THINK+change Podcasts

Service animals improve the quality of life for people with disabilities every day! And, as rights and protections have expanded over the years, they have become more common in public. Yet, there is a lot of misinformation and questions around service animals. Barbara Henry, Executive Director and Lead Trainer of Domino Service Dogs, knows that education is the first step to creating a better society for service animals and their handlers. What does it take to have a service dog? How should you act around service dogs in public? What rights to businesses have? Tune into this exciting episode to learn all of this and more!

Leidy Medrano es una defensora apasionada de su hijo, hace poco diagnosticado de trastorno del espectro autista. En este episodio del pódcast, Leidy comparte su viaje de convertirse en la voz de su hijo y descubrir su propia defensa.   Los padres y las familias son a veces los defensores más fuertes en la vida de un niño. Desde sus ideas sobre cómo ser persistente y eficaz en el mundo de la discapacidad hasta cómo utiliza la comunidad que la rodea, la historia de Leidy es una inspiración de la que aprender.

Self-advocacy is about knowing yourself and standing up for yourself! Not many people can speak to the importance of self-advocacy more than people with disabilities.   This episode of the THINK+change 2025 podcasts features Romi Shannon, a person with a disability who grew into being her most powerful advocate. Hear directly from Romi about how she took control of her life and stood up for herself in some very difficult situations. And now, Romi wants to see others speak up for themselves, develop resilience, and become empowered!

Don't be ashamed to ask for help! Many people with disabilities, caregivers, and families rely on disability programs due to the added challenges in their lives that others do not face. These programs can include financial assistance, daily living supports, healthcare, and much more.   These programs go beyond being a safety net; they are often a lifeline! Without this support, many people could not live healthy, independent lives in their communities.   Dive into Disability Programs that Transform Lives to learn about the programs that could change your life of the life of a loved one! This 4-part documentary series presents the lived experiences and professional advice to motivate and help you get started.

Listen in for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the power of love in parenting. Kevin's story reminds us that, with the right supports, and when you put your mind to something, you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible.

Julian Wang, a dedicated self-advocate, has achieved significant milestones in his career and emphasizes that employers should view people with disabilities for their talents and contributions—not just the accommodations they may require.   In this month's THINK+change podcast, we spoke with Julian to hear about his personal experiences in the workforce as a person with a disability. He shares powerful insights and valuable advice for others navigating employment, as well as lessons he's learned about self-advocacy throughout his career.

Hillary Jorgensen, Co-Executive Director of Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition, joins THINK+change this month for a fascinating conversation about disability policy advocacy. As a person with a disability, she has had an eye for social justice earlier than most. Hear directly from Hillary about her work in the disability policy space, how those efforts affect the everyday lives of the disability community, and how you can join in the fight!

People with disabilities are a powerful force in our democratic system! And when government policies and systems impact daily living across the disability community, it is vital to exercise the right to vote. This storytelling TALKS series, The Power of the Disability Vote is a call to action from advocates with legal, government, and lived experiences.

As the world becomes more digital by the day, access to communities and resources expands—but only for those with the technology to reach them. Without internet access, many find themselves isolated from essential services. Digital equity ensures that everyone, including people with disabilities, can fully engage with digital content.

Elizabeth Moran, JD, from The Arc of Colorado, joins us in this episode of the THINK+change podcast/vodcast to discuss why accessible travel should really matter to everyone. With barriers to accessible transportation being a key focus in disability advocacy today, Elizabeth shares her valuable expertise on outstanding needs and paths towards progress in transportation!

“We haven't been hearing a lot of disabled folks' stories, and those are some of the most important, most interesting stories in the world,” says Ben Raanan, Artistic Director of Phamaly Theatre, a local Denver theatre for artists with disabilities, who joins THINK+change for this month's podcast.   The stories we consume shape so much of our perception and narrative of the world around us, which makes representation so important. Ben Raanan knows this better than most, since he has been fostering stories of disability to the stage for years. For Ben, it's about creating the best art possible, redefining artistic conventions, and in this episode, he shares the how and why of disability storytelling!

When law enforcement is called out to a crisis involving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the situation is complicated. Communication challenges, a lack of training, and a misunderstanding of someone's disability, can all lead to unfortunate challenging outcomes.   From THINK+change, Building Bridges: People with Disabilities and Law Enforcement is series of mini-documentaries diving into the IDD community's experience with police. Each story highlights progress and the continued need for conversation and steps towards solutions. Solutions that prioritize both justice and compassion.

