Schedule & Educational Sessions | INARF's 2016 Annual Conference

INARF’s 2017 Pre-Conference | March 14

 INARF's 2017 Annual Conference | March 15 - 16

Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel, 8787 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis, Indiana

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Where industry professionals connect with experts, peers, resources and information to
enhance quality services for individuals with disabilities.

INARF is pleased to announce the return of the Pre-Conference to the 2017 Annual Conference activities. We’ve gone “ALL IN” in designing two outstanding and complimentary opportunities that are sure to beat all others. The Pre-Conference was designed to attract industry CEOs, senior managers, front-line supervisors and others in leadership positions for a day long Leadership Symposium, featuring sessions designed to improve your skills as a leader within your organization, followed by a Reception and Dinner Program.

The 2017 Annual Conference once again offers a full array of educational sessions and networking opportunities designed with industry professionals serving individuals with intellectual and development disabilities in mind. The Conference game rules have been revamped to shorten the game time from a 2½ day event, to an action packed 2 day event including 40 Educational Sessions to enhance your professional development, over 40 Exhibitors to meet and collect information on valuable products and services, and numerous Social Events designed to provide opportunities to network with other industry professionals.

Don’t be a gambler, consider joining your peers for either or both winning programs!

The Legend below will guide your colorful selections based on the INARF Professional Interest Sections and including the dedicated dual-diagnosis track offered by our conference partner - Meridian Health Services (MHS).

CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs)

The INARF 2017 Annual Conference offers conference attendees the opportunity to earn up to 8.75 hours in Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and Case Managers are eligible to earn up to 8.75 hours in Advocare Case Management External Training Credits for their participation in approved sessions. The Educational Session(s) participation converts as follows, one CEU/Credit is earned for every hour of participation. To receive CEUs, attendees must attend the entire session and submit a completed attendance record at the conclusion of the event.

INARF is approved by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency to offer CEUs for:

Behavioral Health Board / License No. 98000140A
Health Facility Admin Board / License No. 98000254A

INARF is approved by Advocare to offer External Training Credits for:

Case Managers

Note: Included with INARF’s Certificate of Attendance, INARF will provide a copy of the completed attendance record. Case Managers are then required to upload this information to the Advocare external training system to receive the actual credit.

Session approved for Advocare
External Training Credit.

LEGEND:
Recommended audience by INARF Professional Interest Section, dual-diagnosis sessions offered by Meridian Health Services (MHS) or sessions with general content applicable to all audiences.

Tuesday: March 14, 2017

9 AM, Registration & Continental Breakfast

10 AM - 3 PM, Pre-Conference Leadership Symposium

Session I - Crisis Communication: The Good, the Bad and the How To
Dr. Greg LaForme, FAAIDD, The Impact Group
Tom Speaks, The Impact Group

Recommended Audience:

This presentation will discuss crisis communications, provide practical prevention tactics, discuss dealing with an actual crisis , and how to proactively prepare for a crisis event. The presenters will also discuss how to engage with affected parties in a crisis aftermath to promote healing and positive public relations.

Learning Objectives:

Identify three present crisis vulnerabilities which could impact an agency.
Identify at least one proactive plan to mitigate identified vulnerabilities.
Identify at least two key elements of a Crisis Communications Plan.
Learn and demonstrate three media interaction techniques.

Dr. Greg LaForme has over 40 years’ experience in the field of developmental disabilities. As a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and Fellow in the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, he has served as a Private Service Provider, a Public Service Administrator in the field and Senior Instructor at the University of Akron.

Tom Speaks is Principal and Co-founder of The Impact Group. He is recognized as a leader in municipal communications. He has developed and implemented communication strategies to help communities reach their goals. Speaks background in political science and qualitative and quantitative research techniques provides clients with an in-depth understanding of the audiences they are trying to motivate.

SESSION II - Management Secrets – Shhhhh, Don’t Tell Anyone!
Dr. Greg LaForme, FAAIDD, The Impact Group
Tom Speaks, The Impact Group

Recommended Audience:

This humorous presentation will focus on the major challenge for many Agencies serving Individuals with Developmental Disabilities, creating a talented and deep pool of Managers/Supervisors. Often it is taken for granted that those in these positions have had or have remembered basic tenets of Management!

Learning Objectives:

The Super Secret, Never Ever Shared “19 Management Secrets”
The Secret of Successful Management/Supervision
The Incredible Use of “A” this cannot be shared in public
You can be a “Pal” but not a _______ (To Be Shared During Presentation!)

5 PM, Reception & Dinner Program

Join us for an evening of networking, a short round of INARF Board of Directors business, and a Dinner Program designed to stimulate further discussions on the future of the I/DD world. The “cards” are changing rapidly for people with disabilities. If you were a “betting man,” what would you say the future holds for people with disabilities between the HCBS Settings Rule, Department of Justice weighing in on 14C Programs and sheltered work, a new federal administration that includes a CMS Director from Indiana who authored HIP and HIP 2.0? Knowing we can’t just “fold” and count ourselves out, we have to respond proactively! Based on your nation-wide travel, what innovative things are other states “going all in on” to prepare for the new world we will be living in in just a few short years? What “gambles” should we be taking to prepare our members and their clients for the future?

Presented by: Dr. David Mank,Ph.D. David Michael Mank, Ph.D., is Professor Emeritus at Indiana University. He is formerly the Director of the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community at Indiana University, Indiana’s University Center for Excellence on Disabilities.

