Special Needs Living Indy Oct 2023 Digital Issue

PHOTOS BY 21 VINES

PHOTOGRAPHY

ISSUE PREVIEW

• Pages 46-48 Featured Family: Meet The Clark Family

• Page 31 Pastor’s Corner: Walking in Faith: Christian Parenting of Children with Disabilities

• Pages 20-22 Sponsor Spotlight: ENABLE Special Needs Planning

• Pages 14-15 Nonprofit Spotlight: : Toys for Tots of Indianapolis

• Page 29 Single Mamas Seen: Meet Lisa Cantrell

• Page 51 Sensory Blurb!

• Pages 32-35 A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

• Pages 42-44 Self Advocates: Meet Kelly Lyons

• Page 18 Save The Date: Special Needs Living Carni-Fall Festival

• Pages 24-26 Local Events

• Pages 38-39 Financial: Discuss the Future Needs of Dependents with Special Needs

OWNER/ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Jamie McCabe 248-882-8448

Jamie.McCabe@n2co.com

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Featured Family: Meet The Clark Family; photo by 21 Vines Photography

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

Pastor’s Corner

Special Needs Living Carni-Fall Festival

Sponsor Spotlight: ENABLE Special Needs Planning

Nonprofit Spotlight: : Toys for Tots of Indianapolis

Meet Kelly Lyons

Single Mamas

Seen: Meet Lisa Cantrell

The school is designed to develop academic achievement, self-acceptance, and personal accountability. We offer our students a small, engaging educational setting, an inspiring progressive curriculum, and a culture focused on the development of the whole child.

Midwest Academy is an intentional educational community serving students in grades 3-12 with ADD/ADHD, language-based learning differences, high functioning autism, and processing challenges.

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

ABA & COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES

K1ds Count Therapy (317) 520-4748

ABA SERVICES

Grateful Care ABA (317) 572-5315 gratefulcareaba.com/

Link to Learn (317) 863-8388

Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies (317) 827-7777

Piece by Piece Autism Center (765) 481-2261

The Umbrella Center (463) 701-0909

ABA/COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES

The Hope Source (317) 578-0410

ADOPTION

Indiana Adoption Program (855) 677-5437

www.indianaadoptionprogram.org/

ADVOCACY/EVALUATIONS

PEAS for Kids (920) 980-1172

ATTORNEY

Hostetter & Associates (317) 852-2422

ATTORNEY-WILLS/TRUSTS/ ESTATE PLANNING

Law Office of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC (317) 660-5004

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

Supportive Behavior Services (765) 337-1895

www.supportivebehaviorservices.com

CASE MANAGEMENT

Connections Case Management (317) 440-0637

IPMG - Indiana Professional Management Group (866) 672-4764

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Achieve Community Services (317) 918-0337 acssupports.com/

Ausome Indy (317) 331-2434 ausomeindy.org/

Indiana ACT for Families (317) 536-6900

COUNSELING SERVICE

Mark 2 Ministries (317) 777-8070

DAY / BEHAVIORAL SERVICES

Developmental Disabilities Systems INC. - DDSI (317) 477-8240

DENTAL

Children’s Dental Center (317) 842-8453

FINANCIAL

ENABLE Special Needs Planning, LLC (765) 585-1050 enablesnp.com

WestPoint Financial Group Gordon Homes (317) 567-2005

HOME CARE

Amiable Home Care Inc. (317) 802-1746

HOME CARE & TRANSPORTATION

ABC Community Services LLC (317) 516-1178

www.abccommunityservices.com

HOME HEALTH CARE

Comfort Care (317) 552-2039

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Tendercare Home Health Services (317) 251-0700

www.tchhs.net/

HOME MODIFICATIONS / SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT

Specialized Home Care Services (888) 506-4182

www.specialized4u.com/

INSURANCE

State Farm

John Cole (317) 430-1958

MORTGAGE

CrossCountry Mortgage (317) 666-4679

MUSIC THERAPY

Dynamic Music Therapy (317) 829-6654

NEUROFEEDBACK THERAPY Indy Neurofeedback (317) 888-8500

PARKS & RECREATION

Johnson County Parks & Recreation (812) 526-6809

PEDIATRIC HOME CARE

Guardian Care (317) 360-0359 myguardian.care/

PEDIATRIC THERAPY

Wee Speak (765) 446-8300

REALTOR

F.C. Tucker

Nicole Lyon (317) 501-0639

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE/ STEM CELL THERAPY

Destination ReGen (317) 522-1980

SCHOOL

Dynamic Minds Academy (317) 578-0410

Midwest Academy (317) 843-9500

SCHOOL - SPECIAL NEEDS

The Fortune Academy (317) 377-0544

SENSORY SPACES

Corporate Interior Solutions (317) 691-4156

SPEECH THERAPY

Positive Interactions Therapy (317) 518-0627

positiveinteractionstherapy.com

SUPPORT SERVICES

Easterseals Crossroads (317) 466-1000

Embracing Abilities (317) 825-8326

Joseph Maley Foundation (317) 432-6657

www.josephmaley.org

My Quillo (317) 626-4387 myquillo.com/

The ALTRUIST Group, LLC (317) 547-3041 x1005

THERAPY & TESTING SERVICES

The Brain Center (317) 748-0034

Arc of Indiana www.arcind.org

Autism Community Connection www.autismcc-in.org

Autism Society of Indiana

Blind and Visually Impaired Services (BVIS)

Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS)

Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) DHHSHelp@fssa/in.gov

Disability Determination Bureau

Division of Aging (IDA)

Division of Family Resources (DFR)

Division of Mental Health and Addiction

Down Syndrome Indiana

Early Childhood and Out of School Learning (OECOSL)

Easterseals Crossroads

https://eastersealscrossroads.org

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Indiana Department of Education: Office of Special Education – www.doe.in.gov/specialed

Indiana Family to Family - www.inf2f.org

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) – www.in.gov/fssa/index.htm

Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (GPCPD)

Indiana Resource Center for Autism

Indiana State Department of Health

Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council (INSILC)

Indiana Works INSOURCE – http://insource.org/

Medicaid Disability

Medicaid Waivers

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Social Security Administration (SSA)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Special Education Questions

United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR)

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Special Needs Living magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2023 The N2 Company, Inc.

Meet the Special Needs Living Indy Team

Sheila Wolfe — Writer and Contributor

Angela Arlington — Community Engagement Coordinator, Writer and Contributor

Paul Hathcoat — Writer and Contributor

Angelica N. Gray, MA, BCBA, LBA — Writer

Matt Knight — Writer

Maria Smietana — Editor-in-Chief

Kendal Ford — Kendal Nicole Photography

Dr. Darolyn “Lyn” Jones — Content Coordinator and Writer

Jamie McCabe — Publisher and Area Director

Lisa DeFilippoWriter and Contributor

Charles Spray MS, LMHCWriter and Contributor

21 Vines Photography

Jane Gailey — Contributor

Tasha Cleaver — SNL Account Executive

Isaac Roman — Writer and Photographer

Dorie Zipperle — Writer and Contributor

DeAndra Yates — Writer

Christina McGairk — Editor and Writer

Christia Woodford — Publishing Assistant and Local Events

Christie and Nathan Buonanno — Buonanno Photography

Aaron Olson — Writer

Tanya Sood — Writer and Contributor

You

I am proud to serve the special needs community. My career is Real Estate my PASSION is helping others with their goals and dreams. I am humbled and honored to work in the real estate industry.

I am committed to earning your trust and loyalty through my superior professional care, concern and communication. I am personally committed to each and every client, investing my time, energy and real estate market knowledge to ensure that I exceed your expectations at every level. I have a true passion and love for helping others, it's my ministry. Some of my strongest attributes are patience and genuine care. I work FOR you making sure that every decision made is in YOUR best interest. I welcome the opportunity to learn about you and your family and how I can best serve you.

Call me today at 317.501.0639

HeartSOS

Children, A dolescents, Young A dults with A SD & R elated Needs

Mental Health Counseling

A nxiety, Depression, A ttachment, PTSD & R elationships

Speech Therapy

Self- A dvocacy, A rticulation, Feeding, A praxia & R elationships

Family Guidance

Social Communication, Emotional R egulation, Flexible Thinking & R elationships

Occupational Therapy

Executive Functioning, A DLs, Sensory Processing & R elationships

Indy & Terre Haute Clinics

Outpatient Services for Individuals & Families

W e H e a r Y o u r S O S !

R each out at asdheartsos. com

TOYS FOR TOTS OF INDIANAPOLIS

BY ANGIE ARLINGTON

Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity is the fund raising, funding and support organization for the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. The Foundation was created at the behest of the U. S. Marine Corps and provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. The Foundation has supported Toys for Tots since 1991.

