West Valley Transition Expo Exhibitor Directory

West Valley Transition Expo
Exhibitor Directory
September 29, 2015
WELCOME!
AZ ASSIST welcomes you to our second annual West Valley Transition Expo. Over twenty
organizations have come together to provide valuable insight, resources and support for
families of teens and young adults on the autism spectrum.
We are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge of the community agencies and
organizations focused on helping your family navigate the journey of autism.
This directory is a resource that can be used throughout the year. Additionally, at the end
of the exhibitor list are two checklists to help you plan for the future:
1) Areas to consider as you plan for your future
2) Checklist of Transition Skills
Stay informed about AZ ASSIST learning opportunities and social events:
www.azassist.com and www.facebook.com/azassist
Debbie Weidinger
Executive Director
EXHIBITOR LIST
Abundantly Grateful for Oils
www.facebook.com/abundantlygratefulforoils Nan Gillispie, Independent Distributor
ngillispie@cox.net
623-693-3844
22418 N 88th Ave
Peoria AZ 85383
The average American is exposed daily to over 60 toxins in our own homes that adversely affect our health and wellness. Young Living Essential Oils,
supplements and household products can help to reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals. Through the painstaking steps of Young Living’s proprietary
Seed to Seal production process, we produce the best, most authentic essential oils in the world. We are committed to providing pure, powerful products
for every family and lifestyle, all infused with the life-changing benefits of our essential oils. Young Living has grown to become the world leader in essential
oils and wellness solutions. Young Living has inspired millions of people everywhere to experience nature's gifts of wellness, to create abundance as Young
Living members, and to discover new opportunities for lifelong transformations.
Arizona Autism Network
of the West Valley
www.azanow.org
kerrie@azanow.org
Kerrie Mallory-Thompson
602-565-0140
PO Box 86998
Phoenix AZ 85080
Together with the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix, as well as the East Valley Autism Network (EVAN), the Arizona Autism Network of the West Valley
will be primarily assisting families in the West Valley seek answers about services, provide networking opportunities, education and resources, as well as
organize community events which will allow for a stronger and more knowledgeable autism community.
Arizona RSA –
Vocational Rehabilitation
www.azdes.gov/rsa
bschoen@azdes.gov
Betty Schoen
RSA Region 1 Transition Specialist
602-542-6282
1789 W Jefferson
Phoenix AZ 85007
Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration (AzRSA) works with persons with disabilities to achieve their goals for employment and independence.
AzRSA oversees several programs designed to assist individuals with disabilities in improving or increasing their independence through employment or
enhanced independent living. The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program provides services and supports in order to assist individuals with disabilities to
meet their employment goals. High school students may apply for VR services at any point in their high school experience when they are ready to begin
planning for their employment goals.
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AZ ASSIST
www.azassist.com
info@azassist.com
Debbie Weidinger, Executive Director
480-779-0899
AZ ASSIST is a community of families of teens and young adults on the autism spectrum where self-advocacy and independence are promoted and
encouraged. We have a great group of autistic adults who mentor our youth and a variety of professionals who generously share their time and expertise.
Monthly meetings to explore transition issues, as well as social events in the community, provide opportunities for parents and youth to establish a
community of support. Join us as we learn about transition, share our experiences, celebrate our successes and support each other on the journey to
independence.
This Transition Expo is brought to you by AZ ASSIST.
AZ Educational Partners
azeducationalpartners.com
dratke@icloud.com
Dawn Ratke, Co-Founder
602-359-6698
7209 W Wethersfield Rd
Peoria AZ 85381
AZ Educational Partners provides all facets of support for working with children with exceptionalities. Our focus is on positive outcomes and proactive
solutions for youth and families. We are committed to quality services leading to a free, appropriate, public education (FAPE), affording meaningful benefit
and progress in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
Our goals at AZEP:
• Empowering parents to be effective advocates for their child(ren)
• Improving academic, social and functional outcomes for all
• Creating positive communication between schools and parents focused on students’ needs.
