"Life planning" involves creating plans for your assets, as well as outlining preferences for how you wish to be supported in the event that your decisional capability changes. Life planning tools include wills, trusts, health care proxies, living wills, transfer on death deeds and other will-substitutes. These tools promote self-determination and ensure that the wishes of older adults are affirmed even after their death.

While life planning includes putting plans in place for distribution of assets after death, it can also help older adults during their lifetime to help preserve housing and economic security, as well as put mechanisms in place that can avoid unnecessary guardianship and conservatorship.

This training will discuss how life planning services can benefit older adults and how to take a person-centered approach to traditional estate planning and preservation of generational wealth.

Presenters will cover:

- How life planning can support housing stability, economic security, and preserve the wishes of older adults;

- The various tools and instruments for life and succession planning, as well as the processes and procedures for probate and administration of a decedent's estate, and non-probate assets;

- How legal services providers can contribute to this work and develop opportunities for pro bono partnerships; and

- Strategies for engaging in conversations with older adults about the need for life planning services.

Presenters:

- Odette Williamson, National Consumer Law Center

- Danaya Wright, University of Florida Levin College of Law

- Tina Smith Nelson, Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Presented by the National Center on Law and Elder Rights.

Free registration.

This webinar series offers a comprehensive exploration of federal and state benefits for individuals with disabilities, highlighting crucial topics such as the differences between SSI and SSDI, work incentives, and benefit counseling resources. Attending these sessions is vital for understanding how to navigate complex benefit systems, achieve economic independence, and maintain the vital supports necessary for sustaining that independence.

Additionally, participants will gain valuable insights into managing healthcare programs and asset-building strategies, all while seizing the opportunity to build momentum for creating a coalition that fosters positive changes in the disability community.

December 17, 2024: Federal and State Healthcare benefits
Discussion of Medicaid, Medicare, MEDWorks, and other programs and how they are connected to your federal benefits.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

January 21, 2025: Asset Building including ABLE accounts and Special Trusts
Discussion about possible ways to save money for short- or long-term goals without the worry of losing benefits.
1:00 pm EST
Free registration.

For more information or questions contact Luke Labas, Director of The Inclusion Institute at The League, LukeL@the-league.org or call 260-441-0551.

Presented by Indiana Institute on Disability & Community Center on Community Living & Careers and The League Inclusion Institute.

Four individuals – Christine Mathis, Gabe and Diana Smaglik, and Susi McKay – will share how they use smart wearables, like smartwatches, and other smart home technology to enhance their daily routines.

The presenters will discuss how smart devices support managing elopement and anxiety, as well as assist with everyday activities such as cooking dinner and doing laundry. This webinar is an opportunity to learn practical tips and gain insights into how technology can make daily tasks easier and more accessible.

Presented by PA Assistive Technology Foundation.

Free registration.

The Limitless Ability Conference is the premier opportunity for Indiana families, professionals, and individuals with moderate-to-profound disabilities to engage in bridging the gap in service for transition-aged individuals (14 and older). Attendees will find a community committed to learning innovative practices in all settings.

Sessions will focus on interdisciplinary service delivery, access to communication, quality of life, and best practices for individuals with the most complex learning, communication, and medical needs.

Individuals and families of individuals with moderate-profound disabilities are welcome to attend for free! There will be separate family sessions that focus on advocacy and building a support network with other like-minded individuals. Please reach out to our executive director, Conner Edwards to learn more about this registration option: conneredwards93@gmail.com

University students in a variety of fields can attend for a discounted rate of $50: contact our leadership at the email above to learn more!

Registration Includes:

• Dynamic keynote speaker

• Certificate for up to 5 hours of Continuing Education

• Breakout sessions from experts

• Opportunities to win door prizes

• Continental breakfast and boxed lunch

• Free parking

Discover how specific Charting the LifeCourse tools in the Healthy Living domain can support and empower students in managing their own health.

Explore how these tools can empower students to take an active role in managing their own healthcare.

Learn how to help teams to integrate support for a student's healthcare needs into the school day.

Enhance family and community partnerships to sustain the health levels essential for effective learning.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, you're invited to join our CtLC Live: Respite Planning Session!

This event, led by Barbara Sapharas, CtLC Ambassador and LifeCourse Nexus Trainer and Coach, is designed to empower family caregivers with essential tools to plan and take much-needed breaks. Learn how to use Charting the LifeCourse tools to create meaningful respite opportunities that support your well-being and rejuvenation.

Presented by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

This training will introduce the fundamental principles of Positive Behavior Support as families navigate behavior change. It will review a brief overview of behavior support, the influence of mental health on behavior, and practical support strategies to prevent challenging behavior.

Presented by The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development.

Free registration.

This annual virtual conference is an opportunity for families and professionals to learn and connect in support of children and youth who require additional health and education support. This conference is free thanks to the generosity of Heart to Heart sponsors.  If you have questions or want to learn more about the event or ways to get involved, contact our team. 

Click here for more information.

Presented by Indiana Family to Family.

Prioritize Yourself and boost your Well-Being

Come learn about new Charting the LifeCourse resources that support best practices when supporting family/informal unpaid caregivers. These tools focus on the caregivers' mental, emotional, and physical well-being. They encourage reflection on their needs while continuing to consider their caregiving responsibilities.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

Save the date!

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, Indiana University-Bloomington.

For young adults, gaining independence can be both exciting and challenging. This workshop will demonstrate tools that can be used to help young adults with time management, completing tasks, keeping track of money, developing social skills, and living a healthy lifestyle.