For so many, art is the opportunity for growth through expression, communication, and building confidence. It creates communities, jobs, and so much more. And yet the pathway to pursuing the arts is left out of the conversation for so many people with disabilities.  We sat down with Jaime Lewis, RTD (Regional Transportation District) Director for District A in Denver, Transit Advisor for CCDC (Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition), and multi-disciplinary artist. From the stage to art galleries, Jaime has been breaking the barriers in the arts for years and wants to continue creating opportunities for more artists with disabilities.

It can be tough to find the right balance between respecting the rights and needs of people with IDD who commit sex offenses and keeping the community safe. But it is important to support them in a way that leads to growth, reduces risk, and improves their quality of life.Join us for a conversation with Dr. Kyle Lucas, PhD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping people with developmental disabilities. With years of experience in treating individuals with problematic sexual behavior, Dr. Lucas sits down with us to discuss the strategies and approaches to create lasting change.

Disabilities are not always going to be obvious to others! The decision to share one's disability is also highly personal and it can be a difficult one as they may face skepticism, disbelief, or stigma from others who cannot understand the extent of their disability or needs.  In this insightful podcast/vodcast episode, we sit down with a remarkable young adult, entrepreneur, and self-advocate, who explains the reality of growing up with an invisible disability. Even at a young age, he is determined to have a voice, as he speaks up for himself and others with disabilities. Join us for a story of resilience, creativity, and living life to the fullest!

The journey of raising a child with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) may require unwavering support from parent advocates who champion their children's rights, voices, inclusion, and overall needs. For parents of children, both adults and youth, navigating this advocacy path often becomes a lifelong commitment. In this THINK+change podcast episode, join us as we sit down with Cindy, a seasoned parent advocate in Colorado. With over 30 years of experience advocating for her son, Cindy shares invaluable insights for fellow parents on their own advocacy journeys.

A bonus episode within the multi-part series about Substance Use Disorders and People with Developmental Disabilities. This episode reviews Systemic Gaps and Policy Solutions with Senator Dafna Michaelson Jenet. Treatment gaps for people with co-occurring disorders and disabilitiesHarm Reduction policy in ColoradoLived experiences and data needed to reduce stigma and improve policyPolicy change needed to address barriers and discrimination in treatment servicesReach out to your legislators to tell them the barriers you or someone you know is facing when it comes to substance use and having a disability.

The third epiosde within the multi-part series about Substance Use Disorders and People with Developmental Disabilities. This episode reviews Treatment, Recovery, and the Barriers Featuring Dr. Chad Johnston, MD, Medical Director of Urban Peaks Rehab.The process of treatment and being in recovery;Overview of harm reduction;Communication between disability and addiction service systems;Barriers to seeking treatment for people with IDD; andImproving access to treatment.

The second epiosde within the multi-part series about Substance Use Disorders and People with Developmental Disabilities. This episode talks about the Prevalence of Substance Abuse among People with IDD Featuring Erika Spraker, LSW, ACA, Program Director of Lifelong Inc.Research around SUD and IDD;Reasons for high prevalence;Prescription medication management; andSigns of SUD to look out for.

The first epiosde within the multi-part series about Substance Use Disorders and People with Developmental Disabilities. This episode offers a Primer on Substance Use Disorders (SUD) Featuring Ann C. Noonan MA, CAS, LPC, from Noonan Consults, LLCSpectrum of Substance Use Disorders;Exposure and prevention;Risk factors for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; andTreatment and intervention plans.

A place to call home, one that is truly safe and reliable, is the foundation of well-being. But, housing instability ripples out into every part of one's life, from physical and mental health to financial growth. For people with developmental disabilities (DD), living independently can be the first step to a life of dignity and fulfillment. But, unfortunately the barriers to achieving stable housing can seem almost insurmountable when you have a DD. As a population that is already disproportionately low-income, the lack of affordable housing is just the start. Many options are not accessible and the path to housing support can be really confusing.Housing Challenges and People with Developmental Disabilities explores four perspectives in the largely untold story of the ongoing housing crisis in the United States, shedding light on the unique issues faced by individuals with developmental disabilities and their advice on how to make meaningful change. Why you should listen•Hear first-hand accounts from people with DD and their struggle to find affordable, accessible housing in Colorado; •Gain insight into the significant barriers people with DD face in navigating the housing system;•Learn about the heightened effects that housing instability has on those with DDs; and•Understand the need for the disability perspective when it comes to the government's response to the housing crisis.Who should listen•Advocates and activists fighting for accessible and affordable housing; •Policy-makers addressing the housing crisis;•Real-Estate and Housing Professionals endeavoring to create an equitable housing market;•Community members invested in equity work; and•Social workers and crisis response teams.

