RE:CON 2024
PRESENTATIONS

STEP Innovation Stage

Gesher Apprenticeships

Pioneer’s Solar Initiative: Sustainable Growth & Environmental Responsibility

Judson Center Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic

Staff Development & Policy Division Director, Michigan Rehabilitation Services

A Novel Approach to Quality: Use Data Storytelling to Show Your Impact

PRESENTED BY: Michael Christy and Tess Parker

1 Hour

Human service organizations often report data showing that a service happened. We measure the number of referrals made, time to service, and the number of people served. We report those numbers because we’re asked to, but they probably don’t matter much to the people we serve, policymakers, or the larger community. As a result, people aren’t banging down our doors to receive services through our organization; policymakers and payers aren’t asking what we need to expand services; and news outlets aren’t doing feel-good stories on the people we served overcoming the odds.

If we’re honest, our data reporting doesn’t inspire us either. We tend to focus so much on process measures that we sometimes miss what’s really at stake in the work we do. The fact is, the measures we report out shift our focus to things that, at the end of the day, probably aren’t that important to anyone. And that has implications for the way we approach our work.

There is a disconnect between the data we report and publish and the impact that people (including ourselves) care about. The annual reports we publish go unread. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We can use data in a way to understand and communicate our impact.
A Novel Approach to Quality: Use Data Storytelling to Show Your Impact will help organizations to understand the value of the service(s) they offer. It will also help organizations to tell the story of their impact through data storytelling.

So, why data storytelling? We tell stories to help people to understand. We tell stories to change perspectives. We tell stories that will be remembered. And we tell stories to move people.

Data by itself doesn’t often elicit those reactions. Data has to be interpreted. Consider the statistic: 45% of individuals receiving a crisis screening were admitted to an inpatient psychiatric facility. How should the reader feel about that data point? Is it good? Bad? Is it what we expected?

Compare that stat to a story approach using the same data point: We helped people experiencing a mental health crisis develop a safety plan that enabled 55% of people screened to remain in the community and avoid a costly and potentially traumatic hospital admission. The way we tell the story of our work underscores the value of the work, both for those inside and outside our building.

An Ethical Design Perspective on Building Autistic Support, Inclusion and Community

PRESENTED BY: Susan Robinson

1 Hour

“Community”, “inclusion”, and “support” can mean a variety of things, and with often unstated operative assumptions around participants and ethics. In this session, we will explore how an ethical design perspective can help to clarify the problems and needs of the autism community: We will investigate key ethical issues around autism from both an academic and an Autistic perspective, ways in which the historical residues of ethical violations are often still embedded in current systems of autism definition, assistance and inclusion, and how an ethical design perspective can open clearer paths for future models and actions. Finally, a concrete example of applied ethical design will be discussed: the recently launched Full Spectrum Community Time Exchange.

Best Practices Following 2024 DOJ Digital Accessibility Ruling

PRESENTED BY: Chip Werner, Gina Schafer

2 Hours

Review of the June 2024 Department of Justice Final Rule Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities. This presentation will examine the key provisions of the DOJ Ruling, breakdown critical requirements of WCAG 2.1 AA compliance, and form implementation strategies for digital accessibility best practices.

Breaking Barriers: A Multidimensional Approach to Combating Ableism

PRESENTED BY: Carla Dean

1 Hour

Ableism, the discrimination and social prejudice/bias against people with disabilities, is a pervasive issue that affects all aspects of society. This presentation aims to explore the multifaceted nature of ableism, its impact on individuals with disabilities, and propose strategic solutions for creating a more inclusive future.
Introduction: Despite significant advancements in disability rights, ableism remains deeply entrenched within societal norms and institutions. From healthcare disparities to structural barriers in the workforce, individuals with disabilities encounter a myriad of challenges that hinder full participation in society.

Objectives:
• To define and understand the concept of ableism and its various forms.
• To highlight the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities and the impact of ableism on their lives.
• To discuss current research, policies, and practices that perpetuate ableism.
• To identify actionable strategies for disrupting ableism in employment, healthcare, education, and beyond.

