Schedule & Educational Sessions

Tuesday, October 3 / Pre-Conference
8:30 - 9:30 AM | Registration Open
9:30 AM - 4:30 AM | Leadership Symposium
- State Roundtables Discussions
- Networking Lunch
- The Future of Funding: Leveraging Data Analytics to Drive Outcomes
- EQ: A Leadership Superpower
4:30 - 5:30 PM | Pre-Conference Reception

Wednesday, October 4 / Annual Conference
Day 1
8 - 9 AM | Registration Open with Grab & Go Breakfast
8 AM - 3:30 PM | Artisan Alley Open
9 - 10:15 AM | Welcome & Keynote Presentation

KEYNOTE - See ME: The Power of Service in Whole-Person Care
Petra Marquart, Internationally Recognized Keynote Speaker

No matter our skills, challenges, or limitations, we want to be seen for who we are and as we are. Petra Marquart will share her insights on how world-class service impacts an individual’s sense of self, why it matters, and the Seven Principles of Life-Affirming Service that speaks to the whole person and affirm their value to the world.

Petra Marquart is an inspirational speaker who has received rave reviews at conventions and conferences around the globe. She is principal in See ME, Inc., a Minnesota-based company dedicated to helping long-term-care communities deliver world-class service. To that end, she created See ME: Customer Service Training in Compassionate Care specifically for longterm-care providers with an emphasis on skilled-nursing and assisted-living communities. Whether speaking on customer service, leadership, change, personal power or performance, Petra’s skilled stage presence comes through.

10:30 - 11:45 AM | Educational Sessions

ID# 01 Retaining Top Talent in 2023 and Beyond
Shawna Lake, Founder & Principal Consultant, Deep End Talent Strategies

Leading through the roller coaster labor market over the past 4 years has been challenging for many organizations. We can't wait for this ride to come to a complete stop but until then, we'll need to keep those seat belts securely fastened while developing talent retention strategies.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Assess the current labor market and recap the ride we've all been on together
2. Learn talent retention strategies and discuss best practices of the past and present
3. Look ahead to what analysts believe team members will come to expect from them or their next employer

Shawna Lake is the Founder of Deep End Talent Strategies, a human resource consulting firm offering full-spectrum HR and talent management services. Her professional background includes leading all aspects of HR and communications with for-profit and nonprofit organizations in the arts, energy, logistics, finance, technology, and advertising. Through consulting and pro bono service, Shawna has shaped HR practices and leadership capabilities in the environmental sector and architecture and engineering, social services, healthcare, banking, technology security, energy, retail, personal services, construction, manufacturing, life sciences, and start-ups. She holds a B.A. in Management and Organizational Communication, an M.A. in Executive Development for Public Service, and a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration.

ID# 02 Dump Drama, Gossip, and Unresolved Conflict – Changing the Culture for Good
Jamie Nau, Executive Coach & CEO, Grow Nau Inc.

Organizations with healthy cultures create 20% more impact than their competitors. Happy, engaged employees are 12-20% more productive. Your mission needs you to nix the drama, gossip, and unresolved conflict on the team. Learn accessible conflict resolution tools that you can implement today (and easily train supervisors on) to start eliminating drama and gossip and making conflict productive again.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Identify What Drives Drama, Gossip, and Hidden/Unproductive Conflict
2. Unpack What it Looks Like to Take 100% Responsibility at Work
3. Practice a Framework You Can Apply Right Now & Easily Share with Their Team

Jamie Nau helps leaders create more impact, more revenue, and more joy in the process of solving business problems. Jamie combines 16 years of business experience with extensive training in behavioral psychology, economics, emotional intelligence, and leadership coaching to create a framework that empowers leaders to identify and implement the best solutions, systems, and support to achieve and sustain success. As a coach and strategist, it is her greatest honor to help leaders discover and embrace their greatest potential. Her mission is to improve workplace experiences for everyone by equipping leaders with emotional intelligence and practical tools that help them create and sustain thriving workplace cultures.