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Bowling to End Bullying
bowlingtoendbullying.org
bwashington@bowlingtoendbullying.org
Brittnei Washington, Executive Director
480-495-5249
PO Box 82174
Phoenix AZ 85071
Our mission is to bring people together and to increase awareness regarding all types of bullying. To educate the public about the importance of selfworth and to empower people to live at a higher standard by taking responsibility for how they treat others in every interaction. The vision for the
organization brings the excitement back into bowling, a fun recreational and competitive sport, while motivating people and empowering them to be the
best version of themselves. Our brand brings people and organizations together at bowling events and inspires people via social media, workshops,
speaking engagements and more. Harroll and Brittnei's philosophy is helping people to learn to focus on building up themselves and learning to understand
their inner power that we all share collectively in the world. It is our goal to create jobs in all of our communities so that there are trained anti-bullying
advocates to help meet the needs of people involved in various circumstances related to bullying.
Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona biaaz.org
courtney@biaaz.org
Courtney Carver, LMSW
Neuro Social Worker
602-508-8024
5025 E Washington St, #108
Phoenix AZ 85034
The Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona (BIAAZ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing brain injuries and to improving the lives of individuals with
brain injuries through prevention, education, information, and community support.
We carry out our mission by providing:
• Links to a statewide network of support groups
• The most comprehensive clearinghouse of brain injury information and resources in Arizona
• A toll-free-Infoline connecting families and professionals to appropriate resources
• Bilingual- Spanish and English
• An online directory of service providers in Arizona
• Peer support
• Educational conferences, workshops, and training's.
• Public awareness and education
• Advocacy for needed legislation and public policy changes
• Prevention programs
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City of Peoria
peoriaaz.gov
Jodi.roth-jones@peoriaaz.gov
Jodi Roth-Jones
Adaptive Recreation Coordinator
623-773-7719
8335 W Jefferson
Peoria, Az 85032
Since 1986, the City of Peoria has provided recreation activities for individuals with disabilities through the Adaptive Recreation Program. The Adaptive
Recreation Program provides activities and services to individuals ages three and older with cognitive, physical and emotional impairments. Programs
include: Special Olympics, social events, bowling, dances, theater, and Challenger little league. As well as providing programs in Day Treatment (DTA, DTT,
and DTS) and Group Supported Employment.
Civitan Foundation
civitanfoundationaz.org
radams@campcivitan.org
Rob Adams, Camp Director
602-501-4976
12635 N 42nd St
Phoenix AZ 85032
Since 1968, The Civitan Foundation Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization, has been providing multiple ever-changing programs to meet the needs of
Children and Adults who are developmentally disabled. These Programs include: Camp Civitan, Phoenix Respite and Recreation Programs, HCBS,
Community Outreach and Disability Education, Food and Nutrition Education, Day Treatment Programs (DTA,DTT & DTS), Williams Thrift Store. The Civitan
Foundation Inc. has a reputation for providing safe, enriching, high quality programs that focus on enhancing life skills, socialization, educational programs
and much needed respite for families and caregivers.
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Division of Developmental
Disabilities
www.azdes.gov/ddd
ayoung@azdes.gov
Abel Young
District West Employment Specialist
480-438-7961
11526 W Bell Rd
Surprise AZ 85378
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), within the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), provides services and programs to 33,933
people with developmental disabilities. The majority of the Division’s programs and services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals and their families
at home and in community-based settings. The Division coordinates services and resources through central administrative offices, district offices and local
offices in communities throughout Arizona. There are five (5) districts statewide, including: District Central, District East, District North, District South, and
District West. These district and local offices promote the use of existing community resources and program flexibility to meet the needs of individuals
with developmental disabilities and their families. While a few services are delivered directly by the state, most services and supports are delivered through
a network of individual and agency providers throughout Arizona. For more information about the Division or to apply for services, go to the DDD website
at www.azdes.gov/ddd/.
Driving to Independence
www.drivingtoindependence.com
Maggie Young, Client Care Coord.
maggie@drivingtoindependence.com 480-449-3331
1414 W Broadway Rd. #218
Tempe AZ 85282
We do adaptive driving evaluations and training for those with cognitive or physical disabilities, a medical diagnosis that may impact your
ability to drive and seniors.
Grand Canyon University
www.gcu.edu
tamara.walp2@gcu.edu
Tamara Walp
3300 W Camelback Rd
University Development Representative Phoenix AZ 85017
480-267-6796
Since 1949, Grand Canyon University has been a premier private university in Arizona, helping students find their purpose and achieve their potential
through landing the career of their dreams, advancing their career and changing careers. Please contact Tamara Walp directly to learn more about how
you find your purpose and achieve your goals.
