Holding The Compass: A Family Guide To The Transition Years

When your child with a disability approaches adulthood, your role as a parent or guardian shifts in new and sometimes unexpected ways. This six-part series is built to support families through the transition years with encouragement, actionable steps, and fresh ways to imagine what’s next. Sessions will help parents and guardians understand the adult service system in New Jersey, explore inclusive college options, balance advocacy with fostering independence, navigate SSI/Medicaid while supporting employment, and make informed choices about guardianship and alternatives. Just as importantly, you’ll learn how to prepare yourself emotionally and practically for the changes these years bring. Whether you’re just beginning to think about transition or already in the thick of it, this series will give you strategies and reassurance to move forward with confidence.

Step In or Step Back? - The Evolving Dynamics of School Partnerships - January 12, 2026 I 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm I Zoom - Register Here

SSI, Medicaid, and Work: Setting Your Child up for Employment Success - February 9, 2026 I 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm  Zoom - Register Here

Beyond Guardianship - Exploring Decision-Making Options at 18 - March 9, 2026 I 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm I Zoom - Register Here

Navigating the Medical Insurance Maze for Adults with Intellectual and

Developmental Disabilitie 

       November 6, 2025 from 9:30 am to 1:15 pm

A half day virtual conference for parents, caregivers, family members, direct support staff, and professionals who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

This event will include:

     *  A keynote presentation discussing the impact of H.R.1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” on Medicaid and health care            in New Jersey;

     *  One workshop session highlighting Medicaid Fair Hearing, including an overview of the appeals process and how                best to approach a reduction or termination of Medicaid services or Medicaid enrollment;  

    *  A second workshop session highlighting “Dual Eligibility” - enrollment in both the Medicaid and Medicare programs,           how Medicaid helps reduce Medicare cost-sharing, and the requirement of creditable drug coverage. 

Register Here

Look to the Future: Transition from School to Adult Life

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Online

This workshop will discuss issues relating to transitioning from school to adult life for individuals with disabilities - identifying outcomes, and developing goals as part of the IEP process.

Parents and students will become knowledgeable regarding resources in the community in order to build supportive linkages and ensure a dignified life as contributing citizens.

 Register Here

Live Q&A Sessions About Transition Services

November 17 and December 8 @ 7 PM

Join us for a 30-minute LIVE Q&A Session with Trainer and Support Coordinator Supervisor, Trisha Bailey.

Here’s a chance for you to ask your questions pertaining to transitioning your child into adult services. Questions regarding:

• The DDD Eligibility Process
• Differences Between DDD Waiver Programs
• The NJCAT Assessment
• The DDD Budget
• Services Available through DDD
• Support Coordination
• Guardianship
• Anything else you can think of!

Register Here

An Overview of SSI & Medicaid for Individuals with IDD Transitioning into Adulthood"

Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 7pm-8pm

SSI and Medicaid are not only two of the more important components of transitioning to adult life, they are two of the most intimidating. But they don't have to be! Connor Griffin will take you through the details - step by step - of what these services are and how to attain them in clear (and calming) terms. This is a must-see for all parents with children under the age of 18!

Register Here 

New CAPE Chat Podcast

Social Skills Spotlight with JDK Station

Join Nicole as she chats with Jenna and Donna from JDK Station about their social skills programs!

JDK Station offers a variety of services designed to help individuals thrive, including social skills groups, an engaging summer camp, and private ABA services tailored to meet individual needs.

Tune in to hear how their innovative programs empower children to build confidence, make connections and develop lifelong skills!

Click Here to listen to Podcast 

Click here to visit website

Support Group for Parents and Caregivers of Children and young Adults 

        The 2nd Tuesday and Thursday of the month, 7:30-8:30 pm

The group meets virtually the 2nd Tuesday and Thursday of every month at 7:30 pm. It is facilitated by Lauren Lavelle, a parent coach and professional in the field of disabilities. Parenting a child or youth with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities presents unique challenges as well as many joys. The group offers emotional support and resources as you share your experiences with other parents/caregivers.

Register Here

The ARC Calander of Events

These calendars highlight activities that could assist you in various areas.   You can view current or upcoming month's activities.

Click here to reach the calander

Ready to Transition into DDD and Adult Life but not sure what steps to take next?

Join Disability Services & Advocacy, LLC, Support Coordination Agency, as their panelist of experts host a free informational webinar and Q & A Session.

This live online webinar will contain valuable information for individuals, family members, and providers. This webinar will give you a step-by-step roadmap to guide your transition from school-age to DDD and adult life.  

This is a pre-recorded webinar. 

 Register Here 

Get Free Digital Skills Training

AT&T, The Arc, and The Arc San Francisco have teamed up to produce digital skills training for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Workshops are available in person in 26 regions and online nationwide. Training covers getting started with computers and mobile devices, navigating websites and search engines, online safety, and more.

Click Here 

To Get Started