West Virginia Advocates' Archive RSS Feed

U.S. Department of Education's Restraint and Seclusion: Resource Document

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:07:42 -0600

Here is a new resource from the U.S. Department of Education - Restraint and Seclusion: Resource Document.

Social Security Announces New Conditions for Compassionate Allowances Program

Wed, 09 May 2012 06:53:18 -0600

Social Security Announces New Conditions for Compassionate Allowances Program

WV DRS seeks public comment on goals and objectives, imposing 'order of selection'

Tue, 08 May 2012 07:44:54 -0600

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services seeks public input on their draft Fiscal Year 2013 goals and objectives and their plan to implement an Order of Selection. There are public meetings scheduled and comments are due no later than June 12th.

People First of West Virginia Mid-Year Conference Planning/Training Day

Tue, 08 May 2012 07:54:21 -0600

May 15, 2012
10am – 3pm

Disability Action Center
102 Benoni Ave
Fairmont, WV

Who Should Attend: All People First of West Virginia Advisory Board Members, Self-Advocates that are active in People First and want to participate in planning the 19th Annual People First Conference, Advisors

There is limited space, so please call to rsvp - 304-422-3151

Different Voices and Common Experiences Art Show

Tue, 08 May 2012 07:58:02 -0600

September 7 - 29, 2012

Mon Arts Center
Morgantown, WV

Application Deadline to exhibit is June 15, 2012.

More information and application for the Different Voices and Common Experiences Art Show (RTF).

Aged and Disabled Waiver Manual Comments are Due by May 27rd.

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:35:54 -0600

Aged and Disabled Waiver Manual Comments are Due by May 27rd. To review the manual or make comments visit http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/bms/news/Pages/Ch501ADW.aspx.

Nursing Facility Services Manual Comments are Due by May 16th

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:38:48 -0600

Nursing Facility Services Manual Comments are Due by May 16th. To review the manual or make comments visit http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/bms/news/Pages/Chap514NF.aspx.

WV Human Rights Commission Website Targets Discrimination

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:40:21 -0600

Notice of Public Forums for the State Plan for Independent Living

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:41:55 -0600

Do you or a family member have a Disability? Do you have the supports & resources you need to live where you choose?

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) and the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) are conducting a series of public forums. This is your opportunity to tell the SILC and DRS what you want included in the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). The SPIL governs how federal and state independent living funds are spent in WV in collaboration with the Centers for Independent Living.

May 10, 2012
Thursday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Comfort Inn – Aikens Center
1872 Edwin Miller Blvd
Martinsburg, WV

May 11, 2012
Friday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Upshur County Public Library
RR 6 Box 480
Tennerton Road
Buckhannon, WV

May 14, 2012
Monday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Logan Area Library
16 Wildcat Way
Logan, WV

June 27, 2012
Wednesday, Noon - 2:00 p.m.
Ohio County Library
52 16th St
Wheeling, WV

July 16, 2012
Monday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Family Life Center
422 Main Street
Summersville, WV
(Behind Summersville Baptist Church on the corner of Whortleberry Avenue & Spruce Street)

The Public Forums are open and accessible to the public. Requests for a sign language interpreter, alternate formats, or other accommodation needed to participate in the meetings must be made one week prior to the meeting.

The Current SPIL (2010–2013) is available upon request or at http://www.wvsilc.org.

For more information or assistance contact Kathi Young at <kathi.young@wvsilc.org> or 1–855–855–9743

Free Workshop on Bullying for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:43:08 -0600

Are you concerned about bullying or has your child been bullied?

Does your child have a developmental disability?

Join Step By Step/Bully-Free West Virginia on May 24, 2012 from 10 AM to noon.

Learn about school policies in place to protect you child.
Learn how to track information.
Learn what information to track.
Receive resources.

Email bullyfreeWV@stepbystepwv.org or call 304–414–4452 (Tonya or Emily) if you are interested in attending.

Camp Gizmo

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:49:06 -0600

A five-day hands-on camp where parents, professionals, and students learn how assistive technology can help young children (birth - 8 years) with significant and multiple developmental needs.

When is Camp Gizmo?

July 14 - 18, 2012 on the campus of the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf/Blind in Romney, WV.

Who Should Come and What Do We Do?

Families, professionals, college students, and others who want to learn more about assistive technology. A limited number of “focus” children will be accepted and assigned a team of professionals who help families identify and apply new strategies for solving their multiple assistive technology needs. (Preference will be given to children who have not previously attended camp. Professionals and other caregivers involved with these children are encouraged to attend the camp.)

Labs and workshops will be available to Camp participants daily. Parents attend workshops on subjects that will help them better meet the needs of their child. Professionals and students attend workshops of interest that meet professional/ educational needs or assist the “focus” family. Teams will meet daily to observe, discuss and implement strategies for the “focus” child

Applications

Application are due April 30, 2012.

Job Posting: Advocate

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 07:22:54 -0600

Advocate

West Virginia Advocates, Inc. is the designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities in West Virginia. WVA is hiring an Advocate in the Charleston, WV office. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing skills and ability to use Microsoft Office. This is a full time non-exempt position. Only qualified individuals should apply.

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax: 346–0867
Email: jobs@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:17:48 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council is offering a workshop on wills & special needs trusts for family members of persons with developmental disabilities on May 1, 2012. The deadline to register is April 16, 2012.

Inspiring All Learners Training by DSNWV

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:19:11 -0600

Inspiring All Learners: Creating Successful Supports for Inclusive Classrooms

Who:

General and special educators K-12, therapists, administrators, parents of children with special needs, and others interested in the inclusion of children with disabilities

When:

Saturday, April 28, 2012, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Where:

George Washington High School Auditorium
1522 Tennis Club Rd
Charleston, WV

Cost:

$40 (Scholarships available for educators)

For more information email dsnwv@suddenlink.net or contact Amy at (304) 722-2157 or Stefanie at (304) 395-4190.

Request for Public Comment - FY 2013 P&Os

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:56:55 -0600

West Virginia Advocates is asking for comments from the public on its Fiscal Year 2013 (October 2012 thru September 2013) Priorities and Objectives from May 6, 2012 through June 20, 2012. You may find our current (Fiscal Year 2012) Priorities and Objectives on our website wvadvocates.org.

You may submit comments by:

Phone: (800) 950–5250
Fax: (304) 346–0867
E-mail: contact@wvadvocates.org
with a subject line of “FY 2013 P&O Comments”
Mail: WV Advocates
1207 Quarrier St Ste 400
Charleston, WV 25301
Facebook: http://facebook.com/wvadvocates
Public Meeting: See below

Public Meeting

You are invited to attend a meeting for the purpose of providing comments on West Virginia Advocates’ Fiscal Year 2013 Priorities and Objectives.

When: May 16, 2012 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Where:

Best Western (formerly Holiday Inn)
100 Lodgeville Road
Bridgeport, WV 26330
304–842–5411

Directions: Take Interstate 79 to Exit 119. Turn on Route 50 East toward Bridgeport. Turn left at the second traffic light onto Lodgeville Road. Best Western is located on the right beside Walgreens.

Lunch: Provided (Coffee, sodas in the a.m., Hot lunch buffet, Cookies/brownies)

Do you have a group of people that would like to provide comments but cannot make it to Bridgeport, WV? Contact Clarice Hausch at (800) 950–5250 and request a meeting at your location.

Public Forums for the next State Plan for Independent Living

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:08:59 -0600

The WV Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is holding a series of public forums for input into the next State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). "The SPIL governs how federal and state independent living funds are spent in West Virginia in collaboration with the centers for independent living."

Fair Housing Workship - April 20, 2012

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 07:16:08 -0600

The Mountain State Centers for Independent Living is hosting a Fair Housing Workshop on April 20, 2012.

Suicide Prevention: A Community in Crisis

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 07:47:48 -0600

Wednesday, April 11, 2012
2 sessions – 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Seneca Health Services, Inc. Outpatient Clinic
804 Industrial Park Road, Suite #1
Maxwelton, WV

For more information see the training flyer or call (304) 872-6503.

The registration deadline is April 5th.

WVA's Trainings for Fiscal Year 2012 - Updated March 14, 2012

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:42:46 -0600

Save a date on your calendars for the following trainings that WVA is planning to present during our Fiscal Year 2012 (October 2011 - September 2012).

When	What	Where	County
Mar 14, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Apr 17, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
May 16, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Country Inn & Suites 2120 Harper Road Beckley, WV 25801	Raleigh
May 17, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Country Inn & Suites 2120 Harper Road Beckley, WV 25801	Raleigh
Jun 18, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	To be announced.	Hardy
Jun 19, 12 9:00 – 12:00	Transition Planning	To be announced.	Hardy

WVA's Trainings for Fiscal Year 2012 - Updated March 16, 2012

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 10:43:58 -0600

Update 2: Our June Trainings have been cancelled.

Update: Our April and May Trainings have been cancelled. Check back later for their rescheduled dates.

Save a date on your calendars for the following trainings that WVA is planning to present during our Fiscal Year 2012 (October 2011 - September 2012).

When	What	Where	County
Mar 14, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Apr 17, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
May 16, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Country Inn & Suites 2120 Harper Road Beckley, WV 25801	Raleigh
May 17, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Country Inn & Suites 2120 Harper Road Beckley, WV 25801	Raleigh
Jun 18, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	To be announced.	Hardy
Jun 19, 12 9:00 – 12:00	Transition Planning	To be announced.	Hardy

Brain Injury Group of Southern WV - March 17, 2012

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:52:50 -0700

Brain Injury Awareness 2012

MARCH is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

Please join the Brain Injury Group of Southern WV
At the Crossroads Mall (Center of mall in front of JC Penny)
to promote awareness, share information and increase resources!

Saturday, March 17, 2012
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain caused by an external force after birth. Common causes of a traumatic brain injury include gunshot wounds, motor vehicle crashes, assaults, or falling and striking your head.

An acquired brain injury (ABI) includes all types of traumatic brain injuries and also brain injuries caused after birth by cerebral vascular accidents (commonly known as stroke), and loss of oxygen to the brain.

For more information please contact Shannon Hughart (304) 222–1132 or Teresa Harvey (304) 575–5995.

Autism Speaks iPad 2 Technology Grant

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:43:21 -0700

Autism Speaks iPad 2 Technology Grant: 160 people with autism will be selected to receve a free iPad 2. The deadline to apply is March 7th.

Say Goodbye To The Social Security Check

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:50:10 -0700

Say Goodbye To The Social Security Check from DisabiltiyScoop

West Virginia Youth Self-Advocacy Conference

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:19:58 -0700

What: West Virginia Youth Self-Advocacy Conference

When: June 14, 2012, 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM

Where: WV State University, Charleston, WV

Who: Students in grades 9 - 12 with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Limited to the first 50 eligible applicants.

More information will be available at http://www.peoplefirstwv.org or by calling 304.422.3151

Alternatives to Guardianship Training

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:24:21 -0700

The WV DDC is offering a workshop called "Alternatives to Guardianship" on April 2nd, 3rd, or 4th, 2012.

Free Relatives as Parents Workshop

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 07:52:59 -0700

Below is information on a free Relatives as Parents Workshop:

5 CEUs have been applied for

When:

Saturday, March 24, 2012
9:30 AM –4:00 PM with check in and coffee at 9:00 AM

Where:

Trinity Lutheran Church
1600 Kanawha Blvd. East
Charleston, WV

What:

FREE Relatives as Parents Program Workshop.

Topics:

Enrolling Children in Care in School
presented by Frances Pack of Kanawha County Schools, and

An Overview of the IEP (Individual Education Plan)
presented by Rhonda McCormick of Legal Aid of WV

Who Should Attend:

Kinship Parents

Foster Parents

Social Workers

DHHR Staff, and

any interested parties

The deadline date for workshop registration is March 16, 2012.

A free baked steak lunch will be served.

To register:

Call Mission WV toll free at 1–866-CALL-MWV (1–866–225–5698), or

email Laura Lou Harbert at lharbert@missionwv.org

This workshop is a joint effort of Mission WV, WV Department of Health and Human Resources, and the WV Bureau of Senior Services.

WVU College of Law - Child and Family Advocacy Clinic

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:38:16 -0700

The West Virginia University College of Law has a Child and Family Advocacy Clinic for children and families of limited income. For more information see their flyer and their webpage.

Free Special Education Training

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:51:20 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)?
Does your employer require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

West Virginia Advocates, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia, is pleased to offer a free training on West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2419. Policy 2419 is WV’s regulations for services available to children with disabilities in the school system.

Participants will receive a copy of Policy 2419, an Education Packet and Wrightslaw Resources.

When:	Wednesday, March 14, 2012 9AM – 3PM Lunch will be provided by WVA.
Where:	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling, WV 26003
To Register:	Contact WVA at 1-800-950-5250 by March 12th.

If you have dietary restrictions or require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by 3/1/12.

IEP Development Training & Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:52:53 -0700

Attention parents and/or guardians:

Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive?
Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child’s IEP?
Do you have problems with getting the school system to list professionally recommended services on your child’s IEP?
Have you and your school system started transition planning for life after high school for your 16-year-old? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, sign up for one or both sessions offered by West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia. Resource materials will be provided.

When:	Wednesday, March 15, 2012
Where:	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling, WV 26003
To Register:	Contact WVA at 1-800-950-5250 by March 12th.

Agenda
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM	Session 1 IEP Development Training
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM	Lunch Provided by WVA at no charge
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM	Session 2 Transition Planning from High School to Adult Hood

If you have dietary restrictions or require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by 3/1/2012.

CFII: IRS provides assistance for people with disabilities

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:40:41 -0700

The CFII has posted an article: "IRS provides assitance for people with disabilities." It has some links that may be helpful to people with disabilities when filing their taxes.

Voices For Hope-Peer Group for Mood Disorders

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:16:01 -0700

The “Voices For Hope” Mood Disorder Support Group groups are peer facilitated and open to those suffering from various mental health challenges along with their supporting family members or loved ones.

2nd and 4th Tuesday each month
Social time: 5:30 pm
Meeting Time: 5:50 pm - 7:20 pm

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church
900 Washington Street
Charleston, WV 25301

If interested in attending, please email Debbie Cardwell or call: (304) 389–8558

For more information visit http://www.messagesforhope.com/support-groups.html.

WVU CED's Survey for People Who Use Wheelchairs

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:26:46 -0700

The CED is interested in learning more about the needs of people who use wheelchairs. This information will be used to help them develop a grant proposal that (if funded), will fund the development of new wheelchair-related technologies.

If you use a wheelchair, or if you know someone who does use a wheelchair, please take a moment to provide your input by completing their brief online needs survey.

The WV SILC is recruiting members.

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:24:05 -0700

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council is recruiting new members to fill vacancies for terms beginning July 1, 2012. See their nomination letter (RTF) and application (RTF) for more information. The deadline for applying is March 21, 2012.

IRS's Free Facilitated Self Assistance

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:34:18 -0700

The IRS has started a new initiative called Facilitated Self Assistance (FSA). Under FSA, taxpayers prepare their own return using online interview-based software, while IRS-certified volunteers stand ready to assist with tax questions and/or computer issues. To find a location near you check the IRS's FSA list.

New Electronic Signature Process for Form SSA-827

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:44:15 -0700

Beginning in April, many people applying for Social Security disability benefits will be able to sign and submit the Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security (Form SSA-827) form electronically, as the last part of the online process. For more information see New Electronic Signature Process for Form SSA-827 Authorization to Disclose Information to Social Security on SSA's website.

WVUCED's Free Support Group Forming for Teens with High Functioning Autism or Asperger's

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:04:47 -0700

The WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities in Morgantown is conducting a free support group for teens with high functioning Autism or Asperger’s.

WVA's comments on draft TBI Waiver Manual

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:55:57 -0700

Below are WVA’s comments for the draft TBI Waiver Manual’s public comment period:

West Virginia Advocates, Inc.

COMMENTS ON TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI) WAIVER MANUAL

Submitted January 30, 2012

The first comment that I feel compelled to make is that WV Bureau of Medical Services (WVBMS) has once again violated federal law in posting this public comment period. Public comment periods are supposed to be just that, an opportunity for the public to provide input. It is not the intention of public comment periods to be just for agencies to respond, although they comprise one important segment of public comment. However, people with disabilities who use the Medicaid programs, grassroots advocacy organizations, and interested citizens should all be provided with ample opportunity to provide comment if they choose to do so. When the I/DD HCBS Waiver application that was being sent to Centers for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS) was posted for public comment, BMS failed to post information about how the document could be accessed other than online and how comments could be submitted other than online. They also failed to provide information about locations where a paper copy of the document could be reviewed at no cost to the public. There was no notice, as is required, informing the public how they could request and access alternative formats for review if they required this due to a disability. That was particularly egregious considering that this is a federally funded program for persons with disabilities who may very well need these accommodations to participate in the review process. In addition to accommodating disability needs, providing access other than online is critical because data suggests that in West Virginia fewer than 50 percent of households have computer access and even fewer households have internet access which is required to participate in the review process the way it is set up. Many geographic areas of WV have limited or no affordable internet access due to lack of adequate physical infrastructure. When I identified this problem at the time of the first public comment period, I contacted Marcus Canaday by phone to discuss this violation of federal law by BMS, and he assured me that there had been a glitch and that indeed BMS had a person who was responsible to assure that all documents offered for public comment were properly posted in full compliance with federal law. He was unable, however, to explain why the mistake occurred. I agreed not to act on BMS’s failure to comply with the law, acknowledging that mistakes happen. Now the second round of public comment is taking place, and the public comment period is being posted in the exact manner as the first one; total non-compliance with federal law. Obviously Mr. Canaday’s assurances to me that future posting would be done in compliance with the law were meaningless. This problem must be resolved by BMS. If BMS persists in failing to compliance with federal law West Virginia Advocates will have no choice but to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.

While I understand that the purpose of this public comment period is to address the contents of the manual proposed for implementation of the program and not for comments to change the structure of the program I find it essential to comment on the structure of the program as this program appears to have some very significant flaws that may be expected to decrease the success of the program and the usefulness of the program to the TBI community, these are concerns that WVA expressed during the public comment period 18 months ago when the intent of comment was to address the structure of the program. Unfortunately it appears that managers of the program choose not to make changes in the structure based on those comments. Our concerns about the structure of the program are as follows:

512.5.11 Medical Eligibility Criteria Pg. 20

The criteria for eligibility for this program seems poorly coordinated with the reality of individuals with traumatic brain injury who are medically ready to live in the community. The Pre-Admission Screening Form (PAS) does not adequately address some of the most primary problems/deficits /needs typically experienced by TBI survivors. Orientation is a good example. The entire idea behind cognitive rehabilitation services, a service included in this waiver package, is in part to restore cognitive orientation, however Item #26 g. on the Description of Deficits chart on page 20 is a clear example of an inappropriate requirement. If an individual with TBI has to be totally disoriented or comatose to qualify in the area of orientation (a highly significant indicator with TBI) how are they appropriate to function safely in the community? They would not be ready for discharge from a facility. They certainly would be at high risk in their own home with the amount of services provided on this waiver. They surely are not ready to benefit significantly yet from cognitive rehabilitation. While we are aware of the requirement that individuals eligible for this waiver have to demonstrate that they need a nursing home level of care, nowhere in the CMS requirements does it say the same tool has to be used as is used for nursing home admission eligibility. In fact there is a letter from CMS to Medicaid Directors clarifying that while it is necessary to establish a need for the level of care, the need is not expected to be identical to the needs for the nursing home level of care. It is unfortunate that BMS has chosen to use the PASS as a screening tool for eligibility since it clearly is not specific enough for good evaluation of TBI survivor needs.

Page 20- Section below the PASS Chart makes no sense. The bullets below the opening sentence (starts with first bullet follow a set schedule) are the criteria for qualifying for a score of Level VII of the Ranchos Los Amigos Scale. Why is it here when the qualification for the Waiver is Level VII or below? The lower levels do not relate to this statement at all and someone for instance on level I-IV absolutely would not be able to do the things listed here in the manual which reads as if they have to be able to do those things to be eligible?

It is totally unrealistic to expect the limited number of hours of personal care provided by this program to maintain a safe living environment for an individual with traumatic brain injury whose scores on the Ranchos Los Amigos Scale id Level II or lower. It is also a misdirected use of resources for a home and community based program. The first four levels of this scale are as follows:

Level I: No Response
Level II: Generalized Response
Level III: Localized Response
Level IV: Confused-agitated

Clearly anyone scoring within these levels needs inpatient rehabilitation, medical or long term care and would be at risk in their own home in the community and would require 24 hour supervision for safety, if their other needs could be met in a home setting.

