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IFSP provides a monthly news digest to highlight resources, events, and trainings that may be of interest to self-advocates and families.


For additional information about services and supports, please visit mylifemycommunityvirginia.org.


Thank you,

IFSP Staff

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IFSP Announcements

IFSP-Funding Update

IMPORTANT: Please read this announcement for the latest information about the upcoming IFSP-Funding cycle!


Reminder: All Funding updates will be sent via this mailing list and posted on our My Life, My Community website.

IFSP Needs Your Feedback!

IFSP's Annual Satisfaction Survey helps us learn more about the individuals and families on the waitlist, including those who have applied for IFSP-Funding. This survey should be completed by or on behalf of individuals who are currently on the waitlist. We also want to hear from individuals who applied for IFSP-Funding prior to October 5, 2021.

The survey should take about 10 minutes to complete. Again, your input will help us better assist you and your family.


The survey is now open through this Monday, February 6th. You can access the survey by using your mobile device to scan the QR code above, or by visiting https://tinyurl.com/IFSPAnnualSurveyFY22. Thank you!

  • IFSP Regional Council Recruitment: If you've been curious about joining IFSP's Regional Councils, 2023 could be your year! After a one-year pause, we are excited to share that we are recruiting for our Regional Councils. To learn more about the Council's history, regions, and Councilmember roles, please visit My Life, My Community. To submit your Council application, please complete our form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/IFSPCouncils2023; the form will be open through Friday, February 10th. For questions, please email us at IFSPCommunity@dbhds.virginia.gov. We hope to have you on board!


  • Peer Mentoring Program: Peer mentors at The Arc of Virginia are ready to meet you and help you achieve your goals! Learn more about the program and eligibility requirements at The Arc. For questions, email Natasha Cooper at ncooper@thearcofva.org.

DBHDS Office of Integrated Health

Newsletter Highlight

February 2023 OIH Caregiver Trainings

Get more details and registration information about the trainings below (and more!) through this link.

  • Diabetes Part 1: Tuesday, February 7th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Skin Integrity & Pressure Injuries: Thursday, February 9th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Nutrition Part 2: Tuesday, February 21st from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Transfers Training: Thursday, February 23rd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Opportunities, Events, and Resources for Providers

ACL.gov (Administration for Community Living)

  • CMS Resources on Strengthening the Direct Care Workforce: This week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have released a free online training course for direct care workers (also called direct service workers). There are four self-guided modules that offer strategies and information on self-direction of home and community-based services, strengthening the direct service workforce (DSW) in rural areas, and emerging strategies for states.

Opportunities, Events, and Resources for Self-Advocates and Families

Partnership for People with Disabilities at VCU

  • Developing a Person-Centered Health Profile for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: People with disabilities experience substantially poorer health outcomes than their non-disabled peers. This free webinar takes place on Wednesday, February 15th at 11 a.m. It is designed for professionals and family members who would like to learn how to become a person-centered health partner and empower someone to become more involved in their healthcare decisions. Participants will learn how to use person-centered approaches to become a responsible health partner, and to develop a one-page health profile to be shared with medical staff. Sign up here!

LEAP (Leadership and Empowerment for Abuse Prevention)

  • LEAP for Teens training: LEAP's healthy relationships trainings for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have been adapted for teens! This winter, your teen can choose from one of three free, online training series that works best for them. Get the dates and registration QR codes in the flyer. For questions, email ppdleap@vcu.edu.

Virginia Telemental Health Initiative (VTMHI)

  • Virtual counseling services: DBHDS proud to be part of this initiative, which brings free telemental health services to individuals in Virginia who do not have insurance or are underinsured. Visit the VTMHI website to learn more about how to access services through participating free and charitable clinics at https://virginiatelementalhealth.org/accesscare

COVID-19 Information and Resources

While IFSP has done our best to share information on COVID-19 resources, this information is not a substitute for medical advice. Stay up to date and visit virginia.gov/coronavirus.

  • The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) launched a COVID-19 toolkit for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The toolkit includes tip sheets for caregivers and providers, and is also available in Spanish. Find it here!

IFSP Resources

We know that navigating the developmental disability system can be hard for families. Not sure where to start? Read our newly-updated “IFSP: First Steps” guide to learn about the IFSP program at DBHDS and other important resources, supports, and services offered in the Commonwealth of Virginia! Visit https://tinyurl.com/IFSP-FirstSteps, or use your mobile device to scan the QR code here.

Thank you for reading the IFSP Digest!

IFSP is always looking for more newsletter recommendations! What organizations would you like to see featured? What should we subscribe to? Please send your suggestions to IFSPCom@dbhds.virginia.gov.


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