July 3, 2012


July 3, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) Free Emergency Preparedness Trainings in July
2) Journey Skyward with the Journey of Hope – July 14, Jackson
3) Gulf Coast Classic Wheelchair Tennis Tournament – July 19-20, Biloxi
4) MSPTI Basic Rights Boot Camp – July 26, Corinth
5) Helping Hands: A Family’s Guide to Early Intervention in Mississippi
6) Supreme Court Ruling on the Affordable Care Act –What’s Next for CYSHCN
1) Free Emergency Preparedness Trainings in July
If a member of your family has a disability, your family could be at risk during an emergency situation. Learn how to protect your family at free trainings provided by the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities. Sessions to be held in July include:
                July 11 – Richton – Richton Library, 210 Front St., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
                July 17 – Pearl – Pearl Public Library, 3470 Highway 80 E., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
                July 19 – Fayette – Jefferson County Library, 218 S. Main St., 1 to 3 p.m.
                July 23 – Lucedale – George County Library, 507 Oak St., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information or ADA accommodations, call Judy Sikes at 1.800.721.7255 or email her at judy@msccd.org.
2) Journey Skyward with the Journey of Hope – July 14, Jackson
Journey of Hope is a cross-country bicycle trek that began on the west coast and is peddling toward Washington D.C. to raise funds and awareness for people with disabilities. Come meet the Journey of Hope cyclists and take a spin as the co-pilot of an airplane on Sat., July 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at John Bell Williams Field in Raymond. Flights are limited so if you want to fly, call Matt Nalker at The Arc of Mississippi at 601.982.1180 or Christy Dunaway at LIFE at 601.969.4009 as soon as possible. Journey Skyward is presented by The Arc of Mississippi, LIFE of Mississippi and Hinds Community College. 
3) Gulf Coast Classic Wheelchair Tennis Tournament – July 19-20, Biloxi
Bring your racquet and join in the fun at the Gulf Coast Classic Wheelchair Tennis Tournament on Thurs., July 19 and Fri., July 20, at the Biloxi Tennis Complex at 765 Wells Drive in Biloxi. Registration is from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wed., July 18, and 7 to 8 a.m. on Thurs., July 19. Play begins at 8 a.m. on Thurs., July 19. For more information, call Cindy Singletary at LIFE at 228.341.3449 or email her at csingletary.life@gmail.com.
4) MSPTI Basic Rights Boot Camp – July 26, Corinth
Do you want to learn about your rights as a parent in the special education process? Do you want to learn more about IEPs? Plan to attend the MSPTI’s (Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center) Basic Rights Boot Camp on July 26, in Corinth from 12 to 2 p.m. at the MSU Extension Building at 2200 Levee Road. For more information, call Leslie Junkin, MSPTI training coordinator and parent advisor for northeast Mississippi, at 662.251.5599 or email her at leslie@mspti.org.
 
5) Helping Hands: A Family’s Guide to Early Intervention in Mississippi
The Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Health's First Steps Early Intervention Program is excited to announce a new resource, "Helping Hands, A Family Guide to Early Intervention."  This 40-page guide is intended to answer common questions about parent rights and regulations pertaining to the Early Intervention process. You can download the guide at http://www.mspti.org/upload/file127_EIGuide.pdf  or contact MSPTI for printed versions by emailing your request to info@mspti.org.
6) Supreme Court Ruling on the Affordable Care Act –What’s Next for CYSHCN
Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the Affordable Care Act is constitutional how can parents of children and youth with special health learn more about how this Act affects their children’s services. The Catalyst Center provides information of the Affordable Care Act on their website. For more information visit: http://www.hdwg.org/catalyst/?&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=postwebinar2&utm_source=ACA+rulings&utm_campaign=ACA+ruling&utm_medium=email.

June 8, 2012


June 8, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) LIFE-MACE Inclusive Wheelchair Softball Clinic – June 16, Hattiesburg
2) Mississippi disAbility MegaConference – June 21-22, Jackson
3) MSPE Employment Awareness Sessions – June 21-22, Jackson
4) Citizens with Disabilities Can Get Free Lifetime National Parks Pass
5) FEMA Urges People to Prepare for Hurricanes and Severe Weather
1) LIFE-MACE Inclusive Wheelchair Softball Clinic – June 16, Hattiesburg
Come on out for a great summer day of softball and fun on Sat., June 16, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the parking lot of the Payne Center on The University of Southern Mississippi campus at 118 College Drive in Hattiesburg. Everyone is welcome to the clinic sponsored by LIFE (Living Independence for Everyone) and MACE (Metro Area Community Empowerment). For more information, call Cindy Singletary at LIFE at 228.388.2402.
2) Mississippi disAbility MegaConference – June 21-22, Jackson
The Mississippi disAbility MegaConference will bring together hundreds of individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals to share best practices, provide training, and inspire innovation among attendees. There will be vendors from across the state, opportunities to earn continuing education units and continuing legal education credits, breakout sessions led by inclusive panels of speakers, incredible networking with individuals and professionals, a silent auction, exceptional door prizes, and an evening entertainment event. Stipends are available for families. For more information, call 1.800.772.4057 or visit http://megaconference.drms.ms/.
  
3) MSPE Employment Awareness Sessions – June 21-22, Jackson
Four awareness sessions on employment for youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities will be held on June 21-22 in Jackson. Youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families, educators, business leaders, community leaders and elected officials are invited to participate in separate, targeted sessions. Scheduled awareness sessions and locations are:
                Mon., June 4 -   1 p.m., community leaders and elected officials – MS Library Commission
                                                5:30 p.m., youth with disabilities and their families – Jackson Marriott
                Tues., June 5 -   10 a.m., business leaders - MS Library Commission
                                                1 p.m., educators - MS Library Commission
The Mississippi Library Commission is located at 3881 Eastwood Drive at the Education and Research Center off Ridgewood Road and Eastover Drive. The Jackson Marriott is located at 200 East Amite Street. For more information on the awareness sessions, e-mail Dr. Jerry Alliston, Jerry.Alliston@usm.edu, or Alma Ellis, aellis@ihl.state.ms.us, at the Institute for Disability Studies.
4) Citizens with Disabilities Can Get Free Lifetime National Parks Pass
Did you know that U.S. citizens with documented disabilities can get a free lifetime pass to all national parks and recreation areas? The Access Pass is a free pass available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. who have been medically determined to have a permanent disability. The pass provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by five Federal agencies. A National Parks Pass usually costs $80 yearly. For more information, visit http://store.usgs.gov/pass/access.html.
5) FEMA Urges People to Prepare for Hurricanes and Severe Weather
Hurricane Season began June 1. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a system that sends severe weather alerts to people on their cell phones. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) look like a text message, and will automatically appear on the mobile device screen showing the type and time of alert, along with any action that should be taken. Check with your cellular carrier to see if WEA alerts are available in your area. Read FEMA’s emergency preparedness tips for people with disabilities in English or Spanish. For more emergency preparedness tips and information about the importance of including people with disabilities in planning for emergencies and disasters and stories about preparing for emergencies, visit https://www.disability.gov/emergency_preparedness.
Preparedness tips in English: http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/FEMA_Disabilities_R-6.pdf 
Preparedness tips in Spanish:  http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/PrinterFriendly_DisabilitiesSpecialNeeds_ES.pdf  