This episode features Elizabeth Lucke, long-term DSP Caregiver • Falling in love with being a DSP;• Duties as a DSP and caregiver;• The best part of being a DSP;• Self-care and preventing burnout; and• Ways to help improve the lives of DSPs.Timestamps:2:15 – Falling in love with being a DSP3:30 – Elizabeth's duties as a DSP7:40 – The best part of being a DSP8:45 – The importance of a DSP in an individual with IDD's life13:40 – Why become a DSP?17:35 – Self-care and preventing burn out as a DSP21:00 – Learn more about Host Home Providers by taking this course.21:25 – How to make DSP's lives better24:00 – What to know if you are thinking about becoming a DSP?28:10 – We need to come together to support vulnerable populations and include them in our communities, closing thoughts from Elizabeth Lucke.Quality Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are vital to the lives of people with disabilities. They are the professionals that provide supports such as helping with employment, providing personal care, and are sometimes the support that someone with a disability needs to be able to live independently.A shortage of DSPs has been mounting in the United States for years now, with a 2022 report finding that 71% of case managers are struggling to find available providers for direct support services. With DSPs being such a vital workforce, tune into Addressing the Direct Support Professional Shortage TRAINING series, to learn more about the challenges and solutions!Why you should tune inUnderstand the everyday lives of Direct Support Professionals and the need to support this essential workforce. Being a DSP is not just a job, but a skilled career and must be valued as such! Tune into this podcast/vodcast series to learn about the variables behind this workforce crisis and how you can get involved in the solutions.

Featuring Pascale Adou from the Department of Healthcare and Financing (HCPF)'s Direct Care Workforce Collaborative• Strategies in addressing the shortage;• Approaches to successful DSP recruitment; and• How to get involved in making change.Timestamps:2:15 – Refresher on the reasons behind the DSP shortage6:20 – Strategies to address the shortage13:00 – Recruiting DSPs right now15:45 – Getting involved in making change for DSPs20:50 – Change will come and Appreciation for DSPs, final thoughts from Pascale AdouQuality Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are vital to the lives of people with disabilities. They are the professionals that provide supports such as helping with employment, providing personal care, and are sometimes the support that someone with a disability needs to be able to live independently. A shortage of DSPs has been mounting in the United States for years now, with a 2022 report finding that 71% of case managers are struggling to find available providers for direct support services. With DSPs being such a vital workforce, tune into Addressing the Direct Support Professional Shortage TRAINING series, to learn more about the challenges and solutions! Why you should tune inUnderstand the everyday lives of Direct Support Professionals and the need to support this essential workforce. Being a DSP is not just a job, but a skilled career and must be valued as such! Tune into this podcast/vodcast series to learn about the variables behind this workforce crisis and how you can get involved in the solutions.

Featuring Josh Rael, Executive Director of Alliance Colorado• The challenges we need to address;• The recent increase in demand for DSPs;• Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility in the Direct Support Profession;• Addressing low rates of pay; and• Raising the public's awareness of the DSP shortage.Timestamps2:58 – The challenges posed by the DSP shortage6:45 – The increase in demand for DSPs in recent years7:00 – Waiver Services – Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) are Medicaid provided services that support people with disabilities to live in their communities. These services are offered through a system of “waivers”. Learn more about the HCBS Waivers in Colorado from this Tool.9:40 – Considering the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) of DSPs in IDD social justice12:15 – Addressing low rates of pay for DSPs17:30 – Raising awareness of the importance of DSPs18:20 – Alliance has a job board where you can learn about job opportunities as a DSP in the Colorado IDD community. Visit https://www.alliancecolorado.org/job-opportunities-in-idd22:25 – National statistics about the DSP workforce crisis impact, closing thoughts from Josh RaelQuality Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are vital to the lives of people with disabilities. They are the professionals that provide supports such as helping with employment, providing personal care, and are sometimes the support that someone with a disability needs to be able to live independently. A shortage of DSPs has been mounting in the United States for years now, with a 2022 report finding that 71% of case managers are struggling to find available providers for direct support services. With DSPs being such a vital workforce, tune into Addressing the Direct Support Professional Shortage TRAINING series, to learn more about the challenges and solutions! Why you should tune inUnderstand the everyday lives of Direct Support Professionals and the need to support this essential workforce. Being a DSP is not just a job, but a skilled career and must be valued as such! Tune into this podcast/vodcast series to learn about the variables behind this workforce crisis and how you can get involved in the solutions.