Presented by PACER Center.

Free registration.

Parents dedicate themselves to helping their children through each phase of their lives. Knowing when to help and when to let children take care of important matters themselves can be tricky, especially as they approach adulthood. This training will describe ways parents can partner with schools and providers to achieve the best possible outcomes for their children as they become young adults.

Presented by IN*SOURCE.

No registration required. Click here to join the webinar.

This workshop will give an overview of sensory processing and will include information about resources, strategies, and tools to help improve sensory regulation such as fidgets, alternative seating, weighted items, and sensory activities.

Presented by PACER Center.

Free registration.

The Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) supports and empowers people with disabilities, families and professionals.

Learn how to use Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) to complete your Service and Support Administration Functions. We will discuss how to use CtLC to:

• Assess

• Plan

• Identify services & supports

• Assist to select providers

• Coordinate

• Review

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio and Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.

Free registration.

Turning eighteen can be present challenges for people on the autism spectrum and their parents. Learn how to deal with changes to benefits and finances, educational opportunities, supported decision making, guardianship, and more with experts from the Autism Society of Indiana.

For more information contact Clayton Higbee, chigbee@tcpl.lib.in.us.

Presented by Chicago Autism Network.

Free registration.

Presented by Chicago Autism Network.

Free registration.

Join Jena Fahlbush to learn about lite-tech solutions and tools to support and empower students with autism at home and at school. Jena will also share how students can trial the tools in the public-school setting at no cost through the PATINS Project’s Assistive Technology Lending Library. 

Presenter: Jena Fahlbush, M.Ed., PATINS Specialist

Sponsored by Indiana Resource Center for Autism.

Free registration.

Unlock Your Future Vision: A Guide to Planning Ahead

Discover how to envision your future and navigate the path to your dreams!

• Supporting and Empowering others to identify their Future Vision

• The Value of Content and Process Experts

• How Future Vision Drives Planning Across the LifeSpan

Two part series

Mon April 15 & Tue April 16 11:30am - 12:00pm.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

Unlock Your Future Vision: A Guide to Planning Ahead

Discover how to envision your future and navigate the path to your dreams!

• Supporting and Empowering others to identify their Future Vision

• The Value of Content and Process Experts

• How Future Vision Drives Planning Across the LifeSpan

Two part series: Mon April 15 & Tue April 16 11:30am - 12:00pm.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

Rachel Gerber and Jan Van Dyke, career coaches from the Career Development Center at IU, will unveil a step-by-step career guide for college students on the spectrum.  This guide gives students specific action steps that the student can take during each year of college. It will help students discover career direction, choose a major, find an internship and make plans for a professional job search.  Additional resources will also be shared, including:  job listings, reasons to disclose or not disclose your disability in the workplace, organizations advocating for autistic individuals, and companies and organizations with employee recruitment programs.

Presenters: Rachel Gerber, Associate Director and Jan Van Dyke, Sr. Assistant Director of University Relations, Career Development Center, Indiana University

Sponsored by Indiana Resource Center for Autism.

Free registration.

Using the Framework and tools to increase Self-Determination

Learn about:

• How using Charting the LifeCourse can nuture self-determination and automoney.

• How a lens of self determination can enhance experiences and contribute to a good life.

• Ways to support in these areas can ensure contribution, foster connection, build community and promote belonging.

Hosted by the Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

www.eastersealstech.com/live

(To join the webinar training go to www.eastersealstech.com/live on the day of the event)

What: Assistive Technology and Aging Full Day Training

When: March 21, 2024, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm EST

Where: Easterseals Crossroads at 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205. This event will also be streamed live via Zoom and can be joined at www.eastersealstech.com/live (registration is required to attend in-person or online webinar)

Who should attend: Anyone interested in learning about tools, resources and apps that are available to increase independence for individuals with age related impairments. Individuals with disabilities, educators, parents, students, and professionals can benefit from this training.

Why: This FREE assistive technology training will provide valuable insights and practical strategies on assistive technology and resources available for individuals with age-related impairments.

Free registration.

Learn how you can and support others to use specific Charting the LifeCourse repsite tools to explore and plan for taking small breaks from your role as a carer. We all need to take care of ourselves and take breaks to do what we have to do and like to do.

Presented by Family Resource Network of Ohio.

Free registration.

Are you frustrated that disability-related items cost more just because they're labeled as "specialized" equipment or supplies? Spend an hour with us looking at low-cost items or no cost hacks you can make or buy that may help you on the journey to your good life.

Presenter : Ms. Cory Noune, Director Alvarez & Marsal Public Sector Services, LLC. Ms. Noune said " I'm approaching it from my years as a clinician with young adults with disabilities and health care needs- so some are geared towards physical needs, some are geared towards organization/memory supports, some are for personal care.  All of them are about helping someone live their good life!"

All reasonable accommodations must be received 5 days in advance to the meeting. Contact Deb Petermann 614-575-8055 dpetermann@disabilityempowerment.net.

Free registration.

Appointments always sneak up on us…from doctors to dentists to haircuts. These events can be stressful for children, along with their parents or caregivers. This presentation will share some ideas for strategies to use to help prepare your child for upcoming appointments, so they will be more calm, ready, and successful.

Presenter: Amy Gaffney, Educational Consultant, Indiana Resource Center for Autism

Sponsored by Indiana Resource Center for Autism.

Free registration.