Community Engagement Chronicles is a new monthly series following our Program Navigator Kasey as she travels across Maryland to connect with communities, share resources, and support individuals and families in learning more about available services. Each edition will highlight her outreach efforts, community partnerships, and the meaningful connections made along the way.
Copper Ridge Resource Fair | June 4
The Copper Ridge resource fair gave Kasey an opportunity to connect with community partners, residents receiving rehabilitation services, family members, and local organizations across Carroll County. She shared information about Supports Planning Services and Maryland’s Community Waiver programs, helping increase awareness of available resources and strengthen community connections.
Therapeutic Recreation Day in Carroll County | June 9
Therapeutic Recreation Day is an annual event at the Carroll County Ag Center that brings together service providers, community organizations, local businesses, individuals with disabilities, and families for resources, activities, and connection.
Kasey connected with providers and community partners, including organizations like Bear Branch Nature Center, while learning about services that promote inclusion, engagement, and meaningful community relationships.
The event highlighted inclusion in action by creating a welcoming space where people of all abilities could participate, share experiences, and celebrate a supportive community.
Information and Referral Follow-Up at Bel Air Library | June 11
On June 11, Kasey visited the Bel Air Library for Information and Referral follow-up. She helped a family complete and submit applications for Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) services and Long-Term Care Medical Assistance, answered questions about eligibility and supports, and connected them with resources for future service needs.
Advocacy Meeting at Carroll County Library | June 11
This June Advocacy Meeting drew individuals from provider agencies, along with support staff and community representatives. Kasey participated in discussions about what is working well in Carroll County, areas for improvement, and new activities or opportunities participants would like providers to offer.
The meeting encouraged open conversation among people receiving services, community members, and providers. Participants shared experiences, voiced needs and interests, and identified ways to strengthen inclusion, engagement, and self-advocacy.
Let’s Talk Event at Wheaton Library | June 15
The Let’s Talk event at the Wheaton Library was the first session in Kasey’s library outreach series. Kasey presented information in a private conference room, creating a welcoming space for community members to learn about available resources and supports. The library, which is connected to the Wheaton Community Recreation Center, also announced the presentation to community members who were already at the facility, inviting them to join.
After the presentation, attendees asked questions and discussed their needs. Kasey connected with two individuals interested in learning more about available services and scheduled follow-up meetings to provide additional support and information. The event was a successful opportunity for outreach, education, and resource connection.
Inform USA Certification Exam | June 30
On June 30, Kasey took the Inform USA Community Resource Specialist certification exam at the Mount Airy Library and successfully passed, earning her InformUSA certification as a Community Navigator. SCI is proud to be a member of InformUSA, which serves nonprofit and government sectors that provide Community Navigation (formerly known as information and referral) services.
This certification recognizes Kasey’s knowledge of information and referral services, resource navigation, and connecting individuals with community supports. It strengthens her ability to provide accurate, comprehensive resource information to individuals, families, and the communities she serves.
Throughout June, Kasey continued building relationships, sharing resources, and helping individuals and families better understand the supports available to them. From community fairs and advocacy conversations to library outreach and professional certification, her work reflects a continued commitment to connection, inclusion, and person-centered support.
Stay tuned for upcoming July and August editions of Community Engagement Chronicles, featuring more community outreach, resource connections, and highlights from Kasey’s continued work across Maryland.