Family Resource Network

Lay Advocacy: Understanding and Supporting Children with Challenging Behaviors
2023-09-13 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
Understanding and Supporting Children with Challenging Behaviors
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
9:00-11:00 am
Online via Zoom
Behavior in all forms, such as facial expressions and body language, can convey messages. This workshop will explore the nature of a child’s behavior, some possible root causes, and strategies to promote positive behaviors. We will look at various supports and services available through school and in the community, and discuss options for when more support is needed. ¨

Look at behavior as a form of communication
Identify possible causes of challenging behaviors
Identify supports and services available through the school district and community

Our Presenter: Kara Georgi is the Parent Education Specialist for Starbridge Parent Training and Information Center. She offers support and information for families and professionals navigating the special education system in Cayuga, Tompkins, Onondaga, Cortland, Broome, Chenango, Madison, Otsego, and Delaware Counties.
Registration is required.
Register Here
For questions or help registering, please contact Terry at (607)287-3816
***This workshop is provided through a grant from OPWDD. Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for help adding this program to your child’s budget.

Online and Phone Parent Support Group
2023-09-14 10:00 - 11:00, 2023-09-19 18:30 - 19:30, 2023-09-21 10:00 - 11:00, 2023-09-26 18:30 - 19:30, 2023-09-28 10:00 - 11:00, 2023-10-03 18:30 - 19:30, 2023-10-05 10:00 - 11:00, 2023-10-10 18:30 - 19:30 and 9 more dates
Online and Phone Parent Support Group
At Family Resource Network, we recognize that during these difficult times, families of individuals with special needs are facing unique challenges and may feel even more isolated While we can’t meet in-person to support one another, we invite you to join us for online support groups. These will be conducted through Zoom Meetings, and families may participate online or by phone. We are offering these groups as an opportunity for families to form connections, support, and learn from each other. We will be offering two groups per week: one morning and one evening.
Registration is required.
Registration Link
For questions, or assistance with registration, please call Terry at (607)287-3816.
Support groups are funded through a grant from OPWDD. The families of OPWDD-eligible individuals in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties will be given priority. Self-directing families in these counties must include “Training Groups” in their self-direction budgets. By registering for this support group, you agree to have this program added to your budget. Please contact Robin at rpiefer@familyrn.org with any questions.

Financial Literacy for Families of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
2023-09-27 10:00 - 11:00
Financial Literacy for Families of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

Wednesday, September 27, 2023
10:00- 11:00 am
Online via Zoom
Times can be tough when you are caring for a loved one with a developmental disability. You can become stressed or feel overwhelmed or powerless. Everyday financial needs can be a major stressor for many. Join FRN for an informational training by Phil Nelson to learn small steps you can take to improve your financial situation.
Our Presenter: Phil Nelson is the founder, Executive Director, and Financial Counselor of The Stack Project, a nonprofit focused on 1:1 financial counseling, workshops, and case management for youth, young adults, and families. Phil has served as the top financial counselor for several years under the NYC Office of Financial Empowerment. He has written numerous white papers on strategy, clinet retention, and development for financial counseling. He also sits on the panel review for the Racial Justice and Equity fund for the Community Foundation for South Central New York.
Registration is required.
Register Here
For questions or help registering, please contact Terry at (607)287-3816.
***This workshop is provided through a grant from OPWDD. Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for help adding this program to your child’s budget.

TS/DD Event: Virtual Cook-a-Long Soup and Sandwiches
2023-09-28 17:00 - 18:30 | Zoom Video Conference, NY, United States
Please join the Family Resource Network Teen Scene and Dragon Dates Programs for our upcoming event
Virtual Cook-a-Long: Soup and Sandwiches
Thursday, September 28th
5:00pm-6:30pm
Online via ZOOM
The Family Resource Network is excited for this month’s virtual cook-a-long. For September FRN will lead participants through two recipes, one for Potato Soup and the other for a grilled sandwich and we will help cover the cost of the ingredients. We have decided to try something different for supplies. Rather than FRN purchasing the supplies and delivering or scheduling pick ups, we will be providing families gift cards and a supply list that they can use to get the ingredients they need. Please register by Thursday, September 21st in order to receive your gift card prior to the event. You will have the option to select from Walmart, Hannaford or Price Chopper and we will mail your gift card after the registration deadline.
Registration is required
To register please follow the link below:
Registration Form
The age range for Teen Scene events has been expanded and Teen Scene events will be open to any school aged youth in Otsego, Delaware and Chenango County.
Dragon Dates events are for the families of individuals with OPWDD eligibility living in the family home in Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tioga or Tompkins County. Self-directing families will need to add “Social Skills” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for assistance adding this program to your budget.
Questions? Call FRN at 607-432-0001 and ask for Kristin.

