NAQ is offering 49 breakout sessions for attendees to choose from – each attendee will have the opportunity to attend up to 8 breakout sessions during the conference (for a total of 8.25 hours of in room learning).  The 49 sessions being offered are:

 1.       “Shaping Choice While Balancing Risk” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Making choices is an essential part of being an independent person. Our choices give us a voice, highlight our individuality, create opportunity, and give us power. As service providers, developing opportunities for choice making for those we provide services to often has significant barriers; however, it is essential that we make this a priority of service delivery. The importance of creating these opportunities, when and how to do so, and ways to address the barriers and risks involved will be discussed. Information presented will focus on using manageable, effective, systematic strategies for addressing choice making across service settings.

Biography:  Jenifer Russell has worked with people with disabilities for more than 25 years in a variety of capacities and environments across the lifespan. She has been a certified behavior analyst since 2008, first as a BCaBA, then as a BCBA. She has worked in clinic, in-home and community based settings, as well as in both public and private school settings. Jenifer is currently employed at Trinity Services, Inc. as a behavior analyst in a residential CILA department serving 90 people with intellectual disabilities, mental health diagnoses and dual diagnoses. Jenifer is a certified Safety Care trainer as well as an adjunct instructor at the Chicago School for Professional Psychology teaching and supervising graduate students in the Applied Behavior Analysis department. Her specialties are functional communication training, toilet training and severe challenging behavior reduction.

De Priessa Fikes received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Chicago State University in 2001, all while working as an Independent Living Counselor for Trinity Services Inc.  De Priessa moved into a leadership position as a team leader with Trinity where she supervised staff that cared for the people served.  In 2007, DePriessa took on the position as a QDDP and became a member of the National Association of QDDP’s.  De Priessa has dedicated her energy as a QDDP to helping people with disabilities flourish and live full lives.  After many years of services to those with disabilities, De Priessa continues to seek growth in order to better the lives of  those we serve.

 2.       “Electronic Visit Verification (EVV): What you need to know and do!” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: The 21st Century Cures Act requires Electronic Visit and Verification (EVV) to be used for any Medicaid-funded personal care services provided on or after January 1, 2019, in order for states to maintain full federal match. This applies to all waiver and state plan personal care services. Come learn and share what is going on in your state as well as discussing solutions to assist with this mandate.

Biography:  Michelle Saunders is currently employed as a Business Development Consultant for Therap in six states.  She provides Webinars, Information Sessions and onsite presentations to agencies that are interested in switching to electronic documentation.  She graduated from Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA with a degree in Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education. 

3.       “Succeeding Through Failure: A Collaborative Approach to Behavioral Challenges” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: The information presented will focus on creating a team that flourishes together. This can be accomplished by using each other’s experiences and input to problem solve when working with people with significant behavioral challenges, finding and emulating bright spots, and promoting a positive culture. The format of this presentation is discussion and lecture based, including an activity to steer your team towards a solution-driven approach. Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to (1) identify personal resilience techniques, (2) discuss recognizing negative personal language choices and determine helpful modifications, (3) define and create modes of recognition for your agency and (4) develop goals on how to become more supportive team member.

Biography:  Samantha Barrett has worked with people with developmental disabilities for 11 years in various settings. She began her career working with children and adolescents in special recreation and as a special education teacher in Chicago Public Schools for several years. After learning more about behavior analysis from a conference, Samantha left her job as a teacher and began a graduate program at Aurora University to obtain her master’s degree in Behavior Analysis.  During her practicum, Samantha worked with young children diagnosed with autism providing in-home and community-based services. Currently, Samantha works as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) for Trinity Services, Inc. providing behavioral supports and services to adults with intellectual disabilities and dual diagnoses. Samantha is also a certified Safety-Care trainer though QBS and a member of her organizations’ assistive technology committee.

MaryFaith Vaughan is a Qualified Developmental Disability Professional with Trinity Services.  In this role, she responsibilities such as:

  • Facilitate Treatment and Service Plan staffings to promote Personal Outcomes.
  • Preserve superb records as evidenced by successful completion of BQM, BALC, and CQL surveys.
  • Attend conferences and take on additional responsibilities as a commitment to personal growth.

She holds a BA from Creighton University in Psychology and is certified as a QBS Safety Care Certified Instructor.

 4.       “Managing the Triple “A” Problem (ADHD, ASD and ANXIETY): Solving the behavior and emotional problems of intellectual disabilities by diagnosing and treating the co-existing conditions of adult Attention Disorder Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The emotional and behavioral problems of peoples with developmental disabilities and intellectual limitations may also be affected by co-existing conditions of adult ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and anxiety. Uncovering and treating these “Triple A” problems provides an opportunity for innovative treatment pathways. This session will equip the provider to identify and manage these complicating disorders to improve mental and physical health care outcomes. Both medical and non-medical therapies will be discussed.

Biography:  Jim Lewis, MD, is board certified in both Pediatrics and Neurodevelopment Disabilities and a professor of Pediatrics at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University in Huntington, WV. As director of the ADHD Center and Resident Behavior -Developmental Teaching Program, his practice is devoted exclusively to children with school and behavior problems. He has lectured and published in this field and have a book enTitled ADHD + Coexisting Conditions: A Guidebook for Parents, Teachers and Counselors scheduled for publication by High Tide Press in fall 2017.  Jim and his wife are proud parents of six children, two with ADHD.

5.       “Mentoring Employees for Long Term Retention” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: Want to turn your workplace culture around? Then a mentoring program may be for you! Once new hires are brought on staff, retaining them for the long term becomes a serious challenge. Between learning the job and integrating with the current staff, new employees often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their job and their place within the company. In this session, we discuss strategies for integrating new staff into the work environment. Effective employee mentoring can transform the workplace culture to the benefit of your individuals and create a fun work environment for all!

Biography:  Joel Cade is a QIDP at Echoing Woods Residential Center in Dayton, OH.  In this role he has managed 16 ICF cases, served as investigative agent doing all MUI investigations, wrote behavior support plans for individual specific needs, supervised 24 DSPs, trained MUI/UIR and Client Rights for facility, and wrote, maintained, and scored all documentation for the facility.  He holds a degree in Religious Studies from the Chandler School of Theology in Atlanta, GA. 

6.      “Momentum in the Future begins with Mentoring in the Moment” (75 Minutes)

Session Description:  Learn about four developmental phases of mentoring (awareness, cultivation, transformation, collaboration), and how to recognize various indicators of development that shift throughout the mentoring processes. Learn how to utilize flexibility while setting goals, and creating plans that provide vision, support, and challenge for the person(s) being mentored. Learn how basic mentoring exercises (1) engage the professional in becoming a role model, (2) cultivate a path of inner guidance, (3) clarify a social vision of reciprocal relationship-building, (4) guide the navigation towards value and meaning; gearing processes (of learning, planning, living) towards sustainable, quality of life destinations.

Biography:  Anthony M. McCrovitz holds a Doctorate in Organizational Psychology from Walden University.  He is a published author, accomplished speaker and holds a number of registrations/certifications including:  Certified Snoezelen - Multi-Sensory Environment Educator/Trainer, License Mental Health Counselor in Indiana, Behavior Management for the Developmental Disability/Family Support/ Traumatic Brain Injury Indiana Medicaid Home and Community Based Services Wavier Program, and Board Certified Professional Counselor (BCPC). 

 7.       “Let's Keep Learning: The Delivery of a Data-Based Curriculum Model” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: Attendees of this session will learn:

  • To use data results from skills assessments to select appropriate curriculum
  • To create lesson plans based on skill acquisition objectives
  • To engineer learning environments in current settings or community
  • To learn methods for discovery of reinforcers
  • To track participant performance in classroom or community settings
  • To use group data to determine impact of curriculum
  • To identify potential hurdles to skills acquisition programming

Biography:  Sandy Weaver is currently the Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator for Annandale Village in Suwanee, GA. A 27-year employee of the community for adults with developmental disabilities and traumatic or acquired brain injuries, she has worked in many capacities including as Arts and Academics Instructor and Activities Coordinator. In her current role, Sandy administers the Assessment of Functional Living Skills™ to determine the support needs of clients, and coordinates with staff and community members to develop meaningful programming with the goals of skills acquisition and increased independence. She received a degree in Education from the University of Georgia, and continues to enjoy opportunities to both learn and train others in her areas of interest: the arts, disabilities awareness, life skills curriculum development, autism, and crisis behavior management.

