“Nothing About Me Without ME!”

Overview
Working directly with young people is critical to understand how to best support them in their journey to become as independent as possible. PEATC values youth voices and creates opportunities that are youth-driven. On this page, you can find resources specifically crafted for youth to help them throughout this journey!
Our resources include:
- Accessible fact sheets and visuals that summarize key steps toward independent living.
- Trainings for youth on topics related to transition, employment, and self-determination. Find upcoming trainings by searching “YOUTH” on our calendar here.
- A youth leadership team where young people with disabilities voice their input and ideas, as well as assist with youth outreach and trainings. See the “YET Council” section to become involved!
Fact Sheets and Visuals
Communication
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in VR and IR: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Communication with VR and IR Professionals: Fact Sheet | Visual
Employment
- Competitive Integrated Employment: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Employment Checklist Booklet
- Employment – Soft Skills
- How to Find a Job
- JAN Network
- Job Interviews
- Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
- Resumés
- Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
- What to Do on a Job
- Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC)
- Working – You Can Do It! Fact Sheet | Visual
- Working and Keeping Benefits: Fact Sheet | Visual
Decision Making
- Foster Care in Virginia – What Happens When You Turn 18
- Informed Choice: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Person-Centered Planning: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Self Advocacy: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Turning 18
How to Plan for the Future in High School
- Homework Tips
- Self-Directed IEPs: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Transition IEP: Fact Sheet | Visual
- Transition IEP – Foster Care
- Who Is On My IEP Team? Fact Sheet | Visual
Independent Living
- Centers for Independent Living
- Do You Have It? – Important Items Checklist
- Foster Care in Virginia – The Road to Living Independently
- How to Be a Friend
- Independent Living Skills
Options After High School
Join our Youth Council!
The Youth Empowerment Transition (YET) Council is for Virginia youth with disabilities, ages 14-26, interested in:
- Building self-advocacy skills
- Giving input and advising PEATC on issues that involve youth
- Creating new friendships
- Learning to be an active member in their school and community
- Developing leadership skills
Meetings are held on Zoom monthly (every second Monday unless otherwise stated) at 6:00 p.m. EST.

Other Resources
- ABLEnow Savings Account
- Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI)
- Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
- Going to College
- I’m Determined
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
- Self Advocacy Online
- So You’re 18
- Virginia Education Wizard
- Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC)