Sangha Unity Network, Inc. (SUN) is hosting "The Power of Communication" workshop led by Michelle Schwartz, M.Ed. CCC-Sp, and Katie Chandler, LCSW. This workshop is possible with funding from The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. There is no charge for participants. 

This full day interactive workshop will provide participants with a basic understanding of the underlying functions and uses of communication. Participants will enhance their knowledge of how to listen with intent and how to understand and use a variety of methodologies to enhance communication efforts of the listener and the speaker. Additionally, participants will learn a basic understanding of augmentative alternative communication techniques. The workshop will use a variety of teaching strategies including large and small group participation, role-play activities, videos and graphics.

This workshop will be presented from the foundation of person-centered approaches and will discuss ways to assist people in creating their “life well-lived” by enhancing their functional communication skills. 

Participants will leave with at least one communication board with specific vocabulary for at least one person they support that uses waiver services. Communication boards will use picture symbols and will reflect the vocabulary based on the identified language uses and functions needed by each person. Participants will also leave with a list of resources to assist them in continuing the development of communication supports.

This workshop is open to 50 participants and is designed for people who work with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Direct Support Professionals, Supervisors, Field Office employees, Support Coordination staff, and other supporters are encouraged to attend. 

Space is limited and we count on each registered person to attend.  We will provide coffee and light breakfast, workshop materials, and lunch. 

Sign-in begins at 9:00am, and we will start promptly at 9:30am. We ask you to come to the workshop thinking of a person you know well who you want want to better support around communication. We will finish by 5pm and look forward to seeing you!