 8.      “Value Over Volume: The Shift to Value-Based Purchasing for ID/DD” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  In an effort to reduce costs and improve quality outcomes, many states are looking to shift care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) from fee-for-service to value-based purchasing (VBP) reimbursement models. This session will provide an overview of the models of VBP and factors that must be considered when developing methodologies for individuals with ID/DD. The presenter will discuss strategies for data collection and metrics to track insights and provoke appropriate interventions to drive quality and outcomes and highlight integrated technology solutions that are essential for the collection of actionable, measurable, and reportable data.

Biography:  Brian White is a Community Engagement Representative with MediSked.  He has over 10 years of detailed technology experience including design, configuration, prototyping, testing, data conversion, training, and post go-live support for the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. He has assisted multiple providers and state oversight agencies with evaluating independent IT infrastructure solutions to ensure highest quality of care while providing supports in line with state regulations.  Brian is a former DSP and a proven leader and outspoken advocate for people living with disabilities, their families and service providers. Past speaking engagement include conference for ANCOR, The Arc of US Summer Leadership Institute, Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association, AAIDD, and The Arc of Virginia.

 9.      “Supporting the Dreams of the People we Serve:  Why Person Centered Planning Makes Sense” (75 Minutes)

Session Description:  As Q’s we have the ability to make or break the lives of the people we serve. If people have a great Q, they have a great life! Learn not just how to find out what people really want and need in their lives but how to support them in turning those dreams into reality. The most important part of a person-centered plan is the person, once we realize that everything else falls into place.

Biography:  Leanne Mull is the Co-Director of Blue Tower Solutions Her work has included the revision and presentation of protocols for law enforcement and prosecutors for supporting people with disabilities and older adults who experience sexual assault or domestic violence.  Leanne is also a Quality Enhancement Specialist for the Council on Quality on Leadership.  In this role she provides training on the Personal Outcome Measures and related processes to organizations and individuals.  She also provides raining in various areas of systems change, policy and practice. Leanne holds a Masters degree in Healthcare Administration from Kaplan University. 

 10.    “Creative Enrichment Center: A Georgia College and Life Enrichment Center Collaboration Educating College Students in Order to Bring About Generational Change that Positively Impacts the Future of Services for Adults with Disabilities” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The Creative Enrichment Center connects Georgia College (GC) students and adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) to engage in social and creative activities three times per month. This work is guided by the belief that in order to change the direction in which I/DD services are provided, we have to change the perceptions that future leaders hold about individuals with I/DD. GC students learn that they have more in common with these adults than they previously realized. In addition to leisure activities, the adults with disabilities have opportunities to learn about health and wellness, self-advocacy, and self-awareness.

Biography:  Nicole M. DeClouette is an Associate Professor of Special Education at Georgia College & State University. Her research interests include cultural constructions of disability and international inclusive education. Nicole is involved with Baldwin County’s Life Enrichment Center (LEC), a program that serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She serves on the LEC’s Executive Board, the Creative Enrichment Center’s Advisory Board, and as the faculty advisor for the Georgia College Chapter of Best Buddies. Nicole also leads two study abroad programs: one to London/Paris and one to Tanzania.  Nicole received her Ph.D. from Syracuse University in Special Education after completing her dissertation on whole-school inclusive reform.

Barbara Coleman Barbara Coleman is the Executive Director of the Life Enrichment Center (LEC), a private non-profit organization that supports individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Milledgeville, Georgia. During her 28 years of service, she has spent the last 18 years building a community-engaged, service-learning partnership with Georgia College.  Beginning with the Department of Music Therapy in 2000, it now spans seven departments and includes multiple programs within each department.  As this partnership continues to grow in diversity, students have opportunities to learn more about the abilities of people with disabilities while customizing their experiences to apply their knowledge and education in real life situations.  Barbara is the co-founder of the  Creative Enrichment Center (CEC), an after-hour program funded by grants from AWS Foundation and Georgia College office of ENGAGE. The CEC partners students with adults with I/DD in social, educational, recreational and alternative fall break programs and events.  This partnership received the 2018 Gulf South Summit “Outstanding Collaboration on Service-Learning and Civic Engagement” Award.  Barbara believes that students bring a wealth of opportunities and experiences to the individuals served at the LEC. LEC participants help students realize that we are all “More Alike than Different.” Her goal is to change a generation’s perception of people with disabilities one student at a time.  She feels that by creating these opportunities, students then go back to their own communities as advocates for change and inclusion. Barbara Coleman graduated from University of Georgia in 1989 with her Masters Degree in Education.

 11.   “Who Knows What Normal Is?” (75 Minutes)

Session Description:  Normal is a word I no longer understand. I understand "typical" somewhat, but even with that we are all different. In this session we look at normal or typical aging. If you don't know what is normal, how do you know what is abnormal? What is dementia and what is not? This presentation will set you on the path to know if "different" is really "normal".

Biography:  Sherry Neal, RN-BC, CDDN, has worked in the healthcare profession since 1972 and has been an RN since 1976. She is board certified in two nursing specialties, gerontology and developmental disabilities. Sherry has worked 23 years with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and is currently the clinical director for Health Risk Screening, Inc. She also has significant experience in geriatrics, pre-hospital emergency care, ICU and long term care management. Prior to moving from Illinois, Sherry was the consulting nurse for nine different agencies serving individuals with IDD. She still serves as a master nurse trainer for Illinois in delegation of medication administration in community settings.

 12.   “Hiring, Training and Retaining Great DSPs” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The lifeblood of any ICF/IID residential home is the hiring, training and retaining of great DSPs. Contrary to popular belief, great DSPs rarely walk through the door. Instead, great DSPs are created starting with the interview, trained to be great through orientation and retained through constant communication. This session will walk participants through how our facility went from having poor DSP/management relations, confrontational DSP interrelationships and general apathy for caring for our individuals to excellent DSP/management relations, contented DSPs who get along and improved care for our individuals.

Biography:  Joel Cade is a QIDP at Echoing Woods Residential Center in Dayton, OH.  In this role he has managed 16 ICF cases, served as investigative agent doing all MUI investigations, wrote behavior support plans for individual specific needs, supervised 24 DSPs, trained MUI/UIR and Client Rights for facility, and wrote, maintained, and scored all documentation for the facility.  He holds a degree in Religious Studies from the Chandler School of Theology in Atlanta, GA. 

 13.    “Horse Power! The Human-Equine Connection and Special Needs” (75 Minutes)

Session Description: This workshop explores the many ways horses can improve the lives of those with special needs. From helping to increase physical strength and endurance, to fostering social engagement and improving attention and focus. Horses have a unique ability to bridge the gap where traditional therapies leave off. Come and find out through one participants experience how the horse has positively impacted her life, including her family and friends.

Biography:  Jennifer Pape found her passion and love of horses as a young child. She continued to pursue her love of horses as an adult and knew she wanted to share her experience with others, and what a better way than to give back than to children and adults with special needs.  With over 25 years of equine knowledge, management and experience she became a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) certified riding instructor.  She offers equine-assisted activities and therapy (EAAT) to a variety of diagnosis’ including: ADHD, Autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, learning disabilities, and speech, hearing and visual impairments. 

 14.   “Creating Opportunities for Community Employment” (75 Minutes)

Session Description:  Creating sustainable, profitable, and rewarding jobs for people with disabilities is challenging. But in the bayous of south Louisiana, Terrebonne Arc (TARC) has found success in innovative businesses that have netted over $1.4M in profit annually, with increases of $200K each year overall. Utilizing community partnerships, collaboration and support, TARC's businesses, products and business mode can work in your community. In 2017, Terrebonne Arc won the Outstanding Provider of the Year Award from the Governor's Office on Disability Affairs and won the Innovative Chapter Award from the Arc of Louisiana.