Wednesday: March 15, 2017

8 AM, Registration & Continental Breakfast

9 AM - 10 AM, Welcome & Keynote Presentation

Dr. Don Bartlette will serve up “Macaroni at Midnight” as his keynote presentation on Wednesday, March 15 at 10 AM. “Macaroni at Midnight” is an autobiographical profile of Dr. Bartlette’s social, psychological, and educational experiences as a Chippewa Indian child growing up with emotional, speech, and physical disabilities in an environment of poverty, family and social violence, juvenile delinquency, homelessness, child abuse, racism and alcoholism. His keynote will focus on how one person made a difference and helped him to overcome childhood disadvantages – could you be that one person to make a difference in the lives of the individual you serve?

10:30 AM - 11:45 AM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 01 What's Accountability Got to Do With It?
Monica Armstrong, Provider Resource Group
Melissa Skaggs, Provider Resource Group

Recommended Audience:

Accountability is very misunderstood in and out of the workplace. This session covers what accountability in the workplace means, who is responsible for it, how to get staff to understand it and how to create a culture of accountability. The presenters will offer real life examples and takeaways that can be easily implemented when attendees leave the session.

Learning Objectives:

Gain an understanding of what accountability really means
How leadership leads the way in an accountability culture
Ways to bring accountability to the organization

Monica Armstrong is currently working as an independent consultant as well as working for Provider Resources Group. She has over 30 years' experience in case management, residential and adult day support, working in both private and public sectors, as well as non-profit agencies. Armstrong helped create and open an adult fitness program and community recreation program to meet the needs in the community.

Melissa Skaggs is the Vice President of Provider Resources Group, which provides consulting, training and business services to Human Service Providers. A veteran trainer, she has provided focused, one-on-one training and has presented to groups of more than 100 on leadership techniques and a variety of business develop topics. She is very passionate about training and mentoring others and has a down to earth approach to training.

ID# 02 Ten Ways to Improve Your Communications and Leverage Digital Media
Tom Hirons, Hirons and Company

Recommended Audience:

Participants will learn how to use concise message design to engage their stakeholders and the public through digital and social media. Participants will also learn how to use message design to communicate more effectively with employees, board members, self-advocates families, stakeholders and the public.

Learning Objectives:

Learn to empower and enable your board and stakeholders to more effectively tell your story.
Learn to use digital and social media to truly engage stakeholders and the public

Tom Hirons has planned and managed communications for clients ranging from Indiana startups to international and Fortune 500 companies. Through his work on public- and private-sector accounts, Tom has become a pioneer in integrating advertising and public relations and has led Hirons to a leadership position in digital communications. Tom holds valued and trusted positions in business and academia, currently serving as chairman of the board of directors for the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and on the board of the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee.

ID# 03 Part I: Building Lasting Relationships with Community Members
Angela Amado, Ph.D., FAAIDD, Human Services Research & Development Center

Recommended Audience:

While most people who receive support experience community "activities" and physical inclusion, real friendships, relationships, and social inclusion take something different. This session will present concrete strategies for connecting individuals who receive supports with other community members, and what it takes to build lasting relationships. Participants will leave with concrete ideas to try with individuals they support.

Learning Objectives:

Learn 7 concrete strategies for connecting individuals with disabilities and community members
Learn brain-storming ideas to try with specific individuals who receive support.
Learn key factors for relationships that last

Angela Amado is a Research Associate at the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration. She has worked in the field of disability for over 40 years in a variety of capacities, including national research, direct support, international consulting, and government policy. She is also the Executive Director of the Human Services Research and Development Center. For the last twenty-five years she has worked on strategies to bring individuals with disabilities together with ordinary community members in friendships and relationships to promote fully inclusive communities.

ID# 04 Vocational Rehabilitation Updates
Theresa Koleszar, Family and Social Services Administration / Vocational Rehab
Jonathan Kraeszig, M.R.C., C.R.C., Family and Social Services Administration / Vocational Rehab

Recommended Audience:

This session will provide an overview of new initiatives and requirements under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), including the provision of Pre-employment transition services, as well as updates on implementation strategies for these new requirements. The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services leadership will also share updates on Vocational Rehabilitation services.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will receive a high level overview and status updates on key VR initiatives
An overview of new requirements and changes including increased emphasis on competitive integrated employment and pre-employment transition services

Theresa Koleszar has worked for the Indiana Bureau of Rehabilitation (BRS) services for almost 13 years. She began her career with BRS as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor in the Indianapolis area, and has served as the Director of BRS since March 2016. Theresa was instrumental in implementing several key projects and initiatives in Indiana, including Project SEARCH, VR Employment Services revisions and subsequent modifications, and pre-employment transition services. Theresa has a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation from the University of Illinois and has been a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) since 2002.

Jonathan Kraeszig has a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. He is currently the Director of Youth Services for Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation. Prior to that, he was a Vocational Rehabilitation Supervisor for over 6 years. He has also worked with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction as a Provider and Community Liaison as well as the Employment Services Supervisor with VR, where he assisted with the Medicaid Infrastructure Grant and oversaw the TBI grant. He worked for 5 years as a VR counselor and close to 10 years as an Employment Consultant for a local provider.

ID# 05 Cultural Diversity: Embracing the Difference
Ron S. Lewis, Prairie Quest Consulting (PQC)

Recommended Audience:

This presentation will provide attendees practical tools to transition from Diversity Inclusion to Diversity Fusion. Many organizations simply bring people together, but fail to fuse the different perspectives and experiences together. Using research and best practices this presentations will offer several tips to help organizations move from diversity inclusion to diversity fusion.