The Power of Play and Socialization
2023-10-04 18:30 - 20:30
The Power of Play and Socialization
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
6:30-8:30
HYBRID: In-Person at 46 Oneida St., Oneonta
or online via Zoom
Play is an important part of a child’s life and essential to learning and development. Play allows persons to interact with others, learn new skills, and develop trust. It facilitates practice in decision making and conflict resolution, hones critical thinking skills, and above all else, provides opportunities to have fun in the company of others. Join Family Resource Network for this interactive workshop on play and socialization. We will be discussing:

The types and stages of play
A parent’s role in children’s play
How to support play
Socialization and inclusion

This workshop is a part of the Nurturing Parenting Special Needs and Health challenges Parenting Workshop Series. Our presenters, Robin Piefer and Terry DiLuzio, are trained Nurturing Parenting facilitators.
Registration is required.
Register Here
For questions or help registering, please contact Terry at (607)287-3816.
***This workshop is provided through a grant from OPWDD. Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for help adding this program to your child’s budget.

Lay Advocacy - Bullying: Intervention Strategies
2023-10-13 09:00 - 11:00
Bullying: Intervention Strategies
Friday, October 13, 2023
9:00-11:00
Online via Zoom

Bullying is an increasingly serious problem in schools. Families, teachers, and children need help and support in knowing how to respond. This workshop introduces participants to definitions of bullying, how to recognize it, and how to respond to it both at home and in school.

Be able to define bullying behavior and distinguish it from typical peer conflict
Identify your own emotional responses to your child or student being bullied
Learn coping strategies for yourself and strategies to help your child or student
Learn effective ways to intervene in the child’s school or home environment

Our Presenter: Kara Georgi is the Parent Education Specialist for Starbridge Parent Training and Information Center. She offers support and information for families and professionals navigating the special education system in Cayuga, Tompkins, Onondaga, Cortland, Broome, Chenango, Madison, Otsego, and Delaware Counties.
Registration is required.
Register Here
For questions or help registering, please contact Terry at (607)287-3816
***This workshop is provided through a grant from OPWDD. Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for help adding this program to your child’s budget.

TS/DD Event: Skating and Laser Tag at Interskate 88
2023-10-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Interskate 88, 5185 NY-23, Oneonta, NY
Come join the Family Resource Network’s Teen Scene and Dragon Dates Programs for Skating and Laser Tag!
Sunday, October 22nd, 2023
10:00am-12:00pm
Interskate 88
5185 NY-23
Oneonta, NY
Enjoy a morning of skating and laser tag at Interskate 88 with the Family Resource Network! The Family Resource Network has rented out the building for our private event. This event is free for registered Teen Scene and Dragon Dates participants and their family members. We will cover skates for each family member, laser tag as well as pizza and drinks!
Please Register by October 20th
Registration is REQUIRED.
To register please follow the link below. To register by phone or for additional information please call FRN @ 607-432-0001
Registration Form
The age range for Teen Scene events has been expanded and Teen Scene events will be open to any school aged youth in Otsego, Delaware and Chenango County.
Dragon Dates events are for the families of individuals with OPWDD eligibility living in the family home in Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tioga or Tompkins County. Self-directing families will need to add “Social Skills” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for assistance adding this program to your budget.
*This is a family event. FRN is not responsible for supervision.*

TS/DD Event: Virtual Cook-a-Long Halloween Treats
2023-10-30 17:00 - 18:30 | Zoom Video Conference, NY, United States
Please join the Family Resource Network Teen Scene and Dragon Dates Programs for our upcoming event
Virtual Cook-a-Long: Halloween Treats
Monday, October 30th
5:00pm-6:30pm
Online via ZOOM
The Family Resource Network is excited for this month’s virtual cook-a-long. For October FRN will get festive and lead participants through two recipes, both being Autumn themed desserts, and we will help cover the cost of the ingredients. We have decided to try something different for supplies. Rather than FRN purchasing the supplies and delivering or scheduling pick ups, we will be providing families gift cards and a supply list that they can use to get the ingredients they need. Please register by Monday, October 23rd in order to receive your gift card prior to the event. You will have the option to select from Walmart, Hannaford or Price Chopper and we will mail your gift card after the registration deadline.
Registration is required
To register please follow the link below:
Registration Form
The age range for Teen Scene events has been expanded and Teen Scene events will be open to any school aged youth in Otsego, Delaware and Chenango County.
Dragon Dates events are for the families of individuals with OPWDD eligibility living in the family home in Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tioga or Tompkins County. Self-directing families will need to add “Social Skills” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for assistance adding this program to your budget.
Questions? Call FRN at 607-432-0001 and ask for Kristin.

FRN Workshop: Supplemental Needs Trusts and Guardianship
2023-11-03 09:00 - 12:00
FRN Workshop:
Supplemental Needs Trusts and Guardianship
Presented by Greg Catarella, Esq.
Have questions about setting up Trusts for your loved ones?

Need advice about setting up a plan for a Guardianship?