Biography:  Mary Lynn Bisland is the Executive Director of Terrebonne Arc in Houma, Louisiana. Prior to this position, Mary Lynn was a Special Education teacher and a Community Outreach Director at TARC. Chasing her passion of working with individuals with disabilities, Mary Lynn creates instrumental changes at Terrebonne Arc leading by her charisma and professional style.  Mary Lynn is an involved community servant as well. She is a member of the State and Regional Advisory Committee on behalf of the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, the President of the Houma Rotary Club, a member of the local Chamber of Commerce, a member of NCE and the Louisiana Conference of Executives of the Arc, and a member of the Houma Convention and Visitors Bureau board.  She has earned a Masters in Education degree in Special Education and a Bachelor of Science in Vocational Home Economics Education from Nicholls State University.

15.    Success in Writing Effective Goals, Objectives and Protocols (Part 1) (60 Minutes)

16.    Success in Writing Effective Goals, Objectives and Protocols (Part 2) (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Title XIX requires providers to write measurable objectives in life skills and to outline teaching methods likely to result in achievement of the objectives Providers are also challenged by CQL and State Agencies to help people with disabilities to achieve meaningful person-centered outcomes. States typically require providers to write both global goals and objectives. Several challenges result in inadequate performance in meeting these requirements. Many QDDPs can identify if a sample objective is measurable but struggle to craft that objective within the team process.  Often, after a lengthy discussion the QDDP is left to write the intent of the team into a measurable goal or objective after the meeting is over. Engagement of Direct Support Professionals at this point is minimal and without engagement in developing goals and objectives, buy-in for implementation of the programs can be minimal. In addition, agencies sometimes hire staff without the needed background in developing effective interventions for people with disabilities. Sample materials are often not reflective of the needs of people with significant support needs related to cognitive, sensory and physical disabilities. As a result, many QDDPs, while well-meaning, are trying to build the bicycle and ride it at the same time. The presentation will highlight strategies for producing meaningful and measurable goals and objectives within the team process.  Specific strategies will be demonstrated and outlines that help QDDPs identify and address weaknesses will be provided.

Biography:  Cathy Haarstad has seven years of teaching experience in public schools, 16 years of experience in supporting adults with disabilities in vocational, residential and community settings, including support in behavior intervention with people receiving ICF services. She has an additional 12 years of experience as a research associate and is the author of several projects of national significance in the areas of family support and transportation. Cathy also has over seven years of experience as the director of a state Parent Training and Information Center. She recently returned to the ND Center for Persons with Disabilities and provides statewide training to providers on offering active support to people with the most significant support needs. Cathy self-identifies as a person with a disability.  Cathy has a master’s degree in Special Education from Minot State University in ND and a Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University. Her area of concentration is in supporting people with significant support needs due to multiple disabilities. She is the parent of two children with special needs, one of whom has multiple disabilities.

 17.    “Strategic Mealtime & Technology-Supported Mealtime” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Provider leadership teams are seeking solutions given a myriad of pressing needs . . . historic labor shortages; technology-centric settings; escalating food prices; widespread recognition that food is the primary driver behind improved health for a majority of people supported; and increased scrutiny as value-based reimbursement and managed care zero in on expensive, preventable poor health. A Strategic Mealtime and Technology-Supported Mealtime approach, that is effectively being utilized among leading providers throughout 30 states, is daily demonstrating substantial financial, quality and health outcomes beneficial to numerous stakeholders and funders. This session reviews how to implement a Strategic Mealtime and Technology-Supported Mealtime approach to reap multiple benefits.

Biography:  James Vail is the President and CEO of Mainstay, Inc.  In this role he has spearhead all aspects of Mainstay and their team of human services, preventive health, nutrition, culinary, business and technology professionals.  Mainstay, Inc. is the company’s name and My25 is the core brand defining a number of content-based resources that focus on Strategic Mealtime & Technology-Supported Mealtime while elevating personcentered choice.  My25 resources are provided to  the nation’s leading human services organizations supporting people with I/DD, TBI, SPMI and behavioral challenges in waivers, ICFs, independent living,  and homebased settings in 30 states.  James has his Masters Degree in Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management in Evanston, IL. 

 18.   “Rethinking Staff Motivation & Retention” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  We are currently in the worst staff crisis we’ve seen in this field.  So how do we retain employees when we are so short on staff?  How do we alter our on-boarding process in order to get staff in the door and keep them?  This seminar will give ideas on both the on-boarding process as well as retention.

We are proposing to offer viable alternatives to our current motivational practices on 3 levels: 

  1.  INDIVIDUAL (employees): at this level, motivation is a skill. We can teach employees the skills of motivation so they can thrive in any environment (even if the organization’s systems haven’t changed yet)
  2. INTERPERSONAL (leaders): we can help leaders adjust their interpersonal interactions with employees: the way they set goals, have conversations, etc. – in ways that prime the pump for optimal motivation.
  3. ORGANIZATION: organization systems often need change/updating – the systems around reward and recognition, compensation, job design, etc.

Biography:  Christine Ziemba is the Director of Training for Clearbrook in Arlington Heights, IL. Christine has been working in social services for almost 20 years. She has held a number of positions ranging from house manager to DSP/job coach to case management to supervision/administration, in varied settings that include a residential home for the State of Illinois, Supported Employment Services, sheltered workshop, transportation, home-based services, Autism programs, a specialized program for individuals with high medical needs, and training. She has also worked as a QIDP, site supervisor, coordinator, training specialist and director.  In her role as Clearbrook's director of training, she develops and implements training for staff at all levels in day programs, intermediate care facilities, group homes, clinical services and home-based services, and supervises the training specialists and office manager. While at Clearbrook, Christine earned “Employee of the Month” for exceptional customer service to staff, clients and families.

19.   Creative Methods for Making Objectives Measurable while Meaningful for the People we Support (Part 1) (60 Minutes)

20.   Creative Methods for Making Objectives Measurable while Meaningful for the People we Support (Part 2) (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The presentation will provide methods for assessing what is uniquely important for individuals with multiple levels of intellectual disabilities.  Too often the teaching programs that are developed focus on what the Teams believe are important for a person to learn, such as dressing, eating, bathing and other activities of daily living. The result has become a system of teaching which ensures individuals do a superb job with hygiene skills, within their capability level, but ignores the quality of life and personal desires of the individual. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to adjust this perspective and step away from a library of existing teaching programs and more consistently include individual preferences and desires?

 To be successful, teams need to begin by blowing up the boxes and existing forms and develop a new way to look at assessment. Who is completing assessments? What is being assessed? What needs to change to bring the focus to quality of life, personal preferences and learning skills that make a difference for the person? Sample assessments will be provided to assist in a more free-form method of thinking.

 Complying with Quality Indicators is also a challenge. How do we make teaching these skills and ensuring Quality Indicator outcomes are measurable? Often brainstorming and good ideas get lost in translation to paper and performance measures. This presentation is designed to stimulate Team brainstorming and development of teaching programs that meet Quality Indicators while again focusing on the wants and desires of the individual.

 Measurement has been a persistent barrier to many good Team ideas and development of teaching programs. How is happiness measured? How do we develop data collection for confidence and trust? Often this is a matter of drilling down to the foundation of these good ideas. What will increase trust? What will increase happiness? Is there a method to teach the skills that would enhance these feelings? This presentation will explore these ideas and many others.

 Our industry has spent decades focusing on skills that teach individuals a litany of other hygiene and other basic self-help skills. These skills are certainly important, but ask yourself, “Is this what makes me happy in my life?” Chances are whereas our appearance is something we pay attention to, it is not the be all, end all of our lives. This presentation is designed to apply joy and happiness to those supported in residential and day settings as we develop their teaching programs.