May 16, 2012 Special Edition (2)


Mississippi disAbility MegaConference
June 21-22
Marriott Jackson
Jackson, MS
Seventeen disability related agencies or groups have come together to plan and host Mississippi’s first MegaConference. The Mississippi disAbility MegaConference will bring together, at an affordable price, hundreds of individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals to share best practices, provide training, and inspire innovation among attendees. There will be vendors from across the state, opportunities to earn continuing education units and continuing legal education credits, breakout sessions led by inclusive panels of speakers, incredible networking with individuals and professionals, a silent auction, exceptional door prizes, and an evening entertainment event that is sure to be a blast!
The link to the web-page and registration form is:  http://megaconference.drms.ms/
For more information, call 1.800.772.4057.
The Facebook page link is:  http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003766235007  
Stipends are available. Call Judy at 601.969.0601 to inquire about the stipend process.
Call the Marriott at 601.969.5100 to reserve your room. Guest rooms are being offered at a special rate of $117 for a  single or double. You must tell them you are with the MS disAbility Megaconference. Registration and room reservation DEADLINE is May 28, 2012.

May 16, 2012 Special Edition


Youth with Disabilities Employment Awareness Sessions Planned for Greenville
Four awareness sessions concerning employment for youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities will be held for Delta residents in Greenville on May 21-22.
Youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families, educators, business leaders, community leaders and elected officials are invited to participate in separate, targeted sessions.
Scheduled awareness sessions are:
            Mon., May 21 -     1 p.m., community leaders and elected officials
                                                5:30 p.m., youth with disabilities and their families
            Tues., May 22 -     10 a.m., business leaders
                                                1 p.m., educators
All sessions will be held in the meeting room of the William Alexander Percy Memorial Library at 341 Main Street in Greenville.
Training session topics will include job development, customized employment, supported employment, federal laws and programs, environmental adaptations, person-centered planning services, and supports for employment of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
These awareness sessions are being held by the Mississippi Partnerships for Employment for Youth and Young Adults with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities project developed by the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities, Disability Rights Mississippi and The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies to increase competitive outcomes for youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities by enhancing the collaboration of existing state education and employment services systems.
This project is funded by a grant from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. Mississippi was one of six states chosen from 42 applicants for these grant funds.
Awareness sessions are scheduled for Starkville on June 4-5 and Jackson on June 21-22.
For more information on the Mississippi Partnerships for Employment project and the awareness sessions, contact Jerry Alliston at the Institute for Disability Studies toll free at 1-888-671-0051 or by email at Jerry.Alliston@usm.edu.

May 2, 2012 Special Edition


Sessions Inform Gulf Coast Residents about Employment
for Youth with Developmental or Intellectual Disabilities

Four outreach/awareness sessions on employment for youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities will be held on the Gulf Coast on May 7-8. Youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families, educators, business leaders, community leaders and elected officials are invited to participate in separate, targeted sessions.
Scheduled awareness sessions are:
                Mon., May 7 -    10 a.m., community leaders and elected officials
                                                5:30 p.m., youth with disabilities and their families
                Tues., May 8 -    10 a.m., business leaders
                                                1 p.m., educators
All sessions will be held at the Technology Learning Center on The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park campus at 730 East Beach Boulevard in Long Beach.
Training session topics will include job development, customized employment, supported employment, federal laws and programs, environmental adaptations, person-centered planning services, and supports for employment of individuals with disabilities.
These awareness sessions are being held by the Mississippi Partnerships for Employment for Youth and Young Adults with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities project developed by the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities, The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies and Disability Rights Mississippi to increase competitive outcomes for youth and young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities by enhancing the collaboration of existing state education and employment services systems. This project is funded by a grant from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities. Mississippi was one of six states chosen from 42 applicants for these grant funds
For more information on the Mississ

May 2, 2012


May 2, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) Family Fun Day – May 5, Hattiesburg
2) A Case for Youth Leadership Webinar – May 8, 1 p.m. CDT
3) Be Your Best Treasure Quest – May 12, Jackson
4) Inclusive (Indoor) Camping Trip for Youth and Young Adults with Disabilities – June 8-9, Long Beach
5) Summer Jobs Plus Bank
6) Improve Transportation for People with Disabilities
7) HHS and Education Launch StopBullying.gov
8) One Question
1) Family Fun Day – May 5, Hattiesburg
Save the date:  Sat., May 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the 3rd Annual Family Fun Day at Kamper Park in Hattiesburg. Expect food, fun, games, music and prizes. Family Fun Day is presented by CommUNITY Cares. The theme for the day is The Future’s So Bright, Celebrating Children’s Mental Health Awareness. For more information, call CommUNITY Cares at 601.544.4641.
2) A Case for Youth Leadership Webinar – May 8, 1 p.m. CDT
Young people have been at the heart of every social justice movement. Register for this webinar to learn more about youth leadership in the Disability Rights Movement! Join Cindy Singletary and Stacey Milbern in this engaging presentation as they discuss youth leadership and how you can be an ally to youth with disabilities. These two youth experts will share the philosophy, various models and best practices in the youth leadership development field. Both speakers bring spark, passion and years of experience to the conversation so reserve your seat today! https://cc.readytalk.com/r/r27l2e6223wj
3) Be Your Best Treasure Quest – May 12, Jackson
Be Your Best Treasure Quest, a mental health awareness event, will provide a scavenger hunt for children of all ages to celebrate positive wellness in youth. Treasure Quest will be held on Sat., May 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fondren Park, at the corner of Northview Drive and Dunbar Street in Jackson, by the Mississippi Transitional Outreach Project. The event will include free food, space jumps, obstacle courses and more. The Quest is co-sponsored by The Arc of Mississippi, the City of Jackson Catholic Charities, the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, the Mississippi Department of Human Services, the Greater Bethlehem Temple Church, Hinds Behavioral Health Services, the Mississippi Department of Education, Youth Engagement Solutions, NAMI Mississippi, NFUSION, Mississippi Families as Allies for Children’s Mental Health, and the Fondren Renaissance Foundation.  Mississippi Transitional Outreach Project is funded through a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Mental Health.
4) Inclusive (Indoor) Camping Trip for Youth and Young Adults with Disabilities – June 8-9, Long Beach
An inclusive, indoor camping trip for youth and young adults with disabilities will be held, Fri. afternoon, Jun. 8 through Sat. afternoon, Jun. 9 at the Technology Learning Center on the Gulf Park campus of The University of Southern Mississippi at 730 East Beach Boulevard in Long Beach. Activities include pottery, games, a cookout and more. For more information, call Jerry Alliston at the Institute for Disability Studies at 1.888.671.0051 (TTY) or e-mail him at jerry.alliston@usm.edu.
5) Summer Jobs Plus Bank
The U.S. Department of Labor recently opened the Summer Jobs Plus Bank, an online resource for young people to find jobs, internships, mentorships and training opportunities. Companies can list summer job opportunities through a three-step process.  The bank is part of the federal Summer Jobs Plus Initiative, which asks businesses, nonprofits and government leaders to come together to provide 250,000 employment opportunities for low-income and disconnected youth this summer. The initiative has been supported by the Forum for Youth Investment along with Ready by 21 National Partners, such as SparkAction, Corporate Voice for Working Families and America's Promise Alliance. For more information, visit http://www.dol.gov/summerjobs/.
6) Improve Transportation for People with Disabilities
The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund ( DREDF) is conducting research on what factors are most important to riders with disabilities when deciding which transit mode to use. The confidential survey results will be part of a national study called Transit Cooperative Research Project B-40: Strategy Guide to Enable and Promote the Use of Fixed-Route Transit by People with Disabilities. The goal is to develop strategies to improve bus and train systems for people with disabilities. DREDF's research partners are TranSystems Corporation, The Collaborative, and KFH Group. Please take the survey (http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/882523/TransitChoices ) and encourage others to do so.
7) HHS and Education Launch StopBullying.gov
The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Education have launched a redesigned Stop Bullying website to encourage children, parents, teachers and communities to take action. The website includes a section dedicated to youth with disabilities and special health needs. The website also has a map with information on state laws and policies and videos for young people, along with practical strategies for schools and communities to make sure that environments are safe, as well as suggestions for parents and information on the dangers of cyber-bullying. Visit http://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/groups/special-needs/index.html
8) One Question
“If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change?” was the question asked of 35 individuals with developmental disabilities from different backgrounds. Their answers are shared in a seven and a half minute documentary at Sproutflix.org. You can watch it for free. Don’t miss it. It just may make your day and week and more. http://sproutflix.org/content/one-question