Levels five through seven are:

Level V: Confused-inappropriate
Level VI: Confused-appropriate
Level VII: Automatic-appropriate

Anyone scoring within these levels might be able to function in their own home in the community, but would require close 24 hour supervision, except possibly level VII. The Waiver is not providing 24 hour services so why are they limiting eligibility to people who require this?

Based on the eligibility requirements we are concerned people will qualify for slots who score on the lower levels of the Los Ranchos Amigos Scale and then the slots will remain vacant because the person has not progressed far enough while in the facility from which they applied to be medically ready for discharge to a community setting. Community based TBI resources are badly needed in WV and it would be a tragedy to tie funds up in a program for whom applicants who qualify cannot actually use the services.

512.5.1.2 Initial Medical Evaluation

Page 22 – G. – line 6 - Wording should be changed from “notice of free legal services” to notice of resources for free legal services. The wording used now suggests those services will be provided, something APS Healthcare cannot promise.

Pg. 22- Paragraph below J. What supports are provided to explain to the consumer or their representative what the Traditional and Personal Options are and what the differences are between them? This is much too complicated to simply mail out a form, tell them to check a box and return. Do they have a manual at that point? Do they get case management services and/or fiscal intermediary services to assist them with making this choice? If so that should be written in the manual. If not it should be added.

512.1 Definitions

pg. 5 Abuse – If this is intended to be a definition for physical abuse it needs to be titled that way. It also needs to include death as well as injury. If it is intended to be a general definition for abuse it is inaccurate and inadequate.

While sexual and financial abuse are defined elsewhere in the definitions section, psychological and verbal abuse are not defined anywhere in this section and need to be added.

Also absent in this definition are acts of humiliation of the incapacitated person such as photos and videos.

The reference to “imprisonment” makes no sense as it is written related to abuse. 2. Inappropriate use of photos, video tapes, phone cameras, intranet, social media, computers etc. The reference to imprisonment as written does not make sense. Imprisonment, if done by appropriate legal means by law enforcement through the courts is not abuse and this definition implies that it is.

Page 5- APS Healthcare ASO- Why is APS listed in the title of the definition? Definition appears to be intended to define an Administrative Services Organization, not APS specifically? What if the contractor changes during the 5 year period of the Waiver?

Page 6-top of page – Community Integration – This is an incorrect definition of community integration. Community integration is not defined by or limited to providing services. It is the experience an individual in their community regarding their relationships with others, including, but also going beyond service providers. It also includes their ability to live as independently as possible and to experience as much self-determination as they are capable of and to live a life based on what is meaningful to them, not their service providers. Definition should be rewritten with the focus placed on the consumer and not the provider of services.

Page 6- 3rd down - Emergency Plan - Needs to state not only who, but what actions are to be taken and needs to be consumer specific. This definition reads as if it could be generic based on location.

Page 7 - Neglect – Definition needs to have death added to it as neglect can result in death as well as injury.

Page 7 - Participant Direction – Wording of definition does not make sense? It reads that the person with the disability or their representative is participant direction?

Page 8 – Sexual Abuse/Sexual Exploitation – Needs to include use of photos, videos, cameras, cell phone cameras, intranet, internet, social media and other graphic or electronic mediums that display sex organs.

512.3 Provider Agency Certification

Page 9 – K. Written policies and procedures for member transfers. – does this mean each provider agency makes their own individual policy on how to do a transfer?

Page 9 – L. Written policies and procedures for the discontinuation of member services. Does this mean each provider agency makes their own individual policy on how to do a transfer?

If this is the case it will create confusion and significant risk for participants. BMS should have the policy for these two important activities and all providers should be required to follow the BMS policy.

512.3.2 Initial/Continuing Certification of Provider Agencies

Page 11 - 2nd paragraph – The use of wording “persons employed” entering into a provider agreement is confusing. Aren’t the “persons employed” the employees of the Personal Options representative? Isn’t the Personal Options representative the employer thus the “provider”, not their employees?

512.3.5 - Personal Attendant Service Staff Requirements

Page 13-Paragraph 2 - Training is required to be competency based, however there is no description of how competence will be evaluated or measured for items C, D, E, F, G, H, I, and J? A and B have competence measures built into the training.

Page 13-Paragraph 2 – list – J – Is there a requirement for a DDHR approved method of Crisis Intervention Training to be used? For safety of staff and consumers that should be required and stated clearly in the manual.

512.3.7 – Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist Qualifications

Page 14 end of paragraph 1 - LBHC staff and independent professionals providing CRT to members must also be certified or be in the process of attaining certification by the Society for Cognitive Rehabilitation (SCR).

WVA has been requested to participate in meetings and conference calls regarding this requirement. There is very great concern by the TBI/SCI Board as well as the WV Brain Injury Association, Health South and other providers of TBI services that there are no professionals in WV that meet the requirement stated above and that there is little interest in obtaining SCR certification due to the cost, length of time required and limited opportunities to earn income providing this service. It appears that professionals obtaining certification in WV are using a different certifying entity. We are very concerned that there will be funding for this service, but no ability to access the service due to a lack of providers who meet the qualifications of this manual.

512.3.8 - Criminal Investigation Background Checks and Restrictions and Medicaid Exclusion List

Page 15 –Paragraph 2 – line 1 Wording does not make sense? Employee or the employee?

Page 15-Paragraph directly below list ending in R. – Who is required to take the “appropriate action”?

Page 15- last paragraph – wording does not make sense? Check the check?

512.3.10 – Involuntary Agency Closure

What is the BMS protocol for assuring TBI participants have a continuation of services and provider choice if BMS closes an agency involuntary and where is that written protocol located?

512.4 Incident Management Overview

Page 17- Critical Incidents-sub-bullet 1 – Criminal activity needs to be separated from suicidal activity and made a separate bullet.

Page 17-Bullet 6 – physical environment usually refers to actual physical environment. This sounds like you are referring to the overall working environment rather than only the physical environment?

Page 17-Bullet 7 – This does not make sense? It says incidents that do not compromise health and safety of the member, but the scenario described definitely would compromise health and safety of the member?

Page 17 & 18 make reference to numerous situations in which there is a statement at the end “that does not compromise the health or safety of the member”. However I could find no statements directing what should happen if that same situation does compromise the health and safety of the member? Is that located in the manual?

5112.4.2 – Incident Management Tracking and Reporting

Page 19- paragraph 2- PPL responsibility – Given the critical life safety issues involved in incident tracking and reporting those responsibilities should either be stated in this manual or should be available as information that can be publically accessed and how to locate that information should be specified in the manual.

512.5.1.1 Medical Eligibility Criteria

Pg.22 – I. – How long will a slot be held open for the member to begin services? This is not defined in the manual. Since all applicants are in facilities at time of application this is important because it could be days, weeks, months or even years before they are medically clear to transition from the facility to a community setting. Unfortunately the way the application requirements are structured there are no specifications regarding readiness to return to the community, only level of functional deficits.

512.5.1.3 Medical Reevaluation

Page 23-list C. - This is embedded in the middle of B. and needs to be moved out on its own.

Page 23-list F. – Acronym CMA is used. What is this? If I cannot figure it out probably the public using this manual will not be able to do so either.

Page 23-list I As recommended earlier wording on notice of free legal services needs to be changed to resources for free legal services as APS cannot assure they will receive those services. Also concerned that information in I. states that appeal has to be submitted within 13 days of the notice date. That needs to be changed to 13 days from the RECIEPT of the notice.

512.8.1 Six Month (6) and Ongoing Service Plan Development

Advocate should be added to the list of participants.

512.11 Case Management Definition

Case Management activities specific to Participant Direction include, but are not limited to: C. – This is worded incorrectly. While the CM certainly can ask the member about their desire for a representative and may bring to the team a recommendation that they think a representative may be necessary, only the courts can determine if a person needs a legal representative. I am totally confused by the use of the language of a non-legal representative. An individual retains their own right to self-determination (their own guardian) unless a court appoints a guardian regardless of their level of functioning and there is no such thing as a non-legal representative in terms of doing treatment planning and signing treatment authorizations and plans. If a person has a health care surrogate appointed under the law that is a legal representative under state code. We recommend changing this language.

512.11.3 Ongoing Case Management Services

Monthly phone contact with member – This is a totally inappropriate expectation for any individual with a TBI who scores VII or less on the Los Ranchos Amigos Scale. The member can be expected to be experiencing significant cognitive, memory and possibly speech deficits, how are they supposed to provide the information required in this section? Face to face would be a challenge, but by phone is an unfair and unrealistic expectation for both the CM and the member and will at best result in inaccurate information and holds the potential for placing the member at risk for their life and safety.

512.1.2 Personal Attendant Services

Page 29, paragraph1 – Language should be expanded to include the list of facilities that members are allowed to be in when they apply. The purpose is to prevent institutionalization, not just a nursing home.

Page 31-H- We are concerned that there is no requirement to report any problems with the member taking medications either here or in F requiring incident reporting. Given the memory loss issues and confusion typical of a person with a TBI this could be a critical issue.

512.13 PARTICIPANT-DIRECTED GOODS AND SERVICES CODE, UNIT, LIMIT AND DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS

In the list of non-allowable services monthly internet service is listed. This concerns us. Use of the internet is a valuable cognitive restorative tool, provides community integration and increases potential for life safety as well as being what Americans living in the community do. Why is it not allowed? For Personal Options, at training and meetings I have attended for ID/D Waiver, PPL repeatedly has said that incident reporting needs to be done by the representatives into the DHHR system by computer and there is a strong push to have payroll (time sheets) done by computer. If this is the expectation why can these funds not be used to meet these expectations? It would be nice if person centered services included BMS policy writers recognizing that people with disabilities are full members of the community just like the folks who work for state government and provider agencies. The norms for behavior should be the same for all of us when it comes to communication tools like the internet.

512.15 MEMBER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Page 33- list of rights – The right to be free of abuse, neglect and exploitation needs to be added to this list. There also needs to be a statement that they retain all of their civil rights unless they have been removed by a court of law, or WV Code, including their right to vote.

512.16 MEMBER GRIEVANCE PROCESS

Page 34–1st paragraph – This is written in a confusing manner. Whose grievance policy is APS explaining-each of the service providers the member is using or APS’s policy? If each provider has their own are they all different? What member grievance form are they given by APS? If they have multiple service providers is it one for each provider plus APS? Or is APS doing their policy and each provider does theirs themselves with the member?

512.17.1 Emergency Transfers –

Pg. 35 bottom and top of pg. 36 – Who submits the justifying documentation in the Personal Options setting if the PO member/representative is the abuser?

512.18 DISCONTINUATION OF SERVICES

Page 36 B.- unsafe environment - WVA is extremely concerned about this statement. Both statement 1) and 2) would present risk to the worker, but would place the member at even greater risk for neglect, abuse and mistreatment since they are in that setting 24 hours a day. If any person with a disability is living in an environment described under section B it MUST be reported immediately to Adult Protective Services and law enforcement if a crime is occurring. The thought of having a policy to protect staff from this treatment, but to leave the person with the disability to remain in the setting at risk for injury or death is simply not acceptable! IT IS A DISGRACE TO MAKE A STATEMENT THAT IF ANOTHER AGENCY WILL NOT ACCEPT THE MEMBER DUE TO UNSAFE CIRCUMSTANCES THE CASE WILL BE CLOSED. And do what? Ignore the risk the member is experiencing in that unsafe environment? We totally support a safe working environment, but the member has an absolute right to a safe living environment as well. Why would APS transfer services to another agency and allow more people’s life and safety to be placed at risk? It is the responsibility of DHHR to see the member’s safety is protected and this is a written statement that they are willing to ignore that responsibility and treat it as an administrative issue.

18th Annual Family Leadership First Conference, April 20-22, 2012

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:27:11 -0700

West Virginia Family Leadership First, a statewide group which supports and encourages families to speak for themselves and others, will hold their 18th annual Families Conference April 20–22, 2012 at Canaan Valley.

Some topics that will be offered at the conference will include:

prescription drug abuse
scream free parenting
positive behavior support for challenging children
bullying
cooking on a shoestring
first impressions
IEPs
Our Town
wills and trusts
Veterans issues
ABCs of a healthy lifestyle
home safety
money management
accessing local resources
voting
legislative 101
nature walk

For the teens they are planning:

say no to drugs
bullying
an art project
communicating with parents
teen leadership in the community
teen parent issues
IEPs
siblings with a disability
safe dating
first impressions
leadership in schools
leadership in the community

Families who attend the conference are accepted from the applications received from all across the state. All meals, lodging, child care and conference materials are paid for and participants receive a gas stipend at the close of the event. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2012.

More information and the application (RTF) are available at http://www.familyleadershipfirstwv.org or by contacting Vanessa VanGilder at VKVanGilder@yahoo.com or (304) 421–0915.

Free Training: Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:02:54 -0700

Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood

Have you and your school system started transition planning for life after high school for your 16-year-old?
Does your student plan to further his or her education or enter the workforce?
Will your adult child need assistance to live independently after high school?

West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia, is pleased to offer a free training that will include:

Transition planning and the IEP
Information and discussion about adult services available

Resource information packets will be provided.

To Register:	Contact West Virginia Advocates at 1-800-950-5250.
When:	Thursday, February 9, 2012 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where:	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701 Free parking at hotel

If you require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by February 1, 2011.

Free Special Education Training

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:05:32 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)?
Does your employer require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.

To Register:	Call WVA at 1-800-950-5250
When:	Wednesday, February 8, 2011 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Lunch will be provided by West Virginia Advocates
Where:	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701 Free parking at hotel

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchase at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by February 1, 2011.

WVA's Trainings for Fiscal Year 2012 - Updated

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:48:49 -0700

Save a date on your calendars for the following trainings that WVA is planning to present during our Fiscal Year 2012 (October 2011 - September 2012).

When	What	Where	County
Feb 08, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701	Cabell
Feb 09, 12 9:00 – 12:00	Transition Planning	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701	Cabell
Mar 14, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Christ United Methodist Church 1232 National Road Wheeling WV 26003	Ohio
Apr 17, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
May 16, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	To be announced	Raleigh
May 17, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	To be announced	Raleigh

GAO Finds Enforcement Need for Testing Accommodations

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:05:33 -0700

Higher Education and Disability: Improved Federal Enforcement Needed to Better Protect Students' Rights to Testing Accommodations

Fair Shake Network’s Training and Disability Advocacy Day

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:22:13 -0700

The Fair Shake Network’s Training and Disability Advocacy Day Flyer:

Fair Shake Network
Training and Disability Advocacy Day January 17 & 18, 2012 Charleston Civic Center & State Capitol

Deadline for Registering: DECEMBER 30, 2011.

Co-Sponsored by: WV Developmental Disabilities Council, WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, WV Olmstead Council, WV Independent Living Council, WVU Center for Excellence in Disability, and WV Advocates

Stipend funds are available for people with developmental disabilities and their family members through a grant from the WV Developmental Disabilities Council. Stipend funds for people with other disabilities and their family members are being made through grants from the Appalachian Community Fund, and the Southern Partners Fund.

For a registration form or more information contact the Fair Shake Network Office at 304–766–0061, or 1–800–497–4746, and you can visit our website at www.fairshake.org

TSA Cares is a Toll Free Helpline for Travelers with Disabilities

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:30:10 -0700

TSA Announces Launch of TSA Cares Toll Free Helpline for Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Needs

DBSA Support Group Meeting

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:28:44 -0700

What:	Peer to Peer Support Group Meeting for DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance)
When:	Dec. 27th, Social Time Begins 5:30, Meeting 6:00 to 7:30pm.
Where:	The Geary Plaza, 700 Washington St., Suite 207, Charleston.

Call 304–400–4542 or email giampapjenn@ymail.com for more information.

An Internet Parenting Education and Support Group for Mothers with Psychiatric Disabilities

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:59:58 -0700

The Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion for Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities is seeking participants for a study. For details see the text below taken from their flyer:

Announcing - An Internet Parenting Education and Support Group for Mothers with Psychiatric Disabilities: A Research Study

The Temple University (TU) Collaborative has launched a new research study examining the effectiveness of an Internet parenting education and social support program for mothers with a psychiatric disability. The TU Collaborative on Community Inclusion is looking for women who are interested in participating in an online parental education course designed to enhance parental knowledge and skills in the following areas:

illness management,

child development,

stress reduction,

parent-child communication, and

promoting resiliency in your child.

This program also involves Internet social support through a Listserv, which will be co-moderated by a parent with a psychiatric disability and a mental health professional. This group can connect you 24-hours a day, 7-days a week to a community of supportive peers, in your own home or anywhere you can access the Internet!

We are looking for people who:

Are mothers (over the age of 18) diagnosed with a mental illness (Major Depression, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder or Mood Disorder)

Currently have primary/ shared custody and are serving as the caretaker for at least one child (natural, adopted, or stepchild) under the age of 18

Have access to a computer and the Internet

Would consider using the Internet for support and information

Are United States Residents

Are fluent in English

Participants will be compensated up to $100 for their participation in this study.

If you want to participate or would like more information, please email us at the following address: momsupport@temple.edu

The Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion of Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities

New WV Driver's license requirements

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:16:42 -0700

Renewing or gettng a new West Virginia Driver’s licences will require additional documents starting in 2012. For more information see http://www.wvgazette.com/News/Business/201112090171

Save The Date! - March 27 — 28, 2012

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 07:02:45 -0700

Save The Date! - March 27 — 28, 2012

Sports Concussions: NOT Just a Bump on the Head!

The Brain Injury Association of West Virginia is pleased to announce a sports concussion conference. It will be March 27–28, 2012 at the Charleston Civic Center.

Great speakers, vendors and information!

Brain Injury Association of West Virginia
P.O. Box 574
Institute, WV 25112–0574
Phone: 304–400–4506
Fax: 304–205–7915
Email: mdavis@barinman.com or bpeterso@access.k12.wv.us

US DOL Proposes Hiring Goals for People with Disabilities

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:29:47 -0700

US DOL Press Release: US Labor Department seeks to improve job opportunities for Americans with disabilities by setting historic hiring goal for federal contractors and subcontractors.

Full Test: 76 FR 77056 - Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors Regarding Individuals With Disabilities

American Sign Language Video Explaining Medicare

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:41:27 -0700

CMS has posted a video in American Sign Language explaining the Medicare Program.

Community Health Education Resource Person (CHERP) Training

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:07:03 -0700

A Community Health Education Resource Person (CHERP) is a trained community member who provides information, support, and basic health care services to those who need help. Training to become a CHERP is free.

Support Group for Teens with Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome or Pervasive Developmental Delay, Not Otherwise Specified

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:14:09 -0700

The Center for Excellence in Disabilities at West Virginia University in Morgantown is starting a support group for teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders such as Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Delay, Not Otherwise Specified. This group will assist with the development of social skills and provide support for dealing with the demands of everyday life for teens on the autism spectrum. It is designed to support teens who can communicate verbally and who have normal intellectual functioning.

Topics such as meeting and getting to know other, dealing with bullies and other uncomfortable social situations and coping with the school environment will also be covered. Additionally, the group will address other life skills such as transitions, dating and interacting with social media and be based on the needs of the teens attending. For more information or to make a referral, contact Diane Williams, MSW, LCSW, at the CED, 304–293–4692, ext., 1131 or awilliams@hsc.wvu.edu.

WVU CED's Fine Arts Program: Art Show and Sale

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:58:24 -0700

What:	WVU CED’s Fine Arts Program Art Show and Sale
When:	December 12, 2011, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Where:	Second Floor Conference Room WVU CED West Virginia University 959 Hartman Run Road Morgantown, WV 26505

Operation Holiday Outreach

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:04:29 -0700

The Community is Invited to “Operation Holiday Outreach” on Saturday, December 10th at the First Baptist Church, Shrewsbury St., Charleston from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

Presented by: LifeBridge Veterans Corps and the First Baptist Church of Charleston

Free Activities Include:

Holiday Meal
Crafts for Kids
Visit from Santa
Clothing Give-Away
Angel Tree/Memory Tree for Veterans

For More Information Contact: Michelle Smith at (304) 340–3581

Managed Enrollment for the Aged & Disabled Waiver Program

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:36:22 -0700

Important Information regarding the Aged & Disabled Waiver Program

This is a memorandum sent out by WVDDHR BMS regarding its decision to close off further enrollment into the Aged & Disabled Waiver program.

