During the Life in the Community Symposium, presentations and breakout sessions will focus on Community Mapping, an effective method for identifying many types of resources in your community that can help you thrive. Together, with our partners  Virginia Down Syndrome Association and The Arc of Virginia, we will offer engaging, informative presentations and interactive activities related to Community Mapping.

Opening Session:
Get up and Get out! Finding Interests and Community Partnerships to Improve Outcomes for Adults with Disabilities
Presented by Dr. Staci Carr

Everyone deserves to experience the life they want in the community they choose! This presentation will discuss key components and strategies to support increased Quality of Life through identifying interests and strengths, along with building community partnerships and relationships. This presentation will set the stage for the symposium and introduce social and community mapping. Active community engagement leads to better outcomes!

Participants will learn ways to engage themselves or their loved ones in identifying interests and hobbies, and how to navigate community partnerships that would support such interests through relationships, employment, life-long learning, independence, and independent living.
Each participant will be able to complete their own SPIN (Strengths, Preferences, Interests, and Needs) to reference throughout the day.

Through our breakout sessions, you’ll be able to dig deeper into different aspects of Community Mapping. There will be three breakout sessions during the all-day event. During each breakout session, you can choose one of three topics to learn more about–meaning you have nine options total to create a customized experience just for you.

Breakout Session & Speakers: 

Breakout 1: Independent Living Focus

• Top 5 Skills to Increase Independence with Dr. Zipporah Levi-Shackleford & Sandra Thompson

• Building Positive Interactions with Law Enforcement with Richmond Police Department’s Acting Chief Edwards

• Building Your Nest: Living in Your Own Home with Supports, led by The Arc of Virginia.

Breakout 2: Employment & Vocational Skill Focus

• Knowing Your S.P.I.N. & Finding the Job You Like with Teresa Cogar, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

• Top 5 Workplace Readiness Skills with Hannah Ramsey, M.A., CRC

• Pathways to Success: A Discussion About Employment Options

Breakout 3: Relationships & Leisure Activities Focus

• Dating & Romantic Relationships with Dr. Amanda Randall

• Abuse Prevention with Nicole Rada

• Get Out & Get Active!  Panel on Social & Recreational Activities, led by the ASCV & Jacob’s Chance

Your $25 registration fee includes access to the entire day of programming, lunch, and one-on-one Medicaid Waiver mentor sessions.

Pre-registration is required, and space is limited, so be sure to sign up early! Registration will close on Wednesday, April 5.