Methodology: The presentation will incorporate a comprehensive review of literature, case studies, and firsthand accounts to provide a holistic view of ableism. It will also include interactive discussions and workshops to engage the audience in critical thinking and problem-solving.
Expected Outcomes: Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of ableism and its consequences. They will leave equipped with knowledge and tools to challenge ableist practices and advocate for change within their own spheres of influence.

Bridging Support Systems: State Vocational Rehabilitation and Native American Communities

PRESENTED BY: Kasey Koster, Karen Wang

1 Hour

The Hannahville Indian Community and Michigan Rehabilitation Services have had an Inter-agency Cash Match Agreement (ICTA) for over 30 years. This agreement enhances State vocational rehabilitation services to the Hannahville Indian Community tribal members. This presentation outlines how MRS and the Hannahville Indian Community Project: VISIONS vocational rehabilitation program serves the Native population.

Can You Hear Me Now? The Power of Connecting and Engaging Across Organizations

PRESENTED BY: Jillian Miller, Justin Walworth

1 Hour

Objectives:
Understanding the importance of an engaged workforce.
The future of engagement. What will the workforce look like in 10 years and how are you preparing for it?
What are the new generations desiring and how can you engage with them?
Priorities of workforce engagement now and future:
Inclusion: Encouraging inclusive work places through understanding how diversity can impact the employee experience.
Connection: Breaking down silos and hierarchy for better communication, transparency, and engagement to work. Encouraging collaboration to reach better organizational outcomes and employee engagement.
Technology: adapting and leveraging technology.
Flexible Career Paths: providing opportunities for employees that aren’t always linear. Helping employees get opportunities to develop that are non-traditional.

Challenges of Disability Employment – A Multi-Perspective View from A Community Rehabilitation Organization

PRESENTED BY: Dr. Hung Jen Kuo, Sarah George, Sriram Narayanan, Ruifen Tan

1 Hour

People with disabilities continue to encounter significant employment challenges. Community rehabilitation organizations (CROs) have demonstrated themselves as a cost-effective model to bridge the employment gap by offering tailored job opportunities and on-the-job support. Despite these positive outcomes, CROs face their unique challenges. To thoroughly understand the operational obstacles faced by CROs, we conducted a focus group study with various roles, including case managers, production supervisors, and vocational trainers. Our analysis identified three main themes: Individual Differences and Barriers, Staff Gaps, and Organizational Constraints. In this presentation, we will explore how sustaining employment requires a comprehensive approach, from top to bottom, rather than being a simple, one-dimensional issue. To address this, it requires a service model that is centered on individuals, encourages staff collaboration, and adheres to current policies. It is imperative to recognize that meeting the needs of individuals goes beyond their physical requirements. This entails creating an environment that minimizes distractions and encourages motivation.

Challenging Myths: Exploring the Intersection of Disability and Sexuality

PRESENTED BY: Mudita Jagota

1 Hour

Sexuality is a crucial aspect of the human experience, yet disability and sexuality are often overlooked or misunderstood in academic discourse and social narratives (Graf & Glover, 2023). This presentation will delve into the psychosocial aspects of disability and sexuality, challenging myths and societal attitudes that marginalize individuals with disabilities. Drawing from my master’s thesis in India, which involved interviews with women with physical disabilities, the session explores the internalization of ableism, media representation, and societal barriers that hinder sexual expression and romantic relationships for disabled individuals. Attendees will benefit from an analysis of how negative stereotypes and limited access to sex education exacerbate shame and low self-esteem among people with disabilities. The presentation will highlight the need to dismantle harmful stereotypes to foster a more supportive environment. Additionally, it will provide practical suggestions for future research and advocacy, emphasizing intersectional approaches and the role of healthcare providers in promoting sexual health and inclusivity. This presentation will benefit the audience by enhancing their understanding of the nuanced experiences of individuals with disabilities in the arena of sexuality, promoting empathy, and encouraging proactive steps toward inclusivity in both personal and professional contexts. It is particularly relevant for educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocates working towards a more inclusive society.

