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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:08:22 GMT -5
What will you miss if you don’t attend the 10th Annual Tennessee Disability MegaConference on May 31-June 1, 2012 at the Nashville Airport Marriott? Talented Key Note Speakers such as: Alex Plank is the 25 year old guy behind WrongPlanet.net, the incredibly popular site for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome, autism, and other neurological differences (and parents/professionals). Both Alex and Wrong Planet have been featured by The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, and Good Morning America. Wrong Planet has more than 57,000 registered members and its discussion forums contain millions of messages. Alex is self-employed, without use of any agency programs. He is a graduate of George Mason University with a BA in film and video, having received accommodations through college. Break Out Sessions Covering the following topics: Careers in the Arts Overcoming the Paperwork Nightmare Yoga for Caregivers End of Life Planning… And so much more! To download a “program at a glance” click here: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org/html/Program-Information.html Register today at: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org/html/Stipend-Registration.html
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:11:05 GMT -5
WHAT IS PARTNERS?
The Partners in Policymaking Leadership Institute is a leadership, advocacy and self-advocacy training program for adults with disabilities and family members of persons with disabilities from across the state, sponsored by the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities.
WHAT WILL THE SELECTED PARTNERS PARTICIPANTS DO?
Attend information sessions by local and national experts in the disability field on a variety of disability-related topics, including employment, building inclusive communities and classrooms, the state and federal legislative processes, supported and independent living, assistive technology, strategies for advocates and conducting effective meetings.
Partners will also:
complete and report on homework assignments compose and present testimony for or against a legislative bill tour the State Capitol have numerous opportunities to network with other individuals with disabilities and family members attend the Partners Annual Reunion Conference with representatives from 19 years of Partners in Policymaking in Tennessee WHEN WILL THE 2012-13 PARTNERS TRAINING TAKE PLACE?
September, October and November, 2012, and January, February, March and April, 2013. Most Partners training weekends begin at 12 pm on Friday, and continue until 3 pm on Saturday. Accepted Partners must agree to attend all seven sessions.
WHERE WILL IT TAKE PLACE?
At a hotel in Middle Tennessee.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
There is no cost for the training, sleeping rooms or meals on-site during the Partners weekend sessions. Partners will be reimbursed for mileage to and from the Partners session approximately two weeks after each weekend training.
WHO CAN ATTEND?
Adults with disabilities and family members of persons with disabilities. Although each case is reviewed individually, it is not typical for a family member of a person with a disability to participate in the same Partners training year as the family member who has the disability.
HOW MANY PARTNERS PARTICIPANTS WILL BE SELECTED?
Thirty. An effort will be made to select a diverse group, based on type of disability, ethnicity, gender, age of person with a disability or family member, and geographical location of the applicants.
HOW DOES ONE APPLY?
By completing a two-page application, which can be accessed on the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities website, or by contacting Partners Director Ned Andrew Solomon at 615.532.6556, or by e-mail at ned.solomon@tn.gov .
WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR APPLYING?
All applications must be postmarked by April 30, 2012
For any other information about Partners, please contact Ned Andrew Solomon at 615.532.6556, or by e-mail at ned.solomon@tn.gov .
