As we emerged from the pandemic, most of our events were held in person this year. We are pleased to share the recorded events below to watch at your convenience.
5/6/2024: Finding a Forever Home
Life Services Alternatives’ parent panel will guide you through essential roadmaps for parents, providing insights on navigating the regional center system, understanding insurance and Social Security considerations, managing time frames, and setting realistic expectations. The panelists will share their experiences, shedding light on how to initiate the process, the steps involved, and the challenges encountered. Discover resources, gain an understanding of the regional center, and learn effective research tips to ensure a successful journey toward securing a forever home for your loved one.
5/8/2024: Transitioning From Home Into Community Housing
This webinar discusses the challenges and opportunities of housing individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The emotional aspect of saying goodbye to loved ones, the growth pains experienced by both parents and children, and insights on navigating regional centers, insurance, and Social Security were highlighted. Panelists will address questions such as determining the “right time” for transition, personal experiences with navigating regional centers, initiating the process, and letting go of children. Participants will receive practical advice on resources, research tips, and the duration of the transition. The goal is to support families in their journey toward independent living for individuals with IDD.
5/10/2024: Types of Housing
Explore the spectrum of housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities in California in this parent webinar. Addressing intentional communities, Supported Living Services (SLS), Independent Living Services (ILS), Community Care Facilities (CCF), and ARFPSHNs, our panelists – seasoned parents and advocates – will discuss essential questions regarding the differences between these housing types, the role of intentional communities, and how each caters to the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Gain practical insights into considerations, successful examples, and necessary modifications when planning various housing options within the IDD community. This webinar aims to provide families with straightforward information, providing a clearer understanding of diverse and tailored housing solutions for their loved ones.
5/14/2024: Implementing Displacement-Focused Housing Preferences | Affordable Housing Month Panel
The City of Berkeley recently implemented a suite of housing preferences that prioritize particular households when they apply for affordable housing opportunities in the city. Rather than a preference policy focused on those who live or work in Berkeley – which does not result in equitable outcomes – the City prioritizes households with children and those who were impacted by BART construction, foreclosures, eviction, historic redlining, or homelessness. With the complexity of implementing layers of housing preferences, the City turned to the Doorway Housing Portal, built on Bloom Housing, to develop a seamless digital application process including geo-based features that allow applicants and property managers to determine eligibility. The technology, in the hands of organizations like Healthy Black Families, will allow for better outreach to families eligible for housing preferences to apply for and gain housing in Berkeley. This panel will include speakers from the City of Berkeley, Healthy Black Families, and Resources for Community Development (RCD) – with moderation from BAHFA/Doorway.