Parents, educators, caregivers, attend Resource Fair

Parents, educators and caregivers of those with special needs recently attended a free Resource Fair at Project Self-Sufficiency. The event featured workshops, guest speakers and vendors designed to support families with special needs individuals of all ages.

“Through our work in the community, we have encountered many families who expressed a desire for an event which offered a variety of resources for those caring for special needs children and adults in one place,” said Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon. “The feedback we received from our attendees and vendors will enable us to continue to offer access to the resources families need to make informed decisions about the health and welfare of the special needs individuals in their care. We are particularly grateful to all of the social service organization and healthcare providers who attended.”

Life Change Strategist, Coach and Motivational Speaker Diana Perez kicked off the event with an address about the importance of laughter and mindfulness. During the event, a panel of experts offered an extensive Question & Answer session to attendees; panelists included Tammy Miller, Hopatcong School District Child Study Team Director; Parent Advocate Kathy Nauta; Helen O’Shea, Special Child Health Services; Dale Phlegar, SCARC; and representatives from DAWN Center for Independent Living. Additional break-out sessions featured a discussion of respite services by Phlegar along with a presentation about the Educational Pathway by Miller.

Participants were encouraged to visit with representatives from local businesses, schools and social service organizations.