MEMORANDUM

Date: November 29, 2011

To: Aged & Disabled Waiver Stakeholders

From: Penney A. Hall, Program Manager, Aged & Disabled Waiver Program

Re: Managed Enrollment 

In order for the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services (BMS) to 
maintain the current level of services for individuals in the Aged and 
Disabled Waiver program (ADW), ADW services will not be offered to any 
applicant whose application is received on or after Monday, 
December 5, 2011. Eligible individuals will be enrolled in the program and 
services will be provided only if additional funding becomes available. 

Individuals referred for medical eligibility determination after 
December 4, 2011, will continue to be evaluated by West Virginia Medical 
Institute (WVMI).  However, those applicants found medically eligible will 
receive notification they have been placed on the Managed Enrollment List.  
Applicants will be placed on the list based on the date/time their Medical 
Necessity Evaluation Request Form is successfully processed by WVMI.  At 
such time that the Waiver Program is able to accept new members, applicants 
will be provided with instructions on how to complete the remaining steps 
of the eligibility process.  

If you have any questions about Managed Enrollment, please contact me at 
(304) 356-4872 or at penney.a.hall@wv.gov.  

Cc: Marcus Canaday, Director, Home and Community Based Services, BMS   
    Julie McClanahan, Bureau of Senior Services  
    WVMI

Medicare’s Dec. 7th Open Enrollment deadline nears

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:43:43 -0700

As the December 7th deadline grows closer for people with Medicare to change or choose their drug and health plan coverage for next year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and its network of partners and advocates are available to assist with counseling and enrolling beneficiaries on their choices for 2012.

CMS's Press Release: Medicare’s Dec. 7th Open Enrollment deadline nears

Parent Implemented Training for Autism through Telemedicine

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 10:34:34 -0700

Researchers from West Virginia University are looking for parents that want to learn how to teach new skills to their children with autism. The study will teach parents how to implement Discrete Trial/ABA training through written instructions or through video. It should take about a year to finish the study. There is no cost to participate in this study. This study has been approved by the WVU Institutional Review Board (IRB). For more information see Parent Implemented Training for Autism through Telemedicine.

"Promote WVCHIP" Video Contest

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 10:36:05 -0700

The West Virginia Healthy Kids & Families Coalition, a project of the WV Council of Churches, is sponsoring a “Promote WVCHIP” video contest.

Save the Date - 18th Annual Family Leadership First Conference

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:22:15 -0700

Save the Date

April 20 - 22, 2011

18th Annual Family Leadership Conference

Canaan Valley Resort

For more information contact Vanessa VanGilder at vkvangilder@yahoo.com or (304) 421-0915

http://www.familyleadershipfirstwv.org

WVDDC and WVA Comment on Policy 4373

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:40:31 -0700

The WVDDC and WVA have provided comments on policy 4373 (PDF). More information on WVDE policies.

Brunch with Deaf Santa

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:55:56 -0700

Mountwest Community & Technical College American Sign Language Student Association invites you to Brunch with Deaf Santa.

Who’s Invited?	All Deaf kids and their families Big Kids, Little Kids, and Old Kids too
Theme	How the Grinch Stole Christmas
When	Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 11:00 a.m.
Where	Mountwest Center for Culinary Arts 1648 8th Avenue Huntington, WV

Come meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. You may even run into a Who. All children will receive a gift from Santa!

Brunch will be served prior to Santa’s Arrival.

Admission is free.

RSVP: Leigh-Ann Brewer, brewer13@mctc.edu

Online Forum for Accessible Gardening Advice Now Available

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:04:15 -0700

Green Thumbs, Healthy Joints, a program at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU, is excited to announce a new addition to its webpage – an online forum. This forum is for discussing accessible gardening and related topics. Postings can include ergonomics and arthritis, gardening experiences, and sharing advice. Green Thumbs staff will post specific topics and questions, and individuals can post their own questions as well.

To register for the forum, visit http://greenthumbs.cedwvu.org/forums. For more information, contact Mary Slabinski at 304–293–4692 x 1125 or mslabinski@hsc.wvu.edu.

Notice: WVA Trainings for November 9 & 10 Cancelled

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:36:51 -0700

WVA's trainings on November 9th and 10th for Policy 2419 and Transition Planning have been cancelled due to lack of registrations. A training for this area of the State will most likely be rescheduled for May 2012.

Treehouse Drop-In Center Meet & Greet

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:53:30 -0700

The WV Mental Health Consumer Association and Prestera would like to invite consumers to a meet and greet on November 17, 2011 from 11:00 - 2:30 at the Tree house Drop-In Center located at:

730 7th Avenue
Huntington WV

Wrightslaw's Protecting Students from Bullying & Harassment

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:33:24 -0600

Check out Wrightslaw's newsletter the Special Ed Advocate on Protecting Students from Bullying & Harassment.

Free Training: Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood - Cancelled

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:27:32 -0600

Cancelled Due to Lack of Registrations. A training in this area will most likely be scheduled for around May.

Have you and your school system started transition planning for life after high school for your 16-year-old? Does your student plan to further his or her education or enter the workforce?

West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia, is pleased to offer a free training that will include:

Transition planning and the IEP
Information and discussion about adult services available

To Register:	Contact West Virginia Advocates at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
Where:	Moorefield Church of God 217 S. Elm Street Moorefield, WV 26836
When:	Thursday, November 10, 2011 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

If you require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by November 1, 2011.

Free Special Education Training - Cancelled

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:35:57 -0600

Cancelled Due to Lack of Registrations. A training in this area will most likely be scheduled for around May.

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)?
Does your employer require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

West Virginia Advocates, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia, is pleased to offer a free training on West Virginia Department of Education Policy 2419. Policy 2419 is WV's regulations for services available to children with disabilities in the school system.

What:	Policy 2419 Training A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
To Register:	Call WVA at 1-800-950-5250 Walk-in registrations welcome.
When:	Wednesday, November 9, 2011 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Bring a bag lunch. (We will be working through lunch.)
Where:	Moorefield Church of God 217 S. Elm Street Moorefield, WV 26836

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchase at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by November 1, 2011.

WVA's Trainings for Fiscal Year 2012

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:59:17 -0600

Save a date on your calendars for the following trainings that WVA is planning to present during our Fiscal Year 2012 (October 2011 - September 2012).

When	What	Where	County
Nov 09, 11 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419 (Cancelled)	Moorefield Church of God 217 S. Elm Street Moorefield, WV 26836	Hardy
Nov 10, 11 9:00 – 12:00	Transition Planning (Cancelled)	Moorefield Church of God 217 S. Elm Street Moorefield, WV 26836	Hardy
Feb 08, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701	Cabell
Feb 09, 12 9:00 – 12:00	Transition Planning	Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 300 Third Avenue Huntington, WV 25701	Cabell
Mar 14, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	To be announced	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	To be announced	Ohio
Mar 15, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	To be announced	Ohio
Apr 17, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
Apr 18, 12 12:30 – 3:00	Transition Planning	Days Inn 2000 Sutton Lane Sutton, WV 26601	Braxton
May 16, 12 9:00 – 3:00	Policy 2419	To be announced	Raleigh
May 17, 12 9:00 – 12:00	IEP	To be announced	Raleigh

WVSILC is recruiting for the Ron Yost Personal Assistance Services Board

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:05:29 -0600

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council is recruiting nominees for membership on the Ron Yost Personal Assistance Services Board to fill vacancies on the board. For more information visit http://www.wvsilc.org/RON_YOST_PERSONAL_ASSISTANCE_SERVICES_2.htm

USDOT Press Release: Air Travel Websites and Kiosks to Become Accessible

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:59:14 -0600

U.S. Department of Transporation Press Release: U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Takes Action to Make Websites and Kiosks Accessible to Air Travelers with Disabilities

RSA Comissioner's Update - September 2011

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 13:20:42 -0600

The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) Comissioner's Update for September 2011 (PDF).

Public Safety Symposium for the greater Charleston Area

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:04:42 -0600

You are invited to attend a public safety symposium to recognize September as National Disaster Planning Month. The symposium will address services available to persons living in the greater Charleston area during a disaster and how to access those services.

DATE: Saturday, September 24, 2011
LOCATION: South Charleston Public Library
TIME: 1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.

Participating Agencies Include:

The symposium is free and open to the public.

Sponsored by the Central West Virginia Consumer Affairs Committee and WV Division of Rehabilitation Services

Parents of young children with autism wanted for sutdy!

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:15:43 -0600

August 23, 2011

Dear parent,

Researchers from West Virginia University (WVU) are looking for parents of young children with autism for a research study. The study is being done by Mark Clingan (Ed.D.) and Claire St. Peter Pipkin (Ph.D., BCBA-D). The study will teach parents how to run discrete trial instruction programs (also known as ABA therapy), using either written instructions or videos. It should take about a year to finish the study. The study has been approved by the WVU Institutional Review Board (IRB).

To be eligible, parents must:

Have a child between 18 and 48 months of age who meets the criteria for autism

Live in West Virginia

Be willing to participate in the study for a year.

For more information about the study or to sign up to participate, please contact the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at (304) 293-4692, extension 1111. Please say that you are interested in the parent training study.

Thank you,

Claire St. Peter Pipkin, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Assistant Professor, Psychology
West Virginia University

FREE IEP Training Parkersburg WV

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:20:22 -0600

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

9:00 – 9:30 am Registration and Continental Breakfast
9:30 am – 4:00 pm Training with lunch provided

Parkersburg Country Club,
4910 River Road, Vienna, WV

This training is sponsored by:

Details, Registration, and Stipend Request Forum in PDF.

Different Voices and Common Experiences art show

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:35:04 -0600

The 7th Annual Different Voices and Common Experiences art show opens Friday, September 9th with a free public reception at 6pm at the Mon Arts Center (107 High St., Morgantown). Artists will be in attendance to mingle and discuss their work. There will also be performing artists, including poets and musicians. Refreshments provided.

The show will be open from Sept. 9th - Oct 1st. It focuses on artistic expressions of mental health and well-being. Many works will be available to purchase.

Different Voices and Common Experiences is hosted by Northern West Virginia Center for Independent Living and Mental Health America of Monongalia County. It is supported in part through:

APBS Conference is October 6, 2011

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 06:40:57 -0600

The WV Association for Positive Behavior Support Network's 2nd Annual Conference is scheduled for October 6, 2011. For more information see the conference brochure (PDF).

WVDRS 2011 Consumer Affairs Conference

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:21:53 -0600

Registrations still are being accepted for the 2011 Consumer Affairs Conference. Presented by the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services, the conference will be held October 31 through November 1, 2011, at the Town Center Marriott in Charleston, West Virginia.

The conference is open to all interested persons, and your participation is invited.

Preregistration is required for all participants.

ALL registrations must be received by September 30, 2011. Registrations received after September 30, 2011, will be accepted only to the extent practical.

The theme is "Power is Freedom." An outstanding team of speakers will offer information to assist consumers in knowing their civil rights; having a voice on issues that impact their lives; keeping current on state and federal issues; and receiving information about resources for their health, employment, financial security, and independence. Download the agenda in RTF Format

All registered participants will be welcome to participate in a banquet dinner on Monday evening, October 31,2011; a buffet luncheon on Tuesday November 1; and refreshments during scheduled breaks.

The WVDRS Consumer Affairs Office will make ALL hotel reservations for participants whose registration forms indicate a need for lodging. Participants desiring accessible rooms should ensure their registrations are submitted promptly as the number of accessible rooms is limited.

For more information and the registration form contact either to Ms. Hiney at (304) 356-2365 or to Gene Defabio, Consumer Affairs Specialist, at (304) 356-2364.

An Optimistic Approach to Helping Students with Challenging Behavior

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:21:03 -0600

The WV Autism Training Center at Marshall University presents "An Optimistic Approach to Helping Students with Challenging Behavior" featuring Dr. Mark Durand on October 5, 2011. For more information download the flyer in PDF format.

WVA is seeking an Advocate

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 11:49:03 -0600

West Virginia Advocates, Inc., West Virginia’s designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities, is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. This is a full time non-exempt position. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package. Please submit resume by 09/09/11.

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: chausch@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

MSPCAN 'Family Connections' Newsletter - August 2011

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 09:18:55 -0600

Mountain State Parent-Child & Adolescent Network 'Family Connections' Newsletter - August 2011 in PDF

Employment Discrimination on the Basis of Disability Training

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 09:45:25 -0600

West Virginia Advocates is pleased to sponsor a seminar for attorneys and advocates. The training is being presented by experienced attorneys who will provide perspectives from individuals with disabilities, the employer, as well as the State’s Attorney General's office. Presenters will discuss other areas of law that impact employment cases and how the ADA Amendments have changed employment law. The seminar will focus on the rights of individuals with disabilities in the workplace and remedies available when discrimination occurs.

September 13, 2011, 9 AM - 3 PM
Waterfront Place Hotel
Two Waterfront Place
Morgantown, WV

Speakers

Allan N. Karlin
Allan N. Karlin & Associates
Yale College
Boalt Hall, the Law School of the University of CA at Berkeley

Since 1981, Mr. Karlin has represented clients in personal injury and employment cases in West Virginia. He has been nationally recognized for his work in the field of employment law. He is the recipient of numerous awards and honors. Mr. Karlin was a member of the West Virginia Lawyer Disciplinary Board for six years and served of Chairperson of the Board for three years.

Paul R. Sheridan
WV Office of the Attorney General
Wesleyan University
West Virginia University College of Law

Mr. Sheridan is Deputy Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. As a member of the Civil Rights Division, he has litigated discrimination and harassment cases since October 1990. He organized the West Virginia Hate Crime Task Force and has been recognized for his work related to hate crime awareness. Mr. Sheridan assisted in the development of training and resource material on hate crime for the United States Department of Justice and the United States Department of Education.

C. David Morrison
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
Transylvania University
University of Kentucky College of Law

Since 1981, Mr. Morrison has represented employers in the areas of safety and labor and employment law. He provides day-to-day advice on the multitude of issues that arise in the workplace, and he handles employment litigation. Among his activities and honors, he is a Fellow in the American College of Labor & Employment Law, Past President and current Executive Committee Member of the Energy & Mineral Law Foundation, Permanent Member of the Fourth Circuit Judicial Conference and a former adjunct lecturer at the West Virginia College of Law on both pre-trial strategies (with Al Karlin) and on litigation skills. He has published articles and lectured over 75 times on various employment law topics.

Schedule

8:00, Registration/Continential Breakfast (provided)

9:00, Introduction by William F. Byrne, Esq.

9:15, Employment Discrimination on the Basis of Disability by Allan N. Karlin & C. David Morrison

10:15, Morning Break (Refreshments provided)

10:30, Employment Discrimination on the Basis of Disability (continued)

12:00, Lunch (on your own)

1:00, Practicing before the WV Human Rights Commission by Paul R. Sheridan

2:00, Exercises: Factual senarios and Building a case

Registration

Registration is limited to 80 participants.

You may register by:

Phone: 800.950.5250
Fax: 304.346.0867
Mail: Attn: CLE, West Virginia Advocates, 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV, 25301

Download the registraiton form in PDF.

Gubernatorial Debate, August 23, 2011

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:18:26 -0600

The Fair Shake Network and other Disability Organizations are planning a Gubernatorial Debate on August 23, 2011 at the So.Charleston Public Library starting at 6:00 pm. For more information visit http://www.fairshake.org/view_event.php?id=96

FAN Night at the Appalachian Power Park. Free tickets!

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:22:59 -0600

Join us for a night at the ball game for FAN Night at the WV Appalachian Power Park! This event, sponsored by JeffersonWhitney, will celebrate people with disabilities and provide an opportunity to network with professionals and organizations serving people with disabilities.

Date: Saturday, August 13th
Game Time: 7:05 PM
Location: WV Appalachian Power Park, Charleston, WV

Accessible parking will be available at Plaza East (across from the Ball Park).

WVA has a limited number of FREE game tickets available for people with disabilities and their family members. If you are a person with a disability, or a family member of a person with a disability, call us at 1-800-950-5250 and request your free tickets. First come, first serve.

For additional information regarding this event, please visit www.jeffersonwhitney.com.

Social Security Office Hours Changed

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:53:28 -0600

Beginning August 15, 2011, Social Security field offices will close to the public 30 minutes early each day. For example, a field office that is usually open to the public Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm will now close daily at 3:30 pm.

Lose the Training Wheels - July 18th - 22nd, 2011

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 11:08:07 -0600

Marshall University Kinesiology will be hosting a Lose the training Wheels Camp at Huntington High School July 18th-22nd, 2011. Lose the Training Wheels is a non-profit charity that travels the country teaching children with disabilities (such as autism or Down Syndrome) how to independently ride a two-wheel bike. For more information please visit http://www.marshall.edu/lttw/

Autism NOW Family and Sibling Support Series Webinars.

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:58:15 -0600

Parent Center Services and Information Available at the PACER Center
Time: Tuesday, June 28, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM EST
Speaker: PACER (Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights) Center
Space is limited.
Reserve your seat now at: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/3lnzjeb6qhad

Promoting the Connection Between Veteran and Young Parents with Family Voices
Time: Thursday, June 30, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM EST
Speaker: Ms. Trish Thomas, Family Voices
Space is limited.
Reserve your seat now at: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/bdfjuzvvhpu2

The Importance of Sibling Perspectives and Experiences
Time: Tuesday, July 5, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM EST
Speaker: Mr. John Kramer, Sibling Leadership Network
Space is limited.
Reserve your seat now at: https://cc.readytalk.com/r/jjgr2fc6ozmv

Contact Jennifer at jsladen@autismnow.org for more information.

Also see Autism NOW's Webinar Archive.

I/DD Waiver Manual Public Comment Period

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 07:33:54 -0600

The I/DD Waiver Manual and Forms are available for comments on BMS's website. Comments are due by July 15th.

Save The Date!

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 07:53:18 -0600

The Autism Society of West Virginia Annual Conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders will be on September 16-17, 2011 at the Bridgeport Conference Center in Bridgeport, WV. Speakers include Dr. Peter Gerhardt, author of Transitions to Adulthood for Learners with ASD; Steve Wiseman, Executive Director of the WVDDC; Andrew Nelson, Autism Training Center, Marshall University; Dr. Susannah Poe; & Jill McLaury.

Registration information & requests for WVDDC stipends will be made available after July 18, 2011

Field of Dreams, Diamonds on the Field with the WV Miners, July 5th

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 08:06:36 -0600

Field of Dreams, Diamonds on the Field with the WV Miners
July 5, 2011
Activities at 5:00PM and Game at 7:05PM

The WV Miners is hosting an evening of activites for children with disabilities. You will need to call and make reservations as well has have a copy of this letter.

WV I/DD Waiver Program Renewal Training

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:48:23 -0600

WV I/DD Waiver Program Renewal (Formerly known as the MR/DD Waiver Program) Training for Program Members, their Families and Providers.

Training is offered for both program members and providers.

Day 1 at each location will be for program members, their representatives and/or families/stakeholders.

Day 2 at each location will be for I/DD Waiver Providers.

Learn about the WV I/DD Waiver Manual and changes from previous policy, and the options available through Participant-Directed services.

Registration is required at least 2 business days in advance.

There are several dates and locations available. Please see the WV I/DD Waiver Program training flyer (PDF) for more information.

To register contact Tiffany Angel at APS Healthcare, TAngel@apshealthcare.com, 866.385.8920.

WVA is seeking members for its PAIMI Advisory Council

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:25:05 -0600

WVA is seeking individuals to serve on its PAIMI Advisory Council.

If you are interested in becoming a member of WVA's PAIMI Advisory Council, please fill out the PAIMI Advisory Council application, and return it to WVA.

E-mail: contact@wvadvocates.org
Mail: 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV 25301
Fax: (304) 346-0867

Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:39:00 -0600

The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) is a new health coverage option for the uninsured. For more information read the PCIP Factsheet for West Virginia (pdf) or visit pcip.gov.

Experts Give EEOC Range of Views on Leave as a Reasonable Accommodation

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:40:51 -0600

EEOC's press release titled "Experts Give EEOC Range of Views on Leave as a Reasonable Accommodation."

Rockefeller Announces 41 Democratic Senators Will Stand Firm Against Drastic Cuts to Medicaid

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:41:34 -0600

Senator Jay Rockefeller's press release titled "e;Rockefeller Announces 41 Democratic Senators Will Stand Firm Against Drastic Cuts to Medicaid."

Walk for Independence 2011

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 06:48:19 -0600

The eighth annual Walk for Independence 2011 will be held at Ritter Park in Huntington, WV on Saturday, July 23rd at 8:00 A.M. For more information or to register visit Mountain State Centers for Independent Living.