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Hacienda ASD Vocational
Program
www.haciendainc.org
hwade@haciendainc.org
Helen Wade
Director of Vocational Programs
602-390-5629
1402 E South Mtn Ave
Phoenix AZ 85042
Hacienda’s ASD Pre-Vocational/Vocational Program consists of two modules: building personal/interpersonal skills and gaining hands-on work experience
in several different paid work areas. Our program is unique because we are able to do daily incidental trainings within in several different environments.
All work areas are integrated with other employees, visitors and families.
The aim of the program is to help trainees develop the practical skills they need to increase their confidence, employability and ability to live independently.
Our job at Hacienda as staff is to give each trainee the knowledge to the best of our ability to be successful. It may be social interaction in the workplace,
employer’s expectations, work ethic, and hygiene. This is done through individual assessments of each person.
Life Development Institute www.discoverldi.com Justin Coller, Operations Director
jcoller@discoverldi.com
18001 N 79th Ave #E71
623-773-2774 Ext. 208 (Office)
602-363-6630 (Cell)
Glendale AZ 85308
Located in Glendale, Arizona, LDI offers fully accredited, high school, post-secondary and summer programs for higher education capable adolescents and
young adults with LD, ADHD, Asperger’s and similar conditions. We serve individuals with Learning Disabilities, Autism/Spectrum Disorders, ADD/ADHD
and other related conditions that thrive in a learning and living environment that provides holistic academic and community engagement.
Our program creates a practical and inclusive bridge between the secondary and higher education/career development aspirations that improves readiness
and academic success in college/vocational programs, identifying viable career ladders, building interpersonal and leadership skills. In addition, LDI embeds
adult content & competencies by integrating practical college strategies, refining interpersonal communication skills, determining viable career paths and
promoting social responsibility.
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MassMutual Special Care Team www.specialcareaz.com
specialcareaz@massmutual.com
Karen Starbowski
Special Care Planner
480-538-2950
17550 N Perimeter Dr. #450
Scottsdale AZ 85255
Our SpecialCare Planning Team’s mission is to help make a positive difference in the lives of individuals with special needs, their parents/caregivers and
other family members along with the support of their advocates and allies. Our knowledgeable and dedicated SpecialCare Planners, many of whom focus
on this field because of close ties to individuals with a disability or other special need in their own lives, assist families with developing valuable financial
strategies and creating strategic financial solutions that integrate with Government programs and other community support. Through our network of
organizations, professionals and specialists, we can provide referrals to further assist families with their life care planning needs. We also help coordinate
family education and communication.
CRN201601-179710
Parent Support Arizona
www.parentsupportarizona.com
info@parentsupportarizona.com
David Jefferson
480-388-2283
PO Box 760
Higley AZ 85236
Parent Support Arizona is committed to provide your family with resources, support and education advocacy to ensure your child can excel at home, in
school and in the community.
Renovare Wellness by Design
www.renovarewellnessbydesignpro.com
carenlmarshall@yahoo.com
Caren Marshall, M.S.W.
623-853-6357
18969 N 83rd Ave #1
Peoria AZ 85382
Renovare Wellness By Design & Brain Peak Performance is a natural health clinic focusing on helping people reclaim high level energy, vitality and brain
health. Dr. Timothy Gerhart, author of: 7 Secrets to Wellness and a second book entitled Discovering Your Brain, Transform Your Life, leads the clinic in
cutting edge advances in balancing the body & brain. Treatment approaches include nutrition, blood panels, qEEG neurofeedback with a functional
medicine approach to healing.
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SEEDs for Autism
seedsforautism.org
seeds4autism@gmail.com
Mary Ann LaRoche
602-253-4471
1345 W McKinley
Phoenix AZ 85007
SEEDs For Autism is a Phoenix based 501c3 vocational program for adults and young adults impacted with autism, who have transitioned out of high school
and are still in need of life coaching and skill building for further and stronger job development skills. At SEEDs (Success thru Education Exploration and
Development) we teach our students in a variety of applications: with classroom time where they learn Social Skill building techniques, strategies and
practice, Life Skills like money management, transportation, self-advocacy, computer training, and then we also teach them hands on skills currently related
to the arts. They are taught by professional artisans, and Guild members, who teach how to make high quality functional items in the
following: woodturning, welding, metals, jewelry, ceramics, sewing, weaving, and more, using real tools to accomplish these skills. This is not an arts day
program, they are learning how to do production work, to understand the concepts of teamwork, following directions, staying on task, and other valuable
skills necessary to be employed. The success lies on the opportunity to learn and receive practice time for better understanding and ownership within the
classroom and out in the community.