ID# 03 Supporting Systems and Supports for Adults on the Autism Spectrum
Betty Lou Rowe, M.Ed., Indiana Resource Center for Autism

Successfully supporting individuals on the autism spectrum requires a commitment to the implementation of effective systems and supports across environments.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Know the importance of consistent support for success
2. Understand how individuals on the Autism Spectrum navigate life
3. Gather information to support work and living situations

Betty Lou Rowe, a trained special education teacher, is a PEERS® Certified Provider and an educational consultant for the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA) and Indiana School Mental Health Initiative (ISMHI), serving as project manager for behavior consultants across the Hoosier state. Betty Lou presents on various topics including Universal Design for Learning (UDL), understanding ASD, challenging behaviors & the FBA process, developing supports (sensory, behavior, communication, & instructional), and peer-to-peer program development. Betty Lou has experience with individuals with varying needs from birth through adulthood and her passion lies in education…educating families, educating staff, educating the community, and educating all students. Knocking down barriers so that individuals have access to options is essential for a long-term quality of life.

ID# 04 Public Policy Advocacy: Everything You Need to Know to Be a Powerful Policy Advocate
Andrew Alvarez, Vice President - Legislative Affairs, INARF

INARF’s legislative success at the federal and state level over the years reflect the importance of effective advocacy, both from provider organizations, and INARF as the state provider Association.  Join Andrew Alvarez for insights on how to take your organization to the next level with elected officials.  By having solid relationships with elected officials at all levels of government, you will see direct positive impacts to your community engagement, awareness of your organization and their priorities, and even fundraising success.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Identify which elected officials to contact based on issues from federal to local government
2. Better understand how the State legislative process works
3. Utilize tips for effective policy communication

Andrew Alvarez has been with INARF since July of 2023 and serves as INARF’s Vice President of Legislative Affairs. He is INARF’s registered lobbyist and leads government affairs projects on behalf of Members. In addition to public policy, Alvarez also oversees the Ability Indiana program, which provides employment opportunities for Hoosiers with disabilities through State contracts for products and services. Prior to working at INARF, Alvarez spent seven years working on staff at the Indiana House of Representatives, most recently as the Deputy Director of Legislative Operations.

ID# 05 Crisis Intervention Team Program Development
Marianne Halbert, Criminal Justice Director, NAMI Indiana

Crisis Intervention Team programs improve crisis response systems by creating collaborative partnerships between law enforcement, mental health providers, advocates with lived experience, and more. Learn about the 10 Core Elements of a CIT program, what is included in a CIT class, and how NAMI Indiana can support you in developing a CIT program in your community.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the core partners to include on a CIT steering committee
2. Describe the goals of a CIT program
3. Describe the technical assistance offered by NAMI Indiana in supporting local CIT program development

Marianne Halbert, JD, is the Criminal Justice Director at NAMI Indiana. From 1996 to 2010, she was the Mental Health Coordinator for the Marion County Public Defender Agency. As the Criminal Justice Director at NAMI Indiana since 2011, Ms. Halbert coordinates NAMI Indiana’s annual “Mental Health and Criminal Justice Summit.” She also oversees the development of CIT (Crisis Intervention Team) programs for the state of Indiana and is responsible for the operation of the CIT Indiana Technical Assistance Center. Ms. Halbert is a certified QPR (suicide prevention) instructor and is on Indiana’s 988 Implementation Coalition Marketing & Education Committee.

Noon - 1:30 PM | Annual Awards Luncheon

Our tradition continues by presenting five Annual Awards and two Scholarship Awards on Wednesday, October 4 during the INARF Annual Awards Luncheon. The Annual Awards Recognition Program will feature moving stories captured in video of each recipient's achievements and how their vision of supporting individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities has raised the bar of service delivery in Indiana. This distinguished event is available to all INARF 2023 Annual Conference attendees. We look forward to having you join us in the celebration!