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:12:47 GMT -5
AAPD 2012 Youth Transitions Fellow - Application Deadline: April 30, 2012 www.aapd.com/what-powers-us/work-at-aapd.htmlThe HSC Foundation, in partnership with the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), is now accepting applications for a paid fellowship position with the organizations’ disability youth transition and collaboration work. This fellowship is ideal for a person with a disability who has an interest in youth career transitions and employment solutions. The fellowship starts in May, 2012, and continues for 12 months. Under the supervision of AAPD’s Director of Programs, the Youth Transitions Fellow (YTF) will gain exposure to youth programs serving people with disabilities and will have the opportunity to facilitate collaboration among internship, fellowship, and apprenticeship programs based in the Greater Washington, DC area. Ned Andrew Solomon Director, Partners in Policymaking Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities 404 James Robertson Parkway Suite 130 Nashville, TN 37243-0228 615.532.6556 ned.solomon@tn.gov
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:16:49 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:18:49 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:21:39 GMT -5
As you know, April is National Autism Awareness Month. There are many ways to show your support, and the Autism Society is here to help. Share Information: Watch and share the Autism Society’s public service announcements, which will be played in more than 300 AMC Theatres this April! Share our free resources with your students, friends and first responders. Get Involved: Make the Autism Society your family by becoming a member! Join your local chapter, the best place to turn for local support. Watch Klondike Potatoes'™ A Tater Tale of Friendship and Understanding and look out for the autism ribbon on 2 million bag closures of select packages of Green Giant Fresh, Sunfresh and other labels. Take the family out to dinner at participating Carino’s Italian restaurants and join us in celebrating autism champions! Attend the Autism Society-AMC Theatres Sensory Friendly Films program this Saturday, April 7. Visit www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms for participating theatres. Join us on Facebook and Twitter to participate in giveaways. Get prepared with MedicAlert: $5 of each Kid Smart membership will be donated to the Autism Society during April. Give Back: Donate to the Autism Society. You can start an event on 1Power4Autism, or give a gift in honor of someone special. Tell a friend about our free informational database and information and referral hotline, AutismSource,™ www.autismsource.org. We look forward to great Autism Awareness Month with you!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:24:57 GMT -5
The Fourth Annual Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters (TABS) Conference will take place on April 20-21, 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee at the Holiday Inn Select at Vanderbilt. The Conference will empower and educate adult siblings who have a brother or a sister with a disability with information and resources, and will develop local and statewide networks of adult siblings. Conference highlights include: Keynote Speaker: John Kramer, Ph.D. - Co-founder of the Sibling Leadership Network and Research Associate for the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Breakout Sessions Employment Supports for People with Disabilities œ Know Your TennCare Rights œ Navigating Health Insurance Coverage œ Sexuality and People with Disabilities œ Siblings-In-Law œ cand more! Evening Social Gathering, Silent Auction cand more! Registration is required. For more information on the Conference and to register, visit: www.kc.vanderbilt.edu/registration or call (615) 343-0545. If you cannot attend the conference, but would like to register as an adult sibling in Tennessee and learn about future TABS events, visit: kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/services/disabilityservices/tabs.aspxIf you are on Facebook, become a fan of Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters! Conference Sponsors include: Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities, The Arc of Tennessee, University of Tennessee Boling Center for Developmental Disabilities, Tennessee School for the Deaf, Siblings United, East Tennessee State University, and Holiday Inn Select at Vanderbilt
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:26:15 GMT -5
From: Louise McKown---Public Awareness Coordinator Re: A Sense of Darkness, a dinner in the dark
If you ever wondered what it would be like to be blind and try to eat at a restaurant, the East Tennessee Technology Access Center will offer you a chance to do so. Come explore your other senses and share fine food, fellowship, and entertainment. Music will be provided by Emmanuelle Lo, a twelve-year-old nationally recognized singer and songwriter who is blind and who expresses her gifts through her music.
The Sense of Darkness dinner will be held Thursday, May 3rd from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Knoxville at The Foundry, 747 Worlds Fair Park Drive. The event is open to the public but is inappropriate for children under 12. Tickets cost $30. Space is limited. To reserve a seat, please call (865) 219-0130 by April 30th.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:27:12 GMT -5
The Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation - Public Policy Fellowship Program 2012-2013
The Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation is seeking exemplary professionals, and/or persons experiencing disability and/or family members of persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are currently working or volunteering in the field of inclusive services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for an intensive one-year Public Policy Fellowship in Washington, D.C. The purpose of the Fellowship is to prepare both early career and more seasoned leaders to assume leadership in the public policy arena in their home state and/or nationally. During this one year Fellowship, the successful applicant will learn how federal legislation is initiated, developed, and passed by the Congress, as well as how programs are administered and regulations promulgated by federal agencies.
