At RIPIN, we’re committed to empowering families and individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to advocate effectively for themselves and their loved ones. This fall, our calendar is packed with meaningful learning opportunities across special education, self-directed support, health care, and skill building. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of education plans, exploring self-directed support options, or looking to build your advocacy skills, we have something for you.
Special Education
Navigating the world of special education can be challenging, but we’re here to help. Our upcoming sessions are designed to equip you with the knowledge to support your child’s educational journey.
IEP vs Section 504September 12 – Virtual
Bullying Awareness for Students in Special EducationOctober 16 – Virtual
Navigating the Transition from Early InterventionNovember 19 – Virtual
Self-Directed Support
Empower yourself with the tools to take control of your or your loved one’s care through self-directed support. Our events will help you understand and navigate this model, providing insights from experts and peers.
“On the Rhode” TourJuly 16 – September 10 – across Rhode Island
Natural Supports – Who’s in Your Circle?September 24 – virtual
Partner Showcase – October 22 – virtual
Self-Directed Support ConferenceNovember 8 – in person at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick This conference brings together thought leaders and advocates in self-directed support to discuss best practices, share experiences, and inspire attendees to take charge of their care.
Peer Mentor Panel – December 3 – virtual
Health Care
Understanding health care options and navigating the system can be daunting. Our sessions are designed to demystify these topics, so you can make informed decisions for your family.
Introduction to Cedar – September 23 – virtual
Medicaid for Children with Special Health Care Needs – October 21 – virtual
Skill Building
Effective advocacy requires strong skills in communication, facilitation, and understanding public policy. Our skill-building sessions will equip you with the tools you need to make your voice heard.
The Right Question – September 17 – in person
Facilitation Skills Part 1 – October 3 – in person
Facilitation Skills Part 2 – November 5 – in person
Public Policy 101 – January 22 – virtual
Get Involved and Stay Informed
Don’t miss out on these valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and empower yourself. View our flyer for more details and to register for the sessions that interest you. Together, we can build a stronger, more informed community.
The 2024 session of the Rhode Island General Assembly has come to a close and RIPIN is celebrating major wins for special education, health care, and healthy aging. Key achievements include enhanced parental engagement in the IEP process, significant investments in Medicaid reimbursement rates, continued funding for the Hospital Care Transitions Initiative, and efforts to expand access to Medicare Savings Programs. These victories were made possible through the dedicated support of legislative sponsors and the compelling testimony from our community.
Parental Engagement in the IEP Process H7221 (Kislak), S2526 (DiMario)
Parents want more meaningful engagement when it comes to their children’s IEP. RIPIN partnered with Representative Kislak and Senator DiMario to secure legislation that requires schools to provide IEP documents to parents at least three days before any IEP meeting, guarantees parents’ rights to observe programs and placements proposed for their child, and restores parents’ right to object to IEP changes they don’t feel comfortable with. Over the next two years, RIPIN will work with RIDE and the community to develop guidelines for how to implement the changes and make the necessary changes to the state regulations, with the new rules becoming effective July 1, 2026.
Health Care
Necessary Investments in Social and Human Services FY25 budget
The FY25 state budget signed by Governor Dan McKee fully funds the Medicaid reimbursement rate increases for social and human service providers recommended by the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC). RIPIN praises OHIC for its data-driven recommendations addressing critical access challenges in services for children, behavioral health, home care, and services for the intellectually and/or developmentally disabled. While access issues won’t be resolved immediately, this investment is a significant step towards ensuring Medicaid recipients in Rhode Island can access the care they need.
Healthy Aging
Hospital Care Transitions Initiative FY25 budget
The FY25 state budget signed by Governor McKee includes funding for RIPIN’s Hospital Care Transitions Initiative. This program integrates RIPIN community health workers into hospital discharge teams to help high-risk older patients successfully transition to their homes rather than nursing facilities, achieving a success rate of over 75% and saving the state money. RIPIN thanks the General Assembly for enabling this important program to continue benefiting Rhode Islanders.
Expanding Access to Medicare Savings Programs H7333 (Alzate), S2399 (Cano)
RIPIN commends the General Assembly for acknowledging growing financial barriers faced by low- and moderate-income older adults and people with disabilities enrolled in Medicare through proposed changes to the Medicare Savings Programs. Although the FY25 budget language isn’t as expansive as the original proposal supported by RIPIN and must still gain federal approval, RIPIN appreciates the efforts of the sponsors and the House and Senate Finance Committees. We hope EOHHS and the General Assembly continue building on this progress to establish a workable expansion of this program for low-income seniors and adults with disabilities.
Welcome to RIPIN’s 2023 Annual Report. This year has been transformative for our organization, aligning with our strategic plan. Here are the key highlights:
Tell RIPIN’s Story
The launch of the Self-Directed Support Program has empowered individuals and families to navigate the complexities of self-directed support, connecting them to invaluable resources and support networks.
