The following presentation slides/video were presented live for those that participated in the Capital Area Employment 1st Transition Fair at Penn State Harrisburg.

Click on the BLUE session title to view the video recording or slides.

Please direct any questions regarding the Transition Fair to capitalareaemployment1st@gmail.com

2025 Student Sessions

Landlords, Leases, and Neighbors OH MY:

Presented by Holly Turner, Director of Advocacy at CPARC

If you plan to live on your own someday, you will probably rent an apartment or house. This presentation will discuss the many aspects of renting.  Words to know, what is on a lease, and common rules and expectations of the landlord and the tenant will be explained.  Costs of living on your own and credit history will be briefly discussed.  How to be a good tenant and getting along with neighbors rounds out this presentation.


Healthy Relationships in the Workplace:

Presented by Tori Manning, Adult Advocate at CPARC

This presentation focuses on healthy and positive relationships in the workplace and how they can help students with IDD. Healthy Relationships at Work can show students how to connect with others, build social skills, and feel confident in the workplace. The concept from this presentation focuses on the types of interpersonal relationships, how to categorize these relationships, and how to interact appropriately with others at work, which helps built the foundation for a positive working experience.


Be Social Media Savvy:

Presented by Scott Snyder, Educational Consultant, CAIU

Explore the exciting world of Social Media! We will share some tips and tricks for creating a positive presence and interacting with others. Let’s have fun and be responsible online.


Post-Secondary College Options for Students with IDD and Other Developmental Disabilities:

Presented by Thomas Neuville and Gabriela Hagiu – Inclusive Postsecondary Education in PA (PIHEC), Kate Maddalena and Sandy McBride – Penn State Career Studies, Amber Brisbane – Messiah University – NEXT Steps

This gives a brief overview on college programs that are available for individuals with IDD including Penn State, Millersville, and Messiah’s programs, as well as others across the state.


I got the Interview, Now What?:

Presented by Dinna Pich and Faye Warmkessel, Goodwill Keystone Area

This engaging session breaks down the dos and don’ts that every job seeker needs to know when it comes to interviews! Students will get the opportunity to see and experience a good interview and a few examples of not so great interviews. You’ll learn how to be prepared, communicate with confidence, use body language to stand out, and be more self-aware to build genuine connections & confidence with interviewers

2025 Parent Sessions

OVR 101:

Presented by Kelley McKee, Transition Supervisor and Coordinator, OVR

OVR 101 provides students, family members, and stakeholders with the following information: Defining Disability, the OVR Process, Services offered by OVR, Costs for Services, Referring for Services, and Applying for OVR.  


PA ABLE:

Presented by Larry Booker, Program Relationship Manager

Discover the many ways you can use a PA ABLE Savings Program account to save private funds to support health, increased financial freedom, independence, and quality of life.
Some of the topics that we will discuss include eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the tax benefits of PA ABLE, and how PA ABLE account interacts with current benefits.


Assistive Technology Basics:

Presented by Marci Walborn, OTR/L, ATP, Director of Childhood & Ancillary Services, UCP Central PA

Assistive Technology (AT) can support employment, education, or independent living.  Learn about ways AT can be utilized, the resources available to learn more, and some different funding options.


IDD Waivers:

Jaime Yingling, Cumberland/Perry MH.IDD Amber Wolfred, Pathways Forward

The process of Intellectual Disabilities/Autism waiver funding can be a confusing process for transition aged youth and their families. We will discuss how to know if you are eligible for waiver funding and an overview of the three ID/A waivers.


SSA Benefits and Working:

Presented by Joy Smith, Program Manager Community Work Incentive Coordinator, AHEDD

Understanding SSA benefits and working.  Yes, you can work and still receive SSA benefits! We will discuss working incentives and how to access individualized benefits counseling.