Innovation Series

(FREE) Living full lives is important to everyone, including people with developmental disabilities and their families. We seek to help a variety of system partners understand the importance of listening about what a person/family wants and how to collectively explore ALL opportunities for supporting people in achieving their "good life" by understanding visions and collaborating to provide an array of integrated supports.

(FREE) Community connections impact all areas of our life. These connections affect our social and work experiences. This session will help participants understand what it means to be “of” the community versus “in” the community. We'll also learn about discovery and the core principles of building valued relationships and how these connections work together to help people live their best lives.

Register for one or both sessions.

(FREE) In Part 1, families can discover the strength of collaborative strategies intertwined with diversity, inclusion, equity, and an appreciation for cultural differences in the team process. This session offers tools to assist their loved ones to be seen and supported in a meaningful way to pursue what they want to happen in their lives and will empower families by providing insights into navigating the system and understanding how processes work. 

(FREE) Part 2 is designed for people living with developmental disabilities, recognizing their unique perspectives, challenges, and successes. This session aims to:

• Empower people to understand their strengths and what they want to have happen in their lives.
• Help participants effectively communicate, work with their team, and understand their rights and responsibilities resulting in the ability to navigate systems.
• Provide a safe and supportive space for people to express themselves and connect with others who may share similar experiences.

Facilitators and peers will discuss common challenges faced by people living with developmental disabilities and explore ways to find solutions. This session encourages open conversation through the chat feature, building a sense of community and shared understanding among participants.

(FREE) The journey of life leads people down many paths toward employment. This session will help you discover what is important to and for the person to better navigate and lean into passions and interests. Each member of the team has a critical role to play to broaden options beyond the 4 F’s people with disabilities are typically directed toward, Food, Filth, Flowers, and Factories. We will discuss the steps before employment such as discovery, dreaming, exploring barriers, considering options (including services), and taking risks.

(FREE) Join us in exploring the positive impact of relationships on our lives and communities. During this session we’ll explore how relationships help us grow, feel better, and belong. Together we’ll learn how to develop and cultivate meaningful relationships across the lifespan.

(FREE) Step into the Together Strong session, a journey designed for direct support professionals, providers, families, County Boards, ICFs, and people living with developmental disabilities. This session centers on the team process, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Explore real-world experiences that happen throughout the team process, with the ultimate goal of achieving impactful outcomes that enhance the lives of people with all abilities.