We have expanded our outreach to Spanish-speaking communities through partnerships, workshops, and community events, resulting in a 250% increase in Spanish-speaking clients since 2019.
Enhance Community Connections:
Our Community Health Worker (CHW) program, the largest in Rhode Island, has made significant strides, including leading the CHW Roadmap and facilitating Rhode Island’s inaugural CHW Conference.
Participation in key events like the Puerto Rican Bay Festival and the Inaugural Festival Latino has strengthened our bonds with diverse communities.
Be the Best Employer of the Best Employees:
RIPIN continues to be recognized as a PBN Best Place to Work for five consecutive years, reflecting our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
We have focused on professional development and employee satisfaction, ensuring that we attract and retain top talent dedicated to our mission.
Forge Systemic Solutions:
Our policy advocacy efforts have concentrated on improving access to quality early childhood education, healthcare, and support for healthy aging.
We hosted a policy forum that brought together families, policymakers, and educators, amplifying the voices of affected families and ensuring their perspectives were central to the policy discussions.
Advocacy for increased financial support for low-income Medicare beneficiaries and better reimbursement rates for health service providers underscores our commitment to systemic change.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our board, staff, and partners. We remain committed to supporting and empowering the Rhode Island community and look forward to building on this year’s successes.
At RIPIN, we envision a Rhode Island where systems work for the people who rely on them, driving improved and more equitable outcomes. Part of our mission is to bring the voices of the communities we serve to the Rhode Island General Assembly and advocate for person-centered and family-centered systems change. We are excited to share our 2024 legislative agenda, which focuses on improving parental engagement in special education, increasing Medicaid funding for community-based social and human services, and expanding Medicare Savings Programs for older adults.
RIPIN’s 2024 legislative priorities: Parental Engagement in the IEP ProcessH7721 (Kislak), S2526 (DiMario) RIPIN supports legislation for improved parental engagement in the IEP process, including timely provision of documents, parental rights to observe proposed placements, and requiring written consent for IEP changes.
Necessary Investments in Social and Human Services Governor’s FY25 Budget RIPIN advocates for full rate increases recommended by OHIC to address serious access challenges caused by low rates for community-based social and human services in the FY25 budget.
Expanding Access to Medicare Savings ProgramsH7333 (Alzate), S2399 (Cano) RIPIN backs legislation to raise income limits and eliminate asset tests for Medicare Savings Programs, helping approximately 17,000 low-income seniors in Rhode Island afford health care, prescriptions, and other necessities.
Help Seniors Discharge Home from HospitalH-7597 (Tanzi) and S-2577 (DiPalma) RIPIN’s Hospital Care Transitions Initiative (HCTI) helps high-risk older patients successfully discharge to home after a hospital stay, meeting patient preferences and saving State funds. The program, which embeds community health workers into hospital discharge teams, has a success rate of over 75%. Funding for HCTI is recommended for FY2025 and beyond.
Regularly updated website from the State of Rhode Island, including the latest data and answers to frequently asked questions.
Resources for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers (CDC) English | Spanish
Health Insurance
COVID-19: Getting Health Coverage and Health Care – Economic Progress Institute English | Spanish
HealthSource RI There is currently a special enrollment period in response to COVID-19 through April 15. You can also apply for Medicaid through HealthSource RI.
COVID-19 Health Benefit Changes – Frequently Asked Consumer Questions OHIC and DBR Answers to Frequently Asked Questions From the Rhode Island Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner and Department of Business Regulation
Introduction to Healthcare through Telemedicine -Midwest Genetics Network videos will introduce you to telemedicine, describe what to expect, and help you get the most out of your telemedicine appointment.
Capital Good Fund recently created a new Crisis Relief Loan for people who have been financially impacted by Covid-19. The loan ranges from $300-$1500, and has a fifteen-month term with a special 90-day deferment payment period and 5% APR.
Early Childhood System and the COVID-19 Crisis
“RIght from the
Start” has put together an update on early childhood
services in Rhode Island including:
Rhode Island Medical Home Portal – information and resources for families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN).
Easy to Understand Info about Coronavirus – English | Spanish Developed by Advocates in Action and the RI Developmental Disabilities Council. More resources from Advocates in Action.
BH Link Hotline: 401-414-LINK (5465) Helps Rhode Islanders experiencing mental health and substance use crises receive the appropriate services they need as quickly as possible in an environment that supports their recovery.
Kids Link RI 1-855-543-5465 This free hotline connects parents and caregivers to children’s services in Rhode Island and helps parents determine the best place to go for treatment and counseling. Operates 24/7.
United Way 2-1-1 Free, confidential resource for assistance with housing, food, childcare, and so much more. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
