3/2/24
Insurance is a critical necessity, particularly if your loved one has a disability. Insurance can be complicated because the rules can be different from insurer to insurer and your specific circumstances. Know that you are not alone.
11/4/23
Does your loved one’s Individualized Service Plan (ISP) reflect their likes and dislikes? Do you have a working relationship with your loved one’s Support Coordinator? Do you and the Support Coordinator use the ISP as a “GPS” to reach the destination your loved one envisions?
9/30/23
Whether it is a “brand new” or “same old” IEP, do you know how to read it and where to look for critical information? How can you collaborate with the child study team to meet your child’s unique needs? The Regional Family Support Planning Councils hosted a meeting to “decode” your child’s IEP.
6/3/23
*Due to technical difficulty, the first few minutes of the meeting were not recorded.*
Transportation is a major barrier to access to services for many individuals with intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. Paul Aronsohn, Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities opened the conversation followed by an individual and families sharing their experiences. Ms. Namecca Parker (NJ Transit) and Mr. Steve Cook (Arc Mercer) presented their innovative transportation pilot and program.
3/25/23
NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and Individuals with IDD: Preparing for the Start of Medicaid Redetermination.
11/9/22
Managing the medical care of a loved one with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be challenging. There are so many factors and obstacles for families to navigate. A few family members share their stories and tried-and-true tips for various life stages and needs including (1) young children seeking the proper diagnoses, (2) adults with complex and multiple diagnoses, (3) individuals with behavioral needs, and (4) agency coordinated care.
10/1/22
Children and adults with I/DD often have co-occurring mental or behavioral needs. New Jersey Family Support Planning Council hosted a meeting to offer a forum for families to learn about the services and supports available in NJ.
5/14/22
Given the virus is unlikely to disappear completely, COVID-19 is becoming less “front-and-center” for some people. Some of us found that increased flexibility and options, such as telehealth, virtual meetings, and parents as paid staff, have become an essential part of their new lives. Many of us continue to face various barriers to access to services. The state leadership shared promising practices and areas of improvement.
3/2/22
Finding the right housing and support for people with developmental disabilities is a constant challenge in New Jersey. Diane Riley, Executive Director of Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey (SHA NJ) and Jennifer Brown, Housing Navigator/Eiros Group, explains how they can help guide you and your loved ones to pursue appropriate housing and support.
11/20/21
David Hoff presented an overview of New Jersey’s Employment First policies and practices and its best practices and areas for improvement. Three NJ state agency staff provided interagency support to students in the transition from school to competitive integrated employment.
9/25/21
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events in childhood that can cause life-long negative impacts on the developing brain. Children with I/DD are more likely to experience traumatic events than those without disabilities. New Jersey Family Support Planning Council
3/13/21
On Saturday, March 13, 2021 parent advocates joined our meeting to learn how to build an integrated care network to keep our loved ones healthy and well. Our own Regional Family Support Planning Council members, who also have medical, nursing, or social work education, shared with you their expertise and tips.