WVA is seeking an Advocate

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 07:16:58 -0600

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: chausch@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

Partners in Policymaking Class

Tue, 31 May 2011 09:29:46 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council is currently accepting applications for the 2011 - 2012 Partners in Policymaking Class. If you are interested, please complete the online or paper application found on WVDDC's website, or contact dhhrwvddc@wv.gov for more information.

Partners in Policymaking is a leadership program for adults with developmental disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities. Partners become familiar with the policymaking and legislative process at the local, state and federal levels. The program teaches skills necessary for individuals to become advocates who can influence the system of services for people with developmental disabilities.

The program will begin in September and run through May. One two-day training session will be held each month and will begin at noon on Friday and end on Saturday afternoon. All sessions are held at a centrally located hotel in Charleston, WV. Meals and lodging are provided and stipends for transportation, personal assistance services and respite care are available upon request.

The Olmstead Council is seeking members

Tue, 31 May 2011 09:51:25 -0600

The Olmstead Council is seeking membership for several positions. The application deadline is July 8, 2011. For more information download the Olmstead membership application (PDF).

Grant Funds Available from the WVDDC

Wed, 11 May 2011 13:08:19 -0600

The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council (WVDDC) has announced the availability of funds for Federal Fiscal Year 2012 (October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012). The Council will award a limited number of grants that address the support needs of citizens with developmental disabilities and their families.

On May 17th there will be a pre-application conference call. Letters of Intent are due by May 27th, and the application deadline is on June 24th.

For more information see WVDDC's notice, or contact Jim Cremeans, Council Planner, at (304) 558-4184 or by e-mail at Jim.H.Cremeans@wv.gov.

Post-Secondary Education for People with Diabetes

Tue, 10 May 2011 07:31:47 -0600

The American Diabetes Association has several publications with information regarding post-secondary education for people with diabetes. Some of the information may be of use to people with other disabilities as well.

ODEP Publishes Youth Employment Data

Mon, 09 May 2011 07:18:22 -0600

ODEP now publishes monthly updates to the national employment rate of youth with disabilities.

ODEP Publishes Study Confirming Workers with Disabilities Meet or Exceed the Job Performance of Co-Workers without Disabilities

Mon, 09 May 2011 07:19:36 -0600

Research shows that people with disabilities can work and want to work, and workers with disabilities meet or exceed the job performance of co-workers without disabilities.

WVDRS's New Address

Mon, 09 May 2011 10:28:25 -0600

West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services has a new address.

Mailing Address: WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, PO Box 50890 State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305-0890

Physical Address: 107 Capitol Street, Charleston, WV

Social Security to be paid electronically.

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:41:01 -0600

Effective May 1, 2011, applicants for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will receive their payments electronically by either direct deposit or the Direct Express® debit card. Current check recipients have until March 1, 2013, to switch to an electronic payment. For more information regarding Treasury’s All Electronic Payment Initiative, see GN 02402.001 Direct Deposit as a Form of Electronic Payment. For additional information about Direct Deposit see GN 02402.000 Direct Deposit - Title II and Title XVI.

Free Seminar: Special Needs Trust

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:06:27 -0600

Hosted by the Autism Society River Cities.

Protect Your Loved Ones When you are no longer here to help them.

A Special Needs Trust can provide a range of benefits to and protect the assets of individuals with a range of disabilities.

May 14, 2011, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Autism Services Center
1402 Commerce Ave., Huntington, WV

To register or request information contact Autism Society River Cities, 304.710.9202, 606.615.0762, or autismsocietyrivercities@gmail.com

Please register by May 6th.

Parkersburg Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:10:52 -0600

The Parkersburg Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group meets the last Tuesday of every month from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

JCDC, Inc. Parkersburg Office
713 Division St Ste 2
Parkersburg, WV 26101
beside Nationwide Insurance and Big A Muffler in Southcrest Plaza

For more information please call Sara Rose at 304.699.5480 or email srose@jcdcworks.com

Supported in part by The Parkersburg Area Community Foundation, Brain Injury Association of WV, JCDC, Inc. and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU.

FREE Special Education Training - May 18, 2011

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 13:08:15 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered 'YES' to either of these questions, you should attend this training. The training will be provided by West Virginia Advocates, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
To Register:	Call WVA at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
When:	Wednesday, May 18, 2011, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM We will break for lunch. Food is available for purchase on-site.
Where:	Logal Country Club 715 Lincoln Highway Chapmansville, WV 25508

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by May 6, 2011.

May is Lupus Awareness Month

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 13:28:31 -0600

The immune system of individuals with Lupus cannot differentiate between foreign matter and its own cells and tissues.

With individuals with Lupus, their immune systems direct antibodies against itself resulting in damage, inflammation and pain to various parts of the body including:

Blood
Skin
Joints
Brain
Lungs
Kidneys
Heart

For most individuals Lupus will be of a mild form affecting only a few parts of the body. However in some cases it can be a serious, even life threatening condition.

Show your support for the Lupus Foundation of America, and for those you may know who have Lupus, by Wearing Purple on May 10, 2011.

FY 10 Annual Report

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 09:52:03 -0600

Download the Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Annual Report in PDF

October 1, 2009 - September 30, 2010

Finding Your Way to Adulthood, May 19-20, 2011

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:51:17 -0600

Come learn about health care transition, life skills, healthy lifestyles, employment and advocacy!

A free two-day event for youth with disabilities, their families and the professionals who serve them as they navigate their way into adulthood. A limited number of scholarships are available for families overnight accommodations. For more information, call 304-293-4692 x1196 or visit http://sig.cedwvu.org/life-course.php

Free Nursing and Social Work CEU’s available.

Finding Your Way to Adulthood
May 19-20, 2011
Stonewall Jackson Resort
Roanoke, WV

This conference is funded by the West Virginia State Implementation Grant (SIG) and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities.

New Website for People with Disabilites Seeking Employment.

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:19:37 -0600

A new website, JobTIPS, is now available as a resource for people with disabilities who are seeking employment.

Check out the article about the JobTIPS website on disabilityscoop.com

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week & Information and Resource Panel

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:23:14 -0600

By the Harrison County PERC

May 1st through the 7th is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Most children with mental health challenges do not get the help they need. Some amazing statistics include:

Half of adolescents with impairing mental disorders never receive treatment
Fewer than 1 in 5 adolescents with anxiety, eating, or substance use disorders receive treatment for those disorders.
More than 6 in 10 U.S. youth have been exposed to violence within the past year, including witnessing a violent act, assault with a weapon, sexual victimization, child maltreatment, and dating violence. Nearly 1 in 10 was injured.

In an effort to help further educate families, the Harrison County Parent/Educator Resource Center (PERC) is hosting a Children’s Mental Health Information and Resource Panel on Tuesday, May 3, 2011, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the ALC (Former Gore Middle School). This FREE, informal presentation is open to students, parents, educators, and community members to familiarize them with agencies and key organizations who provide services and programs in Harrison County.

Contact the Harrison Co. PERC at 304-326-7693, 304-326-7692, or by email tohcperc@yahoo.com

WVA is seeking Advocates

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:26:04 -0600

West Virginia Advocates, Inc. West Virginia’s designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. Experience investigating abuse and neglect preferred. This is a full time non-exempt position in our Charleston or Clarksburg offices. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package.

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: chausch@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

Assistive Technology Vendor Demonstration

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:22:56 -0600

Tuesday April 12th - 11:00am – 1:00pm

Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU
959 Hartman Run Road
Morgantown, WV 26505
2nd floor conference room

RSVP by Friday April 8th

The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS), a part of the CED at WVU, is happy to announce that Jack Wood will be doing an assistive technology vendor demonstration of the following devices:

EyePal from Abisee - A device connected to the computer that takes a picture of printed materials and within 20 seconds begins to read the text. Good for any non hand written printed materials.
Solo from Abisee - A stand alone device that does the same as the EyePal.
Victor Stream Reader - A device that reads various types of files and stores books, music, pod casts and text files.
Humanware Synergy - A desk top CCTV.
Hand held CCTVS - The Lookie and Versa.

Jack is a vendor representative from Fairfax, VA who specializes in devices for individuals who are blind or have low vision. WVATS staff will also be on hand to discuss devices in the Assistive Technology Loan Library and Exchange System. This event is free and open to the public, so please forward to interested individuals. RSVP by Friday April 8th to jhayhurst@hsc.wvu.edu

Have you experienced a barrier to accessability at Panera Bread Bakery-Cafes?

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:29:03 -0600

The Equal Rights Center is a national, non-profit civil rights organization that promotes equal opportunity in a variety of areas, including disability rights. The ERC has obtained information that people with disabilities may be encountering barriers to accessibility at Panera Bread Bakery-Cafes.

If you or your constituents have personal knowledge about issues of accessibility at any Panera Bread restaurants, or know of someone who does, please contact the Equal Rights Center at 202-234-3062 and speak with a disability rights specialists, or email them at www.equalrightscenter.org/complaints.

Originally formed in 1983, the ERC is a national non-profit civil rights organization based in Washington, D.C. With members located in 42 states and the District of Columbia, the ERC works nationally to promote equal opportunity in housing, employment, disability rights, immigrant rights, and access to public accommodations and government services for all protected classes under federal, state, and local laws.

Gubernatorial Forum - April 5th

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 07:16:15 -0600

Gubernatorial Forum
Tuesday April 5, 2011 - 6:00 pm

MEET THE CANDIDATES FORUM AND RECEPTION

WHAT: An opportunity to hear from and network with the WV Candidates for Governor
WHEN: Tuesday April 5th 2011 at 6:00 pm
WHERE: 5010 A Fairlawn Avenue, Institute, WV (formerly Jen’s BBQ)Across from West Virginia State University

For more information on the Gubernatorial Forum on April 5th.

Supported Employment for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 07:22:53 -0600

Supported Employment for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury Webinar

May 30, 2011 - June 27, 2011

Tuition: $125

By: Worksupport.com

WVA is hiring for an Advocate

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:24:53 -0600

West Virginia Advocates, Inc., West Virginia’s designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities, is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. This is a full time non-exempt position in our Clarksburg office. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package. Please submit resumes by 5/20/2011

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: contact@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

Upcoming WISE Events - Updated Schedule

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:38:27 -0600

Are you thinking about work? Do you want to learn how work will affect your Social Security Benefits? If you are interested in learning about the Ticket to Work Program or other Work Incentives, you can attend a FREE Work Incentive Seminar Event (WISE). WISE are community events held by local organizations for beneficiaries to learn more about available work incentives through accessible, informal, learning opportunities.

Upcoming WISE Events

May 11th, Parkersburg WorkForce WV, 304 Lakeview Center, Parkersburg, WV 26101
June 16th, Clarksburg Division of Rehabilitation Services, 107 Cambridge Place, Bridgeport, WV 26330
June 23th, Mary H. Weir Public Library, 3442 Main Street, Weirton, WV 26062
July 13th, Oak Hill Division of Rehabilitation Services, 549 Mall Road, Oak Hill, WV 25901
July 20th, Martinsburg Division of Rehabilitation Services, 891 Auto Parts Place, Suite 131, Martinsburg, WV 25403

More information and Registration Online. (866) 968-7842 or TDD: (866) 833-2967

IDEA National Survey

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:54:02 -0600

Please take part in the IDEA National Survey, a survey of whether the rights of students with disabilities and their parents are protected. The survey is sponsored by the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), Autism Society of America (ASA), Autism National Committee (AutCom), and The Advocacy Institute (AI). Go to http://www.ideasurvey.org

The survey looks at whether parents are treated as equal partners in their children’s education. Topics include whether the rights of students with disabilities and their parents protected throughout the special education process, including IEP meetings and IEP issues, eligibility (child find), Due Process hearings (impartial hearings), and other education issues. There is also a survey for those parents whose children have been denied access to IDEA services.

All disabilities are welcome! We are studying these issues for all students, regardless of their disability or special need. There are surveys for all community members:

Parents of children with disabilities
Self-advocates (people with disabilities)
Attorneys, advocates, and other professionals

The survey will run March-May 2011. The results will be compiled into a report about experiences under the IDEA that will be published this summer.

You can take the survey and read more about it at http://www.ideasurvey.org You can also visit the Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/IDEA.Survey. Please take part and let us know about your special education experiences!

Save the Date: Life Course: Finding Your Way to Adulthood

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:58:05 -0600

May 19-20, 2011

Stonewall Jackson Resort, Roanoke, WV

For more information visit http://sig.cedwvu.org/life-course.php

Request for Public Comment - WVA's FY 2012 P&Os

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:18:34 -0600

West Virginia Advocates will be accepting comments from the public on its Fiscal Year 2012 Priorities and Objectives from April 1, 2011 through May 21, 2011. You may find our current (Fiscal Year 2011) Priorities and Objectives on our website wvadvocates.org.

You may submit comments by:

Phone: (800) 950-5250
Fax: (304) 346-0867
E-mail: contact@wvadvocates.org with a subject line of “FY 2012 P&O Comments”
Mail: WV Advocates, 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV 25301
Facebook: facebook.com/wvadvocates
Public Meeting: See below

Public Meeting

You are invited to attend a meeting for the purpose of providing comments on West Virginia Advocates’ Fiscal Year 2012 Priorities and Objectives.

When:	April 12, 2011 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Where:	Best Western (formerly Holiday Inn) 100 Lodgeville Road Bridgeport, WV 26330 304-842-5411
Directions:	Take Interstate 79 to Exit 119. Turn on Route 50 East toward Bridgeport. Turn left at the second traffic light onto Lodgeville Road. Best Western is located on the right beside Walgreens.
Lunch:	Provided (Coffee, sodas in the a.m., Hot lunch buffet, Cookies/brownies)

Do you have a group of people that would like to provide comments but cannot make it to Bridgeport, WV? Contact Clarice Hausch at (800) 950-5250 and request a meeting at your location.

WVA is hiring for an Advocate

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:00:27 -0600

West Virginia Advocates, Inc., West Virginia’s designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities, is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. This is a full time non-exempt position in our Clarksburg office. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package. Please submit resumes by 3/25/2011

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: contact@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

Fair Housing Trainings Available

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:11:14 -0600

The West Virginia Fair Housing Action Network is hosting 4 workshops in March and April.

Charleston - March 28th, 8:00am - 12:00pm, Fair Housing- It's Not an Option
Charleston - April 11, 8:00am - 12:00pm, Technical Requirements of the Fair Housing Act
Charleston - April 11, 1:00pm - 4:00pm, Fair Housing- Rights and Responsibilities
Martinsburg - April 12th, 8:00am- 12:00pm, Technical Requirements of the Fair Housing Act - April 12th, 1:00pm - 4:00pm, Fair Housing- Rights and Responsibilities

For more information and to register visit www.fairhousing.org

WV DD Council Seeking Applications for Partners in Policymaking

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:37:09 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council is currently accepting applications for the 2011-12 Partners in Policymaking® (PIP) Class. PIP is a national leadership training program for people with developmental disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities. It provides the most current information about disability issues and develops the skills necessary for effective advocacy to influence public policy at all levels of government.

National and State leaders in the developmental disability field will provide information on current issues and state-of-the-art practices important to individuals with developmental disabilities. The Council covers expenses for participants’ training, lodging, meals and travel for eight training sessions between the months of September 2011 and May 2012. All training sessions will be held in the Charleston area.

For more information or to obtain an application, please go to the WVDDC's website at www.ddc.wv.gov or contact Christy Black by phone at 304-558-0416, email at Christy.D.Black@wv.gov, or TDD at 304-558-2376. Applications are due by June 30, 2011. Join the thousands of PIP graduates from similar programs across the country in advocating for better policy, services, and supports for people with developmental disabilities!

FREE Special Education Training - March 30, 2011

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:20:25 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
To Register:	Call WVA at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
When:	Wednesday, March 30, 2011, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!
Where:	Hampton Inn 30 Coleman Drive Lewisburg, WV 24901

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by March 18, 2011.

Free IEP Development Training - March 23, 2011

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:22:13 -0700

Attention parents and/or guardians:

Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive?
Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child's IEP?
Do you have problems with getting the school system to list professionally recommended services on your child's IEP?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, sign up for the IEP development training offered by West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

When:	Tuesday, March 23, 2011, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM We will not be breaking for lunch; however, you are welcome to bring a snack.
Where:	Comfort Inn Parkersburg 401 37th Street Parkersburg, WV 26101
To Register:	Contact WVA at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by March 11, 2011.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchase at a discounted price.

FREE Special Education Training - March 22, 2011

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:23:21 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
To Register:	Call WVA at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
When:	Tuesday, March 22, 2011, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!
Where:	Comfort Inn Parkersburg 401 37th Street Parkersburg, WV 26101

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by March 11, 2011.

Free IEP Development Training & Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood - March 31, 2011

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 08:19:00 -0700

Attention parents and/or guardians:

Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive?
Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child's IEP?
Do you have problems with getting the school system to list professionally recommended services on your child's IEP?
Have you and your school system started transition planning for life after high school for your 16-year-old?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, sign up for one or both sessions offered by West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

To Register:	Contact Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250 Walk-in registrations welcome. If you require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by March 18, 2011.
Where:	Hampton Inn 30 Coleman Drive Lewisburg, WV 24091
When:	Thursday, March 31, 2011

Agenda

8:30 AM – 11:30 PM	Session 1: IEP Development Training
11:30 PM – 12:15 PM	Break for lunch (on your own)
12:15 PM – 3:00 PM	Session 2: Transition Planning from High School to Adult Hood

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchase at a discounted price.

The Advocare - March 2011

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:05:11 -0700

March 2011

A Publication of West Virginia Advocates.

Protecting and Advocating for the Human and Legal Rights of People with Disabilities.

Download the March 2011 Advocare in PDF.

Morgantown TBI Support Group Meeting May 19th

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:22:06 -0700

HealthSouth Mountainview Brain Injury Support Group Meeting

May 19th, 2011 @ 4:30 - 6:30 pm

Meeting Place:

HealthSouth Mountainview Rehabilitation Hospital
1160 VanVoorhis Road
Morgantown, WV 26505

Contact:

Kristi Williams 304-598-1100

The WVDDC is soliciting interest to fill a limited number of vacancies.

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:31:30 -0700

The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council (WVDDC) is soliciting interest to fill a limited number of vacancies. New members will be appointed to the Council beginning July 1, 2011. The Council will have one vacant Member position for a representative of a local agency or group concerned with services for individuals with developmental disabilities. It will also have three Member positions open for individuals who have developmental disabilities and immediate family members. For more information or to apply visit the WVDDC Membership Application webpage.

17th Annual Families Conference - Distressed Counties Scholarships

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:38:18 -0700

Family Leadership First has received a generous Flex E grant from the WV Development office for scholarships to families from distressed counties to attend our 17th annual Families Conference at Canaan Valley April 8-10, 2011. The distressed counties are Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, Lincoln, McDowell, Mingo, Roane, Summers, Webster, Wirt and Wyoming. We have extended the deadlines for these counties until Friday, March 4, 2011.

The Family Leadership Conference is a free training conference to build a network of informed family members and the first step in creating WV Family Links in counties and communities. The theme for this year’s conference is "Growing Leaders for Today and Tomorrow."

The Family Leadership First conference committee selects participants and will be sending invitations to the selected applicants by the middle of March, 2011.

For more information on applying see the application form (pdf).

Wrightslaw Regular Registration Deadline Approaching

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:15:11 -0700

The regular priced registration deadline of March 15th is approaching for Wrightslaw: Special Education Bootcamp. Be sure to sign up soon.

Stipend funds are available for family members of children with disabilities.

Tax Benefits for Disabled Taxpayers

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 06:40:41 -0700

Taxpayers with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities may qualify for a number of IRS tax credits and benefits. IRS Tax Tip 2011-24 outlines seven tax credits for which you may be eligible. Also on the webpage are links to a couple of IRS publications and YouTube videos that will provide you with more information about a person with a disability's taxes.

WVA is hiring for an Advocate

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 11:41:33 -0700

West Virginia Advocates, Inc., West Virginia’s designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities, is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. This is a full time non-exempt position in our Charleston office. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package.

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: contact@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

West Virginia Receives New Federal Grant to Expand Community Based Alternatives to Institutional Long Term Care

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 11:46:50 -0700

It was announced today by the US Department Health and Human Services that West Virginia is one of 13 states awarded a Money Follows the Person Grant (MFP). The purpose of this grant is to give federal support to West Virginia in their efforts to help move Medicaid beneficiaries out of institutions and into their own homes or other community settings now and in the near future. This grant should allow significant progress to occur in WV in rebalance nursing home and community based Medicaid spending opening up new opportunities for people to choose to live in the community if they wish to do so.

