April 2023

Utah Disability Today

The official newsletter of the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice

Phone: (435) 797-1981

You received this monthly newsletter because you are a friend of the Institute for Disability. Keep reading for news, resources, events, and job openings!

NEWS

Executive Director Matthew Wappett is the project lead. Autumn Cuellar is the student mentor.

New IDRPP Program Supports STEM Students With Disabilities

At USU, TAPDINTO-STEM is spearheaded by the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice. The initiative began because students with disabilities are underrepresented in STEM fields. Student Mentor Autumn Cuellar said she wants other students to enjoy the support she had. “I just wanted to give what I received.”

Guest Post: Sibling Memories

"I remember chasing my brothers around the kitchen in my walker. My younger brother and I played computer games together. When we played catch, they had to do all the running to get the ball when I dropped it. Neither one will admit to playing with Barbies at the kitchen table with me. I never felt disabled when playing with them. They figured out how to play with me according to my abilities."

Read about Kirsten's sibling experience on our blog.

Free ECHO Sessions for Mental Health/DD providers launch May 15

Starting May 15, a new Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice ECHO project will provide free instruction and professional development for those who serve clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also have mental health concerns. Find out more and register on our website.

DDNJ Podcast: Disability Decolonized

“Self-determination is vital, and the application of it in the disability community is choice in education, choice in services, choice in every aspect of their life,” said Rabang. “And for tribal populations, tribal sovereignty is self-determination for them.”

Nathan Rabang and Vanessa Hiratsuka discussed the decolonization of disability among indigenous communities.Read and listen on our blog.

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EVENTS

ACRE Employment Specialist Training - Online

May 2-4

$200

Early ECHO: Behavior - Part 1 with Ashley Stewart

May 3

For more information, visit the Early Echo website

FREE

WebAIM Web Accessibility Virtual Training

May 3-4

$500/person, $400/person for groups of 2+

Project SCOPE: Trauma and Language Development

May 10

For more information, visit the Project SCOPE website

FREE

Workplace Support Training - Southern Utah

May 10

Completion of online modules required in advance

$25

Saturday Mornings with the NRCP: Effective Behavior Management Strategies for the Classroom

May 13

$25

Mental Health and Intellectual Developmental Disabilities: Education for Disability Providers - Dual Diagnosis

May 15

FREE

Cache Valley Caregiver Workshop

May 24

FREE

Workplace Support Training - Northern Utah

May 24

Completion of online modules required in advance

$25

CAREERS WITHIN IDRPP

Visit the new "Work With Us" section on our website.

RESOURCES

Early ECHO: Family Experiences Navigating the Autism World

Three different moms share their experiences of finding out their child had Autism. They discuss what they wish medical and educational providers knew, barriers they faced, and successes their children had.

Andy Andersen's Story: Finding Success at Work

Andy Andersen talks about his experience interviewing for and getting a job. Despite his learning disability, he has been able to thrive at work thanks to assistive technology, vocal rehabilitation, and supportive co-workers.

MJ's Story: Waiting for DSPD Services

MJ describes the struggle of waiting on DSPD services.

A Parent's Guide to Autism

This guide was developed as part of Autism Speaks' series of Family Support Tool Kits to support you and promote a positive future for your child and family.

Autism Assistance Resources and Information

This website helps parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to find grants, treatment funding, financial assistance, and other resources to help their children thrive.

Pathways for Parents Training Series

The National Autism Center at May Institute is hosting FREE virtual trainings for parents and caregivers. This informational training series is presented by clinical experts in the field of Autism.