The mission of the U.S. Marine

nonprofit organizations that serve families,” shares Sabrina Young, civilian coordinator of Indianapolis Toys for Tots.

“We have an Amazon wish list, which focuses on toys of diversity and for children with special needs for all ages. We have in the past written a grant to buy some things that were needed for a special play area for special needs children. We have the ability to purchase very specific items that are needed to accommodate children with different needs.”

There is a form for nonprofit

for a variety of places and customers may believe they are supporting the Marines. Many people may not realize that both the words “Toys for Tots” and the red train are copyrighted by the Marines. Ask the employees specifically if the toys are for the Marine’s Toys for Tots Program. Also, look specifically for the Marine’s logo:

TESTIMONIAL:

“The Toys for Tots program has allowed the IMPD Metro Southwest Community Relations Unit (CRU) to be an amazing benefactor of countless gifts. These gifts have allowed the IMPD MSW CRU to assist hundreds of families, not only throughout the holidays but also during various other IMPD MSW CRU events held during the year. Sabrina continues to think of the IMPD MSW CRU whenever she has available items that can assist the countless events held throughout the year. Without Sabrina and the Toys for Tots program, the IMPD MSW CRU would not be able to help the vast number of families that it does on an annual basis. The bright smiles and hearts touched by Sabrina’s outpouring of love and generosity continue to touch officers and families, daily.”

“To donate or learn more, contact indytoysfortots@gmail. com, because the Marine contacts will only respond in November and December due to their schedules,” Sabrina explains.

BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT TOYS FOR TOTS:

• Vincennes University

• Wish TV 8

• Lilly Andy Mohr

• Ollies

• Recycle Force

• Thousands of individuals who donate toys in our boxes.

• Hundreds of businesses that place are boxes in their buildings.

Special Needs Living Empowerment DayTransitions

Special Needs Living invites you to join parents and caregivers of special needs individuals for a day of encouragement and connections

Special Needs Living is putting on an event for parents and caregivers of special needs individuals.

This is put on by parents and caregivers for parents and caregivers. The goal of this day is to restore hope through transitions. There will be personal stories shared, detailed information about the different supports shared from panels that will cover the lifespan of a child, teen, young adult or adult, round table discussions and many connection opportunities available throughout the day. No matter where you are in your journey, we know you will leave with some great resources, takeaways and connections.

This event will be in person. We will have virtual options available. Thanks to White River Christian Church for hosting, and all our supporters. Hope to see you there!

DATE AND TIME

Saturday, November 11, 2023

1 p.m. – 5 p.m. EDT

LOCATION

White River Christian Church 1685 North 10th St. Noblesville, IN 46060

We will have in-person and virtual options available. You can reserve your spot here or scan the QR code below.

https/www.eventbrite.com/e/specialneeds-living-empowerment-day-tickets376997629057?aff=oddtdtcreator

SPECIAL NEEDS LIVING CARNI-FALL FESTIVAL

SPECIAL NEEDS LIVING CARNI-FALL FESTIVAL

When: October 28th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Where: Independence Park 2100 South Morgantown Road Greenwood, IN 46143

We welcome all from the special needs community to come to the Special Needs Living Fall Festival at Independence Park in Greenwood- with the Johnson County Public Library

Enjoy playing at the adaptive playground, enjoy a story walk, free books, candy stations, carnival games, face painting, a sensory station, bounce house and more.

COSTUMES ARE ALLOWED!

Come out and enjoy a fun time at the park with others in the special needs community.

No age restrictions, no cost to come and participate.

https/www.eventbrite.com/e/special-needs-living-carnifall-festival-tickets-687424584437?aff=oddtdtcreator

LIFECOURSECONNECT: REAL PLANS FOR REAL CHANGE

Are you just getting started with the Medicaid Waiver and need some help? Maybe you are ready to build your good life but are feeling stuck and not sure where to start. Are you ready for something different that focuses on YOU and YOUR goals?

LifeCourseConnect (LCC) is a set of online tools that help you and your loved ones focus on the important things, with real-life steps to help you get there. Built with people with disabilities and their families in mind, LCC is a way to help you:

• Learn more about what is possible for your good life from other families, people with I/DD, and leaders in the field

• Focus on what you do and don’t want in your life

• Set goals that are important to you

• Build a circle of support to share information with your family and team

• Engage and communicate instantly with your team, from your family and friends to your case managers, job coaches, DSPs, and more.

• See and explore what’s possible out there

As a waiver-supported service through Family and Caregiver Training (FCAR), LCC is a resource with no direct cost to you. Get started creating and living your plan. One LCC user, Michelle, started using the tools in her own life. She shared:

“It really opens up possibilities for people with disabilities. What do they see their life being? How do they see living

their life? Who do they see helping them live their life? And that’s what has really helped me. Wow, there is possibility! People want my opinion about my life! They’re not trying to coordinate it themselves; they’re allowing me space in my own life to direct it!”

To learn more, sign up, or ask questions, visit LifeCourseConnect.com/indiana or email Cynthia@LifeCourseConnect.com.

To learn how one family is using LCC, scan the QR code below!

ENABLE SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING

BY PHILLIP CLARK, CHARTERED SPECIAL NEEDS CONSULTANT (CHSNC)

When I was four years old my sister, Sarah, was born. Like so many other families, my parents didn’t hear “CONGRATULATIONS!” from her doctors. Instead, they heard, “I’m sorry—I think your daughter has Down syndrome.”

Sarah’s early years were filled with professionals warning my parents about negative issues to expect:

• Heart problems…

• Thyroid problems…

• Learning disabilities…

We lived about two hours from Indianapolis, IN, and her therapies and doctors’ appointments were located there. I often joke that we lived in a minivan—with all of Sarah’s appointments. At each appointment, the list of limited expectations grew.

Overwhelmed didn’t even begin to describe how my parents felt at first. I remember so many emotional conversations, filled with tears and fears about Sarah’s future.

Some time passed, and, honestly, Sarah was thriving compared to the limited expectations that my parents had worried about. Life was challenging, but Sarah was defying the odds and doing better than anticipated.

However, as we grew up, the emotional conversations continued. Now these conversations were about Sarah’s future – and how to get prepared for whatever lay ahead.

Honestly, during these conversations my parents seemed even more afraid than during the earlier discussions of open-heart surgeries. With these family discussions about Sarah’s future—there were never any answers.

My parents were proactive. I remember babysitters watching us

while they attended planning seminars. But these events never gave them the answers they sought or provided a sense of relief from their fears about Sarah’s future.

Eventually, they were told they needed a ‘special needs plan.’ So, they found an attorney who drafted a Special Needs Trust. And they met with a local insurance agent to talk about how to fund Sarah’s trust in the future.

As a teenager, I thought, “It’s over. Finally, my parents won’t be so stressed all the time.”

However, I can’t say my parents ever really seemed at peace. Sure, they’d done what they were told to do and set

up a ‘special needs plan’ for Sarah’s future. But not only did questions about Sarah’s future still come up frequently, now my parents were asking things like, “Did we do the right thing?” “How would we know?” and “Is there more we should be doing to plan for Sarah’s future?”

When I was deciding what I wanted to do and how I wanted to make a difference, it always came back to Sarah and my parents’ experience trying to give her the best possible future.

I knew there had to be a better way to do ‘special needs planning’ than what my parents had experienced.

There had to be a process that provided a real sense of security and peace of mind – two things my parents lacked even after completing their ‘special needs planning’ journey.

I began my career in the financial planning industry trying to help families, much like ours, prepare for the future. I joined a firm that said they did special needs planning. And I was so excited!

However, I quickly discovered a couple problems with the firm’s overall approach to planning:

I realized that the conversations, the solutions, and the strategies they offered were the same with every family we talked to. It was a cookie-cutter, onesize-fits-all approach to planning for every individual with special needs.

An even bigger problem was that ‘special needs planning’ was only focused on when my parents—and other parents—passed away.

I’m not saying that what happens to Sarah when my parents die wasn’t something that we worried about. Just like I’m sure it’s something you worry about.

But as a proud big brother, I looked at that traditional approach to planning and said, “No. I believe that special needs planning should allow my sister—and your child—to live a happy, fulfilling, and purposeful life TODAY, and every day in the future. And this plan has to work no matter what life throws at us.”

After working with three different planning firms that all claimed to do ‘special needs planning’ but didn’t offer custom plans and only focused on what happens when the parents are gone, I realized I needed to make a big change.

I wanted to help families create unique plans—tailored to THEIR child’s specific needs and goals—that would ultimately give the entire family a sense of security and peace of mind.

The sense of security and peace of mind that I desperately wished my parents had had years ago.

That’s when I founded my organization: ENABLE Special Needs Planning.

THE PROBLEM

If you’ve started your special needs planning journey more than likely you’ve been exposed to what I like to call the ‘traditional planning process.’

According to Google, the most searched for term related to special needs planning is: Special Needs Trust.

A Special Needs Trust gives you a vehicle to put money into so that your son or daughter doesn’t lose government benefits. And that is an important part of the planning journey—not losing those essential resources and services.

Unfortunately, your trust won’t come pre-loaded with money in it. It’s just an empty shell of an agreement.

So, the next question becomes, how are we going to fund our trust?

Most families don’t have millions of dollars lying around to deposit into their child’s trust.

Taking out a life insurance policy is often a strategy used to fund the trust in the future. This is an effective and efficient way to make sure there will be enough money for your child no matter what happens.

So, this is the Traditional Planning Process: A Special Needs Trust coupled with a life insurance policy.

I’m not saying that these two things shouldn’t be part of your family’s special needs plan. As I mentioned earlier, my parents are using both strategies in Sarah’s plan. But let me ask you a few questions...

• Does a Special Needs Trust and a life insurance policy solve all your problems?

• Does this type of plan answer all your questions about what your child’s future is going to be like?

• Does this version of special needs planning provide you with a sense of security today and peace of mind about the future?

As I already told you, my parents never really stopped worrying about Sarah’s future... even after they had this portion of her plan in place.

Going a step further... If we think about this as a standalone plan—a Special Needs Trust and a life insurance policy—what has to happen to YOU for this plan to go into effect? You have to die. Is that really the only thing you want to plan for?

Don’t get me wrong. Planning for the ‘What Ifs...’ in life is essential. We need to prevent any future assets or

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For the past 15 years, Philip Clark, Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC), has been helping families across America plan so their children can live purposeful, impactful lives. In 2017, he and his wife, Chelsea Clark, PhD, cofounded ENABLE Special Needs Planning.

Phil is frequently invited to present at national conferences with the National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Association for Down Syndrome, Autism Society of America, and Milestones.

He served as a founding board member for Gigi’s Playhouse Indianapolis and Same As U. Currently, he serves in the special needs ministry at Mercy Road Church, in Carmel, IN.

The Clarks reside in Westfield, IN, with their three-year-old daughter, Emma. They enjoy going to indoor and outdoor playgrounds and splash pads and taking family beach vacations in Florida.

“At ENABLE, we love how SNL magazine makes an impact by connecting families, caregivers, and individuals with special needs...It provides [the community] with the valuable information and essential resources they need to enable their loved ones to thrive every day. This aligns with ENABLE’s core belief that ‘Everyone has the ability to be impactful.’”

inheritance from disrupting your child’s government benefits.

But to me, for my family, for my sister, special needs planning needed to be so much more than that.

So, if you’re currently feeling uneasy about your son or daughter’s special needs plan AND you’ve approached planning in this traditional way, that’s likely the reason you still have questions, doubts, and fears. From my experience growing up with Sarah—I get it.

THE SOLUTION

Special Needs Planning must be better. Planning needs to be centered on making sure your entire family, including your child, has a secure future.

Your family’s planning journey should give you peace of mind because you’ve created an abundant future for your loved one—and an abundant future for your entire family.

Every family needs a plan tailored to them. The specific strategies that make up your family’s special needs plan must be unique to you, your unique goals, and your unique challenges.

Financial: With a clear vision, you can begin enacting strategies that fit your family. Most of your biggest goals (retirement, a new home, college, funding your Special Needs Trust) will take intentional financial planning to accomplish.

Legal: A properly structured estate plan protects your entire family from things that are out of your control. Along with creating wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and a Special Needs Trusts, naming your child’s future care team (e.g., guardians, trustees, care givers) is essential.

Communication: Your future care team needs to know what their roles are TODAY... and what their responsibilities could be in the future. Communicating your plan in an easy-tounderstand way is an essential step in your planning journey.

BUSINESS CONTACT

INFORMATION

Web: enablesnp.com

Email: info@ENABLEsnp.com

Social: @ENABLEsnp

Need help planning? Join our FREE online community https://enablesnp.com/snl

There are, however, 4 KEY components that every family’s plan must address. And our team has developed a collaborative planning process that helps families easily and efficiently create a plan that addresses these components.

Vision: The most important part of every plan is determining WHY you’re planning in the first place. You need to clarify what success looks like for yourself, for your family, for all your kids, and most importantly for your child with special needs.

While the specific details and strategies that make up your family’s special needs plan must be tailored to YOU, every family needs to intentionally plan in these four areas. Families who partner with our team and follow our collaborative planning process sleep better at night because they no longer wonder what would happen to their child if something happened to them.

This allows them to focus their time and energy on enabling their child to live the best possible life every day.

– CHELSEA CLARK

Local Events

BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD

Christia Woodford — Publishing Assistant and Local Events

Note: Don’t forget to apply for the Access Pass! The Access Pass Program allows families that meet the specific requirements listed below to visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and all participating locations for $2 per family member per visit for up to two adults and all dependent youths living in the household. You qualify if you receive:

• Hoosier Healthwise Insurance (Indiana’s health care program for low-income families, pregnant women and children)

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

• Apply here: https/www. childrensmuseum.org/visit/ hours/access-pass.

MUSEUMS

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum Guild’s 59th Annual Haunted House—BOOville

Oct. 10- 31

Welcome to BOOville, we’re glad you’ve arrived! A town full of Halloween classics is what you’ll find inside.

Our resident Witch Guilda is ready to guide you through each villainous lair. This once-in-a-nightmare tour awaits you. Are you ready for a scare?

Tickets: https/www.childrensmuseum. org/exhibits/haunted-house

First Thursday Nights

The first Thursday of every month, 4:00 PM-8:00 PM.

Go back in time to the Age of the Dinosaurs and explore the basics

of science through fun, hands-on activities in Dinosaur Train: The Traveling Exhibition

Travel to Greece without leaving Indiana in Take Me There®: Greece

Uncover ancient artifacts in National Geographic Treasures of the Earth https/www.childrensmuseum.org/visit/ calendar/event/273/2023-04-06

Various Events

Oct. 1- Oct. 31, Opens at 10 AM 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, 317-334-4000 https/www.childrensmuseum.org

Conner Prairie — Indiana’s Living History Museum

Headless Horseman Festival

Oct 5- 29, Every Thursday through Sunday 6:00 pm- 10:00 pm

The Headless Horseman rides again at Conner Prairie’s annual Halloween festival. Join us for an evening of ghoulish delights that the whole family can enjoy. Activities include the Headless Horseman marionette show, the Trail of Terror, spooky storytelling, Halloween games, the haunted hayride, and more!

For tickets: https/www.connerprairie.org/ explore/things-to-do/headless-horseman/

Sensory-Friendly Hours

The second Sunday of every month, from 10 AM to noon, are sensoryfriendly hours at Conner Prairie! Enjoy a calm environment.

Check-in with Guest Relations, stating that you are here for sensoryfriendly hours. You will get free admission and may stay as long as you wish.

Various events

Oct.1- Oct. 31

13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers, IN 46038

Phone: 317-776-6000 or 800-966-1836

https/www.connerprairie.org/events/list

SPORTS

Indy Fuel

Oct. 20, 28

Indiana Farmers Coliseum, 1202 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46205

https/www.indyfuelhockey.com/

Indianapolis Colts

Oct. 1 Rams, Oct. 8, Titans, Oct. 22 Browns, Oct. 29 Saints

Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225 https/www.colts.com/schedule/

FAMILY FUN

Indianapolis Zoo ZooBoo

Sept. 27- Oct. 31, 2:00 pm- 7:00 pm open until 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays

Is regular October too humdrum, but haunted houses too creepy-crawly?

Come to the Zoo for Halloween activities, amazing animals and pumpkins galore! ZooBoo is a fun family experience for itty-bitty ghouls and goblins as well as the bigger kids. October weather means active animals, colorful foliage and a new season to explore. Combine that with engaging, hands-free activities, spooktacular costumes and trick-ortreating, and you’ve got an unforgettable family tradition. Woo-hoo!

Best of all, ZooBoo is free for Zoo members and included with regular admission.

Pumpkin Town

The Bicentennial Pavilion is home to a whimsical village where the ghoulish DJ keeps guests on their toes with thriller dance parties! Jack’s Barn houses cats and Agape therapeutic miniature horses for a not-so-scary interaction. The Mirror Maze makes a haunting return with thrills and smiles hidden behind every corner.

More ZooBoo Fun

• Meet the Leeward Sisters – Terra, Wisp and Bubbles conjure up some Halloween magic in their cauldron

• Scarecrow Photo Safari – Bring your cameras for a spooky guided adventure through the Forests

• Trick-or-Treat Trail including 8 treat stations in the Plains

• Adult Trick-or-Treat Trail presented by Zink Distributing Friday and Saturday from 5-8pm (while supplies last)

• Roller Ghoster Indianapolis’ only roller coaster with a fun, Halloween twist!