This episode is Featuring Jennifer Ochs, Ms. Wheelchair Colorado 2023• An overview of Direct Support work;• The role of a DSP for people with developmental disabilities;• How to become a DSP; and• The importance of a quality Direct Support workforce in every community.Timestamps2:15 – What is a DSP?8:15 – The work DSPs do for those with Developmental Disabilities9:55 – Who can be a DSP?12:20 – Why DSPs are vital14:13 – Understanding and Respecting DSPs, closing thoughts from Jennifer Ochs.Quality Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are vital to the lives of people with disabilities. They are the professionals that provide supports such as helping with employment, providing personal care, and are sometimes the support that someone with a disability needs to be able to live independently. A shortage of DSPs has been mounting in the United States for years now, with a 2022 report finding that 71% of case managers are struggling to find available providers for direct support services. With DSPs being such a vital workforce, tune into Addressing the Direct Support Professional Shortage TRAINING series, to learn more about the challenges and solutions! Why you should tune inUnderstand the everyday lives of Direct Support Professionals and the need to support this essential workforce. Being a DSP is not just a job, but a skilled career and must be valued as such! Tune into this podcast/vodcast series to learn about the variables behind this workforce crisis and how you can get involved in the solutions.

Unmasked: How COVID-19 Impacted People with Developmental Disabilities (DD) was a project that explored the perspectives and experiences surrounding individuals with developmental disabilities and the professionals in their lives during the global pandemic. Through interviews, this project brought together diverse perspectives to shed light on the multi-layered challenges and responses faced by this community including a school educator, an DD advocate, a person who identifies as having a developmental disability, and a community organization. "Unmasked" showcases resilience and paints a picture of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts even after the pandemic has ended to address the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.Why you should listenHear from those connected to individuals with IDD, offering a perspective on challenges and triumphs.Gain insight into the challenges faced by individuals with DD and their support networks following the pandemic.Discover ongoing post-pandemic efforts and insights into addressing the needs of the community.Understand how the public health crisis intersected with the lives of people with IDD, contributing to broader discussions on inclusivity and social support for the future.Who should listenPeople with IDD, their families, friends, caregivers, and IDD support providers and professionals.The podcast featuresAn Advocacy Perspective: Tom Walsh, an Individual Advocate at The Arc of Aurora. The Arc of Aurora is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advocating for and on behalf of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.An Educator's Perspective: Stacie Colebert, a school psychologist for the public school system who works with students with developmental and other disabilities, as well as students without disabilities.A Self-Advocate's Perspective: Vicki Spillane, a woman who self-identifies as having a developmental disability.A Community Disability Organization's Perspective: Matt VanAuken, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at Developmental Pathways. Developmental Pathways is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and serves as a designated Case Management Agency (CMA) for long-term care services.This series was made possible through support Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council.

Accessibility. Equity. Opportunity. Rights. Inclusion. In the United States, we work hard to uphold and enact these values and we want our communities to thrive and work for everyone. This is why many choose to make the United States home.Deciding to immigrate to the United States is never an easy choice to make, but many people with disabilities do.In the TALKS mini-documentary series titled, Home Away from Home: Immigration Across the Border and Disability, we shed light on the intersection of immigration and disability justice. Through the perspectives of a legal expert, a social worker, and two lived experiences, this series delves into the challenges faced by people with developmental and other disabilities, as they navigate the complex immigration system in the United States.For more thought-provoking disability storytelling, visit https://thinkchange.training/talks/.

