Transition to Adulthood Clinic

Transition to Adulthood Clinic: Get Professional Help Applying for DORS, DDA & SSI 

Presented by xMinds and Autism Society Maryland (AUSOM)

*** REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! ***

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Date: Saturday, May 31

Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Location: Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Blvd E, Silver Spring, MD 20901

It’s a big school — so please park in the parking lot off of University Blvd (not the parking lot off of Colesville Rd). Use the cafeteria entrance, which is the entrance farthest from Colesville Rd. We will put up signage to help you find us!

Cost: Free!

Preparing your autistic teen for life after high school — also known as the transition to adulthood — involves planning for everything from further education and employment to independent living and support services. One key part of this transition is shifting from special education services received in school to applying for disability benefits and services, some of which only become available after graduation.

Understanding when and how to apply, and whether your child is likely to qualify, can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. xMinds and the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) are co-hosting this free, in-person event designed for Montgomery County families of autistic students ages 14–22 who want professional guidance on applying for state and federal services such as:

• DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration)

• DORS (Division of Rehabilitation Services)

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

This unique in-person clinic provides several tiers of support including  private 25-minute consultations with a professional (by appointment), a presentation by disabilities expert Eric Jorgensen, help from trained staff on completing applications and paperwork, and resource tables hosted by local service providers.

Ready to participate?
Here’s how to get the most out of this event:

1) Attend the presentation "Navigating Transition: Autism & Adulthood" at 10:15 and 11:45 by disability benefits expert Eric Jorgensen

2) Bring your paperwork, work on your applications, and get guidance from trained staff

3) Visit resource tables hosted by local providers from around the community!

4) Schedule your individual consult:  To schedule a free individual 25-minute consult appointment you MUST register for a ticket with your preferred time slot.

To Register:

• Select the general admission ticket if you don't want an individual consult.
• Select the ticket with your preferred consultation time if you would like to receive an individual consult.

If your preferred time slot for a private consultation is unavailable, we encourage you to attend as we will have a wait list in case of no-shows. There will also be general information that you may find useful!

Schedule:

• 10:00 to 10:25am -- First round of individual consultations
• 10:15 to 11:15am -- First presentation: Keynote speaker and Q&A
• 10:30 to 10:55am -- Second round of individual consultations
• 11:00 to 11:25am -- Third round of individual consultations
• 11:45 to 12:45pm -- Second presentation: Keynote speaker and Q&A
• 11:30 to 11:55am -- Fourth round of individual consultations
• 12:00 to 12:25pm --  Fifth round of individual consultations
• 12:30 to 12:55pm -- Final round of individual consultations

Snacks and beverages will be available.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Eric Jorgensen, Director of Special Projects, First Maryland Disability Trust

PRESENTATION: "Navigating Transition: Autism & Adulthood"

SPEAKER BIO: Eric Jorgensen is an international expert in disability planning with decades of experience helping families navigate public benefits, financial planning, and long-term support strategies for individuals with disabilities. As the Director of Special Projects at First Maryland Disability Trust, he leads initiatives that bridge the gap between complex legal tools and real-life needs. Eric specializes in Special Needs Trusts, Medicaid, Social Security, and systems of support across the lifespan. His work equips families and professionals alike with the tools to plan confidently and compassionately for the future.

CONSULTANTS: Beth Benevides (Hussman Institute), Beth Ann Hancock (Charting the Course), Meghan Smallwood (HCPSS), David Mervis, Esq. (Kennedy Krieger, Project HEAL), Nick Burton, (N. Burton Consulting), Rachel Greenberg (Life Unlimited), Arnikka Robinson (TLC), Lisa Lorraine (Jubilee), Rose Ansara (SEEC), Veronica Lawrence (SEEC), Flor de Amelia L. Hoffman (Avanzos), and Rosemary DiPietro (CCS, MoCo DHHS)

QUESTIONS?  Contact info@xminds.org