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Empowered Voices

Upcoming Webinars

Empowered Voices

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May 15 2025
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Virtual

Empowered Voices meet virtually on the third Thursday of each month from 6 - 8 p.m. Achieva's Empowered Voices Leadership Group is driven by the voices and interests of its self-advocates.

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Past Advocacy Webinars

A family poses together
This webinar discusses the concept of life sharing, a service model that allows individuals with disabilities to live with families or individuals who provide support. The conversation covers the definition, benefits, roles, and responsibilities involved in life sharing, as well as personal experiences from families and providers.

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This webinar highlights student-led IEPs, empowering students with disabilities to engage actively in education, boosting self-advocacy, confidence, and collaboration.

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A student in a wheelchair sits with books on his lap outside
In our 2nd "Back-to-School Power (Two) Hour" we are focusing on Back-to-School prep! 

In the first hour, it's all about the law and the rights of students' and parents' in public education. Covered are legal definitions, the importance of measurable goals, progress monitoring, and research-based programs.

In the second hour, practical tips from parents for back-to-school preparation are covered, such as establishing routines, collaborating with the school and community support, and promoting open communication.

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A woman in a wheelchair leads a meeting by writing on a white board
"Supporting People Through Supported Decision Making," led by Kelly Darr, Legal Director of Disability Rights PA, explores key aspects of decision-making support, myths about guardianship, alternative approaches, and understanding the implications of the new Guardianship law, Act 61.

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An old bed on a floor. Text overlay says Scam, Fraud, and Abuse.
Learn to recognize and report scams, and discover strategies to protect against identity theft. Get resources for those affected and gain insights into preventing abuse and financial exploitation of older adults in your community.

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Students gather to look at a mannequin of the human body
This webinar explores gaps in sex and health education for students with disabilities, delving into the impact and barriers to accessing proper health education, while offering proactive steps forward.

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A teacher works with a student with Down syndrome
November 9th, 2023

Gain insights on transitioning to adulthood for individuals with disabilities. Learn about planning, work experience, and utilizing resources like ODP and waivers in Pennsylvania for a seamless employment transition.

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A student in a wheelchair sits at his desk
October 12th, 2023

Explore school discipline with experts Michael Connelly and Keith Fock. Learn about students' rights, disciplinary processes, and alternatives. Understand crucial policies shaping education for students with disabilities.

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A young woman in a wheelchair smiles while on her laptop
August 31st, 2023

Using the internet and social media can be a great way to connect with friends and family, provide a platform for learning and explore our world from anywhere. How do it safely and teach those you care for to do so, as well? 

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A mom hugs her son. Overlay text says charting the lifecourse
March 22nd, 2023

Achieva's Arc of Greater Pittsburgh provides this webinar presentation on Charting The LifeCourse.

Life is all about transitions. Join Achieva employees Jack Butler, Director of Person-Centered Planning and Melissa Skiffen, Disability Advocate and Family Supports as they explore how to apply the Charting the Lifecourse framework and tools to transition throughout the life stages.

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A man in a wheelchair shakes hands with a woman in front of a house with a sold sign in the window. Overlay text: A home of my own and housing tenancy
Jan. 18, 2023

What is the "A Home of My Own" Program and Housing Tenancy? Join Achieva's Michelle Stockunas to learn about the waiver services that make living in a home of your own possible, and about affordable technology that is helping people stay safe in their homes.

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Maurika Moore, a young black woman with epilepsy, sits in her floral dress and smiles. Overlay Text: Intersectionality of race and disability
Nov. 9th, 2022

“The Intersection of Race and Disability Project.” The presentation will cover the scope and parameters of the project and introduce the audience to five BIPOCs who have lived at the intersection of race and disability in Western Pennsylvania. In addition, the presentation will explore social justice themes in the five subjects’ stories and invite the audience to get involved with WPDHAC’s efforts to preserve and share this important history.

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Two women, one with Down Syndrome, pose in their aprons at work. Overlay Text: Why paid work experience is important to students with disabilities
Oct. 13th, 2022

Presention by Mary Hartley, Executive Director of the Parent Education & Advocacy Leadership (PEAL) Center During this presentation, we will discuss:
  • Your seamless transition to adulthood – planning for transition led by students
  • The proof - students who work before they leave high school; inclusion in school and community, and impact on employment
  • Letting Go - Start as early as possible letting go (for parents); independent (supported) transportation, volunteerism, work-based learning & most importantly, real jobs
  • Success Stories

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A girl stands in a corner. Overlay text: Update to federal guidance on school discipline
Sept. 22nd, 2022


In July 2022, the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) issued guidance on behavior support and discipline of students with disabilities.
  • OCR and OSEP make clear the expectation that schools must find ways to support behavior related needs without first resorting to suspension and/or expulsion
  • Attorney Connolly will break down the six guidance documents
  • Attendees will learn how to use this information to advocate for appropriate practices with respect to disciplining of students with disabilities
  • The presentation will review how the guidance requires that school-based police officers must make reasonable modifications in interacting with students with disabilities
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