How to Build a Trauma-Informed Organization and MindsetIn the final episode of this series, we interviewed, Laura McArthur, PhD, as she shared her perspective about:• The benefits of building a trauma-informed organization and having the mindset• How someone starts to build awareness and buy-in for a trauma-informed approach at their place of work• How someone starts to build awareness and buy-in for a trauma-informed approach in their own lives• Resources to help people to build a Trauma-Informed organization and mindset

Why We Need Trauma-Informed Organizations and PeopleIn episode 3 of this series, we interviewed, Laura McArthur, PhD, as she shared her perspective about:• Why we need a trauma-informed community• Where trauma-informed framework be implemented• How cultural responsiveness and biases align with our trauma-informed work• The 3 C's of resilience (connection, coping, and competence)• Resources to help people to develop their own Trauma-Informed awareness

What Does It Mean to Be Trauma-Informed?In episode 2 of this series, we interviewed, Brian Tallant LPC, NADD-CC as he shared his perspective about:• What it means to be trauma-informed?• Shifting the focus from “What's wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?”• What are the Trauma-Informed Principles?• Aligning people with developmental disabilities and trauma-informed concepts• How we support people with disabilities, children and adults, through Trauma-Informed practices in everyday life?

How Does Trauma Affect the Brain In episode 1 of this series, we interviewed, Brian Tallant LPC, NADD-CC as he shared his perspective about:• What is Trauma?• How does trauma affect the brain?• Can the brain heal from trauma?• What is the Neurosequential Model?• How can we support people with developmental disabilities, children and adults, who have experienced trauma?

“I think we need to make to make the systems work for the people, not for the systems. People are capable of a lot more than we give them credit for, we just have to give them opportunity.” – Damon McLeese, Executive Director of Access GalleryDid you know that people with disabilities experience higher rates of unemployment than those without disabilities? This mini-documentary series features five businesses working to change that fact! In the Businesses Changing the Status Quo: Shifting the Face of Disability Employment TALKS series, hear from the restaurant, health care, visual arts, entrepreneurship, and retail perspectives on ways to create opportunity and support employees with disabilities. It's simpler than you think!Why you listen-Understand that employing people with disabilities is not just a socially-conscious action, it's also a smart business decision;-Learn how these businesses are taking simple and easy steps to accommodate and support their employees with disabilities;-Discover how someone with a disability can become an entrepreneur and why that may be the best career path for them; and-Introduce yourself to business strategies and programs that can ensure meaningful, Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) for your employees!Who should listen-Short-staffed businesses;-Businesses interested in creating an accessible environment for their employees;-Individuals with disabilities seeking career path ideas, including self-employment;-Professionals, Families, or Caretakers that support people with disabilities;-Advocacy organizations; and-Disability organizations.This TALKS series was made possible through support from arc Thrift Stores, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, PASCO, and The Arc of Aurora.To watch this podcast in it's video format, visit https://thinkchange.training/businesses-changing-status-quo-shifting-face-disability-employment/

Is employment an option after high school for youth with developmental disabilities? Yes! Join THINK+change, Serina Gilbert, and Cheryl Carver with the Youth Services Program at the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in Colorado as we talk about employment! DVR is in every state, and while programs and services may differ, DVR can assist individuals with disabilities to explore employment options.Timestamps:2:24 – Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Overview4:12 – Pre-Employment Services for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities7:13 – How DVR works with Schools13:26 - How Services Are Provided17:18 – How Families Can Contribute to Employment ServicesAbout this series:This multi-part series, Episodes 62-66, reviews what happens when a young adult with a developmental disability (DD) turns 18 and can you and your young adult prepare for the transition into adulthood. It can be daunting to begin that planning, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of resources and professionals out there to help you figure out how to navigate the educational transition plan, prepare for higher education or employment, help you get the right Home and Community-Based services, answer questions about guardianship and finances, and MUCH MORE!This work was made possible through support from Arc Thrift Stores, Autism Society of Colorado, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, Firefly Autism, Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, and The Arc of Aurora.