Each year the Foundation brings talented and accomplished professionals, family members (many of whom are both professionals and family members) and persons experiencing disability to Washington, D.C. for a full year where they actively participate in public policy development in the offices of Members of Congress, Congressional committees, or federal agencies. Former Public Policy Fellows describe the Fellowship as a major turning point in their professional and personal lives; the experience is a unique chance to understand the intersection of public policy, disability advocacy, and the political process.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 4, 2012 14:32:41 GMT -5
FREE AUTISM WORKSHOP - CALMM Classrooms When: Thursday, April 12, 6-8pm Where: 3097 Broad Street Chattanooga, TN, 37408 (Solace Building) What: Ira Canada, PhD will discuss his experiences teaching in the CALMM classrooms in our region. CALMM classrooms are especially designed for students with sensory issues. This is a great chance to find out about how they work and if they would be good for your children. -------------------------------------------------------------- SENSORY FRIENDLY FILM- MIRROR MIRROR When: Saturday, April 14th, 10am (note, it will start promptly due to movie length) Where: UEC Theatres 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37353 Movie: Mirror Mirror, rated PG COST: $5 per person over 2-years-old DETAILS: Sound system will be turned down lower than typical showings. Lights in theater will be raised. Families may bring their own snack food if anyone has a restrictive diet. The regular refreshment stand is open too. Noises and movement are also tolerated and it is an understanding crowd. see link for event: www.facebook.com/events/202886043158746/-------------------------------------------------------------------- RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY: Do you have a child between the ages of 3 years old and 6 years old with challenging behaviors? This is a special opportunity to give parents/guardians to include their voice, and to help researchers understand parental/guardian experience with services for their child’s challenging behavior. If you have a preschool child with challenging behavior, have received any services, and have 6-10 hours of time that you can share, I need your help! Participation involves 3-5 interviews (each approximately 60 minutes) at a convenient location and time for you. A $50 VISA GIFT CARD WILL BE PROVIDED FOR EACH FAMILY AFTER THE COMPLETION OF ALL THE INTERVIEWS. You are eligible for participation if: • You would like to help professionals involve families more in services • You are the parents/Guardian of a child between 3 yrs. old and 6 yrs old • Your child has challenging behavior, such as prolonged trantrum, aggression, non- compliance, property destruction, self-injury, withdrawal, or screaming • You have received serices for your child’s challening behavior For More Information, contact: Laura Berryhill, M.Ed, BCBA (423) 326-8285 laura.forkum@gmail.com Chattanooga Autism Center Where the Pieces Come Together ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 5, 2012 14:39:53 GMT -5
Research: Sibling Connections to Employment Research Study Posted on Thursday, April 5th, 2012 Hello- please forward to any sibling of a person with a disability that might be interested- I am doing a research study examining how adult siblings of people with I/DD support their brothers and sisters in identifying and maintaining competitive employment. Currently I am looking for adult siblings who are interested in to participating in an online focus group for siblings of people with disabilities about employment. You are being asked to contribute online via an internet website, the "SLN Employment Forum." I am looking for adult siblings who: 1) are an adult sibling of a person with I/DD who is at least 18 years old; 2) have brother or sister with I/DD 18 or older who is seeking competitive employment or employed competitively; 3) play (or wish to play) an active role in securing or supporting their siblings' competitive employment; and 4) have the ability to access the internet and participate in an on-line focus group in English. If you are interested, please contact me at john.kramer@siblingleadership.org or call me at (339) 707-5251 for a brief screening survey to determine if you are eligible. Thank you, John Kramer Chair The Sibling Leadership Network john.kramer@siblingleadership.org (339) 707-5251 siblingleadership.orgtwitter.com/sibleadership
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 5, 2012 14:51:24 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 5, 2012 14:52:31 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:42:41 GMT -5
What Happens Next!? From IEP to College and Beyond This is a transition conference for students with Asperger Syndrome, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and similar conditions. Content will benefit participants whether attending community or university programs and for anyone seeking to live independently. Reservations can be made at centerforunderstanding.net Saturday, April 14: 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Christ United Methodist Church 508 Franklin Road Franklin, TN 37069-8200 Admission is $75 per person, $35 for people with autism spectrum and similar conditions. Price includes bagel, juice, coffee, yogurt breakfast and catered lunch of chicken salad, salsa, chips, fruit and dessert. Handouts and food will be first come, first served for any reservations after Tuesday April 10 at Midnight but we will continue to take reservations up to and including at the door. "When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you." — Lao Tzu PLEASE NOTE NEW CHANGE OF ADDRESS Dena L. Gassner, LMSW Program Director Center for Understanding and the Transparency Project with the disAbilities Resource Center (ARC of Williamson County) 120 Holiday Court Suite #4 Franklin, TN 37067 615-300-3369 www.centerforunderstanding.net
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:46:36 GMT -5
STATE OF TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION DIVISION OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY SERVICES MIDDLE TENNESSEE REGIONAL OFFICE 291 STEWARTS FERRY PIKE NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 37214-3325 OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR OFFICE (615) 231-5436 FAX (615) 231-5150
Dear Partners:
The commitment to bridging the gap between people with disabilities and employment was recently affirmed by Jim Henry, DIDD Commissioner, when he challenged Providers to have 20% of people they serve employed by fall 2012.