SilverTree Special Needs
Planning
www.silvertreesnp.com
rjsmith@specialneedsproject.org
Robert J Smith, CLTC, President
480-269-9555
14555 N Scottsdale Rd #200
Scottsdale AZ 85255
We are a full service special needs planning firm focusing on individuals, professionals and families caring for a loved one living with disabilities or other
special needs. We help families coordinate all aspects of their loved one's lives. Areas covered include, but are not limited to, special needs planning,
special needs trusts, guardianship filing, government benefit eligibility analysis and preservation, investment, estate, retirement, education, insurance and
business continuity planning.
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Social Security Administration
www.socialsecurity.gov
kimberly.yellow.robe@ssa.gov
Kimberly Yellow Robe
Public Affairs Specialist
866-964-7182 ext. 14050
702 W Jerome Ave
Mesa AZ 85210
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources.
The Centers for Habilitation
www.tch-az.com
melitawinnick@tch-az.com
Melita Winnick
Employment Services Manager, EDC
602-722-5355
215 W Lodge Dr
Tempe AZ 85283
The Centers for Habilitation (TCH) is a nonprofit provider of services that has been empowering adults and children with developmental disabilities in AZ
since 1967. We offer residential/group home, job development/placement, and many other services to disabled adults and children. TCH operates federal
contracts that employ people with disabilities at the Yuma Marine Corps Air Station, Luke Air Force Base, Ft Huachuca, and the Davis Monthan Air Force
base in Tucson. TCH also operates a secured document shredding business that employs people with disabilities in Tempe, AZ.
Valley Metro
www.valleymetro.org
dnolan@valleymetro.org
Dolores Nolan
Community Relations Coordinator
101 N 1st Avenue #1300
Phoenix AZ 85003
Valley Metro can provide independence to get to school, work, shopping, fun places and other destinations! Save money by buying all day passes in
advance instead of on the bus. Passes are available at a fare vending machine along the light rail route or at one of the many retail locations across the
valley. Reduced fares are available for youth (age 6 through 18), seniors (age 65 and over) and persons with disabilities with proof of eligibility. To plan
your bus or light rail trip, find out about fares, routes and more, go to ValleyMetro.org, use Valley Metro’s app Ridekick, use the Valley Metro Transit Book
or call 602.253.5000
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Areas to consider as you plan for your future
WHAT KIND OF EDUCATION DO I WANT AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?
 Adult Education
 Vocational/Technical Training Programs and/or Schools
 Community College
 Four-year College or University
 Apprenticeship Programs
 Military
 Other – Correspondence Programs, Job Corps, On-line Programs
WHAT KIND OF EMPLOYMENT DO I WANT AFTER HIGH SCHOOL OR AFTER FURTHER
TRAINING?
 Full-time Competitive Employment
 Part-time Competitive Employment
 Full-time Supported Employment
 Part-time Supported Employment
 Apprenticeship
 Sheltered Employment
 Other – such as Volunteer Work, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, etc.
WHERE DO I HOPE TO BE LIVING AS AN ADULT?
 I plan on living alone
 I plan on living with friends
 I plan on living with family
 I want to live in a supervised apartment
 I want to live in a supervised group home
 I will need personal or medical assistant help in my home
 I will need residential care
WILL I NEED HELP TO PLAN MY RECREATION OR FUN ACTIVITIES?
 Finding out about joining clubs
 Signing up for classes for fun
 Going places with friends
 Joining recreation facilities
WHAT KIND OF TRANSPORTATION WILL I USE?
 I will ride my bike everywhere I need to go
 I will learn to drive a car, own a car and drive where I need to go


I will learn to ride the bus/rail system and take the bus or rail where I need to go
I will learn to take a cab where I need to go
WHAT HELP WILL I NEED FINANCIALLY?
 Applying for SSI, SSDI, or SSA
 Applying for Medicaid
 Applying for general assistance, food stamps, housing help (section 8, etc.), food
bank assistance, day care assistance, WIC support
 Getting financial aid for educational training
 Financial planning: understanding banking, investments, estate planning
 Financial Management: banking, checking, investments, insurance, retirement,
savings, employment benefits, etc.
 Other unique financial needs
WHAT HELP WILL I NEED MEDICALLY?