What happens when a youth with an IDD turns 18? Are the parents still guardians? What happens with the youth's finances and benefits once they become an adult? Yvette Plummer with Show and Tell helps break it down in this episode so you can learn about alternatives to guardianship and what to expect when it comes to financial responsibilities. Learn more about guardianship and alternatives here.Timestamps:2:45 – What happens to guardianship rights at age 18?5:04 – Alternatives to Guardianship10:06 – How public benefits change at age 1813:56 - Reach out to Easterseals Community and Disability Services if you feel like you need more help understanding the details of SSI and SSDI.14:56 – Charge Room and Board beginning at age 1817:50 – To learn more about the “asset limit” and how to save via Colorado ABLE accounts, check out our vodcast/podcast with Mike Keglovits from College Invest!19:15 – Final Tips & Tricks from YvetteAbout this series:This multi-part series, Episodes 62-66, reviews what happens when a young adult with a developmental disability (DD) turns 18 and can you and your young adult prepare for the transition into adulthood. It can be daunting to begin that planning, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of resources and professionals out there to help you figure out how to navigate the educational transition plan, prepare for higher education or employment, help you get the right Home and Community-Based services, answer questions about guardianship and finances, and MUCH MORE!This work was made possible through support from Arc Thrift Stores, Autism Society of Colorado, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, Firefly Autism, Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, and The Arc of Aurora.

Let's talk about Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for when a youth with IDD becomes an adult. Carol Meredith with The Arc Arapahoe, Douglas & Elbert Counties helps break it down in this episode so you can learn about how HCBS can help youth transitioning to adulthood and how they can get support with everyday activities like getting ready for the day, chore services, day program services, supervision and more.Timestamps:2:19 - HCBS Overview4:10 – Getting on an HCBS waiver once you become an adult8:51 – The HCBS Waiver options in Colorado13:33 - Why consider HCBS?17:58 - Living Arrangements on an HCBS WaiverResources mentioned in this episode: Colorado Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for Children and Colorado Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver List for AdultsAbout this series:This multi-part series, Episodes 62-66, reviews what happens when a young adult with a developmental disability (DD) turns 18 and can you and your young adult prepare for the transition into adulthood. It can be daunting to begin that planning, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of resources and professionals out there to help you figure out how to navigate the educational transition plan, prepare for higher education or employment, help you get the right Home and Community-Based services, answer questions about guardianship and finances, and MUCH MORE!This work was made possible through support from Arc Thrift Stores, Autism Society of Colorado, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, Firefly Autism, Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, and The Arc of Aurora.

Is higher education an option after high school for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)? Yes! Join THINK+change and Shayna Laing with Inclusive Higher Education as we review creating pathways to college for students with IDD to foster academic growth, social development, and career advancement in this episode.Timestamps:2:08 – College Application Timeline5:38 – Traditional Path with Accommodations in Higher Ed8:45 – Utilizing an inclusive higher education program for students with IDD10:55 – Disclosing a Disability to a Higher Ed Institution14:30 – ADA Accommodations in Higher Ed18:05 – Schools that Offer the Inclusive Higher Ed program in ColoradoResource mentioned: www.thinkcollege.netAbout this series:This multi-part series, Episodes 62-66, reviews what happens when a young adult with a developmental disability (DD) turns 18 and can you and your young adult prepare for the transition into adulthood. It can be daunting to begin that planning, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of resources and professionals out there to help you figure out how to navigate the educational transition plan, prepare for higher education or employment, help you get the right Home and Community-Based services, answer questions about guardianship and finances, and MUCH MORE!This work was made possible through support from Arc Thrift Stores, Autism Society of Colorado, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, Firefly Autism, Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, and The Arc of Aurora.

Transition planning is a process to help students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) decide what they want to do after high school. Join us for this episode where Gail Lott, EdD with the Colorado Department of Education, reviews common questions about the Transition Plan to help youth, families, and professionals be better prepared!Timestamps:3:22 – Transition Plan Timeline4:09 – Purpose of a Transition Plan9:30 - IEP, 504, & Transition Plans14:35 - Advocating for a Transition Plan16:13 – Making the most of the Transition Plan ServicesAbout this series:This multi-part series, Episodes 62-66, reviews what happens when a young adult with a developmental disability (DD) turns 18 and can you and your young adult prepare for the transition into adulthood. It can be daunting to begin that planning, but it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of resources and professionals out there to help you figure out how to navigate the educational transition plan, prepare for higher education or employment, help you get the right Home and Community-Based services, answer questions about guardianship and finances, and MUCH MORE!This work was made possible through support from Arc Thrift Stores, Autism Society of Colorado, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, Firefly Autism, Rocky Mountain Civitan Club, and The Arc of Aurora.