Significant support for this is seen in the $2.9 million grant awarded to The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The Local Workforce Investment Areas of Clarksville and Columbia are two of the five Career Centers in Tennessee awarded funds.
Please join us at 10:00 a.m. on April 19, 2012 at the Northfield Workforce and Conference Center in Springhill to discuss partnership focusing on employment initiatives on behalf of the people we serve.
Respectfully,
Levi Harris Regional Director, Middle TN
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:47:31 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:49:27 GMT -5
In January 2012, VSA Tennessee offered a workshop for young people with Down syndrome in dance. This project is going to be a 6 week pilot program with the intention of working in to a Dance Company in Middle Tennessee for young people with Down syndrome. Program partners are The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University Dance Program.
The Movement Connection A Program of VSA Tennessee Funded by the CVS Caremark Charitable Trust Location: Middle Tennessee State University, Murphy Center G040 Dance Studio Dates: Tuesday and Thursday evenings for 6 weeks beginning May 15 Time: 6:30pm-8pm Cost: Free, but pre-registration is required by April 24, 2012 Final Performance: Friday, June 22, 2012, 7pm
In January 2012, VSA Tennessee offered a workshop for young people with Down Syndrome in dance. This project is going to be a 6 week pilot program with the intention of working in to a Dance Company in Middle Tennessee for young people with Down Syndrome. Program partners are The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University Dance Program. *Return registration no later than April 24, 2012 by mail or email to VSATennessee userk7706@comcast.net 1210 Lake Rise Place Gallatin TN 37066
Name of Participant: ___________________________ Age of Participant:__________________
Address:__________________________________ City: __________________ Zip: __________
Email: ____________________ Phone Number: _______________
Please describe any past dance experience (none is required):
Please describe any special medical or behavior issues of which we should be aware:
_____ I do _____ I do not give permission for my photo to be taken and to be video taped as part of this project and released for general media and/or grant purposes directly related to this project.
_______________________ __________ ___________________ ____________ Signature Date Guardian signature Date
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:51:55 GMT -5
Download a Children’s iPad/iPhone App and Support the Autism Society Merge Mobile, Inc is a proud supporter of the Autism Society. To help support the Autism Society’s efforts to support all affected by autism, Merge Mobile is donating 100 percent of its April earnings generated from the ClickySticky Cars iPad/iPhone app. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=SjlvJnx_o8baH_hcRUxSAwMedicAlert Foundation and Autism Society Partner to Raise Support for National Autism Awareness Month The MedicAlert Foundation, the leader in emergency medical information and identification services, is planning the launch of a special campaign aimed at raising awareness about the special needs and challenges facing individuals with autism and their families to coincide with the annual National Autism Awareness Month. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=fOXlpZ5LPplwJRBcAT88Vw
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:53:36 GMT -5
Give Me Another Word For It Although April is labeled Autism Awareness Month, I believe we have achieved Autism Awareness. In fact, 40% know someone with autism…Some of my colleagues believe the word we need now is “acceptance.” Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=F9r6mQTcS74VkeugMouekAAutism Journeys: Spencer In Autism Journeys, we ask individuals on the spectrum, professionals and family members of all kinds to share their stories of what they have learned in their journeys with autism. This week, a proud parent shares a message of hope and love for all children with autism. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=-zGCXaU2ezghteRAyoRfYAAutism Headlines Weekly The Autism Society brings you some of the most interesting news around the Web. This week, the Autism Society kicks off National Autism Awareness Month, Michigan passes an insurance bill and a story highlights the talent of artist on the spectrum. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=xlQuz692OktJBfc6Zam_5w
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:56:42 GMT -5
Autism Awareness Month: Facts and Tips for Working with Students on the Autism Spectrum The Autism Society and the Indiana Resource Center for Autism have teamed up to provide facts about autism and tips for working with children on the autism spectrum. Remember that each student is different, and specific tips may not apply to all. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=gp5TYayXT-WWbrRU1tLmWg Free Resources Available for Autism Awareness Month Events Print and distribute our free autism resources to share with your community this April for National Autism Awareness Month. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=K0y1ERHLQO48cy8vXZ7XOQUpcoming AutismNOW Webinar: People Taking Responsibility for Advocacy in Their Own Lives Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE), the presenters of our most popular webinar yet, is back with a new webinar that you do not want to miss! Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=PLGiuTwnALfyMckERfmDhgOnline Q&A with Temple Grandin Saturday to Focus on Transition to Adulthood In honor of Autism Awareness Month, authors Chantal Sicile-Kira and Jeremy Sicile-Kira will join Temple Grandin, Ph.D. on a free online Q & A this Saturday.Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=miTp6ykQ6Y_Htgvb_W28xwAnimated Story Shares Message of Autism Acceptance and Understanding In support of National Autism Awareness Month, Klondike Brands has created a “Tater Town Tale” about autism. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=jeVy1p08IKH4FjG-PID1tA
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 16:59:27 GMT -5
Breaking Ground Arts Issue
Do you write short stories or poetry? Do you paint, draw or take pictures? Then we’d like to see your work for possible publication! Inviting you to contribute to our Special annual issue of Breaking Ground devoted to the arts.
