with Shanya Luther

We can and should expect people to seek romantic relationships and express their sexuality. When they do, it is important to understand how to balance safety with empowerment. This training will discuss how to teach people to make informed decisions about their relationships and sexuality and explore practical skills for supporting the sexuality of the individuals you support (from children to adults).

with Em Braman and Micah Ralston

The session will explore how supported decision making allows individuals with disabilities to make their own choices with the support of trusted advisors, rather than being under guardianship where someone else makes decisions for them. Participants will learn about different models of supported decision making, the benefits of this approach, and how it can be used as an empowering alternative to guardianship. This informative session aims to provide individuals with disabilities and their families with the knowledge and tools to promote autonomy and self-determination.

with Craig Vattiat

Craig Vattiat from the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) will share about DFR’s financial education and consumer protection resources and discuss important considerations for young people that are starting to earn money and make financial decisions. He will address the meaning of financial empowerment, key concepts for money management including budgeting and saving for financial goals, and how the national Bank On initiative is increasing access to safe and affordable bank and credit union accounts for all consumers including young adults with disabilities.

with Lon Thornburg, Sarah Statham, and Josh Barbour

In this session, a team of Transition Network Facilitators (TNFs) from Oregon will talk to parents about helping students move from school to adult life. They will explain what transition services are, how they're part of the IEP, and which students can get these services. The TNFs will show how they work with families and teachers to make special plans for each student, using what the student is good at and what they like. Facilitators will also talk about how they work with organizations outside of schools to give the best support to students. Plus, they'll give parents tips on how they can help their teenagers during this big change.

with Elizabeth Jankowski and Shava Feinstein

This session will describe diploma options available for students experiencing disabilities in the State of Oregon. Additionally, the session will review the new legislation (Senate Bill 922) which makes changes to these options with the elimination of the Alternative Certificate option and inclusion of a Certificate of Attendance.

with Whitnie Leiss and Hannah Arends

An overview of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), explaining what they are, who is eligible, and the range of services offered that will support young adults with disabilities and their families toward a successful journey towards employment.

with Jen Knapp

This session will cover how supported living services work in the state of Oregon. It will also address the different types of housing options people with disabilities can access to live more independently. Participants will learn about the resources that can be integrated into their living situations, such as direct support, indirect support, and technology solutions. This informative session aims to empower individuals with disabilities by providing them with the knowledge and tools to find the best living arrangements that suit their needs and preferences, fostering a sense of independence and community inclusion.

with Josh Goller

This session will provide an overview of managing benefits while seeking or maintaining employment, including how working can affect disability benefits, the importance of benefit planning, and strategies to maximize financial stability and employment opportunities that help people with disabilities make informed decisions about work and financial planning, enabling them to pursue employment confidently while maintaining their essential benefits.

with Katie Rose

This session will explain the brokerage system in Oregon for individuals over 18 with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, including historical context, how to request service from a brokerage, and how they support people with disabilities to make their own decisions and control their lives.

with Jen Knapp

This session explores supported employment, including what it is, how it helps young people with disabilities find and keep jobs, and why it's important for their independence and confidence. The session will cover different kinds of support available, like job coaching and workplace adjustments, to make sure everyone can work successfully.