Quick Tips about Assets & Finances featuring Megan Brand, Executive Director of Colorado Fund for People with Disabilities (CFPD)– Learn about what counts towards asset limits for families and individuals (3:46)– Assets that count towards the limit (5:09)– Assets that don't count towards the limit (17:01)– Consequences of going over the Asset Limit (9:50)– Differences between SSI, Retirement Social Security, SSDI, and SSDI Child Benefit (12:10)– Find out who is involved in managing an individual's assets and Representative Payee (18:03)– Benefits (SSI/SSDI) when a child turns 18 and Charging room & board (21:10)– Tips and tricks on teaching money management, investments, and financial literacy (24:32)– What trusts are and how do they differ from ABLE accounts (27:27)Websites mentioned in the episode: Truelink card: https://www.truelinkfinancial.com/, CO Medicaid website: https://www.healthfirstcolorado.com/

Common Work & Financial Questions featuring Melanie Honsbruch, CPWIC, Curriculum Developer and Trainer at the Colorado Office of Employment First (OEF)– What the “Employment First” philosophy is (1:55);– Where “Employment First” is implemented in the United States (6:30);– How can someone get involved in Employment First advocacy (9:45)– Learn about job equity and “Competitive Integrated Employment” (16:03)– CO DB 101 – Colorado Disability Benefits 101 (23:00)Acronyms used in this episode: SSI = Supplemental Security Income; SSDI = Social Security Disability Insurance

Medicaid Buy-In featuring Beverly Hirsekorn, Disability and Aged Policy and Program Performance Coordinator at CO Department of Health Care & Financing (HCPF)– Who is HCPF (1:50)– Medicaid & Eligibility (3:23)– Learn about Colorado's Medicaid Buy-In programs (10:04)– Maintaining Medicaid Buy-In Eligibility (16:30)– Accessing and Applying for Medicaid Buy-in (17:25) – How to apply online at the PEAK website, by mail, by phone 800-221-3943, state relay 711, (18:07)– HCBS Waiver Tools are available here and here (23:05)

Benefits Counseling featuring Shantelle Rockman, Executive Director of Integrating Supports Colorado– What a benefits counselor/planner is (2:37)– The importance of understanding your benefits (4:27)– Advice about staying safe from benefits trafficking (6:20)– How to locate and get started with a benefits counselor/planner (7:14)- You can access co.db101.org or the CO Office of Employment First website, www.employmentfirstcolorado.org (10:04)Acronyms used in this episode: SSI = Social Security Income, SSDI = Social Security Disability Insurance, SNAP = Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamps), DVR = Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

ABLE Accounts & Asset Limit featuring Mike Keglovits, ABLE & Special Programs Manager at CollegeInvest– What the Federal Benefit Asset Limit and introduction into ABLE accounts (2:20)– How an ABLE account can help individuals with disabilities save (2:52)– ABLE accounts and Trusts (3:28)– Learn about new legislation for ABLE accounts (5:10)– Opening an ABLE account (10:00)Acronym used in this episode: SSI = Social Security IncomeWebsites mentioned in episode: www.ColoradoABLE.org

Foster care is a temporary arrangement that gives youth a safe place to live when their parents or family of origin are unable to safely care for them. The ultimate goal is to safely reunite a child with their family and to make a positive, long-lasting change in their lives. When parents and/or children with a developmental disability enter the foster care system, both placement and reunification can be challenging. This mini-documentary storytelling podcast features various perspectives of those with backgrounds in the foster care system including disability advocacy, child welfare, disability services, foster family recruitment and retention, and a lived experience.Why you should listen:-Understand that we are facing a shortage of foster families and resources nationwide and that the deficit is even greater for adolescents with disabilities who need placement.-Learn about how you can make an impact in your community to support children with developmental disabilities who are facing out-of-home placement.-Introduce yourself to disability prejudgment of parents who have developmental disabilities.-Discover that there are resources and organizations that have a goal to reunify a child with their family while ensuring safety.Who should listen:-Parents of children with developmental disabilities;-Families who may have children in the foster care system or are at risk of entering the foster care system,-Individuals interested in becoming a foster parent;-Child protection entities;-Professionals that support people with disabilities;-Advocacy organizations; and-Disability organizations.This TALKS podcast series was made possible through support from arc Thrift Stores, Colorado Access, Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, Developmental Pathways, and The Arc of Aurora.To watch the videos of this podcast, visit: https://thinkchange.training/developmental-disabilities-foster-care/