• Round-Go-Merry the carousel that moves in reverse. Open until 7pm

• Spooktacular Train Ride Enjoy a ride for a special view of the Zoo behind the scenes. Open until 7pm

• Gator Pirate Bayou – Arrr! The shipwrecked Boney Scute Pirate crew are looking for new recruits. Try your luck in their pirate themed games to test your skills as a pirate. Will you join the crew or walk the plank?

• Aunty Guzzle’s Potions – Help Aunty Guzzle create tasty and bizarre Halloween concoctions with potions, witchcraft and “magical ingredients.” Located at Cafe on the Commons

https/www.indianapoliszoo.com/ events/zooboo/

Various events are scheduled daily

Check the calendar for events. https/www.indianapoliszoo.com/visit/ daily-schedule/ 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222 317-630-2001

9 AM - 5 PM, Mon. - Thur., and 9 AM - 7 PM, Fri.-Sun. and holidays

The Studio Movie Grill

3535 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-315-8113

Sensory-friendly screenings of movies! Check the website for movies and times.

https/www.studiomoviegrill.com/movie/ special-needs-screenings

ACC Trunk or Treat (Greenwood)

Oct. 21, 10:00 am- 12:00 pm New Hope Church parking lot5307 W. Fairview Rd, Greenwood, IN 46142

ACC Trunk or Treat is for individuals and families affected by autism to have a good time while getting treats and learning about local autism resources. ACC Trunk or Treat will have resource vendors sharing their information and resources about the autism services they provide in the community.

https/autismcc-in.org/event/acc-trunkor-treat-greenwood/

Special Needs Living Carni-Fall Festival

Oct. 28, 4:00 pm- 6:00 pm Independence Park 2100 South Morgantown Road Greenwood, IN 46143

We welcome all from the special needs community to come to the Special Needs Living fall festival at independence park in Greenwood- with the Johnson County Public Library

Enjoy playing at the adaptive playground, enjoy a Story Walk, free books, Candy stations, carnival games, face painting, a sensory station, Bounce House and more.

• Costumes are allowed

• Come out and enjoy a fun time at the park with others in the special needs community.

• No age restrictions, no cost to come and participate.

https/www.eventbrite.com/e/specialneeds-living-carni-fall-festival-tickets687424584437?aff=oddtdtcreator

Joseph Maley Foundation

Fall Family Fun Day

Nov. 5, 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm

Joseph Maley Enrichment Center, 7176 Lakeview Pkwy W Dr, Indianapolis

This event provides adaptive games and recreational activities that are fun

for all ages and abilities! Please visit josephmaley.org to register and learn more.

THE ARTS

Beef and Boards

Grumpy Old Men

August 24- October 31

9301 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-872-9664

https/www.beefandboards.com/ Online/default.asp

Jubilate Choir

Butler University, Lilly Hall, Room 133 Wednesdays, 6:45-7:30 PM

The Jubilate Choir is for singers with special needs in grades 3-9. Singers with varying abilities meet each week to grow musically. This tuition-free choir focuses on proper singing techniques, music theory and sight-reading, partsinging, and social skills involved in being a member of a musical ensemble.

Though Jubilate has, at its core, the same goals as other choirs in the Indianapolis Children’s Choir (ICC), singers in Jubilate engage in additional activities like visual and tactile experiences that are catered specifically to the current members of the choir.

Director: Lauren Southard

For more information, contact Lauren Southard at 317-940-8065 or lsouthar@icchoir.org. https/icchoir.org/ special-needs/

Gigi’s Playhouse

Various classes during the week. 5909 E. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46250 317-288-8235

indy@gigisplayhouse.org https/ gigisplayhouse.org/indianapolis/ sfcalendar/

EVENTS

Buddy Walk Indianapolis 2023

Oct. 7, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm

White River State Park 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Buddy Walk ® is the largest fundraising and advocacy event for Down Syndrome Indiana where individuals come together

to celebrate Down syndrome! Families, friends, schoolmates, co-workers, and community partners are encouraged and welcome to participate!

The Buddy Walk® has three primary goals:

• To promote acceptance & inclusion of people with Down syndrome

• To raise funds locally and nationally for education, research and advocacy programs

• To enhance the position of the Down syndrome community, enabling us to positively influence local and national policy and practice

Event Day Schedule: 9:00 am

Registration*, Info/Exhibitor Tent, Kids Tent opens 10:00 am

Opening Ceremony begins 10:21 am – Walk begins 12:00 pm

Event Concludes https/www.indianadisabilityresource finder.org/view/event/4311/buddy-walkindianapolis-2023/1120

Northwest Disability Resource Fair Merrillville

Oct. 7, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm

Tradewinds Services, Inc., 3198 E 83rd Pl, Merrillville, IN 46410

The 1st Annual Northwest Indiana Disability Resource Fair will provide information about community resources and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Exhibitors will talk about the services and resources to assist individuals and families. There will be interactive areas, food and more!

We welcome waiver agencies, community organizations, employers, educational partners, and businesses to share information and ideas. Including entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals to market wares and exposure for individuals to display their talents, artwork, and skills.

If interested in being a vendor, please reach out to info@connections-in.com

*If you know an individual who sells their own goods and would like to be a vendor, please reach out to us!!!*

Register: https/connectionsin.com/events

Ask the Advocate Free Live Zoom Events Sponsored by IEP Services, LLC.

Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, and Jan. 8 from 6:30 pm- 8:00 pm

The second evening of each month

Do you need help getting your child with special needs the services they need and deserve at school? Each session will begin with a short informative presentation followed by an open Q & A session where parents can get answers about their child’s circumstance and their right to a Free Appropriate Public Education.

Please email sheilawolf@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Zoom link: https/us06web.zoom.us/ meeting/register/tZwvceCsrTIiGdzw NGqnTmJ_q7Yf6af985qV#/registration

Northside Disability Resource Fair Noblesville

Oct. 14, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm

White River Christian Church, 1685 N 10th St, Noblesville, IN 46060

White River Christian Church, Achieve Community Services, Connections Case Management, Self Advocates of Indiana, and The Columbus Organization present their 2nd Disability Resource Fair. Northside Disability Resource Fair will provide information about community resources and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Exhibitors will talk about the services and resources to assist individuals and families. There will be interactive areas, food and more!

Register: https/connectionsin.com/events

Special Needs Living Empowerment Day - Transitions

Nov. 11, 1:00 pm- 5:00 pm

White River Christian Church, 1685 North 10th St., Noblesville, IN 46060

Special Needs Living invites you to join parents and caregivers of Special Needs individuals for a day of encouragement and connections

Special Needs Living is putting on an event for Parents and Caregivers of Special Needs individuals.

This is put on by parents and caregivers for parents and caregivers. The goal of this day is to restore hope through transitions. There will be personal stories shared, detailed information about the different supports shared from panels that will cover the lifespan of a child, teen, young adult or adult, round table discussions and many connection opportunities available throughout the day. No matter where you are in your journey, we know you will leave with some great resources, takeaways and connections. This event will be in person. We will have virtual options available. Thanks to White River Christian Church for hosting, Special Needs Living & the supporters. Hope to see you there!

We will have in-person and virtual options available.

You can reserve your spot here or scan the QR code below.

https/www.eventbrite.com/e/specialneeds-living-empowerment-day-tickets376997629057?aff=oddtdtcreator

Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at SpecialNeedsIndy@n2pub.com.

SINGLE MAMAS SEEN

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

When I started my Single Mamas column, I knew I wanted to provide a glimpse of my life and the lives of other single mamas raising exceptional needs kids and adults. I also believe us single moms can learn from other moms, no matter their marital status.

One of the moms that I look up to and who inspires me is Lisa Cantrell. She is a wife and mother of 5, including her teenage daughter, Monet, who is on the autism spectrum.

Cantrell is the kind of person who lights up the room as soon as she walks in. The kind of woman who uplifts your spirit when you’re in her presence. Her warmth and smile put everyone at ease. Yet, like most people, life as a wife and mother can have its challenges.

As I mentioned in my earlier column, Christian music is what I turn to as a source of strength and comfort. Worship time, especially, is a time when I surrender all my cares and worries up to God.

Cantrell, who is on the Heartland Church worship team in Fishers, shares her worship experience and how it gives her the strength to meet the needs of her autistic daughter.

What does worship mean to you? Worship is where I find a deep connection to God. It is where I find peace and perspective in God.

How do you live the lifestyle of worship? I live the lifestyle of worship by being obedient to God and serving others.

How long has worship been a part of your life? Worship has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Although obedience and acts of service to others are my worship, also music and praising God play a huge part in my posture in worship. As a baby, my mother played worship and praise music all day long in our home. The lyrics and music would set the atmosphere each day for each task that we had to handle. God’s presence would go before us and this is what got us through the day!!