April 2, 2012


April 2, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) Stride Across the Spectrum 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run – Apr. 13, Hattiesburg
2) LIFE-MACE Inclusive Wheelchair Tennis Clinic – Apr. 21, Hattiesburg
3) Marriage Retreat for Couples Raising a Child with Special Needs – Apr. 21-22, Chattanooga, TN
4) Finding Your Way in the Health Care System
5) Understanding the Affordable Care Act
6) Family Fun Day – May 5, Hattiesburg
7) Camp Dream Street
1) Stride Across the Spectrum 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run – Apr. 13, Hattiesburg
The Institute for Disability Studies is sponsoring the first Stride Across the Spectrum 5K run and walk and one-mile fun run on Fri., Apr. 13, at the Longleaf Trail at 2895 W. Fourth Street in Hattiesburg. Registration is from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m., the one-mile fun run is at 5:30 p.m. and the 5K run/walk is at 6 p.m.  The race day registration fees, which include a tee shirt, are $25 for individuals, $20 for Pine Belt Pacers, and $10 for the one-mile fun run. All proceeds will benefit the Stride Across the Spectrum Community Fund which provides financial assistance to individuals and families of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. For more information or a printable order form, visit www.usm.edu/ids  or call Beth Bruton at 601.266.5163.
2) LIFE-MACE Inclusive Wheelchair Tennis Clinic – Apr. 21, Hattiesburg
Plan for a fun day of tennis on Sat., Apr. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Tatum Park Courts at 101 Parkway Drive in Hattiesburg sponsored by LIFE, MACE (Metro Area Community Empowerment) and the Institute for Disability Studies. TRIAD AmeriCorp members will be assisting. Any disability is welcome. Wheelchairs and racquets will be provided, and lunch and refreshments will be served. For more information, call Cindy Singletary at LIFE at 228.388.2401.
3) Marriage Retreat for Couples Raising a Child with Special Needs – Apr. 21-22, Chattanooga, TN
The Two-gether marriage retreat will be held Sat., Apr. 21- Sun., Apr. 22, at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo in Chattanooga, TN.  This retreat is specially designed to discuss the unique challenges faced by couples raising a child with special needs. Hear from speakers who “get it” and understand the strains and stresses that can come when you have a special child. For more information visit http://www.risingaboveministries.info/national-ministries/two-gether .
4) Finding Your Way in the Health Care System
From the flu to broken bones, illnesses and medical emergencies seem to be an inevitable part of raising kids. It can be stressful any time your child needs medical attention, but even more so when you’re worried about where to get that care and how much it will cost. Visit this website for information on how to better navigate the health care system for your child: http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/doctor/healthcare.html#cat173 .
5) Understanding the Affordable Care Act
Trying to better understand the Affordable Care Act and how it affects your child with special health care needs? These fact sheets, one from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website and the other, including a Spanish version, from the website HealthCare.gov., explain what you need to know about the Act. Visit http://www.hhs.gov/od/affordable_care_act.html ,   http://www.healthcare.gov/news/brochures/people-with-disabilities-top5.pdf, or http://www.healthcare.gov/news/brochures/people-with-disabilities-top5-spanish.pdf . 
6) Family Fun Day – May 5, Hattiesburg
Save the date:  Sat., May 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the 3rd Annual Family Fun Day at Kamper Park in Hattiesburg. Expect food, fun, games, music and prizes. Family Fun Day is presented by CommUNITY Cares. The theme for the day is The Future’s So Bright, Celebrating Children’s Mental Health Awareness. For more information, call CommUNITY Cares at 601.544.4641.
7) Camp Dream Street
Dream Street is a five-day, four-night camping program for children with physical disabilities. The camp is held on the grounds of the Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica, MS.  Dream Street will be held May 29 through June 2, 2012. Dream Street accepts approximately 60 children ages 8 to 14 each summer for  fun-filled days of arts and crafts, horseback riding, music, fishing and canoeing, athletics, outdoor adventure, science and swimming. Applications are now available. For more information, visit http://www.dreamstreetms.org/campdreamstreetms.php or e-mail Cynthia Huff at cynthia@dreamstreetms.org .

February 6, 2012


February 6, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) CMP Information and Education Session – Feb. 14, 11 a.m., Jackson
2) Free MSPTI Webinars - Life After High School: What Youth with Disabilities Need to Know About Higher Education – Feb. 28, 12 Noon and Mar. 5, 7 p.m.
3) Training on Issues Related to Children with Disabilities – Feb. 29, Jackson
4) Strategies for Success Live Q & A Webinar:  Using Technology to Communicate with Your Child with a Developmental Disability (Part 2) – Feb. 14, 1 p.m., CST
5) Article from Disability Scoop - Perks May Soon Be Public Knowledge
6) Think College Island