1:45 - 3 PM | Educational Sessions

ID# 06 Servant Leadership: A Way of Being that Leads to a Way of Doing
Phillip Anderson, Consultant, Teachers Greenleaf Servant Leadership Scholars

Every individual has a personal philosophy and by working together, we create culture. Servant leadership provides the means to focus on others, focus on the work, and find meaning, both personally and professionally. We’ll learn the philosophy, examine the principles, and dive into the practices that provide generative learning and positive staff development. Get prepared for the journey, not the destination.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
Strengthen organizational culture through —
1. Knowing: It starts with self-awareness, knowing ourselves, and then, through listening and understanding, we get to know others. Empathy is a keystone of the relationships between people
2. Growing: Without trust and being trustworthy, relationships falter. Coaching individuals and facilitating groups and processes help us maximize potential
3. Showing: Leading others requires humility, vulnerability, and gratitude and how we practice these behaviors determines the leadership we show and develop in others

Phil Anderson is the Chief ReThinker at ReThink! Consulting, where he specializes in four areas: Servant Leadership, Cultural Heritage Tourism, Community Development, and Strategic Planning/Facilitation. With the Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership, he is a Greenleaf Academy instructor. Mr. Anderson is also an adjunct professor teaching cultural heritage tourism at IUPUI (Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis) training travel and event professionals to create engaging travel experiences. He earned a B.S. in agricultural sales and marketing from Purdue University.

ID# 07 Continuous Improvement… of Our People
Jamie Nau, Executive Coach & CEO, Grow Nau Inc.

We constantly evaluate our programs, processes, and systems to make them better because we know the importance of systemic continuous improvement. So why aren’t we applying CI to our most valuable resource – our people? Learn to build a culture where feedback is no longer dreaded, but continuously given, received, and embraced as foundational for high performance and employee fulfillment.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define the Value of Free-Flowing Feedback in Their Culture. Hint: Increased engagement, improved performance, increased retention, and reduced time lost to illness and FMLA
2. Unpack Common Barriers to Giving & Receiving Feedback Effectively
3. Identify 3 Tools They can Implement TODAY to Improve the Feedback Loop in Their Organization

ID# 08 Creative Strategies to Enhance Pre-Employment Transition Services
MaryEllen Noe, Consultant, Public Consulting Group
Patti Sebanc, Director of Special Projects, Sycamore Services, Inc.
Karen Papp, Program Manager, Pre-Employment Transition Services, Easterseals Crossroads
Alicia Wray, Pre-Employment Transition Coordinator, Stone Belt Arc, Inc.
Kathleen Parks, Senior Director of Employment Services and Transition, Opportunity Enterprises, Inc.

Looking for new ideas to implement or some ways to boost quality in Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)? Don’t feel like you have to reinvent the wheel. When you attend this panel session with Key Stakeholders in the Pre-ETS world, you will hear different strategies and ideas to take back and implement at your sites!

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Learn about creative summertime activities and experiences for students in Pre-ETS
2. Discover how work-based learning opportunities are key to successful Pre-ETS outcomes
3. How to collaborate and work effectively with school personnel for the best outcomes
4. Student success stories
5. Innovative Pre ETS activities

ID# 09 Time Management – Focusing on Quality Outcomes
Shawn Corridor, Business & Mindset Coach, Halle Simpson Business Life Coaching

Learn what is really holding you back from mastering time management in your day-to-day. Shawn will be sharing refreshing new perspectives on how you can go from feelings of being overwhelmed to peace and balance while still getting things done.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Know why multitasking is a myth and time-stealer
2. How role boundaries play in successful time management
3. Set realistic, attainable, and fulfilling goals
4. Know the real issues beneath the surface that sabotages their time management

Shawn Corridor: A Michigan native, Shawn’s desire for flexibility and autonomy led her to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities in sales and leadership after 15 years in the corporate environment. Shawn’s undergrad years were split between Siena Heights and Madonna universities earning her a Bachelor's in Communication. In addition to corporate and entrepreneurial experience, Shawn completed her formal coaching education at Coach U.

ID# 10 Alignment: A Business Approach for Organizations to Become Truly Trauma Responsive
Kevin Aldridge, Founding Partner, Aldridge Palay Consulting

Organizations can benefit from developments in business—to be competitive and value-driven. As trauma emerges as a critical need of individuals with I/DD, maintaining high standards and consistent quality is even more important. Beyond training, organizations must align practices, operations, and policy. We’ll explore business model alignment as a means of incorporating trauma responsiveness into sustainable corporate practice and culture.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Know the importance of alignment in any change effort
2. Utilize Ritter’s Alignment Squared business model
3. Strategize adapting this model for their own organizations

Kevin Aldridge earned his bachelor’s degree in philosophy and religion from Judson University in 1981, and a master’s degree in philosophical theology and ethics from Northern Seminary in 1984. Mr. Aldridge ran operations for a subsidiary of a nationally based developmental disabilities service provider. Mr. Aldridge also served for four years as Assistant Deputy Director of policy and strategic direction for the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Mr. Aldridge currently serves on the board of directors for the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO) and Creative Housing/Creative Innovations, Inc., a provider of housing for people with disabilities.

