2025 HANDS in Autism® Developmental Disabilities and Autism ECHO Webinars
At HANDS in Autism®, every Friday is an opportunity for learning, connection, and empowerment. Through our weekly ECHO webinars, we bring together individuals, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, and advocates—all working to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Upcoming 07/25/25: Join Our ECHO Session on Legal Advocacy & Self-Advocacy with Jonathan Martinis.
As the Senior Director for Law and Policy at the Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) at Syracuse University, Jonathan Martinis is a leading expert in legal advocacy, supported decision-making, and disability rights. With decades of experience in disability law and policy, he has championed self-advocacy and inclusive decision-making practices to empower individuals with disabilities. Most notably, in 2013, Martinis represented Jenny Hatch in the nationally acclaimed “Justice for Jenny” case. Martinis helped Ms. Hatch secure her right to live where and how she wants, to make her own decisions, and direct her own life. Jenny’s case was the first trial to hold that a person with disabilities has a right to engage in “Supported-Decision Making,” where people work with trusted friends, family members, and professionals to help them understand the situations and choices they face, so they may make their own decisions – rather than be subjected to a unnecessary permanent, plenary or full guardianship.
This session will cover key topics, including:
✅Guardianship vs. Supported Decision-Making: Understanding the legal landscape
✅Advocacy Strategies: How individuals with disabilities and their families can navigate legal and policy frameworks
✅Rights & Policy Implications: Ensuring autonomy and informed decision-making for people with disabilities
Who Should Attend?
This webinar is essential for self-advocates, families, educators, legal professionals, policymakers, and service providers who support individuals with disabilities in advocating for their rights.
📅Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
⏰Time: 12:00-1:30pm ET
📍Location: Virtual
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the nation’s foremost experts on disability law and advocacy!
Our Caregiver Supports webinars offer a safe space for caregivers to exchange experiences, gain resources, and develop strategies to navigate their roles with confidence and resilience. (April 25-June 6)
With our Community Provider Series, we unite service providers to discuss best practices, fostering more inclusive and effective community-based programs. (June 13-August 1)
Justice takes center stage with Justice ECHO, tackling advocacy, legal rights, and navigating the criminal justice system to ensure protection and fair treatment for individuals with DD/ASD. (August 8-September 19)
Education professionals benefit from our Education ECHO, which equips teachers and administrators with evidence-based strategies to create inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. (September 26-November 14)
Finally, our Behavior ECHO offers practical guidance on supporting behavior and communication using effective interventions, helping individuals navigate their daily interactions with confidence. (November 21-December 19)
Every Friday, HANDS in Autism® is committed to delivering knowledge that transforms lives. Join us for an engaging session and become part of a movement that fosters understanding, breaks barriers, and builds a more connected world.
For more details on upcoming sessions, visit our website! Or register here.