 Applying for Medicaid
 Applying for other medical insurance coverage
 Getting a personal care attendant to assist with daily living needs (dressing,
bathing, health needs)
 Finding a doctor, dentist or therapist that will take my insurance
 Calling and making appointments to see doctors or therapists
 Getting the medication I need
 Getting home health care to help me take my medicine or keep up my medical
routines
 Understanding basic health and safety – when to call a doctor
WILL I NEED HELP TO LEARN ABOUT SELF-ADVOCACY (OR SPEAKING UP FOR MYSELF)?
(Self-advocacy includes speaking up for your rights and interests as well as
securing/planning for your unique individual needs.)
 Securing counseling or therapy
 Learning about advocacy
 Getting someone to help (finding an advocate)
 Finding legal assistance
 Deciding on guardianship
 Developing social/community skills
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Student Transition Questionnaire
Student Name: ________________________________
School: _______________________________________
_
_
Which of the following can you do independently (on your own)?
 Plan and prepare my meals
 Count money and use banking services
 Household management (pay bills, rent, household maintenance,
cleaning, etc.)
 Schedule appointments
 Select, purchase, and care for clothing
 Use telephone
 Attend doctor’s appointments and take medication
 Visit the beauty salon/barber shop for hair cut
 Self-advocacy (find assistance in legal, medical, financial areas)
Where do you think you will be living after you leave high school?
 By yourself
 With a friend/roommate
 With your family
 Group home
 University Dorm
Mark the items you need more information on:
 Community agencies
 Marriage, family planning, pregnancy, parenthood
 Substance abuse issues (drugs and alcohol)
 Sexuality and safe sex
 Military recruiting
 Living Arrangements (having a place to live)
 Family Life/Social Relationships
 Physical/Mental Health (feeling healthy)
 Financial Security (managing your money)
Date: _______________
Grade: ____________________



Continuing Education (learning new skills)
Transportation (getting around town)
Social/Civic Responsibility (being a good citizen)
Do you have:
 State of Arizona ID
 Social Security number and card
 Driver’s license
After high school, you would like to:
 Do nothing
 Join the military
 Unsure
 Get a full-time job
 Go to college or career tech
Mark the things in school that are difficult for you:
 Students
 Teachers
 Lunch time
 Attendance
 Transportation to school
 Tardiness
Do you independently get ready for school?
Do you get to school on time?
Do you have good school attendance?
Do you use a calendar or planner to organize yourself?
YES
YES
YES
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
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Mark the words that describe you best:
 a leader
 friendly
 a team player
 lazy
 quiet
 happy
 loud
 hard working
 serious
 healthy
 shy
 helpful
 patient
 strong
 honest
 talkative
 tired
 worried
Mark the chores you know how to do and you do regularly:
 Cook
 Dishes (by hand or dishwasher)
 Clean bathroom and bedroom
 Make your bed
 Take out garbage
 Wash, fold or put away clothes
 Grocery shop
 Mow the lawn, rake leaves, garden
After high school, what kinds of activities do you think you’ll do in free time?
 Hang out with friends
 Watch Television
 Listen to music
 Enjoy hobbies (ex: gardening, collecting baseball cards, video games)
 Go to church or community activities
 Go to the mall or movies
 Do outdoor activities (for example: biking, hiking, fishing, etc.)
Mark the following things that you need help with:
 Reading short books
 Fill in the blank questions
 Essay questions
 Paying bills and bank records
 Homework instructions
 Restaurant menus
 Newspapers and magazine articles
 Cooking directions
 True/False questions
 Spelling
 Work hours on time sheet
 Explain medical history and allergies to medicine
 Letter to a friend
 Directions to someplace
 Phone message
 Job application
 Grocery list
 Adding and Subtracting
 Multiplying and Dividing
 Measurement for cooking
 Using a calculator
 Figuring length of trips
 Reading bus and airplane schedules
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High School: What activities would you like to be involved in while you are in High School? (Example: Sports, Music, Church activities)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Post-Secondary Education: What would you like to do after you graduate from High School?
_____ Attend a Technical or Vocational Program
_____ Attend a College or University
_____ Gain Employment
If you decide to attend a technical or vocational program what would be your area of focus? _________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
If you attend college or university, what would your major be?_________________________________________________________________
Employment: Where would you like to work while you are in High School? _______________________________________________________
Where would you like to work after you graduate? __________________________________________________________________________
Independent Living: Where would you like to live after you graduate? _______________________________________________________________
Strengths: What are your strengths?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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