1) CMP Information and Education Session – Feb. 14, 11 a.m., Jackson
The Children’s Medical Program of the Mississippi State Department of Health will host a free information and education session on Feb. 14, at 11 a.m. in the MSDH Resource Library in Suite 480 at the Jackson Medical Mall at 350 Woodrow Wilson Avenue. This “Did You Know Feature . . . MSDH Agency Resources” session will focus on the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program (EHDI). Parents will learn about hearing screening and related resources to assist children with hearing loss. Speakers will be Eunice Short, EHDI director, and Holly Crowder, hearing resource consultant. For more information or to RSVP, contact CMP’s social work staff at 1.888.844.0898 or Stephanie Ivey at 601.987.3965.
2)Free MSPTI Webinars - Life After High School: What Youth with Disabilities Need to Know About Higher Education – Feb. 28, 12 Noon and Mar. 5, 7 p.m.
The Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI) will host Life After High School: What Youth with Disabilities Need to Know About Higher Education on Feb. 28, at 12 noon and again on Mar. 5 at 7 p.m. Dr. Jerry Alliston, coordinator for community inclusion and volunteer service at the Institute for Disability Studies at The University of Southern Mississippi, will be the presenter. The webinar will address the transition from high school to higher education, an exciting and often overwhelming time for families, especially for youth with disabilities. The presentation will focus on preparing for this transition, understanding the differences between disability-related services in high school versus college, and using available resources to assist with this transition. For more information, visit http://www.mspti.org/ or call 1.800.721.7255.
3) Training on Issues Related to Children with Disabilities – Feb. 29, Jackson
“Take Action for Positive Outcomes,” a free one-day training on issues related to children with disabilities, will be held on Wed., Feb. 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Jackson Medical Mall at 350 West Woodrow Wilson in Jackson.  This training is for parents and professionals working with children with disabilities in all settings. Topics will include basic rights, Pact C to Part B, medical home, sibling support, oral health and more. A free lunch is included. The training is sponsored by The Arc of Mississippi, LIFE of Mississippi, the Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MS PTI), the Family to Family Health Information and Education Center, and Circle of Hope. For more information or to register contact, Augusta Smith at LIFE of MS at ausmith_jam1@comcast.net or 1.800.748.9398 or Gwen Brown or Hollia Thompson at The Arc of MS at gwen@arcms.org or hollia@arcms.org or 1.800.717.1180.
4) Strategies for Success Live Q & A Webinar:  Using Technology to Communicate with Your Child with a Developmental Disability (Part 2) – Feb. 14, 1 p.m. CST
A continuation of part 1, Using Technology is a free, live question and answer webinar with parents sharing their success stories of how communication programs and technology such as the iPhone and iPad have helped them communicate with their non-verbal children. Recommended steps include listening to the prerecorded Part 1 webinar:
 http://connect.epilepsyfoundation.org/p32641212/ . This does not require registration.  You must register for the live part 2 segment scheduled for 1 p.m. CST on Feb. 14:
 http://ncpawebinar2.eventbrite.com/  . This webinar is hosted by the National Center for Project Access of the Epilepsy Foundation and is funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Maternal and Child Health Bureau.
5) Article from Disability Scoop - Perks May Soon Be Public Knowledge
Pharmaceutical companies often provide doctors with perks such as speaking engagements or travel. The federal government is seeking to make these transactions known to the public. Read more about this at http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/01/17/doctor-perks-public-knowledge/14789/ .
6) Think College Island
Think College Island is a new resource from Think College to help middle school students start thinking about planning for college. Interactive “islands” are set up for students to learn, prepare and just consider going to college. http://www.thinkcollege.net/think-college-island           

January 25, 2012


January 25, 2012
The University of Southern Mississippi Institute for Disability Studies’(IDS) Mississippi Access to a Coordinated System of Services (MACSS) for Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities and their Families presents the webinar, The Importance of Acting Early: National Projects to Increase Early Identification of Young Children with Autism.
The webinar will be held on Mon., Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Enter the webinar by connecting to http://www.usm.edu/ids/macss/webinars.php.
Presenters from the Association of University Centers on Disabilities, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and Act Early Ambassadors will discuss the importance of early identification, the “Learn the Signs. Act Early” national campaign promoted by the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and how other states are changing the screening practices provided by pediatricians and health care professionals that impact the lives of young children and their families.
There is NO COST for attending the webinar!  The webinar will be archived on the IDS Website!

January 6, 2012


January 6, 2012
Inside this issue:
1) LIFE-MACE Indoor Wheelchair Tennis Clinic - Jan. 21, Biloxi
2) Training on Issues Related to Children with Disabilities – Feb. 29, Jackson
3) Fostering Self-Determination Among Children and Youth with Disabilities – Ideas from Parents to Parents
4) Community Accessibility App
5) TSA Launches Toll Free Number for Air Travelers with Disabilities
6) Atlanta News Segment Shows How Medical Home Changes Lives

1) LIFE-MACE Indoor Wheelchair Tennis Clinic – Jan. 21, Biloxi
Make plans for a fun Saturday of wheelchair tennis out of the cold weather on Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Salvation Army/Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center at 575 Division Street in Biloxi. Wheelchairs and racquets will be provided. This clinic is sponsored by Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE) of Mississippi, Metro Area Community Empowerment (MACE), and the Technology Learning Center (TLC) of the Institute for Disability Studies at The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information, call Cindy Singletary at the LIFE Gulf Coast office at 228.388.2401.
2) Training on Issues Related to Children with Disabilities – Feb. 29, Jackson
“Take Action for Positive Outcomes,” a free one-day training on issues related to children with disabilities, will be held on Wed., Feb. 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Jackson Medical Mall at 350 West Woodrow Wilson in Jackson.  This training is for parents and professionals working with children with disabilities in all settings. Topics will include basic rights, Pact C to Part B, medical home, sibling support, oral health and more. A free lunch is included. The training is sponsored by The Arc of Mississippi, LIFE of Mississippi, the Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MS PTI), the Family to Family Health Information and Education Center, and Circle of Hope. For more information or to register contact, Augusta Smith at LIFE of MS at ausmith_jam1@comcast.net or 1.800.748.9398 or Gwen Brown or Hollia Thompson at The Arc of MS at gwen@arcms.org or hollia@arcms.org or 1.800.717.1180.
3) Fostering Self-Determination Among Children and Youth with Disabilities – Ideas from Parents to Parents
This guide provides strategies for parents to promote self-determining behavior in children and youth with disabilities, based on a survey project in Wisconsin of parents of children with intellectual disabilities or autism. Over 700 participating parents shared their views on the importance of self-determination skills for their children and strategies they use to promote these skills. http://www.waisman.wisc.edu/naturalsupports/pdfs/FosteringSelfDetermination.pdf
4) Community Accessibility App
Make your community more accessible.  The software called “Access Together” is a Foursquare-style app that allows users to check-in from various locations and answer simple questions about accessibility. The crowd-sourced information is then publicly searchable. Currently, Access Together is an early-stage application that’s available as a mobile Web site compatible with iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. The software includes a database of locations across the country available for individuals to rate based on accessibility.  To learn more, visit the Web site at http://www.accesstogether.org/.
5) TSA Launches Toll Free Number for Air Travelers with Disabilities
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new helpline number for air travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. You can call TSA Cares toll free at 1.855.787.2227 before you travel for answers to questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA recommends that passengers call about 72 hours before traveling so that when needed, TSA Cares can coordinate checkpoint support with a TSA Customer Service Manager at the airport.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/disabilityandmedicalneeds/tsa_cares.shtm
6) Atlanta News Segment Shows How Medical Home Changes Lives
This local Atlanta TV news feature looks at how the medical home concept is transforming the life of a patient willing to take control of her health care. It focuses on a program based at Atlanta's Piedmont Hospital that includes a nurse care coordinator and virtual access. http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/health/fox-medical-team-the-medical-home-20111221-es 