Biogaphy:  Rebecca A. Helgeson, BS:  has thirty years of experience providing supports to individuals who reside in community based residential and day support facilities. She has extensive knowledge of the federal regulations as well as several state processes and practices.  Rebecca was employed as a residential provider in California for over 27 years and during that time also volunteered as an instructor to public and private providers in Federal and State regulations. This volunteer teaching included statewide QIDP certification for professionals working for private agencies in the state. She also volunteered as the Regulatory Consultant for the Developmental Services Network (DSN), for a provider association in California. In 2012, Rebecca returned to her home state of Virginia and she continues to provide consulting services throughout the country. As a consultant with H&W Independent Solutions and within her own consulting agency, Beyond Compliance, Rebecca has expanded her expertise, providing consultation in over fifteen states.

 21.    “The Fine Line Between Modifying Rights and Providing Supports” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  It is a challenge to decide when something is a right versus a support. Protecting and advocating for the rights of the individuals we support is a key responsibility provided by QIDPs and ID Teams. This interactive session will provide an overview of when modifying a right to ensure health and safety of the people receiving our services, becomes more than a support. The session will focus on what constitutes a restriction of a right and when a QIDP/ID Team needs to provide due process protections for the individual. Participants in this session will have an opportunity to offer determinations and discuss in depth, common rights scenarios professionals deal with when providing services. Each person in the session will leave with a decision-making tree to help guide future IDT discussions. Join us for a fun AND educational session.

Biography:  Catherine Hayes, MA, is the president of H&W Independent Solutions. She is a nationally recognized consultant and trainer in the area of ICF/IID regulatory compliance and quality assurance. H&W was founded in 2001 with a primary mission to assist agencies in implementing quality systems that are person-centered. It has provided services in over 25 states and is recognized as a leader in supporting ICFs/IID agencies to achieve and exceed compliance. Catherine has provided training across the nation for QIDPs. Prior to co-founding H&W, she served as the ICF/IID team leader and then branch chief for the Continuing Care Provider Branch of CMS. In these positions, she served as the primary regulator for the ICF/IID program nationally, and was responsible for training state and federal ICF/IID surveyors, providing them with guidance and interpretation on the ICF/IID regulations. For more information, please visit www.hwisolutions.com.

Rebecca A. Helgeson, BS has thirty years of experience providing supports to individuals who reside in community based residential and day support facilities. She has extensive knowledge of the federal regulations as well as several state processes and practices.  Rebecca was employed as a residential provider in California for over 27 years and during that time also volunteered as an instructor to public and private providers in Federal and State regulations. This volunteer teaching included statewide QIDP certification for professionals working for private agencies in the state. She also volunteered as the Regulatory Consultant for the Developmental Services Network (DSN), for a provider association in California. In 2012, Rebecca returned to her home state of Virginia and she continues to provide consulting services throughout the country. As a consultant with H&W Independent Solutions and within her own consulting agency, Beyond Compliance, Rebecca has expanded her expertise, providing consultation in over fifteen states.

 22.    “Where We Were – Where We Are Going - Shaping Our Future” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  As Mark and Catherine move into retirement, they would like to invite you to join them for a look back at the changes they have witnessed over the years.  In addition to sharing key developments and lessons learned from their many years of service, they will articulate what they see as being trends for the future of our services. 

Biography:  Catherine Hayes, MA, is the president of H&W Independent Solutions. She is a nationally recognized consultant and trainer in the area of ICF/IID regulatory compliance and quality assurance. H&W was founded in 2001 with a primary mission to assist agencies in implementing quality systems that are person-centered. It has provided services in over 25 states and is recognized as a leader in supporting ICFs/IID agencies to achieve and exceed compliance. Catherine has provided training across the nation for QIDPs. Prior to co-founding H&W, she served as the ICF/IID team leader and then branch chief for the Continuing Care Provider Branch of CMS. In these positions, she served as the primary regulator for the ICF/IID program nationally, and was responsible for training state and federal ICF/IID surveyors, providing them with guidance and interpretation on the ICF/IID regulations. For more information, please visit www.hwisolutions.com.

Mark Wiesel, BA, is vice-president of H&W Independent Solutions. Since its founding in 2001, he has been active in the company’s sole business providing supports to agencies supporting individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Mark provides project management, project coordination support, and directed and monitored a high intensity training and service delivery improvement project targeting regulatory compliance and recertification efforts. He developed systemic approaches to managing quality through ICF/IID compliance and providing training in quality assurance systems. He has over 20 years of personal experience with genetic movement, behavioral and cognitive disorders, including 15 years as an advocate in the non-profit healthcare arena. Prior to co-founding H&W, Mark spent over 25 years in project management, management development, business management and project and cost planning in both commercial and not-for-profit arenas.

 23.    “Data Driven Leadership in Employment Services: Focus on Outcomes”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Supervising independent community-based employees can be difficult. One question that many new supervisors have is "How do I know they are working?" Changing the way we manage from traditional methods of oversight to more data, outcome and goal oriented methods will produce greater results in community employment programs. This session will discuss specifics concerning how to manage these staff effectively, what data to track, ideas on how to track data and how to use personal accountability to not only create higher quality and more fiscally sound programs but to more importantly ensure that the people your program supports obtain the employment outcomes they desire. The session will also discuss how to blend qualitative and quantitative data to get a better picture of performance and to coach staff based on this data. You will walk away with some practical advice you can immediately implement. We will also discuss how Basic Assurances and Personal Outcome Measures can be utilized to increase quality in employment programs.

Biography:  Jennifer Quigley is a Quality Enhancement Specialist with The Council on Quality and Leadership.  In this position, she completes training, certification and accreditation training throughout the US and internationally. She also works as lead on Employment related quality projects, teaches strategic planning and quality management to CEOs and Executive leadership teams and promotes person first supports and services.  Jennifer earned a BS in Sociology from the University of Utah and is a Licensed Social Worker in that state. 

 24.    “Strategies for Injury Prevention”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Safety of our clients and our staff is crucial to the overall success of all programs.  This presentation will take a deeper look at why injuries are occurring, simple strategies that can be used to prevent them from happening, and an approach to train (and retain) staff in these techniques.

Biography:  Michael Perillo is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who is originally from Chicago, IL.  He completed his MS in Educational Psychology from The University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2008.  After completing his MS he has worked in a variety of settings including a summer camp, a school, in-home, residential, and a clinic providing therapeutic behavioral services to individuals with special needs and their support systems.  Over the years he has worked with a very wide variety of diagnoses, ages, and functional abilities of clients.  Some current areas of interest for Michael include staff development/training, the use of applied behavior analysis to individuals who are not diagnosed with disabilities, and the possibility of future research into chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) specifically within the population of individuals who have engaged in chronic self-injurious behavior.

 25.    “Helping Families Decide if a Service Dog is Right for Them” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Service dogs are more and more common these days. But what kinds of disabilities can they help to mitigate? What kinds of diagnoses can get funding for a service dog, and what should a family look for in a service dog training organization?

Biography:  Shannon Benaitis has worked in disability services for 20 years, in positions ranging from direct support , QIDP and mental health counselor to program manager, director and nursing home monitor. Most recently, she was the director of staff training and a project manager at Clearbrook in Arlington Heights IL.

Currently, Shannon is a consultant and independent contractor for her company, Albatross Training Solutions. She brings her experience in IDD, mental health, ICF/long-term care, CILA, and home-based services to the classroom and the boardroom, where she strives to make trainings, meetings, and projects dynamic, enjoyable and relevant. Albatross specializes in curriculum development and instructional design for both in-person and e-learning formats.  Shannon has undergraduate degrees in Psychology and English from Cornell College and a Master’s Degree in Social/Criminal Justice from Lewis University. She is Professional in Human Resources certified, a happily married stepmom to three wonderful humans, a service dog-mom to Gordon, and a lupus patient.

 26.    “Why Qs will Survive the Zombie Apocalypse: Ten Reasons You're More Resilient Than You Think” (60 minutes)

Session Description:  Experts agree: You need a certain set of skills to survive the zombie apocalypse. Courage, the ability to create something from virtually nothing, a sense of humor. . .and good aim, just to name a few. When the walking dead take over, you'll want to either be a Q or be standing next to one. It's time we recognize their resilience and acknowledge their achievements. Come for the laughs, stay for the inspiration!