3:15 - 4:30 PM | Educational Sessions

ID# 11 Six Key Competencies and Behaviors for Successful Managers
Christy Frazier Shepard, Managing Partner, Planning Plus, LLC

Managers will explore 6 key competencies and behaviors critical to successful leadership, while ensuring a positive impact on their team and organization. The session will highlight the areas of Effective Communication, Problem Solving, Change Management, Influence, Action Orientation, and Strategic Thinking.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Explore 6 Key Competencies and Behaviors of Successful Managers
2. Perform an Individual Assessment of Competencies
3. Begin an Action Plan for improvement in 2 Key Areas
4. Set the Stage for Effective Communication Training

Christy Frazier Shepard is a partner with Planning Plus, LLC. With a Bachelor of Science from Ball State University in Commercial Print Management and Business Administration, she worked in print design, sales and customer service for over a decade. Recognizing the opportunity to bring for-profit business models to the non-profit human service world, Christy turned her attention towards working with organizations in the social service industry and was hired as a Project Manager for Planning Plus LLC. Christy served as Interim Director for Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention (CHIP) and later, full-time Executive Director for CHIP. In 2016, Christy rejoined Planning Plus, LLC as a Partner in the firm, utilizing a holistic approach to projects and initiatives which require extensive community outreach. Additionally, in 2022 Christy Frazier Shepard was hired as adjunct faculty in the department of IU Executive Education at The O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

ID# 12 Preventing and Overcoming Employee Burnout: The Organization’s Role in Supporting, Mitigating and Planning
Lara Palay, Founding Partner, Aldridge Palay Consulting
Kevin Aldridge, Founding Partner, Aldridge Palay Consulting

Burnout supports is an organizational problem. Leaders must consider approaches like wellness programming, incentives, and factors, like workload, environment, and employee supports. We’ll explore assessing burnout and using techniques from business to align organizational values with a commitment to employee wellness. We’ll explore indicators of burnout that managers should watch for. We’ll discuss strategic planning/budgeting for sustainable burnout prevention and mitigation.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Identify symptoms and causes of professional burnout
2. Understand how individual burnout can impact the whole organization
3. Incorporate elements of burnout assessment into planning and evaluation for their organization

Lara Palay received her bachelor’s degree in English from the Ohio State University in 1991, and her master’s degree in clinical social work, also from the Ohio State University in 1998. She is an independently licensed social worker, supervisor, and psychotherapist, with 30 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. She has also practiced privately for twenty years specializing in trauma and grief, with expertise in treating families dealing with pediatric cancer. For three years, Ms. Palay served as the Project Manager for the Mental Illness/Developmental Disabilities Coordinating Center of Excellence (MIDD CCOE) for the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.

ID# 13 Partnerships with Supportive Housing Developers
Kelly Hartman, Vice President, insights/ViaQuest Community Solutions
Yolanda Kincaid, President/CEO, Janus Developmental Services, Inc.
Alan J. Rakowski, Director of Real Estate Allocation, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority
Colleen Renie, Executive Director, Village of Merici

Are you contemplating ways to offer affordable housing to the individuals supported by your organization? Consider joining this panel presentation to learn from other INARF providers who have, or are, doing exactly that. Hear their vision, their progress, and even the speed bumps along the way to this endeavor of leveraging low-income tax credits and achieving community integration for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Components to Consider
2. Successes Experienced
3. Challenges Overcome
4. Outcomes Achieved

ID# 14 The Journey to Successful Employment Outcomes
Bobby Fiscus, Stone Belt Arc, Inc., Katie Shaw, Noble, Erin Shull, Easterseals Northwest, Inc., Martina Sutton, Sycamore Services, Inc., Joe Zaragoza, Easterseals Crossroads

The pathway to successful, competitive, and integrated employment for individuals with disabilities can take many forms and be a winding road. This enlightening session will introduce you to a panel of successful job seekers with disabilities that have persevered to overcome many of the challenges and pitfalls of navigating the job market. You will hear first-hand about their personal journey, goals and experiences that has helped shaped their future.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Hear directly from people with disabilities about their personal journey toward integrated and competitive employment
2. Learn about the participant’s personal experiences on what worked and what didn’t work so well during their job search
3. Learn directly about key services they received that benefited them all along the journey

ID# 15 The Roles & Responsibilities of a Social Security Administration Representative Payee
To be Announced!