THE EDITOR WILL CONSIDER:
• fiction, up to 1,000 words, and poems, whether traditional or modern. • photos and all other forms of artwork.
Content is devoted to materials by or about persons with disabilities.
We’ll give contributors a prominent by-line, a biographical note and copies of the issue.
Please include your name, complete contact information and a two- or three-sentence biography with your submission.
Send your submissions to:
Ned Andrew Solomon Managing Editor, Breaking Ground Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities, Parkway Towers, Suite 130 404 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0228 ned.solomon@tn.gov
Questions? Call 615-532-6556. ALL ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED BY JUNE 15, 2012.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 17:01:02 GMT -5
Public hearings on Vocational Rehabilitation Services’ New State Plan The Division of Rehabilitation Services invites the public to come give feedback or suggestions on the new proposed state plan at the public hearing closest to you. You can review a copy of the proposed plan at www.tennessee.gov/humanserv/rehab/st_plan.html. May 1 – Johnson City; Johnson City Public Library, 101 West Millard St. at 5 p.m. May 2 – Knoxville; L.T. Ross building, 2247 Western Ave. at 5 p.m. May 7 – Nashville; Goodwill Industries, 937 Herman St. at 5 p.m. May 8 – Jackson; Jackson Center for Independent Living, 1981 Hollywood Drive at 5 p.m. May 9 – Memphis; Memphis Center for Independent Living, 1633 Madison Avenue at 5 p.m. May 16- Chattanooga; State Office Building Auditorium, 550 McCallie Ave. at 5 p.m. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Disability Law and Advocacy Center Community Input Survey Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee (DLAC) is seeking community input to establish their areas of work for next year. DLAC is the federally mandated Protection & Advocacy system for Tennessee and provides free advocacy and legal services to protect the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities. Please take 5-10 minutes to complete the survey for the Council’s partners in the DD Network. This information, along with that collected in focus groups and information gathering sessions, is critical as they develop future areas of work that directly respond to needs identified. You can access the survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/s/9HST926
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 17:03:04 GMT -5
April 14 – Knoxville, the Sixth Annual 5K Run/Walk for Autism, sponsored by Breakthrough; for more information, click here. April 21-22 - Rising Above Ministries presents the Two GETHER Marriage Retreat at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel in Chattanooga TN. $39.00 for retreat; hotel is $99.00 per night for attendees. Register today at www.risingaboveministries.org For more information, call 931-526-RISE (7473) or email info@risingaboveministries.org. April 30 - Capacity Building Institute (CBI); UT-Knoxville, BridgeView Event Venue; an opportunity to lay the groundwork for creating an inclusive postsecondary education program for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Targeted to institutes of higher education, disability support service professionals, transition coordinators, and others supporting post-secondary education (PSE) development. May 4th - 8am - 4:50pm-3rd Annual Community Conference on Autism - Fill Your Toolbox Chattanooga Convention Center Cost: Individual = $35 (early bird special), Family rate = $55 (early bird), Professionals seeking CEUs = $85 (early bird) Lunch provided. Everyone leaves with new skills. April 7 - Race, Jog or Walk for Team William on to provide reading scholarships for children with Down syndrome at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Reading Clinic, 9 a.m. at Shelter #9 in Edwin Warner Park on Vaughn Road. Pre-registration is $25; race day cost is $30. April 10th - Free Technology Workshop for Teachers, Parents, Therapists, and Students with Learning Disabilities! 9:00 am Read & Write GOLD Literacy Toolbar Supports Common Core State Standards 10:00 a.m. Fluency Tutor – Assesses and Develops Fluency. Technology Access Center: 475 Metroplex Drive, Suite 301, Nashville, TN 37211. Call 615-248-6733 for registration and directions. April 15 - Best Buddies Friendship Walk at Centennial Park 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. April 20 – 4th Annual TABS conference (Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters) for adult siblings of individuals with disabilities. Registration due by April 13. Sponsored by the Council. For more information, contact Ashley Coulter at (615) 343-0545 or ashley.coulter@vanderbilt.edu. April 24 – Williamson County Community Conversations event to explore how Williamson County residents can strengthen their community by supporting the employment of people with disabilities. eventful.com/franklin/events/williamson-county-community-conversation-/E0-001-046607547-8
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 17:13:53 GMT -5
