The ongoing work of JF&CS and other community agencies ensures our seniors, those with special needs and family members are provided with services, support and practical help every day of the year. This month, the following events will address these issues, and we hope you’ll consider attending.
If you are seeking information, resources, services or support for yourself or a loved one, please contact JF&CS at 412-422-7200 or visit our website at www.jfcspgh.org to find out how we can help.
“Achieving Meaningful Participation through Inclusion”
Wednesday March 20th
8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Rodef Shalom Congregation
4905 Fifth Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
This Pittsburgh conference is intended for those with special needs and their family members. The conference is open to all, and is co-sponsored by the Parent Education & Advocacy Leadership (PEAL) Center, as well as several area Jewish service agencies including JF&CS, the Agency for Jewish Learning (AJL), Friendship Circle, Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and Jewish Residential Services (JRS).
The conference will feature keynote speaker Jed Baker, Ph.D., an award-winning author and director of the Social Skills Training Project, a private organization serving individuals with autism and social communication problems. His keynote, “All Kids Can Succeed,” will share how individuals on the autism spectrum and those with behavioral challenges often struggle with regulating their feelings and interacting socially. He will give an overview of how to handle meltdowns, design effective behavior plans to prevent meltdowns and reduce frustration and anxiety. He will also share strategies for teaching social skills and motivating students to learn.
Workshop topics range from issues related to inclusion, education and social skills to how adults with special needs and disabilities can achieve independent living. Additionally, organizations that serve individuals with special needs will be on hand to provide information about their services.
The conference cost is $35 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. A limited number of parent scholarships may also be available. Registration is required and must be completed by Monday, March 11th. For more information about the Pittsburgh conference, parent scholarships or to register, visit www.pealcenter.org or contact Linda Marino at 412-422-7200 or by email at lmarino@jfcspgh.org.
Aging Well: Art or Science?
Monday, March 11
7:30 p.m.
Congregation Beth Shalom
5915 Beacon Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
As our loved ones age, we often wonder about what steps we can take to protect their health, ensure their safety and enhance their quality of life. There are services available for seniors that can help, but it can sometimes be a difficult maze to navigate without support. This free program will provide information about resources related to seniors, especially those that help older adults continue to live safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
JF&CS’s Maxine Horn, information and referral specialist for AgeWell Pittsburgh, often speaks with older adults, their family members, friends, caregivers and professionals about available services specifically geared to the geriatric population. Maxine will share information about resources for older adults in our communities and explain to attendees how to access services.
The program will also feature Julian Gray, ESQ., a Certified Elder Law Attorney and the founder and managing attorney of Julian Gray Associates with offices located in Moon Township and the South Hills. Julian concentrates his practice in the area of Elder Law and disability planning, with a related emphasis on general estate planning, veterans’ benefits and special needs planning. Julian is a frequent author and lecturer for continuing legal education programs sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Institute and also co-authors a monthly column on Elder Law in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.