1. Transitioning into Adulthood
Jennifer Arms
Disability benefit specialist

2. What is an aging & disability resource center?
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) are the first place to go with your aging and disability questions. They are "information stations” where you can obtain accurate, unbiased information related to aging or living with a disability. ADRCs offer the general public a single source for information and assistance on issues affecting older people and people with disabilities, regardless of their income. ADRCs are welcoming and convenient locations for you and your family to get information, advice, and access to a variety of services.

3. Services Provided at the ADRC
Information and Assistance
Long-Term Care Options Counseling
Health and Wellness
Benefits Counseling 
Vital Connections
Help Paying for Long-Term Care

4. Disability benefit specialist
Disability Benefit Specialist (DBS)-The Disability Benefit Specialist Program is a service of Wisconsin’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers. Disability Benefit Specialists serve individuals, ages 18-59, with physical disabilities, mental illness, developmental disabilities, and/or substance abuse issues, at no cost. DBS’ provide assistance with public and private benefit programs, including referrals, general information, client-specific analysis, application/renewal procedures, plan options/enrollment, appeal/grievance information, representation in eligibility/coverage denials, and overpayment issues.

5. DBS Service areas (including, but not limited to)
Income Support
Health & Long-Term Care
Employment
Food, Housing, & Utilities

6. Key players in transition planning
ADRC Staff
Support Staff
Universities, Technical /Community Colleges
Employers
Independent Living Services
Social Security Administration
Paraprofessionals
School Administrators
Student
Parents
Teachers
Community
DVR
Guidance
Social Worker
Psychologist
Transition Coordinator
Aides

7. Outcomes My life is stable. I am respected and treated fairly.
I decide where I want to live.
I decide who I want to live with.
I decide how I spend my time.
I have relationships with family and friends.
I do things that are important to me.
I am involved in my community.
My life is stable.
I am respected and treated fairly.
I have privacy.
I have the best possible health.
I feel safe.
I am free from abuse and neglect.

8. Living My Dream: Transitioning to Life After High School
At 17 yrs & 6 months call Aging and Disability Resource Center & at 18 Call Social Security
Parents or guardian help me with my goals
I know my dreams and goals
Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
Provides information about services, resources and programs.
Education
18 Yrs Old
Independent Living Options
Student
Social Security can help with benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medical Assistance (MA) or Ticket to Work
Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation (DVR) can help me reach my employment goals
Teachers help me with my goals
Employment
UWM MIG 04/15/11 Rev 30

9. Student role
Identify my interests, talents, and passions to pursue after leaving high school.
Actively participate in the IEP process and identify my employment and independent living goals.
Work toward achieving my goals.
Identify supports (people and resources) that can help me achieve my goals.
Stay in School.
Develop Self-determination & Self-advocacy skills.

10. Parent role
Help my son/daughter identify interests, talents, & passions.
Work with IEP team.
Work with son/daughter to achieve post school goals.
Collaborate with identified support systems.
Support my son/daughter in advocating for him/herself.

11. Teacher role
Develop understanding of student’s abilities, interests, passions.
Develop & implement transition plan with student & family.
Work with student & family to achieve post school goals.
Collaborate with identified support systems.
Support student in advocating for him/herself.

12. Important things that happen at 18
Resolve the issue of guardianship and/or related alternatives.
Understand Adult Rights & Responsibilities.
Disability Determination through SSA and apply for SSI and Medical Assistance if appropriate.
May get personalized information directly from Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC).

13. Guardianship Some alternatives may include:
Parents need to resolve the issue of guardianship and/or related alternatives
Guardianship is the legal power to care for another person and manage his/her affairs:
Guardian of the estate -finances
Guardian of the person –personal needs
Person may be appointed as both
Some alternatives may include:
Health care power of attorney
Conservatorship
Representative Payee
Dual Signature Accounts

14. Entitlement vs. Eligibility
High school
Adult services
Special education services are free
Services based on IEP initiated by school district
Progress toward IEP goal is monitored and communicated to parents & students
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Adult services based on eligibility & vary by agency
Services based on ISP initiated by adult
Progress toward goals are monitored by consumer & require self-advocacy
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act & the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)