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WIPA, PABSS Funding Threatened: Write Your Congressperson

By on March 22, 2012 in Education, Employment, State Agency

There is growing concern that Congress will not reauthorize funding for two important Social Security programs that directly affect those with disabilities who wish to work.  These services are very important for SS Disability Beneficiaries aged 14-64 who are working or want to work.

The Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) program helps beneficiaries understand their options for work.  The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is the agency serving Lake and McHenry Counties.  The program could end as soon as June 30, 2012 if funding is not authorized.  This will harm the ability of disabled individuals to develop options for more independence and engagement.

The Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) program provides counseling and advocacy for working individuals who may need assistance in the workplace.  Equip for Equality is the PABSS agency serving Lake and McHenry Counties.  Services could end by September 30, 2012.

Concerned individuals are urged to contact their Congressional Representatives letting them know you support re-authorization.

Contact information can be found at this site.  If you would like assistance or need more information please contact Ron Mulvaney, WIPA Program Director, IATP, 217/836-0061, rmulvaney@iltech.org .

 

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Grayslake (D127) conducts Parent Information Night for Transition Students

By on March 13, 2012 in Education, Employment, Lifestyle, Post Transition, State Agency, Uncategorized

What happens after High School for students receiving Special Education services?   Grayslake Community School District (D127) is sponsoring a session to help parents learn the answers.  The meeting will be on March 21 from 7-8:30pm at Grayslake North High School, Room B162.

Speakers include:

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First Friday Entrepreneur’s Forum

By on January 30, 2012 in Employment, State Agency, Uncategorized

The February teleconference/webinar  of the Self Employment Resource Network (SERN) will take place on Friday, February 3, 2012 from 9am-10am. Directed at promoting self-employment among those with disabilties, the conference will feature the following speakers:

Ron Mulvaney of the Social Security Administration (SSA) will present an overview of the Plan for Achieveing Self Support – PASS.  This is an empowering program of the SSA that is of particular interest to disabled individuals under the age of 24.

Gene Oulvey of the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) will discuss the rules and regulations regarding self-employment, and how to better work with the DRS.

Both speakers aim to provide practical, empowering information of interest to entrepreneurs with disabilties.

To attend the conference log on to the SERN website (http://www.sernonline.net).  Click on the First Friday Entrepreneur’s link and enter the webinar room.  By phone call 888-273-3658 and use pass code 6135050#

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Keven Casey Speaks at Work Group — November 17, 2011

By on January 27, 2012 in Housing, State Agency

Less than three months after becoming Director of the Illinois Division of Developmental Disabilities, Kevin Casey spoke to a standing-room-only audience at the North/Northwest Cook and Lake County Work Group meeting on November 17, 2011.  He shared his impressions and thoughts on the many challenges facing Illinois at this time.

Regarding the impact of state budget shortfalls on programs for the disabled,  he indicated that he would act pro-actively and sought to enlist support from families, advocates, providers, officials and the governor.   As he learned more about the structure of Illinois services he would be looking for ways to involve more stakeholders.   He expected to hear from self-advocates at least once a month.

Regarding the Ligas mandate to help institutionalized individuals move into the community, he expressed concern about how the timelines for change were interacting with the financial constraints.   There was a lengthy Q&A session involving concerns from parents, advocates, providers and others.

Prior to assuming this position, Mr. Casey held a similar position in Pennsylvania.  He mentioned the need for a one-stop shop for parents, and noted that he had instituted a family training program and a book “Working Your Way Through the Maze in Pennsylvania”.

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