Family Education Events
Next Steps Speaker Series
Open to the public
The Next Steps Transition Program at The IDEAL School of Manhattan announces its second speaker series. These virtual webinars feature experts in fields related to services, employment, housing, benefits, and financial planning for adults with disabilities. Families with children of all ages are invited to attend. The events are presented on Zoom from 5-6 PM.
October 13, 2022: Introduction to Adult Services--Presented by Job Path
Speaker: Kevin Crooks
Kevin Crooks has worked with the disability community in a variety of roles for more than 10 years – in arts programs, residential settings, and with the Minneapolis public school system. Since 2016 he has worked in employment services at Job Path, where he is currently the Program Manager of Transition Services, supporting young people just starting out in their careers. Job Path is dedicated to a person-centered approach with an emphasis on customized employment, creating positions that capitalize on individuals’ needs, interests, and strengths. Mr. Crooks earned his B.A. at Reed College in Portland, OR, where he studied history and philosophy.
- Zoom link | Meeting ID: 991 1052 0187 | Passcode: 834378
November 3, 2022: Maximizing Benefits for People with Disabilities
Speaker: James Traylor, CLU, ChFC, ChSNC, President, Upstate Special Needs Planning
James Traylor is a sibling, advocate and professional who has focused his entire career on creating the organization of choice for families planning for a member with a disability. He is a national speaker and regularly provides continuing education to legal, financial, and tax professionals. He is the immediate past Chair for the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, he is a former member of the board of directors for the ARC of Monroe County, a member of the Estate Planning Council of Rochester and the Society of Financial Services Professionals (FSP), a graduate of Partners in Policymaking and is a 2009 Rochester Business Journal 40 Under 40 recipient. He has also been honored as one of our nation's top investment advisors under 40 by Investment News magazine and is a 2020-22 member of the Forbes Business Advisory Council. Mr. Traylor has also earned the professional designations of a Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC). When Mr. Traylor is not working, he enjoys playing squash, traveling, cooking, and spending time with his wife and son.
- Zoom Link | Meeting ID: 912 0544 7463 | Passcode: 240507