and celebrated as Therapeutic Recreation Month in the United States.
Therapeutic recreation, also known as recreational therapy, is a systematic process that utilizes recreation and other activity-based interventions to address the assessed needs of individuals with illnesses and/or disabling conditions, as a means to psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being. In other words, recreational therapy quite literally uses activity—and fun—to advance the process of rehabilitation. Recreational therapy can be conducted one-on-one between patient and caregiver, or by way of group sessions.
We hope you’ll join us in marking the occasion by joining this webinar to learn about programs offered in the City of Alexandria, and Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun Counties and how to participate.
Therapeutic Recreation Services provides specialized services for individuals with disabilities in adapted and general recreation programs. Opportunities are available for children, teens and adults with disabilities to develop the skills that enable them to participate in the recreation and leisure programs of their choice.
Our presenters for this program are:
• Lyndzey Elliott, Program Manager, Therapeutic Recreation, Fairfax County
• Caitlyn Shann, Therapeutic Recreation Programmer, Arlington County
• Chloe Hodge, Therapeutic Recreation Programmer, Arlington County
• Maria Auger, Adaptive Recreation Coordinator, Loudoun County
• Jackie Person, Director of Therapeutic Recreation, City of Alexandria
To watch the Webinar, Click here:
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Medicaid Waiver Basics &
Using Your Waiver for Fun and Recreation
Presented on Monday, February 7, 2022
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. For Therapeutic Recreation month in February, we’ll highlight how the Waiver can help support these options. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, will review what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To watch the Webinar, Click here:
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Careers in Computer Tech: Spotlight on Your AbilIT
Presented on Thursday, October 28, 2021
For nearly 60 years, Melwood has offered job development and placement, job training, life skills for independence, and support services to more than 2,500 people each year in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. People with disabilities represent one of the most promising and readily available entry-level tech workforces in the nation. Many people on the autism spectrum who are unemployed or underemployed have heightened abilities that make them a perfect match for these high-tech jobs. Melwood’s 14 week abilIT program, conducted in partnership with Cybrary, consists of both technical training as well as professional development. The program’s design ensures that participants are equipped with both the technical and soft skills necessary to join and succeed on any project team. During this webinar, attendees will learn about the program’s application process, the IT certifications offered, core curriculum components, and how this program is impacting people with disabilities.
This webinar was presented by Melwood Program Director Eboni Borden
To watch the Webinar, Click here:
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Can I Have Privacy and Safety?
Presented on Thursday, October 21, 2021
Learn about SafeinHome Remote Supports with Ann Eubank, LMSW, OTR/L, ATP, CAPS. The webinar will address how Remote Supports can provide the needed safety and opportunities for independence and self-determination for people with disabilities. SafeinHome Remote Support Staff is available 24/7 providing a consistent and responsive environment that encourages decision-making and learning. This person-centered remote support system can provide privacy, safety, guidance, wellness check-ins and more. The following are some of the many solutions SafeinHome successfully supports: medication management, fall mitigation, seizure management, wandering, visitor safety, community integration, employment, task reminders, and kitchen safety.
Ann Eubank, LMSW, OTR/L, ATP, CAPS has focused her career on the use of technology to increase opportunities for independence within the community of people with disabilities. She has a background in research and development, nonprofit management and systems change. Most recently she worked within the Employment Community First Program in Tennessee facilitating the adoption of technology use for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ann has presented peer-reviewed papers nationally and internationally since 1995. Ann is currently the Director of Marketing and Business Development for SafeinHome
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The Basics of the Medicaid Waiver
Presented Monday, November 8, 2021
Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, will review what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.
To watch the Webinar, Click here:
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10 Things to Consider
Before Moving to Virginia
with a Developmental Disability
Presented Tuesday, July 13, 2021
Many families have to move for jobs or consider moving to access services or get nearer to family. That is a decision that should be undertaken with a lot of thought, especially when someone with a developmental disability is going to be part of the move.
