16th Annual Illinois Statewide Transition Conference in East Peoria

The “Stepping Stones of Transition” conference shares services and resources to prepare for success in adulthood.

The statewide transition conference, titled “Stepping Stones of Transition,” highlights the opportunities and resources available for youth and young adults with special healthcare needs as they transition to adulthood.

It will take place Nov. 4-5 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton East Peoria Riverfront Conference Center.

Both in-person and virtual attendee options are available. The in-person event will follow all necessary health and safety guidelines.

The conference is aimed at youth, parents, caretakers, vocational professionals, healthcare professionals, educators and so on.

Participants are invited to discuss the possibilities for students with disabilities in the areas of independent living, education and training, employment, community integration, health care and self-advocacy.

Youth and young adults with special healthcare needs will learn how to plan for their future, including:

• What happens after I leave high school?
• How do I sort through the maze of resources?
• What steps can I take now to prepare for upcoming changes?
• What skills are important for me to develop?

More information, including how to register, is available at http://www.illinoistransitionconference.org/.

UIC’s Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) may be able to fund the conference-related expenses for DSCC participants and their family, caretaker, nurse and/or personal attendant. These expenses include the cost of the hotel and transportation.

DSCC participants should contact their Care Coordinator to complete their registration or call (800) 322-3722.

Family and student scholarships are also available for eligible attendees.

The Arc of Illinois, through a grant from the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities, administers the Consumer Involvement Program. This program provides stipend funds to people with developmental disabilities and their family members to attend conferences of their choice that are directly related to developmental disability issues.

For more information on using the Consumer Involvement Program to attend the transition conference, visit www.illinoistransitionconference.org/scholarship-information/.

The deadline to register is Oct. 8.