Conscious Leadership

PRESENTED BY: Paul Blatt

2 Hour

The 15 Commitments to Conscious Leadership explore a transformative framework designed to elevate leadership through mindfulness, authenticity, and integrity. These commitments guide leaders to shift from fear and scarcity-based reactions, to conscious responsive approaches, fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration.

Disability Pride and Disrupting Internalized Ableism

PRESENTED BY: Laura Hall, Ajaune Thomas, Priscilla Cano, Casey Stratton, Frank Vaca

2 Hour

Disability Pride is about celebrating the identities, contributions, and lived experiences of disabled people. Yet, many within the community struggle with internalized ableism—negative beliefs about disability rooted in societal stigma and discrimination. This session will explore how internalized ableism affects self-perception, well-being, and community dynamics. Attendees will learn strategies to identify and dismantle internalized ableism, reclaim disability as a source of pride, and foster inclusive environments that celebrate disability in all its forms.

Empowering Transitions: Integrating Speech and Vocational Services

PRESENTED BY: Marcia Ransom

1 Hour

This presentation explores an integrated approach to supporting both students and adults with disabilities as they transition into work, college, vocational training programs, or internships. By combining Speech Therapy with Vocational Services, this approach addresses the diverse communication challenges and vocational needs that individuals with disabilities often encounter during these critical life transitions.
Participants will learn how to effectively utilize assistive technologies and situation-based strategies to maximize access to career exploration opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships, while also understanding employer-based accommodation processes. The session will highlight innovative employment models and practical interventions that empower individuals to achieve long-term success in their chosen fields.
Through case studies and best practices shared by two experienced presenters—one specializing in vocational services and the other in speech therapy—attendees will gain valuable insights into how to support individuals with disabilities in navigating the complex process of transitioning into meaningful employment or further education.

Enhancing Vocational Rehabilitation Services in Michigan: Ethical Best Practices, Barriers, and Supports

PRESENTED BY: Emily A. Brinck

1 Hour

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services play a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful employment and independence. This presentation not only delves into the latest research and best practices in VR but also emphasizes the ethical considerations necessary for their practical application within the unique socio-economic landscape of Michigan. Our exploration will center around ethical principles such as autonomy, equity, and justice, particularly in how they guide person-centered planning—customizing VR services to respect the unique needs, preferences, and goals of individuals. Moreover, integrated employment strategies will be discussed, underscoring the moral obligation to support individuals with disabilities in achieving competitive, inclusive employment without discrimination.
The presentation will critically address significant barriers to effective, ethical service provision in VR. These barriers include systemic challenges such as access issues—geographical, financial, and informational—that consumers face when seeking VR services. The ethical implications of these barriers will be explored, with particular attention to the pervasive issues of workplace discrimination and stigma. We will examine strategies to ethically combat societal attitudes and misconceptions about disability that hinder fair employment opportunities. Additionally, we will identify gaps in service integration, considering the ethical responsibility to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care for all individuals.
To ethically overcome these challenges, the presentation will outline supports such as policy advocacy efforts aimed at promoting inclusivity and equitable access to VR services. The ethical importance of community engagement will be highlighted, focusing on building strong, respectful relationships with local communities to support inclusive practices. Lastly, the role of data-driven decision-making will be emphasized, showcasing how ethically informed data and research can lead to better practices and policy decisions that uphold the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities.
This comprehensive, ethically grounded presentation will include a mix of content knowledge and interactive discussions. It will provide a platform for participants to share their experiences, challenges, and successful strategies in VR, all within an ethical framework. By participating, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of best practices in VR, explore the ethical barriers that hinder service provision, and develop actionable solutions that are both effective and ethically sound. This session aims to foster collaborative efforts among stakeholders to ethically enhance VR services and outcomes for individuals with disabilities in Michigan, thereby paving the way for a more inclusive, just, and supportive community.