Lucy Beadnell, our Director of Advocacy, reviews 10 things you should consider before moving from another state to Virginia if you have a developmental disability. Lucy will address public benefits, Special Education, legal authority (including guardianship), Special Needs Trusts/ABLE Accounts, and more. This presentation is also applicable to people considering moves within Virginia, or people thinking of leaving Virginia and moving to another state.
If you’re considering a move anytime in the future, this is the time to learn and think strategically about how a move like that may impact life in your new location.
To watch the Webinar, Click here:
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The Basics of Supported Decision Making
Presented Wednesday, November 10, 2021
Supported Decision Making is a fast growing national trend for adults with disabilities determining how to make decisions in adulthood. We have been working hard on Supported Decision Making (SDM) in recent years at The Arc of Northern Virginia. SDM is a way to empower someone with a disability to form a team of trusted supporters to help them identify and navigate choices in their life.
View this online presentation to learn about Supported Decision Making (SDM). This can be an alternative to guardianship or a way to ensure high quality guardianship is in place. SDM focuses on maximum supports and empowerments to people with disabilities to help them understand and make life choices. Join The Arc of Northern Virginia and Feig Mediation Group as we discuss the basics of Supported Decision making for people with disabilities, how to build a support team, and how to navigate family and inter-team conflicts and disagreements.
Webinar Sponsor
The Arc of Northern Virginia is grateful to Feig Mediation Group for being a Major Sponsor of this webinar.
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Get To Know:
Post-Secondary Programs at the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Centers
Presented on April 29, 2021
This session focuses on the post-secondary offerings available to individuals with disabilities at the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC) in Fishersville, VA. These assessment, transition, and Career and Technical Education programs are made possible through joint funding with the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). It will also focus on the unique history of Virginia’s first and only comprehensive vocational rehabilitation center for individuals with disabilities. The mission of WWRC is to provide people with disabilities comprehensive, individualized services to realize personal independence through employment.
This session was presented by Mr. James Hall, the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center’s (WWRC) Director of the Career and Workforce Development Division. He is also the Superintendent Designee of the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) State Operated Program (SOP) held at WWRC. Prior to his arrival at WWRC, Mr. Hall was a public school administrator holding Assistant Principal positions at two different schools in Augusta County, VA at both the high school and middle school level. Prior to his administrative positions, he worked for several years in the Fairfax County, Albemarle County, and Augusta County School Systems as a Special Education teacher. Mr. Hall holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration along with endorsements from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) in the following areas: Administration and Supervision, Learning Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities..
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Life After High School:
Finding the Right Fit for Neurodiverse Learners
Presented on Wednesday, March 10, 2021
There are a multitude of paths that students can take after high school to achieve their goals in life. Naturally, parents want to see their children develop into resilient, capable young adults, living as independently as possible. Obtaining a college degree is one way to achieve this, but there are others.
In recent years, many colleges and postsecondary programs have broadened their services to become more inclusive of all learners. In this presentation, we examine the wide range of higher education models for students with Autism, ADHD, and language-based learning challenges, as well as for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. There are programs for all learning styles; some lead to vocational certificates or certificates of completion, while others lead to 4-year college degrees and beyond. We will discuss the range of college support services available to students and ways to evaluate whether a college will provide what your child needs.
This session was presented by Judith S. Bass, CEP, an internationally recognized expert in the field of college and postsecondary placement for students who learn differently. For the past 20+ years, Judy has provided comprehensive planning services for students who learn differently, including those with ADHD and ASD. Judy is a contributing author in the recently published book, Navigating the Transition from High School to College for Students with Disabilities. Her articles have appeared in numerous magazines, including Washington Parent and ATTENTION Magazine. She has developed CollegeWebLD, www.collegewebld.com, a one-stop source of information on college disability services at over 400 colleges in the US. Judy graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Education and Spanish, earned a Graduate Level Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and holds the designation of Certified Educational Planner.
