KEDC C.A.R.e.s. (Community Awareness Recognizing Every Student)

A special day of activities to raise awareness and promote the inclusion of all individuals with disabilities into the school and community. To engage in conversation about how our communities can build relationships and create new opportunities for students with disabilities. To provide resources and information to parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities to help prepare for the transition out of high school.

Agenda 9:00-11:30 District Teams Action Plan for Community Conversations 11:30-12:30 Networking Lunch 12:30-1:00 Parent Panel 1:00-2:30 Mini-Sessions Community Partner Booths

9:00-11:30 District Teams Action Plan for Community Conversations Community Conversation is a way to bring a diverse set of community members together to collectively brainstorm strategies and resources that can be used to address a challenge facing the community. Community Conversations Collectively brainstorm strategies and resources to facilitate peer interaction, inclusive activities and opportunities for friendships that extend beyond school. It provides a fun and creative way to find local solutions and new partners to address issues that matter most in the community. Engaging more people in an important cause, finding possible solutions, and being a catalyst for change. Typically held in the evening and refreshments served. Two hours long and follows a structured format. Conversations take place at small tables, then conclude with “Harvest of Best Ideas” from each table.

Community Conversation District Planning Teams Middle/High School Teacher(s) Administrator Community Member Parent Representative Each team will complete an action plan for hosting a community conversation in their district

12:30-1:00 Parent Panel MSD Transition Work Group members are inviting parents of transition age students to discuss relevant issues related to successful transition for employment and community living/participation.

1:00-2:30 Mini-Sessions Community Partner Booths Sessions: Assisted Living, Guardianship, SSI/Waivers Community Partner Booths: Distribution of Resources Sessions will be 15-20 minutes each Parents have the opportunity to visit community partner booths to gather contact information and resources

Community Partner Booths Medicaid SSI & SSDI TBI Trust fund Vocational Rehabilitation Supported Employment Special Olympics KY Office for the Blind KY Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Carl Perkins Center Commission for Children with Special Health Care Needs CBWTP Community Mental Health Centers (Pathways, Comprehend, Mountain Comprehensive Care Center) School Based Mental Health Programs Kentucky IMPACT Program KY SPIN Centers for Independent Living KATC

Resources KY Peer Support Network Natural Supports Project http://www.kypeersupport.org/ http://www.waisman.wisc.edu/naturalsupports/index.php

So why bother… Discuss the importance of friendship and meaningful relationships

Next Steps Spread the word! Invite & register district team members Invite parents of students with disabilities for the “Lunch and Learn” activities Gather student artwork to represent your community “What do you like/would you like to do in your community?” Community Door Prize 1 donation from each district Please register by Feb. 25