Learning Objectives:

Understanding the humanistic side of diversity
The big picture of diversity
Defining terms linked with diversity
Understanding the platinum rule of diversity
Moving from inclusion to fusion

Ron Lewis is an experienced trainer and speaker who has passionately presented to thousands about taking personal responsibility and accepting personal leadership. He graduated from Barry University with a Bachelor’s degree in broadcast communication and a Master’s degree in sport management. After four years in the non-profit industry, Mr. Lewis transitioned to higher education, where he’s had an opportunity to teach, lead and manage at several colleges and universities locally in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In January 2016, Mr. Lewis began working with PQC as the program manager for leadership development.

Noon - 1:30 PM, Annual Awards Luncheon

Join us as we honor the best of the best in the DSP workforce, agency leadership, community partnership, and persons with disabilities who are following their dreams and making a difference.

1:45 PM - 3:00 PM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 06 Common Sense - Where Did it Go?
Melissa Skaggs, Provider Resource Group
Monica Armstrong, Provider Resource Group

Recommended Audience:

Common sense or really the lack of common sense is affecting the workplace more and more. Common Sense really isn't as common as everyone might think it is. This session is designed to take a look and see how common sense affects the workplace and those around us. Real life stories will help people see what can happen when common sense is not used for problem solving.

Learning Objectives:

How to train staff to handle problems with a common sense approach
How to develop common sense

Melissa Skaggs is the Vice President of Provider Resources Group, which provides consulting, training and business services to Human Service Providers. A veteran trainer, she provides focused, one-on-one training and has presented to groups of more than 100 on leadership techniques and a variety of business develop topics. She is very passionate about training and mentoring others and has a down to earth approach to training.

ID# 07 Strategies to Energize Your Programs
Onias Taruwinga, Ph.D., CDC Resources

Recommended Audience:

This session will focus on how to financially resuscitate an agency. This session will teach old dogs new tricks by focusing on changing the culture of your organization. Through changing the organization’s, providers will achieve success in their newly implemented strategies.

Learning Objectives:

Learn how to make tough hiring decisions
Learn how to change a corrosive and divisive culture
Learn to focus on teamwork and win/win outcomes.

Onias Taruwinga has been in the industry since 1998. He has held various positions from direct care, Manager/QIDDP, Director of Operations, Executive Director, and CEO. Taruwinga holds an MBA in Business Management and is currently pursuing a PhD in Leadership and Innovation at Purdue University with an expected graduation date in May 2017. He is a turnaround strategist.

ID# 08 Part II: Building Lasting Relationships with Community Members
Angela Amado, Ph.D., FAAIDD, Human Services Research & Development Center

Recommended Audience:

Learn 7 concrete strategies for connecting individuals with disabilities and community members
Learn brain-storming ideas to try with specific individuals who receive support.
Learning key factors for relationships that last

ID# 09 Supporting Families in Their Homes
Heather Sorrells, IPMG, Inc.
Carolyn Underwood, IPMG, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

With the increased number of children receiving the waiver it can be challenging to find suitable services that will benefit the children and parents feel comfortable utilizing. This presentation will highlight and feature services that are available on both the CIH and FS waiver that would be appropriate to use in supporting an individual in their family home. There will also be a focus on supporting young children and the elderly in the home using the person centered planning process.

Learning Objectives:

Learn strategies for helping parents build confidence in their waiver services
To provide information regarding waiver services available to be provided while living in a family home

Heather Sorrells graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Audiology and Speech Sciences. Upon graduation, she joined a small waiver case management company. She has been with IPMG since its inception in 2006. Heather has held the positions of Case Manager, Transition Manager, Supervisor, Manager of Field Support, and now Assistant Director for Case Management Operations.

Carolyn Underwood graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Sociology. She began working with IPMG in February of 2007 as a Case Manager. During her time with IPMG she has been a Case Manager, a Supervisor, a Quality Compliance Manager and now the Assistant Director of Case Management Operations.

ID# 10 Working with Schools: What Employment Providers Should Know
Teresa Grossi, Ph.D., Indiana Institute on Disability and Community

Recommended Audience:

In this presentation participants will develop strategies to work effectively with schools and ultimately improve employment outcomes for youth within the local community. Understanding the school’s culture, expectations and ways to enhance collaboration will be explored. Using evidence-based practices based on predictors of post-school outcomes will be identified. There will be an opportunity to share and discuss ideas of what has worked and what to avoid.

Learning Objectives:

Identify opportunities to work with schools through WIOA
Identify the barriers and solutions for working with schools
Identify factors that influence collaboration with schools
Identify predictors of post-school outcomes to implement evidence-based practices
Identify strategies to enhancing employment outcomes for youth

Teresa A. Grossi, Ph.D.,is the Director for the Center on Community Living and Careers at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, the Indiana’s University Center for Excellence (UCE) at Indiana University. Dr. Grossi has extensive background in education and employment for individuals with disabilities where she has worked in North Carolina and Ohio. Teresa serves on a number of editorial boards and has conducted research and written on secondary transition services, community supports and employment issues for individuals with disabilities. Since coming to Indiana University, Dr. Grossi has secured over $30 million dollars in external grant funding. Teresa served as president of the National Board for the APSE (Association for People Supporting Employment First).