Exploring the Clubhouse Model-A Deeper Look at This Cutting Edge Approach to a Work Based Day

PRESENTED BY: Rene Dell

1 Hour

This presentation will take a deep dive into the Clubhouse model. We will explore the process for moving towards an accredited Clubhouse with Clubhouse International. You will gain firsthand knowledge of what is it like to be an active member of the Clubhouse. We will explore how the Clubhouse model provides a safe space and a work based day. Exploring the Clubhouse Model-A deeper look at this cutting edge approach to a work based day. This model can assist individuals with mental health struggles achieve social, financial, educational and vocational goals.

Exploring Michigan Career and Technical Institute as a Post-Secondary Option

PRESENTED BY: Mandy Matthews, Ben Post

1 Hour

Discussion of available MCTI services and current trade options and how each impacts students seeking training to enter the workforce. Student success stories, current initiatives and updates will also be shared.

Integrated Speech and Occupational Therapy for Vocational Success

PRESENTED BY: Taylor Picano, Hannah Tarnaski

1 Hour

This presentation will explore the collaborative approach between Speech and Occupational Therapy (OT) to enhance vocational outcomes for individuals with disabilities. By addressing both communication skills and functional abilities, this integrated approach helps participants develop the competencies necessary to succeed in the workplace. The session will outline specific strategies and interventions used by Speech and OT professionals to support individuals in acquiring essential skills for job readiness and retention.
Attendees will gain insights into how these therapies can work together to address barriers, enhance social communication, fine motor skills, and executive functioning, all of which are crucial for vocational success. The session will also include case studies that demonstrate the impact of this interdisciplinary approach on individuals’ ability to obtain and maintain employment.

LGBTQIA+ Identity

PRESENTED BY: Carie Branch

1 Hour

In today’s diverse society, it is crucial for vocational rehabilitation counselors to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively support individuals from all backgrounds. Understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals is essential to providing inclusive and affirming services that promote employment success and personal well-being.

Paws and Effect: Examining the Benefits of Therapy Dogs

PRESENTED BY: Rachel Watson

1 Hour

This session offers an overview of the unique benefits of interacting with therapy dogs, a form of animal-assisted therapy (AAT), including specific benefits for those with a disability(ies). Combining AAT with other therapeutic interventions enhances outcomes by increasing mobility, improving communication, and providing emotional comfort. I will share my personal experience in training my own therapy dog, discussing what I have learned and challenges I have encountered; I will also provide information highlighting the differences between service dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support dogs. Overall, participants will gain insights into the practical and therapeutic advantages of therapy dogs and AAT, as well as resources for how they can incorporate therapy dogs into their own practice.

Preserving Progress: Maintaining DEI Advocacy Amid an Evolving Legislative Landscape

PRESENTED BY: Carie Branch

1 Hour

Within the last year, more than 30 states, including Michigan, have introduced anti DEI laws and policies. This presentation aims to explore the purpose of this de-investment, and how to continue DEI&B advocacy efforts in the changing landscape.

Servant Leadership

PRESENTED BY: Shonda Rushing

1 Hour

Presentation description/abstract: Servant Leadership is a non-traditional leadership style, embedded in the set of behaviors and practices that place the primary emphasis on the well-being of those being served. The servant-leader is the servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, first. Second, conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. This person is vastly different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the drive to usurp unusual power over others…The leader-first and the servant-first are two extreme types and the line between them is not a thin one.
Whoever will be the greatest among you must be the servant of all. Your future begins with the ones who led you there. The greatness of a leader is not determined by the one who leads but by those who follow them. So, to crescendo into leadership without a servant’s heart is the catalyst for creating a boss, leader first mentality, and prohibits one from seeing when the next leader is ready to lead and being able to groom them to do so. So, we will discuss the basic tenets of servant leadership and how that type of heart posture elevates you in public spaces and can cause your name to be mentioned in rooms where opportunities are, where one would not otherwise gain entry.

Summer Work Based Learning, A Collaborative Approach

PRESENTED BY: Becky Seder

1 Hour

Discover our model for engaging with partner organizations, employers, students and families to provide a meaningful summer experience for both pre-ets and VR youth. This presentation will highlight our model for assessing and training students prior to their work experience as well as effective methods to establishing strong employer partnerships.

