Transitioning Youth Resource Fair: Fall 2024
Transitioning Youth Resource Fair 2024
On October 19, 2024, Prince George’s Community College became a hub of hope and opportunity as it hosted the annual Transitioning Youth Resource Fair. This event brought together 71 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, alongside 50 community resource organizations. The Fair was designed to empower families with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the often-challenging transition from high school to adulthood.
Addressing a Critical Transition
Transitioning from childhood to adulthood is a daunting task for anyone, but for those with IDD, the process can be particularly overwhelming. As students prepare to leave the familiar environments of school, they encounter significant changes in their daily routines and support systems. Recognizing these challenges, Prince George’s County Public Schools, Department of Special Education and the Prince George’s Provider Council collaborate annually to facilitate this important event.
Trinell Bowman, Associate Superintendent for Special Edu., Prince George’s County Public Schools welcomes everyone to the Fair
This year’s Fair connected families with a diverse array of resources tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with numerous organizations focused on employment support, benefits advocacy, and community services.
Resource-Rich Environment
The Fair featured informative presentations that provided valuable insights into various support services including presentations from the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) and the Arc Prince George’s County Benefit Center. Families also learned about the importance of ABLE Accounts, which can help individuals with disabilities save for their future without jeopardizing their eligibility for government assistance.
Resource-Rich Environment
The atmosphere at the Fair was one of encouragement and empowerment. Families left feeling hopeful, supported by the strong sense of community that permeated the event. The Provider Council’s vision of fostering a society where individuals with IDD can thrive through public and private partnerships was evident throughout the day.
The event also emphasized the significance of inclusion and empowerment, demonstrating a collective commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not only included but also celebrated within the community.
Acknowledgments
A special thanks goes out to the many exhibitors who made this event possible, including:
Abilities Network
AMD
Ardmore Enterprises, Inc.
CALMRA, INC
Cherished Hands Healthcare Services Inc.
Community Options Inc.
Compass, Inc.
Daily Care Support Services LLC.
DDA
Divine Help Healthcare Services, Inc.
Dominion Resource Center
DORS
Ebright Solutions Inc.
Emerge Inc.
ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia
EPIC
Faith Clinical Care INC
First Choice Care Inc.
Fountain Health Services Inc.
Heart of Gold Inc.
Humanim
Independence Now
Maryland ABLE
Maryland ABLE
Maryland Community Connection
M-NCPPC, Parks & Recreation, Prince George’s County
Marvelous Support, Inc.
MMARS
No Place Like Home
Opportunities Inc.
Optimal Group
OTIK HEALTH
Prince George's Community College
Pristine Health Services Inc.
Q-Care Inc
Resource Connections
Robinson Entities
Rock Creek Foundation
Service Coordination Inc.
SPIRIT Club
The Arc Prince George's County
The Coordinating Center
Total Care Services Inc.
United Community Supports of Maryland
WeAchieve
Conclusion
The Transitioning Youth Resource Fair serves as a crucial steppingstone for families navigating the complexities of transition for individuals with disabilities. By fostering connections, providing resources, and promoting a spirit of inclusivity, the Fair plays an essential role in preparing students for a fulfilling adult life. As we look to the future, events like these highlight the importance of community support and collaboration in creating pathways for success for individuals with IDD. Check out a few photos below from the event.