ID# 11 Innovation at Work - Keeping Me Mentally Engaged
Ted Baker, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

This session will emphasize the power of collaboration and the connection between positive self- concepts and mental health and meaningful daily activity. Attendees will engage in an interactive session designed to help open our minds to new and innovative ways to meet the need for activities related to individual interests and integration in the community.

Learning Objectives:

Learn ways to more innovatively build community integration

Ted Baker is the CEO & Executive Director, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc., an independent technology focused incubator serving entrepreneurs in East Central Indiana. Now in his seventh year leading the Innovation Connector, Ted has witnessed tremendous growth with client startups and successful business launches. Previously he successfully launched and grew several for-profit and non-profit businesses. He continues to teach in the nationally ranked Entrepreneurship Program at Ball State University. Ted has extensive experience with non-profit boards, governance policy and has advised and coached many entrepreneurs in East Central Indiana. Ted currently serves on the Board of Directors, and is the former Board Chair for Hillcroft Services, Inc. in Muncie. He is a well-known guest/keynote speaker and presenter in East Central Indiana. Ted’s passion and energy for the work he does is contagious and sights his goal in life as to make a positive difference in the lives of everyone he meets and works with.

3:15 PM - 4:30 PM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 12 Supervision - Everything You Wanted to Know but Were Afraid to Ask!
Dr. Greg LaForme, FAAIDD, The Impact Group
Tom Speaks, The Impact Group

Recommended Audience:

Apart from wages and benefits, two variables accounting for staff retention appear to be supervisory quality and the workplace culture. This presentation will provide an overview of variables critical to successful supervision and the creation of a positive workplace culture.

Learning Objectives:

The basic characteristics of a positive Supervisor.
How to neutrally correct work behaviors and attitudes.
The secret(s) of successful supervision.

ID# 13 Investing in Staff to Improve Recruitment and Retention
Dick Rhoad, Wabash Center, Inc.
Susan Rinne, LifeDesigns, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

This panel presentation will bring together providers who have made changes in their Employee Compensation Plans and Human Resources Processes. They will share what they have done, results of the changes and lessons learned.

Learning Objectives:

Descriptions of payroll changes
Communicating the expectations of the changes to Boards
Tracking success
Other supports/changes made to support retention
Other Lessons Learned

ID# 14 How to Address Challenging Behaviors
Catherine Davies, Indiana Resource Center for Autism

Recommended Audience:

This session will focus on both reactive and proactive approaches to handling challenging behaviors. Emphasis will be on practical strategies and how to assess behavior in order to implement these strategies. Attendees will gain knowledge of why typical behavior management strategies may not work in individuals with developmental disabilities.

Learning Objectives:

Outline the process of assessing a challenging behavior and why this is necessary
Learn how to develop effective preventative strategies
Understand de-escalation strategies to utilize when a challenging behavior occurs

Catherine Davies is an Educational Consultant at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism and a TEACCH® Certified Advanced Consultant. She speaks regularly on the topics of Structured Teaching, Visual Supports and Relationship Issues for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Catherine also provides consultative support to school districts and families across Indiana. Catherine has over 28 years’ experience working with children and adults with ASD and was a special education teacher, school psychologist and clinical psychologist in the UK. Since relocating to the US Catherine worked as a Psycho-educational Therapist in the TEACCH® Autism Program supporting people with ASD and has had a private practice as an Autism and Structured Teaching Consultant.

Catherine is the co-author of ‘Intimate Relationships and Sexual Health: A Curriculum for Teaching Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Social Challenges.’ A book that utilizes evidence based teaching strategies and covers many of the areas outlined in the National Sexuality Education Standards (2012).

ID# 15 Panel Discussion: Transitioning from Sheltered Workshop to Community Based Employment
Kelly Mitchell, Southern IN Resource Solutions, Inc.
Jason Meyer, Passages, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

This panel discussion will consist of providers who have made the transition from sheltered work to community based employment will share their experiences, processes used and lessons learned from their transition.

Learning Objectives:

Learn approaches used to make transition
Communication strategies used with families, teams, and internal and external stakeholders
Sharing of lessons learned from the process

ID# 16 Panel Discussion: HCBS Settings Rule/CMS
Steve Cook, INARF
Kylee Hope, DDRS
Kim Dodson, The Arc of Indiana
Betty Williams, Self-Advocates of Indiana

Recommended Audience:

The panel members will provide an update on the implementation and status of compliance with the 2014 Federal rules for Home and Community Based Services. These rules require States to be in full compliance by March of 2019 and focus on client rights, person centered planning and settings where HCBS services can be delivered. The panel will provide insight on implementation of the rule from the perspectives, consumer, family, provider and state agency. Panel members will focus on what has been accomplished to date and next steps to achieving full compliance.

7:30 PM, "All In" Casino Night

After a full day of educational sessions and celebrations, the Casino Night is the place to gather after dinner with colleagues or new acquaintances. There’s no gamble involved with this party; it’s guaranteed to be a fun filled evening engaging in or cheering on fellow gamblers. Complimentary chips will be provided to attendees to go ALL IN spinning the roulette wheel, playing blackjack, throwing dice at the craps table, or faking it well through a round of Texas Hold ‘em. At the conclusion of the event, chips will be exchanged for tickets to be used for a chance to win one of the many fabulous door prizes. A complimentary beverage, and light snacks will be provided. (A cash bar will also be available throughout the event for additional alcoholic purchases.) Please plan to join us!

