2021 Virtual Event Calendar

People with disabilities, their caregivers, family members, friends and the general public are invited. The theme of the event summarizes its purpose: “Opening doors and dialogue to welcome all countywide.” The event focuses on disability-related information, but will be of value to anyone interested in learning about county, state and local agencies, organizations and businesses that serve the citizens of Somerset County.

“This fair is one of the many ways Somerset County offers information on available resources designed to meet the diverse needs of our community,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Brian D. Levine , human services liaison. “Considering that more than 25,000 individuals in our county are identified as having a disability, that many of these individuals have caregivers, and that some in our aging population experience mobility, hearing and vision challenges as well, the event on Oct. 6 should be of benefit to a broad audience.”

There will be a particular focus this year on hands-on demonstrations of affordable assistive devices that enable independence at any age in accomplishing everyday tasks. Assistive technology, occupational therapy and physical therapy program representatives from the New Jersey Division of Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Disability Rights New Jersey, Matheny Medical and Educational Center and Advancing Opportunities Technology Center will be participating in the event. There also will be a special slide presentation of some of the assistive technology items featured in the recent Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design ACCESS-ABILITY exhibition in New York City.

As in previous years, there will be an onsite free workshop within the fair. This year’s presentation will be on New Jersey’s new ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) program that allows individuals with disabilities to save tax-free for eligible expenses (such as education, housing and transportation) without losing eligibility for Medicaid and other benefits. Pre-registration is not required, but space is limited. Contact Disability Services Coordinator Paulann Pierson at (908) 704-6334 or ppierson@co.somerset.nj.us to ensure a space.

Free transportation will be available through the Somerset County Transportation Division’s para-transit service to residents who register by Sept. 28. To reserve a seat, call the Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services at (908) 704-6346 or email Paulann Pierson at ppierson@co.somerset.nj.us