The Peer Navigation Transition Training Program (PNTT) is a 24-month initiative funded by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS). This program aims to increase access to transition services and resources for Black and Hispanic youth and young adults (YYA), ages 14 to 22, with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Los Angeles County. PNTT is focused on serving the YYA and their families served by the Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center, South Central Los Angeles Regional Center and the San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center.
PNTT is designed to provide culturally and linguistically competent training and information to support transition-aged YYA and their families from marginalized and under-resourced communities. The program uses a community-informed training approach that includes in-person sessions, virtual events, and one-on-one coaching to assist YYA and families navigate key areas of adult life such as healthcare, employment, education, and independent living.
Peer Transition Navigators (PTNs):
We will recruit and train a team of Peer Transition Navigators (PTNs)—self-advocates with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) from Black and Hispanic communities who have successfully navigated their transition to adulthood and transfer of care to adult-focused health care providers. Drawing on their lived experiences, these PTNs will serve as relatable guides, offering support to other YYAs and their families. They will be trained using a curriculum that focuses on communication, service system navigation, disability awareness, and person-centered planning.
Community Events & Outreach:
PTNs will co-present alongside CHLA UCEDD staff at both virtual and in-person community events to share personal stories, offer guidance, and share valuable resources, ranging from Regional Center supports to local, community-based services.
Individualized Support:
Families and YYA will have the opportunity to receive one-on-one guidance through person-centered transition planning training sessions, co-facilitated by PTNs and CHLA staff. These sessions are tailored to support specific transition goals in areas like healthcare, employment, education, and community living for participants and families to gain a better understanding of what actions they can take to reach their desired outcomes.
Community Guidance:
Project activities are guided by the Transition Navigation Advisory Team (TNAT)—a diverse group of self-advocates, family members, and professionals who provide input on training content, presentation materials, and resources to ensure the program effectively addresses community needs.
Collaborators: San Gabriel/ Pomona Regional Center, East Los Angeles Regional Center, South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
Funding Source:
THIS PROJECT IS A FUNDED SERVICE ACCESS AND EQUITY GRANT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES.