Transition to Adulthood: Supports and Resources

Notes from September 15th - Stephanie Coleman - KU LEND

• Stephanie's Blogs
• Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities
• The Kansas Family Support Center — Register for Webinars

Sheltered Workshops:

• YouTube Video
• Push nationwide to eliminate these programs; multiple states have outlawed them

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR):

• Pre Employment Training Services (Pre-ETS): For 15-18yo, rolls into VR after high school
• VR has also paid for students to attend degree-seeking IDD programs
• If your child receives social security, they automatically qualify for VR
• Income management programs: Working Healthy, STEPS
• VR pays for intensive Driver's Education programs

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):

• Not SSDI (which requires paying into Social Security)
• If our child is on SSI and we pass away, they can collect our SSDI
• Currently $943/month
• Apply 1 month before your child turns 18yo
• If denied, automatically appeal — often they won't tell you why until you appeal
• Marriage penalty: 2 people on SSI go from $943/mo each to $1400/mo together

Guardianship vs Supported Decision Making:

• Stephanie's testimonial on Guardianship
• BEFORE considering guardianship, CONSULT AN EXPERT
• When you get guardianship, your child technically becomes a ward of the state and you are appointed guardian
• When you pass away, a Judge can decide to award guardianship to whomever they want — your will is not binding
• For IEPs at 18+: You don't need guardianship — just have your child sign a release
• A medical power of attorney covers health decisions
• It is extremely difficult to remove "guardianship" status once assigned