The MFP program provides individuals living in a nursing home or other institution new opportunities to live in the community with the services and supports they need. Groups benefiting from these home-and-community based programs include the elderly, persons with intellectual, developmental and/or physical disabilities, mental illness or those diagnosed with several of these conditions.

In the first year of the grant WV will receive $1,267,373. Funds committed through 2016 total $22,220,423. The West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources, Bureau for Medical Services (WV Medicaid) will administer the grant.

The WVSILC is recruiting new members.

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:11:57 -0700

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (WVSILC) is recruiting new members to fill vacancies for terms beginning July 1, 2011

The Council (mandated by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and the 2001 WV Independent Living Act) monitors, reviews, and evaluates independent living services provided through the State Plan for Independent Living, developed jointly with the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services.

Please find a description of the Council and the responsibilities of council members, along with a nomination form. Review the responsibilities carefully and apply only if you are willing to fulfill the responsibilities. The Council seeks to maintain representation of all disability groups. If you or someone you know would like to apply for nomination to the Council, please return the completed application form by March 11, 2011. Please feel free to duplicate this notice and the application form and share it with as many individuals as you wish. This information is also available on the SILC Web site at www.wvsilc.org

Applications will be reviewed by, and nominees selected by, the Council. Nominees selected will be submitted to the Governor for appointment to the Council. This process can be lengthy and new members are not always appointed before the terms begin in July. We appreciate your patience. If you have questions or need further information or assistance, please feel free to contact Ann Watts McDaniel, Executive Director at (304) 766-4624.

Upcoming WISE Events

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:16:47 -0700

Upcoming WISE Events

March 29th June 16th, Clarksburg Division of Rehabilitation Services, 107 Cambridge Place, Bridgeport, WV 26330
April 6th June 23th, Mary H. Weir Public Library, 3442 Main Street, Weirton, WV 26062
April 12th July 20th, Martinsburg Division of Rehabilitation Services, 891 Auto Parts Place, Suite 131, Martinsburg, WV 25403
May 11th, Parkersburg WorkForce WV, 304 Lakeview Center, Parkersburg, WV 26101
July 13th, Oak Hill Division of Rehabilitation Services, 549 Mall Road, Oak Hill, WV 25901

More information and Registration Online. (866) 968-7842 or TDD: (866) 833-2967

Justice Department Settles with National Board of Medical Examiners Over Refusal to Provide Testing Accomodations

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:44:59 -0700

WASHINGTON - The Justice Department today announced a settlement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), a private, non-profit organization that administers the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), a standardized examination related to medical licensing. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, NBME is committed to providing reasonable testing accommodations to persons with disabilities who seek to take the USMLE, in accordance with the requirements of the ADA. In addition, it will grant Frederick Romberg, a Yale Medical School student, the accommodations of double the standard testing time and a separate testing area to take the USMLE.

"In the past, demands for unnecessary or redundant documentation, burdensome and expensive repeated professional evaluations, or irrelevant evaluative testing unrelated to the ability to demonstrate one’s knowledge or skills on an examination prevented individuals with appropriately documented disabilities from pursuing their chosen professions." said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. "By entering into this agreement, NBME is doing its part to ensure that people with a reading disability like Mr. Romberg will have the opportunity to take the USMLE with the reasonable testing accommodations they need to demonstrate their knowledge and ability."

Under the agreement, the NBME will:

Only request documentation about (a) the existence of a physical or mental impairment; (b) whether the applicant’s impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities within the meaning of the ADA; and (c) whether and how the impairment limits the applicant’s ability to take the USMLE under standard conditions;
Carefully consider the recommendations of qualified professionals who have personally observed the applicant in a clinical setting and recommended accommodations based upon their clinical judgment that the individual is substantially limited in one or more major life activities within the meaning of the ADA and needs the requested test accommodations in order to demonstrate his or her ability and achievement level; such recommendations are to be based on generally accepted diagnostic criteria and supported by reasonable documentation.
Carefully consider all evidence indicating whether an individual’s ability to read is substantially limited within the meaning of the ADA, including the extent to which it is restricted as to the conditions, manner or duration as compared to the reading ability of most people.

The Justice Department opened an investigation in response to a complaint from Mr. Romberg who alleged that the NBME had twice denied him reasonable testing accommodations to take the USMLE because of his disability, dyslexia, in violation of the ADA. Subsequently, the department and the NBME sought to resolve the investigation by reaching a settlement agreement.

The settlement was reached under Title III of the ADA which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by private testing entities that administer examinations related to professional licensing. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at the website www.justice.gov/crt. More information about the settlement with NBME can be found at www.ada.gov or by calling the toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TTY).

FREE Special Education Training - March 10, 2011

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 11:21:46 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered 'YES' to either of these questions, you should attend this training.

Sponsored By:	WVSD&B Parent Advocates & West Virginia Advocates.
Provided By:	West Virginia Advocates, the protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities.
What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
When:	Thursday, March 10, 2011, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM We will be working through lunch. Please bring a bag lunch.
Where:	Community Cetner - Bank of Romney 95 East Main Street Romney, WV 304.822.3541
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by March 1, 2011.

Guardianship - H.B. 2885 Talking points

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 06:52:25 -0700

A very important issue that should be of concern to anyone who relies on MR/DD Title XIX Waiver Home and Community Based services has arisen in recent months. WV has a law that does not allow guardians to derive profit or benefit from serving the person for whom they are guardian. This has become a problem for family members, particularly parents, who are guardians living in the same household as the person on MR/DD Waiver and provide Community Res-Hab services. In order to continue to be allowed to provide those services the law must be changed. About one third of families receiving Waiver services are affected. If the law is not changed they will no longer be able to do this and the consumer using the services will probably not be able to obtain enough additional agency service hours to replace what the family member has been providing, especially in very rural areas. We strongly recommend that you contact your legislators to discuss your concerns. The Developmental Disabilities Council has provided the talking points below for you to use to help you talk with your legislators.

The issue:

Since the beginning of the MR/DD Waiver program in WV, family members have been able to be the provider of Residential Habilitation services to their family member receiving MR/DD Waiver services. Agencies have typically not been able to hire other staff in most areas of the state to meet the need. This was not a problem when agencies contracted with family members to be the service provider. However, agencies have now determined that the Department of Labor regulations prohibit them from contracting for services and are in the process of making family members employees of the agency, rather than contractors.

The guardianship statute, as written, prohibits guardians/conservators being paid to provide services to the individual for whom they are the guardian/conservator.

Approximately 4,482 people are currently served by the MR/DD Waiver program
Of those, at least 1,375 families will be affected by the Guardianship issue because they are a guardian/conservator of the individual for whom they have been providing service
Agencies have always had trouble hiring enough direct care staff to serve Waiver recipients, and do not have enough staff to fill the need that will exist if the language in the statute is not changed
H.B. 2885 would make two exceptions to this prohibition: When a family member seeks to be appointed guardian/conservator they could make written disclosure of the employment arrangement to the court and get the court’s approval; or
If the family member has already been appointed guardian/conservator of the Waiver recipient, the court would be made aware of the employment in writing

Contact Pages for WV State Legislators:

Locate your District on the State Map and the Name provided for that District and Click on that Legislator’s name to bring up their contact information.

14.4 CLEs approved for Wrightslaw: Special Education and Advocacy Bootcamp!

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 06:40:18 -0700

Now approved for 14.40 CLEs for Attorneys.

West Virginia Advocates is pleased to invite you to attend our two day special education conference, featuring Pete and Pam Wright!

Wrightslaw: Special Education Law and Advocacy Boot Camp

April 20-21, 2011 at Stonewall Resort

Website to register online: wvawl.eventbrite.com

Website for more information: http://www.wrightslaw.com/speak/11.04.wv.htm

If you have questions, please contact WVA at 1-800-950-5250. We hope to see you there!

Funds Available to Develop Community Transportation Especially for Employment and People with Disabilities

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 07:50:54 -0700

Transportation, especially transportation to a job, is a major problem for many West Virginians, especially those with disabilities. The Division of Public Transit is soliciting proposals for the Federal Transit Administration’s JARC (Section 5316) and New Freedom (Section 5317) program. Projects will be competitively selected and chosen as funds are available. One program in particular, The New Freedom Program is designed specifically to assist people with disabilities in accessing transportation to meet their community living needs.

The New Freedom formula grant program aims to provide additional tools to overcome existing barriers facing Americans with disabilities seeking integration into the work force and full participation in society. Lack of adequate transportation is a primary barrier to work for individuals with disabilities. The New Freedom program seeks to reduce barriers to transportation services and expand the transportation mobility options available to people with disabilities beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. This program provides grant funds to eligible grantees to establish new transportation options in rural and urban communities. A “new” service is any service or activity that was not operational before August 10, 2005 and did not have an identified funding source as of August 10, 2005, as evidenced by inclusion in the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) or the State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP). New Public Transportation Services Beyond the ADA. Application due date is March 14, 2011, but exceptions for New Freedom may be made. Applications and more information are available at: http://www.transportation.wv.gov/publictransit/

The following activities are examples of eligible projects meeting the definition of new public transportation and are eligible as new public transportation alternatives beyond the ADA under the New Freedom Program:

Purchasing vehicles to support new accessible taxi, ride sharing, and/or van-pooling programs. New Freedom funds can be used to purchase and operate accessible vehicles for use in taxi, ride-sharing and/or van pool programs provided that the vehicle has the capacity to accommodate a passenger who uses a “common wheelchair” at a minimum, while remaining in his/her personal mobility device inside the vehicle, and meeting the same requirements for lifts, ramps and securement systems.
Supporting the administration and expenses related to new voucher programs for transportation services offered by human service providers. This activity is intended to support and supplement existing transportation services by expanding the number of providers available or the number of passengers receiving transportation services.
Supporting new volunteer driver and aide programs. New volunteer driver programs are eligible and include support for cost associated with the administration, management of driver recruitment, safety, background checks, scheduling, coordination with passengers, and other related support functions, mileage reimbursements, and insurance associated with volunteer driver programs.
Supporting new mobility management and coordination programs among public transportation providers and other human service agencies providing transportation.

FREE Special Education Training - February 16, 2011

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:33:30 -0700

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
When:	Wednesday, February 16, 2011, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Lunch will be provided by West Virginia Advocates at no charge!
Where:	Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center 100 Hodges Road Charleston, WV 25314 304.342.0507
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by February 4, 2011.

Free IEP Development Training & Transition Planning from High School to Adulthood - February 17, 2011

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:43:28 -0700

Attention parents and/or guardians: Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive? Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child’s IEP? Do you have problems with getting the school system to list professionally recommended services on your child’s IEP? Have you and your school system started transition planning for life after high school for your 16-year-old?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, sign up for one or both sessions offered by West Virginia Advocates (WVA), the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

To Register Contact Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250 by February 10, 2011. Please register in advance – Space is limited!

If you have dietary restrictions or require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by 02/04/11.

When:	Thursday, February 17, 2011
Where:	Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center 100 Hodges Road Charleston, WV 25314 304.342.0507

Agenda

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM	Session 1: IEP Development Training
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM	Lunch: Provided by WVA at no charge
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM	Session 2: Transition Planning from High School to Adult Hood

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchase at a discounted price.

WVDDC is conducting a survey

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:55:55 -0700

The WVDDC is conducting a survey to gather information about the most pressing issues affecting WV citizens with developmental disabilities and their families. Information gained will be used in development of the Council’s new Five Year State Plan. The survey will close on April 4, 2011.

Employment Success Stories Website Launched

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 09:44:55 -0700

The Institute for Community Inclusion at UMass recently launched Real People, Real Jobs, an online catalogue of employment success stories. The site features a range of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities working in paid jobs in their communities. Visit Real People, Real Jobs to read stories, see pictures, watch videos, and perhaps even share a success story of your own.

The ERC wants your testimonies!

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:33:56 -0700

The Equal Rights Center (ERC) is getting ready to launch an exciting new multi-faceted campaign – “What’s Wrong with this Picture?” – which will educate people across the nation on what civil rights mean for people with disabilities, and barriers to look for in accessibility.

The focus of this campaign will be a ‘game’, in which users are shown a picture and are asked to identify the inaccessible feature. Users will also find additional resources on accessibility, an easy to use complaint form, and real testimonials from people with disabilities encountering accessibility barriers in their daily lives.

They are asking for your help in gathering real testimonies. The project will be made stronger through the voices of real people, with various disabilities, who can share their experiences. The testimonies need only be one to two paragraphs, can include a picture or not, and can be submitted with a real name or anonymously. They would also love to share on our site any video which you think would be appropriate – of personal testimony, or of civil rights issues in general for persons with disabilities.

Please submit your testimonies of barriers to accessibility, or stories of reasonable accommodations or modifications, by January 31 2011, to Robyn M. Powell, Disability Rights Program Manager, ERC, (202) 370-3210

Family Leadership Conference

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:16:03 -0700

Family Leadership First, in partnership with Mountain State Parents CAN (MSPCAN), and Step by Step is proud to announce that the 17th Family Leadership Conference will be held April 8-10, 2011 at Canaan Valley. The Family Leadership Conference is a free training conference to build a network of informed family members and the first step in creating WV Family Links in counties and communities. The theme for this year’s conference is "Growing Leaders for Today and Tomorrow."

The WV Department of Health and Human Resources funds this conference and applications for attendance at the conference are now being accepted. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2011. The Family Leadership First conference committee selects participants and will be sending invitations to the selected applicants by the middle of March 2011.

Family Leadership Conference Application (RTF).

Registration Open for Wrightslaw Bootcamp

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:45:42 -0700

West Virginia Advocates is pleased to invite you to attend our two day special education conference, featuring Pete and Pam Wright!

Wrightslaw: Special Education Law and Advocacy Boot Camp

April 20-21, 2011 at Stonewall Resort

Website to register online: wvawl.eventbrite.com

Website for more information: http://www.wrightslaw.com/speak/11.04.wv.htm

If you have questions, please contact WVA at 1-800-950-5250. We hope to see you there!

A New Transportation Program Rolls Into The Morgantown Area

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 12:46:15 -0700

Morgantown, WV- There is now only one phone number to call to get a ride in Monongalia County. The NewFIT Program provides transportation to anyone who may be in need. If you are covered by Medicaid or Assistive Services, need a ride to work or training, medical appointments or shopping NewFIT can pick you up.

Anyone is eligible to ride NewFIT; however persons with disabilities are given preference over people without disabilities. Typically, this is curb to curb service; however, if you need additional assistance or would like door through door service, please notify the scheduler when you call for your appointment.

The cost to ride can be covered by programs such as Medicaid, Veterans Programs, Senior Programs or many other subsidized services. If you are unable to be covered by any other service, the cost to ride is $9.00 one way. Therefore if you have Medicaid, then you have a ride; if your car is in the shop and you plan to ride with NewFIT for a while, you still have a ride at a cost of $9.00.

To make an appointment, call 304-296-3869 and provide the scheduler with some information so we can find the best option for you. Set up your appointment with return trip information then just be ready to leave 5 minutes prior to your pick-up time.

The NewFIT program is a joint venture between Mountain Line Transit and In Touch & Concerned and is a program created by New Freedom Funding.

To learn more about this project or for additional information about Mountain Line, visit WWW.BUSRIDE.ORG/NewFIT or call 304-296-3869.

States Roll Out Autism Insurance Mandates With New Year

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:08:01 -0700

http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/01/04/states-roll-out-autism-insurance/11832/

Fair Shake Network Disability Advocacy Training & Disability Advocacy Day at the Capitol

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:19:13 -0700

The Fair Shake Network is having their Disability Advocacy Training Day on February 8, 2011 at the Charleston Civic Center. Then on February 9, 2011 is the Disability Advocacy Day at the State Capitol.

For details on the events, registration, or stipends see Fair Shake's registration form (also in large print) or call (304) 766-0061.

WVA is now on Facebook

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 11:45:40 -0700

West Virginia Advocates is now on Facebook.

Visit us there to see updates relevant to you!

facebook.com/wvadvocates

DHHR set to delay Medicaid reorganization

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 07:04:52 -0700

http://www.dailymail.com/News/statehouse/201012201693

Disability Employment Study Seeks Participants

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 07:08:41 -0700

If you are a person with a disability and are employed you may be eligible to participate in this study. The purpose of this study is to identify people with disabilities who are employed and find those factors that contribute to their successful work careers. For more information visit https://enablemob.wustl.edu/EmpStudyAd.htm

Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) - Morgantown Organizational Meeting

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:42:13 -0700

Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is open to persons interested in starting a chapter in the Morgantown area. DBSA is a national support organization with chapters in all fifty states. Free meetings are led by peer volunteers and are strictly confidential.

Organizational gathering will be December 9, 2010 at 6:30 P.M.

First Baptist Church
432 High Street
Morgantown

Free literature will be available on many types of Mood Disorders For more information, please call:

Shawn Graham: (304) 698-4851
Diana Thompson: (304) 472-1947

Sensitive Santa - December 5th

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:59:31 -0700

This is a special time to visit Santa, which is reserved just for children with Autism. Morgantown Mall & Grand Central Mall will make its Santa area “sensory friendly,” with lower lighting and quieter surroundings. Each family who attends will receive a free Santa photo and enjoy festive giveaways to commemorate this magical holiday season.

Morgantown Mall, December 5th, 8-11am
Grand Central Mall (Parkersburg, Vienna), December 5th, 8-10am

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - November 17, 2010

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:12:38 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered 'YES' to either of these questions, you should attend this training.

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
When:	Wednesday, November 17, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM We will be working through lunch. Please bring a bag lunch.
Where:	Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center-Eastern Division 2500 Foundation Way Martinsburg, WV 26241-3048 304-264-9202
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
Provided By:	West Virginia Advocates, the protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by November 12, 2010.

WVDDC and WVA seek personal stories about special education.

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:23:14 -0600

The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council and West Virginia Advocates are working in collaboration to develop a family friendly guide/toolkit for parents concerning special education policies.

We are seeking stories from parents and students who have successfully worked through conflicts with public school programs (Pre-K-12) through relationship building, mediation, and/or due process. Personal stories should emphasize how parents and families can be both strong advocates for their sons/daughters while being valued and respected team members.

For more information read the WVDDC's memorandum regarding the guide.

To submit your story, fill out this form.

BoSS is seeking Aged & Disabled Waiver Quality Council members

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:33:32 -0600

The Bureau of Senior Services is seeking Aged & Disabled Waiver members (or legal representatives) of Waiver Services to serve on the Aged & Disabled Waiver Quality Council.

Please see the Aged and Disabled Waiver Quality Improvement Council application.

WVA's Feature on WVU CED's Access for All TV Show on March 16, 2010

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:26:49 -0600

Clarice Hausch, Executive Director of West Virginia Advocates, appeared on WVU CED's Access for All TV talk show on March 16, 2010.

Watch the WV Advocates Access for All show (WMV), Or read the transcript for the WV Advocates Access for All Show.

Save the Date - April 20 -21, 2011 - Wrightslaw Special Education Law & Advocacy Boot Camp

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:36:04 -0600

Save the Date - April 20-21, 2011
Wrightslaw - Special Education Law & Advocacy Boot Camp

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - November 3, 2010

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 09:22:28 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered 'YES' to either of these questions, you should attend this training.

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
When:	Wednesday, November 3, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM We will be working through lunch. Please bring a bag lunch!
Where:	Elkins Church of God 1402 Taylor Avenue Elkins, WV 26241 304.636.6200
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.
Sponsored By:	Shepherd University PRIDE Training Program, WV DHHR Region III Homefinding Unit, & West Virginia Advocates
Provided By:	West Virginia Advocates, the protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please let WVA know by October 22, 2010.

WV DDC Training on Devaluation and the Service Worker's Role, December 8th or 9th, 2010

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 07:04:09 -0600

This one day workshop is designed to give policy makers, program directors, advocates, social workers, and family members a very brief overview of social role valorization (SRV) and its importance for people with developmental disabilities. It is based on the work of Dr. Wolfensberger of Syracuse University, who developed Social Role Valorization, a coherent set of ideas for addressing devaluation.

The workshop invites you to explore the wounding experiences with which many people with developmental disabilities live as a result of not being valued by society. Participants will learn about the universal aspects of social devaluation and the importance of personal identification with the people they serve. The workshop includes lecture, stories and examples, and audience questions and discussion.

For more information and to register visit one of these webpages:

IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers - September 25th

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 12:38:26 -0600

Approximately one hundred IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country will open on Saturday, September 25, 2010, to provide help to individual taxpayers dealing with notices and payments, return preparation and a variety of other tax issues. National IRS partners will also be on hand in some locations to provide information about available community services. Each office will be open from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. local time.