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Medicaid Waivers Basics
Presented on Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Medicaid Waivers are the only way to fund long-term support services for people with developmental disabilities in Virginia. In this one hour session, learn about what a Medicaid Waiver is, how to figure out if you are eligible, the services a waiver can offer, and how to apply.
This session is presented by our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell.
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Advice from Siblings-
What We’ve Learned and How We’re Involved Now
Presented on Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Siblings are increasingly becoming the default caregiver as people with DD live longer and outlive their parents. More and more siblings are also becoming an active part of planning for the future of their loved ones. The role and responsibilities are not easy; there are questions, and a little support goes a long, long way.
So we’ve assembled a panel of siblings to provide support and answers. This sibling panel will discuss what it meant to be a sibling of someone with DD growing up, how it shaped them and their lives, and tips and ideas for siblings now.
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Which Therapy is Right for That?
Presented on Thursday, February 4, 2021
Many people find it confusing and overwhelming to figure out which therapy meets the needs of their child and if they should use more than one kind. This expert panel will walk families through what the common therapies cover and how they can complement each other.
Join The Arc of Northern Virginia, an Applied Behavioral Analysis therapist, a speech-language pathologist, and an occupational therapist as they share information about how their work can benefit people with developmental disabilities and how the various therapies can work together to complement each other.
Our Panel of Presenters will include:
• Jamie Guzman, OTR/L, The Children’s Therapy Center
• Rebecca Jensen, BCBA, Engage Behavioral Health
• Blair Oliff, SLP, The Children’s Therapy Center
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Staying Connected:
Virtual Opportunities for Your Loved One with ID/DD
Presented on Wednesday, January 6, 2021
We are all feeling isolated now and this is especially true for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Evidence shows that social interaction is a biological requirement, much like eating, drinking and sleeping. Our ability to learn to talk, play, acquire new skills, fall in love, conduct business, and age in good health all hinge on our motivation and ability to connect meaningfully with other people. Yet even before the COVID-19 pandemic, one quarter of Americans were chronically lonely.
So what do we do to ensure that we can still seek out, create, and foster meaningful human connections? That’s what this live workshop is all about. We’ll present a panel of providers who can offer their insights and experiences on creating for online virtual connection. You’ll learn about virtual clubs and activities that are available in our area for people to engage in social interactions, learn new skills, and most importantly maintain some sense of human connection. Feeling socially connected, especially while we endure pandemic-related isolaton, is more important than ever. The benefits of social connectedness shouldn’t be overlooked.
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College 101: A Webinar for High School Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Their Parents
Presented on Thursday, November 12, 2020
Discover questions you should consider to begin the college conversation to determine if college is the correct path. Explore the differences between the high school and college experiences plus crucial skills needed for college success. Learn about college options and how to choose the one that may be the best fit, how to navigate disability services, and request college accommodations.
Presented by Beth Felsen, Executive Director, Spectrum Transition Consulting, LLC
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Exploring Independent Housing Options
Presented on Friday, October 16, 2020
Jeannie Cummins, Senior Regional Housing Coordinator with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), walks you through the process of submitting a referral for housing, the Housing Action Plan, and how you work with a Support Coordinator to get help. This is a great session for anyone currently exploring, or planning to explore, independent housing options in the coming years.
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Tech = Independence:
Using Waiver Tech Options to Be Safe at Home
Presented on Thursday, September 24, 2020
Panel of Presenters:
Ann Eubank, SafeInHome, Waiver Electronic Home Based Supports provider
Keri Ayers, Ability Unlimited, Waiver Assistive Technology, Environmental Modifications, and Durable Medical Equipment provider
Ellen Joyce, Philips, Waiver Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) provider
Our expert panel reviews the new Waiver Electronic Home Based Supports option, Assistive Technology, Environmental Modifications, and PERS (Personal Emergency Response System). Hear about tech solutions that may be funded by Waiver to increase your safety and independence, learn how to request and implement them, and hear answers to questions on making tech work for you.