If you agree to serve as a representative payee, you’ve taken on an important responsibility that can make a positive difference in the beneficiary’s life. Learn from the experts, the roles & responsibilities of a Social Security Administration Representative Payee for individual(s) your organization may support.

4:30 - 6 PM | Conference Reception

After a full day of educational sessions and celebrations, join your fellow Conference attendees to engage in stimulating conversations on favorite sessions, the individuals celebrated, key take-aways, and more. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, a complimentary alcoholic drink, and unlimited soft drinks will be available. There is no additional fee to attend. A cash bar option is available for those interested in additional alcoholic purchases. Please join us for a fun filled, engaging time with fellow Conference attendees!

Thursday, October 5 / Annual Conference
Day 2
7:30 AM - 2:45 PM | Registration, Artisan Alley, & Exhibit Hall Open
7:30 - 8:30 AM | Breakfast with Exhibitors
8:30 AM - 2:15 PM | Educational Sessions
2:30 - 3:45 PM | Post Note

8:30 - 9:45 AM | Educational Sessions

ID# 16 Help! I Can’t Get it all Done: Top 5 Strategies to Better Manage Your Workload (Part I)
Theresa Valade, Owner/Organizational Development Consultant, Success Trek, Inc.

How do we get it all done? There are just not enough hours in the day. Join us for an interactive session where we will discuss the 5 strategies to better manage your workload so you can boost your productivity and feel less stressed.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define the workplace and life challenges that are holding them back
2. Organize their workload using tools and techniques provided during the workshop
3. Describe what is getting in the way of getting their work done
4. Identify their top 1-3 projects or tasks they want to tackle first
5. Jumpstart an action plan that they can use when they get back to work

Theresa Valade launched Success Trek in 2005 and has been helping small to mid-sized companies, who are ready to take their business to the next level or in a time of rapid growth ever since. After more than 20 years of leading companies and teams through change, she has seen how a happier workplace can increase the number of satisfied customers and improve the bottom line.

ID# 17 Emotional Fitness for Everybody!
Shannon Speaks, Social Worker, Mindfulness Teacher, Coach, Nourish C&C, LLC ~ Whole-Person Coaching

We all know about physical fitness, but what does emotional fitness feel like? How can we gain emotional strength, flexibility, endurance, and stillness? What’s at the core of who we are? Learn the eMOOV practice (co-created by Shannon) and see how adding a work-in to your workout can transform your every-day experiences.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Know what emotions really are
2. Gain self-awareness about how they might respond to various emotions
3. Develop self-compassion
4. Walk away with a practical, supportive tool to enhance emotional regulation
5. Feel empowered!

Shannon Speaks knows firsthand about the demands of front-line service work; she has lived it for thirty years! After earning a Bachelor’s of Science from Kent State University in Therapeutic Recreation, Shannon spent nearly a decade serving older adults and their families in a long-term / rehabilitation setting. While working, she went back to graduate school at Case Western Reserve University to advance her education earning a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Shannon currently works part-time at Summa Health as a Social Worker. In addition to her hospital work, Shannon has started her own business – Nourish Whole-Person Counseling & Coaching, LLC, where she supports other caregivers with innovative whole-person-coaching.

