Members of JSDD’s leadership and program teams including Executive Director Linda Press, Associate Executive Director Becca Wanatick, WAE Center Director Harry Klein, Senior Manager of Program Operations for the WAE Center Anthonice Lauriston, Director of Life | Home | Tech (LHT) Susan Nasberg-Abrams, and Manager of Sponsored Programs & Communications Jessica Goldstein recently attended the NJACP Conference in Atlantic City.
The atmosphere throughout the conference was one of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose. JSDD staff engaged with colleagues and leaders from across the state, exchanging ideas and learning from others who are dedicated to advancing meaningful services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Showcasing JSDD and Life | Home | Tech
As a proud Pearl Sponsor of this year’s conference, JSDD hosted an exhibitor table that welcomed providers, caregivers, and agency leaders interested in innovative approaches to supporting independence. The spotlight was on Life | Home | Tech, whose services center on consulting and education for organizations and caregivers seeking to integrate enabling technology into daily services.
Through conversation and demonstration, the team helped conference attendees understand how thoughtful technology solutions can expand independence while preserving dignity, choice, and personal expression.
A Powerful Message from the Podium
Susan Nasberg-Abrams, delivered a presentation titled “From Possibility to Practice: Advancing Meaningful Service Delivery Through Enabling Technology for Adults with IDD.” The program resonated deeply with attendees who are seeking practical, person‑centered ways to introduce technology to supporting residents and staff.
Susan described enabling technology as a highly individualized blend of tools that range from every day, off‑the‑shelf items to sensors or home systems.
She emphasized that enabling technology:
- Can be high‑tech or low‑tech
- Devices may or may not use Wi‑Fi, chargers, or batteries
- Even the same device can be used in completely different ways depending on the person
A person‑centered approach means the design is never one‑size‑fits‑all. Instead, it honors the individual’s preferences, abilities, and goals. Susan also discussed the importance of creating a culture that is proactive in embracing technology to find creative solutions for greater support. She stressed the importance of learning and education for all staff, individuals, and families. Finally, clarifying that an enabling technology program is not primarily about buying devices, rather it begins with a strong team, education and a cohesive plan.
Learning, Growing, and Looking Ahead
Throughout the conference, JSDD staff attended an array of breakout sessions and keynote presentations, including an energizing national update from plenary speaker Sean Luechtenfeld and inspiring talks by Vu Le and Steven McCoy.
In the words of the WAE Center Director:
“I walked away from this conference feeling assured. Assured that we are on the right path, that there are things we can learn and grow from, and that we are exactly where we need to be.”
That sense of affirmation—and the motivation to continue pushing forward—was shared across the team.
As JSDD continues to innovate and elevate services, the NJACP Conference served as a meaningful reminder of the collective impact made when dedicated professionals come together with a shared purpose.