As my parents & family demonstrated worship by setting the tone for each day with worship and honor toward God;

This equipped us with power to withstand the hard things that we had to face at any given time. Praise to God was an everyday weapon that we use to combat the enemy and withstand each hard trial.

Has there been a time when worship was difficult for you? How did you deal with it? One of my most difficult but rewarding tasks in life is raising a daughter who has autism. She was diagnosed at the age of 4 1/2, she is 16 years old now. I had never seen autism and did not know how to care for her in the beginning. But what I can say is singing worship to God while holding her close to my chest was very soothing for her and calmed her spirit almost instantly. We both found out quickly that singing worship songs took our mind, body & soul to a peaceful place. I give God all praise for that!!! Because we really had some rough patches to overcome.

Do you have any advice for single Moms raising kids with exceptional needs and how worship can play a part? My advice to a single mom raising a special needs kid and how worship can play a huge part in your daily routine and constant curve balls are:

1. Worship puts you in a posture of thanksgiving to God. The Bible tells us to give thanks in all things. This helps me to forget about the “Why me, Lord”.

2. When you are in worship mode, this helps you stay in a clear head space (a sound mind) so that you can stay strong and have the strength to deal with each task as they come.

3. When I worship God in spirit and truth, I understand how much I need God to handle each day with my special needs child. I realize that when I get quiet and really hear God speak to my spirit it lets me know just what to do. When I’m overwhelmed, I look to Jesus. Jesus became my comfort and peace. This is how I make it through each day. It’s like my medicine. I can’t do without it. You should try it!!

***Readers, do you have a story about how worship helped you while raising a child with exceptional needs? If so, please share at christina.mcgairk@gmail.com

Meet Lisa Cantrell

Walking in Faith: Christian Parenting of Children with Disabilities

BY PAUL HATHCOAT

Parenting is a divine journey, and when you have a child with disabilities, your path may seem more challenging, but it’s essential to remember that every child, regardless of their abilities, possesses a unique inner spiritual life. Nurturing this aspect can have a profoundly positive impact on their overall well-being and development. In this article, we’ll explore strategies for Christian parents to foster the inner spiritual life of their children living with disabilities, from a pastor’s perspective.

Create a Christ-Centered Environment

In a Christian household, it is crucial to create a Christ-centered environment. Surround your child with Christian symbols, Scriptures, and images that remind them of God’s love and presence. This environment can be a source of comfort and inspiration, nurturing their spiritual journey.

Celebrate God’s Grace

Children with disabilities often face more challenges in daily life, but it’s essential to teach them about God’s grace and how it applies to their lives. Celebrate not only their achievements but also God’s faithfulness in their journey. Share stories from the Bible that highlight God’s love and compassion for all His children.

Encourage Prayer and Devotion

Prayer is a powerful way to connect with God and nurture one’s inner spiritual life. Encourage your child to develop a prayer routine. Adapt prayers and devotional practices to suit their abilities. Prayer can provide them with a sense of peace, purpose, and a deep connection to God.

Embrace Scripture Study

Engage your child in the study of the Bible. Choose passages and stories that are relatable to their life circumstances. Discuss the lessons and wisdom found in the Scriptures, emphasizing how these teachings can guide their spiritual growth and understanding.

Practice Compassion and Forgiveness

Teach your child the importance of compassion and forgiveness, core values in Christianity. Help them understand that just as Christ forgives and loves us unconditionally, they should extend the same love and forgiveness to others. Acts of kindness and helping those in need can be powerful spiritual experiences.

Attend Church Services

Do you have a thought, idea or information that you would like to see in this section in an upcoming issue? Email Paul Hathcoat at phathcoat@wrcc.org.

Regular church attendance is an excellent way to foster your child’s spiritual life. Participating in worship services, Sunday School, and youth groups can provide them with a strong sense of community and a deeper understanding of their faith. There is a growing number of disability ministries within churches today, that eagerly embrace new families who have unique needs and support requirements.

Be Patient and Listen to Their Spiritual Journey

Being a parent means being patient and attentive to your child’s spiritual journey. Listen to their questions, thoughts, and feelings about their faith and disability. Create a safe and loving space for them to share their spiritual experiences, doubts, and joys.

Seek Support and Guidance from Your Church Community

Your church community can be a valuable source of support and guidance. Reach out to your pastor, fellow church members, or Christian support groups for advice and assistance in nurturing your child’s spiritual life from a Christian perspective.

Encourage Acts of Service

Engage your child in acts of service and ministry within your church and local community. Volunteering and helping others in need can deepen their understanding of Christian values and strengthen their connection to God.

Emphasize

Gratitude to God

Teach your child to express gratitude to God for His blessings, no matter the circumstances. Emphasize the importance of giving thanks for God’s love, grace, and presence in their lives. Gratitude can be a powerful tool for connecting with God on a deeper spiritual level.

Fostering the inner spiritual life of a child with disabilities requires faith, love, and dedication. Remember that every child is a precious gift from God, and their spiritual journey is a unique and beautiful path. By creating a Christ-centered environment, celebrating God’s grace, and encouraging prayer and devotion, you can help your child grow in their faith, find purpose, and experience the profound love of Christ. Your unwavering support and spiritual values will be the guiding light on their spiritual journey, allowing them to flourish and grow into faithful, compassionate followers of Christ! Blessings to you all! Proverbs 22:6 NLT

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

IN HONOR OF DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH

KYLE DEHOFF

Kyle has Down syndrome and autism and is a leukemia survivor! Kyle loves carousels, fairs and amusement parks. He also loves traveling with his family.

RUSTY HATCHETT

Look into camp--I have always loved going, and still do. Look into sleep apnea--my CPAP machine changed my life. Educate, Advocate, Inspire.

NICHOLAS SCHOONVELD

Nick effortlessly inspires us to be present in every moment and to live a life filled with enthusiasm and joy for the little things.

MIA

ACCINELLI

Mia has been a blessing to our family from the day she was born. She brings light to our family. Mia is very much a “typical” teenage girl. She likes music, movies, cheerleading, dancing, track, her dog, and her family. She loves getting dressed up. Her absolute favorite thing to do is perform for other people.

AYO(I-TO) ARMBRUSTER

Ayo is 5 years old and loves all things babies. In this picture, she is holding her baby cousin. You can see the love and excitement in her face. She loves babies so much she still calls her little brother “baby”, which he now thinks is his actual name.

MYLAH

LEE PERRY

Mylah is downright amazing and has come so far in two years. She has overcome so much, from being in the NICU for the first two months of her life, to having open heart surgery, to multiple hospital stays, and still, she smiles and finds happiness in her days. She lights up a room and everyone falls in love with her.

Photo by 21 Inspirations Photography

Collin surprised us in a big way at birth when we discovered he had an extra chromosome. Since that day, Collin has continued to surprise us by making us fall so deeply in love with him every day. He has brought our family closer together, and his brother Levi and sister Avery love having him as their baby brother! We can’t wait to see all the amazing things Collin will do!

KIA DAVENPORT

When you look at this picture you see her smile. But behind that smile is a story. In August 2022, Kia lost her mother unexpectedly. Her mother was her last living parent. In the past year, Kia’s life has changed dramatically- from a new home after living with her mom for 20 years, to new therapists, new friends, and new everything. But still, Kia smiles. Her smile represents resilience, determination, and courage. What’s the story behind your smile?

CASON SMITH

I remember the early days of worry and wonderings about my son’s future. Cason just graduated from high school and is now ready to take on the next adventure! I learned when Cason was young to not put too much stock in what the books and medical literature said [about his condition]. I allowed him to show me who he was and what he could do by not putting expectations on him.

THEODORE RAPP

Theo is the absolute human form of sunshine and his bright personality brings joy to everyone that gets the chance to know him. When we first received his T21 diagnosis, we were overwhelmed with the what-ifs and dwelled on the future. He has quickly taught us that each day, no matter the difficulties that accompany it, comes with a reason to be happy and celebrate. You just have to learn how to spot the sunshine, even if it’s just a little shimmering ray.

ADDISON SHAW

Addison is 3 years old. She is a heart warrior who had open heart surgery when she was just 8 months old. She is such a sweet and happy little girl. She uses some sign language to communicate with her friends and family. She loves preschool and meeting new kids. She loves to laugh and play with her big sister Natalya. Her favorite things to do are read books, play with baby dolls, dance, and watch Baby Shark and Peppa Pig.

MAXWELL MEUNIER

If you have had the pleasure of meeting Max, you have felt pure joy! This boy came into my life as a student in my classroom. He has done amazingly well. Learning, talking, walking, making friends, smashing his goals. He always has a smile on his face, loves to dance, and gives hugs. He spreads joy in every room he is in, to every person he meets. He has fought so hard. He is an absolute inspiration, and stronger than I will ever be. My life will forever be better for having met him and his family.