ID# 18 Creating Opportunities Through Entrepreneurship Education
Jenny Anderson, Co-Founder & CEO, Celebrate EDU

In this session, we will discuss how entrepreneurial education can change the trajectory of employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will go through the proven benefits of entrepreneurship education in developing self-advocacy skills and provide strategies for how you can encourage the entrepreneurial mindset.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Understand how entrepreneurial learning can create better employees and leaders
2. Encourage entrepreneurial thinking to develop better self-advocacy skills
3. Know why self-employment can be a great fit for people with disabilities

Jenny Anderson is an entrepreneur and nonprofit founder working to level the playing field for individuals with disabilities. Inspired by her brother Brent, who is on the autism spectrum, she founded Celebrate EDU, a national nonprofit that encourages and empowers people with developmental disabilities through entrepreneurship and business education.

ID# 19 Supporting Siblings of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: Advice from a Sib
Joshua John Diehl, Ph.D., Teaching Associate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Notre Dame

Siblings can be the best teachers/therapists for individuals with IDD, and naturally! This account will integrate the most recent research and personal anecdotes to explore how to understand, support, utilize and empower siblings of individuals with IDD.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the most common concerns of siblings
2. Understand how to communicate with siblings about their sibling with IDD
3. Employ strategies to support and empower siblings

Dr. Joshua Diehl is the Chief Program Officer for Child & Adolescent Services at LOGAN Community Resources, Inc. In addition, he holds a concurrent appointment as a Senior Research Associate at the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Diehl received his B.A. from Princeton University in Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rochester, where he was a LEND fellow. He completed a clinical psychology internship at Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester, New York, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Childhood Neuropsychiatric Disorders at the Yale Child Study Center.

ID# 20 Trauma and Post-Traumatic Growth - Supporting Individuals with Disabilities
Uzama Price Ed.D.NADD-DDS, BCBA Behavior Analyst/ Consultant, U Price Consulting, LLC

Adverse life experiences are especially traumatic for people with disabilities. Traumatized children will struggle across the life span without intervention. Children and adults can achieve post traumatic growth when their care givers are provided appropriate resources and training. This session will explore a holistic approach to serving vulnerable individuals.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Participants will explore trauma & intellectual disability
2. Participants will be able to examine the Meichenbaum Roadmap to resilience
3. Participants will examine stigma and disability
4. Participants will gain knowledge on how to use the biopsychosocial framework to support people with disabilities

Dr. Uzama Price is a board-certified behavior analyst. She has over 17 years of experience working in the behavioral health field serving children and adults diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and co-occurring mental illness in North Carolina. She earned a doctoral degree in Education at Argosy University in 2014. Dr. Price is the point of contact at Alliance Health Plan for Children with Complex Needs.

10:30 - 11:45 AM | Educational Sessions

ID# 21 Help! I Can’t Get it all Done: Top 5 Strategies to Better Manage Your Workload (Part II)
Theresa Valade, Owner/Organizational Development Consultant, Success Trek, Inc.

ID# 22 Supported Decision Making - The DSP as an Ally
Uzama Price Ed.D.NADD-DDS, BCBA Behavior Analyst/ Consultant, U Price Consulting, LLC

People with disabilities have the right to have their voice and choice honored in all situations. When they are restricted it calls into question the human rights that are afforded to all people regardless of their ability or disability. The DSP is the ideal person to assist with supported decision-making. Strategies will be shared to encourage the DSP to engage in these activities.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define supported decision making
2. Demonstrate personal actions in the supported decision-making approach
3. Differentiate between substitute decision making and supported decision making

ID# 23 Creating a Group-Based Microenterprise
Jenny Anderson, Co-Founder & CEO, Celebrate EDU

Learn how to set up a viable Microenterprise to provide work based learning, teach social skills, and enhance self-advocacy. Students of all abilities will benefit from the process of running a small business as they develop skills for their future success.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Benefits of Entrepreneurship
2. Social Skills learned in group-based business
3. Employment skills developed through Microenterprise

ID# 24 Promoting Informed Choice Through “The Three E’s”
Mary Kay Rizzolo President & CEO, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership
Rebecca Kasey, Director of Special Projects, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership

The Three E's - Education, Experience, and Exposure - are the foundation for informed choice. It’s especially relevant to people with disabilities since choices are regularly limited or restricted. In this presentation, we describe how the Three E's promote choice, advance self-determination, and protect independence. You’ll hear real-life stories about the Three E’s and gain insight through relevant data.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Insight into the Three E’s and how they apply to the disability services system
2. Action steps organizations can use for advancing informed choice
3. Specific examples of how agencies are using the Three E’s
4. Data about the effect that the Three E’s have on people’s lives

Mary Kay Rizzolo, Ph.D., provides leadership concerning all operational, administrative, and strategic initiatives of the organization. Prior to joining CQL, Mary Kay was the Associate Director and a Clinical Associate Professor of the Institute on Disability and Human Development (IDHD).

