Training

Vision for EQuality remains on the cutting edge for providing timely information through training for individuals with disabilities, families and caregivers statewide.  Trainers are family members and people with disabilities who understand the complexities, frustration and success of using the mental retardation system.  Current regulations and policies are translated into understandable curriculum by trainers.  Trainers must go through a rigorous training process that allows them to share the information in a way that is understood by people using the system.  Specialized Trainings are available for Self Advocates and are given by Self Advocates.   Trainings are approved by the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP)

How can we help you?

• Do you need services through the Mental Retardation System?
• Have you registered or need information about the system?
• Do you have an individual on the Waiting List?
• Are you interested in applying for a Waiver, but don’t know how?
• Do you need information on services and supports? 
• Are you getting everything you need?
• Do you need one-on-one assistance?

Our training programs can help you navigate the complicated system, understand your rights, answer all your questions, and keep you informed of any changes.  You will leave our training sessions feeling empowered and armed with the information you need to advocate for yourself and your son or daughter.

Outstanding advocacy and commitment to people with disabilities made Vision for EQuality the obvious selection as one of 5 partners in the Pennsylvania Training Partnership for People with Disabilities and Families—The Training Partnership.  The other Partners are: Achieva, Mentors for Self-Determination; Self Advocates United As 1, Temple University Institute on Disabilities,

The state of Pennsylvania has become the first in providing people and families with information needed to successfully navigate the system.  The Partnership makes available training and technical assistance, developed and provided by people with disabilities and families. Training will be coordinated statewide yet regionally-responsive; person-centered and culturally competent; attentive to capacity-building and supportive of leadership development.

As part of The Partnership, Vision for Equality’s commitment to people and families is to provide free training in the eastern region of the state on many topics so that individuals are empowered to use the system.  Our trainings cover a wide range of topics, including an Overview of the Mental Retardation System, Waivers, Planning for Life After High School, Person Centered Thinking, the Supports Intensity Scale, Estate Planning and many more.  Our Topics Brochure describes all the available workshops we offer.  Training can be held for as few as 5 people or as many as 30 at your location. We can train in schools, churches, libraries and support groups.  The book, Understanding the Mental Retardation System in Pennsylvania and other handout materials are provided at all trainings at no cost.  After trainings, Partnership trainers are available by phone and e-mail to answer individual questions and concerns.

These free and valuable training sessions are approved by the Office of Developmental Programs and provide the most updated information available.  Click here (under construction) to see the training schedule in the Eastern Region of Pennsylvania. To schedule training in the Eastern Region including Adams, York, Lancaster, Chester, Berks, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Bucks, Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming, Susquehanna and Wayne Counties  of Pennsylvania, email Lisa Tesler.

In addition to The Partnership, we offer a variety of topics and tools for people with disabilities and families to get information and training.  Our Philadelphia Office provides training about safety, fire prevention, housing, education and more.  For dates and times, see our local training schedule. 

You can also access the College of Direct Support, a web-based tool for families and caregivers, by contacting our Philadelphia Office. This tool gives people the opportunity to learn what the professionals are learning.  Also, once trained, families can access this tool to train caregivers and other staff and family members.
For training, contact Kathy Foy at 267-773-5285.

For more information about trainings please visit PA Training Partnership for People With Disabilities and Families.