Photo by Karen Tholen

photo by Kylee Hohenstein Photography

COLLIN GREEN

; Photo by Tara Clark **A Portion of proceeds donated to pediatric cancer research https://www.photosbytaraclark.com/

These children are such an inspiration and teach us so much

best!

Aubrey is a member of the Fishers High School Champions Together Track Team. She received a varsity letter this year!

Wes is full of love! She brings so much

A diagnosis that was initially so scary has been such a gift to our family. We love our Aiden.

My brother, Ricky, who was 63 in August, received a proclamation from the Avon Town Council for raising awareness for individuals with Down syndrome. He raised over $9,000. Ricky is also an honorary Avon police officer.

At just 2 months old, Samantha has brought us so much joy already. So grateful to be part of the “lucky few” community.

KELLY

Kelly is a 20-year-old self-advocate who has her own dog-walking business, called Kelly’s Kritters. She has been visiting Congress annually for more than a decade to advocate for individuals with Down syndrome.

LANDYN STEMMLER

AUBREY SMITH

ZEEK BRADLEY BERGFIELD Zeek is the light of our lives. We feel so

WESLIE HARDIN

photo by Coffee Creek Studio

RICKY HULL

Ricky Hull with Avon Police Chief Sean Stoops

SAMANTHA ADAMS

Photo by Buonanno photography

AIDEN GEHRES

CHARLIE, MAX, SAM AND DANNY DEGNAN Brothers are the

LYONS

Sweet, happy,

Enjoy every small moment of success!

A favorite part of Lilah’s day is riding on the school bus. We love our Tippecanoe School Corporation bus drivers for always keeping her safe to and from school!

Jake is 29 years old and has brought so much joy to our lives. He lives life to the fullest. He is so much more than a person with Down syndrome. He is an individual with his own life and dreams.

RAEGAN TEAGAN

JACOB KINDRED

photo by Morgan Hall

JAKE KELLEY

CANA GUILFOY

LILAH BARTLETT

Special Needs Planning & Elder Law Attorney

Here to help you put plans in place to give you peace of mind.

Elizabeth A. Homes is a special needs planning and elder law attorney. She has been licensed and practicing law since May of 2014. Her practice at the Law O ce of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC is focused on Special Needs Planning, Guardianships, Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Probate Work. This includes Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advanced Directives, Trusts, Trust Administration, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning, Guardianship, and Probate. She is admitted to practice law in the State of Indiana.

We ask "What If?" so you don't have to ask "What Now?"

YOUR CHILD DESERVES TO REACH HIS FULLEST POTENTIAL AND BECOME A VALUABLE PART OF HIS COMMUNITY

Looking for physical, occupational, or speech therapy for kids? Choose a family-friendly therapy center that makes parent education a priority.

According to the Center for Disease Control, 15% of children between ages 3 and 17 have encountered some form of a developmental delay.

Is your child developing at the "right" pace?

REQUEST A CHILD DEVELOPMENT EVALUATION TODAY!

| 317-660-5004

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THIS MAGAZINE IS – FOR YOU – BY YOU –TO SUPPORT AND CONNECT YOU – HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED –

FOR ADVERTISING:

Do you run a business that supports the special needs community and is looking to advertise in Special Needs Living Indy magazine? Email Jamie.McCabe@n2pub.com

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE

Would you like to share a story in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living Indy ? We want to hear from you. To share a story or to nominate someone else to be in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living Indy, email your story ideas or nominations to SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@n2pub.com.

To view several story options with quick links to answer questions and upload photos go to Linktr.ee/Community.Stories

Accomplishments/ Achievements/Milestones

Would you like to share a story? Scan here to submit a story to be in a future issue of Special Needs Living Indy!

LOOKING TO CELEBRATE ALL SPECIAL NEEDS INDIVIDUALS

Some accomplishments and milestones take years We want to recognize you/them! Are you or your child celebrating a birthday, milestone, achievement, or accomplishment? We want to recognize you email us at SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@n2pub.com.

CALLING ALL 501C3 ORGANIZATIONS THAT SUPPORT THE SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY

Each month we will highlight a nonprofit for free to let the community know more about how they support and impact families and individuals with special needs. Do you run a nonprofit or know of one that supports the special needs community? Email us at SpecialNeedsLivingIndy@ n2pub.com

LET’S GET SOCIAL

To keep up to date with all things happening with Special Needs Living Indy

• Upcoming Events

• Socials/Gatherings

• Stories and Highlights

• Ways to be Involved

Follow us on Facebook@ specialneedslivingmagazine.

HIGHLIGHTING ALL SPECIAL NEEDS BUSINESSES

Do you have special needs and run a business?

We will highlight all those with special needs who run a business for free email us or go to Linktr.ee/Community.Stories and click on (Special Needs Living Indy – Business Profile Q&A).

Scan here to view the past issues of Special Needs Living Indy!

scan to schedule an apt

Discussing the Future Needs of Dependents with Special Needs

Topic suggestions for planning meeting with family/friends

BY GORDON F HOMES, JR., CFP, CLU, CHFC, CASL

Just as caring for a dependent with special needs is a family affair, so is the related planning.

It is recommended that caregivers host a meeting with family/friends to discuss the future medical, educational, and housing needs of their dependent with special needs. Share information about you and your dependent’s vision of the future and discuss any concerns and options for future care.

The person-centered life care planning process focuses on the development of a plan that will enable your disabled dependent to obtain the best quality of life possible. You, your dependent (if possible), and your team of professionals should work collectively to help develop a life care plan that best suits his or her needs – now and far into the future. Here are some recommended topics of discussion:

LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) –

(Recommended to be drafted prior to meeting)

A Letter of Intent can be used as part of the special needs estate planning process. Although it is not legally binding, this document provides direction for the person(s) who will care for the dependent with special needs in the future. It should detail medical history, daily care needs, housing and services, as well as specific wishes and expectations as they relate to the dependent’s future. It is a working document for the future caregiver(s) to follow that is updated regularly.

Discuss your Letter of Intent (written or video format) with your family/friends/professionals and make any necessary updates and changes. The LOI is never fully done and needs to be updated as situations change. Advise your family/friends/professionals where your Letter of Intent can be accessed.

GOVERNMENT BENEFITS

Inform your family/friends/professionals what government benefits your loved one is receiving, if applicable. Government benefits may help to provide for the needs of a loved one in the form of medical treatments and supplies, equipment, financial assistance and more. They may be entitled to some benefits but may additionally qualify for others that you can apply for. Here are some examples; however, benefits vary by state and jurisdiction.

• Social Security Retirement Income

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

• Medicaid

• Spouse and Survivor Benefits

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• Children’s Disability Benefit

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• Medicare

• Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

For more information, visit www.ssa.gov.

Communicate the importance of not having any assets in your dependent’s name over the $2,000 limit (in most states) for them to continue qualifying for SSI and Medicaid, if applicable. Examples of such assets include:

• Cash, art, jewelry, etc., worth more than $2,000

• Inheritance and inherited assets

• Insurance benefits

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS

Recommend that everyone review their beneficiary, transfer on death (TOD), paid on death (POD) designations on their accounts, such as life insurance policies and bank accounts, and align with all legal documents (wills, trusts, etc.) to ensure money is not left directly to the dependent with special needs or it could disqualify them for government benefits.

There are distinct ways to leave money to individuals with special needs so that their government benefits are not lost, such as through a special needs trust or ABLE account.

SPECIAL NEEDS TRUSTS

A special needs trust may offer a means of protecting a dependent’s eligibility for government benefits while addressing their ongoing care and needs. In general, a trust is an arrangement by which property is held by one party (the trustee) to benefit someone else (the beneficiary). Different types of trusts suit different needs and may have different tax implications. There are two main types of special needs trusts: first party and third party, depending upon the source of the funds.

If you have a special needs trust already established or plan on setting one up, explain to your family that money can still be left to an individual with special needs by listing your dependent’s special needs trust as the beneficiary.

A trust created to benefit a person with special needs can:

• receive assets, such as an inheritance, a court settlement, an insurance claim payment, gifts of money, or life insurance proceeds

• protect current or future government benefits

• pay for medical care, special equipment, education, entertainment, transportation, and more.

Consult an attorney who has experience with special needs planning. A financial professional with experience in working with special needs families can help with funding options for special needs trusts.

ABLE ACCOUNTS

If your loved one with special needs has an ABLE account already, share this information with your family/friends and explain what an ABLE Account is.

ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts allow eligible individuals who have a disability that manifested itself before the age of 26 to open tax-advantaged savings accounts. Only one ABLE Account can be opened per eligible individual. The account can be established by the eligible dependent with special needs, or their parent, legal guardian, or agent acting pursuant to a power of attorney. ABLE accounts are developed and managed on a state level. Most states allow deposits from out-of-state residents so even if your state does not have the program you may still be able to sign up for another state’s account.