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Webinar: “If You Don’t Ask, You Won’t Get It” – Asserting Special Education Rights in the Time of Coronavirus
Presented on Thursday, July 16, 2020
Presented by: Juliet Hiznay, Special Education Advocate-Attorney
The coronavirus pandemic has completely changed public education. The challenges are compounded exponentially for those students with disabilities. This webinar will guide a discussion on how to advocate for your child’s best educational opportunities. Webinar topics will include deferred eligibility & reevaluation decisions, individualized education plans (IEPs) vs. virtual learning or distance learning plans, extended school year services, compensatory education , independent education evaluations, and filing a complaint in the state of Virginia.
Juliet D. Hiznay is an advocate and attorney, whose law firm provides support for children and young adults with learning differences. The firm was founded in 2013 by with a mission to enhance the educational outcomes of students by providing services directly to individuals and families.
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Webinar: All About Medicaid Waivers
Presented on Thursday, June 25, 2020
In this webinar, we review what Waivers are, services they offer, how to apply, being on the waiting list, and more. The webinar shares information about all three Waivers for people with Developmental Disabilities, as well as the CCC Plus Waiver.
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Social Media Safety for Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Presented May 20, 2020
Presented by Mary Jo Krile, Ph.D.
Social media use has many benefits for young adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). However, it also poses many dangers. As today’s society continually engages with social media, it is critical to provide these young adults with the skills needed to safely navigate these virtual platforms. This webinar will provide strategies for teaching young adults with IDD safe social media use, tips that range from ensuring social media accounts are private to blocking and reporting predators/cyberbullying, and resources that can be accessed for instructing social media safety skills to these young adults. The webinar will conclude with a question and answer portion in which questions about helping young adults with IDD safely use social media can be asked.
Dr. Krile holds a doctorate, master’s and bachelor’s degree in special education. She has eight years of experience in teaching students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) in the public and postsecondary education settings. The previous four years of this experience consisted of teaching digital literacy to young adults with IDD enrolled in a postsecondary education program. Krile’s dissertation was dedicated to promoting social media use and safety for young adults with ID. She has also presented on social media safety for young adults with ID at local and national conferences. Her research interests include forming resources and strategies that can be used to promote safe social media use for young adults with IDD.
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Supporting Positive Behavior in a Pandemic
Maintaining family harmony and cohesion in the context of drastic world changes
Presented Thursday, April 30, 2020
This webinar explores the impact of the stressors experienced by families as they shelter in place, as well as the behavioral impact the crisis may have on family members as they try to cope with unanticipated and unwanted changes in routine, activity, and available options. Participants were asked to contribute their experiences and insights, as well as to ask questions.
The goals of the webinar:
1) Have all participants gain insight and knowledge about the emotional and behavioral changes that family members may experience in the context of this global pandemic, and
2) Learn general principles and practical strategies for preventing crisis behavior and for promoting positive behavior and relationship.
The workshop is led by George Rathbone, a senior mental health clinician with a specialty in Positive Behavior Support. George began his career as an early childhood educator, and for over 35 years he has provided therapeutic services and behavioral consultation to families and individuals in the DMV. He is also Director of Developmental Support Associates (DSA), a mission partner with ARC of Northern Virginia. DSA specializes in providing in-home therapeutic services to families with loved ones who have complex behavioral support needs.
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Impact of Unemployment Insurance on Social Security Disability Benefits and Medicaid Waivers
Presented Friday, April 17, 2020
In response to the Covid-19 Pandemic, this presentation will provide information on economic impact payments, how to apply for benefits, working with SSA during this time, and how Unemployment Insurance impacts SSA benefits and Medicaid Waivers. Our presenter for this timely webinar is Marilyn Morisson, Work Incentives Coordinator, vaACCSES-Virginia Association of Community Rehabilitation Programs.
