Local Forum Showcases Resources for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

A teacher working with a student at the Phoenix Center.
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Finding services and supports for teens with developmental disabilities who are graduating from special education just got easier for families, educators, and students in Northern and Metro New Jersey.

For the third year in a row, The Phoenix Center of Nutley is hosting an “Over 21 Networking Event” designed to be a resource for parents and providers of services.

“Transition to adult life is a challenge for many students with disabilities. We are trying to help by bringing post-secondary resources into our school so families, teachers and local school districts can learn more about the options for services that are available to those with disabilities after graduation,” said Dr. Geraldine Gibbia, co-founder and executive director of The Phoenix Center.

The event will feature representatives from more than 40 organizations and agencies that offer services and supports to adults with disabilities such as autism, intellectual, physical, medical and other disabilities. Exhibitors include representatives from State agencies such as the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), and Medicaid, as well as private agencies including Easter Seals, The Arc of Essex, Friendship House, Jespy House, Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey and many others. This year, support brokers will also be present.

Founded in 1991, The Phoenix Center is a nationally-accredited, private, not-for-profit school in Nutley serving more than 145 students with autism and other developmental disabilities from nearly 70 towns in eight counties throughout northern and central New Jersey. Students are placed by local school districts and are served at no cost to parents.

The “Over 21 Networking Event” will take place on Friday, March 27th, from 11:00AM – 1:00PM at The Phoenix Center, 16 Monsignor Owens Place, Nutley, NJ. Admission is free, and there is plenty of parking.

For more information, contact Tracy Hanna at 973-542-0743 x 332, or go to www.thephoenixcenternj.org