Whether you use FCAR funds to pay for the event or pay out of pocket, please join us for the 3-Day Family Caregiver Training on January 15, 22, & 29 either virtually or in Bloomington.
3 - DAY Training
Did You Know? Waiver Funds Can Help Families Access HANDS in Autism Trainings
Navigating services and supports for a loved one with a developmental disability can be overwhelming — but Indiana’s Medicaid waivers can make it easier. Many families aren’t aware that the Family Supports Waiver (FSW) and Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver (CIH) both allow funding for Family & Caregiver Training, including trainings offered by HANDS in Autism®.
Through the Family and Caregiver Training (FCT) service, families can use up to $5,000 per waiver year to build skills in areas such as behavior strategies, communication, advocacy, and more. These trainings help caregivers feel more confident and equipped in supporting their family member’s growth and independence.
Family & Caregiver Training Options (FCAR)
HANDS in Autism offers a tiered set of learning opportunities designed to support families and caregivers at every stage. Explore the options below and choose the pathway that best fits your needs.
Each tier includes practical tools, coaching, and strategies to help strengthen skills in communication, behavior support, advocacy, and daily routines.
Tier 1: Self-Guided Learning
Perfect for families who want to learn at their own pace.
Online Modules (IU Expand) – Learn foundational strategies anytime, anywhere.
HANDS Store Resources – Printable tools, guides, and materials to support learning at home.
Explore Tier 1 → IU Expand | Store
Tier 2: Group Learning & Interactive Support
Great for families who want structured learning with opportunities to ask questions and connect with others.
Next Steps Workshop
MITI / LILI Sessions
ECHO Series
Open Office Hours
Register or learn more →Click Here
Tier 3: Guided Coaching & Short-Term Training
For families looking for hands-on learning and direct support.
3-Session Family & Caregiver Training
Time-Limited Trainings
Learn more → Click Here
Tier 4: Individualized, Intensive Support
Focused one-on-one support tailored to a child’s and family’s unique needs.
Parent/Child Dyads
Setting-Based Consultation
Independent Evaluations
Explore Tier 4 options → Click Here
To use waiver funds, the training simply needs to be:
Included in the individual’s PCISP
Approved by the waiver case manager
Within the annual FCT budget
HANDS in Autism trainings qualify when all of the above criteria are met. Using waiver funding not only reduces financial barriers but also ensures families can access structured, high-quality training that supports long-term success.
Interested in using waiver funds for HANDS training?
We encourage you to contact your case manager and reach out to our team at hands@iu.edu for guidance.
You can also review the Indiana Family & Caregiver Training fact sheet for more details:
Join Us for the 3-Day Family Caregiver Training
Whether you plan to use FCT funds or pay out of pocket, we invite you to participate in our upcoming 3-Day Family Caregiver Training on January 15, 22, & 29, offered both virtually and in Bloomington.
Learn more and register: Click Here