Biography:  Shannon Benaitis has worked in disability services for 20 years, in positions ranging from direct support , QIDP and mental health counselor to program manager, director and nursing home monitor. Most recently, she was the director of staff training and a project manager at Clearbrook in Arlington Heights IL.  Currently, Shannon is a consultant and independent contractor for her company, Albatross Training Solutions. She brings her experience in IDD, mental health, ICF/long-term care, CILA, and home-based services to the classroom and the boardroom, where she strives to make trainings, meetings, and projects dynamic, enjoyable and relevant. Albatross specializes in curriculum development and instructional design for both in-person and e-learning formats.  Shannon has undergraduate degrees in Psychology and English from Cornell College and a Master’s Degree in Social/Criminal Justice from Lewis University. She is Professional in Human Resources certified, a happily married stepmom to three wonderful humans, a service dog-mom to Gordon, and a lupus patient.

 27.   “Doggone it! Creative Treatment through Animal Assisted Interventions”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  It can be challenging to find creative, fun and inexpensive ways to inspire the client we serve and the staff we work with...incorporating animal assisted interventions might be the answer. Through a variety of playful activities participants will leave knowing how to start a program, create goals and best support our clients, including those with significant challenges.

Biography:  Cyndie Kieffer, MSW, is a licensed social worker in Illinois and Indiana with over ten years of experience providing animal-assisted interventions. She has completed the Animal Assisted Interventions certificate program at University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Animal Assisted Play Therapy levels one and two under Dr. Rise VanFleet. She and her Border Collie, Jack, provide services to the clients she serves as well as visit area schools, nursing homes and workshops in southern Illinois and Indiana. In addition, she and Jack provide animal-assisted play therapy through her business, Sit. Stay. Heal. Cyndie also trains dogs for therapy dog work and is an evaluator, instructor and handler for Pet Partners.

 28.   “Embrace Your Inner Sherlock Homes: Using Clues to Solve the Mysteries of Challenging Behavior” (75 Minutes)

Session Description:  Amie and Mike will utilize both behavior and clinical models to discuss and encourage team members to take a step back to observe, analyze, and construct possible solutions to solve engagement in the challenging behaviors. They will challenge you to take a layered approach and guide you to some of the clues needed to solve the mystery of challenging behavior.

Biography:  Amie Burke is a board certified behavior analyst who graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale with her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Therapy. She has over 25 years of experience working with children and adults diagnosed with developmental disabilities, their families and caregivers in various settings. She is currently the clinical supervisor for the Illinois Crisis Prevention Network and is passionate about bringing applied behavior analysis to new fields and all aspects of life. Areas of expertise include functional behavior assessment, development and implementation of individualized intervention/behavior plans, staff training and caring for the caregiver.

Mike Jersey earned a Maters Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.  He is currently employed by Trinity Services as a Clinical Director for ICPN.  In this capacity, he works as a supervising member of the mobile crisis team developed to assist individuals dually diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and mental illness develop new strategies for coping so as to reduce the frequency and severity of referred behaviors. The crisis team provides consultative services to residential agencies, family homes, and state operated institutions to develop and implement new strategies to be used as effective in treating at risk individuals.

 29.   “Replenishing the OhZone”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Do you want to put new life in customer relations? Or, your personal relationships? Successful people and admired leaders share a common trait - they are great listeners. In this lively and entertaining one-hour talk, V.J. hits a homerun in getting audience members to reflect on their own listening skills and the simple steps to improve. V.J. is a fantastic storyteller and his memorable stories are sure to inspire and motivate about the great difference maker in life - listening.

Biography:  V.J. Smith is a professional speaker and published author.  He graduated from South Dakota State University in 1978 and spent the decade of the 1980s working for the Allied Signal Aerospace Company in Kansas City.  He returned to his alma mater in 1990, working for six years in the SDSU Athletic Department.  He was appointed Executive Director of the SDSU Alumni Association in 1996.  In January 2007, he left that position to pursue a career in professional speaking.  Smith travels the country and makes over 100 speaking appearances a year.  In March 2014, Meeting and Conventions Magazine named V.J. as one of the favorite speakers of meeting planners throughout America.  He is the author of the best-selling book, “The Richest Man Town.”  The book details Smith’s relationship with a little old man who ran a cash register at a local Wal-Mart.  “That guy changed my life,” Smith says.  Smith is a two time finalist in Toastmasters' International's “World's Championship of Public Speaking.”  He is also the author of, “Can You Hear What I See” and “Jackrabbit Tales.”  He is the President of Life's Great Moments and resides in Brookings, SD.

 30.   “Why A Strong Supervisory/Middle Management Is Key to An Agency’s Success!” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Overburdened and undertrained, middle managers (QIDP’s, Residential Home Managers) are burning out.  Turnover rates are high, there are fewer resources and more responsibilities, and interpersonal skills are often lacking.  Is there a direct correlation between the success of an agency’s frontline staff and their immediate supervisors?   If your middle managers are struggling, how does that affect the ability to implement strategic goals and the success of your agency?  These questions are important to all ID/DD agencies and companies across the world, as we have adopted a leaner and flatter overall structure.  This presentation will focus on the difference between being a manager and being a leader, how to improve a manager’s interpersonal communication, team building, how to identify gaps in your training programs, and how to incentivize your managers overall performance. 

Biography:  Timothy L. Baker, LCPC is the Director of the Illinois Crisis Prevention Network (ICPN).  ICPN provides support service teams funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities experiencing behavioral and/or medical challenges in their current residential setting across the state.  Tim previously served as the Director of Outpatient Programs at Riveredge Hospital, providing mental health services to children, adolescents and adults with mental illness.  Tim has spent the last 23 years providing clinical services, therapy, and administrative leadership to programs serving the ID/DD population, mentally ill, and traumatic brain injury individuals. 

31.    “Improving Outcomes through Integrated Care and Collaboration”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  This session will share Anthem’s integrated approach for individuals with Intellectual and developmental disabilities.  We will outline our approach to addressing the physical, behavioral, and social needs of individuals with I/DD holistically, providing access to a wide array of services through a single coordination point—supporting meaningful community integration and reducing complexity not only for the individual, but for their families and caregivers.  Our discussions will include “what is working and what not is working” and highlight the need for increased networking and collaboration.  We will outline program options that go beyond traditional healthcare to connect members with a host of resources and supports that are right for them—so they can live better on their own terms. We will share examples of a variety of these programs and how they contribute to improved outcomes for individuals with I/DD in a variety of states, and discuss ways that providers (both IDD waiver providers and physical and behavioral health providers) can partner and collaborate with healthcare systems effectively.

Biography:  Renea Bentley, EdD, LPC-MHSP is currently the senior manager of Behavioral Health Specialty Programs for Amerigroup Community Care in Nashville, TN. She has worked at Amerigroup for five years and her clinical experience includes working in direct care and leadership positions with providers focusing on the treatment of children placed in foster care, at risk youth and their families. Her clinical experience also includes working with individuals, couples and families in private practice.  Renea is an adjunct professor in the master’s program at Lindsey Wilson College’s School of Professional Counseling program. She is trained in EMDR therapy as well as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

 32.    “Innovation through Improvisation”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  One of the rules of improv comedy (yes, improv has rules...) is to accept every offer.  To switch from “yes, but” to “yes, AND”.  On stage, blocking your partner is not allowed, because it stops the story in its tracks and makes your partner look bad.  In our workplaces, blocking is common.  It doesn’t have to be.

 ringing the benefits of improv into team meetings, person-centered planning meetings, and family conversations is NOT about comedy. (Although it can be fun!)  This session will provide specific takeaways, including:

  • generating more creative ideas in less time
  • moving closer to desired outcomes
  • building more respectful relationships with people supported and with co-workers
  • deepening listening skills
  • increasing engagement and motivation of stakeholders

Biography:  Peter Leidy has been learning from people with disabilities since 1983. Peter is a consultant, facilitator, listener, learner, improviser, and speaker who focuses on personalized supports and community membership for people with disabilities. He also writes and sings songs about human serviceland and those who find themselves connected to it.  Peter conducts workshops, develops training materials, writes songs, speaks and sings at conferences, and works with organizations, government agencies, families, and paid supporters to promote positive support, inclusion, building healthy relationships, and thinking differently about people who are called “challenging.”