Thursday: March 16, 2017

     7:30 AM - 8:30 AM, Registration & Breakfast with Exhibitors

     8 AM - 2:30 PM, Exhibit Hall Open

     8:30 AM - 9:45 AM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 18 Legislative Update
Kelli Waggoner, K A Waggoner, LLC

Recommended Audience:

This session will focus on the Indiana General Assembly Session. In-depth information on legislation of interest and an update on INARF Legislative agenda items, including the 2017 Biennial Budget, as well as ways to engage your organization’s elected officials including contributing the INARF PAC. Don’t miss this insider’s view into the political process and how you can grow your “political footprint.”

ID# 19 An Introduction on Customized Employment
Patty Cassidy, Griffin-Hammis Associates, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

Customized Employment (CE) is sweeping the nation and appears in a variety of legislation and policy, from WIOA and HCBS waivers to state policy. This interactive session provides an overview of CE, including the core concepts of discovery, blended/braided funding, and the economic development approach to employment.

Learning Objectives:

Learn how CE can open greater employment opportunities, even for people with significant disabilities.
Strategies to defusing/refuting Negative Perceptions
Strategies to develop and promote Positive Perceptions

Patty Cassidy is a Senior Consultant with Griffin-Hammis Associates, Inc. She provides training and technical assistance on customized and supported employment, support brokerage, and building social capital with individuals with disabilities, families, vocational providers, and school personnel. Projects include the development of CE services, customized employment in rural communities, and CE services within workforce centers. Patty brings a wealth of experience through her work in direct service, administrative, and executive positions for publically funded agencies, and non-profits providing employment services.

ID# 20 Part I: Workplace Bullying
Pete Demopoulos, CFE, Demopoulos & Associates, LLC

Recommended Audience:

Part 1 of this 2-part presentation focusses on helping participants identify types of bullying behavior, and how to discern the elements of a hostile workplace, including the subtle bullying that can take place between “veteran” employees and fresh hires. Additionally, participants explore safe, non-confrontational ways in which to adequately deal with bullies.

Learning Objectives:

Understanding what is and is not bullying.
How bullying develops in an organization
Types of bullies
Who bullies target and why

Pete Demopoulos, 30 years of investigative experience in both the public and private sectors. Pete started in 1987 as a volunteer Probation Officer with the Franklin County Municipal Court. He has since moved through the Franklin County Justice System to work as an intensive supervision Probation Officer (Adults) and starting the criminal gang unit within the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas working close with Local, State and Federal law enforcement. In 2005, Demopoulos started his own private investigations practice focusing on issues in the workplace including violence and bullying issues.

ID# 21 Disabling the Disabled: Creating Problems Not Protections
Antha Flood, SHRM-SCP, Life's WORC
Makenzie Sandler, MA, L-BCBA, SHRM-SCP, Life's WORC

Recommended Audience:

This multimedia presentation will explore dignity of risk through the eyes of the people we support as well as their families. It will offer alternative solutions and engage in active brainstorming regarding creative opportunities and innovative approaches for encouraging and supporting a life full of risk and reward. It will debunk myths surrounding guardianship and control over informed decision making vs. living a fulfilled life. Research in this area suggests overprotective models of service actually do more harm than good.

Learning Objectives:

Focus on adult learning theory
Learn how to employ this presentation model in training staff across curriculums, regardless of knowledgebase level.

Antha Flood has a MS in Sociology and a MS in Art Education. She began her professional career in Human Resources as a Recruiter and, eventually, as a Human Resources Manager. She went on to teach Art in the Long Island public school system for 6 years; grades K-12, including special education and alternative school populations. In 2012 Antha launched Gatehouse Arts, a company that provides private art and yoga lessons, parties, corporate events and workshops. Currently, she is the Senior Staff Trainer at Life’s WORC, a not for profit that supports developmentally disabled, and autistic individuals on Long Island.

Makenzie Sandler is a NYS Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with 8 years of experience supporting children and adults with disabilities, specializing in Autism. Ms. Sandler was a teacher and behavioral therapist prior to graduating from Pepperdine University in 2012 with a Master's degree in clinical psychology. Currently, she is the Director of Clinical Services with Life's WORC and consults as a BCBA Supervisor and Parent-trainer. Ms. Sandler supports and collaborates with 35 clinical consultants, supervises behavioral therapists, and the agency's wheelchair technician as well as provides clinical, Autism, and sexuality trainings.

ID# 22 Supports for Those on the Autism Spectrum
Dr. Tracy Gale Psy.D., HSPP, Easterseals Crossroads

Recommended Audience:

In this session, attendees will learn strategies for supporting the social, communication, sensory and other needs of those in the autism spectrum. Supports are appropriate for either a work or living environment. When given the needed level of supports, individuals on the autism spectrum can be successful in a range of environments. In this session, there will be a brief overview of relevant characteristics and their impact on the individual. Specific recommendations for supports across settings and in the areas of social, sensory, communication and other needs will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

Learn strategies to meet the varied needs of individuals on the autism spectrum

Dr. Tracy Gale is manager of Autism and Behavioral Services at Easterseals Crossroads in Indianapolis. In her current role, Gale provides clinical supervision, diagnostic evaluations, and behavioral treatment services.

ID# 23 Behavioral Crisis Response for Individuals with Disabilities: Everything You Wanted to Know but Were Too Stressed Out to Ask
Dr. Lucille Esralew PhD, NADD-CC, Trinitas Hospital

Recommended Audience:

This presentation will offer practical resources for getting the best care for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities during hospital and Emergency Room visits. Dr. Lucille Esralew PhD, NADD-CC is a Program Director at Trinitas Hospital and speaks with much experience about the challenges on both sides of the situation and ways that we (caregivers) can make small changes in our behavior in order to bring about more informed care with better outcomes when those we serve must seek emergency care.