Rebecca Kasey is CQL's Director of Special Projects, bringing over a decade of experience in human services. In this role, Rebecca is responsible for planning, organizing, executing, monitoring, and directing projects to successful completion.

ID# 25 Trauma and Beyond: Creating Interactions that Foster Healing, Growth, & Success
John M. Keesler, PhD, MSW, Associate Professor, Indiana University Bloomington, School of Social Work
Jade Presnell, MSW, Adjunct Professor, Indiana University Bloomington, School of Social Work

Trauma is prevalent in the lives of individuals with disabilities and those working in helping professions. Once we understand and recognize trauma, we can then equip ourselves with strategies to create interactions and environments that foster healing and promote growth. This session will provide attendees with information about trauma and trauma-informed care, and its implementation through a systems-based approach.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define trauma
2. Recognize signs/symptoms of trauma
3. Understand trauma-informed care
4. Apply trauma-informed care at the micro-mezzo-macro levels

John M. Keesler, PhD, MSW, is an associate professor in the School of Social Work at IU Bloomington. Since 1999, he has been actively involved in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through practice, research, and service.

Jade Presnell, MS, LSW, has graduate degrees in psychology and social work. For more than a decade, she has supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through her clinical practice. She is a doctoral candidate, research assistant, and adjunct faculty at Indiana University School of Social Work.

11:45 AM - 1 PM | Lunch With Exhibitors
The INARF 2023 Annual Conference Exhibitors invite you to join them for lunch while perusing and educating yourself on their innovative solutions to programs and services.

1 - 2:15 PM | Educational Sessions

ID# 26 Boomers to Zoomers: Recruiting and Retaining Today’s Workforce (Focus on Generational Differences & Recruiting)
Tara Puckey, MBA, CAE, CEO & Founder, GrayRails Consulting Co
Joe Skeel, Executive Director, Indiana Society of Association Executives

The Great Resignation. Quiet quitting. Demands for flexible, remote work. Few (or no) applicants. As a result of the pandemic, every employer in the United States is grappling with these issues. During this three-hour interactive training, attendees will not only gain an understanding of what motivates today’s workforce, but also practical tips to capitalize on these emerging trends.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the conflicts that exist in today’s work environment
2. Address the immediate challenges presented by today’s workforce demands
3. Know how to build a strong organizational culture, and improve their chances to capitalize on new trends in the future

Tara Puckey is the founder and CEO of GrayRails Consulting Co, an organization dedicated to fostering bold innovation through the power of people. She’s also the Executive Director of the Radio Television Digital News Association and Foundation (RTDNA/RTDNF), where she focuses on cultivating and managing business partnerships, procuring grants, creating new developments, and other strategic endeavors, along with board, leader, and business management. She has a journalism degree from Indiana University, as well as an MBA.

Joe Skeel is the executive director of the Indiana State Bar Association and incoming volunteer president of the Indiana Society of Association Executives. Previously, Skeel served as executive director of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), the nation’s largest and most broad-based member association for journalists. Before joining the association world, he worked in journalism for nearly 10 years.

ID# 27 Proven Practices for Confronting DSP Workforce Issues
Mary Kay Rizzolo President & CEO, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership
Rebecca Kasey, Director of Special Projects, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership

We’re all aware of the issues affecting DSPs, but what about solutions? Where do you start? How do we assess effectiveness? In this breakout, we’re sharing innovative solutions organizations have implemented. From recruitment strategies to improving retention, and expanding recognition, you’ll leave with specific action steps. We’ll also share data about DSP issues and the impact on people with disabilities.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Implement strategies agencies have learned to address DSP workforce issues
2. Put action steps in place for their organization
3. Gain insight into data about how DSP issues affect people receiving services

ID# 28 Digital Literacy - Improving Employment Outcomes for People with Disabilities
Brian Norton, Director Assistive Technology, Easterseals Crossroads
Josh Anderson, Manager Assistive Technology, Easterseals Crossroads

