As caregivers, we rely on the support of other caregivers to:

• Help us learn how to navigate a complex system
• Share our stories and
• Discuss our challenges.

Caregiving is a lifelong journey that no one understands, unless they have experienced it. This program offers education, support, and socialization for caregivers caring for a loved one with a disability. 

There is a focus on those caring for a loved one with a developmental disability, but all are welcome.



We hope you will consider joining us.

June 2026

Caregiver Education Sessions

** PLEASE READ **

DAWN’s Caregiver Connection & Support Program, which brings you this caregiver education series, is funded by a grant from the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming. The funding that DAWN receives to provide this program is directly tied to how many caregivers attend our Zoom sessions live. We will ensure that you receive the available information regardless of your attendance, but please help support us by joining the Zoom sessions live whenever you are able to do so.

Navigating the DDD Service System: Services & Supports    

Presenter:

Christina Gonzalez, Supervisor, Office of Transition to Adult Life & Employment,

Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities

If you are wondering what services and supports your loved one’s DDD budget can provide, this presentation will help you navigate DDD’s service system! The presentation will provide a brief overview of the eligibility process to receive services through DDD, support coordination, and person-centered planning, and then share detailed information about the many specific services and supports available through the DDD Supports Program & Community Care Program.

Caregivers will be able to ask questions at the end of the presentation.

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Register in advance for this meeting:

Caregiver Recreation Activity:

Dinner Out at Bruno's Bistro

Come join us for a relaxing and fun dinner out at Bruno’s Bistro, located in the Pelican Plaza at 2900 Route 10 West in Morris Plains. Space is limited so spots will be given to the first 10 caregivers who register. Each caregiver will pay her/his own way. Here’s to good company, tasty food, and an opportunity to unwind and connect with other caregivers – we hope to see you there!

*Please only register for the event if you truly plan to join us.*

(If more than 10 caregivers register for dinner, we will keep a waiting list and contact the next person on the list should any openings occur.)

Thursday, June 25, 2026

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Register in advance for this meeting:

As this is an in-person event, the Zoom link accompanying your approved registration will not be needed. All future communication concerning the dinner will come from Julie Ferguson via email.

Caregiver News Corner

 Insider NJ article: Governor Sherrill Appoints Lisa Montalbano as

Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Click here to read the article.

Click here for the webpage of the Office of the Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families

 Webinar & In Person Event– State Leadership Panel:

Supporting People with I/DD Across the Lifespan

Saturday, June 20th from 9am-12:30pm

Sharing from the New Jersey Regional Family Support Planning Councils:

“Join us for a conversation with state leaders on supports and services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This cross-department panel will provide an overview of each agency’s role in the service system, highlight current priorities and initiatives, and discuss emerging trends and challenges impacting individuals with I/DD and their families. Panelists will explore how services evolve across the lifespan, from childhood to adulthood, and share insights on opportunities for improved coordination and support.”

To register, click here.

**Take Disability Rights New Jersey’s Public Input Survey**

The purpose of the survey is to gather information and opinions that will help their

 organization’s leadership set their 2027 priorities, goals, and objectives for the protection and advocacy of individuals with disabilities.

Click here for the link to the survey.

If you are new to our caregiver programming, Julie Ferguson, DAWN’s Caregiver Support Coordinator, will reach out to you to welcome you to the program, share information, and answer any questions you may have.

Please contact Julie Ferguson at (862) 753-7424 for further information.

This program is supported by Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming. Contributions are gladly accepted. Contributions are voluntary and are not required to participate in this programming.