In West Virginia the only office open for this is at:

1206 Quarrier Street
Charleston, WV 25301

Child & Family Law Clinic

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 07:19:16 -0600

The Child and Family Law Clinic at the WVU College of Law can assist children and families with limited income who need free legal assistance in civil matters.

Voting Commercials

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 08:27:56 -0600

West Virginia Advocates has released two commericals regarding voting this election.

Exercise Your Right to Vote

Exercise Your Right to Vote transcript.

Polling Place Survey

Polling Place Survey transcript.

Free WISE Webinar

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 11:35:38 -0600

Thousands of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries have learned how to stay in control of their benefits while enriching their lives through employment. You can too.

September 29, 2010 from 3:00 – 4:30 pm Eastern Time

WISE Webinars provide you and your family the opportunity to learn how to take advantage of Social Security Work Incentives, including Ticket to Work.

WVA's Newsletter "The Advocare, September 2010" now available

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:44:59 -0600

WVA's Newsletter "The Advocare, September 2010" is now available.

WVDRS Consumer Affairs Committees

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:51:56 -0600

Consumer Affairs Committees support the mission of the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services by working to empower people with disabilities in making informed choices and achieving equality of opportunity, meaningful employment, independent living, and economic and social self-sufficiency.

The committees plan and carry out a broad range of activities in cooperation with community leaders in business, government, health care and education, along with other interested organizations and individuals. The committees’ activities address shared goals, including public awareness and support for the rights, individual dignity, personal responsibility, full inclusion, equal access, self-determination and community involvement for all people with disabilities.

With local leadership, the Consumer Affairs Committees work independently as concerned citizens. Membership is open to all persons desiring to participate, whether or not they are persons with disabilities. All committee members are volunteers, and all committee meetings are open to the public.

The Division recognizes and values the contributions made by Consumer Affairs Committees. To maintain and strengthen this longstanding partnership, the Division provides guidance, information and other resources to committees statewide through its District Offices and the Consumer Affairs Office.

To learn more about the committee nearest you or to volunteer as a member, telephone either the District Office serving your area or the Consumer Affairs Office at 1-800-642-8207 (V/TDD) or 304-766-4845.

WVA's 2010 General Voting Guide is available

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:41:26 -0600

WVA's 2010 General Election Voting Guide is available.

This guide answers questions you may have regarding the voting process and the rights of people with disabilities in the voting process.

WVA's Fiscal Year 2011 Priorities and Objectives available.

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:55:12 -0600

WVA's Fiscal Year 2011 Priorities and Objectives are now available.

Also the public comments submitted to WVA during the drafting of these Priorities and Objectives is available.

WV DDC's workshop cancelled (September 7 & 8th)

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:33:57 -0600

Due to an unforeseen circumstance with the presenter, the WVDDC's workshops on Devaluation and the Service Worker’s Role (September 7 in Morgantown, and September 8 in Charleston) are cancelled. The WVDDC hopes to be able to re-schedule this workshop for a time in November or December of this year.

UPDATE: Rescheduled for December 8th or 9th, See the notice here.

Your Invited: public meeting in Weirton regarding disability related issues

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:50:35 -0600

The public is invited to attend a meeting of people in the Weirton and Wheeling areas who are interested in disability and family issues. The event will be held on Thursday, Sept. 23 at the Family of God Christian Center at 4215 Wells Street in Weirton. Food and networking will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

This meeting is to connect people in the area who are interested in disability and family issues. Our goal is to learn the needs of the community and to begin local groups who will meet regularly in the Weirton area to address the issues discussed at the forum.

This forum is sponsored by Brooke Hancock FRN (Family Resource Network), Hancock Autism Chapter, the Fair Shake Network, and Family Leadership First.

Fair Housing and Accessibility: An Overview

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 10:15:30 -0600

September 13, 2010, 8AM – 5PM

Free to attend.

$25 for 6.6 hours of Continuing Legal Educations units (CLEs) (pending).

West Virginia Advocates is pleased to sponsor a seminar for attorneys, architects, landlords and advocates. This full day of training is being presented by two experienced professionals, who have years of experience in the area of disability law and housing. Michael Jansen, J.D., is the Director of the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity in HUD’s Pittsburgh Field Office. George Williams, D.P.A., is an independent consultant with years of experience presenting training on HUD’s behalf about the requirements of the Fair Housing Act. The seminar will focus on the requirements of the Fair Housing Act as it impacts individuals with disabilities, including issues related to accessibility and reasonable accommodations. The professionals attending this seminar will learn what the Fair Housing Act requires when constructing a new building, and when renovating an existing building, as well as what buildings are not subject to its requirements.

Schedule

8:00	Registration/ Continental Breakfast (provided)
9:00	Introduction by William F. Byrne, Legal Director, WV Advocates
9:15	Overview of the Fair Housing Accessibility Guidelines by George Williams
10:15	Morning break (Refreshments provided)
10:30	Disability Rights Laws by George Williams
12:00	Lunch (on your own)
1:00	Fair Housing Enforcement by Michael Jansen
2:30	Afternoon Break (Refreshments provided)
3:00	Common Design and Construction Violations and Solutions by George Williams
4:30	Panel Discussion

Speakers

George D. Williams, Sr., DPA
President & CEO
Diversity Dynamics, LLC

George Williams has more than 30 years experience in fair housing/civil rights program management, administration and enforcement. He was Regional Director of the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity for HUD in two of HUD’s ten regions. Dr. Williams was appointed by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of CA as a fair housing, civil rights and public policy expert and Consent Decree Monitor for a major fair housing and civil rights case in the City of San Francisco, CA. The Consent Decree and Order settled a major federal Fair Housing Act lawsuit against the San Francisco Housing Authority. Dr. Williams has his own consulting business, Diversity Dynamics, and is also a trainer for Fair Housing Accessibility First. He holds the degree of Doctor of Public Administration (DPA).

Michael Jansen, Esq., Director
Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
Pittsburgh HUD office

Michael Jansen is the Director of the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity in HUD’s Pittsburgh Field Office. His office performs Title VIII and Other Authorities investigations, and the full range of civil rights program work within HUD. Mr. Jansen has an undergraduate degree in History with a secondary teaching certificate. He is a licensed attorney, and attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude, was a member of the law review staff and Editorial Board, and was appointed to the Order of the Coif. He practiced management-side labor and employment law for approximately six years. He is also a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard, where he served on both a full-time (ten years) and part-time (18 years) basis as a navigator in three different aircraft, and as a Staff Judge Advocate. He is married and has two adult children.

Registration

Deadline to Register: September 3, 2010

Please request accommodations/sign language interpreters by September 1st.

By Mail: Attn: Fair Housing, West Virginia Advocates, 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV 25301
By Phone: 800.950.5250
By Fax: 304.346.0867

Fair Housing Registration Form (pdf)

WV DDC Training on Devaluation and the service Worker's Role, September 7 or 8th, 2010

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:26:28 -0600

For more information and to register visit one of these webpages:

UPDATE: Cancelled

UPDATE: Rescheduled for December 8th or 9th.

WVA is seeking individuals to serve on its PAIMI Advisory Council

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:10:43 -0600

WVA is seeking individuals to serve on its PAIMI Advisory Council.

If you are interested in becoming a member of WVA's PAIMI Advisory Council, please fill out this application, and return it to WVA by:

E-mail: contact@wvadvocates.org
Mail: 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV 25301
Fax: (304) 346-0867

The Families Conference - October 8-10, 2010

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:06:22 -0600

The 19th Annual Community Connections Conference

October 8-10, 2010

Charleston Town Center Marriott

Registration Deadline: September 1, 2010

Registration Form

Stipend Form

WVA Hosts Outstanding Conference on Employment

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:17:13 -0600

West Virginia Advocates sponsored “Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving” on April 22, 2010, at Stonewall Resort. The conference was an opportunity for participants to learn about the endless possibilities in the world of work for people with disabilities.

Attorney General Darrell McGraw began the day and introduced Kathleen Martinez, Assistant Secretary for Office of Disability Employment Policy, Department of Labor.

Attorney General Darrell McGraw introducing Kathleen Martinez.

Kathleen Martinez speaking at the conference.

The agenda for the day included Gary Guller, Mt. Everest Summiter and Inspirational Speaker, and a performance by The Dancing Wheels Company, the first integrated professional dance group.

Gary Guller speaking at the conference.

The Dancing Wheels' performance at the conference.

Ten different breakout sessions were offered, as well as 3 exhibit halls. Over 300 participants, speakers, and exhibitors were in attendance.

U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-West Virginia) provided the following video remarks.

Transcript

Building Bridges of Respect Conference - August 6, 2010

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:06:28 -0600

Save the Date - August 6, 2010

Building Bridges of Respect Conference at the WV High Tech Foundation, Fairmont, WV

For Marion, Harrison, and Monongailia County Participants

CEU hours, Networking, Resources, Artisans, Food, Music and more

Please share this info with parents, volunteers, co-workers, young adults, board members, etc.

To request more information please write to: shalom26554@aol.com

National WISE Webinar for Ticket Holders with Mental Health Disabilities - Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:13:09 -0600

Work Incentive Seminar Events (WISE) provide you and your family the opportunity to learn how to take advantage of Social Security Work Incentives, including Ticket to Work.

National WISE Webinar for Ticket Holders with Mental Health Disabilities
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. EST
Register online at www.cessi.net/wise
1-877-743-8237 (V/TTY)

Space is limited.

PSA commemorating the 20th anniversary of the ADA

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:07:43 -0600

Public Service Announcement commemorating the 20th anniversary of the ADA on YouTube.

West Virginia Council for Exceptional Children Conference, Transition Points: Seamless Beginnings, November 3rd and 4th, 2010

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:09:49 -0600

An opportunity to learn about strategies, programs and services designed to smooth the transition of children and youth with exceptionalities from birth to successful postsecondary life. Presentations will focus on various transition points as a student moves from pre-school services through the educational system to adulthood.

Sessions addressing different instructional levels will be provided as well as opportunities to network with other special educators and other individuals who serve students with exceptionalities.

Seamless Beginnings Brochure with registration information.

WVCEC's website

WVDRS Consumer Affairs Committees

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:11:14 -0600

The committees plan and carry out a broad range of activities in cooperation with community leaders in business, government, health care and education, along with other interested organizations and individuals. The committees' activities address a broad range of shared goals, including public awareness and support for the rights, individual dignity, personal responsibility, full inclusion, equal access, self-determination and community involvement for all people with disabilities.

2010 Disability Caucus - July 26-28, 2010

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:05:17 -0600

The 2010 Disability Caucus has been scheduled for July 26-28, 2010.

To register please fill out the application and return it to the address it indicates.

The deadline to register if July 2nd; June 18th for the advance rate.

Stipends are available for people with disabilities and parents/family members of people with disabilities.

Wrightslaw Special Education Resources for SALE!

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

WVA has Wrightslaw products available for purchase at a reduced prices!

"Legal Requirements of IEPs" CD-ROM (1.25 hours) - $11.22
"Understanding Your Child's Test Scores" CD-ROM (1.5 hours) - $11.22
"Law and Advocacy" CD-ROM (6.5 hours) - $37.46
"Wrightslaw: All About IEPs" Book - $10.00

If you have questions about the products or would like to place an order over the phone, please call West Virginia Advocates at 1-800-950-5250 ext. 53.

NWVCIL Seeks Board Members

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The Northern West Virginia Center for Independent Living, NWVCIL, is seeking volunteer board members to provide direction and guidance for our consumer directed, non profit disability resource center. Full board meets bi-monthly.

Currently, we have 6 vacancies that need filled with community members, local business representatives, consumers, and others who are interested in equality for all. 51% of our board positions must be held by qualified individuals with disabilities.

In addition to growing our general membership representing our vast service area, our most immediate need includes a Treasurer. NWVCIL receives federal, state, and local dollars from multiple funding sources. Accounting of these funds is provided by a contracted CPA firm, using Quick Books for Non Profits and must follow the standards outline in the OMB Circular A-122. The center is subject to an A133 compliance audit annually. The treasurer assists the management of the center in monitoring compliance with federal grants management and works with the CPA firm in presenting the financial reports to the remaining members, while providing additional over sight with fiduciary responsibilities.

We are seeking volunteers who have an interest in non profit management, providing guidance and direction as we continue to be a community based, consumer directed resource center for persons with disabilities working to ensure equality for all.

If interested, please contact Jan Derry, Executive Director at 296-6091 or jderry@nwvcil.org.

Accessible trip to a Pirates Game - July 22

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Assistive Technology System is putting together an accessible recreation trip to PNC Park to see the Pirates on July 22. We would like to see how many people would be interested in something like this. Everyone would be welcome - employees, family members, students, staff and people involved in local programs. We would be securing accessible vans for wheelchairs and a bus for those not requiring accessible transportation. It would be a package deal - ticket, transportation, give-away from the Pirates. Right now, they are offering a free Roberto Clemente replica shirt for groups. Estimated cost - maybe $40/person. Tickets are field boxes. If interested, please contact Regina Mayolo at rmayolo@hsc.wvu.edu.

President Declares Major Disaster For West Virginia, April 23, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Federal funding is available to the State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms and snowstorms in the counties of Berkeley, Brooke, Doddridge, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Jefferson, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Ohio, Pocahontas, Preston, Ritchie, Tucker, Tyler, and Wetzel.

Disaster Survivors: Don't Be Victimized By Fraud

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

FEMA releases an alert for West Virginians affected by March's severe storms, see FEMA's release 1893-013

Apply Now For Disaster Unemployment Assistance

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

"If you live or work in Kanawha, Fayette, Greenbrier, Mercer or Raleigh Counties and lost income because of the March severe storms and flooding, you may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 3. "For more information please see FEMA's release 1893-014

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts - May 7, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council announces a workshop on wills & special needs trusts for family members of persons with developmental disabilities.

Are you worried about what will happen to your family member after you are gone?
Do you think you have to be wealthy to set up a trust?
Do you have a will?
Do you think you must "disinherit" your family member in order for them to remain eligible for government services, such as Social Security and Medicaid?
Are you interested in learning more?

WHO: Robert S. Kiss, Attorney at Law with Bowles, Rice, McDavid, Graff & Love LLP

WHEN: Friday, May 7, 2010 (Firm Registration Deadline: May 3rd)
11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. (check in beginning at 10:30 A.M.)

WHERE: Greenbrier County Public Library (152 Robert W. McCormick Drive, Lewisburg, WV, 304.647.7568

This workshop is being offered free of charge to adult family members of individuals with developmental disabilities. Family members will be given first priority. Other interested parties may register for a fee of $18.00 if space is available.

Lunch will be provided. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

Check in will begin at 10:30 A.M. The training will begin at 11:00 A.M.

Lewisburg Wills and Specail Needs Trusts Flyer and Registration Form from the WV DDC

Questions??? Contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884 or at Linda.S.Higgs@wv.gov

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts - May 4, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council announces a workshop on wills & special needs trusts for family members of persons with developmental disabilities.

Are you worried about what will happen to your family member after you are gone?
Do you think you have to be wealthy to set up a trust?
Do you have a will?
Do you think you must "disinherit" your family member in order for them to remain eligible for government services, such as Social Security and Medicaid?
Are you interested in learning more?

WHO: Robert S. Kiss, Attorney at Law with Bowles, Rice, McDavid, Graff & Love LLP

WHEN: Tuesday, May 4, 2010 (Firm Registration Deadline: April 30th)
10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. (check in beginning at 9:30 A.M.)

WHERE: Comfort Suites (167 Elizabeth Pike, Mineral Wells, WV 26150, 304.489.9600

Lunch will be provided. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

Check in will begin at 9:30 A.M. The training will begin at 10:00 A.M.

Parkersburg Wills and Specail Needs Trusts Flyer and Registration Form from the WV DDC

Questions??? Contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884 or at Linda.S.Higgs@wv.gov

Joint FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Fayette County

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Fayette County. The center will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. for individuals who suffered damages as a result of March's severe storms. The address for the Disaster Recovery Center in Fayette as well as the addresses of the Disaster Recovery Centers in Greenbrier and Raleigh Counties follow:

Fayette County
Pax Community Center
39 School St.
Pax, WV 25904

Greenbrier County
Rainelle City Hall
201 Kanawha Pike
Rainelle, WV 25962

Raleigh County
Beaver Fire Department
147 3rd St.
Beaver, WV 25813

For more information visit http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=50799

WV Traumatic Brain Injury Home & Community Based Waiver Public Forum

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

WVDHHR is sponsoring several public forums to get your input into its application for a Traumatic Brain Injury Title XIX Waiver program. To find out when, where, and how you can provide your input visit the Center for Excellence in Disabilities web page at http://www.cedwvu.org/programs/tbi/public-forum.shtml. The deadline to submit comments is April 30th, 2010.

Request for Public Comment - WVA's FY 2011 Priorities and Objectives

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

West Virginia Advocates will be accepting comments from the public on its Fiscal Year 2011 Priorities and Objectives from May 10, 2010 through June 30, 2010. You may find our current (Fiscal Year 2010) Priorities and Objectives on our website wvadvocates.org/po-current.

You may submit comments by:
Phone:	(800) 950-5250
Fax:	(304) 346-0867
E-mail:	contact@wvadvocates.org with a subject line of "FY 2011 P&O Comments"
Mail:	WV Advocates, 1207 Quarrier St Ste 400, Charleston, WV 25301
Public Meeting:	See below

Public Meeting

You are invited to attend a meeting for the purpose of providing comments on West Virginia Advocates' Fiscal Year 2011 Priorities and Objectives.

When:	May 12, 2010 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Where:	Bridgeport Conference Center at Charles Pointe, Bridgeport, WV ( 304-808-3000 ) (near the Wingate Inn)
Directions:	Exit 124 off of I-79, take 279 East, Drive up hill 0.6 of a mile and turn left into Charles Pointe
Lunch:	Provided (cold sandwiches, cookies, and beverages)

Do you have a group of people that would like to provide comments but cannot make it to Bridgeport, WV?

Contact Clarice Hausch at (800) 950-5250 and request a meeting at your location.

Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, Registration is Full, wait list available

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:34 -0600

Registration is full for WVA's Employment Possibilities, Thriving, Not Just Surviving conference on April 22, 2010!. However, you may still signup for the wait list in case someone cancels.

President Declares Major Disaster For West Virginia

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

FEMA has made disaster funds available for the State of West Virginia to assiste in the recovery efforts of areas in WV struck by severe storms, flooding, and landslides starting on March 12, 2010 and continuing. Below are the links FEMA's press releases that detail the areas affected, types of aid available, and how to apply for aid.

The Advocare - March 2010

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:57:30 -0600

Available in pdf

PEATC NEXT STEPS Transition Program Webinars - FREE

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) in collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University - Rehabilitation Research Training Center is offering a webinar series for parents, students with disabilities, and the professionals who work with them. Registration for the webinars is free. More information about the PEATC webinars along with registration instructions can be found on PEATC's website. Following are the remaining webinars in their schedule:

April 5: Guardianship - Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities. Presenter: Sue Swenson, former Ex. Director, US Arc, and former Commissioner of Administration on Developmental Disabilities
April 19: Parents As Essential Partners in Transition. Presenter: Ann Turnbull, The Beach Center, Kansas University
May 3: The New Ticket To Work Program - What's in it for Young People? Presenter: Sallie Rhodes, CESSI Ticket to Work Program Specialist
May 17: Universal Design for Learning - a Pathway for Lifelong Learning. Presenter: Frances G. Smith, Ed.D.,CVE, Coordinator of Technology and Distance Learning VCU TTAC

Their older webinars are also archived, so you can view those on their website.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - April 20, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
WHEN:	Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!
WHERE:	Quality Inn (formerly Brier Inn & Conference Center) 540 North Jefferson Street Lewisburg, WV 304.645.7722
To Register:	Call Teresa McDonough at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by April 12, 2010.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - April 13, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
WHEN:	Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!
WHERE:	Comfort Suites - Parkersburg South 1167 Elizabeth Pike Mineral Wells, WV 26150 304.489.9600
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you need alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by April 5, 2010.

WVA is seeking an Advocate - Deadline to apply is April 9th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

West Virginia Advocates, Inc., West Virginia's designated protection and advocacy system committed to promoting and protecting the human and legal rights of citizens with disabilities is seeking an advocate. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and minimum of one year experience with disabilities. Applicant must have exceptional writing and speaking skills. Community organizing experience a plus. This is a full time non-exempt position in our Charleston office. Only qualified individuals should apply. Salary range is $1,973-$3,154 per month with generous benefit package. Please submit resume by 04/09/10.

