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.

Adult Services 101 - What Happens After Graduation? - October 20, 2025 I 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm  Zoom - Register Here

College is Possible - Exploring Inclusive Options After High School - November 17, 2025 I 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm I Zoom - Register Here

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, 2025 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

Transitioning to Adulthood for Students with Special Needs: Guardianship, Special Needs Planning, and the DDD Application Process 

October 15 @ 7 pm.

This webinar will provide an overview of some of the most important steps to take when planning for a loved one's adult life.  

                                                                                   Register Here

Navigating the Disability Safety Net : SSI, State Supports and More Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 6:30 PM

Join us for a parent-friendly discussion of the SSI and DDD application process. Real talk, no jargon, minimal alphabet soup.

Topics to be discussed:

• Learn the rules to see if your child will qualify for SSI, federal disability support system
• Get tips about the best way to apply for services
• Prepare the year before with evaluations and finances
• Get facts about additional supports from your state
• Choose the best use for those funds

Register Here 

SPAN's Annual Early Childhood Virtual Conference

October 28, 29, and 30

SPAN's 2nd Annual Early Childhood Conference will be held this fall. Our Early Childhood team is planning virtual sessions for families and others geared towards professionals. All sessions will be available in English and in Spanish.

 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

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