Friday, March 28, 2025 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

Medicaid provides funding for services that help millions of people with disabilities and their families across the country. Medicaid funds both acute health care and long-term care. It is a vital lifeline that helps people obtain necessary healthcare and long-term supports that make it possible for people to receive the personal care and community supports they need to be healthy, safe, and active. In this session, participants will learn about what Medicaid is, how it works, and how it impacts the lives of people with disabilities. Legislative proposals intended to cut Medicaid will also be introduced along with strategies for educating policymakers about how Medicaid impacts people with disabilities and families. 

Kim Musheno 
Senior Director of Medicaid Policy
The Arc of the United States
Washington, DC

Friday, April 4, 2025 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have worse health compared to their typically developing peers. This health difference is not attributed to having a disability but, rather, primarily results from social and environmental factors. In this presentation, we will identify these social determinants of health and related health inequities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will then discuss opportunities and specific strategies to promote health and wellbeing. Finally, we will discuss the challenges of finding healthcare professionals who really listen to and respect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Disability inclusive healthcare training will be proposed as essential to creating a disability competent healthcare workforce.

Susan Havercamp, PhD
Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Director of Health Promotion and Healthcare Parity
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center
Columbus, OH

Friday, April 11, 2025 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

Autism has traditionally been defined as a set of deficits, but recent research highlights the importance of exploring autistic strengths and promoting autistic flourishing. Many systems are set up based on the idea that Autistic people have problems to solve or symptoms to treat so they can be more like neurotypical people. But what if we shifted focus to recognizing strengths and helping people thrive on their own terms? In this session, we will explore practical strategies to identify Autistic strengths and support people in living meaningful, fulfilling lives. By discussing recent research and listening to Autistic voices, we will explore how to use strengths-based approaches within current systems, as well as offering hope for broader change on a systemic level.

Sara Woods, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
University of Washington Autism Center
Discover Psychology Services
Lacey, WA

Friday, April 25, 2025 l 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM l Webinar

The transition from school to employment is a critical milestone for youth with disabilities, requiring targeted support to ensure success. This presentation will explore key predictors of positive employment outcomes, including self-determination, work experience, and family involvement. Additionally, evidence-based practices such as career planning, job coaching, and employer partnerships will be highlighted. By examining research-driven strategies and real-world applications, this session aims to equip attendees with tools to support successful post-school employment for youth with disabilities.

Kelli Crane, PhD
Assistant Research Professor and Co-Director
Center for Transition and Career Innovation
University of Maryland
College Park, MD