33.    “Supporting Each Other to Discover Our Best Work” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: In my 35 years of getting to know, work with, and learn from people with disabilities, I have seen again and again how important it is to have well-supported supporters – to create workplace environments that increase the likelihood of excellent support for people we serve AND enhance the engagement and job satisfaction of those doing the work.  We talk about respecting people with disabilities, but let’s not forget about what truly respecting each other as fellow colleagues can look like! This is a conversation about staying person-centered while recognizing the gifts that paid supporters bring to their work, and how everyone benefits when we listen, collaborate, and celebrate with each other.  This interactive workshop will involve deep thinking, humor, and even some music.

Biography:  Peter Leidy has been learning from people with disabilities since 1983. Peter is a consultant, facilitator, listener, learner, improviser, and speaker who focuses on personalized supports and community membership for people with disabilities. He also writes and sings songs about human serviceland and those who find themselves connected to it.  Peter conducts workshops, develops training materials, writes songs, speaks and sings at conferences, and works with organizations, government agencies, families, and paid supporters to promote positive support, inclusion, building healthy relationships, and thinking differently about people who are called “challenging.”

34.    “Why Your Brain is the World’s Most Dangerous Supervillian and What to Do About it! (Part 1)”  (60 Minutes)

35.   “Why Your Brain is the World’s Most Dangerous Supervillian and What to Do About it! (Part 2)” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Our minds are supervillains. Don’t believe it? What are common characteristics of supervillains? Hidden lairs? Being inside are heads is pretty well hidden. CHECK! They like to monologue about how they’re right. Our minds are master story tellers who use our own voice to compel us to move away from our core values. CHECK! They excel at setting diabolical traps for the hero of the story. Our minds have cognitive biases trap us in broken and self-defeating modes of thinking. CHECK! Learn to defeat this supervillain by using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to unleash your inner superhero!

Biography:  John Pingo is the CEO of the Goldie B. Floberg Center. He started his career serving people with developmental disabilities over 20 years ago as a direct support professional. During that time, he held positions in human resources, program administration and many others.  John has taught at the college and university level and is currently an adjunct faculty member for Southern Illinois University in Carbondale in their behavior analysis and therapy program. His professional passions are engineering positive workplace cultures, developing evidence-based techniques to combat cognitive biases, developing fun, engaging training, and making person-centeredness a reality for people served and staff members.  He has a Ph.D. in behavior analysis and therapy from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

 36.    “STEPS: A Creative Approach to Decreasing Aggressive and Challenging Behaviors for individuals with Intellectual Disability”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The Steps to Effective Problem-solving (STEPS) program is an NIH funded clinical trial of a preventive intervention that addresses aggressive and challenging behaviors among people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (ID) living in group homes. We work with residents and staff on improving social problem-solving skills and thus, hopefully, reducing aggressive and challenging behaviors. In this presentation, we will provide an overview of STEPS project including information about the development of the program with the input of people with ID and residential staff, initial pilot study results, as well as the process of working with people with ID and the staff in group homes. We will specifically discuss the role of QIDPs in the STEPS program.

Biography:  Sarah H. Ailey is an Associate Professor at Rush University College of Nursing in Chicago.  She received her Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2002.  She is a Licensed RN and holds certifications in Public Health Nurse Advanced and Certified Developmental Disability Nurse.  She is an accomplished researcher, author, and presenter who has been awarded numerous honors related to her work.   

Teresa T. Moro received her Ph.D. in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago.  Her research interests include Aging, chronic illness, and disability; intellectual and developmental disability; cognitive impairment; palliative care; death and dying; geriatric social work; medical communication and shared decision-making; the gap between academic research and clinical practice; accessing and maximizing electronic resources in research, academic, and clinical work; medical and public health social work.

 37.   “It’s More Than Money”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  While challenging, the current workforce situation represents an opportunity to address how we engage, inspire and support the wellbeing of our workforce to develop long term employees with a passion for their organization.  The specter of a livable wage for direct support professionals has stalked our movement for decades.  While it has ebbed and flowed; it has been omnipresent.  We have lobbied, with limited success, for funding levels to provide a living wage for our direct support professionals.  The truth of the matter is that the solution lies, not just in more money for wages and benefits, but in a completely different approach to the problem.

 Near full employment and shifting demographics have ALL employers competing to attract and retain the most talented individuals to their organizations.  With the shift of service models, we need even more direct support professionals and leaders to help us meet our mission.  We have difficulty competing on wages, so we need to stop trying and use different methods to attract, retain and develop our workforce to ensure the successful future of our movement.

 By focusing on why people stay at organizations and building a culture to reinforce those reasons is an essential task we must rally towards.  Those who stay talk about the importance of relationships with their coworkers, supervisors and the people they support.  Those that leave report there was no relationship - just a focus on compliance, billing, health and safety. 

 Another key theme explored will be the positive impact staff continuity has with the people we support.  Too often by focusing only on the negative, “The Workforce Crisis”, we negate the tremendous impact our staff and their relationships with the people they support reinforce the core values of The Arc.  In addressing the staffing issue by creating a culture that supports positive results rather than punishing poor performance, not only do we save money, but we improve the quality of supports and help develop better relationships.  All of this is in support of meeting our mission 

Come and discover lessons learned from across the country that from organizations that engage, inspire and educate our workforce in a totally new way. 

Biography:  John Dickerson began his career with The Arc in 1973 after graduating from Huron College, Huron, SD.  His first task working for The Arc was being part of a statewide effort developing the plan for a free public education for all children with disabilities, something unavailable at that time.  His career started with The Arc of South Dakota, moved to the assistant director of The Arc of Indiana, then to The Arc of the US and he returned to The Arc of Indiana as executive director from 1983-2015.  Key milestones in his career were the transformation of services in Indiana – the closure of all state hospitals by creating community supports for the people who lived in five state institutions; lowering the waiting list from 12 years to 1 year.  John led the development of The Arc Trust, one of the oldest and largest PSNT in the country.  Over 4,000 families and individuals have enrolled, assets managed exceed $65 million and distributions this year will be between $5 - $6 million dollars for beneficiaries.  All done with a staff of 9 people – and The Arc Trust is completely self-sustaining in its 28th year.  John also led the development with his team of The Arc owning and operating a 150 room Courtyard by Marriott which has the country’s first every training institute embedded in the hotel – training people with I/DD the hospitality industry while they live, work and learn in the hotel for 9 weeks.  John left the Arc is now the founder and CEO of Quillo , a unique new approach to the workforce crisis facing organizations serving people with disabilities.  The new app will launch this fall and is designed around the concept of inspiring, engaging and educating our workforce while focusing on their personal well being.

38.    “The Right to be a Neighbor”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  In 2016 Individual Advocacy Group and an individual’s guardian sued the city of Springfield, Illinois (the State Capital), in federal court claiming Springfield’s zoning ordinance discriminated against people with disabilities.  The city’s ordinance states that group homes must be at least 600 feet apart from each other.  The plaintiff’s claimed the ordinance was discriminatory because it applied only to people with a disability.  The violation of the ordinance required the three men who had rented and resided at the single family home for three years to move out immediately.

 In its suit against Springfield, the plaintiffs, IAG and guardian, claimed the city did not provide a reasonable accommodation, as required by the Fair Housing Act.  A reasonable accommodation in the present situation would allow the three men to continue to reside in the house until the parties settled the case or a decision was handed down by the court.  The district court heard the case and found for the plaintiffs that a reasonable accommodate must be instituted allowing the three men to remain in their home until the case regarding the distance ordinance is decided.  The City of Springfield appealed the finding of the district court.  The appeal was heard by the 7th court of appeals in early 2018 and again found in favor of the plaintiffs that a reasonable accommodation must be instituted in compliance with the Fair Housing Act.

