Center on Community Living and Careers

08/07/2025

Are you a parent, family member, or teacher of a young adult with a disability? You're not alone in wanting the best for them. Join our virtual Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) this fall to discover resources that can help them find meaningful employment. We'll explore local, state, and federal support together. See all the training dates and session topics below!

• Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
• Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
• Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
• Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
• Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
• Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters

All sessions are free and will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM ET.
Interested in joining us? Fill out the registration form at go.iu.edu/8tCv for more information.

08/05/2025

Welcome back, Indiana transition educators! As the new school year begins, we’re here to support you. We have a variety of resources to help you start the year strong, including tips on self-reflection, re-engaging students, and understanding graduation pathways. Find all these and more on our website at go.iu.edu/8u9j.

Need personalized support? Email us at INSTRC@iu.edu or join our virtual office hours every Thursday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. ET. You’ll find the Zoom link in this week’s tip.

Let's make it a successful year for our students!

08/05/2025

What a great reminder! A simple act of kindness from one child to another can build a stronger, more supportive school community for everyone.

As the new school year approaches, please take a moment to talk with your child about looking out for classmates who might be struggling. This includes students who are new, seem shy, are having trouble making friends, being bullied, or often eat alone.

Our schools thrive when students step up as leaders in kindness. Your child has the power to make an incredible difference simply by saying hello, offering a smile, inviting someone to join them, or including a student who seems isolated. We often don't know what challenges others are facing, but a small act of friendship or kindness can have a profound impact – sometimes far greater than we realize. Encourage your child to be that supportive leader for others.

Have a great school year.

08/04/2025

Feeling disconnected from your community or your personal wellness journey? We've got you covered!

Introducing the Evansville Resources Wellness Chart, a resource for individuals with disabilities. It's a guide to self-discovery and community connection, with activities for all parts of your life:
• Cultural 🎨
• Environmental 🌳
• Physical 💪
• Emotional ❤️
• Occupational 💼

And the best part? It's a model and template that can be used in any city. Ready to start your journey? Find this resource on our website at go.iu.edu/8u75

08/01/2025

Interview jitters are real, but for job seekers with disabilities, they can feel even more overwhelming. 😥

That's why a strong support system is so important! Whether you're an employment specialist, a family member, or a provider, you play a vital role in helping job seekers feel seen, heard, and confident. Our latest issue of Shared Solutions is here to help you help them! We're breaking down how to prepare job seekers to showcase their strengths and land their dream job.

Ready to learn more? Read “Nailing the Interview: How to Prep Like a Pro” at go.iu.edu/8u74

07/31/2025

07/29/2025

We're LIVE with IN*SOURCE! Join us to learn about our upcoming trainings and events. Bring your questions – we can't wait to chat.

07/29/2025

Looking for support on your employment journey? CCLC is there to help! Join us for virtual office hours every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 PM ET! This is a great opportunity to meet our team and discuss job search strategies, workplace accommodations, or address any questions you may have. To join on Zoom, use the link: go.iu.edu/8q12

07/28/2025

You're invited to the next Hoosier Autism Caregivers Virtual Support Group on Wednesday, August 6 at 12:00 pm ET. This monthly gathering is a welcoming space for caregivers to connect, share, and support one another.

August’s Topic: “Back to School Part 2: Accommodations and Care Conference, Oh My!” with guest speaker Brigette Tavarez from IN*SOURCE.

Learn about IEPs, 504 plans, accommodations, and case conferences, plus practical tips for handling school challenges. This free session includes open discussion and Q&A for community support.

Register today at https://iu.zoom.us/meeting/register/oY0N5XiATwSCtWj4m5AzRw #/registration

07/25/2025

Virtual Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) returns this fall! Join all six sessions to learn about local, state, and federal resources supporting young adults with disabilities who want to work in their communities. Families, transition-age students, young adults with disabilities, and the professionals supporting them are welcome to attend. All sessions will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM ET.

Training Dates and Sessions:
• Monday, September 29: A New Path - High Expectations for Employment
• Tuesday, September 30: Individual Employment Possibilities
• Wednesday, October 1: Employer and Employee Supports
• Monday, October 6: Maintaining Employment Resources and Medicaid
• Tuesday, October 7: Benefits
• Wednesday, October 8: Local and State Agency Presenters

For more information and to register: https://go.iu.edu/8tCv

07/24/2025

Hey Educators — Include professional development in your summer plans (along with the sun and fun)!

Take advantage of the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community’s (IIDC) Summer Training Hub — your go-to spot for flexible, self-paced professional development that fits your summer schedule.

Whether you’re prepping for fall or exploring new topics, we’ve got you covered. We’ve curated a series of online courses aligned with your fall preparation needs:

• Flexible start dates
• Self-paced learning
• Low- or no-cost options
• Earn professional growth points!

Ready to recharge and get ahead? Let your summer work for you — on your time, at your pace.

P.S. Share with a colleague!

https://www.iidc.indiana.edu/what-we-offer/iidc-summer-training-hub.html

07/21/2025

Did you know that many neurodivergent individuals have incredible talents often overlooked in traditional hiring? That's where Specialisterne comes in!

Specialisterne USA creates meaningful employment opportunities for autistic or neurodivergent job seekers. They see unique strengths like attention to detail, pattern recognition, and innovative thinking as valuable assets for businesses.

Specialisterne helps bridge the gap by:
• Training job seekers for success.
• Educating companies on how to create welcoming and supportive workplaces.
• Matching talent with the right opportunities!

Learn more on their website at https://us.specialisterne.com/