The Impact of Intersectionality on Attitudes and Discrimination towards Disabilities: A Survey Study

PRESENTED BY: Amy Smith, Asmau Ayub, Narae Yu

1 Hour

Understanding the dynamics of disability discrimination is crucial for creating an equitable environment. According to the hierarchy of stigma, different disabilities (schizophrenia and sensory disability) may elicit varied attitudes. These attitudes can range from sympathy and pity to prejudice and fear, which further leads to discrimination. Furthermore, when we incorporate intersectionality, considering factors such as ethnicity (Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic), the complexity of these attitudes increases. For instance, a Black person with a disability might face compounded biases that are distinct from those experienced by a White person with a similar disability. These intersections of identity can influence the level of discrimination and the specific challenges individuals face. Therefore, comprehending these multifaceted dynamics is essential to effectively combat disability discrimination, ensuring that all individuals are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

In this presentation, we will explore the formation of stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination. We will also present a recent research project we conducted with a sample of 800 participants, aiming to understand the impact of intersectionality on attitudes. Our data indicates that intersectionality significantly influences affective responses, cognitive perceptions, and behavioral reactions. We will discuss the implications for practice, education, and research to inform future efforts in these areas.

The Importance & Ethics of Psychological Safety in the Workplace for People with Disabilities

PRESENTED BY: Christa Martin

1 Hour

What is Psychological Safety in the Workplace, and just why is it so important nowadays? This presentation will help participants define and understand not only what psychological safety in the workplace is and its importance for people with disabilities, but it will also explore the ethical implications that arise when there is a lack of psychological safety in an employment setting. People with disabilities report lower levels of feeling that they have psychological safety at work compared to their non-disabled coworkers who report feeling less likely to fear negative consequences for simply sharing their values or ideas. Participants will learn the many warning signs that are associated with a low level of psychological safety at work. They will also gain knowledge of the various ways to combat it and improve the level of psychological safety where they work, which in turn improves an organization’s overall internal culture.
(Specific CRCC Code of Ethics include: C.1, D.2, D.3, D.4, E.1, & M.1)

The Intersection of Disability and LGBTQIA Identities

PRESENTED BY: Laura Hall, Priscilla Cano, Frank Vaca, Casey Stratton

1 Hour

Presentation description/abstract: This training session explores the intersection of LGBTQIA+ identities and disabilities, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting diverse identities. Participants will gain insights into the challenges and strengths faced by individuals at this intersection, as well as the vibrant movements for justice and pride within these communities. They will also learn about the concepts of ableism/homophobia disability justice, and the historical parallels between LGBTQIA+ and disability rights movements

Focus Group Interviews with College Student Gamers with Disabilities

PRESENTED BY: Minju Lee, Michael Yeomans, Mudita Jagota, & Dr. Hung Jen Kuo

1 Hour

Drawing upon recent data and research, it sheds light on the surging popularity of video game, particularly among young adults, and its integration into daily routines. Amidst the global pandemic, gaming industry witnessed a notable surge, offering solace and social interaction during periods of isolation. This presentation will navigate the debates surrounding video game, acknowledging both its positive and negative ramifications on individuals’ well-being and helping them understand themselves better. Additionally, it will emphasize the significance of accessibility in gaming, highlighting the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities and advocating for inclusive game design. The presentation will discuss video game playing behavior from the Self-Determination Theory by Deci and Ryan, and explore the motivations behind gaming. We will share the results of a recent research project that aims to unravel the psychological and emotional experiences of college student with disabilities when playing video games. Through three focus group interviews, the research delves into gamers’ preferences, challenges, perceived benefits, and desires for accessibility options. In this presentation, we will discuss how to leverage video games for its benefits while control its potential shortages. Specifically, video games can be used for purposes such as exercises, skill training, and mental health improvement. Resources that help individuals with disabilities engage in video games will also be discussed.

BOOM is a statewide award ceremony recognizing individuals with a disability who have excelled. The goal of the BOOM Awards is to provide stereotype-busting role models for people with disabilities.

The apex awards recognize outstanding achievement in the following categories: Outstanding Employer, Outstanding Community Partner, Transformational Leadership, and Lifetime Achievement.