The funds can come from either the individual with special needs or any third party (including family, friends, co-workers, a special needs trust, or pooled trust). Income earned by the ABLE account is not taxed. Contributions must be made with post-tax dollars and is not tax deductible for federal taxes; however, some states may allow for state income tax deductions for contributions made to an ABLE account.

Funds in a 529 college savings plan can be moved into an ABLE account without incurring tax or penalties if both accounts have the same beneficiary or a qualifying member of the beneficiary’s family. The rollover amount must be within the annual ABLE contribution limit ($17,000 in 2023) and must occur by December 31, 2025. There are direct rollovers where the two programs transfer assets directly from one to the other. And there are indirect rollovers in which the account owner of the 529 plan would take possession of funds before they are transferred. The transfer must occur within 60 days of withdrawal.

Money from the individual with a special needs trust may also be moved into their ABLE account with no tax consequences but must stay within the annual ABLE contribution limit.

The funds can be used for a range of expenses related to the disability of the dependent, such as education, housing, transportation, healthcare, prevention and wellness, financial management, administrative services, legal fees, personal support services, employment training, etc. In most states, upon the death of the individual with special needs, or termination of the account, there is a Medicaid pay-back provision regardless of who deposited the funds. Some states are doing away with the Medicaid pay-back provision.

A total contribution of $17,000 can be made for 2023, plus an additional $13,590 from the earnings of the beneficiary if he or she works. If the ABLE account owner is employed and does not participate in their employer’s defined contribution plan (such as a 401(k) plan, profitsharing plan, 403(b) plan, or 457(b) plan), they may make an additional annual contribution up to the lesser of:

1. The ABLE account owner’s compensation from their employer for the tax year.

2. The United States (U.S.) poverty line amount in 2023 of $15,630 in Hawaii, $16,990 in Alaska, or $13,590 in all other states.

The maximum accumulation amount in the ABLE account is subject to the individual state’s limit, based on the state’s cap for 529 Plans. The amount can range from $235,000 to $550,000 for 2023.

For ABLE account owners receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), if the account combined with their other resources exceeds $100,000 there will be a suspension of their SSI until all their resources no longer exceed the $100,000 limit. However, there is no effect on benefits under the Medicaid program, even if a beneficiary’s SSI is suspended because the account exceeds the $100,000 limit.

For the most current information and states that offer an ABLE Account, please visit www.ablenrc.org.

YOUR TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS

It’s important to pull together a support team of professionals that can help guide caregivers through the variety of options available to plan for the future care of your special needs dependent.

Advise your family who will be on your ‘team’ to assist you with executing your plan for your loved one’s future.

The composition of the team may vary depending on your unique situation, but it should include you and your loved one with special needs, if applicable, working collaboratively with professionals who have experience in working with special needs families, such as:

• A special needs financial professional

• A special needs attorney, and

• Perhaps a health professional and a school guidance counselor, among others.

Special CareSM is a program created by MassMutual that provides access to information, specialists and financial solutions to people with disabilities and their families. For more information about Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and its Special Care program, please visit www.massmutual.com/specialcare.

Provided by Gordon Homes, CFP, a Financial Advisor with WestPoint Financial courtesy of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual)

The information provided is not written or intended as specific tax or legal advice. MassMutual, its subsidiaries, employees and representatives are not authorized to give tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to seek advice from their own tax or legal counsel. Individuals involved in the estate planning process should work with an estate planning team, including their own personal legal or tax counsel.

• All Inclusive Playground Remodeled in 2020 featuring an Interactive YALP & Sona Arch

• 3 Rentable Shelters

• Wheelchair Accessible Trail with JCPL Storywalk

• Wheelchair Accessible Basketball Court

Free Live Zoom Events Sponsored by IEP Services, LLC

WHEN: October 9 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Do you need help getting your child with special needs the services they NEED and DESERVE at school? Each session will begin with a short informative presentation followed by an open Q & A session where parents can get answers about their child’s circumstance and their right to a free appropriate public education.

Please email sheilawolf@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Ask the Advocate. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting. Sheila

PEAS for Kids

PEAS for Kids specializes in educational consultation, advocacy, and customized assessment plans for children (grades PK-12+). Assessment plans address emotional concerns and learning disabilities such as Dyslexia, as well as characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

PEAS for Kids strives to utilize the results of our evaluations to provide recommendations for, and work with parents in advocating for their child's educational needs within the school setting.

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Allison M Charette, Ed.S. Nationally Certified School Psychologist Founder,

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allison@peas4kids.com

A. Wolfe; Special Education Consultant

Meet Kelly Lyons

BY KELLY LYONS

What is a self-advocate? What does being a self-advocate mean to you? A self-advocate is a person who can tell their story and ask for what they need. They can stand up for themselves and others. You need to know your rights. You can help change things that are wrong. I go to Congress every year to talk about my needs and those of other people with disabilities like Down syndrome.

I am a self-advocate when I ask for help at school or work, when I talk to my doctors, and even when I order at a restaurant. When people talk to my mom or someone else about me instead of to me, I tell them to talk to me, please. I can speak for myself. I teach them that people like me are pretty much the same as everyone else.

How has becoming a self-advocate helped you? I know my rights. I have learned to talk to many people in many

situations and I enjoy meeting people. I really like getting interviewed on TV-it’s fun to see myself there. I am not afraid to ask for help. I love to travel and being a self-advocate has helped me do that. I like when people talk to me directly and not to a parent or other family member. I can get on a plane. I can find my way in hotels. I even know how to order gluten-free foods, since I have Celiac disease. It is important to me to do things for myself, and it helps other people understand that I am a person too! I am just like you!

Tell us more about your journey. What lead to you becoming a self-advocate, what do you enjoy about being a self-advocate? I was born with Down syndrome and a blocked intestine. I had surgery the day I was born. I had open heart surgery when I was 16 months old. I had a lot of surgeries and illnesses when I was younger including leukemia, many leg surgeries, stomach surgery, ear surgeries, and typical stuff like tonsils. The leukemia took years to beat, and my legs were all twisted up. In high school, I had three major surgeries to fix them. I spent all my time in a wheelchair and was stuck at home or in the hospital a lot. It was during that time that I started getting really good at doing make-up. I used

to practice and practice. I even had an appointment schedule, where friends and family “booked” a time and came over for me to do their make-up. That is when I knew I wanted to become a professional make-up artist.

I started being a self-advocate early. My mom insisted that I was fully included at school from kindergarten through my high school graduation. I always wanted to be treated the same as the other kids. If I wasn’t, I would say something! I always attended my IEP meetings and started the meeting by telling them what I want. I also brought an “ALL About Me” letter with me.

When I was going to my many doctors’ appointments, my mom always insisted the doctors talked directly to me and I got asked questions. I got really good at answering. My mom ran a Down syndrome organization, and I often got to go to TV interviews. I got really good at telling my story and shaking hands!

I started going to Washington, DC, with my mom when I was 4. She brought me to help get a law passed so that expectant parents who got a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome were given factual information about the diagnosis. When she found out about me, her doctors tried to get her to terminate [the pregnancy]. Then they offered to help her give me up,

Advocacy with Evers

saying she did not have to take me home. I am glad she didn’t listen to them. We helped get that law passed, so now parents get better information.

After that we started working on getting the ABLE (Achieving A Better Life Experience) Law passed. It allows people with disabilities to save money for their futures. I even got my whole 5th-grade class working on a video that I took to my congressmen to tell them to support this law. It also passed, but I was in junior high before it did. Then I helped get the ABLE law passed in my state. I have my own ABLE account now!

I still visit my representatives in Congress, both in DC and in Indiana. We talk about the civil rights of people with disabilities. I really want everyone with a disability to get a good inclusive education like I did. It has made a huge difference in my life.

I was able to speak at the National Advocacy Day this year to help young self-advocates just starting out. I talked about being prepared, telling your story and relaxing when meeting your congressmen. I really liked helping others get ready for a day on the Hill.

What would you like to tell others about becoming a self-advocate?

How can someone do this? I think that being a self-advocate makes you more independent. I started early by learning to do things for myself, like ordering in restaurants, talking to doctors and speaking at my IEP meetings at school.

When I started doing grassroots advocacy, I went to trainings in person and online with the National Down Syndrome Society. I have also done training with the Arc of Wisconsin, and the National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition. It is great to contact your local or national organization for your disability to ask how you can become an advocate. I have made many friends by doing this and have gotten to travel.

What do you enjoy doing for fun? I LOVE doing make-up and watching make-up tutorials. I like to shop for make-up, but it does get expensive! I also really like to sing karaoke! That is my thing. I love to listen to music and make playlists. I love an audience when I sing.

