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

We've changed the look of our newsletter! Scroll down and keep reading to get June updates and information.

For additional information about services and supports, please visit https://www.mylifemycommunityvirginia.org.

Thank you, and happy summer!
IFSP Staff
We know that navigating the developmental disability system can be hard for families. Not sure where to start? Read our “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/IFSPFirstSteps, or use your mobile device to scan the QR code here.
Looking for the most recent update on the IFSP-Funding Program? All funding updates will be sent via this email listserv and posted on our My Life, My Community website. Read the most recent announcement about IFSP-Funding.
IFSP Programming and Services
  • Save the date: Our next Coordinated Regional Council meeting will take place on Thursday, September 16th from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Watch this space for the details later this summer!
  • Peer Mentoring Program: The Arc of Virginia's peer mentors 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
DBHDS’s Office of Integrated Health (OIH) distributes health and safety alerts that emphasize the unique needs of people with developmental disabilities.
June Newsletter Highlights

  • Adult Dental Coverage: Beginning on July 1st, all adults over 21 years of age who have Medicaid coverage will have access to dental coverage through DentaQuest. This coverage includes cleanings, fillings, dentures, and more! Call DentaQuest at 888-912-3456, or visit vahealthcatalyst.org/AdultDentalBenefit.
OIH Provider Trainings
  • The Fatal Seven: This training takes place on Thursday, July 15th at 10 a.m. Sign up here.

  • Direct Support Professionals Oral Health Training: Attend this free virtual training from DBHDS and the Virginia Department of Health's Dental Health Program on Tuesday, July 20th from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This training is limited to 75 participants, so save your space now!
Virtual Events and Trainings for Families
Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV)
  • Omnium Circus Online: There's still time to join DSANV on Thursday, July 8th at 7 p.m. for an online viewing of the Omnium Circus. This inclusive circus features performers of different abilities. You'll be able to watch the circus and join a one-hour conversation with one performer. Each ticket is $25 per family; buy yours here.
ADDitude
  • 9 Ways to Prime Your Child for a Positive School Year: Students and families are preparing to transition from online learning and back into the classroom. Get some tips to start the new school year strong in this ADHD Expert Webinar on Thursday, July 15th at 1 p.m. Learn more and register.
Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)
  • Critical Decision Points for Families of Children with Disabilities: VDOE's two-night event takes place on Tuesday, July 27th and Tuesday, August 3rd from 6 to 8 p.m. Before the new school year begins, learn how to find the keys to your child's academic success, and how you can make the most informed decisions possible. This event is free, but registration is limited to 100 participants, so sign up today.
The Arc of Virginia
  • Statewide Convention 2021: The Arc of Virginia's annual convention will be held from August 9th through 12th. This year's event will be virtual once again, with the theme "Within Our Power." Tickets are $65, and some scholarships are available. Register now!
Federal Communications Commission
  • Emergency Broadband Benefit: Access to internet service has been critical during the pandemic. Find out if your household is eligible for this benefit, and how you can apply! Watch this video, or get information and training materials.
Summer Learning and Summer Safety Highlights
Summer Learning
  • Autism Society of Central Virginia and Eliza Hope Foundation Social Skills Group: This social skills group for children 3 to 6 years old will be held each Tuesday from July 13th to August 17th. Preschoolers and kindergartners with autism will practice and develop social, communication, and interpersonal skills. Register here. There are limited scholarships available; to learn more about scholarships or if you have other questions, email info@ascv.org.

  • How to Keep Kids Reading this Summer: The Child Mind Institute shares a few tips on preventing the "summer slide" before your reader returns to the classroom. The summer months can be a great time to encourage and develop new skills, interests, and confidence.
Summer Safety
  • Autism and Wandering Prevention Tips: Children and adults with autism are prone to wandering. The National Autism Association's tip sheet shows how you can prevent wandering and respond to potential danger in your home and community, and teach safety skills. Get the tip sheet in English and Spanish.

  • 3 Ways People with Disabilities Can Beat the Heat this Summer: For many people with chronic conditions and disabilities, summer heat can be uncomfortable at best and cause flare-ups at worst. A community member at The Mighty shares three products that help her stay cool.

Pride Month Highlights
Center for Family Involvement at Virginia Commonwealth University
  • When Being Out and Proud is Complicated: June 18th is Autistic Pride Day. A guest blogger writes about the joy and complexity of pride as someone who is queer and autistic.
Rooted in Rights
  • Finding Disabled Transgender Pride: A guest blogger shares some of their experiences in navigating the similarities and disconnects between their transgender and disabled identities.
disAbility Law Center of Virginia (dLCV)
  • The Intersection of Transgender/Disability: If you have not listened to dLCV's "Rights Here, Rights Now!" podcast, you can catch up now! This episode from December highlights some data and research on the intersection of the transgender and disability communities in Virginia. Listen to the episode and get the transcript.
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 https://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
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.
 
If you liked the information in this digest, be sure to follow us on Facebook by clicking the icon below. To receive more frequent updates about news in your community, like and follow your regional IFSP Council’s Facebook page. (Not sure which region you're in? Find out on My Life, My Community!)