www.tapartnership.org/content/juvenileJustice/resourceSeries.phpJuvenile Justice Resource Series Each year, more than 2 million children, youth, and young adults formally come into contact with the juvenile justice system, while millions more are at risk of involvement with the system for myriad reasons [1, 2]. Of those individuals, a large number (65–70 percent) have at least one diagnosable mental health need, and 20–25 percent have serious emotional issues [3, 4, 5]. System of care communities face many challenges in working to better meet the needs of all of the children, youth, and young adults they serve. This resource series was developed to help communities address the mental health and related needs of young people involved or at risk of involvement with the juvenile justice system. The TA Partnership contracted with experts in the field, including the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice (NCMHJJ), to author these briefs. Each brief examines a unique aspect of serving this population within system of care communities. New! A Primer for Mental Health Practitioners Working With Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System Kinscherff, R. (2012) Provides an overview for mental health practitioners working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system, emphasizing emerging research and practices, the conceptualization of trauma and its impact on youth in the justice system, and implications for policy and practice. The author presents challenges and solutions for mental health professionals providing services to these youth. New Directions for Behavioral Health Funding and Implications for Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System Cuellar, A. E. (2012) Explores potential Federal, State, and private sources of funding to meet the behavioral health needs of youth involved in the juvenile justice system across the full spectrum of involvement. The author discusses important steps to improving access to and care for these youth, including the need for provider, youth, and family input into the reform process. Screening and Assessment in Juvenile Justice Systems: Identifying Mental Health Needs and Risk of Reoffending Vincent, G. M. (2012) Explains why screening and assessment for mental health needs and risk of reoffending are critical for juvenile justice agencies and their partners when planning the most effective course of action for individual youth. The author explores a wide range of validated screening and assessment tools frequently used in facility- and community-based juvenile justice settings.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 9, 2012 17:15:04 GMT -5
www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20120407/NEWS/304070031/Tennessee-PTA-Board-Member-wins-National-PTA-Award?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGETennessee PTA Board Member wins National PTA Award NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Tennessee PTA is pleased to announce that Tennessee PTA Board Member Amy Zink of Clarksville has won the National PTA Shirley Igo 2012 Advocate of the Year Award. Zink received the award in March at a luncheon on Capitol Hill during the 2012 National PTA Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. She received the award for work she did when she was the Federal Legislative Chair for the European PTA and the PTA president for Netzaberg Elementary in Germany. Zink's husband, SergeantFirstClass Russell Zink, is active duty in the U.S. Army and is stationed at Fort Campbell on the Tennessee/Kentucky border, just outside Clarksville, Tennessee. Their children now attend Hazelwood Elementary in Clarksville. Amy Zink took an active interest in PTA and child advocacy while her children attended Department of Defense Schools while her family was stationed in Europe. Zink spearheaded efforts to establish a comprehensive wellness policy for Department of Defense students inclusive of standardized care for children with special needs. The policy will result in standardized forms and procedures for special needs students in Department of Defense Schools, ensuring that no matter where a family is assigned - and no matter how many times they move - parents can expect the same procedures. The new policy will encompass more than 36,000 students in Department of Defense schools in the United States, Europe and the Pacific. Zink currently serves as the Tennessee PTA Mid Cumberland Region Director. She also serves on the National PTA Military Family Support Committee and as a National PTA Social Media Ambassador. The 2012 Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year award is presented to an individual PTA member, who through their leadership and advocacy efforts, affected federal policy priorities within PTA's annual Public Policy Agenda. Shirley Igo was a former National PTA President. Shirley was a model of public service and volunteerism throughout her life.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 10, 2012 15:16:18 GMT -5
Special Ed. Segregation Probe Zeroes in on Georgia Ed. Department
The U.S. Department of Justice will investigate a complaint alleging that the Georgia Department of Education violates the Americans with Disabilities Act by using a school funding formula that encourages districts to unnecessarily segregate students with disabilities to receive more money, the Southern Poverty Law Center said last week.
