The Youth Transition Conference (YTC) began as an idea in 2021 by Values into Action. Responding to the changes we were all facing due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The goal was to support people with disabilities, their families, caregivers and professionals. We had connected in person before the pandemic, but everything had to go virtual. Values into Action partnered with other organizations and professionals. Everyone wanted to continue to foster collaboration around transition. A lot of benefits came out of in person meetings and resource fairs. By creating the conference there continued to be an opportunity to come together. Those who were beginning the transition journey were able to learn the process. Transition is when a person moves into adulthood after finishing schooling. They were able to meet with providers, gaining access to resources. A state-wide virtual conference was developed, the Youth Transition Conference. The conference brought together a variety of people throughout New Jersey.
The first conference took place on October 1st and 2nd 2021 featuring over 20 workshops. The 2024 virtual conference took place on October 1st and 3rd with a resource session on the 4th. The Resource Spotlight Sessions will take place throughout 2025 as a follow-up to that conference. The sessions point towards the mission of the YTC, keeping us all connected. We will hold 2 more sessions in 2025, April 11th and July 11th, to again work on making the connections we all need.
This past year’s conference featured sessions that are available on the YTC website. Please feel free to access those resources at any time. These recordings can help young people begin the process of transitioning into adulthood. The 2024 conference showcased experts in New Jersey. Those experts shared information about the available services and supports. It was also a great opportunity to network with others throughout the state. The transition process can be difficult, we want to help make it easier.
Our next Resource Spotlight Session is taking place on January 10, 2025. These sessions take place via Zoom. We will also hold virtual sessions on April 11 and July 11. Everyone interested is encouraged to attend. Please see the links below for both the January session and the YTC website.
Register for the January Session.