December 2, 2011


December 2, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) Scholarships for College Students with ADHD
2) Online Parent Journal
3) Video Illustrates Value of Coordinated Care
4) Students Living with a Genetic Condition: A Guide for Parents
5) OSEP Answers Questions on Secondary Transition
6) Youth Transition Toolkit Available from Talent Knows No Limits
7) Resources
1) Scholarships for College Students with ADHD
We all know how hard students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) work to succeed in school. The Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI) is offering 50 scholarships to Mississippi students with ADHD pursuing higher education at a college, vocational school or technical school. The award also includes one year of ADHD coaching. For more information and an application, go to the Shire 2012 ADHD Scholarship Program: http://www.shireadhdscholarship.com/.
2) Online Parent Journal
The Parent Journal was developed by the University of South Alabama Department of Medical Genetics after barriers to care among children with special health care needs were identified. One barrier determined was a lack of communication and understanding between parents of children with special health care needs and their health care providers, as well as among health care providers themselves. This downloadable journal can help parents keep up-to-date, accurate information on their children’s ongoing medical conditions along with activities of daily living that will be of interest to anyone involved in the care of their children. The journal pages cover everything from emergency information to comfort needs. The Web site contains a table of contents that allows families to print sections of the journal that are useful for them for storing in a binder or file folders:  http://www.southalabama.edu/genetics/bdgc_parentjournal.htm.
3) Video Illustrates Value of Coordinated Care
Indian Stream Health Center of Colebrook, New Hampshire, used an amusing video to explain a patient-centered medical home. Enabling Access as a P.C.M.H. won the 2011 National Association of Community Health Centers video contest. The video focuses on the impact of fragmented care—then coordinated care—in the life of one family. Enabling Access is the first video on this Indian Stream Web page: http://www.indianstream.org/whatisapatientcenteredmedicalhome.html.
4) Students Living with a Genetic Condition: A Guide for Parents
Developed by the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY), this guide provides information that may be helpful when writing a letter to or preparing to meet with a student’s teacher, school nurse and physical education teacher or coach. This may also be a useful resource for bus drivers, babysitters, church leaders or other potential caregivers: http://nichcy.org/students-living-with-a-genetic-condition-a-guide-for-parents.
5) OSEP Answers Questions on Secondary Transition
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) has issued a new Questions & Answers Document on Secondary Transition, which includes updated guidance on identifying postsecondary goals in training, education, employment and where appropriate, independent living: http://idea.ed.gov/explore/view/p/,root,dynamic,QaCorner,10, . The document can be read online or downloaded as a Microsoft Word of PDF file.
6) Youth Transition Toolkit Available from Talent Knows No Limits
The Youth Transition Toolkit: A Guide for Young People with Disabilities Transitioning to Adulthood is now available online from Talent Knows No Limits (TKNL), a public information campaign of the California Health Incentives Improvement Project (CHIIP).  Developed in partnership with young people, the toolkit is designed as a how-to guide on preparing for transition to adulthood and making choices about their own health care, education, employment, finances, independent living and social and recreational activities. Some of the questions the toolkit help youth address include: What is Transition Planning? What is an IEP and how can I lead my IEP Meeting? How can I manage my Social Security and medical benefits? How does college differ from high school? How can I obtain services for my disability during college? What resources are available to help me choose the right career? Is there assistive technology available that can help me secure a job? How can I find accessible housing to live on my own?  What should I do to prepare for a job interview? While some of the services and resources provided are California state-specific, much of the guidance is applicable to youth in any state. The toolkit was developed with funding from a Medicaid Infrastructure Grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To learn more, visit the Youth Transition Toolkit Web site.
7) Resources
Have you visited the IDS Web site? http://www.usm.edu/ids  There is an abundance of useful information for families of children and youth with disabilities. The IDS home page contains links to the IDS calendar of events and the disability news blog. The calendar provides information about trainings, conferences, Webinars and events in Mississippi and across the nation. The blog is updated often with breaking news and important information for people with disabilities and their families. Be sure to take time to explore IDS’ many program pages, particularly the Family to Family Health Education and Information Center (F2F) and Mississippi Integrated Community Systems (MICS) pages which contain health care resource information for families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals who serve them. F2F:  http://www.usm.edu/ids/f2fc  MICS: http://www.usm.edu/ids/mics .  

November 7, 2011


November 7, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) IDS Priority Areas 2011 Short Survey
2) F2F Statewide Advisory Committee Meeting – Jackson, Nov. 9
3) November Transition Awareness Events
4) Family Matters in Every Way! A Free Training for Parents and Professionals – Long Beach, Dec. 3

1) IDS Priority Areas 2011 Short Survey
The Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) is developing a five-year plan and needs your opinions. Please help IDS learn which areas of emphasis relating to disabilities are important to you. This will help determine vital program focus areas. Take five minutes to complete the short survey at www.usm.edu/ids. Click on the button: "What is important to you?"
2) F2F Statewide Advisory Committee Meeting – Jackson, Nov. 9
The Family to Family Health Information and Education Center (F2F) is a family-focused, family-managed resource center that encourages families of Mississippi’s children with special health care needs to be partners in the decisions made concerning the health of their children. The F2F Statewide Advisory Committee, made up of family members and health care providers, was established to provide direction for the development of project activities, training goals, and policies and procedures. The F2F Statewide Advisory Committee will meet Wed., Nov. 9, at 10 a.m. in the Resource Library at the Jackson Medical Mall. For more information about the F2F Statewide Advisory Committee, call Jackie Washington, F2F Parent Coordinator, at 1-888-313-1718.
3) November Transition Awareness Events
The transition to adult health care is an important time for youth with special health care needs.  Through good communication between youth and their families and their pediatricians, this transition can be a smooth one.  To learn about health care transition resources, go to http://www.medicalhomeinfo.org/for_families/  or contact Dr. Jerry R. Alliston, Transition Specialist for the MICS program at 1.601.266.5979 or jerry.alliston@usm.edu. 
4) Family Matters in Every Way! A Free Training for Parents and Professionals – Long Beach, Dec. 3
A free, one-day training, Family Matters in Every Way!, will be held Dec. 3, at the Technology Learning Center on the Gulf Park campus of The University of Southern Mississippi at 730 East Beach Boulevard in Long Beach. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by the Family to Family Health Information and Resource Center (F2F), the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) and the Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI), the training will address basic rights, disaster preparedness, healthy relationships and transition. For more information or to register for the training, contact Cookie Smith, LMSW, F2F Project Manager, at terri.smith@usm.edu or toll free at 1-888-671-0051.

October 3, 2011


October 3, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) IDS Priority Areas 2011 Short Survey
2) CDC Survey: Flu Prevention and Treatment for Families of CYSHCN
3) STEP UP National Mentoring Day Celebration – Oct. 19, Hattiesburg
4) October Developmental Screening Awareness Events
5) New Resource Informs Parents and Public about Newborn Screening
1) IDS Priority Areas 2011 Short Survey
The Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) is developing a five-year plan and needs your opinions. Please help IDS learn which areas of emphasis relating to disabilities are important to you. This will help determine vital program focus areas. Take five minutes to complete the short survey at www.usm.edu/ids. Click on the button: "What is important to you?"
2) CDC Survey: Flu Prevention and Treatment for Families of CYSHCN
Family Voices is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in a campaign to learn from families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) about their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs related to influenza prevention and treatment. Please take time to complete a brief survey (about 15 minutes). To access the survey in English, please visit http://www.orau.gov/caregiver-flu-survey/ . To access the survey in Spanish, please visit http://www.orau.gov/caregiver-flu-survey/Spanish-Version/ .
3) National Mentoring Day Celebration – Oct. 19, Hattiesburg
STEP UP, the Youth and Young Adult Subcommittee of the Community Partnership Advisory Council for the Institute for Disability Studies, is sponsoring a National Disability Mentoring Day Celebration on Wed., Oct. 19, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Optimist Park Community Center at 345 Hegwood Road in Hattiesburg. Nicole Marquez will be the guest motivational speaker. Nicole is a Southern Miss graduate who was dancing professionally in New York when she fell and was never expected to walk or dance again. Replies are required. For more information or to RSVP, contact Cookie Smith, LMSW at terri.smith@usm.edu or 601.266.5163.
4) October Developmental Screening Awareness Events
Early and continuous childhood screenings are vital in the identification of infants and young children with developmental disorders in the Medical Home.  Early identification of developmental concerns, along with appropriate referrals, strives to improve developmental outcomes. To learn more about early and continuous childhood screenings in October, visit www.usm.edu/ids/mics .
5)New Resource Informs Parents and Public about Newborn Screening
The Genetic Alliance recently launched BabysFirstTest.org to increase the awareness and knowledge of newborn screening and better inform the decision-making process of newborn screening stakeholders, including new parents and healthcare providers across the country. Newborn screening has been available for nearly four decades, but many parents are unaware of the specific conditions for which babies receive screening in their state, how screening takes place and who to contact for more information. Baby’s First Test will serve as a comprehensive guide for many aspects of newborn screening.  For more information, visit http://www.babysfirsttest.org/.