Learning Objectives:

Learn strategies to successfully support individuals in need of hospital and emergency room visits
Learn key communication strategies in working with hospitals

Dr. Lucille Esralew PhD, NADD-CC is a Program Director at Trinitas Hospital, is a clinical neuropsychologist and clinical administrator at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in New Jersey. Dr. Esralew is in charge of the Statewide Clinical Outreach Program for the Elderly (S-COPE) and the Statewide Clinical Consultation and Training (SCCAT). She is also an active member of the NTG’s Steering Committee and is a Master Trainer for the NTG’s national model Dementia Capable Care of Adults with ID and Dementia training curriculum.

10:15 AM - 11:30 AM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 24 Part II: Workplace Bullying
Pete Demopoulos, CFE, Demopoulos & Associates, LLC

Recommended Audience:

Part 2 of this 2-part presentation examines how bullying behavior negatively impacts individuals served, and how some bullies use them to further their bullying behaviors.

Learning Objectives:

Strategies to effectively deal with bullying

ID# 25 Video and Discussion – Valuing Lives Wolf Wolfensberger and the Principle of Normalization

Recommended Audience:

Participants will view and discuss a film documenting the social paradigm shift triggered by Wolf Wolfensberger, a professor and change agent who, in the early 1970s, popularized and expanded the principle of normalization of people with disabilities into a framework for community inclusion.

People are often judged according to how they conform to commonly-held beliefs of what is normal - normal appearance, behavior, ability. And those deemed "abnormal" can be considered undeserving of common respect, dignity, and even basic rights. For many with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this has meant segregation, isolation, and exclusion, with little or no opportunity to access the good things in life.

The film reviews the history of treatment of people with intellectual disabilities and the changes that have happened as the assumptions of disability and role of human services has evolved.

Learning Objectives:

Learn about the history of the treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities
Learn about the principle of normalization and how attitudes have changed about the value and roles of people with disabilities

ID# 26 Positive Behavior Supports
Kelly Hartman, MA, Insights Consulting, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

Dealing with challenging behaviors is one of the hardest parts of our job. And truth be told – the best thing to do is not always the easiest! But there is hope!! The effective understanding and implementation of Positive Behavioral Supports is a great solution. Behaviors are nothing more than a communication to us that there are truly obstacles for that student….there is some unmet need. This session will teach the basic principals of PBS: The What, Whys and How’s of supporting individuals with challenging behaviors.

Learning Objectives:

Identify those behaviors that we really should attempt to manage
Outline potential causes for those behaviors
Discussion of approaches to functional behavioral assessment
Discover strategies for addressing behavioral challenges

Kelly Hartman has a 25+ year career of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities -- she has always maintained a focus on individual’s capabilities, not their disabilities. In her passion to help people achieve better outcomes in life – she believes in building on what a person CAN do through teaching a non-aversive, person centered approach to personal success. Through her very “real” training style, Hartman is best known for her sense of humor and helping us see things from a different perspective. Named Indy’s Best & Brightest Young Professional in Health & Life Sciences, and honored by the YWCA for being a Woman of Achievement, she is the President & CEO of Insights Consulting, Inc a company named to the Top Workplaces in Indianapolis for seven years, Co-Founder of Outside the Box, serves on the DDRS Advisory Council and has served IN-ABC since it’s inception in 2001.

ID# 27 Part I: Overview of Customized Employment and the Process of Discovery
Patty Cassidy, Griffin-Hammis Associates, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

This 2-part session will introduce participants to the concept of customized employment and discuss how customized differs from competitive and supported employment. The strategy of Discovery will be introduced as an avenue to get to know an individual job seeker for the purpose of custom tailoring employment based on the individual’s unique strengths, interests, contributions and support needs. This session will provide examples of people with disabilities where their employment resulted from job carving, job creation, resource ownership, or who have a Micro-enterprise, or a business-within-a-business.

Learning Objectives:

Overview of customized employment strategies and techniques
Steps & stages of Discovering Personal Genius, as alternative to traditional vocational assessments
Designing discovery activities that illuminate skills
Developing the 3 Vocational Themes
Conducting informational interviews with businesses

ID# 28 Yoga in the Workplace
Antha Flood, SHRM-SCP, Life's WORC

Recommended Audience:

Yoga in the Workplace provides a general overview of what yoga is and its history. Common workplace issues regarding physical discomfort, stress, headaches, time management, and employee engagement are discussed from a wellness driven perspective.

Learning Objectives:

Learn easy postures and breathing techniques to incorporate into the business environment

ID# 29 When Thinking is not Reality Based: Thinking Problems Among Individuals with Disabilities
Dr. Lucille Esralew, Ph.D., NADD-CC, CDP, CARES & S-COPE, Trinitas Regional Medical Center

Recommended Audience:

This presentation is designed to emphasize the specifics of assisting persons with thought disorders including discerning hallucinations/delusions from thought patterns expected in persons of a younger developmental age or who have been traumatized by critical interactions with others. We will offer practical advice on how best to respond to a person who is actively having symptoms of a thought disorder and when to seek out extra supports and services.

