Wildfire Smoke Expected to Impact Pennsylvania Smoke from large wildfires in Canada is affecting air quality across Pennsylvania. Air quality is expected to change from day to day over the next one to two weeks as weather patterns shift. While it is not possible to predict the exact air quality for each
Penn State College of Medicine's Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) invites ODP residential provider staff - who are directly supporting autistic adults with high support needs - to register for its free virtual program. Project ECHO's fall 2026 session will build competencies around: Managing severe and intense behaviors Medical and
EHR and HIO Funding Opportunity Pennsylvania Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) has announced new funding opportunities for healthcare providers in rural areas. Under the new RHTP Funding Opportunity, $25,000,000 in funding is available for: Hospitals Long-term care nursing facilities Home health agencies Behavioral health providers Community homes for individuals with disabilities or
ODP's Special Populations Unit has published a new guide for communicating with individuals who are blind or have visual impairment. The purpose of this guide is to offer resources in one central location for those who support or care for someone who has a vision impairment. This guide provides some basic information
July is Disability Pride Month! To commemorate the July 26, 1990 signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we recognize July as Disability Pride Month in Pennsylvania and beyond. The ADA heralded increased equity in the lives of Americans with disabilities by ensuring equal opportunity in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state
November 4-5, 2026 The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) invites you to save the date for its 19th annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference (PATC). The conference will be held virtually with an interactive schedule on November 4th and 5th of 2026. PATC invites professionals, clinicians, autistic self-advocates, and their families/caregivers to learn from
September 1-2, 2026 Registration is now open for the 2026 Community of Practice for Supporting Families Regional Collaborative Summit! will be held virtually on September 1st and 2nd. Join the Summit this September to learn from peers and professionals about how to bolster your communities of practice for supporting individuals with disabilities
Many people feel at a loss as to how to best provide support to individuals with a dual diagnosis (individuals with an Intellectual Disability and Autism (IDA) with co-occurring mental health issues, and challenging behaviors) to lead healthy, happy, and meaningful lives. Current best practices and supportive models that have shown to
Virtual Meeting on June 2, 2026 from 10 to 11:30 AM The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) in partnership with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) invites you to join this virtual session “How Do You Step Into Advocacy?” This meeting will bring together individuals, families, and professionals
A Live Panel Discussion June 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM Join ASERT for a live, virtual panel discussion on starting and maintaining an autism support group. Hear real stories, practical tips, and encouragement from people who’ve been in your shoes. Learn from those who have been where you are. Have you, or