The civil rights organization said it filed a complaint with the Justice Department over the issue in November.
"Too often, special needs children who have demonstrated significant progress in an integrated classroom are separated from their peers because it means the school district will receive more money," said Jerri Katzerman, the Southern Poverty Law Center's deputy legal director, in a statement. "We are pleased that the Department of Justice recognizes this problem, and is committed to ensuring these students have equal access to a quality education."
Matt Cardoza, a spokesman for the state Department of Education, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the agency had not received any word from the Justice Department and could not comment.
The Law Center said the Georgia General Assembly established the state's school funding policy—the 27-year-old Quality Basic Education Act—which provides this financial incentive for segregating students with disabilities.
"Students with disabilities often face discrimination by teachers and their peers due to assumptions about what it means to have a disability," Law Center staff attorney Jadine Johnson said. "Research shows that when students with and without disabilities are placed in the same classroom, they are better prepared to embrace diversity and inclusivity."
- Nirvi Shah
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 12, 2012 11:39:21 GMT -5
The Movement Connection - A Program of VSA Tennessee Funded by the CVS Caremark Charitable Trust
Location: Middle Tennessee State University, Murphy Center G040 Dance Studio Dates: Tuesday and Thursday evenings for 6 weeks beginning May 15 Time: 6:30pm-8pm Cost: Free, but pre-registration is required by April 24, 2012 Final Performance: Friday, June 22, 2012, 7pm
In January 2012, VSA Tennessee offered a workshop for young people with Down Syndrome in dance. This project is going to be a 6 week pilot program with the intention of working in to a Dance Company in Middle Tennessee for young people with Down Syndrome. Program partners are The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University Dance Program.
*Return registration no later than April 24, 2012 by mail or email to VSATennessee userk7706@comcast.net 1210 Lake Rise Place Gallatin TN 37066
Name of Participant: ___________________________ Age of Participant:__________________
Address:__________________________________ City: __________________ Zip: __________
Email: ____________________ Phone Number: _______________
Please describe any past dance experience (none is required):
Please describe any special medical or behavior issues of which we should be aware:
_____ I do _____ I do not give permission for my photo to be taken and to be video taped as part of this project and released for general media and/or grant purposes directly related to this project.
_______________________ __________ ___________________ ____________ Signature Date Guardian signature Date
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 12, 2012 11:50:16 GMT -5
Confusion over service animals can be avoided - April 11, 2012 On March 19, state Rep. Julia Hurley, R-Lenoir City, entered the Roane County Courthouse with her Chinese crested dog, Pepper. When court officials noticed her dog tagging behind on his leash, they proceeded to evict her from the courthouse. In the aftermath of this incident, comments regarding Rep. Hurley’s actions and information regarding service-animal requirements flooded the media. This attention prompted Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee (DLAC) and the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) to meet with Rep. Hurley and share information with her about the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (ADA) service-animal requirement. At the end of the meeting, Rep. Hurley expressed her support of DLAC and the SILC in educating the public and raising awareness of this critical matter. For the most part, the media’s references to the ADA’s service-animal requirement were accurate: A service animal is a dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability (for more information, visit www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm). However, in this instance, Rep. Hurley’s dog, though a former service animal, was not performing a task for her. Pets, companion animals and therapy dogs do not meet the ADA requirements, since they do not do work or perform a task, such as guiding a person who is blind. These types of misunderstandings are common; yet, scenarios such as these create confusion and make it more difficult for people with disabilities to fully access their communities. For example, DLAC previously represented a woman who is blind after a medical facility would not allow her to enter the building with her service animal. It is important that the public understand and receive correct information about service animals. The right to enter a public place is not attached to the animal, but rather to the person with a disability who needs the help of the service animal to participate fully in everyday life. This provision creates a more receptive environment for people with disabilities. Imagine if someone who is blind were meeting her friends for dinner and the restaurant denied access to her service animal, then she could not go in at all. People with disabilities who use service animals should be able to go out to eat, go to the grocery store, visit their doctor’s office, etc., without worrying they will be turned away due to ignorance about their legal rights. Martha M. Lafferty is managing attorney at Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee, the federally mandated agency charged with protecting the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 12, 2012 11:52:45 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 12, 2012 11:54:22 GMT -5
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