Center on Community Living and Careers

04/20/2026

The American Association of People with Disabilities is now accepting applications for the 2026 Tony Coelho Media Scholarship, offering eight students with a disability $5,625 each toward their fall education. High school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students pursuing careers in media, communications, or entertainment have until May 29 at 5 p.m. ET to apply. More information can be found on our website: https://www.aapd.com/tony-coelho-media-scholarship/

Are you a disabled student interested in a career in media, communications, or entertainment? AAPD has a scholarship for you! Applications for AAPD's 2026 Tony Coelho Media Scholarship are now open until May 29 at 5 PM ET!

The Tony Coelho Media Scholarship selects eight (8) students for scholarships to be used in the Fall semester of 2026. Each recipient will receive $5,625 to help cover the cost of education at their college or university. High school seniors, undergraduate, and graduate students with disabilities who are pursuing careers in media, communications, or entertainment industries and who will be enrolled in college or a university during the Fall of 2026 are eligible.

This scholarship honors Tony Coelho, a former U.S. Congressman from California, who was the primary author and sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

More information can be found on our website: https://www.aapd.com/tony-coelho-media-scholarship/

Do you know a student who sounds like a great fit? Share this post with them now! 📲

ID: A graphic that says "Application Now Open" and includes information shared in the caption

04/20/2026

You're invited to the Hoosier Autism Caregivers Virtual Support Group on Wednesday, May 6, at noon ET. This monthly gathering is a welcoming space for caregivers to connect, share, and support one another.

Register today: go.iu.edu/T1IGvm

May’s Topic: Preparing for Summer

A practical and supportive session focused on the transition from the school year to summer break. The Indiana Resource Center for Autism will share helpful information, strategies, and tips to support autistic children as routines change, including maintaining structure, preparing for transitions, and planning meaningful summer activities. Connect with other caregivers and gain tools to help make summer smoother and more successful for your family.



IRCA Caregiver Virtual Support Group (Intro Video): https://youtu.be/innHp0-nWdI?si=ny4ZCwadp2kV8COf

IRCA Caregiver Virtual Support Group

04/17/2026

It’s been a great week at ! We gained so much from the deep-dive sessions and loved the networking opportunities. We’re already looking forward to seeing everyone again next year.

Big thanks to our amazing underwriters! Your partnership ensures our conference remains the premier, must-attend event each and every year. We truly couldn't make this happen without you!

04/17/2026

The rumors are true... Indiana Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) is back 🎊. Join us to learn how local, state, and federal resources can help you find meaningful work. Whether you’re a young adult with a disability dreaming of your first job, a family member looking for guidance, or a professional dedicated to helping others succeed, you are welcome here!

All sessions are FREE.

Register for sessions in English: go.iu.edu/8tCv
Register for sessions in Spanish: go.iu.edu/8r90

Indiana FEAT is presented in partnership with Anthem Medicaid.



[Video description: A CCLC staff member is standing in a doorway, holding up a series of printed signs. In the foreground, two hands hold up smartphones to capture photos, creating an atmosphere of “breaking news” or an “exclusive reveal.” Throughout the video, the staff member uses a series of signs to announce the return of the Indiana Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) program. Starting with a teaser that “the rumors are true,” the reveal confirms that sessions return on Friday, May 15. Viewers are encouraged to register for both virtual and in-person options the link provided.]

04/16/2026

You’re invited to the Assistive Technology Awareness Day Open House at Easterseals Crossroads.

📆 April 22, 2026
⏰ 4–6 p.m.
📍 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis

Discover how assistive technology is making a difference in everyday life. During this open house, you will have the opportunity to learn more about various programs and experience hands-on demonstrations from INDATA, ATLAS, and Clinical Assistive Technology teams. From employment to gaming to daily living, see how a wide range of tools can support greater independence.

Learn more: https://www.eastersealstech.com/atawarenessday2026/

If you are unable to attend in person, you can join a virtual tour at 10 a.m. that morning: https://eastersealstech.zoom.us/j/82843310893

04/15/2026

has officially kicked off and the CCLC team is ready for an incredible week of connection! We’re looking forward to meeting the HR and talent acquisition leaders who are driving change in the industry. If you’re attending, please stop by and visit us in the demo hall at pedestal 11 to learn more about the CCLC Learning Academy. Our targeted courses and webinars provide the deep understanding and practical applications needed to effectively help people with disabilities reach their vocational goals.

04/15/2026

If you’re an individual with a disability, Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council - INSILC wants to hear from you. Join their Virtual Disability Input Forums this May! More information is available in the post shared below.

📣 We want to hear from you! People with disabilities across Indiana are invited to join one of INSILC’s Virtual Disability Input Forums and share what matters most in everyday life.

We’re gathering input on the disability services, supports, and opportunities people need to live independently and participate fully in their communities. The feedback shared during these forums helps guide priorities and decisions that impact people with disabilities statewide.

