This is the Way the World Communicates: Findings on Technology Use in I&R/A Services

Join ADvancing States and the National Council on Independent Living to learn about technology-related trends and findings from a national survey of Information and Referral/Assistance programs. While technology may be seemingly everywhere, individuals’ needs, preferences and access vary as to the technology resources of agencies. This webinar will highlight developments in modes of service delivery, the resource database, IT systems, and social media.

Learning objectives:

• Gain insight into technology use and trends in I&R/A programs

• Reflect on different perspectives and experiences across the field 

• Gather promise practice ideas

Bios: 

Mary-Kate Wells

Mary-Kate Wells serves as Program Director at the National Council on Independent Living. She has 10 years of experience in the disability and Independent Living field. Prior to her current role, Mary-Kate worked at her local Center for Independent Living in Boston Massachusetts, managing a growing youth program and home modification program. She believes in creating equitable and sustainable programs that emphasize collaboration and accountability. She holds a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Salve Regina University. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) with a commitment to advancing the rights of people with disabilities. Mary-Kate is a proud member of the disability community bringing lived experience with chronic illness, mental health and learning disabilities.

Nanette Relave :

Nanette Relave is the Senior Director of the National Information and Referral Support Center administered by NASUAD. The I&R Support Center provides training, technical assistance, and information resources to build capacity and promote the continuing development of aging and disability information and referral services nationwide. In this capacity, Ms. Relave provides technical assistance to aging and disability information and referral/assistance (I&R/A) agencies, provides I&R basic and AIRS certification training to I&R specialists, develops training materials to improve the quality of I&R/A services, supports agencies’ efforts to develop I&R/A systems at the community and state levels, and coordinates workshops, intensives, and other events at NASUAD and partner conferences.  Ms. Relave holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the Catholic University of America and a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Georgetown University.