There's a lot to learn when you leave high school. Funny isn't it? Many of us think we're finished with learning when we say goodbye to our high school teachers and friends. Actually, though, when we leave school, we start a new type of learning.
It's different for everyone. Some people will be learning about jobs, transportation, and how to handle their money. Some will be learning to live with new roommates in an apartment or finding supports to help them contribute to their communities. Others might be attending job training programs or taking courses at the local community college or university.
You and your family may have questions about benefits, state IDs or learners permits and drivers training, guardianship or supported decision-making, and health care coverage. See? There really is a lot to learn!
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What's Next? is a free monthly newsletter with tips and resources about many of those issues. Issues are short and to the point. We just want to give you a few ideas and point you in the right direction.
Subscribe to What's Next? newsletter by taking this brief survey. You can either click on the link or use the QR code. And scroll down to take a look at some recent issues.
Got mixed emotions? We can relate. In those first years after you leave school it's normal to feel excited, anxious, confused, hopeful, and frustrated--maybe all on the same day. We're here to help...
Sometimes your boss (or a potential employer) may need a little help. It could be that they'd like to hire you or promote you to a job with more responsibilities, but they're concerned that it may be too challenging for you. Maybe. But maybe all you need is a workplace accommodation. What's an accommodation and how could it help you?...
Indiana is now one of five states offering Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT). You're probably already aware that transition to adult life and support services can be complicated. FEAT gives transition-age students, young adults with disabilities, families, and caregivers the chance to see beyond complications to real possibilities...
Note: Although the FEAT training described in this issue is now finished, IN*SOURCE and the Center on Community Living and Careers continue to offer FEAT periodically, throughout the year. Ask IN*SOURCE when the next training will be or check the CCLC FEAT webpage.
In the world of transition, information can help you navigate this new road you're on and open up a world of possibilities. But how do you find the right information and how can you be sure that it's coming from a source you can trust?
You may have already decided that you want to attend college or earn an academic degree. If this is your final year in school, that probably means you're graduating from an Indiana high school with either a Core 40 or a General Diploma. But if you'll be leaving school in a few years with a Certificate of Completion, does that mean you can't experience college? Not necessarily...
This month is all about funding your college or career education. You and your family already know how expensive college can be. The good news: You may be eligible for some financial help. One of the most important things you can do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA...
It's all connected--sort of. In Indiana, when a student who had been receiving Medicaid turns 18, they must first apply for Social Security benefits as an adult. It's important to know that Medicaid is considered a state benefit (funded by both Indiana and the federal government)...However, Indiana is one of many states that rely on Social Security to determine eligibility for Medicaid based on eligibility for Social Security. That's why...
In Indiana, when a student turns 18, they must reapply for benefits they may have been receiving while they were in school. Admittedly, this process will probably be one of the most challenging things on your transition to-do list. For most young adults, it will mean submitting at least three different applications. Knowing that up front, though, is half the battle. Don’t worry. In this issue...
People with disabilities have a new way to save money. That’s a big deal because traditionally, saving isn’t easy to do when you need to keep benefits like health care and other services and supports. Medicaid, Medicaid waiver supports, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from Social Security are all intended for people who have limited incomes. If you earn or save more money than Social Security or Medicaid says you should have, you could lose your benefits....
To make the transition to adult employment easier, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) made changes to federal vocational rehabilitation law and added pre-employment transition services, simply referred to as Pre-ETS, for students who have a documented disability.
In the June 2021 issue of What's Next, you learned about Pre-employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), and, as promised, with this issue (July-August) we want to follow up with what might be the next step in your employment journey. To begin, ask yourself these questions...
Indiana's WorkOne offices provide services to people who are unemployed and to those who are looking for a job. But did you know that WorkOne also has a number of programs and services that help prepare people for jobs or careers?
Seeinglife’s possibilities is often one of the biggest challenges we have during the transition to living an adult life. It’s hard to imagine what’s past the horizon when you haven’t been there yet. For that reason, let’s talk to a couple of people in the know. Meet Adria and Michael.
Person-centered planning can be a wonderful way to figure out your own “what’s next.” It’s a process that artfully blends team building, goal determination, and self-discovery.
To succeed in high school, college, or work, you’ll need executive function supports. In this issue of What’s Next?, we’ll talk a little about how to find the right supports for you and give you some suggestions and resources on how to enhance your executive functioning.
One of the biggest reasons individuals with disabilities do not seek employment is because they worry they will lose needed benefits. But this fear is often based on misinformation.
Let’s explore some common myths about working and benefits.
While Pre-Employment Transition Services provide a needed start to transition to adulthood, students with disabilities should also apply for Vocational Rehabilitation services because it provides many services for students after high school.
Although youth with disabilities often overlook summer work experiences in competitive integrated settings, they can get positive work experiences from short term summer-related goals and activities.
For high school students considering self-employment, there's a lot to understand: the process, necessary forms, marketing strategies, and much, much more.
Don't be daunted, though: Success is attainable, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, your future looks bright!
Throughout school, you’ve had an Individualized Education Program and teachers who know you have a disability and what accommodations you need. As you move from high school to what’s next, you are the one who will need to speak up for your rights.
As an adult, it’s up to you to advocate for what you need.
Job fairs are an excellent way to explore career opportunities, meet prospective employers, and practice communication and networking skills. Check out these 10 tips for making the most of a job fair.
Centers for Independent Living are a great resource if you need help living more independently but don’t know where to start. Here's how these centers got off the ground.
Thinking about what your life will be like after high school is both exciting and daunting. If crafted well, your Transition IEP will help you to succeed —Are you ready?
As individuals transition from the security and familiarity of the school system into adulthood and increased independence, the need for mental health services becomes even more vital.
