The Exceptional Advocate

A newsletter for military families with special needs

October 2016
Newsletter
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Awareness Spotlight

Tell the World #InclusionWorks

Infographic about National Disability Employement Awareness Month. Scenes of disabilities in the workplace.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and this year, the theme is "#InclusionWorks." We're employing social media to build awareness about the contributions of workers with disabilities — and to share our successes. Find out how you can participate in your workplace.

(Explore ways to get involved.)

Recommended Resources

Family Advisory Panel Announced

A man holds a young boy on his knee while sitting in a chair.

Get to know the Family Advisory Panel on Community Support for Military Families with Special Needs. Their job is to provide information and advice about how the Department of Defense implements services for family members with special needs.

(Meet the panel members.)

Recommended Resources

Making a Financial Plan

A man massages his wife's shoulders as she sits to pay taxes.

When caring for your family member with special needs, you can expect to have additional expenses such as special equipment, home modifications and frequent doctor visits. Developing a financial plan can help you set realistic financial goals and be prepared for out-of-pocket costs.

(Get help with preparation.)

Voting Made Accessible

A close-up of a hand filling out a voter registration card.

You have a right to vote. Do you know the accessibility of your polling place? Get ready for the upcoming election with the help of the Federal Voting Assistance Program. Examine your options and check out the U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s 10 tips for voters with disabilities.

At Your Service
Service member reading a book to a smiling child in a library.

MWR Survey Coming Soon

Service member reading a book to a smiling child in a library.

Watch for the new Morale, Welfare and Recreation survey — coming out soon. Be sure to give us your take on important topics, including MWR inclusion management training. Your feedback is vital. You can also learn about the last survey here.

For Service Providers
A woman and two children smile up at the camera during a group hug.

New Desk Reference Guide

A woman and two children smile up at the camera during a group hug.

Do you have your updated copy of the Guide for Adults with Special Needs? This 116-page guide helps to provide a clear understanding of the program's services for helping adults with disabilities or medical conditions. You can find other guides, handbooks and toolkits here.

Recommended Resources
Clockwise from top left: a brother and sister smiling for the camera, a mother and child walking hand in hand through a park, a child sitting in a wheelchair with military fatigues on, a baby's face looking wistfully into the distance.

Special Needs Parent Tool Kit

Clockwise from top left: a brother and sister smiling for the camera, a mother and child walking hand in hand through a park, a child sitting in a wheelchair with military fatigues on, a baby's face looking wistfully into the distance.

The Special Needs Parent Tool Kit can help you improve your quality of life and show you how to advocate for your child with special needs. Each of the six modules addresses issues you are likely to encounter throughout your child’s life, from day one to age 18.

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What You're Saying

What You're Saying

"It's nice to have someone in my corner for a change. Thanks, Military OneSource!"

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National Diabetes Month

TRICARE covers diabetic supplies through the pharmacy and medical benefit. See what's covered.

MWR Survey on the Way!

Watch for the new Morale, Welfare and Recreation 2016 Survey. Your input is needed!

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Caregiver Stress?

Caregiver Stress?

Let a Military OneSource specialty consultant help prioritize needs and reduce your stress.

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Chill Drill Time

For Family Caregivers Month: Reverse the symptoms of stress with simple drills. Click here.

Special Needs Products

Get fact sheets on assistive technology and adaptive equipment for people with disabilities.

INSTALLATION PROGRAM DIRECTORY


Find programs and services at your local installation.

View a directory of installations

Service members, family members, surviving family members, service providers and leaders rely on Military OneSource for policy, procedures, timely articles, cutting-edge social media tools and support. All in one place, empowering our military community.