Hello dear students and members,

We're thrilled to announce our upcoming Thoughtful Thursday series, where we delve into critical topics, challenges, and strategies related to the California Self-Determination Program, Independent Facilitation, and supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

Our goal with Thoughtful Thursday is to provide you with practical, engaging, and thought-provoking content that enhances your understanding and effectiveness in your roles as Independent Facilitators, Advocates, and Parents of Regional Center consumers.

We'll share articles, videos, and discussion prompts that encourage reflection, provide new perspectives, and foster professional growth. From understanding critical legislation and navigating the Self-Determination Program to building your facilitator business, we aim to cover a range of topics that equip you with the knowledge and skills you need.

Training Dates & Topics:

August 1: "Demystifying the California Self-Determination Program" - A comprehensive overview of the Self-Determination Program explaining its structure, benefits, and key aspects.

August 8: "The Lanterman Act: A Lifeline for Developmental Services" - An insightful exploration of the Lanterman Act, focusing on the services and supports it guarantees for individuals with developmental disabilities.

August 15: "Roles & Responsibilities of Independent Facilitators" - An illuminating discussion on the roles, responsibilities, and the crucial impact of Independent Facilitators.

August 22: "Challenges & Solutions for Independent Facilitators" - A problem-solving session identifying common challenges of Independent Facilitators and discussing solutions.

August 29: "Exploring Regional Center Services" - A detailed examination of various Regional Center Services, familiarizing you with the range of support available.

September 5: "Building Your Independent Facilitator Business: Getting Started" - A practical guide for establishing your facilitator business, including registration, insurance, and more.

September 12: "Effective Marketing for Your Facilitator Business" - A comprehensive lesson on marketing strategies tailored for Independent Facilitators.

September 19: "Navigating Professional Growth as an Independent Facilitator" - A thought-provoking session on the importance of continuous learning, networking, and skill development for facilitators.

September 26: "The Power of Networking: Building Your Professional Circle" - An enlightening discussion on networking strategies and their benefits for business growth.

October 3: "Understanding & Leveraging State Supports for Individuals with Disabilities" - A complete overview of state-sponsored supports and how to access them for your clients.

October 10: "Facilitator's Guide to Assistive Technology" - An introduction to various assistive technologies and their benefits.

October 17: "Self-Care and Wellness for Facilitators" - A vital discussion on self-care strategies for professionals in high-stress roles like facilitators.

October 24: "Legal Aspects of Independent Facilitation" - A session to inform facilitators about the legal aspects, liabilities, and insurance related to their profession.

October 31: "Strategies for Client Engagement and Retention" - Practical tactics to keep clients engaged and satisfied with your services.

November 7: "Financial Planning for Your Facilitator Business" - A guide to managing business finances, budgeting, and financial planning.

November 14: "Impact Assessment and Feedback in Facilitation Services" - Emphasizing the importance of feedback and impact assessment for service improvement.

November 21: "Ethics in Independent Facilitation" - A review of ethical considerations in independent facilitation.

November 28: "Building and Managing Your Team" - Expert strategies for hiring, training, and managing a team in your facilitation business.

December 5: "Year-end Review and Planning for the New Year" - Guiding facilitators in conducting a year-end review and creating a robust plan for the following year.

December 12: "Celebrating Success: Recognizing Your Achievements" - An inspiring session encouraging facilitators to acknowledge their accomplishments and celebrate their growth.

Look forward to deep-diving into each of these topics every Thursday. Each week brings a fresh perspective and an opportunity to grow and excel in your roles. Let's embark on this journey together!