03/04/2026
We are excited to share that our very own Monica Mann, Director of Benefits and Support planning will be one of the panelists on this upcoming event where she will be sharing her experience as a sibling of two brothers who are diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
The Individual and Family Support Program (IFSP) Regional Councils and the Virginia Dept. of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) invite you to attend a FREE virtual information session!
Our first of 4 IFSP Council events in 2026 will be hosted by our IFSP Central Region.
TOPIC: Developmental Disabilities (DD) and the Sibling Journey
DATE: Thursday, March 19 from 6 to 8:15 p.m. (Eastern)
DESCRIPTION:
Siblings share a special bond! For people with developmental disabilities, their siblings are not just best friends—these siblings might help make important life decisions, or even become caregivers. Learn about planning options, resources, and supports that can help siblings navigate life's transitions!
The IFSP Regional Councils are proud to feature two powerful guest presenters who will share their journeys as advocates for their siblings: Brianna A. TenBrink, MBA from the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities and Kaitlin McNamara, JD from The Sibling Leadership Network. After these presentations, a panel of siblings will also share their perspectives so everyone can understand what sibling support can look and feel like at different stages of life.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
• People with developmental disabilities of any age who are interested in learning more about their caregiver's or sibling's role and involvement;
• Anyone who has a sibling with a disability;
• Families of children or adults with a developmental disability diagnosis;
• Anyone who is in a caregiver role for their loved one with a disability;
• Families seeking emotional support from others who have experience navigating services;
• Professionals who coordinate care and who may link individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to community services and supports (including support coordinators/case managers, providers, and educators); and
• Anyone interested in this topic!
REGISTER HERE: http://ifsp.tny.cc/march-19
SIGN UP FOR A REMINDER: If you would like an email reminder the week of the event, please sign up using this link: surveymonkey.com/r/ifsp-march19
ACCESSIBILITY: We are proud to feature remote conference captioning through Virginia Relay! If you need an additional accommodation to participate, please email us by Thursday, March 5th (or as soon as possible!): [email protected]
QUESTIONS: [email protected]
SHARE OUR FLYER: https://ifsp.tny.cc/march-2026
[Image description: White and blue flyer with green accents advertising the IFSP Coordinated Regional Council Meeting featuring Brianna A. TenBrink from the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities and Kaitlin McNamara from the Sibling Leadership Network.]