As technology becomes more ingrained in everyday life, the importance of digital literacy is becoming an ever-increasing need. In recent legislation, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) highlighted the importance of digital literacy as a critical need among persons with disabilities who are unemployed. During this session, we will define digital literacy, discuss how it impacts our daily lives, and introduce strategies for improving digital literacy.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define digital literacy
2. Describe 3 areas of daily life where digital literacy plays an important role
3. Identify 3 strategies for improving digital literacy

Brian Norton is the Director of Assistive Technology at Easterseals Crossroads. He is responsible for the agency’s assistive technology service lines that include clinical assistive technology, home modifications, and the INDATA Project, a federally funded statewide assistive technology program for the agency. He began working at Easterseals Crossroads as an employment consultant in 1997 and made the transition into assistive technology as a trainer in 1999. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Anderson University and is a RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (CEAS).

Josh Anderson has worked at Easterseals Crossroads since 2011, first in employment services and then moved to the assistive technology department. In 2016, he was promoted to manager of clinical assistive technology. Josh holds a Bachelor of Public Affairs in nonprofit management with a minor in sociology and is a RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). In 2018, Josh took over hosting duties of Assistive Technology Update, the #1-ranked assistive technology podcast.

ID# 29 Understanding Dual Diagnosis Basics
Jessica Ruth Hamlyn, Director of Connxxions (IDD/MH) Services Meridian Health Services

Understanding Dual Diagnosis Basics is the first module presented in Mental Health Approaches to Intellectual /Developmental Disability: A Resource for Trainers. This training covers information about the nature of mental health disorders among persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). The following contact will be covered: definitions of IDD and mental illness (MI), prevalence, indicators, characteristics, vulnerability factors, and similarities and differences between MI and IDD. This session will also cover the three most common mental health diagnosis and how presentation of those disorders may differ for individuals in the IDD population.

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Define "dual diagnosis"
2. Describe vulnerability risk factors
3. Articulate the similarities and differences between MI and IDD

Jessica Hamlyn is the Director of Connxxions (IDD/MI) Services at Meridian Health Services. Jessica has been practicing LCSW since 2010 and has achieved the highest level of clinical certification from NADD, an association for persons with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Jessica has been with Meridian Health for 8 years, in that time she has provided clinical supervision, departmental training, assessments and mental health treatment services to a wide variety of staff and patients across the state of Indiana.

POST NOTE - The Tortoise and the Hare Retold: Learning to Run and Win the Races that Matter
Michael Mecozzi, PhD, Owner, Hope with ME

In Aesop's fable the Tortoise and the Hare, we are taught that "slow and steady wins the race." In our fast-paced world, no one wants to go slow anymore! But there still might be much we can learn from this ancient fable, with a twist. In today's keynote, “The Tortoise and the Hare Retold: Learning to Run and Win the Races that Matter,” you'll learn that winning in life comes not from defeating an opponent or crossing a finish line first, but instead comes from living with a PLAN: Purpose, Love, Action, and Noticing the positive. You'll also learn how to master some of the most common hurdles to achieving your goals. Come learn how an ancient fable can teach us how to move together toward tomorrow, and find out who would win if the Tortoise and the Hare had a rematch!

Following the presentation, participants will be able to:
1. Participants will engage in activities that connect their personal values to their work of supporting people with disabilities
2. Participants will be taught gratitude skills to increase their experience of positive emotions both personally and professionally
3. Participants will learn skills for responding to the negative thoughts and feelings that have prevented them from living out their values and achieving their goals
4. Participants will learn skills for responding to challenging situations that are outside their control

Dr. Michael Mecozzi is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and speaker. He and his wife own and operate a private practice, Hope with ME, in New Lenox, Illinois. Dr. Mecozzi authored the book, “The Other Side of Pain: Discovering Meaning When Life Hurts,” and Dr. Mecozzi’s second book, "The Tortoise and the Hare Retold: Learning to Run and Win the Races that Matter,” is scheduled to be released this spring. It is Dr. Mecozzi’s mission to help people master stress and anxiety so that they can win in life.

3:45 PM | Annual Conference Concludes