September 2, 2011


September 2, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) Making Choices: Exploring Campus Recreational and Social Opportunities
2) September Medical Home Awareness Events
3) MSPTI Gulf Coast Regional Leadership Academy and Conference – Sept. 9-10
4) A Celebration of Life – Sept. 17, Gulfport
5) MSCCD “Imagine” Conference – Oct. 13-14, Jackson
6) It’s Done iPhone App Helps Brain Injury Survivors

1) Making Choices: Exploring Campus Recreational and Social Opportunities
More students on the autism spectrum are pursuing postsecondary options, including attending colleges, community colleges, and universities.  While participation in academics is critical, social and recreational opportunities are equally important. For most of us, some of our best college memories are of our friends, shared experiences, and events we participated in.   This article written by staff from the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at Indiana University and the Autism Research Institute can help guide individuals through various steps to finding new activities. These steps start with understanding a person’s current recreation profile, then looking at options and identifying individual interests, and finally, assessing and ultimately taking part in new opportunities. To see this article, visit
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/IRCA/Recreation2011.pdf
2) September Medical Home Awareness Events
Medical homes are a health care resource for Mississippi families! It is the one place where you can take your child for all their health care needs. This includes checkups/well visits, sick visits, accidents, special health needs and immunizations (shots). Does your child, youth or young adult with a special healthcare needs have a medical home?   To learn more about medical home awareness events in September, visit www.usm.edu/ids/mics.
3) MSPTI Gulf Coast Regional Leadership Academy and Conference – Sept. 9-10
The Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI) will hold its Gulf Coast Regional Parent Conference and Parent Leadership Academy, Empowering Parents... Improving Outcomes, for parents and families of children with disabilities on Sept. 9-10. Separate application and registration is required. The Leadership Academy will be held Fri., Sept. 9, at the Gulf Hills Hotel in Ocean Springs. The Academy is open to parents and family members who have or have had children with disabilities in public schools. Participants will be selected on the basis of commitment and leadership potential. The Conference will be held Sat., Sept. 10, at the Gulf Coast Convention Center in Biloxi.  The registration fee is $25; parent stipends are available. For more information or to register for both activities, visit http://www.mspti.org/news.asp?id=20 or call 1.800.721.7255.
4)A Celebration of Life – Sept. 17, Gulfport
Join multiple state and local organizations for a celebration of a great community for all individuals, including people with disabilities, at a Celebration of Life on Sat., Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Handsboro Community Center at 1890 Switzer Road in Gulfport. There will be food, door prizes, face painting, a bouncehouse, wheelchair softball and more. Sponsors include LIFE of Mississippi, the Mississippi Society for Disabilities, Metro Area Community Empowerment, WBOB, the City of Gulfport, and the Institute for Disability Studies and the Technology Learning Center at The University of Southern Mississippi. For more information call 228.388.2401.
5) MSCCD “Imagine” Conference – Oct. 13-14, Jackson
The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities (MSCCD) and the Mississippi Parent and Information Center (MSPTI) will hold their 2011 Imagine Conference at the Hilton Hotel at 1001 County Line Road in Jackson on Oct. 13-14. The theme, Inclusion Through the Lifespan, reflects the reality that living with a disability presents an evolving set of personal, family, societal and therapeutic issues as individuals pass from infancy to childhood through adolescence and adulthood to senior years. Fees are $25 for advocates, $50 for families and $100 for professionals. For more information or to register call 1.800.721.7255 or visit http://www.msccd.org .
6) It’s Done iPhone App Assists with Memory Problems
A new iPhone App called It’s Done! is helping individuals with memory problems including brain injuries  remember whether they turned off the stove, locked the door, or took their medication. For people dealing with short term memory problems, the app instantly confirms the completion of everyday routine tasks and can notify loved ones and caregivers that a task has been done. For brain injury survivors who use an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, the It’s Done! app is helping improve their quality of life. Available at the iTunes AppStore for $2.99, It’s Done! has received strong reviews from users. For other helpful software tools, visit IDS’ helpful software pages at http://www.usm.edu/ids/triad/software2/accessibility.html .

August 1, 2011


August 1, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) Social Security Administration Child Disability Starter Kit
2) MSPTI Webinar Series Scheduled for August
3) Hattiesburg Inclusive Tennis Clinic – Aug. 13
4) Empowering Parents... Improving Outcomes - MSPTI Leadership Academy and Conference – Aug. 19-20
5) EHDI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention): Partnering for Progress Conferences - Oct. 26-28