Part 4 of 4 of our multi-part series: Expanding Access and CBD Therapies for People with Developmental DisabilitiesEpisode 4: Epidiolex (cannabidiol) & Developmental DisabilitiesFeaturing: Laura Borgelt, PhramD, MBA at CU Anschutz Medical Campus-What Epidiolex is and what it's currently approved for;-Learn about continuing research on Epidiolex use for other disabilities and health conditions;-How you can have a conversation with your physician about exploring Epidiolex; and-The difference between Epidolex and retail CBD; and-How you can safely navigate products.

Part 3 of 4 of our multi-part series: Expanding Access and CBD Therapies for People with Developmental DisabilitiesEpisode 3: CBD in Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Featuring Bridget Dandaraw-Serritt - Founder of ACT (Advocates for Compassionate Therapy) Now-Discover the present reality of administering CBD in HBCS settings in Colorado;-What individuals can do to expand their access to CBD in an HBCS setting; and receive-Educational advocacy resources about CBD regulations provided by ACT (please visit https://thinkchange.training/expanding-access-cbd-therapies-people-developmental-disabilities/ to access those tangible resources).

Part 2 of 4 of our multi-part series: Expanding Access and CBD Therapies for People with Developmental DisabilitiesEpisode 2: CBD in School settings Featuring Bridget Dandaraw-Serritt - Founder of ACT (Advocates for Compassionate Therapy) Now-Understand the current reality of administering CBD in schools in Colorado;-What parents can do to expand access to CBD for their children in school; and receive-Educational advocacy resources about CBD use in school are provided by ACT.For access to handouts, please visit: https://thinkchange.training/expanding-access-cbd-therapies-people-developmental-disabilities/

Part 1 of 4 of our multi-part series: Expanding Access and CBD Therapies for People with Developmental DisabilitiesEpisode 1: CBD 101 & Developmental Disabilities (DD) Featuring Adam Young - Development Officer and Care Specialist at the Realm of Caring Foundation.-What CBD is, and why people are interested in exploring its medical and therapeutic uses;-Hear stories about the effects CBD has had on individuals with DD and their families;-Learn about published and continuing research between Johns Hopkins University and the -Realm of Caring Foundation; and-Safety tips on navigating the complicated retail market of CBD.Learn more about Realm of Caring here: https://realmofcaring.org/

Relationships are part of the human experience, regardless of disability. But, those with disabilities may face implicit bias, assumptions, and microaggressions from those in the community who are unprepared to understand the unique nuances of those relationships. This podcast shares the perspectives of two married couples, a person who identifies as femme queer, and a relationship coach for neurodiverse individuals on what we need to know about people with disabilities and their right to love. Why you should listen: Reexamine your biases about people with disabilities when it comes to love, marriage, intimacy, and dating, and consider how assumptions – yours and others' – affect citizens with disabilities. Together we can improve understanding of the need for more inclusion and acceptance of people with disabilities and their right to love.This podcast was made possible through support from arc Thrift Stores, Developmental Pathways, PASCO, and The Arc of Aurora.

Dr. Paul Spragg specializes in clinical, school, and forensic psychology and applied behavior analysis for children and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders to include Intellectual Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. This THINK+change podcast interview reviews: the history of HRC, and what its intent was; how the rights of people with IDD will change once the Final Settings Rule is fully implemented; and how the disability community and its professionals can balance liability, safety, and supervision.

This THINK+change podcast episode defines what the Final Settings Rule is; and how it applies and why it matters for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to have real and meaningful choices in their day-to-day lives and; how people can manage safety while also allowing natural hazards via The Dignity of Risk.

This THINK+change podcast episode describes what Human, Civil, and Political Rights are; defines what it means to have rights removed, restricted, or suspended when enrolled on the Colorado HCBS Developmental Disability Waiver; reviews processes to protect individuals with an IDD; explains the Human Rights Committee (HRC) makeup within Comunity Centered Boards (CCB); clarifies what Informed Consent is; shares whom to complain/report to if a person's rights are unnecessarily restricted/suspended.