Biography:  David Brooks is a Licensed Psychologist in Illinois (Retired License).  He earned his Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Florida.  His distinguished career has included faculty positions, published works, speaking engagements, as well as numerous other accomplishments and acknowledgements.  He is currently the President of Bennebrook, Inc.  In this capacity, he consults with and advices residential service providers,  community rehabilitative/therapeutic service providers, professional/provider associations and State departments on service development, service site development, program services and support implementation, federal and state polices, monitoring of services, staff training, reimbursement methodologies and state/federal rules for people with mental, physical and medical disabilities.  He is also a Co-Founder and CEO of the Individual Advocacy Group – a not-for-profit organization, that was created to provide services and supports to children and adults with a severe cognitive and/or mental health disabilities so they may remain at home or live in an integrated community environment. 

Charlene Bennett earned her Doctor of Education from Loyola University in Policy Studies and Leadership/Administration and Supervision.  In addition to being a published author, faculty member, and nationally known speaker, Charlene is the Executive Director/CEO Co- Founder of the Individual Advocacy Group, Romeoville, IL - a not-for-profit organization, that was created to provide services and supports to children and adults with a severe cognitive and/or mental health disabilities so they may remain at home or live in an integrated community environment. 

 39.    "Supported Decision-Making: A Listening Session"  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  The National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making (“SDM”) advances SDM through research, training, information sharing, and promotion of best practices.  SDM assists older adults and people with disabilities to receive the help they want and need to make their own decisions.  We will share the major advances in the use of SDM and gather feedback on what more progress is needed.  This interactive session is an opportunity to assess the challenges, and opportunities for using SDM in your work.

Biography:  Morgan K. Whitlatch is the Lead Project Director of the National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making (NRC-SDM), which is dedicated to advancing the “Right to Make Choices” of people with disabilities and older adults. Morgan has devoted her legal career to working with and on behalf of people with disabilities and older adults in matters involving capacity, guardianship and alternatives, and the right to self-determination; community integration; living life free from abuse and neglect; and accessing public benefits and services. Morgan has extensive experience in implementing systemic, practice, and training initiatives, including those of the NRC-SDM and the Jenny Hatch Justice Project (JHJP). Notably, Morgan co-represented the JHJP namesake in fighting for her right to engage in Supported Decision-Making as an alternative to permanent plenary guardianship. Prior to joining Quality Trust in 2009, Morgan was an attorney at the Rhode Island Disability Law Center, which is the state’s protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities. Morgan has been recognized by Georgetown University, Human Rights Action - Amnesty International, as making outstanding contributions through her work as a human rights practitioner, and she is a member of the Disability Rights Bar.

 40.    “They Deserve More: The Campaign to Resolve the DSP Staffing Crisis in Illinois”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are in the midst of a major nationwide crisis – the inability to recruit and retain Direct Support Professionals, leading to severe vacancy and turnover rates, program closures, lack of access to services, and worse. In Illinois the crisis has been compounded by years of under-funding. In spring 2017 provider organizations in Illinois joined forces with statewide associations, people with disabilities, their families, DSPs, and other advocates to form the “They Deserve More” Coalition. Jim Haptonstahl, Chief Liaison for the Coalition, will present on the campaign’s successes and ongoing efforts.

Biography:  Jim Haptonstahl, Executive Vice President of UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago, has served and supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the past 40 years.  Jim has a strong background in developing and directing innovative community employment, life skills training and residential services for people with I/DD. For the past two decades Jim has directed UCP Seguin’s resource development and public communications efforts, while also overseeing its social enterprises and facilitating program development, greatly expanding various levels of private and public support for the agency. Starting spring of 2017, Jim took on the role of Chief Liaison for the “They Deserve More” Coalition, coordinating the statewide effort to address the direct support professional staffing crisis, helping to mobilize stakeholders across Illinois to secure legislation to raise DSP wages. Jim takes his primary inspiration from his 63-year-old brother Paul, who has Down syndrome and is his own best advocate.

41.    “Emerging Funding, Business and Support Models in I/DD Service Delivery”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Historically, agencies providing community services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have done so through a fee-for-service structure under contract with a state entity.  Increasingly, states are looking at alternative approaches to this model in the interest of assuring the efficient and effective use of public resources.  This session will explore factors that contribute to states’ interest in alternative funding models for I/DD services; business considerations for I/DD organizations seeking to survive and thrive in a new fiscal landscape and how direct service and supports to people with I/DD are impacted by these forces.

Biography:  Kathy Carmody is the CEO of the Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities and has been in the I/DD field for over 30 years, including roles as a DSP, QDDP, director of statewide demonstration and training projects and Chief of Staff for a nationally recognized community agency. Throughout her career, Kathy has worked with staff at all levels to explore and enhance their leadership qualities for both personal and professional advancement.

 42.   “This Can’t Be As Good As It Gets:  Serving People Who Engage in Challenging Behavior, While Also Keeping Staff Engaged”  (60 Minutes) 

Session Description:  Providing community integrated, person-centered supports for people with a broad range of support needs does not have to result in high levels of rights restrictions and high staff turnover rates!  In this session we’ll identify common challenges encountered when supporting complex needs in a CILA or ICF setting, and investigate some creative and evidence-based ways to keep staff working effectively and sustainably in high-stress environments.  This discussion is appropriate for those working with a variety of support needs including but not limited to: challenging behavior, physical support needs, mental illness, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and dementia/Alzheimer’s disease.

Biography:  Annabelle Winters earned a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (Clinical Psychology) from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.  She is currently a BCBA in Community Support Services.  In this capacity she is responsible for developing a progressive and person-centered culture, promoting cohesion of the various clinical teams, and providing behavioral support services to individuals in CILA, day program, supported employment, intermittent CILA, and home-based services contexts.

 43.    “More Than Behavior Plans”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  Is the main function of your agency BCBA or other behavioral health professionals to write intervention/support plans and train staff? If so, you are underutilizing them! No one went to school for Applied Behavior Analysis expecting to work at a desk every day. By shifting how we define the role of behavioral supports for adults with I/DD we can help those we serve to achieve more. In this session we’ll talk about how to incorporate behavioral services into your everyday service delivery model and culture.

Biography:  Annabelle Winters earned a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (Clinical Psychology) from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.  She is currently a BCBA in Community Support Services.  In this capacity she is responsible for developing a progressive and person-centered culture, promoting cohesion of the various clinical teams, and providing behavioral support services to individuals in CILA, day program, supported employment, intermittent CILA, and home-based services contexts.

 44.    “Newer Antipsychotics and Their Uses”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  This talk will feature the newer antipsychotic medications approved since 2015. It highlights the common rationale for usage, side effects and drug interactions commonly seen with these produces and describes information that the QDDP should know in order to better work with their clients.  A discussion of previously approved products and reasons the newer ones might be more beneficial is also discussed

Biography:  Nanette Wrobel has worked as a consultant pharmacist in facilities that care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) for over 35 years. In that time, she has provided expertise on medication management systems, including compliance with state and federal regulations, survey preparation, clinical knowledge, as well as staff trainings on all topics related to her field. She has been called upon to work with large companies to develop pharmaceutical compliance practices, oversee staff trainings, and provide expert opinion on best practices. She has also worked with the Department of Justice on behalf of nurses in the field.  Currently, she is a national speaker hired to provide trainings on medications and their uses in treating people with I/DD.

 45.   “Let Your Senses Guide You: Creating Quality Solutions”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  This session is intended to guide managers through the process of directing front line personnel of observing and reporting the actions of an individual, aiding the ability to determine an underlying source to one’s actions and therefore result in effective treatment and quality outcomes.  It is expected that this process will ensure appropriate treatment option implementation and eliminate/reduce the presumption of behavior.

Biography:  Employed with ViaQuest for over 24 years, Deb Maloy’s experience began in a 54-bedf ICF serving all males. She was employed initially as Director of Nursing and moved into a role as administrator, overseeing a major renovation within the facility while also starting up a day program. In addition, she initiated a management contract with the local county board of DD to provide respite services while developing community-based services. Over six years ago, she transitioned to the ViaQuest Nursing Services. In this capacity, she

  • Provides oversight of Health Services Coordination program in Franklin County
  • Provides oversight of medication administration training to unlicensed DD Personnel in the Central Ohio Region
  • Is expanding the training service in the North and South Regions of Ohio
  • Provides contracts and delegated nursing to many agencies and day programs throughout Ohio.

