Next Steps Four Part Series

Next Steps is a free four part series that focuses on preparing you and your child for adulthood which includes,

  • Setting transition goals.
  • Identifying Strategies for respecting a young person’s choices,
  • Financial and estate planning,
  •  Look at formal and informal supports that can assist the self-advocate,

You must pre-register for all upcoming workshops.
FRCD Workshops are presented at 20 E. Jackson Blvd., Room 300 Chicago, IL 60604.
You can complete a registration form online or call our office at: (312) 939-3513 TDD: (312) 939-3519.

Dinner Provided

 

 Transition : Making It In The Real World

Thursday March 1, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Register Online!

 For all young people, the transition from student life in school to adult life in the community is complicated. For students with disabilities and their families, this change can be particularly challenging, overwhelming and exciting. For young people to experience transitions to satisfying adult lives there must be teamwork among students, parents, educators and others. During this workshop, participants review the four critical goals of transition, consider practical opportunities which promote their achievement, become familiar with pertinent federal legislation and understand the important roles of family members in the transition process.

Self Advocacy Support: Keys to Independence

Thursday March 8, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Register Online!

 Young people with disabilities are learning to make choices about their lives. In school, community and family discussions, they are finding the words or behaviors to communicate their opinions and concerns. They are taking leadership in determining their own futures. Children and young adults who team self-advocacy skills are best prepared to live satisfying adult lives in the community. This workshop is designed to help family members identify strategies for respecting a young person’s choices while offering continued love and guidance. A variety of skills and supports that assist a young person in adult life will be reviewed.

Planning Ahead :Future Finances and Support

Thursday March 15, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Register Online!

 During this workshop, parents step away from daily activities of family life to learn information and strategies useful for shaping secure futures for their children. Through a case study, participants review the range of on-going family supports related to adult life in the community for a young person with disabilities. Guest speakers share their expertise regarding resources for financial and estate planning.  During the session, parents will begin to write a “letter of intent” that provides future care givers with guidance in understanding the needs and desires of the person with disabilities and his family.

Adult Life: Accessing Services

Thursday March 22 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Register Online!

 Participants look at formal and informal supports that can assist the self-advocate in the transition process. They use the Guide To Future Planning-Part 2 deciding on strategies and supports that will help the self-advocate reach his goals. Participants develop a Partnership Action Plan to continue the partnership and commitment to assist the self-advocate in the transition process.