1) Social Security Administration Child Disability Starter Kit
The Child Disability Starter Kit from the Social Security Administration answers questions about applying for SSI disability benefits on behalf of a child. The kit includes a worksheet to help you track the information necessary for the application as it is gathered:  http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/child.htm .
2) MSPTI Webinar Series Scheduled for August
Medical home, postsecondary education and transition from youth to adulthood are the topics of three Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI) Webinars scheduled for August. Cookie Smith, LMSW, Project Manager for the Family 2 Family Health Information and Education Center (F2F), a project of the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS), will present Medical Home: What Families Should Know on Mon., Aug. 1, from 7-8 p.m. and again on Tues., Aug. 2, from 12 to 1 p.m.  Dr. Mark Yeager, Disability Specialist at IDS, will discuss the Higher Education 4 All project focusing on college experiences and opportunities that benefit all individuals regardless of their disability on Mon., Aug. 8, from 7-8 p.m. and again on Tues., Aug. 9, from 12-1 p.m. Dr. Jerry Alliston, Coordinator of Community Inclusion and Volunteer Service, will lead the Webinar, Transition to Being a Healthy Adult, addressing the many questions that must be addressed during the transition of a youth with disabilities to adulthood. This Webinar will be held on Mon., Aug.  15, from 7-8 p.m. To register for the free Webinars, visit the MSPTI calendar at http://www.mspti.org/education.asp?month=8&year=2011 .
3) Hattiesburg Inclusive Tennis Clinic - Aug. 13
Plan now to bring a racquet and have some fun at the Inclusive Tennis Clinic on Sat., Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Tatum Park Tennis Courts at 101 Parkway Drive in Hattiesburg. Athletes with disabilities ages 10 to adult, including those who use a wheelchair and those who do not, can expect a day of play and a light lunch. Registration is required so enough coaches will be available and enough lunches can be provided. To participate, call Cindy Singletary at LIFE at 228.388.2401 or e-mail her at csingletary.life@gmail.com  or call Cookie Smith at IDS at 601.266.4093 or e-mail her at terri.smith@usm.edu. This event is sponsored by LIFE of Mississippi, the Special Family Kids Network at IDS, the City of Hattiesburg Department of Parks and Recreation, Metro Area Community Empowerment and the Mississippi Society for Disabilities.
4) Empowering Parents... Improving Outcomes - MSPTI Leadership Academy and Conference, Aug. 19-20
MSPTI will hold its Northeast Regional Parent Conference and Parent Leadership Academy for parents and families of children with disabilities on Aug. 19-20 in Tupelo. Separate application and registration is required. The Leadership Academy will be held Fri. and Sat., Aug. 19-20, at the Hancock Leadership Center at 1920 Briar Ridge Road. The Academy is open to parents and family members who have or have had children with disabilities in public schools. Participants will be selected on the basis of commitment and leadership potential. The Conference will be held Sat., Aug. 20, at The Summit Center at 852 North Gloster Street.  The registration fee is $25; parent stipends are available. For more information or to register for both activities, visit www.mspti.org or call 1.800.721.7255.
5) EHDI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention): Partnering for Progress Conferences - Oct. 26-28
Join experts from several specialties to discuss a variety of subjects pertaining to hearing and hearing loss in children at the Fifth Biennial Pediatric and Audiology Symposium, the Sixth Annual Investing in Family Support Conference and the Fourth Southeastern Regional EHDI Conference. Topics include medical considerations audiological assessment, advances in hearing technologies, family support, state and federal policies, EHDI program improvement, disabilities that occur with hearing loss, social media, advocacy, and more! Attendees from all three conferences will meet in five plenary sessions; breakouts will allow conference participants to choose specific topics of interest. All three meetings will take place in one venue offering a series of concurrent tracks and general sessions that focus on a broad range of EHDI topics. The conferences will begin on the evening of Wed., Oct. 26, and conclude on the afternoon of Fri., Oct. 28, at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Raleigh, NC. http://conference.usu.edu/Partnering

July 6, 2011


July 6, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) The Arc of Mississippi Conference – Celebrating 50 Years of Service – July 21-22
2) MSPTI Webinar Series Scheduled for August
3) Hattiesburg Inclusive Tennis Clinic – Aug. 13
4) Empowering Parents… Improving Outcomes - MSPTI Leadership Academy and Conference, Aug. 19-20
1) The Arc of Mississippi Conference – Celebrating 50 Years of Service – July 21-22

Join The Arc of Mississippi in celebrating 50 years of service at a conference for parents, self-advocates, families and service providers. Scheduled for Thurs. and Fri., July 21-22, at the Regency Hotel in Jackson, the conference is designed to focus on and enhance services for all people with disabilities in Mississippi. James F. Gardener, Ph.D., of the Council on Quality and Leadership, will be the keynote speaker. An awards ceremony and fun-filled gala with music and dancing will be held on Thurs. evening, July 21. For more information on registration fees, visit www.arcms.org or call The Arc of Mississippi at 601.969.2141.

2) MSPTI Webinar Series Scheduled for August
Medical home, postsecondary education and transition from youth to adulthood are the topics of three Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center (MSPTI) Webinars scheduled for August. Cookie Smith, LMSW, Project Manager for the Family 2 Family Health Information and Education Center (F2F), a project of the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS), will present Medical Home: What Families Should Know on Mon., Aug. 1, from 7-8 p.m. and again on Tues., Aug. 2, from 12 to 1 p.m. Dr. Mark Yeager, Disability Specialist at IDS, will discuss the Higher Education 4 All project focusing on college experiences and opportunities that benefit all individuals regardless of their disability. This session will be held on Mon., Aug. 8, from 7-8 p.m. and again on Tues., Aug. 9, from 12-1 p.m. Dr. Jerry Alliston, Coordinator of Community Inclusion and Volunteer Service, will lead the Webinar, Transition To Being a Healthy Adult, addressing the many questions that must be addressed during the transition of a youth with disabilities to adulthood. This Webinar will be held on Mon., Aug.  15, from 7-8 p.m. To register for the free Webinars, visit the MSPTI calendar at http://www.mspti.org/education.asp?month=8&year=2011 .

3) Hattiesburg Inclusive Tennis Clinic - Aug. 13
Plan now to bring a racquet and have some fun at the Inclusive Tennis Clinic on Sat., Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Tatum Park Tennis Courts at 101 Parkway Drive in Hattiesburg. Athletes with disabilities ages 10 to adult, including those who use a wheelchair and those who do not, can expect a day of play and a light lunch. Registration is required so enough coaches will be available and enough lunches can be provided. To participate, call Cindy Singletary at LIFE at 228.388.2401 or e-mail her at csingletary.life@gmail.com  or call Cookie Smith at IDS at 601.266.4093 or e-mail her at terri.smith@usm.edu. This event is sponsored by LIFE of Mississippi, the Special Family Kids Network at IDS, the City of Hattiesburg Department of Parks and Recreation, Metro Area Community Empowerment and the Mississippi Society for Disabilities.

4) Empowering Parents... Improving Outcomes - MSPTI Leadership Academy and Conference, Aug. 19-20
MSPTI will hold its Northeast Regional Parent Conference and Parent Leadership Academy for parents and families of children with disabilities on Aug. 19-20 in Tupelo. Separate application and registration is required. The Leadership Academy will be held Fri. and Sat., Aug. 19-20, at the Hancock Leadership Center at 1920 Briar Ridge Road. The Academy is open to parents and family members who have or have had children with disabilities in public schools. Participants will be selected on the basis of commitment and leadership potential. The Conference will be held Sat., Aug. 20, at The Summit Center at 852 North Gloster Street.  The registration fee is $25; parent stipends are available. For more information or to register for both activities, visit www.mspti.org or call 1.800.721.7255.

June 1, 2011


June 1, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) Available Family Care Navigator - State-by-State Help for Family Caregivers
2) Family Advocacy and Support Training Project
3) New to Disability Resource
4) Submit Your Work to the 2011 NYLN Disability Culture Zine - Deadline June 8

1) Available Family Care Navigator - State-by-State Help for Family Caregivers

If you are providing care to an aging family member or friend who may have a disability, the Family Care Navigator Web site can help you find government, nonprofit and private programs in your state that can assist you. Simply select your state on the map or scroll through the list of states located at the bottom of the page. This Web site also includes information on government health and disability programs, legal resources, disease-specific organizations and more. For more information, visit http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/fcn_content_node.jsp?nodeid=2093

2) Family Advocacy and Support Training Project
PACER’s National FAST (Family Advocacy and Support Training) Project provides family support leadership training to families of children with disabilities in 50 states and territories.  Materials in English and Spanish: Getting and Keeping the First Job, The Journey to Adulthood, Skills for Effective Parent Advocacy, Using the Power of a Personal Story. For more information, visit http://www.fastfamilysupport.org/fasttraining/index.asp 

3) New to Disability Resource
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) New to Disability page has information and resources for families and educators just entering the world of disability. For more information, visit
http://nichcy.org/families-community/new-to-disability

4) Submit Your Work to the 2011 National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN) Disability Culture Zine - Deadline June 8

Are you a writer or an artist? Do you want to express your feelings about disability culture, pride, identity, ableism, and more? Do you want to have your work seen by hundreds of people? If you answered yes to these questions, consider making a submission to the FIRST EVER NYLN Zine Publication! The NYLN disability culture zine is a 100% youth-made printable online publication. Any length piece of writing (poems! interviews! essays! blog posts!) or type of printable artwork (paintings! illustrations! digital art!) by anyone with a disability between the ages of 14 - 28 years old is welcome. Writing must be at 8th grade level or as close to it as possible. To find out more about how to make your writing accessible or to submit work, get ideas, or have questions answered, contact the NYLN Zine co-chairs: Sara Moussavian (Written Work), saramoussavian2011@gmail.com or Emily Holmes (Media/Art Work) Cinderella_em1@juno.com.  Submissions are due by June 8.