Learning Objectives:

Identify best practices in meeting the inter-related needs of individuals with I/DD and depression
Strategies to coordinate and address Depression as a setting event to challenging behavior

11:30 AM - 1 PM, Lunch with Exhibitors

1 PM - 2:15 PM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 30 Part I: The Workforce Puzzle
Melissa Skaggs, Provider Resources Group
Monica Armstrong, Provider Resources Group

Recommended Audience:

Can we all get along in today's workforce? What is making this seem impossible? This session looks at all of the generations that are working side by side and how we can have stronger teams by learning to embrace our generational differences. Caution...this session is fun so be prepared before you come in!

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to identify the different generations in the workforce
Understand the strengths that can be brought to teams
How to manage and communicate with the different generations
Learn ideas for bringing the workforce together in an organization

Melissa Skaggs is the Vice President of Provider Resources Group, which provides consulting, training and business services to Human Service Providers. A veteran trainer, she provides focused, one-on-one training and has presented to groups of more than 100 on leadership techniques and a variety of business develop topics. She is very passionate about training and mentoring others and has a down to earth approach to training.

ID# 31 Part I: Welcoming & Supporting LGBTQ+ Clients
Graham Brinklow, Indiana Youth Group

Recommended Audience:

When an LGBTQ+ client (especially if they are transgender or gender variant) enter your organization for help, how welcoming are your application forms, lobby pamphlets, restrooms, residential accommodations, and policies? Are each and every one of your employees able to treat LGBTQ+ people in a warm, professional way that would guarantee that the client felt comfortable to return and work with your organization? This Indiana Youth Group (IYG) workshop will help you look at why it's vital to support LGBTQ+ clients and how you can evaluate this environment of your organization.

Learning Objectives:

To understand and be aware of terms, phrases, and concepts needed when helping LGBTQ+ individuals, in order to promote cultural competency.
To understand key issues facing LGBTQ+ individuals at large and how those issues may create barriers to care.
To identify areas of strength and areas of improvement in how to best serve LGBTQ+ individuals.

Graham Brinklow started with Indiana Youth Group (IYG) in 2008. Now as IYG’s Manager of trainings, he facilitates a variety of workshops, discussions, and Q & A sessions on issues facing youth and adults of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Questioning community. Comfortable working with any age group from preschoolers to doctoral candidates; Graham presents for classrooms, current and future educators, medical and mental health providers, religious congregations, businesses, community organizations, and departments of government.

ID# 32 Training DSPs in Optimism
Makenzie Sandler, MA, L-BCBA, Life's WORC
Brian Goldman, L-BCBA, Life's WORC

Recommended Audience:

This training will focus on Cognitive Behavioral Strategies, Positive Behavior Supports, and Behavior Skills Training. In utilizing Behavior Skills Training when training DSPs, they will learn and master any skills more efficiently and successfully, versus just didactic trainings.

Learning Objectives:

Enhance their knowledge of best practices for training DSPs
Receive the specific steps to Behavioral Skills Training.
Learn the resources and be exposed to the current research on Optimistic Training

Brian Goldman is a NYS Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with 15 years of experience working in support of children and adults with disabilities in various professional capacities. Mr. Goldman has worked as clinical supervisor, counselor, teacher, publisher, presenter, trainer, and researcher. Mr. Goldman is an adjunct instructor for The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Applied Behavior Analysis Department. As Senior Director of Clinical Services for Life’s WORC, Mr. Goldman oversees the day to day clinical operations and services.

ID# 33 Part I: Hands on Introduction to Video Modeling
Brian Norton, ATP, CEAS, Easterseals Crossroads
Josh Anderson, ATP, Easterseals Crossroads

Recommended Audience:

This session will examine the vocational options for people with intellectual disabilities. Options have traditionally been limited to janitorial, simple food services or counting and sorting types of jobs. With the aid of technology, exciting new approaches that combine Apps with cloud resources have been demonstrated to expand the vocational horizons. These new approaches not only independently coach the individual, but also reduce supervisory verification and setup responsibilities.

Learning Objectives:

Common situations where video modeling has been successful
Issues and challenges in matching technology with the individual and the vocational setting
Emerging technology areas to extend the job opportunities people with intellectual disabilities

Brian began his career at Easterseals Crossroads in 1997, and currently serves as the Director of Assistive Technology. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Clinical Assistive Technology and the INDATA Project, a federally funded statewide assistive technology program for the agency. He utilizes his many years of experience to provide direction, leadership and training to a diverse and highly skilled team of AT specialists. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Anderson University and is a RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and a Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (CEAS). Brian hosts a podcast and radio show called “ATFAQ – Assistive Technology Frequently Asked Questions” and is an adjunct faculty member at Vincennes University.

Josh Anderson has worked at Easterseals Crossroads since 2011 in Employment Services and then moved to the Assistive Technology department. In 2016, he was promoted to the Manager of Clinical Assistive Technology. Josh holds a Bachelor's of Public Affairs in Nonprofit Management with a minor in Sociology. As an assistive technology specialist, he assists individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals in life with the assistance of technology. Josh’s personal mission is to be the best he can be for his consumers, family and friends and to have a job that has meaning helping others.

