Indiana Family to Family

from IDR: February 4, 2019  By Melissa Keyes, Legal Director We all make decisions every day. And whether we realize it or not, every decision we make follows a similar process - we are presented with an issue, we think about the potential options and consequences, we plan a course of action, and we communicate or follow through with our choice. Sometimes this process might be quick and we don't even realize we are doing it - for example when we are deciding what to wear that day. Other times, especially with more complex choices like choosing a place to live, we take our time - we are more deliberate. We may ask for someone's advice, we may research our options, but regardless of what tools we use, we are generally empowered to make our own choices and have those choices respected. But what happens if you need help making decisions? Historically, you could appoint someone to help make decisions for you through a Power of Attorney or you might have someone appointed by

Give, and get something in return We give a little—or a lot—of ourselves every day. We give time and energy to our kids, spouse or partner, family and friends. We give of ourselves at work or when we’re kind to a stranger. This month, we’re asking you to give a little to  Family Voices Indiana . The catch: when you give, you get something in return. Those who give $10 a month for a year will get a durable, handy tote bag featuring the Family Voices logo and tagline. The perfect carryall for supplies, toys, groceries and more, this stylish bag will be your go-to when you’re on the go.     Here are just a few reasons why you should give to Family Voices: ♥  1 in 5 children are children with special health care needs ♥  Family leaders at Family Voices are parents themselves ♥  Family Voices provides free resources and support to families who need it If you’d rather make a one-time donation, that’s fine too. Those who give a minimum of $50 will also get an FV tote. We’re gi

Most parents become empty nesters at some point, when their kids grow up and move out on their own. But when a child has special needs, there’s a chance that time will never come. That doesn’t mean parents can’t give young adults with disabilities more independence. With some thoughtful modifications, it’s possible to turn your home into a  multigenerational space that provides adult children the opportunity to do more for themselves, while keeping them under the same roof. The  Social Security Administration  defines an adult child with a disability as someone who was disabled from birth or before age 22. This can include intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome and autism, physical disabilities like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, or myriad other conditions. Each adult child has a unique set of  needs and abilities , but for the overwhelming majority, their diagnosis makes living independently difficult.  Nearly 70 percent of adult children with disabilities c