RCAL’s 2025 Workshop Series offers a diverse range of educational sessions designed to empower individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and professionals with valuable knowledge and resources. Led by experienced specialists, these workshops address key areas of independent living.
Gilles Malkine, our Architectural Modification Consultant, presents workshops on Home Safety, Falls Prevention, and Accommodating Disabilities Through Home Modifications, providing essential guidance on creating safe and accessible living spaces.
Debbie Denise, our Benefits Advisor, leads workshops covering Social Security Benefits, Medicaid Pooled Trusts, Medicaid and Medicare, and ABLE Accounts, offering insights into navigating financial and healthcare resources.
Renee Falanga-Brenner, our Special Education Advocate, conducts sessions on Navigating Special Education, Advocating for Your Child, and 504s and IEPs, equipping families with the tools they need to support students in the education system. Whether you are seeking assistance with home modifications, benefits planning, or special education advocacy, RCAL’s 2025 Workshop Series provides expert guidance to help you navigate these important topics.
Home Safety Workshop
with Gilles Malkine
This workshop focuses on identifying and addressing safety hazards in the home environment. RCAL’s Architectural Modification Consultant will provide professional insights on creating a safe living space, with an emphasis on accessibility and functionality.
This workshop is approximately 1 hour long and all are welcome. There is no fee to attend; registration is required beforehand. Please email GMalkine@rcal.org or call 845-331-0541 ext 21.
Falls Prevention Workshop
with Gilles Malkine
Falls are a leading cause of injury at home, particularly for older adults and individuals with disabilities. In this workshop, our Architectural Modification Consultant will share practical strategies to reduce fall risks through home modifications and thoughtful design. Participants will gain knowledge about identifying fall hazards, selecting slip-resistant materials, and ensuring proper lighting and layout. Learn how to make your home a safer, more accessible living space for all.
This workshop is approximately 1 hour long and all are welcome. There is no fee to attend; registration is required beforehand. Please email GMalkine@rcal.org or call 845-331-0541 ext 21.
Accommodating Disabilities Through Home Modification
with Gilles Malkine
-
Adapt your home to accommodate disabilities with practical, cost-effective solutions.
-
Identify barriers, understand ADA compliance, and implement modifications to improve mobility and accessibility.
-
Learn about tools and resources to create a safe, accessible, and independent living environment.
This workshop is approximately 1 hour long and all are welcome. There is no fee to attend; registration is required beforehand. Please email GMalkine@rcal.org or call 845-331-0541 ext 21.
Understanding Social Security Benefits
with Debbie Denise
Join for valuable insights into the Social Security programs available for individuals with disabilities, older adults, and their families.
You Will Learn:
-
The difference between SSI, SSDI, and DAC.
-
Eligibility requirements and how to apply.
-
Understanding your benefits.
-
Work incentives like Ticket to Work and Trial Work Periods.
-
Tips for navigating the application process.
Space is limited; call 845-331-0541 ext. 24 or email DDenise@rcal.org to register.
Medicaid and Medicare: A Benefits Workshop
with Debbie Denise
This workshop will outline the key differences between Medicaid and Medicare; review eligibility requirements; medicaid spend-down, pooled trusts, and savings plan; Medicare parts A, B, C + D explained; and how these programs interact with other benefits.
Space is limited; call 845-331-0541 ext. 24 or email DDenise@rcal.org to register.
ABLE: Achieve a Better Life Experience
with Debbie Denise
ABLE is a special savings account that won’t endanger your benefits and will allow you to save for the future. Join RCAL’s Benefits Advisor and learn how this program can empower individuals with disabilities to save money without jeopardizing eligibility for critical benefits like Medicaid and SSI.
Topics:
-
What is ABLE and who is eligible?
-
How to use ABLE to save for expenses.
-
Contribution limits; tax advantages.
-
Tips for opening and managing your account.
Space is limited; please call 845-331-0541 ext 24 or email DDenise@rcal.org to register.
.jpg)
Understanding Medicaid Pooled Trusts
with Debbie Denise
Join RCAL’s Benefits Advisor for a workshop designed to help individuals with disabilities and older adults understand how Medicaid Pooled Trusts can be a valuable tool for protecting income while maintaining eligibility for Medicaid benefits.
Space is limited; call 845-331-0541 ext. 24 or email DDenise@rcal.org to register.
Understanding Your Child's 504 Plan or Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
with Renee Falanga-Brenner
-
This workshop will review each section of the 504 Plan and the IEP.
- Attendees should have a copy of their child’s 504 or IEP with them for this workshop.
- Good for parents/caregivers who are not sure which one your child should have.
- There will be time at the end for questions.
Space is limited; please email RFalanga-Brenner@rcal.org to register ahead.
Advocating For Your Child
with Renee Falanga-Brenner
A valuable workshop designed to empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to advocate for their child with a disability.
This session will provide practical strategies and resources to help you navigate four key areas:
-
Education
-
Medical
-
Community
-
Family
There will be time at the end for questions. Space is limited; to register email RFalanga-Brenner@rcal.org.
Navigating Special Education
with Renee Falanga-Brenner
Join us for an informative workshop designed to help parents and caregivers understand the special education process. Learn about key laws and regulations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and the rights of both students and parents. Gain the knowledge you need to advocate effectively for your child’s education. There will be time for questions.
Space is limited; please email RFalanga-Brenner@rcal.org to register.