NOTE: Information related to the coronavirus crisis response is rapidly evolving. The information contained in the webinar was true and accruate at the time of the recording.
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Creating Your Circle of Support
Presented on October 10, 2019
We invite you to join national expert, Pat Carver of Community Drive, for a conversation about building a “Circle of Support” model around you. A circle can be a formal or informal group of people in your life who you choose and trust to help you. They can help you make decisions (as in Supported Decision Making) and have a good life. A Circle should be enduring and new members should join as needed so you always have someone in your life to help you when you need them. Pat will help you explore this option.
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Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others
Presented October 3, 2019
Oftentimes when we are put in a position to take care of others we place ourselves on the backburner. No more, it’s time for you to learn to take care of YOU FIRST, so you can give to those you care for from a full cup. This workshop teaches some simple daily practices you can implement to take care of YOU, so you can then take care of others.
Presented by: Beulah Martin is the owner and founder of Be Martin Wellness, where she helps the busy, overscheduled person to transform his/her health. Beulah made her move to jump off of what she calls the “weight loss roller coaster” in 2015, and she never looked back. After losing over 100 lbs., she discovered her passion and purpose in helping others to take charge of their own wellness through a comprehensive system that involves 8 key aspects.
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What to Put in the IEP
Presented October 2, 2019
For children on the autism spectrum, the most critical aspect of their educational program is their individualized education program (IEP). The IEP is the document that provides a blueprint for a child’s instructional program and lays the framework for how his time is spent. Because the IEP plays such a critical role, it is essential for parents to identify both long-term and short-term objectives for their child, and that the document is well written.
Join us to learn about what must be included in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities. Our presenter will share tips with families on gettting the best possible IEP for their student. Bring your questions!
Presented by:
Cheri Belkowitz, Special Education Attorney at Belkowitz Law. Cheri is a member of the Fairfax Advisory Committee for Students with Disabiliites and serves on the Board of Directors at The Arc of Northern Virginia.
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Social Security: Applications and Disability Determinations
Presented September 24, 2019
Join us to learn about applying for Social Security benefits and who is eligible, as well as how the Virginia Office of Disability Determination Services decides if someone has a disability that qualifies them for adult Medicaid and Social Security. Come to learn and ask questions on this complicated and critical topic. Presented by Vida Cyrus, Professional Relations Officer for the Northern Regional Office of the Virginia Disability Determination Services.
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Individual and Family Support Program (IFSP) Application Training
Presented September 16, 2019
The Arc of Northern Virginia was pleased to host Erika Jones-Haskins from the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services who explains the Family and Individual Supports Program (IFSP) application and process. The IFSP program offers individuals who are on the waiting list for one of the Developmental Disabilities Waivers to apply for up to $1000 a year in flexible support funds to meet their disability-related needs.
This session walks people through the new online application, teach attendees how to answer all questions and submit relevant documents, and troubleshoot any issues people have with the process.
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Waivers, Managed Care, and EPSDT
Presented May 15, 2019
Lucy Beadnell covers the basics of Medicaid Waivers including recent updates and new services, briefly touch on the move to CCC Plus Managed Care, and discuss the EPSDT program. Lucy is the Director of Advocacy at The Arc of Northern Virginia. She has been closely following and advocating during the redesign of our Developmental Disabilities.
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New Diploma Options for Students with Disabilities
Presented Thursday, March 14, 2019
Rachna Heizer presented information on a new path to a standard diploma option for Virginia students with disabilities. This option will allow students who are not successful in passing SOL tests due to the nature of their disability, but who can otherwise demonstrate grade level subject mastery, to receive standard diplomas. These students would then be eligible for college and other post-secondary education and federal student aid. Rachna discussed the new option, how to obtain, the pros and cons, and how regulations vary by school district.
