My Talks

Summary of Presentation:

As our transition-age sons and daughters look ahead to greater independence in creating their unique paths to employment and satisfying adult lives, we parents are simultaneously learning how to let go.

This presentation features stories of young adults with different types of disabilities who have made successful transitions from school to work and other aspects of adult life.

Printed articles and information about key resources are provided.

Length of Presentation:

One hour

Technology requirements:

Equipment to display project PowerPoint presentation

About the presenter:

Tina Calabro, the parent of a 22-year-old son with cerebral palsy, is a disability issues writer, speaker and resource specialist. Her articles appear in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Philadelphia Inquirer and other publications.

Target audience:

Parents of transition-age youth and young adults, and professionals who work with youth in transition to adulthood. 

Handouts:

Two essays by Tina Calabro about raising a son with disability.

List of parent-recommended resources for successful transition to post-secondary education, adult healthcare, employment, social opportunities and residential options.

“Visioning” worksheet.

Fee: 

$250 (plus travel costs if outside Allegheny County)


Past presentations:

*The Children's Institute, Pittsburgh, PA

*Lifesteps Transition Program, Butler, PA

*Southern Allegheny County Transition Fair, Pittsburgh, PA

*United Way 21 and Able "Survival Guide" Series, various sites in Allegheny County, PA

*Westmoreland County Transition and Employment Fair, Greensburg, PA

*Working Order, Pittsburgh, PA
* Office of Vocational Rehabilitation STEM Career Expo

* Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Advisory Network for Guidance and Empowerment (CHANGE)

* Montgomery County (PA) Office of Developmental Disabilities
* Evolve Coaching Parent Support Group
* Allegheny County Local Task Force on the Right to Education