On Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU)’s Office of Early Childhood and Student Services (ECSS) and Office of Professional Learning (OPL) hosted a Special Education Parent Resource Fair at the BCIU Main Office. This event provided parents and caregivers of children and young adults with disabilities with access to a variety of essential resources, support services, and educational opportunities.
The Special Education Parent Resource Fair featured an engaging lineup of informative presentations and 47 vendors representing local organizations and services. Attendees were able to enjoy food trucks, network with special education community vendors, and gain valuable insights from experts in the field. Families from nine of the 18 school districts in Berks County, as well as the BCIU community, participated in the event.
A key highlight of the fair was the schedule of presentations, which included expert-led sessions on a range of topics. The presentations were designed to empower families with information on local services and supports available to those with disabilities. Presenters included: PA Autism ASERT, Service Access Management (SAM Eligibility), Early Childhood | Easter Seals Eastern PA, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR Services for Transition).
In addition to these presentations, BCIU programs and services were prominently represented, including the Right to Education Local Task Force, Early Intervention, School Age Special Education, and Transition Services, offering parents and caregivers an opportunity to learn about the supports available through the BCIU.
Dr. Michelle Reichard-Huff, Director, Office of Early Childhood and Student Services, shared her gratitude for the community’s involvement in the event, “The Special Education Parent Resource Fair is an event that promotes awareness of the wide range of resources and support available to families of individuals with disabilities. This event not only equips parents and caregivers with essential information but also fosters connections across community organizations, creating a network of support for families navigating special education. Thank you to the families who joined us to connect, learn, and build a stronger support system together.”
The BCIU is grateful to all who contributed to the success of the Special Education Parent Resource Fair, including sponsors, community partners, and the planning committee: Dr. Sara George, Assistant Director, Student Services & K-12 Education; Dr. Christi Weitzel, Assistant Director, Early Childhood Services; Josie Brunner, Educational Consultant; Jessica Head, Program Administrator; Brian Hocking, Program Administrator; Megan Leinbach, Social Worker; Colleen Rios, Educational Consultant; and Heather Wamsher, Program Administrator.
The BCIU looks forward to further strengthening partnerships that benefit individuals with disabilities and their families across Berks County.