Join us for an informational workshop presented by Greg Catarella and gain valuable information pertaining to financial planning for the future of your loved one with a disability.
Greg S. Catarella, Esq., is licensed to practice law in the State of New York. He concentrates his law practice in the areas of Elder Law, Estate Planning and Administration, Trusts, and Guardianships. For over 20 years, Greg has been helping clients and their families find peace of mind in a world that is unnecessarily complex.
Friday, November 3, 2023
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
(Online via Zoom)
***Registration Required***
Click Here to Register
For assistance with registration or for questions please call Terry at 607-287-3816.
***This workshop is funded through a grant from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets prior to attending. Please contact FRN for assistance adding this to your budget.***

Balance and Wellness for Caregivers and Professionals
2023-11-08 09:00 - 11:00
The Family Resource Network and Starbridge, Inc.
Balance and Wellness for Caregivers and Professionals
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Online

Caregivers and professionals in the human services field can benefit from real, honest conversations about the personal impacts of providing care and support to a person who has a disability. Learn to recognize and reduce stressors, as well as increase self-awareness about your role and responsibilities. The goal is to create more balance and resilience so we can continue to give our best to those we love and support.
Goals of this training:
>> Increase awareness of personal barriers to wellness and balance
>> Learn strategies and steps to help create more work-life balance
>> Identify ways to nurture your health and develop resiliency
About our speaker:
Kara Georgi is the Parent Education Specialist for Starbridge Parent Training and Information Center. She offers support and information for families and professionals navigating the special education system in Cayuga, Tompkins, Onondaga, Cortland, Broome, Chenango, Madison, Otsego, and Delaware Counties.
Registration is Required.
Register Here
For questions or assistance with registration, please call Terry DiLuzio at 607-287-3816.
***This workshop is provided through a grant from OPWDD. Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for help adding this program to your child’s budget.

Embark Parent Support Group
2023-11-09 10:00 - 11:00
Embark Parent Support Group
The Embark Program requires registration through email communication with Robin Piefer at: rpiefer@familyrn.org or a phone call with Robin Piefer at 607-287-6358.
There is no link provided for this calendar event.
Support groups are funded through a grant from OPWDD. The families of OPWDD-eligible individuals in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties will be given priority. Self-directing families in these counties must include “Training Groups” in their self-direction budgets. By registering for this support group, you agree to have this program added to your budget. Please contact Robin at rpiefer@familyrn.org with any questions.

Coping, Calming, and the Brain
2023-11-15 18:00 - 20:00
The Family Resource Network

Coping, Calming, and the Brain

Parents will learn more about stress, brain development and how stress affects the brain
How our children with Special Health Needs are affected by stress/stressors
How we as parents can model ways of coping and calming

The Family Resource Network will be offering this single session workshop presented by Robin Piefer and Terry DiLuzio, trained Nurturing Parenting facilitators focusing on positive parenting of children diagnosed with special needs and/or health challenges.
The Nurturing Program for parents and Their Children with Special Needs and Health Challenges is designed to help families explore their hopes and fears, develop effective parenting skills, enhance communication, develop strategies for facing challenges and recognize opportunities for celebration and growth.
This event is for Parents and Caregivers
This is an interactive workshop and participants are encouraged to keep their cameras and microphones on during the session with the presenters. We do understand that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to the use of video conferencing.
Date: Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
*Registration is required*
Register Here

For assistance with registration or for questions, please
call Terry at (607)287-3816.
***This workshop is funded through a grant from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Self-directing families will need to add “Training Groups” to their budgets prior to attending. Please contact FRN for assistance adding this to your budget.***

TS/DD Event: Bowling
2023-11-19 14:00 - 16:00 | East Main Lanes and Lounge, 1 East Main Street, Sidney, NY
Come join the Family Resource Network’s Teen Scene and Dragon Dates Programs for a Bowling Event!
Sunday, November 19, 2023
2:00pm-4:00pm
East Main Lanes & Lounge
1 East Main Street
Sidney, NY
Enjoy a couple hours of fun at the Bowling Alley! Family Resource Network will pay for shoe rental and two games of bowling per family. A pizza lunch will be provided!
Please Register by November 17th
Registration is REQUIRED.
To register please follow the link below. To register by phone or for additional information please call FRN @ 607-432-0001
Registration Form
The age range for Teen Scene events has been expanded and Teen Scene events will be open to any school aged youth in Otsego, Delaware and Chenango County.
Dragon Dates events are for the families of individuals with OPWDD eligibility living in the family home in Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Delaware, Tioga or Tompkins County. Self-directing families will need to add “Social Skills” to their budgets before attending. Please contact Robin at (607)287-6358 for assistance adding this program to your budget.
*This is a family event. FRN is not responsible for supervision.*

No Online and Phone Parent Support Group Today
2023-11-23 10:00 - 11:00
No Online and Phone Parent Support Group Today
Happy Thanksgiving!!
