Rachel Milano-Davis

  • Wheel of Life

    Simplify Life Planning Using Charting the LifeCourse Framework

    Whether it be a young person who is transitioning into the adult world of disability services, or an adult who wants to create a stronger vision for their life plan, Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) tools are helpful and easy to use. The Charting the LifeCourse framework was created to help individuals and families of all […]

  • Quote: Life Teaches Us Many Lessons. Depends on Us Whether We Want to Learn It.

    The Value of the Unexpected

    We work in partnership with people with disabilities so each person can plan and live happy and healthy lives. Despite everyone’s best efforts, things come up along the way that prompt us to take a look at what we are doing. In our line of work, when things fall outside the norm, they are often […]

  • Students RISE to Higher Education

    Purpose of Proposed Legislature: Providing students with disabilities better access to accommodations in Higher Education. Background: There is concern about how accessible universities are to students with disabilities. Universities and colleges need current documentation of disabilities for students to receive accommodations. They do not accept IEP and 504 plans from K-12 education. S.2550, the RISE […]

  • Elissa and her Support Partner, Keriann, with a colorful background.

    Adapting in Partnership

    An accidental fall and fractured hip changed Elissa’s life within minutes. Yet, through her recovery, Elissa demonstrated perseverance that was nothing short of incredible. Elissa’s Support Partners played an essential role in this recovery. During Elissa’s time in the hospital, her Support Partners brought a sense of normalcy to an unfamiliar setting. They brought smiling […]

  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging

    Holding Space for Lived Experience

    We talk a lot about the importance of shared lived experience. But why is this so important?   If we want to partner with individuals to support them in their vision for a good life, we need to know what they want and need. The shared lived experience of disability can help us understand. It can […]

  • The Path to Subsidized Housing

    Affordable housing is necessary for an integrated and fulfilled life. Yet, finding and securing affordable housing remains a real challenge for most. This is especially true for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Good news is that the Division for Development Disabilities (DDD) funds rental subsidies. For many, applying for subsidies can be confusing. Thankfully, […]

  • ODP Waivers Renewed

    The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) recently announced three waiver renewals. These include the Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed waivers. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) administers these waivers. The effective date is January 1, 2023. The Office of Developmental Programs recently announced the renewals. A bit of background on the process. […]