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Conference: Self-Advocacy
May 13, 2019 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Live as independently as possible
- Do the things they like
- Pursue goals after high school
- Get a job in the career field they want
- Have healthy relationships
- Control their own body and health
- Manage their own money
- Get the services and supports they need
- Understand their rights in different education settings and the workplace
- Know how and when to ask for accommodations
- Know how to navigate the community and access the services and supports needed
- Advocate for friends and family members who also have disabilities.
About our Presenters:
Nancy Craig is the Director of Community and Systems Engagement and Parent Advisor Liaison for Families Together in NYS. Nancy started as an advocate for her own children as they entered the mental health system and her passion continues to be in empowering and strengthening parent’s lives. Nancy is also the Director of Statewide Training and presents at local, regional and national conferences on Family Peer Support Service outcomes.
Elijah Fagan-Solis is the Statewide Emerging Leadership Manager for Youth Power! At age 14, Elijah was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Failure and labeled disabled. Despite the label placed on him, Elijah was determined not to let a disability control his life or future. Today, Elijah has worked with the NYS Assembly, is a member of two national honor societies and has received awards for involvement in his community and for his belief in the ability of people to change, grow and make a contribution to the world. He is also highly active in his
church where he serves as a Deacon, the administrative assistant and heads the youth ministry program.
Zack Kilmer is the NYISA Coordinator for Youth Power! Zack is a LGBTQ+ young adult with autism who has had a passion for activism and civics since he was a child. Raised by a single mother and brought up in special education programs, Zack knows the struggles young people face and wants to change the system to better suit their needs.
Registration is required.
To register online, click on the registration link below. To register by phone, call Robin at 432-0001.
***This conference is funded through a grant from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Self-directing families will need to add “Enhanced Autism Training” to their budgets prior to attending. Please contact FRN for assistance adding this to your budget.***