Spring 2023 Chat n Chew Series

The Arc of Chester County is pleased to offer our SPRING 2023 Chat-n-Chew Speaker Series. We have seen an overwhelmingly positive response to this series being held virtually so we plan to continue this format this season. We are thrilled to offer amazing presenters to bring important information to you, our wonderful partners.

Join us as we share information, network, and learn in a casual and welcoming environment. Whether you are the parent of a child, an individual with a disability, a professional who works with individuals with disabilities, or another interested partner, these workshops can provide you with a wealth of information. 

These FREE sessions are open to everyone. Each session will be held every Wednesday from 11:30am to 1:00pm, on the dates listed below. Please save the dates on your calendar.

We have some great new topics and some topics that are back by popular demand. Come listen and learn about services and supports, transition programs and employment opportunities for individuals and families. 

Register to join us by providing your email, address and zip code. A link will be to you via email for the chosen sessions, so you can attend virtually that day.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Social Security Disability Benefits Part I
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
You can never learn too much about Social Security Benefits. Please join Richard Gaudiosi, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration for a presentation about benefits and educate yourself on the details of these important benefits. Topics will include SSI/SSDI, how to apply, how to appeal, and how to answer questions. 

Click HERE to REGISTER
Social Security Disability Benefits Part 2
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Please join Richard Gaudiosi, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration for more detailed information on disability benefits. This presentation will focus on how working, and income can affect your benefits. He will go over ticket to work and answer questions. 

Click HERE to REGISTER
Estate Planning
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Come learn about Estate Planning for families with loved ones with disabilities from Stephen D. Potts, Esq., with the law firm of Herr, Potts and Potts. You will gain an understanding of the importance of Special Needs Trusts. Which type is right for your family? Why is it important? Stephen will explain and answer your questions. Click HERE to REGISTER
Empower U Specialty Fitness
Wednesday, March 8, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Join us as coach Joe DelViscio, CSCS, BEXsc tells us about the specialty fitness training he offers based on individual needs and abilities. He covers strength, balance and endurance. It can be one on one or group training. This training can be covered by WAIVER FUNDING.Are you curious about how you can set your child up in a home of your choice and the staffing options? Click HERE to REGISTER
Self-Directing Waiver Services with Agency with Choice
Wednesday, March 15, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm
Corrine Dietrich, Director of Agency with Choice at The Arc of Chester County will be here to talk about the benefits of self-directing waiver services. You have control over who works with your loved one and the schedule. She will talk about self-direction and how it works with Agency with Choice (AWC).  Click HERE to REGISTER
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Wednesday, March 22, 2023
11:30am- 1:00pm 
Join Lindsay Foster, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor from the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) to learn what OVR is about, what supports they can offer and how they can assist your loved one to get a job. Learn and ask questions. Click HERE to REGISTER
Comprehensive Employment Services
Wednesday, March 29, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Learn about comprehensive employment services, what is it and how does it work? Shelby Hallman, Director of Comprehensive Employment at The Arc of Chester County will be here to explain the process and what it looks like for families and participants. Click HERE to REGISTER
Cents and Sensibility $ 
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Karen Hassett, Financial Education Director for Pennsylvania Assistive Technical Foundation (PATF) will present financial education information that is geared for people with disabilities. The goal is to provide tools to make informed decisions about your financial future. Everyone can benefit from this curriculum.  Click HERE to REGISTER
Power of Attorney and Guardianship
Wednesday, April 19, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm One of the most difficult decisions a parent, family member or caregiver must make regarding their loved one is whether to seek guardianship or power of attorney. Is it appropriate? Is it necessary?  Randy Hope Steen, Esq. has been practicing Trust, Estate, Special Needs, Business and Tax Law for nearly three decades she will be here to discuss the options and help guide families to making appropriate choices.  Click HERE to REGISTER
Life Sharing
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Join Carman Saur, Program Specialist with the Department of Mental Health/Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, to learn about Life Sharing, what is it, what does it look like, who is a good candidate, how is it funded and more.  Click HERE to REGISTER
Supports Brokers: How They Can Help
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
11:30am – 1:00pm 
Join The Arc of Chester County Agency with Choice staff to learn more about what supports brokers do. What services they can provide families and how they can support you. They can do a lot to help families that self-direct. Find out if you can benefit from these services.  Click HERE to REGISTER
PA ABLE Accounts
Wednesday, May 10, 2022
11:30am – 1:00pm
Do you want to learn more about PA ABLE? JoinDiane Fishlock, Outreach Specialist from the Bureau of Consumer Programs at the Pennsylvania State Treasury to hear about PA ABLE accounts. Learn what is an ABLE account, who is eligible and details about opening and managing an account.  Click HERE to REGISTER