May 2, 2011


May 2, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) Disability Partners Community Forums—May 3, 5, 11
2) OPERATION P.R.O.P. (People Reaching Outrageous Potential)—May 7
3) Connect 1 Summit Scheduled for May 12-13
4) Empowering Communities for a Healthy Mississippi Conference—May 25-27
5) Training Opportunities Available
6) Family Voices Resources and Publications
1) Disability Partners Community Forums—May 3, 5, 11
People with disabilities and their families are invited to share their needs, thoughts and opinions on any issues at three community forums scheduled for May. The forums will be held in Tupelo, May 3, at 3:30 p.m. at the Lee-Itawamba County Library at 219 North Madison Street; Vicksburg, May 5, at 4 p.m. at the Warren County-Vicksburg Public Library at 700 Veto Street; and Pascagoula, May 11, at 4 p.m. at the Pascagoula Senior Citizen Center at 1912 Live Oak Avenue. The forums are sponsored by Disability Rights Mississippi, the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities, and the Institute for Disability Studies. Sign language interpreters will be present at each event. For more information, transportation assistance or an accommodation request, call 1.800.772.4057.
2) OPERATION P.R.O.P. (People Reaching Outrageous Potential)—May 7
OPERATION P.R.O.P. (People Reaching Outrageous Potential) will be a day of awareness and opportunities for individuals with disabilities and others to be exposed to the wonders and possibilities of flying, sky diving, gliding, and hot air ballooning on Saturday, May 7, beginning at 10 a.m. at the John Bell Williams Airport in Raymond. Admission is free for this special day sponsored by the Arc of Mississippi. For more information, call the Arc at 1.800.717.1180 or visit www.operationprop.com.
3) Connect 1 Summit Scheduled for May 12-13
The fourth annual Connect 1 Disability Disaster Preparedness Summit will be held on May 12-13, at the Jackson Convention Complex in Jackson. Hosted by the Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service, the summit raises awareness of the needs of the disability community during emergencies or disasters and helps prepare emergency responders and other relief workers to accommodate those needs. Registration is free, but space is limited. Registration forms and more information about the offered workshops are available at www.mcvs.org. For additional information on the summit, call MCVS Program Inclusion Specialist Sadelle Sweet at 601.432.6377.
4) Empowering Communities for a Healthy Mississippi Conference—May 25-27
“Public Health in the 21st Century: Optimism in the Midst of Challenges,” is the theme of the fifth Empowering Communities for a Healthy Mississippi Conference scheduled for May 25-27 at the Hilton Hotel in Jackson. The conference is open to the public and includes workshops focused on issues faced by healthcare professionals, school personnel and community and faith-based organizations whose goal is to address the health issues of Mississippians as a whole. The purpose of the conference is to empower attendees with knowledge, resources and tools.  To register online or for information, visit this Web site http://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/23,10932,221.html or call Paige Haven at 601-933-9199.
5) Training Opportunities Available
Training opportunities are listed on the Institute for Disability Studies Calendar of Events.  Several youth, young adult and parent training opportunities are listed for May and throughout the summer. Training is available at the local, state, regional and national level as well as through Webinar and teleconference formats.  For information about trainings, please visit http://www.usm.edu/ids/calevents/index.php.
6) Family Voices Resources and Publications
Family Voices aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs or disabilities. Through their national network, Family Voices provides families with the tools to make informed decision, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serves as a trusted resource on health care. The Family Voices Web site offers a wealth of resources and publications to families of children and youth with special health care needs. Go to www.familyvoices.org to discover some of the tools, publications and information available to families at no cost.

April 7, 2011


April 7, 2011
Inside this issue:
1) New Family Health Notes Listserv
2) Free Family Health History Tool
3) Health Transition Resources
4) Advisory Council Members Needed
1) New Family Health Notes Listserv
The final Birth-to-Five and Family-to-Family Health Information and Education Center Memo listserv was published on November 30, 2010. The Birth-to-Five Memo listserv was established in 2006 as an extension of the original Mississippi Infant Toddler Technical Support (MITTS) Memo to serve families and professionals in early intervention. The listserv was expanded in 2008 to include health information for children’s health care providers and families served by IDS’ Family to Family (F2F) project. The new Family Health Notes listserv will continue to serve families and health and education professionals interested in health-related topics and information. The six health care areas of emphasis for Family Health Notes are measures for the progress of family-centered health care.
  • Families partner in decision making at all levels and are satisfied with the services they receive.
  • Children receive coordinated, ongoing, comprehensive care within a medical home.
  • Children are screened early and continuously for special health care needs.
  • Community-based services for children are organized so families can use them easily.
  • Families have adequate private or public insurance to pay for services they need.
  • Youth receive the services necessary to make transitions to all aspects of adult life, including adult health care, work and independence.
For more information, please contact Alma Ellis at Alma.Ellis@usm.edu or Dr. Jerry Alliston at Jerry.Aliston@usm.edu. 
2) Free Family Health History Tool
The Genetic Alliance has developed the Does It Run In The Family? tool to help you create personalized booklets to start conversations about health in your family and community.  The tool is customizable so you can add your own information such as stories, quotes and local resources.  You can make it a health history booklet about you!  To learn more and make your booklet, visit http://www.familyhealthhistory.org/.
3) Health Transition Resources
Kids As Self Advocates (KASA) is a national, grassroots project created by youth with disabilities for youth. Over 60 tipsheets and guides are available and are written for youth, by youth! These are real life stories told by youth and young adults with disabilities who have agreed to share their experiences and helpful information with other youth.  Resources include information on various transition topics including several health transition resources such as Surviving a Doctor’s Visit, Communicating With Your Doctor and others.  To view these and other resources, please visit http://fvkasa.org/resources/index.php.
4) Advisory Council Members Needed
Start Today Empowering Peers through Uniting and Participating (STEP UP) Advisory Council . . . young leaders of tomorrow with and without disabilities . . .  has openings for members.  The STEP UP Council is the youth and young adult advisory council for the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS). The council consists of youth and young adults with and without disabilities and provides guidance to all activities and training that target youth and young adults.  The next council meeting is being scheduled for late April and will be held at the IDS Library, on the 4th floor of Bond Hall at The University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg campus.  For more information or to request a membership application, please contact Terri “Cookie” Smith at 1.601.266.4093 or Terri.Smith@usm.edu.
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