Friday Forum Education Seminars - Needed in the State of Illinois Community Supported Living (CSL-24)

PRESENTER - SHIRLEY SAINS

Disability advocate, and parent with firsthand experience navigating complex systems of care and support for an adult child with significant disabilities

Families often face a stark reality after the transition from school: for individuals with complex medical, physical, or behavioral support

needs, Illinois does not currently have a clearly defined, sustainable pathway to 24-hour support in a person’s own home. When existing options fall short, families often become the default system of support. This session will connect lived experience to that gap and introduce Community Supported Living (CSL-24) a 24-hour, person-directed, in-home support option that is not currently available in Illinois, but that Illinois Partners for Adults with Complex Disabilities (IPACD) is working to establish within the Adults with Developmental Disabilities Waiver. Participants will learn what CSL-24 could look like in Illinois, how similar approaches are being used in other states, and why this type of option is an important part of building a stronger community system, particularly for people with the most significant support needs who may otherwise be at risk of institutionalization.

This session is for anyone who wants to better understand what is missing in Illinois today and what we can build so people with complex disabilities have a sustainable path to life in the community.

Event is FREE, but advanced registration is required.

Educational Outreach events are designed to provide families, self-advocates, educators, and service providers with useful information related to the transition process as well as life in the community after educational entitlements end.