Transition Planning
Self Determination & Advocacy
As students exit high school they will need to be able to advocate for themselves when making their own decisions and requesting accommodations. Whether a student is employed in college or with an adult service provider, being able to make decisions for oneself and then advocate for them to others is important.
Youth in high school: You can start by being prepared for your next IEP meeting. Be ready to look at the IEP before the meeting and then express your goals for the future. Next, tell the rest of the IEP Team what you think you need to reach those goals. This is the first step in determining your future after high school.
As youth and their parents figure out how to make the transition from parent advocacy to youth led decision making, there are multiple resources to assist in the journey. For more information on self determination and advocacy, visit the Maryland Transitioning Youth Website.
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Program Spotlight
Centers for Independent Living
Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are private, consumer controlled, nonprofit, nonresidential organizations that are designed and operated within local communities by individuals with disabilities. This means that at least 51 percent of the board of directors and staff at every center is a person with a disability.
CILs have years of experience in peer mentoring and independent living skills training. They provide an array of independent living services including information and referral; individual and systems advocacy; benefits counseling; and nursing home transition. In addition, many CILs provide services and programming specifically designed for transition aged youth. The Independent Living philosophy emphasizes consumer control: the idea that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own needs; have crucial and valuable perspectives to contribute; and deserve equal opportunity to decide how to live, work and play in their communities.
For more information on the services offered in your area, contact the CIL serving your county.
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Notices
2014 Youth Leadership Forum
Applications for this year's YLF will be posted in INSERT DATE
Click here for regular updates, including how to apply
For all other announcements, visit us on Facebook.
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