People with Disabilities (TASK)
TASK FAQs
Q. My child does not have a significant disability, only mild problems with a learning disability. Can TASK help me?
A. Many students with very mild special needs and their families participate in TASK activities, where the focus is on inclusion, not isolation.
Q. I have an adult child who has been living alone in an apartment and seems to be doing fine, would he need TASK?
A. As your child matures, you may want to take a less active roll in supporting him/her, TASK can provide case management, social programming, and training on how to live independently. Isolation is the most frequently raised issue for adults with disabilities. The social programs through Tikvah can help alleviate that.
Q. Is there a fee to participate in TASK social activities?
A. There are voluntary annual dues, currently $10, for individuals participating in TASK recreational programs; however, no one is denied involvement due to inability to pay. Participants DO pay for their own activity expenses such as, movie tickets. Since TASK social activities programs are not a fee-based service, we rely on your support and individual donations to keep the program running.
Q. Is there a consultation Fee?
A. Private consultations with the inclusion specialist are available for a fee. Some consultations are available to low-income families on a sliding scale.
Q. What if I only need resource information, not a specific service?
A. TASK maintains a lending library, video library, and complete resource guide to organizations and supports available in the Portland area.
Q. Our child’s school is helping our child, but I would like to network with other parents facing similar issues, is that available?
A. Parents often need support and encouragement from others who have dealt with similar issues. The TASK program at JFCS offers a parent support group, Ozreinu, which meets monthly to discuss the issues pertaining to raising a child with special needs or disabilities.
Q. How can I get information about what is happening in our community related to disabilities?
A. The TASK newsletter is a resource guide to what’s happening in the local community, changes in educational or legislative issues, and upcoming TASK events. The newsletter is a free service, however donations are greatly appreciated. It is available in email format or can be mailed to you directly. To receive the newsletter, call 503-226-7079 ext. 55.
Q. I don’t feel like I have much to worry about while my child is in school and living at home, what are the benefits of joining TASK now?
A. Raising a child with any type of disability requires careful planning. Knowing what to expect and when extra help may be needed is a critical piece to creating a stable life. The TASK Inclusion Specialist can provide guidance for future planning, as well as discuss the needs your child may have for interactions with others and developing life-long friendships through participation in recreational groups.
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