Send resume to:

Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates, Inc.
1207 Quarrier Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, WV 25301
Fax 346-0867
Email: chausch@wvadvocates.org

EOE. WVA encourages persons with disabilities and minorities to apply.

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council is Soliciting for New Members - Deadline to apply is April 5th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council is soliciting interest for a limited number of new members to be appointed to the Council beginning July 1, 2010.

DDC's flyer and application

WV Division of Rehabilition Services (WVDRS) - Notice of Public Meeting - April 30th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Division of Rehabilitation Services will hold a public meeting in accordance with provisions of the federal Rehabilitation Act to discuss policy changes. The public meeting will occur on April 30, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services Complex, Institute, WV, in the Large Conference Room of the F. Ray Power Building.

Interested parties may access and comment on policy revisions via the Division's website at http://www.wvdrs.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.displaystory&groupID=83&itemid=7 or by contacting Tracy Carr at 1-800-642-8207 (V/TDD) or by email at tracy.j.carr@wv.gov.

To receive formal consideration, comments must be submitted in writing and will be accepted through May 7, 2010.

You're Invited! - Work Incentive Seminar Event, April 15, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Are you thinking about work?

Do you want to learn how work will affect your Social Security Benefits?

If you are interested in learning about the Ticket to Work Program or other Work Incentives, you can attend a FREE Work Incentive Seminar Event (WISE). WISE are community events held by local organizations for beneficiaries to learn more about available work incentives through accessible, informal, learning opportunities.

Date: Thursday, April 15, 2010
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Place: PACE Training and Evaluation Center
Address: 889 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV 26501
Contact: Karen Gerard, (304) 293-4692, ext 1136, kgerard@hsc.wvu.edu
Hosting Organization: CED-WVU
Directions: Take I-79 to Exit 155 West Virginia University. Turn Left from exit ramp onto Chaplin Hill Road CR-19/24. Travel 1.7 miles and turn Right on Mylan Park Lane. PACE Enterprises is the second building on the right.

Federal Hiring Event for People with Disabilities

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Department of Labor (DOL's) Office of Disability Employment Policy are pleased to announce a day of hiring people with disabilities. Learn more about the Federal Hiring Event for People with Disabilities on April 26, held in Washington, DC, by visiting www.USAJOBS.gov/DisabilityHiringEvent.asp.

Prospective applicants can find information on:

Agencies participating in the Event
Available positions and locations
The application process for applicants, including documentation required
Training for applicants and managers on the 'Schedule A' process
Web-based training tools with information on preparing for the event and interview
Frequently asked questions

This invitation-only event is for people with disabilities who will have an opportunity to be interviewed by hiring managers. To be considered for positions throughout the United States, in the Federal government, and to receive an invitation to attend, resumes, along with appropriate documentation should be submitted to hiringevent@opm.gov, between March 8 to March 24. You may also submit resumes and documentation directly to participating agencies.

WV Statewide Independent Living Council - Notice of Public Meetings

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council, in cooperation with the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services, is conducting public meetings to receive comments regarding the State Plan for Independent Living for 2011-2013.

April 27, 2010, Tuesday 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Monongalia General Hospital
Ruby McQuain Conference Center
Mylan Room
1200 J.D. Anderson Drive
Morgantown, WV
April 28, 2010, Wednesday 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
WVDRS
Large Conference Room, F. Ray Power Building
1 Barron Drive
Institute, WV
April 29, 2010, Thursday 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Mountain State Center for Independent Living
329 Prince St.
Beckley, WV

The meetings are open and accessible to the public. Requests for a sign language interpreter, materials in alternate formats, or other needed accommodations for participation in the meetings must be received one week prior to the meeting. Written or oral comments on the plan may be offered at the meetings. Written comments should include the commenter's name, mailing address, organizational affiliation (if relevant), and telephone number. Comments submitted by mail should be addressed: Public Meeting Comments, WVSILC, PO Box 625, Institute, WV 25112-0625 or e-mailed to: wvsilc@wvsilc.org.

Written comments must be submitted by May 3, 2010.

Copies of the draft State Plan are available upon request. Requests for the plan, for assistance preparing written comments, or for accommodations for participating in the meetings should be directed to: WVSILC, PO Box 625, Institute, WV 25112-0625 or call 1-800-642-8207, ext. 4624.

IEPs From Start to Finish - Free training on IEPs and Benefits Planning

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Thursday, April 29, 2010

A FREE one day workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 29, 2010 at the Erickson Alumni Center at Institute, WV. The agenda for the workshop will include an Overview of IEPs, Choosing Options and Accommodations for Children (COACH), Rights and Responsibilities and How to File a Complaint, and Benefits Planning and Work Incentives.

Stipend funds to help with travel expenses are available. Stipend funds for parents and family members of children with developmental disabilities are being made available through a grant from the WV Developmental Disabilities Council. Stipend funds for all other parents and family members are available through Family Leadership First which is funded by DHHR. Anyone needing information on travel stipends can contact FLF Coordinator Vanessa VanGilder for further information.

Attached you will find a save the date flyer and registration form. Please contact Vanessa VanGilder at (304)421-0915 or VKVanGilder@yahoo.com with any questions.

The deadline for registration is April 15th

Restoring Safety to a Vulnerable Population Workshop

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

This workshop will explore the intervention of child abuse as it relates to individuals with developmental disabilities. Three presenters will focus on the criminal, preventative, and multi-disciplinary team aspects of the investigation. There will be a combination of lecture, power point and actual case footage utilized in the presentations.

Participants will:

Gain an increased awareness of the attitudes, unique challenges and considerations in cases involving children with developmental disabilities.
Learn preventative strategies for vulnerable populations.
Gain a cognizance of the criminal process & accountability of sex offenders.
Have a unique opportunity to experience the different perspectives from three multi-disciplinary team members.

The Restoring Safety to a Vulnerable Population workshop will be held in Charleston, Morgantown, Danville, and Wheeling. For more information about this workshop, scholarships, or registration, visit www.wvcan.org.

Date:	Location:	Registration Fee:
April 14 (Co-sponsored by OVMC)	Ohio Valley Medical Center Wheeling, WV	FREE
April 20 - 21 (Co-sponsored by WVFRIS)	Charleston Marriott Hotel Charleston, WV	$45 / $60 after 4/07
May 7	Danville Community Center Danville, WV	$30 / $45 after 4/23
May 21	Monongalia General Hospital Morgantown, WV	$30 / $45 after 5/07
August 27	Charleston Marriott Hotel Charleston, WV	$45 / $60 after 8/13

Registration open for Employment Possibilities Conference

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Registration is open for WVA's Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving conference, on April 22, 2010.

The deadline to register is April 15th.

To register call 800-950-5250, download the printable registration form, or register for the employment conference online.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - March 15, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
WHEN:	Monday, March 15, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Lunch will be provided by WVA at no charge
WHERE:	Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center 100 Hodges Road Charleston, WV 25314 304.342.0507
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you have dietary restrictions or require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by March 1, 2010.

Free IEP Help Clinic: "Building Blocks of an IEP" - March 16, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Attention parents and/or guardians: Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive? Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child's IEP? Do you have difficulty getting the services you feel your child needs recommended by a professional, and listed on the IEP?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, sign up for the IEP HELP CLINIC offered by West Virginia Advocates (WVA). WVA is the protection and advocacy agency for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

During a roundtable discussion, a WVA attorney and advocate will answer questions and provide training and information on IEP development and discuss what you can do when you have problems. Training materials will be provided.

You must register in advance to attend the IEP HELP CLINIC. Space will be limited.

You will need to bring:

A copy of your child's current IEP, and
Most recent evaluations (by the school system and/or privately obtained)

When:	Tuesday, March 16th 2010, 9AM - 3PM Lunch will be provided by WVA at no charge!
Where:	Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center 100 Hodges Road Charleston, WV 25314 304.342.0507
To Register:	Contact Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250 by March 10, 2010.

Wrightslaw Resources will be available for purchased at a discounted price.

If you have dietary restrictions or require alternate formats of materials, please notify WVA by March 1, 2010.

WVA has released a radio commercial for Employment Possibilities conference.

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Below is WVA's recent radio commercial advertising the Employment Possibilities Conference.

MP3 of the Employment Possibilities radio commercial

Transcript to the Employment Possibilities radio commercial

16th Annual Family Leadership Conference - April 16-18, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Brought to you by: Family Leadership First, and the following partners: Direct Action Welfare Group (DAWG), and Step by Step

This is a free conference. All lodging, meals, and child care will be provided, along with a gas stipend.

Registration deadline: February 28, 2010

For more information or if you have any questions please visit http://www.familyleadershipfirstwv.org/conference%202010%20.php, or contact VKVanGilder@yahoo.com or 304-421-0915.

Download the application form.

2010 Disability Caucus - Save These Dates: July 26-28, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The 2010 Disability Caucus has been scheduled for July 26-28, 2010.

Download a printable flyer for the 2010 Disability Caucus

WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) - Notice of Public Meeting - March 8th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Division of Rehabilitation Services will hold a public meeting in accordance with provisions of the federal Rehabilitation Act to discuss policy changes. Interested parties may access and comment on policy revisions via the Division's website at http://www.wvdrs.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.displaystory&groupID=83&itemid=7 or by contacting Tracy Carr at 1-800-642-8207 (V/TDD) or by email at tracy.j.carr@wv.gov.

The public meeting will occur on March 8, 2010, at 2 p.m. at the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services Complex, Institute, WV, in the Large Conference Room of the F. Ray Power Building. To receive formal consideration, comments must be submitted in writing and will be accepted through March 15, 2010.

Scholarship Opportunity for Students with Vision Loss

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Established in 1980 by Lighthouse International's Women's Committee, the Scholarship & Career Awards (SCA) is a time-honored tradition that recognizes outstanding students who have overcome the challenges of vision loss by awarding them with scholarships for college and graduate studies. The program also honors extraordinary corporate citizens committed to breaking down barriers in the workplace for people with vision loss.

The 2010 SCA application deadline is March 14, 2010. To apply or for more information visit Lighthouse International.

WVA has released a radio commercial for its CAP program.

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Below is WVA's recent radio commercial advertising the CAP program.

MP3 of CAP radio commercial

Transcript to CAP commercial

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - February 16, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?
Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
WHEN:	Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!)
WHERE:	Ramada Conference Center 20 Scott Avenue Morgantown, WV 26508 304-296-3431
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by February 1, 2010.

If training is rescheduled due to inclement weather, those registered will be notified.

2010 Census Advisory

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

The United States Census Bureau is conducting the 2010 Census. The Census is very important to West Virginia and especially to people with disabilities as many funding decision about how much funding our state qualifies for from the federal government for programs that are important to people in with disabilities will be made based on the information from the Census results. West Virginia Advocates is encouraging all West Virginians to participate in the Census. West Virginia Advocates would like to share information with you about protecting your safety and identity during the Census process because the process does contain some potential risks.

If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don't know into your home.

Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.

The Census Bureau will not ask for Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers, nor will employees solicit donations. Any one asking for that information is NOT with the Census Bureau.

Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will not contact you by Email, so be on the lookout for Email scams impersonating the Census.

The United States 2010 Census' home page.
The United States 2010 Census's webpage on "Protecting Your Personal Informaiton" has information on how the Census Bureau protects your personal data.
The United States 2010 Census's webpage on "More Security Topics" has some information and resources for identifying legitimate census workers.
The United States 2010 Census's webpage on "Phishing, Email Scams & Bogus Census Web Sites" has information on the Census Bureau's use of e-mail and websites, and has information on how to report fraudulent attempts to get your personal information.
The Better Business Bureau's article on the 2010 Census is also a good source of practical advice for you to protect yourself.

Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) Listening Session - January 27, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

On January 27, 2010, the U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) and its Federal partners will hold a series a Listening Sessions in Philadelphia, PA on disability employment. This session is an opportunity for members of the public to provide input to senior Federal officials on their ideas for more effective ways to employ women, Veterans and minorities with disabilities and what is currently working in their regions to increase employment of people with disabilities.

Listening Session Flyer

Listening Session Registration

WV Developmental Disabilities Council announces a workshop on Social Role Valorization (Part I) - March 22 - 25, 2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council is pleased to announce a workshop on Social Role Valorization (Part I)

Social Role Valorization, Including 10 Related Themes: A High-Order Concept for Addressing the Plight of Socially Devalued People, & For Structuring Human Services

Monday, March 22 through Thursday, March 25, 2010

Blessed John XXIII Pastoral Center, 100 Hodges Road, Charleston, WV

Tuition is $200, and the registration deadline is February 15, 2010

For more information see the Social Role Valorization flyer, or contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884

Employment Possibilities - Thriving, Not Just Surviving

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:32:00 -0600

What

American culture values employment as an essential opportunity in our lives. The work we do in our lives is one of the basic elements in defining who we are, and who we become. Do you believe that people with disabilities can be productive workers? Are you a person with a disability who wants to further your education and enter the world of work? Your participation in our one-day event will allow you to learn from people who are successfully employed. You will see how productive, working citizens with disabilities are fulfilling their career goals.

Join us for a day of exploring the endless possibilities in the world of work and what it can offer you! "Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving" on April 22, 2010 will showcase unique careers that are shaping the world of work for today and the future. Have you ever considered attending college? Starting your own business? Earning an income as an artist or musician? Do you know about customized employment or micro-enterprises? Do you know about work incentives for people with disabilities who have Medicaid coverage and receive Social Security benefits? Did you know you may qualify for job training, college tuition assistance, and job placement services through WV Division of Rehabilitation Services? You will have the opportunity to learn how you can do these things, as well as, meet and talk with others who have successfully reached these goals.

We are able to offer you two excellent keynote speakers, ten different information-packed breakout sessions, and one world class performance! Come explore assistive technology in a hands-on environment and discover how it can help you succeed in the workplace. Take a tour of the fine arts display, showcasing the diverse talents of artists with disabilities.

We invite you to join us in examining the many employment possibilities and helping to develop a dialogue among people with disabilities who are interested in working! Learn how you can enrich your life by planning and working towards a future that includes employment of your choice. Register now!

Sincerely,
Clarice E. Hausch
Executive Director
West Virginia Advocates

When/Schedule

April 22, 2010

10 A.M. to 4 P.M.

Session	Time
Registration and Continental Breakfast	9:00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M.
Introduction: Darrell McGraw	10:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.
Keynote Speaker: Kathleen Martinez	10:30 A.M. - 11:15 A.M.
First Breakout Session	11:15 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.
Lunch (provided)	12:00 P.M. - 12:45 P.M.
Performance by: the Dancing Wheels	12:45 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.
Keynote Speaker: Gary Guller	1:30 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Afternoon Break	3:00 P.M. - 3:15 P.M.
Second Breakout Session	3:15 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.

Where

Stonewall Resort
940 Resort Drive
Roanoke, WV 26447

(888) 278-8150

Directions

Cost / Lodging

The training is free of charge to attend, and will include a continental breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon break. Materials for the training are also free.

Lodging for April 21st will cost $144 plus tax and includes dinner, parking, Internet access, and the use of resort equipment. Use group code 888003.

There are funds available to cover the cost of lodging, meals, and travel expenses for people with disabilities and their family members. To inquire about these funds please call us at (800) 950-5250 before March 15, 2010

Registration

Registration is full!. However, you may still signup for the wait list in case someone cancels.

Online:

wva-ep.eventbright.com
Mail:

Attn: EP Conference
West Virginia Advocates
1207 Quarrier St Ste 400
Charleston, WV 25301
registration form for mailing or faxing
Fax:

(304) 346-0867
registration form for mailing or faxing
Phone:

(800) 950-5250

Keynote Speakers

Kathleen Martinez

Assistant Secretary
Office of Disability Employment Policy
Department of Labor

Kathleen Martinez was nominated by President Barack Obama to be the third Assistant Secretary for Office of Disability Employment Policy. Ms. Martinez advises the Secretary of Labor and works with all DOL agencies to lead a comprehensive and coordinated national policy regarding the employment of people with disabilities. She was appointed Executive Director of the World Institute on Disability in 2005. In 2002, Ms. Martinez was appointed by President Bush as one of 15 members of the National Council on Disability, an independent federal agency advising the President and Congress on disability policy.

Blind since birth, Ms. Martinez has a background as an internationally recognized disability rights leader specializing in employment, asset building, independent living, international development, diversity and gender issues.
Gary Guller

Motivational Speaker, Film Producer, Adventurer & Mt. Everest Summiter

Gary Guller is both a world-renowned, record-setting mountaineer and a professional motivational and inspirational speaker. In 2003, Gary was leader of the largest ever cross-disability group to reach Mt. Everest Base Camp, at 17,500 feet. After setting this record, he went on to scale the peak, reaching the summit on May 23, 2003, and becoming the fi rst person with one arm to summit Mt. Everest.

Gary uses his extraordinary experiences to share with his audiences the importance of equality, determination, team-work and integrity, and how these traits lead to personal and professional success. An inspirational speaker, he encourages audiences to look deep into themselves, motivating them to set goals to maximizes their potential, placing fear and doubts aside to achieve success in business and life. His presentations, which are full of vivid images and real-life stories, inspire and connect with his audiences. He is active internationally advocating for the potential of all people, but especially those living with a disability.

Breakout Sessions

Sessions are available for both A.M. and P.M. except where noted.

Get in the Know!: Today's World of Work Incentives

Are you a person who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and wants to work? Find out more information about:
- Overview of the current federal and state work incentives for people with disabilities
- Understanding work options for individuals receiving SSI or SSDI
- Jack Stewart
  Assistant Director / Program Manager
  Medicaid Infrastructure Grant (MIG)
  West Virginia University Center for Excellence in Disabilities
- Jennifer Tenney
  Program Manager
  Community Work Incentives
  West Virginia University Center for Excellence in Disabilities
Employment Rights
- Civil rights of people with disabilities seeking employment
- New provisions of the ADA Amendments Act
- Expanded definition of disability, reasonable accommodation, disclosure options
- Other issues in obtaining and retained employment
- David Stewart
  Coordinator
  ADA Coalition
WV Division of Rehabilitation Services
- Overview of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Applying for services
- Eligibility
- Developing an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE)
- Appeal rights
- Donna Ashworth
  Assistant Director
  WV Division of Rehabilitation Services
Starting Your Own Business

Have you ever considered owning your own business and being your own boss? This session will provide you with:
- Overview presentation of SBA's programs and services
- Assistance for entrepreneurs at any stage of business: start-up, expansion, and success
- Small business assistance programs and training offered by the SBDC
- Consulting services
- Business structure
- The elements of a good business plan
- Overview of copyrights, patents, and trademarks
- Karen Friel
  Business Development Specialist
  U.S. Small Business Administration
- Deana Keener
  Regional Center Manager
  Small Business Development Center
Preparing for College

Do you see yourself as a college student? This session will give you information on:
- Comprehensive transition planning that helps students move from high school to college to the workplace
- Testing requirements and applying to schools
- The ins and outs of financial aid and completing the FAFSA
- Applying for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance
- How WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, high schools, and higher education institutions work together to prepare high school students for college or other job training
- Paula Angiulli
  Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
  WV Division of Rehabilitation Services
- Elizabeth Kantor-Bright
  Counselor & School-to-Work Transition Specialist
  Braxton County High School
Interviewing Tips
(AM only)
- Successful interview tactics
- Disability disclosure during the interview process
- Mock interviews
- Resume building
- Cathy Hutchinson
  Mountain State Centers for Independent Living
Supported Employment
- Overview of supported employment
- Find out how supported employment provides assistance such as job coaches, transportation, assistive technology, specialized job training, and individually tailored supervision
- Self Advocacy
- Jamie Lafferty
  Supported Employment Coordinator
  Open Doors, Inc.
- Rhonda Helms
  Supported Employment Coordinator
  Open Doors, Inc.
- Kevin Smith
  Self-Advocate Coordinator
  People First of WV
Resource Ownership: Using Customized Employment and Universal Economic Development Approaches to Solve the Employment Crisis in WV

There are jobs everywhere! You will learn about:
- Overview of customized employment
- How to create a job in any employment market using customized employment and universal economic development approaches
- Hear from one man who made it happen
"Customized employment means individualizing the employment relationship between employees and employers in ways that meet the needs of both. It is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs, and interests of the person with a disability, and is also designed to meet the specifi c needs of the employer." - U.S. DOL, ODEP
- Russell Sickles
  Manager
  Community Economic Development Program
  Job Squad, Inc.
Instructional Workshop
(PM only)

Dancing Wheels presents an interactive assembly program that demonstrates physically integrated modern dance. Dance excerpts are interspersed with discussion about disability, communication, dance and diversity. Audience interaction and participation address issues of ability, a broader perception of diversity and dance. A question and answer period addresses issues of relating to people with disabilities. Students learn that people can communicate in a variety of ways.
- Dancing Wheels Company & School, Cleveland, OH
Transition Planning
- Transition Assessment
- IEP Development for Transition Age Students
- Age of Majority/Transfer of Rights
- Linkages to Post School Options
- Summary of Performance or Graduation
- Hear of personal experience
- Karen Ruddle
  Transition Coordinator
  WV Department of Education
- Jeannie Elkins
  Chair
  WV Developmental Disabilities Council

Exhibitors

Exhibit Hall is open from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities (CED) Fine Arts Program (ROMPP)

Take a tour of the fine arts display, showcasing the diverse talents of artists with disabilities
- Helen Panzaroni
  WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities
Assistive Technology
- Todd Rundle
  WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities
- Terry Courts
  WV Division of Rehabilitation Services
College Fair

Visit with various WV colleges, universities, and trade schools!
- Bridgemont Community and Technical College
- WV Junior College
- Davis & Elkins College
- Genville State College
- Marshall Community and Technical College
- and Others

Performances

Dancing Wheels Company, sample video

Dancing Wheels is the first modern dance company to integrate professional stand-up and sitdown (wheelchair) dancers. Mary Verdi-Fletcher, President and Founding Artistic Director, a pioneer in the fi eld of integrated dance, started the company in 1980, and for more than a quarter of a century, Dancing Wheels has performed, taught and inspired children and adults of all abilities around the world. In the United States, the company presents more than 100 performances reaching audiences of 125,000 each year.