When you turn 18, you have access to the rights and responsibilities of an adult. Don’t let this important change come as a surprise to you or your parents. Are you ready?
Reviewing common words and phrases used often in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will prepare you to lead your case conference and ensure you appropriately plan for the transition.
Have you enrolled in postsecondary education at a college, university, or vocational school? Can you get accommodations at your new place of higher education? How do you go about doing so?
Career suitability with ADHD depends on your unique mix of personality, strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Here are some tips to help you experience workplace success.
While none of us has a crystal ball that can tell what the future holds, taking an active role in planning for the future certainly makes good outcomes more likely. Here are some tips on how you can start planning now.
As you transition from high school and begin exploring resources and agencies, acronyms become so common. To help you navigate these new currents, we have defined a few examples you will encounter.
Many young adults with disabilities and their families fear losing needed benefits due to financial growth. But what if there were safe pathways to build for the future, without the ever-present dread of benefit loss?
To prepare for a solid job search, it's crucial to gather the right materials and ensure you’re prepared for each aspect of the process, from search to acceptance. Here’s a list of documents that will boost your chances of landing your dream job.
The employment landscape for individuals with disabilities is undergoing a dramatic change in Indiana and across the U.S. Explore the following resources for more insight on how disability employment has evolved as of late.
When you turn 18, you become responsible for making the big decisions in life—your health care, how you spend your money, where you live. Some teens look forward to taking that step into adulthood. For others, it can be a little overwhelming. Here are a few suggestions to ease the nerves.
Resilient adults face problems, handle them, and recover. All adults need to become successfully resilient, and like all skills, it’s something you can practice and learn. Here are a few suggestions on how to be resilient.
Earning and saving money can give you more choices in life. However, it can be difficult if you're trying to maintain access to benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). An ABLE account can help you save money while you maintain your benefits. Here are some updates and tips regarding ABLE accounts.
If you are significantly affected by a disability, you have the right to work in inclusive settings and earn at least the minimum wage like everyone else. Agencies and professionals are available to help with a variety of services on your journey to employment. Here are a few suggestions on how to navigate any challenges you may encounter when obtaining those supports and services.
Planning the next chapter of your life involves some awareness about the transition process and a few key steps you'll want to take to successfully make the move to employment and adult life. Here are some suggestions and planning tools to ensure you are getting what you need.
Individuals with disabilities seeking community-based employment often face information overload. The Center on Community Living and Careers (CCLC) is addressing this challenge by offering a comprehensive toolkit, "Essential Resources for Transitioning to Competitive Integrated Employment." This resource empowers individuals to navigate their job search effectively.
Ready to build a career that excites you and aligns with your goals? The Family Employment First Coalition (FEFC) has your back! We're empowering young adults with disabilities to own their futures through competitive, integrated employment. We advocate for fair wages, equal benefits, and meaningful work alongside your colleagues. Our roadmap connects you with the resources and support to make it happen.
Once you turn 18, you’re legally an adult. This could affect your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid benefits. Don’t let these important changes come as a surprise to you or your parents. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll learn how getting a job, staying in school, and changes in your income can impact your benefits.
Learning to navigate transportation options can boost independence and open up new opportunities. Before deciding, consider factors such as safety, accessibility, and dependability. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll discover valuable problem-solving skills, learn how to navigate your environment better, and choose transportation options tailored to your needs.
Thinking about your future living situation can be exciting and daunting. By taking some time to consider your ideal lifestyle, needs, and goals, you can make informed decisions and find the perfect place to call home. This issue of What’s Next?, includes a questionnaire to help guide you through this process. Remember, with the right planning and support, you can successfully navigate this transition and create a fulfilling future.
Financial planning is important. We all need to budget for expenses like furniture, moving costs, rent, utilities, and entertainment like eating out or even vacations. In Issue No. 51 of What’s Next?, you answered a list of questions designed to help determine your ideal housing situation. This month, you’ll learn more about budgeting, saving money, and reaching your personal living goals.
Ready to earn a competitive wage and build a fulfilling career? Competitive integrated employment (CIE) offers a path to meaningful work in your community. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll discover the benefits of pursuing CIE and learn how this path can lead to a bright future and thriving work environment. Did you know CIE benefits employers too? From supporting innovation to improving customer relationships, CIE leads to a more inclusive and productive work environment.
Summer is a few months away! Now is the perfect time to start planning for your future and exploring resources that can help you achieve your employment goals. This month's issue of 'What's Next?' outlines foundational tools that will support your future career aspirations. As you evaluate the transition planning tools, be sure to include your family and support team in the discussion.
Transition case conferences are mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and focus on preparing students with IEPs for life after high school. These annual meetings, typically occur when you’re 17 years old and address postsecondary goals in employment, education, and community living. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll learn how to be an active participant in this process.
Beyond the sun and fun, summer is a great time for you to shape your future. In Indiana, you'll find summer camps that teach you new skills, college visits to explore education, and career centers to help you find a job. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, we’ve included resources to support your journey in gaining independence, confidence, and essential life skills for life after graduation.
Ever wondered how to make your strengths shine after high school? Your transition portfolio holds the key! This dynamic tool opens doors to jobs and opportunities that align with your personal goals. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll learn how to present your strengths, explore alternative uses for your portfolio, and understand its benefits for others.
Have you started planning for what comes after school? Like what you'll do for work or living on your own? Making a smooth transition from school to adulthood is like being on a team! You're the most important player, but you’ll also need your family, friends, teachers, and transition team’s help. In this month’s issue of What’s Next?, you’ll learn how to identify your higher-level needs and find links for assessments to complete alone or with your transition team.
