Talley Wells

The committee meeting covered updates on the Autism and I/DD Safety Training for First Responders initiative, including potential training expansions and sustainable models. A fiscal update was provided regarding the administrative budget and federal funding formulas. The meeting included discussions on transportation challenges for people with I/DD, including impacts from funding cuts and resource matching, as well as housing issues regarding eligibility criteria, licensing regulations, and independence models. Additionally, the committee addressed Hurricane Helene recovery efforts for families impacted by the storm and approved continuation funding for the safety training initiative.

The committee reviewed the Financial Report and received a recommendation to incorporate language into future motions to allow staff flexibility regarding initiative start and end dates in response to potential funding changes. Discussions included progress updates on the Winston Salem State University Pillar program, including plans for alternative admission processes, recruitment strategies with local school systems, and the need for ongoing faculty support. Additional topics covered the development of a Peer Mentoring Training program for IDD and TBI, aimed at creating whole-health outcomes through online, self-paced training modules.

The Council meeting involved committee reports from the Advocacy Development, Community Living, and Financial Asset Development committees. Key topics included continuation funding presentations for the Media Relations Program, the Alumni Community Network, and the Autism and I/DD Safety Training for First Responders initiative. Additionally, the council reviewed updates on the Five-Year State Plan, received reports from the IDD Network partners, and engaged in discussions regarding state and federal legislative updates and behavioral health policy.

The agenda focuses on providing updates for several initiatives, including the Self-Advocate Discussion Series, ALP-NC, and the Alumni Community Network. The session includes a fiscal report review, a discussion regarding the Pre-Recorded Council Meeting Initiative, and planning for the upcoming 2027-2031 Five-Year State Plan, specifically covering the logic model. Additionally, participants will share personal stories regarding service access and self-advocacy engagement, followed by a wrap-up session for organizational announcements.

The committee reviewed updates from the Winston Salem State University PILLAR initiative, focusing on program development, curriculum alignment, and recruitment planning. The financial report for the second initiative year was presented. Additionally, the committee discussed housing and finance options for home repairs related to accessibility, including various state-sponsored repair programs. Finally, a committee discussion was held to develop a logic model for identifying potential initiatives for the 2027-2031 Five-Year State Plan.