Glassboro – Top state officials, providers and advocates will convene at Rowan University on Tuesday, September 24, for a major conference on expanding congregate housing opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with the most acute needs. The conference is sponsored by Rowan’s Sweeney Center for Public Policy.

“Innovative Models, Unmet Needs: Expanding Congregate Housing Options for the Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled” is being held in the Chamberlain Student Center on Tuesday, September 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The conference is free for both in-person and virtual attendees. Virtual attendees can register for a link at https://chss.rowan.edu/centers/sweeney_center/events.html. in-person attendees can email magyarm@rowan.edu.

“I’m thrilled that so many key leaders are coming together to tackle the critical gaps in housing for individuals with acute intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald (D-Camden, Burlington). “As Co-Chair of the Disability Caucus, I’ve witnessed the stress families endure while a loved one waits years to find suitable housing. A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t sufficient; we need diverse options to meet the diverse needs. I’m confident that together, we can transform IDD housing in New Jersey and ensure every resident gets the tailored, inclusive, and supportive living environment they deserve.”

Sweeney Center Director Mark Magyar noted that the idea for a first-ever conference focused on developing congregate housing for the intellectually and developmentally disabled adults with the most severe disabilities and medical challenges arose out of discussions last spring by the Legislative Disability Caucus and follow-up meetings with providers and advocates.

In addition to Greenwald, speakers include Jonathan Seifried, Assistant Commissioner, New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities; Melanie Walter, Executive Director, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency;
Paul Aronsohn, NJ Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Their Families;
and a wide array of providers, advocates and academics.

“We are honored to be able to bring together such a distinguished panel to launch a serious public policy discussion on how to address the housing needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who face the most complex medical and behavioral challenges,” said Magyar.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact Mark Magyar by email at magyarm@rowan.edu, by cell phone at 908-246-8468 or in the office at 856-256-5868.