I recently moved and want to get back into a local Down syndrome group so I can make new friends. I love to go to the theater with friends. I like to ride the Buddy Bike with my dad and cook with my mom. We have a pool and I like to swim with my dog. He is so funny!

I also love to draw. I am always making cards for people who are sick and for friends and family on the holidays. My mom has my drawings made into bags and shirts for gifts. I like to write special prayers on my cards. I spend a lot of time praying for people I love. I really like spending time with my boyfriend, too.

Dreams for the future? I have lots of dreams. I want to go to make-up school and be certified, so I can have a fulltime job. I just got a scholarship, so I am starting school soon!

I want to get married, buy a house, and have kids. I want to travel to more places. So far, I have been to France, Switzerland, and many places in the US including, Sedona, New York City, Hawaii, Washington, DC, and of course, Florida. I want to see Egypt someday. That sounds like a neat place.

Capital Hill 2023

Kelly’s Kritters

I want to keep going to Congress to speak up for others. There are so many needs. I want people with disabilities to get the same rights as other people.

Pets? Family? I love animals! I have a dog named Luke and a cat named Star. I love them so much that I started a business doing dog walking and pet sitting. I walk dogs named Ozzie, Cherrie, Petunia, Winston, Arthur, Monty, Sadie, and others. I have a couple of kitties I visit too. I like to play with them, but I don’t really like cleaning kitty litter. When I am busy, my mom will fill in and walk the dogs, too.

I live with my mom, Robbin, my dad, Dana, and my brother, Reed. My sister, Regan, lives in Wisconsin. I like to visit my sister and we Facetime almost every day. I also live near my grandmother and aunt and help them. I love my family, but I want to live in my own place sometime soon.

Kelly with her dad, Dana, getting ready for prom

Me and Governor Evers

Governor Scott Walker signing the Wisconsin ABLE law that Kelly worked hard to get passed. He gave her the pen.

MEET THE

PHOTOS BY 21 VINES PHOTOGRAPHY

People often ask Phil Clark, the cofounder of ENABLE Special Needs Planning, what it was like growing up with a younger sister with Down syndrome. Reminiscing about his childhood with Sarah brings a smile to his face.

“I was only four years old when Sarah was born. But I can vividly remember being so excited to finally be a big brother. The day Sarah was born was a wonderful day. I was thrilled to have a younger sister.”

Phil says he’s always told people his life growing up was amazing. His family had so many unique experiences and made many memories together. So many of these experiences were because of Sarah. “She is such a blessing,” he said.

So much of who Phil is today and how he views the world he attributes to the impact that Sarah had on his life.

“In life, we have two choices of how we view our experiences,” Phil said. “Every aspect of life presents challenges. Often, these challenges are what we end up focusing our attention on. But we always have a choice. We can choose to focus on opportunities instead. It’s an intentional choice to look at life from a place of abundance instead of scarcity – opportunity instead of challenge.”

As other siblings of individuals with special needs can relate to, Phil’s life growing up looked a bit different from many of his classmates. Phil’s family lived on a multi-generational family farm in Williamsport, IN, about two hours northwest of Indianapolis. Most of Sarah’s doctors’ appointments and therapy sessions were in Indianapolis. Phil often jokes that because of all the trips they made to Indy it felt like his family lived in a minivan.

So much of Phillip’s parents’ attention during his childhood was focused on Sarah and giving her access to the early interventions and therapies she needed to thrive. As a young child, this often didn’t make sense or feel fair.

But one thing that stands out to Phil from his childhood was that his parents always let him know it was ok to be frustrated. “They told me that when I felt like things weren’t fair, it was because sometimes in life things aren’t fair, and it was ok to express my frustrations,” he said.

Phil’s parents also encouraged him to consider every trip to Indy and every aspect of life as an adventure. And they always did something intentional to make him feel seen and heard.

On occasion, the Clark family enjoyed special experiences like going to the

Indianapolis Zoo or The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Phil recalls these fondly as being fun and memorable. But he also fondly recalls more mundane experiences like stopping by the family’s favorite bakery in Brookston, IN, on the way home from Indy to get fresh baked bread or soup. These big and small things made the many trips to Indy positive experiences for the entire family. When he thinks back on those many trips, he doesn’t remember the frustrations but instead remembers the fun experiences and adventures he shared with his family.

Sarah had always thrived on routine and liked consistency in her schedule. This made spur-of-the-moment getaways and family vacations difficult. “Our family trips were always centered around what Sarah liked,” Phil said. “She didn’t like cold weather so a ski trip was out of the question. She didn’t like walking long distances, so hiking in a remote location didn’t happen. Our first big family vacation was a trip to Fort Myers Beach, FL.”

Maybe it was the soft sand, warm water, or overall relaxed vibe of the charming beach town, but Sarah seemed comfortable there and appeared to be in her element. The Clark family wasted no time falling in love with Fort Myers Beach and decided to return the following year. To keep things familiar and consistent for Sarah, they rented the same unit at the same resort and continued staying at that resort year after year until hurricane Ian devasted the island last fall. Losing the ability to continue the annual family tradition of vacationing at Fort Myers Beach has been especially difficult for Sarah to adapt to. But the Clark family encourages her to look forward to their next family vacation. Despite being in a new location, it will still be an opportunity to be together and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Following his parents’ example, Phil frequently encourages families to be creative and make every experience—even the challenging ones—into an adventure to remember.

Today, Phil, his wife Chelsea, and their three-year-old daughter, Emma, live in Westfield, IN. Phil and Chelsea were married in 2015 and welcomed Emma into the world in 2019.

When Phil and Chelsea told Sarah she was going to be an aunt, she was overjoyed. Sarah has always been a natural with children. As an adult, she’s put her abilities to good use working part-time in preschool and second-grade classrooms. Her soothing presence and nurturing nature make her the go-to person for calming anxious little ones.

So, the transition to “Aunt” Sarah was a seamless one. From the day Emma came home from the hospital, Sarah’s touch was magical and soothing. It was as if Emma found solace in Sarah’s comforting gaze, an ability that set her apart from everyone else.

Over the past three years, Sarah and Emma’s bond has blossomed into something truly beautiful. Sarah wears her aunt title with immense pride, cherishing every moment she spends with her niece. Emma loves playing with Aunt Sarah and her cherished collection of American Girl dolls.

“Witnessing Sarah wholeheartedly embrace her new role as Aunt Sarah has been an absolute delight,” said Phil. “And Emma’s face lights up with excitement every time we visit Aunt Sarah’s farm where the two of them can immerse themselves in a world of imagination and play.”

Sarah’s impact reaches beyond Phil, Chelsea, and Emma. Phil and Sarah’s youngest sister, Grace, began her career at the Erskine Greene Training Institute in Muncie, IN.

Because of Sarah, Grace has also been passionately pursuing opportunities to help individuals with disabilities find avenues to enhance their skillsets and build purposeful lives.

“Being intentional about making memories and finding joy in every situation is something that was very important to my family growing up and continues to be important to our family today,” said Phil.

Phil credits his upbringing with shaping his career path and inspiring him to start ENABLE Special Needs Planning to help families like his own envision future success and implement the financial, legal, and communication strategies needed to achieve it.

Phil firmly believes that our loved ones with special needs have the power to positively impact the world. “By empowering them to pursue their individual passions and strengths, we invite them to discover their sense of purpose and calling. Everyone has the ability to be impactful.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For the past 15 years, Philip Clark, a Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC), has been helping families across America plan so their children can live purposeful, impactful lives. In 2017, he and his wife, Chelsea Clark, PhD, cofounded ENABLE Special Needs Planning.

Phil is frequently invited to present at national conferences with the National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Association for Down Syndrome, Autism Society of America, and Milestones.

He served as a founding board member for Gigi’s Playhouse Indianapolis and Same As U. Currently, he serves in the special needs ministry at Mercy Road Church, in Carmel, IN.

The Clarks reside in Westfield, IN, with their three-year-old daughter, Emma. They enjoy going to indoor and outdoor playgrounds and splash pads and taking family beach vacations in Florida.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email: phil@ENABLEsnp.com

In

Work with a purpose!

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Special needs clothing lines cater to individuals with incontinence as well as to their caregivers. The clothing is designed for children and for adults who may remove their clothing, dig into their diapers, disrobe, or have other clothing-related issues linked to sensory needs. Special needs clothing can zip up the back and be designed with locks on the zippers to help keep clothing on. It can be worn underneath clothing, as pajamas, or as regular clothing.

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What is Scripting?

Scripting is a term often used synonymously with delayed echolalia

Both terms refer to utterances (also known as gestalts) that are repeated after a significant delay. It could be hours, days weeks or months later.

(Rizant & Rydell, 1984)

These gestalts may come from videos, books, movies, TV shows, communicative partners, songs, etc.

Children who use delayed echolalia/scripting to communicate are gestalt language processors

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