ID# 34 Part II: Overview of Customized Employment and the Process of Discovery
Patty Cassidy, Griffin-Hammis Associates, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

Overview of customized employment strategies and techniques
Steps & stages of Discovering Personal Genius, as alternative to traditional vocational assessments
Designing discovery activities that illuminate skills
Developing the 3 Vocational Themes
Conducting informational interviews with businesses

ID# 35 NADD Accreditation and Certification Programs
Dr. Lucille Esralew, Ph.D., NADD-CC, CDP, CARES & S-COPE, Trinitas Regional Medical Center

Recommended Audience:

This presentation is about the NADD Accreditation and Certification Programs, which are designed to raise the bar for the delivery of services for people with a dual diagnosis (IDD and mental/behavioral health challenges). NADD committee members will share along with Meridian Health Services staff about the challenges and benefits of seeking program accreditation or if individuals getting certified in assisting persons with dual diagnosis and the way it can ensure that Direct Support Professionals, Clinicians, and other staff can increase quality and effectiveness of services to this very vulnerable population.

Learning Objectives:

Learn about certification process for working with individuals with dual diagnoses

Lucille Esralew, Ph.D., NADD-CC, CDP, CARES & S-COPE, Trinitas Regional Medical Center and a NADD Certified Clinician. NADD is a not-for-profit membership association established for professionals, care providers and families to promote understanding of and services for individuals who have developmental disabilities and mental health needs. The mission of NADD is to advance mental wellness for persons with developmental disabilities through the promotion of excellence in mental health care.

2:30 PM - 3:45 PM, Concurrent Educational Sessions

ID# 36 Part II: The Workforce Puzzle
Melissa Skaggs, Provider Resource Group
Monica Armstrong, Provider Resource Group

Recommended Audience:

Participants will be able to identify the different generations in the workforce
Understand the strengths that can be brought to teams
How to manage and communicate with the different generations
Learn ideas for bringing the workforce together in an organization

Melissa Skaggs is the Vice President of Provider Resources Group, which provides consulting, training and business services to Human Service Providers. A veteran trainer, she provides focused, one-on-one training and has presented to groups of more than 100 on leadership techniques and a variety of business develop topics. She is very passionate about training and mentoring others and has a down to earth approach to training.

ID# 37 Part II: Welcoming & Supporting LGBTQ+ Clients
Graham Brinklow, Indiana Youth Group

Recommended Audience:

When an LGBTQ+ client (especially if they are transgender or gender variant) enter your organization for help, how welcoming are your application forms, lobby pamphlets, restrooms, residential accommodations, and policies? Are each and every one of your employees able to treat LGBTQ+ people in a warm, professional way that would guarantee that the client felt comfortable to return and work with your organization? This Indiana Youth Group (IYG) workshop will help you look at why it's vital to support LGBTQ+ clients and how you can evaluate the environment of your organization.

Learning Objectives:

Realizing where you fall with your work-life balance
Issues related to having no balance in your life
Strategies to get your life in balance

Graham Brinklow is an Education Outreach Coordinator with the Indiana Youth Group (IYG). He works to start, support, and sometimes “resuscitate” the over 80 LGBTQ youth groups in communities and schools across the state by facilitating the Indiana Gay Straight Alliance Network. Brinklow also presents LGBTQ Cultural Competency trainings to a wide range of organizations, classrooms, and businesses.

ID# 38 Linking Discovery & Job Development: A Customized Approach
Patty Cassidy, Griffin-Hammis Associates, Inc.

Recommended Audience:

This presentation uses numerous real examples to illustrate how a discovery process, Discovering Personal Genius, is used to develop solid vocational themes that drive targeted, individualized, and creative job development. The presentation will go over the development of at least 3 vocational themes supported by 20 local work environments for each theme “where the career makes sense” combine to form solid career and employment development.

Learning Objectives:

Learn non-comparative approaches to job development used in Customized Employment, different from traditional competitive models
Learn how negotiated jobs demand attention to social capital, economic development, and shared interests between applicant and employer

ID# 39 Part II: Hands on Introduction to Video Modeling
Brian Norton, ATP, CEAS, Easterseals Crossroads
Josh Anderson, ATP, Easterseals Crossroads

Recommended Audience:

Research indicates that video modeling is an effective tool for improving various skill deficits in all aspects of life. This training will allow attendees to learn the benefits of video modeling and then practice what they have learned in real world situations using provided technology.

Learning Objectives:

Attract, on-board, and then effectively train DSPs
How to provide on-going feedback and support to DSPs
Strategies for retaining talented DSPs

ID# 40 (Repeat) Video and Discussion – Valuing Lives Wolf Wolfensberger and the Principle of Normalization

Recommended Audience:

Participants will view and discuss a film documenting the social paradigm shift triggered by Wolf Wolfensberger, a professor and change agent who, in the early 1970s, popularized and expanded the principle of normalization of people with disabilities into a framework for community inclusion. People are often judged according to how they conform to commonly-held beliefs of what is normal - normal appearance, behavior, ability. And those deemed "abnormal" can be considered undeserving of common respect, dignity, and even basic rights. For many with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this has meant segregation, isolation, and exclusion, with little or no opportunity to access the good things in life. The film reviews the history of treatment of people with intellectual disabilities and the changes that have happened as the assumptions of disability and role of human services has evolved.

Learning Objectives:

Learn about the history of the treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities
Learn about the principle of normalization and how attitudes have changed about the value and roles of people with disabilities

3:45 PM, Annual Conference "Send-Off"

After two action packed days, we invite you to pass through the Plaza Foyer for a fun “Send-Off” hosted by your INARF Training and Professional Development Committee members and INARF staff. We’ll be there to capture your CEU Card, hear about your favorite sessions, learn about new friends you met, and to tuck a small snack under your arm for the ride home.

NOTE: Agenda and sessions subject to change without notice.