Forum Dates and Times (ET):
• Wednesday, May 6 | 10:00–11:30 AM
• Wednesday, May 13 | 2:00–3:30 PM
• Thursday, May 21 | 6:00–7:30 PM
• Friday, May 29 | 10:00–11:30 AM

Virtual sessions with ASL and CART provided. Accommodation requests can be made on the registration page.

🔗 Learn more and register: insilc.org/spring-2026-spil-input-forums

Image Description: Graphic reading ‘We Want to Hear From You!’ inviting people with disabilities to participate in virtual disability input forums. The flyer lists four dates in May with times, includes questions about needs, services, resources, and challenges, features an icon of a wheelchair user holding a megaphone, and displays the INSILC logo.

04/15/2026

Make sure to visit the booth at the INAPSE Annual Conference 2026 to meet our Director, Dr. Judith Gross. Learn more about our work and upcoming training opportunities! Tomorrow, you can also join Rebecca Laughner for two insightful sessions on second-chance employment and entrepreneurial pathways for SSA beneficiaries

04/15/2026

Are you attending the INAPSE Annual Conference 2026? Visit the booth to connect with our team, pick up some swag, and learn more about our trainings and resources.

Beyond the booth, we are honored to lead two presentations tomorrow, April 16.

At 10:15 a.m., Rebecca Laughner will lead “Second Chance Employment,” a session dedicated to dismantling the systemic barriers and stigma facing formerly incarcerated individuals. She will explore how meaningful work serves as a vital catalyst for long-term stability and successful community reintegration.

Later, at 1:30 p.m., join her for “Pathway for Entrepreneurialism for SSA Beneficiaries.” This session demystifies the complexities of SSDI and SSI, providing a clear roadmap for individuals with disabilities to pursue self-employment and economic independence while successfully maintaining their essential benefits.

We look forward to engaging with you and working together to build a more inclusive workforce.


Indiana APSE: Advancing Employment, Connecting People

04/14/2026

Ever wondered what an IEP actually is? Check out this excellent breakdown by the Early Childhood Center to learn how these personalized plans provide students with the support they need to succeed.

04/13/2026

Whether you’re a caregiver, a parent, or an individual living with a disability, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone! Attending the Southwest Indiana Community Family Network meetings could be helpful for you.

⬇️ Here’s why you should join our social this Saturday:
• Resource Sharing: Skip the endless Googling. Connect with local partners who can guide you through complex systems.
• A Judgment-Free Zone: Connect with a community that "gets it." It’s a safe space to share your wins, work towards solutions, and build meaningful relationships.
• Advocacy and Leadership: Turn your experience into action. Meet local leaders to discuss ways to improve services in the community. You’ll find people who truly value your story.

Want to learn more? Fill out the interest form at go.iu.edu/8tnk and we’ll send you all the details.

The Southwest Indiana Community Family Network helps families in Vanderburgh, Posey, Warrick, and Gibson counties navigate disability by promoting social inclusion and building supportive communities. This initiative is funded by the Indiana Governor's Council for People with Disabilities and partners with Indiana Family to Family, IN*SOURCE, and the Arc of Evansville.

04/10/2026

We’re passing the phone at CCLC! 📱 From sharing transition tips to breaking down complex benefits information, meet part of the team working behind the scenes to support individuals with disabilities, their family members, educators, and the professionals who help them thrive.

Stay tuned for part 2.



[Video Description: A short, fast-paced video featuring six members of the Center on Community Living and Careers (CCLC) team. The participants speak directly into the camera in a selfie style, introducing themselves and then passing the phone to a colleague with a specific area of expertise. Throughout the video, there is a red text box at the top of the screen that reads: "Pass the Phone: CCLC Team Edition."

Rebecca, a woman with brown hair, glasses, and a black shirt, stands in a hallway. She says, "Hey, my name is Rebecca, and I’m passing the phone to somebody who knows all about Customized Employment and Natural Supports."

Brady, a man with a grey sweater vest over a plaid shirt, is in an office. He says, "Hi, I'm Brady. I'm passing the phone to someone who's an expert in benefits, asset building, and work incentives."

Cecilia, a woman with grey hair and a bright blue and teal scarf, stands in front of white curtains. She says, "Hi, I'm Cecilia, and I'm passing the phone to someone who is an absolute expert in advancing community inclusion for all people with disabilities."

Cathleen, a woman with blonde hair, blue glasses, and a grey blazer, stands in front of a dark bookshelf filled with colorful books. She says, “Hi, my name is Cathleen Hardy Hansen, and I'm going to pass the phone to someone who is an expert on FEAT—Family Employment Awareness Training—family networks, and all things transition."

Mike, a man with white hair, a beard, and glasses, wears a brown shirt. On the wall behind him are two framed vinyl records. He says, “Hi, I’m Mike, and I’m going to pass the phone to someone who knows a lot about transition services and microcredentialing."

Mary, a woman with short hair, appears via a video call with a blurred background. She says, "Hi, I'm Mary. I'm passing the phone to our resident expert on Voc Rehab services. She has the connections and knowledge to really help you move forward."

There is a closing graphic that shows a large yellow speech bubble on a dark red background. The text inside reads: "STAY TUNED FOR PART 2."]