RI LEND Frequently Asked Questions
How many RI LEND trainees are accepted each year?
Typically, there are 10 to 15 trainees accepted into the program each year.
Who should participate in RI LEND?
Participation in RI LEND is open to individuals matriculated into a graduate program or graduation from a graduate program in any of the following areas:
- Audiology
- Genetic counseling
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pediatric dentistry
- Public health
- Physical therapy
- Psychology
- Special education
- Speech and language pathology
- Social work
- Parents of children with autism or another developmental disability
- A self-advocate
How will participation in RI LEND support my current/future professional or advocacy roles?
Participation in the RI LEND program allows individuals from various disciplines throughout the state of Rhode Island to learn about and discuss issues relevant to service delivery for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families. Trainees are provided opportunities to network and attend regional and national conferences designed to strengthen their advocacy skills.
Is there any funding associated with the RI LEND program?
There are multiple opportunities in RI LEND for trainees to attend professional meetings and conferences across New England and nationally. In addition, there are limited stipends available for students currently enrolled in graduate-level programs and trainees in the family discipline.
What is the time commitment for RI LEND trainees?
RI LEND trainees are expected to complete a minimum of 300 hours over the course of the academic year in pursuit of didactic curriculum, practicum experiences, and development and implementation of their leadership projects.
What have past RI LEND leadership projects focused on?
For more information on recent RI LEND leadership projects, please visit our curriculum and training page.
I am interested in providing clinical hours for RI LEND trainees. Whom should I contact?
Please email RI LEND coordinator Kathryn Lowney at [email protected] for more information.
I have an idea that may be of interest to a RI LEND trainee for their leadership project. Whom should I contact?
Please email RI LEND coordinator Kathryn Lowney at [email protected] for more information.