Rachna is a lawyer with a background in employment law, disability rights, and corporate law. She has a son with autism who is exceptionally musically gifted and she personally lobbied for this new diploma option. She is actively involved in the implementation of this option in Fairfax schools and is a candidate for Fairfax School Board.
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Fair Housing Protections for People with Disabilities
Presented Tuesday, March 12, 2019
Beth Argent, the Accessibility Advocate at Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME), and colleage Sara Surface, presented this workshop on Fair Housing Protections for people with disabilities. Beth and her team do investigations across the state for individuals who feel they have faced housing discrimination. This is important information for anyone looking to move to their own home, and caregivers who are working with family members who have disabilities as well.
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Americans With Disabilities Act: The Basics
Presented Tuesday, January 8, 2019
During this webinar, our Director of Advocacy, Lucy Beadnell, will overview the basic provisions of the landmark civil rights legislation, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We will talk about employment rights and protections, interactions with state and local governments, public places, transit, and reasonable accommodations. Join us to learn and ask your questions.
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Finding the Right Residential Provider
Presented Tuesday, December 4, 2018
This panel presentation focused on helping people with disabilities and their families find the right residential service provider. How to find a quality provider is a common question, and it is increasingly difficult as new providers start up businesses. Our panelists discuss ways to determine if a provider is likely to be a good service provider for your needs, and how to address those concerns as you meet with providers, and how to evaluate providers who are new to the service system.
Panelists include:
Qadriyyah Johnson, Magnate Consulting; Rebecca Keith, Compassionate Care; Andrew Miller, Lutheran Family Services of Virginia; and Lucy Beadnell, The Arc of Northern Virginia.
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Consumer Directed Attendant Panel
Presented Monday, November 5, 2018
This panel discusses strategies for finding, hiring, training, and maintaining the best consumer directed attendants for Medicaid Waiver and private pay. Featured are families who use services, a program provider who works with CD attendants and runs a business helping people find the right staff, and a DD Waiver Case Manager.
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We Need to Talk About This: Disability and Trauma Prevention, Identification, and Treatment
Presented Thursday, October 25, 2018
This panel presentation and Q and A session focused on the intersection of developmental disabilities and trauma, including ideas on how appropriate sexual education can prevent tramatic experiences. People with disabilities are significantly more likely to be victims of crime than someone with out a disability, but there are many ways to become a “tough target” for abuse. Our expert panel of social workers, therapists, yoga therapists, and social skills coaches shared information on how to prevent abuse and trauma, how to identify trauma, and how to recover from traumatic experiences.
Our panelists included: Ginny Conroy of Social Grace, Marsha Banks-Harold of PIES Fitness Center, Christina Tosto, LCSW, and Jessica Stoller of Falls Church Wellness Center.
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Are You Really Ready? An Emergency Preparedness Workshop for Individuals with Disabilities and their Families
Presented Friday, October 19, 2018
This Emergency Preparedness Workshop is designed to connect individuals in the community who might have a disability or access and functional needs, as well as their families, to the agencies who play a role before, during and after an emergency. Fairfax County agencies discuss different programs, what information is important to share during an emergency and how to be prepared for the unexpected.
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Webinar: Waivers and EPSDT
Presented Thursday, October 11, 2018
This updated webinar covers the Medicaid Waivers since the 2016 redesign, including the planned roll out of new services in 2018. The webinar briefly touches on the intersection of CCC Plus Managed Care with Waivers, as well as a looks at the new mandates for children under 21 to use EPSDT for some Waiver services.
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For further information on The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Information & Referral program contact:
Lucy Beadnell, Director of Advocacy at 703-208-1119 x116 or email LBeadnell@TheArcofNoVA.org.
For information about sponsorship opportunities to help support and present our workshops , please contact:
Howard Stregack, Director of Development, at 703-208-1119 x102 or email HStregack@TheArcofNoVA.org.
