There is significant linguistic and cultural diversity within the population of refugees with disabilities in Arizona. In this panel discussion, we will identify the specific challenges in service access for refugees with disabilities in our state. Panel members are collaborating with the Sonoran Center in the project titled, Elevating Refugee Perspectives about Access to Disability Services in Arizona.
Key Learning Outcomes
Attendees at this session will be able to:
1. Identify 3 barriers to disability service provision for refugees with disabilities in Arizona
2. Describe resources available for refugees with disabilities in Arizona
3. Use the information and resources provided to create linkages for refugees with disabilities.
Presentation Materials
Adults and youth with disabilities struggle with the thought of entering and/or returning to work. Many individuals do not realize that benefits do not end; actually, they just shift. There are numerous work incentives that assist individuals to achieve financial wellness and independent living. Pathways to Further Education Employment and Independent Living through Benefits Management illustrates discusses some of the untapped resources that can support your decision to take that first step. It will include much needed information regarding Social Security rules, Social Security benefits, healthcare, and employment. We will provide information on how you can gain free access a Community Work Incentives Coordinator that can help with this transition to employment and/or post secondary education.
Key Learning Outcomes
1. Learn about savings programs that will allow one to save earned income and not count as resources against one’s Social
Security cash benefits while working.
2. How to retain healthcare benefits when one has returned to work.
3. Learn about work incentives and safety nets that can be used when considering employment without losing one’s benefits.
4. Learn about savings accounts specifically for individuals with disabilities.
5. Learn about post secondary education and how to fund it.
Public policy related to disability services is influenced by a range of factors. Among the most important is the role of advocacy and self-advocacy – yet for many people the notion of taking part in advocacy activities is either mysterious, misunderstood, intimidating, or downright terrifying. This session will offer a straightforward understanding of advocacy and self-advocacy, explain the difference between advocating and lobbying, provide examples of how advocates from all walks of life have contributed to significant policy improvements for the disability community, and address the fundamental right and responsibility for advocates to make their voices heard.
Key Learning Outcomes
1. Participants will gain a broad understanding of past and present public policy advocacy/self-advocacy focused on individuals with disabilities.
2. Participants will expand their knowledge of a range of effective public policy advocacy/self-advocacy methods.
3. Participants will increase their level of comfort and expertise in acting as disability policy advocates/self-advocates in the future.
Presentation Materials
This presentation will highlight link between accessibility best practices, disability culture, and assistive technology. By promoting disability as a culture and identity we can shift away from disability as something medical to be fixed or cured, hidden or pitied. The shift in understanding will expose audience members to the attitudinal and environmental barriers faced by disabled people as we look for ways to embrace disability as a culture. Specific strategies will be shared to reduce the stigma associated with assistive technology.
Key Learning Outcomes
1. Audience members will be able to recognize and investigate structures and discourse which support and promote inclusive practices.
2. Audience members will be able to identify specific ways to embrace disability culture
3. Audience members will be able to gain knowledge around stigma and AT use.
Presentation Materials