 Deb is a Certified DODD RN Instructor who trains RNs interested in becoming certified as a DODD RN Trainer through the state of Ohio. She has served on the DDNA National Board of Directors for three years (one and a half as president- elect and one and a half as president. She finds this role a great learning opportunity while allowing for the ability to “spread” the word on the importance of nurses serving this special population of developmentally disabled individuals.

 46.   “Collaboration of Care:  Team Approach for the QIDPs and Nurses”  (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  This session is intended to provide effective options for meeting the health care needs of individuals residing in group home settings managed by the QIDP with the necessary medical consulting input from the nurse.  It is expected this session will highlight how the roles of the QIDP and nurse play an integral part in minimizing unnecessary health risks to individuals and successfully obtain optimal level of care for the individuals in their home settings.  This program will address barriers and solutions to empower the QIDPs to work successfully with their nurses towards the common goal of the individual’s safety and medical well-being.

Biography:  Chris Helfrichs’ nursing career began over 23 years ago and 18 of those have been in the field of Developmental Disabilities.  Currently she serves as an appointed committee member of IL Brian’s Law, serves as a focus group member for Medication Administration within the community settings with IL DHS, works full time with DD Homes Network in various roles, and has been a member of DDNA for over 16 years.  Chris’s focus of her nursing career is to enrich the nurse’s experience working in the field of DD by keeping them engaged in their ever changing roles and helping them to foster a normalized purposeful life for the individuals with I/DD they serve.  Additionally, Chris keeps at the foremost of her intentions the care and well -being of individuals served in the ICF and CILA settings within the organization she works.

 47.   ”Understanding My Life Plan: A Guide to the Developmental Disability Professional on Developing an Alternative ILP” (60 Minutes)

Session Description:  It is our desire to present you with ideas on the formulation and implementation of a more functional, person directed format. We will guide and inspire you in engaging the person in developing and understanding the plan through personal interviews and by employing a variety of tools. We will show you how each person’s plan can be tailored to the needs of that person, empowering them to take the lead in their life. Through this presentation, our hope is to spark new ideas for developmental disability professionals to take a different approach to traditional treatment planning.

Biography:  Michele Phelps is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator with a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Florida.  She is currently the Director of Compliance for ID/DD Facilities at Bluegrass in Kentucky.  In this capacity, she assists the facility with interpreting Department of Justice and ICF/MR requirements and implementing necessary steps to achieve compliance ratings in all areas. 

48.   “What the Future Holds: Day Program Options that are Anything but Ordinary” (60 Minutes) 

Session Description:  In 2011, Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities opened their Monarch Academy Program.  Monarch Academy offers a dynamic and flexible program that utilizes the community as a classroom and fosters the development of meaningful skills that facilitate social relationships, self-esteem, employment and recreation.  Services are customized and designed for young adults who are eager to learn and enjoy an active schedule with a wide variety of experiences and social interaction with peers. 

 Shortly after Monarch Academy opened, Ray Graham Association worked closely with families to create Monarch II.  This program provides a highly structured and routine curriculum for people on the Autism spectrum that includes the use of individualized schedules, movement, sensory, and community experiences in order to meet the unique needs of each person. All program activities integrate sensory experiences, communication enhancement, social interaction and visual supports.

 The Monarch Programs are paving the way for the future of adult service day programs offered at Ray Graham Association.  Ray Graham Association believes in keeping people connected to the community.  Monarch Services has several community partnerships with local volunteer organizations, businesses, and park districts. Our programming provides participants a full range of experiences in diverse areas of life within their communities.

 We will offer how the Monarch Programs have changed the way people experience adult day services.  Specific examples of how these unique programs have impacted the lives of the people who participate in them and their families, will be shared.

Biography:  Kristin Garcia is currently a Program Administrator for Monarch Services with Ray Graham Association.  Ray Graham Association is a non for profit organization that supports more than 2,000 DuPage County residents and their families to Reach, Grow and Achieve their dreams.  Prior to joining the team at RGA, Kristen graduated from Elmhurst College with a Bachelor’s Degree in K-12 Special Education.  She used this degree to work as a Special Education Teacher for 6 years in Glen Ellyn, IL.  After teaching, Kristen has been with RGA for nine years and has been a Life Skills Instructor, Lead Life Skills Instructor and Program Coordinator.

Ruth VanRamhorst is the Director of Community and Family Support Services for Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities.  In this role, Ruth oversees Ray Graham Association’s Community Learning Centers, Employment Services, Home Based Services, Monarch programs and Therapeutic Horsemanship.  Ruth has 24 cumulative years with Ray Graham Association in a variety of roles, both residential and day services.  Her priority has always been to meet people where they are and adjust services to meet the needs and dreams of the people we serve, knowing that one size never fits all.  Ruth holds a BS degree in Psychology and an MBA in Healthcare Administration but her most valued education comes from the amazing people she has had the opportunity to work for and with over the years.

49.    “The ABCs of Successful Women Leaders within the Disabilities Field” (60 Minutes)

Session Description: Amy, Becca, and Catherine (ABC) are three accomplished women with lifetime careers in the field of intellectual/developmental disabilities. During this session, these leaders will invite you to explore the traits and skills which have proven to be successful for each of them. This session is intended to provide encouragement to others in the presentation of journeys, strategies, passions and personal insights gained along the way. The trio will discuss experiences that “went well” and experiences that “could have been done differently.” In passing the baton, these three nationally recognized professionals hope to inspire the next generation of women leaders dedicated to helping others.

Biography:  Amy Tabor has worked in the human services field for more than three decades. She began her career as a behavior specialist in a residential setting for people with autism and has held a variety of positions within organizations -- including case management, program evaluation, staff development, and executive leadership. Much of her work has been dedicated to the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable people, and, specifically, the importance of Human Rights Committees.  As President of Organizational Dimensions, Amy travels extensively working with provider agencies throughout the U.S. and beyond, to enhance service effectiveness within these organizations. She regularly presents at local, state, and national conferences where she shares her knowledge, experiences and perspectives on a variety of topics.  She holds two degrees in Sociology completing undergraduate work at North Central College and graduate work at Northern Illinois University. Additionally, Amy is an accomplished writer who continues to create new resources to assist organizations in their efforts in providing high quality, effective services to vulnerable populations. 

Catherine Hayes, MA, is the president of H&W Independent Solutions. She is a nationally recognized consultant and trainer in the area of ICF/IID regulatory compliance and quality assurance. H&W was founded in 2001 with a primary mission to assist agencies in implementing quality systems that are person-centered. It has provided services in over 25 states and is recognized as a leader in supporting ICFs/IID agencies to achieve and exceed compliance. Catherine has provided training across the nation for QIDPs. Prior to co-founding H&W, she served as the ICF/IID team leader and then branch chief for the Continuing Care Provider Branch of CMS. In these positions, she served as the primary regulator for the ICF/IID program nationally, and was responsible for training state and federal ICF/IID surveyors, providing them with guidance and interpretation on the ICF/IID regulations. For more information, please visit www.hwisolutions.com.

Rebecca A. Helgeson, BS:  has thirty years of experience providing supports to individuals who reside in community based residential and day support facilities. She has extensive knowledge of the federal regulations as well as several state processes and practices.  Rebecca was employed as a residential provider in California for over 27 years and during that time also volunteered as an instructor to public and private providers in Federal and State regulations. This volunteer teaching included statewide QIDP certification for professionals working for private agencies in the state. She also volunteered as the Regulatory Consultant for the Developmental Services Network (DSN), for a provider association in California. In 2012, Rebecca returned to her home state of Virginia and she continues to provide consulting services throughout the country. As a consultant with H&W Independent Solutions and within her own consulting agency, Beyond Compliance, Rebecca has expanded her expertise, providing consultation in over fifteen states.