Fragrance Free

For the safety and comfort of those with chemical and environmental illnesses and sensitivities, please refrain from using any perfumed grooming products such as scented soaps & deodorants, perfumes, and colognes.

Photo/Media Disclaimer

Registrants agree to appear in photographs taken at the 2010 Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving conference and understand that representatives of the news media may be present. Registrants understand that photos taken during the Conference may be used for news, publicity or general information purposes and may be seen by the general public.

Save The Date - Employment Possibilities: Thriving, Not Just Surviving

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Join us for an exciting day of learning about transitioning from high school, education after high school, self-employment opportunities, work and SSA benefits, and careers in fine arts!

April 22, 2010

Stonewall Resort
940 Resort Drive
Roanoke, WV 26447

(888) 278-8150

wvadvocates.org/employment-possibilities-2010

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts - March 30th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council announces a workshop on wills & special needs trusts for family members of persons with developmental disabilities.

Are you worried about what will happen to your family member after you are gone?
Do you think you have to be wealthy to set up a trust?
Do you have a will?
Do you think you must "disinherit" your family member in order for them to remain eligible for government services, such as Social Security and Medicaid?
Are you interested in learning more?

WHO: Robert S. Kiss, Attorney at Law with Bowles, Rice, McDavid, Graff & Love LLP

WHEN: Tuesday, March 30, 2010 (Firm Registration Deadline: March 19th)
10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. (check in beginning at 9:30 A.M.)

WHERE: Holiday Inn, Martinsburg, WV (301 Foxcroft Avenue, Exit 13 of I-81)

Lunch will be provided. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

Check in will begin at 9:30 A.M. The training will begin at 10:00 A.M.

Because the workshop is being provided free of charge, you should not register to attend it more than once.

Download the Registration Form Here!

Questions??? Contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884 or at Linda.S.Higgs@wv.gov

Free IEP Help Clinic - "Building Blocks of an IEP"

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Attention parents and/or guardians: Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the school system that outlines the special education services your child is entitled to receive? Do you have problems getting the school system to provide the services listed on your child's IEP? Do you have difficulty getting the services you feel your child needs recommended by a professional, and listed on the IEP?

You must register in advance to attend the IEP HELP CLINIC. Space will be limited.

You will need to bring:

A copy of your child's current IEP and
Most recent evaluations (by the school system and/or privately obtained)

When:	November 10, 2009, 9AM - 3PM (hour lunch break)
Where:	WVU Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center-Eastern Division 2500 Foundation Way Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-264-9202
To Register:	Contact Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250 by November 6, 2009.

If you will need information provided to you in an alternate format, please contact Brittany by November 2, 2009.

FREE Special Education Training - November 9, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, you should attend this training. The training will be provided by West Virginia Advocates, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 and an Education Packet will be provided.
When:	Monday, November 9th 2009, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!)
Where:	WVU Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center-Eastern Division 2500 Foundation Way Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-264-9202
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250 Walk-in registrations welcome.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by November 1, 2009.

MR/DD Waiver Program Booklet Available

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:49:55 -0600

View the MR/DD Waiver Program booklet in HTML.

Download the MR/DD Waiver Program booklet in PDF Format.

West Virginia Leadership Academy 14th Annual Conference - "Celebrating Recovery: A New Way of Life"

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

November 19-20, 2009 -Chief Logan Conference Center, West Virginia

The Leadership Academy Conference is an opportunity to strengthen community relationships and improve skills and supports. Gathering at Chief Logan Conference Center a three-day conference offers many exciting possibilities for sharing recovery-oriented ideas in an atmosphere of mutual respect.

For more details download the registration flyer, or call Kelly Lane at 1-800-598-8847

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts - November 4, 2009 (Register by: October 26th)

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council, with the assistance of Easter Seals West Virginia, announces a workshop on "Wills & Special Needs Trusts" for family members of persons with developmental disabilities.

Are you worried about what will happen to your family member after you are gone?
Do you think you have to be wealthy to set up a trust?
Do you have a will?
Do you think you must "disinherit" your family member in order for them to remain eligible for government services, such as Social Security and Medicaid?
Are you interested in learning more?

WHO: Robert S. Kiss, Attorney at Law with Bowles, Rice, McDavid, Graff & Love LLP

WHEN: Wednesday, November 4, 2009, 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM (check in beginning at 10:30 AM)

WHERE: Springhill Suites by Marriott Wheeling (908 National Road, Wheeling, WV)

Lunch will be provided. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

Because the workshop is being provided free of charge, you should not register to attend it more than once.

Questions??? Contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884 or at Linda.S.Higgs@wv.gov

Download the registration form for "Wills & Special Needs Trusts"

Mark your calendar! - Art ROMPP 2009, Art Exhibit

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

ROMPP 2009 is an art exhibition for two-dimensional artwork, small sculpture, textile work and photography by artists who have disabilities. It is a collaborative venture between the Center for Excellence in Disabilities, the WVU College of Creative Arts, The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS), the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, and the WV Division of Culture and History.

Exhibit dates are October 23 - November 22, 2009. The Exhibit opening will be held October 28, 2009 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Great Hall of the WV Cultural Center, Charleston, West Virginia.

For more information about the ROMPP 2009 Art Exhibit, call CED at 304-293-4692

Free Disability Civil Rights Training - November 6th

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

A free one day "Disability Civil Rights" training will be held at the Suncrest United Methodist Church, 479 Van Voorhis Road, Morgantown on Friday, November 6, 2009 beginning with registration at 8:30 a.m.

The training is sponsored by West Virginia Family Leadership First, a statewide group which supports and encourages families to speak for themselves and others and the Northern West Virginia Center for Independent Living. Funding for the event is provided by West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and a continental breakfast will be served. The training will begin at 9 a.m. and will conclude at 4 p.m. Lunch will be served during the training. The meeting will be held downstairs in the Serendipity Room. The building does have elevators and is accessible.

Mark Derry will give a general overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act. For two years prior to starting his own firm, Mark Derry worked as a Technical Assistance Specialist and Trainer for the ADA Information Center for the Mid-Atlantic Region. The Center is one of ten regional Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers (DBTACs) established by the U.S Department of Education to provide training, information, and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to businesses, consumers, and state and local governments. Mark left his position with the ADA Information Center in 1999 to start a consulting firm called Eastlake, Derry and Associates - Accessibility Solutions. The firm specializes in accessibility, universal design, and ADA consulting and training.

Regina Mayolo will speak about Community Living Initiatives Corporation (CLIC) and West Virginia Assistive Technology. Regina specializes in Fair Housing rights and responsibilities with a focus on the design and construction components of the law. She is one of 3 people in WV to complete training through the National Home Builders Association to become a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) and has presented at both national and international conferences incorporating Universal Design and Fair Housing in to her training, publications, etc.

Registration is available by contacting Annetta Johnson at the Northern West Virginia Center for Independent Living, 601-3 E. Brockway Ave. Suite A&B, Morgantown, WV 26501. Phone number is 304-296-6091. Requests for Alternate Formats and accommodations need to be in no later than October 26, 2009. Deadline to apply to attend is November 2, 2009.

Download the Flyer and Registration Form here.

Client deaths at Northwood Health Systems; License may not be renewed.

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

The Advocare - September 2009

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:40:24 -0600

The Advocare, September 2009 is available in pdf

Suicide and Crisis Hotlines in West Virginia

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

A list of suicide and crisis hotlines available in WV can be found at this web address: http://suicidehotlines.com/westvirginia.html

National Suicide Hotlines:
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) and
1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)

National TTY Suicide Hotline:
1-800-799-4TTY (4889)

2009 Disability Celebration & Awareness Forum

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

October 21, 2009 - 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Mercer Mall, Bluefield, WV

Celebrating The Empowerment and Contributions of Persons with Disabilities

Displays/Exhibits
Workshops/Speakers
Door Prizes throughout the day
Resources for finding employment
Education and training opportunities
Disability Mentoring Day Celebration
Demonstrations of Assistive Technology
Discover local support groups and inclusive fun activities
Information for Employers on Hiring or Keeping
Employees with Disabilities

Find out what is available for you or loved ones who have a disability while celebrating the contributions of persons with disabilities in our community and throughout the world.

For more information please contact: Debbie Pittman at 304-327-4129, Carol Brewster at 304-425-1256 Ext 141, or Melody Cochran at 304-431-2706

E-mail:ability.celebration@gmail.com

Also check out our web site at: www.celebrate-ability.org

The Brain Injury Association of West Virginia presents "My Child Has a Brain Injury: Information for Families and Schools"

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The Brain Injury Association of West Virginia in association with:

The West Virginia Department of Education,
The West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Planning Council,
The Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU,
The West Virginia Advocates,
Parkersburg Area Community Foundation from the Cochran Advised Fund, and
HealthSouth

are Pleased to Announce a Fall Conference:

My Child Has a Brain Injury: Information for Families and Schools

November 5th and 6th, 2009

At The Ramada Inn, South Charleston, WV

Click here to download the full brochure (pdf)

Early Registration (9/1/2009 -10/20/09): $95.00 - Includes:

BIA-WV membership for 2010
Lunch both days
Refreshments (morning and afternoon breaks)
Reception on Thursday following conference

Registration after October 20, 2009 - $125.00

Limited stipends will be available for families of students with a TBI

For more information please contact:
Ashley Young, The Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU
955 Hartman Run Road
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 293-4692 ext. 1118
(304) 293-7294 Fax
Email: ayoung@hsc.wvu.edu

Exhibitors fee - $250.00 (Includes registration fees for 2 persons)

CEU's applied for:
Licensed Professional Counselors
Nurses, School Psychologists,
Case Managers, CRC, RPT, OTR,
Sp/Lang and Social Workers

WV Special Education Forum

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

As people have learned about the Special Education Forum, they have started joining, and we expect more activity with the start of the school year. If you have questions regarding Special Education in West Virginia, please register for WVA's Special Education Forum at http://seforum.wvadvocates.org/

TBIConnect

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The Center for Excellence in Disabilities now has a listserv called "TBIConnect" that is designed to help keep you up to date on Traumatic Brain Injury information. The following is their invitation and instructions for joining the listserv; you may also download the TBIConnect invitation flyer here ...

You are invited to join the West Virginia listserv for Traumatic Brain Injury news, updates and information sharing.

Get all the latest information about the TBI Program
Find out about trainings and events
Talk with TBI staff, service providers, survivors and family members
Be the first to find out about news and announcements about TBI issues in West Virginia
Make a difference in your community

To subscribe to TBIConnect, send an e-mail to tbi@hsc.wvu.edu with the subject title "SUBSCRIBE TBI." Please include your first and last name and your e-mail address in the body of the e-mail.

For more information about TBIConnect or about the TBI Program at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities please contact us:

Phone: 304-293-4692 Ext. 1118
Toll Free: 877-724-8244
Website: www.cedwvu.org/programs/tbi

The Traumatic Brain Injury Program is supported in part by:

Project H21MC11468 from Maternal Child Health Bureau (Title V, Social Security Act), Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Bereau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities

All printed materials are available in braille, electronic format, cassette tape and large print. WVU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - October 21, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

If you answered 'yes' to either of these questions, you should attend this training. The training will be provided by West Virginia Advocates, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in West Virginia.

What:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 will be provided.
When:	Wednesday, October 21, 2009, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!)
Where:	Simpson United Methodist Church 800 7th Street Moundsville, WV 304-845-5080 (Free Parking Available)
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by October 10, 2009.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - October 21, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:22:19 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 will be provided.
WHEN:	Wednesday, October 21, 2009, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!)
WHERE:	Simpson United Methodist Church 800 7th Street Moundsville, WV 304-845-5080 (Free Parking Available)
To Register:	Call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250. Walk-in registrations welcome.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by July 10, 2009.

FY 2008 Annual Report

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:37:50 -0600

WVA's Fiscal Year 2008 Annual Report is available.

Fiscal Year 2010 P&Os Approved

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:31:58 -0600

WVA's Board of Directors has approved the Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Priorities and Objectives.

The public comments that were submitted to WVA are also available for review.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - August 15, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 will be provided.
WHEN:	Saturday, August 15, 2009, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Please bring a bag lunch. We will be working through lunch!)
WHERE:	Elkins Motor Lodge 830 Harrison Avenue Elkins, WV 26241

To register call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by August 10, 2009.

CARE-NET Annual Conference - August 10, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

CARE-NET is hosting the Supporting WV Military Members and Their Families Annual Conference on August 10, 2009. The theme of the conference is "Stop the Stigma Associated with Mental Health Services."

Information on the conference, the agenda, and registration information can be found at CARE-NET's website.

Devaluation and the Service Worker's Role - DDC Workshop

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council is offering a one day Social Roles Valorization (SRV) related introductory workshop. This one day workshop is designed to give policy makers, program directors, advocates, social workers, and family members a very brief overview of social role valorization (SRV) and its importance for people with developmental disabilities.

Dates:

August 4, 2009 - Parkersburg
August 5, 2009 - Charleston

The cost to attend the workshop is $10. Registration is due by June 30, 2009.

For more information or to register, please, contact Linda Higgs at (304) 558.4884, visit www.wvddc.org, or download the workshop's registration form.

FREE Special Education Training on Policy 2419 - July 18, 2009

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

Are you the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability who has or may need an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Does your work require you to advocate for special education services within the school system?

WHAT:	Policy 2419 Training - WV's policies and procedures for services available to children with disabilities in the school system. A copy of Policy 2419 will be provided.
WHEN:	Saturday, July 18, 2009, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (We will break for lunch for 1 hour. Feel free to bring a bag lunch.)
WHERE:	Pennsboro Branch Library 411 Main Street Pennsboro, WV 26415 (Free Parking Available)

To register call Brittany Given at 1-800-950-5250.

If you need Policy 2419 in alternate format, please let Brittany know by July 10, 2009.

WVA is recruiting for it's Board of Directors

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:35 -0600

WVA has several vacancies on our Board of Directors that it needs to fill. We need at least one person who is the legal guardian (court-appointed) of an individual with mental illness to serve on the Board to meet the requirements of our PAIMI grant. If you are interested in serving on WVA's Board, the application can be found on this website, or you may call us at (800) 950-5250.

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council (WVDDC) will be conducting several trainings.

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council (WVDDC) Fiscal Year 2009 training schedule is available here in PDF format.

For further information on any of the trainigs, you may contact the WV Developmental Disabilities Council at (304) 558-0416.

The WV Statewide Independent Living Council wants your input!

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is conducting a series of public forums. The SILC wants to hear from people with disabilities, family members, advocates, service providers, and others about what is and is not working. The schedule of meetings can be found here. The SILC's phone number is (800) 642-8207.

Report: Discipline Methods Endanger Disabled Kids

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

NPR published an article regarding a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that outlines abuse and deaths resulting from the use of seclusion and restraint in schools. The article can be found here.

Workshop on Wills & Special Needs Trusts

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The WV Developmental Disabilities Council announces a workshop on wills & special needs trusts for family members of persons with developmental disabilities.

Are you worried about what will happen to your family member after you are gone?
Do you think you have to be wealthy to set up a trust?
Do you have a will?
Do you think you must "disinherit" your family member in order for them to remain eligible for government services, such as Social Security and Medicaid?
Are you interested in learning more?

WHO: Robert S. Kiss, Attorney at Law with Bowles, Rice, McDavid, Graff & Love LLP

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

WHEN: Friday, May 22, 2009 (REGISTER BY MAY 15) Ramada Plaza Hotel, 400 Second Avenue, South Charleston, WV 25303 (304) 744-4641

WHEN: Wednesday, September 16, 2009 (REGISTER BY SEP 9) Mountaineer Conference Center, 2120 Harper Road, Beckley, WV 25801 (304)252-5100

This workshop is being offered free of charge to adult family members of individuals with developmental disabilities. Lunch will be provided. Family members will be given first priority. Other interested parties may register for a fee of $18.00 if space is available. Walk-in registrations will not be accepted.

Check in will begin at 10:00 AM, and the training will begin at 10:30 AM. There will be a question and answer period after lunch!

Because the workshop is being provided free of charge, you should not register to attend it more than once.

THE WV DD COUNCIL INTENDS TO OFFER A WILLS AND TRUSTS WORKSHOP PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 IN THE MORGANTOWN, WV AREA ALSO. IT HAS NOT YET BEEN SCHEDULED. REGISTER TO ATTEND!

Download the Registration Form Here!

Questions??? Contact Linda Higgs at 304.558.4884 or at Linda.S.Higgs@wv.gov

West Virginia Special Education Forum

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:34 -0600

WVA has created an electronic West Virginia Special Education Forum. This is a place where people can ask questions and get information on special education issues in West Virginia. You can get to the forum here: http://www.wvadvocates.org/seforum/

Comment on our Fiscal Year 2010 Priorities and Objectives

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:17:34 -0600

WVA is seeking public comment on our Fiscal Year 2010 Priorities and Objectives. Our Priorities and Objectives guide our attention and resources towards issues that confront people with disabilities. This is your chance to provide input on the direction WVA takes in providing advocacy services to you.

You are invited to a public forum to get your input on our Priorities and Objectives.

When: May 19, 2009 from 11 AM to 3 PM
Where: Hampton Inn, Bridgeport, WV (exit 121 off of I-79, Meadowbrook Rd.) (304) 842-9300

You may also provide your comments via:

Mail: 1207 Quarrier St Fl 4, Charleston, WV 25301
E-Mail: contact@wvadvocates.org
Phone: (800) 950-5250
Fax: (304) 346-0867

The public comment period is May 10 to June 30, 2009.

Video of Senator Dodd's comments at a January 13, 2008 press conference regarding the use of seclusion and restraint in U.S. schools.

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and the Chairman of its Subcommittee on Children and Families, joined members of the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) to announce a new national report on the inappropriate use of seclusion and restraint on students in American schools. Dodd, a longtime supporter of measures to limit the practices of seclusion and restraint, was joined by the NDRNs Executive Director Curt Decker, members of NDRN, and three Connecticut residents whose loved ones were physically restrained or placed in seclusion while attending school.

A video of the press conference is available

National Disability Rights Network Releases Shocking Report on Seclusion and Restraint in U.S. Schools

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) has released a report on seclusion and restraint in schools.

The report is a compilation of cases outlined by NDRN's 57-member network of protection and advocacy (P&A) systems nationwide. The report details deaths and physical and emotional injuries inflicted on students ranging from kindergarten to high school from schools across the country. It also outlines inconsistent state laws, lack of training for teachers and virtually no government oversight or investigation of the issue.

"Funds for YOU" from the TB/SCI Rehabilitation Fund Board

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:08:27 -0600

The TB/SCI Rehabilitation Fund Board is soliciting applications for its "Funds for YOU" program. "Funds for YOU" are available for individuals with traumatic brain injury. For more information, please download the "Funds for YOU" brochure in .pdf, or call (877) 724-8244.

FY 2007 Annual Report

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:34:36 -0600

WVA has published its Fiscal Year 2007 Annual Report. Click here to read the report in HTML or Click here for the report in Adobe PDF